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Kori desu also recommended: Gundam Wing, Zoids, Gundam 08th MS Team,
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The story revolves around humanity’s struggle against enemies known as the “beastmen” who use mecha to annihilate all the humans on the surface. The story is really simple, with no need for complications as it follows several people (including Simon, Kamina, Yoko, etc.) who stand up and fight. As the story goes, the people get stronger and their numbers grow larger and even after some major turning-points it never loses its focus. Nonetheless the story may be too simple for its own good. Yet this still doesn’t change the fact that the anime is pure entertainment, having no dull moments but is always full of action and laughs. This somewhat changes after the time-skip though.

The characters are all pretty great themselves, with plenty of laughs to be had but it is the main ones that truly stand out. Simon who is the typical weak-minded boy found in a lot of shounen anime, Kamina the extreme, fanatical guy always moving forward towards his dream and Yoko the hot babe who is not only there for fanservice. These are the ones that develop the most throughout the story and in such interesting ways.

The animation quality may not be the best ever but it is perfect for this series. It embraces a rich colour palette with detailed background and environments. The characters and mecha have pretty basic but cool designs; with completely fluid movements, even during the comic book style action sequences. These over-the-top action sequences are what make the series so exciting with superbly implemented explosions, smoke and other special FX.

The music comprises of a mixture between sombre and thumping Rock, Rap and JPop beats and even though it gets fairly repetitive, the adrenaline will still be flowing whenever the action kicks in. The constant screaming and shouting can get annoying though.

Overall this is a fast-paced anime series that will give young fans something to get excited over but also give of a classic anime feel for the somewhat mature viewer. What makes this mecha anime stand out from the rest is that is never gets too serious, so there’s nothing in the way to ruin the enjoyment and mindless fun to be had. Of course for those who don’t like mecha anime wouldn’t suddenly like this one but if you don’t have anything against giant robots then this series is a must (especially for FL CL and FMP! fans).

^_^

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Err…. I mean…. Sometimes they do!

In the case of Gurren Lagann: Volume One, this rude jerk of a DVD constantly cuts in line with no regard to any other anime franchise. I back this observation up by explaining how freaking awesome this anime is and how fast it races to legendary heights. From the opening scenes I was struck with the inability to pull my jaw off the floor. The fast paced action mixed with smart, funny dialog brings out refreshing memories of anime greats, FLCL and Dead Leaves. Oh, did I forget it was all encased with a super cool original world that just had me begging for more!

So, yeah, this utter pain had me staring at my anime DVD collection from the corner of my eye in disgust, like that look that pairs with that horrifying, “I am not mad, just disappointed” phrase. That’s because Gurren Lagann had it all, and as the seconds scrolled across the DVD player display, it was as if this boxing match was going lopsided quick and the longer this bout continued, the worse those shmucks on my shelf looked. I needed a referee to stop this madness before it turned into a bloodbath. Gurren Lagann is a young, jerk-wad off the streets with a real cocky attitude, but really had this match won quickly on. Mechas: check! Beast men: check! Cool samurai bandit lords: check! Big-breasted warrior women: check! All of a sudden, the ringside doctor notices how dilated this young chap has gotten the crowd favorite. I am afraid this match is over!

For only one measly 25-dollar bill, you can own this terrifyingly good, nine-episode, two-disc volume. Err… Wait…nine episodes…whole 30-minute episodes? All jam packed full of things I touched up on before? Yeah, that’s right! Bandai and Aniplex are tossing the anime world on its head with this series, and it starts right here on this disc. So, do yourself a favor this summer and buy into Gurren Lagann….

…NOW!

Redninjarobot also recommended: FLCL, Dead Leaves, Excel Saga,
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