Area 88 (TV) - 2: The Setting Sun As A Grave Marker

Title:Area 88 (TV)
Episode:2: The Setting Sun As A Grave Marker
Synopsis
At Area 88 the mysterious pilot known only as "Boris" has gained a reputation as "The Angel of Death". Though he is an expert at ground attack missions, and always manages to bring his F-8 Crusader back from the deadliest situations, nobody who accompanies him ever seems to return alive. "He likes watching the sun set" another crewman observes; "That may be the only time he can forget about all the friends he's lost". The other pilots keep at a distance from Boris; Shin is about the only one who isn't afraid to dine with him. Makoto notices that Boris sleeps with the lights on, and suffers terrifying nightmares. Kim explains to Makoto how money circulates at Area 88, and that Shin may be the only one able to earn the $1.5 million needed to buy out his enlistment contract. Saki announces a mission to what should be an easy and profitable target--but when Boris volunteers, only Shin, Kim, and three others do likewise. "It's been a long time since I've flown with another Crusader" Boris tells Shin. "But I can't let you become my friend. That's just the way it is. Friends betray"...
Comments
My first impression was that the sub-plot involving Boris seemed to come and go too quickly--perhaps due to the need to repackage it into a 23 minute parcel (the second time I watched it, the problem didn't seem all that serious). In general, I think the OVAs did a better job of playing up the dramatic, tragic elements of the story. For example, in the OVA version Boris made a telling remark which was misunderstood by the other pilots, but the same scene didn't try to be nearly as complex here. Still, this was a credible, enjoyable episode with kickass aerial visuals, as always. I'm amused to see that the rebels are still employing a not particularly cost-effective method of dealing with low flying aircraft (giggle...).

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