Cou, a member of the Red Lynx squadron of sky pirates, is determined to climb up the ranks to become their master, despite barely being able to pilot a raider. Then fate steps in: while sneaking a peek at the crew's latest booty, Cou discovers Ren, who appears to be an aloof girl with goth loli style but is in fact a powerful Edel Raid, or being that can transform into a weapon when she “reacts” with her chosen wielder. Of course, despite misgivings about humans, she chooses Cou, and before long the pair find themselves protected by enthusiastic guards—the Arc Aile trio—and fleeing a variety of sky ninjas (cool!) and bad guys who want Ren's power for themselves. All of the elements here—the steampunk airships, humans as weapons, rambunctious but loyal hero, and comic relief side characters—are familiar, but the writing and animation bring little that is fresh to the action/fantasy genre. Presenting the first five episodes on a dual language disc, rated 13-up, Elemental Gelade will hold some appeal for younger teens and fans of adventure and magic, but offers little for mature viewers or those already familiar with anime's action tropes. Optional. [Note: Elemental Gelade, Vol. 2 is also available, with Vol. 3 slated for release on Oct. 17.] Aud: P. (R. Brenner)
Elemental Gelade: React, Volume 1
(2005) 125 min. DVD: $29.98. Geneon Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. Volume 21, Issue 5
Elemental Gelade: React, Volume 1
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