Rayearth (DVD, 2003)

This DVD includes all three of the Magic Knight Rayearth OVAs (Original Video Animation), created by CLAMP, on one disc.

If you've seen the TV series, the OVA can be quite jarring. While it highlights the same ideals of friendship and maturity as the TV series, it's darker and has a more serious tone. Also, the plot doesn't follow the TV series, but rather is a different storyline: Instead of the three girls transporting to another world, the other world invades Earth. Finally, the animation style is a little bit different than the TV series, but just as gorgeous.

Does any of this mean that you should avoid the OVAs? Heck no - I just want to point the differences out up front so others can avoid the confusion I'd first felt. That being said, if you've seen the TV series, it's fun to compare the differences between the two. Finally, it's one of those discs that gets richer and richer with each viewing.

The story: Three friends, Hikaru, Umi, and Fuu, are facing graduation and separation from each other. They make a wish under a cherry tree which the spirit inhabiting the tree grants. They become Earth's defenders against the invading world of Cephiro. Epic battles and personal trials make this an exciting, fulfilling coming of age tale.

One great aspect of the OVA being self-contained and different from the TV plot is that no previous familiarity with Rayearth's TV series or manga (comic books) is needed to enjoy it. Plus, the OVA contains the complete story so it's a great way to check out CLAMP's work or sample the Rayearth universe without a huge financial commitment. And, at just over two hours, it's not large time commitment, either.

The Magic Knight Rayearth OVA is an awesome addition to the Rayearth and CLAMP universe which gets this reviwer's highest recommendations!