Originally known as Mach Go Go Go in its native Japan, the
animation known as Speed Racer became a cultural phenomenon when it made its
way to US television sets in 1967.
Despite only having 52 original episodes its stayed in the public
consciousness for decades until being unearthed again in the ‘90s and becoming
a cult phenomenon. In her book Speed Racer: The Official 30th
Anniversary Guide, Elizabeth Moran delves into the history and the cultural
significance of Speed Racer and how it would influence the anime explosion of
the ‘90s.
Moran’s book is a treasure trove of information on the
animated series. It breaks down all 52
episodes of the series while also going to more technical aspects of the show
(mostly from the American version perspective) such as interviews with the
American voice actors and how they were picked for the show and the technical
specs for Speed Racer’s Mach 5 vehicle as well, among other things. The book is well researched and instrumental
for fans of the series.
Even if you are not familiar with the original series itself
Moran also delves into the ancillary markets that the character was used in
such as the NOW! Comics ‘90s comic book series (and its spin-off series and
reprints of the original Japanese manga) and the NASCAR commercials of
’96. Moran also gives a little
background on the animated film The Speed Racer Show (1993), which is three of
the original episodes edited together but had a huge impact on resurrecting the
character into the consciousness of audiences throughout the ‘90s. The book ends by examining the Americanized
The New Adventures of Speed Racer (1993).
Since the book was published in ’97 it does not touch upon the more
recent animated series Speed Racer: The Next Generation nor the live action big
screen film from the Wachowski Bros. (allow Moran does indicate that the live
action film has been in development for a very long time).
Speed Racer has been instrumental to spreading anime to
American audiences and for many it was the first animated series from Japan
that they experienced. Moran’s book is
an excellent way to look back at the series or to learn about it for the very
first time. For more info on Speed Racer
visit the Official Speed Racer website at www.speedracer.com
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