But its an era thats fondly remembered by some as a vibrant time for the medium.
In his work as a writer/director particularly, he managed to forge a distinctive style for himself.
Who is the phantom driver, what does the medallion symbolise etc.
Even by todays standardsThe Running Manis filled with eye popping animation, vibrant colours and memorable imagery.
It was Kawayjiris next project that really made his name.
1987sWicked Cityis a dark mash-up of neo-noir andThe Thingstyle body horror.
The story is set in a world where humanity shares a secret treaty with a hidden demon realm.
A human male and demon female partner up to keep him alive against relentless demon attacks.
Wicked Cityshowed off Kawajiris flair for horror and creature design.
Taking his cues from the source novel, the creatures seen here are a grotesque, Lovecraftian bunch.
There are lots of cool blues or bright reds to denote the tone of the scene.
But sadly some of the pulpy fun is spoiled by the amount of sexual violence.
InWicked Citysexuality is used as a weapon, and theres only one romantic encounter in the whole story.
While it might be faithful to the book, these moments feel distracting and exploititive in the final product.
Though a strong stomach is advised.
The next year Kawajiri followedWicked Citywith another Kikuchi adaptation,Demon City Shinjuku.
Again the plot is secondary to requirements.
But its lighter hearted in tone, with a young hero finding his strength amidst the apocalyptic ruins.
But it also lacks the intensity ofWicked City.
The quality of the English dub isnt so hot either.
Capping off Kawajiris unofficialCitytrilogy is probably his most underrated work, 1990sCyber City Oedo 808.
Yep, you read that right.
Vampires, psychic cyborgs and vengeful ghosts pop up and the heroes tend to just accept it.
The characters are extremely likable and each instalment has its own unique flavour.
How can you not love something that featuresthis amazing NSFW zinger?
It also finds increasingly creative ways to dismember the human body.
Its excessive stylisation looks fluid as animation, but in live action would just look phony.
Even throwaway shots like a group of ninjas riding on horseback is given panache.
Here they ride on a beach at night, lit by lightning flashes as a storm rages nearby.
Its small touches like this that separatesNinja Scrollfrom its many imitators.
Jubei,Ninja Scrolls lead, embodies most of Kawajiris heroes.
Lantern jawed, sarcastic and cool, but not invincible.
In 2000 Kawajiri releasedVampire Hunter D: Bloodlust, the second anime adaptation of Hideyuki Kikuchis popular book character.
He also has a talking parasite embedded in his left hand, because why not?
InBloodlusthes hired to rescue a rich mans daughter after shes kidnapped by an ancient vampire.
The artwork is stunning in places, and every new location is a treat for the eyes.
But it also feels like hes recycling himself.
In 2003 Kawajiri collaborated on a couple of stories inThe Animatrix, an anime spin-off ofThe Matrix.
His inclusion makes sense, as his work was a big influence on The Wachowskis.
Its an action packed five minute short, with sword fights and people being dismembered into digits.
It is one of the more unique entries inThe Animatrix, in both art style and content.
He might be a killer, but at least he can crack a smile and play some mean guitar.
Besides directing Kawajiri has worked as a screenwriter on other animated and live action films.
His most interesting script would probably be forThe Wind Named Amnesia, another Kikuchi adaptation.
Think of it as the closest well get to a Terrence Malick anime.
Its an intriguing concept, but pacing issues and a portentous tone hold it back.
In recent years hes mainly worked in the storyboarding or animation side of projects likeRedlineorBatman: Gotham Knight.
A teaser trailer was released to drum up interest, but little progress seems to have been made.
Times have changed since Kawajiris heyday, and anime has moved away from his darker, grittier vision.
His work has had a notable influence on others.
The Wachowskis adopted a number of his techniques forThe Matrix(action editing, use of color).
His mark is also strong on The Wachowski producedNinja Assassin.
Todd MacFarlane has statedWicked Citywas a huge influence in the design ofSpawn.
His worlds are often dark places to visit sure, but theyre also filled with memorable characters and images.
And if nothing else, theyre kind of fun to spend some time in.
