Reader’s Question:
Which one should I watch first, the original Gundam series or the movie trilogy THE ORIGIN?
Choosing Your Gundam Journey: A Personal Take
Ah, the classic debate among anime enthusiasts! When it comes to Gundam, the question of whether to start with the original series or the movie trilogy THE
ORIGIN is like choosing between a cozy first date or a thrilling sequel. Each has its charm and merits, but let me share my personal thoughts on this.
My Introduction to Gundam
I still remember the first time I stumbled upon the original Mobile Suit Gundam series. I was a naive high schooler, blissfully unaware of the vast universe that awaited me. I decided to dive in, not fully appreciating the historical context or the groundbreaking nature of its storytelling. The first few episodes were a bit rough around the edges, with animation quality that clearly reflected its age. But oh, the characters! The complexities of Amuro Ray and Char Aznable’s rivalry drew me in, and I found myself hooked. Sure, I noticed the infamous “animation hiccups”—those moments where the characters seemed more like jigsaw puzzles than actual people. But the unique dialogue style employed by director Yoshiyuki Tomino, with its quirky turns of phrase and emotional intensity, gave the series a flavor that was unmistakably its own. I chuckled at the oddities, like male characters using feminine speech patterns, which added a layer of intrigue and humor to the intense battles.
Why I Recommend the Original
If you’re asking me, I’d say start with the original series. It’s like watching the building blocks of a massive universe unfold right before your eyes. Yes, it’s long—43 episodes might feel like a commitment, but it’s a journey worth taking. You’ll witness the evolution of storytelling in anime, and trust me, there are plenty of memorable interactions that will stick with you. I still laugh thinking about the times I’d binge-watch late into the night, fueled by too many snacks and the excitement of the unfolding drama. Now, if you’re someone who’s pressed for time or prefers a more compact experience, the movie trilogy comes in as a fantastic alternative. It’s polished and presents the story in a more digestible format. However, I do find it a bit lacking in terms of character development and certain plot threads. Some episodes from the TV series are missing, and you might feel like you’re walking into a party halfway through.
What About THE ORIGIN?
As for THE ORIGIN, it’s certainly a beautiful piece of art. The animation is stunning, and the battles are epic. But it’s essential to note that this series isn’t directly tied to the original; it’s more of a reimagining. I remember watching it after finishing the original Gundam, and while I appreciated the fresh take, I found that knowing the backstory from the original enhanced my experience. The surprises and twists were more impactful because I understood the characters’ legacies. So, if you want to dive deep into the lore and understand the nuances of the Gundam universe, I’d recommend starting with the original series. You’ll have a richer experience and will appreciate the nuances in THE ORIGIN much more.
Let’s Hear Your Thoughts!
I’m curious about your experiences with Gundam! Did you start with the original, or did you jump into THE ORIGIN first? Any memorable moments or funny anecdotes from your viewing experiences? Share your thoughts in the comments!
