Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway

Murase's glorious return to the industry and entry into Gundam is a visually stunning masterpiece. Feeling like the spiritual continuation of Ergo Proxy, Hathaway has added a new breath to Gundam with Murase's color tones, shadings, drawing techniques and minimal but uplifting music. But this movie is more than just a visual feast. Coming out of Gundam's now banal theme of "War's damage to society", the film perfectly handles the new perspective that Hathaway Noa added to the events and it manages to be an extremely superior work in terms of narrative and story. Contrary to the other Gundams, interior monologues and ethical dilemmas at the points where the movie rises too high are used much more effectively. The first masterpiece of the 2020s has been revealed.

I'm not a a fan of the series, but this movie came into my Netflix recommendation and I thought I'm gonna give it a try. I love it! I enjoyed it a lot.

First, I love the art, it's a classic style with a touch of modern animation technology. I feel like I watched a 80's anime but much better. Second, the ambience, there is a right amount of romance in the air and tbh, reminds me of James Bond's classic movie. There also fan service scenes, thankfully nothing vulgar. Third, the story might more enjoyable if I follow the series but I think it's enough for a non-fan like me. It makes me want to dig more into the series.

The difference between a series episode and a movie is that, even if they are connected, the film attempts to provide a standalone story that anyone can enjoy. If you are a fan of the series you will enjoy the parallel story and the hidden gems, if you are not you might like the film and try the series. Unfortunately, Hathaway is not that.

I don't enjoy Mechas that much and the only reason I watched this was that I thought some of the Mecha stories were good stories. I can't complain about the story too much, other than it was filled with hard to believe coincidences just in order to keep the same characters in focus, but without being familiar with the stories you won't get what this film was about. Characters pop up, complete with names and former connections to existing characters, and you are supposed to know who they are. The world is not developed at all. Everything stands on your ability to have seen, liked and remembered the preexisting content. And to top it off, there are two battles in total involving Mechas, one of them seen from the standpoint of civilians running around dodging debris.

The animation was good, without being exceptional, the acting was OK, but I didn't get anything out of the story, didn't empathise with any character and I do not feel the need so see what happens next. All in all it was pretty boring.

Having seen only a few of the Gundam Series, this didn't make much sense straight out. You make out a couple of names, and references to Char Aznable.. so the context is set, and you can place your self in a timeline.

But this movie works more as a "First episode" anyway, with a story that is somewhat easy to follow. The writing is one that presents eloquent characters in a "smart setting".. that is to say it takes the viewer seriously. As a Gundam piece of content, it doesn't scratch any itch, but as a character study and setting, it is intriguing. Watch for Gigi's gorgeous animations, and every visual and design in general, if nothing else! And for the little bit of action it presents!

It's good movie for fans who have already watched the prequel series. If you haven't, it may get pretty boring because you don't have prior knowledge of what's happening throughout the movie, so keep that in mind. And also, don't bother reading any more reviews as they will affect your viewing experience.