| Title: Gunbuster Production: 3 part OAV Genre: Science Fiction Description: This classic from Gainax is part parody, romance, and space battle rolled into one. It takes the standard Humanity versus Alien Invaders theme and gives the viewer a thought provoking and brilliantly directed film. The characters are immensly enjoyable and the battle scenes are fantastic yet humorous at the same time. This film is unique because it is the only I know of which deals with the subject of time dialation associated with near light speed travel. The affects of this phenomenon not only give the story a touch of added realism, but also make for some melancholy moments between characters who were previously the same ages. To get the most out of this feature you must have a working knowledge of Japanese film, both animated and live action, since there are countless references to other films. The last two episodes are easily the best, and the last episode in particular, which is in black and white and letterboxed, is one of the most poignant in all of anime. Availability: Commercial Rating: 9 out of 10 |
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| Title: Kareshi Kanojo no Jijou Production: 26 episode TV series Genre: Romance Description: High School Romance has never been presented quite like this, but what else could be expected from GAINAX? This series shifts between humor, sadness, and extreme weirdness in the blink of an eye, all to the extreme enjoyment of the viewer. The main character, Yukino is a popularity freak concerned only with preserving her image as the perfect student in her school. Her efforts take a severe blow, however, after her facade is exposed quite unexpectedly, and to her main rival no less! This series also gives the viewer an in depth look at life in Japanese High School, in fact, the Director Hideaki Ano, went to many high schools to interview students in preparation for this series. Availability: Soon to be Commercial Rating: 8 out of 10 |
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| Title: Grave of the Fireflies Production: Movie Genre: Drama Description: This animation classic is one of the most emotional movies you will ever see. Set during World War II, it tells the story of a young boy and his sister who become orphaned after the bombing of their town. As is characteristic of Studio Ghibli productions, the characters are immensly likeable. Of particular note is the young girl Setsuko, whose voice acting and mannerisms are so realistic that it is clear the director studied children's behavior in preparation for this film. You must be warned, however, that this is not a happy film, and those prone to crying at movies will certainly need to have tissues handy. If you can make it all the way through you will be rewarded in having seen a modern classic, and what I consider to be the greatest animation movie ever made. Availability: Commercial Rating: 10+ out of 10 |
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| Title: Furi Kuri (FLCL) Production: 6 Part OAV Genre: Weirdness Description: Gainax newest series reaches new bounds of utter incomprehensibilty, but like most efforts from this cutting edge studio, it is still entertaining. To try and explain the story world probably serve only to add to the confusion, for instance, the girl on the right, Haruko, is an alien who rides around on a Vespa and fights robots with her guitar. See what I mean? The soundtrack is notable for its modern alternative flavor, and is of the highest quality I have heard recently. The originality of the characters and story make most anime seem cliche. Availability: Commercial Rating: 9 out of 10 |