Hellsing was part of my introduction to anime and as such it is one of my favourite fandoms. But it has only kept its place there because of its unique way of capturing the reader with action that I can only describe as being kick arse.

There is a great plot to this manga, well thought out and very grand. Being an action manga there are quite a few pages which are full of just pictures, no words, but yet the plot still unfolds well and is not lost.

Due to everything that is going on in the manga you wouldn’t think there is much time for character development. Indeed most characters are already well defined and do not change much during the course of the story, staying true to their personality/nature throughout. Seras Victoria however shows many changes as she adapts to her vampiric life, changes which are understandable, believable and handled well.

I would have to say that great characters and a well thought out plot are the strengths of this story. Combine it with the art work and superb action and you have one of the best mangas around.

A bad side to the mangas? There can be too much gore for some readers, and some may find it too be too heavy in action. But personally my only disappointment is the length of time between volumes, but that’s nothing to do with the actual quality of the manga.

All in all read it. If you’ve seen the series be prepared for a heavier, one could say better, plot. If you haven’t seen the series watch it as well as reading the manga, they are quite different. And no matter what keep your eyes out for the OAV because it promises to be good.

Nanashi Moriko - Most definitely a fan girl for Hellsing

13/06/06