Bleach: Memories in the Rain

Synopsis

The first animated installment of the Bleach franchise, Memories in the Rain, was initially screened at the Jump Festa 2004 Anime Tour before its DVD release. Produced before the TV series began, this OVA functions as a pilot episode, providing a different version of the events seen in episodes 8 and 9. Substitute Shinigami Kurosaki Ichigo, who works under Kuchiki Rukia, discovers that the Hollow he is chasing is the same creature that caused his mother's death. Fueled by a strong urge for revenge, Ichigo faces the Hollow in battle.