Gate Keepers

Gate Keepers is a refreshingly entertaining animated series that first aired on the Japanese network WOWOW in the year 2000. Produced by the esteemed animation studio Gonzo, famous for its creative contributions within the world of anime, Gate Keepers is a vibrant fusion of action, comedy, and science fiction genres. The series, which brings viewers into a dynamic world set in 1969 Japan, is brimming with stimulating narratives and compelling characters.

The plot of Gate Keepers primarily focuses on the valorous efforts of an unsuspecting high school student named Shun Ukiya. His life takes an unexpected upheaval one day when he discovers his unique ability to open 'Gates', metaphysical doorways that endow him with superhuman powers. Shun's hidden power comes to the fore during a showdown with otherworldly invaders known as Invaders, whose heinous machinations involve taking control over humanity, causing widespread turmoil. Realizing that his otherwise ordinary life is no longer the same, Shun finds himself reluctantly enlisting into the ranks of an undercover secret defense organization known as the Alien Exterminating Global Intercept System (A.E.G.I.S.).

At A.E.G.I.S., Shun is introduced to other gatekeepers, each with distinctive Gates and unique abilities of their own. Together, these youthful gatekeepers take up arms under the covert organization's banner to thwart off Invaders' ghastly plans and restore peace in their homeland. Gate Keepers pays homage to classic superhero narratives and enriches the experience by incorporating its unique elements. As the symbol of resistance against the Invaders, the A.E.G.I.S. becomes a beacon of hope representing the spirit of humanity.

The series doesn't shy away from addressing themes of growing up, friendships, and, of course, saving the world. A focal point of the show is the camaraderie and supportive dynamics that develop between the young Gate Keepers as they undergo their heroic journey. Their interaction morphs from simple friendship into a familial bond in the face of shared challenges and the weight of the world on their shoulders.

The creators of Gate Keepers have meticulously created an engaging blend of characters, each bringing their unique skills to the table. They range from the initially reluctant hero, Shun to the sword-wielding tomboy-like master, Ruriko. Other characters include the quick-tempered hotshot, Reiko, two genius twins, Megumi and Choutarou, and the mysteriously docile Kaoru. Viewers see a spectrum of personalities, making the show apart from being action-packed, also character-driven.

Gate Keepers attracts attention with its distinct art style that truly brings the late 1960s era of Japan to life, including bright visuals and pastel backdrops representing the Swinging Sixties' fashion-forward era. While the animation may, at times, seem simplistic consistent with the period setting, it is worth noting that Gate Keepers also blends in occasional futuristic elements to elevate the science fiction atmosphere.

The episodes often balance between high octane action segments and lighter, comical moments, inseparable from personal trials and tribulations that come with individual character development amongst the young Gate Keepers. Additionally, the science fiction aspects are cleverly introduced in the narrative without overshadowing its character-centric focus or the core theme of unity, thus making it equally enjoyable for both sci-fi and slice-of-life genre fans.

The show's score is an equally engaging feature of the series, with music varying between upbeat tunes during comical moments to more dramatic scores during intense sequences. The soundtrack finds the right tempo complimenting the mood of the series perfectly.

Furthermore, viewers get to see several innovative alien designs throughout the series. The Invaders are not your typical green-skinned extraterrestrials, but an array of eerie, unnerving creatures incorporating elements of abstract and macabre.

Gate Keepers is more than just an action-packed anime; it is a careful juxtaposition of the fantastical elements of science fiction, the intense thrill of an action story, and the relatability of ordinary high school students coming together to defend their world. It provides an entertaining ride that keeps the viewers guessing what awaits in the next episode. Whether someone is an anime enthusiast or a newcomer to Japanese animation, Gate Keepers promises a captivating experience.