Re: HTF Anime Discussion Part VIII
I've had a busy 2.5 weeks, anime-wise:
I watched all of
Gate Keepers: I ended up enjoying this series more than I thought I would. It's set in 1969-70, and most of the mechanical stuff is delightfully low-tech. The enemies are faceless (which was intended), except for the leaders.
Warning: Spoiler! (Click to show)They are an interesting comment on how humans treat each other, with mean/uncaring folks being hidden Invaders. This is played up again in Gate Keepers 21.
There is a generous amount of humor in the show, and just enough seriousness to keep it from being too silly. This is definitely a meat-and-potatoes kind of show. 'B', recommended.
I rewatched
Gate Keepers 21 right after finishing
Gate Keepers. It really made a lot more sense after seeing the original. A nice follow up, but much darker in tone.
I finished rewatching
Planetes. It's one of those series that reminds me why I love anime. Everyone should see this.
I watched all of
Fafner. Initial reports are correct that early on, it seems like a mash-up of
Neon Genesis Evangelion and
RahXephon. However, after the first disk it really develops its own flavor, and I ended up really liking it.
Warning: Spoiler! (Click to show)Fafner is pretty ruthless with its main characters, and you have important people getting whacked from early on.
I'm looking forward to watching it again when I get the chance. 'B+', recommended.
I watched Chapter 2 of
Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam. I'm slowly making my way through this series. Some technical difficulties (a dirty disk) were overcome. The story has been a little slow so far, but generally enjoyable.
Finally, I'm just about finished with
Stellvia. In some ways, this series is similar to
Planetes, but with a more 'high school' focus and not so serious. The basic premise is that 189 years before the show starts, the Earth was damaged by the first shockwave from a nearby supernova. Now, humanity has united to try and defend the Earth from the second wave, which would end life on Earth if it hits. With that as a background, the story takes place in what's basically a high school in space/space station. The series pretty character-driven, and there are a number of slice-of-life episodes. I'm looking forward to finishing up this series soon.
John.