Geobreeders: Breakthrough

Original Title: ジオブリーダーズ2 - 魍魎遊撃隊 File-XX "乱戦突破"
Romanized: Geobreeders 2 - Mouryou Yuugekitai [File-XX] "Ransen Toppa"
Literal: Anti-Spirit Commando Unit [File-XX] "Melee Breakthrough"

Plot Synopsis

Kagura is just getting the mess caused by their recent Phantom Cat hunting escapades cleaned up when a new job comes in. Their assignment: They're not really sure, but it takes them onto the unfriendly freeways, into the untamed wilds of Japan's pastoral countryside, and up to their necks in hot springs and "hot water." Meanwhile, the Hounds are busy testing some fancy--and rather mysterious--new gear in their own efforts to stop the Phantom Cats' latest nefarious plan. Oh, and there's a sniper out to get Shooting Star... but who is she?

Quick Review

Rating: 3 / 5
Reviewer: Marc
Review Date: 2005-12-04

Geobreeders: Breakthrough serves up another helping of the odd mix that made the first series memorable. It takes a nice chunk of quirky humor in the middle episodes, sandwiches it between two big, juicy slices of over-the-top action on the ends, and seasons liberally with cryptic plot throughout. The funky child-like character designs are back, as is everything (and everyone) else that made the first series an empty but enjoyable time waster.

Fans of fun, extreme action will find plenty to love, fans of the comic will find another faithful animated adaptation, and everybody else will find a chaotic thrill ride with attention deficit issues.

US DVD Review

USM's DVD covers all the basics; hybrid stereo audio and perfectly acceptable video aside, there is an interview with scriptwriter Yuji Moriyama (who also directed the first series), trailers, storyboards, and an art gallery. Pop it in a computer and you can also get your hands on the English script, some comics, sketches, and a few other bits of art and info.

Content Guide

Some nudity and a whole lot of occasionally bloody violence make USM's 13-up rating a good call.

Violence: 3 - Mostly exaggerated fun, but there are a couple of more graphic, more serious scenes.

Nudity: 2 - Time spent in hot springs.

Sex/Mature Themes: 1 - There are some serious themes, but nothing sexual at all.

Language: 2 - Some swearing.

Notes and Trivia

The full title is, even in Japan, almost never used; the DVD packages just say (in English) Geobreeders [File-XX] "Breakthrough". Leaving out the commando part, that's pretty much exactly the same as the Japanese version. Like the previous series, it's also sometimes referred to as Geobreeders: The Movie even though it's not.

The end theme isn't as random as it seems: that quirky song is a trademark of popular singer-comedian Maki Shinji. It was a big hit way back in the sixties, and keeps coming back with various adapted lyrics, in the case of Geobreeders specific to the trials of a Phantom Cat Fightin' Salaryman.

Availability

Available on a hybrid DVD from US Manga Corps, or you can get the same disc in a 2-disc set with the original series.

Looking to buy? Try these stores: RightStuf (search) | AnimeNation | Akemi's a(nime)Store