Macross Frontier demonstrates a proficient method of giving a positive first impression. Unlike other titles, it does not waste time setting foundation for the story. Macross Frontier rather follows a short-run approach that is structurally weaker at the benefit expense of creating a hook. Metaphorically described, the first episode is a bolt of lightning. It strikes hard with an action-packed entrance. One that is thrilling enough to leave one with a craving for more. Background informations? Forget those. Where is the remainder of the action?

Animation quality is questionable on the other hand. First of all, Macross Frontier’s character animation is not substantial enough. It has tendency to look off on mid-to-long distance shots, which is not good news. Especially when Macross Frontier already has to deal with unconventional character designs. Frankly, I am horrified. Horrified that someone decided to color most of the characters using kooky shades—ones you never use out your Crayola packs. It further adds to the lack of depth, and gives it the generic look on most screenshots. Call it a step even lower than Skittles colors. With all that said, there is another side to the visuals.

Despite shallow animations, Macross Frontier offers top-notch presentation. Oxymoron? Not quite. A painting may not have the best brush technique, and yet have a strong composition arrangement. That is Macross Frontier in a sense. One for the other. Although flawed, it does redeem itself as one of the few shows to tastefully incorporate computer graphics. Whereas shows like Reideen had sluggish computer animation, Macross Frontier features swift and fluid computer graphics action. They also do not they feel deattached as in Innocent Venus or Zegapain. The ones used in Macross Frontier are definitely more polished as to blend better with hand-drawn animations. Furthermore, it also adds quite a touch when mixed into the background. The dragon embellish concert hall from the first episode is one of the unforgettable. Of course, all of this is not to say they make perfect use of computer graphics. Macross Frontier merely minimizes the eyesore.

Thirdly, I am forced to confirm a question implied in a previous post. Is this a mecha anime or a singing anime? For the most part, the latter is what keeps me staying with the series. Recall from earlier. The first episode provided us with hook—a reason to momentarily stay with the show. Likewise, the music offers a long-term reason to continue watching Macross Frontier. It gives the series a stand-out factor to distinguish it from other mecha series. With that said, I was immediately drawn in once Ranka took her turn to sing from episode four. The producers certainly hit a home-run by selecting Nakajima Megumi. (On the contrary, I absolutely cannot stand Sheryl’s pop-oriented singing voice.) Now only if Ranka never had green hair to began with. Yes, I do not like green as Piet Mondrian did.

P.S. I approve Alto’s headstrong character. Now this is how most male characters should be. I laughed hard at his reply to Ozma’s question: “For what purpose do we ride the VF-25’s?” As a down-to-earth thinker, I fully agree with Alto. Ozma needs to cut the idealist talk about riding a Valkyrie to survive or protect. “The object of war is not to die for your country but to make the other bastard die for his.” Get it straight. Valkyries are used to fight. Also, do not listen to Basara’s music.