BURN-UP review: A perfect balance of action and humor

Detailed review and recommendation of BURN-UP

overview

"BURN-UP" was released as an OVA on March 21, 1991. It was based on a light novel by Ide Yasuki and Kanzaki Jun, and was directed by them as well. It was produced by Japan Computer Systems, Media Ring, and AIC. The work is made up of one 45-minute episode, and although it is short, it has a dense story.

story

The story of BURN-UP is set in Tokyo in the near future. The protagonist Maki is a member of the special police "Counter-Terrorism Unit" and spends her days fighting terrorists and criminals. Her team is made up of Yuji, the leader, Satomi the technician, and Ryo, a new recruit. They face various incidents and sometimes fight for their lives.

The story begins with a large-scale terrorist incident that suddenly occurs one day. Maki and her friends do their best to solve the incident, but a conspiracy beyond their imagination is hidden. What is the terrorist's purpose, and what actions will Maki and her friends take to stop it? The story unfolds in a tense atmosphere.

character

Maki: The main character, she is the ace of the counterterrorism team. She has high combat ability and calm judgment, and plays an active role as the center of the team. Her character is attractive, combining strength and vulnerability.

Yuji: Leader of the counterterrorism unit. He is calm and collected, and excels at uniting the team. Without his leadership, Maki and the others' battles would not have been possible.

Satomi: A technician and supporter of the team. Her technical skills are essential to the team's victory, and her presence supports the team's strength.

Ryo: He is a new member and still inexperienced, but we see him growing. Seeing the activities of the counterterrorism unit from his perspective will be a refreshing experience for viewers.

Animation and Music

The animation in Burn-Up is of very high quality for a 1991 OVA. The character designs are realistic, yet the movements and expressions are rich, making it a visual treat. The backgrounds and effects are also detailed, creating a realistic atmosphere of a near-future Tokyo.

Music is also an important element in enhancing the atmosphere of the work. Many of the background music tracks heighten the sense of tension, and heart-stirring music is played especially during battle scenes. The opening and ending songs are also memorable, allowing you to feel the worldview of the work more deeply.

Ratings and Recommendations

"BURN-UP" is a short but dense story, with attractive characters, and high-quality animation and music. In particular, the parts depicting the growth and bonds between the members of the counter-terrorism unit deeply touch the viewer. The setting of a near-future Tokyo is also appealing, making it a visual treat.

This work is especially recommended for those who like science fiction and action. It is also recommended for those who want to enjoy a dense story in a short time. Furthermore, it is a work that you should definitely watch if you like works that depict character growth and team bonds.

Related works and series

"BURN-UP" has since been expanded into a series. Sequels "BURN-UP W" and "BURN-UP EXCESS" have been produced, each with different stories and characters. These works also depict the exploits of the counter-terrorism unit, making them a must-watch series for fans.

"BURN-UP W" was released as an OVA in 1996, depicting a deeper story and character development. "BURN-UP EXCESS" was broadcast as a TV series from 1997 to 1998, depicting an even more extensive story and character relationships. These works also feature high-quality animation and music, deeply moving viewers.

Background and influences

"BURN-UP" is based on the original light novel by Yasuki Ide and Jun Kanzaki. The original light novel is set in a near-future Tokyo and depicts the exploits of an anti-terrorism squad. In adapting it into an anime, a lot of effort was put into faithfully recreating that worldview.

The production was carried out by three companies, Japan Computer Systems, Media Ring, and AIC, who worked together to produce high-quality animation. The music also played an important role in enhancing the atmosphere of the work, leaving a deep impression on the audience.

This work had a huge influence on later science fiction and action anime. In particular, works depicting the activities of counter-terrorism units and works set in near-future Tokyo can be said to have been influenced by this work. The influence of this work can also be felt in works depicting character growth and team bonds.

How to watch and recommended points

"BURN-UP" is currently available on DVD and Blu-ray. It may also be available on streaming services, so if you're interested, be sure to check it out.

The recommended points are as follows:

• People who want to enjoy a dense story in a short amount of time
• People who like sci-fi and action
• People who like works that depict character growth and team bonds
• People who like stories set in near-future Tokyo

If these points apply to you, I recommend you watch "BURN-UP." You can also enjoy the worldview of this work more deeply by watching "BURN-UP W" and "BURN-UP EXCESS" together with the series.

Conclusion

"BURN-UP" is a short but dense story, attractive characters, and high-quality animation and music. In particular, the part depicting the growth and bond between the members of the counter-terrorism team deeply moves the viewer. The setting, set in a near-future Tokyo, is also appealing and visually enjoyable. This work is especially recommended for those who like science fiction and action. It is also recommended for those who want to enjoy a dense story in a short time. In addition, it is a must-see for those who like works that depict the growth of characters and team bonds. You can enjoy the world view of the work more deeply by watching "BURN-UP W" and "BURN-UP EXCESS" that were developed as a series.