TLDR;
In this episode of Nova Blast, Billiam and his friends Nico, Lexi, and Savannah watch and discuss the first 13 episodes of the original Digimon anime, comparing both the English and Japanese versions. They discuss the initial setup of the show, where kids are transported to the Digital World and paired with Digimon, and the group shares their favorite characters and moments from the initial episodes. The group also touches on the production background, character design influences, and the unique aspects that set Digimon apart from other similar franchises like Pokémon.
- The group watches and discusses the first 13 episodes of Digimon Adventure, comparing the English and Japanese versions.
- They share their favorite characters, Digimon evolutions, and discuss the unique character dynamics.
- The production background, character design influences, and the differences between Digimon and Pokémon are explored.
Intro: EPISODE 1 [0:00]
Billiam introduces the show "Nova Blast" where he and his friends Nico, Lexi, and Savannah will be watching the first Digimon anime. The show will be split into four parts, each covering a different arc. They are watching both the English and Japanese versions of the episodes, shuffling them for a unique experience. The Japanese version is favored for its original tone and drama, especially the voice of Agumon. The first episode introduces the kids at summer camp where strange weather events lead them to receive digital devices and be transported to the Digital World, where they meet their Digimon partners who have been waiting for them. The group of seven children, including Tai, Matt, Mimi, Joe, Sora, Izzy, and TK, must learn to survive on the mysterious File Island. They are introduced as 14 different characters, and the show does a good job of showing all of their different reactions to meeting these different Digimon.
Break 1: Digimon Before Adventure [8:10]
The discussion shifts to the Digimon franchise's origins, noting that the anime wasn't the first piece of media. The original lore was introduced through magazines, detailing File Island, which can be explored in the Digimon World PlayStation One game. The aesthetics of the franchise were not yet defined, leading to a grungier world compared to the anime's colorful setting. The anime is considered an isekai, with some articles claiming Digimon Adventure as one of the original and best examples of the genre. Early Digimon manga, such as "Come on Digimon," featured a Yu-Gi-Oh style concept where Digimon Vets create 3D holograms of the pets. Another manga, "Digimon VTamer," borrowed its protagonist design for the anime, including the character Tai Chi and the use of goggles, which became a traditional design element despite not being used as intended in aerial battles.
Episodes 2-7 [11:09]
In episode 2, the kids start to adjust to surviving in the Digital World, with some adapting better than others. Joe is particularly apprehensive, while Izzy becomes obsessed with the possibility of aliens, a dub-exclusive addition. The term "digivolve" is used in the English version instead of "evolve." The group dynamics begin to form as they navigate their new reality. Surviving becomes a major concern, and the show follows a format where the kids try to find their way home or look for food while being attacked by Digimon. They encounter Shellmon, leading to the Digimon evolving to defeat it. Matt becomes moody in episode 3, and the group finds a train car on a lake, a recurring motif of human world relics in the Digital World. It's revealed that Matt is TK's older brother, adding depth to their relationship. In episode 4, Sora's feelings are explored as she misses her mom. The group travels to a village of Yokomon, and Mimi gives Sora her hat, highlighting their friendship. They are attacked by Meramon, who is infected by a black gear. Episode 5 focuses on Izzy, who discovers strange code in a factory and learns that changing the code can alter the world. Andromon is also infected by a black gear. In episode 6, Mimi takes center stage as the group encounters Toy Town, where the Digimon are depressed. Mimi and Palmon shine in this episode, and the English dub adds humorous moments. Episode 7 centers on Joe, who feels responsible for everyone. He and Gomamon have contrasting personalities. The group finds a fridge full of eggs, and Joe decides to climb Infinity Mountain alone to protect everyone, with Gomamon accompanying him.
Break 2: About the Production [27:11]
Bandai collaborated with V Jump and Toei Animation to create the Digimon manga and anime. Akira Toriyama was initially considered for character designs but Katsu Yoshi Nakatsuru, known for his work on Dragon Ball, including Super Saiyan 4, was chosen instead. Digimon series producer Hiromi Seki noted that Digimon's production was unique for Toei, as it was an original story rather than a manga adaptation. The classic Jules Verne novel "2 Years' Vacation" served as inspiration for the survival aspect of the series. Director Hiroyuki Kakudo aimed to ensure each character played an important role and received focus. The choice to have seven characters was to challenge the typical ensemble makeup. The characters' ages and personalities were deliberately varied to create unique dynamics, with Joe being the oldest but an unreliable leader, and Izzy being one of the youngest but the smartest. The creators aimed to appeal to kids who had outgrown Pokémon, intentionally focusing more on human characters.
Episodes 8-13 [31:20]
The kids are separated, leading to character pairings and individual interactions. In episode 9, Tai and Matt argue over leadership while encountering Frigimon, and Matt warms up Gabumon by taking off his fur. Episode 10 features Izzy and Mimi, with Izzy studying code and Mimi wanting to find their friends. Palmon and Tentomon advocate for their respective partners. They are attacked by Centaurmon, who is infected by a black gear. In episode 11, Joe, Gomamon, Sora, and Biyomon find a church where they encounter Bakemon, ghost Digimon. Episode 12 focuses on TK and Patamon, who come across a Digimon nursery and meet Elecmon. TK and Patamon discuss what Patamon might evolve into. In episode 13, the kids reunite, and Patamon becomes the star. They use their Digivices to restore Leomon, who reveals they were brought to defeat Devimon. Devimon is told that the smallest child will defeat him and tries to kill TK, but Patamon evolves into Angemon and defeats Devimon. The group is then confronted by an old man, setting up a cliffhanger for the next arc. The group praises Digimon for its lovable characters, solid character writing, and the unique dynamics between the Digimon and their partners. They also commend the anime's stunning visuals and music, considering it one of the best isekai.