Bryce PapenbrookAttack on Titan: Complete Season One [Blu ray]

I'm not an Anime fan, but after spotting fans at a 2014 Comic Con in Survey Corps cosplay, I asked them about the costumes; a brief explanation followed and that Titan was recommended viewing. After further checking into what the fuss was all about, I purchased the Titan S1 DVD and I'm glad I did! This is good sci-fiction/fantasy entertainment.“Attack on Titan, Part One” introduces us to a world where Humanity has nearly been wiped out by giant humans called “Titans”. No one knows where the Titans came from, only that they suddenly appeared and proceeded to attack humanity. The giants come in varying sizes and are interested in two things - destruction and eating Humans. The surviving Humans retreat to cities protected behind high stone walls and lived for the next 100 years without the sighting of a single Titan. This changes when Wall Maria is breached by a new form of Titan, the Colossal Titan, and a series of events follows propelling our young heroes to join the military as defenders of the city.The setting is ambiguous and incorporates several eras. There are elements of Medieval (castles, walls, swords), Industrial (the 3D Maneuvering Gear, Flintlock rifles) and possibly the American Old West (wagons are used to haul supplies and the Survey Corps act as a sort of forward Cavalry element). The countryside reminds me of Europe with hills and flatland, though "Titan" could be taking place on an alternate Earth for all I know. Sometimes, not knowing is better.*** Spoilers ***The CharactersWith the main protagonists as well as a large supporting cast, there are too many to list here. I’ll only touch on a few to give an idea of the motley bunch that stands between the Titans and the annihilation of the Human race.Eren Yeager: (Main Protagonist) What he lacks in common sense he makes up for in sheer will and determination. Mister Angst needs to calm down before he ends up very dead.Mikasa: (Main Secondary Protagonist) Excels in fighting skills; has a single-minded death wish to act as protector to Eren.Armin Arlert: (Main Third Protagonist) Unsure of himself yet has the keen mind to be a major tactician; if he pursues that talent he will likely come into his own, eventually.Dot Pixis: (Secondary Character) Commander with the Garrison Corps. An older man, he knows his duty well and is a capable defender of the walls that protect his assigned city sector. He’s also a keen judge of inner character.The TechnologySwords: Used as the primary weapon against Titans, stabbing at the weak point at the nape of the neck. The blades attach to brake/release handles that control the Maneuvering Gear.3D Maneuver Gear: Box shaped contraptions that strap to either side of the users legs on the outside of the thighs, with sheaths for extra sword blades and mounted gas canisters. An additional box-type contraption fastens to the small of the back to expel the gas needed to get up off the ground. Grapple lines shoot out from the thigh-mounts to provide purchase to wing from one location to another.Cannons: Located on the top of the inner and outer walls and utilized by the Stationary Garrison Corps.Flintlock Rifles: Used sporadically, the weapons of choice seem to be swords (by the mobile defenders) and the cannons (Garrison Corps).*** End Spoilers ***I’ve spotted a blurb that describes Attack on Titan as Japans version of “The Walking Dead”. That’s really too simple an explanation for this Anime and doesn’t do it justice. Yes, the Titans are creepy and zombie-like (huge, but zombie-like) and don’t speak and have no purpose other than to attack constantly and have an insatiable appetite for Human meat, but that’s where the similarities end. The origin of the Titans remains a mystery for now.The animation is top notch and the action is exhilarating as the characters zip around on the Maneuvering Gear or horseback. The dialogue can be angst-o-rama at times but from what I’ve gathered that’s the norm for Anime.The character motivations are explored - not deeply, unless one of the three main characters goes on an inner monologue jag - and shows that not everyone joins the Cadet Corps (and eventually the Military Police, Garrison Corps or Survey Corps…if they survive the training and encounters with Titans while defending the city….) is in it for the glory or to save Humanity or to be a hero.“Attack on Titan” is recommended viewing.

Calling all anime enthusiasts and fans of epic storytelling! Brace yourselves for an adrenaline-fueled journey into the world of "Attack on Titan" with the complete first season on Blu-ray. This visually stunning and emotionally gripping series takes you on an unforgettable ride through a dystopian world where humanity faces the threat of towering, man-eating giants. Get ready to witness a saga filled with jaw-dropping action, shocking twists, and a touch of quirkiness that will leave you gasping for breath and craving for more!"Attack on Titan" is a cultural phenomenon that has captivated audiences around the globe, and the complete first season encapsulates the essence of this groundbreaking anime series. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is on the brink of extinction, the story follows a group of young warriors known as the Survey Corps as they take on the towering Titans, formidable creatures that devour humans without remorse. With its intricate world-building, morally complex characters, and intense battles, "Attack on Titan" delivers a gripping narrative that keeps you hooked from the first episode to the last.What sets "Attack on Titan" apart is its ability to seamlessly blend heart-pounding action with profound themes of survival, identity, and the nature of humanity. The series raises thought-provoking questions about the lengths people are willing to go to in order to protect their loved ones and the sacrifices they make in the face of overwhelming odds. As you delve deeper into the story, you'll find yourself emotionally invested in the characters' struggles, their victories, and their heartbreaking losses.The animation in "Attack on Titan" is nothing short of breathtaking. The Blu-ray format elevates the visuals to new heights, allowing you to fully appreciate the meticulous attention to detail and the stunning artistry. From the awe-inspiring Titan battles to the intricate cityscapes, the animation brings the world of "Attack on Titan" to life in vivid detail. The fluidity of the action sequences and the dynamic camera angles immerse you in the heart of the battle, heightening the suspense and leaving you in awe of the animators' skill.On the Blu-ray release, the audio quality enhances the immersive experience, with crystal-clear dialogue, a powerful score, and the thundering roars of the Titans reverberating through your speakers. The English voice cast delivers stellar performances, capturing the essence of the characters and their emotional journeys. The Blu-ray set also includes exciting bonus features, such as behind-the-scenes documentaries, interviews with the cast and crew, and insightful commentary tracks that offer a deeper understanding of the series' creation."Attack on Titan: The Complete First Season" on Blu-ray is a must-have for both anime enthusiasts and newcomers to the series. With its gripping storyline, breathtaking animation, and thought-provoking themes, it's an anime masterpiece that will keep you on the edge of your seat and craving for more. So, gather your courage, rally your fellow defenders, and prepare to face the Titans head-on in this epic adventure that will leave you breathless and yearning for the next season!