Grendizer U Ep 1 Review: A first episode of mixed feelings
Grendizer U is an anime project for Super Robot fans, especially fans of Dynamic Pro. robots, have been waiting for a long time. This is partly because it has been a while since there was an anime about Grendizer and partly because the staff and voice actors are very prominent. However, after all the promotion hyping up the fans, the actual product was somewhat disappointing, but not without some hope.
The first thought when I started watching episode 1 was, “Where has all the budget gone?” because what immediately caught my eye was a lot of animations that weren’t good at all. Characters and objects look flat, do not blend well with the background and have lots of still frames. A typical example is when Sayaka and her flying car flew over Doublas M2. I felt like the animators just slid a PNG slowly across the screen.
The visual direction of the opening is not very impressive: the imagery is quite weak, there are many cuts that are not animated well, and the editing is a bit awkward. For example, the scene introducing the Mazinger girls along with their names and the machines they will pilot. Compared to similar scenes from the openings of Gundam SEED and Gundam SEED Destiny – where the MS knife dancing, sword dancing, and shooting cuts place quickly and to the rhythm of the song, creating a dynamic feeling, the cuts of each female pilot’s last too long and don’t feel as dynamic. Not to mention their animation is quite stiff, it looks like they just appeared and immediately flew behind. The entire OP consists of 50% footage from the show, 25% Fukuda’s familiar tricks and 25% callbacks to UFO Robot Grendizer’s old OP/ED, so I think only fans of Fukuda or Grendizer can dig this opening.
The deeper I got into the episode, the more I noticed many errors or bad animations, such as the scene where Daisuke’s motorbike passes right over the wreckage of another bike or the fireworks scene filmed in real life. The Pilder On and Scrander Cross scenes were storyboarded quite safely, and the animation wasn’t very good, so it didn’t leave much of an impression on me.
More than halfway through the episode, the animation quality improved in the Mazinger Z fight scene: the 3D model of Mazinger Z moved smoothly and dynamically. I really just needed that, and they at least delivered it. The shading and effects in the battle scene are also done at an acceptable level, and the storyboard, layout, and editing are also very dynamic. Besides that, I have no opinion about the Dizer On scene, but the Space Thunder scene really went hard.
The ending of the episode is really great. The imagery is much stronger in the ending than in the opening. When they synced “Nando datte” with Rubina and Teronna’s mouths, it really gave me a chill. When it comes to the cel-shaded animation cut in the chorus, that’s when I can answer the question, “Where has all the budget gone?” it’s just so peak. Kudos to Shun Kudou, director of the ending.
The plot of episode 1 is okay, in my opinion: although the pacing is really fast, speeding up the plot to get to the battle scene is what I like. Who doesn’t like watching robots fighting each other? Am I right? Ichiro Okouchi and Shun Kudo wrote the battle developments very well. I like the fact that Mazinger Z and Kouji Kabuto, despite being weaker compared to the Vega army, still did not give up. The scriptwriter and episode director also had some great ideas, which were having Mazinger Z throw Rocket Punch backwards to suddenly jump up and catch the enemy and adding the sounds of civilians cheering for Mazinger Z when the guardian fell down.
In terms of design, Yoshiyuki Sadamoto’s character designs are really beautiful. Every female character looks very waifu-ish, especially Sayaka. The only thing I find confusing about the character design is that they gave Kouji’s pilot helmet a visor that covers his whole face instead of leaving his mouth open like the classic suit. This is really an unnecessary change.
In terms of music, GLAY’s “Kaishin no Ichigeki” and Band Maid’s “Protect You” are both great, but what I was looking forward to is soundtracks composed by Kohei Tanaka, one of my favourite composers, especially when he composes Super Robot music, and he did not disappoint. His music, as usual, is memorable and brings a lot to the scenes. The voice actors are also very good, and their acting helps make the conversations between characters like Kouji, Sayaka and Daisuke feel natural and alive. Kouji’s new VA plays his role quite well, especially in the fight scene: when he shouts “Kore demo kurae”, it sounds a lot like the Kouji voice of his predecessors.
In terms of music, GLAY’s “Kaishin no Ichigeki” and Band Maid’s “Protect You” are both great, but what I was looking forward to is soundtracks composed by Kohei Tanaka, one of my favourite composers, especially when he composes Super Robot music, and he did not disappoint. His music, as usual, is memorable and brings a lot to the scenes. The voice actors are also very good, and their acting helps make the conversations between characters like Kouji, Sayaka and Daisuke feel natural and alive. Kouji’s new VA plays his role quite well, especially in the fight scene: when he shouts “Kore demo kurae”, it sounds a lot like the Kouji voice of his predecessors.
In sum, episode 1 of Grendizer U disappointed me because of its not-so-great animation quality, especially when the anime was promoted as having a team of Mecha-genre veterans. However, the episode still has good points that give me hope for future episodes. Hopefully, in the coming episodes, the animation quality will improve.
//Getter Andy//
//Getter Andy//
Check our more reviews here:
The tragedy of Reiji revealed. An extremely dark chronicle filled with despair that happened to a teenager that broke his mind and set him on a path of revenge. But who is responsible?
We get a glimpse of Tohdoh Kagami’s true plan of awakening the Ordela. And ARMS is rushing to stop it. And of course, Hikaru is also coming to take back Alma.
Morito, devastated after he struck down Ido, found himself in agony. But wallowing in despair won’t help him. Instead he found the way to a greater purpose.
Alma’s past with Yakumo revealed, a tragic story that separated two best friends. And in the present, Alma once again separated from his current partner. But something else is brewing in the dark…
Two revelations in this episode: one worth celebrating and one devastating. The team learned about Reiji and his story, but also met the pilot of the new Shinkalion.
Amaryllis’ true plan revealed. Caught in the crossfire, Aki intended to sacrifice herself. But Hikaru won’t stand for it. Another blazing episode!
Two revelations in this episode: one worth celebrating and one devastating. The team learned about Reiji and his story, but also met the pilot of the new Shinkalion.
Aki finally found the Worm-type user she so hate, but the user’s identity shock her. Now she has to pick between the two person she value most.
Hikaru officially became an ARMS member. And now we move onto Alma’s past and Aki’s vengeance. The Worm-type user finally showed up, but…?
The story behind Reiji’s disappearance and ERDA’s change revealed. A chain of events that went from good to bad. Even so, time presses on.
Brought him in just to put him down. Hikaru and Alma faced challenges from all sides, but their bonds evolved thanks to that. Time to bring the heat!
We make our return to Rei(Zero) as we looked back at Ina and Reiji before they became enemies. A young ERDA that is quite different to today as well.
More Super Robot hijinks and tropes from Yamato in this episode. A new Deerkalion and an old face coming back to haunt ERDA. Is this episode just for show?
Time for some school life romcom – with murderous henchmen in Kill la Kill style. The perfect mix between seriousness and comedy remove any bore from the series.
A forgotten series making its comeback. And it brought us some huge nostalgia for the early 2000s sci-fi-shounens. Gotta give a hand to Mecha-Ude for making it this far!
It couldn’t get more hot-blooded in Shinkalion as we’re introduced to Yamato – a true-blue Super Robot pilot. But behind his bravado is a worry shared by many new mecha pilots.
The climactic showdown between the one who want to save the world and the one who want to tear it down. And at the end of the road, a miracle occurred.
The finale of the reboot UFO Robot…and it consist mostly of Duke going berserk and forced moments between characters. Wasted potential and missed opportunity is what we are left with at the end.
A surprising focus for this episode. We take a look at Delta and his friendship with an old AI. And they drop an insane plot point about a supposedly “dead” Driver.
If you think Gren U can’t get any more like SEED, you’re wrong. The series take a turn for the worse as it get even more bogged down in drama and no resolution in sight.
A2 and 9S finally meet. But before that, we have some pretty good action leading up to the eventual climax, including the fall of the machine lifeform.
Ep 11 delivers a massive blow to the nuts as SEED director continues to feed his ego
Welcome back to the Rizztival. Akane and Ryota flex their ability to capture people’s hearts with a very laid-back and funny episode.
Another big wave. Tsukumo struggle with both his siblings and a new enemy. But he showed his potential as he overcome his first major challenge after debuting.
A full exposition episode explaining Project Gestalt as well as Devola and Popola’s background. And we can’t forget 9S’ depression streak.
Mazinger Z returns in a new form – Mazinger X, but does it live up to the buildup it’s been given?
The fight isn’t over yet. The final Resistance camp is under attack by the virus. And this episode finally pushed A2 and 9S onto their final destination.
Cut through the waves! A new addition to the team in the Kyushu region is Tsukumo Namikaze – a driver that can match Ryota’s energetic attitude.
The final battle with Norland has taken place. Victory is certain for the protagonist, but will the price be worth it? Is this ending truly satisfying?
It’s time to fight – both in and out. A2 risked her life to protect the machines she used to hate, and 9S walked into a trap that he used to be careful about.
Grendizer U is finally reaching its finale, and all the factions’ motive and thoughts are gradually revealed
A festival episode where everyone enjoy the festivities. Taisei made a new friend as well as some progress on everyone’s relationship. Overall a feel good episode.
The battle has come to an end, with only 2 episodes left until the end of Code Geass. Ash and Sakuya finally face Norland – or the clone of Charles zi Britannia. Will the two be able to defeat Norland?
The best way to resolve conflict is to sit down and talk, but is it true for Duke and Rubina?
Two people who used to be opposites then, are still opposites now – but their personalities have swapped. An expressive A2 versus a raging, seething 9S. Where will the story take them?
Episode 9 ties up some loose ends and prepares us for the final battle.
Every Mecha anime has that underwater fight episode, and ep 7 is that ep for Grendizer. It also introduces the Spazers and hints at some of Hikaru’s secrets
Hitting two birds with one stone. Akane resolved his issue and the SRG formation is possible. But this episode also has a first for the series.
After 2 episodes without any fight scenes, the viewers are compensated with fiery confrontations
Letting special guests go wild with their styles, episode 6 is filled with diverse, full of personality animation.
She sighs, she pouts, and she smiles. A2 show us a myriad of expression this episode that clear out the dark clouds of negativity. However, not everyone is in a happy mood.
The Hades debut is devastating and overwhelming. A complete defeat for ERDA and Akane, Taisei and Ryota has a lot to work through.
Ash’s full past finally revealed and we see for the first time what his adoptive father – Norland’s like. Along came the terrible realization that crushes Sakuya’s soul.
Duke’s sister, Maria Fleed, finally arrived, together with an upgraded opening. But is this really a good sign?
From the past to the present, this episode show the incredible and compelling story of ex-YoHRa soldier A2. And completely shift the series’ focus.
The desperate couple trying to make their escape. But fate will it not to be. A tragic end for 2B sent 9S into a mind-numbing rage.
The aftermath of the Damocles assault. The truth behind Ash’s action revealed, will Sakuya still want to continue her revenge. In the meantime, we get another wacko for the Einbergs.
New enemy and old problem. Akane tried to find himself between track and Shinkalion. Meanwhile a literal god of Death has appeared – and his name is Hades!
The Naida episode finally arrived. Does it hold up to its original? unfortunately, the answer is no.
The student council president takes flight in this episode, taking his Shinkalion to new heights as he unshackle the rules that bind him to the ground.
The return of the Damocles, as well as the debut of the first animated combining KMF. A rushdown operation with absolutely amazing action.
The beginning of the end. YoHRa is completely obliterated. The truth about the humans come to life. And 2B and 9S only has each other for the finale to come.
Ina’s “punishment” has been decided. And ERDA is looking worse and worse in our eyes. But a new Driver who is all about rules is about to join and set everyone straight.
Punches and tears. Episode 3 concludes the introductory arc with a bang, and opens up the next arc with a smile.
We started the 2nd Act with a cameo galore! Old Code Geass characters coming back as well as gaining some new allies for Roze. But still, a major threat is looming over them: the Damocles.
Betrayal, misunderstanding and newfound trust. Episode 2 of Grendizer U introduces us to a lot of plot developments, all while maintaining a steady pace.
Explosions! Excitement! And…headpats? Amidst the decisive battle for the Earth, the androids get closer than ever…and bloodier as well.
Rest in anticipation. While there’s not much mecha combat, there’s plenty of happenings behind the scene. Politic assassinations, rebellioin and last but not least, love trouble!
A-1 announces their return with Nier: Automata 2nd cour. This time, we jump right into the action with 2B and 9S, or rather, between 2B and 9S.
The fated brother-sister confrontation. With Akane and Ryota on his side, Taisei unleashed the ultimate attack of the E5. But did anyone come out victorious?
After nearly 50 years, the beloved UFO Robot Grendizer returns to the TV screen. Long awaited by the fans, does Grendizer U measure up to Super Robot lovers’ expectations?
Time to save the captured princess! Roze and Ash set off to liberate their friends, and ignite the flames of rebellion once more.
When things get back on track, another derails. Akane and Ryota look deep within themselves to forgive Taisei, while Ina’s going absolutely bonkers.
Here comes the Geass to Recapture you! Dakkan no Roze debut with an impressive beatdown both physically and mentally from our charming protagonists.
Power overwhelming! The Phantom Shinkalion’s debut is a dominant one. And with that, Taisei is plunged into the pit of despair when he heard its pilot’s voice.
