Bubblegum Crisis: Tokyo 2040

More an update than a sequel, BGC 2040 is a worthy addition to the Bubblegum Crisis mythos.

In this version all the characters have been redesigned, some radically. Most noticeable is Linna who went from being aerobics instructor to, ugh, an office lady. Sylia also got a major overhaul but I think this one is a real improvement. Plus, the implication that reason that all the Knight Sabers are female may have a lot to do with Sylia's sexuality adds a fun fan service element to things.

While the impact of changes is something for fan debate, I for one like most of them. They make the old world of original BGC, which is starting to show it's age after 15 years, seem more modern and relevant.

Style wise, the updated version of the Boomers, the Hardsuits and other technology looks really good. When you see it it's not hard to imagine that things like them could one day exist. One of the best improvements is to the Boomers. Back in the old days they were very stiff and Terminator-like. Now they seem more bio-mechanical which only makes them more creepy.

It's should also be noted that the animation on this is above average for a TV show, the voice actors are all wonderful and the music just kicks butt. I absolutely love the opening theme "Y'know."

In short, BGC 2040 is a good modern spin on an anime classic. Give this one a spin.

The original Bubblegum Crisis came out in 1985 and spawned a very popular following on both sides of the pacific. It was also one of the earliest anime titles to get a video release in the states. An 8-part OAV series, it was a mix of Charlies's Angels, Batman, and Terminator. Now, it's been remade as a television series. Although the animation has a much cleaner look and incredibly vivid color, it's not as fluid as the original OAVs, but that shouldn't be a problem. The story expands on the concepts of the OAV, and exceeds them to a degree. It's also much darker, to an extent. The Boomer design isn't as realistic as those in the original OAVs-here, the Boomers appear more like Zombies or Monsters when they go nuts. The character designs and personalities are also very different(and very 90's) But the changes help improve the series rather than hinder it. Overall, it's very pleasing.

When I started watching 3 of the episodes of this series on the Action Channel,I have to say out of all the shows that I've seen that ADV released,this one is one of the best shows of all time. I had to see it again,and that's when I got my chance. I bought the entire box set of this series at Best Buy for my 20th Birthday. And I got to enjoy it,and see more of the episodes that I missed on Action Channel,and the same 3 episodes that I've seen. My favorite characters in this show are: Sylvia,Leon,and Nigel. The animation in this series was the best,and the hard suits were cool as well. But the show also has a great voice cast like:Chris Patton,Jason Douglas,Christine Auten,and Hillary Haag,and more. So if you like this show on Action Channel,then you have to own it on DVD. It's the best,and you will see what I mean.

An essential part of my childhood, I would get a VHS tape every Christmas until I had the complete collection. Many years later they adorn an entire shelf in tribute.

This is a fantastic anime series, that demonstrates how to conceptualise and write female characters without them 'being female' turning into a factor. It's extremely impressive how everyone feels believable and relatable, and there is a genuine sense of individuality and perspective to each character. This is helped by a fantastic English dub and one of the best music scores ever put to film, one of only two scores I had on CD and treasure to this day.

Although perfect in a lot of areas, the animation and details sometimes look a bit plain, and some episodes needed a little bit more effort to bring out the environments.

This is a remake of the anime classic from the 80's, and this one is even better. Sylia, Nene, Linna, and Priss are all back as the Knight Sabers in their hard-suits battling the robotic boomers. The animation is crisp, the characters are well-developed, and the action rocks. Priss is a singer in her regular job, so the series features some wonderful songs as well. There is a fair amount of violence, but most of it is against robots, and there is some fan service, but nothing too racy. The DVDs also have many extras, including commentaries, which really enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the show. A must-have for any anime fan.

Also recommended: Burst Angel, Armitage III