Movie: I'm a big fan of anime, especially science fiction anime, and was pleased to get a hold of Infinite Ryvius 1 a couple of months ago. The show detailed the events of an act of sabotage in a future setting that forced a group of students in space to fend for themselves. In the second volume, Infinite Ryvius 2, the cast continued their exploits as they fell under attack from outside the Ryvius by unknown enemies, intent on destroying them. Little did they realize that they had been branded terrorists by an organization out to plunder the Ryvius by any means necessary. In the third volume, Infinite Ryvius 3: Tension, the crew of youth find they are somehow being held responsible for the destruction of the enemy ships, even though they were attacked first. Further, the next ships sent in are more powerful, and led by far more seasoned crews, with little hope for the Ryvius to prevail. Here's what the box cover said:

"After the battle at Mars, the children on board the Ryvius hold a party to celebrate their victory. But their celebration is cut short as they are branded terrorists for destroying the Liebe Delta and the Mars Fleet! As the Ryvius leaves Mars and heads toward Jupiter, supplies are rationed and a system is set up for the students to work to earn points to redeem for food and supplies. Tensions rise as the students work long hours for a few meager points, while a privileged few enjoy having unlimited points. As they approach Jupiter, the Ryvius is attacked by another Vaia ship, the Blue Impulse."

Episodes 11) When the Party's Over
12) Whereabouts of the Future
13) If Only to Meet
14) To Be Too Conscious

The series remains on my "must watch" list and my rating for the dvd is still Highly Recommended, based on the character growth, the intrigue and the technical qualities of the DVD. In general, the series screams "quality" and fans of science fiction anime will really want to look into getting this one for their collection. It had a lot of thematic depth and this gives it lots of replay value, something sorely lacking in many mainstream movies these days.

Picture: The picture was presented in 1.33:1 ratio full frame color. There was some grain and a few moments of moiré but otherwise looked pretty good. I think most of the visual matters that weren't "perfect" were intentional this time considering the overall care the show received.

Sound: The audio was presented with a choice of either Japanese or English Dolby Digital with optional English subtitles. There was a good mix here with some very noticeable separation between the channels. Some care was exercised with the audio and I think both languages had something to offer. I liked both versions but give the nod to the English track this time as the story unfolded a bit better without having to read the subtitles.

Extras: There were the usual trailers, double sided dvd cover, clean opening and closing and paper insert but also a third video for the series, a short featurette of the characters, called Ryvius Illusion #3 (done in comical form), some commercials, and a set of promotional clips. This volume also had a plastic inlay of the front cover, something that appeared to have an adhesive backing to stick wherever you want it stuck. I liked the SD (super deformed) skits a lot and each of them, though short in length, made me smile.

Final Thoughts: The series was fun to watch as the characters showed a bit of depth with some solid writing. I don't know where the show is going but as long as more corners aren't cut from the production, I can see this one being one a lot of people are going to check out. The technical qualities of the series are still fairly high, the direction solid, and every time I watch it, I want to see the next chapter, a winning formula for this reviewer.