Bleach Uncut: Box Set 2

Bleach Uncut: Box Set 2

*New/Sealed*

In the second season of the hit fantasy-adventure Bleach, Ichigo, Chad, Orihime, Ishida, and Master Yoruichi, the talking cat, travel through an interdimensional portal connecting Earth to the secluded Soul Society. Lost souls end up in the rundown Rukon District (“Drifting Spirit Town”), where Yoruichi enlists pyrotechnician Kukaku’s help to infiltrate the Seireitei stronghold. Although the teens have crossed space and time to rescue Rukia, no one knows exactly where she’s imprisoned—or even where they are—within the massive compound. Ichigo and his new ally Ganju capture timid janitor Hanataro, who knows both Rukia’s location and secret routes to reach her. Director Noriyuki Abe enhances the sword fight drama between Ichigo’s group and the eccentric Soul Society officers with overlapping movements, slow motion, unusual camera angles, reverse colors, and black-and-white effects. Yet the internal struggles often outshine the battles: Chad reveals why he never uses his strength for himself, and Ichigo learns to see his sword as a partner rather than a mere tool. By yielding to Zangetsu, the sword’s spirit, he gains greater power. Still, Bleach keeps things light—Ichigo and Ganju bicker even in danger, and an overhead shot of Ichigo fleeing Soul Reapers resembles a tabletop Pac-Man game. The series’ engaging mix of comedy, adventure, and well-crafted battles has made it a smash hit in Japan and America. (Rated “Teen,” suitable for ages 13 and up: violence, grotesque imagery, brief nudity, alcohol use.) --Charles Solomon

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