Chrono Crusade: Holy War

Reviewed By: Carla Land

ADV DVD

Review based on volume 2 (episodes 5-8)

Rating 15+

What it’s (basically) all about: In 1920’s America there is more going on than bootlegging. Sister Rosette Christopher has an interesting job for a 16 year old during this time- she’s an exorcist for the Order of Magdalene in New York City. With her partner, the demon Chrono, she fights demons and demon worshippers and tries not to destroy too much of the city in the process.

In volume two Rosette and Chrono are still defending the world from demons, and things are getting more complicated for them. With the reemergence of the devil Aion, who kidnapped Rosette’s brother Joshua years ago, things are getting personal.

Nitty Gritty: There are some new characters introduced in this volume, and other characters (like the Apostle Azmaria) get some more screen time. The story is getting much more intense, and Sister Rosette is at the center of it all. (See review of volume one for more details about this show.)

Things to be aware of include some stylized nudity during an exorcism and a couple uses of the words bitch, damn, hell, and bastard (subbed and dubbed). There is also an increase in the violence and scariness of the demons that our heroes are facing. In one episode there is a very bloody crime scene shown that shakes Azmaria up.

The disk opens with an Anime Network promo. Other special features include “Azmaria’s Extra Classes” (which discuss the Order of Magdalene and their weapons), clean opening/ closing, original on-air opening for episode 5, “Chrono Crusade Chronicle” (a sort of who’s who and what’s what that slideshow that goes by really fast), production sketches and the DVD credits. Previews are for Peacemaker, Neon Genesis Evangelion Platinum, Cyberteam in Akihabara, Petite Princess Yucie, DN Angel and Get Backers. Most of these are okay for all audiences. (Peacemaker gets a little bloody.)

Survey says: While teens would enjoy this show, some of the situations in it can get pretty intense, and the violence is ramping up. The religious overtones also make this a borderline title, so it’s best to keep it in adult sections.

Personal Ad: I still really like Chrono Crusade. It’s an excellent blend of humor, drama and the supernatural.