Unveiling FLCL Grunge: An Ambitious Beginning Laden with Exciting Prospects

Summary

FLCL: Grunge has sparked controversy among fans due to its divisive 3D animated art style, which many feel doesn't capture the feel of the original series.

Critics have pointed out that Shin, the main character of Grunge, has a weaker introduction compared to previous seasons due to his lack of personality and similarity to past characters. However, despite these flaws in animation and character development, Grunge shows potential in its captivating storyline and exploration of a dying Earth. The question of whether it can overcome its distinctive animation style is still uncertain.

The third installment of FLCL, titled FLCL: Grunge, premiered on Adult Swim's Toonami block. However, fans have raised concerns about the creative decisions made for the series.

FLCL, originally released as an OVA series in the 1990s, gained a cult following when it aired on Adult Swim's late-night anime programming in the mid-2000s. Created by Gainax, it served as a direct follow-up to Neon Genesis Evangelion, which explains its peculiar nature. While primarily a comedy, the six-episode series also delves into the characters' coming-of-age experiences and how they adapt to the challenges life throws at them. After almost two decades, FLCL made a comeback when Adult Swim announced two new sequel series, FLCL: Progressive and FLCL: Alternative, set to debut in 2018.

FLCL's Sequel Series Are Contentious Among Fans

Progressive and Alternative stayed relatively loyal to the original in terms of style, but they received criticism for being deemed "unnecessary." The only character who returned from the original was Haruko, the eccentric alien girl. Both sequels explored similar themes of adolescence but introduced new characters and situations. Despite dividing the fanbase, the two sequels achieved moderate success, leading to the commissioning of two more: Grunge and Shoegaze. Grunge, the first to be released, surprised fans with its distinct and polarizing animation style.

In early 2023, it was announced that Grunge would adopt a 3D animated art style. This revelation was met with predominantly negative reactions from fans. Animation played a significant role in the original FLCL's success, often incorporating art style gags and embracing exaggerated physics for comedic effect. As a result, the original possessed fluid animation, making it difficult for many fans to believe that a 3D approach could capture the essence of the original series.

FLCL: Grunge Is Off to A Rocky Start

In the first episode of Grunge, Shin, a young boy, finds himself on a dying Earth with only a few friends and little guidance. Unlike in Alternative, where Earth's abandonment for Mars was a background element, it now takes center stage in the story. Shin and his friends face the harsh reality that they can never afford tickets to Mars.

Haruko, as provocative as ever, enters the scene and causes a protrusion to develop on Shin's head, indicating his ability to open N.O. passageways. Haruko steals passes for the last flight to Mars and distributes them to her friends, angering the Mayor from whom she stole. Caught up in Haruko's actions, Shin experiences an invigorating rush for the first time.

Compared to previous seasons of FLCL, Shin's introduction lacks strong character development, possibly due to the pervasive hopelessness of Earth society. While his friends don't stand out much, there is a unique presence of the "Rockian," an alien species living on Earth that hasn't appeared in previous FLCL series. Haruko remains true to herself, defying impossible odds for the thrill of it all. Her ultimate goal remains reuniting with the Pirate King Atomsk.

All Is Not Lost for FLCL: Grunge

Grunge doesn't quite hit the mark, even in its early stages. Shin's job at a sushi shop echoes Kana's role at a ramen shop in Alternative, giving off a familiar vibe. In addition, Shin's disinterested demeanor occasionally mirrors that of Naota. However, the series' biggest flaw lies in its art style. The stilted movements of the 3D models and their lack of cohesion with the backgrounds hinder the show from achieving the same fluid and chaotic action that made FLCL famous. Unfortunately, the first episode doesn't leave a strong impression in that aspect. Moreover, Grunge occasionally switches between 2D and 3D animation, creating a jarring transition that interrupts the viewing experience.

What sets Grunge apart right now is primarily the overarching story that unfolds in these follow-up series. Alternative also touched on the concept of "leaving Earth for Mars," but it remained largely in the background and didn't involve the main characters until the end. Grunge picks up from that point, immersing us in a world where Earth is on the brink of extinction and everyone remaining is acutely aware of it. This premise presents a captivating opportunity for Grunge to explore intriguing possibilities. While the animation style may pose a challenge, the series undoubtedly holds potential to deliver something remarkable.

The change in animation is undoubtedly the main challenge that FLCL: Grunge faces. However, it's important to note that the animation style doesn't determine the narrative. There is a possibility that Grunge will have a captivating story to tell. The crucial question is whether fans will be willing to overlook the new animation in order to appreciate that story. This uncertainty about FLCL: Grunge's future resonates with its characters as well.

FLCL: Grunge is broadcasted on Adult Swim every Saturday at Midnight and can be streamed the following day on MAX.