An unusual collaboration between French and Japanese filmmakers, Oban Star Racers—an anime series boasting a skillful fusion of 2-D and 3-D animation techniques—is set in 2082, where Earthmen are invited to compete in an intergalactic race in which the winner is granted a wish by the Avatar, a mysterious entity working to end hostilities between humankind and the Crogs, a sinister alien species. Racing guru Don Wei, his neglected daughter Eva, and champion pilot Rick Thunderbolt are the principal characters, with much of the story arc on the first 13 episodes of this 26-part series revolving around the girl's determination to race for her father. There are, of course, other intrigues surrounding the race, the Avatar, and the Crogs, so Oban Star Racers never lacks for compelling narrative, but the series derives its real strength from bold designs, dynamic animation, and an unusual depth in character development. Unrated, but suitable for 10-up, this English-only title features DVD extras that include a behind the scenes featurette and character profiles. Recommended. [Note: Oban Star Racers, Vol. 2 is also newly available.] Aud: P. (E. Hulse)
Oban Star Racers: The Always Cycle, Vol. 1
(2006) 2 discs. 360 min. DVD: $19.99. Shout! Factory (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 978-1-60399-070-7. Volume 23, Issue 4
Oban Star Racers: The Always Cycle, Vol. 1
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