Robotech Remastered: Extended Edition 1

Anime fans have already begun to angrily question whether Robotech Remastered-- Extended Edition 1 was remastered or extended, with some complaining online that this double-disc DVD presentation of the first 12 episodes from the 1985 classic TV series has a significantly darker visual hue, unfortunate new special effects, and only a few seconds per episode of restored footage (others have questioned why this edition is even needed, since there have been two other DVD releases in 2001 and 2002). The basic gist of the series is simple: in 1999 an alien battleship crashes on Earth and is later redesigned as a new assault craft under the guidance of the tough-as-nails Captain Gloval and a team of teenage girls, including the swimsuit-clad pop diva Lynn Minmei. Needless to say, the aliens are displeased that their lost spaceship is being run by such a zany crew and they fight to regain possession. Even by anime standards, this is fairly ridiculous stuff--entertaining, of course, but bizarre in concept and woefully dated in its execution. Part of the problem may be in the Robotech foundation: it is actually comprised of three separate and unrelated anime titles haphazardly edited together into a confused new storyline. Even with its nutty history, Robotech, which is rated 13-up, is admittedly diverting; what it lacks in coherence, it makes up for in speed, noise, and sheer lunacy. A strong optional purchase for those who do not already have an earlier edition. [Note: Robotech Remastered: Extended Edition 2 is also newly available, with Robotech Remastered: Extended Edition, Macross Collection 3 slated for release on May 18.] Aud: P. (P. Hall)