Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack
General Info

Genres | Anime, Military science fiction |
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Music By | Shigeaki Saegusa |
Tagline | I came to laugh at you. |
Edited By | Daisuke Gōri, Toshiyuki Morikawa |
Film Name | Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack |
Starring | Toru Furuya, Shuuichi Ikeda, Maria Kawamura |
Languages | Japanese |
Directed By | Yoshiyuki Tomino |
Produced By | Kenji Uchida, Ken Iyadomi |
Release Date | 1988-03-12 |
Running Time | 124 minutes |
Screenplay By | Yoshiyuki Tomino |
Content Rating | PG-13 |
Distributed By | Toei Company |
Original Title | 機動戦士ガンダム 逆襲のシャア |
Cinematography | Iwao Yamaki |
Country of Origin | Japan |
World Premiere Date | 1988-03-12 |
Production Company Name | Sunrise |
Production Company Website URL | https://www.sunrise-anime.jp/ |
Overview
In the midst of this escalating conflict, viewers see the return of veteran Federation pilot Amuro Ray. Amuro mobilizes the new Nu Gundam and sets out to thwart Charo's zealous plans and end their personal vendetta once and for all. The film benefits from spectacular mecha fight sequences and emotional character development as old grievances mingle with new allegiances, giving devotees an unforgettable saga.
Char's Countetrack also addresses critical environmental issues and the profound impact of war on humanity. The gripping story continues to influence the mecha and anime genres since its premiere in 1988. This feature-length show is a must-see not only for Gundam fanatics, but also for those who enjoy complex storytelling and dynamic visuals.
Trailer
Screenshots
Plot
In contrast, Amuro Ray, a test pilot for the Earth Federation forces, stands in Charo's path. Having survived and survived numerous battles with Charu in the brutal one-year war, Amuro has no illusions about the havoc his enemy is willing to wreak in pursuit of his extreme ideals. Amuro, along with the crew of the attack aircraft carrier Argama and her advanced mobile suit Nu Gundam, form the last line of defense between Char and her apocalyptic ambitions.
The plot then revolves around the final showdown between Char, in his mobile suit Sazabi, and Amuro in Nu Gundam. As the colossal asteroid base inexorably approaches, Amuro and Char are drawn into a battle that will determine the fate of all mankind. Fueled by their personal grievances and conflicting beliefs about the fate of humanity, the iconic rivalry reaches an explosive climax.
The aftermath has a lasting effect on the Gundam universe. Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Countetrack is a thrilling story of heroism, competition, sacrifice and the relentless pursuit of what everyone sees as utopia.
Production
In terms of production quality, the film raises the bar. The animation quality is noticeably higher than its TV and OVA predecessors. The large budget allowed for detailed artwork and smooth, dynamic animation sequences. The combat in the film was executed perfectly, and the mechanical designs showed a high level of detail and aesthetic sophistication. The mobile suits in this film were the manifestation of years of incremental design work on the series, each done with great attention to detail.
The film's production team also knew the film's soundtrack very well. With an emotionally captivating score, Shigeaki Saegusa brings the story together perfectly. His orchestral soundtrack adds depth to Charo's counterattacks and enhances the viewing experience. The sound effects were also convincingly realistic, giving the viewer the feeling of being in the middle of intense Gundam battles.
The production of Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack was handled with great care, proving to be a worthy end to the Gundam series at the time. The production team's effort and attention to detail is truly commendable, making it a masterpiece in the world of anime movies.
Release
Char's Counterattack is known for its production quality that exceeds what fans of the Gundam franchise have come to expect. It was the most expensive anime film of its time, featuring richly detailed animation that added depth to the intense battle scenes. In terms of international release, the film did not reach Western audiences until many years later. It first aired on Cartoon Network in 2002 and was later released on DVD in 2002 and 2007. Despite its delayed release, it was warmly received by fans worldwide, cementing its status as a classic of the mecha genre.
in 2010 In Japan, the film has been released on Blu-Ray in high definition, giving fans the chance to experience the visual spectacle in even greater detail. in 2016 an international Blu-Ray release took place. While Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Countetrack may have marked the end of an era, it represents the timeless appeal of the Gundam series and is still celebrated by fans around the world. The film's lasting impact undoubtedly underscores its important role in the Gundam franchise.
Reception
Cultural impact
The film's exploration of war and its unflinching view of the human suffering it causes helped shape how anime approached these themes. The perspective he offered came from both sides of the conflict, giving viewers a more nuanced view of war, never black and white, but painted in various shades of gray. This approach has helped to develop anime from a medium primarily intended for children to one that is considered suitable for adult storytelling. The main antagonist of the film, Char Aznable, became a cultural phenomenon. His charisma, mysterious aura and contrasting morals formed a complex character that captivated the audience. He became a symbol of rebellion and played a key role in popularizing anti-heroes in future anime series.
Importantly, Char's Counterattack introduced the concept of space colonies to a new generation, sparking public interest in space exploration and colonization. It was a timely release at a time when humanity was just beginning to take a serious interest in the habitation of space. In addition, the film's rich mecha designs increased the anime's aesthetic appeal and inspired numerous merchandise, increasing Gundam's cultural and commercial impact worldwide. The enduring popularity of Gundam models, often colloquially referred to as "Gunpla", is testament to the enduring influence of cinema.
Ultimately, Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack reflected and influenced the cultural environment of the time. Beyond its commercial success, the film also ignited social dialogue, inspired narrative shifts, and left an indelible mark on the ever-expanding anime universe.