About Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans

Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans is a gripping mecha anime series that aired from 2015 to 2017. It's part of the Gundam franchise and is set in a universe where Earth's governments are in conflict with colonies from Mars. The plot revolves around a group of orphaned children who form their own mercenary group, Tekkadan. As they contend with the harsh realities of war, they also come to terms with their own identities and roles in society.

Making / Production

Iron-Blooded Orphans is directed by Tatsuyuki Nagai and written by Mari Okada, with mechanical design by Naohiro Washio. The animation was produced by Sunrise, a studio well-known for its work in the mecha genre.

Actors

• Kengo Kawanishi as Mikazuki Augus: A stoic pilot and the main protagonist of the series. Kawanishi imbued his character with a sense of quiet strength.
• Yūma Uchida as Orga Itsuka: The charismatic leader of Tekkadan. Uchida effectively conveys his passion and determination.
• Yasuaki Takumi as Akihiro Altland: A former space slave who rises to become a skilled pilot. Takumi captured his character's resilience and spirit.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Iron-Blooded Orphans is unique in the Gundam series for its focus on social issues.
• Many of the character names are references to astronomical bodies.
• The series ended with a total of 50 episodes, divided into two seasons.

Awards

Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans won the 2016 Newtype Anime Awards for Best Male Character (Mikazuki), Best Theme Song, and Best Mecha Design.

Quotes

• "Don't underestimate the resolution of kids who've come to the end of their ropes!" - Orga Itsuka
• "I don't regret our current hardship. I chose this path myself." - Mikazuki Augus

Music, Soundtrack

• The series features two opening songs, "Raise your flag" and "Survivor" by MAN WITH A MISSION.
• The ending themes are "Orphans no Namida" by MISIA and "STEEL -Tekketsu no Kizuna-" by TRUE.