Gilgamesh: Orphans of the Apocalypse, Tablet 01

Ten years ago the world was teeming with people pursuing technology-driven dreams, all of which changed in one night: October 10, when an apocalyptic-level terrorist attack not only forced citizens to adapt to life without computers and cell phones but also transformed the sky into a vast mirrored haze. The details behind the attack remain a mystery a decade later, as do the plans of its perpetrator--a genius mad scientist, dubbed Enkidu, still keen on ending the world--who fights a secret war with a select army (dubbed Gilgamesh) of beautiful young creatures who transform into house-sized demons. On the other side, an elusive and wealthy Countess determined to stop Gilgamesh leads her own cadre of teens with powerful psychic talents, though her reasoning and allegiances are just as inscrutable as Enkidu's. Caught between the opposing forces are two brother and sister orphans who hold the secrets to saving or destroying the world. Gilgamesh's art and animation are topnotch, full of rich tones, eerie settings, and goth sound (especially the mood-setting classical concertos). In the end, however, the first five episodes on this dual-language disc seem to be far more about style than character or plot. Sure, there are demon/psionic battles aplenty, creepily appealing bishonen, and steam-punk fashion to rival haute couture, but the extremely slow pace and obviously withheld information drains this puzzle of interest, and it's debatable whether the intended audience of 14-up will hang around for the next installment. Optional. [Note: Gilgamesh, Tablet 02 is also available, with Tablet 03 slated for release on Oct. 18.] Aud: P. (R. Brenner)