Review by Damon Mudgway

A beautifully packaged presentation of this fan favorite film. The only downside is the movie badly needs a remaster, but overall a worthwhile purchase. Not Region A locked, plays fine on my Region B player.

Narrative is pretty much episode 8 of Unicorn. It further delves into the Newtype theory born by Tomino. NT is jarring in the UC sphere in that the Phenex Gundam is a 'god robot' and out of place in Universal Century Gundam. I believe the Newtype use of a mobile suits psycho frames negates such criticism, and establishes a natural conclusion to Tomino's ideals. While I prefer more grounded Gundam series (08th MS, 0080, 0083), Gundam Narrative does offer thrilling animation and great characters. Packaging for Narrative is gorgeous with Katoki's stunning slipcase artwork.

0083 is simply an awesome space opera. The pinnacle of 2D anime is on display throughout the series. 0083 has no child pilots, but does have a large number of well fleshed our characters. These UC Library releases are most welcome.

The Gundam Universe lineup of figures offers great detail at a low price. And at around 150mm tall, they dwarf even the Robot Spirits figures. Panel lining depth on this is superb, as is the colouring. There is very little in the way of accessories, but the price reflects this. The RX-79(G) and the Ez8 are two of my favourite mechas from one of my favourite Gundam series, so I’m a happy camper. I’m looking forward to more UC releases in the Gundam Universe series.

Bandit Flower does a good job of building on the story in December Sky, but it ends on a cliffhanger. It will be interesting to see if the next series ( if there is one) mirrors that of the manga. One small gripe I have is the design of the Atlas Gundam. It simply looks out of place in the setting of 0079-0080, and seems more suited to F91, even Victory era Gundam. Don’t get me wrong, Atlas is stunning, but far too advanced for the Thunderbolt timeline. Once again, the animation is top notch, on a par with Unicorn. Character design is unique to say the least, and the soundtrack would have to be the most unusual in the Gundamverse, more akin to Cowboy Bebop. Overall, not as good as December Sky, but taken in the context of a bridge in the whole story, it’s still recommended.

A fabulous anime, that builds on the richness of the UC timeline. Mid point in the Unicorn series is the greatest depiction so far of mobile suit combat, where the Zeon forces invade the EFSF’s Torrington Base in Australia. The battle footage is simply incredible. Highly recommended.

Absolutely classic Gundam series, that eschews the new type side story by grounding the anime in a very Earth based setting. One of the greatest real robot mecha series ever made, with beautiful animation, an outstanding soundtrack, and excellent character development. Awesome mecha designs abound, with the Ground Type Gundam and the EZ8 being two of my favourite MS in the Gundamverse.

MS Igloo is an interesting premise. Entirely CG, the results will either thrill or annoy. I enjoy the animation, but it’s not in the league of 08th MS or 0083. There is little here in the way of character development, as each episode focuses more on the mecha action than storytelling. But if you’re after the grit of stripped down mecha on tank action, like 08th Ms, then you will enjoy MS Igloo. I think this is an essential addition to the UC franchise, others may well disagree, but there are some stunning visuals on offer.

At long last an official Japanese Bluray release with English subs. I for one prefer the movies over the TV series, as they pretty much do away with the clunky exposition and gratuitous toy marketing. The films have never looked better, and while the animation is obviously dated, the story and world building are extraordinary. This is the classic anime that started the real robot genre. No self respecting Gundam fan should be without it.

Really, really want this movie, but no English subs means no point in buying. I guess I will have to wait for an inferior US release.

Vocaloid not so good in Engrish! Yamaha are yet to release an edition that can accomplish this. Nice try though.

Love L'arc, was thinking about getting this, loved the Quadrinity packaging, but seriously, who did the band give the packaging design to? A 3 year old? I could have done better with a couple of pens and some chalk. Lame. I sure hope they sack the guy in the art department.

This version will fly. Just pre-orderd mine. I missed out on the Noble limited edition (anyone want to sell theirs?), I sure ain't missing out this time round.

Only the Troy brother remain from the lineup that was Praying Mantis in the 90's on. This release is another solid effort by the band. New vocalist Mike Freeland does a great job, not too dis-similar from Tony O'Hara. The music veers towards a more blues rock slant, but still retaining the melodic roots Mantis are known for. A great addition to the collection if you are a fan. Newcomers are far better served by obtaining their exquisite masterpiece 'Forever In Time', a benchmark in melodic AOR/HR of recent times.

I may be a bit jaded, and a little biased, as I love the original Cruel Angels Thesis, but this 'new version' is simply a poor re-imagining of the classic track. Others may disagree, and love this version, but, I for one, am very disappointed.

In short, an 'absolute classic rock masterpiece'. Like Boston, Queen and the Scorpions rolled into one. Brilliant.

A.Jackson is probably correct on this one. Fans of Zeno Roth usually like his music because of his tendency towards Eastern influenced progressions, coupled with high pitched vocals and melodic choruses. This record sees him moving in a more blues rock direction. The album is still very listenable, but is quite a change in direction. While I am all for artists avoiding stagnation in the pursuit of artistic exploration, I for one, prefer the Zeno of old.

Delightful album of orchestral arrangements of classic French pops. Universal Japan simply do the best compilations around, and this release is no exception. Conjures up thoughts of a romantic Paris at night, no matter where in the world you might be. In standard jewel case/obi, with classy cover art, and liner notes in Japanese. If you are a lover of melodic and sweeping orchestral arrangements, this CD is a must. Le romance est vivant et bon.

Great band, but this is a seriously obscene way to milk cash out of fans wanting the full PV. Still, I'm sure that won't dissuade loyal fans from forking out the bucks.

Great band, but this is a seriously obscene way to milk cash out of fans wanting the full PV. Still, I'm sure that won't dissuade loyal fans from forking out the bucks.