Infinite Stratos: Complete Collection

This middling “harem” rom-com anime with a mecha-based sci-fi slant takes place in a futuristic alternate world where females are dominant. Japan has invented the “IS” power suit—a blend of weaponry, armor, and force-fields—which is wielded by teen girls at the elite Infinite Stratos Academy. But things change when Ichika, a 15-year-old boy, is discovered to be the first of his gender to manifest IS talents and is therefore enrolled in the school. As the bewildered lone guy fought over by headstrong and nubile young women—two former childhood sweethearts among them—Ichika copes not only with frequent mecha tournament-duels but also aggressive teases and playful attempted courtships from an international array of stereotypical characters (France, Germany, China, and England are represented in the student body). Noteworthy among these is Charles Dunois, a French “lad” who is actually an industrialist's daughter (somehow hiding her Brigitte Bardot figure from everyone). Coy nudity is on display here (especially in the obligatory swimsuit episode). Compiling all 12 episodes from 2011 plus a follow-up OVA in a dual-language set, rated TV-14, extras include a soundtrack CD featuring the J-pop music from the series, episode commentaries, and a behind-the-scenes featurette. A strong optional purchase. (C. Cassady)