However, it becomes clear; even from the first episode that all the ideas and concepts Mamoru Oshii had for Dallos was more fit for a 25 episode Tv series rather than a 4 episode ova. While the story is nicely interwoven with several subplots, half of them, including the many too-spontaneous acts of rebellion the the failure to explain the titular Dallo's true purpose are awkwardly explored and then disposed of altogether.
The only good thing I can give Dallo's story is its sense of scale. While the political situation is hardly well fleshed out, it is still enough to give the already epic combat scenes more punch. The action in most anime is usually more battle than total warfare; Dallos achieves the latter.
In such an overambitious plot, one thing is inevitable. In typical Oshii style, the characters end up slaves to the plot and central themes of the anime, having basic personalities and only reacting to the demands of the story. However, the character animation is absolutely superb and would tell you otherwise! Quite a shame.
It is quite clear now that this is a very flawed Ova and a underwhelming effort by Oshii; so why my high rating of 9/10?
Its the music and the art. The art isn't the greatest, though I am quite certain it was the pinnacle of art and animation for its time. The art designs are very above average but hardly jaw dropping.
The music on the other hand is absolutely perfect, to my tastes at least. Solidifying my opinion that early 80s/late 70s had the best music of any period of anime due to the residual influence of 70s pop music (which also happens to be the best decade of music). The Ost covers sweeping orchestra's mixed with memorable jazz funk fusion tracks. One of the best anime Osts I have ever heard.
In the end, Oshii's perchant for creating engaging military anime, the similarly militant/ space opera aesthetic of the art and especially the great music has a sum greater than its parts. Memorable scenes are created such as the cyborg dog attacks, armoured paratroopers, the raining of bullet casings, the light shows put on by Dallos and the moon graveyard (from the box art) to name a few. While many other animes are objectively superior, Dallos' memorable moments have an emotional impact that far surpasses them.
This ova may be interesting for anime history buffs who want to see the first ova made but it is a must watch for fans of military focused, sci-fi retro anime!
