The synthesis of colorful characters, intriguing plotlines and human drama makes this set of episodes a quintessential example of epic storytelling.

This set of episodes, with its close attention to developing relationships and explication of the motives of the Zentradi, form the lynchpin that holds together the series. The liquid relationship between Rick, Minmei and Lisa continues its course with the utmost of believability. Also adding to the human drama of this second DVD is a parade of colorful new characters, all of which helped make "Robotech" famous.

The characters and action sequences are vibrant, but unfortunately the color is not. The source material for Robotech is showing its age, and ADV opted not to restore its original luster.

The accumulation of experience and the focus on major characters raises the average level of acting in this set of episodes. The voice of Lisa Hayes turns in the best performance, displaying youthful passion in the flashback scenes, professional strength in command, yet vulnerability in periods of hopelessness. Despite periods of weakness, the dialogue holds up under the changes inflicted on the storyline.

The violence and titillation of the source material was eviscerated for the series' American release.

There are few advantages to watching "Robotech" on DVD instead of VHS. The single-disc sets are merely repackaged versions of six original episodes in a new format, with the original sound, music and voices. However, those who spring for the deluxe, boxed-set version of "Robotech" receive a third disc devoted entirely to extras.

No matter what the result of the popular vote, someone was planning to declare Minmei the winner of the Miss Macross competition. The evidence? The theme song to the competition is also Minmei's theme song.

Ben mentions this to explain why the Zentradi might not have notice Lisa's videorecorder when the trio was captured, but the subtext seems awfully suspicious. Is there something you'd like to confess, Ben?

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