Review of City Hunter

"I’m neither an ally of yours nor a tool of those police inspectors who think they are men of justice. I live as I think is right." Ryo Saeba, to a mafia leader. This masterpiece is the adaption of City Hunter's manga, one of Weekly Shōnen Jump's best-selling series of all time, from the all-known popular hit by Hojo Tsukasa. City Hunter is the code name of the main character, Ryo Saeba, Tokyo's best sweeper, private detective and body guard, as well as the number one pervert in Japan. No one can wield the .357 Colt Python Magnum the way Ryo Saeba does. He can shoot whilemoving with pinpoint accuracy, shoot through the same hole in a target many times, and draw, shoot then reload his gun faster than any opponent. Strongly feared in the underworld of Tokyo, he lives the way he sees fit, in a Carpe Diem way, and can be contacted by leaving a note with an "XYZ "on the bulletin board at Shinjuku Station.

Just as how he is an intelligent and ressourceful in the battlefield, Ryo can easily turn into a pervert when beautiful women are around. As for that matter, he accepts requests from women only, resulting in many comical "Mokkori" situations. Kaori Makimura is his self-proclaimed assistant, the sister of his late best friend and partner, and the only woman he doesn't seem to notice. Their gradually evolving teamwork, and their mysterious relationship make their missions all the more intriguing, with many unexpected turns of event. The supportive characters are quite appealing, with the beautiful and skilled Saeko Nogami, the ambitious police inspector who uses her charms to persuade Ryo to help her solve many cases, and Falcon/Umibozu, a good partner in many missions, and an equally good rival of Ryo. As the story unfolds, many old acquaintances make their appearence, and the hidden past of Ryo Saeba comes to light, dark and disturbing. Many hardships await the City Hunter team, and in times of crisis, Ryo and Kaori end up realizing their feelings for each other, but have yet to make decisions considering their line of work.

Through the four seasons of 140 episodes of City Hunter, the animation is vivid and pleasant, the voice actors cast brilliant, and the original soundtrack soulful and inspiring. The mind blowing action, the endearing comedy and the bittersweet romance make this anime a classic in the shounen genre, and certainly holds a special place in many hearts. As for the ending, you'll need to read to manga.

I highly recommand this anime. A 10 out of 10.