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After Colony:
By: Justin
Rating: 10 out of 10

Gundam Wing. The series that launched the Gundam universe into America. A powerful tale of 5 elite soldiers and their legendary mobile suits known as Gundams. The characters in the story are unbelievably well-designed. Each character has a specific background, idea, and personality. With most, those change again and again. To add a more human touch, no one is purely good or evil; each person has his or her upsides and downsides. That's something that makes this series so powerful. It's almost impossible to determine who the "bad guy" is. This show doesn't exactly come with your super hero and super villain. There's the main characters, and then there's the antagonist. However, the antagonists of this story seem to be history and fate, constantly intertwining and throwing everyone through a chaotic loop. The dialogue is also amazing. Some of the lines are cheesy and childish, but those are few and far between. The dialogue often puts together the philosophy of the show, and the cynicism written in the show makes the world seem like a bleak place. It sets the mood as well. In an ambiguous setting, such as an office, the dialogue sets the mood and tone of the scene. The orchestral music is astounding, and I would advise anyone who can to obtain it. The music ranges from battles to beauty to sorrow, and each song has a title that often reflects its usage. For example, when Heero is contemplating self-destructing during the Siberian battle, the music in the background is called "Heero, Time of Decision." Fancy that, eh? The songs that have words are often really catchy as well. The translations are amazing as well. The philosophy of the show is incredible, and it really makes you think. Is there a principle so powerful you would sacrifice your life to protect it? And what about justice? Are we really capable of delivering justice? As Heero says in Endless Waltz, "Soldiers have fought to attain a sense of peace." Is that really the truth? Or is it possible that people are just weak and vulnerable, abusing their ability to kill others? I give the show a 10/10 because it's such an enticing universe to be drawn into. You spend time trying to guess what comes next, only to be entirely surprised by plot twists. Despite their non-existence, you become attached to the characters in the series. Finally, you're forced to think while you watch the show as your mind is assaulted by the constant barrage of cynicism and philosophy.