Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann was, I admit, an anime I was not looking forward to. Having watched Code Geass, which was a perfect anime in my opinion, I found several suggestions online on which animes to watch next. Some animes included much of the Gundam franchise, Guilty Crown, and of course Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. I am so glad to say that I was proven wrong. Right from the get-go, Kamina's charismatic and often lunatic personality snatches viewers' attentions and sets the pace for the rest of the anime: you'll often find yourself laughing at the hilarious moments in this anime, nearly tearing up at the sadder moments, and stupidly laughing too yourself at the over extravagant and exaggerated moments.
Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is not deep. If you watched something like Code Geass, Hyouka, or even Stein's;Gate, depth is something you will definitely not find in this story's anime. Honestly, any mecha anime plot shouldn't include much plot because action is definitely one of the core elements. However, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann still retains an excellent storyline. The story centers around several extreme themes, such as vast character growth and epic battles of ridiculous proportions. Through a very rough transition after the first arc, the plot remains strong and downright crazy, but again, this anime is not meant to be deep but instead exists simply for the viewers to enjoy. Despite being the story's biggest problem, the plot still remains simplistically strong and should be thoroughly cherished as it will definitely draw out many different emotions from time to time.
What can I say about the art other than "Wow"? It's vibrant flow of colors (especially Nia's hair, damn what's up with that?) I definitely won't say that it's the best I've seen out there; in fact, it's kind of cartoony (not the same as Panty & Stocking). A lot of the scenes seem like it popped out straight from a comic book. However, I absolutely love how the art stresses the reoccuring theme in this anime: it over exaggerates and portrays the silliest things in a serious light. So many of the battles are shaded so much and you can't help but enjoy and sometimes chuckle just because of the art. The mecha designs are fantastic and I love how everything flows together to form a seamless anime.
The art may be a great representation of the anime's themes, but boy wait till you hear the sounds of the anime. The OP is a great way to get your blood pumping, and viewers should definitely try to listen to it instead of skipping it. The voice acting is incredible! Kamina's voice is portrayed wonderfully and is the embodiment of life and enthusiasm ("Who the hell do you think I am??"). Simon's voice is also extremely suitable; it really showcases his growth as a timid and quiet boy to a bold, brash, and motivating leader. The many voice actors are absolutely wonderful, and it's incredible how much they bring this already invigorating anime to life. The last thing to note is the sound in the ludicrous fights that take place. The music is already amazing during exciting mecha battles that motivate and excite viewers, but what makes it even more incredible is how it adapts to situations. For example, during the sadder moments, the music will change to represent a slower pace, and viewers will hardly notice the smooth transition the sound makes during many of the scenes.
I already talked about the extraordinary characters, but it's impossible to not stress their amazing prominence in Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. How the characters interact with each other, their logical thinking, and their expressions really make this anime what it is. From the crazy yet lovable Kamina viewers build an attraction to the anime. Simon is the epitome of remarkable growth and his interactions with other characters demonstrates his capabilities as a remarkable leader. The boobalicious Yoko serves to offer much-needed support at times and is a crucial character to help many of the others grow. Nia is the motivation that Simon needs and their relationship really showcases how much thought the people at Gainax put into this anime. Overall, my favorite part of this entire anime is the cast of characters.
Enjoyment is something abundant in Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. The anime is overflowing with it. From hilarious scenes such as the awkward mecha combination between Kamina and Simon, to tense scenes such as Simon's personal and internal conflicts, to absolutely ludicrous scenes such as galaxy-sized mechas literally using galaxies as shurikens, this anime offers it all. The story, art, sound, and characters make this anime what it is, and you will enjoy everything this anime has to offer.
Overall, this anime is brilliant in nearly every aspect. This anime has it all: word play, large galaxy mecha battles, hilarious moments, inspirational speeches, everything. Quotes such as "WHO THE HELL DO YOU THINK I AM" will forever be etched in your memory and you will enjoy every minute that Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann has to offer.
