Upon my second viewing of the Macross Δ Movie 2: Zettai Live!!!, I’ve come to a compelling conclusion: this film is a near-masterful tapestry that weaves together everything a Macross fan could want. From war and mecha action to love and music, these elements are present and seamlessly interwoven, all delivered through high-quality animation that can only be described as delicious deculture.
While some may argue that the idol singing appears distracting, it’s crucial to recognize that music and entertainment have been integral to the experience of war throughout history. This tradition dates back to events like the USO‘s visits to troops during World War II and beyond. Similarly, Walküre mitigates the dread, harm, and destruction that unfold in the background, all while being presented in a PG/PG-13 format. Their performances imbued with love and friendship, serve as a counterpoint to the darker themes of the movie.
But the film doesn’t stop at surface-level entertainment, it delves deep into the political landscape of its fictional galaxy. Lady M acts as a governing force, her rules increasingly stifling galactic society whether justifiably so or not. This sets the stage for Heimdall, a group chafing at Lady M’s grip. One of its factions, led by the tragic war hero, Ian “Iron” Cromwell, is particularly motivated by the aggressive tendencies of organizations like the UN, NUNS, and PMCs. This echoes Hayate’s own desire to end war in the galaxy.
Manipulating these forces is the galaxy-wide conglomerate, the Epsilon Foundation. Think of them as the defense contractors and major conglomerates of the real world, engaging in activities like war profiteering and event manipulation. Their presence adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, making it relatable to our own geopolitical landscape.
Delta 2 doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of its themes. It candidly shows the attrition suffered by XAOS and the ongoing occupation of the Windermereans, thereby highlighting the destructive impact of conflict on the galaxy. Moreover, the movie addresses the mortality of its heroes and the strain that war places on relationships of all kinds. Does it handle these themes effectively? In my assessment, it does, and it resonates strongly with contemporary anime enthusiasts.
For long-time Macross fans willing to view Macross Δ Movie 2: Zettai Live!!! as a multi-faceted anime, the film has much to offer. If one is open to engaging with the complex themes of hard science fiction, war, and politics that operate in the background, Delta 2 becomes an even more appealing experience. In essence, this movie is not just a feast for the eyes but also a complex narrative that speaks to both new and old generations of anime fans.
Valkyrieguy 