Wings of Honneamise is an epic tale of the race to conquer space set in an alien world strangely reminiscent of Earth. Long considered a classic in the world of anime, its impressive animation and design and engrossing story transcend the contrivances and shallow character development typical of most cookie-cutter anime. An intelligent, thought-provoking piece of work, it comes across more as an epic film in the vein of The Right Stuff or Star Wars than a sensory assault of animated images loosely assembled into a story.

Detailing one nation's efforts to launch a man into space, Honneamise creates an entire parallel world, civilization and culture to provide a context for the plot of the film. Centering around the failures and eventual triumphs of Shirotsuro Lhadatt, a layabout cadet in the Royal Space Force -- a repository for losers and dropouts -- the film actually has two plots. The story of the Space Force coming into its own and achieving the conquest of space is nicely paralleled with Shiro's search for some kind of meaning and motivation in his life. Obstacles abound, including the threat of war and an evil military regime, domestic unrest among the poor, who protest the extravagance of the space program, and Shiro's moments of self-doubt. These varied elements work to create a story that rivals anything Hollywood has to offer in the epic adventure category. Adding spice to the mix are moments of genuine tension and clever humor. It's also worth mentioning that the English dub is particularly well-done, adding a touch of added realism in lieu of the typically wooden dialogue encountered in most Japanese animation.

Wings of Honneamise is not easy to digest. Although the top-notch animation is immediately gratifying, this film takes it time, developing characters, establishing backdrops, and creating a mood of anticipation. Unlike the superhuman characters that pervade anime, this is a story about normal people accomplishing incredible deeds. Director Hiroyuki Yamaga's screenplay is well thought out, the work of the 3,000 plus animators who worked on the film is clearly evident, and Ryuichi Sakamoto's score complements the dramatic tension and mood of the film. This is a thoughtful, brilliant piece of animated moviemaking that deserves a wider audience.

Notes

Royal Space Force: The Wings of Honneamise features Digitally Remastered 16 x 9 Anamorphic Transfer (plays wide screen or full screen); Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound; Dialogue in English, Japanese, or Japanese with English Subtitles; Deleted Scene; Original Royal Space Force Promotional Short; Director’s Commentary; Conceptual Artwork; Scene Index; Manga 2000 Previews; Original Trailers; Manga Video Fan Club Info; and Manga Web Link. Not rated. Mature content. Contains brief nudity. Available now.