Ranked #631

Vandread: The Second Stage

Highs: Smooth animation; stunning CGI
seamless plot continuation;
distinctive characters

Lows: Nothing too new; transition between comedy and
drama may lose some viewers; a not so spectacular ending

Review: As a direct sequel, Vandread: The Second Stage picks up exactly where the First Stage left off. Generally when dealing with a sequel we are left with an anime that tries too hard to better the original but in the end simply cannot compare. Thankfully, that is not the case as we have a powerful continuation that follows through with the strengths of its predecessor and takes it a step further to the next level.

Unlike other sequels, The Second Stage doesn't try too hard to introduce anything new; rather it builds on what was already laid out in the prequel and jumps right into the action. Slowly, but surely more pieces of the plot are revealed and in the process does a splendid job of fleshing out and developing character personalities. The former cast all make a return appearance, with the exception one new face, Misty, a cryogenically frozen girl who brings new energy to an already jam-packed and fun-filled group. The strong cast of characters is what drives this anime to success. Using several character-centric episodes, we can clearly see how the characters grow and begin to apply the lessons they have learned about each other and themselves, to help one another in their fight for survival.

The visuals have been improved and are as impressive as ever. GONZO a specialist in animation does not disappoint in this regard. Vandread: The Second Stage looks like a high budget OVA, showing considerable improvement over the First Stage with the nearly seamless integration of the CGI with its surroundings that remained consistent throughout the entire series. Not only do we have a great storyline, but one that looks good telling it.

Similar to the first installment, The Second Stage, manages to stay fresh and funny. As the anime progressed the atmosphere begins to change as most of the comedy is dropped for a more serious, dramatic tone. Some viewers may not be particularly fond of the loss of humor, while, some might see it as a welcome change. In any case, what we have is an enthralling storyline full of twists and turns and breathtaking action sequences that most would find hard not to enjoy. Although, there may be a common complaint about The Second Stage's questionable conclusion which, not to say lacks any sort of finale, rather leaves a lot more to be desired.

If you enjoyed, Vandread: The First Stage, than this an anime you will definitely not want to miss. The Second Stage is a worthy sequel that concludes the series on a high note packaged full of all the cheerful characters and all the space action you can handle. So, grab this anime, buckle up and enjoy the ride.

Wriiten by AlterGenesis-X
Oct 11, 2005 read more

It is impossible to enjoy the Vandread series without watching Vandread: The Second Stage. I believe that between the 2 series, the second one is superior.

Obviously, the second season is a continuation of the story that began in the first season. What I noticed about the second season is that all characters went through huge developments; if not, revelations. I don’t want to give out too many spoilers, but in the second season Hibiki is moving closer to his goal of proving his existence, his relationship with Dita is improving even more, and we learn more about characters such as Meia, Jura, Magno and B.C.

There are also new characters that will be introduced. In fact, there’s so many of them but only 1 or 2 will take up more screen time than the other new characters. Here’s a clue for one of them: If you remember Ezra from the first season, then you’d probably have an idea of what kind of person the first new character will be.

Most of the voice actors from the first season have been retained from the first one, and thank goodness for that because I would have pouted to death if the had removed Tomokazu Seki from the billing. He is one talented guy, and he always does a great job with each character he portrays (for this one, Tomokazu Seki plays Bart Garsus). Of course, like I said in my review of the first season, the other seiyuus were also able to bring out the personalities of their individual characters.

The second season’s visuals were more or less similar to the first season, except I did find it to be more consistent. The “morphing faces” or anything like were kept to a minimum. I also realized that the used repeated scenes more often for the second season. That’s just laziness, but it wasn’t that bad. Most of the repeated scenes used are the ones wherein Dita’s dread and Hibiki’s van-types were combining.

I like the opening song of the second season better. The song “Justice” by Aki Kudou was almost a synopsis of what the characters of Vandread are trying to accomplish. They are trying to fight for their justice, for a great future and they want to keep it that way. As for the ending song, it’s OK. “Yes Together”, also by Aki Kudou, was too slow and mellow for my taste. Like the first season, the BGM was also well done this time around.

Vandread: The Second Stage is definitely a good way to end the Vandread series. Unlike the first season, the second season actually offers a more solid conclusion that will leave you with a clearer picture of what might happen next. read more