Dirty Pair

Dirty Pair: Flight 005 Conspiracy – A Fitting Farewell to the Classic Duo

If you’re a fan of classic anime with a mix of action, mystery, and a dash of chaos, Dirty Pair: Flight 005 Conspiracy is a must-watch. Released in 1990 as the final installment in the original Dirty Pair timeline, this OVA (original video animation) brings back the iconic duo, Kei and Yuri, for one last explosive adventure. Produced by Sunrise, the studio behind legendary titles like Gundam, this OVA doesn’t disappoint—though it does leave fans with mixed feelings.

The Plot: Double Trouble for the Dynamic Duo

The story kicks off with the explosion of Universal Flight 005, a tragedy that claims 300 lives. Oddly, no one steps forward to claim insurance, raising suspicions. Enter Kei and Yuri, the Trouble Consultants of the World Welfare Works Association (3WA), who are assigned to investigate. But wait—there’s more! The 3WA’s central computer also tasks them with finding a missing scientist. Why both cases at once? That’s the mystery.

The plot is dense, juggling two seemingly unrelated missions that eventually intertwine. Some fans found the initial setup confusing, but as the story unfolds, the pieces fall into place. The final act is particularly gripping, with a tone that’s darker than the usual Dirty Pair fare. One fan noted, “The last 20 minutes are pretty good, and the ending hits hard—it’s rare for this franchise to go for a sad conclusion.”

The Characters: Kei and Yuri at Their Best

Kei and Yuri are as charismatic as ever. Kei’s fiery personality and Yuri’s calm demeanor create the perfect balance, and their chemistry is the heart of the series. However, some fans pointed out inconsistencies in character behavior. For instance, one viewer wondered, “How did Yuri survive that explosion? And why didn’t Kei react more strongly to finding out her partner was alive?” These moments might feel jarring, but they don’t overshadow the duo’s charm.

The supporting cast, including the recurring Chief Inspector Gooley, adds humor and depth. Though some fans found his sudden reset in attitude toward the girls a bit odd, it’s clear the writers were aiming for comedic relief.

Animation and Style: A Visual Treat

For a 1990 OVA, the animation holds up surprisingly well. The action sequences are fluid, and the character designs are sharp—especially the Gundam-esque uniforms, which one fan praised as a standout detail. Compared to earlier Dirty Pair entries, Flight 005 Conspiracy maintains a high standard, though it doesn’t quite surpass the visual spectacle of Project Eden (another Dirty Pair film).

Fan Reactions: Love, Confusion, and Nostalgia

The OVA has sparked lively discussions among fans. Some consider it the best of the original Dirty Pair films, praising its serious tone and engaging plot. One fan wrote, “This clever and engaging story kept my attention far more consistently than the previous films.” Others, however, felt it didn’t quite live up to the TV series’ two-part mysteries.

There’s also a sense of nostalgia, as this marked the end of the original Dirty Pair era. One viewer emotionally noted, “I’m going to miss this Yuri and Kei.” Meanwhile, another fan appreciated the OVA’s departure from the franchise’s usual absurdity, saying, “This time, the story actually made sense—almost impressive!”

Final Verdict: A Bittersweet Goodbye

Dirty Pair: Flight 005 Conspiracy is a solid send-off for Kei and Yuri. It combines the series’ trademark action and humor with a more mature storyline, leaving a lasting impression. While it has its flaws—some plot holes, a rushed final act—it’s a worthy addition to any Dirty Pair fan’s collection.

For newcomers, this OVA might not be the best starting point (the TV series is a better introduction), but for longtime fans, it’s a poignant farewell to a beloved duo. As one fan perfectly summed it up: “Perfect ending to the franchise—just like a normal Dirty Pair episode, but with extra heart.”

Rating: 8/10 – Explosions, gunfights, and a touch of sadness. What more could you ask for?