Slayers Return (1996) Movie Review: A Classic Adventure in the Slayers Franchise
Slayers Return (1996), also known as Slayers: Return, is a Japanese animated film set in the beloved fantasy universe of the Slayers series. Directed by Tomomichi Mochizuki, this film is the second feature-length installment in the Slayers franchise, following the success of Slayers: The Book of Spells (1995). Based on the popular manga and anime series created by Hajime Kanzaka and Ryoji Minagawa, Slayers Return continues the adventures of the powerful sorceress Lina Inverse and her loyal companions.
In this review, we’ll delve into the plot, characters, animation style, and where you can watch Slayers Return online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A New Adventure for Lina and Friends
In Slayers Return, the story begins with Lina Inverse (voiced by Megumi Hayashibara) and her companions—Gourry Gabriev (voiced by Yasunori Matsumoto), Zelgadis Greywords (voiced by Kazuya Ichijo), and Amelia Wil Tesla Saillune (voiced by Maria Kawamura)—embarking on a new quest. The film’s plot revolves around the group’s journey to a remote village that is plagued by a mysterious force threatening its people.
The village is under attack by a formidable creature known as the Giga Slave, a powerful magical entity capable of great destruction. The film reveals that the Giga Slave has been unleashed by a group of bandits seeking to control its power. Lina and her friends must confront these bandits, uncover the secrets of the Giga Slave, and protect the village from imminent disaster.
As the story unfolds, Lina and her team face various challenges, including fierce battles and magical confrontations. The film combines action-packed sequences with the series’ signature humor and character-driven drama, offering a well-rounded adventure that fans of the Slayers series will appreciate.
Characters and Performances: The Iconic Cast Returns
Lina Inverse, the central character of the Slayers series, remains as formidable and charismatic as ever. Voiced by Megumi Hayashibara, Lina is a powerful sorceress with a quick temper and a knack for getting into trouble. Her character is known for her sharp wit, strong will, and impressive magical abilities. In Slayers Return, Lina continues to exhibit her signature blend of bravery and comedic flair.
Gourry Gabriev, Lina’s loyal swordsman companion, provides comic relief and physical strength. Voiced by Yasunori Matsumoto, Gourry’s earnest and somewhat clueless personality contrasts with Lina’s sharpness, creating a dynamic that fans of the series find endearing.
Zelgadis Greywords, a brooding and enigmatic character cursed with a stone-like body, adds depth to the film. Voiced by Kazuya Ichijo, Zelgadis’ quest for a cure to his curse drives much of the character’s motivation and adds a layer of complexity to the story.
Amelia Wil Tesla Saillune, the cheerful and idealistic princess, rounds out the main cast. Voiced by Maria Kawamura, Amelia’s dedication to justice and her naivety provide both comic relief and earnestness, complementing the film’s adventurous and humorous tone.
The film’s supporting cast also includes various antagonists and secondary characters, all of whom contribute to the rich tapestry of the story and enhance the overall narrative.
Animation and Visual Style: Classic 90s Anime
Slayers Return features animation that is characteristic of the mid-1990s anime style. The film showcases vibrant colors, dynamic action sequences, and detailed character designs. The animation quality reflects the era’s trends, with fluid movement and expressive character animation that bring the fantasy world to life.
The film’s action scenes are particularly notable, with well-choreographed magical battles and dramatic confrontations. The visual style complements the series’ blend of fantasy and humor, providing an engaging and visually appealing experience for viewers.
The character designs stay true to the original Slayers series, with Lina, Gourry, Zelgadis, and Amelia appearing as fans remember them. The film’s backgrounds and settings are richly detailed, contributing to the immersive fantasy environment and enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Themes and Humor: Adventure with a Lighthearted Touch
One of the defining features of the Slayers series is its ability to balance epic adventure with humor and character-driven moments. Slayers Return continues this tradition, offering a story that is both action-packed and entertainingly lighthearted.
The film explores themes of bravery, friendship, and the struggle between good and evil. Lina and her companions face numerous challenges, but their camaraderie and determination drive them forward. The humor is integral to the film, with witty dialogue, comedic situations, and character interactions that provide levity amidst the action.
The blend of serious adventure and comedic elements makes Slayers Return accessible to both long-time fans of the series and newcomers. The film’s ability to incorporate humor into the high-stakes narrative adds to its charm and ensures an enjoyable viewing experience.
Reception and Legacy: A Beloved Entry in the Slayers Franchise
Slayers Return is well-regarded among fans of the Slayers series for its engaging story, memorable characters, and blend of humor and adventure. The film holds a special place in the franchise’s history as a continuation of the beloved anime and manga series, and it is appreciated for its adherence to the series’ established tone and style.
While it may not have achieved the same level of mainstream recognition as some other anime films, Slayers Return remains a cherished entry in the Slayers franchise. Its appeal to fans of the series and its representation of 1990s anime aesthetics contribute to its lasting legacy.
Where to Watch Slayers Return (1996) Online in America
For those interested in watching Slayers Return, several streaming platforms and rental services in the U.S. offer the film.
1. Amazon Prime Video
Slayers Return is available for purchase or rental on Amazon Prime Video. Prices typically start at $3.99 for rentals and around $14.99 for purchases.
2. Apple TV
Apple TV offers Slayers Return for rent or purchase. Rental prices start at $3.99, and purchase prices are around $14.99. The film is available in HD.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
You can rent or buy Slayers Return on Google Play Movies & TV, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase prices at $14.99. It’s available for streaming in HD quality.
4. Vudu
Vudu provides Slayers Return for rental at $3.99 or purchase at $14.99. The film is available in HD and can be streamed on various devices.
5. Crunchyroll
At the time of writing, Slayers Return is available for streaming on Crunchyroll, a popular platform for anime. This is a great option for anime fans who are already subscribed to the service.
Conclusion: A Classic Adventure in the Slayers Universe
Slayers Return (1996) is a classic entry in the Slayers franchise that offers a delightful blend of adventure, humor, and fantasy. With its engaging story, memorable characters, and 90s anime style, the film is a must-watch for fans of the series and anyone interested in exploring the world of Lina Inverse and her friends.
Available on several streaming platforms and rental services, Slayers Return is easy to access and enjoy from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or new to the world of Slayers, this film provides an entertaining and nostalgic adventure that continues to captivate audiences.
