I normally like to write reviews on both content and format. The problem in this case is that I saw this before it was licensed for VHS or DVD. I saw it on laserdisc. Furthermore, it was a friends laserdisc, so this review is purely on the anime.
The storyline is one of the most impressive I've seen. I won't go into great detail, but I will at least give you the basics. Rurouni Kenshin is a series about a legendary swordsman. In the US it is being released as Samurai X. The series itself is very comical. Kenshin is a seemingly unbeatable swordsman who refuses to kill anymore. He uses his sword in a style and manner as to injure, but never mortally wound those he encounters. His past seems to present him from doing so. With these overtones, the series somehow maintains a somewhat slapstick approach.
The OAV is nothing like the series. It shows Kenshin years before the series, when he was still an assassin. This is very shocking if you watch the series first. It explains why Kenshin no longer desires to kill.
The animation is some of the best quality I've seen. And the action sequences are just as brilliantly crafted as the character interaction. As you may guess, there is a tremendous amount of character development. It is a must watch for those who have watched the series, and those who have not.

Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: VHS
Video Occasion: Fit for Friday Evening
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 13 and Older