Aquarion: The Epic Mecha Series Across Time You Might Have Overlooked Forever

In an era when giant mecha anime was waning in 2005, one series dared to be different and challenge conventions: Aquarion, a work from Studio Satelight that seamlessly blends transforming robots, Greek mythology, and the power of love. This series is remembered for its legendary opening theme and over-the-top action scenes, but beneath the madness lies a deep and complex story.

Plot Summary (No Spoilers)

The story takes place in a future world where humanity is in crisis due to invasions by interdimensional beings called the Shadow Angels. They are powerful and far more advanced than humans. The only thing that can counter them is the legendary giant robot Aquarion, awakened after ten thousand years of slumber.

Only humans with special powers called Elements, selected from around the world, can control Aquarion. These Elements must learn to combine and synchronize their minds to drive Aquarion to its full potential. The series follows main characters like Apollo, a young boy with special powers and a mysterious past, as well as Silvia and Pierre, each with their own inner conflicts. Each battle is not just about defeating enemies but also about discovering the truth about the past and the hidden power within themselves.

Performance and Characters

Though it is an anime voiced by professional voice actors, Aquarion stands out for its emotional and intense voice acting, especially Masaya Onosaka as Pierre Vieira, who brilliantly conveys the character's complexity. Tomokazu Sugita as Sirius De Alisia also does well in portraying arrogance and inner pain. Each character is distinctly designed, from impulsive young men to cold-hearted girls. The development of relationships between characters is one of the story's strengths, even if sometimes it feels exaggerated or overacted, but it fits the series' intentionally high drama and melodrama tone.

Direction, Visuals, and Music

Director Shōji Kawamori (creator of Macross) and the team at Satelight created a world that is both beautiful and captivating. The design of the Aquarion robot, which can split and reassemble, is unique, and the battle scenes are spectacular with a blend of CG and traditional 2D animation. Although the visuals may not be as sharp as current standards, they were ahead of their time.

What makes Aquarion legendary is its music and opening theme, especially the song Genesis of Aquarion sung by Yoko Kanno and Akino Arai, which is powerful and moving, becoming a meme and remixed countless times. Other background music also effectively enhances the atmosphere in both dramatic and action scenes.

Editorial Analysis

Aquarion is not just a typical mecha anime; it is a work full of symbolism and philosophical questions. Through the concept of combination, which is not just about combining machines but merging the minds and emotions of the pilots, the series boldly addresses themes of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness in a raw and direct manner.

Another interesting aspect is the use of Greek mythology and other deities woven into the story, adding depth and connecting to human history. However, the sometimes fast-paced and jumpy storytelling can confuse viewers, especially towards the end when the plot becomes more complex. The editorial team views Aquarion as a 'love it or hate it' anime, but if you open your mind to its madness and over-the-top drama, you will find an experience like no other.

Verdict

Aquarion is an anime not for those who prefer realism or slow storytelling. But if you like transforming robots, spine-tingling soundtracks, and full-on melodramatic drama, this is a series you shouldn't miss. Despite some flaws, its charm and madness will leave a lasting impression.