Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Mezzo Forte

Mezzo Forte (メゾフォルテ, Mezo Forute) is a two-episode Japanese (OVA) series directed, written, and storyboarded by , produced by and Green Bunny, and released on May 25, 2000, and June 25, 2001, respectively. Each episode runs approximately 29 minutes and features a blend of high-octane action, dark , and explicit , including , set in a near-future world. The story follows the , a small outfit comprising the acrobatic gun expert Mikura Suzuki (voiced by Tomoko Kotani), the strategic ex-cop and novelist Kurokawa (voiced by Taichirô Hirokawa), and the tech-savvy Harada (voiced by ). They accept a lucrative contract to kidnap Momokichi Momoi, the owner of a team, only to discover he is a powerful boss with ties to the . The mission escalates when Momokichi's daughter, the expert marksman Momomi Momoi (voiced by Rie Ishizuka), and waves of mob enforcers pursue the DSA, resulting in chaotic gunfights, chases, and narrow escapes. Renowned for Umetsu's distinctive visual style—characterized by exaggerated action physics, detailed character designs, and seamless integration of violence and sensuality—Mezzo Forte serves as a spiritual successor to his 1998 OVA Kite, sharing thematic elements like female protagonists in mercenary roles amid gritty, erotic thriller narratives. The series was released in both uncut (hentai) and edited versions for international markets, with the latter toning down explicit scenes to focus on its "girls with guns" action-adventure appeal. Composed by Toru Shura, the soundtrack complements the frenetic pace, while the animation's fluid sequences, particularly fight scenes like the bowling alley brawl, highlight Umetsu's expertise in kinetic storytelling.

Background and production

Development history

Mezzo Forte originated as a spiritual sequel to Yasuomi Umetsu's 1998 OVA Kite, extending the themes of female assassins engaged in high-stakes mercenary work and stylized, violent action sequences. Following the commercial success of Kite in the burgeoning "girls with guns" genre, development commenced in the late 1990s at ARMS studio, where Umetsu sought to expand on his earlier vision with a project that integrated more balanced elements of action and humor alongside erotic content. Umetsu's creative intent emphasized a cohesive fusion of intense action, comedic undertones, and adult-oriented scenes, aiming to create a more narrative-driven experience than the more fragmented structure of Kite. Pre-production decisions centered on a two-episode OVA format, with each episode running approximately 30 minutes in its uncut version, providing ample space for elaborate, extended action set pieces that highlighted the characters' dynamic combat abilities. Additionally, the incorporation of a baseball motif drew from Japanese yakuza traditions, where organized crime figures frequently maintain connections to professional sports teams, adding a layer of cultural specificity to the antagonist's organization. The production process encountered challenges in reconciling the explicit erotic elements designed for the adult market with a compelling overarching , leading to the creation of abridged versions that excised scenes while preserving the core story and violence. This dual approach ensured broader accessibility without diluting the project's stylistic intensity, though it required careful editing to maintain pacing across the extended runtimes.

Creative team

Yasuomi Umetsu served as the director, screenwriter, storyboard artist, character designer, and animation director for Mezzo Forte, bringing his signature style of fluid action choreography and distinctive character designs to the project. His work on the OVA built upon his earlier contributions to similar adult-oriented animations, emphasizing exaggerated yet athletic character proportions, such as the lead Mikura Suzuki's robust build, integrated with urban environments that mix realistic Tokyo locales and heightened dramatic elements. The animation was produced by Studio , which specialized in delivering high-energy fight sequences through meticulous key animation and richly detailed backgrounds that enhanced the aesthetic. Co-production was handled by Green Bunny, supporting in realizing Umetsu's vision for dynamic visuals. Tooru Shura composed the original music for , crafting a score that underscores the intense action and tense atmospheres with rhythmic, high-tension tracks. Kei Mayuzumi directed the sound for the Japanese version, overseeing audio elements including effects and to match the adult-oriented tone. The English dub's voice direction was led by P. Sherman at Bang Zoom! Entertainment, ensuring delivery that captured the raw, mature style.

Release and distribution

Japanese release

Mezzo Forte was released in Japan as a two-episode adult original video animation (OVA) series distributed by Pink Pineapple. The first episode debuted on May 25, 2000, and the second followed on June 25, 2001. The uncut versions featured explicit content, with longer runtimes due to the inclusion of adult scenes. Censored editions, suitable for broader distribution, shortened these runtimes by omitting the adult scenes. The series was available in limited uncut VHS and DVD formats, including premium collector's boxes with bonus artwork and materials, alongside standard censored versions targeted at rental markets. In 2004, an edited movie compilation was released on July 23, compiling the episodes into a 70-minute that excised explicit scenes for wider appeal, while incorporating approximately 20 minutes of new footage. The OVA was marketed as a to director Yasuomi Umetsu's earlier work , appealing to enthusiasts of stylish action anime.

International releases

In , Mezzo Forte was licensed by and distributed under its Kitty Media and Anime Works labels. The DVD release occurred on November 13, 2001, featuring both an uncut version that retained the original's explicit nudity and violence, and an edited version with the pornographic scenes removed to broaden accessibility. An English-language dub was produced by Bang Zoom! Entertainment specifically for the international edition, which excludes the adult content but includes additional footage. European distribution varied by country, with subtitled versions made available through retailers like starting around 2006. In , Jonu Media handled localization, including a dub recorded at CYO Studios, though physical releases remained limited to DVD formats without widespread uncut options. The content's mature themes prompted 18+ age ratings across the region due to and . In and , released an edited 55-minute version on DVD in September 2005, rated MA15+ for strong animated violence and sexual references. This cut removed two explicit sex scenes to comply with guidelines, as the uncut edition would have been certification. Early circulation in other Asian markets relied heavily on unauthorized bootlegs, delaying official releases until regional adaptations emerged later in the decade. Digital availability includes censored international versions on mainstream anime streaming services such as and as of November 2025, while uncut editions persist on specialized adult platforms. The title's explicit elements have consistently challenged international markets, often requiring edits or mature ratings to secure distribution.

Synopsis and analysis

Plot overview

Mezzo Forte is a two-episode (OVA) that follows the (DSA), a small outfit specializing in high-risk operations, as they accept a job to kidnap Momokichi Momoi, a powerful boss and owner of the Peach Twisters baseball team. Led by the skilled operative Mikura Suzuki, the team—comprising the analytical Harada and the resourceful Kurokawa—approaches the task with a mix of comedic mishaps and professional tension, blending heist elements with the agency's quirky dynamics. The operation quickly unravels when it leads to Momokichi's unexpected death, drawing the relentless pursuit of his vengeful daughter, Momomi, a formidable in her own right. As the evades Momomi's deadly chase through urban skirmishes and intense shootouts, the narrative shifts from lighthearted caper to a gripping action-revenge thriller, heightening the stakes for the team's survival. Further complications arise when the uncovers a betrayal by their client, Hiroka, whose true motive is to orchestrate the downfall of the Momoi crime empire. The story culminates in climactic confrontations that showcase Mikura's precognitive abilities, enabling the to outmaneuver their antagonists and ultimately defeat the threats arrayed against them, allowing the agency to rebuild amid the chaos. Integrated throughout are adult-oriented sex scenes that serve to deepen character relationships, particularly Mikura's interpersonal dynamics, while advancing the emotional undercurrents of the plot.

Themes and style

Mezzo Forte's visual style is defined by director Yasuomi Umetsu's distinctive approach, emphasizing fluid and dynamic in action sequences that evoke a aesthetic reminiscent of Tarantino's films, combined with anime's hyperbolic flair. Gunfights often unfold in slow-motion to accentuate ballistic trajectories and impacts, while a vibrant yet gritty color palette—featuring stark contrasts between neon urban lights and shadowy interiors—enhances the near-future setting's atmosphere. This stylistic fusion creates a sense of exaggerated , where character movements exhibit angular, weary designs that convey exhaustion amid relentless violence. Thematically, the OVA centers on the of its female protagonists within a male-dominated criminal , portraying them as competent mercenaries who subvert traditional roles through their prowess in combat and decision-making. This motif intersects with a critique of avarice and organizational corruption, illustrated through the lens of familial legacies that perpetuate cycles of greed and in crime syndicates. Recurring , such as the Mikura's uncontrollable precognitive visions, underscore tensions between fate and , suggesting an inescapable destiny amid chaotic choices in the mercenary life. elements, including suggestive attire and intimate encounters, symbolize underlying vulnerabilities that humanize the characters' tough facades, blending sensuality with . Narratively, maintains a tonal balance between over-the-top —evident in the team's irreverent banter and absurd situations—and darker undertones of treachery and moral ambiguity, using humor as a mechanism against pervasive and existential threats. This hybrid approach differentiates it from straightforward , prioritizing character-driven action over explicit content while integrating sexuality to explore imbalances. In the edited international version, the excision of graphic scenes diminishes the thematic of intimacy as a facet of control and vulnerability, streamlining the focus on plot and action but diluting the original's commentary on within a brutal world.

Characters and cast

Main characters

Mikura Suzuki serves as the central and primary operative of the Danger Service Agency (), a group specializing in high-risk jobs. She is depicted as an athletic and highly skilled fighter proficient in and firearms, employing an aggressive style that reflects her determined and strong-willed nature. Beneath her tough, unsociable, and competitive exterior lies a kind-hearted individual capable of cold-blooded actions when necessary, with her emotional depth emerging through personal vulnerabilities, including a precognitive ability to glimpse short futures that influences her decisions during missions. Her complex familial tie as half-sister to Momomi Momoi adds layers to her arc, forcing confrontations that challenge her resolve and reveal hidden depths. Kenichi Kurokawa acts as the nominal leader of the , a balding former whose past in the force provides valuable knowledge essential for navigating criminal elements. He offers through his incompetence, such as making lame puns and howling at attractive women, while his loyalty shines in crises, driving a pink and indulging in obsessions that humanize his otherwise bitter demeanor. Despite his humorous failings, Kurokawa's arc highlights his reliability as a paternal figure to the team, often called "Pops" by his partners, ensuring group cohesion amid escalating dangers. Tomohisa Harada functions as the DSA's tech expert and logistician, a pointy-haired young man skilled in gadgets, androids, and technical innovations that support operations. He serves as the voice of reason in the chaotic team dynamic, contrasting Mikura's impulsiveness and Kurokawa's bluster with calculated approaches. Harada's unacknowledged with Mikura subtly shapes his , motivating protective actions without overt admission, positioning him as the intellectual backbone who tempers the group's risks. Momokichi Momoi embodies the primary antagonistic force as a sadistic boss and owner of the Peach Twisters baseball team, notorious for greedily eliminating underperforming players through violent means. His ruthless personality, marked by cruelty and a bloated, pale appearance, extends to personal hobbies like , where he owns the and competes fiercely. Momokichi's arc revolves around his empire's defense against threats, showcasing unyielding violence and familial tensions that propel the central . Momomi Momoi, Momokichi's daughter, is a ruthless and violent figure driven by revenge, her beauty masking a psychopathic tendency to kill whimsically. She engages in twisted family dynamics with Mikura, her half-sister, fueling a vendetta that defines her antagonistic role. Momomi's arc intensifies through escalating confrontations, highlighting her sadistic glee in chaos and loyalty to her father's criminal legacy. Hirooka operates as the antagonistic client who hires the , ultimately revealed as Momokichi and Momomi's head of security masterminding a conspiracy for greater power within the organization. His deceptive tactics and affiliations, including tattoos, underscore a calculating personality that manipulates events from the shadows. Hirooka's arc culminates in betrayal, exposing his ambition to usurp control through orchestrated schemes.

Voice actors

The Japanese voice cast for Mezzo Forte includes Tomoko Kotani as the lead character Mikura Suzuki, delivering a spirited performance suited to her tough persona. Taichirō Hirokawa voices Kenichi Kurokawa, providing a seasoned, authoritative tone for the team's leader. portrays Tomohisa Harada with a precise, technical edge reflective of his gadgeteer role. Rie Ishizuka lends a chilling intensity to the antagonist Momomi Momoi, while brings comedic bluster to her father, Momokichi Momoi. appears as a guest voice for Hirooka, adding gravitas to the enforcer. The English dub, recorded in Los Angeles by Bang Zoom! Entertainment under voice director Eric P. Sherman, features Tina Dixon as Mikura Suzuki, capturing her sassy and action-oriented demeanor, with Marie Court providing a voice double specifically for the love scenes to handle the adult-oriented dialogue. Felix Cooper voices Kenichi Kurokawa, emphasizing his gruff, humorous leadership. Jim Taggert dubs Tomohisa Harada, maintaining a calm, inventive delivery. Lynn Fischer portrays Momomi Momoi with a menacing edge, and John Smallberries handles Momokichi Momoi's over-the-top antics. James Lyon guests as Hirooka, contributing to the criminal underworld's tension. Additional voices include Michelle Ruff as various minor female roles like the little girl and waitress, and Lex Lang as a bodyguard. Casting for the production prioritized actors comfortable with the OVA's mature themes, as evidenced by the use of a voice double for explicit sequences and the selection of performers experienced in adult dubs. Several voice actors, including Kotani, Hirokawa, and Yamazaki, reprised their roles in the sequel series . The English syncs closely with the original animation, though the international release version tones down explicit content by removing sex scenes for broader marketability, while retaining the full audio in uncut editions.

Reception

Critical reviews

Mezzo Forte received praise for its exceptional animation quality, particularly the fluid and dynamic action sequences that showcased director Yasuomi Umetsu's stylistic approach to . Reviewers highlighted the impeccable and visual panache, drawing comparisons to influences like Lupin III while commending the energy in combat scenes. The Anime Review awarded the edited version a B+ grade, noting its black humor and strong character backstories as strengths in the "" genre. THEM Anime Reviews described it as "freakin' awesome," giving it an A- for its fun factor and high-octane action suitable for enthusiasts. Critics pointed to uneven pacing as a drawback, largely attributed to the inclusion of explicit adult scenes that disrupted the narrative flow. The unedited version's pornographic elements were often deemed unnecessary and detracting, with Animeggroll assigning a C grade and criticizing the sexist undertones in the violence and sexuality. Some observers viewed the OVA as derivative of Umetsu's earlier work , sharing similar themes of stylish but lacking deeper innovation. rated it three stars, appreciating the upbeat action but faulting the weak plot and contrived character connections. In the context of the hentai genre, was celebrated for prioritizing narrative and action over pure explicitness, positioning it as a borderline entry with solid storytelling. However, its nudity and led to mixed in mainstream circles, where the limited broader appeal. Fan scores reflected this divide, with users averaging 6.62 out of 10 based on 17,301 ratings as of November 2025, and users giving an arithmetic mean of 6.959. On IMDb, it holds a 6.7 out of 10 from 1,754 votes as of November 2025, with praise for the over-the-top action but complaints about the short runtime constraining depth.

Cultural impact

Mezzo Forte contributed to the evolution of the "" genre by presenting empowered female protagonists in high-stakes action scenarios, emphasizing their agency and combat prowess within an adult-oriented narrative framework. This approach distinguished it from more conventional entries, blending intense gunplay with character-driven mercenary dynamics that highlighted female leads as competent and lethal operatives. The series developed a dedicated among fans of , particularly those drawn to its blend of hyper-violent action and stylistic animation by director . Its availability on modern streaming platforms like has renewed interest and expanded accessibility for newer audiences. Mezzo Forte's explicit content, including uncensored sexual elements in its original release, sparked discussions on versus character agency in adult anime, often positioning it within broader debates about the portrayal of female sexuality in the medium. As a work frequently categorized as due to its erotic integration with action, it influenced conversations around genre boundaries and ethical representations in animated . In contemporary retrospectives as of 2025, is recognized as a seminal early 2000s OVA for its technical achievements and lasting stylistic impact, marking its 25th anniversary as a in mature production. Umetsu's distinctive visual flair, evident in fluid action sequences and character designs, continues to resonate in analyses of his oeuvre and the era's experimental OVAs.

Related works

Sequel: Mezzo DSA

Mezzo DSA is a 13-episode television series that serves as a direct sequel to the 2001 OVA , continuing the adventures of the (DSA) in a near-future setting. Produced by the studio and directed by , the series aired weekly from January 4 to March 28, 2004. The picks up after the events of the original OVA, with the core trio—Mikura, Kurokawa, and Harada—taking on a variety of high-risk missions involving , assassinations, and corporate intrigue, while introducing new supporting characters to broaden the DSA's operational scope. To accommodate television broadcast standards, significantly reduces the explicit adult content present in , shifting focus toward action-oriented episodic stories and -driven humor, though it retains the original's stylish and aesthetic. Umetsu contributed to the overall story direction alongside scenario writer Takao Yoshioka, with designs also handled by Umetsu himself; was composed by Fumika Yasuda, emphasizing energetic tracks to support the series' dynamic sequences.) This adaptation aimed to appeal to a broader audience by expanding the world-building around operations, such as detailed client interactions and , without delving into the OVA's more mature themes. Critically, has been regarded as less intense than its predecessor but maintains fidelity to the core characters and action style, earning a weighted average user score of 6.84 out of 10 on based on 760 ratings. On , it holds a score of 6.62 from over 9,500 users, reflecting appreciation for its entertaining missions and visual flair despite the toned-down elements.

Connections to other media

Mezzo Forte serves as a to director Yasuomi Umetsu's earlier OVA (1998), sharing the same creator, distinctive animation style characterized by fluid action choreography, and central themes of female assassins navigating a gritty underworld. While centers on a lone protagonist's tragic isolation, Mezzo Forte broadens the scope to an ensemble mercenary group, emphasizing team interactions and comedic banter amid high-stakes missions. Within the "girls with guns" genre, Mezzo Forte draws parallels to Kenichi Sonoda's (1995 OVA), both featuring strong female leads operating as bounty hunters or mercenaries in urban crime settings with intense firearm action. Mezzo Forte's explicit adult content sets it apart, but the shared focus on empowered women in violent professions has inspired fan-created and crossover stories in enthusiast circles. No official or novel adaptations of exist, though fan translations of its dialogue and community-driven crossovers—often linking it to Kite's —persist in online forums and conventions. In 2020s retrospectives on adult , is highlighted as a pivotal entry in Umetsu's oeuvre, exemplifying the shift toward integrated action, humor, and in OVAs, influencing discussions on the genre's maturation from niche to stylized narratives.

References

  1. [1]
    Mezzo Forte (OAV) - Anime News Network
    Plot Summary: Mikura, a member of a mercenary team, is asked to kidnap a baseball owner, Momokichi Momoi. The problem is that Momokichi is well connected ...
  2. [2]
    Mezzo Forte: OVA (2000) - Cast & Crew - TMDB
    Series Cast 6 · Tomoko Kotani · Mikura Suzuki (2 Episodes) · Norio Wakamoto · Hirooka (2 Episodes) · Rie Ishizuka · Momomi Momoi (2 Episodes) · Takumi Yamazaki.
  3. [3]
    Mezzo Forte (TV Mini Series 2000–2001) - IMDb
    Rating 6.7/10 (1,752) The story of Mezzo Forte is set sometime in the future and focuses on a reckless trio of mercenaries hired to kidnap a powerful crime lord and end up at war ...Parents guide · Mezzo Forte · Episode list · Release info
  4. [4]
    Art of Mezzo Forte - Character Design References
    May 15, 2020 · Mezzo Forte is a 2000 original video animation (OVA) directed by Yasuomi Umetsu (in the United States these OVAs are edited into an anime movie).
  5. [5]
    Yasuomi Umetsu and Young Girls with Massive Handguns
    Jun 24, 2025 · With new anime Virgin Punk hitting Japanese theaters this week, Coop and Steve break down the past works of its director: Yasuomi Umetsu of Kite and Mezzo ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  6. [6]
    Mezzo Forte (anime review) | Animeggroll
    Nov 9, 2017 · Format: DVD / 2 episodes OVA / 60 Minutes. Genre: Action, Girls With Guns, Erotica, Sci Fi. Age Rating: 18+ (sex and violence). Overall ...
  7. [7]
    Mezzo Forte :: Ink 19
    Apr 8, 2002 · Controversial anime master Yasuomi Umetsu is back with his latest project, Mezzo Forte. Phil Bailey takes a look at the decidedly adult ...
  8. [8]
    Mezzo Forte - MyAnimeList.net
    14-day returnsSynopsis. For some individuals, baseball is more than just a game. Momokitchi Momoi, an underworld boss and the owner of a professional team known as the "Peach ...Mezzo DSA · Recommendations · Reviews · Characters & Staff
  9. [9]
    Mezzo Forte - KeyFrame Staff List
    Main Staff · 原作/脚本/絵コンテ/キャラクターデザイン/作画監督. Original Work / Script / Storyboard / Character Design / Animation Director. 梅津泰臣, Yasuomi ...
  10. [10]
    Old, Obscure or Overlooked - MEZZO FORTE - Otaku Alliance
    Jan 12, 2017 · It follows an action girl with an uncanny knack for shooting people dead, lots of blood, gore, gunfights, and a fair amount of physics denial.
  11. [11]
    Mezzo Forte - Dubbing Wikia - Fandom
    Nov 13, 2001 · Mezzo Forte ; Dubbing Studio. United States Bang Zoom! Entertainment ; Voice Director. Eric P. Sherman ; Translation & Adaptation. Eric P. Sherman
  12. [12]
    Arms - Companies - MyAnimeList.net
    At first the studio primarily produced adult animations for Pink Pineapple and Green Bunny also under its studio aliases Dandelion and Triple X. ... Mezzo Forte.Itazura The Animation · Nikutai Teni · Front Innocent: Mou Hitotsu no
  13. [13]
    Mezzo Forte (Comparison: International Version - Uncut US DVD)
    Aug 29, 2011 · Compared are the International Version by Green Bunny, available in Japan, and the Uncut Version by Kitty Media, available in the US.Missing: runtimes | Show results with:runtimes<|separator|>
  14. [14]
    https://solarisjapan.com/products/mezzo-forte-premium-collectors-version-dvd-box
  15. [15]
    Mezzo Forte - More Info - MyAnimeList.net
    In addition, an international version was released in Japan on July 23, 2004. This version includes 20 minutes of extra footage, but none of the adult scenes ...
  16. [16]
    Ask John: Is There a Sequel to Kite? - AnimeNation Anime News Blog
    Aug 31, 2001 · Answer: Mezzo Forte is a 2 episode OAV series side-story to Kite. It occurs in the same city, during the same time period as Kite, ...
  17. [17]
    Mezzo Forte (TV Mini Series 2000–2001) - Release info - IMDb
    Release date · Japan. May 25, 2000 · Japan. May 25, 2000(DVD) · Canada. November 13, 2001 · United States. November 13, 2001 ...
  18. [18]
    Mezzo Forte (International Version English Dub Part 1)
    Aug 28, 2020 · This cut features no sex scenes but brief nudity, extreme violence and strong language thus it is rated +16 by Media Blasters and Anime Works.
  19. [19]
    MEZZO FORTE: Amazon.co.uk: DVD & Blu-ray
    Rating 4.0 (59) This is GREAT anime. I watched a censored version on YOUTUBE and it is quite effective even with the sex scenes cut out. Even so-this is the full on hentai ...
  20. [20]
    Mezzo Forte (TV Mini Series 2000–2001) - Parents guide - IMDb
    Sex & Nudity ... Both male and female genitalia are shown frequently in full detail. The uncut version of Mezzo Forte contains two very explicit and pornographic ...Missing: development challenges<|control11|><|separator|>
  21. [21]
    Censored Anime -4- Refused-Classification.com
    One year before classification, Madman announced a modified MEZZO FORTE would be coming to DVD. They posted the following on madboards.madman.com.au [dead link] ...
  22. [22]
    Mezzo Forte - XVIDEOS.COM
    Sep 8, 2023 · This site is for adults only! By entering this website, I acknowledge that I am 18 years old or older and agree to the Terms of Service.Missing: adult | Show results with:adult
  23. [23]
    Mezzo Forte - The Anime Review
    Mezzo Forte is a comedic, violent, "girls with guns" anime, with a story about kidnapping a baseball team owner. The edited version is recommended, while the ...Missing: summary | Show results with:summary
  24. [24]
    Mezzo Forte | Anime Academy - WordPress.com
    Umetsu Yasuomi's art style has always been defined by its weary, pockmarked, angular character designs. His male characters, in particular, are fittingly ...
  25. [25]
    Mikura Suzuki • Mezzo Forte - Absolute Anime
    She has a limited precognitive ability, which often shows itself in brief flashes of the future, usually when Mikura is under a lot of stress. But sometimes ...
  26. [26]
    Mezzo Forte: Director's Cut - THEM Anime Reviews
    A little dangerous, a little naughty, and more than a little fun, Mezzo Forte is, well, freakin' awesome. Action fans rejoice - this is a grade-A can of whoop- ...
  27. [27]
    Review: Mezzo Forte - Girls With Guns
    Jan 28, 2007 · The look and feel of this is undeniably nice, but can't quite cover up the weaknesses in the plot and some of the characters. Dir: Yasuomi ...
  28. [28]
    Mezzo Forte - Reviews - MyAnimeList.net
    It's a borderline hentai series, there are only a couple of sex scenes which are not all that long, though very explicit. At its heart it's an action show with ...
  29. [29]
    Ask John: What Are the Best Girls With Guns Anime?
    Nov 6, 2009 · Both Kite & Mezzo Forte strike a more adult chord than typical girls with guns anime because of the fatalistic and impactful brutality of their ...
  30. [30]
    Girls with Guns - TV Tropes
    Mezzo Forte and Mezzo DSA, where the protagonist is a bounty hunter and Action Girl who gets on shootouts in a regular basis.
  31. [31]
    Heads Up, Anime's Best Looking Series in Ages Will Go Live This ...
    Feb 17, 2025 · Previously the director of cult anime classics like Kite, Mezzo Forte, and Wizard Barristers, Yasuomi Umetsu has now teamed up with studio SHAFT ...Missing: themes | Show results with:themes
  32. [32]
    'A Kite' and 'Mezzo Forte,' The Shocking Works of Yasuomi Umetsu ...
    Mar 14, 2015 · Both A Kite and Mezzo Forte are completely original OVAs made by Yasuomi Umetsu who was in charge of almost all aspects of the works including ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  33. [33]
    Watch Mezzo Forte | Netflix
    Lithe and lethal, beautiful assassin Mikura loves her work. Cool under fire and a natural with a gun, she's at the top of the heap when it comes to hired ...
  34. [34]
    Objectification of Women in Anime - Japan Powered
    Apr 12, 2015 · Where does enjoying beauty become objectifying? What does it mean to objectify a woman? A man? Does anime do it?
  35. [35]
    Mezzo Forte, an Iconic Hentai, Marks Its 25th Anniversary
    May 26, 2025 · Thanks to its blend of action and eroticism, Mezzo Forte is now considered one of the most important and cult-classic hentai in history. Trivia.
  36. [36]
    Mezzo Forte – Episode 1 | Wrong Every Time
    Mar 24, 2025 · A delightful slice of gorgeously animated spectacle, featuring elegantly constructed combat encounters, terrifically executed fight choreography, and playful, ...<|separator|>
  37. [37]
    Mezzo (TV) - Anime News Network
    Plot Summary: Mikura, Kurokawa, and Harada are the 3 members of the Danger Service Agency (DSA). Mikaru is the brawns of the group, Harada is the brains, and ...
  38. [38]
    Is Mezzo any good? - Forum - Anime News Network
    Feb 22, 2006 · Mezzo Forte? it's ok, however for 25$ i'd buy it for sure! ... Ironically, the director of Kite is the same guy who directed Mezzo. However, there ...
  39. [39]
    Mezzo DSA (2004) Anime Review - Taking Care of Business
    May 28, 2023 · Despite being produced by ARMS (the same studio as A Kite and Mezzo Forte) ... Given how good the English dub was for Mezzo Forte, it's worth ...
  40. [40]
    Mezzo DSA - MyAnimeList.net
    Rating 6.6/10 (9,508) Mikura is the brawns of the group, Harada is the brains, and Kurokawa is just a bitter ex-cop that likes to think he's in charge. They'll take on any job as ...Missing: descriptions | Show results with:descriptions
  41. [41]
    https://myanimelist.net/anime/650/Gunsmith_Cats/reviews
  42. [42]
    Revisiting the Works of Yasuomi Umetsu - Anime Atelier
    Jun 26, 2025 · Cool Devices (1996-97) - Segment, Yellow Star; Kite (1998); Mezzo Forte (2000); Mezzo DSA (2004); Kite Liberator (2008); Galilei Donna (2013) ...