Patlabor: The New Files

This is the follow-on 16 episode OVA to the original 47 episode TV series & is directed by Mamoru Oshii who then made Patlabor II (movie) & Ghost in The Shell (movie). No better pedigree.

A mixture of action, comedy & finely drawn personalities - Patlabor is one of my most favourite anime series bar none.

This is an excellent continuation of the original 47 episode TV series & I would recommend it to anyone, but try to watch the original TV series first.

Cute & sassy Nao-chan pilots her Patlabor 'Alphonse' to ultimate victory while worrying that he'll get scratched more than that she's facing death or disfigurement on every mission - you'll love her! Patlabor = Patrol 'Labor' (a Police 'Labor'), a huge powered armoured fighting exoskeleton with the pilot inside. Used to combat 'Labor' crime, as 'Labors' are employed extensively in construction & many other industries. Set in the near future in Japan.

I gave this 9 because I never give 10 except to masterpieces. But this is masterly enough & appeals to all ages, family friendly but with real depth under the zany action & comedy!