FLCL

It’s hard to know what to make of FLCL. I don’t think I’ve watched anything with such an abundance of “WTF?” moments as any logic to the plot seems to be tacked on to suit the scene. FLCL aims to amuse for the most part with its completely off-the-wall humour and irreverence but it also has a more emotional side as it explores the strange relationships between Naoto (a 12 year old boy who is the only semi-sane character) and all of the bizarre people in his life.

It’s a crazy blend of genres that manages to both parody and innovate, often feeling like a mix between The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya and Paranoia Agent whilst other times having the tenderness of a Miyazaki scene. It can flash from over-the-top slapstick to giant mecha action then cut to romantic comedy leaving a helpless viewer trailing in its wake.

The visual style is equally eclectic, perhaps out of necessity, ranging from childlike and simplistic to pseudo 3D with beautiful lighting effects (as you would expect from Production IG) in what is, on the whole, a visually stunning piece of animation. The soundtrack is a more stable experience as the riff-tastic guitar pieces play almost throughout with the end credits being a particular highlight.

I could understand if some of the above sounds more than a little off-putting, and whilst it is true that FLCL can be a tad disorientating it hooks you in with its irrepressible charm and tongue-in-cheek wit. The characters are honest and instantly likeable and although the surreal predicaments they find themselves in might be hard to fathom you are heartened by the brief time (a mere 6 episodes) you spend in their company.