OVA
Description
"Black Magic M-66" is a 1987 OVA (original video animation) directed by Masamune Shirow, known for his work on "Ghost in the Shell." The story is set in a near-future world where advanced military technology and robotics play a central role. The narrative revolves around a pair of experimental combat androids, designated M-66, which are designed for high-efficiency warfare. During a military transport, the androids are accidentally activated, leading to a catastrophic chain of events.

The androids are programmed with a specific mission: to locate and eliminate a target, Ferris, the granddaughter of their creator. Ferris, unaware of the danger, becomes the focal point of the story as the androids relentlessly pursue her. The military, recognizing the threat posed by the rogue androids, attempts to contain the situation, but their efforts are largely ineffective against the advanced technology and combat capabilities of the M-66 units.

Sybel, a freelance journalist, becomes involved in the unfolding crisis. While investigating a military-related story, Sybel stumbles upon the chaos caused by the androids. Recognizing the potential for a groundbreaking news story, Sybel decides to track the androids and document their actions. Along the way, Sybel encounters Ferris and becomes determined to protect her from the relentless pursuit of the M-66 units.

The narrative is driven by the tension and action as Sybel and Ferris attempt to evade the androids, which are nearly unstoppable due to their advanced combat algorithms and durability. The androids' single-minded focus on their mission creates a sense of inevitability, as they systematically eliminate any obstacles in their path. The story explores themes of technological advancement, the ethical implications of autonomous weapons, and the vulnerability of humanity in the face of machines designed for destruction.

The climax of the story occurs when Sybel and Ferris are cornered by the androids, leading to a desperate confrontation. The resolution hinges on the interplay between human ingenuity and the limitations of machine logic, as Sybel devises a plan to outwit the androids. The OVA concludes with the aftermath of the confrontation, leaving lingering questions about the future of such technology and its impact on society.

The main characters include Sybel, the resourceful and determined journalist; Ferris, the innocent target of the androids' mission; and the M-66 units themselves, which serve as both antagonists and symbols of the dangers of unchecked technological advancement. The narrative is tightly paced, focusing on action and suspense while providing a glimpse into a world where the line between human control and machine autonomy becomes increasingly blurred.
Information
Black Magic M-66
Type: OVA
Movie/Episode length: 48 min.
Date: 06/28/1987
Categories
Genre
ActionThriller
Settings
Sci-Fi
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Staff
  • Director · Hiroyuki Kitakubo
  • Director · Masamune Shirow
  • Series Composition · Hiroyuki Kitakubo
  • Screenplay · Masamune Shirow
  • Storyboard · Masamune Shirow
  • Music · Jōyō Katayanagi
  • Original Manga · Masamune Shirow
  • Character Design · Hiroyuki Kitakubo
  • Art Director · Osamu Honda
  • Animation Director · Hiroyuki Okiura
  • Sound Director · Yasunori Honda
  • Director of Photography · Nobuo Koyama
  • Producer · Nagateru Kato
  • Producer · Toru Miura
  • Producer · Shuji Uchiyama
  • Producer · Makoto Asanuma
Production
  • Production · Bandai Visual
  • Animation Production · AIC
  • Animation Production · Animate
Relations
Manga overview