Hellsing

One of my first animes is going back to the beginning in new clothing, and comparing it to the older version is unavoidable. Whereas back then the creators immediately deviated from the manga and took the path of mystery and hints, Hellsing Ultimate promises much more blood, action, and given the ecstatic ratings of each episode, also more quality. It succeeds in the first two points, but not in the last one. Paradoxically, the loss of the mysterious veil and the gradual revelation of those who stand highest on all sides brings a slight disappointment. The biggest disappointment comes from the identity and actions of the central villain. Maj. Heinkel brilliantly suits the role of an episodic antagonist, yet his motivation was completely irrelevant to me, which is a major disappointment considering the amount of space he got. Fortunately, the perfect quartet consisting of Alucard, Victoria, Walter, and (especially) Integra Fairbrook Wingates Hellsing stands on the side of the titular organization. The screenplays may take space away from the descendant of the famous family, and yet with every command or dialogue she steals for herself with her unique elegance. As is evident from my final rating, satisfaction ultimately prevails. This despite the complicated or even incomprehensible motivations of some characters and despite the unnecessary stretching of seemingly passing plots and the shameful shortening of the attractive mythological background. Despite all objections, the whole series can boast an atmosphere where every shot, slash, or bite freezes, impresses, or frightens. As I see it, in order for each shorter segment to deserve the flood of absolute ratings, Alucard and his past, Victoria's second side, and the military sympathizer Pip would have to get more space. My impressions remain positive, but there was still plenty of potential. (22/04/2015)