Xam'd: Lost Memories (2008-2009)
[亡念のザムド]
Director: Masayuki Miyaji
Studio: Bones
Starring: Atsushi Abe, Fumiko Orikasa, Yuko Sanpei
Episodes: 26
Synopsis:
After an apparent terrorist bombing, ordinary student Akiyuki Takehara is cursed with the ability to transform into a bioweapon known as a Xam'd and is taken in by the mysterious Nakiami, who helps him learn how to control his new powers and understand what he has become.
Impressions:
I didn't know what to expect from this series. I saw it on clearance and picked it up. I was pleasantly surprised by what I got, from the earworm of an OP down to the very end. It makes me think a bit of RahXephon (also from Studio Bones), though I've heard a lot of comparisons to Eureka Seven, which I haven't seen yet. There is a very Ghibliesque vibe to the show, much like Nadia. (Original character designer Kenichi Yoshida was a key animator on several Ghibli films and I wouldn't be surprised if other Ghibli alums were on the staff.) Nakiami is like a cross between Nausicaa and San and I have no problems with that whatsoever. It's a rather poignant and introspective series at times. It hits a lot of the right notes with me and I'd recommend it.
Rating:
Watch It