This is one of the newer animes I rented down at Blockbuster about two months ago.I was hesitant on renting it because it is continued (the last three episodes are being released starting in Sept),but after having it recommended to me and after viewing the trailer, I just had to pick it up, and I loved it! First of all, the visuals are spectacular with some of the best animation I've seen yet.The OAV combines anime with a beautiful blend of mind blowing CG to create some stunning eye candy, which is shown off most often in the amazing fight scenes. Especially impressive is the CG on Karas, and the mechanized demons, who are all unique and have their own look and abilities. Speaking of action, the OAV is filled to the brim with exciting and pulse pounding fast action sequences that will leave you wanting more. As for the story, it's odd but extremely interesting and captivating. The only downside is that it may be a little complicated and hard to follow at times if you don't pay attention, but it's nothing incoherent or anything, it's actually a good story that makes sense if you pay attention and keep watching. Aside from the visuals and action, the other impressive aspect is the english dub. Manga Entertainment really went all out on this one and even hired some Hollywood talent to bring together an excellent cast consisting of Matthew Lillard (Scream), Jay Hernandez (Hostel), and Piper Perabo (Coyote Ugly)as the three main characters. I have to hand it to Manga Entertainment, afterall I'm sure hiring these three actors didn't come cheap, especially when they had the option to go with any other regular english voice actor. Well, it certainly paid off because all three actors along with the rest of the cast did an outstanding job. I just hope they are able to get all three actors back for the second half of the series when episodes 4-6 get released later this year.Overall, this OAV rocked my socks off with it's fantastic visuals, kickass action and captivating story. The only downside is that the show ended with abit of a cliffhanger, which was cool but it sucks that we have to wait to find out what happens next. Other than that minor complaint (and it's not really a complaint), this was a great anime, and I can't wait to watch Karas:The Revelation when it gets released. I also liked the fact that they released it in the form of a movie which was probably a wise decision to attract new viewers and keep them tuned into the show without any interruptions.
