Fafner Heaven And Earth

Fafner: Heaven and Earth – A Mecha Gem That Deserves More Love

If you’re into mecha anime but haven’t heard of Fafner: Heaven and Earth, you’re missing out on a hidden gem. Released in 2010 as a sequel to the Soukyuu no Fafner TV series, this movie takes place two years after the original story, diving deeper into the struggles of Kazuki Makabe and the remnants of humanity on Tatsumiya Island. Directed by Takashi Noto and produced by Xebec, the film is a rollercoaster of emotions, action, and philosophical musings—something that fans of the franchise swear by, even if it’s criminally underrated outside Japan.

The Story: A Promise Kept?

The movie picks up in 2148, with the world still reeling from the aftermath of the Festum invasion. Kazuki, now nearly blind and physically broken, clings to the promise his fallen friend Soushi made—to return to him. The plot revolves around this emotional core, blending personal trauma with the larger conflict against the alien Festum.

What makes Heaven and Earth stand out is its refusal to sugarcoat the cost of war. Kazuki isn’t your typical invincible mecha pilot; he’s a broken man struggling with loss and purpose. The film’s pacing is deliberate, focusing on character development rather than non-stop action—a choice that divides fans. Some love the depth, while others (especially those used to flashier mecha shows) find it slow.

Fan Reactions: Love It or Leave It

Scouring forums like MyAnimeList, the reactions are a mixed bag, but the love for Fafner is undeniable among its fans.

• The Devoted Fans: Many argue that Heaven and Earth is the perfect conclusion to Kazuki’s arc. One user gushed, “Heaven and Earth was honestly the best ending Fafner’s story could have had.” The emotional weight of Kazuki’s journey, combined with stunning mecha battles, left a lasting impact.
• The Skeptics: On the flip side, some viewers felt the movie was too niche. “I can’t believe an anime nobody knows about gets more than 1 season,” one commenter scoffed. Others criticized the character designs (which borrow heavily from Gundam SEED), calling them outdated.
• The Confused Newcomers: A common complaint is the film’s reliance on prior knowledge. “They just place you in the middle of everything and expect you to understand,” lamented one viewer. If you haven’t seen the original series, Heaven and Earth can feel like jumping into the deep end.

Why It’s Worth Watching

Despite the polarizing opinions, Fafner: Heaven and Earth is a must-watch for mecha enthusiasts who crave substance over spectacle. Here’s why:

1. Emotional Depth: Kazuki’s struggle isn’t just about fighting aliens—it’s about holding onto hope in a broken world. The film’s quieter moments hit harder than any explosion.
2. Stunning Animation: For a 2010 release, the mecha battles are gorgeously animated, with fluid motion and detailed designs.
3. A Satisfying (If Bittersweet) Ending: Without spoilers, the film wraps up Kazuki’s story in a way that feels earned, not forced.

Final Verdict: Underrated, But Not for Everyone

Fafner: Heaven and Earth isn’t your typical popcorn mecha flick. It’s a slow burn with heavy themes, and it demands your attention. If you’re looking for mindless action, this isn’t it. But if you want a mecha story with heart, soul, and a touch of existential dread, give it a shot.

As one fan perfectly put it: “It’s really nice! You should all watch it!” And honestly? They’re not wrong.

Rating: 8.5/10 – A flawed but deeply rewarding experience for those willing to dive in.

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P.S. If you’re new to the franchise, start with the original Soukyuu no Fafner series. Trust me, it’ll make Heaven and Earth hit even harder.