It’s such a beautiful island. There are lush forests and lovely, multi-colored flowers. If it wasn’t for all those monsters and killer insects it would be a great vacation spot. But the name, Hell’s Paradise, would probably scare off most visitors.

The series starts off with Gabimaru the Hollow, so called because he is hollow inside; that is, no feelings. Sentenced to death, but unable to die, Gabimaru is tired of living. But then in comes a female executioner named Sagiri. She knows better. What Gabimaru really wants is to be reunited with his wife. So she brings him an offer – go find the elixir of life in exchange for a full pardon. And Sagiri goes along just to make sure Gabimaru stays in line.

But there are nine other condemned criminals going along on what seems to be a suicide mission. Who lives? Who dies? Along the way, there is nudity, sexual situations, gender bending, and lots and lots of blood.

The animation is top notch. The voice acting in the English dub is first rate. The characters are well developed and defined. There is a lot going for this anime series, except for a paper-thin plot. It could use some twists and turns, but we only get one major plot twist in the final episode of season 1. Season 2 will be forthcoming.

Hell’s Paradise does have its entertaining moments, but there were times where I thought to myself, “Get on with the story already.” But I never totally lost interest. I don’t know if I will watch season 2 when it comes out. Hell’s Paradise is OK, but just OK.