Roughnecks omits most of the stylings of the movie in favor of bringing elements from the novel "Starship Troopers" and creative savvy from the producers and directors that make the show. This is all computer generated animation for television at its finest, watchers will be treated to the continuing ventures of Johnny Rico and the Roughnecks as they travel to strange and dangerous worlds in their quest to rid the galaxy of the Alien Insects that wish to conquer them. Be prepared for exotic and very realistic looking characters, locations, vehicles and enemies. This is the future of animation so don't miss it.
43 Reviews
Great show!
klchu24 June 2000
For a "kids" show, this is one of the better shows on TV. There is more plot and characterization in one season of "Roughnecks" than in five years of "Voyager." The computer animation is excellent (for it's time), but it is not a crutch or the star of the show. Rather, the CGI is just a well-used tool that is used to create an excellent show.
I think this show, as a whole, is much better than the movie in many ways. It has action without being too violent, and drama without being too frightening for kids.
Even though the show is targeted at kids (older kids), there is plenty for adult sci-fi fans to enjoy: good stories, long story arcs, morals, consequences, and characters that are more real than 75% of the "real" shows on TV. The animators give the characters life and the voice actors give them souls.
I think this show, as a whole, is much better than the movie in many ways. It has action without being too violent, and drama without being too frightening for kids.
Even though the show is targeted at kids (older kids), there is plenty for adult sci-fi fans to enjoy: good stories, long story arcs, morals, consequences, and characters that are more real than 75% of the "real" shows on TV. The animators give the characters life and the voice actors give them souls.
Better than the movie, not as good as the book
deapod6 July 2001
I first read the book STARSHIP TROOPERS when I was ten years old (now some 25+ years ago) and I have always loved that book. So much of modern SF has come from that novel, like the movie ALIENS, and novels such as ARMOR and THE FOREVER WAR. STARSHIP TROOPERS is more than just a great story, it's actually about the US island hopping campaign in the Pacific during WW2 (Heinlein was a Naval Academy graduate who served in troopships moving soldiers and Marines into battle), and it speaks eloquently about a society and its military, their roles and what is right and wrong with them. It also addresses such things as force structure, officer training, and the "tooth to tail" ratio. This book is even on the USMC reading list for NCOs, as much of the book deals with the interactions within a small, platoon-sized unit. Realizing this, it gives a different perspective on ROUGHNECKS than it does for someone who has never read the book and maybe only seen the movie. ROUGHNECKS does attempt to keep faith with the book, especially with the addition of the Skinnies, even in portraying them as they are in the book--allies, then enemies, then allies again. It also blends in the movie characters, like Zander Barcalow, with new characters like Brutto and Doc. It even leaves Dizzy as a girl (in the book, Dizzy is a guy, and he dies in the first chapter). Also, there is an attempt to add in what made the book so special to begin with--the battle armor. I saw about a dozen episodes in whole or in part, mostly on the local channel that showed it. I can only hope that SCI-FI channel will reshow them, or maybe another cable network, like TNN, could pick it up. New episodes would also be good. One person said that there was more character development in ROUGHNECKS than in five seasons of VOYAGER. That's true, especially as all the characters in ROUGHNECKS were allowed to evolve, whereas on VOYAGER only Seven or the Doctor were really allowed to expand and grow. And for all those out there who have never read the book, or any of Heinlein's work, I would highly recommend it. You'll gain a new insight into this show, the movie, and maybe even more.
Very good, but unfinished.
stevenishershel30 September 2005
This animated series was better than the movie (though I love the movie too), but was unfinished. There were only 37 episodes (though you can see several that never aired on the "Trackers DVD). The problem is that the series ended before the Roughnecks saved earth and kill the Queen. THat being said there were many more positives. First, the animation was top quality (though I would have gone for traditional cartoon over computers). Secondly the character development was fantastic. Thirdly, the "serial" nature of the episodes were reminiscent of some of the old 40's serials. The story starts out on Pluto were the Roughnecks are sent to save miners from the Arachnids. After Pluto is saved, the Roughnecks go to Hydora a waterworld (and probably the best campaign) to find the transport bug which had escaped Pluto. From there they go to Tophet, were we meet the "Skinnies," a race of aliens who are controlled by the Bugs. After liberating the Skinnies, the Roughnecks move onto Tesca, a jungle campaign where the Roughnecks must battle spiders and prejudice. From Tesca, the Roughnecks are marooned on an asteroid infested with "Firefrys" and a living asteroid. From here they attack the Bugs on their home world of Klandathu were they discover the bug queen. The Bug Queen escapes and heads to earth where the series culminates with the "Homefront Campaign."
Good Luck Apes!
Good Luck Apes!
A great show.
JGSLICK9931 August 2005
Oh, I remember this show so fondly. I came across it in the summer of 1999. It was before The Sci-Fi Channel was sold to Paramount Entertainment and got ruined. From 7AM to 9AM five days a week in the summers. Like many small budget, yet effective, channels it was a BKN (Big Kids Network) outlet. They played a lot of mid-level budget cartoons those days in the morning. Mummies Alive, Extreme Ghostbusters and Roughnecks.
I remember so fondly waking up in the morning and lounging in bed watching Roughnecks. Oh, man I miss my youth. It's right up there with the one summer Sci-Fi played nothing but Anime when I was sick for two months and did nothing but watch it and sleep.
I remember so fondly waking up in the morning and lounging in bed watching Roughnecks. Oh, man I miss my youth. It's right up there with the one summer Sci-Fi played nothing but Anime when I was sick for two months and did nothing but watch it and sleep.
Surprisingly Wonderful Show!
SnacksForAll7 January 2000
Despite negative reviews, I actually loved the film "STARSHIP TROOPERS." It ran on a feasable and likable theme, and had a good "feel" to it, even if it was a little campy. Why the critics seem to hate it is beyond me.
But to get on with this review, I didn't expect much from "ROUGHNECKS," The Starship Troopers Television series, but in the morning before going to work I managed to catch an episode. I was impressed at first by the visual computer effects. The movements of the CGI characters are very lifelike and believable. But what really had me tuning in from then on were the great storylines. They are deep and intelligent; I have no idea why this show is marketed to children. As an adult, this is one of the few "cartoons" I can still sit through, probably because this show isn't exactly written for younger audiences. From the few episodes I've seen, I can already tell that "ROUGHNECKS" is a completely valid series, and not just because it is entertaining. It refrences many classic moral themes that pertain to the horrors of war, and also references many historical points in military history (most noticeably the Roughnecks' Home Ship, the VALLEY FORGE).
My only complaint is that the three main characters should
closer resemble their real-life counterparts. Call me shallow for wanting to see the familiar faces of Hollywood celebrities, but I can't think of "Johnny Rico," "Dizzy Flores," or "Carl Jenkins" without seeing the faces of Casper Van Dien, Dina Meyer and Neil Patrick Harris in my mind (though to be honest, the CGI character of "Diz" actually does resemble Dina Meyer).
All in all, a great show that is very worthy of all praise it receives. Don't miss "Roughnecks: The Starship Troopers Chronicles." You won't be sorry.
But to get on with this review, I didn't expect much from "ROUGHNECKS," The Starship Troopers Television series, but in the morning before going to work I managed to catch an episode. I was impressed at first by the visual computer effects. The movements of the CGI characters are very lifelike and believable. But what really had me tuning in from then on were the great storylines. They are deep and intelligent; I have no idea why this show is marketed to children. As an adult, this is one of the few "cartoons" I can still sit through, probably because this show isn't exactly written for younger audiences. From the few episodes I've seen, I can already tell that "ROUGHNECKS" is a completely valid series, and not just because it is entertaining. It refrences many classic moral themes that pertain to the horrors of war, and also references many historical points in military history (most noticeably the Roughnecks' Home Ship, the VALLEY FORGE).
My only complaint is that the three main characters should
closer resemble their real-life counterparts. Call me shallow for wanting to see the familiar faces of Hollywood celebrities, but I can't think of "Johnny Rico," "Dizzy Flores," or "Carl Jenkins" without seeing the faces of Casper Van Dien, Dina Meyer and Neil Patrick Harris in my mind (though to be honest, the CGI character of "Diz" actually does resemble Dina Meyer).
All in all, a great show that is very worthy of all praise it receives. Don't miss "Roughnecks: The Starship Troopers Chronicles." You won't be sorry.
How not to do Heinlein
sarastro72 November 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I cannot help awarding this TV series a low 3 out of 10 rating, because it is specifically about everything that is *not* interesting about Heinlein's Starship Troopers concept. It is purely about action. There is virtually no characterization, and certainly nothing at all about the most interesting thing: the kind of society the story takes place in. The whole world-building dimension is completely and mercilessly cut away, perhaps to make this a kids' story. Heinlein's original novel was juvenile fiction, but it didn't talk down to its readers. It contained all sorts of hardboiled social commentary and philosophy, which today is apparently considered dangerous, or at least uncommercial. The producers of this series have certainly succeeded in utterly sanitizing this concept. Into complete meaninglessness.
But the animation sure is pretty. What a shame to have wasted it on such insubstantial material.
But the animation sure is pretty. What a shame to have wasted it on such insubstantial material.
Thanks to all who love this show!
robbie-15013 June 2006
Working on this show was one of the highlights of my career! The team that brought this to the masses was as hard working as any in the business. To those of you that are into backstage info, these shows took about 9 weeks each to produce, and with what were considered massive teams of animators at that time. This show had some of the best CGI modelers and animators in all of CGI-Dome. Was a thrill to work on as a technical director and a pleasure to work with such talented folks. The production was fast paced and well thought out. Was the first show where I was introduced to motion capture and it worked out great! Glad folks here like it, was a labor of love for all involved.
the roughneck series
applseed24 August 2005
I found the roughneck series 100% better than both movies and the book. All six of the dvds are worth purchasing. The stories are very good and the animation excellent. I continue to watch them to this day. There was a little goof up in the continuity when they company had to outsource the production. However, it does nothing to detract from the stories. The only one I did not like was trackers. And the DVD's left out 3 very major episodes. There are episode guides that will fill in the missing pieces. All in all the cgi animation series is excellent entertainment.
Applseed
Applseed
This is tough as nails, hard core SciFi
grafxman28 August 2008
To me hard core SciFi doesn't mean pornographic. It means non stop action, fearsome enemies, space ships and thrilling, soul pounding music. This series has it all! Our heroes get caught, escape, run, jump, fly space ships, penetrate enemy defences, fly troop transports, battle flying bugs, shoot guns, etc. It seems nearly every episode involves a new and never seen before bug with new and frightful powers.
There is none of that mushy, mushy wimpy navel gazing, soul searching crap that ruins so many otherwise excellent SciFi shows and movies. This takes place on distant planets, in space, in the water, underwater, etc. About the only thing I could criticize about this series is the animation. It's a solid modeling type that wasn't very well done in the first part of the series. However, either it got better latter on or else I got used to looking at it.
There is none of that mushy, mushy wimpy navel gazing, soul searching crap that ruins so many otherwise excellent SciFi shows and movies. This takes place on distant planets, in space, in the water, underwater, etc. About the only thing I could criticize about this series is the animation. It's a solid modeling type that wasn't very well done in the first part of the series. However, either it got better latter on or else I got used to looking at it.
What can I say?
khhsdude23 February 2002
I just can't get enough of this show. Saw it in syndication and it just blew me away. It does a good job creating the illusion of the war with the bugs. The music is what first grabbed by attention, and the excelent writing kept me there. Decent visuals with plot situations that did not seemed to be contrived. Good serises for kids, but also enjoyable by adults. Any chance the last few episodes will be made?
My god. MY CHILDHOOD! (A 2019 perspective on something I watched as a seven year old, on kids tv)
d189915 January 2019
For a long time I thought this show was one of those "false memories" from your childhood you hear you can have.
Years ago me and a friend were talking about starship troopers and how we both remembered there being an 'animated' show on, early in the morning for kids, which at the time was much more violent than things like Pokemon. I searched for it and couldn't find mention of it and assumed this friend was simply having me on as he was a fairly well known BSer.
I had gotten through reading the novel (which is a must read and makes the movie look like more of a joke than the movie tries to be) I've only just gotten into this series and I love it already, they seem to have taken more from the novel than they have from the horrible satire which is the movie (I would pay to see an *actual* starship troopers movie that follows the novel again and again, rather than the tries too hard to be funny satire movie that was released and the absolute stinker sequels) so I like that already.
Considering it aired on what would be considered "children's TV" hours I don't expect it to get too bloody, I'm only a quarter of an hour into the series so I may be wrong but I distinctly remember it outgunning, out-nuking and out-goring anything else that showed on kids TV. I guess the people aired it never watched the movie and thought "hey it's a CGI animation like Toy Story, run with it!" Without ever previewing it's content I also assume this is why people have said it's "incomplete" around the Millennium kids shows had to have a "moral to the story" and "tone down the violence" something which has only gotten worse in recent years, so if and when I have kids, they'll be watching real kids TV like Ren and Stimpy, Cow and Chicken, Courage the Cowardly Dog and most definitely this.
The animation has aged okay, I guess. I mean it's by no means art (though I see where Master Chief from the Halo series of games got inspiration for that iconic armour) but it still looks okay for CGI, at times like something I would expect from Metal Gear Solid 3 cutscenes on the PS2 and at other times it actually looks quite good for it's time.
The whole 90s-ish feel, the bad lines, terrible puns and the slightly bad and occasionally out of sync animation coupled with what would be considered gratuitous violence for a kids show (these days) definitely gives me a huge grin when watching. Not to mention that I thought I had imagined this show for about ten years, because "who would adapt Starship Troopers for kids, right?" especially considering it's timeslot here, other shows like Stargate SG1 ran at a time your parents were awake. This didn't and that alone really makes me miss the 90s. Solid 9/10 I would give it 10/10 if they had made more of it, though the increasingly "politically correct" thinking of the 00s and later has sadly made that impossible.
However this and the (Japanese) Anime series (which sadly only exists now as a low quality copy off the only surviving laserdiscs) both need to be preserved, as they are both better representations of the Robert Heinlein's future universe than the satire movie.
I'll make sure this show lives forever; apes.
The animation has aged okay, I guess. I mean it's by no means art (though I see where Master Chief from the Halo series of games got inspiration for that iconic armour) but it still looks okay for CGI, at times like something I would expect from Metal Gear Solid 3 cutscenes on the PS2 and at other times it actually looks quite good for it's time.
The whole 90s-ish feel, the bad lines, terrible puns and the slightly bad and occasionally out of sync animation coupled with what would be considered gratuitous violence for a kids show (these days) definitely gives me a huge grin when watching. Not to mention that I thought I had imagined this show for about ten years, because "who would adapt Starship Troopers for kids, right?" especially considering it's timeslot here, other shows like Stargate SG1 ran at a time your parents were awake. This didn't and that alone really makes me miss the 90s. Solid 9/10 I would give it 10/10 if they had made more of it, though the increasingly "politically correct" thinking of the 00s and later has sadly made that impossible.
However this and the (Japanese) Anime series (which sadly only exists now as a low quality copy off the only surviving laserdiscs) both need to be preserved, as they are both better representations of the Robert Heinlein's future universe than the satire movie.
I'll make sure this show lives forever; apes.
Great computer animated series
Agent109 May 2002
This was clearly a predecessor to Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within. What I liked most about this show was the constructed violence and the fact it followed the book a little closer. While most Japanimation cartoons are absolutely terrible, this show was a welcome change. Also, I wonder why they made this cartoon much closer to the book than the movie. The equipment was more conducive to that described in the book, and the cartoon even had the `Skinnies,' a group of aliens who work in conjunction with the bugs. A great little cartoon, its too bad they don't make more shows like this.
CGI Model Supervisor says "Hope you enjoy it!"
LWDave14 September 1999
As the CGI Model Supervisor for 90% of the "Roughnecks: The Starship Trooper Chronicles" I just want to wish all "Trooper" fans an enjoyable viewing experience. This is the most difficult show I've ever worked on, and we at Foundation Imaging have poured a lot of sweat (and extra hours) into the attempt to make this the best looking CGI daily show ever produced. If you think we succeeded, drop me a line. --Dave Adams
Excellent series!
LeeThomp4 September 1999
The new all CG series adapting the Robert Heinlein novel has finally got it right! After a complete failure (the 1989 Japanese anime attempt), a partial success (the 1997 motion picture) we can finally really get into the story of Johnny Rico and the others.
If you didn't like the movie's adaption, or liked the movie but want the *rest* of the story - check your local listings!
If you didn't like the movie's adaption, or liked the movie but want the *rest* of the story - check your local listings!
I guess I'm alone in hating this...
lons20025 April 2002
I liked the "Starship Troopers" movie as far as it goes (it does get a bit repetitive, like most Verhoeven films). But, this show is totally mindless. The characters spout action movie cliches, the drama is non-existent (even by kids show standards), and every episode basically devolves immediately into random shooting. Haven't read the book, but it must have more to it than this show.
But, the animation does look nice.
But, the animation does look nice.
Too much mindles carnage
gdump27 May 2021
This series would have been so much better if they had compressed the 37 episodes into about 20 by throwing out all the mind-numbingly repetitive blasting of everything in sight.
That's the biggest problem, but maybe all that carnage is there to try and distract you from the fact that the majority of what's happening is self-contradictory.. Flying bugs on airless worlds is a common nonsensical theme and just one example of the plot problems.
The animation is laughable in 2021, but was state-of-the-art at the time so I don't mark it down for this, but it is distracting.
The quality of the original source material, Heinlein's book, is the only thing that saves it from being a total loss. But Heinlein certainly deserves better than this mess.
That's the biggest problem, but maybe all that carnage is there to try and distract you from the fact that the majority of what's happening is self-contradictory.. Flying bugs on airless worlds is a common nonsensical theme and just one example of the plot problems.
The animation is laughable in 2021, but was state-of-the-art at the time so I don't mark it down for this, but it is distracting.
The quality of the original source material, Heinlein's book, is the only thing that saves it from being a total loss. But Heinlein certainly deserves better than this mess.
Can be better
subwmn11 February 2019
I know this review is way late, but I like the movie better. It would be have been nice to see this in live action or even make it into the original movie since Rico started as a grunt and we haven't seen what he did to rise to General. We saw some of it in the first movie and how his friends got started in their careers. This show could have been about Rico's Roughnecks and their adventures as a squad with Rico eventually making it through the ranks. Good concept, but could have been done differently.
Count me in as being pleasantly surprised....
innocuous14 February 2010
Warning: Spoilers
While I enjoy watching the film version of ST, it always ticked me off that Verhoeven bought the rights to Heinlein's book and then completely changed the whole message that Heinlein intended to convey. I've also been disappointed that the film failed to depict the MI as fighting in power suits. This was a missed opportunity that is all the more surprising because of his experience with "Robocop." This animated series gets a lot closer to the novel in its themes and message. I normally don't care for animated series that try to be realistic (give me "Lloyd In Space" any day) but this is the exception. The CGI is not as creepy and is actually pretty impressive for 1999. The story arcs are broken up into manageable chunks, too.
On the down side, Verhoeven was the executive producer of this series and he still doesn't "get it." The power suits in this series are still pretty wimpy...much more like the light armor of the MI depicted in the movie than in Heinlein's novel. Also, unlike the movie, no central characters die.
Some of the technology depicted in the animated series is pretty interesting, too. And it's always nice to know that ALL women in the future will have huge breasts. I guess that another few hundred years of hormone-infused beef will do that.
All in all, a fun series that's easy to watch. Recommended.
On the down side, Verhoeven was the executive producer of this series and he still doesn't "get it." The power suits in this series are still pretty wimpy...much more like the light armor of the MI depicted in the movie than in Heinlein's novel. Also, unlike the movie, no central characters die.
Some of the technology depicted in the animated series is pretty interesting, too. And it's always nice to know that ALL women in the future will have huge breasts. I guess that another few hundred years of hormone-infused beef will do that.
All in all, a fun series that's easy to watch. Recommended.
My favorite show of all time!
bocsibtt21 November 2004
It was already 2 years ago, that I've seen the series on Hungarian TV. It was simply FANTASTIC! I've seen the film first, and it wasn't very good, but made me interested, so, when i saw the series was on, I decided to tune in. It well worth it! The animation, the sounds, the music, the voicework, in one word EVERYTHING was excellent! It didn't contain much fighting and horroristic scenes, maybe because of the kids,but the storyline was very good. The characters were also well formed.My favorite is Carl Jenkins, but I also like Rico, Dizzy and Higgins. I just started to read the original book, so I don't know how much the series resemble to it. I'm so in love with this show, that I'm going to buy it on DVD. And I don't consider it as a "kids" show, it has much to say to adults too. And sometimes the episode stories aren't fully understandable for kids. To finish it, I could only repeat myself: I LOVE THIS SHOW! I just don't know why I didn't tape it when it was on TV... Regards: bocsibtt (or Detti for friends)
Pretty realistic rock shooter
dust-77 September 2000
Warning: Spoilers
Spoilers.
Pretty slick looking computer game video, with a small swipe at military cliched jargon, and the nod to some distaste with a 'join up citizen' society. But the subtext is submerged in the ceaseless battlefield action. Interesting CGI series, that departs from the confused treatment in the film. This cartoon is just battle after battle, in the dreary dusk - so the CGI stands out, perhaps.
It's startling, in fact, not only to see the background detail and general animation, which is as good as any film or top computer game, and almost the equal of the movie (and even better for some effects), but also to see some short close-ups on the soldiers in helmet and suit, turn around, motion forward, walk around, etc. It looks like people. The body movements are that convincing. It looks that real - save for the wax mannequin faces. Sure, when they stop and start, when they try to run (particularly run) or climb, or do some other things, the bodies look again rather artificial - awkward and computer generated. But maybe they're working on it. They're pretty close to computer animated 'actors' - in this series. Again, it's startling.
As for the plot, it's a battle, one after another. It is a computer game, no question. It's just not interactive. You're watching someone else play. And you wish you could buy a computer game of this rendering ability, with canned voice segments, with alternate plots - for those who aren't completely sprouting on the couch and want all the 'editorial decisions' made by someone else.
As for the fights, it's the same problem I have with the film - and so ultimately with Heinlein, I would think. It's not even so much that the bugs somehow threaten earth, in any way. That's preposterous enough. But the firepower, and tactics, used against the bugs is geared to making them a threat. As intimidating as the monstrous 'tanker' beetles may be, a bigger ray gun would do the job. But they have sophisticated space travel, and no ray guns. As frightening as the fast moving steel-bodied warrior arachnids may be, again, a more powerful gun would finish them in one shot. And the very idea of not first spraying for bugs, as it were, of placing the surprizingly small and under equipped fire teams against swarms of gigantic, fierce overgrown bugs of all varieties is not reasonable. You make that tactical error once, not constantly day after day, and month after month. The only possible argument is that troops are worn 'thin'. But then you concentrate ammo and equipment where needed, not everywhere at once - and so on. Frankly, if it were not set up so, if the obvious approach were taken, there wouldn't be the battles because the evil bugs would have been destroyed easily by futuristic radiation bombing, or some such. In order to 'get in the game', the troopers have to be handicapped, just so long as it's not purely hand to hand.
Still, interesting half hour battledome show. It probably is more interesting for me to see the occasional success of the near lifelike body motions of the CGI actors. If they do ever get that wax figure look off the expressions of those CGI actors, they may be onto something.
Pretty slick looking computer game video, with a small swipe at military cliched jargon, and the nod to some distaste with a 'join up citizen' society. But the subtext is submerged in the ceaseless battlefield action. Interesting CGI series, that departs from the confused treatment in the film. This cartoon is just battle after battle, in the dreary dusk - so the CGI stands out, perhaps.
It's startling, in fact, not only to see the background detail and general animation, which is as good as any film or top computer game, and almost the equal of the movie (and even better for some effects), but also to see some short close-ups on the soldiers in helmet and suit, turn around, motion forward, walk around, etc. It looks like people. The body movements are that convincing. It looks that real - save for the wax mannequin faces. Sure, when they stop and start, when they try to run (particularly run) or climb, or do some other things, the bodies look again rather artificial - awkward and computer generated. But maybe they're working on it. They're pretty close to computer animated 'actors' - in this series. Again, it's startling.
As for the plot, it's a battle, one after another. It is a computer game, no question. It's just not interactive. You're watching someone else play. And you wish you could buy a computer game of this rendering ability, with canned voice segments, with alternate plots - for those who aren't completely sprouting on the couch and want all the 'editorial decisions' made by someone else.
As for the fights, it's the same problem I have with the film - and so ultimately with Heinlein, I would think. It's not even so much that the bugs somehow threaten earth, in any way. That's preposterous enough. But the firepower, and tactics, used against the bugs is geared to making them a threat. As intimidating as the monstrous 'tanker' beetles may be, a bigger ray gun would do the job. But they have sophisticated space travel, and no ray guns. As frightening as the fast moving steel-bodied warrior arachnids may be, again, a more powerful gun would finish them in one shot. And the very idea of not first spraying for bugs, as it were, of placing the surprizingly small and under equipped fire teams against swarms of gigantic, fierce overgrown bugs of all varieties is not reasonable. You make that tactical error once, not constantly day after day, and month after month. The only possible argument is that troops are worn 'thin'. But then you concentrate ammo and equipment where needed, not everywhere at once - and so on. Frankly, if it were not set up so, if the obvious approach were taken, there wouldn't be the battles because the evil bugs would have been destroyed easily by futuristic radiation bombing, or some such. In order to 'get in the game', the troopers have to be handicapped, just so long as it's not purely hand to hand.
Still, interesting half hour battledome show. It probably is more interesting for me to see the occasional success of the near lifelike body motions of the CGI actors. If they do ever get that wax figure look off the expressions of those CGI actors, they may be onto something.
Some serious action...
evilned-121 April 2002
This movie delivers some really heavy action scenes, and very cool music that goes with them. Sure, script isn't really breathtaking (its basicly just "Ok, we got another mission!" *boom*boom*boom*dead bugs everywhere*) but almost everything else is great! As I mentioned, the action scenes are great, the soundtrack is awesome, the effects are great (you almost start thinking that CGI is the way to go. Starship Troopers/Roughneck-wise.) I still love the 2 hour Hollywood movie, it was like an instant classic for me. But this movie is just as great. Sure, there's almost no love story or anything else drama-related involved, but I still kinda like the scenes where they aren't fighting for some reason. While watching this movie I kept comparing it with Final Fantasy (Which was really, REALLY bad!), and I guess I should have. Since they are both CGI movies where a small band of humans are fighting an alien race. And besides, Final Fantasy was corny as heck, those one-liners just made me want to puke. But here they are more "funny" than "corny", and in a good way to.
9/10! If you like Sci-Fi and heavy action, this is for you!
9/10! If you like Sci-Fi and heavy action, this is for you!
A lifelong great animated sci-fi series... 2024 and still amazing
the_donnie1 March 2024
Roughnecks: The Starship Troopers Chronicles is a timeless classic in the realm of science fiction animated series. As a viewer who enjoyed it as a child and revisited it two decades later, I can attest to its enduring appeal and quality. This review delves into the various aspects that make *Roughnecks* a standout series, from its groundbreaking CGI effects to its well-developed characters and compelling storytelling
CGI Effects: One of the most striking features of *Roughnecks* is its pioneering use of CGI animation. Produced in the late 1990s, the series utilized early 3D animation techniques to bring its alien-infested worlds and futuristic battles to life. Despite the technological limitations of the time, the CGI effects remain impressive and immersive. From the vast landscapes of distant planets to the intricate designs of alien creatures, the visuals hold up remarkably well even by today's standards. The attention to detail in the animation adds depth to the world of *Roughnecks* and enhances the overall viewing experience.
Character Development: Central to the success of *Roughnecks* is its well-rounded and relatable characters. Led by the dynamic team of Lieutenant Razak, Sergeant Brutto, and Corporal Rico, the Roughnecks are a diverse group of soldiers who each bring their own strengths and personalities to the forefront. From the brave and determined Carmen Ibanez to the intelligent and resourceful Carl Jenkins, the characters in *Roughnecks* are more than just cogs in a war machine; they are individuals with their own hopes, fears, and aspirations. The series takes the time to explore their backstories and relationships, allowing viewers to become emotionally invested in their journey as they battle against the relentless onslaught of alien insects.
Storytelling: At its core, *Roughnecks* is a captivating tale of humanity's struggle for survival against a formidable extraterrestrial threat. Drawing inspiration from Robert A. Heinlein's classic novel *Starship Troopers*, the series expands upon the lore and universe of the source material while carving out its own unique narrative. Each episode is packed with action, suspense, and intrigue as the Roughnecks face off against swarms of giant bugs, navigate treacherous alien landscapes, and uncover the sinister machinations of their insectoid adversaries. The storytelling in *Roughnecks* is both engaging and thought-provoking, touching upon themes of sacrifice, camaraderie, and the nature of war.
Legacy and Potential: While *Roughnecks* stands as a testament to the talent and creativity of its creators, it is not without its flaws. One of the most notable shortcomings of the series is its lack of a proper conclusion. Due to budgetary constraints and production issues, *Roughnecks* was prematurely canceled after its first season, leaving many storylines unresolved and fans clamoring for closure. Despite this setback, the impact of *Roughnecks* continues to reverberate through the annals of science fiction animation, inspiring future generations of creators and fans alike.
In conclusion, *Roughnecks: The Starship Troopers Chronicles* is a classic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Its groundbreaking CGI effects, well-developed characters, and compelling storytelling make it a standout series in the sci-fi genre. While its premature cancellation left some loose ends, the enduring legacy of *Roughnecks* ensures that it will always hold a special place in the hearts of fans old and new. Whether revisiting it as an adult or discovering it for the first time, *Roughnecks* is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates epic tales of interstellar warfare and human resilience.
CGI Effects: One of the most striking features of *Roughnecks* is its pioneering use of CGI animation. Produced in the late 1990s, the series utilized early 3D animation techniques to bring its alien-infested worlds and futuristic battles to life. Despite the technological limitations of the time, the CGI effects remain impressive and immersive. From the vast landscapes of distant planets to the intricate designs of alien creatures, the visuals hold up remarkably well even by today's standards. The attention to detail in the animation adds depth to the world of *Roughnecks* and enhances the overall viewing experience.
Character Development: Central to the success of *Roughnecks* is its well-rounded and relatable characters. Led by the dynamic team of Lieutenant Razak, Sergeant Brutto, and Corporal Rico, the Roughnecks are a diverse group of soldiers who each bring their own strengths and personalities to the forefront. From the brave and determined Carmen Ibanez to the intelligent and resourceful Carl Jenkins, the characters in *Roughnecks* are more than just cogs in a war machine; they are individuals with their own hopes, fears, and aspirations. The series takes the time to explore their backstories and relationships, allowing viewers to become emotionally invested in their journey as they battle against the relentless onslaught of alien insects.
Storytelling: At its core, *Roughnecks* is a captivating tale of humanity's struggle for survival against a formidable extraterrestrial threat. Drawing inspiration from Robert A. Heinlein's classic novel *Starship Troopers*, the series expands upon the lore and universe of the source material while carving out its own unique narrative. Each episode is packed with action, suspense, and intrigue as the Roughnecks face off against swarms of giant bugs, navigate treacherous alien landscapes, and uncover the sinister machinations of their insectoid adversaries. The storytelling in *Roughnecks* is both engaging and thought-provoking, touching upon themes of sacrifice, camaraderie, and the nature of war.
Legacy and Potential: While *Roughnecks* stands as a testament to the talent and creativity of its creators, it is not without its flaws. One of the most notable shortcomings of the series is its lack of a proper conclusion. Due to budgetary constraints and production issues, *Roughnecks* was prematurely canceled after its first season, leaving many storylines unresolved and fans clamoring for closure. Despite this setback, the impact of *Roughnecks* continues to reverberate through the annals of science fiction animation, inspiring future generations of creators and fans alike.
In conclusion, *Roughnecks: The Starship Troopers Chronicles* is a classic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Its groundbreaking CGI effects, well-developed characters, and compelling storytelling make it a standout series in the sci-fi genre. While its premature cancellation left some loose ends, the enduring legacy of *Roughnecks* ensures that it will always hold a special place in the hearts of fans old and new. Whether revisiting it as an adult or discovering it for the first time, *Roughnecks* is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates epic tales of interstellar warfare and human resilience.
literally my child hood
rhodanjones13 September 2019
One of the best CGI shows yet.
Blinking_Fish17 February 2000
This is a very good show. It takes a bit from the Starship troopers Novel and a bit from the movie. The bugs are the same as the movie aside from the skinnys. But the troopers have power suits. Also this show doesn't have as much of the satirical scenes as the movie did. The characters are still kinda flat but I watch the show for the action more then the character development. The animation in this is superb with great lighting effects and the fact that most of the time the characters mouths are actually moving to what they are saying. The only problem I have with the show is the time that the networks want to show them at. They always seem to pick times with I can't seem to watch em. I guess that's what the VCR is for.
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