Each episode of Sergeant Frog plays out like a sitcom, deriving its comedy from a combination of smart wordplay, highly expressive physical humor, breaking of the fourth wall, and many pop culture references (but not in an arbitrary, unoriginal way like Family Guy. Bleh.). Anime lovers will enjoy the many instances when our favorite alien invaders parody other titles such as Gundam, Kamen Rider, Space Battleship Yamato, Dragon Ball, and Neon Genesis Evangelion. Sergeant Frog is much more detailed and direct in its Gundam references, since Bandai does hold rights to the Gundam franchise. However, even with the presence of the occasional otakucentric homage, one doesn’t have to be an otaku to “get” it.
The personalities of the invading Keronian A.R.M.P.I.T. platoon hit just the right mark. Sergeant Kerero is amusing with his screwball antics, ADD behavior, and Gunpla obsession. Giroro, the serious soldier of the platoon, has an aggressive, militaristic style that plays great for laughs. Tamama is cute, but is also jealous and obsessed. The cold, calculating nature of Kururu is delightful–he can be so perverse and sadistic. Lastly, Dororo is a ninja with a calm nature, who is often at odds with the goals of his friends. There are many other characters that are introduced who complement and interact with our protagonists very well.
The music in this series is very fitting. Unlike other shows of a similar genre, the music has a modest presence and takes a backseat to the action itself. The opening and closing songs are a mixed bag of randomness that change as the series goes on. The first opening, “Ribbit March” is a whimsical, enthusiastic propaganda inspired military march that will be stuck in your head for days. The first closing theme song “Afro Gunso” is a funktastical disco number with dancing CG frogs.
Finally, for those who may not be fond of dubs, Sergeant Frog may be an exception. Funimation did a great job in the English dub. Given the nature of this show, a rewrite of the script was necessary in order to make it relevant to American viewers. (note: this is not to be confused with the English dub made by Animax for Asian markets.)
In conclusion: Sergeant Frog is a great watch for just about anybody. My baby-boomer relatives, who have never watched anime before, enjoy it. Whether an anime newbie or hard-core otaku, old or young, I am adamant that this series is at least worth a watch. It is exceptionally rare to have a show more effective in its humor or more consistent in belly laughs. Sergeant Frog, although a long-running series, manages to stay fresh. It is a shame this show will likely never make it to a wider viewership.
Credits: Anne of Anne's Anime Blog. Posted with permission.
