Lost Universe - It's His Duty to Kick Some Booty (Vol 6)
The confrontations and revelations pile up asLost Universereaches its finale. Several of the last episodes feel padded, as Kain Blueriver and his Lost Ship theSwordbreakerbattle Kali and other secondary villains. Despite a plethora of computer effects, there's little suspense in these fights, because it's clear that Kain and theSwordbreakerhave to survive to take on the icily murderous "Yami o Makumono" ("Spreader of Darkness") and his space fortress, the Dark Star. Kali blowing up the planet Carmel is copied a little too closely from Darth Vader destroying Alderan inStar Warsto play effectively. Not surprisingly, the final battle requires Kain, Millie, Canal, and Rail to work together to defeat the Spreader of Darkness and Nightmare's vast machinery. Kain somehow finds the courage to face his adversary, declaring that he fights not out of hatred or anger, but to defend the people he loves. Even as he battles the foe who caused his grandmother's death, Kain remains a mystery. Why he's the Luke Skywalker of this universe is never explained, but he's more entertaining in the early episodes as a somewhat goofy Trouble Contractor than as a Mark Hamill substitute. Contains these episodes: 22. "Destiny Spins," 23. "Ashura Comes," 24. "The Maiden Returns," 25. "Angelic Demon Strikes," 26. "And Then a Blade of Light Shines." Unrated; suitable for ages 10 and up; grotesque imagery and violence.--Charles Solomon