# A Kite: A Gritty Classic in the Snowy Landscape of Anime

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## Introduction

Greetings, fellow anime aficionados and furry fans! I'm Kiba Snowpaw, the alpha Ice Wolf from the frozen world of HowlStrom. With 37+ years of experience in ice magic, I've been immersed in the gaming and anime realms since the 80s, playing on everything from the NES to today's PS5 and PC. Today, I'm here to bring you an over-the-top, pawsome review of one of my all-time favorite anime, *A Kite*. This gritty, action-packed OVA from the 90s is a controversial gem that stands out in the anime landscape. So, grab your warmest blanket, settle into your cozy den, and let's dive into this frosty review!

## Basic Plot Summary

In the bleak, crime-ridden cityscape, young Sawa's life is shattered when her parents are brutally murdered. Taken under the wing of corrupt detectives Akai and Kanie, she is trained to be an assassin, her life now a series of deadly missions and manipulation. As she carries out her assignments, she meets Oburi, a fellow orphan and vigilante. The two form a bond over their shared desire for freedom and justice. However, their dreams of escape are constantly thwarted by the dark forces controlling their lives. *A Kite* is a story of revenge, survival, and the quest for redemption in a world where innocence is a rare commodity.

## The Studio

*Arms Corporation*, the studio behind *A Kite*, was known for its daring and often controversial works. Founded in 1996, Arms made a name for itself with titles that pushed the boundaries of content and storytelling. Despite its dissolution in 2020, the studio's legacy lives on through its impactful anime. Arms was responsible for other notable works such as *Elfen Lied* and *Queen's Blade*, which share a similar penchant for blending intense action with deep, often dark, themes.

## Analysis/Evaluation

*A Kite* is a masterclass in blending action, drama, and psychological depth. The anime tackles complex themes such as corruption, abuse, and the moral ambiguity of revenge. The storytelling is tight and unflinching, never shying away from the harsh realities of its world. The animation, especially for its time, is top-notch, with fluid action sequences and a gritty, realistic art style that enhances the dark atmosphere of the series.

## Characters

### Sawa

Sawa is the heart of *A Kite*. Her transformation from a traumatized orphan to a cold, efficient killer is both compelling and tragic. Despite her tough exterior, moments of vulnerability and humanity shine through, making her a complex and relatable character.

### Akai and Kanie

Akai and Kanie serve as the primary antagonists, representing the corrupt and morally bankrupt forces that exploit and manipulate Sawa. Their portrayal is chilling, highlighting the depths of their depravity and the twisted sense of justice they impose.

### Oburi

Oburi provides a glimmer of hope in Sawa's bleak world. His bond with Sawa adds emotional depth to the narrative, showing that even in the darkest circumstances, connections can be formed, and redemption sought.

## Structure

The structure of *A Kite* is straightforward yet effective. Spanning just two episodes, the OVA packs a lot of narrative punch in a short runtime. Each episode builds upon the last, weaving a tale of revenge and survival that is both intense and emotionally resonant. The pacing is brisk, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.

## Impact

*A Kite* leaves a lasting impression with its unflinching portrayal of violence and corruption. The anime's exploration of dark themes and its complex characters resonate deeply, making it a memorable and impactful experience. The series has influenced many subsequent works, both in its narrative style and its willingness to tackle controversial subjects head-on.

## Hook and Thesis

The hook of *A Kite* lies in its raw, unfiltered portrayal of a young girl's fight for survival and revenge in a corrupt world. The thesis centers on the idea that the pursuit of revenge can consume a person, but it also highlights the potential for redemption and the importance of human connections, even in the bleakest circumstances.

## Praise and Critique

### Praise

1. **Atmosphere**: The anime perfectly captures the gritty, oppressive atmosphere of its setting, immersing viewers in its dark world.
2. **Character Development**: Sawa's character arc is well-developed, showing her growth and internal struggles.
3. **Action Sequences**: The action scenes are well-animated and intense, adding to the overall impact of the story.

### Critique

1. **Graphic Content**: The explicit scenes, while adding to the realism, can be off-putting for some viewers.
2. **Predictability**: Some plot points can be predictable, which might lessen the impact for some viewers.

## Evaluation

For fans of dark, character-driven narratives and intense action, *A Kite* is a must-watch. Its blend of psychological depth, gritty realism, and emotional resonance make it a standout in the anime landscape. Despite its controversial content, the series offers a powerful and thought-provoking experience.

## Comparison with Other Anime

When compared to other anime in the same genre, such as *Elfen Lied* and *Gunslinger Girl*, *A Kite* stands out for its raw, unflinching portrayal of violence and its deep, complex characters. While *Elfen Lied* incorporates supernatural elements and *Gunslinger Girl* focuses more on the emotional and psychological aspects of its characters, *A Kite* remains grounded in its gritty, realistic setting, making it a unique entry in the genre.

## Conclusion

In conclusion, *A Kite* is a gripping, emotionally charged anime that explores the dark, destructive nature of revenge and the potential for redemption. As Kiba Snowpaw, I highly recommend this series to all anime fans who appreciate a well-crafted, intense narrative. Dive into the world of *A Kite* and experience the haunting journey of Sawa as she navigates the treacherous waters of revenge and survival. Stay frosty, my friends, and keep exploring the magical realms of anime!