This show is so very stoic and awesome. The way it plays out reminds of some of the Ancient Greek epics like the Odyssey. The characters are expertly designed as well as the action and visuals. If you're looking to get into anime I recommend you start with this one, it's really a modern classic.
54 Reviews
Far exceeded my expectations
codeinemassacre29 June 2015
Personally, I'm not a massive fan of anime, but I can get down with it. This is the first show I've watched all the way through, based on the recommendation of a few anime fanatics, and it was incredible.
Generally, the show defies realism by a long shot and is fairly lighthearted, although it expresses very abstract and interesting concepts, and also tense subjects we can all relate to. The first 10 episodes will probably make you think the whole show is going to be about fighting machines battling on a barren landscape, but everything changes dramatically halfway through. The last few episodes nearly had me crying in pure awe. Honestly, this anime is so well done, words cannot really describe it.
The show illustrates one primary message: willpower and love are much greater than you can imagine. If you're a bit unsure in the beginning, hold on until halfway through. I promise it gets intense.
Generally, the show defies realism by a long shot and is fairly lighthearted, although it expresses very abstract and interesting concepts, and also tense subjects we can all relate to. The first 10 episodes will probably make you think the whole show is going to be about fighting machines battling on a barren landscape, but everything changes dramatically halfway through. The last few episodes nearly had me crying in pure awe. Honestly, this anime is so well done, words cannot really describe it.
The show illustrates one primary message: willpower and love are much greater than you can imagine. If you're a bit unsure in the beginning, hold on until halfway through. I promise it gets intense.
Another Anime That's Music to the Otaku Soul!
Johnny-the-Film-Sentinel-21879 May 2017
Gurren Lagann is action-packed, funny and colourful to the viewers. It's an absolute feast for the eyes and every hard-boiled otaku should watch this show. It's got robots, busty yet rough-and-tough babes, and ultra-masculine protagonists who inhabit these shonen-esque stories and can be role models to boys that have low self-esteem and look upon these larger-than-life characters as inspirations. Simon and Kamina are great leads for the show; and their big-brother/little-brother dynamic is nearly comparable to FullMetal Alchemist. Gurren is a romp that doesn't really break any new ground; but the thing is its memorably creative take on the mecha genre helps Lagann identify itself as a unique show that knows all it wants to do is have fun and not be taken too seriously.
The Japanese hardly ever cease to amaze animation lovers the world over; and this lover here approves of this cult-classic show big time! Wonderful stuff!
The Japanese hardly ever cease to amaze animation lovers the world over; and this lover here approves of this cult-classic show big time! Wonderful stuff!
Pure Energy
spiral_nemesis26 January 2012
After a long time of evaluating I think I've finally admitted to myself, this has become my favorite anime (sorry, Berserk).
On the surface it's a "more power" anime with giant robots, over-the-top action and ridiculous characters. However, the show knows this and plays into it while basically saying to itself, "I'm going to be the best more power anime with giant robots, over-the-top action and ridiculous characters that anyone has ever seen, and make it so epic that no other giant robot show can compete". And for me, it basically is.
If I could only use two words to describe Gurren Lagann, it would be "pure energy". As far as entertainment value is concerned, I don't believe I've felt more entertained by any other anime. Not a single episode was boring filler (well half an episode, which is common in most anime), and along with the theme of the show, each episode is progressively bigger and better than the last. They could have easily made this a 2 season show by breaking it after a certain point, but instead kept it compact and fast-paced.
I think what makes the show special is that it never takes itself too seriously (evident by artwork and animation), but ultimately is quite serious in its message, and very thought provoking by the end. Most philosophical anime tend to bog the viewer down in loads of symbolic jargon, and in the end, often end up confusing or boring the audience. Gurren Lagann has all that symbolism that loves to pop up in anime, but basically stays in the background and plays a secondary role. If you wanted to completely ignore the philosophical undertones in the show you could do it, and it would still be very entertaining.
The story is pretty straight forward, but if you're wanting to dig deeper, I think the spiral concept used throughout the show is the most unique theme that has been done in an anime. The music is memorable and used very well throughout, with the Libera Me From Hell track from the final three episodes still occasionally being chanted by me, years after hearing it the first time. The ending is feel-good and appropriate to the series.
I know this review will probably be seen by only a few of the already converted, but to those who are on the bubble, give the show a shot and there is a good chance it might just become your favorite.
On the surface it's a "more power" anime with giant robots, over-the-top action and ridiculous characters. However, the show knows this and plays into it while basically saying to itself, "I'm going to be the best more power anime with giant robots, over-the-top action and ridiculous characters that anyone has ever seen, and make it so epic that no other giant robot show can compete". And for me, it basically is.
If I could only use two words to describe Gurren Lagann, it would be "pure energy". As far as entertainment value is concerned, I don't believe I've felt more entertained by any other anime. Not a single episode was boring filler (well half an episode, which is common in most anime), and along with the theme of the show, each episode is progressively bigger and better than the last. They could have easily made this a 2 season show by breaking it after a certain point, but instead kept it compact and fast-paced.
I think what makes the show special is that it never takes itself too seriously (evident by artwork and animation), but ultimately is quite serious in its message, and very thought provoking by the end. Most philosophical anime tend to bog the viewer down in loads of symbolic jargon, and in the end, often end up confusing or boring the audience. Gurren Lagann has all that symbolism that loves to pop up in anime, but basically stays in the background and plays a secondary role. If you wanted to completely ignore the philosophical undertones in the show you could do it, and it would still be very entertaining.
The story is pretty straight forward, but if you're wanting to dig deeper, I think the spiral concept used throughout the show is the most unique theme that has been done in an anime. The music is memorable and used very well throughout, with the Libera Me From Hell track from the final three episodes still occasionally being chanted by me, years after hearing it the first time. The ending is feel-good and appropriate to the series.
I know this review will probably be seen by only a few of the already converted, but to those who are on the bubble, give the show a shot and there is a good chance it might just become your favorite.
after checking it out you'll definitely want to become a member of the gurren brigade!!
rumasuk14 September 2009
People usually think of Gainax for Evangelion, and its obvious because Evangelion got all the people of my generation into anime (even if they don't want to admit it...) It was a freakin crazy i-don't-understand-nothing kind of anime series i've never seen before... but nowadays, now that we've seen more and learn more, its not thaaat great, except for the fact that everything we saw after Evangelion was heavily influenced by it, even western stuff.
Why do i talk about EVA?, well after all (except for the giant robot part) its nothing nothing at all like Gurren Lagann, its not serious, its not heavy, doesn't keep any information from you, and the main concept of the series (you know, like getting better day by day in Dragon Ball, the search for your own ideals in Samurai x, or the blues in Cowboy Bebop) its completely the opposite. While the main idea in EVA is quite dark and depressive and tries to reach the heart of people through emphathizing with the main character weaknesses, the spiral concept of Gurren Lagann is a call to heroism and faith.
So why do I want to compare this two?, first of all the style Gainax made for EVA is clearly present in Gurren Lagann like in most of their series... And second, because for me this two made the same thing in their current time periods, they reminded us why giant robot are so cool!!!
Yeah, Evangelion is clearly built for the nineties's standards, being secretive and revolutionary in its way of telling the story, its what we wanted in those days, an anime series that we could call a masterpiece in front of people that didn't watched anime at all... but today we don't care anymore, and Gainax know exactly what we want, super attacks, great fights, great fun, a good story without too much unnecessary story weight, and the best relation between all those parts, if you don't know what i mean go check Gurren Lagann out. It didn't get me addicted like Death Note, Code Geass, claymore or the first Fullmetal alchemist, but later i started to realize i love each one of the episodes of Gurren more, i don't really want to repeat all those series but its been two years and i still watch a Lagann episode or the movie now and then.
I love Gurren Lagann, and yeah it has issues, i got bored in one episode (Yoko's episode), but damn its good, even though the second half gets really transformed and sometimes gets you confused you will finally make one big universe in your head for this series... also has the best first episode because it puts in line the main concept trough the chapters of the story getting you all the way to the greatest oh-my-god final episode in anime history, the best.
love it love it love it, highly recommend it!
Why do i talk about EVA?, well after all (except for the giant robot part) its nothing nothing at all like Gurren Lagann, its not serious, its not heavy, doesn't keep any information from you, and the main concept of the series (you know, like getting better day by day in Dragon Ball, the search for your own ideals in Samurai x, or the blues in Cowboy Bebop) its completely the opposite. While the main idea in EVA is quite dark and depressive and tries to reach the heart of people through emphathizing with the main character weaknesses, the spiral concept of Gurren Lagann is a call to heroism and faith.
So why do I want to compare this two?, first of all the style Gainax made for EVA is clearly present in Gurren Lagann like in most of their series... And second, because for me this two made the same thing in their current time periods, they reminded us why giant robot are so cool!!!
Yeah, Evangelion is clearly built for the nineties's standards, being secretive and revolutionary in its way of telling the story, its what we wanted in those days, an anime series that we could call a masterpiece in front of people that didn't watched anime at all... but today we don't care anymore, and Gainax know exactly what we want, super attacks, great fights, great fun, a good story without too much unnecessary story weight, and the best relation between all those parts, if you don't know what i mean go check Gurren Lagann out. It didn't get me addicted like Death Note, Code Geass, claymore or the first Fullmetal alchemist, but later i started to realize i love each one of the episodes of Gurren more, i don't really want to repeat all those series but its been two years and i still watch a Lagann episode or the movie now and then.
I love Gurren Lagann, and yeah it has issues, i got bored in one episode (Yoko's episode), but damn its good, even though the second half gets really transformed and sometimes gets you confused you will finally make one big universe in your head for this series... also has the best first episode because it puts in line the main concept trough the chapters of the story getting you all the way to the greatest oh-my-god final episode in anime history, the best.
love it love it love it, highly recommend it!
An epic breath of fresh air.
Pritcher21 June 2008
Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. Quite a mouthful. Anyway, I won't go on and on here, but I feel compelled to say something about this show because with its perfect blend of comedy, drama, action, and romance, (with no aspect of either feeling forced just for the sake of having it), it is quite simply one of the best animes ever made. Ask a few anime fans to list some of their favorite shows and you'll start to hear quite a few of the greats being repeated. This show easily stands shoulder to shoulder with any and all of them.
To give a little idea of the overall feel of this show for the anime fans out there. Let's say you hold, "Neon Genesis Evangelion", in one hand and, "FLCL", in the other. Now put your hands together and you've got Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann.
Epic is probably the single best word to describe this show; epic in both scope and scale. From the technical aspects of the truly incredible, fluid and stylish animation; to the story with it's take on humanity, evolution and the potential finish lines to which we're sprinting; to the battles, ranging from underground guerrilla warfare in the early stages and ultimately culminating in a climactic finale of truly galactic proportions. Without spoiling anything, I'll just say it involves literally tossing whole planets like baseballs and even flinging entire galaxies like so many shuriken. Epic.
Nothing is perfect though, it does stumble a bit in the audio department. However, it only falls short in comparison to the rest of itself. That is to say, while the rest of the show is, "excellent", some of the audio aspects are only, "very good". The character designs are also nothing special, but that is easily countered by the spectacular animation and the personalities of the characters themselves.
It's probably not for everyone. Some may be put off by the artistic styling such as the unconventional and often bizarre angles and techniques as well as the hyperkinetic feel of the animation. I, for one, couldn't be more thrilled with all of it. I've seen a lot of anime and quite frankly most of it is mediocre at best. After wading through so many anime lately with virtually interchangeable story lines, art and characters, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is like a breath of fresh air.
Sorry, I guess I did kind of go on and on after all. Anyway...
9.5 out of 10, but since IMDb doesn't allow the .5, I'll have to round it up and give my first ever 10.
To give a little idea of the overall feel of this show for the anime fans out there. Let's say you hold, "Neon Genesis Evangelion", in one hand and, "FLCL", in the other. Now put your hands together and you've got Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann.
Epic is probably the single best word to describe this show; epic in both scope and scale. From the technical aspects of the truly incredible, fluid and stylish animation; to the story with it's take on humanity, evolution and the potential finish lines to which we're sprinting; to the battles, ranging from underground guerrilla warfare in the early stages and ultimately culminating in a climactic finale of truly galactic proportions. Without spoiling anything, I'll just say it involves literally tossing whole planets like baseballs and even flinging entire galaxies like so many shuriken. Epic.
Nothing is perfect though, it does stumble a bit in the audio department. However, it only falls short in comparison to the rest of itself. That is to say, while the rest of the show is, "excellent", some of the audio aspects are only, "very good". The character designs are also nothing special, but that is easily countered by the spectacular animation and the personalities of the characters themselves.
It's probably not for everyone. Some may be put off by the artistic styling such as the unconventional and often bizarre angles and techniques as well as the hyperkinetic feel of the animation. I, for one, couldn't be more thrilled with all of it. I've seen a lot of anime and quite frankly most of it is mediocre at best. After wading through so many anime lately with virtually interchangeable story lines, art and characters, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is like a breath of fresh air.
Sorry, I guess I did kind of go on and on after all. Anyway...
9.5 out of 10, but since IMDb doesn't allow the .5, I'll have to round it up and give my first ever 10.
I didn't want to admit it, but it is without a doubt the best anime ever created.
xmicah17 August 2013
I'd like to make a few things clear before I say what i'm about to say about this anime. And that's: "I didn't want to like it." I'm serious, when I saw all the hype surrounding it and claims of "THE best anime", I felt antagonistic of the whole idea. I never believed it, I mean THE best? There's no way... But then I watched it...Now again, another thing, I don't usually cry. Like, at all. Not a bit. Nor do I scream in excitement, which is why I didn't very much like watching Football with my uncles growing up. But man does Gurren Lagann rip me out of that state of mind. Never before have I seen such a perfect blend, just the right amount of episodes, just the right amount of characters, just the right amount of plot progression, and topped off with a PERFECT amount of action and romance to give me an experience I wouldn't believe. Bawling at some parts and jumping up and chanting "FIGHT THE POWER!!" at others, this is definitely the anime to watch, and absolutely the best anime ever. With an ending so satisfying and bittersweet giving you the proper closure you needed for letting go of such a perfect experience. If you haven't watched it do so now. It's Dub is just as good as the original, a rare case indeed, so get out there and become part of the Dai-Gurren Brigade!!
Straight up adrenaline
beavsoccer25 August 2019
Let me throw this out there.....I don't usually look at reviews before I watch something. With that said, I had NO idea what was in store before I started watching this show.
Simply put - this is flat out the most absurdly motivating, surprisingly deep, ridiculously awesome show I've ever seen.
Question: Does it matter that at a few points I said to myself "I'm not really sure I understand what exactly is happening right now"?
Answer: NO!
This show is so over the top it really doesn't matter if you 100% understand whats goin on at certain points (don't get me wrong the story is SUPER good and well thought out). That's not the point. The point is that whatever you believe to be within your grasp....go for it!
Just watch this and enjoy it for what it is....EPIC!
Simply put - this is flat out the most absurdly motivating, surprisingly deep, ridiculously awesome show I've ever seen.
Question: Does it matter that at a few points I said to myself "I'm not really sure I understand what exactly is happening right now"?
Answer: NO!
This show is so over the top it really doesn't matter if you 100% understand whats goin on at certain points (don't get me wrong the story is SUPER good and well thought out). That's not the point. The point is that whatever you believe to be within your grasp....go for it!
Just watch this and enjoy it for what it is....EPIC!
Row Row Fight the Power!
mxs2k11 July 2008
If you want a series that can bring entire classes of people together. If you want a show that can make parents, kids, teens, and even my 60 year old uncle watch, then watch this show. TTGL(Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann) is a perfect mix of the elements that make anime the great product that the have become. When most people say cartoons are for kids tie them to a chair and make them watch TTGL. It's comedy has the high and low brow elements that you miss from Hollywood movies. It's action-sequences beat every single anime and action movie I have seen other than Gundam Wing and The Matrix. And the dramatic themes of love, coming of age, depression, grief, forgiveness, friendship, revolution, combine with this underdog as dominator feeling that out does anything you have seen before. You will finish this series and start quoting it after the very first episode. I defy you to not quote Kamina when he says Don't believe in the you that believes in me, or the me that believes in you. Believe in you, the you that believes in yourself. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is truly epic. And to quote the shows fans, completely chock full of GAR!
Outrageous and Infectious... But a little too ridiculous.
dekkar52 January 2008
Gurren Lagann follows the story of a young man named Simon who lives in an underground village in a seemingly post-apocalyptic future, where humans beings are forced to live below the surface to avoid the wrath of the evil Beastmen, and their King, Lord Genome. Simon and his friends must venture to the surface and destroy the Beastmen, reclaiming the Earth in the name of humanity.
The series is very intensely action oriented and all of the fight scenes are masterfully crafted and are very entertaining to watch. The animation in generally is beautiful, with the exception of one episode which was apparently directed by a different director.
The characters in the series are predictable, but lovable at the same time. However, Gainax certainly didn't take modesty into consideration when they designed Yoko, the female lead. Her half naked body, while fun to look at, takes center stage in almost every scene that she's in. However, despite using her to sell out to sex appeal, Yoko is revealed to be subjected to loss, sadness and pain throughout the series just like the other characters, and personally, is my favorite character in the show.
The problem I find with Gurren Lagann, is that half way through, it exits the land of bad ass giant robots fighting giant robots, and enters the land of obscenely huge robots doing battle with entire universes and alternate realities and all manner of ridiculous science fiction. I feel like Gainax spent almost no time brainstorming the plausibility and design of the antagonists from the second half of the series as we are mostly treated to our heroes fighting giant stone faces and hands and other stupid shapes, which is also found in their other notable series: Evangelion.
Overall, Gurren Lagann is fun to watch until the point where the story enters the realm of absolute absurdity.
The series is very intensely action oriented and all of the fight scenes are masterfully crafted and are very entertaining to watch. The animation in generally is beautiful, with the exception of one episode which was apparently directed by a different director.
The characters in the series are predictable, but lovable at the same time. However, Gainax certainly didn't take modesty into consideration when they designed Yoko, the female lead. Her half naked body, while fun to look at, takes center stage in almost every scene that she's in. However, despite using her to sell out to sex appeal, Yoko is revealed to be subjected to loss, sadness and pain throughout the series just like the other characters, and personally, is my favorite character in the show.
The problem I find with Gurren Lagann, is that half way through, it exits the land of bad ass giant robots fighting giant robots, and enters the land of obscenely huge robots doing battle with entire universes and alternate realities and all manner of ridiculous science fiction. I feel like Gainax spent almost no time brainstorming the plausibility and design of the antagonists from the second half of the series as we are mostly treated to our heroes fighting giant stone faces and hands and other stupid shapes, which is also found in their other notable series: Evangelion.
Overall, Gurren Lagann is fun to watch until the point where the story enters the realm of absolute absurdity.
Awesome
DonaldDooD17 August 2014
Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is the pinnacle of anime insanity. No Dragon Ball or super robot show can come close to the ridiculousness of TTGL. It breaks the record, then reaches a million miles further. Its so over-the-top that any anime that would try to beat it would only chase its coat tails.
But what really makes TTGL one of the best is its controlled juuuuust enough for you to take it seriously. It isn't amped to 11 every episode. Its well-paced, and gradually progresses. The characters are very likable, the animation is solid, and the music is great! The best moments of the show are perfectly executed, working on so many levels. Its more than gigantic explosions and drills.
You'd have to be a sworn enemy of fun to hate TTGL. Its awesome, but emotional too. Its easily one of my favorites.
Final note - The movies are mostly rehashes of the TV series. But the final battle...well, let's just say it managed to top itself, somehow. See the second movie's ending for the stunning conclusion to the series, skip the rest.
But what really makes TTGL one of the best is its controlled juuuuust enough for you to take it seriously. It isn't amped to 11 every episode. Its well-paced, and gradually progresses. The characters are very likable, the animation is solid, and the music is great! The best moments of the show are perfectly executed, working on so many levels. Its more than gigantic explosions and drills.
You'd have to be a sworn enemy of fun to hate TTGL. Its awesome, but emotional too. Its easily one of my favorites.
Final note - The movies are mostly rehashes of the TV series. But the final battle...well, let's just say it managed to top itself, somehow. See the second movie's ending for the stunning conclusion to the series, skip the rest.
Let's face it
schwarzmatthias-3737418 October 2017
I only have watched 15 of the 27 Episodes of this anime, which concludes the first mayor ark of the story, because I really wanted to give this show a shot. And I must say, the animation is quite stunning, but the story isn't too good, pretty basic in fact, but so over the top like only anime can. Most of the characters are pretty annoying, and aren't really that likable, because they scream almost all the time, which in itself is pretty aggravating . At least the dub isn't too bad. A few characters you grew to love. And many of the gunman designs are very creative and fun to watch.
Still, I can't really get warm with it, it's just isn't my taste, which is why I only give it 6/10 I see that they put a lot of effort in the animation and style and did the best they could with the source material. I wish other anime would get that good animation as well.
Still, I can't really get warm with it, it's just isn't my taste, which is why I only give it 6/10 I see that they put a lot of effort in the animation and style and did the best they could with the source material. I wish other anime would get that good animation as well.
Too Kiddish for my taste.
mayank0987622 September 2018
I enjoy anime and have watched tons of them, so when I was looking for a new one to start, I came across Gurren Lagann. It was ranked high and seemed to have a cult following, so I decided to give it a shot. Even though I was not enjoying the initial episodes I continued watching as lots of reviews said you need to give it a few episodes to get into the groove. Well, I watched it till the end and got to say I didn't enjoy it one bit.
The story is basic, the dialogues are silly, the characters annoying, everything which happens is over the top. According to me, the target audiences are kids. I simply don't comprehend the rave reviews the show got.
The story is basic, the dialogues are silly, the characters annoying, everything which happens is over the top. According to me, the target audiences are kids. I simply don't comprehend the rave reviews the show got.
A True Master Piece..
mercfma5 December 2015
I'm speechless.. this show has left an enormous hole in my heart, i feel like a pet or family member has just died after finishing the last episode just knowing that its over. This is possibly the deepest anime or show I've ever seen, it speaks on so many levels. I didn't think a show could have so much substance. I put off watching this show for about 2 years because i knew it was a "mecha" genre and i can't stand that type with very few exceptions, i believe that to be one of my biggest regrets. This show is a master piece in every aspect, there's not much more i can say that can sum it up better than that. The story is absolutely amazing from episode one to the very end, the animation style is breath taking and my favorite from any style. The music is crazy, its perfect in every way. The opening and ending themes are catchy and you can just sit there and listen to it endlessly and the voice acting is spectacular. And for any people that are like me and are thinking of passing it up because "mecha" this is one title you absolutely need to take a leap of faith with and i am 100% positive you'll fall in love with this show, it doesn't even feel like your typical mecha show even slightly. There's not much more i can add without getting into the show itself, i'll just add this is what every anime or show in general should stride to be.
5/5 Why? It IS perfection (imo). The story is just..perfect. The artwork and animation is just so good i want to throw up from excitement, and the music matches it all perfectly. I literally can't think of a single thing i disliked about this show. Do NOT pass this up, it'll become one of your favorites.
5/5 Why? It IS perfection (imo). The story is just..perfect. The artwork and animation is just so good i want to throw up from excitement, and the music matches it all perfectly. I literally can't think of a single thing i disliked about this show. Do NOT pass this up, it'll become one of your favorites.
The Most Epic Show Ever Made
MidnightSerpent30 March 2019
You know that feeling of total shock and awe that you get after finishing a really good show or movie? Where you just sit there staring at the screen, unable to process the sheer epicness of what you just saw? Imagine that feeling, but ten times stronger, and you might get a taste of what I felt while watching Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. Every time I finish that final episode, I get this euphoric feeling that lasts for several hours on end, often keeping me up the entire night on pure adrenaline. There isn't a single day that goes by where I don't have flashbacks to certain scenes from the show and start getting the chills all over again. Yes, it's that good.
One of the most common misconceptions of Gurren Lagann I hear is that it's a simple, mindless show that's all about over the top fight scenes and cheesy inspirational speeches. And while the show has plenty of those, it has way more than just adrenaline rushes to offer. The story is very well written, following several intertwined character arcs and thematic ideas that all spiral around a very deep and thought provoking central message. The attention to detail is ridiculous, with extended metaphors that can be applied to almost every aspect of the show. On top of that, there are several plot twists and surprises to keep the viewer engaged. The only issue I might have with the story is with a couple episodes near the beginning, which I feel are weaker than the rest of the show, but the last few episodes more than make up for it with my favorite ending of all time.
The major characters of this show are brilliantly written. Kamina's bold relentless attitude has its own charm, and Simon "the Digger" has one of the best character arcs I've seen in any form of media. Other characters like Yoko, Viral, Rossiu, and Lordgenome all have their own traits and well written arcs throughout the series. While their world is very different from ours, the characters feel very real and relatable through their growth. And of course, the villains are also great, with justified and believable motivations that serve as a near perfect contrast to our protagonists.
The visuals are animation are outstanding in this show, especially when considering that it was made in 2007. The fights are beautifully choreographed and visually appealing with vivid color palettes. The cinematography is some of the best I've seen in anime. And there's plenty of visual symbolism that adds meaning to the story and characters. The art is especially good in the final few episodes, which the creators saved 40% of their budget for. And it shows; those final episodes are some of the most beautiful episodes I've ever seen. That final fight, oh my god.
The show is just as amazing in the audio department. The voice acting is powerful for both the sub and dub versions. In fact, it has one of the best dubs I've heard, right alongside Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. But where the sound truly stands out is in the music. There's a large variety of soundtracks that perfectly capture every scene, whether they're happy, sad, spine-chilling, or pure hype moments. One track in particular, titled "Libera Me From Hell", is the most unique and symbolic soundtrack I've ever heard. It plays during some of the best scenes in the entire show, and it makes those scenes that much better.
Yeah, as you can probably tell by now, I love this show. It's my favorite piece of fiction across all types of media and storytelling, and I've had more fun watching it than anything else. Hell, those last few episodes are probably in the top ten best experiences of my life. The show's messages have genuinely made a positive impact on my life and how I view the world. And while I don't expect everyone to enjoy it as much as I do, I think anyone would be doing themselves a huge favor by watching it. So what are you waiting for? Open a new window and experience one of the most epic shows anime has to offer.
One of the most common misconceptions of Gurren Lagann I hear is that it's a simple, mindless show that's all about over the top fight scenes and cheesy inspirational speeches. And while the show has plenty of those, it has way more than just adrenaline rushes to offer. The story is very well written, following several intertwined character arcs and thematic ideas that all spiral around a very deep and thought provoking central message. The attention to detail is ridiculous, with extended metaphors that can be applied to almost every aspect of the show. On top of that, there are several plot twists and surprises to keep the viewer engaged. The only issue I might have with the story is with a couple episodes near the beginning, which I feel are weaker than the rest of the show, but the last few episodes more than make up for it with my favorite ending of all time.
The major characters of this show are brilliantly written. Kamina's bold relentless attitude has its own charm, and Simon "the Digger" has one of the best character arcs I've seen in any form of media. Other characters like Yoko, Viral, Rossiu, and Lordgenome all have their own traits and well written arcs throughout the series. While their world is very different from ours, the characters feel very real and relatable through their growth. And of course, the villains are also great, with justified and believable motivations that serve as a near perfect contrast to our protagonists.
The visuals are animation are outstanding in this show, especially when considering that it was made in 2007. The fights are beautifully choreographed and visually appealing with vivid color palettes. The cinematography is some of the best I've seen in anime. And there's plenty of visual symbolism that adds meaning to the story and characters. The art is especially good in the final few episodes, which the creators saved 40% of their budget for. And it shows; those final episodes are some of the most beautiful episodes I've ever seen. That final fight, oh my god.
The show is just as amazing in the audio department. The voice acting is powerful for both the sub and dub versions. In fact, it has one of the best dubs I've heard, right alongside Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. But where the sound truly stands out is in the music. There's a large variety of soundtracks that perfectly capture every scene, whether they're happy, sad, spine-chilling, or pure hype moments. One track in particular, titled "Libera Me From Hell", is the most unique and symbolic soundtrack I've ever heard. It plays during some of the best scenes in the entire show, and it makes those scenes that much better.
Yeah, as you can probably tell by now, I love this show. It's my favorite piece of fiction across all types of media and storytelling, and I've had more fun watching it than anything else. Hell, those last few episodes are probably in the top ten best experiences of my life. The show's messages have genuinely made a positive impact on my life and how I view the world. And while I don't expect everyone to enjoy it as much as I do, I think anyone would be doing themselves a huge favor by watching it. So what are you waiting for? Open a new window and experience one of the most epic shows anime has to offer.
If don't believe this anime is awesome then believe in me for telling you that this anime is is awesome. "Just who in the world do you think I am?"
WeAreLive10 May 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Gurren Lagaan is about a young boy by the name of simon (pronounced as: Sea-mon/See-mon) who digs tunnel for a living because of living underground. Him and his blood brother have a dream of going up to the surface to see what it is like. Thaey attempt to do it but get caught by the village leader. Then they meet this sexy looking woman from littner village and dig deep where Simon finds a robot looking head which he can pilot with his core drill. They escape the village and come up to the surface.
They meet characters such as Rossiu, the black siblings (Kittan, Kionon, Kyion and Kyon) sorry I don't remember all of there names but I know they all began with the letter K, Gimmy and Darry, Nia and many others. With that we are are also introduced to some badies such as Viral, LordGenome and so many others.
Story wise it was good but had a very slow start, I especially like very emotional *spoiler warning* and I picked up many lessons from it. Music wise it was okay, though in the second half they shouldn't have added singing.
The dub was very good I we have a very good cast including Yuri Lowanthal, Kyle Hebert, Michelle Ruff, Johnny Yong Bosch, Doug Stone, Steve Blum, Jamieson Price, Karren Stressman, GK Bown, Stephanie Sheh, Chris Smith, Brianne Siddal, Mela Lee, Hynden Walch/Bridgit Hoffman, Sam Riegel and everybody else thanks to Tony Oliver did a good job. My only fix with the dub was that Brianne Siddal was still voicing Gimmy after the time skip despite being a teenager. If they cast someone like Ben Diskin, Bryce Papenbrock or even Michael Sinterniklaas then that would have been much better.
The animation/art style was pretty unique and interesting it is done by the same person behind Kill La Kill from what I have heard.
If you like a good mecha anime especially ones with good lessons I highly recommend. As I massive fan of mech type animes such as Code Geass and the Vision of escaflowne I really like this.
They meet characters such as Rossiu, the black siblings (Kittan, Kionon, Kyion and Kyon) sorry I don't remember all of there names but I know they all began with the letter K, Gimmy and Darry, Nia and many others. With that we are are also introduced to some badies such as Viral, LordGenome and so many others.
Story wise it was good but had a very slow start, I especially like very emotional *spoiler warning* and I picked up many lessons from it. Music wise it was okay, though in the second half they shouldn't have added singing.
The dub was very good I we have a very good cast including Yuri Lowanthal, Kyle Hebert, Michelle Ruff, Johnny Yong Bosch, Doug Stone, Steve Blum, Jamieson Price, Karren Stressman, GK Bown, Stephanie Sheh, Chris Smith, Brianne Siddal, Mela Lee, Hynden Walch/Bridgit Hoffman, Sam Riegel and everybody else thanks to Tony Oliver did a good job. My only fix with the dub was that Brianne Siddal was still voicing Gimmy after the time skip despite being a teenager. If they cast someone like Ben Diskin, Bryce Papenbrock or even Michael Sinterniklaas then that would have been much better.
The animation/art style was pretty unique and interesting it is done by the same person behind Kill La Kill from what I have heard.
If you like a good mecha anime especially ones with good lessons I highly recommend. As I massive fan of mech type animes such as Code Geass and the Vision of escaflowne I really like this.
After 10 years, still, the best animate ever
blueli110111015 February 2021
I Might Have Not Watched A Lot Of Anime, But WOW!
jbbianchino14 May 2018
Long ago, in a distant land, I the Transformers ripoff of darkness, unleashed an unspeakable anime. But the foolish Spiral warrior wielding a magic drill stepped forth to oppose me. *slashing sounds* Before the final hole was drilled, I tricked them into a different way of thinking where my evil is law. Now the fool seeks to travel 27 years in the future and I guess he really can't undo the past that is Lord Genome!
But seriously, it's a great show with depth, creativity, emotion, and great animation, music and atmosphere. It is one of my favorite shows of all time. Everything is handled perfectly and you can tell that everyone that worked on it cared a lot about the show.
But seriously, it's a great show with depth, creativity, emotion, and great animation, music and atmosphere. It is one of my favorite shows of all time. Everything is handled perfectly and you can tell that everyone that worked on it cared a lot about the show.
The most chill-invoking show I've ever seen.
gingeryzane22 August 2021
Stupid and it knows it, which equals a lot of fun
williambendavis-933-21895826 December 2014
Gurren Lagann is ridiculously stupid and illogical and it knows it, which of course works it its favor. It knows that it isn't a deep character study with a rich, deep fulfilling plot, so it fills most of the episodes to the brim with beautifully animated kick-ass action scenes, though the show has its share of faults. It takes a while to really pick up, at least it did for me. It was only up until maybe halfway through that it started to become awesome. Up until that point the show wasn't terrible. It just didn't really capture my attention. The show did come to a bit of a halt for maybe 3 episodes, when Rossiu decides to turn into a dick, but it's brief and didn't hurt the show overall. Other than that, I had no problems with this show. It's incredibly stupid, but man if it isn't some incredible popcorn entertainment. ( I forgot to mention: the last episode may contain the most epic fight scene of all time. Brace yourself.)
A beacon for character development
kwesib-321791 February 2021
Gurren Laggan is a brilliant work done. It is funny and at the same time serious. However, its strength lies in the characters both supporting and major as well as their depth. In my opinion, the anime develops in three phases; the first phase is from episode 1-8. The second phase picks off from episode 9-16 and the final phase is from 17 to the last episode. The first phase does not take the show seriously. Watching the first 7 episodes, the show might appear like a comedy series. Don't take this phase seriously and write the anime off; it is actually building up and setting a pace for a great story arc that follows. On episode 8, the show matures taking a brilliant approach we rarely see in anime. The second phase was on fire. The show now envelopes into a serious anime while maintaining the comedy. It creates simple battles between our heroes and opponents but the fight scenes are so brilliant it will have you cheering on your seat. The third phase was a Revolution. The anime becomes so good, transforming the entire story from a simple "save the world" plot into a complex, politically sophisticated "save the world" plot. It is here that the characters shine the most. The development of the characters and their depth is nearly unmatched by other anime. The construction of the main and side characters was originally simple but it transitioned them into characters who were actually "human" in the third phase. When people speak about Gurren Laggan, fans love to point out at the brilliant action scenes which are well done. However, people forget the political side as well which I dare say is on par with Attack on Titan, Galactic heroes, Code Geass etc. Gurren Laggan is truly among the most amazing mecha animes ever made because it takes a very unique approach to that "humans vs monsters" plot we've seen all the time. It serves as a role model for animes with well developed large characters.
I didn't like it, but you still might.
Providenceyaway28 October 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Positives: a neat and interesting concept about breaking free from Plato's cave and entering the surface world, wanting to conquer the entire realm until even the heaven's are reached (illustrated in the first episode of the show! Great bones! Negatives: Poor handling of an interesting concept, making it flat and boring for everyone who's paying attention.
I am not a big anime fan, I've seen enough to count on both hands, but I am a TV/movie fan. I've seen great shows done on Anime, such as Attack on Titan, One Punch Man, and Death Note. I understand the love behind those shows, for their rich character development and philosophy. But Guran Lagann lacks those qualities, despite being aimed at a mature audience (14+).
The elements: power fantasy, plain mech-fighting, a lack of stakes, and a lack of characterization. Power fantasy is a cheap trick in capturing an audience; it's done by most modern superhero movies and power rangers by a dozen-fold. For a show to stand out, it needs to offer more in its narrative, but instead of that GL relies on fights that have no weight to them, as the mechas are very fast despite all their weight, they're very easy to fix despite their complex alien structure, and they're very undefined in how one controls it. It seems the person who's most patient and angrily concentrating is the one able to win, not the smartest or strongest person. There really isn't much to even needing to control a mecha and to unlock its secret superweapons underneath. There is a lack of stakes because literally, until the episode I stopped watching, THE PROTAGONISTS WIN AT THE END OF EVERY SINGLE EPISODE, and barely learn anything! Not only is that boring but it's wrong, because that makes the supposedly intelligent alien super villains look weak and stupid against a race that just picked up their tech a month after they've been using it for years! What is there to root for? The show basically spoils any tension you have for them winning!
Also, characters (minor spoilers): All pretty weak. Simon is the main one, and he's basically just a digger boy who we have to feel sorry for just because he's an orphan and a loner, nothing else. Then there's his older brother-figure, Kamina, who I'm surprised didn't get killed fast enough for all the stupid decisions he makes. "Running is for cowards!" Is his catchphrase. He says it every time he's almost stomped by a giant robot. He had good ambition, but he was very impulsive, which wasn't addressed well enough, and at the end of an episode they cheaply kill someone he loves just to force us to root for him too (and it's never ever brought up again). I'm so surprised too he was the first human ever to think to control a mecha by forcing another guy out of one, to which I replied, "really? No one else thought about jumping into one? You guys weren't scared to do it, you just didn't think of it?" The final cheap trick character is the sex object known as Yoko. She wears skimpy, revealing clothing, and early in the show its used as a cheap trick to make dumb jokes and keep young boys' eyes on the screen. It's really dumb and, again, really cheap. There are other girls in the series just like that too. I only liked one character on the show: Rossiu, because he actually struggled with deep philosophical questions dealing with idol symbolism and whether or not the masses should be lied to and controlled in order for the group to be saved. The rest of the characters are forgettable.
The fights were ...meh. You can barely tell what's going on. And again, there's always a way the good guys won in the end. The dated animation is forgivable, as long as they could've out effort into constructing weighty fight scenes, which they didn't.
The comedy's not very good, and I know that's actually subjective, but there's just not a lot the show can go on. Sorry.
CONCLUSION: this show had a lot of potential, like bringing up questions of what is truth in a world based on lies, or how to truly peel away the surface. People talk about how this show deals with maturity or oppression, but it's really, really basic in how it shows that stuff. In fact, I'd wager it doesn't show how a real resistance movement plays out since an actual character doesn't die until eight episodes in. And they win every episode. It's more power rangers than it is Attack On Titan, which isn't bad but why not rate it for younger kids then? And again, the villains are weak; they're not memorable at all. If you want a good robot-fighting show...Power Rangers would be better. Want a good anime? AoT, OPM, Death Note, Sword Art Online Abridged, Baccano, etc etc. I don't usually write a review unless I feel the need to let people know how good or bad something is understated. Or overstated.
But hey, you might still enjoy it, so at least this show isn't the worst thing in the world.
I am not a big anime fan, I've seen enough to count on both hands, but I am a TV/movie fan. I've seen great shows done on Anime, such as Attack on Titan, One Punch Man, and Death Note. I understand the love behind those shows, for their rich character development and philosophy. But Guran Lagann lacks those qualities, despite being aimed at a mature audience (14+).
The elements: power fantasy, plain mech-fighting, a lack of stakes, and a lack of characterization. Power fantasy is a cheap trick in capturing an audience; it's done by most modern superhero movies and power rangers by a dozen-fold. For a show to stand out, it needs to offer more in its narrative, but instead of that GL relies on fights that have no weight to them, as the mechas are very fast despite all their weight, they're very easy to fix despite their complex alien structure, and they're very undefined in how one controls it. It seems the person who's most patient and angrily concentrating is the one able to win, not the smartest or strongest person. There really isn't much to even needing to control a mecha and to unlock its secret superweapons underneath. There is a lack of stakes because literally, until the episode I stopped watching, THE PROTAGONISTS WIN AT THE END OF EVERY SINGLE EPISODE, and barely learn anything! Not only is that boring but it's wrong, because that makes the supposedly intelligent alien super villains look weak and stupid against a race that just picked up their tech a month after they've been using it for years! What is there to root for? The show basically spoils any tension you have for them winning!
Also, characters (minor spoilers): All pretty weak. Simon is the main one, and he's basically just a digger boy who we have to feel sorry for just because he's an orphan and a loner, nothing else. Then there's his older brother-figure, Kamina, who I'm surprised didn't get killed fast enough for all the stupid decisions he makes. "Running is for cowards!" Is his catchphrase. He says it every time he's almost stomped by a giant robot. He had good ambition, but he was very impulsive, which wasn't addressed well enough, and at the end of an episode they cheaply kill someone he loves just to force us to root for him too (and it's never ever brought up again). I'm so surprised too he was the first human ever to think to control a mecha by forcing another guy out of one, to which I replied, "really? No one else thought about jumping into one? You guys weren't scared to do it, you just didn't think of it?" The final cheap trick character is the sex object known as Yoko. She wears skimpy, revealing clothing, and early in the show its used as a cheap trick to make dumb jokes and keep young boys' eyes on the screen. It's really dumb and, again, really cheap. There are other girls in the series just like that too. I only liked one character on the show: Rossiu, because he actually struggled with deep philosophical questions dealing with idol symbolism and whether or not the masses should be lied to and controlled in order for the group to be saved. The rest of the characters are forgettable.
The fights were ...meh. You can barely tell what's going on. And again, there's always a way the good guys won in the end. The dated animation is forgivable, as long as they could've out effort into constructing weighty fight scenes, which they didn't.
The comedy's not very good, and I know that's actually subjective, but there's just not a lot the show can go on. Sorry.
CONCLUSION: this show had a lot of potential, like bringing up questions of what is truth in a world based on lies, or how to truly peel away the surface. People talk about how this show deals with maturity or oppression, but it's really, really basic in how it shows that stuff. In fact, I'd wager it doesn't show how a real resistance movement plays out since an actual character doesn't die until eight episodes in. And they win every episode. It's more power rangers than it is Attack On Titan, which isn't bad but why not rate it for younger kids then? And again, the villains are weak; they're not memorable at all. If you want a good robot-fighting show...Power Rangers would be better. Want a good anime? AoT, OPM, Death Note, Sword Art Online Abridged, Baccano, etc etc. I don't usually write a review unless I feel the need to let people know how good or bad something is understated. Or overstated.
But hey, you might still enjoy it, so at least this show isn't the worst thing in the world.
This is a good work
henry-olejarczyk20 April 2014
So this weekend I decided to rent both movies on amazon and I was very happy. Those people deserve your money. In many of studio Gianax's works they like to blow their money to make some great scenes but that means that the quality in others is not so great like ex. PSG. I did not feel that at all with this. For some reason this worked out. Maybe it's not long dialog between action like FLCL has. Even if you watch it subtitled like I did your not missing much at all. Its like going to red lobster hey the food takes long but you got those biscuits there so waiting is not so bad. If you try to intentionally make your show raunchy like PSG it's mostly a miss, but if you hide it and spread it around evenly like FLCL does you got a masterpiece. This show has a equal balance of this. I enjoyed watching Simon find his way through rough turns in his life. He is depressed but still has meaning in the world. He always thinks what would bro do. Overall I recommend this to you because its a perfect work its balanced and the action lasts a while so a little goes a long way...
Again and again
fchevret23 December 2017
I just watched it for the 3rd time. I cried, I laughed . But more than anything I really enjoyed it another time and that never happened before.
Watching animes since 40 years I've seen many cool stuff but this one is over the top. Animation, character development , story, crazyness and feelings. Dudes in Robots having strong and humans feelings, this is what TTGL is about.
Hm. I don't even know how to describe this. Go and see it, best anime . Ever.
Hm. I don't even know how to describe this. Go and see it, best anime . Ever.
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