Rossiu Adai

Leeron Littner

Kamina

Makken Jokin

Gimmy Adai

Leyte Jokin

Boota

Youko Littner

Magin

Memu

Darry Adai

Artenborough Cortich

Iraak Coega

Kinon Bachika

Simon

Adiane

Kittan Bachika

Kid Coega

Kiyoh Bachika

Viral

Koko-jii

Tetsukan Littner

Guinble Kaito

Cytomander

Lordgenome

In a far away future, mankind lives underground in huge caves, unknowing of a world above with a sky and stars. 
In the small village of Jiha, Simon, a shy boy who works as a digger discovers a strange glowing object during excavation. The enterprising Kamina, a young man with a pair of rakish sunglasses and the passion of a firey sun, befriends Simon and forms a small band of brothers, the Gurren Brigade, to escape the village and break through the ceiling of the cave to reach the surface, which few believe exist. 
The village elder won't hear of such foolishness and punishes the Brigade. However, when disaster strikes from the world above and the entire village is in jeopardy, it's up to Simon, Kamina, a girl with a big gun named Yoko, and the small yet sturdy robot, Lagann, to save the day. 
The new friends journey to the world above and find that the surface is a harsh battlefield, and it's up to them to fight back against the rampaging Beastmen to turn the tide in the humans' favor! Pierce the heavens, Gurren Lagann!

Every once in a while, an show just blows your expectations away.

Story: 8/10

Gurren Lagann's story can be described in one word: "Crazy". The story revolves around Simon and his adventures on the surface of Earth in his mecha Lagann. As the show progresses, Simon grows as a character and the story takes darker turns. There is a time jump after episode 16 which was added to progress the story faster and was necessary to set up the amazing ending. Overall, the story is good and enjoyable.

Art: 8/10

The art in this show is very unique compared to other art styles in anime. This particular style is similar to that of a manga and may seem strange at first, but soon begins to grown on you. 

Sound: 10/10

The OST for this show is one of the few soundtracks that I have listened to in full after watching the show. The songs are very atmospheric and provide an excellent stage for the numerous battles and action scenes. The opening was used before all the episode through the series and was very catchy. The OP was also used in various important battles in the series. One song that must be mentioned is "Libera Me From Hell." This is a hip hop song with a few epic opera parts that is a very catchy song. I'm not a fan on hip hop/rap song to begin with, but I still find myself listening to this song quite a bit. I really love how this song was utilized in the series and really enhances the show, espechially in the final episodes. 

Characters: 10/10

The characters in this show are very well developed, which surprised me the most. This show initially comes across as a dumb, over the top action show, which it is, but has great characters that hold the story together without being too "deep."

Enjoyment: 10/10

There are few times that I can say that I enjoyed an anime from start to finish. The shows progression is very well done and kept me engaged. The action in this show is animated great, especially in the last few episodes. As I have touched on a few times before, the last few episodes of this series. These last 4 episodes are some of the best episodes I have seen in anime. Period. That may come across as a bold statement, but I believe it to be true. These 4 episodes showcased the show's best animation, sound, and character development. This is how a climax is done. 

Conclusion

If you have never heard of Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, never seen a mecha anime before, are postponing this show or just want a good action show to watch, start this show now. There are few shows that I can claim that a show has changed my view of anime, and this show has. It has given me a new perspective on action shows and mecha shows in general. Overall, this show was an incredibly enjoyable show that I highly recommend.

A magnificent look into what the mecha genre should actually be, pure fun!

Gurren Lagann is my favorite anime of all time, so for me there is a lot to say. To start of with the visuals were great (from the exception of the 4th episode). There was bright colors for the action and dramatic outlines that just made things pop. I don't want to spoil anything, but story got weak at times and character development on the main character was not the best, I wish I knew how Simone met Kamina and what not only because he is dependent on him. Kamina is loud impulsive and crazy, but he knows what he is doing (sometimes), but most of all he is honest with himself and that is something i admire greatly about him. Simone is a person who thinks he doesn't have much going for him except being with Kamina.  

Spoiler ahead 
 ~!!~In the first episode  there is a flash forward as they featured the final battle but it did not actually go that way. To be honest to see a human Boota (or at least i think that's who it is helping Simone command) command. But the when i saw Galaxy Gurren Lagann I knew shit was gonna go down~!!~ 
Spoiler end

Simone's character changes over the anime, and it is a very interesting way they did it but for the sake of saving time and not spoiling anything else I'm going to leave it at that . This anime has a wide variety of characters so I'm sure there will be at least one person everyone will like, and that they can relate to in one way or another. 

As for the soundtrack it was great, not the best but at least 80-90% of it was catchy epically "Libera me from hell" I love that song.The opening is great and can be catchy, but is doesn't change, only the animations. But the ending are weak at least the first two, bu I absoulutly love the last ending, and i cant help but to sing along. The animations for the ending are good it is just the vocals in the first ending that are just...Uncomfortable. 

If you like fast-paced action, loud main characters, and epic fighting music then watch this. Then again I may have been bias about this, but Like i said this anime does have flaws, but it was beautiful . It wouldn't hurt to try. And remember "Believe in the you that believes in yourself"-Kamina

##TENGEN TOPPA GURREN LAGANN (天元突破グレンラガン）

Hello, my name is TheRoundChestnut, and you're probably here because you either watched the show and want to be certain on your thoughts of  Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, or you're unsure to watch this show. 
I feel as if the other reviews for this anime were not clear as to why they liked it and were too hung up on their enthusiasm to share their thoughts. 
But I am not saying I am better than the other reviews, but simply giving more to what is already given. 
(Kinda like a chef explaining his own dish compared to the customer's take on it)

As I was watching this anime, I critically analyzed points, topics, and themes to talk about for this review. 
Keep in mind there are no number based ratings for my reviews since numbers tend to give certain connotations and assumptions pertaining to something. (Like how 7 is a better sounding number than 6)
Also as for spoilers, I will only spoil only the first episode of this anime because it will justify what I am talking about, so if you did not watch it or forgot, then I strongly encourage you to watch the first episode before indulging in this review. 

img400(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/97/Gurren-lagann-16-.jpg)

Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is probably the most enthusiastic and over the top animes I have ever seen. 
Ever since the first episode, this show knew where it was headed. At the beginning of episode 1, there was the opening scene of Simon in his Super Galaxy Gurren Lagann heading into a battle. In an interview with the director Imaishi Hiroyuki, he said that he thought opening scene was going to be the highest they can go in terms of climax, but in the end they went going beyond that. With its super combining with mechs, shouting super moves, and even looking at the wonderful character designs. this show proves that characters and mechs can be well designed and established. 
(Not going to lie. I was too sitting on the edge of my seat on every single episode, and shouting the cool quotes shouted by the characters.)

This show knows what its doing in terms of story and character development. Simon, the main character, is the one of those wimpy and weak characters from the beginning, but is developed into one of the most over the top characters due to his relations with Kamina. He becomes aware of his drive and compassion for his fellow allies along the way. This is the part where Gurren Lagann succeeded the most during its run, is its development of its characters and their motivation to fight and live. Everyone in Simon's team unite into one, almost like a drill, which is this show's main symbolism.  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5zjo573zlk)


img350(http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20091220120514/gurennlagann/images/b/b8/G-L_-_Giga_Drill_Breaker.jpg)

The drill in Gurren Lagann is embodied everywhere throughout the show. Heck, actually its probably safe to say that the whole show is a drill. The story starts with Simon and Kamina underground and its their dream to get out and explore, kind of similar to how a drill is centered around one point and then expands outwards. Same with their influence on other, who join them. And same with their fighting spirit, the more spirit they have the more power, which all derives from the one point: their heart. (I don't think I need to expand on this aspect since its pretty obvious throughout the show.)

img350(http://www.templeofmick.com/blogw/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Tengen_Toppa_Gurren_Lagann_Episode_1_Screenshot_020.jpg)

Another aspect of this show which shines is the animation and its pacing. The main scenes of this anime are fighting robots and over the top cuts of the characters fighting, but how these are implemented are done so nicely that its directly impacts its pacing of the show. The fighting scenes are quick and fast, which equates to how fighting in reality are. But when characters are talking or on their downtime, its slow and andante and allows the viewers to have breathing and relax room until the next time they fight, much like how the characters in the show are. This direct influence on mental state on the viewer is important for keeping their attention, because if this show was all nonstop mech fighting, the viewers will be tired too. This show utilizes is nonfighting scenes dedicated to character development and exposition. And not to mention its wonderful soundtrack that complements the atmosphere of the scene. 
Despite being a 2006 anime, this anime even surpasses most animes in 2016. Almost everything is hand drawn, and not some crappy CG for everything (~!Ajin!~). Probably all of the CGI were used for the backgrounds and space scenes in the later episodes, and I know for sure, CG, one way or another, takes away the fresh sense of Japanese anime, and starts becoming a digital animation. (Please leave that to Disney)

img350(http://i.imgur.com/zeEAa.png)

In conclusion, this show does a fantastic job in their execution of animating a mech genre with characters that actually drive the story (instead of characters being there for plot convenience), very nice and hype fighting, and lovable characters and their quotes. 
Although there are minor flaws that falters this anime a little when dwelling deep into its structure and logic, it still is a fun, wacky, and over the top anime that everyone loves.
And I will rate things with a "should you watch" or "pls dont" (much like how Demolition D+ does) 
And I say "YES" completely.

A review to justify this anime, without spoiling too much.


Ah, Gurren Lagann. Even for those who don't like giant robots beating each other up, they find enjoyment in the excitement of Gurren Lagann. I'm going to break up the review into two sections, pre-timeskip and post-timeskip. If you haven't seen it already, there is a big tone shift before and after the timeskip, both with their merits and faults. So:
# Pre-timeskip Gurren Lagann
The first half of Gurren Lagann consists of nonsensical fun with a cast of characters scrapping together robots to fight the onslaught of beastmen. You have your standard male boy who doesn't know his left from his fight, Simon; an annoying or inspiring male figure, Kamina; and vast array of underdeveloped side characters that nobody really remembers outside of Simon and the gay guy.
There's a lot of grounded, fun combat that makes you think, "That's obscenely stupid yet _so awesome!_". The main characters play off their strengths and weakness very well, and even despite the bare-bones, near MoTW plot it never ceases to be entertaining. Very simple, brainless fun that feels like watching _Die Hard_ on Christmas.

# Post-timeskip Gurren Lagann
After the defeat of Lord-Genome, there is a timeskip of around ~6 years, and somehow humanity has created this sprawling metropolis. This half of Gurren Lagann is vastly different from the first half. In fact, I'd argue it was so different that it provides it's own counterargument of the themes from the first half. If the first half's overarching message was to _push aside your fear and follow your emotions_, the second half's overarching message is to _stop and think before acting_.
A large part of the post-timeskip show, is the political battle between Simon and Rossiu. Simon represents the relentless development of humanity, while Rossiu represents the doubt that this development is entirely beneficial. This part of the show is, frankly, really boring. The previous 16 episodes were filled with fun action, yelling characters, and loud music, but now Imaishi has decided to throw real robot tropes from shows such as _Gundam_ into the mix with it's fair share of ideal clashing and political struggles. You now have mass produced Gurren Laganns, anti-heroes, and infighting. 
Luckily, this arc ends with Simon getting his teeth knocked in, Simon learning his lesson about being abrasively reckless, and an awesome battle in space, signalling a return to the fun nature of pre-timeskip Gurren Lagann. However, it did leave a few things behind. There are no more grounded battles between robots, it's mostly Simon one-shotting everything in sight; and Simon flanderized into your generic mecha MC. Frankly, anyone who's familiar with the mecha genre has seen the fights in the space arc of Gurren Lagann hundreds of times already, so they grow dull very fast. However, _Simon's sacrifice_ saves the entire show and helps leave the viewer (me) with a good taste in their mouths even with the weird, "I will blatantly set myself up to lose" final antagonist.

Overall, it's a really fun show to watch. A great OST, likeable characters, and easy to understand storyline. It's a great introduction into the mecha genre, and you can take what you enjoyed from the show and look at other mecha greats such as _Gundam_ or _GaoGaiGar_

An anime that takes a large handful of mecha tropes and throws it at you. [Spoilers]

_FIRST IMPRESSIONS:_
I've been hyped up to watch this anime and I've got to say it starts off pretty strong - not forcing expository dialogue or monologue, not forcing long-winded character introductions or even an overdrawn establishment of motive. It's very easy to understand what is to come from these characters - Simon and Kamina and I think they will be the driving forces of the series for sure. I like how it shoves you right into the action for you to figure it out, like a shounen should. Like, I'm getting vibes of a true shounen / mecha anime, since Kamina keeps going on about manly spirit and I think the characters brute forcing their way through things will be a sight to behold (if that's what the series ends up doing).

_FIRST ARC:_
Wow, a series like this has never moved me so - from the inspirational quotes to the wonderful characterisation I think this anime (even at the halfway mark) manages to mean and be a lot more than any other show out there. The establishment of Kamina and Simon's relationship at the start were integral to accelerating the plot to the insane degree that it went, making the climax that much more satisfying. Even though this anime was made many years ago, it breaks the conventional standards of modern anime, from establishing relationships, to killing off a main character and it does so in a way that is not trying too hard to break those conventions. Yoko and Kamina's final kiss packed a lot of emotion for both Yoko and Kamina themselves as well as Simon making this battle that they were about to have to claim the Dai-Gurren. In killing Kamina that episode broke most of my expectations for the show, like I was even expecting Kamina to come back in the arc but they were committed. Not only were they committed to Kamina's death, but they used that to push the main character through his personal conflicts and as such develop him as a character - resulting in both Simon's character to be strengthened and become more of a realised character than he was in the first couple of episodes, as well as Kamina's legacy to be honoured. All of the main characters growing makes me fear for what might happen in the future, as this arc is only half of the actual series itself, which is a good thing for the show because it is evidence of how it has made me care about these characters.
Of course, there are some issues that I had with the series in that some of the characters are just for 'gag' purposes, although I haven't fully seen what they will do with them in the following arc but some characters are just there for a joke every now and then, but I guess that is okay. Just a bit of a minor grip is all. Some minor character introductions were a bit awkward as well, although they managed to eventually fit into the cast quite well so I can't put that blame on the series. Even the 'arc nemesis', Viral, was pretty cool in my opinion. Becoming enemies with Kamina ever since the first encounter with their battles going further and further until Viral realises that Kamina is dead. Just the obsession with the villain to rematch Gurren-Lagann even at the cost of the other bosses' fight with Gurren-Lagann makes the villain seem that much more realised and I really appreciate that.

My largest complaint so far was probably episode four, with the drastically different art and directing style kind of disrupting the already slow flow of the first few episodes. This makes the series pretty slow to start getting into, but once it starts picking up. Oh man. It gets really good.
The build up for the battle with the Spiral King was insane, with (in typical shounen style) the four big bosses coming at the cast and seeing how they deal with it was just exhilarating. This hype combined with Simon's reformed character after his mini Kamina arc has been resolved makes for a wonderful shounen experience backed with many feels and emotion. Additionally (of course) this is definitely helped with Trigger's expressive and impactful art style that really packs a punch when the series is going crazy with its action scenes and, combined with the music, makes the hype that much better. Going even further the OP adds to this hype by adding in small details like extra characters or putting in relevant information to suit what the characters are going through - though this is (of course) only happening during major changes I still appreciate the touch from the first OP to like the 7th OP - cool touch Gainax :^).
I would describe this arc as a snowball, slowly starting off but going incredibly fast and hard when it has that acceleration going on. I think this hype is going to carry itself into the next arc and be even greater. I think this anime is most likely going to make it into my top 10 favourite series, but I guess I'll just have to wait and see for the next arc and conclusion to see.

_SECOND ARC & FINAL COMMENTS:_
Wow. What more can I say than, wow. What a ride this anime was, not only having one of the best build ups to a climax that I have ever experienced but also having one of the best pay offs that I have ever seen. The show ends on such a wonderful note and wraps up pretty much everything that it could have, the characters and the overall plot. A very satisfying and wholesome experience I would say, which is very rare to see even in some modern anime these days.

The second arc does start off slow, since it basically has to establish everything from the bottom up due to it being a new society and whatever. I appreciated the time that they took in allowing the audience to understand the values of the people and the main characters that have changed over the years since they defeated the Helix King. Overall the pacing was pretty much perfect and allowed efficient enough breathing space for both the main characters to finish all of their arcs as well as for the villains to build up enough of a threat that would make you question how the hell Simon's going to make it. Which is exactly what a shounen anime should be doing.

This starting section, being quite slow, allowed for the emotions to brew as the audience was positioned to dislike Rossiu and feel hopeless for Simon in his plight to save the people and be like he was in the previous arc. Painting the vastly different picture of these characters makes the experience feel different from the first arc whilst keeping the spirit of the series as a whole, and this was the first step in allowing for this series to built its own hype so well. The various sacrifices by the minor characters had their own impacts and contributed to that major build up propelling the final battle to be so great. Not only showing the threat of the Anti-Spirals but also the determination of the Dai-Gurren squad to defeat the overarching enemy of the entire series. I think that the lead up to defeating the Anti-Spiral coming from the smaller-scale Helix King allowed the series to cohesively elaborate on the plot as a whole.
Speaking of the villains, it was a nice sight to see both the Helix King and Viral come back into the cast first as hostile but eventually it felt natural that they were important to the plot. Bringing them back was not just an excuse to please the fans of those respective characters, but it was important in the overall battle and sense of wholesomeness that came with that final battle - with Viral getting some kind of closure in piloting Gurren and with the Helix King being able to face his previous enemy and close things up with his 'daughter'. Adding to this wholesomeness was the little alternate realities thing where Kamina showed up and allowed all of the main cast to transform into Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. That sense of closure that Kamina gave Simon made the series go full circle and helped to close everything off for me.
The art of the series was great, showing the highest amount of impact that it could when it needed to with the thick outlines and rough 'action lines' allowing for everything to feel very heavy. The final battle showed the highest amount of artistic effort and I really appreciated how good it was considering how many fights there were in the arc. Studio Gainax did a good job in maintaining their budget I guess. On the note of art, the music that went along with it propelled the hype further and made the experience feel very shounen in its nature.
The major antagonist in the series, I felt, would have benefited from a bit more breathing space in terms of establishing the foundation of his principles and where he stands in terms of the whole situation. I know this is basically clear in that he just wants to exterminate all spiral beings but I feel as though that could have been expanded in a way that would have made the audience question their morals. I think that the best antagonist to a story is both one you can relate to as well as one that may have an equal moral standing to the characters, i.e. their reason for wanting to defeat the protagonist is just as good as why the protagonist wants to defeat the antagonist. This balance is the most important factor in allowing for there to be a sense of belief in the villain and the plot itself. However, the show does an alright job for itself in establishing him anyways, and I think that with Viral and the Helix King stepping back in it kind of reconciles those little criticisms - since their intentions follow the aforementioned principles to a good villain (imo).

Enough complaining though. This anime moved me in many ways, made me emotional and excited and I really understand the love behind this series. Even though it was slow to start, I think that the build up was worth the insanely satisfying pay off and I would easily put this as one of my favourite series. A very very strong 9. 

Classic characters, classic action, classic ending.

Giha is a cozy little egalitarian village out in the middle of nowhere. Nestled underneath a vast, arid desert, this little hole in the ground… Which, by the way, is a literal hole in the ground… is the lifelong home of a community of diggers and Pigmole farmers whose lives are occupied with expanding the terrtiory, raising livestock, and living in fear that every single tremor they face could bring them one tremor closer to being crushed to death under a massive Earthquake. Most of the residents of this piece of prime real estate have resigned themselves to their fate, like the young orphan Simon, who finds comfort in the freedom and artistic expression that his prowess with the expansion drill offers him. But every peaceful community has that one non-comformist outlier, and that’s where Kamina comes in.

Kamina is your proverbial big fish in a small pond… He refuses to believe that the surface world is uninhabitable, or that humans weren’t meant to dwell there, and his frustration over the issue leads him to get into quite possibly more trouble than he’s worth. He’s basically a Reddit conspiracy theorist, and while Simon doesn’t necessarily believe in the older boy’s insane ramblings, but he does find a certain reprieve in the boy’s charisma and fortitude. One day, he uncovers a tiny glowing drill and a giant robotic face while on his latest digging job, and just as he’s about to break Kamina out of jail to show it to him, a new giant robot comes crashing down through their ceiling, bringing a scantily clad babe with a long sniper rifle, inviting the entire underground populace to witness their struggle.

The girl, who introduces herself as Yoko, accompanies her new friends in digging up Simon’s giant head, which turns out to be a small but formidable Mech suit that takes his tiny drill as an ignition key! Squeezing into the cockpit with Yoko and Kamina, Simon the digger defeats the intruder and bursts through the dirt ceiling to enjoy his first ever view of the outdoor sunlight… But life on the surface is far more dangerous than it had seemed, as Simon and his mutually adoptive big brother must face this bleak terrain with a few friends at their back and an entire organization of humanoid monsters in his path, each of which piloting a mech of their own, and each of which is dedicated to either stomping out the uprising humans or pushing them back into hiding from whence they came. Having made an enemy out of seemingly the entire world, can Simon hope to overcome the trials and tribulations of the surface world, or will it’s sacrifices become too much to bear?

I’ve reviewed quite a few Studio Gainax anime in my time, and the word I seem to keep on coming back to is ‘inconsistent.’ Well, I’m simultaneously pleased and horrified to say that Gurren Lagann blows right past that handy descriptor with a level of quality that I can only reasonably call bi-freaking-polar. When Gurren Lagann looks good, it’s top tier stuff, with fast-paced action, brilliantly integrated CG, and a cool, confident sense of style in it’s presentation and cinematography. Since these breathtaking turns take place during giant mech battles and all-out space wars, you could easily say that the money was spent where it needed to be spent.

Having said that, when it’s bad, it’s hideous. I’m not the first person to point out how ugly episode 4 looks compared to the better moments of the `series, and yeah, that entire episode… Mech content and all… Is a noticeable blemish on the series. Gainax does sometimes have a penchant for outsorcing it’s work, and that entire episode was directed by a different person from the rest of the series… And the results probably played a huge part in him not being invited back. But it goes beyond just that episode. Throughout the series, but particularly in the first third, the budget saving tactics are embarrassingly obvious, running the gamut between broken frame rates, talking heads and key frames, and I hate to say that even the giant mechs suffer from this from time to time.

The animation gets better as the series goes on, to the point when we reach the explosive galaxy-hopping climax where I swear to God everything finally looks as perfect as the creators probably wanted it to since episode 1. It doesn’t make up for all the shortcomings that came before it, but you know what? The over-all look and design of the series kind of does. I don’t think I can name any other series that had this inspired of an aesthetic before. The look of each character speaks volumes about who they are and what they’re like, and while this element isn’t taken to the same kinds of extremes that it was in Utena, they still look really cool. Remember what I said about Kiddy Grade’s side characters looking like they got taken out of a drunk artist’s notebook? Imagine that, but with focus and a distinct sense of direction, and you’ve got the characters from Gurren Lagann. The robots look awesome too, just as diverse and interesting looking as the people who pilot them, from a two-faced Optimus Prime with shades to a supporting mech that looks like a cross between Staryu and The Dancing Banana.

The soundtrack is surprisingly diverse, hitting unexpected genres as jazz and operatic/rap vocals mixed among much more common shounen orchestrations. All of it is loud and attention grabbing, none of it is subtle or underplayed, and yet it’s all used with consistent perfection. I’d fall back on the old cliche that there’s “something for everyone” here, if it wasn’t for the fact that I feel like most audiences would eat up the entire damn score. The jazzy funeral music is a nice somber listen, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be the theme song of antagonist Viral, which has to be one of the most pulse pounding fight songs I’ve ever heard from that side of the ocean. The op and closing themes are disappointingly standard by comparison, but they’re not bad by any means.

The english dub, on the other hand, is not without it’s common complaints. The biggest one comes in the shape of Kyle Hebert in the role of Kamina, and honestly, I don’t get the hate. He’s nowhere near as inspirationally insane as the Japanese actor, but he holds his own adequately enough. Give the guy a break, he had a tough act to follow. It’s not like he sucked up the joint.  Then again, Yuri Lowenthal had a much tougher job as Simon, and he nails it with flying colors. You can generally expect a character who ages through out the story to have lots of character development, and he has no problem sticking with his character through the whiny early years and into the much deeper and more masculine adult years. Michelle Ruff gives a very subtle performance as Yoko, and while she of course knows how to hit all the notes perfectly, she also knows to keep a lot held back in order to complement the forces of personality that she’s been paired with. Steve Blum playing an effeminate gay man is so, so perfectly beautiful a thing.

Johnny Yong Bosch does a good job as the pragmatic Rossiu… Because of course he does… But he’s a bit over-qualified, and it feels like his talents were being under-utilized. Maybe if he’d been the one to play Kamina instead of Hebert, this dub would be more popular? In any case, Jamieson Price plays one of the main villains, which you know damn well is a good sign, and while I appreciate the fact that most actors here kept their roles past the time skip, Nia didn’t. She’s a very inquisitive character who doesn’t know anything about human society and has millions of questions to ask about it, which is why it was so perfect that they hired Hynden Walch, the voice actor behind similar fish-out-of-water Starfire from The Teen Titans, and having her grow up into Bridget Hoffman was a stroke of genius. There’s a very large cast in this dub, and while it never really gets bad, it’s still nowhere compared to the original sub. If you’re a dub fan, this one is perfectly fine… But otherwise, I’d have to recommend the original version based on the strength of Kamina alone.

Before I go into anything else, I’d like to start by addressing the one thing everybody seems to agree with in regards to this series. It’s something that critics and fans alike are quick to point out, to degrees of pride and shame that would quite frankly surprise you. That fact is that Gurren Lagann is one of the stupidest anime ever made. There is nothing in it that makes sense, from the basic mechanics of a drill being used to combine machines all the way to some game changing plot revelations in the final arcs, there is not one solitary moment where it feels like the writers actually sat down to decide how the universe works, except for the explanations so out there that they give serious cred to the age old excuse “A wizard did it.” Now, I’ve ripped apart plenty of anime for being stupid, but in Gurren Lagann’s case,m is it really such a bad thing? Well, yes and no, but to explain why, we’ll have to explore the positive and negative aspects of it’s brainlessness.

All right, what’s good about Gurren Lagann being stupid? Well, a lot of things, really. Gurren Lagann subscribes to a binary that values belief over doubt, and in support of this, it openly and proudly embraces ignorance and stupidity as the ultimate solution to overcoming the impossible. The world it takes place in quickly begins to feel like a world where virtues such as strategy and reason are valued substantially less than masculinity, courage, and balls-out bravado, and the reason it works so well is that, for the most part, it’s consistent enough in execution that it believably becomes the law of physics in this particular canon… Which is all well and good, but you could say something very similar about the first two seasons of RWBY, which did nothing for me.

On that note, the difference between RWBY and Gurren Lagann can be summed up by examining a few key ideas, my favorite of which is an idea RWBY had called The Forest of Forever Fall. Basically, it’s a forest that’s in perpetual autumn, with leaves always flowing to the ground. Logically, this makes about as much sense as hippos evolving to be covered with giant grapes, like they did in Gurren Lagann, but how is it used in the story? Well, the Forest is used as a backdrop for the character development of Jean, who’s turn towards manliness thanks to the conquering of a few bullies has NOT been brought up since, nor has the Forest, and to my recollection, neither have the bullies. What puts Gurren over RWBY is that while it had a lot of crazy ideas, it never feels like it crowbarred them in just to waste your time. The grape hippos are livestock and meat, nothing more.

So what’s bad about this show being stupid? For one thing, it robs it of any substance or depth. Gurren Lagann is pure spectacle, and if it wasn’t for a few saving graces (One of which I’ll get to later) I would honestly consider it the anime equivalent of a Michael Bay movie. I’ve tried analyzing it, and aside from it’s basic coherence to The Hero’s Journey story structure model, the drill symbolism and genetic metaphors seem to be hinting at the message that you should be proud of your dick. The issue of over-population comes up a few times, but it’s treated as bullshit at every turn. Beyond that, the story is very simple, and there’s a lot of room for stupidity… Up until the story arc directly following the time skip, where our heroes have aged by seven years and established their own government. The story tries to be all serious and political here, but the only feeling it elicits is a constant string of “WTF”s as it tries in vain to utilize concepts it’s not mature or intelligent enough to understand.

Before I could even come to terms with the idea that this advanced, futuristic society could have been erected by humans with little to no experience with above-ground architecture in only seven years, not even bothering to explain where all the materials came from out of the vast wasteland they had to work with, or how this team of fighters were somehow all suited and qualified to run a government in the first place, I was forced to swallow the idea that a leader making one simple, understandable, honest mistake that anybody could have made that caused a ton of structural damage but no specified human loss, could turn the public against him so quickly that he gets sentenced to death and they wind up falling back on the classic imagery of a dictator’s statue being pulled over. Thankfully, this arc was mercifully short, and Gainax decided to rush through it to get back to the stuff they were good at in the first place.

So yeah, the plot is stupid. The story is stupid. For better or worse, everything is stupid, stupid, stupid. Well, aside from the political missteps, the character writing is anything but dumb, and it’s easily the strongest element of the series. Gainax has always loved writing coming of age stories that showcase the growing pains of male characters, and while Gurren Lagann’s not really their best show, Simon the digger is probably the best character that they’ve put through that formula. I’m not gonna lie, there’s some Shinji in his early episodes, but it’s not unwarranted Shinji-ness. He goes through some shit that would make YOU emo for a few days, too, from seeing his crush hook up with his best friend, to overhearing someone close to him emasculating him in conversation, to… Um… Spoiler stuff. He starts off as a tag-along, perfectly happy to be the sidekick of one of the most charismatic leaders in anime history… I’ve spoken about this at length in my Top Ten Siblings list, but he idolized and idealized Kamina to the point that when it was time for HIM to step up, he found himself unable to do so, until something amazing happened.

I’ll spare you the spoilers, but to paint it in broad terms, Gurren Lagann fills out Simon’s character arc by taking one of my least favorite pieces of stock advice and making it work. I think I’ve always hated that old mantra of “Just be yourself,” because it’s dishonest… The sad truth is that society does have expectations, people do expect you to follow basic social norms, and unless you’re already the kind of person who fits them(or breaks them in superficially appealing ways), you do have to adapt to avoid being a lonely loser. Gurren Lagann takes that phrase from another angle… Growing up doesn’t mean becoming like the heroes and role models from your childhood, it means breaking away from them and being the best YOU that you can be. You don’t have to become your idealized icons to be a good person. you don’t have to wind up with the pin-up models you used to idealize when there’s a down to earth, sweet girl right under your nose. Stop trying to aim for your role models, and become one yourself.

Unfortunately, as perfectly complex and fulfilling as Simon’s development is, everyone else seems to exist in service to it, which I’m kinda okay with. This is HIS story, and to that end, I don’t really think anybody was underutilized, with the possible exception of Yoko Littner. She was a really cool and interesting character, who was competent in a fight, kind and generous, and wasn’t afraid to admit or pursue the things she wanted, but as soon as the love triangle was resolved, she basically got demoted to secondary character so a new main female character could enter the story… One with a much more interesting backstory, granted, but one who would be fridged towards the end of the series due to some random bullshit that came out of nowhere and was completely unnecessary. adding emotional stakes to a story where the very existence of humanity was already on the line. Still, for there to be even one complex female main character who’s treated fairly and with respect in such a testosterone fueled dick fest, let alone two of them, is still pretty amazing in it’s own right.

Every character in the cast has something to offer to it, even if it’s not so evident right away. The stereotypical gay character is never painted as a predator, but actually acts as the engineering genius of the group. The hot blooded cocky dude who acts as a rival for Simon’s leadership steps aside as soon as he knows he should, and genuinely feels like he cares about everyone. Villains working under the Spiral King have their very own co-worker dynamic, and the political mini-arc is almost saved by the emotional turmoil that the bureaucratic character goes through as he lays down the law. I guess it’s hard to feel sad watching side characters die when they barely had any lines up until that point… And one of them has a wife and kid who’s reactions are never shown, which I’m sure was an honest mistake by the writers… But I still cared so much about the main cast that I felt every loss, and in a cast this huge, that’s saying something.

Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is available from Aniplex of America, which unfortunately means you’ll be dealing with a distinct level of scarcity from it. It’s out of print, and the dubbed version can cost you a pretty penny on Amazon, which is why I’m pleased to report that there are some pretty damn good deals available on Ebay, where you can get the thinpack Brand New for between 20 and 30 dollars. It can also be found for streaming on both Crunchyroll and Netflix. A follow-up manga adaptation is available stateside from Bandai Entertainment, but the light novel unfortunately is not. Two movies were released in 2008 and 2009 that retold the story with better pacing ARE available stateside from Aniplex, but they’re just as obscenely expensive as the series can be, and I hate to say it, but Ebay isn’t gonna help you with that one.

When I realized that my 50th official review would be dropping in Studio Gainax month, I knew that I had to review one of Gainax’s big three titles. I picked Gurren Lagann not only because it’s arguably their most popular, and not only because I had the most to say about it, but because it’s right in the middle… Better than Evangelion, but not quite as good as FLCL. It has it’s fair share of problems, as I’ve no doubt proven by now, but what Gainax show doesn’t? The way it’s able to work most of it’s worst aspects to it’s advantage suggests that there might actually be method to it’s madness, and an intelligence lurking below it’s stupidity. Even if I’m wrong about that, it’s still one of the most fun, passionate, energetic, and over-the-top anime out there. It takes a lot of confidence to boldly champion the values of dumb machismo, and it takes nothing but pure sincerity to back it up. I give Gurren Lagann an 8/10.

Gurren Lagann was one of my first ever anime. The only other's I had watched were Bo-bo-bo and Inuyasha. Neither of which I had finished or even had knoledge of what anime was at the time I watched them. So for all intensive purposes, Gurren Lagann was my first legitimate experiences, thus my opinion may be a bit bias so if you decide to stop reading and leave now, I don't blame you. However, for those who stayed, I thank you and hope you find something worthwhile in this review. 
To start, Gurren lagann is not complex. There is a lot that happens, but none of it is deep, convoluted, or intricate. It's a simple story of rising above oppression and to reach for higher heights. The show starts with our two protagonist Simon and Kamina. Simon is a alienated, anti-social minner in his underground village who meets and befriends Kamina. Kamina is the essential driving force for Simon for the Majority of the show. He hates rules, and restrictions, and only wishes to leave the village and see the surface. However, when they finally do get to the surface, their faced with the fact that there is a large army of humanoid creatures who pilot mechs. Now Kamina, simon, and a growing group of rebels have a new bigger oppressor to beat. What is there ultimate goal? What will they do after they end there oppression? Who knows. It is everything and anything. Skies the limit. It's not about what they'll do after, its the idea that they should be free to grow, and reach for the stars. And that, in every sense, is what this show is about. Taking fate into your own hands. Believing in you own power, and in the powers of those around you. To believe in something so much your willing to fight for it. Willing to fight even god himself if it means reaching a higher place. 
This is what I love so much about this show and why even to this day, 8-9 years later, it remains my number one favorite anime. I have taken SO MUCH from Gurren Lagann. I have lived my life since then by the motto's this show has taught me. "If there isn't a path for us will carve one out ourselves!", " Who the hell do you think we are", "believe in the you that believes in yourself", " Step after step, each second we grow past the person we were before." All of these lines have shaped me into the person I am today, and I wouldn't want it any other way. Break the unbreakable, touch the untouchable, row row fight the power. 
<img src="https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/tengen_toppa_gurren_lagann_page_picture_5259.jpg" alt="Image result for gurren lagann"/>

If there's a wall in their way, they bust it down and keep moving forward. 

Gurren Lagan on Crunchyroll is 480p and it was a struggle. The story was good though. Since you have sincerely asked my opinion, let me some effort into organizing these thoughts:
# __What I like about Gurren Lagan: __
1. The art Style and how it closely ties together with the story: let me just say. The title sequences/fonts/styles were bombastically stylish. I even took screenshots of all opening title/episode title screens. The style of each arc correspond to each title. Let me illustrate it here: 
Arc1: the bombastic, perseverant, rebellious, never letting his head-down type personalities of Aniki shines through the fonts below. The font is wild and uncontrolled. You can get the idea that Aniki is a great hero but he is a hero of a cult (small in scale than What Simon's become eventually). 
img220(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/d0/46/a2/d046a2b086df6c15f013d4600da12b9d.png)
Arc2: the princess's innocent, loving vibes and bubbliness helped Simon to believe in himself. Her vibes are seen through the fonts below. The font is round and cute with a clear feminine direction. 
img220(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/96/3c/86/963c86649e9320ae662e7c3499251d8b.png)
Arc3: Rossiu's orderliness and the structured government in the futuristic setting can be seen in this font: (It's even strokes are evident)
img220(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/a4/b3/9f/a4b39f1a16dc86437f6ede77c629965e.png)
Arc4: When Simon is finally ready to let his aniki's spirit relive through his actions, when Simon is finally picking up Aniki's mantle and embodies the very spirit that Aniki has in the face of difficulties and challenge, the similar type of font is used as in the first arc but with slight variation which I believe conveys that part of Simon that's different from Aniki. This font is wild, manly and testosterone to the Max just like during the first arc but this is more refined, sophisticated and down-to-earth ish vibe. You think of generals and great heroes when looking at this font. I think this is symbolic of Simon's growth as a leader. He is just like Aniki but he is now the general, representing the human united front against the anti-spiral. 
img220(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/44/20/0a/44200a14fda69f681e0c02112a07169e.png)
These fonts are just part of it. When I saw Kill-a-kill's initial episodes, I was awed by its style. I think I know now where that comes from. 
2. The characters: my favorite from the Anime is definitely Simon and Kamina. How much I wished for an older brother just like Kamina. He truly truly believed in Simon through and through. He encourages Simon and would not hesitate to knock him into his senses when Simon himself doesn't believe in himself. Kamina is authentic, pure, passionate, bombastic, perseverant and never gives up. What moved me to tears during his arc was how much he smiles and never seem fazed in times of great challenge. He was always composed, calm and truly believed in his goal. He was dedicated and he had only one goal and that's all he cared about. He cared about that so much that he would not hesitate to give up his life for his beliefs. He was the embodiment of the fighting spirit. There's no sob story, there's no doubt; there's only one thing that he did: shouting at the top of his lungs and willing to take the fight to the heavens - drill to the heave or as he says. This resolve really really moved me, though in the same way that Naruto never gave up during the first several arcs of Naruto. How much do I wish to become that. 
On Simon's end, he was timid and he was shy. How much he had changed through this entire series. I liked what he had become in the end but what I love the most about him is his down-to-earth actions. He drilled, drilled, and drilled. That's what he did and he did that through and through. I really liked that story where Kamina told about the trio got trapped under the bedrock and it was Simon that took all of them through the challenges. He started to bleieve in himself and what he could achieve and that was really precious. I wish I could have a moment like that where my self-doubts would clear away
Princess is a babe btw.

# __What I am ok or lukewarm with:__
1. World building/story progression: I think the story itself was interesting but nothing I haven't seen elsewhere. It is straight up through and through. The twists and turns didn't feel that surprising and let's be honest, I knew and you knew from the beginning that the heroes will win all the fights. What did shock me was how early Kamina was killed off. I knew he would be killed but just not that early. 
2. Resolutions: I watched on Crunchyroll and its at 480p. The low resolution really couldn't immerse me into the world as much. 
3. Think I watched a lot of other shows that thrived of of its influence that no other elements of the show stood out to me as much. 




Youth, passion, hot blood, perseverance and bros

I want to keep this review spoiler free, as this show needs to be experienced in all of its beauty without any of it being spoiled. 

I've never felt more deeply connected to a show before, which is strange considering that throughout the entirety of the show I really wasn't. You see this show has a way of binding with you when you don't expect it. The seemingly cheesy and cliche undertones of the show start to resonate with you and you become part of Team Dai-Gurren (the main team in which the show revolves around). 
Many people avoid this show as they are put off by mecha type things and don't really care for them. I am here to tell you that this show, although its number one tag may be "Super Robot", is not a mecha show. It is a journey that depicts the growth and potential of humanity through people who find themselves fighting for a tomorrow, neither good or bad. 
I want to be like the people in this show, driven with only the purpose to succeed and never give up no matter the cost. To take the risks necessary to accomplish anything. I know it may seem like I am rambling about everything that this show hit me with but I there is only so much I can say about this show without spoiling anything. 
If anything, when you watch this show (and please don't put this on your plan to watch list...just take a breath and do it), enjoy it in all of its glory. Don't play it in the background when you're doing homework. This show is one of the few gems that you can just watch and marvel in all of it's subtle stupidity. You can look past all of the plot holes because in the end it doesn't matter. No matter where you are in your life, I promise you that this show will definitely impact you in some way. You will find yourself screaming along with the characters when they say their signature lines. You will smile as the saltiness of your tears drip down. You'll be entranced by the subtle brilliance of the soundtrack which deepens the moments with every note. 
You might ask why I put this show at a 99 instead of a perfect One Hundred. Once you watch this show you will probably understand, but to give you a short reason: This show isn't perfect, but who the hell do you think I am to cap this show at only 100? 

There is nothing greater than growing as a person through a show that is all about growth 

img(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/gurennlagann/images/0/0f/1x01.JPG/revision/latest?cb=20180225131228)

You know that feeling of total shock and awe that you get after finishing a really good show or movie? Where you just sit there staring at the screen, unable to process the sheer epicness of what you just saw? Imagine that feeling, but ten times stronger, and you might get a taste of what I felt while watching Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. Every time I finish that final episode, I get this euphoric feeling that lasts for several hours on end, often keeping me up the entire night on pure adrenaline. There isn’t a single day that goes by where I don’t have flashbacks to certain scenes from the show and start getting the chills all over again. Yes, it’s that good.

[__STORY - 9.9/10__](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUhVCoTsBaM)
One of the most common misconceptions of Gurren Lagann I hear is that it’s a simple, mindless show that’s all about over the top fight scenes and cheesy inspirational speeches. And while the show has plenty of those, it has way more than just adrenaline rushes to offer. The story is very well written, following several intertwined character arcs and thematic ideas that all spiral around a very deep and thought provoking central message. The attention to detail is ridiculous, with extended metaphors that can be applied to almost every aspect of the show. On top of that, there are several plot twists and surprises to keep the viewer engaged. The only issue I might have with the story is with a couple episodes near the beginning, which I feel are weaker than the rest of the show, but the last few episodes more than make up for it with my favorite ending of all time.


[__CHARACTERS - 9.8/10__](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUhVCoTsBaM)
The major characters of this show are brilliantly written. Kamina’s bold relentless attitude has its own charm, and Simon “the Digger” has one of the best character arcs I’ve seen in any form of media. Other characters like Yoko, Viral, Rossiu, and Lordgenome all have their own traits and well written arcs throughout the series. While their world is very different from ours, the characters feel very real and relatable through their growth. And of course, the villains are also great, with justified and believable motivations that serve as a near perfect contrast to our protagonists. The only thing I'd knock is that some of the minor supporting characters feel incredibly one-dimensional, but they play a very insignificant role in comparison to the fully fleshed out main cast.

[__ART - 9.7/10__](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUhVCoTsBaM)
The visuals are animation are outstanding in this show, especially when considering that it was made in 2007. The fights are beautifully choreographed and visually appealing with vivid color palettes. The cinematography is some of the best I’ve seen in anime. And there’s plenty of visual symbolism that adds meaning to the story and characters. The art is especially good in the final few episodes, which the creators saved 40% of their budget for. And it shows; those final episodes are some of the most beautiful episodes I’ve ever seen. That final fight, oh my god.

[__SOUND - 9.7/10__](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUhVCoTsBaM)
The show is just as amazing in the audio department. The voice acting is powerful for both the sub and dub versions. In fact, it has one of the best dubs I’ve heard, right alongside Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. But where the sound truly stands out is in the music. There’s a large variety of soundtracks that perfectly capture every scene, whether they’re happy, sad, spine-chilling, or pure hype moments. One track in particular, titled [“Libera Me From Hell”](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VT6LFOIofRE), is the most unique and symbolic soundtrack I’ve ever heard. It plays during some of the best scenes in the entire show, and it makes those scenes that much better.

[__OVERALL ENJOYMENT - 9.8/10__](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUhVCoTsBaM)
Yeah, as you can probably tell by now, I love this show. It’s my favorite piece of fiction across all types of media and storytelling, and I’ve had more fun watching it than anything else. Hell, those last few episodes are probably in the top ten best experiences of my life. The show’s messages have genuinely made a positive impact on my life and how I view the world. And while I don’t expect everyone to enjoy it as much as I do, I think anyone would be doing themselves a huge favor by watching it. So what are you waiting for? Open a new window and experience one of the most epic shows anime has to offer.

Gurren Lagann is some of the most epic, profound, emotional, and powerful entertainment I’ve ever witnessed.

Before this begins I'm going to have to go through a lot of intro for this. Now, Gurren Lagann was the my first stop in watching a bunch of the old anime series that a lot of people claim are classics to see if they still hold up today. That means that I've never watched any of it before when I was younger, and I only watched it after getting about 200 series under my belt so that I can have a good idea of what  the anime/manga landscape is like. Also, I do realize that some claims I will be making are a product of the time that Gurren Lagann was made, but that doesn't take away from the fact that it factors into how people will view it today. Tl'dr on the bottom. So with all that said, let's begin.

------General Plot Overview------

Gurren Lagann is a mecha action series that finds its place atop a lot of people's favorite anime lists both now and when it first aired. It's set in a world where people live underground because some animal things are oppressing them with their mechas, until one brave dude and the cowardly MC break out onto the surface to find a new life. There, they meet new friends, acquire mechas and begin to fight back, all the way until they free humanity in a battle of ever increasing stakes. Now, I like to split the series into three general portions: coward MC phase, sad MC phase and time skip phase. Each of them has a slightly different tone, with the time skip representing the biggest shift in pacing. Now it's here in the pacing where the first problem start to appear. I'll be honest when I say that the first 4 or 5 episodes of the series are very slow and boring. The series only starts to get a little interesting at the start of the sad MC phase, and only becomes a decent show after the time skip. By today's standards, most people would drop a series if they don't like it by the 3rd episode, so having to wait 12 to get to the really good parts is a lot to ask for for a lot of people. 


------Characters and the Negatives------


Next up is the characters, which is an area that I am understandably disappointed in. No one really grows at all in the series besides the MC and maybe like two other characters, but both of those happen only after the time skip. Everyone else is given no time to develop and stay essentially the same from beginning to end, which always makes for a boring show. What's worse is that 70% of the side characters are pretty much all the same character but with reskins. A lot of stuff near the end happens with these characters where the show was trying to be more emotional, but I couldn't help but think that none of the characters deserved it. If I didn't care for them in the beginning, then why would I care for them at the end just because one sad thing happened to them? The most frustrating thing I found though was the role of Yoko in the whole story. She's the third main character we meet and is there for pretty much the whole story, but she does absolutely nothing except act as a way to make other characters more depth (and not even by that much), and she only gets one episode of development the whole way through. Now I said that this was understandable since I never really expected much of the characters in a plot based shounen like this, so take everything I said above as you will.

Some more things I dislike about the show are that a lot of time is wasted on showing flashbacks, recaps and the like, though like I said earlier, it's more of a product of its time than anything. So while at its time it was fine, as an anime viewer today it takes away a lot from the series. Everything else is more of a taste issue I'd say. I didn't find the increasing stakes to be that interesting, and it actually made me less interested in the story than more. I would have been fine with saving humanity and the world, but the fact they had to bring it to the whole universe was a little jarring. Also the mole is just plot armor for when they have no idea what to do. The action also doens't really stand up to anything that we can watch today, and at a lot of points I just thought to myself, "Man, I could be watching another show that does this thing much better than Gurren Lagann." 


------The Positives------


So then is there anything good about the series? Well of course, or else it wouldn't be a classic. Almost everything post time skip is pretty good, with actually interesting plot and characters having to face genuine moral dilemmas. Characters actually grow and change, and the world starts to be more well developed when compared to the first half. There is also a fun vibe to the show, so depending on your tastes you can really enjoy the comedy. Other than that, it's pretty generic overall.


------Summary------


So to sum this whole thing up, do I think Gurren Lagann is a must watch for people who are just starting to watch anime today: no not really. It just feels like an old generic shounen anime with parts of deeper storytelling and character development. With everything out there today, both old and new, I can say that Gurren Lagann doesn't stand out anymore. However, that doesn't mean that its a bad show. It does it's job fine and tells the story it wants to tell. I think I would have enjoyed it a lot more when I was younger and more into shounen than I am now. So I'd say if shounen is not your thing then avoid this one, but if it is, then give it a try. Maybe you'll end up enjoying it.


------Tl;dr------
Cons: 
-Very slow start for 4-5 episodes with it not getting good till the midway point
-Poor character writing where no one changes
-A lot of emotional beats seem undeserved
-A lot of recap and flashbacks
-Other shows do what it does, only better

Pros:
-Really good second half where characters grow and are challenged
-Fun tone that fits well with certain people
-General feel of constantly going to bigger things
-MC gets good overall development over the story

Verdict:
-Don't watch if you don't like shounen a lot

In the current anime landscape it feels too slow and generic to be good

<center>
__NOTE; THIS REVIEW WILL CONTAIN SPOILERS, BE WARNED:__

Even as a show with some problems, Tengen Toppa Gurenn Lagann manages to go beyond what i expected from it, with a really great journey to the end about wanting to fight back against the impossible, with its unique cast of characters and pure raw hype that won't be found in other series.

__The Journey__

Already from the first episode, it is quite clear that the show is not to be taken seriously with its ridiculious molepig section and the unexplained Lagann and the random power-up, but what motivated me to keep going? Well, thats an easy answer; the 2 brothers, Simon and Kamina. There was an inspiring dynamic between the two brothers that compelled me to move forward with it. The little brother Simon, which was weak, pathetic and shy was instantly removed from my mind the moment i saw Kamina for the first time; a confident, stylish young man with a heart of gold. The way Kamina was trying to inspire his little brother with conviction in his voice when Simon found a drill, it already made me understand what kind of journey i was about to head into; One filled with adrenaline, inconceivable logic and some kickass set-pieces.

That is not to say that the show doesn't have deep topics/themes like the loss of your loved ones, goverment policies that goes against your own vision, hope's power against negativity etc. Though, the main theme it explores is __fighting against all odds__, which it does excellently.
img(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/627869101867401239/789988292333797386/unknown.png?width=1197&height=675)
___Drill your way into success.___


 I wanted to see what the manly Kamina would go through, i wanted to see the character development for Simon would be which was teased in the first episode and most importantly; the bright future that was ahead of them. With a mech that was powered by pure feels and adrenaline, a new crewmate which was a perfect addition to the trio, and a fully rich world to explore, it was go time. Simon slowly develops as a character through the theme of giving it all you got no matter, which sounds pretty bad but develops in a way that is beautiful. Kamina's character shines like a bright star throughout the show, aiming to further push Simon forward to become __the drill that will pierce the heavens__. 

img440(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/7b/3a/a2/7b3aa23b16866b7a84c287f90fd6abb6.jpg)
__Never give up.__

Although this might be a criticism to other series, it is definetly the opposite for this show. The reason it works so well into this show compared to Naruto is because of the way it is incorporated; Already from the start, you KNOW you are not supposed to take it super seriously. At its core, it is a story about not giving up till the end and showing how far a great mix of adrenaline, some tenacity and alot of spirit can take a person. In Naruto, the way Naruto Uzumaki changes people by never giving up on changing felt forced, but here, TTGL changes the focus on the person _itself_, which makes it stand out much more. That is not to say that Naruto does it horribly ALL the time, as it also has its strength but the way it is incorporated in TTGL makes it feel much more natural and more interesting to watch.

It also makes it much more fun to watch when you know Simon is about to lose and somehow, he is always triumphant because of his spirit, because of his tenacity, because he believes he is the one that is going to change the world. Even if it comes with a few consequences, be it that his mech gets damaged or one of his comrades gets injured, it just all feels...natural. The more insane the action pieces become, the more hype is generated to the viewer which is reflected on Simon and makes it MUCH more awesome to watch.


img440(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ea/a4/6f/eaa46fff26e4e8215ca888a19919977c.jpg)
__Team Dai Gurren to the rescue.__


As the episodes started rolling forward, so did the amount of characters we got introduced. While ALL of them definetly weren't the most well-written ones, they were the most entertaining ones to watch and all had their own goals to look forward to. What i love about the team is their perseverence to defy the universe with the amount of hurdles they went through toghether, whether it was Viral which had his own plans to destroy the team or going up against Lord Genom himself, they all never backed down against the threat that stood in their way. After all the constant battles and tough decisions they would go through that changed their lives like Rossiu leaving his village, constant battles with Viral that wore them down and finally, the death of Kamina, which hit Simon the worse seemed like the end for them. Although it felt just a taaaaaaad bit corny, i couldn't do anything but be extremly excited for the new Simon that was about to unfold as soon as we got his love interest; Nina Teppelin. With hope and inspiration from her, Simon battled his way to avenge his fallen brother and vowed to honour his legacy all the way to Lord Genome, which he took down with a mighty Drill explosion.

img600(https://overthinkeryblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/05/gurrenlagann-episode17eyecatch_zps497b052f.png?w=640)
__The REAL battle begins now.__

After a quick timeskip, we move forward onto a new capital Simon has built to the memory of his late brother which was named Kamina City. After a brief reintroduction to all the characters, we got to the final plot-point with the truth revealed about Nina. Although i liked it at first, i will definetly criticize it now; Nina really felt like a plot device to move the series forward after Lord Genome's death. It did not hinder my enjoyment of the series, but it definetly felt weird. Although we got some time with her, i would appreciate it if we had spend just a bit more time with her before they used her like that, but it was still alright.

As i said before, the side characters were re-introduced again, with the same personality we same them before the timeskip and lovable as always, although some of them changed, for better or worse, it all depends on how you look at it, which i think was a great thing.

img440(https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/627869101867401239/790017218037153792/e63566de53ec0bfa34a5c0b81aaa22a0.gif) 

After the reveal of Nina's true self, the series really expands on its idea of escalating its plot arcs. From going to decently large robots to mechas in the size of giant universes, it all felt believable with the amount of times the theme of the series was ingrained greatly into the viewers mind; Everything was possible in the world of Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. 

With the last few episodes of the show, we were getting to the climax; the final battle against the Anti-Spiral, which felt like a tough journey for Simon to pull through but with the help of his friends, the growth he has gone through as a character with the amount of tragedies, defeats and losses he has endured, it all felt very satisfying when opening played in the background as the final hit against Anti-Spiral was deployed.

img440(https://static.zerochan.net/Tengen.Toppa.Gurren-Lagann.full.316700.jpg)
__Artstyle and music sets a great atmosphere.__

The vibrant colour usage and the boldlines, the design of the characters which match the insanity that can happen sets a great atmosphere for what is about to happen. The design of the mechs later really are great and each character is unique to one another. The one thing i also love are the eyecatches in each episode, which all were very pleasing to look at and hope that more animes do the same!

It also very tough to bring up atmosphere without talking about the music. The music in the show is super great with the weird combination of violin, opra and....rap? It might sound weird but i promise you, after you take a listen to this song, you will understand exactly what i mean.

youtube(https://youtu.be/VT6LFOIofRE) 

img600(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/YxvZdnS6aw4/maxresdefault.jpg)

___Verdict:___

All in all, Tengen Toppa Guren Lagann is genuinly one experience i won't forget. As much as i love series that dwelve on being deep stories and themes that keep me up at night thinking, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is a testament on how meaningful a series can be without it trying to be deep. Even with some problems like animation quality in the first few episodes and Nina feeling like a plot-device, i would still go out of my way to reccomend this show to anyone willing to give in to the sheer hype the series can produce. Although this is my opinion, i truly believe it is probably my favorite opening of all time, with how upbeat it is and how it fits the main theme perfectly. Combine it with the fact that the OST is a straight up banger after banger, this is a journey that i am more then willing to rewatch any time of the week. 

And remember; __Don't believe in yourself, believe in the Kamina that believes in you.__

Push forward till you break through the vault of heaven.

Gurren Lagann n'est pas un anime de mecha.

Gurren Lagann est un anime qui explose le genre même. Que dis je, il l'atomise, expérimente tout ce qui est possible autour de ce genre, en extirpe chaque variable imaginable et les applique dans l'histoire que je vais vous narrer.

Tout part d'une histoire qui pourrait sembler classique: une humanité mise sous terre de force, obligé de vivre sous la tyrannie d'un certain Lord Génome, dans un environnement post apocalyptique. Simon, foreur dans son village, découvre enterré depuis des siècles un immense pouvoir : celui de la vrille. Accompagné de son frère Kamina et d'une tireuse hors pair nommée Yuko, il va mettre fin à ce règne de terreur en usant de son pouvoir nouvellement acquis.

Je n'en révèle que très peu sur l'immense fresque que va essayer de vous narrer Gurren Lagann, mais croyez moi que vous êtes loin de vous attendre au quart de ce que cet anime a à vous faire découvrir en 27 épisodes. 

Gurren Lagann pousse son concept loin. Très loin. Vraiment très loin. En fait, à chaque fois qu'on crois que ce jeu de la surenchère est proche de s'essouffler, Gainax trouve un moyen de pousser les limites encore plus loin. Dans cette course à la surenchère et au "toujours plus gros, toujours plus fort", on découvre une palette de personnages variés et touchants, tous unis par le lien puissant de la brigade Gurren Lagann. Les chara designs de chaque personnage sont uniques, suffisamment détaillé pour les identifier et les apprécier, mais pas trop pour pouvoir savourer une animation fluide ! 

Cette recherche permanente d'aller toujours plus loin dans l'annihilation du genre mecha nous amène, spectateur, à en prendre plein les yeux en permanence, à s'émerveiller devant chaque plan tant le soin apporté et la passion mise à l'œuvre est importante.

Certaines scènes m'ont fait lâcher des larmes, car au delà de la beauté plastique des dites scènes, j'y vois le travail passionnel de personnes qui ont tout donné pour que moi, spectateur lambda, je puisse profiter de ce chef d'œuvre. User du mot chef d'œuvre n'est pas sans risque ici, car je vous garantis donc que l'anime en question est absolument parfait en tout point. Et bien, je vous le dis et le redis, je n'ai jamais vu un chef d'œuvre pareil. Animation, musique, personnages, messages véhiculés, VF démentiel au niveau de Kill la Kill etc... 

La musique, mélangeant par moment de l'opéra et du hip hop, accompagne avec une puissance décuplée des combats d'une dimension que même l'œil humain ne peut appréhender. On assiste à des combats qui finissent par dépasser les lois physiques, universels et même l'existence même, c'est vous dire !

Mais toute cette surenchère, tout ce ballet stellaire esthétique vaut il vraiment le détour, si il ne possédait pas de doux messages digne des meilleurs shonen ?

Ici, il est question du dépassement de soi, mais aussi d'accepter la perte d'un être cher, de savoir s'affranchir des limites qu'on se pose, de savoir déjouer la fatalité, de croire en l'humain malgré ses mauvais côtés, de comprendre quel juste milieu trouver dans ce qu'on est prêt à faire pour soumettre son opinion aux autres....

Tout ces messages ne datent pas d'hier, pourtant avec Gurren Lagann, ils semblent s'être offert un dépoussiérage et nous frappent en plein visage à chaque scène forte. On croit au profond message optimiste que véhicule cet anime du début jusqu'à la fin, et quand vient le moment des adieux, on pleure.

On pleure car on a l'impression qu'une nouvelle page d'une histoire s'ouvre sous nos yeux, mais que l'on ne pourra jamais y assister. On pleure car on entre dans la phase de rupture avec un univers qu'on a vu éclore au premier épisode. 

Cette rupture avec un univers, on la ressent encore une fois de plein fouet, et alors on se demande si l'on va réussir à tourner la page.... 

Dans ces moments là me reviens alors à l'esprit ces mots qu'un grand sage disait toujours : Si tu ne crois pas en toi, Alors, crois en moi! Crois en moi, car je crois en toi!.

Gurren Lagann n'est pas un anime de mecha

Primeiramente, irei falar da minha experiência e perspectiva com o show Gurren Lagann mostrarei minha percepção, após assistir cada minuto dessa obra sobre como eu vejo toda as questões humanas que a obra trabalha. 
- Antes de começar a revisão queria me deixar minha lamentações por esse grande estúdio que é a Gainax que entrou em declínio infelizmente por várias questões mas entregou obras fenomenais deixando sua marca.
~~~img220(https://i.pinimg.com/236x/5b/9b/bc/5b9bbc9095f2311ba6ce0db0649706ae.jpg)~~~

A Jornada que o anime mostra do começo ao fim que abusa da filosofia entre "Desespero e Esperança" como seu ponto chave para funcionar incluindo o azul e vermelho para representa esses duas coisa. Ao passo de Kamina e Simon que transmitem explicitamente esses sentimentos ao decorrer da tela, são aqueles que mudam a perspectiva da Humanidade a ter fé e esperança a cada personagem que aparecia eles eram guiado por essas crises e crenças.

>Para encontrar a esperança é necessário ir além do desespero. Quando chegamos ao fim da noite, encontramos a aurora. 
~~~img220(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/f3/b3/12/f3b312a8a38e01b23474629eb406f8fe.jpg)~~~

A Brigada Gurren Lagann, nos ensina muitas coisas a cada momento de desesperança que temos pode ser o caminho para achamos a luz no fim de nossa escuridão, todos nossas crises, medos, desejos, o caminho que percorremos é cheio de obstáculos isso que faz nós seres humanos fascinantes msm com tudo isso ao nosso caminho continuamos em frente a cada experiência preenchemos o nosso vazio. Fomos dado o Amor e essa vontade incansável de lutar por nossos sonhos os nosso erros sempre iremos guarda-los, é isso que faz nos sermos melhores amanhã a cada dia de nossas vidas só depende de nós agarrarmos e vemos nossa virtudes msm sendo diferentes, podemos mudar o mundo e a visão de outras pessoas com pequenas coisas isso está em nossa Alma.
~~~img220(https://i.pinimg.com/236x/ac/21/98/ac2198803ef7130d444633d6c0d4200d.jpg)~~~

Se pode está se perguntando esse Anime é Perfeito? Eu digo que quase pela sua mensagem muito forte que conduz a trama e os personagens até o fim com um ritmo sensacional e música que fazem vc saltar da sua cadeira. Sim, tem erros no roteiro mas vc fica cego automaticamente quando cria um laço e entende oq o anime quer passar e só senti a experiência.
~~~img220(https://i.pinimg.com/236x/f7/5b/bd/f75bbd543a1ac85dc1bfa88b7de3103f.jpg)~~~


Conclusão:
Tengenn Toppa Gurren Lagann, tem um das jornadas mais inesquecíveis do animes, pelo seu modo ser único e forma isso não só nos seus principais mas em todo Elenco. Que é guiado espetacularmente por um desejo por Esperança de ser Humano, por esperança de montar um futuro para as gerações futuras.
"ROW ROW FIGHT THE POWER"
~~~img220(https://i.pinimg.com/236x/83/29/54/8329541f735c6e262c8e48c12829d431.jpg)~~~

I honestly don't even know where to start when it comes to talking about how incredible Gurren Lagann is as an anime. By this point, most of you have probably already seen the show, but if you haven't yet, this is where I tell you to stop reading this review and go watch it, as this review will have both literal spoilers and could also spoil the feel of the show for you. This review will quite literally cover one of the most important plot points in unmarked spoilers, so you've been warned. Seriously, it's worth every minute of watching.

Releasing in Spring 2007, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann was immediately and incredibly well received, reaching the number one spot of the season and number two spot of the year in terms of popularity. The only anime more popular in 2007 than GL would become one of the industry's most well known titles: Naruto. Needless to say, it was solidly cemented in the industry almost immediately for its incredible character design (both visually and emotionally), beautiful storytelling, and the absolute way it plays on your emotions.

The show plays an amazing balancing act between giving you incredible comedy through the bright and enthusiastic cast of characters and the absolutely soul-crushing grief of loss, pain, and hopelessness. The characters themselves have an organic chemistry that I've yet to see done as well in any other show, anime or otherwise, and you can feel the pain, the joy, the life that these characters live through. Every step forward feels like a straight up adrenaline shot to the skull, and every step back a gut-wrenching blast to the stomach.

My absolute favorite of these moments is split across the two "seasons" of the show. Early in the show's runtime, Simon, Kamina, and the gang are all fighting several beastmen and a giant gunman they control. Simon is tasked with using Lagann to take over the ship, but after seeing Kamina and Yoko (who he'd been developing feelings for) kiss the previous night, his heartbreak prevents him from using his fighting spirit to do so. Kamina, seeing Simon struggling, charges onto the ship and punches him in the jaw, shouting at him to "grit those teeth" and going on to tell him about how he's always going to be there to knock some sense into him when he needs it. This gives Simon the willpower to take over the ship and effectively save the day.

Shortly following the fight, Kamina is struck down and killed. The grief and destruction to Simon and the rest of the crew is immediate and all-encompassing, and for a while it seems like Simon may never get out of it, that he might become another Shinji-style character full of loss and grief. Which makes it all the more heartfelt when he first pilots Lagann again, and the various expressions of the crew around him is an image I'll never forget.

But this isn't where this moment ends. In the second half of the show, we skip forward in time after killing the Spiral King, the antagonist of the first half. Rossiau, one of the GL crew, currently leads the city they've built with Simon being a figurehead of sorts. Fulfilling the prophecy of the Spiral King, the Anti-Spiral attack the city, causing Rossiau to blame Simon and throw him in jail. Rossiau's new iron-fist rule doesn't do anything to stop the Anti-Spiral and alienates him from all his friends, leaving him incredibly depressed. In a moment of grief, Rossiau tries to end his life, only to have Simon quite literally leap in and punch him square in the jaw. The beauty of that moment and the realization that Simon had become the person he looked up to is a moment I'll never be able to forget.

Gurren Lagann will probably be my favorite show, and possibly my favorite piece of media, for as long as I live. It is the closest thing to a perfect piece of media I've ever encountered, and I cannot give a greater recommendation than this.

Let's see you grit those teeth.

Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is an amazing show, I love it to death, it’s the journey about one man who does not know his fate yet in the beginning but then turns into one where he is fighting his fate or destiny to protect the ones he cares about. Before diving into the reasons, the “review” will contain spoilers so yeah. 

Burst through the heavens with your drill
The story begins with one person, our main protagonist Simon, in the few minutes that follow once you start playing the first episode, this “main” character comes off as a shy, not so confident kid who digs tunnels in Giha village for a living, the spotlight is then shifted towards his “aniki” Kamina who is everything that Simon isn’t. He is brash, speaks his mind, charismatic but more importantly he is confident, very confident (which we will know soon), through his time digging Simon stumbles across a a gunmen which Kamina appropriately names Lagann later on, after an escape attempt gone wrong a massive mecha like thing (known as a gunmen), falls through the roof of Giha Village and here we meet the shows third protagonist Yoko Littner, she is the waifu I would say of the show, a not so showing off tsundere. Kamina later steals a gunmen and appropriately names it Gurren from here on we follow our three main protagonists as they make new friends defeating beastmen, stealing their gunmens, slowly but surely making their way to the capital Teppelin to defeat the Spiral King and reclaim the earth where everyone can live under a limitless sky.

Later, Buddy
If only it were that easy. I still remember the siege of the dai-gunzan and thinking there was no way that the newly formed team dai-gurren could lose against these guys, I mean we have seen Kamina being confident and charismatic and making iconic quotes all throughout the first nine episodes of this show, like a main character should. I loved watching Team Dai-Gurren come together and Kamina was at the center of it, a strong mentor type figure, someone who is always there for you, someone who you can rely on, someone who all the other characters trust and put their faith in for them to siege dai-gunzan, hell even Yoko admits to Kamina that she likes him just before the big battle goes down. But all of that gets taken away from us the audience and more importantly from Team Dai-Gurren.

Kamina’s demise to say it hard would be an understatement, I couldn’t watch more because he was the glue that held the team together, how were we suppose to get through the entire show now, to be honest I almost dropped the show because this character had already established himself as one of my favorites of all time. But then you look at the members to Team Dai-Gurren and seeing them in despair is hard enough but then you look towards Simon and somehow what Simon was feeling at that time was very similar if not the same to what I was feeling. Shortly after his death it is revealed that reason for Kamina’s confidence was Simon, he also says one of the best lines from this series to Simon so that he isn’t lost after he is gone which is, “Listen Simon don’t forget. Believe in yourself. Not you who believes in me. Not the me who believes in you but believe in the you who believes in yourself!” That first Giga Drill Break hits different now looking back on the series, He truly was one of the best mentor type characters, One hell of a man. 

I will head towards tomorrow
Following episode 9 we have a very I would say apart Team Dai-Gurren (as expected). Everyone is grieving the loss of their leader but the one taking it the worst is Simon, soon after he finds a young girl by the name of Nia Teppelin. I would say she is not a stand in for Kamina but someone who Simon needed the most because of the things he was going through, Nia’s addition to the team was very I don’t know it just felt right, finally seeing someone other than Kamina that Simon could be himself and this starts to change him and it feels right. As someone who can sympathize with Simon I liked this change that was beginning to take place. Fueled by Spiral Power Simon now becomes the new leader of Team Dai-Gurren. I think one of the quotes given by Simon himself during one of the generals is the best way to describe, “My Bro is dead, He is gone. But he is on my back! In my heart! He lives on as a part of me!” this line is so damn powerful, this speech assures you that Simon isn’t some replacement for Kamina, he is his own person and one portion of Kamina will always be with him. This new gained confidence helped Team Dai-Gurren emerge victorious in the battle of Teppelin, and finally overthrow the spiral king to reclaim the Earth where each and every person would not be limited by a celling over their heads, instead they would have a limitless sky with all the lights in the night skies as stars.

You are someone who ought to survive
In the aftermath of the Battle of Teppelin we have two characters take center stage which are Simon and Rossiu. Kamina city is established with you guessed it none other than Simon being the Supreme Commander and Rossiu being left as the chief advisor to the Simon. Everyone has changed to some extent, the most noticeable of these changes is Simon, throwing away his shy and introverted personality to a confident and confident young man, his character growth is phenomenal, I would have never thought that the kid from episode one or even the Simon who met Nia all those years ago would ask her to marry him and as I said all character growth in this show feels just right. But peace can’t last in the episodes that follow the “Human Extermiantion System” is activated causing massive amounts of distress and tension between the residents of Kamina city and Simon, just like Lordgenome predicted. Shifting the spotlight from Simon for a bit toward Rossiu, as someone who came from similar circumstances as Simon and someone who was there when Lordgenome gave out his warning, he is just doing what he thinks is right, sure he might act a bit douchey but deep down he is protecting the same thing that Simon is. In an attempt to save humanity Rossiu imprisons Simon and takes Arc-Gurren as the last hope for the survival of humanity. In the end he is saved by Simon and Team Dai-Gurren. With rescuing Nia their top priority Team Dai-Gurren set out to fight the anti-spiral 

Let’s Go, Buddy!
The final battle of this show is one of the if not the best fight I have seen in anime. The final battle against the anti-spiral is something that even my review no matter how terrible/mediocre it is could never encapsulate. A small sentence to even describe it would be, Local man literally fights god to save his waifu. And as absurd and over the top it sounds it does not even begin to put forward the emotions I felt during the last few episodes. Kamina and Simon’s reunion although being short is just perfect. After reading this, do yourselves a solid favour and rewatch that final fight, Gianax put everything they had into it and it shows. The epilogue is bittersweet to say the least but I think it fits Gurren Lagann perfectly, especially for Simon but everything will be fine as he said, “The lights in the sky are stars where our spiral friends are waiting”.

The Lights In The Sky Are Stars
Simon and Kamina form the backbone of an already strong cast of characters. Together they did some pretty impossible things throughout the show but the one who made the most impact on me was Simon seeing this introverted kid develop into someone who can literally get into a fist fight against a literal “god” is something really special.


I am really glad I got to experience the TV show and the movies as well, I know its cliché to say this but this series is amazing, It is my favourite anime of all time and will be for a long time, its characters are the best I have seen in any anime so far, the soundtrack the OPs and EDs are something which I listen to everyday and the emotions behind each "Giga Drill Break" behind each "Who the hell do you think I am?" or simply Kamina's iconic line of "Don't believe in yourself, believe in the me that believes in you" is something which will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Thank You to everyone who made Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, its an experience I won't forget.

Kick Logic to the Curb and do the Impossible

_Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann_ first aired in 2007, one of many works by the famous animation studio Gainax - however, many of the people who worked on the show would some years later move on to form Trigger Inc., a studio which very much holds true to the animation styles and humour found in Gurren Lagann, and which would later acquire the rights to the show as well - so, for all intents and purposes, if you've yet to see the show, it's functionally a Trigger production.  

Gurren Lagann follows the story of Simon, a young boy from Giha village as he comes to realise and then struggles against his own destiny.  Accompanying him throughout different stretches of his journey are a wide host of vibrant and unique characters, each with their own perspectives and aspirations.  I'd delve further into the plot details, but I want to keep this review spoiler free - and having just re-watched the series, I think not knowing how things will develop is really important for a first-time watch, and so I want to keep the plot untainted for those reading ahead of viewing.  

The first time I watched Gurren Lagann, way back in the months shortly following its release, the series in its culmination blew me away so ferociously that I couldn't bring myself to watch another anime for a whole quarter of a year thereafter  - and bearing in mind this was in late '07 or early '08, when I had only just begun to discover anime and manga, this was quite the achievement.  In the years since, we've had some exceptionally good anime follow in the footsteps of shows like Gurren Lagann, but at the time Gurren Lagann defined what I was looking for in anime.  

The context there is obviously that I was a young boy approaching my teens, and Gurren Lagann is a story of the journey between boyhood and manhood, amongst other things.  It's wildly fantastical and conceptually bizarre, for sure, but ultimately it's about grit, determination, doing what needs to be done, and not giving up - it's like any shonen, except the talk-no-jutsu is replaced with motivation-no-monologue, and it works.  There are a number of things in the show which honestly make no sense whatsoever (even to the characters in said show), but if you can go in to watching Gurren Lagann with the ability to suspend your disbelief, then I can only imagine that you'll have a great time watching it.  

Gurren Lagann certainly isn't the most technically-proficient anime you'll ever watch, but that's not what most people love about Studio Trigger works - the vibrant and immersive art direction, the moments of intense sakuga, and the powerful storytelling - these are the things you'll find in Gurren Lagann.  Obviously, there's not so much sakuga in Episode 4 (a guest animation director with a very... polarising art style was brought on for that episode), but that visual bump at the start of the ride pales in comparison to its peaks.  And animation isn't the only place that Gurren Lagann shines - particularly, the voice acting helps to bring the very much animated cast of Gurren Lagann to life, and the sound design and musical direction of the show set the tone of each sequence superbly.  

I can't promise that Gurren Lagann is going to be a show for everyone, it certainly isn't - and it definitely can't be called the most technically proficient work of animation, but it tells a story and conveys emotions that surpass these quantifications as much as the characters themselves are forced to surpass their limits and pierce the heavens.  There's no fair way to score Gurren Lagann, you'll probably either love it or not particularly care for it, but I'm electing to give it a 96 here to reflect how I feel completing the show for a second time.

A technical breakdown of this anime wouldn't do it any justice.  

~~~theres spoilers you shouldnt be here if you havent watched the show~~~
___

~~~At a young age, you’re curious about everything. But as you get older and older, you start to encounter more and more problems that you don’t know how to deal with. But there’s going to be someone who believes and trusts you to get through it. Someone will have your back even if it seems impossible. 

img(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/767809225069166654/894233469310341220/unknown.png)~~~
___

The worst possible thing for a teenager to learn is how the world works and the issues that come with it. Simon from Gurren Lagann is a prime example in his town, caved and away from any society on the surface. He’s timid, worries, and is a wimp that doesn’t know what he wants besides to be someone dependable like his big brother, Kamina. Kamina..is loud, somewhat scummy, but he captures and entices everyone in the town with his charisma, coolness and with how honest he is to everyone about how feels. He’s someone people can rely on under a tough and messy situation and make everyone calm and focused. He’s something Simon isn’t. But Simon believes he has a chance when he discovers a small mech with a drill. 

After they meet Yoko and leave the town, the next six or seven episodes are spent with us learning and seeing what the grand goal of the people on the surface is and what they’re doing to stop the big bads. Whether it’s meeting and facing the fiend and anti-hero of the show Viral and having Kamina take his mech as his own, or getting a harem hotel spa only for it to be a trap, Gurren Lagann is a fun and awesome show. But at the centre of it, Kamina stands tall and he gradually becomes one of the best leaders in the world, having a team that could possibly rival the main bad, Lordgenome. As Kamina is getting bigger and bigger however, Simon realises that..he’s still Simon. He hasn’t gained or lost anything. He’s still him. Whereas everyone has faith in Kamina, there isn’t anyone for Simon. Except for Kamina. 

___
Just because he’s great at motivating people, just because he’s great at helping others, he’s still human. He needs people to live his best life. That’s why he cares about Simon so much and constantly tries to make him better. He needs Simon. He’s a man of great skill and power, and he knows that in order to have a fun and awesome life, he needs to have people who feel the same way about him.


During the “final” battle, Kamina is critically injured. There’s nothing he can do to save himself. There’s no way he will live. Kamina will die. And he knows that, he doesn’t say or do anything to try and protect himself. Instead, he educates Simon on life by combining his mech with his Simon’s one last time for Gurren Lagann.

“Listen, Simon. Don’t forget. Believe in yourself. Not in the you who believes in me. Not in the me who believes in you. Believe in the you who believes in yourself.” 

You can follow something forever, but is that what you really want? Don’t you want to follow yourself and realise what else you’re capable of? 


What makes Kamina’s death so important is that up until that point, the entire show has been a fun and epic adventure with Kamina motivating everyone and saving the day as someone people can look up to.

___

I knew Kamina was going to die yet I was still baffled. For the next three days, I couldn’t believe it happened. Yet, it makes sense why he had to die. Kamina was a symbol of hope for people because of how confident he was, he was a perfect figure. No flaws, no problems, just perfection. His death causes the tone of the show to change and the cast feels different, but mainly, Simon. He lost a brother who taught him everything and doesn’t have anyone to look up to. He doesn’t know what to do anymore. But he finds a girl, Nia, who is the daughter of Lordgenome, the villain of the show. Nia doesn’t agree with what her father is doing, but she doesn’t have anyone to look up to. She and Simon share similar discussions and Simon feels like he needs to protect her. Not because she’s pretty, not because this is what Kamina would want, but because he doesn’t want someone who’s also lost to be pushed to despair.

With her involvement and everyone who had some sort of connection to Kamina, the show goes through a strong change that doesn’t feel unnatural and that’s what makes it so good. Yoko becomes a teacher to educate people on life, Viral becomes someone who wants to liberate others, and Simon becomes the bigger man and someone who goes above and beyond to do the right thing.

___

With Kamina’s death, Gurren Lagann does some risky things that I see a lot of modern anime struggle with and stops them from being something higher than an 8/10. Gurren Lagann takes this risk and sees it through the end that affects every single character whether their a side or a main one. 

This show has aged so well and even though it has epic fights, music, characters, the best thing it does is with how it tells its story. If for whatever reason you haven’t watched the show (which you shouldn’t be reading this analysis if you haven’t), please do, even if it’s just for Kamina. Maybe even rewatch it. Whatever the case, it’s some of the most fun I’ve had with an anime while also helping the viewer learn some great things.

~~~Do the impossible to do some great things.
img(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/767809225069166654/894227483677843508/unknown.png)~~~

#<center><a>___Before we start with the review, I should clarify that this is my first review not only on this site, but it would also be my first serious review, so if you find any errors, please note the above.___</a>

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<center>__A few years ago I decided to watch the well-known and acclaimed Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, however I didn't get very far, I only saw the first episode and since then I haven't gone any further. About a year ago I decided to skip the first episode, I got to episode 5 and from there I didn't continue with the series. A month ago I decided to really experience this series, and you don't know how happy I am that I made that decision.__

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img(https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fthumbs.gfycat.com%2FPalatableAjarAfricanelephant-max-1mb.gif&f=1&nofb=1)

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<center><a>__¿How will this review work?__</a>


__Since this is my first review, I will mention the system I will be using from now on when writing them. 
This review will be divided into the following categories: story/plot, art (drawing, animation), music, characters and finally the conclusion and score. 
Now, shall we start?__

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<center> __<a>Story</a>__

__Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann might seem like a pretty simple show at first, and indeed, it is. TTGL doesn't have the most complex story in the world and it doesn't try to have it either, it doesn't need to look like shows like Shingeki no Kyojin (I'm not saying Shingeki is bad for this, please don't take it that way) because TTGL follows formulas that we all know, the so famous "cliches". The reason clichés have their reputation is because they are common; very, very common, so much so that they have reached the point of being hated, however the problem lies in knowing how not to use them correctly. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann manages to build its world simply, but well executed. If you're just starting the series, you might not agree with me, and hey, I get it, I felt the same way. Not everything just happens, there is a reason for each event, it is not a script hole that only exists to benefit the plot and make it continue. There are moments when the plot thickens, and if there's one thing I love about a series, it's that it strives to make its world feel like something that could actually exist. Most of the episodes stand out for their fast-paced action and that, that's the essence of TTGL, what makes it what it is, but it's not just action, the characters have their development, we see them suffer, we see them have hope, we see them fall apart, there is death, sacrifices and much more. Before you know it in each fight scene you will be in front of the screen with excitement. The music, animation and drawing only add to this excitement and the more you experience it, the more you will love this series. But if I have to say something, it is that Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann teaches a very valuable lesson throughout its history, which is: "don't give up" no matter how difficult it is, no matter how impossible it seems, keep fighting until the impossible is possible.__

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img(https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwallup.net%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2018%2F09%2F26%2F179457-Tengen_Toppa_Gurren_Lagann.jpg&f=1&nofb=1)

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<center>__<a>Art</a> __

__This was where I was really surprised. I had heard and seen a scene from the last chapters in which the animation and drawing were incredible in all aspects, I came to think that a lot of budget had been spent on this specific scene, however it was not. From chapter 1 the quality of the series is noticeable, the animation and drawing are maintained during almost the entire series at a very, very high quality peak, except in episode 4 and 6 (if I'm not mistaken) in which there are a drop in quality in character design. 
If you want an example, here they are (these two are from the first episode so please make sure you watch it first):__

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~!img(https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fvignette2.wikia.nocookie.net%2Fgurennlagann%2Fimages%2F0%2F0f%2F1x01.JPG%2Frevision%2Flatest%3Fcb%3D20090812155002&f=1&nofb=1)!~



~!youtube(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D542VtuCGX4&ab_channel=Psyco)!~

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<center> __<a>Music</a>__
__TTTGL's soundtrack is amazing, it's not like most anime that doesn't strive to be unique, in other words, it's not generic. These days the Attack on Titan soundtrack is praised a lot, and yes, I'm not going to deny it, the Shingeki soundtrack makes it much more epic than it already is, something similar happens with Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. I think the perfect example is "libera me from hell" the perfect combination between rap and opera, this song is only used twice in the series (if we don't count the variations) and thanks to that and other factors I consider those two episodes in the which is used from the best episodes of the entire anime industry. Another example would be "To Hell with Gattai!!" which also stands out a lot, and the fact that it is not very concurrent in the series only makes it better.__

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~!youtube(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VT6LFOIofRE&ab_channel=Paladin65536)!~

~!youtube(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJo_3B5-1uk&t=8s&ab_channel=Sekiryuutei)!~

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<center> __<a>Characters</a>__

__The main characters receive their due development, we see them reflect, we see them experience many things, some of which we don't have to hear coming from their mouths to understand them. Both Simon, Kamina, Yoko, Nia, Rossiu, Kittan and Viral receive constant development throughout the series, depending on the importance of each character, some will stand out more and more. However, if there is something that I would like TTGL to have done better, it is the development of some secondary characters, I do not ask for much, it was only enough with one or two episodes to get to know the new characters a little more, that's all, however, Although I say this, there are times when secondary characters do have their moment, the problem here is that you don't feel a connection as if you do with the others.__

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<center> __<a>Conclusion</a>__

__In my opinion this is an anime that everyone who enters this community must experience sooner or later. Very few have been able to touch me as much as Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann did. __

__If you haven't seen Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, please give it a try right now or when you have time, believe me you won't regret it. Excellent character development, a story that will keep you glued to the screen from very early on, visuals that will continue to amaze you until the end, and a truly unique soundtrack. All this is what TTGL can give you, but don't pay much attention to me, go and experience it on your own, only then you will be able to see in full detail how good and unique Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is.__

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img(https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bateszi.me%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2007%2F10%2Fvlcsnap-1877300.jpg&f=1&nofb=1)

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The anime that made me feel like a kid again.

<center>https://anilist.co/anime/2001/Gurren-Lagann/
<hr></center>

This is probably the most purest shounen experience I had in Anime. I'm going to say this now, if you want some complex characters or a well structured story, this is not for you. The reason I said "Pure Shounen" is because "Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagaan" has all the elements that screams teen energy from it's story, characters, world, dialogue, animation, music and pretty much everything a teenager wants from grand adventure-like story and this Anime delivers and even exceeds in that regard.

#<center><a>WHO THE HELL DO YOU THINK WE ARE!?</a>
I don't think it won't be an exaggeration when I said that [Kamina](https://anilist.co/character/2075/Kamina) carries the entire show. "Kamina" is like broest of the bros, the manliest of the man and while I'm getting embarrassment writing lines as cheesy as these, I can't really describe him in any other way. He's like a role model for how to make a cool character despite being constrained to only cliches. There isn't anything unique about the way Kamina is written but what makes Kamina so special is not about him, but how you can see him everywhere and in everyone in the show. There are a lot of one dimensional, one note or 'whatever you wanna call the type of characters that make you lose interest in them' here, but these are never shallow characters and that's because they carry Kamina in them which defines everyone in this Anime. The creators did a really great job at making a man that can carry the whole show.
[Simon](https://anilist.co/character/2257/Simon) is the character who we follow the journey of, and you're gonna see every phase in his life. One of the things I like about this Anime, is how complete it made this character's life story. But one thing that kinda bothered me is how the Anime forgot to mention his dead parents in later episodes. It's a big moment in his life yet you won't even see how they died, they just show glimpses about in early episodes, but I guess, finding a parent figure made him forgot his own parents... I don't really buy that but whatever.
You can take one look at [Yoko](https://anilist.co/character/2063/Youko-Littner) character design (or any other woman for that regard) and tell what's her purpose, fan service and plot convenience. Though the plot tried to shove some light on her but didn't really worked. I personally don't like fan service and...
OH C'MON! What kind of a man you are if you can't say "YES!" to tits? (*Kamina, probably*)
....... Well, you heard the man. It doesn't bother the enjoyment that much tho. So, if you're a man then stop complaining about this here.
<center>img(https://i.imgur.com/RcGOPCF.jpeg)
*... I'll excuse myself*</center>
[Nia](https://anilist.co/character/2761/Nia-Teppelin) comes into the play mid through who plays a critical role in the story but her characterization is as basic as everyone else. [Rossiu](https://anilist.co/character/2377/Rossiu-Adai) becomes kinda interesting down the road but at the end, he's still not a main character he so desperately tried to become. And the rest of the cast are mostly there to fill the room. But personally I liked the trigger happy [Artenborough Cortich](https://anilist.co/character/10358/Artenborough-Cortich). He's the kinda guy who pushes every red button and I kinda liked that trait.
#<center><a>DRILL THROUGH HEAVEN!!!</a>
The plot is a mess, disastrous, stupidly amazing, absurd, funny, so full of cliches & a few metaphors yet it never really bores you. For the first few episodes I kinda thought how conveniently they use willpower as a solution to everything (though it wraps up a bit later) but after seeing how the Anime doesn't even care about it holes and just goes along with it, I kinda stopped caring about it too, I kinda didn't saw a point in pondering what it severely lacks but started taking whatever it throws at me and for the most part, it's just willpower, an overly blown world (& tits). I'm kinda amazed how the creators overbuilt the world like it starts in some pit underground and somehow reaches to space-time quantum physics.
Just don't care about it too much. Follow their journey and it kinda warps itself when the exposition comes in.
#<center><a>RO~ RO~ FIGHT DA POWAA~</a>
<center>Ro~
Ro~
Fight Da Powaa~
*I've said enough.*</center>
#<center><a>BLASTING BY YOUR EYES!!!</a></center>
I prefer action in Anime to be either fluid & smooth like the swords fights in [Sword of the Stranger](https://anilist.co/anime/2418/Sword-of-the-Stranger/), well choreographed fights like in [Samurai Champloo](https://anilist.co/anime/205/Samurai-Champloo/) or just a brawl hand-2-hand combat like "Gon vs Hisoka" in [Hunter X Hunter](https://anilist.co/anime/11061/Hunter-x-Hunter-2011/), "Kogami vs Makishima" in [PSYCHO PASS](https://anilist.co/anime/13601/PSYCHOPASS/) or like just any fight in [Katanagatari](https://anilist.co/anime/6594/Katanagatari/). Gurren Lagaan is neither of these but why I think Gurren Lagaan's action is great, is because how it enhances what every action sequence should have.
##<center>**THE IMPACT**
<center>img(https://i.imgur.com/6MIUhvo.gif)

img(https://i.imgur.com/7y7nB8x.gif)

img(https://i.imgur.com/sbgagzN.gif)</center>
Every gunshot, every drill and every punch packs an immense amount of impact and power that just makes you feel the whole intensity. While I don't prefer bombastic action, given the show is about willpower I think making the action as bombastic as possible, really goes well with that theme and teenage energy and screaming. But the action I really liked isn't any of those, but these.
<center>img(https://i.imgur.com/gmWES2R.gif)

img(https://i.imgur.com/aPisarG.gif)

img(https://i.imgur.com/MdmQvvJ.gif)</center>
These character expressions & postures are what sold me to this action. The action here is not about blowing or punching or drilling, but just showing pure emotional energy with high intensity and raw impact. The line animation and lighting did a great job at bringing that raw emotion in these scenes and I love them. You can really feel their scream on your face. Props to [Imaishi](https://anilist.co/staff/97349/Hiroyuki-Imaishi) (Gonna check [Kill la Kill](https://anilist.co/anime/18679/Kill-la-Kill/) next).
While it really excels at action, other times it just kinda...
<center>img(https://i.imgur.com/ocbaFPW.gif)

img(https://i.imgur.com/9UGKgQo.gif)</center>
It just feels lazy and seems to be done to save time. While I understand that this came back in 2007 (Holy Shit! Wtf! This is 15 years old!?), and most of Gainax (& TRIGGER) Anime also tend to follow this approach, so not really a problem. Just a nitpick.

#<center><a>BELIEVE IN ME WHO BELIEVES IN YOU!!!</a>
I'll probably remember that line for the rest of my life. It did a stellar job at telling a powerful story, despite the basic storyline. Like looking back, it all started between a boy who drills holes for life and a man who never give up. And seeing how fulfilled I am after completing this Anime, I definitely think it's a great Anime worth a chance. Do give this Anime a try, more so if you're in your teen age.
<center>**It tells one manly story.**
img(https://i.imgur.com/8yjR30D.jpeg)

A Stupidly Powerful story about manning up.

With this piece, I hope to call upon others to take the show's message to heart, to live and abide by it, because it's one of the most beautiful lessons we can be taught, and Gurren Lagann achieves it perfectly. 

It will also have massive spoilers, I couldn't hope to explain it's main theme without the usage of them.

I never planned on this being a real review of the anime, I think it'd be pointless for me to try and claim objective truths about this show in particular through the lens of a review when I could simply explain to you what makes Gurren Lagann so important to begin with. 

Gurren Lagann, at it's heart, is a story of the human struggle, the struggle to find ourselves, to keep "ascending" beyond, improving ourselves, to let go of petty anger to work with others for better outcomes, no matter the suffering we go through, our losses, the physical pain, what be it. This is what makes this show so special and so powerful. It's way of delivering important advice to all of us through it's unique story of a boy and his brazen companions, in a way attempting to motivate us to live our lives in a similar fashion, without shame in ourselves and being bold, no matter the risk. 

Simon is the perfect character to display this growth. When we're introduced to him, he's lost, pathetic. He has no objective in life, besides working to live another day in the underground. This is immediately contrasted with the likeness of Kamina, a shameless man who's goal is to attain freedom from the underground, to discover the world outside, something that we are led to believe is almost a mythological goal, way beyond the likes of what man could hope to achieve. But this doesn't stop him, for in his own words: "__Reject common sense to make the impossible possible!__". It sounds silly at first, but we see multiple examples of this mantra at work within the show itself. 

Obviously, when met with someone with such a burning passion like Kamina, Simon becomes inspired, he looks up to the man who shows no fear in the face of the danger, the guy who, in the first episode, tries to fend off a mechanical monster with a single wooden sword, the same with which he was hit in the head with for even thinking he could reach the outside world. Kamina not only inspires Simon, but us, the viewer, with a golden rule that defines Gurren Lagann and can perfectly illustrate the brutal falls and the sky high rises of our heroes; a mantra that we can strive to live by for as we long as we keep up our fight, no matter in what way.

Through the peril in the underground that Simon, Kamina, and Yoko go through, in their fight against the Beast that attempts to deny their escape, we are shown Lagann, the head part of the mech giant, Gurren. It is in Simon's usage of Lagann that ignites his brilliant character growth, when Simon discards all "common sense", so to say, disregarding any type of consequence, rushing through with Lagann against the Beast to help his friends, to do the right thing. 

Simon didn't have a single ounce of belief in himself, nor the thought of being successful had even crossed his mind, but he did it because in his heart, it was the right thing to do. This is a sentiment we can very much identify with, as humans. Disregarding all reason, the how's and why's, we are often pushed to do what's right in our hearts, in our ideals. This is why Simon and Kamina, are such impactful characters. Up until this point, Simon is a sad kid who doesn't do anything else but drill. Drilling. Drilling. Drilling away with no real objective. But when Kamina shows his "lunacy", his lack of fear in the hope of achieving a greater good, we see this through Simon's eyes,and how it resonates with him on a deeper level, so much so that at first, it doesn't even seem clear why he was so inspired by his actions. When we start the show, it's not uncommon to think Kamina will end up being the main character, with Simon playing a sort of "Watson" role to Kamina, being a shy and cowardly kid, from who we can admire the brave and bold Kamina much like he does. But on the flipside, we learn that Kamina himself perceived Simon in a different way that we hadn't seen. He tells us of a story between them during an earthquake, where the two of them were stuck underground, Kamina confesses he was at the end of his ropes, seemingly ready to throw in the towel, but Simon's persistent drilling motivated Kamina to put up his brave face. Through this short moment, we see how they fuel each other to keep pushing forward, to keep at their struggle with the hope of survival, even if Simon himself didn't believe in himself, Kamina did. If Simon didn't believe in himself, all he had to do was believe in his own belief of Kamina, who believed in him. It's not logical, but it doesn't matter, It'll never matter. We don't need logic alone to keep pushing through, all we need sometimes is a strong belief in something, anything, to hold on to. The constant successes of Dai-Gurren team awaken in Simon a belief to pull off the impossible, and this much even applies to the other humans who were opressed by the beasts. His borderline suicidal plane of stealing a robot from the enemies (Gurren), which somehow succeeds, ends up motivating the rest of humanity to take upon Kamina's ideals, to abandon logic in the search for the greater good. Team Dai-Gurren becomes a symbol for all of humanity, a why and how for any sort of doubt that could be created, because no matter how impossibly hard it seemed, the chances were never 0, so long as we believe they aren't, much like the ant and the grasshoper, or the ape and the fallen angel, a proof of their own evolution right before them.

Fast forward some episodes, and we're met with an insurmountable tragedy, Kamina's death.
The main hope of humanity, lost, what could they possibly do now? Without an idol, a light, to guide them, could they ever achieve anything to the likes of their previous acomplishments? 

Of course we can.

This event is a major breaking point for the story, especially for the now hopeless Simon, who slowly comes to the realization that he doesn't have to rely on an idol, a single figure to motivate him to continue his struggle. Kamina simply showed him the path, but it's up to Simon to carve it himself, with his "Bro" always on his back, in his heart, living on as a part of him. Because now, everyone can help Kamina live on, taking up on his legacy, being their own bright ray of hope, and this is what Simon tells us. He's not his bro, he's no one else but himself, Simon the digger, and by god he'll continue doing what he does, even if it ends up in his death, because as long as keep up the fight and don't give up, it means we won. This scene is especially beautiful through it's presentation, with Simon taking up on a manner of speech and even poses identical to Kamina's, but it's no longer an imitation, Simon has become a new beacon of hope, taking up on his bro's legacy, his mantra and ideals, and transforming them into his own

So, how does this apply to us? 
Well, as I finish writing this review, or more of an analysis at this point, a little teary eyed from all the memories and the life-long lesson this show gave me, all I wish to say to anyone who reads this is: Find your inspiration, whomever it may be, and always strive to be like them in your own way,  strive to keep pushing forward and be the better version of yourself, because you always have someone who is gonna believe in you to do so.

But don't take my word for it, think it for yourself shamelessly, logic doesn't have to apply to our beliefs.

Believe in yourself, or if it helps, ____Believe in the you that believes in yourself!____.

~~~___[DISCLAIMER: THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS FOR THOSE WHO EITHER HAVEN’T SEEN IT OR ARE STILL WATCHING IT. A SPOILER-FREE TL;DR IS SEEN AT THE END OF THIS REVIEW.]___

What does “peak fiction” look like to you? To my knowledge, “peak fiction” isn’t something that is perfect/flawless but rather a part of a memory that will never be forgotten and always has a lot of special features to offer. And let me tell you ladies, gentlemen and weeaboss, I’m here to express how I think Gurren Lagann is considered “peak fiction”. The battle robot anime that was never meant to be deep in the first place but ends up being so because why on earth not? Imaishi being Imaishi turning the impossible into the possible.
img(https://i.imgur.com/NapSilE.jpg)

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The story is portrayed as a journey to fight against the menace that are the beastmen, starting off with two men, “Simon” and “Kamina”, trapped in the underground. Kamina is the man of infinite stupidity who asserts his dominance against those who prove him wrong or stand in his way while Simon is a kind boy who has no real ambitions. One day, Simon discovers a strange object that turns out to be a power key to activate an ancient weapon, which the duo pilots Lagann. Together, Simon and Kamina use their new weapon to fly away with a surprise attack from the surface accompanied by Yoko Littner, a girl with a sniper rifle who wanders around the surface and Boota, a pig mole.

Now that the beastmen war has begun, the sky is blue and the grounds are plain dry just like a desert, Kamina has made his own league called “Team Gurren” by befriending wanderers to fight and take the robots called “gunmen”. They fight against Viral, a shark-type beastman who is very cocky and headstrong. Simon and Kamina struggle… until their mechs combine into the one, and only, “Gurren Lagann”. Both show their sheer power and become more kickass than ever. The team continues to have their membership built. They befriended Kittan, an egotistical jock who leads his sisters for hunting. They befriended Rossiu, a kind boy towards strangers and one of the people who worship gunmen as gods. “Team Gurren” is now “Team Dai-Gurren”.
img(https://i.imgur.com/26QrMyf.jpg)

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Unfortunately… Kamina gets himself fatally injured, Simon reacts to that and has lost control of himself while interrupting a GODDAMN volcano. Kamina… is still alive? That’s right! Kamina punches Simon and tells him to man the hell up! Simon gains inspirations from Kamina and combines with him once again, finishing their target off! After that, Kamina dies… With that, Team Dai-Gurren cries and Simon almost loses his emotions, thinking that he “killed” his very own bro. Simon then slaughters more enemy gunmen with the help of Rossiu until he finds Nia, the former princess of a family that causes the beastmen war. With the team welcoming Nia, she develops an intense empathy towards Simon. Thanks to Nia, Simon then becomes a one-man army warrior and leads Team Dai-Gurren for his bro. Simon truly never loses his hope. Simon gives great speeches to his team. Simon still has his bro’s heart. Together, they will defeat the king that goes by the name of “Lordgenome”!

Before that, Viral asks Lordgenome about the history of the beastman war and was thinking if he could explore more about that. Lordgenome says that humans who fight are called “Spiral beings” and develop “Spiral energy” which is developed through human determination. Lordgenome has a motivation he was hiding from the humans. Lordgenome then gives Viral immortality; the kind of immortality that grants you the ability to seek love and develop Spiral power like the Spiral beings. Now, Gurren Lagann (with Simon, Rossiu and Nia) has finally come to take down Lordgenome. Lordgenome begins fighting with them. Lordgenome is so strong that he manages to heavily damage Gurren Lagann… until Simon decimates him with his core drill. Before Lordgenome falls, he mentions that ending the beastmen war is a mistake and explains why. Lordgenome… then falls. Team Dai-Gurren cheers for Simon and Simon is proud of his victory.
img(https://i.imgur.com/q1yPlb5.jpg)

---

7 years later, the team built a city called “Kamina city”. Nia became Simon’s fiancé. Rossiu reactivates Lordgenome and asks him about what his true motivation was. Lordgenome explains that he was once a Spiral being who fights against the true menace called “the Anti-Spirals”. The Anti-Spirals use a fake moon to cause chaos and mayhem to Earth. I wonder where the real moon is. Anyways, speaking of Anti-Spirals, one of their unholy creations called “Muganns” came to terrorize Kamina city and to be honest? They are already terrifying both appearance-wise and behavior-wise. Nia becomes possessed by the Anti-Spiral. Simon puts them to the stop and saves the city… not… Once the Muganns are defeated, they develop fragments that explode. And because of that, the city is ruined, having the citizens blaming Simon for the crime he didn’t even commit.

Rossiu tries to control the people but he has no choice but to put Simon in jail. Simon asks Rossiu for another chance and then Rossiu accepts it. Simon, accompanied by Kinon, stops multiple Muganns grouped with a larger one. They finally destroyed them, although it feels like so much of a hassle. Simon goes back to jail and Rossiu says that Simon no longer shows value… poor bastard… Rossiu has activated the ship to protect citizens called “Arc-Gurren” and Lordgenome mentions that it activates a Spiral energy to keep it from being damaged. Simon and Viral are stuck in jail, with Anti-Spiral Nia appearing and mentioning that any method of saving humanity is “futile”. Yoko comes back from her job to teach students and interrupts Nia’s attack. Yoko then frees Simon and Viral from prison. Viral is now part of Team Dai-Gurren. Simon and Viral develop their dynamics with each other and they are on their way to stop the Muganns.

Simon and Viral combine Gurren Lagann with Arc-Gurren and become “Arc-Gurren Lagann”. Arc-Gurren Lagann is a stronger, bigger version of Gurren Lagann and has a strong punch that can get rid of the biggest Muganns (which actually happens). Simon and Viral go inside the fake moon and surprise surprise, they can use Giga Drill to stop it. Unfortunately, Nia appears again to interrupt. Simon explains to Nia their feelings to each other and Nia remembers. Nia then is forced to head back to the Anti-Spiral. Simon then immediately stops the fake moon and that fake moon is Lordgenome’s flagship, “Super Galaxy Dai-Gurren”. After the Earth is saved, Team Dai-Gurren heads back. Rossiu visits his former underground home and commits suicide there. That is until Simon comes and prevents Rossiu from doing so. Rossiu explains that he tries his best to protect the citizens but he fails to do so. Simon responded that Rossiu is better than what Rossiu thinks. Rossiu becomes happy again and continues to help his co.

Team Dai-Gurren used Spiral power to bring the real moon back and they did. Team Dai-Gurren is ready to fight against the Anti-Spiral. They travel to a dimension where they face more of Anti-Spiral’s creations; those being called “Ashtangas” and they are even scarier than the Muganns. Half of the team fight against those and… they die while saving the others from incoming attacks. Team Dai-Gurren is surrounded by space flood and they are about to drown to death. Simon and Viral then attempt to combine Arc-Gurren Lagann with Super Galaxy Dai-Gurren. However, that is hard to do since it requires a lot of effort. But don’t ya worry, Boota is always at your side. Boota always showed value to the team. Boota always had Spiral power from the beginning. Simon and Viral are almost ready. Kittan has no choice but to sacrifice himself to help his team. Kittan giga drills what’s stopping the team… and dies… Come on Simon! Show the Anti-Spirals what you got!
img(https://i.imgur.com/Jt9zipv.jpg)

---

Super Galaxy Dai-Gurren, fused with Arc-Gurren Lagann, has now become “Super Galaxy Gurren Lagann”! Super Galaxy Gurren Lagann has a lot of punches to pack and puts the Ashtangas to shame. Then there’s the Anti-Spiral, trapping the team with an ability named “Multiverse Labyrinth”. With that, everyone in Team Dai-Gurren is trapped with their dreams… Meanwhile, Nia is punished by the Anti-Spiral mostly because she showed feelings to Simon. Speaking of which, Simon is on a “trip” with a fake Kamina. Both are caught by the police later on. Suddenly, the real Kamina comes and gives back Simon the core drill. Simon then punches the fake Kamina. The real Kamina has always been the symbol of his very own team even after death. Simon gets his Spiral power back all thanks to Kamina and then frees the rest of his team. Team Dai-Gurren is back and rescues Nia. Team Dai-Gurren pushes their limits far beyond and become “Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann”!

Before the final battle, Lordgenome apologizes to Nia about his actions. His reason for throwing Nia off is that Nia was the Anti-Spiral’s biggest victim since the very beginning. Now for the final battle… The Anti-Spiral is amazed with how that happened so he goes on to fight with its mech “Granzeboma”. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann (shortened to “TTGL” as I go on) and Granzeboma fight! It was intense. The Anti-Spiral goes hard on TTGL while explaining that they were the savior of the universe by transitioning from originally being part of the Spiral race. Granzeboma then performs a final attack against TTGL and TTGL struggles to handle it. However, Lordgenome sacrifices himself to turn Granzeboma’s final attack into a boost for TTGL to power up. TTGL then clashes with Granzeboma and they both explode. Super Galaxy Gurren Lagann comes; Granzeboma strangles it. Arc-Gurren Lagann comes; Granzeboma strangles it. Gurren Lagann comes; Granzeboma strangles it. However, Viral throws Lagann and Lagann performs a final attack ON the Anti-Spiral.

The Anti-Spiral lost, finally admitting that humanity has never been very limited. The universe is saved. Later, Simon and Nia prepared their wedding. They kissed. Everyone cheered. That is until Nia passed away… and Simon didn’t even cry. Viral mentions that again, Nia was the Anti-Spiral victim from the very beginning. Simon is still happy since like Kamina, Nia is still always in his memory. And yeah, I know that the “Zero-to-Hero” thingy is generic and overused so instead, let’s have the show recycle the trope by giving Simon his own category “Zero-to-Hero-to-Zero”, where he goes back to his poorer self. Simon… just vibing while digging in a plain underground… while everyone else has their own enjoyment and life. Gurren Lagann can still move on without him.
img(https://i.imgur.com/IDYmbMh.jpg)

---

tl;dr:
__STORY: 100%__ - A bold yet profound coming-of-age story with sheer epicness to behold. Doesn’t seem too special at first but when it hits, IT BLOWS.
__CHARACTERS: 100%__ - Simon is one of the most based Shounen-like protagonists ever.
__ART: 100%__ - Art is lit. Animation is lit. Character designs are it. Mecha designs are it. Whether it's sheer badassery or weird. Fight scenes are also amazing.
__SOUND: 100%__ - Superb voice acting, especially in the dub (thanks Yuri Lowenthal!) and a very addicting OST. Sorairo Days is stuck in my head.

---

And that does it. I apologize if this review looks long and clunky though. Judging from what I wrote, it felt more like a summary. Positive feedback and constructive criticism are always welcomed. That said, Gurren Lagann is an unforgettable masterpiece for even non-mecha standards. Yeah, I know some of you may not or don’t like it, and I completely understand. But for me, this is an awesome combination of style and substance. I swear, it’s downright poggers.

---

__PERSONAL RANK: 27/10 (_PIERCE THE HEAVENS_ Tier)__~~~

How to turn the impossible into the possible in one step.

~~~Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is among the most iconic anime in existence. Its influence is vast, its impact tangible, its voice loud. Although there are some aspects of it that make me wish this weren't the case, I wouldn't be surprised if it remains a classic go-to for years, decades to come. Don't get me wrong- I love this show- but not without a few, massive, personal, EXTREMELY depressing asterisks...~~~
#~~~__TTGL is quality where it counts, but unjustified where it doesn't- a time capsule of a masterpiece that aged like milk__~~~
<hr>
>If there's a wall in our way then we smash it down! If there isn't a path, then we carve one ourselves!
img(https://media.tenor.com/1K4D8YuyeaIAAAAC/gurren-lagann-simon-gl.gif)
<hr>
__Plot/Action:__ 8/10
~~~Gurren Lagann is heavily metaphorical. I know, shocking. In that sense, for the most part, the plot is a vehicle for the theming, which we'll get to, and the action. Does it do a good job at that? I'd say so, for the most part. While the actual story is largely nothing special and not meant to be taken seriously most of the time, when the show does want to do something grounded or step back and be serious for a moment, it never feels out of place or forced. The action that the plot facilitates is mostly decent; the mecha battles are fine and the character interactions during them feel justified and hit home. 99% of what I'd say are this story's strong points I'd say are better off being addressed when discussing the characters or themes, though. For what it needs to do the plot is fine. It does fizzle out toward the end a bit for me; the themes take the reins a little too hard for my liking and just completely destroy any sense of stakes- but that happens at the end, which makes sense, to some extent. So yeah. Not much else to say here. The plot is arguably the least important piece of this puzzle.~~~
<hr>
>Believe in yourself. Not in the you I believe in, not in the me that you believe in... Believe in the Simon who believes in himself.
img(https://media.tenor.com/akCg2LSMCD8AAAAC/gurren-lagann.gif)
<hr>
__Characters:__ 7/10
~~~Simon is one of the best anime protagonists of all time. His development is extremely drastic but believable and easy to root for. The rest of the cast is hit or miss. Rossiu, Viral, and Kamina are great. The good characters in the show really drive its emotional peaks home, as their ideals clash in believable ways that show how much each of them has changed over the course of the show.
~!I have always loved the way that the show handles Kamina's death. It has a profound effect on the entire cast and even after he's gone he still has a massive amount of influence over the way the story plays out. It's something you don't see very often in stories, and I love it.!~
Unfortunately, the rest of team Gurren is mostly a bunch of literal-whos that the show obviously _wants_ me to care about but I just... don't. And the female cast... hoo boy... Yoko is among the worst characters I have ever seen in an anime I'd consider overall to be good. She is the female lead who exists to do female things such as wear revealing clothing, be treated badly by the camera, and have large breasts. She is the object of multiple male characters' lusts and doesn't develop or even accomplish much of anything for the vast majority of the show. This would be fine if the rest of the main female cast was much better, but... they aren't. Nia is amusing but is still a big ball of princess tropes who effectively serves the purpose of being a damsel in distress. The Black Siblings also do a whole heaping wad of nothing for the whole show, existing primarily to be objects of the... male cast's motivations...
None of these would be bad individually but you put them together and it feels like TTGL isn't speaking on the agency of humanity, it's speaking on the agency of men, which is one of the many reasons that despite the quality of the show's delivery of its themes, they don't hit home for me. And don't even get me started on Leeron the walking anti-LGBTQ stereotype.~~~
<hr>
>The human spirit is limitless!
img(https://media.tenor.com/bIelYA-EWeEAAAAC/gurren-lagann-yoko.gif)
<hr>
__Themes:__ 8/10
~~~I'll be honest. Aside from what I pointed out above, a lot of what I take issue with in the theming department here is just me disagreeing with the show's optimism. I don't understand where it's coming from. I understand the delivery of its themes- what it's trying to get across- but it failed to convince me. Maybe it's simply because I'm depressed that I don't believe in the extent of agency this show tries to tell us we have. I understand that maybe asking the show to convince me is asking too much in the first place, and that the things I wish this show had spent time doing would be unnecessary for many people. As such, take this with a grain of salt. But yeah, TTGL is an extremely optimistic work with a LOT of things to say, but to me, it felt less like a thorough exploration of the idea of human agency and more like a desperate bid to tell me to "just do it" with as much energy as possible. Nothing inherently wrong with that of course- but I personally couldn't help but wish the story had been a bit more grounded in its execution. What we got has a lot of metaphorical depth to be sure and is also extremely enjoyable- but it's a prime example of what I mentioned in my Madoka review. A work that I like, that is thematically rich, but doesn't convince me of a thing, and as a result, fades into the background. It's a story where the protagonist's ideals win over those of the antagonist because of course they do, the protagonist is righteous and therefore he wins because it's a story. That's cool; sadly, I live in real life.~~~
<hr>
>These humans... what the hell are they?!
img(https://media.tenor.com/RGFjJl6y1EYAAAAC/nia-gurren.gif)
<hr>
__Visuals/Sound:__ 100/10
~~~The two things about this show that I couldn't bitch about if I tried, holy fucking shit yall. I can't wrap my head around the fact that this anime came out in 2007 and looks better than 99% of what comes out today. The animation is beautiful and the art style is instantly recognizable. I love the use of shadows, action lines, even the fucking CGI looks excellent. So many of the best moments in this over-the-top show could only have hit home with equally over-the-top visuals to match, and to say the animators succeeded with flying colors is an understatement. If you want a show that's a visual treat in every respect, this is a must watch. It may have been Gainax in name, but as a whole, this show is the peak of Trigger as an animation studio.
The ost is no slouch either, with most of the distinguished themes being iconic. I must give a particular shoutout to the absolute MASTERPIECE of an OP that is _Sorairo Days._ But most of the tracks that play during action sequences are just as corny as they should be.~~~
<hr>
>Let's see you grit those teeth!
img(https://media.tenor.com/3nvjRPa7OCQAAAAC/kaitoma-smile-kaitoma-sun.gif)
<hr>
__Conclusion:__
~~~An immensely enjoyable ride from beginning to end, with stunning visuals and plenty of thematic depth. There is so much to sink your teeth into here. But I'd be lying if I said any of that stuck out as much in my mind as the more negative aspects. They don't completely invalidate the quality of the show; far from it, in fact. This is still an excellent show. But what it gets wrong are things that become increasingly more important as time passes. In fact, they already have.
As a result I find myself in a difficult spot. I don't want to sell the show short; it's full of genuinely peak moments brought about by great writing and creative vision- but I also... don't really want this show to go down in the history books as a masterpiece. I do admit that some of that feeling is brought about by a desire for more realism in the delivery of its optimism, which is a personal preference and not a flaw- but some of it is also the horrid treatment of the female cast and the potential negative effects of a work that could be interpreted as encouraging people to act without thinking.
Either way, a lot of this is very personal, so I encourage you to form your own views. Of course, you should do that anyway, but... this has been less of an objective analysis and more of a recounting of my personal thoughts on this still very good show that was a lot of fun to watch... most of the time.~~~

Believe in yourself because funny blue hair man said so FR!!!!

___SPOILERS BEWARE!___

There comes a time once in a blue moon when I find a series which leaves me completely speechless once I finish it. This rare occurrence happened with Gurren Lagann. When I finished the final episode I was still speechless even after thirty mins. I woke up the following day and thought about the anime and was still speechless after the climax I witnessed. The contrast for where this anime started to where it finished is truly outrageous. I have to admit I first tried watching this anime in August where I watched nine episodes and then never followed it through, two months later I gave it another shot from start and got through the sixth episode but again didn't follow through... It wasn't until Xmas came around the corner that I decided to give it a third attempt and this was the successful one thankfully. I've heard many things about Gurren Lagann, for instance that it has a slow build up which leads to an incredible payoff and well ***YES YES I DEFINITELY AGREE HERE*** since the second half of this anime is truly astonishing.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1056199919557431326/image.png)

Produced by Gainax however by a team which would later leave the former to create what we now know as "Studio Trigger" who would later release Kill la Kill and its not a discovery that both KLK and Gurren Lagann are very similar in both ways. Having seen both I can see the extreme similarities in art, plot and sheer chaotic nature of the animation itself. For an anime that aired in 2007 I can with confidence say this anime was well ahead of its time since even by today's standards it looks wonderful.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1056195454238461992/image.png)

This anime can be broken down into three major segments. The first being the first eight episodes leading up to Kamina's death. Throughout these episodes the humour and absolute absurdity take centre stage as each episode is hilarious and completely dumb, but the good kind of stupid. The naming of the show comes from the original two robots which our heroes pilot. Gurren initially piloted by Kamina and Lagann piloted by Simon throughout the whole show. We then see the very first combination of these two robots which form Gurren Lagann, a combination which makes no sense ***at the time*** yet its absolutely brilliant with how close Lagann's drill comes to Kamina's head every single damn time, this was a transformation that simply never get boring.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1056206609086427256/image.png)

A brief note on the sixth episode since it has to be done. This is the episode I refer to as the ***ultimate fan service episode*** of the series for good reason. We even get a Rei and Asuka cameo from Eva since its the same studio. For most of the episode I was left head scratching simply thinking "WTF am I watching..." but chose to accept it in all its glory. Lastly we have ***that*** scene between Simon and Gimmy. Gimmy was asked to look for a hole and well he certainly found one in Simon's ass...simply ***WHAT WHERE THEY THINKING??!!***

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1056206053362122832/image.png)

The eighth episode is where I would conclude the first major segment since by the end of the episode Kamina dies after sustaining fatal wounds in his fight against Thymilph one of the four generals serving the Spiral King. Although the battle is victorious, that day Team Gurren lost something they would never be able to replace, Kamina's death took a huge toll on everyone in the team but none as much as Simon himself who fell into a deep state of despair. What at the time felt like the worst possible outcome would soon become one of the most important and pivotal events in Simon's life and the way the show builds on his character going forward is nothing short of spectacular. Also never will I forget Kamina's punch in order to bring Simon back to his senses. This will be important later and I'll explain why. All and all it was a pretty huge shock for the show to kill off one of its main characters so early but believe me this is easily one of the greatest anime deaths since what this death inspired was truly extraordinary.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1056211610303205457/image.png)

The second major segment would be the following seven episodes which covers Team Gurren's fight leading up to their grand victory over the Spiral King. This anime has different opening sequences depending what episode it is and shows this brutally in the following episode after Kamina's death as he doesn't even appear in the OP ever again after his death. This same episode introduces us to the last main character Nia which will be important for the remainder of the story. Initially she is introduced as the first princess of the Spiral King Lordgenome however soon after it becomes apparent that she is no daughter of his but rather just a doll to satisfy his desires. Her true identity is revealed much later on but I'll return to it when its relevant.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057048778059808838/image.png)

The eleventh episode is very important too, the Dai Gurren team is attacked by another of the generals Guame and falls for his trap. It was during this capture that Simon finally overcame his despair and found the answer he's been looking for. His bro is dead, that is a fact which can't be changed however Simon doesn't have to become his bro, all he has to do is ***"believe in the you that believes in yourself"*** and that's exactly what happens in this episode. While digging an escape tunnel he happens to find Gurren which helps him find this answer. With his heart in the right place Simon's legendary journey was truly about to begin on how he became a legend who saved Earth. This moment was truly pivotal and totally badass. It's also from about this point that Gurren Lagann as a series truly captivated me making me want to binge episode after episode. Oh and the insert song during his crushing victory was spectacular.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057051817722261534/image.png)
youtube(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-r4v1Bu7GpQ&list=LL&index=9&ab_channel=IwannalickMenatsFeet)

Throughout the next few episodes we see team Dai Gurren fight and slay the remaining generals which leaves the city of Teppelin where Lordgenome resides now completely exposed. During the fight with Cytomander the Dai Gurren installs equipment which allows it to fly which is already pretty wild since the Dai Gurren is now essentially a flying fortress, ***a modification which at the time I thought was absurd however what happens later in the anime completely blew that out of proportion...but more on that later.*** In the final episode before the major time leap, Simon conveniently defeats Lordgenome using his spiral powers in an ultimate duel to the death. In his dying moments the Spiral King mentioned about learning of the true power of the spiral and the darkness it posses. He mentioned that the moon will become hell's messenger that will destroy the world of the spiral and well he was not kidding as we know what happens in a few episodes...

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057060046841860177/image.png)
img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057342784052404294/image.png)

Excluding the recap episode, the last eleven episodes cover the story after the major seven year time leap and these episodes are what truly give Gurren Lagann its legendary status among shows. I mentioned before that the OP sequence changes meaning the first episode after the time leap shows the cast all grown up and matured and I find these small attention to details so valuable since it shows that the studio truly cared for this show rather than just copy pasting the same sequence over and over. After Lordgenome was defeated a couple of episodes ago I wondered what direction the anime would go since ***what I thought was the main villain was defeated right...?*** Only to be completely flabbergasted by the direction this anime went leading to truly a memorable finale. After the time leap, the pacing of this anime truly took off, all within the first episode Simon and Nia got engaged, only for her to be kidnapped by the anti-spirals and then even the new city of Kamina was attacked by a mysterious foe also sent by the anti-spirals.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057350336186159194/image.png)

So, remember Lordgenome's warning from the past? Quite literally as the one millionth human was born it awakened a device which alarmed the anti-spirals that Earth now has one million living humans. Due to this Nia becomes the messenger for the anti-spirals and without a moment's hesitation broadcasts her speech with Simon throughout the planet where it is revealed that the moon will fall on Earth in a mere three weeks and eradicate humanity. Now if that's not escalating the plot at an absurd pace then I'm not sure what is... Very quickly Simon is blamed for this which even leads to his arrest and planned execution however what actually ends up happening is we get another heroic tale of how Simon once more went from zero to hero to save all of humankind.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057366486123020481/image.png)

In the same episode that Lordgenome was defeated we saw the last flight of the Dai Gurren, well in the later parts of this anime we were introduced to an even larger colossal sized ship the Arc Gurren. Rossiu planned to set out into the stratosphere with as many humans and livestock as possible on this ship since the moon colliding with the Earth would cause a shockwave destroying all land and turning the Earth into molten lava making it uninhabitable for at least a year. Naturally the anti-spirals laid a trap for Rossiu once he left the stratosphere as the ship was ambushed however at this point it should be obvious who would be the hero once more. After Simon was rescued by the return of Yoko, he and Viral set out together in Gurren Lagann to save the day. Earlier I mentioned that the Dai Gurren transformation allowing it to fly was absurd but this same episode where humanity fought the moon went above and beyond. First, Gurren Lagann combined with the Arc Gurren which was already astonishing but what followed was even more breathtaking... ***COMBINING WITH THE BLOODY MOON?! ARE YOU SERIOUS?!*** At this point I thought surely I've seen the extent of the absurdity that this anime will present but...it wasn't.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057422867291189248/image.png)
img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057422989722910831/image.png)

I want to give Yoko a mention since I haven't done so during this review yet. Sure enough she did save Simon when he was in his cell but the episode I wanted to mention would be her flashback focused one since it was sublime. Having such a contrasting episode from the ridiculous nature of the plot thus far was an incredibly fantastic change of pace. It gave more insight into Yoko as a character as well and well she certainly makes one hot diligent sensei. She was clearly enjoying her quiet life away from all the warfare from the past however when she heard the broadcast about the end of humanity approaching she returned to her old badass self and reunited with Team Gurren for one final battle. Poor Yoko quite clearly also possesses the ***kiss of death...***

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057427289144578048/image.png)

Earlier in my review I mentioned the memorable punch from Kamina in order to bring Simon back to his senses. After Rossiu's evacuation plan failed, he blamed himself for this even going as far wanting to end his own life to atone for this sin. This time it was Simon handing out the slugging bringing him back to his senses. This moment is special since it shows how far Simon has come since that infamous day his lost his bro. This anime is a coming of age story and this scene right here portrays it beautifully. No longer is Simon a scared little kid living in his bro's shadows. He has now become an incredible man who makes his own decisions that will save all of humankind.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057708863966679091/image.png)

With team Dai Gurren back together it was time to set out for one final battle. Using newly discovered technologies the Arc Gurren was able to teleport ***in addition to what it already could do,*** using Nia's ring the enemy stronghold was pinpointed. With all preparations complete humanity set out for the final battle to save their own kind. Naturally there was an ambush waiting for them and many familiar faces were lost during it going out as heroes. None quite as heroic as Kittan who's final minutes truly made him a legend. He went out as a legend sacrificing himself while simultaneously destroying the Death Spiral machine. During this scene a new breathtaking insert song ***"Libera me from Hell"*** plays marking his final stand as grand as it could have possibly been. He happened to kiss Yoko a few minutes before which had already sealed his fate as we now know her lips mean death. By the end of the episode we saw what will likely be the final transformation of the anime surely...? the Super Galaxy Gurren Lagann in its humanoid form.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057713287418105866/image.png)
youtube(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VT6LFOIofRE&ab_channel=Paladin65536)
img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057714394173276230/image.png)

During the fight with the final boss the anti-spiral himself he unleashes an attack that puts everyone into a state of deep sleep where they are continuously reliving dream after dream of their most wanted desires I presume? Seeing these various dreams was enlightening as during Simon's dream Kamina makes one final appearance to remind him of his own true potential. Once more he reminds Simon to believe in the you that believes in yourself. Kamina may be gone but never forgotten in their hearts and this is the case for practically everyone who forms team Dai Gurren. We saw Yoko's dream where she wanted to be a teacher and even get married but none stood out as much as Viral's. The one character who only wanted to slaughter humans from the beginning actually had a dream of a family life with a wife and kid. This scene alone is monumental and the peak of this episode.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057979360574980156/image.png)

With Nia rescued there was only one thing left, the final fight against the anti-spiral is just as outrageous as you should expect it to be. The Dai Gurren team all combined as one when they pilot the Super Galaxy Gurren. Even Lordgenome has his heroic moment of glory as his body is temporarily reborn in the alternate dimension undergoing quantum breakdown and turning himself and his Gunmen into spiral power which helps save all spiral species. Sadly even though Nia was saved she didn't have much time to live as she was an artificial life form created by the anti-spiral. In shocking fashion she disintegrates during her wedding ceremony but both knew of this fate leaving a slightly bittersweet feeling.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057993844291010651/image.png)
img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057989791221809192/image.png)

Lastly, the post ED scenes are once again a massive time leap of twenty years this time. One last time we see Rossiu, Yoko and Simon in what they are doing with their lives. The second half of this anime has been nothing short of outstanding. The life lessons and messages dropped throughout this anime alongside the extraordinary story that held it together topped with truly one hell of a soundtrack to boot. After putting this show on hold twice I finally finished it on the third attempt and this had surpassed my wildest expectations. A show which started with our MC digging tunnels for a living since that's the only life he knew to suddenly fighting in space to save Earth twenty episodes later...and it only gets more ludicrous from there. Fighting in alternate dimensions, time travelling just to name a few. This anime truly had it all. Gurren Lagann is a legendary coming of age story which shows how a kid went from nobody to saving all of humanity a decade later. It was truly an outstanding watch which I'm ever glad I managed to finish after all.

img800(https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/635602177833959439/1057990996106936421/image.png)

How Gurren Lagann attained legendary status.

(note: most of this is an extended edit of my Letterboxd review. Either way, here it is).

(spoilers)

Get you a girl that rocks your world like Gurren Lagann does.

Both halves of the show are distinct, yet still exemplary. Transitioning from wide-eyed optimism and motivation into....well, more wide-eyed optimism and motivation. But with the gift of time, effort, and accepting yourself to the end. All culminating in a finale that fucks supreme. Seriously, who the hell ~~do you think I am~~ are you to complain about a finale that features badass, colorful robots the size of _universes_ duking it out across the universe flinging entire __fucking galaxies __at each other like they're frisbees (I wish I could take credit for that comparison but it's too perfect). From high-octane desert survival to intergalactic stakes, it just makes you look back with warm memories of how far these characters, Simon especially, have come. 

It'd seem as though the animators injected all the steroids they could to give you a (literally) colorful, ball-busting, off-the-chain, and borderline teary experience. It just doesn't let up! This is a series that's constantly upping itself time and time again. And it's so friggin' obvious and in-your-face about what it is that it weirdly works. Like yeah, sometimes, you gotta say "screw the math, screw the logic, screw everything: just don't give up or give in." Gurren Lagann's commitment is an undeniable strength. Simple and/or complicated as it may be in the end, just do you. And it's all worth it to see our characters we've grown to know and love for so long get their deserved happy endings.

I'll try to keep any Evangelion references/comparisons to a minimum, as while EVA will forever remain my personal favorite solely on how it left an impact on my life, Gurren Lagann is easily the more enjoyable and accessible experience. A lot of it is an antithesis to Evangelion, (and it's great it because of that no less). But I can confidently say this still has a lot of the same important, ultimately uplifting and hopeful messages that stuck with me so hard when I watch Eva (amidst all the crushing depression, it's not a complete downer story). Gurren Lagann just whacks the idea of "subtlety" out the window (I mean a lot of EVA's actual messages aren't really THAT deep and I'd argue are fairly simple too, it's just that both shows express a lot of similar themes in different ways. One with more sobriety and bittersweetness, the other with flashiness and rich sakuga. And they both impressively stick the landing). Accept yourself, pay it forward (in this case, taken up beyond the extreme), and give it time. With a typical (albeit not extremely mindscrewy) Gainax reality-pondering penultimate episode that at least gets you in the emotional vicinity of what it's trying to get at. The story is incredibly compelling (with the 2nd half's arc reminding me a bit of Legend of Korra Book 4, which had a similar gripping tone), and the characters are all So. Damn. Memorable. Kamina, despite not even being in most of the show, leaves such a bold impact on you. Simon's rise to becoming a man feels earned by the end, Viral actually gets an interesting arc, we got our icon Ron, best girl Yoko....they just nail them.

Granted, the ensemble cast doesn't feel too worthwhile, as you get a bunch of randos who end up dying, and you really could care less. And while I do love Nia, she can come across as a being pretty one-note mpdg. At times, almost __too __pure and sweet. Oversimplifying it, she's the Rei Ayanami of Gurren Lagann (and I love Rei as a character mind you), just not as nuanced. But she's so heart-meltingly sweet, wholesome, and encouraging that it's impossible to even complain. And it's not like she has _zero_ agency or interesting characteristics at all. At the end of the day, the girl's a certified cinamon roll, and her and Simon are absolutely cute together.   

It can also feel like the show gets a bit _too_ big of itself to fail (which factors into the story a little), what with the stakes, moments, and sakuga being cranked up beyond belief. It can be overwhelming, but again, the commitment is all over it which keeps it from being a dealbreaker for me. And if the ending wedding scene is anything to go by: really shows Simon's newfound maturity in learning to not lose yourself too much. And to wrap up, the ending really is just PERFECT. Pretty much every single character we've grown to know and love gets a respectful sendoff, the wedding and epilogue are beautifully satisfying, and I just can't imagine this unforgettable journey signing off any other way. Just....whoo!

Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is such a perfect, textbook mecha anime. A rare show that I feel _anyone_ can find something to enjoy in. If you just want the skillfully-crafted blend of story, characters, fist-pumping jaw-dropping cinematic quality action & visuals, killer music, and earned emotional moments: I implore you to give it a go. You pierce that goddamn drill to the heavens and beyond Simon you beautiful chadass. 

Favorite episodes: 8, 10-15, 21-22, 25-27

miscellaneous notes: Episode 4 definitely is the more awkward one visually, and I guess I can't complain too much about episodes 6 (and 12 I guess) being the obligatory fanservice episodes, even if I think the fanservice could've been toned down a bit throughout the entire show.

I'd buy it on DVD or Blu-ray if the prices didn't force me to burn my wallet up.

Some songs I like associating with Gurren Lagann: "Bossman" by Lucky Boys Confusion (first thing I listened to after finishing Lights in the Sky...), the album "Grand Unification" by Fightstar (full of AMV worthy material), "Little Things" by the Dead On, and last but certainly not least: Stan Bush's "The Touch (the epic guitar remix, specifically)" which is probably the perfect encapsulation of Gurren Lagann tbh (hey, I've always got a special place in my heart for some Transformers. Besides, tell me I'm wrong that "The Touch" doesn't fit. I dare you).

Oh yeah, and one more thing: Fuck CBR for calling the ending trash. That goes for EVA's original ending too.

Gurren Lagann Series Watch Order

Season 1

Music Videos (Parallel Works)