RahXephon

Blue blood and genetics are the only way to tell who is human and who is not. Called Mulians, these are the invaders the conflict of RahXephon centers around. In the beginning of RahXephon, Ayato Kamina is a modest 17-year-old living in Tokyo. He is an average student, who enjoys painting and spending time with his classmates Hiroko Asahina and Mamoru Torigai. He has affectionate relationship with his mother, strained by her long-hour work. During the sudden attack on Tokyo, Ayato hears the singing of his classmate Reika Mishima. She leads him to a giant egg containing the RahXephon. Haruka Shitow, an agent of the defense research agency brings Ayato and the RahXephon to their headquarters.

Like most mecha, Ayato and his RahXephon are unique instruments in the conflict with invaders. Unlike other series, mechas in RahXephon are made of clay; much like the golems of Jewish folklore. Full of action, as you would expect from the genre, RahXephon’s storyline is unfortunately a complete mess. Full of plot holes and side stories, it is almost incomprehensible with a single view. The story is much clearer in the movie rehash but still lacks any real power to draw in the viewer. However, the character interaction and development is excellent. The tension between Ayato and Haruka throughout the series is believable and endearing. More time is spent outside the Dolems, the name for the mechs in this series, than within them. It is a story of self discovery to a point, but it lacks the often whiny moping of many other mecha shows. Yes I am looking at you, Evangelion. Ayato is active and rises to challenges; basically his is a likable protagonist who is simply flawed and has moments of weakness.

The animation is good; action scenes are vibrant and crisp as you would expect from Bones. Computer graphics are present but seamlessly meshed with Bones’ fluid traditional animation. While the story was a a long chew, the ending neatly and clearly cleans up all the strands. RahXephon is best watched for the character plot lines and interaction than the overarching story.