Anime of the Year 1984 - Kaze no Tani no Nausicaä

Only Kaze no Tani no Nausicaä gets a masterpiece score from me in 1984

1. Juusenki L-Gaim 重戦機エルガイム [1984-I] Sunrise (Dropped 5/54) Tags: Shounen Mecha, Space In the year 3990, the immortal Oldna Poseidal rules Pentagona, a war-torn solar system of five planets. Daba Myroad is a survivor of the Yaman Clan, just one of numerous native societies nearly wiped out by the tyrant. Living on the remote planet Koam with his friend Mirao Kyao, Daba possesses L-Gaim, a humanoid mecha known commonly as a "Heavy Metal" and the last known relic of the Yaman Clan. The pair befriend Fanneria Amu, an aspiring actress, and Lilith Fau, the last surviving fairy in Pentagona while on the run from a band of thieves attempting to steal L-Gaim. Daba promises to fulfill the dying wish of one of the thieves hunting him—an honorable act that leads him to the powerful merchant Amandara Kamandara. With their mission in sight, the ragtag group will face powerful adversaries and become entangled in a rebellion against Poseidal's reign. All these mecha look alike as resistance steals a mecha and starts boring action fights. There is some humor and even fairy added to stand out, but it just does not. Tried to watch it for five episodes, but it does not get better than average.   Overall Rating: 5/10

2. Makiba no Shoujo Katri Katri, Girl of the Meadows 牧場の少女カトリ [1984-I] Nippon Animation (Dropped 3/49) Tags: Historical Adventure, Drama, Slice of Life This series tells the story of 9 year-old Katri, a girl who lives on a farm in Finland with her grandparents. Katri's mother has been away in Germany for three years. The farm is not doing well, so to help support her family, she goes to work on a neighboring farm. Katri faces many struggles and challenges. Yay, more of world masterpiece theater. Optimistic concept is a big bonus for this anime, but in the end it all crashes again against lack of desire to watch it further.   Overall Rating: 5/10

3. Yume Senshi Wingman Wingman 夢戦士ウイングマン [1984-I] Toei Animation (Dropped 3/47) Tags: School, Super Power Action, Comedy, Romance Hirono Kenta is your average geeky junior high school student. His childhood obsession has always been Tokusatsu and anime. In fact, he fancies himself as a "Hero of Justice" and often is seen running around in a makeshift costume of his own design called "Wing Man." Most of his fellow classmates thinks he's just a crazy otaku, but his childhood friend Ogawa Miku thinks he's a noble spirit. One day as Hirono is walking to school, a beautiful and voluptuous girlliterally drops out of the sky and into his life. Hirono, bewildered by the event, none-the-less takes the girl to his home to recuperate (this is his duty as a "Hero of Justice"). He also keeps the "Dream Note" so that he can transpose his favorite "Wing Man" costume designs into it. Later, Hirono is confronted by the girl who reveals herself to be Yume Aoi, Princess of the Dreamscape called Botoreem. Her domain has been conquered by the power mad despot, Rimeru and his armies of monstrous "Seed Men." She barely escaped her domain with the power artifact known as the "Dream Note." The "Dream Note" enables its possessor to create anything they desire by merely drawing or writing information within its pages. Rimeru seeks to steal it to become Master of the Universe. She demands that Hirono give her back the book, but Hirono had already begun drawing into the book (mystically linking himself to it). Hirono soon discovers that his designs and notes on Wing Man become reality and he in turn becomes his own creation. Using these powers and abilities, he and Aoi begin their strange and amazing adventure. Along the way, Hirono inadvertently involves all of his friends, especially Miku in his quest to help Aoi free her people and save her father. Rimeru sends his various minions to Earth's dimension to retrieve the book. One his henchmen is the noble yet devious Kitakura who goes as far as infiltrating Hirono's junior high school masquerading as a teacher. So this is how Death Note appeared... anyway, with two competing girls felt a lot like Urusei Yatsura, maybe only slightly better.   Overall Rating: 5/10

4. Chou Kousoku Galvion Super High Speed Galvion 超攻速ガルビオン [1984-I] Kokusai Eigasha (Dropped 3/22) Tags: Detective, Mecha Action, Sci-Fi Super High Speed Galvion features mecha designs by Ohata Koichi (of Gunbuster fame). In the 23rd century billionaire Midoriyama Rei creates a secret organization called Circus to combat a hidden group called Shadow that is taking over the world. When she can't find qualified pilots for Circus' main mecha, the Galvion, she cuts a deal with two convicts, Mu and Maya, to lead the fight against Shadow. I doubt good anime about racing exist ... this is definitely not the one. And mecha feels absolutely not needed here as if introduced just because of general mecha craze.   Overall Rating: 3/10

5. Okawari-Boy Starzan-S OKAWARI-BOY スターザンS [1984-I] Tatsunoko Production (Dropped 3/34) Tags: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi On planet Kirakira live two tribes: Senobi and Robot. Senobi, quiet and peacefully set, settle down in the forest. Robot comes from the desert and starts war to take control of afforested grounds. A young hero coming from Senobi tries to appease the whole situation. Not translated. This anime plays very skillfully with contrasts. Starzan is a combination of star and Tarzan, and everything is this way, really. Slavery vs dominance, big vs small, feared vs funny, self-confident vs shy, nature vs robot. It's a very nice comedy, but in the end it's just cartoonish confrontation of two parties. It's absolutely worth watching, but I need something more complex.   Overall Rating: 5/10

6. Souya Monogatari 宗谷物語 [1984-I] Kokusai Eigasha (Dropped 3/21) Tags: Historical Adventure, Drama The Souya is a Japanese museum ship that previously served as an icebreaker and patrol boat, and was the first Japanese ship to take part in an Antarctic research expedition. The anime tells the adventures of the ship and its crew. Untranslated. Both adventures and poor animation quality make it super boring.   Overall Rating: 4/10

7. Lolita Anime ロリータアニメ [1984-I] Wonder Kids (Finished 6/6) Tags: Hentai The first ever hentai OVA, Lolita Anime was released in early 1984. Some of the episodes featured parodies of other famous anime characters (i.e. Lum). The series' main focus was bondage. A rather chaotic mashup with first two episodes split into two stories, third and sixth being mostly compilations and episodes four and five being longer stories. Title lolita theme is more courtesy to hentai manga that showed up since the end of the 70s than. What actually surprised is usage of censorship already both as blur and as color transformation. I had to include first hentai, but dropping all future hentai .   Overall Rating: 0/10

8. Kaze no Tani no Nausicaä Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind 風の谷のナウシカ [1984-I] Topcraft (Finished 1/1) Tags: Adventure, Fantasy A millennium has passed since the catastrophic nuclear war named the "Seven Days of Fire," which destroyed nearly all life on Earth. Humanity now lives in a constant struggle against the treacherous jungle that has evolved in response to the destruction caused by mankind. Filled with poisonous spores and enormous insects, the jungle spreads rapidly across the Earth and threatens to swallow the remnants of the human race. Away from the jungle exists a peaceful farming kingdom known as the "Valley of the Wind," whose placement by the sea frees it from the spread of the jungle's deadly toxins. The Valley's charismatic young princess, Nausicaä, finds her tranquil kingdom disturbed when an airship from the kingdom of Tolmekia crashes violently in the Valley. After Nausicaä and the citizens of the Valley find a sinister pulsating object in the wreckage, the Valley is suddenly invaded by the Tolmekian military, who intend to revive a dangerous weapon from the Seven Days of Fire. Now Nausicaä must fight to stop the Tolmekians from plunging the Earth into a cataclysm which humanity could never survive, while also protecting the Valley from the encroaching forces of the toxic jungle. Yay, first Ghibli anime, joint with Topcraft this time. To my shame, have not seen it before. Post-apocalyptical toxic jungle setting is very appealing. Three different factions are complex enough to investigate. Characters are intelligent and behave logically. There are a lot of unexpected twists and impressive creatures. I enjoyed it more than I hoped to, but to get a perfect masterpiece score I should not have questions left. I feel like two rivaling kingdoms aren't given proper attention to explain motivation. Also, general impression is comparable to that of Magical Boy Conan, two works have a lot in common.    Overall Rating: 8/10

9. Urusei Yatsura 2: Beautiful Dreamer うる星やつら2 ビューティフル・ドリーマー [1984-I] Pierrot (Finished 1/1) Tags: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi Not all is normal in Tomobiki, even by its standards. The students have been preparing feverishly for the first day of the student fair, which is scheduled to go on the next day. However, problems arise when some begin to notice that the next day simply will not come. As the students begin to try to find the reason for the problem, their beliefs about reality and the world of dreams are challenged. Story driven time anomaly feels a lot better than previous romance movie. Sadly, eventually it goes back to flashbacks about Lum, so not cool. Ending is really bad.   Overall Rating: 6/10

10. Wata no Kuni Hoshi Fantasy of a Kitten 綿の国星 [1984-I] Mushi Production (Finished 1/1) Tags: Shoujo Pets, Psychological Drama, Fantasy, Romance After two-month-old kitten Chibi-neko is abandoned by her former owners, she is found by 18-year-old Tokio. Although his mother is allergic to cats and has a great fear of them, she agrees to let him keep the kitten because she fears he is becoming too withdrawn after failing his university entrance exams. Chibi-neko soon falls in love with Tokio. In her own mind, Chibi-neko is a small human who speaks in human words, although people only ever seem to hear her meow, and she believes that all humans were once kittens like her. A stray cat tells Chibi-neko of a paradise called Cottonland, where dreams can come true. Wow, even Chobits seem to have their spiritual predecessors. So, I knew I was missing something in amine of 60s-80s, and that something is kawai of which Fantasy of a Kitten is the first representative . Really cute, but story-wise sure weak.   Overall Rating: 6/10

11. Choujin Locke Locke the Superman 超人ロック [1984-I] Nippon Animation (Finished 1/1) Tags: Action, Sci-Fi Super Power A quiet, polite, lonely immortal esper about which little is known, he is called "Locke the Superman", but often denies being so. It is not known where or when he was born, and if asked, Locke will say he does not remember. It is entirely possible this is true. However, when asked by Cornelia Prim in "Millennium of the Witch" which star he was from, Locke replied "Toa." He has appeared at various times throughout the history of the galaxy, either as a direct influence, an indirect influence, or a simple observer. Using his esper abilities, Locke can learn and do most things more quickly than a normal human. His power also allows him to remain eternally young, or even turn himself into a child again to be adopted by kind-hearted families. It is speculated he remains youthful as an excuse not to take responsibility for whatever cause he is approached for, since no one expects youths to have such responsibilities. Lots of espers are doing something! I can not find login in such shows and not going to look for connection between glowing eyes and all kinds of mayhem happening. Another chaotic mashup.   Overall Rating: 4/10

12. Shounen Kenya Kenya Boy 少年ケニヤ [1984-I] Toei Animation (Finished 1/1) Tags: Adventure It is the year 1941. 11-year-old Murakami Wataru lives with his family, Japanese textile traders operating in British Kenya, when war breaks out between Japan and the Allies. Fleeing into the bush, young Wataru falls headlong into a series of fantastic adventures. A normal looking boy defeats giant beasts and dozens of armed men on multiple occasions... feels very weird.   Overall Rating: 3/10

13. Mirai Shounen Conan: Kyodaiki Gigant no Fukkatsu 未来少年コナン特別篇　巨大機ギガントの復活 [1984-I] Nippon Animation (Dropped 0/1) Tags: Adventure, Drama, Sci-Fi An edited version of the last few episodes of the 1978 series into a 47 min short movie. I absolutely did not like the second arc of the TV series, so no sense in trying to search for it deeper.   Overall Rating: 0/10

14. Meitantei Holmes: Aoi Ruby no Maki / Kaitei no Zaihou no Maki Sherlock Hound: The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle / Treasure Under the Sea 名探偵ホームズ 青い紅玉の巻/海底の財宝の巻 [1984-I] TMS Entertainment (Finished 1/1) Tags: Adventure, Comedy, Mystery The famous blue ruby is stolen in such an elaborate way, that only one villain can be suspected - Professor Moriarty. It is up to Sherlock Holmes to return it and, in the process, to turn a young pick-pocket on the right path. In the second part, Moriarty sets his sights even higher, stealing a top-secret submarine from the Navy. What does he need it for? Holmes is once again on the trail. The dominant emotion experienced was cringe. Humor is pretty bad. Have trouble determining target audience - probably youngsters.   Overall Rating: 4/10

15. Oshin おしん [1984-I] Historical Drama (Finished 1/1) Tags: Historical Drama Oshin comes from a family of poor rice farmers. Her father and brother must work in the fields and her grandmother and mother, who is expecting another child, barely have enough to eat. In order to make ends meet for her family, 7-year-old Oshin gives up school and decides to become a servant in the household of a wealthy family, where she faces trials and tribulation beyond her worst fears. Not translated. Barefoot Gen opened Pandora box. Anime starts with mother suicide attempt, so you already can guess what awaits. Movie is basically about parting, both temporary and final, with different people who are kind to Oshin. Child labor is heavily exploited without right for education, enough rest or proper nutrition. I don't understand the point of tearjerker movies without some bigger goal. I found none here, although can't deny that it's made well. The only thought I can get out of it is that Japanese women are so strong that in the direst situations when men give up, women keep being proactive in any conditions to form a decent life with their own hands.   Overall Rating: 6/10

16. Ninja Hattori-kun Plus Perman: Chounouryoku Wars 忍者ハットリくん＋パーマン 超能力ウォーズ [1984-I] Shin-Ei Animation (Finished 1/1) Tags: Martial Arts, Super Power Adventure Crossover film featuring both of Motoo Abiko's work. Both casts gets wrapped up in an ESP war helping a psychic girl named Yuri whose homeland was destroyed by an evil psychic man who is trying to capture all the psychics in the world and use them for world domination. It was screened as a double feature with Doraemon: Nobita no Makai Daibouken. Obviously a kid movie, just wanted to see ninja Hattori-kun as I missed its initial series that were blocked as kids material.   Overall Rating: 3/10

17. Chiisana Koi no Monogatari: Chichi to Sally Hatsukoi no Shiki 小さな恋のものがたり チッチとサリー初恋の四季 [1984-I] TBS (Finished 1/1) Tags: Shoujo Romance, Slice of Life Tiny schoolgirl Chiiko develops a crush on older boy Sally and believes herself to be his girlfriend, although Sally is already involved in a love triangle with a girl called Tonko. Rather light consensual romance that's only blackened by unmanageable jealousy of Chiiko. Don't see the need for this piece at all.   Overall Rating: 5/10

18. Lupin III: Part III ルパン三世 - Part III [1984-II] Tokyo Movie Shinsha (Dropped 3/50) Tags: Seinen Adult Cast Action, Adventure, Comedy Lupin III chronicles the adventures of Arsene Lupin III, the world's greatest thief, and his partners in crime: master marksman Daisuke Jigen, beautiful and scheming Fujiko Mine and stoic samurai Goemon Ishikawa XIII. Lupin and his gang travel around the globe in search of the world's greatest treasures and riches and always keeping one step ahead of the tireless Inspector Zenigata, who has vowed to bring Lupin to justice. Familiar company, several new enemies, better humor and more complex plots. It's the most enjoyable part so far, but not to an extent that I'd want to watch it all.   Overall Rating: 5/10

19. Glass no Kamen ガラスの仮面 [1984-II] Eiken (Dropped 3/23) Tags: Shoujo Performing Arts Drama, Romance Kitajima Maya, a 13-year old girl with a talent for acting, was discovered by the reclusive actress Tsukikage. The story follows Maya's growing up, intense training, overcoming challenges, and evolving into the foremost actress of her generation (she is about 20 so far). Maya's greatest rival is Himekawa Ayumi, the beautiful daughter of a famous movie couple. They ultimately vied for the most sought-after role - the "Crimson Goddess". An equally important subplot Maya's relationship with the handsome and ruthless entertainment mogul Hayami Masumi, who secretly became her number one fan, but misunderstandings and bad-timing obstructed their romance... I can describe it as Attack on Ace, just inside theater instead of tennis court. Another competition shojo without real complexity applied.   Overall Rating: 3/10

20. Choujikuu Kidan Southern Cross Robotech Masters 超時空騎団サザンクロス [1984-II] Tatsunoko Production (Dropped 3/23) Tags: Mecha Action, Drama, Sci-Fi By the year 2120, humans have successfully colonized other planets following the near devestation of Earth from the last great world war. However, on Gloire, one such colony are surprised and unprepared at the arrival of The Zor, a group of beings whom were the original inhabitants of the planet and left following similar near fatal events. Coming to reclaim their former home world, a relentless war erupts between both races that ultimately leads to a cataclysmic showdown and into a no-win scenario for either. Did not like previous Robotech series, and this one is not better in any way. A huge number of bland characters, chaotic mecha action battles. Team gathers only by 3rd episode, and two episodes are stretched just for prologue. All these shows don't even try to capture watcher's attention. Learn directorship from Sunrise at least! Just plastic action with plastic characters and no sense behind it all.   Overall Rating: 4/10

21. Attacker You! アタッカーＹＯＵ！ [1984-II] Knack Productions (Dropped 3/58) Tags: Shoujo Action, Romance, Sports Attacker You! is the story of ambitious and energetic 13-year-old junior high schoolgirl You Hazuki (variously known as "Mila," "Jeanne" or "Juana" in Western dubbed versions of the anime), who moves to Tokyo from Osaka to live with her father Toshihiko, a cameraman recently returned from Peru, and attend school. You's mother is not in the picture, having left when You was very young. Also living with You and her father is her younger brother Sunny, who is very attached to his older sister and tends to follow her everywhere she goes, including to school and to her volleyball matches. You is also curious about Kyushi Tajima, the pretty blonde woman whom she sees covering volleyball games on television, and about why her father becomes very angry whenever You mentions her. You is passionate about volleyball and dreams of one day being a part of Japan's national women's volleyball team in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. She joins her school's girls' volleyball team and quickly becomes one of the top players, although her coach (who is also her homeroom teacher) is brutal and literally slaps his players around when they don't live up to his expectations. You begins a tumultuous friendship with former school volleyball champ and former arch-rival Nami Hayase (French name: "Peggy"), which comes to a head when the two girls join opposing professional teams. She also develops a crush on So Takiki, the captain of the Hikawa boys' volleyball team (known as "Shiro," "Serge" or "Sergio" in various Western versions), and puts as much effort into trying to win his heart as she does into her game. For me it's a clear homage to volleyball shoujo of 1970 Attack No.1 . This time there's more comedy and overall quality, so I can rate it higher, but shoujo spokon must have much more complexity to get a decent score from me .   Overall Rating: 5/10

22. Giant Gorg 巨神ゴーグ〈ジャイアントゴーグ〉 [1984-II] Sunrise (Dropped 4/26) Tags: Mecha Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Austral Island is located 2,000 km south from Samoa islands. The existence of the island was removed from the official records, and Tagami Yuu made a journey to search for the reason. He sailed for the island with Dr. Waive who was his father's friend, Doris who is the daughter of Dr. Waive, and Captain who is the friend of Dr. Waive. On their way to the island, GAIL, the international conglomerate, and gangster, Cougar Connection lead by Lady Lynx attacked them. They managed to arrive at the island, but suddenly a mysterious monster began to attack them. When they became ready for death, a blue giant robot appeared. It destroyed the monster and saved them. Although it was an existence far beyond human knowledge, it reminded Yuu of something warm and familiar. It was Giant Gorg which is called "Messenger of the God" by the inhabitants of the island. Escaping from the attack of GAIL's assault team, Gorg guided Yuu into the underworld. There, he found alien's relic and an alien who woke up after 30,000 years' sleep. It starts pretty strong with comedy and SOL he quality is high and I liked the humor when it spawned. At the same time it's the story of meeting a mecha and defending against attackers. Because of Dr.Waive and island mystery I was able to watch the series to the end, thanks to the fact that seasons have mostly gone from 50 episodes to just 26. As expected, it was awful and by the end heroes just meet Dr. Waive with a bit of explanation. Can't say I got enjoyment out of it in the end, for sure can't call it a masterpiece. Mecha that has own will and acts voluntarily is one huge bs.   Overall Rating: 5/10

23. Tongari Boushi no Memole とんがり帽子のメモル [1984-II] Toei Animation (Dropped 3/50) Tags: Shoujo Fantasy Memoru is one of 245 people who came to earth from the Riruru Star when their ship had an emergency crash-landing on earth. Memoru's people have such tiny bodies that they could stand on a human's palm. One day she hears lovely music, and she follows its source and comes upon a huge house she hasn't seen before to find a girl taller than her playing on the piano. Memoru visited her again secretly with her friends Popitu, Rupangu, and Pi, but the human girl, Marielle, seemed sick and likely to die any moment. Feeling sad for the girl, Memoru's tear drops on the girl's lips. The girl gets better and a strong friendship starts between them. There was already anime about gnomes Mori no Youki na Kobito-tachi: Belfy to Lillibit, though untranslated. That series was cute and centered around life in the forest. Here focus is shifted on adventures, and in the very first episode gnomes already encounter a cat and a girl in a human house, and this theme is getting developed further on. Drawing has become simpler and less cute. For me previous gnome series definitely win.   Overall Rating: 5/10

24. God Mazinger ゴッドマジンガー [1984-II] TMS Entertainment (Dropped 3/23) Tags: Mecha, Time Travel Action, Fantasy The story is set in modern times, but the twist to the story is that Mazinger is an ancient weapon of the gods, left on earth to battle the evil space gods who have returned to take over the universe. Marzinger never boasted sophisticated plots. This time there is an attempt to introduce humor and even a bit of isekai as school boy gets to a different world kingdom inhabited by dinosaurs. But of course it soon becomes mecha against evil invaders and controlled dinosaurs.   Overall Rating: 5/10

25. Video Senshi Lezarion Video Warrior Laserion ビデオ戦士レザリオン [1984-II] Toei Animation (Dropped 3/45) Tags: Mecha Action, Sci-Fi Takashi Katori is a big fan of online games, and so is his American friend Sarah. However, one of their RPGs goes too far, as their virtual world and the Lezarion robot that Takashi created for the game somehow mix with reality. Takashi is caught, but later the Earth Governement discovers that an evil scientist from the Moon (now a sort of abandoned colony with restricted access) is hacking into virtual worlds and security, so they force Takashi to pilot the Lezarion and, with Sarah's help, fight evil and protect the Earth. Officially dubbed anime, so you can already understand that it's very simple. Adding computer games, hacking and virtual reality alone does not mean anything without a decent scenario.   Overall Rating: 4/10

26. Gu-Gu Ganmo Gu-Guガンモ [1984-II] Toei Animation (Dropped 3/50) Tags: Shounen School Comedy, Slice of Life The series follows in the footsteps of manga such as Doraemon and Obake no Q-Taro in that the alien Ganmo (who resembles a chicken wearing sneakers) sets out to help his adopted human friend Hanpeita. The series follows the antics of the duo as they find themselves in the middle of much comedic mischief. One morning Tsukune Tsukuda, out of spite, lets her brother’s pet bird go. But later she has misgivings, and comes home with an egg she has found to give to her brother, Hapeita. Hanpeita isn't all too pleased with the big, odd-looking egg. However, in the meantime it swells up, breaks its shell, and out comes a strange bird-like creature named Ganmo. It speaks like a human being, and comes to live with the Tsukudas. Not wanting to be a mere freeloader, Ganmo takes the initiative to run errands, clean the house, etc…yet he blunders at everything he does. Ganmo the tries to clear his reputation, but his efforts only ends causing more and more confusion. One day a charming girl comes moving in the house next to the Tsukudas. Her pet is a stange mina, named Deja-vu. It is foppish but has a poisonous tongue. And it always teases Ganmo because of its odd-looking. Thus, the world around Ganmo gets into a mess more and more. Only two episodes seem to be translated. Ganmo and humor are nice, but some side-characters are not so nice. Anyway, it's a traditional SOL comedy with two stories per episode, so it's closer to 6 overall.   Overall Rating: 6/10

27. Koala Boy Kokki The Adventures of the Little Koala コアラボーイコッキィ [1984-II] Topcraft (Dropped 3/26) Tags: Comedy Adventures of the Little Koala focused on the adventures of Roo Bear, and his family, who were Koalas, and his friends, Nick, Pamie (penguins), Floppy, Mimi (rabbits), Betty (koala), the bully Walter (kangaroo) and countless others. There was also an old character named Weather, who could forcast the weather, and his gliding friend Mingle, a young animal who was apparently an orphan. Official dub... definitely kid material .   Overall Rating: 4/10

28. Chikkun Takkun チックン タックン [1984-II] Pierrot, Gallop (Dropped 3/23) Tags: Comedy, Sci-Fi  The "Waruchin Ceremony" has been stolen from All Star, a planet that exists in the outskirts of space. The computer that is built into it is programmed to make anything possible. The thief is actually the villain, Doctor Bell. Doctor Bell schemes to invade the other planets through the use of Waruchin. The prince of All Star, Prince Chikkun, together with his trusty advisor, the intellectual Takkun, decides to head towards Earth in pursuit of Doctor Bell. Only 14 or so episodes are translated. It's a comedy about rivaling good alien living at a girl's place and an evil Dr.Bell alien. Comedy is ok, but not great, as for me .   Overall Rating: 5/10

29. Ranpou らんぽう [1984-II] Tsuchida Productions (Dropped 3/21) Tags: Parody, School Comedy TV anime adaptation of Masatoshi Uchizaki's gag comedy manga "Ranpou". Mild-mannered Japanese kid Rampou is kidnapped by aliens whose UFO-based experiments turn him into a warp boy who truly believes that he can do anything. Not translated. Each episode contains two stories. Gags are very chaotic and mostly violence-based. Did not find it amusing.   Overall Rating: 5/10

30. Mahou no Yousei Persia 魔法の妖精 ペルシャ [1984-III] Pierrot (Dropped 3/48) Tags: Mahou Shoujo Comedy  11-year-old Persia has grown up alongside the animals on the Serengeti plains of Africa. Twins Riki and Gaku Muroi and their grandfather, Gouken, bring Persia to Japan with them, where she will live with a couple (who Persia calls Mama and Papa) that own a grocery store. During the flight to Japan, Persia finds herself in the "Lovely Dream" where she meets the Fairy Queen, who explains that the Lovely Dream is in danger and requests Persia's help. Giving Persia a magical headband (which can also summon a magical baton) that allows her to transform into a teenage girl, connecting her to the Lovely Dream and allowing her to use magic. She is sent with three kappa back into the regular world with the mission of collecting love energy to thaw the frozen Lovely Dream. If Persia fails her task of collecting love energy or if someone catches her using magic, Riki and Gaku will be transformed into women. Only half or so episodes seem to be translated. Another simple shoujo that I did not find interesting.   Overall Rating: 4/10

31. Birth バース [1984-III] Kaname Productions (Finished 1/1) Tags: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi Aqualoid was a prosperous planet, but an attack from a mysterious life force, the Inorganics, transforms it into a post-apocalyptic shell of its former self. When Nam finds a mysterious sword, he is suddenly the object of a planet-wide chase. With the Inorganics closing in, will Nam and his friends discover the secret of the sword and save their world? Or will they destroy Aqualoid in favor of a new Birth? Wow, the whole movie is built around... jiggly butt, plus some action. Animation is rather advanced, especially in special parts. Jokes aside, some moments reminded me of Akira a lot, so Birth might serve as source of inspiration. Can't call it a masterpiece for sure, but it impresses visually.   Overall Rating: 5/10

32. Machikado no Märchen Radio City Fantasy 街角のメルヘン [1984-III] Kitty Films (Finished 1/1) Tags: Music Romance A boy with a drawing book meets a mysterious girl in the streets of Tokyo. They become friends and enjoy each other's fantasies. Again chaotic visual fantasies are nice for experimental movie. But on a grand scale it has little value.   Overall Rating: 5/10

33. Macross: Do You Remember Love? 超時空要塞マクロス -愛・おぼえていますか- [1984-III] Tatsunoko Production (Finished 1/1) Tags: Mecha, Military, Music, Space Action, Romance, Sci-Fi After warping light-years away from Earth, the spacecraft Macross carries a city of civilians and soldiers back home. They continuously fight off the threat of the Zentradi and Meltrandi, giant alien races with whom humanity wages war. During a battle, the Macross transforms into a mecha operated by fighter pilot Hikaru Ichijou. Thrust into a number of hardships, Hikaru grows close to the city's idol Minmay Lynn. As their relationship develops, however, it is viewed unfavorably by others due to Minmay's status and popularity. With war raging on and the state of Earth unknown, Hikaru and his fellow soldiers fight on against their mysterious enemies. Throughout the bloodshed, Hikaru and Minmay attempt to keep hold of their feelings for one another. Minmay pours her heart into her music, which may just turn out to be the key to finding peace. This fake parody killed all the series atmosphere, barbarously butchered heroes background' and cut out everything but sleazy romance and songs. Absolutely horrible, at least should be for those who saw the series.   Overall Rating: 5/10

34. SF Shinseiki Lensman SF新世紀 レンズマン [1984-III] (Finished 1/1) Tags: Space Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Kim is living a peaceful life with his father as a farmer on their planet until one day when a runaway spaceship is detected moving at a high speed towards his father's farm. To rescue his father Kim jumps on board the ship and manages to land it safely before it crashes. On board the ship he finds a severely Injured lone survivor whom with his dying words begs Kim to take something of his to the Galactic Fleet. He then transfers something that was attached to his arm onto Kim's arm. The thing was a Lens and its transferring should have been impossible and having it has turned Kim into a Lensman. Other than giving Kim unknown powers it also contains vital information for the victory of the Galactic Fleet over the evil Boskone Empire. Kim must now using the spaceship Britannia bring the Lense to the Galactic Fleet. But this is not an easy task when Lord Helmet of the Boskone Empire is willing to use everything in his power to stop him. Wonder waffle in form of lens meets Star Wars. Scenario is too weak .   Overall Rating: 4/10

35. Daishizen no Majuu: Bagi Baggy 大自然の魔獣 バギ [1984-III] (Finished 1/1) Tags: Action, Romance, Sci-Fi Ryo is sent out by the people of a village to kill the monster which has been attacking the villagers. It is rumored that this monster is a cat-woman named Bagi. As Ryo waits for the monster to come to its watering hole, he thinks back to how he first met Bagi as a kitten who learned how to write, and later reenters his life on a quest to discover who and what she really is. But now she has gone wild, and as the time of her arrival approaches, he strengthens his resolve to kill her. By graphical style alone I could say it's Tezuka. I have a serious aversion against genetic matters. For this reason I could enjoy Prima Rose, and for the same reason I can't turn to like this purely genetic craze. Moreover, it seriously displeased me with predictable and irrational plot.   Overall Rating: 5/10

36. Kinnikuman (Movie) キン肉マン (キン肉マン 奪われたチャンピオンベルト) [1984-III] (Finished 1/1) Tags: Shounen Action, Comedy, Sports Mari and Kinnikuman's Championship Belt are stolen by the Octopus Dragon and his minions. Now Kinnikuman and the other Justice Choujins must travel to Planet Metro and compete in a tournament in order to win them back. Length is exactly of two paired episodes. I usually like superhero anime, including parodies, but just can't understand Kinnikuman's appeal as he's too repulsive and his power too inconsistent. Strangely, even other superheroes and humor are rather poor. It's ok as the first superhero parody, but there's a lot of room for imporvement.   Overall Rating: 5/10

37. Chikyuu Monogatari Telepath 2500 Earth Story Telepath 2500 地球物語 テレパス2500 [1984-III] Tatsunoko Production (Finished 1/1) Tags: Adventure, Drama, Sci-Fi On the fifth world of the Tolphan system in the year 2500, a supercomputer chooses marriage partners to find the best matches. Not translated. You already understand that I don't value telepathy and esper powers highly. This one does not have much to do with telepathy, but it's anyway super boring.   Overall Rating: 4/10

38. Kuroi Ame ni Utarete 黒い雨に打たれて [1984-III] Tsuchida Productions (Finished 1/1) Tags: Seinen Historical Drama, Slice of Life Anime adaptation of the manga Kuroi Ame ni Utarete by Nakazawa Keiji. Anime focuses on radiation poisoning consequences, both physical and psychological. And survivors are in different stages - some are full of self-pity, others are ready to sacrifice themselves to harm as many Americans as possible. And that recreates the vicious cycle of resentment and violence. I can't say that absolutely all Americans are portrayed here as pigs. Coincidentally, the survivor prostitute with syphilis infects normal looking young enthusiastic Americans. The disgusting ending scene shows how an American and a Japanese kill each other while shouting out their grudges. It would be oversimplification to say that Keiji was just vengeful and that's why portrayed Americans badly. It's just difficult to invent a situation of conflict out of nothing after 30 years , there should be an aggressive side, and, with the Japanese shown as an aggressive side, work would not even probably get a license. You still can't deny even in this state that both sides are portrayed vengeful and rigid. One must have a really twisted logic to consider this movie to be about racism. The message is given in the most clear way possible in text before credits - one such vicious act as nuclear bombing poisons lives of everyone in hundreds of kilometers radius for many decades. Everyone who has any influence on decision makers should do everything to prevent any such bombing happening again. Anyone who threatens with such act and his regime should be for his lifetime banned from using any civilized states family benefits.   Overall Rating: 6/10

39. The Kabocha Wine: Nita no Aijou Monogatari Ｔｈｅかぼちゃワイン ニタの愛情物語 [1984-III] Toei Animation (Finished 1/1) Tags: School Comedy, Romance, Slice of Life Epilogue Untranslated. I tend to block specials and OVA that are less than 50 minutes, and this one is just a normal episode length of 24m, but I was kinda curious about Kabocha Wine epilogue. Basically, it's about getting a puppy are taking care of him together. As if it's not enough, Shunsuke gets into a buggy to catch a milk thief dog and even gets a kiss in this state, with another kiss in the final. So a nice small episode full of romance and  highlights of future joint life.   Overall Rating: 5/10

40. Kakkun Cafe カッくんカフェ [1984-III] (Dropped 0/1) Tags: Parody Comedy, Slice of Life  Kakuei Kakkun Tanaka is a superhero who hangs out with his friends. In his misadventures, he becomes prime minister of Japan, visits New York and prevents a nuclear war. Not found.   Overall Rating: 0/10

41. Kinnikuman: Kessen! Shichinin no Choujin tai Uchuu Nobushi キン肉マン 決戦!7人の超人vs宇宙野武士 [1984-III] Toei Animation (Finished 1/1) Tags: Shounen Action, Comedy, Sports A TV Special first aired in 1984. It covers the Planet Rakka story arc and takes place after the 21st Choujin Olympics Arc. A young boy from Planet Rakka named Beansman asks Kinnikuman and the others to help save his planet from the Space Samurais led by Black King. The story was a parody of The Seven Samurai. Choujin Olympics was plain awful, but I had hopes for this history fantasy arc. And I could indeed finally enjoy this anime a bit. Sadly, it ended with the same Choujin Olympics, so definitely can't call it a masterpiece.   Overall Rating: 6/10

42. Nine: Kanketsu-hen ナイン 完結編 [1984-III] Group TAC (Finished 1/1) Tags: Shounen School, Team Sports Romance Last part of the Nine TV movies. Realization is too schematic and plain to get it to masterpiece, but as a romance it still excels. Plus, there is baseball Koushien participation, so baseball enthusiasts might get more out of it.   Overall Rating: 6/10

43. Hokuto no Ken Fist of the North Star 北斗の拳 [1984-IV] Toei Animation (Dropped 3/109) Tags: Shounen Martial Arts Action, Drama, Sci-Fi In the year 19XX, after being betrayed and left for dead, bravehearted warrior Kenshirou wanders a post-apocalyptic wasteland on a quest to track down his rival, Shin, who has kidnapped his beloved fiancée Yuria. During his journey, Kenshirou makes use of his deadly fighting form, Hokuto Shinken, to defend the helpless from bloodthirsty ravagers. It isn't long before his exploits begin to attract the attention of greater enemies, like warlords and rival martial artists, and Keshirou finds himself involved with more than he originally bargained for. Faced with ever-increasing odds, the successor of Hokuto Shinken is forced to put his skills to the test in an effort to take back what he cares for most. And as these new challenges present themselves and the battle against injustice intensifies, namely his conflict with Shin and the rest of the Nanto Seiken school of martial arts, Kenshirou is gradually transformed into the savior of an irradiated and violent world. I see it as remaking  Dororo in a different setting. As any shounen this show is too simple for me with same looking enemies, very little development between arcs, episodic form and some repeating patterns. Can't give series a 6 if I've not even a faint desire to watch the series to the end .   Overall Rating: 5/10

44. Meitantei Holmes Sherlock Hound 名探偵ホームズ [1984-IV] TMS Entertainment (Dropped 3/26) Tags: Detective Action, Adventure, Comedy, Mystery Loosely based on the "Sherlock Holmes" series by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Hound turns all the classic characters into dogs. The canine Sherlock Holmes, his assistant Watson, and housemaid Mrs. Hudson work together to solve mysteries. The culprit is usually Professor Moriarty and his gang, who use all kinds of wacky contraptions to steal what they want. I did not like the movie which was of better quality and with a better story, so don't expect me to like the series .   Overall Rating: 5/10

45. Sei Juushi Bismarck Saber Rider and the Star Sheriffs 星銃士 ビスマルク [1984-IV] (Dropped 3/51) Tags: Mecha, Space Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi In the distant future, humanity has explored beyond Earth and colonized both the inner and outer planets of the Solar System. In order to protect the colonies and maintain law and order in the solar system, the Earth Federation Government (EFG) was created. Soon, many settlers started to resent the EFG's and its sphere of influence, straining the relationship between the central government and the colonies. While a strained peace was being forged between Earth and the colonies, a race of non-human creatures known as Deathcula invaded the System. Without provocation, they attacked the colonies and killed many of the colonists. The EFG quickly realized that the Deathcula were technologically superior and their forces were hopelessly matched. In order to have a chance at survival, Dr. Charles Louvre developed a transformable starship known as the Bismarck. Knowing that an advanced team of specialists were required to operate the Bismarck, four individuals came together and were charged with keeping the outer colonies safe from further Deathcula attacks. Official dub is a bad sign. The series itself felt endlessly boring is stuck forever in the 1970s while everyone else evolved .   Overall Rating: 4/10

46. Kikou Kai Galient 機甲界ガリアン [1984-IV] Sunrise (Dropped 10/25) Tags: Mecha Action, Fantasy, Sci-Fi  Set in a far flung medieval-looking world of Arst, Prince Jordy Volder takes up the fight against the ambitions of the conqueror Marder. Jordy uses the legendary giant robot "panzer" Galient, which is one of many panzers that have been preserved underground for thousands of years. Using an army of advanced robot panzers, Marder is conquering all of Arst in preparation of his plan for dominance of the Crescent Galaxy. Previous fantasy mecha attempts felt a bit better than their rivals, so it's not the worst idea to develop the concept. And because it's from Sunrise, it's guaranteed to have a proper composition with prologue and introduction to characters, as well as at least some humor alongside decent visual quality. But of course they can't do miracles and mend a bad scenario. I actually quite liked first two episodes that felt like fantasy till the big mecha appearance. Then it was repeating mecha with some attacks and some defence with nothing much happening, more like big filler, really. Not a bad story, just not a story for 25 episodes.   Overall Rating: 6/10

47. Yoroshiku Mechadock Leave it to Mecha-Doc よろしくメカドック [1984-IV] Tatsunoko Production (Dropped 3/30) Tags: Detective, Racing Action, Comedy Mechadock is a powerful race car obtained from a simple economy car, which is able to race on any ground. The basic idea is guys on a plain looking car see something wrong happening and pursue it, occasionally handing over criminals to police. All that racing stuff is really immature.   Overall Rating: 3/10

48. Galactic Patrol Lensman GALACTIC PATROL　レンズマン [1984-IV] Madhouse (Dropped 3/25) Tags: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi  The young Kimball Kinnison is leaving home for a wider education when a Galactic Patrol ship crashes on his family's land and the dying pilot gives him a mysterious Lens. Half-sentient, the Lens now implanted in his hand becomes the focus of changes in Kim's life including his father's death, a space battle, and an encounter with Galactic Patrol nursing officer Chris. Impelled by the Lens, he discovers a new world of experiences opening before him and he risks his life to save Chris and the Universe. Movie was released just recently. Nothing is cardinally different here, so what's the point of it at all. Just time slot filler.   Overall Rating: 4/10

49. Futari Daka ふたり鷹 [1986-IV] Kokusai Eigasha (Dropped 3/36) Tags: Shounen Racing  Two motor-bike crazy young men meet on a track one day. One almost kills the other and after a while, they discover that they have the same first name. Since they are both excellent at racing, they very quickly become rivals ... but their passion and firstname is not the only thing they have in common. Not translated (unless you consider French dub). I can't understand how it's possible to watch a serious shounen racing series.   Overall Rating: 1/10

50. Ashita Tenki ni Naare あした天気になあれ [1984-IV] Tsuchida Productions (Dropped 3/47) Tags: Shounen Sports The adventures of a young golf player. Not found.   Overall Rating: 0/10

51. Mighty Orbots マイティ・オーボッツ [1984-IV] Tokyo Movie Shinsha (Dropped 3/13) Tags: Mecha Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi Set in the twenty-third century, Mighty Orbots relates the adventures of Rob Simmons, a scientist, and his robots (called Orbots)—Tur, Bort, Beau, Crunch, and Ono—all members of the Galactic Patrol, the Earth-based futuristic police force. The focal point of the program is their battle against Shadow, a sinister planet of evil whose leader, Umbra, seeks to control the universe. Official dub... childish simplistic crap.   Overall Rating: 1/10

52. Chouriki Robo Galatt 超力ロボ ガラット  [1984-IV] Sunrise (Dropped 3/13) Tags: Mecha Action, Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi In a peaceful, disarmed world where small robots are utilized as housekeepers, villains act with huge robots instead of weapons. Dr. Keewee converts Michael’s robot into a transformable one in order to teach them a lesson. This is the birth of Galatt, the town hero. I expected a lot from Sunrise comedy, but basically it's just self-parody with deliberately childish characters and designs, exaggerated facial features. Even enemy mechas look like funny enlarged toys. Even comedy revolves around childish mecha, so is not fun at all. Target audience is kids, no use complaining about it.   Overall Rating: 4/10

53. Mahou no Tenshi Creamy Mami: Eien no Once More 魔法の天使クリィミーマミ　永遠のワンスモア  [1984-IV] Pierrot (Finished 1/1) Tags: Shoujo Comedy, Fantasy, Romance The first 45 minutes is a recap of the original series and the remaining 40 minutes has a new story. Two months after Creamy Mami's final concert, rumors began to spread that Mami was making a come back, and if that wasn't surprising enough, Tachibana starts a "Project M" and that seems to have something to do with Mami's come back. As word of Mami's concert reaches the public, Yuu dosen't belive it. Yuu, Megumi, Toshio, Midori, Kidokoro make a plan to get to the bottom of it. I'm unpleasantly surprised that series ended just on a concert. New story is hardly of notice.   Overall Rating: 5/10

54. Ginga Hyouryuu Vifam Recaps [1984-IV] Sunrise (Finished 2/2) Tags: Mecha Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Summaries of the first (A Letter From Katue) and second (13 Meet Again) halves of the Galactic Drifter Vifam series. Not translated, so there is a cap score I can give. Overall, recap of the best Sunrise anime up to this point.   Overall Rating: 6/10

55. Kinnikuman: Ooabare! Seigi Choujin キン肉マン 大暴れ！正義超人 [1984-IV] Toei Animation (Finished 1/1) Tags: Shounen Action, Comedy, Sports It was the first movie to feature the character Buffaloman and was the first of only two films to feature the Announcer (the other being Crisis in New York!). It is the first anime appearance of Bibinba, who appears as Kinnikuman's fiancee in the original manga. Another movie that equals two episodes in length. Sadly, it all goes about wrestling yet again losing most of humor along the way, so pretty ordinary.   Overall Rating: 5/10

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