RG Veda

RG Veda is an enthralling and intricate anime series released in 1991, revolving around the cyclical nature of revenge, loyalty, betrayal, and the eternal search for the truth. The series is a two-part OVA adaptation of Clamp's 10-volume manga of the same name produced by Animate Film and directed by Takamura Mukuo.

RG Veda is set in a world inspired by Vedic cosmology and thrives on a virtual labyrinth of interconnecting narratives. In this universe, six stars will determine the fate of heaven and earth. When the celestial emperor, Taishakuten, overthrows the rightful sovereign, the prophecy begins. The massacre of the imperial court leaves Ashura-ō's child Ashura, the last of the Ashura clan, presumed dead. But Ashura's life is spared and secured until he matures, triggering his fated journey.

The story follows Ashura, who embarks on a quest to exact vengeance on those who destroyed his clan. Alongside Ashura, there are five other stars, or warriors, each carrying their unique abilities and tragic pasts. This makes for a diverse and sometimes volatile mix of personalities. As the story advances, alliances are formed, conflicts erupt, and intricate relationships develop among the characters.

RG Veda's strongest feature lies in its complex character development and interactions, as the characters' loyalties and intentions are rarely straightforward. Centering on the themes of tragedy, nobility, and sacrifice, the characters in RG Veda are presented with various challenges, forcing them to confront their beliefs and values. These largely personal battles often serve as a microcosm of the larger conflict that engulfs their world.

The show heavily indulges in elements of the supernatural and fantasy. However, it's not limited to these genres as there are strong themes of drama, political intrigue, and action throughout the series. Whether it's the devastating battles of the celestial warriors or their intimate conversations, which reveal deep-seated emotions or secrets, RG Veda successfully keeps the viewers hooked. It weaves a rich tapestry of tales that is both epic in scope yet deeply personal.

The animation of RG Veda is quite impressive considering the time of its release. Detailed and imaginative, the series presents a distinct visual appeal. Although it may feel slightly dated by today’s standards, it nonetheless manages to convey the story fluently. The backdrop settings are drawn from Japanese and other Asian cultures, which makes the artwork feel unique and thrilling. The character designs are diverse and intricately detailed, reflecting the characters' individual personalities and backstories.

The series’ soundtrack, composed by Nick Wood, does a fantastic job in setting the series' tone. From soft, haunting melodies that underscore quiet moments of bonding, sorrow, or reflection, to robust orchestral expressions in the action and plot-thickening scenes, the music serves to enhance the emotional resonance of every scene.

However, the series is not without its flaws. Due to the OVA adaptation of a significantly larger manga series, the plot can seem rushed and abrupt at times. It provides a condensed version of the story with a focus on key moments and character development, with some elements inevitably left unexplored or unsatisfactorily explained.

Despite being an OVA, the series displays an incredible gravitas that works well with its epic narrative style. This would appeal to audiences who love intricate character-driven plots, filled with mystical elements and political drama. That being said, RG Veda's distinguishing feature is the woven relationships, personal sacrifices, and battle of good vs. evil, portraying the human condition against the backdrop of a mythical world.

In summary, RG Veda is a fantastical journey that showcases complexities of power struggles, retribution, and redemption set within a mythical universe. The intriguing characters, coupled with the unsolved mysteries and overarching prophecy, make RG Veda a must-watch for any anime enthusiast. It keeps the viewers hooked with its intense plot, intricate storyline, and compelling character arcs, whilst creating a bewitching mythos few can replicate.