The legendary cult classic Vampire Hunter D is making its streaming debut on both AMC Networks’ HIDIVE and Shudder platforms, arriving just in time to close out May with a gothic bang. The simultaneous premiere on May 30 comes hot on the heels of the film’s triumphant 40th anniversary re-release during a special theatrical run in over 600 theaters across the U.S. and Canada earlier this spring.
Originally released in 1985 and directed by Toyoo Ashida, Vampire Hunter D is an early and iconic example of the “OVA” (original video animation) format. It’s based on the best-selling novel series by Hideyuki Kikuchi and blends samurai-style action with a deeply atmospheric gothic horror aesthetic. Over the years, it has carved out a legacy as both a milestone in anime history and a defining entry in animated horror.
The version hitting streaming this week is the 2015 digitally remastered edition produced by Sentai Filmworks. Viewers can choose between the original Japanese audio with English subtitles or the English dub, and it will be available on demand starting Friday, May 30 at 7:00 p.m. GMT across the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.
For those unfamiliar with its haunting story, here’s the official synopsis:
In the year 12,090 A.D., the world has been ravaged by technology and the supernatural, leaving humanity to survive in scattered, vulnerable communities. Vampires, known as the Nobility, dominate the planet. When the powerful Count Magnus Lee sets his sights on young Doris Lang and marks her as his next bride, she seeks salvation from a mysterious, stoic warrior known only as D — a vampire hunter with a dark and unusual lineage.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of Vampire Hunter D, this is the perfect time to experience (or revisit) a timeless classic that helped define a genre. Don’t miss the chance to stream a piece of anime history — sharpen your stakes and mark your calendars.
