FLCL

(Fooly Cooly)

Episodes reviewed: 1-6

FLCL logo

What: FLCL is a strange 6 episode OAV series by that wacky studio known as Gainax. It stars a boy named Naota and a strange woman that calls herself Haruko. It's kinda hard to explain without spoiling too much... Let's just say it involves robots, guitars, transport, and growing up.

The Good: Probably the best part about the series, arguably, is the soundtrack. It has a lovely rock style to it that I'm sure many adore. Another great part about the series is it's animation, which is some of the best animation I've seen in an anime. The story itself is also rather captivating. Episode by hilarious episode, FLCL draws you into it's characters and mysterious plot which leads up to an exciting climax that you are really pumped up to see.

The Bad: Hey, speaking of plot. I'd tell you to bring a pad and paper with you when you watch this, but I think even that would be a little too distracting. This is an extremely fast paced show, the plot is only layed out and explained once in the series, and it's done so in under a minute. Also, I don't think people enjoy the fact they have to pay $30 for 3 discs that only have 2 episodes each, but personally, I think it's an acceptible norm, as far as 6 episode OAV series go.

The Bottom-Line: My fourth favorite anime of all time. It may be too "weird" for some, but with the soundtrack, animation, humor, and lovable cast of characters, there's a lot to like. Everyone that sees it must be able to find something that they genuinely enjoy about the series. It's a very soild choice for a show to pick up.

The Dub: Dead On. There are some cultural changes, but voice wise, it's nearly IDENTICAL to the Japanese track. Bravo, Synch-Point. Bravo.