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Following on from the excellent previous volume, I wasn't certain what to expect from volume 3 of Gungrave since volume 2 focused on the main characters - Brandon and Harry's - rising up the mafia ranks to become 'family members', which they accomplished. From volume 3 I was expecting an inevitable takeover of their 'family' by the pair to take place, but thankfully volume 3 continues to be the intricate study of the downward spiral the friends take that will lead to Brandon becoming the hulking beast of a killing machine 'Beyond The Grave'. As I mentioned before, volume 3 is an intricate study which moves the story very gradually and only gives the viewer occasionally glimpses at how the pairing of Brandon and Harry will prove disastrous. That said, volume 3 contains far more action then any of its previous volumes, largely thanks to the introduction of 'necrolisation' - this is where corpses can be brought back to life as mindless drones which will kill what they are told and are very hard to kill. Although this sci-fi element seems a bit too stupid in the first episode, Gungrave handles it well enough to get away with it, largely due to ensuring that the mindless action never takes precedence over the drama and the centre of the story - Brandon and Harry. Volume 3 offers a few glimpses into what Harry has planned for the future and - although you can see it coming a mile off - it is not entirely clear how he will undertake certain decisions regarding Brandon. Delving into the plot more will be giving too many spoilers away, so you'll have to watch it to find out more. And watch volume 3 of Gungrave you should. No doubt if you are reading this review you would have already seen the previous two and will be aware of their quality. Volume 3 continues this quality well and adds in a lot of action to keep everything well balanced and this quality makes me want the release of volume 4 very soon. Extras: The smallest selection of Gungrave extras yet - volume
3 contains two trailers, more production art and DVD credits. The trailers
are for the thrilling and high stylish
Samurai
Champloo and the fun R.O.D TV (Read or Die TV). The production
art is small selection of very stylish that is presented in negative to make it
look extra cool and, once again, show off Nightow's stunning artwork. |
