Il classico robottone giapponese, con le sue caratteristiche tipiche, è ormai un personaggio stabile dell’immaginario collettivo: e un gigante di metallo di notevole potenza distruttiva; e pilotato dall’interno dall’eroe della storia; quando l’eroe attiva specifiche armi ne grida il nome; l’eroe e il robot difendono la Terra da un nemico che vuole conquistarla; questo nemico invia sulla Terra diversi mostri, anch’essi giganteschi, che puntualmente il robot annienta; i mostri vengono mandati sulla Terra uno dopo l’altro, uno per ogni episodio. Così comincia la fenomenologia dei super robot giapponesi di Jacopo Nacci.
Dal seminale
Astroganger fino all’ultimo eroe del capitolo “Il crepuscolo degli idoli”,
ovvero Gundam le trame delle saghe di Grendizer (Atlas Ufo Robot), Great
Mazinger, Jeeg, Raideen, Gattaiger, Zambot 3, Daitarn 3, Gackeen, Godam,
Groizer X, Danguard, Balatack e affini sono raccontate ad una ad una, in ordine
“di comparizione”. Ma il vero “piatto
forte” della pubblicazione è l’approfondimento culturale che Nacci dedica a
ogni storia. Scopriamo così che, oltre alla retorica del duello bene-male, i
cartoni animati giapponesi di super robot hanno trattato tematiche profonde
come il ruolo della tecnica, quello delle catastrofi naturali, quello dell’apocalisse,
del rapporto con l’alieno (prototipo per tutti i “diversi”), tradizione e
innovazione, pacifismo-militarismo e quello dei rapporti di forza tra le
generazioni.
Mazinger Z di Gō Nagai
(1972) sarà responsabile di una canone che riguarderà molti super robot, anche
non dello stesso autore. La dimensione mitologica da cui prende le mosse la
trama è la dichiarazione di intenti dell’autore: «vorrei davvero farvi
riflettere».
Jeeg, dello stesso
autore, sarà invece uno sforzo di andare oltre la dinamica mitologica: la trama
parla di una resa dei conti con il passato che è dentro di noi e che rende
necessario un auto-superamento. In Gaikin, del 1976, troviamo invece una
popolazione sull’orlo dell’abisso che costruisce un dio-computer per trovare la
risposta al proprio assillo. Questo computer sarà il malvagio Darius che
cercherà di conquistare la terra.
L’affascinante sorte del pianeta Zela è una metafora del rapporto
umanità-fato che assumerà in alcuni episodi toni antimilitaristici propri
dell’anno di produzione: 1976. E via di dio-computer in cannone a ioni, madri
abissali, padri della tecnica, psicologia delle squadre e metafisica della
guerra. Un libro denso e divertente, riccamente illustrato, che riporterà molti
di noi ad alcuni pomeriggi delle elementari: sapevamo di stare assistendo ad un
tale sfoggio di profondità poetica? No, ma ci bastavano anche solo come cartoni
animati.
Jacopo Nacci è nato nel
1975 e abita a Pesaro. Scrittore, recensore, blogger, è autore dei romanzi
Tutti carini (Donzelli 1997) e Dreadlock! (Zona 2011); ha partecipato al
progetto collettivo Lo zelo e la guerra aperta (Cooperativa di narrazione
popolare 2012). Il suo blog è www.yattaran.com
Mazinger Z: A Mechatronic Marvel Ahead of Its Time
RispondiEliminaIn a world dominated by superheroes clad in capes and tights, there stands a colossal figure, a beacon of hope forged from steel and dreams: Mazinger Z. Created by the visionary mind of Go Nagai, this iconic mecha has captivated audiences for decades, transcending generations and cultures. But beyond its larger-than-life persona, Mazinger Z represents a groundbreaking concept that, in many ways, foreshadowed the technological advancements we enjoy today.
At its core, Mazinger Z is a marvel of engineering. Its construction from the indestructible Super Alloy Z, a fictional material far ahead of its time, hints at the relentless pursuit of advanced materials science. The robot’s intricate systems, capable of flight, super strength, and a formidable arsenal, suggest a level of mechanical sophistication that was truly visionary for its era.
Beyond its physical attributes, Mazinger Z is a symbol of human ingenuity and determination. Its creation was a response to a world under threat, a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity through technological innovation. This theme resonates powerfully in an age where we face global challenges that require bold, innovative solutions.
Mazinger Z’s influence extends far beyond the realm of animation. It has inspired countless creators, engineers, and scientists, serving as a catalyst for innovation. The mecha genre, which it helped to pioneer, continues to thrive, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual effects.
In conclusion, Mazinger Z is more than just a giant robot; it is a cultural icon, a technological visionary, and a timeless symbol of hope. As we look to the future, it is essential to remember the pioneers who dared to imagine the impossible. Mazinger Z, with its blend of imagination and engineering, stands as a testament to the boundless potential of human creativity.
Daitarn 3: A Hidden Gem Deserving a Resurgence
RispondiEliminaIn the vast, sprawling universe of mecha anime, certain titans stand tall, their legacies etched into the hearts of fans worldwide. Mobile Suit Gundam, Mazinger Z, and Voltron are among the most recognizable names. However, nestled amidst these giants is a series that, while undeniably influential, often finds itself overshadowed: L'imbattibile Daitarn 3.
Created by the legendary Yoshiyuki Tomino, the mind behind Gundam, Daitarn 3 boasts a unique blend of epic scale, character depth, and groundbreaking mecha design. Yet, despite its undeniable qualities, the series has remained a cult classic, its potential impact largely untapped.
A Story Ahead of Its Time
Daitarn 3 is more than just a robot show. It delves into complex themes of identity, loss, and the human condition. The protagonist, Haran Banjo, is a tragic figure, haunted by his past and driven by a desperate desire to protect humanity. His bond with the titular robot transcends the typical pilot-machine relationship, creating a powerful and emotional core.
The series also introduced innovative concepts in mecha design. Daitarn 3's ability to transform and combine with other vehicles was a precursor to the combination mecha seen in later series. Additionally, the introduction of the Meganoids, humanoid cyborgs with a tragic backstory, added a layer of complexity to the villains often absent in the genre.
A Visual and Audio Masterpiece
Beyond its narrative strength, Daitarn 3 is a visual and auditory feast. The animation, while product of its time, still holds up remarkably well, with dynamic action sequences and expressive character designs. The soundtrack, composed by the talented duo of Takeo Watanabe and Yūshi Matsuyama, is a masterpiece of its own, featuring iconic themes that perfectly complement the on-screen action.
A Call for Rediscovery
It's time for Daitarn 3 to reclaim its rightful place in the mecha anime pantheon. With its compelling story, unforgettable characters, and innovative design, the series has the potential to captivate a new generation of fans. A high-quality remastered release, coupled with focused marketing and merchandising, could reignite interest in this hidden gem.
In an era where nostalgia-driven reboots and remakes are commonplace, Daitarn 3 offers a unique opportunity to introduce a classic story to a wider audience while paying homage to its legacy. It's time to let the world discover the indomitable spirit of Daitarn 3.
Danguard: The Unsung Hero of Anime's Mecha Genre
RispondiEliminaIn the vast and often over-shadowed landscape of anime, there exists a series that, while not as widely recognized as its contemporaries, holds a unique place in the hearts of many fans: Danguard. Created by the legendary Leiji Matsumoto, the mind behind Space Battleship Yamato and Galaxy Express 999, Danguard is a mecha anime that stands out for its distinctive blend of drama, action, and philosophical undertones.
Unlike the typical over-the-top, larger-than-life mecha series, Danguard offers a more grounded and character-driven narrative. The story revolves around a group of young pilots tasked with defending Earth from the sinister Doppler, a megalomaniac bent on conquering the planet. At its core, however, Danguard is a tale about human ambition, the search for meaning, and the complexities of morality.
One of the series' most striking elements is its exploration of the psychological impact of war. The characters grapple with the moral dilemmas of using violence to protect their world, and the series doesn't shy away from depicting the human cost of conflict. This depth of characterization is rare in the mecha genre, which often prioritizes spectacle over substance.
Moreover, Danguard boasts a visually stunning aesthetic, thanks to Matsumoto's signature style. The mecha designs are both sleek and imposing, and the space battles are rendered with a sense of scale and grandeur that is still impressive today.
While Danguard may not have achieved the same level of mainstream popularity as other anime classics, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to resonate with viewers on a deeper level. It is a series that rewards close attention, offering a rich tapestry of themes and characters that continue to captivate audiences decades after its initial release.
In an era where anime is increasingly dominated by fast-paced action and fan service, Danguard stands as a testament to the power of storytelling. It is a series that deserves to be rediscovered by a new generation of fans, and its legacy as a pioneering work in the mecha genre is undeniable.