Title: Unveiling 'Giant Gorg': A Magnificent Remaster of an Anime Legend
Rediscovering the majesty of the '80s with "Giant Gorg"! This gem of an anime has finally received a well-deserved upgrade, now available on Blu-ray. Back in 2016, when the DVD version hit the shelves, it was an exciting moment for fans who had long missed this hidden treasure. Initially aired in 1984, this series was a regrettable missed opportunity by Sunrise, with potential to be a mind-blowing experience for international audiences.
The mesmerizing animation alone for a TV series from this era is astounding. It's hard to fathom why the animators went all out on such a show, but their efforts have resulted in a genuinely fantastical visual experience that still holds up today.
"Giant Gorg" also boasts an intriguing storyline centered around mysterious ancient civilizations, a popular theme in the '80s for cartoons. This series is ideally situated between fan-favorite shows like "Mysterious Cities of Gold" and "Ulysses 31," both of which had Japanese production elements. However, "Giant Gorg" stands out as a trailblazer in its own right, offering a one-of-a-kind journey.
Though the series was initially well-received in Japan, it unfortunately fell into obscurity until its DVD release. Fast forward to the end of 2021, when the Japanese Blu-ray remaster was released internationally, once again leaving fans pondering what could have been if it had been given a wider release decades ago.
Since I reviewed the DVD version, I've had the opportunity to speak with the series' creator and director, Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, as well as Mamoru Nagano, who worked on the show's budget vehicle, the Beagle. These conversations have only further cemented my admiration for this timeless tale.
What sets "Giant Gorg" apart from other mecha shows of the '80s is its unconventional approach. Rather than featuring the mecha in the first episode as a marketing gimmick for toy merchandising, the titular mecha makes its grand entrance in the fourth episode with no flashy gimmicks or color schemes. Instead, the series' unique selling points lie in its inventive take on "Treasure Island" and its compelling exploration of a tiny island in the Pacific, as well as the powerful forces attempting to exert control over it.
Despite its age, "Giant Gorg" remains as entertaining and engaging as ever for modern audiences. Its themes of family are timeless, and the characters' nuanced personalities continue to surprise and delight viewers. Additionally, this Blu-ray release offers stunning remastered visuals, as well as a satisfying English translation. All of this is available at a very reasonable price, making it an excellent investment for fans of classic anime.
One standout addition to the Blu-ray release is the inclusion of a map of Austral Island on the flipside of the cover, a thoughtful touch that adds to the overall experience.
Overall, "Giant Gorg" is a true classic in the world of anime, renowned for its exceptional animation, captivating story, and unforgettable characters. Whether you're a nostalgic fan or a newcomer to the genre, this series is sure to leave a lasting impression.
"Giant Gorg" can be purchased on Blu-ray from the Crunchyroll online store for $37.46.
Disclosure: Crunchyroll supplied me with this Blu-ray for review purposes.
You can find me on X, Facebook, and YouTube. I manage Mecha Damashii and am currently featured in the Giant Robots exhibition currently touring Japan.
- The animators who worked on "Giant Gorg" in the '80s showcased their extraordinary skills, even when it wasn't necessary, creating a visually stunning experience that has stood the test of time.
- Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, the series creator and director of "Giant Gorg", shared his thoughts with me on the Blu-ray release, further reinforcing my admiration for this timeless animation.
- For avid anime fans and collectors, the remastered version of "Giant Gorg" is now available on Blu-ray, with detailed English translations and the original Japanese audio, thanks to a collaboration between Sunrise and Crunchyroll.
- Alongside anime classics like "Mysterious Cities of Gold" and "Ulysses 31", "Giant Gorg" presents a unique blend of mecha, adventure, and mystery, making it a must-watch for any anime enthusiast, especially with its new HD presentation.
- Enthusiasts of mecha shows can appreciate the subtle yet significant shift in approach taken by "Giant Gorg", where the mechs are not the main focus in the first episode, unlike other productions, but rather, the storyline and its intriguing mysteries attract the audience.