What is there to say about this wonderful world of Outlaw Star that hasn't been said already. First and foremost if you are a fan of anime, you will completely recognize this as one of the best ever created. It can range from the phenomenal characters to the overall bonding the protagonist has with his companions. In this world they're three powers the pirates, the space forces, and the outlaws. They all coincide beautifully in the grandest chase to find the most mysterious place in the universe, the "galactic layline". The story never lets up as it is entails excitement, and we begin to propel ourselves into this sci-fi universe of mystery.
35 Reviews
An enjoyable space-based adventure
Tweekums22 June 2015
Warning: Spoilers
Outlaw Gene Starwind and his young sidekick James "Jim" Hawking are hired to act as bodyguards by infamous outlaw "Hot Ice" Hilda as the retrieves the ship she has stolen from a band of space pirates. Hilda dies leaving Gene with the ship, which he names the 'Outlaw Star', and its bio-android; Melfina. Hilda had told Gene that the reason she took the ship was that it was designed to find the legendary Galactic Leyline. Before they head off for the Leyline Gene, Jim and Melfina have a number of adventures during which they pick up two more crew members; assassin "Twilight" Suzuka who has been hired to kill Gene and a Ctarl-Ctarl, think alien cat-girl, named Aisha Clanclan. During their adventures they meet a variety of other characters; both enemies and friends and eventually they find what the Leyline really is.
This anime series is a great mix of humour and adventure thanks to an intriguing story and interesting characters. Gene is a fine protagonist; a good guy who is rough round the edges; Melfina isn't the deepest of characters but has an aura of mystery about her and Aisha is just hilarious. The early episodes quickly pulled me into the story and even surprised me I was convinced that Hilda was going to be a main character but she was quickly killed off! While the character designs show the age of the series it still looks good; indeed it is part of the series' charm. The animation is pretty good too. Overall I'd recommend this to anybody who enjoys Space-based anime I enjoyed it so much that after watching it online I ordered it on DVD.
These comments are based on watching the uncut series in Japanese with English subtitles. I read that a censored version was broadcast in some countries although I couldn't see much to offend here; just some non-sexual nudity, the occasional minor swearword and a little violence.
This anime series is a great mix of humour and adventure thanks to an intriguing story and interesting characters. Gene is a fine protagonist; a good guy who is rough round the edges; Melfina isn't the deepest of characters but has an aura of mystery about her and Aisha is just hilarious. The early episodes quickly pulled me into the story and even surprised me I was convinced that Hilda was going to be a main character but she was quickly killed off! While the character designs show the age of the series it still looks good; indeed it is part of the series' charm. The animation is pretty good too. Overall I'd recommend this to anybody who enjoys Space-based anime I enjoyed it so much that after watching it online I ordered it on DVD.
These comments are based on watching the uncut series in Japanese with English subtitles. I read that a censored version was broadcast in some countries although I couldn't see much to offend here; just some non-sexual nudity, the occasional minor swearword and a little violence.
An amazing series
Shanqio10 May 2007
This is a good series, a series about two guys Gene Starwind and Jim Hawkins who get into a crazy adventure and get mixed up in the mysterious "Galactic Layline".
This series never lets up or feels like it slowing down. Every episode is fast paced and pertains to the story in some way and there are 26 episodes. I even recommend the English Dubbing because it is very high quality and stands up well against the Original Japanese. Oh and if you saw this show on the old Cartoon Network or remember this show from the old Cartoon Network, you should buy the Uncut DVDs of this show because funny moments, rude remarks, language, an entire episode, and things that only could offend a soccer mom, were cut. I never saw this on CN so I was spared of the lame edits. And when I was watching this it really seemed like it was a different show than what they were advertising on CN. Sometimes I thought, "How did that get by CN". That was before I realized it was edited to Hell though. So get the uncut dvds they're better and they're the only ones you can buy now. Oh yeah, even though this series came on Toonami it's not for kids under 13 or people can't take really crude humor, language, nudity, bloody violence, and gun play.
Why only an 8, if this anime had a few more episodes say, 36 instead of 26 it would have felt more complete as sometimes it seems rushed.
This series never lets up or feels like it slowing down. Every episode is fast paced and pertains to the story in some way and there are 26 episodes. I even recommend the English Dubbing because it is very high quality and stands up well against the Original Japanese. Oh and if you saw this show on the old Cartoon Network or remember this show from the old Cartoon Network, you should buy the Uncut DVDs of this show because funny moments, rude remarks, language, an entire episode, and things that only could offend a soccer mom, were cut. I never saw this on CN so I was spared of the lame edits. And when I was watching this it really seemed like it was a different show than what they were advertising on CN. Sometimes I thought, "How did that get by CN". That was before I realized it was edited to Hell though. So get the uncut dvds they're better and they're the only ones you can buy now. Oh yeah, even though this series came on Toonami it's not for kids under 13 or people can't take really crude humor, language, nudity, bloody violence, and gun play.
Why only an 8, if this anime had a few more episodes say, 36 instead of 26 it would have felt more complete as sometimes it seems rushed.
Great anime series soars through the stars.
Aaron137524 July 2005
I love this anime series, my only complaint is that it only lasted one season...then again the fact it was only on one season made it extremely easy to get the whole series on DVD as all I had to do was buy the box set. This anime features a guy and his kid sidekick as they start out as sort of trouble solvers. Being body guards, bounty hunting, name the price and they do it as long as it appears to be on the up and up. Well they take on a mysterious client that turns out to be an outlaw hence the journey into the stars commences. During this trip they find an android who seems almost human, they get into trouble with pirates, they commandeer a ship later named "The Outlaw Star", they run afoul of an alien beast woman, they get into trouble with an assassin, and they have many many action packed, but funny adventures on their way to solving the mysterious of something known as the Galactic Leyline. Like I said this series has it all...action, romance, and lots of humor to tickle your funny bone as well. The series starts out fast, stays fast in the middle and doesn't let up till the very end. Having the entire series uncut on DVD is pretty cool too, as the Japanese voices are a lot better especially Aisha Clan Clan who has a bit of an irritating voice in the American version.
Excellence
cliodna7 July 2002
In my opinion, Outlaw Star is one of the greatest anime series that have ever been made. While I have seen only the English dubbed version, I hear nothing but rave reviews of the original (which is for mature audiences only due to language and sexual innuendo.) The characters are wonderful and unique, and the plot has a purpose, not to mention above average animation. What more can you ask for?
Been 8 years
jml4199028 October 2006
and this anime is still just plain awesome. i've seen the dubbed version and its great. this thing doesn't have an expiration date. the only thing you could argue that seems a little old is the animation, however thats still hardly noticeable.
in my opinion, the story has a unique flow. each episode can be watched separately without a problem. however, each episode is still connected somehow to the previous one, so they flow into each other. it almost seems like the whole show is one big arc.
characters are plain awesome. each character has a unique role which they play out in the overall story. i won't say much. you'll just have to discover them for yourself. :)
anyway, great show. lots of action and sci-fi. a little romance even. there is some comedy in it, but its not the laugh-out-loud type. its more like the funny-situation type. its all good.
btw, if you like this show make sure to check out "Cowboy Bebop." trust me on this one. :)
in my opinion, the story has a unique flow. each episode can be watched separately without a problem. however, each episode is still connected somehow to the previous one, so they flow into each other. it almost seems like the whole show is one big arc.
characters are plain awesome. each character has a unique role which they play out in the overall story. i won't say much. you'll just have to discover them for yourself. :)
anyway, great show. lots of action and sci-fi. a little romance even. there is some comedy in it, but its not the laugh-out-loud type. its more like the funny-situation type. its all good.
btw, if you like this show make sure to check out "Cowboy Bebop." trust me on this one. :)
A fine and original anime
SoulfulFX11 December 2003
I wouldn't say this is the greatest anime of all times... but sure is a fine one.
Watching Gene and Melfina gain a bond along with the others while dodging pirates and other sorts of disreputable villains is nothing new.
But Galactic Ley lines, the XGP, Melfina's search for her purpose...all are fascinating parts of this story.
I highly recommend seeing this series...it really is somethin' to watch.
Watching Gene and Melfina gain a bond along with the others while dodging pirates and other sorts of disreputable villains is nothing new.
But Galactic Ley lines, the XGP, Melfina's search for her purpose...all are fascinating parts of this story.
I highly recommend seeing this series...it really is somethin' to watch.
Doesn't get much better than this
benfreeman4321 January 2008
There are quite of bit of anime series out there for people to check out, and quite of few in my own personal collection. Of those, there's a handful I go back to frequently. There's Slayers, where I can get my fill of fantasy and slapstick comedy, as well as over the top and fantastic magical spells. I say Slayers is my all-time favorite out of habit, but when it comes down to it, I think my true all-time favorite series has to be Outlaw Star.
I may favor Fantasy over Science Fiction, but this more than satisfies my interests. From the outstanding cast of characters, to the wonderful story, all set in a fascinating universe full of history that just begs to be explored in greater detail, what's not to love. Gene Starwind is a fantastic hero, and I think it'd be hard for someone not to find something to like about him, and that's only for starters.
Unlike a lot of anime out there, Outlaw Star actually has a dub that's BETTER than the original Japanese track. Often times I prefer the subtitled version than the dub, but with Outlaw Star, I can't watch it any other way. And the opening song, I absolutely love it (Though I've come across plenty of people who don't).
All in all, I think Outlaw Star is one of those anime series you can't miss. People will tell you Cowboy Bebop and Evangelion, but I think you can go without them. Truly, you must see Outlaw Star if you call yourself an anime fan. You will not be disappointed.
I may favor Fantasy over Science Fiction, but this more than satisfies my interests. From the outstanding cast of characters, to the wonderful story, all set in a fascinating universe full of history that just begs to be explored in greater detail, what's not to love. Gene Starwind is a fantastic hero, and I think it'd be hard for someone not to find something to like about him, and that's only for starters.
Unlike a lot of anime out there, Outlaw Star actually has a dub that's BETTER than the original Japanese track. Often times I prefer the subtitled version than the dub, but with Outlaw Star, I can't watch it any other way. And the opening song, I absolutely love it (Though I've come across plenty of people who don't).
All in all, I think Outlaw Star is one of those anime series you can't miss. People will tell you Cowboy Bebop and Evangelion, but I think you can go without them. Truly, you must see Outlaw Star if you call yourself an anime fan. You will not be disappointed.
After watching the series, it will have you wanting for more. :)
johnericdedioscarlos25 August 2013
The story was about an outlaw on his way to a place where a precious treasure was hidden, the Galactic Leyline. If we are to compare the series to One Piece, there are many similarities like the concept of being a pirate/outlaw, having a ship given to them, and going on a journey for a powerful treasure (for One Piece, the equivalent of the Galactic Leyline is the Grand Line). However, despite these similarities, there are also overt differences and those are the reasons why I say that Outlaw Star is better than One Piece, although it did not became as popular as the latter. The way Gene Starwind, the protagonist of Outlaw Star, carry on the voyage to GL was even more matured and not childish as the way Luffy was. This makes the anime (Outlaw Star) more interesting and more realistic. And I'm giving it an excellent rating because once you finished watching the series, it will leave you wanting badly for more. :)
The best series ever made!!!
browns-2011 August 2007
This absolutely was the best anime of all times. The story is original and uses the use of every and any fighting styles. It has its comedy, sadness, mystery, and etc. Each episode leads directly to the next like its one large movie, unlike most anime,. I no B.S. the most beautiful and haunting music you will ever hear. It grabs you and never lets go.
If you are a true anime fan, this is a MUST HAVE in your collection. Not only the movie but also the soundtrack, if you can find it. It is a timeless classic about a young outlaw trying to make his way and finding some interesting characters on the way against a dangerous empire. Its not a spoiler but to end this off, the series have the most shocking ending I have ever seen...
If you are a true anime fan, this is a MUST HAVE in your collection. Not only the movie but also the soundtrack, if you can find it. It is a timeless classic about a young outlaw trying to make his way and finding some interesting characters on the way against a dangerous empire. Its not a spoiler but to end this off, the series have the most shocking ending I have ever seen...
Outlaw Star rocks!
SSJAniFan4 July 2003
Outlaw Star's awesome. Although falsely billed by the Cartoon Network as "Wild West, Y2K style,"(that's Trigun, you idiots!), it features a great mixture of action, humor, romance, and drama.
It focuses on Gene Starwind(the hero), Jim Hawkings(the.... kid sidekick, for lack of a better term), Melfina(an android), Aisha Clan-Clan(the comic relief), and Suzuka(the bad-you-know-what assassin). They go off in search of bounties, alien scum, and of course treasure, while dealing with space pirates. This show rules. Heck, I even like the dub!
Be warned, if you watched the Cartoon Network version, the uncut version is much more adult-oriented. Gene's a bit of a pervert, the characters will swear quite a bit, and there's a ton of bloodshed. In fact, one episode late in the series(episode 23, Hot Springs Planet Tenrai) was so raunchy that Cartoon Network couldn't even allow it! So if you're a parent, and your kid liked the Toonami version of O.S., be warned if you're considering getting them the DVDs.
BOTTOM LINE: Another great sci-fi anime!
It focuses on Gene Starwind(the hero), Jim Hawkings(the.... kid sidekick, for lack of a better term), Melfina(an android), Aisha Clan-Clan(the comic relief), and Suzuka(the bad-you-know-what assassin). They go off in search of bounties, alien scum, and of course treasure, while dealing with space pirates. This show rules. Heck, I even like the dub!
Be warned, if you watched the Cartoon Network version, the uncut version is much more adult-oriented. Gene's a bit of a pervert, the characters will swear quite a bit, and there's a ton of bloodshed. In fact, one episode late in the series(episode 23, Hot Springs Planet Tenrai) was so raunchy that Cartoon Network couldn't even allow it! So if you're a parent, and your kid liked the Toonami version of O.S., be warned if you're considering getting them the DVDs.
BOTTOM LINE: Another great sci-fi anime!
Outlaws never looked so bad ass
moldwarrior2 February 2010
Warning: Spoilers
If I said that this was one of the best anime's I ever watched as a kid I'd be telling the truth. This was and still is a superb anime in all accounts. As I saw this anime sitting on a lonely shelf with no future except being sent to a persons ebay account and sold to someone who'd never watched it...I picked it up. I got home and put it in at night. For several hours I saw the nostalgia flash through my mind again and then I saw the anime for what it was.
The characters were memorable and quotable. The animation still holds up even in todays standard. It's not too long and makes it's mark in anime history. It's a poor mans Cowboy Beebop but where that anime stands Outlaw Star is higher. It's too bad it's so underrated. My favorite episode is the spa one and it's still the best space anime I've ever seen.
The characters were memorable and quotable. The animation still holds up even in todays standard. It's not too long and makes it's mark in anime history. It's a poor mans Cowboy Beebop but where that anime stands Outlaw Star is higher. It's too bad it's so underrated. My favorite episode is the spa one and it's still the best space anime I've ever seen.
An outstanding space opera anime...
KenseidenXL25 December 2008
Warning: Spoilers
This is an outstanding anime of the space opera style. It is set in the distant future on another planet, some 500+ years after humans have ventured into interstellar space. It is centered on a young wannabe space jockey named Gene Starwind and his young (but genius IQ) partner, Jim Hawking. One day, fate gives Gene his wish of a starship of his own, in the form of an experimental military ship fitted with space pirate grappler arms and an advanced AI navigation system with an unusual CPU: A beautiful girl named Melfina. In obtaining his ship, now named Outlaw Star, Gene gains an implacable enemy in a magic-wielding Chinese Tong-like gang. The series has great mix of drama, action and comedy, plus a rich, multi-layered storyline. You will be amazed as to how much is crammed into those 26 25-minute episodes. The series also features an excellent soundtrack and original music.
Outlaw Star
WeAreLive26 January 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Gene Starwind dreams of a life as an Outlaw, and fate smiles on him as he seems to suddenly wind up with a great job. But things go awry, and he finds himself the new owner of the fastest, most technologically advanced space ship in the galaxy. Unfortunately, it's stolen and the owners want it back Along with his partner Jim and the lovely Melfina, Gene must fight his way across the galaxy battling pirates, aliens and assassins as he attempts to discover the secrets of the Outlaw star.
This series much like with Cowboy Bebop was a thrilling ride from star to finish.
I really enjoyed the characters from the main including Gene himself and Jim, to some of the supporting like the cute and shy melfina.
The dub was excellent.
The animation and art style especially if it's in a Blu-Ray format really stood out and does well for its time.
If you enjoy Cowboy Bebop you might like this too.
This series much like with Cowboy Bebop was a thrilling ride from star to finish.
I really enjoyed the characters from the main including Gene himself and Jim, to some of the supporting like the cute and shy melfina.
The dub was excellent.
The animation and art style especially if it's in a Blu-Ray format really stood out and does well for its time.
If you enjoy Cowboy Bebop you might like this too.
really good anime, very underrated
BlaZe858 October 2023
Awesome spaceadventure, although as always i do recommend watching it in original format, cuz as always the dubbed version dont do it justice, and u lose alot of the meaning in the jokes and coversations, like aisha clan clan, is just boring in eng dub, so bad,. You should always watch movies in the format its made in, subtitles is enough, otherwise the message is moslty lost in translation as always with dub more or less. Awesome spaceadventure, although as always i do recommend watching it in original format, cuz as always the dubbed version dont do it justice, and u lose alot of the meaning in the jokes and coversations, like aisha clan clan, is just boring in eng dub, so bad,. You should always watch movies in the format its made in, subtitles is enough, otherwise the message is moslty lost in translation as always with dub more or less.
Villain's Get No Respect
jurarmarsh17 July 2010
Warning: Spoilers
I have to say that Outlaw Star was an amazing anime but it had one fatal flaw that ruined it for me. The Villains were pretty bad. 90% of the time they were there for comical relief and really...The Anten Seven was defeated THAT easily? Now I'm not saying the entire Anten Seven sucked. Shimi, easily one of my top favorite characters even though he was only in one episode, was a real villain. Yes, I know he wasn't exactly a villain but he was as powerful was all of the Anten Seven should have been. He took all of them out in a fatal swoop and really...I think i speak for all the villain lovers out there when I say "Wtf?". The "werewolf" was a one-hitter quitter, and the so called "Master of Disguise" had no importance, and the rest were down in seconds and really showed no power at all. I like the anime an all but I can't stand it when the Villains get no respect, sometimes it was like watching Team Rocket trying to kill Gene Starwind. I give this anime an 8 out of 10, it would be 10 out of 10 if it had an elite force of assassins, *cough* Anten Seven *cough*, that actually lived up to their name and didn't die in a single episode.
great
renegadeviking-271-5285686 August 2017
Let me say this is one of my favorite shows of all time. Its a really great series and I recommend it to everyone that likes animes dealing with outer space and people that have the attitude that they will do whatever they want within the reasonable limit. Even though its an old school series and isn't as smooth looking as the newer ones, it holds its own. The setting of the story is in outter space and it has a kinda western feel to it. The plot of the series is based around a character called Gene Starwind. He has a kinda odd job business with his partner James(Jim) Hawking. There whole lives change when they meet an outlaw named Helda. Through her they meet Melfina. Melfina is a type bio-organic andriod that was made to interface with this ship that Helda leads the three to a one of a kind ship called the XGP which later Gene names the Outlaw Star. There are different types of factions in this series. They are the Outlaws, the Pirates, and the Federation, and a group of Taoists. But they are all after this thing called the Galactic Leyline. All the groups know of it but they don't know exactly what it is. So the series starts with the three characters: Gene, Jim, and Melfina looking for the Galactic Leyline. Along the way they meet up different and sometimes surprising characters and make a few allies. They have some pretty interesting adventures too. I can't say much more or I will give away the whole series. But i hope ya found this review at least helpful. Again I recommend that everyone should have this gem added to their collection.
The series while coming out in the late 90's is still as enjoyable to me as when it first came out on the sci-fi channels late anime Friday's. The series can't but be helped in comparing it a little to the more dramatic and tragic series Cowboy Bebop whiche while also enjoyable was a little more on the dark dramatic side than Outlaw star was. The series characters are all very enjoyable with Gene Starwind his friend and partner Jim Hawkin, Melfina who they meet early on in one of their jobs and becomes a member of their company as well as the strong samurai like assassin Suzuka and the Ktarl Ktarl female Aisha who have all joined together in one way or another to find and retrieve the mysterious treasure the galactic layline(I think that's how it's spelled). Also we can't have a series like this without the standard villains who are the mysterious pirates with mystical powers also searching for the galactic layline as well as two brothers the McDougal's who also have a personal interest in not only the galactic layline but with Gene's groups as well. The series animation and music are great but if you're expecting the massive CGI effects we see with a lot of the anime nowadays than sorry you won't see much of that with this series, but don't let that pull you away because with how enjoyable this series is you definitely don't need it with this series.
The series while coming out in the late 90's is still as enjoyable to me as when it first came out on the sci-fi channels late anime Friday's. The series can't but be helped in comparing it a little to the more dramatic and tragic series Cowboy Bebop whiche while also enjoyable was a little more on the dark dramatic side than Outlaw star was. The series characters are all very enjoyable with Gene Starwind his friend and partner Jim Hawkin, Melfina who they meet early on in one of their jobs and becomes a member of their company as well as the strong samurai like assassin Suzuka and the Ktarl Ktarl female Aisha who have all joined together in one way or another to find and retrieve the mysterious treasure the galactic layline(I think that's how it's spelled). Also we can't have a series like this without the standard villains who are the mysterious pirates with mystical powers also searching for the galactic layline as well as two brothers the McDougal's who also have a personal interest in not only the galactic layline but with Gene's groups as well. The series animation and music are great but if you're expecting the massive CGI effects we see with a lot of the anime nowadays than sorry you won't see much of that with this series, but don't let that pull you away because with how enjoyable this series is you definitely don't need it with this series.
Ultra Cool!
TimothyMcKann6 February 2006
When I first watched this series on Cartoon Network,it was one of the best shows since Gundam Wing,and Escaflowne. I did like it, it was pretty funny as well.I had to get this for my collection,and I did. But after buying the entire collection on DVD, it got a whole lot better. It was cool that they added some never before scenes. I also like all the funny jokes in the show like when Gene tries to kiss Jim in episode 9. I also liked the part where Gene dresses up like a girl to be in a fighting tournament. Those were the most funniest parts I've seen in the show. Another thing I liked in the show are the 2 characters Duuz, and Valeria(who we will see in the spin off,the Angel Links) I think it was cool to see them for the first time. Another thing I liked about the show is the theme song "Through the Night", that's one of my favorite songs in the show,and the 2nd ending theme"Tsuki No Le" What this show really tells us that the journey to fortune can be really rough. We all have to have a dream,and work hard to achieve that goal. The series features some great voice like:Wendy Lee,Michael McConnohie (famous for Transformers,and Vampire Hunter D, and Ultra Maniac),Ian Hawk,Steve Cannon,Zan,and others. So in closing,after this show,check out the spin off, Angel Links.You will see what I mean.
light Hearted, Sometimes Slightly Heavy Going anime Masterpiece.
MARVELMANIAC6929 December 2004
Outlaw Star is on my top 5 list of favourite anime's even though I've only seen like 14 episodes which I have all taped on video due to Toonami having them on at 4 in the morning.
Overall what I've seen is superb this is a fantastic anime, what I like about anime in the adventure genre they always have great characters which you fall in love with, light hearted comedy, great drama and fantastic action sequences (I'm not reffering to every action adventure based anime by the way just most I've seen are like this).
Outlaw Star never gets boring I find myself being able to watch all the episodes I have over and over and never get sick off them.
10 out of 10 (for what I've seen)
P.S This is a longshot but if the boss of Toonami is reading I know a pile off people who would constantly watch your channel if you scraped all the rubbish shows like Teen Titans, Chris Colarado, He-Man The Masters off the Universe, Batman of the Future, Duel Masters, Beyblade etc. and put stuff like Trigun, Tenchi Muyo, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Excel Saga and all the anime classics on.
Overall what I've seen is superb this is a fantastic anime, what I like about anime in the adventure genre they always have great characters which you fall in love with, light hearted comedy, great drama and fantastic action sequences (I'm not reffering to every action adventure based anime by the way just most I've seen are like this).
Outlaw Star never gets boring I find myself being able to watch all the episodes I have over and over and never get sick off them.
10 out of 10 (for what I've seen)
P.S This is a longshot but if the boss of Toonami is reading I know a pile off people who would constantly watch your channel if you scraped all the rubbish shows like Teen Titans, Chris Colarado, He-Man The Masters off the Universe, Batman of the Future, Duel Masters, Beyblade etc. and put stuff like Trigun, Tenchi Muyo, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Excel Saga and all the anime classics on.
This should be one of the greats.
zer2137 September 2002
Ive watched many a anime show and movies. This show should be one of the greats. I started watching this when Toonami was featuring it and DBZ at midnight. I became addicted to DBZ and OS until they changed the line up to Big O (rotten show). So I went out and bought the series on DVD. Im not sure how much more is in the Japanese version, but the English dub is fairly edgy. I didnt realize how much Cartoon Network had edited.
Considering some of the other anime, its fairly tame. Aside from the language (which doesnt get much worse than pg-13)and fight scenes, there is only one nude scene of Aisha ClanClan, and it lasts very briefly. This is a show I would love to introduce this show to my future children.
Considering some of the other anime, its fairly tame. Aside from the language (which doesnt get much worse than pg-13)and fight scenes, there is only one nude scene of Aisha ClanClan, and it lasts very briefly. This is a show I would love to introduce this show to my future children.
Probably the anime that got me started...
Twilight Alex28 March 2002
God, I love this show. I started watching the cut version on Cartoon Network and eventually, started reading the un-cut scripts. I really don't know why I kept watching it, but I think I really could relate to Harry (even though I call myself Twilight Alex..... Hey, Suzu rocks! ^^;)...okay, the whole show hates him, but, I think he was a really good, freakish character. The whole Melfina-obsession...... Well, I wish they didn't go and hack the show to pieces, but, heck, at least its still Outlaw Star....................
Highly recommended (on DVD that is)
lord_raa4 June 2001
Outlaw Star is a blend of sci-fi action and comedy. The main characters: a wannabe outlaw; his child sidekick and business partner; an alien cat-girl; a high priced assassin and a strange bio-android.
Gene Starwind is the fallable hero who mess things up from time to time, he is also lecherous, or as Jim Hawking puts it 'a scumbag'.
Jim Hawking is the seemingly obligatory child main character, a bit like Ed in Cowboy Bebop, only without the irritating voice in the english dub, he is the responsible one of the company.
Melfina is the bio-android she is looking for the meaning of her existence.
Aisha Clanclan is the alien cat-girl, she is a Ctarl-Ctarl, a race of noble warriors, but due to a run in with Gene she is forced to team up with him - much to their chagrin.
'Twilight' Suzuka is the high priced assassin that is contracted to kill one of Gene's friends, but is somehow convinced to join the crew on a semi-regular basis. I put somehow as I don't want to spoil the story for those who haven't seen it.
The DVD English dub is good, I don't know about the TV one as I suspect that they will be different due to the occasional bad language that Gene uses. The animation is clean and the picture is relativley free from grain, I didn't notice any major problems on the DVDs. Now for the show itself it has adventure, comedy, semi serious sci-fi elements and music that grows on you especially the opening theme tune 'Through the Night.'
Now why am I recommending the DVDs? Well it is quite hard to not recommend this show because you can get it all for about $100 plus shipping online, yes, all 26 episodes including the one that they didn't show on TV!
Gene Starwind is the fallable hero who mess things up from time to time, he is also lecherous, or as Jim Hawking puts it 'a scumbag'.
Jim Hawking is the seemingly obligatory child main character, a bit like Ed in Cowboy Bebop, only without the irritating voice in the english dub, he is the responsible one of the company.
Melfina is the bio-android she is looking for the meaning of her existence.
Aisha Clanclan is the alien cat-girl, she is a Ctarl-Ctarl, a race of noble warriors, but due to a run in with Gene she is forced to team up with him - much to their chagrin.
'Twilight' Suzuka is the high priced assassin that is contracted to kill one of Gene's friends, but is somehow convinced to join the crew on a semi-regular basis. I put somehow as I don't want to spoil the story for those who haven't seen it.
The DVD English dub is good, I don't know about the TV one as I suspect that they will be different due to the occasional bad language that Gene uses. The animation is clean and the picture is relativley free from grain, I didn't notice any major problems on the DVDs. Now for the show itself it has adventure, comedy, semi serious sci-fi elements and music that grows on you especially the opening theme tune 'Through the Night.'
Now why am I recommending the DVDs? Well it is quite hard to not recommend this show because you can get it all for about $100 plus shipping online, yes, all 26 episodes including the one that they didn't show on TV!
Excellent!
forge10712 August 2001
Outlaw Star is in short, an excellent series. The characters are good and the story line is too as far as many Animes go. Some characters such as Aisha Klanklan are classics and should be remembered long after you watch the series. Overall the English dub is also excellent with good voice actors picked and one or two even better than the original Japanese actors (Aisha). Watch it. You will NOT be disappointed :o)
One of the all-time greats
Malakai-chan11 June 2003
Warning: Spoilers
*THIS REVIEW CONTAINS NOT MANY SPOILERS, BUT A FEW*
Unlike most of you, I was not unfortunate enough to be subjected to the butchered version of the show, I picked it up from an Anime fanzine called Animerica. Their review, while good, made it a little confusing. It sounded like a series for those who would try any Anime once. Well, I fall into that category, so I stopped by our local video rental place and picked up the first DVD volume. One thing I wish to make clear: DO NOT GET TURNED OFF BY THE FIRST 3 EPISODES. My hopes were not high for the series after episode 3, but I'm such a die-hard otaku that I know to keep watching, and it went SO far uphill SO fast I was almost not sure I was watching the same series! Gene Starwind (cute name, huh?), the so-called hero, is more vile than any of the villains, but that turned out to be entertaining too! And Melfina is pretty much the helpless crybaby type female lead that I don't like, but the supporting cast more than makes up for it. I found Hilda's unerring cynicism rather tedious after a while, but her death scene was a real tear-jerker. Aisha makes fantastic comic relief, Jim is always the voice of reason, and Suzuka... I don't know what feminist snuck into the studio and edited the script, but she is a truly terrific character. I was a little nervous the first episode we meet her, but it turns out she gets out of it without being just another of Gene's "conquests." Speaking of episode 6, Fred Luo is by far one of the greatest characters and THE funniest comic relief I've ever seen in such a "serious" series. The villainous MacDougall brothers (what do the Japanese have against the Scots, anyway?) are good, to. Ron is kind of just a 2-and-a-half-dimensional villain figure (though he really gets good in the last few episodes), but Harry (they're called Ron and Harry? Sound familiar?) is a truly inspired villain. A cross between Vision of Escaflowne's Dilandau and... what else? Anyway, he's great. The series meanders along for a while, dealing in individual episodes that don't really further the plot much, but just when you're getting tired, along comes an episode tied in with the central mystery (the "Galactic Leyline"). OK, HERE are some spoilers and/or reviews. Episode 15: We first meet the Anten Seven, the most feared group of assassins in the pirate guild. I was unimpressed (except for the little girl who uses cats (I love cats) to kill people). But Shimi's cool. Episode 17: This is by far one of the most successfully (non-overdone) dramatic episodes in the history of drama/horror. Episode 18: I couldn't stop laughing for hours. I felt like Aisha (laughing so hard her sides hurt) when she first saw Gene in drag (yes, it has something to do with Fred, but not what you think). Episode 23: This one was banned from the FUBAR version (see below) because of fan service. Which is too bad, because it is absolutely hilarious. Urt is up with the ranks of Suzuka in terms of competence and quiet amusement at the stupidity of macho guys But my favorite episode... Episode 20: I cried for an hour after it was done. Then I got to work writing a fanfiction in which we learn that Hanmyo survived her ship getting blown up (hey, if that rose survived, she could too). Anyway, the final 3 episodes are cool at first, but they drag on for a while. The ending is all in all fulfilling, but they drag it out too long. But it's still a terrific series. (has the second season been abandoned or something? I never heard anything) A brief word on the horrifying cARTOON nETWORK. Their version of the series was FUBAR. You may argue that it needed to be toned down for mainstream release in the U. S.. I say that it's one thing to eliminate some of the sex and blood, it's another thing to eliminate all innuendo and not show any blood at all, not to mention replacing the word 'kill' with 'destroy' (so killing people isn't socially acceptable but destroying them is?) Fred Luo is straight on the FUBAR version, which completely eliminates the point of the character. Episode 23 is removed because they couldn't butcher it enough to make it still 100% politically correct (more like 300%, actually). Why couldn't they have just shown a few cut-up episodes and then stopped, just to get us interested in the real thing, like Fox Kids did with Vision of Escaflowne? (If Fox Kids hadn't done that, II might never have become an otaku. There are only 2 series I like more than Outlaw Star, and Escaflowne is one. ) And if you think THAT's bad, you don't even want to know what they did to Cardcaptor Sakura. I think cARTOON nETWORK is more destructive to the mental health of the youth of America than a little fan service (or at least some homosexual characters) ever could be. Thank you for listening. Get this series and watch ALL of it before criticizing it.
Unlike most of you, I was not unfortunate enough to be subjected to the butchered version of the show, I picked it up from an Anime fanzine called Animerica. Their review, while good, made it a little confusing. It sounded like a series for those who would try any Anime once. Well, I fall into that category, so I stopped by our local video rental place and picked up the first DVD volume. One thing I wish to make clear: DO NOT GET TURNED OFF BY THE FIRST 3 EPISODES. My hopes were not high for the series after episode 3, but I'm such a die-hard otaku that I know to keep watching, and it went SO far uphill SO fast I was almost not sure I was watching the same series! Gene Starwind (cute name, huh?), the so-called hero, is more vile than any of the villains, but that turned out to be entertaining too! And Melfina is pretty much the helpless crybaby type female lead that I don't like, but the supporting cast more than makes up for it. I found Hilda's unerring cynicism rather tedious after a while, but her death scene was a real tear-jerker. Aisha makes fantastic comic relief, Jim is always the voice of reason, and Suzuka... I don't know what feminist snuck into the studio and edited the script, but she is a truly terrific character. I was a little nervous the first episode we meet her, but it turns out she gets out of it without being just another of Gene's "conquests." Speaking of episode 6, Fred Luo is by far one of the greatest characters and THE funniest comic relief I've ever seen in such a "serious" series. The villainous MacDougall brothers (what do the Japanese have against the Scots, anyway?) are good, to. Ron is kind of just a 2-and-a-half-dimensional villain figure (though he really gets good in the last few episodes), but Harry (they're called Ron and Harry? Sound familiar?) is a truly inspired villain. A cross between Vision of Escaflowne's Dilandau and... what else? Anyway, he's great. The series meanders along for a while, dealing in individual episodes that don't really further the plot much, but just when you're getting tired, along comes an episode tied in with the central mystery (the "Galactic Leyline"). OK, HERE are some spoilers and/or reviews. Episode 15: We first meet the Anten Seven, the most feared group of assassins in the pirate guild. I was unimpressed (except for the little girl who uses cats (I love cats) to kill people). But Shimi's cool. Episode 17: This is by far one of the most successfully (non-overdone) dramatic episodes in the history of drama/horror. Episode 18: I couldn't stop laughing for hours. I felt like Aisha (laughing so hard her sides hurt) when she first saw Gene in drag (yes, it has something to do with Fred, but not what you think). Episode 23: This one was banned from the FUBAR version (see below) because of fan service. Which is too bad, because it is absolutely hilarious. Urt is up with the ranks of Suzuka in terms of competence and quiet amusement at the stupidity of macho guys But my favorite episode... Episode 20: I cried for an hour after it was done. Then I got to work writing a fanfiction in which we learn that Hanmyo survived her ship getting blown up (hey, if that rose survived, she could too). Anyway, the final 3 episodes are cool at first, but they drag on for a while. The ending is all in all fulfilling, but they drag it out too long. But it's still a terrific series. (has the second season been abandoned or something? I never heard anything) A brief word on the horrifying cARTOON nETWORK. Their version of the series was FUBAR. You may argue that it needed to be toned down for mainstream release in the U. S.. I say that it's one thing to eliminate some of the sex and blood, it's another thing to eliminate all innuendo and not show any blood at all, not to mention replacing the word 'kill' with 'destroy' (so killing people isn't socially acceptable but destroying them is?) Fred Luo is straight on the FUBAR version, which completely eliminates the point of the character. Episode 23 is removed because they couldn't butcher it enough to make it still 100% politically correct (more like 300%, actually). Why couldn't they have just shown a few cut-up episodes and then stopped, just to get us interested in the real thing, like Fox Kids did with Vision of Escaflowne? (If Fox Kids hadn't done that, II might never have become an otaku. There are only 2 series I like more than Outlaw Star, and Escaflowne is one. ) And if you think THAT's bad, you don't even want to know what they did to Cardcaptor Sakura. I think cARTOON nETWORK is more destructive to the mental health of the youth of America than a little fan service (or at least some homosexual characters) ever could be. Thank you for listening. Get this series and watch ALL of it before criticizing it.
Perfect example of Japanese Animation at it's best!
JSchall74722 February 2002
This series was hailed in Japan as soon as it was released and if you ever get the chance to see the series in it's original Japanese format, you'll more than understand why! While much of the humor and plot was lost in it's movement overseas here to America, the series is still entertaining to watch and I personally own all three DVD sets. Bandai did a mediocre job in the dubbing and extra features, but that is good compared to the butchering jobs done by other companies in the past. The series is based in the future in which the focus of everyone's attention is space. The galaxy is composed of three main groups: the space police, the pirates, and the outlaws. The story follows the travels of an outlaw named Gene Starwind who, along with his younger business partner Jim Hawking, begin by running a small business on his home planet in which they offer "to solve any problem." This takes a turn for the worst, however, when they are hired by an outlaw named Hilda to steal the galaxy's most advanced space ship. Needless to say, the story gets VERY interesting from there. A GREAT series! A must see for any true anime fan!
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