Heavy Object

Heavy Object is an engaging and visually appealing anime series. Produced by renowned studio J.C. Staff and distributed by FUNimation in 2015, it intertwines the themes of science fiction, military drama, and environmental dystopia to present a fascinating story with action-packed sequences, strategic confrontations, and relatable characters.

The story takes place in a not-so-distant future where warfare has evolved tremendously, and battles are now fought with colossal mechanical weapons known as Objects. As a result, traditional methods of warfare—such as infantries and naval fleets—have become outdated, shifting the power balance across the globe. These massive spherical battle machines, driven and operated by elite pilots, are virtually indestructible and wield unprecedented destructive power to raze enemies. Thanks to their immense strength, Objects have become the key deciding factor in military conflicts, drastically altering the face of warfare.

The narrative follows the lives of two young soldiers - Qwenthur Barbotage, a lively engineering student, and Havia Winchell, a sharp-tongued and quick-witted aristocrat. Stationed at a remote Alaskan base, they serve in the Legitimate Kingdom's 37th Mobile Maintenance Battalion, where they maintain and repair the kingdom's Objects. Handsome and likable, Qwenthur aspires to become an Object designer, and Havia grudges becoming a noble one day, binding them both by a friendship forged in the biting cold of the Alaskan wilderness.

Almost by accident, they damage an enemy Object, proving to the world that these hitherto "invincible" machines could be defeated by mere foot soldiers. This feat propels them into the limelight, extraordinary heroes facing unimaginable odds.

Their compatriot in many of these battles is Elite Milinda Brantini, a seasoned pilot known for her uncanny ability to control the kingdom's Object, affectionately dubbed as "Baby Magnum." Despite her grim responsibility, Milinda exhibits an endearingly gentle personality and takes a liking to Qwenthur and Havia's heroic efforts.

Together, this trio navigates through adrenaline-pumping tactical showdowns, treacherous political environments, and the nitty-gritty of warfare, emphasizing their collective importance and the indispensability of ground troops.

Heavy Object captivates viewers with its heart-pounding action sequences masterfully blended with intelligent warfare tactics. The strategic confrontations never overshadow the charismatic chemistry between the characters—instead, they amplify them on the battlefield, where Qwenthur's academic knowledge of Objects and Havia's heir-gained political acumen make them formidable fighters.

Moreover, the show goes beyond mere warfare to explore broader themes. It portrays a stark dystopian world resulting from environmental degradation and the increasing mechanization of warfare. It delves into the ethical aspects of depending too heavily on mechanized warfare, examining the human costs of conflicts and the ultimate role of technology in war and peace.

Unexpected humor and light-hearted moments offer relief from the high-stake battles, making the series more than a conventional mecha anime. The camaraderie between the two protagonists brings a lot of warmth and joy into the storyline, ensuring that it gives as much weight to the humanity of the characters as to the grittiness of mechanized warfare.

The show's high-quality animation, combined with its intricately detailed mecha designs, make for visual spectacles. The Objects, colossal in scale and impressively detailed, are not only eye-catching but wholly unique in their design and capabilities, each reflecting the cultural traits and strategic priorities of their respective factions.

The sound design of Heavy Object also greatly enhances the viewer's experience, featuring a pulse-pounding score by Maiko Iuchi that beautifully complements the show's intense action sequences. Moreover, the voice acting in both Japanese and English versions brings the characters to life, capturing their distinct personalities and vibrant dynamics.

In conclusion, Heavy Object offers a thrilling, thought-provoking exploration of futuristic warfare filled with dynamic characters, strategic battles, and a healthy sprinkle of humor. For fans of the mecha genre and military strategy, this series is a must-watch. It challenges the conventions of its genre and the viewer's perception of heroism, warfare, and the power of human intellect, spirit, and camaraderie even in a world teeming with machines wielding devastating power.