2014-01-16

Mokuyobi Post - Black Magic M-66

Black Magic M-66 is a one shot action OVA based on the manga Black Magic by the legendary Masamune Shiro.  The OVA was released in Japan in 1987.

    The story deals with two experimental combat androids that are on the loose following their transportation helicopter crashing.  Their mission, while only designed as a dummy program, is to kill the daughter of one of their designers.  A freelance journalist, Sybel, ends up getting caught in all the action and must help to try and stop these unstoppable killing machines before too many people are dead.

    This is classic Shiro cyberpunk; strong female lead, the dangers of advanced technology used for war and cybernetics.  This OVA is close to 30 years old and has not aged well.  It smells highly of the 80s in both character design and music.  Even with that, this is an excellent addition to anyones collection who loves Shiro's work.  Black Magic is essentially his first title and you can see the blueprints for future initiatives in it. Ultra destructive cyborgs are one of his strong points and this story smells highly of The Terminator.

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