Around 15 years ago, on a warm December night (day?) I got lucky and was able to watch the Deculture broadcast of the latest series of the Macross franchise: Macross Frontier. Which at the time was the 25th anniversary of the venerable mecha anime. Now it’s the 40th, and I’ve just returned from watching the first compilation movie from Frontier, the False Songstress. I’ve got a lot of feelings.

First, it was a much different experience from the earlier Macross Plus screening. Everything worked in the cinema, and the seats weren’t uncomfortable. I did see here and there on social media that others had problems with the playback quality. Second, it was almost magical as I had the theatre nearly to myself. There were three others way up in the back, and they seemed to enjoy the film. Which surprised me as the area here is not full of anime fans. Even fewer are mecha fans. Maybe dozens of us?

Anyway, watching, at times, phenomenal animation play out on the big screen was both excellent and comfortable. The same feeling one gets when catching up with a beloved friend you haven’t spoken with for years. Indeed it is the same with Frontier. The False Songstress and its sequel, the Wings of Farewell, were released over ten years ago. Even longer for the TV series. No matter as the animation, characters, and mind-blowing soundtrack, produced by Yoko Kano, still carry you away on the divine wind.

Now to wait till June 30th to watch Part II. Unlike the False Songstress, I don’t recall much of the plot, but I am sure it will all come back as soon as the Galactic Fairy starts singing.