Fafner in the Azure – the mecha anime saga

May 19, 2023

Sōkyū no Fafner, also known as Fafner in the Azure o Fafner Dead Aggressoris a Japanese mecha anime franchise created by Xebec in partnership with Starchild Records. The series debuted in July 2004 and immediately captured the attention of anime fans with its engaging story and adrenaline-pumping action. The universe of Fafner in the Azure revolves around a group of children who pilot powerful mecha robots called Fafners to fight against giant aliens known as Festum in an ever-growing war.

The original series, subtitled Dead Aggressor, was directed by Nobuyoshi Habara and written by Yasuo Yamabe and Tow Ubukata. The acclaimed character design was done by Hisashi Hirai, known for his work in other successful anime series such as Infinite Ryvius, s-CRY-ed, Gundam Seed and Gundam Seed Destiny. The mecha design was done by Naohiro Washio, while the direction was led by Nobuyoshi Habara himself.

The plot of Fafner in the Azure develops in a futuristic and post-apocalyptic reality, in which the Earth is threatened by the presence of the mysterious aliens Festum. The Japanese island of Tatsumiyajima survived thanks to a sophisticated cloaking system. However, the island's young inhabitants are soon drawn into a desperate fight when the Festums suddenly attack. The island's defense systems are activated and young people are chosen to become the pilots of the powerful Fafner mechas, becoming the last bastions of defense for humanity.

The series develops through a perfect combination of action, drama and emotional moments. The characters face personal challenges and will have to overcome the weight of responsibility that weighs on them. Norse mythology plays a large part in the series, with numerous references and terminologies used to flesh out the setting.

***Fafner in the Azure*** / ***Fafner Dead Aggressor***

Following the success of the original series, Fafner in the Azure has continued to expand with several sequels and adaptations. A television special titled “Sōkyū no Fafner – Single Program – Right of Left-” aired in December 2005, offering a new perspective on the main story. In December 2010, the feature film “Fafner: Heaven and Earth” was released, which continued the storyline. In 2015, a second television series entitled “Sōkyū no Fafner: Dead Aggressor: Exodus” was broadcast, which further expanded the universe of Fafner in the Azure.

History

Dead Aggressor (2004)

In 2004, an explosion of excitement and action hit anime fans with the release of "Dead Aggressor." The plot develops in a world devastated by the terrible Festum, alien creatures that threaten humanity. Central to the story is the isolated Japanese island of Tatsumiyajima, protected by a sophisticated cloaking shield.

For many years, the young people of the island have continued their daily lives unaware of the events that threaten the world. But everything changes when a lone Festum discovers Tatsumiyajima's existence and attacks mercilessly. The adults, aware of the imminent danger, activate the island's defense systems, but their actions prove useless against the fury of the invaders. In a ruthless process of assimilation, many of the adults are killed by the Festums.

In a desperate attempt to repel the attack, a mecha named Fafner Mark Elf is called into action, but its pilot is killed on the way to the hangar. In a moment of extreme necessity, hopes of survival rely on Kazuki Makabe, a brave young man chosen as a replacement pilot, supported by Sōshi Minashiro within the Siegfried System.

Through a combination of courage, skill, and determination, the Festum is ultimately defeated. However, the location of Tatsumiyajima Island is revealed to the outside world, forcing the adults to make a drastic decision: the relocation of the entire island. Production of new Fafner units is accelerated and more and more children are recruited to fight alongside Kazuki.

But the most surprising revelation concerns the concealment of the island. It was not only created to hide the island of Tatsumiyajima from the Festums, but also from the rest of humanity eager to exploit its technology for a war of even greater proportions.

“Dead Aggressor” is an exciting and gripping journey that captures the imagination of viewers. The series highlights the strength of the young protagonists, called to fight to protect their world and the people they care about. With a perfect combination of breathtaking animation, surprising twists and an epic battle between humanity and aliens, “Dead Aggressor” stands out as a must-see for lovers of action and science fiction.

Prepare to immerse yourself in a world of excitement, hope and courage as Kazuki Makabe and his teammates fight for the survival of Tatsumiyajima and all mankind.

Left right / Right of Left (2005)

“Fafner: The Genesis of Heroism – The Secret Adventure of Young Pilots”

A new chapter opens in the world of Fafner, with an exciting prequel that reveals the origins of this epic battle for survival. At the heart of this story are two young protagonists, Yumi Ikoma and Ryou Masaoka, selected for a top secret mission that could change the fate of humanity.

The enemy forces are ruthless, cruel and, what is even more disturbing, able to read human minds. This fact puts the entire human race in great danger, which is on the verge of extinction. The only hope for survival lies in the new Fafner combat units, and Yumi and Ryou are called upon to become their pilots.

The importance of the mission is such that the details are kept secret even from the personnel involved. The veil of mystery envelops the entire operation, increasing the tension and adrenaline of this epic adventure. As the young pilots prepare for their test by fire, they must face not only the ruthless enemy but also their deepest fears and uncertainties.

The story of “Fafner: The Genesis of Heroism” is an ode to the heroism and inner strength of youth. These pilots take on a challenge that far exceeds their physical abilities: they must use courage, faith and determination to survive and accomplish their vital mission. The fate of all humanity hangs on the outcome of this impending battle.

Through a combination of stunning animation, intense dialogue, and an immersive soundtrack, “Fafner: Genesis of Heroism” transports viewers into a world of danger, hope, and sacrifice. The young pilots are transformed into improvised heroes, pushed to overcome their limits and to protect what is dearest to them: the future of humanity.

Prepare to be captured by the overwhelming emotions and adventures of Yumi and Ryou as they embark on a journey that will change their lives and the fate of the world forever. "Fafner: The Genesis of Heroism" is a must-have for all fans of action, science fiction and compelling storytelling. Are you ready to join this mission of heroism and hope?

Heaven and Earth / Heaven and Earth (2010)

Fafner: Return of the Hero - An Unexpected Conflict Rekindles the Flames of Battle

The year is 2148 and we are two years after the events of Fafner's original TV series in the Azure. Tatsumiya Island and its inhabitants, despite the scars of the past, have tried to recover and give new hope to their future. However, for our hero Kazuki, the situation has become desperate. After the hard battles with the formidable enemy Festum, Kazuki has almost completely lost his sight and is partially paralyzed. Despite this, he tenaciously clings to the promise made by his fallen friend Sōshi: to return to the island and restore peace.

Kazuki's hopes were rekindled one night when a mysterious unmanned submarine floated into Tatsumiya Bay. Inside it is not Sōshi, but an enigmatic figure named Misao Kurusu. Misao claims he was sent by Sōshi and may not be fully human. This newcomer upsets the precarious balance that had been established on the island and rekindles hostilities between the Human Army and the formidable enemy Festum.

The fate of Tatsumiya and all of humanity hangs once again on a thin thread. Kazuki, despite his compromised physical condition, is determined to uncover the truth behind Misao's arrival and fight to protect what remains of his home and his loved ones. The flames of battle are rekindled, bringing with it new challenges, unexpected alliances, and discoveries that could change everything.

“Fafner: Return of the Hero” is an explosion of action, intrigue and emotion, rooted in the struggle for survival and the search for truth. As Kazuki embarks on a quest to unravel the mysteries surrounding Misao and her connection to Sōshi, he will also face his own inner battle to overcome his physical limitations and find the strength to protect what he loves.

Through a combination of outstanding animation, complex characters and a gripping storyline, “Fafner: Return of the Hero” offers an immersive cinematic experience that will captivate longtime fans and captivate the attention of new viewers. Prepare to be transported to a world where courage and determination collide with the dark forces of adversity, as Kazuki and his companions fight to defend what is sacred to them and to all humanity.

Exodus / Exodus (2015)

Fafner: A New Chapter Opens – The Encounter That Will Change the Destiny of Humanity

We are in 2150 AD and the fight against the fearsome enemy Festum, a silicon-based alien life form that has led to the destruction of much of the world, is entering a new crucial phase. The devastating Operation Azzurra destroyed the Arctic Mir, its impact scattering the weapon's fragments to every corner of the planet. But soon something unexpected happened: those fragments began to move and act of their own will. While most of the Mir joined the war, embracing hatred for humanity, some Festum chose a different path, that of coexistence with humans. This choice caused an internal debate among humans themselves. The idea of harmonious coexistence between man and the Festum called into question the very reason for war, generating even more intense hatred. What was once a simple fight between humans and Festum, morphed into something more complex and intricate.

Under these extraordinary circumstances, Tatsumiya Island withdrew from the front line of the conflict, plunging into a silence full of uncertainties. Through meeting Misao Kurusu two years ago, the island had acquired a means to communicate with the Mir, gaining a unique ability of its kind. The young protagonists of the ALVIS project, trained for battle, were looking for a way to better understand the enemy who was once only an object of hatred and destruction.

Now, a new chapter is about to start on Tatsumiya Island. A girl gifted with the rare gift of understanding the language of the Festums. A girl protected by the Festums themselves. When these two destinies cross, the doors will open to a whole new world, full of unknowns and possibilities.

“Fafner: A New Chapter Opens” carries with it an atmosphere of hope and uncertainty, as the story develops around an encounter that could change the fate of humanity. The power of words, understanding and coexistence stands as the driving force behind this new adventure. As the dynamics between humans and Festum become increasingly complex, the protagonists will be forced to face difficult choices and explore the boundaries of hatred and love, in a journey that will reveal the true nature of the conflict and will open up new possibilities for the future.

Through immersive storytelling, breathtaking graphics and unforgettable characters, "Fafner: A New Chapter Opens" stands as a cinematic work that challenges conventions and prompts viewers to reflect on the complexities of humanity, coexistence and courage in the face the uncertain future. Get ready to immerse yourself in a gripping and profound adventure, in which hope and the will to understand collide with the dark threats that undermine the fate of all humanity.

Fafner in the Azure: Behind the Line

Fafner in the Azure: Behind the Line (蒼穹そうきゅう(のファフナー BEHIND THE LINE, Fafner in the Azure BEHIND THE LINE) is an exciting spin-off that takes place between the events of Soukyuu no Fafner: Heaven and Earth e Soukyuu no Fafner: Exodus. This new chapter in the Fafner saga has been awaited by fans with great anticipation, and during the Soushi Birthday Festival 2021, it was announced that the project would be done with more details revealed later.

On September 23, 2022, the first trailer of Fafner in the Azure: Behind the Line has made its appearance, revealing the release date of the first. During the Soushi Birthday Festival 2022, a second trailer was released which amplified the excitement of the fans. As with the previous installment, the film premiered in cinemas on January 20, 2023, giving fans the opportunity to immediately immerse themselves in this new adventure.

The title "Fafner in the Azure: Behind the Linereferences the context in which the spin-off takes place. While Soukyuu no Fafner: Heaven and Earth and Soukyuu no Fafner: Exodus focus on humanity's desperate struggle against the mysterious adversaries known as Festum, Soukyuu no Fafner: Behind the Line focuses on pivotal events and backstories that unfold in the middle of this battle.

The plot of the film promises to further delve into the mythology and history of Fafner, offering new perspectives and nuances to the narrative. Fan-favorite characters will return to take on even more complex challenges and test their skills and mettle. With the announcement of the project, fans have been excited to find out how the storyline will intertwine with the already known events of the main series and what new surprises it will hold.

While specific plot details for Soukyuu no Fafner: Behind the Line remained under wraps until its release, the first trailer hinted at a greater intensity and even deeper immersion than previous adventures. Fans can look forward to thrilling mecha combat, gripping intrigue, and significant expansion of Fafner's narrative universe.

In conclusion, Fafner in the Azure: Behind the Line is a long-awaited spin-off that continues the Fafner saga and offers fans a new perspective on the world in which the epic battles against the Festums take place.

Technical data

Anime TV series

Sōkyū no Fafner 蒼穹のファフナー (Sōkyū no Fafunā)

Regia Nobuyoshi habara
character design Hisashi Hirai
Mechanical design Naohiro Washio
Artistic direction Toshihisa Koyama
Music Tsuneyoshi Saito
Studio Xebec
Network TV Tokyo
Date 1st TV July 4 - December 26, 2004
Episodes 26 (complete)
Duration 24 min

Sōkyū no Fafner: Exodus

Regia Nobuyoshi habara
Producer Go Nakanishi
Subject Tō Ubukata
Music Tsuneyoshi Saito
Studio Xebec zwei
Network MBS, TBS, CBC, BS-TBS
Date 1st TV January 8 - December 26, 2015
Episodes 26 (complete)
Episode duration 24 min