Ulysse 31 illustrates perfectly the idea that combining different cultures expertise may lead to a wonderful result as this anime is a Japanese French production involving artists from both countries. It was made at a time Producers not only want to entertain children but also educate them (in this case about Greek Mythology) in the framework of an anime with a good artistic value. Other examples of such policies are Les mysterieuses cites d’or (The mysterious cities of Gold) and il etait une fois l’homme (once upon a time..man). Ulysse 31, as you have understood,is a futuristic transposition of the Odysseyepic poem and the scene takes place just after the war of Trojan. We follow the adventures and ordeals of Ulysses, young Telemachus and the mysterious Themis throughout their galactic voyage.

The story is based (faithfully or loosely depending on the episode) on the Odyssey and each episode unravels a new mystery that Ulysses have to discover, a new charismatic character that Ulysses have to confront with or a new barrier that the Gods have set for Ulysses. Will he finally reach the Kingdom of Hades and return to the warm heart of his Beloved Penelope?

The story is simply excellent and raises several concepts and ideas such as love, tyranny, religion, fate,drugs, the redundancy of human life... an excellent mean to stimulate a child curiosity and mind as this anime was aim for children. Moreover and this is quite bold, there is not always a happy ending for each episodes : some are tragic, a reminder that life can be harsh sometime... Thanks to the work of Jean Chalopin and Nina Wolmark (Spartakus and the Sun Beneath the Sea : les mondes engloutis).

Art and animation are surprinsigly good for an anime of that period even by Today's Standards. This is mainly due to the famous duo of Shingo Araki / Michi Himeno's Work (Goldorak/Grendizer, cat's eyes, Lady Oscar, Saint Seiya...) and the technical mecha design of Manchu (AKA Philippe Bouchet).

Music score is nice to listen to and match the anime ambiance by its synthpop features.

Most Characters are well conceived and they have their own development. It is easy to identify with them and feel some empathy towards their ordeals.

The French dubbing had involved professional Dramatic Art Theater actors voices (especially Jean Topar) and are consequently very enjoyable. The English Dubbing seems well made as well.

Overall no matter how old you are, this is truly a must see masterpiece and a good introduction to Greek Mythology in general.