The appeal of Cross Ange: delving deeper into the world of angels and dragons

Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons - A deep insight and moving journey

"Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons" is an original TV anime series produced by Sunrise that aired from 2014 to 2015. The series was directed by Yoshiharu Ashino and produced by Mitsuo Fukuda, bringing together a team of talented staff members to create a dense drama and a spectacular worldview. This is a ensemble drama about fighting girls, and revolves around the growth and battles of the main character, Ange (voiced by Nana Mizuki).

story

The story begins in a world where humanity, armed with a highly evolved information technology called "Mana," has overcome the world's problems such as war, famine, and pollution, and built a peaceful utopia where everyone lives in comfort. The first princess of the Misurugi Empire, Angeliese, was supposed to be crowned with the blessings of her people. However, when it was discovered that she was a "Norma," everything was taken from her. "Norma" are irregulars who cannot use Mana and are considered antisocial.

Ange is isolated on a remote island, where she meets Norma girls who know nothing but fighting. As riders of transforming humanoid weapons called "Paramails," they spend their days fighting giant aggressive creatures called "Dragons" that invade from across dimensions. What will Ange, who has lost her name and become a soldier, see at the end of the battle, what will she believe in, and what will she gain? Her indomitable story begins.

character

The main character, Ange, has a proud and stubborn personality and was raised as an princess, which often leads to conflicts with those around her at the base. Her growth and change is the central theme of the story and deeply moves viewers. Characters with rich personalities, such as Saria, Hilda, Vivian, Rosalie, Elsha, and Chris, surround Ange and support her growth. In addition, characters from various backgrounds, such as Momoka, Jill, Emma, ​​May, and Maggie, add color to the story.

In particular, Ange's encounter with Task has a great impact on her state of mind, bringing out new possibilities in her. Dragon characters such as Salamandine, Naga, and Kaname also play important roles, adding depth to the story. Mysterious characters such as Embryo, the High Priestess, and Aura are also essential elements in the development of the story.

Mechanics and Items

The mechanics of this work are centered around the transforming humanoid weapons "Paramail" and "Ragnamail." Ange pilots "Vilquis," an absolute weapon created during the Final War, which manifests special forms "Ariel Mode," "Michael Mode," and "Uriel Mode" and exerts overwhelming combat power. "Vilquis (The Primitive)" is Vilquis before it was stolen by the ancient people and modified, and delves deeper into the background of the story.

In addition, custom mechs tailored to each character, such as Saria's "Arquebus Saria Custom", Hilda's "Grave Hilda Custom", and Vivian's "Razor", will also appear to liven up the battle scenes. The dragon side's "Enryuu-go", "Souryuu-go", and "Hekiryuu-go" will also be depicted as important elements of the story.

"Aurora" is a submarine aircraft carrier hidden underground in Arzenal, and is an unsinkable ship that has been fighting Embryo as the flagship of Libertas. The Ragnamails "Hysterica", "Cleopatra", "Razia", ​​"Theodora", "Victoria" and "Eirene" also have a major impact on the development of the story.

Worldview and Theme

The world of Cross Ange depicts a social structure in which peace and prosperity are enjoyed through the technology of Mana, while Norma are discriminated against and isolated. This worldview reflects real-world problems and provides viewers with deep insight. Ange's growth and struggles are based on themes of self-awareness, understanding of others, and dialogue with society.

Additionally, the story's battles with dragons and transcending dimensions emphasize the science fiction elements, drawing viewers in. Mysterious characters such as Embryo and Aura add depth to the story and stimulate the viewers' imagination.

music

The music for this work is written by Akiko Shikata, and the magnificent and beautiful melodies add excitement to the story. Each song enhances the atmosphere of the story, including the opening theme "Forbidden Resistance" (Nana Mizuki) and "Apocalypse of Truth" (Yoko Takahashi), the ending theme "Rinrei" (Eri Kitamura) and "End of the World Love Song" (Nana Mizuki), and the insert song "Necessary" (Nana Mizuki). In particular, Nana Mizuki's powerful singing voice expresses Ange's feelings and deeply moves the viewer.

Ratings and Recommendations

"Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons" is a work that combines deep themes, a grand worldview, unique characters, and beautiful music. Ange's growth and battles inspire and encourage viewers, and provide an opportunity to think about social issues. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys an ensemble drama of fighting girls and sci-fi elements.

This work is also packed with Sunrise's high production technology and the passion of its staff, and its visual beauty is also one of its attractions. The attention to detail in the powerful battle scenes, the design of the mechanics, the expressions and movements of the characters, and more draws viewers in.

In addition, the performances of the gorgeous voice actors, including Nana Mizuki, are not to be missed. They express the feelings of each character realistically, adding depth to the story. In particular, Nana Mizuki's performance portraying Ange's growth leaves a strong impression on viewers.

"Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons" is not only moving and inspiring to viewers, but also a work with deep insight that makes you think about social issues. Please give it a watch.