(#8)

-One of the most visionary sci-fi animes ever made, was the story of a young pilot's quest in discovering an ultimate dream. In the vastness of space, the world is corrupt, technologically expanding and anything but peaceful. The civilizations of space are verdging the limit of technical advancement within the society. A society of youthful, willing visionaries; those who find it within themselves to change things or perhaps rule things at there will. Such men are those who have created "AI" (Artificial Intelligence), the ultimate key in merging the civilizations of space together; and to fulfill the dreams of many who wish to hold the worlds in their grasp.

-"Isamu Dyson" is a daring fighter, one skillful enough to tackle the odds; though he soon finds himself wound up in his past. As well as all the memories, pain and hardships to go along with it. During this struggle is a scientific and political battle for technical supremacy. A machine of which Isamu has been asigned to be it's test pilot, now goes up against the odds of an old comrad "Guld Bowman". Both men whom have had their share of competitive struggles, now also compete for the love of a woman named Myung. The competition and situations take their toll, when these seemingly old best friends now meet the odds and manipulations of a legendary virtual intergalactic superstar named "Sharon Apple", the most famed idol singer in the entire galaxy.

-Macross Plus is technical and visionary feast for the senses, it's stunning philosophical commentary on the dangers of technological advancment and it's unique sense of production style easily makes it one of the most recognizable science fiction series in recent years. What has always impressed me greatly about Macross Plus is not only it's attention to technical aspects in animation, but it's epic storyline is an excellent one in it's own right; one which should not be overlooked. It's style comes right out of traditional macross productions, however the series stands alone as it's own narrative; and it does a rather marvelous job. The most stunning aspect is it's ability to reach certain emotions not found in these kind of series. It is a completely different view of the macross saga, containing all new characters; they are all surprisingly in-depth. The story can at times seem almost told like a soap opera, it's approach is romantic epic but it's style is vintage sci-fi thriller. The series always manages to work well both ways. Making Macross Plus a fresh experience every viewing.

-Animation is both a combination of CGI, traditional cel, as well as some new and highly influential camera techniques and incorporated digital footage; making the series visually superb. Aside from doing so, it's also incredibly accurate. This is a visionary look into the future and what it might be like. One aspect which always shines about the series is it's virtual character "Sharon Apple". Not only providing most of it's enigmatic and haunting score (Which is an achievment in itself), she provides an additional view on these human characters full of both flaws, high and low points and unique past relations. Macross Plus is a stunning dramatic journey about the significance of technological advancement, and the human spirit. It's both technically groundbreaking and thought-provoking. It is also what I feel to be the ideal anime epic, these characters share traits which are seen in most every anime; and I don't believe there is one anime fan that can't relate somehow to Macross Plus. As well as how it has influenced so many other titles of the genre. This masterful sci-fi epic is truly one of the greatest animes ever made.