Review of Mobile Suit Gundam 00
My first Gundam series was SEED, and then Destiny. Compared to both of these, Gundam 00 (pron: Double O, as in Double-O Seven), is exquisite, and a very welcome addition to the franchise. Of course, like all the Gundam series, and mecha anime in general, there are a few pitfalls like repetitive stories and whiny characters. This anime also follows the "gundam vs. the rest" recipe but I got hooked on to the series early on because the plot seemed to rely more on suspense and political intrigue, a sort of Death Note mecha anime, if you will. However, like it's predecessors, thedeus ex machina element soon became overbearingly strong. The script-writers did very well to balance the equation towards the end and set the scenario for the second season. I think the promise of a second made the production house slack off a bit...
The animation is exquisite. The Gundam designs are simply sublime, there's a sense of clarity in the artwork and the results are a visual treat. I think the Gundam designs in this anime is the best in the franchise.
Sound, especially, electronic jam pieces played during battle sequences has always been a trademark of the Gundam franchise and 00 does not disappoint on that front. Although the music is not memorable, it works well with the animation and the story. The overall effect is rather good.
The pitfall of mecha animes ~ whiny pilots. Like the other products in the Gundam franchise (barring Gundam Wing), 00 also suffers from a cast comprising morally dysfunctional and confused pubescents. It wouldn't be so bad if I didn't have to listen to the pilots' rambling bitching about not understanding what the f*** is going on and questioning the meaning of life, universe, and everything else. It's 42 damn it! Barring the pilots, the supporting characters are great... at times. Then there are people, simply there to bring a personal aspect to the pain war and violence causes. Perhaps the second season will expound on some of the characters as there are several unanswered questions.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. The "game of chess" approach to the plot, the brilliant battle sequences, the sort of real world setting, and the quick pace of the series made it very worthwhile and I happily await a second season... although I am a little unsure if a second season was necessary. You will understand what I mean if you watch it. Let me know if you agree or disagree.