Episode one reviewed by Dave 'Banzai' Kirwin
This first episode introduces us, the viewer, to six of the main characters. They are Nadia - A girl working at a local circus and unsure of her parents and origins; secondly her pet lion called King, who expresses himself by growling - usually in the presence of threatening undesirables (i.e. bad guys!); next is Jean, a lad who starts off the whole series by arriving in Paris. An orphan like Nadia, he is fascinated by anything mechanical, and Nadia, in that order! The other three are a strange menage a trois consisting of two men - Hanson and Sanson, white suited dudes under the 'command' of Grandis, a lady who's temper matches her red hair! Grandis is after the 'Blue Water', Hanson and Sanson are her side kicks in this venture, using a multi-transforming vehicle called 'Gratan'. The 'Blue Water' is at the centre of the whole series and is a diamond shaped crystal which Nadia wears around her neck.
Paris. 1889. The first episode shows how Jean and Nadia meet and how the Grandis trio attempt to obtain the 'Blue Water' for the first time. This takes place at the top of the Eiffel Tower; the weapons displayed by Hanson and Sanson in a quick show of strength (for persuasion purposes) are comically out of balance i.e. Hanson has a bazooka! Other amusing moments in this scene are as when Nadia somersaults over the trio and lands with her hat landing perfectly in position on her head! After another evasive jump she and King land in the faces of Hanson and Sanson leaving foot/paw marks!
The characters all bring their own identities together to deliver a charming blend of humour which continues throughout the series. Gags are mainly visual, even slapstick, but not in a context that would detract from the main plot. The title music is catchy and is accompanied by scenes from the first few episodes. As with all animation, music is important and music to set the mood is used regularly, in particular for the Grandis trio. Jean and Nadia do not have their 'own' music but fit nicely with the atmospheric sounds and music that are used. Sound effects are used well and are amusing to those with that type of humour!
Eventually Grandis does manage to get Nadia and the 'Blue Water', but Jean puts into operation a rescue plan, by using his uncles' plane he sets off down the sloping runway built for the International Flight Competition (which Jean had sailed to Paris to see) and in his hurry flattens the Japanese entrant to the contest! Jean, after take off manages to rescue Nadia by inadvertently nose diving on to the Gratan, now in balloon mode, splitting the canvas. After cutting Nadia free, Nadia then saves Jean by grabbing him and jumping into the river Seine below to avoid Hanson's bullets. All not before King has created havoc by running round the inside of the Gratan, turning the trio in a frenzy as they try to catch him!
After boarding Jeans boat they both sail off into the sunset and into further adventures! The first episode sets the pace and plots for the series to come - Grandis' continuing attempts to obtain the 'Blue Water' and also Jean and Nadia's friendship. This friendship constantly seems threatened by Jeans inability to say or do anything right at the right time, added to this Nadia's occasional outbursts and arguments with Jean. This 'opposites attract' type balance continues through the series, giving it a 'will they/won't they' edge juxtaposed to the main story.
Characters are refreshingly individual and are consistent in views and actions. Machinery is pleasing to the eye and looks practical if not great providers of amusement.