Fooly Cooly is the story of Naota, a cynical 6th grader, and his brother's exgirlfriend, Mamimi, as they meet with Haruko; a (childish) space police officer tasked with stopping Medical Mechanica. She soon begins to cause trouble for Naota and his family as she drags them into absurd situations were they will need to fend off against evil corporations, secret societies, and giant robots.
It is an understatement to say that FLCL is just a fun show. It is much more than that. It delves into topics of puberty and maturity. How do we manage our relationships with others and what those relationships mean to us? What does it means to be a kid? What does it mean to be an adult? These are all concepts constantly explored throughout the series with the utilization of its diverse cast of characters and over the top animation.
In essence, this is a show about growing up. The coming of age is nothing new, but the ability to tell a compelling message about becoming an adult through dick jokes and space travelling pirates is something spectacular. But it can a lot more than just that. Even if you do not connect with Naota's journey of growing up, this show can express so many emotions you will surely find something to relate to. You could describe it as a mirror, the viewer finds his own meaning in the show. The surrealism and abstract nature of FLCL lets any type of viewer appreciate it. Because there is meaning to be find behind all of its absurdity; even if it only seems like a dumb show about aliens and robots.
FLCL is about a lot of things. In 6 episodes the viewer is bombarded with information due to the fast paced style of the show. Action and dialogue fly past the viewers head at a thousand miles per hour. If it isn't exploring the themes of sex, violence, and puberty the show is having wild gunfights or intense robot battles or skits utilizing new forms of animation (the manga scenes were the best). The show never stops moving forward, and it can be a little disorienting at times. But do not let that intimidate you, even if you do not catch everything the show launches at you the first time, there is much to be appreciated here. It is still, just an anime, just another television show to be watched and let the viewer have fun. I guarantee it will not disappoint you.
The incredible soundtrack by The Pillows and experimental animation by GAINAX make FLCL an unique experience. This incredible presentation combined with an exciting story and interesting characters makes this show like no other.
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