Bang Brave Bang Bravern Ep.1 Review: The glorious (unofficial) return of the Brave
It’s hard to find a perfect couple than the Brave/Yuusha series and Masami Obari. Brave series is a franchise of Super Robot anime series produced by Sunrise in the 90s, which greatly influences the Mecha genre in particular and anime in general, and Obari is one of the major contributors to this influence. While working on the Brave anime projects, Obari, as an animator, created many classic animation pieces, and the Brave series brought his talent to all of Japan. Perhaps for this reason, he always remembers the Brave series and always pays tribute to it through the series he directed, through the animations he made, such as the anime Gravion. However, Sunrise stopped producing Brave anime years ago, and it has been quite a while since Masami Obari participated in a Super Robot project. Because of this, fans of the Brave series, of the Super Robot genre in particular and of Mecha in general, were extremely surprised when Yuuki Bakuhatsu Bang Bravern premiered.
Even though most of the first episode is devoted to action scenes, viewers still easily grasp the basics of the plot, thanks to the anime keeping the setting and characters simple and easy to understand. The episode begins with a joint exercise between the Japanese Self-Defense Forces and the US Army, focusing on the two main characters, Ao Isami of the Japanese Self-Defense Forces and Lewis Smith of the US Army, and gives a short introduction of other characters. The opening scene is quite reminiscent of Pacific Rim, with the main character monologuing about something big while starting up his robot.
Throughout 2/3 of the first episode, Bang Brave Bang Bravern conveyed the serious and realistic vibe of the Real Robot genre very well through sound design, realistic character design, and fierce destruction by the invaders, not to mention the way the soldier piloted the mass-produced machines and the fact that they operated in a very orderly and disciplined manner – truly giving it a military feel. I like how everything suddenly went from 0 to 100 really quickly – the death and destruction from the sudden alien landing happened swiftly and were conveyed quite well, visually, allowing the viewers to feel the panic of the army and the characters at that time.
All of the above makes Bravern’s appearance even more awesome. First, praise must be given to Masami Obari and the anime’s marketing team for hiding the main robot for more than 7 months and tricking everyone into thinking that the anime was a Real Robot series until it premiered. The complete contrast between before and after Bravern appeared must have astonished everyone who didn’t expect it. Even people like me who didn’t watch the first episode live were amazed and moved when we saw Bravern on the series’ poster. Once watching Bravern’s arrival, it’s hard not to laugh at the way Bravern overwhelms Isami with very Super Robot tropes, such as fighting with Showa-esque music (played from inside the cockpit of Braven), slamming head first into the enemy, calling out the name of the sure-kill move, it’s hard not to be moved when witnessing Bravern’s extremely eye-catching battle scenes inspired by the Brave series. This reveal was a really nice and pleasant surprise. Bravo Obari.
While the cast of characters did not impress me, the contrast between the two main characters caught my attention: Isami is proficient in controlling robots but lacks the courage during real combat, yet was chosen by Bravern as his pilot, while his rival Lewis, who wanted to be a hero, was not afraid of real combat, and was willing to sacrifice his life to protect others, was not chosen by the Brave robot. This contrast will certainly be the driving force behind the plot of Bang Brave Bang Bravern.
The animation quality in the first episode is truly remarkable. Not only are the 3D and 2D animations very smooth, but the storyboards of the action scenes are also very dynamic and refreshing. While the Super Robot fight scene is filled with Obari’s classic tricks, such as the Obari pose, and is absolutely hype, the Real Robot fight scenes in the episode are equally great. My favourite scene in terms of animation is the scene where the 3 Titanstrides of the US military simultaneously attack the alien enemy. The camerawork in that scene is truly eye-catching. Speaking of Titanstride, mechanical designer MORUGA did a great job designing this robot line; they look very cool in animation. The design of the JSDF machines is also quite good, but I prefer Titanstride’s face and slick appearance. The star of the series, Bravern, was designed by Obari himself, and of course, Barified Super Robots are always beautiful. On the contrary, the character designs are not too unique, but because the show wants to create the most realistic feeling possible, I think this can be ignored.
The sound department is also a plus in this episode. The sound design is really too good: right from the first few minutes, I was impressed by really thick sound effects from the movement of machines, from iron colliding with the ground, from gunshots and missiles, etc., truly pure ear bliss and can be said to have reached movie standards. Besides that, the background music is also quite good. Still, the real highlight of the episode is BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BRAVEERRRRRN – The series’ opening performed by Kenichi Suzumura himself, who also voices Bravern. With its extremely Showa-like melodies, that opening song probably triggered the joy nerves of many Super Robot fans, including me. Speaking of Kenichi Suzumura, the experience of voicing a heroic character gained from SSSS.Dynazenon must have been brought into this series because Bravern’s voice is as full of courage and strength as the Braves in the Brave series.
The sound department is also a plus in this episode. The sound design is really too good: right from the first few minutes, I was impressed by really thick sound effects from the movement of machines, from iron colliding with the ground, from gunshots and missiles, etc., truly pure ear bliss and can be said to have reached movie standards. Besides that, the background music is also quite good. Still, the real highlight of the episode is BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BRAVEERRRRRN – The series’ opening performed by Kenichi Suzumura himself, who also voices Bravern. With its extremely Showa-like melodies, that opening song probably triggered the joy nerves of many Super Robot fans, including me. Speaking of Kenichi Suzumura, the experience of voicing a heroic character gained from SSSS.Dynazenon must have been brought into this series because Bravern’s voice is as full of courage and strength as the Braves in the Brave series.
A Super Robot series, inspired by the Brave series, directed by someone extremely dedicated and experienced with the genre and, above all, with high production value, is rare, especially these days. The first episode of Bang Brave Bang Braven is an opening that is hard to fault and certainly captured my attention and probably that of countless other Mecha fans. Let’s wait and see if director Masami Obari, screenwriter Keigo Koyanagi and the crew have more surprises like this one in the next episodes.
Getter Andy
Check our more reviews here:
Getter Andy
Check our more reviews here:
Taisei proceeded with his first sortie. But what comes after victory? Can Taisei overcome the next challenge as the decision of his life lies ahead?
A new saga begins. Shinkalion returns with a more grown-up cast and settings, as we depart on a journey of a young brother looking for his missing sister.
Enter the world of NEX racing – AI-assisted races at breakneck speed. Strap in as we are introduced to the general settings as well as watching the top drivers duke it out on the track.
Bang Brave Bang Bravern has come to an end. Although the final episode isn’t very impressive, it serves its purpose as a neat ending to the series.
The conclusion that actually created more problems than the series started with. But we got to see a very well done battle with a pretty badass upgrade.
Fists against fists! Neans against Neans! The battles we’ve been waiting for is here. At this point, action is all we need – as Metallic Rouge head towards the end.
A satisfying conclusion following an awesome battle. Kanata and team set out to save the world and reach a new frontier for humanity.
With only 2 episodes left, Metallic Rouge still spend its time leisurely talking and setting up plot points. This episode contains no action and likewise no impact to the viewer.
“Me and the gang doing side quests before fighting the boss” the episode – Bang Brave Bang Bravern sacrifices its precious pacing for important character development. Also BravernIsami is real.
Even though thought to have revealed its biggest secret, Bang Brave Bang Bravern still got some surprises in stock. The abrupt plot twist gives an already beloved character a lot of depth, through beautiful visual.
A silly road trip in space with Rouge with some emotional flashback. The gang has a new and rather unexpected addition. The final battle is looming over the calm before the storm.
Our Char-clone had a change of heart – or rather, a reclamation of his lost desire. But when one find something, another also lost something…or someone.
“Isami, Yuuki Bakuhatsu!!!” Episode 9 makes viewers explode of hype and emotion with the characters, by revealing the big secret and introducing Bravern’s first gattai form.
A balance episode with both action and exposition. Some beautiful visuals to accompany a ridiculous storyline. Nevertheless Rouge is heading towards the final battle.
The birth of a new determination…and a new songstress. And we get some levity this episode with a “peaceful” resolution between Kanata and “shirokamen”.
The stakes are raised much higher as Lewis and the Brave Knights have to face Cunus, the nigh omnipotent Deathdrive of Debauchery. Episode 8 puts Bang in the Bang Brave Bang Bravern in two different senses.
The aftermath of an intense battle is always a perfect chance to look back…and we peeked much further into the past…the days of Pascale.
From exposition to all out war, Metallic Rouge once again flip us on the tone and the pacing of the story. And it seems like everyone is going down in the next one.
Metallic Rouge is reaching its end – the events are being dished out really fast, maybe even too fast.
Bravern and gang finally confront the big bad that destroyed Tokyo. On top of the battles, episode 7 reveal new secrets about both the hero and the villains.
A tragic tale of a false songstress. Ciel gave her life to her master, but gave her soul to Kanata. The last melody of love and trust to give new life to another.
Hell Jaron decided to play a game with Rouge and Naomi. On top of it, a new plot twist, or is it just Naomi trolling?
Obari literally said “That’s how you do an Uprising”. New characters, new mechas and new attacks, oh and also a new but old revelation about Bravern’s rival.
A lucid dream while Rouge was in the hands of a jester as Naomi raced to save her. A confusing history of the Proto-Neans open the doors to…more confusing stuff?
Lewis and Isami getting up-close, personal and steamy with each other. And Obari is really hitting us with fetishes after fetishes.
Besieged from all sides – old allies turned enemies, and new threats appear from the lost city. Kanata had to go through all that and more – the betrayal of one of his most trusted person.
When the light is too bright, the shadow will disappear. Two spirit cannot live in one body – now that Mystere is recovering, what will happen to Noir?
After three episodes of combat, it’s time for rest and reflection. Episode 4 nailed the character moment for Isami and set up what’s coming next.
The police force launched an assault on Wellstown’s Nean settlement, and Rouge faced off with Phantom Verde. An unfitting end for a mini arc.
Once allies, now enemies. Kurokamen and Kanata engaged in spectacular fashion – and the door to Tokio’s dark past is slowly opening up. What could be hidden in there?
Brave Shu-ba-ba-ba-bang! Ep.3 slows the story down and focuses on Lewis and the strange girl he stumbled on, Lulu.
The not-so-explosive but undoubtedly epic climax of Blazar. A unique approach to tying up the story. And an amazing payback for the journey.
Out of the desert, our heroines try to infiltrate a Nean settlement, but has a disagreement and Rouge decides to infiltrate the settlement herself. What will come of this situation?
The time for a duel has come – Bravern faces off against Superbia. Episode two keeps the hype train going with the fight scenes and fun surprises.
The mission of the heroines continues…on public transport. There, they are met with a handful of new faces, as well as mercenaries.
After steeling their resolve, Kanata and Mystere began preparing to go to Histoire. But it isn’t a simple trip, since they’d have to go up…wayyyy up.
When the Bravern is Bang, Masami Obari surprises us in the most unexpected way. The spirit of the Yuusha is strong with this one.
Beginning of Rouge Redstar and Naomi Orthmann’s mission to eliminate the rogue androids. Does it live up to the hype?
A new saga begins! The mysterious Magus with extraordinary power has taken over Noir. And Kanata wanted to show her the world that he lives in.
A terrible revelation about a threat that’s coming from beyond. A “visitor” with hostile intention is coming to Earth. And it’s up to Earth’s Kaiju to put a stop to it.
Let’s pull out all the stops! The final extermination operation Ryugan Island commences, and bring us to a conclusion of the series.
A lesson about humanity’s kindness and sincerity. A heartwarming scene in a destroyed city. Oh, and don’t forget to buy your insurance!
Shiota barring its full fangs against Namidome, using vast resources and connections. However, our main cast also got some big help!
Take to the sky with Earth Garon as Anri and Yasu engage in a mach speed battle. This mission pushes them to the limit physically with the new upgrade to A-kun.
The tipping point has been reached. President Tajima made a choice once and for all just as Namidome’s employee rise up against Shiota.
Family relationship is always awkward for military man, and after Gento, it’s Teruaki’s turn to worry about his relatives. A swarm of emotion floods this episode.
The truth revealed at last. Namidome is stuck between a rock and a hard place. The big shall crush the small, or will there be a spark of hope for them?
Namidome finally catches a break, or do they? A sudden inspection that comes with a promising financial backing, or is there something deeper behind the scene?
The alien Kaiju threat intensifies as Emi and Gento dig deeper into the GGF’s hidden secret. And a fiery ally arrive for a blazing showdown.
A monster from space threatens the city with poisonous gas, and Capt Gento has to juggle between his family, his power as Blazar and his duty as SKaRD commander to watch over Emi.
Namari continues to piss us off, while Nagisa steadily climb the ranks of most precious character. Arumi once again has to be on the receiving end of loss.
A soul hunter seeking to lay a spirit to rest. Blazar team up with a samurai to deliver some amazing beatdown to a familiar “enemy”.
Harassment in the workplace comes in all shapes and forms. This time Bullbuster show us the 2 most common in Japan: unsavory behaviours and abuse of power.
New characters are introduced with a big jump in plot development. Bullbuster is pushing through the plot at a steady pace.
The best way to understand and to defeat someone is to use their deepest, darkest fear. But our heroine always improvise, adapt and overcome!
The double broadcast of Metaverse bring things to a boiling climax…not. A promising OVA cut short by setting up an exciting premise yet never follow through, leaving fans wanting more.
An honest mistake led into a massive incident that kick Tetsurou down to the pit of despair. However, things aren’t quite so grim as everyone banded together to push forward.
A relatively bright and light-hearted episode that shows the unlimited imagination and benevolence of youth. And Gento struggle to be a good “daddy” iykwim 😉
An honest mistake led into a massive incident that kick Tetsurou down to the pit of despair. However, things aren’t quite so grim as everyone banded together to push forward.
It’s Rebrandin’ time! And it’s that time where designers aren’t appreciated for their true worth. And a dark history unfolded on the infested island.
Blazar going even Darker after Nocturne. A crazy plot development involving Gento, Emi and chief Retsu along with a secret kept hidden by the GGF.
Time to fungible your Gunpla! Gundam Build finally reaches the Metaverse – and we’re starting fresh with a new MC and a galore of returning characters.
It’s Bustin’ time! Exterminating giant pest is fun with a giant robot, but not so much when you have to suffer through the administrative process.
The conclusion of Blazar’s first arc. A new power bestowed upon a new bond. This is Blazar’s thunderous return to form!
The Silver storm has passed, but another black storm is raging in the distance. Noir shut herself down to give way to another entity. And the plot thickens for cour 2!
Gutentor Advanced Text
