FLCL - TV Series

About FLCL

FLCL also known as 'Furi Kuri ' is an unique, enigmatic and visually impressive OVA (Original Video Animation) TV series. It was broadcasted in Japan from April to March 2000, and later made its way to the US in 2003.

This delightful mix of science fiction, action-comedy, and coming-of-age story revolves around Naota Nandaba, a 12-year-old boy living in the fictional Japanese suburb of Mabase. His life takes a dramatic turn when Haruko Haruhara, a young and eccentric pink-haired woman, runs him over with her Vespa scooter, smacking him with a bass guitar before disappearing. Complications ensue when Naota discovers an immense portal on his forehead from which bizarre entities emerge.

Making / Production

Produced by Gainax, Production I.G, and King Records, FLCL's direction was led by Kazuya Tsurumaki, under the supervision of Hideaki Anno. Tsurumaki wanted to break the established rules of anime when making FLCL, making the plot intentionally difficult to understand.

Actors

• Jun Mizuki as Naota Nandaba - Mizuki perfectly portrays the confusions and maturing of a young 12-year-old boy.
• Mayumi Shintani as Haruko Haruhara - Shintani shines as the unpredictable and energetic Haruko.
• Izumi Kasagi as Mamimi Samejima - Kasagi successfully depicts a picture of a troubled and lovesick teenager.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• FLCL uses animation shifts quite often, changing from traditional animation to manga panels, and even parodying the South Park animation style in one episode.
• Despite its complexity, FLCL only comprises of six episodes.

Awards

While FLCL didn't win any traditional awards, it won substantial acclaim and popularity among anime fans, making it an iconic series in the anime world.

Quotes

• "Nothing can happen until you swing the bat." - Haruko
• "When you're in a town like this all covered with smoke, you forget that there's a world outside." - Naota

Music, Soundtrack

• The soundtrack of FLCL was composed and performed by The Pillows, a well-known Japanese rock band.
• Songs such as "Little Busters," "Ride on Shooting Star," and "I Think I Can" have since gained popularity due to the series.