'unusual mecha' might also mean that it could be very accessible to the non-mecha fan like myself. If Neon Genesis Evangelion or Rahxephon had you feeling disappointed in it's design, then Lagann will provide a ton of variety in keeping you interested in characters as opposed to robots. In fact, for Gurren's case, the characters that were designed, seem to be more noticeable than the robots. You have buff men, thin men, attractive, curvy women and equally attractive thin women. I entered Gurren with some skepticism that I'd even like it. The show relies a lot on other aspects and has a very intriguing antagonist that feels sort of abstract at times, mixing in well with it's unique backdrops informing Gurren's unusual design.
The series has three big acts. The first one (eps. 1-8) being the best, the second, (eps.9-15) and the third (17-27) both being very good. Episode 16 is a recap.
Where most of humanity is trapped underground, two orphans, Simon and Kamina, find there way towards the surface, along side Yoko Littner, a girl who has lived there for some time team up with a large group of friends they meet along the way. Together they are determined to defeat "beastmen", non-spiral beings who are capable of controlling Gunmen---the mecha robots in the series. The "beastmen" are lead by Lord Genome, (Spiral King). He's the guy who created them, and was the main antagonist for most of the series.
As I previously mentioned, the antagonist though gets a bit more complicated. Without spoiling anything---in the second act, theres a lot more drama. Also, Simon kind of has a love interest as well with a mysterious new character Nia, who is suppose to be Lord Genome's (Spiral King) daughter. The big and best battle begins when Simon fights against the Spiral King.
Towards the end of the series, things get a little weird but still retains it's quality. There is a time lapse where Simon has grown into a man. His girl Nia turns into a psychotic android who wants to destroy all of the spirals, the fictional energy that everybody has. Rossiu is an idiot and Viral, a beastman, turns good and fights with Simon. And best of all Yoko is a teacher!!
This is definitely one of my favorite mecha series. I loved the characters, the relationships, and most of all the story. The only criticisms I'd give it is that the music could have been improved and the animation may be hard to follow for some. But again, it was amazing. Even if you don't like mecha , you should watch it.
Best Episodes
Later, Buddy
Bust Through the Heavens with Your Drill!
You Don't Know Anything!
Worst Episodes
Sit in the Hot Tub 'Till You're Sick!!
Compilation Episode
