Art of The Galaxy Railways
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The Galaxy Railways is an anime television series created by Leiji Matsumoto and produced by Planet. It was directed by Yukio Nishimoto in 2003. The story takes place in an alternate future, where trains are capable of interplanetary travel. The fleet of the Galaxy Railways is protected by the Space Defence Force, or SDF, against intergalactic terrorists, meteor storms, and malicious alien life. In the series, it seems that the Galaxy Railways serve as both an establishment and government presiding over a large sector of the galaxy. The railways are made up of a series of large rings that create energy shields to protect the trains that move between them, creating the tracks the trains follow. The railways are under the rule of the Supreme Commander but seem to be more actively guided by a lower-ranking official known as the Commander. The Galaxy Railways Headquarters preside over the SDF and the SPG (Space Panzer Grenadiers, an elite defense force) as well as all passenger operations. The series begins one year before the film "Galaxy Express 999" which takes place in 2221 AD. The first episode concludes one year after "Galaxy Express 999: Eternal Fantasy" takes place (which is 2225). The rest of the series occurs in the year 2230.
The narrator serves as a guiding force, leading viewers through each episode with compelling epilogues and prologues, introducing distinct ideas along the way. Within this gripping series, two overarching themes prevail, weaving a tapestry of thought-provoking exploration: Destiny & Fate, and Life and Death. Throughout the series, the timeless inquiry of pre-determination versus forging one's destiny takes center stage. The journey begins in episode two when Manabu faces a pivotal moment to alter his older brother's tragic fate in the past. Despite valiant attempts to evade destiny, his brother falls victim to an unyielding force, hinting at the dominance of fate. As the story unfolds, "A Train Bound for Fate" confronts Manabu with an old friend resigned to a belief in an inescapable destiny. The dramatic attack on the train forces his friend to reassess his convictions and embrace the will to live. The narrator remains uncertain about the existence of fate but advocates giving one's best effort regardless. Ultimately, Manabu discovers the power to shape his destiny and emerges triumphant by the end of the first season. From the series' inception, the exploration of life and death permeates every aspect. The tragic demise of Manabu's father and his older brother's death set the tone from the very first episode. Initially, Manabu is resolute in avoiding violence and refuses to wield a gun, grappling with the profound impact of death. Episodes 6 and 7 bear witness to the heart-wrenching loss of a little girl before him, highlighting the profound emotional toll. Episode 4 forces Manabu to intervene, convincing a man to embrace life instead of chasing the ghost of his love. A profound belief emerges within Manabu that every life holds value, regardless of circumstance. However, a pivotal moment in episode 10 compels him to confront the complexity of life and death when faced with a choice between a crew mate and a criminal's life, realizing that sometimes, life's right must be relinquished. Throughout the series, the profound exploration of destiny and fate interweaves with the complexities of life and death, painting a tapestry of thought-provoking contemplation. As Manabu's journey unfolds, viewers are taken on an enthralling ride that delves deep into the very fabric of existence and the choices that define it.
The pictures on this page are a collection of artworks created for this series.
THE STORY
In the distant future, a new era of transportation has dawned, emancipating trains from their earthly confines. Embarking on an incredible journey, they now soar through the celestial skies as the awe-inspiring Galaxy Railways, carrying humanity to distant planets across the universe. Yet, even amid the cosmos, peril lurks, and the Galaxy Railways face their own share of hazards. Criminals, terrorists, and malevolent aliens persistently seek opportunities to sow chaos and turmoil.
Into this cosmic arena steps Manabu Yuuki, a recklessly impulsive individual, who finds himself as the latest recruit in the prestigious Space Defence Force (SDF) of the Galaxy Railways. These valiant men and women bear the sacred duty of safeguarding the railways and responding to any unforeseen threats, putting their very lives on the line to protect the innocent from the clutches of evil. As the unfolding drama inches closer to the SDF's greatest crisis, Manabu is faced with a profound challenge. He must grasp the true essence of being an SDF member and comprehend the weight of responsibility before time runs out. In the sweeping narrative of the Galaxy Railways, Manabu's journey of self-discovery intertwines with the unwavering dedication of the SDF to protect the cosmos. Bound together by courage and camaraderie, they confront not just external adversaries but the complexities within themselves. Amidst the vast cosmic expanse, their collective resolve will be tested, and they must rise above individual limitations to face the imminent darkness that threatens to engulf the universe…
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