Better than the original series
Gate Keepers 21 (2002) is a 6-part OVA sequel to the original Gate Keepers 24-part TV series (2000). The original was set in 1969, and the sequel in 2001. Gate Keepers are those rare individuals who can open transdimensional portals, called gates; they use the resulting gate energy to fight alien invaders. Gate Keepers are coordinated by the AEGIS Network. The main character in GK21, Ayane, is the daughter of the main character of the original series, Shun Ukiya - though she prefers to use her mother's maiden name, Isuzu. Numerous other points are carried over from the original series, the main setting, for example, is still Tategami Highschool.
Earth has been invaded by aliens with the ability to control humans, draining people of their humanity and individuality, turning them into invader foot soldiers. By 2001, invaders have penetrated every level of human society, forcing the once powerful AEGIS Network into the shadows. Widespread greed and corruption among humans are outward signs of invader success.
The tone of GK21 is downbeat overall, as if the AEGIS operatives know they are heading toward an ultimate confrontation, with slim chance of success. The main character, Ayane, is an unpopular nerdy girl, openly critical of other girls' interest in boys and leisure activities. Her partner, the newly-recruited Miu Manaduru, is a shy, though popular girl who finds fighting invaders exciting at first - until she discovers the invaders she killed were once human. This sets the tone for the conflict between the two girls: Miu wants Ayane's acceptance, but Ayane thinks Miu is useless and undependable because she now refuses to fight invaders. Ultimately, both girls come to realize it is our differences, rather than our similarities, that make humans strong. We also learn why gate keepers tend to be young - there is a price to be paid for opening gates.
The sound, however, is spectacular in Dolby 5.1. On a well-adjusted system, you are immersed in a rich sound field so realistic I sometimes found myself pausing the player to see whether sounds were from the film, or real airplane and traffic noises.
The six episodes of GK21 are more tightly-focused and coherent than the original series, with a serious, adult point of view. Though low key and gritty throughout, Gate Keepers 21 ends on a hopeful note as Ayane visits the Ukiya family shrine to honor the father she had always resented. Highly recommended.
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