Overall: 9.0
Containing the series strongest episode -- "Farewell Big Brother" -- the third disc of "Robotech" is ultimately brilliant. With the SDF-1 successfully returned to Earth, the series immediately delves into the remaining problems facing the "Robotech" crew. The crew of the SDF-1 still must uncover the goals of the Zentradi invaders and the secrets of Robotechnology.
Story: 10.0
The world of "Robotech: Homecoming" is a vastly different place than the fight-the-way-home setting of the first two volumes. Though the SDF-1 has surmounted impossible odds to return to Earth, its journey is just beginning.
Character Development: 10.0
The fermentation of the characters continues apace with the arrival of Minmei's cousin, Lynn Kyle. Now Rick must re-evaluate his relationship with Minmei, and Lisa must come to terms with her feelings for Rick.
Art/Animation: 7.0
Though "Robotech's" animation was cutting edge in its time, it now shows its age to some degree. Harmony Gold opted not to correct the picture quality for this release.
Acting: 9.0
The acting lies somewhere on a line above William Shatner and below Patrick Stewart.
Translation: 8.0
Despite periods of weakness, the dialogue holds up under the changes inflicted on the storyline. Viewers unaware of the origin of the "Macross" source material might not even realize that it was not originally written in English.
MPAA Equivalent: G
The violence and titillation of the source material was eviscerated for the series' American release.
Format: 4.0
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.
X-Factors
O-In Sync-Town Factor: 10.0
Following the pattern of today's musical powerhouses, Minmei's stardom has been artificially constructed by aging hacks and talented marketers. Way to make a buck!
Protoculture High Factor: 11.9
While casual Protoculture users are no strangers to delirium, too few anime stories delve into its shadowy realm. "Robotech: Homecoming" makes great use of the nightmare trope to explore the inner-workings of Rick Hunter's world. Carl Macek uses original "Macross" nightmare footage in which Lord Breetai morphs into Lynn Kyle, and pads it with footage from other "Robotech" episodes by changing the dialogue. The result is an episode-long dreamscape that viewers will not soon forget.
Candle in the Wind Factor: 3.7
The death of Roy Fokker is one of the most poignant moments in the "Robotech" saga, but its impact could have been even greater had it come on more subtly. Calling the episode "Farewell Big Brother" does not bode well for the element of surprise.
