The release of 3x3 Eyes came in two parts. The first two videos came in with the new wave of Japanese Animation to be released by Manga Video and Kiseki Films.Other titles were Macross II, Akira and Project A-KO.
As I was dwelling in the county at the time (things were a bit dull),this was welcome indeed. Of the titles released, many things in the first four instalments (2 videos) of 3x3 Eyes caught my attention. I was struck, not only by the unique plot, demonic monsters and bloody battles, but also by the peacefulness of the settings and slickness of the animation. The extreme contrast of social values in conflict is moderated by the hues of the season. The Japanese sense of harmony and reputation for the extreme, is captured very well in this film. Set mainly in Hong Kong and Japan, it is a portal into Asian culture and mysticism.
The second three videos that conclude the story, were released some time later. These do lack something. The story moves into the deserts of China and Tibet, and with the loss of complexity of the cityscape, so do the characters lose something. This is made up for with the introduction of more bizarre allies and plot twists. The effect is riveting and the release of the second half in 3 videos only makes the experience savourable longer. I'm not saying I approve of violence, but this is part of the 3x3 Eyes experience. It is handled well, often with humour, often with dramatic tension.
So if you can get a copy of this now dated video, I recommend you check one out now and then. Although not having a cinematic release, the quality is as good or better than many current release animations.
The central character "Yakumo" is working his way through tertiary education in a sleazy cafe in the run down part of town. One night he is accidentally killed by one of "Pai"s sprit guardians. Because she is the last member of an immortal race called the Sanjiyan, she has magical powers and restores Yakumo to life. The trouble is, now he can't die! Together the must recover an mysterious artifact to restore themselves to being human and achieve mortality.
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