AnimEigo, in conjunction with its parent company MediaOCD, has announced the Blu-ray disc release of the classic mecha OVA (Original Video Animation) Metal Skin Panic Madox-01, with shipments commencing on September 16. This highly anticipated release brings the 1987 anime to modern high-definition, featuring reauthored content and a host of bonus materials for fans.
Return of a Cult Classic to Home Media
Originally released in 1987, Metal Skin Panic Madox-01 was one of AnimEigo’s very first licenses for Western audiences back in 1989. The OVA, produced by AIC, Soeishinsha, and Pony Canyon, was directed and conceptualized by Shinji Aramaki, who later gained renown for his work on titles such as Appleseed, Harlock: Space Pirate, and Ghost in the Shell: SAC 2045. Its return to home media has been met with enthusiasm from long-time fans of the mecha genre.
Enhanced Features for the Blu-ray Release
The new Blu-ray edition of Metal Skin Panic Madox-01 is packed with special features designed to enhance the viewing experience. Key additions include two director commentary tracks, offering insights into the creation of the OVA. Fans will also find cast interviews, providing a deeper look into the production. A unique “Weapons of MADOX” featurette showcases an array of Japan Self-Defense Force military vehicles, tying into the anime’s theme.
Audio and Subtitle Options
For this updated release, AnimEigo has included both the UK and US English dubbed audio tracks, available on Blu-ray for the first time. The disc also features Japanese LPCM 2.0 audio. Subtitle options have been modernized, with updated styles and name romanization, alongside the inclusion of German subtitles.
Visuals and Navigation
The content has been reauthored to ensure a crisp high-definition transfer, presented in its original 1.33:1 aspect ratio. The menus and cover art have been redesigned, and the art galleries, which previously functioned as video, have been converted to navigable stills for a more user-friendly experience.
The Plot: Mecha Mayhem in Tokyo
Metal Skin Panic Madox-01 delivers 41 minutes of action-packed mecha and comedy hijinks. The story centers on college student Kōji Sugimoto, a gear-head who accidentally finds himself trapped inside the experimental MADOX-01, a revolutionary personal battle-suit.
The activation of the MADOX-01 triggers a swift response from the military, particularly from the highly competitive Lt. Kilgore, Japan’s most “macho” tank-jockey, who was previously humiliated during a test of the MADOX-01 by ace female test-pilot Kusumoto Elle. As Kōji, unwittingly locked into the powerful suit, zooms around downtown Tokyo, he must evade Kilgore’s relentless pursuit. Adding to Kōji’s predicament, he is desperately trying to make it to a crucial date, despite being comically “overdressed” for the occasion. Elle, donning a second prototype MADOX, races against time to rescue Kōji before Kilgore’s forces completely devastate the city.
Pre-orders for the Metal Skin Panic Madox-01 Blu-ray are currently available through the MediaOCD website and other retailers.
