Review of Trigun

At what point is a promise to a loved one worth breaking? What would you be willing to sacrifice to make the world a better place? Is there even a point to advocating for nonviolence and peace in such a merciless, callous world? I think I was seven when I first saw an episode of Trigun on Adult Swim, which is actually my earliest memory of AS and possibly anime in general. For whatever reason, the image of Vash the Stampede with his oversized pistol and bright red overcoat traversing the desert were seared into my brain, and it managed to stay there for a full20 years until I finally found both the motivation and opportunity to watch the entire series.

Well, now that I have ... I realize how blurry that image might've been.

Trigun begins by introducing Vash as the most wanted outlaw on a (fictional) barren planet, but the series breaks expectations several times as he's shown to be a notably complex character, both in his motivations and interactions with the world he inhabits. Soon joining his unofficial crew are the fiery-tempered Meryl and charmingly oblivious Millie, who have a professional obligation to investigate the unimaginable damage Vash leaves in his wake.

I was taken aback at how comedic the first half (or so) of the series felt, since my first impression of the show was characterized by full-fledged action badassery. Vash initially seems well-intentioned but goofy and disorganized, often narrowly escaping capture or death by apparent luck. Over time, though, his backstory and motivations reveal him to be a more introspective character than previously thought.

The first half's more episodic nature left me somewhat apathetic, but things take a significantly more serious turn, and the series finds its stride as the "why" behind the narrative becomes much more clear. From there, Trigun continuously ramps up the intensity until the last four episodes, when things reach an emotional but explosive climax.

Aesthetically, Trigun is one of a kind, with its classic rock/tribal inspired score and space western-meets-steampunk visuals giving a distinct flavor. The memorable characters drive the plot rather than the other way around, though that plot takes a while to actually kick into gear. Many of the comedic moments are welcomed, and the serious moments can be genuinely impactful. Moral questions are asked without clear answers, and by the end, the series seems like a Biblical allegory beyond the gunfights and explosions, though I was admittedly too slow in realizing this to give a satisfactory analysis.

Honestly, though ... the show would've worked better as maybe a 22 (or possibly even 15) episode series, as it didn't find its footing until almost halfway through. Several episodes felt like filler which, while forgivable, makes a noticeable impact on a series as short as this is. I also thought some of the minor villains were more interesting than the main one and should've possibly swapped roles.

Trigun is an overall enjoyable but inconsistent piece of work, and though I understand its classic status, the first half keeps me from being able to fit it into my list of favorites. With that said, it weirdly holds a special place in my heart due to my early memories of it, and I don't see it leaving any time soon.