when i first saw this, i was amazed. i expected so much from shinichiro watanabe and got everything i was expecting. this has the classic rival-love story along with kick ass mech fighting. even my dad, who has only seen akira and the cockpit, thought that the yf-21 brain control was a cool idea. the animation is incredible, something you would expect from watanabe. if you liked robotech or any other macross related element, then see this.
40 Reviews
Top-Class Stuff
ollieisamuppet7 December 2005
Well, I've been into Animes for a good few years now, and I have to say that Macross Plus is one of the finest I've seen. Even compared to the likes of the Rurouni Kenshin OVAs and Princess Mononoke, I'd have to say MP is an incredibly good anime.
Now, chances are you may have heard good or bad things about this anime. I think that perhaps fans of the original Macross were expecting something different, but having absolutely no existing knowledge of the Macross universe, I have to say this anime blew me away.
It is, in its entirety, very well animated and the pacing seems spot-on (for the most part). As with almost every soundtrack Yoko Kanno has worked on, you can expect a whole range of great music in Macross Plus. For many, it may in fact be the highlight (and thats saying something considering the overall quality).
The story, taken on its own merits, is great. It would be wrong to watch this anime and compare it to anything else, as I've never seen anything quite like it.
OK, so it does contain some pretty far-fetched mecha which some people may be tired of seeing in anime, but they're pretty well animated and this is where the majority of the action takes place. Also the musical accompaniment in the action sequences is likely to keep you hooked just on its own.
And finally, the story. By the end of the first OVA, you begin to see where the tension between Isamu and Guld comes from, and are given a small insight into their past. I think the pacing in the first 3 OVAs leaves you unsure of the outcome, and how the characters will end up, and despite claims from some that the ending is predictable, I was actually expecting something entirely different (and not so good), so it was a pleasant surprise from my point of view. In my honest opinion, the story is great. It's not hugely deep or smothered in philosophical thought like a lot of animes, but that only works to its credit. It's the kinda story you can understand and enjoy without having to think about too much (unlike Akira and Ghost In The Shell, for example).
If you're wondering whether or not to watch the OVAs or Movie version, both have their pros and cons. The movie contains some new scenes and is slightly shorter. Each OVA episode finishes on a fairly tense note, which leaves you wanting more. I personally would recommend watching the OVAs first, but it's entirely up to you.
And please, I ask that you strongly consider watching the subtitled, and not dubbed version. The dub isn't that bad, but the voices aren't that well acted. They don't have as much emotion as the original Japanese voices and so could possibly detract from your overall enjoyment of what is, quite simply an awesome anime.
2 thumbs up for this - It's top quality. Exciting, Involving and Pure entertainment - It's not philosophical like Ghost In The Shell (if that's what you're after) but for pure action and enjoyable story, it comes highly recommended. Don't rent it, buy it.
Now, chances are you may have heard good or bad things about this anime. I think that perhaps fans of the original Macross were expecting something different, but having absolutely no existing knowledge of the Macross universe, I have to say this anime blew me away.
It is, in its entirety, very well animated and the pacing seems spot-on (for the most part). As with almost every soundtrack Yoko Kanno has worked on, you can expect a whole range of great music in Macross Plus. For many, it may in fact be the highlight (and thats saying something considering the overall quality).
The story, taken on its own merits, is great. It would be wrong to watch this anime and compare it to anything else, as I've never seen anything quite like it.
OK, so it does contain some pretty far-fetched mecha which some people may be tired of seeing in anime, but they're pretty well animated and this is where the majority of the action takes place. Also the musical accompaniment in the action sequences is likely to keep you hooked just on its own.
And finally, the story. By the end of the first OVA, you begin to see where the tension between Isamu and Guld comes from, and are given a small insight into their past. I think the pacing in the first 3 OVAs leaves you unsure of the outcome, and how the characters will end up, and despite claims from some that the ending is predictable, I was actually expecting something entirely different (and not so good), so it was a pleasant surprise from my point of view. In my honest opinion, the story is great. It's not hugely deep or smothered in philosophical thought like a lot of animes, but that only works to its credit. It's the kinda story you can understand and enjoy without having to think about too much (unlike Akira and Ghost In The Shell, for example).
If you're wondering whether or not to watch the OVAs or Movie version, both have their pros and cons. The movie contains some new scenes and is slightly shorter. Each OVA episode finishes on a fairly tense note, which leaves you wanting more. I personally would recommend watching the OVAs first, but it's entirely up to you.
And please, I ask that you strongly consider watching the subtitled, and not dubbed version. The dub isn't that bad, but the voices aren't that well acted. They don't have as much emotion as the original Japanese voices and so could possibly detract from your overall enjoyment of what is, quite simply an awesome anime.
2 thumbs up for this - It's top quality. Exciting, Involving and Pure entertainment - It's not philosophical like Ghost In The Shell (if that's what you're after) but for pure action and enjoyable story, it comes highly recommended. Don't rent it, buy it.
A fine four part OVA with interesting characters and great flight scenes
Tweekums15 January 2019
This four part OVA is centred on pilot Isamu Alva Dyson who has been transferred to the planet Eden to work as a test pilot on the YF-19 project. Here he comes up against childhood friend, now bitter rival Guld Goa Bowman; test pilot for the opposing YF-21 project. Tensions rise further when their old friend Myung Fang Lone turns up; she used to be a singer but is now the 'producer' for virtual idol Sharon Apple... at least that is her official role unofficially she provides Sharon's emotions as the system's artificial emotions don't work. As the test flights progress the two pilots' rivalries escalate to dangerous levels.
I've not seen other works in the Macross Universe but that didn't interfere with my enjoyment of this; in fact if I didn't know it was linked to other works I wouldn't have guessed. The story is relatively simple but very effective. The flying scenes are brilliantly animated with plenty of motion which makes the viewer feel part of the action... the combination of CGI and traditional animation is seamless. The romantic elements serve to explain the characters rivalries without feeling as if it is there just to provoke a rivalry. Initially the Myung/Sharon story seems like a side story that won't go anywhere important but it turns out to be more interesting that I originally expected. The story develops well over the four episodes leading to a spectacular and emotional finale.
These comments are based on watching the OVA in Japanese with English subtitles.
I've not seen other works in the Macross Universe but that didn't interfere with my enjoyment of this; in fact if I didn't know it was linked to other works I wouldn't have guessed. The story is relatively simple but very effective. The flying scenes are brilliantly animated with plenty of motion which makes the viewer feel part of the action... the combination of CGI and traditional animation is seamless. The romantic elements serve to explain the characters rivalries without feeling as if it is there just to provoke a rivalry. Initially the Myung/Sharon story seems like a side story that won't go anywhere important but it turns out to be more interesting that I originally expected. The story develops well over the four episodes leading to a spectacular and emotional finale.
These comments are based on watching the OVA in Japanese with English subtitles.
Excellent!
laserwiz27 October 2000
I have seen both the series and the movie. Quite simply, "Macross Plus" is one of the best animated presentations I've ever seen. I hold it in high regard along with "Princess Mononoke" as some of the finest examples of both Japanese Anime and the art of animation in general. Animation detail and special effects is astounding. The computer animated effects are used extremely well and complement the cell animation in an excellent way. Character designs are unique, yet, recognisable. Music, especially the pop selections, are brilliant. The sound design is beyond reproach. The dub work for both the English and Japanese languages are excellent. The story concept is very well done and feels original. Although I personally prefer the series, the movie is not without merit, as it still boasts a good story of a slightly different version from the series and has additional footage that's not seen in the series. If you have not seen "Macross Plus", watch it now! If you have judged anime only from observations of "Pokemon", you are depriving yourself and making bad judgement about this magnificent artform. One watch of "Macross Plus" and hopefully you'll agree that the best of anime are no "Pokemons". Films like this should be released all over the world for every person to experience! This is Japanese animation at its finest. It's more than worth the money to rent from your video store. It's worth buying for your video library. - Reinhart
Cool Macross Side-Story
mrsatan5 February 1999
This wasn't what I expected; it was not the (literally) earth shattering epic of humans versus bad aliens like the original. This sequal is more of a "gaiden" side-story set with in the same universe. Kind of focuses on some of the "little guys"; test pilots and engineers. But that's not to say that their lives are not as interesting. This is a much more intense, complex, and overall more grown-up story than the original. It's really a solid sci-fi story and would recommend it to anyone. And, one does not have to be familiar with the Macross universe to watch it!
Best Anime I've ever seen
dexen19 June 2000
Macross Plus is a sequel to the original movie Macross. It is not a sequel to Macross II. I found the original Macross to be unwatchable, partly for its cloying storyline and partly for its grating sexism. Macross Plus is so far removed from these tacky origins as to be a completely new and stand-alone movie.
There are two versions available for this anime-- the series and the movie. The series ends up approximately an hour and a half longer than the movie, but the editors did a wonderful job cutting, so the movie doesn't feel incomplete. In fact, they moved scenes around to create the complete story and even added a few scenes to change the focus.
The story and characters are more solid than many another film, and the animation is breathtaking-- in fact, my friends now use the term "Macross Sky" to denote any particularly vivid and beautiful sky. Moreover, the music is beyond amazing and ranges from symphonic/classical to atonal chant.
Computer animation is used in this film, and is completely distinct from the hand-drawn animation, but it is used entirely with computer-related scenes (a computer-generated concert and an interface with a plane) and the effect is wholly unified.
Try your best to see a version in Japanese with subtitles as the English music has less power than the original. DVDs are particularly good as you can see the varied versions and compare for yourself.
This is the movie I point to to say to American animators, "It is possible to do a fully adult, beautifully animated movie. Animation is not just for kids. Learn." Someday, maybe, they will.
There are two versions available for this anime-- the series and the movie. The series ends up approximately an hour and a half longer than the movie, but the editors did a wonderful job cutting, so the movie doesn't feel incomplete. In fact, they moved scenes around to create the complete story and even added a few scenes to change the focus.
The story and characters are more solid than many another film, and the animation is breathtaking-- in fact, my friends now use the term "Macross Sky" to denote any particularly vivid and beautiful sky. Moreover, the music is beyond amazing and ranges from symphonic/classical to atonal chant.
Computer animation is used in this film, and is completely distinct from the hand-drawn animation, but it is used entirely with computer-related scenes (a computer-generated concert and an interface with a plane) and the effect is wholly unified.
Try your best to see a version in Japanese with subtitles as the English music has less power than the original. DVDs are particularly good as you can see the varied versions and compare for yourself.
This is the movie I point to to say to American animators, "It is possible to do a fully adult, beautifully animated movie. Animation is not just for kids. Learn." Someday, maybe, they will.
Better than Akira and Ghost in the Shell
krypter25 May 2003
This is one of the finest movies - anime or live - ever made. The music is hypnotic, the visuals are stunning (especially since this is from 1994, and today's CGI usually blows away anything made 5 years ago), and the plot is quite dramatic. The themes in this movie are jealousy and forgiveness, love and obsession, and idoru (or artificial intelligence pop-idols). Macross Plus' handling of artificial intelligence is reminiscent of 2001: A Space Odyssey, with themes of human emotion transferred to machines.
For those who mentioned that the series is better than the movie, I must say that the each has its strengths and weaknesses. The series is slightly longer, but most of that time is taken up with mecha fights and background details that are really not that important to the story. The series has better pacing and the episode endings add a bit of drama, but it is also missing some really fantastic footage (such as the angel flight in the final concert) and two absolutely crucial lines of dialogue that explain *why* Myung is so conflicted in regards to Isamu. The movie also has a more gory ending for Guld and is missing a few choice scenes too. I really don't know why both versions were so cut up, but I suppose with everything together it would be 3 hours long. Regardless, this movie is absolutely recommended for people who may detest typical anime (sailor moon, original macross) and want something deeper and more engaging.
For those who mentioned that the series is better than the movie, I must say that the each has its strengths and weaknesses. The series is slightly longer, but most of that time is taken up with mecha fights and background details that are really not that important to the story. The series has better pacing and the episode endings add a bit of drama, but it is also missing some really fantastic footage (such as the angel flight in the final concert) and two absolutely crucial lines of dialogue that explain *why* Myung is so conflicted in regards to Isamu. The movie also has a more gory ending for Guld and is missing a few choice scenes too. I really don't know why both versions were so cut up, but I suppose with everything together it would be 3 hours long. Regardless, this movie is absolutely recommended for people who may detest typical anime (sailor moon, original macross) and want something deeper and more engaging.
One of the better manga films I've seen
Jammer-1228 October 1999
A well thought out story that unwinds around 3 separate plots. Firstly, there is a love triangle between the three main characters; the two men are test pilots competing against each other for a new transforming fighter contract with the UN Spacy defense force; and we have the latest AI music superstar visiting the lovely yet slightly odd planet of Eden.
The version which I saw was in English, and I have to say, made a very good transition from the original Japanese. Of the dubbed anime/manga films I have seen, this one is one of the better ones.
The version which I saw was in English, and I have to say, made a very good transition from the original Japanese. Of the dubbed anime/manga films I have seen, this one is one of the better ones.
An Alright Mecha/Drama
DonaldDooD22 September 2014
Just for clarity's sake, I should say I watched the movie version, not the OVA. I heard its better, but not all that different.
Macross Plus is only slightly above average. Its a bit more ambitious than the typical mecha. The animation is high quality, and it tries to be a character-focused anime, with few fight scenes. It kind of succeeds. There's tension in our love triangle, and some character depth. I didn't find the character's strong or likable enough to support a relatively slow movie. They're not awful...I guess they're just not my taste. :/ A bigger problem is the AI element to the story. Its pretty average, and takes time away from developing the relationships.
Its alright, though. And the few fight scenes are very good. At least two moments will stick with me through the years. You can give it a shot.
Macross Plus is only slightly above average. Its a bit more ambitious than the typical mecha. The animation is high quality, and it tries to be a character-focused anime, with few fight scenes. It kind of succeeds. There's tension in our love triangle, and some character depth. I didn't find the character's strong or likable enough to support a relatively slow movie. They're not awful...I guess they're just not my taste. :/ A bigger problem is the AI element to the story. Its pretty average, and takes time away from developing the relationships.
Its alright, though. And the few fight scenes are very good. At least two moments will stick with me through the years. You can give it a shot.
The best animation at home!
Sharkey36028 October 1999
There's no doubt about it. Macross Plus is simply the BEST ANIMATION TO WATCH AT HOME! It's story is greatly told, the drama is very deep, the characters are natural, the mecha are perfectly presented, the visuals are top-notch and the direction is perfect.
Good Anime...
shogun-246 February 2006
The movie is based on the TV series Macross Plus. Basically it has exactly the same story but it is told in a more "concentrated" way. Some details were taken out and some very small others were added. For example we have a little bit of "nudity" and the TV series didn't have that.
If you saw the TV series you don't really need to bother with the movie because you won't get enough additional content. In fact even the DVD quality of the movie isn't that great. The series is better even on this chapter.
If you haven't seen the series then the movie it is a nice experience worth your time & money. You will enjoy one of the best soundtracks, good action and a nice story.
If you saw the TV series you don't really need to bother with the movie because you won't get enough additional content. In fact even the DVD quality of the movie isn't that great. The series is better even on this chapter.
If you haven't seen the series then the movie it is a nice experience worth your time & money. You will enjoy one of the best soundtracks, good action and a nice story.
Just Flipping Beautiful
Wyrmis20 September 2000
For fans and dissenters of the Macross world (aka Robotech), do not be too hasty when it comes to this film (or the 4 part series that later became the film). Plus uses standard Macross elements (Valkyries, SDF-1 (Macross) and the Zentradi amongst others) but here is where the movie blossoms. Amongst this backdrop a story that is part Love Triangle, part Revenge and part Cyber-Ascension and wholy beautiful is woven. The themes it forces upon you are more than one can get out of the standard Toonami style Anime. They leave you with that same conflicting sense of questioning and confirmation that you might get from a well crafted book or play.
The characters are fleshed out and believable, and even enjoyable. In the span of two hours you are confronted with a better cross-section of life than some series can hope to achieve. Normally, you must read a book to get this deep. I do not quite understand all of the motivation (especially the bit that becomes most central right before and during the last fight) but that is cause to watch and enjoy again, not complaint.
The description of this movie as beautiful continues to the technical aspects. The anime-listic realism is plausible. The scenery is quite nice. The "computer animation" is used properly. In general, the character designs and similar effects are good enough that you don't have to even worry about them (if that makes sense). This movie also contains my favorite scenes of Valkyrie flying that I know of all the series and movies. Though some of the songs seem a little loud or even annoying, the major songs are excellent.
And then there was the ending, a great ending indeed. The climax-ending left me nearly panicked at time, and is the sort of thing that I brag to friends about seeing.
A beautiful movie that excels its macross brethren and deserves to be watched, even if you have no idea what Macross might even mean.
The characters are fleshed out and believable, and even enjoyable. In the span of two hours you are confronted with a better cross-section of life than some series can hope to achieve. Normally, you must read a book to get this deep. I do not quite understand all of the motivation (especially the bit that becomes most central right before and during the last fight) but that is cause to watch and enjoy again, not complaint.
The description of this movie as beautiful continues to the technical aspects. The anime-listic realism is plausible. The scenery is quite nice. The "computer animation" is used properly. In general, the character designs and similar effects are good enough that you don't have to even worry about them (if that makes sense). This movie also contains my favorite scenes of Valkyrie flying that I know of all the series and movies. Though some of the songs seem a little loud or even annoying, the major songs are excellent.
And then there was the ending, a great ending indeed. The climax-ending left me nearly panicked at time, and is the sort of thing that I brag to friends about seeing.
A beautiful movie that excels its macross brethren and deserves to be watched, even if you have no idea what Macross might even mean.
Better with sound off
Bladerunner20997 August 2023
Animation absolutely beautiful even after all those years. In contrast, protagonist Isamu Dyson is a pretty one-dimensional, annoying grandstander making it painful to watch the show with sound on. I prefer using it as soundless projection when we're having a party. It's a bit of a shame, of course, but Isamu reminded me a lot of Yusuke from YU YU HAKUSHO, you know that guy who looks like Elvis Presley but is also the strongest guy ever and not shy to brag about it. Compare those two to a truly epic character like Vash the Stampede from Trigun who is funny and humble and has a real inner conflict. Not as well animated but well enough for my taste - and you can leave the sound on with that one. Actually, if you ever get around to watching Trigun you absolutely should leave the sound on.
It doesn't get any better then this.
JediShaft7 August 2001
The Animation is with out par, Character/Mecha designs are inspired, great music, and the story is amazing.
Basically it's a love triangle between childhood friends, who still having somethings to work out... Set in the future world of Eden, a sci fi world that almost seems possible. Although it is set in the same universe as Macross, it was conceived as a new project and made to fit into the existing history of the Macross TV series. So if you haven't seen Macross or only know Robotech you wont be lost in this story.
If you love this series, check out Vision of Escaflowne (Make sure it the uncut/unedited version.. The best choice is subtitled). Some of the same creators worked on both project and who can resist Medieval Mecha.
Basically it's a love triangle between childhood friends, who still having somethings to work out... Set in the future world of Eden, a sci fi world that almost seems possible. Although it is set in the same universe as Macross, it was conceived as a new project and made to fit into the existing history of the Macross TV series. So if you haven't seen Macross or only know Robotech you wont be lost in this story.
If you love this series, check out Vision of Escaflowne (Make sure it the uncut/unedited version.. The best choice is subtitled). Some of the same creators worked on both project and who can resist Medieval Mecha.
A dazzling success on many levels
zenoki9 November 1998
Complete and total animated bliss
Anonymoo-28 July 1999
Macross Plus, the brainchild of famous (or is it infamous?) anime director/artist Shoji Kawamori, is not your average space-combat anime. While billed by some as "the Top Gun of anime" (how original is that?), Macross Plus is anything but. Top Gun was an above-average action-comedy, while Macross Plus is a window into the future, a near-paradisaic place of beauty constantly foreshadowed by imminent destruction. That happens, alright. Virtual star Sharon Apple goes on a rampage and sets a diabolical plan in motion, then our heroes go and blow things up. Sounds simplistic, but when viewed closer, it comes off as mind-blowingly complex. Rent Macross Plus and watch as animation is taken to a whole new level! (Does anyone notice that I make my comments on my favorite movies as short as possible, while the others that aren't as good get thesis papers?)
Story of two test pilots fighting for their planes and dealing with a virtual idol
mcc30 March 1999
If there is only 1 animation that you ever see. This is the one. This anime has everything, ranging from dogfights, romance, creation of AI and the soul, really really great music, great computer graphics.
The artwork is superior, drawn in a way that reflects a more modern style of animation. The robot design is great, perfect mecha dogfighting, however, the movie is not just about fighting robots so that all people can enjoy this movie.
Although the two main characters are a bit unoriginal, they are lovable and make u want to cheer for them. They are very human and each has flaws.
The climax of this animation puts the audience in a total trance like state, hypnotizing as any movie can ever become.
The movie deals with issues like the soul, and questions philosophy but doesn't allow itself to get too creepy or too involved, provides all this and can captivate the audience at the same time.
The virtual concert done in the movie is also a great splattering of facial animation design, and accompaning music.
Overall, this animation is a perfect 10. I cannot find any serious flaw with this.
The artwork is superior, drawn in a way that reflects a more modern style of animation. The robot design is great, perfect mecha dogfighting, however, the movie is not just about fighting robots so that all people can enjoy this movie.
Although the two main characters are a bit unoriginal, they are lovable and make u want to cheer for them. They are very human and each has flaws.
The climax of this animation puts the audience in a total trance like state, hypnotizing as any movie can ever become.
The movie deals with issues like the soul, and questions philosophy but doesn't allow itself to get too creepy or too involved, provides all this and can captivate the audience at the same time.
The virtual concert done in the movie is also a great splattering of facial animation design, and accompaning music.
Overall, this animation is a perfect 10. I cannot find any serious flaw with this.
Macross Plus Review
thescholar229 June 2015
First saw this on Sci-fi back when it was called that. They had and anime block for a bit and they first showed Macross Plus, I least I think. I kinda liked it at first since I was a fan of Robotech and Super Dimensional Fortress Macross so I thought it would be good. When it was over I did my research and found out Bryan Craston voiced Dyson. Also that he tried voice acting for anime before his Malcolm in the Middle days too. Some consider this the Top Gun of anime and I think came out in 1995 on Starz, a premium channel. I won't spoil much of it but if your a fan of anime, Top Gun, Robotech, or even Super Dimensional Fortress Macross give it a watch. This is pretty good for the mid 1990's anime and you can get it on the Amazon Instant Video Store. At least that's where I found it but it's also I think on Youtube as well. I also want to say that back then it was hard for anime fans to keep up with there hobby. It was these anime blocks like on Sci-fi and Cartoon Network did people really get into anime. Even before robotech and all that stuff in the 1980's even.
Fantastic animation, pure and simple
oltmansg24 July 2000
First and foremost, let me say that Macross Plus is far and away the best piece of animation I have ever seen.
Macross Plus is based loosely on the Macross/Robotech series, and is set many years forward into the future. The story is about three friends, Isamu, Guld, and Myung that were childhood friends and due to some conflict, grew apart. Fate has brought them back together several years later. Myung is the producer of a hit pop-star, Sharon Apple, that also happens to be a computer. Guld and Isamu are test pilots on competing plane/spaceship projects. In addition to the tension created by the two ego-maniacs competing for the heart of Myung, further trouble arises when Sharon Apple starts exhibiting sentient behavior.
The story is split into four approximately 45 minute segments. Even with this short format, there is an excellent progression of plot from one episode to the next. The animation is a good balance of traditional hand-drawn cell animation and computer generated effects. The attention to detail is astonishing.
What sticks out in my mind even more than the beautiful eye-popping animation is the fantastic soundtrack, and sound effects. It is without a doubt the best soundtrack of any anime, and perhaps of any animated feature film yet. A large portion of the soundtrack was performed by the Israeli Philharmonic. The cello and piano solos of Myung's Theme are absolute masterpieces.
Macross Plus is available both in a four part miniseries and a movie format. I strongly urge you to see the miniseries before watching the movie, or skip the movie altogether. The edit job on the movie version is terrible, and the continuity of the plot is almost destroyed as a result. That aside, there are several minutes worth of animation in the movie that do not appear in the miniseries. I would love to see them edit the pieces from the movie into the miniseries. It would be perfect then.
Run, don't walk to your movie favorite movie rental store and check this out. Better yet, buy the whole set. I did!
Macross Plus is based loosely on the Macross/Robotech series, and is set many years forward into the future. The story is about three friends, Isamu, Guld, and Myung that were childhood friends and due to some conflict, grew apart. Fate has brought them back together several years later. Myung is the producer of a hit pop-star, Sharon Apple, that also happens to be a computer. Guld and Isamu are test pilots on competing plane/spaceship projects. In addition to the tension created by the two ego-maniacs competing for the heart of Myung, further trouble arises when Sharon Apple starts exhibiting sentient behavior.
The story is split into four approximately 45 minute segments. Even with this short format, there is an excellent progression of plot from one episode to the next. The animation is a good balance of traditional hand-drawn cell animation and computer generated effects. The attention to detail is astonishing.
What sticks out in my mind even more than the beautiful eye-popping animation is the fantastic soundtrack, and sound effects. It is without a doubt the best soundtrack of any anime, and perhaps of any animated feature film yet. A large portion of the soundtrack was performed by the Israeli Philharmonic. The cello and piano solos of Myung's Theme are absolute masterpieces.
Macross Plus is available both in a four part miniseries and a movie format. I strongly urge you to see the miniseries before watching the movie, or skip the movie altogether. The edit job on the movie version is terrible, and the continuity of the plot is almost destroyed as a result. That aside, there are several minutes worth of animation in the movie that do not appear in the miniseries. I would love to see them edit the pieces from the movie into the miniseries. It would be perfect then.
Run, don't walk to your movie favorite movie rental store and check this out. Better yet, buy the whole set. I did!
Greatness + Trash = Huh?
Akira-Tetsuo6 May 2001
While episodes 1 + 2 were excellent, 3 + 4 were awful.
Two past friends, now rivals, must fight over the love of their lives, and a mission which can't be turned down.
Episodes 1 + 2 are excellent, and realistic, while 3 + 4 reveal a ridiculous ending.
In other words:
1 + 2, you've just won a million dollars!
3 + 4, you are the weakest link!
Two past friends, now rivals, must fight over the love of their lives, and a mission which can't be turned down.
Episodes 1 + 2 are excellent, and realistic, while 3 + 4 reveal a ridiculous ending.
In other words:
1 + 2, you've just won a million dollars!
3 + 4, you are the weakest link!
A beautiful movie which earned my respect as the BEST
Mateo-56 September 1999
This movie is simply beautiful. Every element of the movie; the plot, the characters, the action, and ESPECIALLY the art and music, is unparalleled. There are too many things to say about this movie to fit in this review, but I guarantee that to watch it is an experience and it will easily find it's way on to your top ten list.
One of the best Japanese ANIME!
lengchai28 October 1998
Macross Plus combine stunning art with excellent storyline. On top of that, the songs and background music are more than enough to get a perfect 10! (How often do you see Isreal orchestra in animated features?) Don't miss it.
A very powerful sequel to the original
sakurakitsune27 June 2015
Macross Plus is possibly the best animated sequel to Super Dimensional Fortress Macross. Technically the first sequel to Macross was Macross II: Lovers Again. However it didn't have Shoji Kawamori work on it and Kawamori considers it canon only in alternative universe only.
Macross Plus however is one of his defining achievements. It was vastly different to Macross in the fact it didn't have you fighting aliens and nor were people into war. The story was a simplified story focusing on test pilots instead and still bringing about the usual theme of Love Triangles which is a Staple of Macross story telling. This one is a little different and much more emotional in ways to the older Minmay, Misa, and Hikaru love triangle. It's still good none the less and you get pulled into it much more than previously The Animation is an improvement compared to the original series with sharper lines and more details to the characters and backgrounds, The big difference between filming with 16mm film (at one time was the standard for filming for television) compared to 32mm film (was the standard for filming movies.) And like with any sci-fi series with mechas, it has to have updated Mecha's from the original, and this one delivers with 2 very beautiful Plane designs and a competition to see which one will become the UN Spacy's next major model Mecha to replace already aging and outdated Mecha's.
We also see some interesting things put into the story like artificial Singers who are quite popular which is something quite relate-able to today (vocaloid's Hatsune Miku as an example.) Music is also a big thing in this and to add icing to the cake, they were able to get composer Yoko Kanno to work on it and is almost nothing short of being perfect. Granted there are some pieces that are weaker than others, but overall it's still amazing music to listen too. "Information High" being one of my personal favorite pieces.
The best part about this OVA? It's completely separate from the original! So you don't have to watch the original to like or enjoy this OVA.
I wouldn't recommend the movie version in my opinion. It adds some different details and the story is slightly different. But it's really a cut and splice of the original OVA with a slightly altered story. The movie version does feel like it was random scenes spliced together since it jumps from one part of the story to another without any real reason to do so. And other than splicing in new scenes for the movie, it honestly isn't worth it even to see them.
You will be better off seeing this OVA since it is a much more natural pacing and doesn't jump from one random scene to another and doesn't feel like a cut and splice job.
Macross Plus however is one of his defining achievements. It was vastly different to Macross in the fact it didn't have you fighting aliens and nor were people into war. The story was a simplified story focusing on test pilots instead and still bringing about the usual theme of Love Triangles which is a Staple of Macross story telling. This one is a little different and much more emotional in ways to the older Minmay, Misa, and Hikaru love triangle. It's still good none the less and you get pulled into it much more than previously The Animation is an improvement compared to the original series with sharper lines and more details to the characters and backgrounds, The big difference between filming with 16mm film (at one time was the standard for filming for television) compared to 32mm film (was the standard for filming movies.) And like with any sci-fi series with mechas, it has to have updated Mecha's from the original, and this one delivers with 2 very beautiful Plane designs and a competition to see which one will become the UN Spacy's next major model Mecha to replace already aging and outdated Mecha's.
We also see some interesting things put into the story like artificial Singers who are quite popular which is something quite relate-able to today (vocaloid's Hatsune Miku as an example.) Music is also a big thing in this and to add icing to the cake, they were able to get composer Yoko Kanno to work on it and is almost nothing short of being perfect. Granted there are some pieces that are weaker than others, but overall it's still amazing music to listen too. "Information High" being one of my personal favorite pieces.
The best part about this OVA? It's completely separate from the original! So you don't have to watch the original to like or enjoy this OVA.
I wouldn't recommend the movie version in my opinion. It adds some different details and the story is slightly different. But it's really a cut and splice of the original OVA with a slightly altered story. The movie version does feel like it was random scenes spliced together since it jumps from one part of the story to another without any real reason to do so. And other than splicing in new scenes for the movie, it honestly isn't worth it even to see them.
You will be better off seeing this OVA since it is a much more natural pacing and doesn't jump from one random scene to another and doesn't feel like a cut and splice job.
A great, awesome final series to the Macross Saga
Yagamei8 July 2002
This is one of those animes that just leave you sitting there in awe for a while after you turn off the tape / DVD. It's just simply that good. First of all, the animation is solid and well done. A fine, entertaining mix of CGI graphics and crisp, clean and modern japanimation make this series a visual treat, which is understandable -- After all it is one of the more expensive animes ever made. The plot is also very admirable, an engrossing love triangle between Isamu Dyson, Guld Bowman, and Myung Lone. You'll be sucked right in. Despite what some may think or say -- There is also a good degree of action in this little series. Enough to wet the whistle of any hardcore or new viewer of the Macross saga. You'll feel yourself relating to the character, feeling what they feel, and so on. You'll find yourself rooting for either the YF 19 or the YF 21, which are the test veritechs in this movie. It's a great experience. The soundtrack is highly superb, as in incorporates a fine mix of lustful tunes with some good spirit lifting songs during flights, and at the end of episodes. Whether you watch the dub or the sub (the dubbing is actually very well done in this series ), the vocals are fantastic, and very important to the movie's plot and overall experience. As far as whether you should get the movie or the volumes -- I would HIGHLY recommend you go for the volumes. The movie is, for some weird reason, more gory than the volumes, as the final scene with Guld .. that just ripped my heart apart. But aside from that, the volumes give you more scenes, some of which are very interesting, such as an opening action sequence. It's just a more thorough watch. I truly hope that all anime fans get a chance to see this series -- It's fantastic, inspirational, and visually great. My highest recommendation for this one.
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