Eureka Seven: Part One

Teenager Renton is a mechanic in a dreary, isolated town, which is particularly maddening for the lad, since Renton's father was part of a rebel pilot squadron called Gekkostate. A fortuitous visit by the beautiful Eureka (who, in typical anime fashion, literally falls out of the sky) sets off a chain of events that allows Renton to live out his dreams as a Gekkostate pilot. However, the dream come true also leads to new and unexpected hazards—especially when Renton finds that his presence among the Gekko rebels is not enthusiastically welcomed. While Eureka Seven deserves praise for its thrilling mecha dogfight sequences and the imaginative nature of its sci-fi storyline, its real strength lies in bringing a genuine love story to the center of the action. The relationship between Renton and Eureka is compelling and charming, with the pair forming a genuine emotional bond that adds a depth and scope that is lacking in many anime protagonists. There is also a remarkably mature subplot rivalry between Renton and Holland, a would-be suitor of Eureka—sparking a romantic triangle that leads to Renton leaving Gekkostate, a move that creates unexpected developments as the story hurtles towards a superb cliffhanger. Presenting the first 26 episodes from 2005 in separately available dual-language DVD and Blu-ray editions, rated TV-14, extras include audio commentaries, and interviews with voice actors. Highly recommended. [Note: Eureka Seven: Part Two is also newly available.] (P. Hall)