Get ready, City Hunter fans! The latest installment in the legendary action series, City Hunter: Angel Dust, is officially hitting North American Blu-ray shelves on July 15, 2025. This release promises to deliver all the high-octane thrills and comedic moments that have made City Hunter a beloved franchise for decades.
A Blast From the Past With a Modern Twist
City Hunter: Angel Dust is more than just a new chapter; it’s a celebration of the entire City Hunter legacy. The film cleverly weaves in elements from the original manga and anime series while updating the story for contemporary audiences. It serves as a direct sequel to the 2019 film, City Hunter: Shinjuku Private Eyes, and adapts the first part of the final arc of the City Hunter manga. For longtime fans, it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane filled with familiar faces and classic scenarios. For newcomers, it’s an excellent entry point into the exciting world of Ryo Saeba.
The Plot Thickens: A Synopsis
The story revolves around Ryo Saeba, the infamous “sweeper” based in Shinjuku, and his partner Kaori Makimura. They take on dangerous odd jobs for a variety of clients. This time, they are approached by Angie, a wealthy video content creator, with a seemingly simple request: to find her missing cat.
However, as with any City Hunter case, things quickly become complicated. Ryo and Kaori soon find themselves embroiled in a web of intrigue involving assassins and a mysterious substance known as “Angel Dust Modified” (ADM). This nanomachine serum has the potential to turn individuals into super soldiers, and various factions are vying for control of it.
The quest for ADM also dredges up Ryo’s past, specifically his relationship with his former partner, Hideyuki Makimura. The original “Angel Dust” formulation ties directly into Ryo’s backstory, adding a layer of personal stakes to the already dangerous mission.
Returning Favorites and Fresh Faces
One of the most remarkable aspects of Angel Dust is the return of the original voice cast from the 1987 anime series. Akira Kamiya reprises his role as Ryo Saeba, with Kazue Ikura returning as Kaori Makimura. This continuity lends an authentic feel to the film, honoring the history of the franchise.
The cast also includes:
- Miyuki Sawashiro as Angie, the video creator who hires Ryo.
- Tesshō Genda as Falcon, a fellow “sweeper” and ally of Ryo.
- Mami Koyama as Miki, who is associated with Falcon and the Cat’s Eye Cafe.
- Yōko Asagami as Saeko Nogami, a detective with the police who often crosses paths with Ryo.
- Hideyuki Tanaka as Hideyuki Makimura (in flashbacks).
- Subaru Kimura as Espada, an assassin.
Production and Release
City Hunter: Angel Dust was directed by Kazuyoshi Takeuchi and Kenji Kodama, with Kodama serving as the general director. The screenplay was penned by Yasuyuki Muto, adapting the original City Hunter manga by Tsukasa Hojo. The film was produced by Sunrise and The Answer Studio and distributed by Aniplex.
The film was initially released in Japan on September 8, 2023, and later in other Asian countries. A North American premiere was held in August 2024 at the Japan Society, coinciding with Anime NYC. The Blu-ray and DVD versions were initially released on July 31, 2024.
Music to Our Ears
The film’s score was composed by Taku Iwasaki and released as a CD album in September 2023. Adding to the nostalgia, the film features new songs from TM Network, the band synonymous with the original anime series. These include the opening song “Whatever Comes,” insert songs like “DEVOTION,” “Angie,” and “Watching Your Sky,” and a new version of the iconic ending theme, “Get Wild.”
Box Office Success and Critical Reception
City Hunter: Angel Dust topped the Japanese box office during its opening weekend, grossing approximately $2.2 million. By the end of 2023, it had earned roughly $7 million in revenue.
Reception to the film has been mixed. While many appreciate the film’s blend of action, humor, and nostalgia, some critics have noted inconsistencies in tone. However, the animation quality, action sequences, and the return of the original voice cast have generally been praised.
A Deep Dive into the Plot
The film opens with Ryo and Falcon teaming up with the Kisugi sisters (from Cat’s Eye) to raid a facility. Their target is a seemingly uninteresting piece of art that hides a box containing an injector and vials of blue fluid, identified as “ADM” or “Angel Dust Modified.” This substance is a rare sample of nanomachines designed to create super soldiers, and an international conspiracy called Union Teope is behind its development.
As Ryo investigates, he encounters Angie, a new client who requests his help in finding her missing cat. Meanwhile, Saeko Nogami of the Metropolitan Police is investigating the biotech company Zoltic, which is connected to the creation of ADM. The film explores the intertwined nature of these cases and Ryo’s personal connection to Angel Dust through the death of his former partner, Hideyuki Makimura.
The narrative delves into themes of fate, identity, and the consequences of technological advancements. Ryo must confront his past while battling enemies seeking to weaponize Angel Dust, leading to intense action sequences and emotional moments.
Cameos and Easter Eggs
City Hunter: Angel Dust is filled with nods to the broader anime universe. Characters from Cat’s Eye make appearances, running the Cat’s Eye Cafe. Lupin III and Daisuke Jigen of the Lupin III franchise also have a brief cameo.
Blu-ray Release Details
The North American Blu-ray release of City Hunter: Angel Dust includes:
- English subtitles
- Opening and ending sequences
- Trailers
- Promotional videos
Why You Should Watch It
City Hunter: Angel Dust offers a compelling blend of action, comedy, and mystery. It appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers with its engaging storyline, dynamic characters, and stunning animation. Whether you’re a die-hard City Hunter enthusiast or simply looking for a thrilling anime film, Angel Dust is well worth your time.
Final Thoughts
Mark your calendars for July 15, 2025, and prepare to dive into the world of City Hunter with Angel Dust. This Blu-ray release is a must-have for any anime collection, promising hours of entertainment and a fresh perspective on a beloved classic. Get ready for Ryo Saeba’s latest adventure!
