Fight for Your Freedom! Revolution is at hand! Noble Michel Volban leads the People’s Army in a rebellion among the stars as aristocrats and commoners alike take up arms and rally towards war. The Holy Imperial Emperor Vetti uses force and manipulation to unite the heavens under his rule, led by a mystical prophesy that falls on the ears of those that seek to control and those that seek to liberate. Factions clash and alliances are formed and broken and freedom carries a blood stained blade.
Through the smoke, a fantastic glass battleship pierces the very heart of destiny, piloted by stoic Cleo; the last remaining vessel of royal blood and potential savior of the weary populace. Glorious victory is nigh… but which crest will fly in the wind once the battle ceases?
A sprawling saga of tyranny and revolution, Glass Fleet (2006) combines feudal European elements and a sci-fi setting. Heroic Michel Volban leads the People's Army against Vetti Sforza, who has proclaimed himself "Holy Emperor" of the Galaxy. A chance encounter brings together Michel and the dashing freebooter Cleo, a rogue scion of the old royal family who plots to restore his family to the throne. Undaunted by this plan, Michel tries to make Cleo into an ally. Although it was obviously a big-budget production with a lush score and elaborate CG effects, Glass Fleet plays like a unsatisfying amalgam of Trinity Blood, Eureka Seven, Rose of Versailles, and Last Exile. Casting a woman as Michel gives the character an ambiguous sexuality; Vetti loves his guard Ralph, who's also voiced by an actress, adding to the gender confusion. The filmmakers try to distract the viewer with bizarre costumes, baroque settings and a plethora of special effects, but the visual overkill can't disguise the trite characters and uninspired storytelling. (Rated TV PG, suitable for ages 14 and older: violence, alcohol use, suggested homosexuality) --Charles Solomon
Login
Add tags