The Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- anime film is set to enhance its theatrical run with the addition of exclusive footage starting this Saturday, February 22nd. This exciting update promises to offer audiences a tantalizing glimpse into the narrative beyond the film’s initial storyline.
A Sneak Peek into the Future of GQuuuuuuX
The Gundam.info portal officially announced that the “special footage” will be screened after the main feature presentation in participating theaters throughout Japan. This bonus content is specifically designed to tease the continuing story, leaving fans eager for more after the credits roll. The intent is to build anticipation and offer a richer experience for repeat viewers and newcomers alike.
Adding to the excitement, February 22nd also marks the distribution of the fifth wave of exclusive gifts for moviegoers. These collectible A5-size cards feature unique artwork created by Yumi Ikeda, the anime’s character designer and chief animation director. This initiative rewards dedicated fans with tangible memorabilia, further enhancing their engagement with the film.
Furthermore, starting on the same day, February 22nd, the film will also be available in MX4D and 4DX screenings.
Story and Characters
“Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-” introduces viewers to Amate Yuzuriha, a spirited high school student living in a space colony. Her peaceful existence is disrupted when she encounters Nyaan, a war refugee, leading her into the dangerous world of illegal mobile suit dueling, known as Clan Battles. Piloting the GQuuuuuuX under the alias “Machu,” Amate navigates intense battles daily. The arrival of an unidentified Gundam, pursued by both the space force and the police, along with its pilot Shūji, further complicates Amate’s journey.
Production and Creative Team
The anime film boasts a stellar creative team, ensuring a high-quality production.
- Director: Kazuya Tsurumaki (FLCL, Gunbuster 2: Diebuster)
- Supervising Series Scripts & Writing: Yōji Enokido (Bungo Stray Dogs, Sailor Moon Super S, Revolutionary Girl Utena, Ouran High School Host Club) and Hideaki Anno (Evangelion, Shin Godzilla)
- Character Designer: Take (Katanagatari, Zaregoto, Pokémon Sun & Moon)
- Mechanical Designer: Ikuto Yamashita (Evangelion, Shin Kamen Rider, Yukikaze)
The collaboration of these talented individuals has resulted in a visually stunning and narratively compelling addition to the Gundam universe.
Initial Reception and Box Office Success
“Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-” premiered in Japan on January 17th and quickly soared to the top of the Japanese box office during its opening weekend. This early success demonstrates the strong interest and enthusiasm surrounding the latest installment in the Gundam franchise.
A Fresh Perspective on the Gundam Universe
The film distinguishes itself with a compelling narrative and innovative elements. The introduction of Amate Yuzuriha as a central character offers a fresh perspective, appealing to both longtime Gundam enthusiasts and newcomers. The theme song “Plazma,” performed by Kenshi Yonezu, adds another layer of artistry to the production, solidifying its place as a memorable entry in the Gundam series.
A Nod to the Original
While introducing a new storyline and characters, “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-” cleverly incorporates elements from the original Mobile Suit Gundam series. Eagle-eyed fans have already spotted the return of Char Aznable, a prominent figure from the original series. This blend of new and familiar elements is intended to bridge the gap between generations of Gundam fans, ensuring a satisfying experience for all.
Studio Collaboration
The series marks a groundbreaking collaboration between Studio Khara, renowned for the Evangelion series, and Sunrise, the creators of the iconic Gundam franchise. This partnership brings together two powerhouses in the anime industry, resulting in a visually stunning and narratively rich experience.
North American Release and Global Reach
GKIDS has secured the theatrical distribution rights for “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-” in North America. The film had its North American premiere screening at Japan Society in New York City on February 20th. A wider theatrical release is scheduled for February 28th, allowing fans across North America to experience the film on the big screen. The movie will serve as a prologue for the broader anime series, giving viewers an early taste of the new world and robots of Gundam GQuuuuuuX.
A Promising Start
“Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-” represents a promising start to the latest chapter in the Gundam saga. With its compelling story, impressive animation, and blend of familiar and innovative elements, the film is well-positioned to captivate audiences worldwide. The addition of special footage further enhances its appeal, offering fans a glimpse into the exciting future of the GQuuuuuuX universe.
Key Characters
- Amate Yuzuriha: Voiced by Tomoyo Kurosawa, a high school student who becomes a mobile suit pilot in Clan Battles.
- Nyaan: Voiced by Yui Ishikawa, a war refugee who draws Amate into the world of mobile suit combat.
- Shuji Ito: Voiced by Shimba Tsuchiya, a mysterious boy who pilots an unidentified Gundam.
- Char Aznable: The iconic “Red Comet” from the original Gundam series, making a surprise reappearance.
Technical Aspects and Design
The film boasts updated mecha designs while retaining the 80s animation style of the original Gundam during the UC 0079 portion. This nostalgic touch is further enhanced by the use of the original Gundam soundtrack. The new art style is introduced after the timeskip, providing a visual contrast that distinguishes the two eras. Ikuto Yamashita’s mechanical designs contribute to the film’s visual appeal, offering a fresh take on classic Gundam mechas.
Themes and Story Arcs
The film explores themes of war, identity, and the impact of technology on society. Amate’s journey from a peaceful high school student to a mobile suit pilot reflects the transformative power of conflict and the choices individuals must make in the face of adversity. The Clan Battles provide a backdrop for exploring the ethical implications of mobile suit combat and the exploitation of young pilots. The appearance of the mysterious Gundam and its pilot hints at a larger conflict and the potential for a new war.
Fan Theories and Speculation
The return of Char Aznable has sparked numerous fan theories and speculation about his role in the new series. Some fans believe that he may be a mentor figure to the new generation of pilots, while others suspect that he has a hidden agenda. The redesigns of classic Gundam mechas have also generated discussion, with fans debating the merits of the new designs and their connection to the original versions.
Critical Reception and Community Feedback
Initial reviews of “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-” have been largely positive, with critics praising the animation, story, and characters. Some critics have noted the film’s clever twist on the original Gundam series and its potential to appeal to both hardcore fans and newcomers. Community feedback has been equally enthusiastic, with fans expressing excitement about the new characters, mecha designs, and the return of classic characters.
Future of the GQuuuuuuX Series
“Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX” is planned as a television series to air on Nippon Television and other NNS stations in Japan. This will be the first Gundam TV series to air on these networks. The series is jointly produced by Sunrise and Studio Khara.
A Must-See for Gundam Fans
With the addition of special footage, “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-” is an even more enticing experience for Gundam fans. The film offers a compelling story, stunning visuals, and a fresh perspective on the Gundam universe. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-” is a must-see.
