In this detailed exploration, we will cover:
- A background on Getter Robo and its significance.
- The art and production of Japanese anime cels.
- The context and importance of Episode 33.
- The significance of Getter 1, one of the three key robots.
- The cultural and artistic importance of animation cels, especially in the context of 1970s anime.
- A discussion on the collector’s value of cels and how pieces like this fit into the wider world of anime memorabilia.
The Legacy of Getter Robo
1. Origins and Impact of the Series
Getter Robo, created by the legendary Go Nagai and Ken Ishikawa, is a foundational mecha anime and manga franchise. It was one of the earliest examples of the “combining robot” genre, where multiple smaller vehicles or robots combine to form a more powerful mecha. This concept would go on to influence countless shows, including the likes of Voltron and Power Rangers.
The series debuted in April 1974 and quickly captured the imagination of viewers with its dynamic action sequences, bold storytelling, and groundbreaking animation for its time. The show was produced by Toei Animation and aired on Fuji TV, and the anime became an instant hit, blending exciting robot combat with themes of teamwork, sacrifice, and innovation.
2. Getter 1: The Heroic Machine
At the heart of Getter Robo lies Getter 1, the first and most iconic form of the titular robot. Getter 1 is one of three configurations that can be formed by combining three separate jets—Eagle, Jaguar, and Bear—piloted by Ryoma Nagare, Hayato Jin, and Musashi Tomoe, respectively. Each combination results in a different form of the robot, but Getter 1 is the main, humanoid configuration designed for aerial combat and fast movement.
Its design is as functional as it is iconic. Featuring a red, white, and yellow color scheme, the robot exudes power and authority, further emphasized by its signature weapon — the Getter Tomahawk. This enormous, energy-infused axe is one of the most formidable weapons in the show, often seen cutting through enemies with ease.
3. Episode 33: “Swear To The Unlimited Sky”
The scene captured in the 1-layer production cel in question comes from Episode 33, titled “Swear To The Unlimited Sky.” The episode is one of the most pivotal moments in the Getter Robo anime, blending intense action sequences with emotional depth.
In this episode, the stakes are higher than ever as the Getter Team faces overwhelming odds against a relentless enemy. Getter 1, in particular, takes center stage, and the iconic moment of it throwing the Getter Tomahawk embodies the peak of the action. This episode resonated deeply with fans, reinforcing Getter 1’s status as a symbol of hope and strength.
Understanding the Art of Japanese Anime Cels
1. The Role of Cels in Anime Production
Before the widespread use of digital animation techniques, anime was traditionally animated using hand-painted cels. These were transparent sheets, usually made of cellulose acetate, on which individual frames of animation were drawn and colored. Each cel represented a single frame of the animated sequence, and when played in succession, these cels created the illusion of movement.
This process required painstaking detail and craftsmanship, as animators had to ensure consistency across thousands of cels to create fluid animations. For anime aficionados, owning an original production cel is akin to holding a piece of animation history.
2. Components of the “Getter 1 Throwing the Getter Tomahawk” Cel
The production cel of Getter 1 throwing the Getter Tomahawk includes several components:
- Layer 1 – Getter 1 Cel: This is the primary cel that depicts Getter 1 in motion, throwing its tomahawk with precision and power.
- 3 Sets of Douga: Douga refers to the original sketches that animators create before a cel is painted. These are the rough drafts that form the backbone of the animation, ensuring proper proportions, movement, and flow.
- Acid-free Copy Background: The background in this piece is an acid-free reproduction made by TCG. While not an original background, it is vital for displaying the cel in context.
Each of these elements contributes to the overall value and importance of the production cel. The attention to detail, particularly in the douga, showcases the precision required in crafting such iconic scenes.
Artistic and Cultural Importance of Getter Robo Cels
1. The Artistic Value of Hand-Painted Cels
Hand-painted cels, like the one of Getter 1, are now considered rare treasures in the world of anime memorabilia. Each cel represents a unique moment from the anime, painstakingly created by artists. While digital animation has made the process of creating animation more efficient, many fans and collectors view hand-painted cels as superior due to their tangible nature and the craftsmanship involved.
In particular, the Getter 1 throwing the Getter Tomahawk cel highlights the dynamic action sequences that made Getter Robo so popular. The fluidity of Getter 1’s motion, combined with the sharpness of the tomahawk’s design, is a testament to the skill of the animators working at Toei during the 1970s.
2. The Cultural Importance of Getter Robo
Getter Robo helped shape the mecha genre and Japanese pop culture as a whole. The show’s themes of teamwork, bravery, and innovation resonate with audiences, and its influence can be seen in later mecha series. The concept of combining robots has become a staple of the genre, and Getter Robo continues to inspire new generations of anime creators and fans.
For many fans, owning a piece of the original production, such as a cel, is a way of connecting with the history of anime. These cels not only represent individual frames of animation but also the cultural and artistic milestones of the medium.
The Collector’s Market for Anime Cels
1. Value and Rarity of Anime Cels
Original anime cels have become highly sought-after items among collectors. As the anime industry shifted to digital production methods in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the use of hand-painted cels was gradually phased out. This has made cels from older series, such as Getter Robo, increasingly rare and valuable.
The value of a cel is determined by several factors:
- Condition: The state of the cel, including the preservation of colors and the integrity of the acetate, plays a significant role in determining its value.
- Scene: Iconic moments or key scenes from popular episodes tend to fetch higher prices. In this case, Getter 1 throwing the Getter Tomahawk is a particularly iconic action moment, which enhances its desirability.
- Completeness: Cels that come with douga (sketches), genga (key animation frames), or backgrounds are often more valuable than those without.
- Provenance: Knowing the specific episode and scene from which a cel originates can also increase its value.
2. The Importance of the Episode 33 Cel
Given the prominence of Episode 33 in the Getter Robo series, this specific cel holds a special place for fans of the show. The moment when Getter 1 throws the Getter Tomahawk is emblematic of the show’s high-octane action and has become a memorable moment for many fans. The fact that this cel includes the douga sketches and a background further enhances its value in the collector’s market.
For those interested in collecting anime memorabilia, cels from Getter Robo represent a unique opportunity to own a piece of history from one of the genre’s most influential franchises. As the number of available cels decreases over time, their rarity and value will likely continue to increase.
Conclusion: A Piece of Anime History
The Getter Robo franchise, particularly through its pioneering use of combining robots and dynamic action scenes, left an indelible mark on the world of anime. The “Getter 1 throwing the Getter Tomahawk” production cel is not just a beautiful piece of art; it represents a moment in time when hand-crafted animation dominated the industry, showcasing the passion and craftsmanship of Japanese animators.
For collectors and fans alike, owning such a cel is akin to holding a piece of anime history. It is a testament to the power of storytelling, the evolution of animation techniques, and the lasting legacy of a beloved series. Whether appreciated for its artistic value or its cultural significance, this production cel is a reminder of the impact that Getter Robo continues to have on the world of mecha anime.
As we look back on the legacy of Getter Robo, the appeal of owning a piece of its production becomes clear. Not only does it serve as a nostalgic reminder of the past, but it also highlights the artistry and dedication that went into creating the animation that continues to inspire fans to this day.
