Riding Bean

Riding Bean is a high-octane, action-packed anime movie from 1989 that has gained a cult following over the years due to its exhilarating car chases and memorable characters. Directed by Yasuo Hasegawa in collaboration with the creator of the original manga, Kenichi Sonoda, the film is set in the bustling, crime-ridden streets of Chicago. This one-episode OVA (Original Video Animation) presents a compact, thrilling story that manages to charm and impress within its shorter format.

The titular character, Bean Bandit, voiced by Hideyuki Tanaka, is a professional getaway driver extraordinaire with skills that are second to none. Bean is a legend among the underground circles in Chicago due to his remarkable driving abilities, his nearly indestructible "Roadbuster" car, and his stringent professional code. His imposing figure coupled with his leather attire and a headband that covers his left eye make him instantly recognizable.

Assisting Bean in his escapades is the sharpshooter and expert markswoman Rally Vincent, voiced by Naoko Matsui. Rally is a character who balances out Bean's brawn with her cool-headed tactical precision. Their chemistry is a highlight, providing a dynamic relationship that's both entertaining and critical in navigating the dangerous jobs they take on.

The antagonist of the story is the sinister and cunning Semmerling, voiced by Mami Koyama. As Bean Bandit's rival, she is sophisticated and devious, creating a compelling opposition for the protagonist. Her role is integral to the plot, as her actions set in motion a series of events that underpin the narrative of the film.

The adventure kicks off when Bean Bandit and Rally Vincent find themselves embroiled in a kidnapping case that's more intricate than it initially appears. The job they take on spirals into a web of deceit and danger, drawing them into the seedy underbelly of Chicago's crime syndicate. As skilled as they are, Bean and Rally must navigate twists and turns both on the road and in the unraveling mystery they find themselves pitted against.

Riding Bean is characterized by its superbly animated and detailed car pursuit scenes that still impress audiences decades after its release. The visceral excitement of the chase sequences showcases an attention to detail in both the mechanics of the vehicles and the urban landscapes they roar past. The auto designs, reflective of 80s' sensibilities and exuding an undeniable coolness, further enhance the visual appeal of these adrenaline-fueled sequences.

The backdrop of 1980s Chicago provides a rich, vibrant setting that adds to the narrative's intensity, with blues clubs, diners, and city streets serving as stages for the action. The soundtrack, with its synth-heavy beats, perfectly complements the high-speed chases and gunfights, encapsulating the essence of the era and energizing the film from start to finish.

Underneath the film's flash and flamboyance, Riding Bean also displays moments of clever writing and humor. The script injects wit into the dialogue, giving characters an extra layer of charm and personality. This, combined with astute pacing, ensures that the film maintains its momentum and keeps audiences engaged throughout its duration.

Themes woven into the storyline touch on loyalty, betrayal, and the moral gray areas often found in the world of mercenaries and criminals. Despite these weightier subjects, the movie rarely feels bogged down by them, maintaining a light-hearted tone even as it deals with moments of tension and uncertainty.

The complexity of the characters deepens the viewer's investment in the story. Bean, while a formidable figure in the driver's seat, displays unexpected facets of compassion and honor, making him more than just a one-dimensional action hero. Similarly, Rally's character provides an empowering portrayal of a strong, capable female lead who holds her own in a male-dominated environment.

Riding Bean excels in its craftsmanship, with animation that still stands up to the test of time, voice work that brings the characters to life, and a story that, though concise, is rich enough to leave a lasting impact. This OVA serves as both a love letter to the action genre and an unsung gem within the world of anime.

In essence, Riding Bean is a thrill ride from start to finish—a gripping narrative of fast cars, danger, and the indomitable spirit of its two main protagonists. For fans of action, good old-fashioned car chases, and the unique flair of '80s animation, Riding Bean is a must-watch that delivers excitement and entertainment in equal measure.