It's complicated... I really like the directing, acting and writing but, there are issues with the way it's shot that I just can't deny. As much as I love the storytelling and the fantastic performance but, there are also certain scenes that didn't need to exist.

It's a mild crowd pleaser for people who are exhausted by blockbusters.

While it doesn't offer any answers, it both thrills and makes you think.

One of the most extraordinary films you will see this year. Take that as you want.

Extra stage 2 has been aired on Sky perfect TV (pay preview) In Japan. with the DVD set to come out on the 5th of Dec. Extra stage 2 follows the same story that was set in extra stage,but is now set in the days of "Project D" (the fourth season)the choice of music was great really caught the moments however the end theme was lacking something. the opening intro animation was not the best, but the in show animation made up for it. the only part I found a real down side too is that, they over use the 4 way split screen animation. is great but to watch any of the Initial D: Extra stages (1 or 2) I recommend you have watched the show and have a strong interest in initial D, or these OVA's will not appeal to you as you wont know whats going on.

Initial D: Extra Stage is an off-shoot of the main Initial D storyline involving the two girls of Impact Blue (the SilEighty girls). It takes roughly after Mako is stood up by Iktenai in first stage. The story covers the emperor team and its conquest to conquer the Gunma area as well as Sayuki trying to play matchmaker for Mako. A couple of favorite characters appear in the form of Shingo and Nakazato (Shingo and Zack for you Tokyopop people).In terms of the racing, I call it 1.5 races. There is the one official race between a representative of the Emperor team. It is the only real race and the guy from the Emperor team isn't even that good, he's supposed to just be a scout but he races Mako and Sayuki because he looks down on them as women. The "half race" involves a man that Sayuki hooks up Mako with who wants Mako to quit racing but Mako tells him to ride with her to show him why she must continue racing.For you hentai freaks out there, there is a scene with Mako in the shower where she's completely naked and showering. It actually turns out to be a pretty funny scene if you watch it. Good times.Overall, its a good little offshoot though it doesn't really contribute anything to the overall story. The story is pretty OK. This was definitely created just so that people could see more of Mako and Sayuki but you can't argue against that.