Patlabor: The Mobile Police |
 | Summary:Widely entertaining, droll-laden sci-fi/adventure of a somewhat percipient youth teaming up with "Tokyo's" newfangled police force. It's unremitting action, methodical design and unforgettable characters appeals to nearly any fan seeking fast-paced, consummately-stunning crime yarn. |
| Title Aka: | N/A |
| Company/Distributors: | U.S. Manga Corps;Central Park Media |
| Year: | 1988 |
| Length: | 52 Episode Series |
| Rating: |  |
| Genres: | Action, Comedy, Drama, Classic |
| Format: | T.V. Series |
| Content Level: |
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| Comments: |
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Synopsis:
In late 20th century Tokyo, special advanced robots have been created known as Labors. Massive multipurpose machines used mainly for means of heavy construction. But soon enough, the Labors were being used for other means besides construction. In Tokyo, crime rates have also risen as well as urbanization; some which involve the use of these powerful robots. In order to deal with the rising crime rate in the city, the SV1 & 2 (Special Vehicle Section) were formed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department. Divisions which enables the use of Patrol Labors (aka: Patlabors), special Labor robots designed specifically for police officer combat conditions. The SVs consist of special-units lead by commander Shinobu Nugumo and Captain Kiichi Goto. Both divisons tend to be rivals in the police force. The SV2 division have had a reputation of being "laughing stocks" in the police division. While on the other hand, the SV1 have always been looked at as a first-rate division. When the SV2 decides to accept new recruits, a young woman named Noa Izumi joins. She has always wanted to work with the powerful Labor robots, along with her partner Asuma Shinohara; Noa and SV2 attempt to prove SV1 wrong, by being the best Labor force they can be. The story of the original t.v. series centers around the adventures of Noa, and the rest of the Labor police force in SV2.
Review:
First off, let me just say; "I apsolutely love this show!". Patlabor: The Mobile Police is truly one of the best mecha series you'll ever come across. The show greatly combines action, suspense, drama, an appealing cast and enough screw-ball cop-humor to make any anime fan laugh Animation and art are very nice at that, top-notch for a television series. Crisp, fluid often awesome animation; very comparable with OAVs and films. The soundtrack contains a unique blend of tracks which I found to be quite enjoyable to listen to, perfectly matched for the series. I as a viewer see special aspects in the characters' personalities, some of which I've never seen before. Something completely fresh and original, and always enjoyable to watch. As the show's story progresses, we get to know each character a bit more; seeing the backrounds of all the cast, including Noa and the other Patlabor officers. In my experience with watching most anime series, I have usually had a favorite character which I felt was more appealing, developed and better than the rest; but in this case, I really don't see that happening. Patlabor is a wonderful series for those who like a well-rounded cast of developed characters, with plenty of in-depth storyline as well as a nice blend of comedy and action. If you are one who meets these factors, "Patlabor: The Mobile Police" is definitely for you. Bottom line, if you enjoy mecha series with intense action, in-depth characters and drama; and if you enjoy comedy and excellent animation; I would highly recommend this series to you. Truly one of the most entertaining and enjoyable animes out there, one of my personal favorite titles. |
out loud. Some of the most memorable group of anime characters can be found in this show, which is highly entertaining from beginning to end. Character personalities go beyond what many of the mecha series have to offer. Characters appear very funny, lovable and often very in-depth at times; the show gives the viewer a sense that they are just as much a part of the story as the characters are. The script is as good (If not better) as any live-action cop show out there; and the scenes are very well composed. The humor is smart, and the show always has it's share of action-packed moments. Patlabor is both moving and funny at the same time, and the series accomplishes this with little or no trouble. You will often not know what is serious or funny while watching this series; in this particullar case I feel a bit of both.