Dragon Half: A Hilarious Tale of a Half-Human, Half-Dragon Teenager

If you’re a fan of older anime shows and want a good laugh, look no further than Dragon Half. This hidden gem from the early ’90s is one of the most entertaining and quirky anime series I’ve ever seen. As a devoted fan of this sub-genre, I can confidently say that Dragon Half is one show you don’t want to miss.

Possibly the greatest ending theme song sequence ever.

The Story of Mink: A Half-Human, Half-Dragon Adventure

At the heart of Dragon Half is Mink, an ordinary teenage girl – well, as ordinary as a half-human, half-dragon can be. The result of a union between a skilled swordsman and a red dragon, Mink is no ordinary teenage girl. With her vestigial wings and a tail, she faces a problem most teenage girls don’t have to bear. But like many teenagers, Mink insists on compounding her difficulties to infinite proportions by falling in love with a handsome pop star named Dick Saucer. The twist? He’s also a professional dragon slayer!

Watch Dragon Half: Where to Stream and Buy

For those eager to dive into this hilarious series, you might be wondering where to watch Dragon Half. While it’s not available on major streaming platforms (legally), you can purchase the DVD from various online retailers. Seven Seas Entertainment has released an English-translated version of the manga, which is a great way to experience the full story. ADV Films previously held the license for the anime, but now Discotek Media has re-licensed it for North American distribution.

The OVA Series: A Brief but Brilliant Run

Dragon Half is one anime series that leaves you wanting more. Originally planned as four episodes, only two OVA episodes were produced due to limited interest at the time. However, these two episodes pack in more laughs and entertainment than many full-length series.

Episode 1: Mink’s Journey

The first episode, titled “Dragon Half: Mink’s Journey,” introduces us to Mink and her friends as they embark on a quest to find a potion that will make Mink fully human.

Episode 2: The Brutal Killer Martial Arts Tournament

The second and final episode, “Dragon Half (Final): The Brutal Killer Martial Arts Tournament,” ramps up the action and humor as Mink participates in a hilariously over-the-top fighting competition.

Production I.G’s Unique Take on Anime and Manga Adaptation

Production I.G, known for their high-quality animations, took a different approach with Dragon Half. The anime embraces a deliberately crude and exaggerated art style that perfectly complements its comedic nature. The character designs alternate between normal and chibi (super-deformed) styles, adding to the visual humor.

Voice Actors Who Bring Dragon Half to Life

The voice actors in Dragon Half deserve special mention for their fantastic performances. In the English dub, Amanda Winn Lee brings Mink to life with her energetic portrayal, while Brett Weaver’s Dick Saucer is hilariously over-the-top. The Japanese cast is equally impressive, with each actor perfectly capturing the zany spirit of their characters.

The Ending Theme: An Unforgettable Musical Experience

One of the most memorable aspects of Dragon Half is its ending theme. Set to the music of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, 4th movement, the song “My Omelette” is sung by Kotono Mitsuishi in character as Mink. It’s possibly one of the most bizarre and catchy anime ending themes you’ll ever hear.

Mink and Her Friends: A Trio of Trouble

Mink’s adventures wouldn’t be complete without her loyal friends. Her best friend Lufa, an elf with great healing powers but comically bad magic, and Pia, a dwarf girl with overprotective parents, join Mink on her quest. Together, they form a trio that’s bound to get into all sorts of trouble.

The Manga Villain Azetodeth and Other Colorful Characters

No anime series is complete without a formidable villain, and Dragon Half delivers with Azetodeth, the powerful Demon Lord. The show also features a host of other colorful characters, including the dim-witted but persistent Damaramu, who’s sent to deal with Mink. These characters, along with Dick Saucer and others, create a rich and hilarious cast that keeps you entertained throughout.

Why Dragon Half is One of the Best Comedic Anime

What sets Dragon Half apart from other comedic anime is its willingness to go all-out with its humor. From visual gags to absurd plot twists, the show never takes itself seriously. It parodies common anime tropes and even breaks the fourth wall, making it a refreshing watch for anime fans who’ve seen it all.

The Legacy of Dragon Half: From Anime to Video Game

The popularity of Dragon Half extended beyond the anime and manga. A video game was developed for the PC Engine (TurboGrafx-16), featuring the same voice actors reprising their roles. This expansion into different media shows the enduring appeal of Mink’s story and the Dragon Half universe.

Dragon Half Manga: The Full Story by Seven Seas Entertainment

While the anime only covers a small portion of the story, the Dragon Half manga, now available in English thanks to Seven Seas Entertainment, tells Mink’s full tale. The manga runs for seven volumes and provides even more laughs and adventures than the anime.  A must have if you want the full story after the anime gets it’s hooks in you.

Dragon Half vs Other Older Anime Shows

As a fan of older anime shows, I can say that Dragon Half stands out for its unique blend of fantasy elements and off-the-wall humor. While shows like “Slayers” or “Those Who Hunt Elves” share similar fantasy settings, Dragon Half’s comedically unhinged approach is unparalleled.

The Impact of Dragon Half on the Anime Comedy Sub-genre

Dragon Half, despite its short run, has had a lasting impact on the anime comedy sub-genre. Its willingness to push boundaries and its clever use of parody have inspired many later works. Shows like “Excel Saga” and “Nichijou” owe a debt to the trail blazed by Dragon Half.

Why You Should Give Dragon Half a Chance

If you’re looking for something different in your anime watching experience, Dragon Half is the perfect choice. It’s a show that doesn’t take itself seriously and invites you to just sit back and enjoy the ride. Whether you’re a longtime anime fan or new to the medium, Dragon Half offers a unique and hilarious experience.

In conclusion, Dragon Half may be short, but it’s an anime that leaves a lasting impression. Its blend of fantasy, comedy, and parody creates a viewing experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind. So, if you want a good laugh and a break from more serious anime fare, give Dragon Half a watch. You won’t regret spending time with Mink and her friends in this hilariously absurd world. It’s an older anime that proves sometimes, the best things come in small packages!

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