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-Gainax's first OAV series was the first of famed anime artist "Hideaki Anno" (Neon Genisis Evangelion, The Wings Of Honneamise). And it is one of the most masterful animes ever created. "Gunbuster Top O Nerae" (Gunbuster Aim For The Top!) is the coming-of-age anime tale of "Nuriko Takaya", who's father was killed while in a intergalactic battle aboard his space ship. Gainax has obtained a considerable reputation as one of the most risky and uneven companies in anime, for it's first few years anyway. But director Hideaki Anno has single-handedly created one of the most visionary anime works ever created. Gunbuster is both timeless and profound. Though it may not at first seem that way. The main character is both complicated and interesting, a young willing pilot in a world existing in science fiction which could only happen in anime. The animation style can at times seem dated for this type of production, however the animation still holds up considerably well to this day. -At first glance, one cannot really distinguish "Gunbuster". It has it's share of flaws, corny moments, drama, action and vintage mecha designs. However, this is actually one of the most visually imaginative and entertaining animes ever created. Anno's brilliance in presenting a character, whom contains all the creative features of the ideal anime heroine. Durring a time when the female anime hero had not yet emerged from the popular genre. Gunbuster re-defined the epic sci-fi saga of the coming-of-age hero. Nuriko must avenge her father, so she does so by becoming a pilot in the military. Though she may not have what it takes, she overcomes the odds through friendship with her comrades, and her self-journey into discovering the challenges of becoming a hero. Perhaps heros are not the idealist image of strong figures like "Astro Boy" or "Speed Racer", rather the series is a commentary of the true values of courage and honor. -At times, Gunbuster almost appears as a dynamic approach on symbolism, and what it means to grow up and take revenge. However, the series can be viewed through several perspectives. Gainax's several productions exercise this aspect in animation in presenting the viewers with thought-provoking and often disturbing plots. Gunbuster achieves both by offering a rich blend of drama, groundbreaking characters and innovative style into a classic, yet contemporary anime sci-fi saga. Though Anno would later go on to produce more acclaimed anime features and series, I feel "Gunbuster" to be his definitive masterpiece. Back To Main Page |
