Shin Kujakuou is the second series based on the manga Kujakuou, but rather than a true sequel, it can be considered a reboot and can be seen without prior context. The production was handled by Madhouse in 1994 and therefore retains the aesthetic standards typical of that period. In this case we are dealing with two OVAs, featuring a single, self-contained story. The themes explored include intriguing elements tied to mysticism, Tibetan Buddhism, Nazis in search of absolute power, and monks from China and Japan who attempt to oppose the coming of the realm of darkness. It is a classic tale of good versus evil,but presented in a non-obvious way and enriched with a few well-conceived narrative twists.

The OVAs were directed by Rintarou, the pseudonym of Hayashi Shigeyuki, whom some may remember for directing Genma Taisen, X/1999, and Metropolis, as well as for producing other major anime works. It is therefore no surprise that the production benefits from a solid overall vision and a presentation worthy of its reputation. At times, one may sense a certain “rushed” quality in the resolution of some events, but this can be attributed to a broad-scope narrative featuring around a dozen characters, compressed into two OVAs of approximately 50 minutes each.

Where Shin Kujakuou truly shines, however, is in its animation, very much in the Madhouse style: raw, violent, and occasionally gory, yet without the excesses seen in the previous decade. That said, the first OVA is of higher quality overall, particularly in the fight scenes, while the second is more uneven, offering strong battle choreography only toward the end. A third episode would have been the icing on the cake, giving viewers more time to delve into certain dynamics and better get to know the characters, especially Onimaru, who, compared to the first Kujakuou OVA series, is shown only briefly here and without much buildup.

The soundtrack complements the action scenes well, and while some tracks are more interesting than others, none truly stand out. This is an issue shared by many anime of the 1990s: after the explosion of passionate OSTs in the 1980s, it often feels as though this aspect lost some of its creative drive. Despite all its shortcomings, Shin Kujakuou remains very enjoyable and flows smoothly from start to finish. A must-watch, without hesitation.

Story: 1/2
Direction: 1/2
Animation: 1.5/2
Characters: 1.5/2
Music: 1/2
Bonus points: 2/2

Final score: 8/10