Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust

In a bleak world where vampires rule the night, a legendary dhampir named D becomes entangled in a dangerous pursuit. A young heiress named Charlotte Elbourne has vanished, and the kidnapper is the aristocratic vampire Meier Link. A rough, loyal band of bounty hunters crosses paths with D, each member carrying their own scars and agendas. The pursuit threads through decaying towns, slick city streets, and moonlit wastelands as danger closes in and loyalties shift. With every clue, the moral stakes grow clearer, reminding everyone that immortality comes at a heavy price. The escape routes, traps, and unexpected alliances keep the tension taut without revealing what lies ahead. Hints of an ancient feud between D and Meier Link shadow the hunt.

Released in 2001, the film is directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri and adapts Hideyuki Kikuchi's Vampire Hunter D. It is a Madhouse production that brings Kawajiri's noir influenced action to life with a polished, mature anime aesthetic for dark fantasy fans worldwide.

Bloodlust stands out for its lush visuals and kinetic fight scenes that appeal to fans of the source and newcomers to anime cinema. The duel choreography, moody lighting, and the distinct designs of Meier Link and Leila help set a benchmark for later dark fantasy anime and inspire fan art.

Critics praised the film for its atmospheric adaptation and tight pacing, though some noted its heavy dialogue compared with the pacing of action scenes. The film probes power, immortality, and isolation, asking what someone becomes when centuries of hunting shape every choice and whom a hunter can trust and vulnerability.

Animation is a Madhouse production based on Hideyuki Kikuchi's Vampire Hunter D novel. Yoshiaki Kawajiri directs with his noir mood and brutal action. The voice cast includes Hideyuki Tanaka as D, Megumi Hayashibara as Leila, Koichi Yamadera as Meier Link, and Yoko Sumi as Caroline, a fitting finale for fans.