Today we’re saddling up for a trip to the dusty planet of Gunsmoke with Trigun, the anime that proved you can be a pacifist and still be the biggest badass in the galaxy. But does this classic space western still hit its mark in 2024? Let’s draw and find out!
Warning: Some mild spoilers in the crosshairs!
The Story:
Trigun follows the adventures of Vash the Stampede, a legendary gunman with a $$60 billion bounty on his head. But here’s the twist:
- Vash is a total goofball who hates violence and tries to save everyone
- He’s pursued by two insurance agents, Meryl and Milly, trying to minimize the damage he causes
- As the series progresses, we uncover the dark secrets of Vash’s past and true nature
What makes Trigun special is its perfect blend of comedy and drama. One minute you’re laughing at Vash’s antics, the next you’re hit with deep philosophical questions about pacifism, morality, and the nature of humanity.
The show starts off episodic, with Vash bumbling from town to town solving problems and dodging bounty hunters. But as it progresses, a deeper, darker plot emerges involving Vash’s brother Knives and the mysterious Plants that power the planet’s cities.
Character development is a strong point, especially for Vash. Watching him maintain his ideals in the face of increasingly difficult challenges is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. The supporting cast, from the determined Meryl to the haunted Wolfwood, each have their own compelling arcs.
The Look:
Trigun’s visual style is a fantastic mix of Wild West and sci-fi elements. The character designs are distinct and memorable – Vash’s spiky hair and red coat are instantly recognizable, even to many non-anime fans.
The world of Gunsmoke is beautifully realized, with its harsh desert landscapes dotted with weird and wonderful technology. The show does a great job of creating a lived-in universe that feels both alien and familiar.
Action scenes are where Trigun really shines. Vash’s impossible gun stunts are animated with fluid grace, making every showdown a treat to watch. The series also isn’t afraid to get creative with its sci-fi elements, leading to some truly spectacular battles in later episodes.
While the animation might show its age in some spots, the overall art direction and design work hold up remarkably well. The exaggerated expressions and impact frames during comedic moments perfectly complement the show’s humor.
The Sound:
Trigun’s soundtrack, composed by Tsuneo Imahori, is a perfect fit for its space western setting. The opening theme, “H.T.” (Heavy Traffic), is an energetic rock instrumental that sets the tone for the series.
The background music is a eclectic mix of genres, from twangy guitar riffs straight out of a Sergio Leone film to more somber piano pieces for emotional moments. The battle themes, with their driving rhythms and wailing guitars, amp up the excitement of every gunfight.
Voice acting is top-notch in both Japanese and English. Masaya Onosaka and Johnny Yong Bosch both capture Vash’s duality perfectly, switching between goofy and serious at the drop of a hat. The supporting cast is equally strong, bringing depth and emotion to their roles.
Sound effects are punchy and satisfying, from the distinctive sound of Vash’s revolver to the whoosh of his billowing coat. The audio design does a great job of enhancing both the western and sci-fi aspects of the show.
Why it Matters:
Trigun stands as a classic for several reasons:
- It popularized the space western genre in anime, paving the way for shows like Cowboy Bebop.
- The series tackles heavy themes like pacifism and the nature of humanity in an accessible way.
- Vash became an iconic character, influencing many subsequent anime protagonists.
- It demonstrated how effectively anime could blend comedy and drama.
Trigun has maintained a dedicated fanbase over the years, with its themes and characters resonating across generations of anime fans.
Is it Worth Watching in 2024?
Trigun still packs a punch and is definitely worth checking out. Here’s why:
- Its themes of pacifism and moral choices in a violent world remain relevant.
- The balance of humor and serious storytelling keeps the narrative engaging.
- Vash is a unique and compelling protagonist who subverts many typical action hero tropes.
- The sci-fi western setting still feels fresh and inventive.
- At 26 episodes, it’s a manageable length for a full, satisfying story.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The animation, while stylish, might feel dated compared to modern standards.
- The early episodes’ “problem of the week” format might feel slow to some viewers.
- Some of the humor might come across as a bit slapstick for modern tastes.
All in all, Trigun remains a classic that’s worth your time in 2024. Its unique protagonist, thought-provoking themes, and perfect blend of laughs and drama make for a series that’s as entertaining as it is meaningful. So load up your six-shooter (with rubber bullets, of course), practice your “Love and Peace” gesture, and get ready for a wild ride across the sands of Gunsmoke. Just watch out for that humanoid typhoon!
