Gunbuster is a very unique tale combining elements of Shojo with that of mecha. Using action as a selling point to a tale really about character development, relationships and dramatic themes, Gunbuster shines as a tale that goes beyond the formulaic mecha stories.
The tale takes place in the near future where a race of huge insect-like aliens attempt to destroy the human race. Earth combats this threat through space technology and giant robots that are piloted by the best and brightest of Earth's youth. Noriko Takaya is a young girl struggling to be part of the Earth Speed Force like her legendary father who was murdered by the evil aliens. Under the guidance of Coach Ota and "Big Sister" Kazumi Amano, Noriko must master the skills of mecha combat in order to challenge the alien threat (For more gals in Mecha Combat check out Rumble Girls).
Reminiscent of PatLabor , but much more dramatic, Gunbuster blew me away! I enjoyed this anime for its various story elements including school life, space battles, social struggles, respect, revenge, and excellent character interaction. The robot battle scenes were awesome, but this story was just as much about the people behind the robots making for an explosive and deep storyline.
Votoms is an extremely successful mecha series that has captured the attention of anime and sci-fi fans alike. The series is about a battle between the Borough and the Secret Society, two societies that control almost 200 planets between them and have been fighting for 100 years. They have literally forgotten what they are fighting for. Chirico, the star of this anime, uses a Vertical One-man Tank Offense and Maneuvers (a mecha outfit that is not flashy, somewhat dirty, but very gritty and realistic; a tank on legs) to aid him in his battles as a member of the Red Shoulder Brigade. However, his own group turns on him in an attempt to steal secrets from their own army. Leaving him behind and for dead, his own army believes he was behind the espionage and tortures him. He escapes and is rather upset with everyone. Still, he is an honorable man saving Fyana, a powerful experiment that both parties want a hold of. Now he must protect her and make temporary allies with people he cannot trust in order to achieve his unknown goals.
I thought I'd be confused since the tape I had was very far into the series, but I only experienced a moment of uneasiness. I picked right up to speed with the basic plot. This is a very interesting tale of war, and political espionage. The animation is gorgeous; the writing has intelligence and depth behind it. The writer certainly thought the story out and even less significant characters seem to play vital roles in the long run. Also, be ready for much well placed violent entertainment. There are many explosions and blood, but with that said, there is just as many heartfelt moments between Chirico and Fyana. Votoms is series that will keep fans glued to their televisions and looking for more! Just when you think it is over, you will be glad there is a whole lot more.
In a dark future, the Persona Century Corporation owns 99% of the world and everyone in it. Persona rules with an iron fist, only a small group in Kabuki Town, dare to rebel. Kabuki Town is the dark side of Tokyo, a place inhabited by misfits, violent criminals and idealistic rebels who are confident that there will be a better day ahead. This story takes place at the turning point of a conflict between this minority and Persona.
A mysterious figure has arrived and he claims to possess the power to destroy the corporation. Imprisoned since childhood by Persona, this man known as Darkside has drawn the ire of his former capturers who will stop at nothing to thwart any attempts of rebellion. The more I watched this film, the more I became captivated by the rebels and their struggle. There are a lot of characters in this series, a lot to cram into 85 minutes, but the creators do a great job fleshing them out. Giving viewers enough information leaving me begging for more.
This is just a dark anime, beautifully animated, filled with sadness which the viewer can truly feel. The end is just depressing. You may cry, but there is enough action, violence, mysticism and romance to go with the heartbreak and the blues. There is something for everyone and you will definitely be singing the Darkside Blues at the end of it all.
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