A Race Toward the Brink (Episode)

A Race Toward the Brink (死の崖へつっ走れ) is the nineteenth episode of the JoJo's Bizarre Adventure anime. It is also the tenth episode of Battle Tendency. It covers Chapter 85 to Chapter 88 of the manga.

Summary
Stroheim starts using his new mechanical body, which was designed to surpass Santana, to fight against Kars. However, it proves futile against Kars' blades, which cuts him down to size. As Kars attempts to retrieve the stone, Stroheim fires a beam at him, sending the stone sliding towards a cliff edge, forcing JoJo and Kars to chase after it. JoJo pulls off a trick to grab the stone, but Kars pulls him off the cliff with him. JoJo manages to save himself by using the stone as a shield and prevents his fall with help from Caesar. Kars shortens his fall, preventing him from crushing a flower. He then laughs maniacally and allows JoJo to hold onto the Red Stone a little longer.

The next day, Caesar and the others discuss ambushing Kars' hideout before Wamuu arrives, but JoJo objects to it, believing it unwise to fight on their home turf, leading to him and Caesar getting into a fight. Feeling a sense of duty to his grandfather, Caesar decides to go alone, with Messina ordered to follow him, whilst Lisa Lisa explains to JoJo that Caesar has a secret past.

Commentary
"This episode incarnates the spirit of JoJo the best out of Part 1 and 2. From the moment Joseph runs to catch the red gem, up to his freefall fight against Kars, everything only lasts a few seconds. The direction stretches everything out infinitely though, much like an older anime (laughs).

Up to now, Kars was a mysterious character set in the background. It's the first time that he really acts. He exposes himself through really cool shots and finishes perfectly by madly laughing. You can also see his Light Saber technique in detail. The compositing effect is very pretty during the close-up on the blade.

The craziness around Stroheim works well as a whole. It's like it's his episode: "Hello, I make a thunderous entry. Then I get cut in half. Goodbye." (laughs)

We have tried to perfect most shots for the TV broadcast, but we also remade several for the Blu-ray and DVD. The new viewing should give you a brand new experience."

- Naokatsu Tsuda, Blu-Ray limited edition commentaries