This is the first in a series, showing off the greatest introductions in the history of anime. And this one is actually the work of Westerners!

Spoiler alert: This is not a review, but a short synopsis for the third episode of this as-yet-unlicensed anime.

From the very first episode of 1978′s Space Pirate Captain Harlock, it’s obvious that this is Leiji Matsumoto’s original badass. Whether you know him as Harlock or Albator, this is the anime legend that never falters in reminding us what it means to be a man.

From a design standpoint, I’m impressed by how often the animation mimics the poses and angles used in the original manga without looking forced. It’s natural but familiar; this is how Basara was meant to be animated. It’s a pity that the series was cut so short, but we’ve been left with something very, very good.

The first three episodes erect some strong pillars for Skip Beat. There’s a villain to be defeated. There’s a rags-to-riches goal to pursue. And there’s a love interest — but it’s a love interest that must be impressed, as opposed to the “famous guy falls for the sweet girl” routine we’ve seen so many times before.

The first set of Mushi-Uta episodes was bad. Really bad. This second set opens with a (relative) bang as two rival factions face off in an evacuated park. HOWEVER . . . . .

I’ve wanted to see this anime ever since I heard the theme song. It’s a really cool song. Based on the introductory visuals, Mushi-Uta combines Japanese childrens’ favorite things: guns, goggles, and bugs. It looks like a kids’ show, but that’s fine with me. Plenty of kiddie shows are cool. HOWEVER . . . . .

The Legend of Basara anime began in 1998, coinciding with the conclusion of Yumi Tamura’s 27-volume epic Basara manga. At only thirteen episodes, the animation only scratches the surface of the story, but it’s quite faithful and worth watching to get a glimpse into what Basara has to offer.

“Beasts!” he cried, but none heard his contemptuous words, for in this world he had become the beast and they were his keepers.

The question you should ask yourself is not whether such things should be read, but whether such things should be read at work, where the lurid eyes of employers impart intolerant “moral” judgements upon those who admire the female form. So while you should absolutely read about Legend of Lemnear, I suggest not doing so at work.