Patlabor--The Mobile Police: The Original Series DVD Collection

In the near future, giant robots called Labors are used for both construction and to aid in law enforcement: hence the Tokyo police department's Patlabor squad. This enjoyable two-disc set compiles the original seven-episode direct-to-video Patlabor series, which later spawned both a TV series and three feature-length films (all currently available or coming to DVD). While featuring the expected giant robot action, the series also maintains a strong focus on the misfit characters of the squad, especially cute Noa Izumi (who adores Labors and has named the one she pilots "Alphonse") and her partner Asuma, a reluctant cop and the estranged son of a rich industrialist. Riding herd on the team is the phlegmatic but crafty Captain Goto. Humor predominates initially, but the later episodes take on a more serious tone akin to that of the Patlabor movies. The Japanese language track, with English subtitles, is preferable to the mediocre English dub on this DVD set that also features interesting commentary from director Mamoru Oshii (Ghost in the Shell) on episodes 1-3, and the complete first episode of the Patlabor TV series. Accurately rated 13-up, this is easily recommended. Aud: P. (S. Raiteri)