Angel Cop

As I've put in the title. This series came very close to being an all time classic. Hence my 9/10 instead of a possible 6/10. To explain... Angel Cop is essentially an 'Indie' style of anime with all the same flaws. Some talented people came up with a great concept and did the absolute best they could with limited resources. The result is average animation, passable voice acting and a much shorter series length than the concept deserves. Even today, I believe it's well worth a look, so long as you have an open mind.

"Angel Cop" is mind-numbingly violent, no question about that. It is also mind-numbingly stupid.

The plot to this six-part direct-to-video anime series revolves around a Communist terrorist organization out to topple Japan's economy on their first step to taking over the world, three psychic assassins that take orders from some very powerful (and corrupt) government positions, and the Special Security Force, which is the only police force in Japan that is actually allowed to fire their guns.

"Angel Cop" is idiotic, but it does have some redeeming values. First off being the English dubbing, which is laughably bad ("If this is justice, then I'm a banana!"). Second is that it does not pretend to be any smarter than it actually is. Third is the above-average animation quality.

I'd recommend this one for anybody seeking a mindless action fest, but make sure the kids are in bed first.

Angel Cop isn't quality in the political correct sense of high culture, perhaps a bit depending on the audio-track. In the west its "known" for its cursing. Im not a fan of it normally. I would even say i dislike it. But even i have to admit its done in special combinations in release from the ordinary ordeals. Its not political correct in any way, for that matter. Our "Angel" is a really ruthless agent and doesn't even cry to many rivers if one of her own men gets hurt. The unusual stile is to my knowledge closest to "I come in peace" with Dolph Lundgren. Its starts out as a Police-typo story with heavy firefights against natural bad-guys. But later a new threat is on the menu. Its up there with the most violent animated features ever. But its well made. There is also a political sidetrack which makes it hold together a bit better. For me personally a very entertaining classic.

My daughter and I recently enjoyed Angel Cop (1989) on Tubi. The plot unfolds in a futuristic society where a specialized police force is established to combat terrorist organizations. However, when members of this force begin to turn up dead, a relentless female officer takes it upon herself to track down those responsible and serve justice.

This series, brought to life by Ichirô Itano (Fist of the North Star), features the voices of Sharon Holm (Batman), Jeff Harding (Hackers), Daniel Flynn (The Bill), Peter Marinker (Labyrinth) and Lorelei King (The Saint).

Angel Cop is a delightful anime gem from the 1980s, characterized by animation that evokes memories of "Street Fighter" graphics. The series presents a captivating premise, an engaging storyline, and a gritty depiction of the future. The characters are charismatic action heroes, making it easy to root for them, and they are equipped with cool weapons, vehicles, and costumes. The action and fight sequences are nothing short of amazing and deliver intense moments with gore and blood splatter. While the ending is satisfying, I'd love seeing a sequel.

In summary, Angel Cop stands as an underrated anime gem 💎 that is a must-see for fans of this era's anime. I would give it a solid 8/10 and strongly recommend it.

All you really need to know is Angel Cop boasts decent action scenes, gratuitous violence and a hilarious English dub with such gems as "If this is justice, then I'm a banana!" Starts with an anime Dirty Harry, throw in a cyberpunk element and psychic powers like so many anime of the time, and you have an admittedly interesting setup. Unfortunately, the plot is flimsy and silly, the protagonist is easy to hate and the villain masterminds are practically cardboard cutouts. The final fight with a nigh-invulnerable psychic is neat, but all importance is quickly diminished by our incredibly inept hero. I like the weapon concepts; Recoil so high it breaks your arm, or muzzle flash so bright it fries your retinas. Not surprisingly, there's excessive violence to go along with it. Anyway, watch it for the laughs.