"Gatchaman Crowds" review: What is the appeal of a modern hero?

Gatchaman Crowds - A new challenge to depict the image of a modern hero

The TV anime series "Gatchaman Crowds," broadcast in 2013, is an original anime work by Tatsunoko Productions, and presented a new image of heroes to many viewers. This work breaks the traditional image of heroes and delves deeply into the role and meaning of heroes in modern society. Below, we will introduce detailed information and reviews of "Gatchaman Crowds," as well as recommended points.

Overview

■ Public Media

TV anime series

■ Original Media

Anime Original

■ Broadcast period

July 14, 2013 - September 29, 2013

■Broadcasting station

Nippon Television

■Frequencies

half an hour

■ Number of Episodes

Episode 12

■Original Story

Tatsunoko Productions Planning Department

■ Director

Kenji Nakamura

■ Production

・Animation Production: Tatsunoko Productions

■Works

©Tatsunoko Productions/Gatchaman Crowds Production Committee

story

Set in a near-future Tokyo, "Gatchaman Crowds" follows the hero team "Gatchaman" as they fight against a mysterious lifeform called "MESS." One day, the protagonist, Haru Ichijo, suddenly obtains a device called "NOTE" and begins fighting as Gatchaman. The story follows Haru and his friends as they search for the meaning of their existence and their roles as heroes as they fight against MESS.

character

"Gatchaman Crowds" features many unique characters. The main characters are introduced below.

• Haru Ichijo - The protagonist of this work. Although he is a high school student, he fights as a Gatchaman. He is characterized by his curious and caring personality.
• Rei Ogami - The leader of Gatchaman. He is calm and collected and is responsible for bringing the team together.
• Joe Hashiba - A member of Gatchaman. He is a hot-blooded man who displays great power in battle.
• Rui Nakajima - A member of Gatchaman. He is knowledgeable and acts as the brains behind the team.
• Jun Minami - A member of Gatchaman. A bright and cheerful character, he is the mood maker of the team.

Evaluation and Impressions

"Gatchaman Crowds" is highly regarded as a work that stands out from the crowd of traditional hero anime. Below we explain the reasons in detail.

1. Themes that reflect modern society

The series is set against the backdrop of modern society, where social media and the internet are widespread, and it explores the theme of questioning the meaning of the existence and role of heroes. The protagonist Haru's activities as Gatchaman through "NOTE" overlap with the way young people today express themselves through social media. In addition, the depiction of the responsibilities and conflicts of being a hero in the battle against MESS deeply touches viewers.

2. Character development and human drama

"Gatchaman Crowds" is characterized by a storyline that focuses on character growth and human drama. In particular, the main character, Haru, is shown to reexamine himself and grow through his activities as a Gatchaman. The friendship and bonds between the team members are also depicted in depth, evoking sympathy from viewers.

3. Visuals and Music

The visuals of this work are visually appealing, depicting a realistic near-future Tokyo. The music is also an important element in enhancing the atmosphere of the work, and the opening theme "GATCHAMAN" and the ending theme "Yume no Kiwa" in particular are songs that will leave a strong impression on viewers.

Recommended points

"Gatchaman Crowds" is a recommended work for the following reasons:

• A theme that reflects modern society - Set against the backdrop of modern society where social media and the internet are widespread, the story is appealing in that it questions the meaning of the existence and role of heroes.
• Character Development and Human Drama - The storyline focuses on character development and human drama, deeply moving the viewer.
• Visuals and Music - The visuals are realistic, depicting a near-future Tokyo, and the music enhances the atmosphere of the work.

Related works and series information

"Gatchaman Crowds" is the latest work in Tatsunoko Productions' popular "Gatchaman" series. Below is information on related works and the series.

• Gatchaman - The original series aired in 1972. Known as Science Ninja Team Gatchaman, it gained worldwide popularity.
• Gatchaman II - A sequel that aired in 1978. It follows Gatchaman as he battles a new enemy.
• Gatchaman Crowds Insight - A sequel to "Gatchaman Crowds," this was broadcast in 2015. It depicts the exploits of Gatchaman as they battle a new enemy.

How to watch and related products

You can watch "Gatchaman Crowds" in the following ways. There are also many related products on sale, so if you're interested, be sure to check them out.

• How to watch - It is available on DVD and Blu-ray, as well as on video streaming services, particularly Amazon Prime Video and Netflix.
• Related products - Figures, character goods, books, etc. are available. The figures in particular are popular with collectors.

summary

"Gatchaman Crowds" is a work filled with themes that reflect modern society, character growth, and the appeal of visuals and music. It is a work recommended not only for those who like hero anime, but also for those who want to enjoy deep themes. Please watch it and experience its charm.