Well, I finally got around to watching it. As said before, 720p made so much difference. I wasn't even aware there was a cat on Red's head when I watched the DVD version.

With all the additional explanation and elaborated fights, it certainly feels more like a movie now, whereas it had more of an OVA feel before. They expected you to have background knowledge.

Another change that I liked was the music. Particularly when the highway motorcycle chase began, it definitely sounded different. I can't remember what or how now, but it made everything more immersive. I felt that it stood out, but at the same time fits right in. Standing out because if its good, and fitting in because it's not jarring, mismatched, nor stealing from the actual fights.

Good stuff.