In a fantasy world built upon the ruins of a long-lost magical civilization, adventurers known as Ruin Explorers scour ancient dungeons and crumbling temples in search of relics and riches. Among the most determined — if perpetually broke — are Fam and Ihrie: an unlikely duo who balance each other's weaknesses with chaotic results. Ihrie is a quick-tempered sorceress and swordfighter with a serious problem — a childhood curse that transforms her into a tiny mouse every time she casts a spell. Fam is a cheerful, pointy-eared Wiccan who channels the spirits of nature, but refuses to use her powers destructively for fear of losing them entirely. Together they're chasing the legendary "Ultimate Power," a force said to grant any wish to whoever claims it. All they need are three scattered artifacts to unlock it — which sounds simple enough until they realize half the world is after the same thing. Ruin Explorers is a delightful four-episode OVA that blends classic sword-and-sorcery dungeon crawling with sharp slapstick comedy and a genuinely warm ensemble cast. Produced by Animate and Asia-Do, the series draws obvious affection from the great fantasy anime of its era — think Record of Lodoss War played for laughs — and delivers a surprisingly satisfying adventure for its compact runtime. The bickering rival parties, the bumbling merchant with a heart of gold, the vengeful prince, and the scheming sorcerer villain all slot comfortably into beloved fantasy archetypes while still feeling fresh and fun. Notable Staff & Voice Talent Director: Takeshi Mori (Vandread)Studio: Animate Film / Asia-DoOriginal Story: Kunihiko Tanaka Cast:- Michiko Neya as Ihrie- Hekiru Shiina as Fam- Rica Matsumoto as Rasha- Koichi Yamadera as Miguel- Chikao Otsuka as Galuff- Iemasa Kayumi as Ruguduroll DVD Features - Character & Production Art Scrapbook Gallery- Web Connect - 12 Featured ADV Previews- Highly Interactive Menus - Alternate Angels: Japanese Credits- Scene Selection Spoken Languages: English & Japanese Audio, English Subtitles Edition Details Japanese Title: 秘境探検ファム&イーリー (Hikyō Tanken Famu & Īrī)Runtime: ~120 Minutes (Complete OVA, 4 Episodes)Director: Takeshi MoriDVD Release Year: 2000 (U.S. Release)Original Release Date (Japan): June 25 – December 25, 1995Publisher: ADV FilmsRating: NRRegion: Region 1 (U.S. / Canada)Genre: Fantasy, Comedy, AdventureThemes: Dungeon Crawling, Ancient Relics, Magical Curses, Rival Adventurers, Quest for Power Media assumed VG+ unless otherwise noted.
