OVA
Description
"First Squad: The Moment of Truth" is a 2009 anime film that blends historical fiction, supernatural elements, and wartime drama. Set during World War II, the story revolves around the Soviet Union's efforts to combat Nazi Germany, with a unique twist involving occult practices and psychic warfare. The narrative centers on Nadya, a 14-year-old girl who possesses the ability to communicate with the dead. After losing her memory in a tragic accident, she is recruited into a secret Soviet military unit known as "First Squad," composed of young soldiers with extraordinary psychic abilities.

The unit's mission is to counter the Nazi occult division, Ahnenerbe, which seeks to resurrect a powerful medieval crusader, Baron von Wolff, to turn the tide of the war in their favor. Nadya's connection to the spirit world becomes crucial as she attempts to uncover her past and harness her abilities to aid her comrades. The story alternates between the present-day conflict and flashbacks to Nadya's childhood, revealing her training and the origins of her powers.

The film explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the moral ambiguities of war, as the members of First Squad grapple with their roles as child soldiers and the devastating consequences of their actions. The narrative is interspersed with documentary-style interviews, adding a layer of realism and historical context to the fantastical elements. Key characters include Leo, the stoic leader of First Squad; Valya, a skilled sniper with a tragic past; and Marat, a young soldier with telekinetic abilities. The antagonist, Baron von Wolff, serves as a formidable foe, embodying the dark ambitions of the Nazi regime.

The plot builds toward a climactic confrontation between First Squad and the resurrected Baron, with Nadya's powers playing a pivotal role in determining the outcome. The film concludes with a mix of triumph and tragedy, reflecting the harsh realities of war and the personal costs borne by its characters. "First Squad: The Moment of Truth" stands out for its unique blend of historical events and supernatural intrigue, offering a distinctive take on the World War II genre.
Information
First Squad - The Moment Of Truth
ファースト・スクワッド
First Squad - Moment der Wahrheit
Type: OVA
Movie/Episode length: 73 min.
Date: 05/13/2009
Categories
Genre
ActionGhost Stories
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Staff
  • Director · Yoshiharu Ashino
  • Storyboard · Yoshiharu Ashino
  • Character Design · Hirofumi Nakata
  • Art Director · Masanobu Nomura
  • Animation Director · Hirofumi Nakata
  • Art design · Tomoyasu Fujise
  • Cgi Director · Yusuke Tannawa
  • Producer · Eiko Tanaka
Production
  • Animation Production · Studio 4°C