Name(s): Macross Plus / マクロスプラス
Format: Original video animation [OVA] (4 episodes)
Studio(s): Triangle Staff

Despite being an OVA, it’s difficult for me to view Macross Plus as anything other than a movie experience. Yes, I know there’s an actual movie version, but fuck cutting footage, because every second of Macross Plus is precious.

So what exactly do I like so much about Macross Plus? The setting is one of the coolest futuristic settings I’ve ever seen and I’d do anything to be there, the characters are all charming and likable so you want happiness and screen time for each of them. The mystery behind the rivalry of Isamu and Guld is as intense to watch as it is to ponder. The animation is just damn gorgeous and immediately nostalgic for me with its dark, ’90s color tones. Oh, and Yoko Kanno did the (obviously) amazing soundtrack, which elevates the series into something infinitely more spiritual with its odd new age and techno pop influences.

There’s only one big problem: they screwed the pooch a bit on the ending of all things, including a specific character relationship. The resolution is so sudden that you’ll find yourself doing a double-take in disbelief: “Is that it? That’s all they’re going to address it with?” It’s not worthy, and it’s unsatisfying. The final episode was the shortest, when it should’ve been the longest. Still an amazing OVA, though.