About Gurren Lagann

Gurren Lagann, also known as Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, is a highly acclaimed Japanese mecha anime television series animated by Gainax and co-produced by Aniplex and Konami. Released in 2008, it is directed by Hiroyuki Imaishi and scripted by veteran playwright Kazuki Nakashima. The series blends elements of traditional fantasy with post-modern theories and observations, resulting in a stirring narrative that explores themes of human resilience, courage, and the will to persist against all odds.

The plot revolves around Simon, a young boy who unearths a robot-shaped key known as Core Drill and a small mecha known as Lagann. Alongside his older "brother," Kamina, who dreams of seeing the ‘surface world,’ and a sharpshooter named Yoko, they form 'Team Gurren.' Together, they combat the oppressive Spiral King to reclaim the sky and thus instigate a rebellion against the Spiral King's regime.

Making / Production

The production of the series took over three years and involved a team of highly talented and seasoned professionals from Gainax. The myriad of vibrant characters, unique plotlines, and groundbreaking animation techniques displayed the deep dedication and research put into making this series. Director Hiroyuki Imaishi's signature over-the-top visual style played a considerable role in setting the show's distinct and dynamic aesthetic.

Actors

• Tetsuya Kakihara as Simon: He was just a humble digger in his underground village before becoming one of the saviors of human existence. Kakihara brings a perfect blend of innocence and determination to the character.
• Katsuyuki Konishi as Kamina: Konishi breathes life into Kamina, representing an ideal brimming with unrestrained ambition and brazen bravery.
• Marina Inoue as Yoko Littner: Inoue plays a fierce yet nurturing sniper. Her voice adds depth and complexity to Yoko's contrasting toughness and tenderness.
• Nobuyuki Hiyama as Viral: Hiyama's voice truly reflects Viral's fighters spirit, a viral and warmongering beastman in service of the Spiral King.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The name "Tengen Toppa" translates to "Piercing Heaven" – a recurring motif within the series about surpassing perceived limits.
• Gainax, the studio behind Gurren Lagann, also produced the iconic anime Neon Genesis Evangelion.
• The character Kamina's catchphrase, "Who the hell do you think I am?!", has become an iconic line in anime culture.

Awards

The series has been the recipient of multiple accolades, including “Best Television Production” at the 7th annual Tokyo Anime Awards and the "Best Anime of the Year" at the 2008 Animation Kobe Awards.

Quotes

• "Believe in yourself. Not in the you who believes in me. Not the me who believes in you. Believe in the you who believes in yourself.” – Kamina
• "Whether it's impossible or laughable, great men open up paths of battle!” – Kamina

Music, Soundtrack

• The opening theme, "Sorairo Days," is performed by Shoko Nakagawa.
• The series also features several ending themes, notably "Underground" by High Voltage, "Happily Ever After" by Shoko Nakagawa, and "Minna no Peace" by Afromania.
• The Original Soundtrack was composed by Taku Iwasaki and is noted for its blend of classical, pop, and electronic elements.