The appeal and evaluation of ROD-READ OR DIE-: A deep review of the first episode

The appeal and reviews of ROD-READ OR DIE

"ROD-READ OR DIE-" was released as an OVA in 2001, and is based on a light novel by Hideyuki Kurata. This is a spy action story that revolves around the protagonist, Yomiko Readman, who has the special ability to manipulate paper, and depicts her taking on a battle that unfolds on the other side of the world. Below, we will introduce the appeal and reviews of this work, as well as related information in detail.

Story and worldview

The story of "ROD-READ OR DIE-" is set in a world behind the scenes, different from the world we see on the surface. In this world behind the scenes, a battle invisible to the general public is unfolding, and the main character, Yomiko Readman, gets caught up in it every time. She is a secret agent in the Special Operations Department of the British Imperial Library, and her code name is "The Paper." Her special ability is "paper use," and she can freely manipulate paper. Using this ability, she is depicted fighting against the "World Greats Army," which is plotting to change the world.

The story is made up of three episodes, each with a different setting and enemy. The first episode begins with Yomiko getting caught up in an incident, the second episode features a battle set in India, and the third episode shows Yomiko in a pinch. This structure allows viewers to experience new excitement and surprises with each episode.

character

The main character, Yomiko Readman, is a 25-year-old part-time lecturer and bibliomaniac. She is extremely nearsighted and prefers to wear men's glasses. However, in reality she is a secret agent for the British Library, known as "The Paper," with the special ability to manipulate paper. The charm of her character lies in the contrast between her ordinary life and her role as a powerful agent in the underworld.

Nancy Makuhari, who teams up with Yomiko, is an agent with the special ability to pass through walls, and goes by the code name "Miss Deep." She is actually a double agent for the enemy, and her relationship with Yomiko is an important element of the story. Joker, the number two in the British Library's Special Operations Department, is a strict man who faithfully carries out his boss' orders, and is responsible for conveying strategies to Yomiko.

Other historical figures who appear as members of the World Great Men Corps, such as Gennai Hiraga, Jean-Henry Fabre, Otto Lilienthal, Xuanzang Sanzo, and Ikkyu Sojun, are resurrected as clones and confront Yomiko and her friends. Each of these characters has their own unique abilities, and their battles with Yomiko and her friends add excitement to the story.

Production and staff

"ROD-READ OR DIE-" was produced by Studio Deen and directed by Koji Masunari. The original story, series composition, and script are by Hideyuki Kurata, the original character designs are by Taraku Haoto, and the character designs are by Masashi Ishihama. The music is by Taku Iwasaki, and the theme song "ROD" was composed and arranged by Hideki Tanaka and performed by YKZ.

This work was released as an OVA in three episodes, each about 30 minutes long. Episode 1 was released on May 23, 2001, Episode 2 on July 18, 2001, and Episode 3 on February 6, 2002. It was released and sold by SME Visual Works, and the copyright is owned by Studio Orphee and Aniplex.

Evaluation and Appeal

"ROD-READ OR DIE-" has been praised for its unique worldview, fascinating characters, and thrilling story development. In particular, Yomiko's special ability to freely manipulate paper is visually very impactful and draws viewers in. Also, the setting in which great historical figures are resurrected as clones and fight in the modern world is fresh and adds depth to the story.

Furthermore, this work has been developed as a media mix, with novel and comic versions released at the same time as the anime. This allows viewers to delve deeper into the world of the work through not only the anime, but also the original manga and comics. There is also a related work, "ROD THE TV," which is also popular as a work depicting the exploits of Yomiko and her friends.

Recommendations and how to watch

"ROD-READ OR DIE-" is recommended for those who like spy action and battle scenes using special abilities, and for those who are interested in works featuring great historical figures. Another attraction is the unique setting in which a familiar material, paper, is used as a weapon, making it a work that can be enjoyed by those looking for a visual impact.

You can purchase it on DVD or Blu-ray. It may also be available on streaming services, so check the lineup of each service. You can also get the original light novels and comics, so if you want to enjoy the work in more depth, check out these media.

Conclusion

"ROD-READ OR DIE-" is a spy action story that revolves around the protagonist, Yomiko Readman, who has the special ability to manipulate paper with ease, and depicts battles in the underground world. It has been praised for its unique worldview, attractive characters, and thrilling storyline, and is full of elements that draw viewers in. This is a work that we highly recommend to those who like spy action and battle scenes that make use of special abilities, as well as those who are interested in works featuring great historical figures. There are a variety of ways to watch it, so if you're interested, be sure to check it out.