FLCL (2000-2001)

[フリクリ]

Director: Kazuya Tsurumaki
Studio: Production IG, Gainax
Starring: Mayumi Shintani, Jun Mizuki, Izumi Kasagi
Episodes: 6

Synopsis:
A cynical boy's life takes a turn for the bizarre when he gets hit by an eccentric woman on a Vespa.

Impressions:
Following End of Evangelion, the team at Gainax were wiped and needed to cut loose. This series was the result of that. At its core, it's an allegory for adolescence, but it's also deeply enmeshed with the culture of Gainax, filled to the brim with in-jokes and references. The gags are often rapid-fire and decidedly bent in their sensibilities. There's often a juxtaposition of absurdist humor and moody drama as we wade through the nebulous plot that's only tangentially relevant to real story that's being told. There are some interesting character dynamics and main character Naota has a pretty good arc. Because the show is so weird, it's not for everyone. If it clicks, though, it's a real treat. There's a lot of variety in the animation, so if you like to see a lot of experimentation at work, that's something else for you. The music by Shinkichi Mitsumune and the Pillows is quite iconic and the latter's "Ride on Shooting Star" is bound to get stuck in your head. For me, there's no question that this is worth having, but because it can be rather out there, you may want to try before you buy.

Rating:
Own It