Tongue in cheek humor tempers what is usually a heavy science fiction theme. But through the humor, unladed by noir moods and sensationalism, weightier themes take root.

International intrigue sets the backdrop for this comedy series that is ultimately about human interactions. Still, the highly dramatic civil war and the goofy antics of the marionettes meld perfectly. The three main marionettes, Lime, Cherry and Bloodberry develop humanity throughout the series while still maintaining their basic characters.

Drawings are sharp and clear, the animation runs at a smooth pace and the characters themselves have interesting designs.

The acting and translation work in perfect accordance. The translation, in particular, deserves kudos for retaining even the subtlest of jokes. Line delivery also rates high, except for when Lime has a whine attack. Fortunately this does not happen too often.

Sexual content is limited to kisses and marriage, and there's hardly any violence. Fine for small children, though they might not appreciate the higher concepts and subtle humor.

DVD. Trilingual (English, Japanese and Spanish) plus extras (music video, databank, trailers, DVD credits). The music videos splice images with music tailored to each character. The video on the Collection 1 DVD is about Lime, and the video from the Collection 2 DVD is about Cherry.

Okay, so three girls and a homosexual are all in love with the main character Tenchi…I mean Otaru…but this series far surpasses the tried drivel found in Tenchi's Universe.

Cherry sure gets a kick out of Otaru, and when her imagination runs wild, let's just say her pleasure is evident.

Love it? Hate it? Buy it.