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9/10
A great conclusion
13 November 2024
Mobile Suit Gundam 00: Awakening of the Trailblazer is a visually stunning and thematically rich film that serves as a fitting continuation of the Gundam 00 series. It blends breathtaking animation with profound philosophical themes, making it a standout in the Gundam franchise. Here's a deeper look into what makes this film exceptional:

1. Visually Spectacular Animation The film showcases high-quality animation with intricate mech designs and expansive space battles. Action sequences are fluid and intense, enhancing the epic scale of the story, while the Gundams' movements are depicted with remarkable precision.

2. Strong Character Development The film offers overall satisfying character arcs, particularly for Setsuna F. Seiei, whose evolution from a conflicted soldier to a symbol of hope reflects his internal growth.

3. Thematic Depth The film delves into humanity's evolution, the quest for coexistence, and the meaning of peace, addressing complex ideas such as:

Human Evolution: The ELS force humanity to reevaluate its place in the universe, with Setsuna's transformation symbolizing the potential for human growth.

Coexistence and Unity: The threat of the ELS compels humanity to unite, suggesting that peace can only be achieved by transcending divisions.

War and Peace: The film explores whether peace is truly achievable or if conflict is an essential part of humanity's progress, presenting peace as an ongoing process rather than a final goal.

Technology and Progress: Technology, especially the Gundams, must evolve to serve the greater good rather than fuel destruction, posing the question of whether humanity can control its own creations.

Sacrifice for the Greater Good: Personal sacrifice is a key theme, particularly through Setsuna's arc, where he chooses the needs of humanity over his own desires.

Existence and Communication: The ELS challenge humanity to rethink its existence, forcing a philosophical reflection on life, meaning, and communication with alien lifeforms.

4. Engaging Story and Stakes The film combines fast-paced action with emotional depth, as the appearance of the ELS raises the stakes for humanity's survival. Political and personal dilemmas drive the narrative, reinforcing the themes of unity and peace.

5. Soundtrack Excellence Kenji Kawai's soundtrack complements the movie perfectly, with emotionally stirring music that enhances both action and reflection. The opening theme, "Awakening," sets a powerful tone for the story's emotional journey.

6. Cohesive Conclusion The film offers a satisfying conclusion to the Gundam 00 saga, wrapping up character arcs and thematic elements in a way that provides closure while encouraging deeper reflection on its philosophical themes.

In conclusion, Mobile Suit Gundam 00: Awakening of the Trailblazer offers a rich and thought-provoking experience, making it a great conclusion of the Gundam 00 story.
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Kidô senshi Gundam ZZ (1986–1987)
10/10
The most underrated Gundam series
13 November 2024
Tone and Structure ZZ Gundam begins with a much lighter tone than its predecessor, Zeta Gundam. After the dark, tragic ending of Zeta, ZZ Gundam takes a breath with more lighthearted moments and comedic elements, especially in its early episodes. This shift is often surprising for fans, but it provides essential levity and sets the stage for more serious themes later on. By blending humor and tragedy, the series creates a well-rounded journey that captures the complexity of war and recovery.

Character Development and Growth The protagonist, Judau Ashta, stands out as a unique Gundam lead. Unlike previous protagonists like Amuro or Kamille, Judau is a scrappy, streetwise teenager who initially joins the fight with selfish goals. However, as he faces the horrors of war, Judau matures into a caring, responsible leader. His arc from a self-interested junker to a compassionate warrior is one of the series' best aspects.

The cast surrounding Judau is also diverse and compelling. Characters like Roux Louka, Elle Vianno, and Beecha Oleg add personality and depth to the group, and the interactions among them bring a sense of camaraderie and realism. Additionally, returning characters like Haman Karn add gravitas to the story, creating continuity and deepening the stakes. Judau's rivalry with Haman, in particular, is one of the highlights of the series.

Mecha Design and Animation The Double Zeta (ZZ) Gundam itself is a powerhouse with a unique design that emphasizes strength and resilience, contrasting with the sleeker Zeta Gundam. The transformation feature of the ZZ Gundam adds a new dynamic to the action scenes, allowing for creative and exciting battle choreography. The fights in ZZ Gundam are consistently well-animated, showcasing the power of the mobile suits and adding to the series' tension as Judau and his team face off against Neo Zeon.

Themes of War, Trauma, and Hope As ZZ Gundam progresses, the tone becomes darker and more in line with its predecessors, particularly in the second half. The show explores the ongoing effects of war on civilians, especially children, highlighting the cyclical nature of conflict. Judau's interactions with those affected by the war emphasize his growth from a carefree scavenger to a mature, empathetic character who understands the weight of fighting.

One of ZZ Gundam's most powerful themes is the resilience of youth and the hope they bring to a war-torn world. Through Judau and his friends, the series suggests that the younger generation can bring change and break the cycle of violence. This message adds a unique optimism that contrasts with the darker themes in Zeta and Mobile Suit Gundam, making ZZ a memorable entry in the Universal Century timeline.

Conclusion Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ deserves a 10/10 for its bold tonal shifts, memorable character arcs, inventive mecha designs, and a story that balances humor with the harsh realities of war. While it's often overlooked, ZZ Gundam is a fantastic continuation of the Universal Century saga, offering a fresh perspective on war, growth, and hope for the future. It's a must-watch for fans looking for a unique, rewarding addition to the Gundam universe.
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Chainsaw Man (2022)
8/10
A good start
13 November 2024
Chainsaw Man is a unique and thrilling anime that combines dark humor, intense action, and a deeply twisted story. From the start, it stands out with its wild premise, visceral visuals, and unpredictable plot twists. It's a fresh take on the shonen genre, blending horror and action with a strong dose of absurdity. However, despite its many strengths, a few issues hold it back from being flawless.

One drawback is the pacing, which can feel uneven at times. The story moves at a breakneck speed in some episodes, racing through key plot points, while other episodes slow down significantly, focusing more on dialogue or character interactions. While this allows for some great character moments and world-building, it can sometimes disrupt the flow of the story, making it harder for viewers to stay fully engaged.

The animation, while mostly stunning, has also been a bit divisive. MAPPA's use of CGI mixed with traditional animation is bold, but in some scenes, the CGI can feel slightly jarring. This can occasionally break the immersion, especially during fast-paced action sequences where the CGI may look stiff compared to the fluidity of traditional animation. Although MAPPA's dedication to quality is evident, the blend isn't always seamless.

Another potential issue is the balance between comedy and horror. Chainsaw Man is known for its dark humor and irreverent style, but there are moments when the tone shifts quite abruptly. Some viewers may find these transitions a bit jarring, as the anime flips between gruesome scenes and lighthearted antics. While this style is part of the show's unique appeal, it might not work for everyone and could take away from the impact of certain emotional scenes.

Despite these minor issues, Chainsaw Man is a refreshingly bold anime with an original style, memorable characters, and a story that keeps you guessing. It's a thrilling experience that delivers on its promise of chaos, even if it stumbles here and there. An 8/10 for a series that almost hits perfection but has a few rough edges.
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Death Note: Desu nôto (2006–2007)
8/10
An Intense Story That Slows Down but Finishes Well
13 November 2024
Death Note is a dark, psychological thriller that captures attention from the very first episode, presenting viewers with a thrilling cat-and-mouse game between its two brilliant leads, Light Yagami and L. Its complex moral questions, sharp pacing, and suspenseful plot twists make it a standout in the genre. However, the series isn't without its faults, particularly in the second half, where the story loses some of its original intensity.

The first half of Death Note is, without question, exceptional. The battle of wits between Light and L is brilliantly executed, with both characters constantly one-upping each other in clever, surprising ways. The narrative is tight, suspenseful, and full of tension, forcing viewers to question their own morality as Light's intentions grow darker and the stakes get higher. The themes of justice, power, and corruption are explored in a way that's thought-provoking without being heavy-handed.

However, the second half of the series is where things start to falter. After a significant plot development mid-series, the story struggles to regain the same level of intensity it had with the original rivalry. New characters are introduced who, while interesting, don't quite match the charisma or complexity of L. This change in dynamic results in a slower pace and a less gripping storyline, with some moments feeling repetitive or drawn out. It's not that these episodes are bad, but they don't quite reach the high bar set by the first half, which can be disappointing for viewers expecting the same level of intensity and intrigue.

The pacing also becomes uneven in this second half, with the story sometimes moving slower than necessary and then suddenly rushing through key events. This can make the latter portion feel less cohesive, with certain plot points seeming forced or underdeveloped. Some viewers may find it harder to stay as invested, as the series begins to rely more on exposition and less on the mind games that defined the earlier episodes.

Despite these flaws, Death Note manages to recover with a strong, satisfying ending. The final episodes bring the story back to its roots, delivering a climactic showdown that feels both thrilling and poetic. It's a conclusion that ties up the themes of the series well, bringing closure to Light's story in a way that's impactful and memorable.

Overall, Death Note remains a remarkable series that deserves its place as a classic, even with its minor flaws. While it loses some momentum in the second half, the strong beginning and satisfying ending make it a must-watch. It's an 8/10 for a series that nearly reaches perfection, with a compelling look at power, justice, and the darker sides of human ambition.
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Hagane no renkinjutsushi (2009–2010)
8/10
A Remarkable Series with Minor Setbacks
13 November 2024
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is often hailed as one of the greatest anime series of all time, delivering a complex and rewarding storyline, rich world-building, and memorable characters. While it stays true to the original manga, adding depth and consistency to the plot, the series isn't without its imperfections, which may leave some viewers wishing for a bit more polish.

One of the most notable issues with Brotherhood is its pacing, especially in the early episodes. Because it was released shortly after the original Fullmetal Alchemist anime, Brotherhood rushes through the story's beginning, assuming that many viewers are already familiar with these events. As a result, it quickly moves past some pivotal moments that deserved more time to develop. This fast pace can make it difficult for newcomers to fully connect with the characters and the world in the beginning, as it skips over some of the slower, more emotional build-up.

The tone can also feel slightly inconsistent at times. Brotherhood blends humor, drama, and action, often with great success, but it occasionally struggles to balance these shifts. There are moments where the show inserts humor during intense or emotional scenes, which can undercut the gravity of the situation. While humor is a key part of the show's charm, it sometimes feels out of place and can pull viewers out of the more serious moments.

Character development is another area where Brotherhood could have done more, particularly with its side cast. While the series excels at building depth for the protagonists and main antagonists, many side characters don't receive the same attention. Some intriguing characters are introduced only to fade into the background or play a minor role, leaving viewers wanting to know more about their backstories and motivations. Given the large cast, this is somewhat understandable, but it can still be disappointing, as so many of the side characters have the potential to be more fleshed out.

Finally, the story can occasionally feel overwhelming due to its complex web of subplots and philosophical themes. While Brotherhood excels at weaving a multi-layered narrative, it sometimes leans into heavy exposition to explain the mechanics of its world or elaborate on its deeper themes. For some viewers, these dense expository scenes might feel like they slow down the momentum or make the plot harder to follow.

Despite these minor flaws, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood remains a fantastic series with an engaging story, incredible action, and emotional depth. It's a must-watch for any anime fan, but a few small issues keep it just shy of perfection, resulting in a solid 8/10.
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10/10
A masterpiece
12 November 2024
Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time is an exceptional entry in the Ratchet & Clank series, showcasing some of the franchise's best qualities. The game effortlessly combines exciting action, platforming, and a deeply emotional story, creating a thrilling and unforgettable experience.

Incredible Visual Design The game's visuals are nothing short of stunning. A Crack in Time boasts vibrant, richly detailed environments, from lush alien jungles to sprawling futuristic cities. Each world feels distinct, with a high level of polish and artistry that immerses players in its colorful, dynamic settings. The animation is smooth, and the character models, especially Ratchet and Clank, are incredibly expressive, enhancing the emotional impact of the game.

Refined, Dynamic Gameplay Gameplay is a core strength of A Crack in Time. The combat remains fast and engaging, with a huge variety of weapons and gadgets, each with a unique playstyle. The addition of time-based mechanics, where players control time using Clank, brings new layers to both combat and puzzles, adding depth to the game. These mechanics are brilliantly integrated, providing clever and creative ways to tackle challenges.

Engaging Story & Character Development The emotional depth of A Crack in Time elevates it above many other platformers. The relationship between Ratchet and Clank is at the heart of the story, offering a heartfelt narrative that explores themes of identity, destiny, and friendship. New characters, especially the time-based mechanic Clank's storyline, enrich the plot and provide an engaging counterpoint to Ratchet's journey. The dialogue is witty and fun, keeping the tone light even as the story delves into more emotional territory.

Outstanding Sound Design & Music The soundtrack enhances every moment, whether during action-packed sequences or quieter, more introspective moments. The music dynamically shifts to complement the fast-paced combat and emotionally charged story beats. The sound design, including voice acting, is excellent, with characters brought to life through expressive performances.

Perfect Balance of Innovation and Familiarity A Crack in Time strikes a perfect balance between introducing fresh, innovative mechanics (like time manipulation) and staying true to the series' core gameplay elements. It's a masterclass in game design, offering creative challenges and keeping the player engaged throughout the adventure.

In conclusion, Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time is an absolute triumph. It combines thrilling action, creative puzzles, emotional storytelling, and stunning visuals to create a game that is simply a joy to play. Its seamless integration of gameplay mechanics, fantastic world-building, and memorable characters makes it a standout title in the Ratchet & Clank series, deserving of all the praise it has received.
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Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (2021 Video Game)
10/10
Still the only true next-gen game
12 November 2024
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a groundbreaking entry in the beloved PlayStation franchise, offering an exhilarating blend of action, adventure, and cutting-edge technology. Developed as a PlayStation 5 exclusive, it not only showcases the power of next-gen hardware but also delivers an unforgettable gaming experience from start to finish. With stunning visuals, fast-paced gameplay, and a heartfelt story, Rift Apart is a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

The game's graphics are nothing short of breathtaking. The PlayStation 5's capabilities are fully realized here, with highly detailed environments, fluid animations, and realistic lighting. From lush alien landscapes to intricately designed character models, every scene feels alive and vibrant. The game's use of ray tracing adds a sense of realism that enhances the experience, while the innovative rift mechanic allows for seamless dimension transitions in real-time, showcasing the PS5's ultra-fast loading times.

In terms of gameplay, Rift Apart excels with its smooth, action-packed combat. Players have access to a variety of creative weapons, each offering a distinct playstyle, from the classic Blaster to the new Rift Tether. The rift mechanic itself adds a dynamic layer to combat and exploration, making each encounter feel fresh and engaging. The level design is imaginative, offering unique worlds that are both visually captivating and fun to explore.

The story in Rift Apart is as charming and emotional as ever. The dynamic between Ratchet and Clank remains heartwarming, with their friendship taking center stage as they navigate a high-stakes multiverse adventure. The addition of Rivet, a new Lombax character, brings a refreshing new perspective and depth to the narrative. The humor, heart, and character-driven moments resonate deeply, providing both long-time fans and newcomers with a compelling reason to invest in the story.

The soundtrack complements the action perfectly, with a score that enhances the intensity of the battles and the emotional depth of the quieter moments. Each piece fits the tone of the game, elevating key sequences and ensuring that every moment feels impactful.

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a perfect showcase of what next-gen gaming can offer. It combines impressive technical achievement with a captivating story, unforgettable characters, and fast-paced gameplay. With its stunning visuals, creative combat, and emotional narrative, the game sets a new standard for PlayStation 5 experiences and earns a well-deserved perfect 10/10.
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10/10
An amazing conclusion
12 November 2024
Mobile Suit Gundam III: Encounters in Space (1982) is the epic finale to the original Mobile Suit Gundam trilogy, delivering an emotional, action-packed conclusion to the monumental conflict between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon. Directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, this film encapsulates the drama, heartbreak, and thrilling space battles that have come to define the Gundam franchise, solidifying its status as a must-watch for fans.

What makes Encounters in Space stand out is its ability to balance intense mecha combat with deep character development and emotional stakes. This final installment brings together all the threads from the previous films, focusing on Amuro Ray's growth and his ultimate confrontation with Char Aznable. The personal stakes of their rivalry reach a boiling point, with both characters' paths driven by their ideals and deep-seated emotional trauma. This makes the movie not only a spectacle of mecha action but a poignant exploration of the cost of war, the complexity of personal conviction, and the toll it takes on those involved.

The animation in Encounters in Space wa stunning for the time, with impressive space battles that showcase the raw intensity of combat. The scale of the battles feels vast and consequential, with each Gundam fight adding emotional depth to the story. The design of the mobile suits, including the iconic RX-78-2 Gundam, remains a high point of the series, with fluid, dynamic animation that captures the thrill of piloting giant robots in outer space.

The film's soundtrack, composed by the legendary Takeo Watanabe, is a standout feature. The music complements the tone perfectly, from the stirring orchestral themes during key battles to the somber, reflective pieces that underscore the film's more introspective moments. The emotional resonance of the soundtrack enhances the film's depth, making the stakes feel more personal and the characters' struggles all the more intense.

The film's pacing is excellent, smoothly weaving action with moments of introspection and personal conflict. The resolution of the Amuro and Char storyline feels earned, providing a satisfying conclusion to their epic rivalry.

Ultimately, Mobile Suit Gundam III: Encounters in Space is a masterpiece. It's a movie that successfully blends thrilling action, complex characters, and emotional depth. Its portrayal of the horrors of war, the growth of its protagonists, and the epic scale of its battles make it an unforgettable experience, and one of the best entries in the Gundam franchise. With stunning visuals, a powerful soundtrack, and a deeply satisfying conclusion, this film is a must-watch for any mecha or anime fan, earning a perfect 10/10.
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9/10
A great movie
12 November 2024
Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack (1988) is a powerful and emotional conclusion to the epic rivalry between Amuro Ray and Char Aznable. Directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, the film masterfully combines high-stakes action with deeper themes of war, idealism, and the complexities of human nature. Set in the Universal Century timeline, Char leads the Neo Zeon movement, while Amuro represents the Federation's final defense, setting the stage for a monumental showdown.

The film excels in its portrayal of the two protagonists' contrasting ideals, making their final confrontation deeply personal and impactful. The animation, especially during the intense mecha battles, is top-tier for its time, with beautifully designed mobile suits like the Nu Gundam and Sazabi. The action is complemented by an unforgettable soundtrack, heightening both the emotional and battle sequences.

While Char's Counterattack is a visual and thematic triumph, its pacing can feel uneven at times, and the film's serious, somber tone may not appeal to everyone. However, these minor flaws don't diminish its significance in the Gundam saga. It's a perfect culmination for long-time fans and an essential watch for those seeking a deeper, more mature take on the mecha genre.

With its thrilling combat, memorable characters, and thought-provoking narrative, Char's Counterattack earns a solid 9/10.
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Kidô senshi Z Gundam (1985–1986)
10/10
One of the best Anime of all time
12 November 2024
Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985) is nothing short of a masterpiece in the mecha genre and one of the most critically acclaimed entries in the Gundam franchise. Directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, it is a powerful continuation of the original Mobile Suit Gundam, yet it establishes its own identity through a more mature, complex narrative and a deeper focus on character development.

The story is set in the aftermath of the One Year War and follows Kamille Bidan, a young and passionate pilot who gets caught in the conflict between the Earth Federation and the anti-Federation group, the AEUG. Zeta Gundam introduces a more political and morally gray world, where allegiances shift, and the true cost of war becomes painfully clear. Tomino's sharp storytelling and ability to tackle themes of trauma, betrayal, and idealism resonate deeply throughout the series. It's a war story that feels genuinely consequential, with each decision and action weighed with emotional and political gravity.

The characters are another highlight, especially Kamille, who undergoes significant development over the series. Unlike many typical anime protagonists, Kamille's evolution is far from linear, filled with doubt, anger, and loss. His character arc is one of the most compelling and nuanced in all of Gundam. The supporting cast is equally rich, from the strong-willed pilot Fa Yuiry to the enigmatic and morally complex characters like Quattro Bajeena (an alias for Char Aznable), who continues to play a central role in the series. Each character's journey is thoughtfully explored, making the series feel grounded and relatable despite its fantastical setting.

Visually, Zeta Gundam holds up remarkably well. The animation, while not as polished as some modern entries, stands out with its distinct art style and dynamic battle scenes. The mecha designs are iconic, with the titular Zeta Gundam's transforming capabilities showcasing the series' technical creativity. The fluidity and intensity of the combat, both in space and on Earth, are incredibly well executed, making each battle feel impactful.

The soundtrack, composed by the legendary Kenji Kawai, is another standout feature. It complements the series' tone perfectly, with hauntingly beautiful tracks and energetic battle music that heightens the emotional stakes. The music in Zeta Gundam feels timeless, setting the mood for every pivotal moment.

The series' darker tone and mature themes might make it a challenging watch for younger audiences, but for those looking for a Gundam series with true emotional depth and philosophical exploration, Zeta Gundam is unmatched. The exploration of war, idealism versus realism, and the psychological toll on its characters are handled with remarkable subtlety, making it not just a great mecha series, but a profound narrative on the human condition.

Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam stands as a landmark in anime history, offering an unmatched combination of character-driven storytelling, action, and thematic depth. With its outstanding character arcs, impactful battles, and unforgettable music, it earns a perfect 10/10.
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Kidô butoden ji Gandamu (1994–1995)
8/10
A unique Gundam series
12 November 2024
Mobile Fighter G Gundam is a standout in the Gundam franchise for its bold departure from the more serious, political tones of other entries. Instead, it combines fast-paced, over-the-top mecha battles with a dramatic storyline infused with martial arts and international flair. The premise is simple yet engaging: nations settle disputes through a global Gundam tournament, with fighters representing their countries using unique mechs inspired by their culture. This results in a series filled with exciting action and unforgettable character designs.

The main character, Domon Kasshu, is the typical hot-headed hero with a deeper emotional journey. His growth throughout the series-from a lone, brash fighter to a more self-aware individual-adds depth to the show. While the character development is strong for Domon, other supporting characters can feel underdeveloped, and their arcs sometimes take a backseat to the action.

The action is undoubtedly the highlight. The mecha battles are thrilling, with each Gundam fight offering something new and engaging. The series is visually dynamic, and its fight choreography blends martial arts with the spectacle of giant robots, making each battle unique and exhilarating. The colorful and exaggerated designs of the Gundams also help distinguish the series, making it visually distinctive in the Gundam universe.

However, G Gundam does have its flaws. The pacing can drag in the middle episodes, and some subplots are resolved too quickly or without sufficient development. The tone, while fun, can be too over-the-top for some viewers, especially fans of the more grounded, political themes seen in other Gundam series. Despite this, G Gundam remains a fun, action-packed ride with plenty of heart and spectacle.

Ultimately, Mobile Fighter G Gundam is a unique and entertaining entry in the Gundam franchise, perfect for fans of high-energy mecha action and character-driven storytelling. Its bold approach to the genre and its memorable battles make it a must-watch, earning it a solid 8/10.
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