Anime distributor AnimEigo, in conjunction with its parent company MediaOCD, has announced that the Blu-ray release of the classic 1987 Original Video Animation (OVA), Metal Skin Panic Madox-01, is set to ship on September 16. This marks a significant re-release for fans of vintage mecha action, bringing the fan-favorite title back to home media with reauthored content and a host of bonus features.
A Return to Classic Mecha Action
Metal Skin Panic Madox-01 (メタルスキンパニック MADOX-01) is a seminal work in the mecha genre, originally released in Japan in 1987. It was produced by AIC, Soeishinsha, and Pony Canyon, and notably directed and conceptualized by Shinji Aramaki. Aramaki later gained acclaim for his work on titles such as Appleseed, Harlock: Space Pirate, Evangelion: Another Impact, Ghost in the Shell: SAC 2045, and Blade Runner: Black Lotus. The OVA was also AnimEigo’s very first release for Western audiences, initially licensed in 1989.
The plot centers on Kōji Sugimoto, a college student and mechanic who inadvertently becomes trapped inside the MADOX-01, an experimental personal battle-suit designed for anti-tank warfare. Unable to exit the powerful suit, Kōji finds himself pursued by the military, spearheaded by the determined Lieutenant Kilgore, who harbors a personal vendetta against the MADOX-01. Amidst the chaotic chase through Tokyo, the MADOX-01’s ace female test-pilot, Kusumoto Elle, deploys a second prototype to try and rescue Kōji before Kilgore’s forces completely devastate the city. Adding a touch of comedic urgency, Kōji must also contend with the looming threat of missing a crucial date with his girlfriend. The 41-minute OVA is renowned for its detailed mecha designs and intense action sequences.
Blu-ray Features and Availability
The upcoming Blu-ray release of Metal Skin Panic Madox-01 features content that has been reauthored for improved viewing. It includes both UK and US dubbed audio in 2.0, along with available German subtitles.
A substantial collection of bonus features accompanies the main presentation, designed to offer deeper insights into the production and world of Madox-01. These include:
- Two director commentary tracks.
- Cast interviews.
- A “Weapons of MADOX” featurette, which showcases a variety of Japan Self-Defense Force military vehicles, echoing a VHS featurette previously released that documented real-world weapons and vehicles used in the anime.
The Blu-ray also boasts redesigned menus and cover art. The suggested retail price (SRP) for the release is $17.99. Pre-orders for Metal Skin Panic Madox-01 are currently available through AnimEigo’s online channels and various retailers. This release follows a successful Kickstarter campaign in April 2021, which funded the Blu-ray project, reaching its goal in just 42 minutes.
