Last Exile
Confusing and open ended=high art

// Synopsis: A gifted pilot and mechanic who were both orphaned at a young age try to make a life in the midst of a war dominated in the air. In the middle is the enigmatic Guild who serve as a third party observer to ensure both sides conduct warfare within strict guidelines. But secretly they have their own self-serving agenda. The two get caught up with an unorthodox crew on a mission to unravel the secrets of the mysterious Last Exile before the Guild does.

// Review: I am really digging the blend of CGI with old school 2D animation when it's used conservatively. In Vandred, also by Studeio Gonzo, the switch between the two forms was like having a Japanese RPG change to a pre-rendered cut scene. But the art style scores big with me in Last Exile. The desaturated color palette makes the use of computers with animation nearly seamless. It's beautiful.

/ The story is engaging, and it's interesting how the the two main character's sub-plot involving the unknown past of their fathers is woven into the over-arching story. Every episode has its own plot, but the series overall plays out like an adventure mystery as more is revealed about the Guild's true aim. The action is intense enough to keep you entertained through out and the dog fights can be pretty exciting. But the fact that so much is not explained and ambiguous will make you love it or just be frustrated and lost. I found myself irritated that for the entire series I wasn't quite sure if one of the prominent characters was a male or female. I didn't know whether to think he/she was flirting with the main character or just flaming.

// Wrap up: The fact that I had to get on a message board to get questions answered by people who watched, re-watched, and analyzed this anime should let you know what you are in for. Read the wiki entry. If you can endure not understanding every detail by watching, then this series is a pretty fun ride.

Entertainment rating: 3.5