Austin, Texas-based Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is launching a new monthly program that celebrates the colorful world of Japanese animation — from giant robots to pink-haired magical girls, post-apocalyptic dystopias to fantastical fairytale lands. Kicking off in August, the ANIME-ZING series is dedicated to sharing the wonders of anime with everyone, including both die-hard enthusiasts and those just curious about this distinctive corner of pop culture.
The first films on the docket are eye-popping classics Ninja Scroll, Millennium Actress and Vampire Hunter D. Tickets for Ninja Scroll, screening in August at local Alamo Drafthouse theaters, are on sale now.
Ninja Scroll (1993, recommended for ages 18+) is an over-the-top, blood-spattered tour de force of katana-slashing violence. With the bold colors of ‘90s action anime and more artful moments reminiscent of classic samurai films, Yoshiaki Kawajiri’s original film follows a powerful samurai warrior as he takes on demonic foes tied to a conspiracy of espionage, evil shoguns and a woman with a literal kiss of death.
