Irresponsible Captain Tylor - Collection 1
Justy Ueki Tylor is an outstanding example of an odd anime type--the endearing dolt. Just as war is erupting between Earth and the Raalgon Empire, Tyler enlists in the United Planets Space Force because he wants "an easy life." Through plain dumb luck, he ends up in the wrong place at the right time and wins a promotion to captain of theSoyokaze("The Gentle Breeze"), a broken-down battle cruiser manned by a crew of losers and misfits. Tylor's lack of interest in the crises at hand astounds and appalls his more serious subordinates, especially Lieutenant Makoto Yamamoto, a caricature of a dedicated anime hero, and the impatient Lieutenant Commander Yuriko Star. Tylor's fumbling success brings him to the attention of the 16-year-old Raalgon empress, who orders Captain Ru Baruba Dom to observe, then capture this puzzling enemy. The resulting misadventures are very silly and often funny, especially when they play as satires of the military mindset.Captain Tylorfalters when the title character appears less irresponsible than stupid. Akito inMartian Successor Nadesicoand Gawl inGenerator Gawlare all improbable, comic heroes, but they command real abilities and share a dedication to their duties. Tylor's blithe disinterest in anything but "an easy life" (and the occasional pretty girl) veers between hilarious and irritating, which explains the divided opinions this series generates among fans. Unrated; suitable for ages 12 and up: sexual humor, minor nudity, violence, alcohol and tobacco use.--Charles Solomon