This 1982 anime based on the comic books by Buichi Terasawa centres around the adventures of the infamous Space Pirate Cobra. After Cobra falls for the sultry bounty hunter Jane, he finds himself embroiled in an intergalactic power struggle. This film is best known for its attempt to re-create the 3D movie experience without the need for cardboard glasses. While this process makes for a few amazing and interesting shots, you can hardly tell the difference. The 3D effect may be limited, but the attempt makes for interesting cinematography. Director Osamu Dezaki can be applauded for combining the involving story and the stunning visuals, without letting one element drown out the other. If a few of the shots look familiar, it's because the film was showcased in Matthew Sweet's video for his song "Girlfriend." You can also look for quite a few references to 'Star Wars,' 'Star Trek,' '2001,' and a rip off of the 'Superman' theme during a heated battle scene. 'Space Adventure Cobra' is best recommended for those already familiar with this genre, as it provides an excellent example of the beginnings of modern Anime.
On a scale of 1 to 11, 11 being an example of "taking it up a notch," 'Cobra' gets a 7.
On a scale of 1 to 11, 11 being an example of "taking it up a notch," 'Cobra' gets a 7.