Reimagining the Classics: Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX
When diving into a new Gundam series, one might not expect an opening episode that pays homage to the events and aesthetics of the original Mobile Suit Gundam from 1979. However, with a team led by former Gainax collaborators Kazuya Tsurumaki, Yôji Enokido, and Hideaki Anno, known for shows like Neon Genesis Evangelion, FLCL, and Revolutionary Girl Utena, it’s no surprise that they are interested in drawing inspiration from the franchise’s past.
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, also known as “quacks,” kicks off by revisiting the first episode of MSG with a twist. Instead of Amuro Ray piloting the Gundam for the Earth Federation, Char Aznable from the Principality of Zeon takes control of the robot, resulting in a different outcome in the One Year War.
The opening act of this theatrical release, compiled from footage that will be fully revealed when the series premieres in April, is a treat for fans of Mobile Suit Gundam. Scenes from the original series are recreated with a modern touch, and familiar musical cues are reintroduced in a new context. It’s intriguing to see how the narrative shifts when Char is at the center stage instead of Amuro.
This initial act serves as a rapid recap of the original Mobile Suit Gundam, tailored for fans of the franchise. It introduces elements like Newtypes early on and expands on secondary characters from MSG, providing enough context for new viewers to anticipate the upcoming narrative in GQuuuuuuX.
Exploring a New World in GQuuuuuuX
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX delves into a world set in UC85, where classic designs from UC79 are combined with vibrant characterizations and designs reminiscent of series like Pokémon and Gainax classics like FLCL and Gurren Lagann. These aesthetic choices highlight the evolution of life and culture since the One Year War and emphasize the ongoing impact of conflict.
The series introduces three new characters: Nyaan, a war refugee involved in illegal activities; Shuji Ito, a mysterious graffiti artist who pilots Char’s missing Gundam; and Amate Yuzuriha (aka MACHU), a high schooler drawn into piloting the Gundam GQuuuuuuX in Clan Battles. These battles, streamed live and often serving as illegal street fights for profit, showcase the impressive animation work and choreography reminiscent of Evangelion Rebuilds.
The dynamic and sleek animation style of the series, coupled with fast-paced combat sequences, sets GQuuuuuuX apart from traditional Gundam aesthetics. This fresh approach to mecha battles adds a new layer of excitement to the series and hints at what viewers can expect in future episodes.
A Promising Start for GQuuuuuuX
While Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX Beginning serves as an engaging teaser for the series, it is clear that this is just the beginning of a larger narrative. The episode sets the stage for a series that strikes a balance between nostalgia for the past and innovation for the future of Gundam storytelling.