Onihei OVA

"Onihei: Sono Otoko, Heizou Hasegawa" is an original animation OVA set in the Edo period, serving as a prequel to the 2017 TV anime "Onihei." The story revolves around Heizo Hasegawa, known as "Onihei" or "Heizo the Demon," and explores his early life and how he became the feared head of the arson and theft investigation unit. From the perspective of a young man, the OVA presents memoirs of Heizo's informants, such as Kumehachi, Hikojuu, and Omasa, highlighting his respected character and his compassion towards those who have a sense of loyalty even when committing crimes. The young man eventually seeks out Heizo’s private residence and his wife, Hisae, to understand his true motive and their relationship. This OVA was produced as a way to showcase the complexity of Heizo’s character and to set the stage for the upcoming anime series. The OVA was released on February 22, 2017, with a running time of 40 minutes, and features the same staff and cast as the TV anime.