Gilgamesh is an anime/manga series originally created by the famed Ishinomori Shotaro (creator of such classics as Cyborg 009 and Kamen Rider). The anime television series lasted for twenty-six episodes and aired from 2003 to 2004. The series features a rich sci-fi story and engaging characters. The art style is very detailed and intricate, and also extremely unique. However, the detail in the character designs was apparently hard to animate, as the animation of the series itself is somewhat lacking. I think it's a good trade (I'll take interesting, original artwork over fluid animation any day).

The series is somewhat known for its dark and depressing overall feel. It's true that there is very little comedy or happiness in this series, and what little exists is rather subtle and understated. But what sets this series apart from other dark sci-fi shows is that it is not cold and unfeeling. If anything, the characters are overly emotional. This is perhaps what makes the darkness so much more poignant. All of the major characters are truly broken people with painful pasts, but still they try to live their lives with some semblance of happiness. They are broken, yes, but not so broken that they have become unfeeling shells of people.

To me, Gilgamesh is a powerful and underrated series that genuinely speaks to me as a person and touches my heart. I felt that I could relate to all of the characters on some level, and the shocking ending left a deep impression on me. It's a mature story that is in no way cute. I belive it has had trouble reaching the right audience, but those who do discover and appreciate it are rewarded with something special.