OVA
Description
"Riding Bean" is a 1989 anime OVA set in a high-octane, crime-ridden version of Chicago. The story centers on Bean Bandit, a skilled and stoic getaway driver, and his partner, Rally Vincent, a sharp-witted and resourceful courier. Together, they operate as freelance transporters, taking on dangerous jobs that often involve evading law enforcement and rival criminals. Their vehicle, the highly customized "Roadbuster," is a key element of their operations, equipped with advanced technology and weaponry.

The plot begins when Bean and Rally are hired to transport a young girl named Semmerling, who is the daughter of a wealthy businessman. Unbeknownst to them, Semmerling is the target of a kidnapping plot orchestrated by a gang led by the ruthless Percy. The situation escalates when Semmerling is abducted, and Bean and Rally are framed for the crime. To clear their names and complete their mission, they must navigate a web of deception, outmaneuver the police, and confront Percy’s gang in a series of high-speed chases and intense shootouts.

Throughout the story, Bean’s expertise as a driver and Rally’s combat skills are put to the test as they face off against both criminals and law enforcement. The narrative is driven by fast-paced action sequences, intricate vehicular maneuvers, and a focus on the dynamic between the two protagonists. The OVA also explores themes of loyalty, professionalism, and the moral ambiguity of their line of work, as Bean and Rally operate in a gray area between criminality and justice.

The characters are defined by their distinct personalities and roles: Bean is a calm and calculating professional, while Rally is more impulsive and emotionally driven. Their contrasting approaches to their work create a compelling partnership that drives the story forward. The antagonists, particularly Percy, are portrayed as ruthless and cunning, adding tension and stakes to the narrative.

"Riding Bean" is notable for its emphasis on vehicular action and its portrayal of a gritty, urban setting. The OVA’s concise runtime ensures a tightly paced story with minimal exposition, focusing instead on delivering high-energy sequences and a straightforward, engaging plot. The series stands out for its blend of crime drama, action, and character-driven storytelling, making it a memorable entry in the genre of action anime.
Information
Riding Bean
ライディング・ビーン
Type: OVA
Anime Episodes: 1
Movie/Episode length: 46 min.
Date: 02/22/1989
Categories
Genre
ActionComedyCrime
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Cast
Comment(s)
Staff
  • Director
    Yasuo Hasegawa
  • Original creator
  • Art Director
    Hiroaki Satō
  • Mechanical design
    Kinji Yoshimoto
    L. Lime
    Yoshihisa Fujita
    Satoshi Urushihara
  • Director of Photography
    Kazuhiro Konishi
  • Producer
    Tōru Miura
    Hiroshi Tazaki
  • Storyboard
    Yasuo Hasegawa
    Yasunori Ide
  • Music
    David Garfield
  • Character Design
  • Animation Director
    Atsushi Okuda
    Masahiro Tanaka
    Osamu Kamijō
  • Sound Director
    Noriyoshi Matsuura
  • Executive producer
    Junji Fujita
Production
  • Animation Production
    AIC
  • Production
    AIC
    ARTMIC
    Youmex
Relations
Manga overview