Gatchaman OVA Series on Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll has acquired rights from Fireworks International for the North American digital distribution of the 1994 Gatchaman OVA series. The 3 episode series was initially released on American home video in 1997 by Urban Vision. The series will be available for free online viewing and commercial download on the Crunchyroll website beginning this month.

“We are excited and proud to work with Fireworks International and Harmony Gold on this project. Not only do we bring all three (3) episodes of this legendary anime to the public, but we will also be providing an additional gift of free virtual ‘badges’ for people who purchase the download” states Kun Gao CEO and President of Crunchyroll. Gao continues with “we are very pleased to bring another amazing anime series from one of the main pioneers of the anime industry-Tatsunoko Productions.”

Fireworks International Senior Vice-President of Digital Acquisitions and Distribution Jonathan Ford commented, “Crunchyroll is an ideal platform for the re-launch of the classic GATCHAMAN™ title in July. We are excited to bring this title to the Crunchyroll community where the viewers can watch and enjoy this title online in outstanding quality.”

The three (3) episodes are entitled The Dragon King, The Red Specter and The Final Countdown. Fans are encouraged to go online on July 2nd and join the 5 brave young teens (Ken, Joe, Jun, Jinpei and Ryu) as they attempt to foil evil and save the Earth.

GATCHAMAN™ (1994; 144 minutes; Three (3) 48 min. episodes, unrated) is directed by Hiroyuki Fukushima, written by Akihiko Nishiyama, character designed by Yasuomi Umezu and produced by Tatsunoko Productions.

Synopsis:
It's five against thousands in a fierce, fast-action battle to save the Planet. Piloting their prized ship, the GodPhoenix, the Science Ninja Team launch their counterattack against Gallacter's entire army of assassins. The Gatchaman are back, big time! Revamped, stylish and more dynamic than ever, the new GATCHAMAN™ manages to modernize the characters, without compromising the design of the original series. Here are all your favorties - Ken, Joe, June, Rock and Jimmy - with a great new look and killer attitude. This new Original Video Animation (OVA) is sexier, more action packed and completely surpasses the animation in the original 70's series.
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