Reviews (27)

BERSERK - BEST ANIME EVER
This would have to be the best anime I have ever seen, there is no comparison. The story is so good that once you've watched one episode, you can't to wait to see the other. It is not a predictable story unlike most other anime, where you can almost guess what's going to happen. The characters are the best, everyone has their special attribute, mostly Gatts and Griffith, Gats with his huge sword cutting through anything that gets in his way, and Griffith with his confidence and unmatched leadership. This anime is very realistic, not with too much violence but it shows you more that it is a violent world. I would probably say that this has to be the best series I have ever seen even comparing to regular tv shows and movies. You will not regret one penny you paid to buy it and one second of your life you watched it.

One of the Most Unique and Powerful Series Ever.
Berserk is one of the most unique animes, and just plain one of the most unique stories around. It has a flow and style of plot and character development all its own. The characters are all very realistic and never seem flat or predictible. Guts, himself, is a very different manner of hero. He's far from a moral character, yet not really what you would call an antihero. The story is very subtle at times and does a nice job of juggling action and helping further the narrative, with bits of dialogue that never seem stilted or generic.
The ending, as many reveiwers have already said, is very brutal and quite cruel. Some may be turned off by this, but I found the ending quite a bold move, and upon watching the last two episodes over again, prefer it to a more upbeat one. One of the most standout points I found throughout the series was its music. It's quite beautiful and matches the tone of the series perfectly, especially in the latter episodes. Perhaps the most surprising to me was the brialliant use of cuts and edits the series employs. Whether it goes to its commercial bumper or just recaps the events of the previous episode in the prologue, the series has a sharp eye for cliffhangers and last-minute revelations. Treat yourself to something fresh in the anime world and watch Berserk, you shouldn't be dissapointed.

Berserk is just simply a masterpiece!
ok this won't be a typical review like you peoples usually read. Ghetto wit style is this 1. Now here is the way I interpreted the story of ...............................

~Berserk~ The characters in this show ain't like nothin you ever seen. They have DEPTH! The most I have ever seen. But it is only 3 that has this DEPTH.

~Griffth~
~Guts~
~Caska~

because of the DEPTH to these 3 great characters is astonishing, everything these 3 characters do will be interpreted diffeerntly with every viewer that watches these 3 characters interact.

Here is a list of many things I mean............................

* Is Griffith and Guts really gay?
* Does Casca really love Griffith or is her judgement clouded for another man, maybe Guts?
* What caused Griffith to become gay?
* Who is the smarter man Griffith or Guts?
* Why is Casca always complainin?
* Does Guts want Griffith or Casca? Is he bisexual?

and there are many more. This series is everything just get it.

Oh and if you get this collector's Box of War set then watch the outtakes on every dvd cause they are very, very funny. Also in a interview the director or artist mentioned somethin bout that there may be a 2nd season! Hope so!

Holla at ya boi!!!

frustrated
i watched the whole series and must say i enjoyed most of it, but i think saying it has a bad ending is an understatement. i have never felt more frustrated about any ending more than this one. i never have felt i wanted more resolution in an aime most the time i like less but in berserk there was no resolution. i would have been satisfied if they atleast hinted in the end what happened but there was nothing.its not only the ending. the whole story has loads of foreshadow that kept me watching but in the end it combined almost none of it. i was really disapointed by it. guts is a little too invicible for my taste also.

Wow! and... Wow...
This is such a cool anime. You will understand a lot more if you read the manga as well. I'm just waiting for the 4th manga to be printed in English.
The consept of this anime is amazing in the fact that it shows the lengths a person will go to be at the top: the people that will be used, the people that will die, and the people who are really 'nothing'- just stepping stones. Wonderfully done! ... Read more

Description

In the castle town of Midland, a new king has come to power through treachery and violence. His demonic agents relentlessly victimize the townspeople, until the night a battle weary soldier enters the city. Covered in an array of weapons and countless battle scars, he calls himself the Black Swordsman. The sword he carries is as big as his grudge against the king.Blade in hand he hunts the servants of evil with unending vengeful fury. ... Read more

Reviews (56)

Entertaining, but...
Someone may find the subject matters in Berserk difficult (child abuse, rape, insanity, homosexuality, just to name a few), and someone may find that creater of the series has little to no affection toward the character; however, that does make Berserk one of the most mature fantasy series on the market.

Inevitably, there are some typical fantasy cliches in this series, yet those cliches are actually Western fantasy story cliches instead of those hyper anime kiddy fantasy show cliches (slayer series came to mind). There are absolutely no annoying magical creature in the show (not in the TV series anyway...) and important character(s) do die in the series. The animation of the show is nothing to write about, and there are quite a few still frames due to budgeting constraint. Nonetheless, it does get the job done and convey the story to its audiences.

Finally, the most important note of all... THE MANGA SERIES THAT THE SHOW BASED OFF OF IS NOT OVER YET. Since they did not animate the series past volumn 13 (there are 22 volumns so far) the end of the animated series is a giant cliffhanger. There are talks of making a new series (or actually, finishing making it), but there is nothing concrete about that rumor.

Not having a resolution is a horrible thing, because you do want to know what is going to happen to Gatts, Caska, and how big Gatts' sword will get eventually. But you wouldn't regret getting to know them.

Don't fret, it gets better...
This is one of my all-time favorite animes, but before I get into that, I'd like to address a few things here:

1) Griffith is NOT gay.

2) If you absolutely loved Record of Lodoss War, you probably won't like this. No inane love triangles, plot that drags ooon and ooon, or loads of magic. If you liked Army of Darkness, the video game version of this series, dark/mideval/character study stuff, and good 'ol fashioned booty kickin', you'll probably like this. I recommend this for anime fans who want a little more from their TV than just episodic bleh. And don't think this is a guy show either, I'm a girl and I love it!

3) If you don't like the first episodes, it gets better.

4) In my opinion, this series stands on its own. It surpasses sword-and-sorcery... it shouldn't be lumped together with others like that.

Berserk is not your average anime (no grotesquely huge eyes, cat girls, or perfect hero). Lots of carnagae, a little conspiracy, a big betrayal, a few monsters, and a sprinkle of romance focused on a main character that kicks a ...load of booty. Some people just don't like him, but he has to be my favorite male anime character. His struggle to find his own purpose in life, his own dream, is fascinating. The other characters in this series stay with you also. The overly ambitious Griffith. Casca, striving to find her place at Griffith's side. The kind-hearted Judeau, resentful Corkus, and all-around awesome Zodd.

In conclusion, I'd recommend this series to anyone who is not squeamish, likes mideval fantasy and/or character studies, and is over the age of sixteen.

Dude, just buy it.

From Guts to Glory
Berserk is not your average anime series.
It's a very dark and grity series. Thats why I love this series
so much. The story is amazing. I love all the characters cause they all have there own thoughts and abilities of understanding.
The character development is great! From watching the first five episodes I can tell this series is just gonna get more bloodier by the minute. This isn't a type of show to watch with your little ones.

I'm not gonna say what the story is about cause theres enough reviews to read from to know what it's about. I think Berserk has it's own unique original story that keeps it in hold. Well duuuu. Of course! After finishing the 5 episodes I knew I had to watch the rest! This series is very addictive.

These 5 episodes are fantastic! I can't wait to finish them so I can start reading the Manga.

Be sure to get this one. It's absolutely amazing!
I will be getting volume 2 of the anime soon.

Ps....The opening music theme is awesome.

Later

Good enough to want more
This is my first real exposure to anime. The only other time I watched some of it was in Tarantino's "Kill Bill: Volume 1", but it is only in a few passages in the movie that anime is used. Since I enjoy epic fantasy, I thought a good way to start out in anime was in a series that used this genre. I found that I enjoyed the first five episodes of "Berserk", and even though at some points I found myself having trouble figuring out where the story was going, I was left looking forward to the next disc in the series.

In the first episode, the Black Swordsman arrives in a town looking for a monster that has the habitants under his grip, living in a world of fear and misery. The Black Swordsman carries along a huge sword that is bigger than him, he is branded in one of his shoulders and is visited in his dreams by demons that claim to own him. At this point there is no clear plot in the story, but in the next four episodes the story goes back to our hero's youth and the viewer finds out that his name is Guts and he honors this name to the extreme. Guts meets with the Band of the Hawk, which is lead by Griffith, an effeminate but very skillful warrior. After some initial quarrels Guts joins the band of mercenaries and an interesting relationship develops between him, Griffith and Caska, who was until that moment the right hand of Griffith and apparently is in love with him. In episodes two through five there are three main points of interest intertwined in the story: the relationship between Guts and the other Band of Hawk members; the missions in which the band embarks gaining fame and respect; and the glimpses at Guts childhood, which helps the audience to make sense of some of his actions and attitudes.

The series starts out a little slow, but through the episodes, it captures the viewers' attention and one starts to sympathize with the main character. I was left craving for more information about the characters' past and future and will definitely get the next installment.

BERSERK 1-5 MANGA AND BEYOND
At one point in your life you come across something that's so great and breath taking that your forced to conclude that nothing else in existence could ever match it's equal. For me that something is the Berserk series. There are a few people who made bad reviews about Berserk; saying its boring and no good blah blah blah. That goes to show you that Berserk isn't for everyone. We all have our likes and dislikes, that's what makes us human. But if you look at all of the reviews; there are more people who enjoyed this anime then those who didn't. Those who gave bad reviews about Berserk weren't worthy to enjoy it. And there will be plenty more. So if your looking for Berserk to be some DBZ/POKIMON/Kiddy anime with little cute characters running around, BERSERK IS NOT FOR YOU! Other wise....BUY THIS ANIME! If you cant afford 1-5 buy the whole set on 3 cds by a group called FX. Just do a search on Google for Berserk FX sale and you will come across a few places with the whole serious for like 28 bucks. -Hardcore Berserk Fan NosferatuX

[]xxxxx|::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::>
Look there in the darkness. Look hard into the darkness around me. ::Demon eyes start to glow/brand starts to drip blood:: You don't want this life. -Guts ... Read more

Amazon.com

Guts, Caska, and the remaining White Hawks rescue Griffith from the dungeonsof Midland, but the torture master has mutilated him so horribly, he can nolonger command his followers. When Griffith finds the Egg of the King, theodd red gem he once possessed, all hell breaks loose--literally. Griffithchose a violent destiny that culminates in his transformation into the princeof demons, and the White Hawks are so many sacrificial victims to be devouredby misshapen creatures from the nether world. This grisly tacked-on endingdoesn't fit the rest of the storyline: what began as a violent but powerfultale of loyalty and valor collapses into a blood-soaked gore-fest thatrecalls the excesses of Wicked City and Legend of theOverfiend. (Rated 16 and older, but unsuitable for viewers under 18:graphic violence, violence against women, grotesque imagery, profanity,nudity, rape) --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (41)

shockin,at best....
I first noticed berserk maybe 2...if not 3 months ago(picked up berserk 1 at the local video rental). After just the first dvd,i got hooked. The story is amazing, and can capture anyone. I didnt understand the first one, until i saw this one(25),where everything crumbles. it twists everything around, turns anyone whos truly into the series world upside down. While its pretty much just a killing off of most of the chars, it is almost heartbreaking to see someone who you've fought battles with, or seen risk his life on the field for a friend(the immortal), or noticed the love that lasted through the series(kaska, guts[think he liked guts a little too much..] even that princess chick) crumble all in one epi. In the middle of the last video,i was left with my mouth hangin open just muttering words i cant say..I hope that the series produces more to better go into depth of the last.(the first one even left you hanging, and along with that the last previews dont match the first one). Anyways, if you want to see some wild [stuff] from a great anime,you should check this one out. But, i warn you to be ready for anything cause this one has it all. If you arent ready, this very well could scare the hell out of you(i watched it around 5 am, in a cold damp house, with a weird sound coming from upstairs). In otherwords, like most Berserk titles, this isnt for the faint of heart

...

Beyond Good & Evil Lies Berserk (MAJOR SPOILERS)
One of the most amazing things about this series in general is that nothing is black and white; Berserk is an addicting look into the beautiful, brutal grey. The primary story arc follows the life and adventures of Guts, in an extended flashback that begins with Episode 2 and eventually comes full circle, leading the viewer back to the events in Episode 1. (The first couple episodes may be a bit confusing, but by the end of the series, everything makes sense.) Though Guts is the "hero" of the story, his actions aren't always good - the assassination that leads to the death of the victim's young son as well, comes to mind - but this is the strength of the series: it doesn't shy away from the darker nature of humanity. As for the last DVD in the series, it could more accurately be called the conclusion of the first part of a much larger story; make no mistake, Guts' story is only just beginning at the end of God's Hands. Many reviewers have written that they felt "cheated" and "disappointed" by the final two episodes of this series. My question to them is why? No, the last two episodes don't tie up every little loose end, but they're not supposed to. They're only supposed to end this part of the story, which they did admirably. Granted, part of me really would've liked to see Guts and Caska get their "happily ever after" ending, but could any one really see that happening and still be true to the overall story of Berserk? Their love (though the word "love" is never used by them, it's in every action and look they share) is made even more poignant because they faught so long and hard to realize it, yet it lasted so briefly. The only real complaint I have is, what became of Caska and how did Guts escape the "Hell" he was trapped in? In this sense, the final episode feels a little rushed, but it doesn't distract too much from the overall brilliance of this series. I won't go so far as to say it's the best series there is, but it is *one* of the better ones ever made and close to top in its genre.

Great Series... Big misundeerstanding
The ending of Berserk is one of the most violent and disturbing things I have ever seen, but that only makes it better. As many people have said, the ending is not actually the real ending and the manga series continues to this day. Also, as many people have said, it is very unlikely that there will be a continuation of the series. However, the anime series was quite popular in Japan for it's late night time slot, but still there wasn't a large enough audience to warrant a second season. Though there have been rumors that the series will be continued, don't count on it happening. I hope you find this review helpful.

The End of a Dark Journey
Berserk has bin favortie anime ever since I laid my eyes on it.
But comming to these last episodes I knew I was going to have a great time with these episodes....I was wrong. Not Only are you left with a huge cliffhanger but It's so darn sad.
All the characters you've grown to love,Juedoe,Pipin,Corkus(yeah),and the hawks are killed one by one by Grotesque and some what messed up demons. Just lookin' at em' they look messed up.

Sadly we also see why Guts needs his sword. With out it he's no more then dead just like the rest of the Hawks. This set Episodes may be the most Important of them all.

We also see our once loved Griffith turned into a Demon King by the Name of Femto. Also the Hawks find out about Griffiths Dark Truth before he is morphed into the demon lord. And the hawks find out that there the sacrifice.

This is also the Darkest chapter in the Berserk series. It's probably the most violent of out of them all. Not to mention we finally see how Guts ended losing his arm and eye. Not a pretty site eather.

WARNING THOUGH! IF YOU ARE EXPECTING A HAPPY LOVEY DUVIE ENDING DO NOT PURCHASE THIS DVD because this probably has one of the worst endings I've ever seen in the series. Over all I still think Berserk is a great series. God's hand is a must own for Die Hard Berserk fans.

Acctually it's not really and ending. It's more a of a "to be continued" kinda thing. I thought This Dvd was over all good but not the best, especially how it leaves lots of things out.

Now that I have finished this Magneficent series awhile ago I've started to read the Manga which far more superb then the anime. Check it out.

Well That's all I have to say...and remember...This is not really an ending if you think about...And also when the credits are over you see one final last moment with Guts as he's walking away and as you can see this is after all the hell that he went through in ep 25 but the frustrating thing is "how the hell did he get out alive"?...Well You're just going to have to find out for your self by reading the manga.

Later....

An Ending That Can Only Be Appreciated By The Die-Hard
There have been plenty of mixed reviews here on the final episodes of the animated Berserk. The ending is definitely one that makes it hard to really recommend to anyone who isn't a well developed anime fan or a serious fan of the Berserk series.

Warning: Possible spoilers ahead.

The final episodes of the series really is the bloodiest of the whole series. It brings Berserk to a very primal, instinctual sort of mood. It is in these final episodes that you really see Guts/Gatsu become more of a person than an uninspired warrior. His realization and confession of love for Caska brings in him his first real vulnerability that anyone can understand.

In the last few minutes, we finally few a deep, heartfelt connection to Guts/Gatsu as despite desperate sacrifice, he cannot save the woman he loves. We learn that he cuts off his own arm in an attempt to rescue Caska but without major success. You see his insurmountable torment as he is held back, unable to prevent her rape.

It's an ending that isn't for anyone looking for a happily-ever-after. It's not one for someone who was looking for a true consummation of their love. But it is powerful, primal, and is one of the best paths of character development I've seen to date, in any movie or anime. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Guts, the brooding hero of this dark sword-and-sorcery adventure, learns that military prowess must often give way to politics. Guts and Griffith, the leader of the mercenary troop the Band of the Hawk, challenge Zodd the Immortal, a bloodthirsty creature who may be a monster--or a god. Success on the battlefield wins Griffith the respect of the King of Midland, who rewards the valiant commander with the title of count. Count Yurius, the younger brother of the king and heir to the throne, is infuriated by the rise of the low-born Griffith. He hatches an assassination plot that backfires: Griffith is protected from evil by a mysterious scarlet gem, the Egg of the King. Based on a popular manga by Kentaro Muira, Berserk offers a grim, violent picture of a vaguely medieval world rife with swordplay and blood. Rated 16 Up: Considerable violence, profanity, grotesque imagery. --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (16)

WARNING: DO NOT GET ADDICTED TO THIS SERIES UNLESS....
I love Berserk, it's by far one of the best animes of all time. The characters, as everyone says, are supurb, and the overall storyline (Although dumbed down from the Manga) is quite excellent. However, the episodes on this current dvd and the next few to come are the happy ones. Those of you who say there's lots of gore and adult situations in these first couple eps, YOU HAVEN'T SEEN ANYTHING YET! If you enjoy the series at it's current point, do not get addicted (as I did) unless you are prepared to see everything go, quite literally, straight to hell in the last couple of eps. I thought Ninja Ressurection was bad, but episode 25 came very close to making me vomit. Thus I must warn you, don't get too attached to the current set of main characters (Especially Griffith, that dirty little...) without expecting the worst.

As for eps 6-9, 6 is phenominal. It introduces Nosferatu Zodd, or Zodd the Immortal as he's called, who becomes a main character in the Manga after vol. 13 (Which is where the anime ends), and is by far one of the coolest demons ever. Eps 7-9 continue the ascention of the Band of the Hawk, and let you see a little deeper into Griffith and Gatsu's minds. All in all, its worth the buy.

One last point, I don't especially like the voice acters for the dub, and strongly suggest you watch the series subtitled. The only thing the dubbed dvds have going for them are the absolutely hilarious outakes.

Immortal Soldier Review
This has got to be one of the most engrossing story I have ever seen. The best Anime series ever. This anime contains English Dub with the original language with an optional English subtitles. The story follows a young man named Guts, who must rely solely on his skill to survive his own fate beyond his control. Extremely violent. Not for the squeemish. Trust me this is definitely worth collecting. This series has 25 episodes and the second series is already being worked on in Japan.

Just as good as WARCRY, but better
So far I this series is shaping up to be an awesome series.
It's already my all time favorite anime series.

The character development has improved off of War Cry.
Theres not enough action in this one but still manages to hold
it's prime. I really enjoyed this volume....

Though there was a few flaws I thought It still did well..
I am right now on the third dvd and so far it hasn't dissapointed.

Get IMMORTAL SOLDIER.

It's just as good as WARCRY....
We also see more development with Gutts And Griffith....

Overall this is a great vol of Berserk to have....

Later...

The plot thickens and the quality improves
The first five episodes in the series were enjoyable and promising, showing a glimpse of the story to come and with only a few hints on what the big picture was. In this second installment, we find ourselves immersed deeper into the conflict between Midland and Chuder, in which the Band of Hawks plays a pivotal role. The relationships among the main characters become more complex and juicy and there are clear signs of involvement by non-human creatures.

In the first episode of this disc, sixth overall, the Band of Hawks face Zodd the Immortal, a mercenary monster who has the reputation of being invincible. Guts, our hero and main character, honors his name and is willing to face Zodd, even against the advice of everyone else. Right from the beginning, the importance and power of the Eye of the King becomes apparent. This is a piece of "jewelry" that hangs around the neck of Sir Griffith, the leader of the Band of Hawks. The message that is repeated in the introduction of each chapter regarding the destiny of mankind becomes clearer and clearer.

In terms of the relationship between the characters, Guts starts to wonder why Griffith is so willing to get in harms way in order to defend him. Caska still has trouble coping with Guts' presence and position as one of the commanders of the Hawks. In the meantime, Griffith becomes involved in games of power with other members of the court, even though he is unaware of this fact for a while.

The quality of this series has been steadily increasing throughout the first ten episodes, so I cannot wait to watch the next installment. At this point I can say with certainty that anyone that enjoys anime and epic fantasy will have a great time watching this production.

AWESOME!!!
The storyline of this anime just keeps getting better and better. this dvd starts off with the band of the hawk facing Zodd the Immortal, and its the best battle so far in the series. a lot of dark hints of what is fated to happen later on in the series are given, mostly from Zodd.
as usual, plently of battles and bloodshed, but also a slight piece of romance when princess charlotte first appears. the last episode on this dvd is a total cliffhanger.
also, dont forget to check out the outtakes at the end! beserk has some of the funniest outtakes ive ever seen in an anime. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Griffith, who presents himself as a pure idealist, has Guts assassinate theheirs to the throne of Midland. These deaths allow Griffith to begin wooingPrincess Charlotte, despite the Queen's fierce disapproval. A battle with aninvading force from Chuder takes a dire turn when Guts and Caska areseparated from the rest of the Hawks. Guts saves Caska's life but receiveslittle thanks for his trouble. While hiding in enemy territory, Caskadescribes her wretched childhood and why she idolizes Griffith--even thoughshe discovered he was selling himself to a dirty old man (literally) to raisemoney to finance his army. These revelations provide an emotional counterpartto the bloody battle scenes, which include a duel between Guts and a giant inextra-heavy armor. Unflinchingly dramatic and violent, Berserk is anunusually powerful and disturbing fantasy-adventure. (Rated 16 and older:graphic violence, profanity, nudity, sexual situations) --CharlesSolomon ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Rage into the Darkness...
The bloody saga between darkness and human will continues with "Berserk 3: White Hawk." While I noted that the second volume lacked a bit in action and intensity (but was still very good and necessary), this third volume comes back with full force containing more story, character development, and outstanding battle scenes.

The series continues with past events in Guts' life that are still adding shape and texture to the person that he has become in the very first episode. A warrior possessed with rage and absolute hatred of himself, Guts craves fighting and is an unstoppable force against his enemies. One of the main storylines of the four episodes is Guts and Caska getting separated from their group after battle. Guts learns how Caska came to met Griffith and why she joined his group. She also reveals why she is envious of Guts. At the same time, the two are being tracked by the enemy. Caska and Guts must learn to fight together side-by-side, or suffer the deadly consequences.

"Berserk" is really shaping up to be one hell of an impressive series. The storytelling is absolutely mesmerizing and the animation suits the characters and the setting. While we still have yet to see what exactly has led Guts to where he was in the very first episode, we are learning more and more about his past which helps us understand where he's coming from. Guts is also showing more emotion in these episodes which leads us to believe that there has to be more to him than being just a violent and raging warrior. We also see Griffith come more and more into power and showing signs of completely devoting himself to his dream. It will be interesting to see what ends up happening between Guts and Griffith, as it's clear that some sort of treachery must've taken place at some point.

This anime series isn't intended for children. These four episodes contain strong and brutal violence, extreme blood and gore, language, nudity, and dark and disturbing themes and imagery. It's crucial to the story that the series be dark and violent as it is painting a horrific picture of warfare and how far some are willing to go to destroy their enemies with hopes of gaining all power over everything. Extras included are outtakes, production sketches, the original TV opening, storyboards and trailers.

"Berserk 3: White Hawk" continues this exciting epic without missing a single beat. The episodes are exciting, heavily involved with the characters, and they do a splendid job of continuing this episodic journey into darkness. If you've made it this far, then you know the power this series holds. For have only seeing 13 episodes, this is already proving to be a remarkable tale.

3 1/2 Stars actually...
This third volume is probably the most disturbing with deeper storyline so far in Berserk series. It reveals about Caska's undying loyalty to Griffith and what/who he really is (kinda, it gives your better idea), along with tons of bloody massacre, and some true feelings are revealed (wink wink).

Just like typical sub-par anime series, artwork is good in the beginning, falters in the middle, then picks up again in the end (to save film budget), no different in Berserk. As you can tell right away how awful artwork gets in battle scenes, choppy character movements and coloring.

This third installment should keep you interested enough to anticipate a bit for fourth volume. But AGAIN, I can't stress enough about dopes who overblow every anime series as if it was, "THE BEST EVER!!! WOW!!" I mean.. just check our their other reviews, everything is, "WOW, THE BEST EVER!!!" "FIVE STARS!!!!" "BUY IT NOW!!" give me a break. Berserk is entertaining, but DEFINATELY not best ever.. or close to it.

THE BEST VOLUME YET!
The 3rd volume of BERSERK is off the hook. It's the best I've seen yet!

We see our hero Gutts in attempt to assasinate the(I won't spoil it) man Griffith wants dead, we also see Caska sharing her past with Gutts about when she first met Griffith. There's more to it but I don't wanna spoil it.

This volume is also very violent. And a bit of nudity. But that can't stop you from watching this show! It's simply AMAZING! I love this volume!

I give it 100000000/of 5 stars!!!

Berserk rules! It's the best anime I've seen! But of course there's still more than just this series.

Overall this is the best volume yet.

GET IT!....NOW!!!!

Later...........

Welcome to the dark side
At this stage of the series I have to acknowledge that I am totally hooked. After finishing the third disc, I could not wait to watch the next one. In the episodes contained in this installment we see some of the main characters examine their motivations for participating in Griffith's quest. Especially Guts, who will have trouble finding a reason to keep going after what happens in the first episode in the disc (Noble Man).

When Griffith, the leader of the Band of Hawks, discovered that Yuruis was the mastermind behind his assassination attempt, he decided to send Guts to kill the king's brother. Guts mission was supposed to be carried out with secrecy, but things did not go as flawlessly as planned. As a result, Guts becomes considerably distraught by the events that developed during his mission, and to make matters worse he overhears a conversation between Griffith and the princess that adds more doubts to his mind. From this point on, Guts is chased in dreams by memories of his childhood with Gambino and by Zodd the Immortal, the monster he faced previously.

Also, Caska finds herself having trouble coping with the relationship that is developing between Griffith and Princess Charlotte. Griffith is rising in court and the political games continue, but his attention focuses on the war and the princess. As a result of this, Caska opens up a little in his attitude towards Guts, and shares some astonishing revelations about Griffith's past!

What I found most satisfying in this set of episodes was the profound view we get of the emotions and thoughts of the characters. Although I enjoy the action packed episodes, and the ones here have their fare share, I was marveled by the deeper aspects of the story. At this point I can say without fear of making a mistake that this series is truly amazing.

Brilliant, Beautiful, Marvelous, Magnificent......MANGA
All I can say is Wow , this series represents the title Manga to it's most truthful meaning , nothing comes close to this , and to think I was inlove with The Record Lodoss War series once upon a time , how much i have missed until now . Berzerk is and will forever be known as a break through in animation and creative story telling. Berzerk shows us all how far anime can take us once it's reached it's full potential. Given this it not the best animated manga it centainly is one of the best told. You can keep all your futuristic Sci -Fi anime's but the genre of Fantasy best represents Japanimation (oh poor Disney how much you still have to learn) i.e. Ninja Scrool, Lodoss War, Vampire Hunter D, Fist of the North Star , Dagger of Kamui , Evangelion ,and Escaflowne. Be fair warned berzerk is not for the faint of heart , it is the cold hard truth about the ambitions of men. That being Griffith in this case . I cannot stop mentioning how brilliant the writting is in this Wonderfuly told Epic. This truly is Manga at it's Best. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This violent sword-and-sorcery adventure suggests a darker version of Record of Lodoss War. Guts (originally "Gatsu") is a brooding warrior, haunted by demons, who fights with an enormous two-handed sword. When he's defeated in hand-to-hand combat by the elegant Griffith, Guts joins the Band of the Hawk. They're supposed to be mercenaries, but Griffith's loyal corps behaves like a crack regiment in the century-long war between Midland and Chuder. Although he takes unnecessary personal risks for reasons rooted in past traumas, Guts quickly rises to a position of command. This vision of early medieval warfare is grittier and less sanitized than standard anime adventures. Fans of Kento Miura's original manga praise its depth of characterization, which isn't really apparent in these first five episodes. But its grim earthiness sets Berserk apart from run-of-the-mill chivalric tales. Rated 16 Up: Violence, nudity, sexual situations, profanity, grotesque imagery. --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (56)

Entertaining, but...
Someone may find the subject matters in Berserk difficult (child abuse, rape, insanity, homosexuality, just to name a few), and someone may find that creater of the series has little to no affection toward the character; however, that does make Berserk one of the most mature fantasy series on the market.

Inevitably, there are some typical fantasy cliches in this series, yet those cliches are actually Western fantasy story cliches instead of those hyper anime kiddy fantasy show cliches (slayer series came to mind). There are absolutely no annoying magical creature in the show (not in the TV series anyway...) and important character(s) do die in the series. The animation of the show is nothing to write about, and there are quite a few still frames due to budgeting constraint. Nonetheless, it does get the job done and convey the story to its audiences.

Finally, the most important note of all... THE MANGA SERIES THAT THE SHOW BASED OFF OF IS NOT OVER YET. Since they did not animate the series past volumn 13 (there are 22 volumns so far) the end of the animated series is a giant cliffhanger. There are talks of making a new series (or actually, finishing making it), but there is nothing concrete about that rumor.

Not having a resolution is a horrible thing, because you do want to know what is going to happen to Gatts, Caska, and how big Gatts' sword will get eventually. But you wouldn't regret getting to know them.

Don't fret, it gets better...
This is one of my all-time favorite animes, but before I get into that, I'd like to address a few things here:

1) Griffith is NOT gay.

2) If you absolutely loved Record of Lodoss War, you probably won't like this. No inane love triangles, plot that drags ooon and ooon, or loads of magic. If you liked Army of Darkness, the video game version of this series, dark/mideval/character study stuff, and good 'ol fashioned booty kickin', you'll probably like this. I recommend this for anime fans who want a little more from their TV than just episodic bleh. And don't think this is a guy show either, I'm a girl and I love it!

3) If you don't like the first episodes, it gets better.

4) In my opinion, this series stands on its own. It surpasses sword-and-sorcery... it shouldn't be lumped together with others like that.

Berserk is not your average anime (no grotesquely huge eyes, cat girls, or perfect hero). Lots of carnagae, a little conspiracy, a big betrayal, a few monsters, and a sprinkle of romance focused on a main character that kicks a ...load of booty. Some people just don't like him, but he has to be my favorite male anime character. His struggle to find his own purpose in life, his own dream, is fascinating. The other characters in this series stay with you also. The overly ambitious Griffith. Casca, striving to find her place at Griffith's side. The kind-hearted Judeau, resentful Corkus, and all-around awesome Zodd.

In conclusion, I'd recommend this series to anyone who is not squeamish, likes mideval fantasy and/or character studies, and is over the age of sixteen.

Dude, just buy it.

From Guts to Glory
Berserk is not your average anime series.
It's a very dark and grity series. Thats why I love this series
so much. The story is amazing. I love all the characters cause they all have there own thoughts and abilities of understanding.
The character development is great! From watching the first five episodes I can tell this series is just gonna get more bloodier by the minute. This isn't a type of show to watch with your little ones.

I'm not gonna say what the story is about cause theres enough reviews to read from to know what it's about. I think Berserk has it's own unique original story that keeps it in hold. Well duuuu. Of course! After finishing the 5 episodes I knew I had to watch the rest! This series is very addictive.

These 5 episodes are fantastic! I can't wait to finish them so I can start reading the Manga.

Be sure to get this one. It's absolutely amazing!
I will be getting volume 2 of the anime soon.

Ps....The opening music theme is awesome.

Later

Good enough to want more
This is my first real exposure to anime. The only other time I watched some of it was in Tarantino's "Kill Bill: Volume 1", but it is only in a few passages in the movie that anime is used. Since I enjoy epic fantasy, I thought a good way to start out in anime was in a series that used this genre. I found that I enjoyed the first five episodes of "Berserk", and even though at some points I found myself having trouble figuring out where the story was going, I was left looking forward to the next disc in the series.

In the first episode, the Black Swordsman arrives in a town looking for a monster that has the habitants under his grip, living in a world of fear and misery. The Black Swordsman carries along a huge sword that is bigger than him, he is branded in one of his shoulders and is visited in his dreams by demons that claim to own him. At this point there is no clear plot in the story, but in the next four episodes the story goes back to our hero's youth and the viewer finds out that his name is Guts and he honors this name to the extreme. Guts meets with the Band of the Hawk, which is lead by Griffith, an effeminate but very skillful warrior. After some initial quarrels Guts joins the band of mercenaries and an interesting relationship develops between him, Griffith and Caska, who was until that moment the right hand of Griffith and apparently is in love with him. In episodes two through five there are three main points of interest intertwined in the story: the relationship between Guts and the other Band of Hawk members; the missions in which the band embarks gaining fame and respect; and the glimpses at Guts childhood, which helps the audience to make sense of some of his actions and attitudes.

The series starts out a little slow, but through the episodes, it captures the viewers' attention and one starts to sympathize with the main character. I was left craving for more information about the characters' past and future and will definitely get the next installment.

BERSERK 1-5 MANGA AND BEYOND
At one point in your life you come across something that's so great and breath taking that your forced to conclude that nothing else in existence could ever match it's equal. For me that something is the Berserk series. There are a few people who made bad reviews about Berserk; saying its boring and no good blah blah blah. That goes to show you that Berserk isn't for everyone. We all have our likes and dislikes, that's what makes us human. But if you look at all of the reviews; there are more people who enjoyed this anime then those who didn't. Those who gave bad reviews about Berserk weren't worthy to enjoy it. And there will be plenty more. So if your looking for Berserk to be some DBZ/POKIMON/Kiddy anime with little cute characters running around, BERSERK IS NOT FOR YOU! Other wise....BUY THIS ANIME! If you cant afford 1-5 buy the whole set on 3 cds by a group called FX. Just do a search on Google for Berserk FX sale and you will come across a few places with the whole serious for like 28 bucks. -Hardcore Berserk Fan NosferatuX

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Look there in the darkness. Look hard into the darkness around me. ::Demon eyes start to glow/brand starts to drip blood:: You don't want this life. -Guts ... Read more

Amazon.com

Judeau and the Hawks arrive just in time to rescue Caska from Chudersoldiers--and find Guts surrounded by the bodies of 100 mercenaries hekilled. The impregnable Castle of Doldrey is the key to the century-long warbetween Midland and Chuder; Griffith and the Hawks gamble on a daringstrategy to seize it. The animation of the battle is minimal, despite itssignificance, with held drawings substituting for action in many places. WhenGuts's trademark two-handed sword shatters in combat with the Chuder general,a demonlike creature throws him a new one. It departs, muttering ominouslythat "the time of the great eclipse draws near," obviously foreshadowing thenext adventure Guts will pursue. He wants to leave Hawks, and the plot theQueen and court nobles have hatched against Griffith will give him theopportunity to move on. (Rated 16 and older: graphic violence, profanity,sexual situations) --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Joan Crawford's Second To Last British "Horror", Film
"Berserk!", always comes in for a great deal of flak along with Joan Crawford's last film made two years later "Trog". Certainly they couldn't even begin to compare to the efforts from Joan's glory days at MGM, and Warner Bros. When titles such as "Grand Hotel", "The Women", "Mildred Pierce", "Possessed", and "Sudden Fear", come to mind these later British thriller/horror efforts from the late 1960's definately look poor indeed. However I always believe that "Berserk!" is an enjoyable outing to watch and Joan Crawford, being the real pro that she always was gives this little effort her absolute all like she still was starring at MGM.

In "Berserk!" also known by its English title "Circus of Blood", Crawford plays Monica Rivers the owner and mistress of ceremonies of a travelling circus. She is a woman hardened by the school of hard knocks common in circus life where beneath the fun and the bright costumes there exists a hard and cold existence. Monica rules the circus with a firm hand and always with an eye on increasing her profit margin on the acts she has perform at the circus. When a series of fatal accidents begin occuring during the performances Monica sees that behind these tragedies is a way to increase publicity for the circus. The rest of the circus performers become very scared with what is going on among them when it is revealed that the fall suffered by Gasper the Great from the tightrope was no accident and that his line had actually been cut. Monica comes into direct conflict with her business manager/sometime lover Dorando (Michael Gough) over how to handle the investigation into the "accidents". When he wants out from the circus Monica refuses and Dorando also finds himself jealous of Monica's attraction to much younger replacement Trapeze artist Frank Hawkins (Ty Hardin) who has turned up at the circus looking for work, replaces the deceased Gasper in the show and worms his way into Monica's affections. Shortly Dorando is also found murdered in the Big Top further scaring the circus performers, in particular the brassy Matilda (Diana Dors), who is one half of an act where she is sawn in half. She blames Monica for the murders but before she can prove anything she too dies while performing. To complicate matters for Monica her unruly young daughter Angela suddenly turns up at the circus having left her school. She joins the knife throwing act. Monica's romance with Frank however runs into rough seas when he begins blackmailing her for a share of the circus profits and then he too finds a stray knife in his back while he is performing on the high wire. After an investigation by Scotland Yards Superintendant Brooks (Robert Hardy) it is revealed that Angela is the murderer and has long harboured an insane hatred of her mother after years of neglect. To get her total attention Angela has been "removing" those that take up her mothers time. Finally losing the last of her sanity Angela attempts to kill Monica however she herself is struck down by lightening outside the Big Top and dies in the rain.

Vintage melodrama perhaps but "Berserk!", has a whole series of talented British performers to create interest in a fairly ordinary story. Michael Gough as Monica's tired business associate has a wonderful rapport with Joan Crawford and his few scenes in the first part of the story are very well acted. Diana Dors, just starting to move out of her earlier glamour girl roles that often hid the fact that she was a very fine actress is excellent as the cheap, tarty circus performer who meets a grisly end under a cutting saw. Judy Geeson in her first film role is effective as the young daughter who is finally revealed as the villianess of the piece. Her innocent playing of her part is well enough done to create the right suspense when all is revealed at the end. Joan Crawford of course is the focal point of "Berserk!". In the first of her two Herman Cohen British based movies, Joan has often been accused of having no judgement in excepting this low budget feature. However as she said in a number of interviews, she quote, "wanted to remain a working actress, not just an ex performer plugging softdrinks (Pepsi)" unquote. In the absense of any better roles being offered to her "Berserk!" at least kept her in the limelight. The rich colour and great circus atmosphere of the film is well done and although not totally exciting there were far worse films made in that decade both before and after "Berserk!". Joan certainly looks the part of a glamourous ringmistress.Even in such a low budget production long after her great years of stardom Joan still showed that she was a true star in the old meaning of the word by insisting that famed costume designer Edith Head be especially hired to create her sensational two piece leotard outfit that she wears throughout the picture.

While far from the best horror circus thriller you will see "Berserk!" is not the total mess that alot of people make it out to be. I enjoy it for the lively later day Joan Crawford performance is contains but also because of the fact that no matter how cheap the production was Joan tackled it with the same commitment and seriousness that she did her great productions from earlier decades. "Berserk!", is a good little mystery to spend 90 minutes with. Enjoy

Better than I expected
I was half expecting this video to be yet another horrible anime, but it surprised me. It was quite actually fairly well done. The animation isn't all that great and consists of a lot of comic book style freeze frames. A lot of the blood spatter effects look really stupid too. The fact that it has subtitles allows for better dialogue and takes away the chance of some American "dubber" to ruin the film. Plot wise, the story begins in the "present day" I guess and then goes back into a long series of flashbacks, which will explain everything up to said present day. Aside from the frist episode, which appears to make little sense, the plot for Berserk is very well crafted and fast paced. It is the story of an orphan boy who is raised a mercenary and becomes a reknown warrior fighting for an army called the Band of the Hawk, led by the white hawk, Griffin. This first video basically shows Guts' (the main character's) first few years and battles with the Band of the Hawk, but ends before anything else can happen. This isn't the best anime I've ever seen, but it's enjoyable and worth seeing.

NOT THE JOAN CRAWFORD MOVIE OF THE SAME TITLE
Some of the reviews of this movie seem to be about the film that Joan Crawford starred in. This is not that film, but another with the same title.

This series just keeps getting better and better!
Berserk hasn't let me down yet and these set of episodes are a great. Gutts is thinking about leaving the Hawks!!! Yikes!
Also the violence has gotten a bit stronger lately.

Caska is getting mixed feelings towards the two and the Band of Hawk are soon to meet there fate. I don't want to spoil anything for the people who haven't seen these episodes But I will tell you that they are great. This is why I love this series. It has everything. Drama, Violence and lots of it, the story it self is great, though these are pretty much flash backs.

Still it is a must have for any fan that likes sword and sorcer with lots of violence and a really good story.

I can't wait for DVD 5.

This series is getting better by the minute!

Later...

Be warned, after this one there is no going back
As this series progresses we dive deeper and deeper into the motivations, fears and inner demons of the main characters. The episodes in this disc show two opposing pictures. On one side the happiness and joy from the ascent of Griffith and the Band of Hawks as heroes of Midland due to their success in the challenges they have faced so far. On the other hand, the pain and despair Guts and Caska show because they do not see their path as clearly as before. The reasons behind this uncertainty are different. Guts is bothered by not having a personal goal, but just the one he borrowed from Griffith instead. Caska suffers because she has mixed loyalties between Guts and Griffith, something that had never happened before.

In the first episode of this installment we find Guts fighting by himself against one hundred men of the Chuder army trying to give Caska time to run away to safety. However, Caska has been reached by her pursuers and is facing a tough situation. The rest of the action has mostly to do with the decisive battle between Chuder and Midland. The White Knights, Midland's leading battalion has been defeated, and the only hope left is for the Band of Hawks to beat the Purple Rhino Knights in a battle for the control of Doldrey, a key fortification. The Hawks are facing their toughest challenge yet, fighting against a well-armed opponent, going against a fort that is impeccably placed in terms of war strategy. As an added attraction, the governor of Chuder in Doldrey is the man that had a relationship with Griffith a few years back.

I am very pleased with Berserk, not only because I like the storyline and the action, but also because the characters are completely mesmerizing. I thought it would be extremely hard, even almost impossible, to develop three-dimensional characters in the anime genre, but the creators of Berserk have succeeded. Finally, a warning for those of you who are getting one DVD at a time, the end of the last episode in this set will leave you biting your fingernails, so make sure that you will be able to keep going soon! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Griffith resorts to kidnapping and murder to strike at the cabal plottingagainst him at the court of Midland, and his counterstroke causes the deathof the Queen and many nobles. No longer wishing to be the instrument ofanother man's ambition, Guts leaves the White Hawks. His departure devastatesGriffith, Caska, and the others. In a moment of weakness, Griffith acts rashlyand seduces Princess Charlotte. The King imprisons him and decimates theHawks. Guts spends a year training with a master swordsmith, but when helearns Caska is now the leader of the remaining Hawks, he rejoins his friendsfor a final mission--to rescue Griffith from the dungeons of Midland.Although the animation is often minimal, director Naohito Takahashi doesn'tflinch from the darker implications of the story, as many filmmakers do.(Rated 16 and older: graphic violence, profanity, nudity, sexual situations,torture) --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Anime creators should all take a lesson.....
From the first episode of Berserk that I watched, I have been hooked. This is perfect example of how grand animation and over the top characters are NOT required for a great film. The story line of this series is one of the most complex, deep stories I have seen since Ghost in the Shell. Although there is not much battle in this DVD, the story takes some unexpected twists when Griffith weakens after Guts leaves, and lets his pride and ambition collapse. Guts and Koska finally share some tender moments and the plan is hatched to rescue Griffith. A great series and flashy, loud, over-the-top Anime creators should remember that solid story, complete character development, and simple, direct animation is the way to go for many fans. LOVE IT!!!

You thought Evangelion was good, get a load of this
My God Berserk is the Anime series to watch, if you havent seen Berserk or even heard of the Anime then you cannot call yourself a true anime fan if you let one of the greatest anime ever just pass you by. This is one of the few Animes where you can actually see the characters grow not only mentally but physically as well. The story is so engrossing that if you've been with the series this far and then watch the first episode again you cant believe how much the characters have changed because throughout the whole series you grow with the characteres. By far one of the best Anime stories of all time and hopefully there will be a 2nde season because the manga is still going strong. Hell, if Rouroni Kenshin can do it for some 90 something episodes then why cant Berserk. This is a must watch, the story changes so radically in this Volume that i still keep watching it over and over again. Not to mention just to see Griffith get his finally!!! Anyways, give Berserk a try if you havent already but you wont be disappointed. Remember to go back and watch the 1st episode just to see how much the characters have changed.

The most important one of em' all
Why? You watch for youre self and you'll see why.
It's also the DVD were Gutts chooses to Leave the Band of the Hawk. This is the most exciting conclusion of the Berserk Series. Poor Griffith. You'll feel really bad for him in these set of episodes.
This is by far my Favorite Berserk DVD...well for now...

As we get closer and closer to the end of the series it go's to show you this is a really exciting series.

I cannot wait for DVD 6. Then I will finally complete the Berserk dvds and all the episodes.

Gutts is becoming more and more human in these set of episodes and you'll feel the emotion he has with the hawks and Caska.
Put simply This series rules and is the best.
...Im ooozing with excitement for the last DVD

Well Thats all I gotta' say

Later

Will this be goodbye for Guts?
Throughout the last few episodes, Guts has been toying with the idea of leaving the Band of Hawks. It is amazing how well the creators have developed this character; from a kid that only wanted to fight, to a grown-up following somebody else's dream, to a disillusioned man that lost all desire, to a mature warrior that realizes he should follow his own path. Of course, this all leads to one conclusion, Guts has to abandon his friends and take command of his destiny.

In the meantime, Griffith has learned how to play the politics and conspiracy games, and has outsmarted the queen and her partners in crime. Not only did Griffith prevent the queen's ploy to assassinate him, but he also devised a stratagem of his own to kill her and her cohorts when they were celebrating what they supposed was the success of their mission.

Caska, the third main character in this series, is having trouble with her mixed feelings between Griffith and Guts. The love triangle that was suggested in the first episodes finally becomes a closer reality. Caska has been opening up to Guts lately, and now she has to face the fact that he is leaving them. What should she do? Follow the man who gave her hope at an early age, but now is wooing the princess, or follow her new glimpse at hope? Not only Caska is having trouble with Guts's decision, most of the members of the Band of the Hawks see this as something personal against them, instead of what it is, a quest for something more important.

The tension and expectative are building rapidly and now that the end is near I wish that this series would last for a dozen more episodes, instead of just four. I feel extremely lucky for picking Berserk as my first incursion into the anime genre.

Finding One's True Path in Life...
The exciting series of "Berserk" never seems to lose its spark or appeal. Just when you think that it can't possibly get any better, it does. "Berserk 5: Requited Desires" is no exception as it successfully continues this ongoing action/fantasy epic of warriors and gods. There are things that begin to move in motion that cannot be undone in these four revealing episodes.

When an unsuccessful attempt to end Griffith's life by high-class people who despise him, an unstoppable chain-of-events is unleashed. Staying until the perpetrators of the horrible act are severely punished, Guts decides it is his time to take leave and find out his true destiny and his purpose. However, Griffith is none too pleased with the decision and is prepared to fight Guts for his freedom one last time, as it was years ago. No matter what happens, Guts is determined to find out who he really is, even if it means fighting his long-time friend for his freedom. Whatever the end result, things are set into motion that cannot be undone.

This volume isn't filled with non-stop action like the past volumes, but the character development is what makes these episodes unique and intense. These four episodes are crucial turning points for Guts, Caska, and Griffith. It is clear that the last remaining episodes will lead into an uncertain darkness that could consume them all. It's still not very clear of how things will end, but the foreshadowing of death and destruction is unquestionable. Guts is a big part of these four episodes as he changes in a way he never thought possible; he finds what he cares about the most and discovers who he really is.

I know I've stated this in the past reviews of the other volumes, but it must be stressed that this is no animated feature for children. These episodes contain strong and brutal violence, extreme blood and gore, a scene of torture, nudity, mature situations, language, and dark and disturbing themes and imagery. Extras included are outtakes, trailers and a video interview with the producer of the series, Toshio Nakatani.

"Berserk 5: Requited Desires" is a powerful chapter in this anime saga that continues to grow. It's sad that the end is coming near to the series, but it's a journey that I look forward into taking. With only a few more episodes to go, these 21 episodes have been exciting and thrilling. "Berserk" is a fantastic saga that is about to be concluded with the final volume. ... Read more