Let me first say that I've not seen a huge amount of Anime. But my brother-in-law thought that I might like a new series that he purchased - Big O.

I watched all 13 episodes from the DVD set in 2 sittings - it was that good.

It's basically a cross between Batman (more Bruce Wayne since he's almost always in a suit and has a very 'Alfred' like butler) and James Bond (since he has a few gadgets). The main character's name is "Roger Smith" and he's a 'negotiator'. He get's things done - and he's made many friends (and enemies) because of this. The back story is that the citizens of Paradign City collectively lost their memories approximately 40 years ago - and there are things that, although they work (HUGE robots and subway tunnels) the population really isn't sure how they got their.

The only bad thing that I can say about the show is that it doesn't really end. You have Dorothy (someone you meet in the first episode) and her origin truly isn't explained. Also, the show gives glimpses as to what happened 40 years ago - and you can infer anything that you want - but it's never definitively stated.

Finally, and this might just be a cultural thing, before Roger get's into his big robot, there is a small line of Bible scripture which scrolls across the screen. Additionally, at the end of every episode, there is a little closing statement (usually 4 or 5 words). I'm not really sure why it's there - but as I mentioned, it just might be something that is alien to the Americans.

Outside of those minor issues, the art work is great, the action is smooth, the voice work is amazing (thank goodness for not needing to read for 13 episodes) and each episode is really quite captivating.

Definitely a 'thumbs up' for people who like cartoons, who are new to Anime, and just want to have a good story told.

Review by David Pikelny
www.everythingevangelion.com