Based on a hugely popular video game, the animated Zoids (shown in the U.S. on the cable channel Cartoon Network) comes with a ready-made, appealing storyline and characters. Set on a strangely compelling desert planet where giant robot beasts known as Zoids are piloted by humans in fierce battles against one another, this episodic anime adventure centers on a 16-year-old junk dealer named Bit Cloud, an unlikely choice to become the pilot of a long-dormant, cat-like Zoid champion named Liger Zero. Nevertheless, Bit stumbles his way into a mutual affinity with the mechanized monster, and together they become a formidable pair of fighters for the virtuous Team Blitz--though the socially untutored Bit must struggle for his mates' full acceptance. The four tales of derring-do and courage on this extra-less DVD (also available on VHS for $14.98) are reasonably captivating for the young target audience of 7-14. A strong optional purchase, especially considering the show's popularity. [Note: a second DVD volume, Zoids--The High Speed Battle, Vol. 2 is slated for release on June 11.] Aud: P. (T. Keogh)
Zoids: The Battle Begins, Vol. 1
(2002) 88 min. DVD: $19.98. Pioneer Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. Volume 17, Issue 3
Zoids: The Battle Begins, Vol. 1
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