Reviews (13)

Oh, at last!
It was a sheer delight to see Battle of the Planets again, twenty years since it was last aired on television. This box set takes up where the individual releases leave off (volumes 1 through 6 of the single DVD releases) and so starts at episode 13, about where the artwork and the characterization really begins to fall into shape. Since the episodes weren't intended to air in order, the viewer doesn't miss out on any continuity, but by starting in the middle you really benefit from voice actors who have a handle on their characters and stories worth watching.

The bonus features were a pleasure: subtitled episodes of Gatchaman, the anime from which Battle of the Planets was created, and also interviews with the original cast members. I LOVE Ronnie Schell! He made Jason come alive for me and I never forgot his voice, even after all this time. It was a thrill to hear their recollections of creating the series. It sounded as if they were really enjoying themselves, and that must have contributed to why this show has such longevity.

The original show itself has some problems--notably the robot narrator and the sanitized violence--which are more glaring to an adult than they were to us in our childhood. I think that by watching both versions, we get the full experience: we remember why we loved the show, and we see what it truly was. I highly recommend this box set. I especially recommend the limited edition Jason action figure with his civilian car. I've already had to convince my daughter it's Mommy's toy and not hers! I would definitely buy this all over again if I had to, and it's terrific to see this show once more.

Great Anime - Episodes 14-27 (no 19 or 20) - Good Stuff !!!
.

First of all, Battle of the Planets is great Anime. Its wonderfully drawn and the stories are well told.

If you're looking at this specific set as an introduction - I would however, suggest you begin with BOTP (Battle Of The Planets) Vol.1 as this DVD boxed set starts at a point further into the Gatchaman storyline.

I honestly feel a little clarification is needed here with regards to this DVD set.

The set contains 4 discs. Episodes 14 through 27 are featured but episodes 19 and 20 are not included. I'm not sure why (perhpas there's a BOTP fan who can explain) but its worth mentioning.

In order to get a COMPLETE set (note the title of this boxed set is "ultimate" not "complete"), you have to purchase the previously released VOLUMES (Volumes 1 through 6). This DVD set starts off with the storyline started in those volumes.

Is it a good set - Oh yea! Its very cool and very watchable, just know what you're getting.

I would suggest - start with the individual volumes and then puchase this DVD set to continue your collection.

Happy viewing.
Best Regards,
turtlex

Misleading title: you get 12 thru 20 of 85 episodes.
Only read this if you want to know the truth about the release of these BOTP. After researching for weeks, I have learned that BOTP eps 1-12 are contained (2 apiece) on DVD's volumes 1 through 6 (plus you get the Gatchaman counterparts and a bonus G-Force). You do not get eps 1-12 (or maybe I am mistaken and it's 1-10) on this Ultimate Set.

This Ultimate Set as I am imformed, contains ONLY eps 13 through 20 OUT OF A TOTAL OF 85! That means that there are about 75 to 77 episodes you DO NOT get.

I feel that the BOTP series is great, and I like Gatchaman too... but these people are trying to turn a dime by selling crap without telling you what episodes it contains. THEY NEED TO SAY that it only contains about eight to ten of a TOTAL of 85 epidodes. Therefore, Ultimate collection, my you-know-what.

There is a serious demand for BOTP media out there, we have the money, and we will wait to buy all 85 DVD's. RESIST THE TEMPTATION to market crap to us or there will be backlash. Although the quality is the same on these as the others, we want the episodes 21 through 85 also, and it is available on ebay in the UK, so everyone buy your international DVD players now at your favorite stores and skip this marketing crud.

Each Episode Included Needs A Title For This Boxed Set
The ultimate box set does not inform us of the episodes included. I am trying to find the episode where Jason, "Stoneface", is the main focus of the story and is involved in a race. We definitely go deeper into his character. In the end, he finds a secret about his riding partner involved in the race. I would enjoy getting this one episode on DVD. If this episode is indeed in this boxed set, then this set is definitely worth getting! I would appeciate it if anybody can inform me if this episode is included in the boxed set. Thanx : )

Beautiful animation...excellent voiceovers!
That this DVD set would be vilified at all is an insult to those who had a hand in it's production.

As a kid (all of 10 during it's production) I seem to recall exclaiming how beautiful a cartoon it was not knowing at the time what made it so extraordinary. The use of the multi-plane camera and what we now call japanimation was, at the time, unique in a North American-distributed show aimed at kids.

Today there is a more ready acceptance of the genre, as exemplified by releases as 'Sprited Away' and 'Princess Mononoke" but in 1978 no one had seen it's like before.

The voiceover work demonstrated in this DVD set is an acid test for the quality that CAN be produced out of Hollywood but so frequently falls short. These characterisations were created in Valentine Studios, as far from glamorous as one can get in terms of Hollywood product. No exclusive First Class trailers here, only a dingy, stale cigarette infused room with microphones, acoustic dampening and a great deal of talent!!

Who would dare be so audacious to critique the performances of Waldo, Kasem, Schell, et. al.?! Step forward now and receive comeuppance for your insolence! Truly, these voice actors set the bar for their work. Given especially that their job was not characterization as we know it today but rather, ADR (looping). Their voices were recorded AFTER the film was already in the can. This is typical of Anime but unheard of in American animation where the voices are recorded before the animation. The advantage of the latter is voice actors have the blessing of interpreting the script as they and the director see fit and the animator produces drawing inspired by the performance. With anime, actors are required to sync their performance to the timing dictated by the animation. No small task, and one need only note the U.S. release of Sprited Away for a very stark example of the technique.

The DVD set itself sets no benchmarks in terms of features, but does contain teriffic interviews with the voice actors and does illicit the feeling of nostalgia for which it was intended (if such a thing is possible for a 'space cartoon').

I rate this box set as not to be missed! ... Read more

Description

Planet Spectra's evil leaders have targeted Earth along with all of the members of the Federation of Peaceful Planets! Their goal? Nothing short of enslaving these planets' and capturing all of their natural resources for their own dying world! The Luminous One and Zoltar will stop at nothing to cause as much fear and destruction as possible. Fortunately for the galaxy, G-Force is ready for them! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Gatchaman Rules!!
Gatchaman is my all time favorite anime series and I am thrilled that now I can own each and every episode on dvd! Having the original Japanese subtitled and uncut Gatchaman episodes is wonderful! Thanks Rhino, please keep up the good work in releasing this anime classic gem. I plan to own all 105 episodes!!

Battle of the Planets on DVD! Transmute! Thank you Rhino!
I must say that I never thought that we would never see this wonderful show on video, much less on DVD!
I remember watching this amazing show when it premeired on my local TV station back in 1978 and loving it! It's one of my all time favorite shows back when we had actual cartoons on TV, not like now.
Rhino deserves applause for bringing Sandy Frank's Battle of the Planets to video. I love this series of DVD's! The video transfers and sound are great! I wish they would have included three more Sandy Frank episodes instead of the original subtitled Japanese Gatchman, I am not a die hard anime fan. And then there are the bloody awful Turner TBS/TNT Networks edited G-Force episodes.
But I'm not complaining. Thank you Rhino! Keep them coming! ... Read more

Amazon.com

The early anime series that began in Japan as Science Ninja Team Gatchaman (1972-74) aired in the U.S. in two very different versions. For Battle of the Planets (syndication, 1978), much of the violence was excised and the R2-D2-esque robot 7-Zark-7 was added; G-Force (Turner Broadcasting, 1986) was darker in tone and closer to the original Gatchaman. All three series focus on the adventures of five teenagers in bird suits. In Battle they tackle the evil Spectra in "outer space," although the backgrounds are clearly Earth, where G-Force and Gatchaman are set. Episode 3 illustrates the difference between the series: In Battle, when a whiny little boy gets in the way of a giant mummy attacking an airport, the evil Zoltar warns him away; in Gatchaman, villainous Berg Katse tells the mummy to step on the child. Unrated; suitable for ages 10 up. --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (10)

About Bloody Time!!
It has been about 20 years since I ran around with a Yo-Yo, pretending I was Princess. And I have seen many different Anime since then, and I'd say my tastes have matured. Expecting the worst, I watched this DVD, and I tell you, it is amazing what I had forgotten. 7-Zark-7 was from a different anime, Casey Kasem was the voice of Mark, the hero. Some of the characters were annoying, but it was great!! Death, smoking, violence, all that are missing from today's children's entertainment, since were worried about scarring them. I loved every minute of it, and felt some of the old thrill I had when I was a child. And to top it off, the DVD had the original Ninja Science Team, Gatchaman episodes. And another Gatchaman Series, I hadn't known about.
The only thing I didn't like, was these episodes focused too much on Mark, and that Volume 2 was released before volume 1. But, other than that, it is a great buy.

A must for all anime fans
This DVD contains two original broadcasted episodes of Battle of the Planets, the original Japanese version of two episodes as Science Ninja Team Gatchaman and one episode of G-Force in three languages. My review will go threw each feature.

Battle of the Planets: Episode 3
Content: B+
Animation: B
Music: B
English Script: B
Action Scenes: B+

When 7-Zark-7 discovers a new planet, he discovers a numerous amount of plane crashes on his new planet, Zarcadia. He sends out G-Force to find out the problem. After Mark meets up with Dr. Sweet and his nephew Buddy, Mark discovers a giant mummy is causing all the plane crashes. Later, Dr. Sweet's brother returns disguised as Zoltar, head of Spectra. Zoltar wants Dr. Sweets anti-pluton, but Mark wont let him have it. And the mummy attacking the plane station is a perfect chance to try out the anti-pluton.
Edits: Sweet's brother's plane crash scene, gun pointed at Buddy's head, scenes of mummy crushes planes edited down.

Battle of the Planets: Episode 4
Content: A-
Animation: B+
Music: B
English Script: C+
Action Sequences: B+

When Dr. Harlem is killed by a giant centipede made by Zoltar, his daughter, Debbie, wants to seek revenge. So Mark brings Debbie along on the mission to destroy the centipede.
Edits: Debbie put in bed scene edited out, Debbie does NOT press the button in the end.

Gatchaman: Episode 3
Content: A-
Music: B
Japanese Script: B+
Action Sequences: B+

Same plot as episode three with a few name changes. The Japanese version has more zing to it and the screaming from all the people at the airport when the mummy attacks is almost dead on.

Gatchaman: Episode 4
Content: A-
Music: B
Japanese Script: A-
Action Sequences: B+

The voices really sound great in this episode. And give a few hints that Ken might have a girlfriend.

G-Force: Episode 102
Content: A-
Animation: A-
Music: B+
English Script: B+
Spanish Script: B
Portugese Script: B+
Action Sequences: A-

After the G-Force gets out of another daring escape, they come head to head with one of Galactor's henchmen. And uncover a secret at the bottom of the ocean.

Overall, a good disc that is just as great as the last. Highly recommended.

Slight technical difficulty
Lots of other reviews here do an excellent job covering the content of this DVD. I just wanted to mention that there is a slight technical problem with this DVD (and the rest of vols. 1-4). The English language track on the G-Force episode is virtually inaudible, which is a real disappointment and knocked the DVD down a star. I tried on two different players (Pioneer DV-626D and Playstation 2), and they both have the same trouble. I even wrote in to Rhino's technical support and they kindly exchanged the discs for me, but sadly, the replacement discs are the same way. I just wanted to put out the warning here. The rest of the disc is fine and has great content - it's just that one problematic audio track.

Good Show, Bad Layout
"Kaguta Ninja Tai Gatchaman" ("Science Ninja Team Gatchaman") is an anime series that debuted in Japan in 1972. It was about a team of 5 kids (4 teenagers and a preteen) that fought the evil Galactor organization, which was bent on world conquest. Sandy Frank brought the series over to the U.S. in 1978. Due to Standards and Practices restrictions at the time, a lot of violence had to be cut before the series could be dubbed into English. To fill in the time and gaps left in the story, new footage was animated of an American-made character, 7-Zark-7, a robot (which looked a lot like R2D2 to capitalize on the "Star Wars" craze at the time) that watched over the team from Center Neptune (an underwater base; don't ask), and his robotic canine companion, 1-Rover-1. Zark's job was, through voice-overs, to assure the audience that nobody died, or, if a plane got blown up, a robot was at the controls. Oddly, for a character that was created to censor things, Zark had a lot of sezual conversations with Susan, his robotic love interest on Pluto, over space radio. The fact that Susan sounds like a phone sex operator, and that Zark's antennae spring to full erection when she talks to him, makes this even more hilarious. Whereas Gatchaman was entirely Earth-based, BotP often had the kids going to another planet that looked exactly like Earth. I think you can see where this is going. In addition, the kids got name changes - even those that already had English names! Ken, Joe, Jun, Jimpei, and Ryu became Mark (as in Hammill), Jason, Princess (as in Leia), Keyop (WTF?), and Tiny Harper. The voice casting wasn't that great. Casey Kasem (Mark) sounded nothing like a teenager. In total, 85 of the 105 episodes got "the BotP treatment" (though not exactly the first 85 episodes). Personally, I think that this dub is so bad, it's unintentionally funny. Later, Turner did their own dub of Gatchaman, called "G-Force". The voices were better, more violence was retained, and there was no Zark. However, the characters were renamed again. This time, the names were extremely stupid: Ace Goodheart, Dirk Daring, Agatha Jun (Aggie to her friends; the only sensible name), PeeWee, and Hoot Owl (Hootie). Again, 85 of the 105 episodes were dubbed, but they weren't exactly the same 85 episodes that made it into BotP. One annoying (or hilarious, depending on the person) thing about "G-Force" is that they often added a repetitive, pulsing techno beat in the background. I crack up whenever it comes on, and it comes on multiple times per episode. It's so totally out of place, yet I enjoy it. Anyway, this DVD contains 2 episodes of "Battle of the Planets" as the main feature and the 2 corresponding episodes of "Kaguta Ninja Tai Gatchaman" and 1 episode of "G-Force" as special features. The BotP episodes have the original 2.0 mono track and a 5.1 remixed track. The Gatchaman episodes have the 2.0 mono track only and the option of English subtitles. The "G-Force" episode has the original English track as well as Spanish and Brazilian dialect Portuguese tracks. I think that Rhino was trying to offer a way for us to view all 3 versions of the show, but, by including only 1 episode of "G-Force", they totally messed it up. The format is 2, 2, and 1. So, Volume 1 contains Gatchaman and BotP episodes 1 & 2 and "G-Force" episode 1, Volume 2 contains Gatchaman and BotP episodes 3 & 4 and "G-Force" episode 2, etc. It makes no sense. We didn't need the Spanish and Portuguese tracks. This is America! They should have put those tracks on the foreign DVD releases. Without those extra tracks, there would be enough room for a second "G-Force" episode, and that would keep the right episodes paired together. Overall, I recommend this disc and the others in the series. For those of you that have never seen "Battle of the Planets", this will give you an idea of the censorship on American television in the late 1970s. For those of you that are buying this to relive your childhood, be warned: your love of "Battle of the Planets" is probably based on nostalgia only; you might find the series to be completely retarded now.

what can I say
This is one of my favorite tv series from the 70's and 80's. I was so happy to hear this was finally coming out. The only thing i was disappointed with was there's only six of these and there's not my on the way of dvd features. But the eposodes themselves make up for the lack of extras. give it a look. ... Read more

Amazon.com

One of the early shows that helped to build an audience for anime in America, Battle of the Planets began in Japan as Science Ninja Team Gatchaman in 1972-74. For its 1978 U.S. release, the 105 episodes were cut to 85. Much of the violence was excised and new animation, featuring the R2-D2-esque robot 7-Zark-7 and his robo-pooch 1-Rover-1, was created to bridge the gaps. Turner Broadcasting acquired the property in 1986 and recut it into 85 different episodes. The resulting G-Force included more violence, yet it wasn't shown in its entirety in the U.S. until it aired on the Cartoon Network in 1995. This release includes all three versions, enabling viewers to compare and contrast.

In episode 1, five highly trained teenagers--incongruously clad in bird suits--tackle a giant biomorphic enemy vessel. The group executes the commands of their brilliant scientist-leader in the virtually identical Gatchaman and G-Force. When they take on the bad guys, the punches, kicks, and yo-yo weapons connect forcefully; to escape, they convert their ship, the God-Phoenix, to "Firebird Mode," an avian cloud of glowing plasma. In Battle, the quintet takes orders from the dithering, Hanna-Barbera-style Zark. The hand-to-hand combat is heavily censored and the heroes somehow turn themselves into a "Fiery Phoenix." It's campy and silly, rather than exciting. Unrated; suitable for ages 10 up. --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Forget Sandy Franks BOTP, check out Gatchaman!
Personally, if you're really interested in BOTP, then check out the BOTP episodes, but don't do yourself a disservice and skip watching the original, UNCUT, Gatchaman episodes. Don't expect to find any trace of the abominable 7-Zark-7 or his robot dog. And sorry, no Casy Casem either. Just pure Gatchaman in it's unbutchered form. This disc is a great example of what American companies will do to "mainstream" a foreign show for broadcast in the states. Check it out, these are a must have! Lets hope Rhino keeps up the great work.

A big surprise
I ordered Vol. 1 of the "Battle of the Planets" DVD wanting to re-live some childhood memories of watching this show after school. It was nice to see the "G-Force" team in action after some 20 years. The episodes are great, that is until you watch the original "Gatchaman" episodes on which they were based. Then you realize just how much your childhood viewing experience was shortchanged.
Put simply, the American version pales in comparison. As a viewer you will get to see just how how much drama, action and pathos were excised from these cartoons because of violence concerns by U.S. broadcasters. Many of those edited scenes were replaced with narration by "7-Zark-7", an "R2D2" rip-off created no doubt to capitalize on "Star Wars" which had been released a year or so earlier. Watching some two decades later, you realize just how jarring this proved to the show's pacing. "Gatchman," however, moves at a more rapid clip.
I almost forgot to mention, that "Gatchaman" was set on Earth and there were no 'battles' with other planets. That said, you also realize just how awkward the premise of "Battle of the Planets," was. I gave the DVD 5 stars, but only for the "Gatchman" episodes.

Excellent!
Having fond childhood memories of "Battle of the Planets", I eagerly purchased the DVD. I never had a problem with 7-Zark-7 when I was a kid, but now he makes me cringe. However, I still prefer "BOTP" over the "Gatchaman" episodes that are also on the DVD. I found the "Gatachman" characters extremely unlikable, especially "Ken" (Mark on "BOTP") who was particularly abrasive. My dream version of "Gatchman"/"BOTP" would be if Sandy Frank productions reassembled the original "BOTP" voice cast and dubbed the "Gatachman" series into English WITHOUT changing the plot or adding an innane robot to annoy us. As far as the "G-Force" episode included goes, well... the voice talent had none, the character names were [bad], and the music sounded like it had been dubbed from a bad porno. You may be wondering why I gave this DVD five stars and an "Excellent!" title - well, "BOTP" made me feel nostalgic and it's really nice to see what Sandy Frank cut out ("Gatchman"). Now if only they'd make my "dream version"...

Slight technical difficulty
Lots of other reviews here do an excellent job covering the content of this DVD. I just wanted to mention that there is a slight technical problem with this DVD (and the rest of vols. 1-4). The English language track on the G-Force episode is virtually inaudible, which is a real disappointment and knocked the DVD down a star. I tried on two different players (Pioneer DV-626D and Playstation 2), and they both have the same trouble. I even wrote in to Rhino's technical support and they kindly exchanged the discs for me, but sadly, the replacement discs are the same way. I just wanted to put out the warning here. The rest of the disc is fine and has great content - it's just that one problematic audio track.

Good Show, Bad Layout
"Kaguta Ninja Tai Gatchaman" ("Science Ninja Team Gatchaman") is an anime series that debuted in Japan in 1972. It was about a team of 5 kids (4 teenagers and a preteen) that fought the evil Galactor organization, which was bent on world conquest. Sandy Frank brought the series over to the U.S. in 1978. Due to Standards and Practices restrictions at the time, a lot of violence had to be cut before the series could be dubbed into English. To fill in the time and gaps left in the story, new footage was animated of an American-made character, 7-Zark-7, a robot (which looked a lot like R2D2 to capitalize on the "Star Wars" craze at the time) that watched over the team from Center Neptune (an underwater base; don't ask), and his robotic canine companion, 1-Rover-1. Zark's job was, through voice-overs, to assure the audience that nobody died, or, if a plane got blown up, a robot was at the controls. Oddly, for a character that was created to censor things, Zark had a lot of sezual conversations with Susan, his robotic love interest on Pluto, over space radio. The fact that Susan sounds like a phone sex operator, and that Zark's antennae spring to full erection when she talks to him, makes this even more hilarious. Whereas Gatchaman was entirely Earth-based, BotP often had the kids going to another planet that looked exactly like Earth. I think you can see where this is going. In addition, the kids got name changes - even those that already had English names! Ken, Joe, Jun, Jimpei, and Ryu became Mark (as in Hammill), Jason, Princess (as in Leia), Keyop (WTF?), and Tiny Harper. The voice casting wasn't that great. Casey Kasem (Mark) sounded nothing like a teenager. In total, 85 of the 105 episodes got "the BotP treatment" (though not exactly the first 85 episodes). Personally, I think that this dub is so bad, it's unintentionally funny. Later, Turner did their own dub of Gatchaman, called "G-Force". The voices were better, more violence was retained, and there was no Zark. However, the characters were renamed again. This time, the names were extremely stupid: Ace Goodheart, Dirk Daring, Agatha Jun (Aggie to her friends; the only sensible name), PeeWee, and Hoot Owl (Hootie). Again, 85 of the 105 episodes were dubbed, but they weren't exactly the same 85 episodes that made it into BotP. One annoying (or hilarious, depending on the person) thing about "G-Force" is that they often added a repetitive, pulsing techno beat in the background. I crack up whenever it comes on, and it comes on multiple times per episode. It's so totally out of place, yet I enjoy it. Anyway, this DVD contains 2 episodes of "Battle of the Planets" as the main feature and the 2 corresponding episodes of "Kaguta Ninja Tai Gatchaman" and 1 episode of "G-Force" as special features. The BotP episodes have the original 2.0 mono track and a 5.1 remixed track. The Gatchaman episodes have the 2.0 mono track only and the option of English subtitles. The "G-Force" episode has the original English track as well as Spanish and Brazilian dialect Portuguese tracks. I think that Rhino was trying to offer a way for us to view all 3 versions of the show, but, by including only 1 episode of "G-Force", they totally messed it up. The format is 2, 2, and 1. So, Volume 1 contains Gatchaman and BotP episodes 1 & 2 and "G-Force" episode 1, Volume 2 contains Gatchaman and BotP episodes 3 & 4 and "G-Force" episode 2, etc. It makes no sense. We didn't need the Spanish and Portuguese tracks. This is America! They should have put those tracks on the foreign DVD releases. Without those extra tracks, there would be enough room for a second "G-Force" episode, and that would keep the right episodes paired together. Overall, I recommend this disc and the others in the series. For those of you that have never seen "Battle of the Planets", this will give you an idea of the censorship on American television in the late 1970s. For those of you that are buying this to relive your childhood, be warned: your love of "Battle of the Planets" is probably based on nostalgia only; you might find the series to be completely retarded now. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Good Show, Bad Layout
"Kaguta Ninja Tai Gatchaman" ("Science Ninja Team Gatchaman") is an anime series that debuted in Japan in 1972. It was about a team of 5 kids (4 teenagers and a preteen) that fought the evil Galactor organization, which was bent on world conquest. Sandy Frank brought the series over to the U.S. in 1978. Due to Standards and Practices restrictions at the time, a lot of violence had to be cut before the series could be dubbed into English. To fill in the time and gaps left in the story, new footage was animated of an American-made character, 7-Zark-7, a robot (which looked a lot like R2D2 to capitalize on the "Star Wars" craze at the time) that watched over the team from Center Neptune (an underwater base; don't ask), and his robotic canine companion, 1-Rover-1. Zark's job was, through voice-overs, to assure the audience that nobody died, or, if a plane got blown up, a robot was at the controls. Oddly, for a character that was created to censor things, Zark had a lot of sezual conversations with Susan, his robotic love interest on Pluto, over space radio. (...). Whereas Gatchaman was entirely Earth-based, BotP often had the kids going to another planet that looked exactly like Earth. I think you can see where this is going. In addition, the kids got name changes - even those that already had English names! Ken, Joe, Jun, Jimpei, and Ryu became Mark (as in Hammill), Jason, Princess (as in Leia), Keyop (WTF?), and Tiny Harper. The voice casting wasn't that great. Casey Kasem (Mark) sounded nothing like a teenager. In total, 85 of the 105 episodes got "the BotP treatment" (though not exactly the first 85 episodes). Personally, I think that this dub is so bad, it's unintentionally funny. Later, Turner did their own dub of Gatchaman, called "G-Force". The voices were better, more violence was retained, and there was no Zark. However, the characters were renamed again. This time, the names were extremely stupid: Ace Goodheart, Dirk Daring, Agatha Jun (Aggie to her friends; the only sensible name), PeeWee, and Hoot Owl (Hootie). Again, 85 of the 105 episodes were dubbed, but they weren't exactly the same 85 episodes that made it into BotP. One annoying (or hilarious, depending on the person) thing about "G-Force" is that they often added a repetitive, pulsing techno beat in the background. I crack up whenever it comes on, and it comes on multiple times per episode. It's so totally out of place, yet I enjoy it. Anyway, this DVD contains 2 episodes of "Battle of the Planets" as the main feature and the 2 corresponding episodes of "Kaguta Ninja Tai Gatchaman" and 1 episode of "G-Force" as special features. The BotP episodes have the original 2.0 mono track and a 5.1 remixed track. The Gatchaman episodes have the 2.0 mono track only and the option of English subtitles. The "G-Force" episode has the original English track as well as Spanish and Brazilian dialect Portuguese tracks. I think that Rhino was trying to offer a way for us to view all 3 versions of the show, but, by including only 1 episode of "G-Force", they totally messed it up. The format is 2, 2, and 1. So, Volume 1 contains Gatchaman and BotP episodes 1 & 2 and "G-Force" episode 1, Volume 2 contains Gatchaman and BotP episodes 3 & 4 and "G-Force" episode 2, etc. It makes no sense. We didn't need the Spanish and Portuguese tracks. This is America! They should have put those tracks on the foreign DVD releases. Without those extra tracks, there would be enough room for a second "G-Force" episode, and that would keep the right episodes paired together. Overall, I recommend this disc and the others in the series. For those of you that have never seen "Battle of the Planets", this will give you an idea of the censorship on American television in the late 1970s. For those of you that are buying this to relive your childhood, be warned: your love of "Battle of the Planets" is probably based on nostalgia only; you might find the series to be completely retarded now.

Excellent , keep them coming Rhino.
i've really enjoy the series out on DVD & was hoping for Vol.7 & others to come out i just can't get enough 7 zark 7...i on the other hand i have great mermories of these shows on this disc please keep them coming...more of jason , mark , princess & kehop . i want whole series of battle of the planets on DVD I have 1 through 6 i recommend all of the battle of the planets Volumes on DVD they're great .

Anime fan-but this series disappointment
I loved the G force episodes and would love to see the Gatchaman series (without subtitles) but I know why now I did not watch BOTP as a child, cause of goofy 7 Zark 7, 1 rover 1...that by no means disrespect to Casey Kasem as Eagle 1 and Alan Young from Mr. ED (Wilbur) but sound quality and animation quality could definately get an upgrade. I collected the first few volumes but I would rather get Dubbed titles of G force or Gatchaman.

Good quality, great memories!
The picture quality on the BOTP episodes are fair -- but I remember as a child it was only fair when it originally aired, so no surprises there! The corresponding Japanese Gatchaman episodes are much better, with uncut story lines that make much more sense than the sanitized, BOTP version (and no 7-Zark-7, thank goodness!). The bonus G-Force episode is let down only by a mind-numbing, disco-thumping sountrack that fills every "hole" left by the original Gatchaman soundtrack.

Otherwise, this is a great trip down memory lane with good packaging. It's a good testament to how unique this cartoon really was, and how it's still good enough to hold the interest of children and adults alike (especially the Gatchaman episodes, once you get used to the subtitles). As much as I was a superhero-holic -- and to a small extent, I still am -- G-Force was and is my absolute favorite good guy team. "Transmute" and enjoy! ... Read more

Amazon.com

The early anime series Science Ninja Team Gatchaman (1972-74) aired in the U.S. in two very different versions: much of the violence was excised and the comic Artoo-Detoo-esque robot 7-Zark-7 added to Battle of the Planets (syndication, 1978); the darker G-Force (Turner Broadcasting, 1986) was closer in tone to the original Gatchaman. All three series depict the adventures of five teenagers incongruously clad in bird suits. Gatchaman is set on Earth; Planets supposedly takes place in outer space, but the geography, animals, and cities are still Earth's. The stories diverge significantly: in episode 5 of Gatchaman, the main characters are saved from enemy flying saucers by the mysterious "Red Impulse," who announces, "We will meet again." In Battle, they're saved by "fighters from Mir," but they still get credit for defeating the "renegade aliens." Unrated; suitable for ages 10 and up: Violence in Gatchaman and G-Force; profanity in Gatchaman. --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Slight technical difficulty
Other reviews here do an excellent job covering the content of this DVD. I just wanted to mention that there is a slight technical problem with this DVD (and the rest of vols. 1-4). The English language track on the G-Force episode is virtually inaudible, which is a real disappointment and knocked the DVD down a star. I tried on two different players (Pioneer DV-626D and Playstation 2), and they both have the same trouble. I even wrote in to Rhino's technical support and they kindly exchanged the discs for me, but sadly, the replacement discs are the same way. I just wanted to put out the warning here. The rest of the disc is fine and has great content - it's just that one problematic audio track.

Good Show, Bad Layout
"Kaguta Ninja Tai Gatchaman" ("Science Ninja Team Gatchaman") is an anime series that debuted in Japan in 1972. It was about a team of 5 kids (4 teenagers and a preteen) that fought the evil Galactor organization, which was bent on world conquest. Sandy Frank brought the series over to the U.S. in 1978. Due to Standards and Practices restrictions at the time, a lot of violence had to be cut before the series could be dubbed into English. To fill in the time and gaps left in the story, new footage was animated of an American-made character, 7-Zark-7, a robot (which looked a lot like R2D2 to capitalize on the "Star Wars" craze at the time) that watched over the team from Center Neptune (an underwater base; don't ask), and his robotic canine companion, 1-Rover-1. Zark's job was, through voice-overs, to assure the audience that nobody died, or, if a plane got blown up, a robot was at the controls. Oddly, for a character that was created to censor things, Zark had a lot of sezual conversations with Susan, his robotic love interest on Pluto, over space radio. The fact that Susan sounds like a phone sex operator, and that Zark's antennae spring to full erection when she talks to him, makes this even more hilarious. Whereas Gatchaman was entirely Earth-based, BotP often had the kids going to another planet that looked exactly like Earth. I think you can see where this is going. In addition, the kids got name changes - even those that already had English names! Ken, Joe, Jun, Jimpei, and Ryu became Mark (as in Hammill), Jason, Princess (as in Leia), Keyop (WTF?), and Tiny Harper. The voice casting wasn't that great. Casey Kasem (Mark) sounded nothing like a teenager. In total, 85 of the 105 episodes got "the BotP treatment" (though not exactly the first 85 episodes). Personally, I think that this dub is so bad, it's unintentionally funny. Later, Turner did their own dub of Gatchaman, called "G-Force". The voices were better, more violence was retained, and there was no Zark. However, the characters were renamed again. This time, the names were extremely stupid: Ace Goodheart, Dirk Daring, Agatha Jun (Aggie to her friends; the only sensible name), PeeWee, and Hoot Owl (Hootie). Again, 85 of the 105 episodes were dubbed, but they weren't exactly the same 85 episodes that made it into BotP. One annoying (or hilarious, depending on the person) thing about "G-Force" is that they often added a repetitive, pulsing techno beat in the background. I crack up whenever it comes on, and it comes on multiple times per episode. It's so totally out of place, yet I enjoy it. Anyway, this DVD contains 2 episodes of "Battle of the Planets" as the main feature and the 2 corresponding episodes of "Kaguta Ninja Tai Gatchaman" and 1 episode of "G-Force" as special features. The BotP episodes have the original 2.0 mono track and a 5.1 remixed track. The Gatchaman episodes have the 2.0 mono track only and the option of English subtitles. The "G-Force" episode has the original English track as well as Spanish and Brazilian dialect Portuguese tracks. I think that Rhino was trying to offer a way for us to view all 3 versions of the show, but, by including only 1 episode of "G-Force", they totally messed it up. The format is 2, 2, and 1. So, Volume 1 contains Gatchaman and BotP episodes 1 & 2 and "G-Force" episode 1, Volume 2 contains Gatchaman and BotP episodes 3 & 4 and "G-Force" episode 2, etc. It makes no sense. We didn't need the Spanish and Portuguese tracks. This is America! They should have put those tracks on the foreign DVD releases. Without those extra tracks, there would be enough room for a second "G-Force" episode, and that would keep the right episodes paired together. Overall, I recommend this disc and the others in the series. For those of you that have never seen "Battle of the Planets", this will give you an idea of the censorship on American television in the late 1970s. For those of you that are buying this to relive your childhood, be warned: your love of "Battle of the Planets" is probably based on nostalgia only; you might find the series to be completely retarded now.

BOTP a good effort ... GATCHAMAN a modern-day classic!
I grew up with Sandy Franks' BATTLE OF THE PLANETS in the late '70s and have not missed a chance to catch the show whenever a station aired it. Thanks to Rhino, I've not only had the chance to see my fave flying defenders of earth again, but I get to see the original GATCHAMAN episodes in all their glory.

When I watched "Ghost Ship of Planet Mir" recently, I was reminded of the question that I had when I first saw the episode many years ago: why do those "Mir fighters" look like the ships that Colonel Cronus and his buddies fly? Well, the original Japanese episode, "The Ghost Fleet From Hell", answered that question. (Buy the DVD to find out ... you won't regret it!)

"Big Robot Gold Grab" doesn't differ as much from its Japanese counterpart, "The Grand Mini Robot", but the climax is more intense and the mood is much darker in the original.

Rhino's decision to include both BOTP and GATCHAMAN on a single disc was nothing short of brilliant -- both the sub and dub crowds can spend their money on the same product! At the same time, fans who only know BOTP will have a chance to see what they were missing from the original series (i.e., slightly darker stories, strong character development) while hardcore followers of GATCHAMAN get to see the lighter touches Sandy Frank Productions introduced (namely, 7-Zark-7).

My sincere hope is that Rhino will not just put out the 85 BOTP episodes but all 105 GATCHAMAN episodes. Amongst the ones left untranslated were crucial stories in the overreaching arc of the series (e.g., the reason for Joe/Jason's dizzy spells, the revelation of Berg Kastse/Zoltar's origin, the epic showdown with Sosai X/the Luminous One). These "lost" episodes proved that animated stories didn't have to be dumbed down to be entertaining. The final story arc features some of the best animation and most intelligent writing to appear on TV. And since people love a good story, there's no reason they wouldn't want these missing episodes in their collection.

So Rhino Video, don't tease your customers -- give them all 105 episodes. They'll love you for it! (Read: more DVD sales.) :)

Battle Of The Planets on DVD Rocks!
It sure is nice to finally get to see this series again after 23 years. Way to go Rhino Video!

Image quality on this volume isnt as good as on the previous 2 volumes, this time there seems to bee more digital artifacts apparent due to the grain & noise. Still, considering the age of the material, I guess its better than nothing!

Lets just hope Rhino Video have the balls to release the ENTIRE 85 episodes!! I'll buy them!! :] ... Read more

Amazon.com

The early anime series Science Ninja Team Gatchaman (1972-74) aired in America in two different versions: for Battle of the Planets (syndication, 1978), much of the violence was excised and the R2-D2-esque robot 7-Zark-7 was added; G-Force (Turner Broadcasting, 1986) was darker in tone and closer to the original. All three series focus on the adventures of five teenage warriors in bird suits. In "Secret Crescent," Jinpei gets into trouble when Galactor attacks a secret undersea base. "Fearful Sea Anemone" tells a similar story involving Keyop, set on "Galaxy 30," but a comic subplot about 7-Zark-7 preparing for a "robot reunion" takes time needed for the payoff. The print of Gatchaman used for the transfer had faded, making the chase with a sea anemone-fortress difficult to see; the sound is garbled in Battle and G-Force. Unrated; suitable for ages 10 and up. --Charles Solomon ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Slight technical difficulty
Other reviews here do an excellent job covering the content of this DVD. I just wanted to mention that there is a slight technical problem with this DVD (and the rest of vols. 1-4). The English language track on the G-Force episode is virtually inaudible on some players, which is a real disappointment and knocked the DVD down a star. I tried on the two different players I have (Pioneer DV-626D and Playstation 2), and they both have the same trouble. I even wrote in to Rhino's technical support and they kindly exchanged the discs for me, but sadly, the replacement discs are the same way. I just wanted to put out the warning here. The rest of the disc is fine and has great content - it's just that one problematic audio track.

We'll always have Gatchaman - we hope
Much has been made about the complete lack of remastering of the Battle of the Planets episodes, but I believe a great many fans buying these DVDs are in agreement: the original Japanese Gatchaman episodes are the real gold of the Battle of the Planets DVDs. There's a definite story arc that can be followed, the characterizations are sharper, and - owing to a recent series of Gatchaman DVD releases in Japan - the original Japanese episodes ARE remastered quite nicely. As of volume 3, the "trading cards" disappeared from each disc's bonus material, so make sure to let Rhino Home Video know that you want to keep seeing the original Gatchaman episodes alongside those Battle of the Planets episodes we all grew up with.

That creepy pilot sounds awfully familiar ...
I'm slowly going through my BOTP DVDs from Rhino (don't want to go into withdrawal while waiting for next volumes to come out) and just finished watching "Ace From Outer Space" and its GATCHAMAN counterpart, "Galactor's Grand Airshow". Like most BOTP episodes, "Ace" has G-Force tracking down their enemy to an alien planet. In this case, that planet is Ergos, home of Captain Doom (the flying ace in the title).

As I watched "Ace", I couldn't help but notice the similarity between the voice of Captain Doom and that of a recurring villain on the show. When I saw the GATCHAMAN episode and found out who the character really was, I was more than mildly amused by Sandy Frank Productions' nod to the original episode. (If you haven't already, buy this DVD to find out what I'm alluding to.)

This and the previous volumes from Rhino have made me a fan all over again. In fact, I'm more rabid about the series now than when I first started watching the series as a anime-hungry eight year old. This is largely because of Rhino's wise decision to include the GATCHAMAN episodes on the same discs of the BOTP equivalents.

I'm hoping that Rhino capitalizes on the chance to make more money by releasing not just the 85 BOTP episodes but the 20 GATCHAMAN episodes that Sandy Frank Productions never picked up. Twenty more episodes means more story, more DVDs, and more sales for Rhino. :) And I seriously doubt that I'm the only fan who wants to see the entire 105-episode run.

a must have for the fan
Another quality DVD from RHINO. Just like 1-3, this is a nice transfer with wonderful sound. The disk includes Battle of the planets episodes, Gatchaman episodes(what started it all) and G-Force episodes (an abomination). I grew up on the planets episodes and they are still wonderful, looking just as I left them. The Gatchaman episodes are great,wonderful action but sometimes brutal. They show how much was left on the cutting room floor in order to turn this into kids tv. The G-force episodes are of good quality but the content....UGH! Most of the same scenes you will remember but with some of the worst voice overs I have EVER heard. I purchased this along with the other 3 and will buy the rest. Bring THEM ON RHINO>>WHOO ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Oh, at last!
It was a sheer delight to see Battle of the Planets again, twenty years since it was last aired on television. This box set takes up where the individual releases leave off (volumes 1 through 6 of the single DVD releases) and so starts at episode 13, about where the artwork and the characterization really begins to fall into shape. Since the episodes weren't intended to air in order, the viewer doesn't miss out on any continuity, but by starting in the middle you really benefit from voice actors who have a handle on their characters and stories worth watching.

The bonus features were a pleasure: subtitled episodes of Gatchaman, the anime from which Battle of the Planets was created, and also interviews with the original cast members. I LOVE Ronnie Schell! He made Jason come alive for me and I never forgot his voice, even after all this time. It was a thrill to hear their recollections of creating the series. It sounded as if they were really enjoying themselves, and that must have contributed to why this show has such longevity.

The original show itself has some problems--notably the robot narrator and the sanitized violence--which are more glaring to an adult than they were to us in our childhood. I think that by watching both versions, we get the full experience: we remember why we loved the show, and we see what it truly was. I highly recommend this box set. I especially recommend the limited edition Jason action figure with his civilian car. I've already had to convince my daughter it's Mommy's toy and not hers! I would definitely buy this all over again if I had to, and it's terrific to see this show once more.

Great Anime - Episodes 14-27 (no 19 or 20) - Good Stuff !!!
.

First of all, Battle of the Planets is great Anime. Its wonderfully drawn and the stories are well told.

If you're looking at this specific set as an introduction - I would however, suggest you begin with BOTP (Battle Of The Planets) Vol.1 as this DVD boxed set starts at a point further into the Gatchaman storyline.

I honestly feel a little clarification is needed here with regards to this DVD set.

The set contains 4 discs. Episodes 14 through 27 are featured but episodes 19 and 20 are not included. I'm not sure why (perhpas there's a BOTP fan who can explain) but its worth mentioning.

In order to get a COMPLETE set (note the title of this boxed set is "ultimate" not "complete"), you have to purchase the previously released VOLUMES (Volumes 1 through 6). This DVD set starts off with the storyline started in those volumes.

Is it a good set - Oh yea! Its very cool and very watchable, just know what you're getting.

I would suggest - start with the individual volumes and then puchase this DVD set to continue your collection.

Happy viewing.
Best Regards,
turtlex

Misleading title: you get 12 thru 20 of 85 episodes.
Only read this if you want to know the truth about the release of these BOTP. After researching for weeks, I have learned that BOTP eps 1-12 are contained (2 apiece) on DVD's volumes 1 through 6 (plus you get the Gatchaman counterparts and a bonus G-Force). You do not get eps 1-12 (or maybe I am mistaken and it's 1-10) on this Ultimate Set.

This Ultimate Set as I am imformed, contains ONLY eps 13 through 20 OUT OF A TOTAL OF 85! That means that there are about 75 to 77 episodes you DO NOT get.

I feel that the BOTP series is great, and I like Gatchaman too... but these people are trying to turn a dime by selling crap without telling you what episodes it contains. THEY NEED TO SAY that it only contains about eight to ten of a TOTAL of 85 epidodes. Therefore, Ultimate collection, my you-know-what.

There is a serious demand for BOTP media out there, we have the money, and we will wait to buy all 85 DVD's. RESIST THE TEMPTATION to market crap to us or there will be backlash. Although the quality is the same on these as the others, we want the episodes 21 through 85 also, and it is available on ebay in the UK, so everyone buy your international DVD players now at your favorite stores and skip this marketing crud.

Each Episode Included Needs A Title For This Boxed Set
The ultimate box set does not inform us of the episodes included. I am trying to find the episode where Jason, "Stoneface", is the main focus of the story and is involved in a race. We definitely go deeper into his character. In the end, he finds a secret about his riding partner involved in the race. I would enjoy getting this one episode on DVD. If this episode is indeed in this boxed set, then this set is definitely worth getting! I would appeciate it if anybody can inform me if this episode is included in the boxed set. Thanx : )

Beautiful animation...excellent voiceovers!
That this DVD set would be vilified at all is an insult to those who had a hand in it's production.

As a kid (all of 10 during it's production) I seem to recall exclaiming how beautiful a cartoon it was not knowing at the time what made it so extraordinary. The use of the multi-plane camera and what we now call japanimation was, at the time, unique in a North American-distributed show aimed at kids.

Today there is a more ready acceptance of the genre, as exemplified by releases as 'Sprited Away' and 'Princess Mononoke" but in 1978 no one had seen it's like before.

The voiceover work demonstrated in this DVD set is an acid test for the quality that CAN be produced out of Hollywood but so frequently falls short. These characterisations were created in Valentine Studios, as far from glamorous as one can get in terms of Hollywood product. No exclusive First Class trailers here, only a dingy, stale cigarette infused room with microphones, acoustic dampening and a great deal of talent!!

Who would dare be so audacious to critique the performances of Waldo, Kasem, Schell, et. al.?! Step forward now and receive comeuppance for your insolence! Truly, these voice actors set the bar for their work. Given especially that their job was not characterization as we know it today but rather, ADR (looping). Their voices were recorded AFTER the film was already in the can. This is typical of Anime but unheard of in American animation where the voices are recorded before the animation. The advantage of the latter is voice actors have the blessing of interpreting the script as they and the director see fit and the animator produces drawing inspired by the performance. With anime, actors are required to sync their performance to the timing dictated by the animation. No small task, and one need only note the U.S. release of Sprited Away for a very stark example of the technique.

The DVD set itself sets no benchmarks in terms of features, but does contain teriffic interviews with the voice actors and does illicit the feeling of nostalgia for which it was intended (if such a thing is possible for a 'space cartoon').

I rate this box set as not to be missed! ... Read more