Editorial Reviews

Perhaps the most widely seen example of Japanese anime ever to hit America, Speed Racer has been entertaining kids of all ages ever since its U.S. television debut in 1967. Produced by Tatsunoko Productions (who would later create the equally beloved Battle of the Planets), Speed Racer follows the globe-trotting adventures of a teenage driver named Speed as he sits behind the wheel of the Mach-5, a gadget-laden super car built by his father. Haunted by the enigma of his missing older brother (who may or may not be the masked Racer X), Speed is supported by best gal, Trixie, his candy-addicted little brother, Spridle, and Spridle's pet monkey, Chim Chim. Speed continually runs afoul of gangsters, rival drivers, and assorted sinister plots involving racetracks. Although the animation itself has aged considerably (albeit in a very charming fashion), the show itself is a still-unique mix of comedic, suspenseful, and action-packed elements. A superbly personable English dub overseen by actor Peter Fernandez (who also provides the voice of Speed) and the unforgettable opening theme song add to a viewing experience that is as iconic as it is simply entertaining. This Speed Racer Collector's Edition presents the first four story lines of the series across 11 individual, digitally remastered episodes. "The Great Plan" is a two-part tale about a scheme to steal the Mach-5 in which Speed explains every facet of his amazing automobile. "Challenge of the Masked Racer" follows the excitement when Speed defies his father's orders to enter a race against the mysterious Racer X. In "The Race Against the Mammoth Car," Speed has to contend with a car that's over 200 feet long, and not very nice. Finally, in a three-part epic entitled "The Most Dangerous Race," Speed faces the Car Acrobatic Team led by Captain Terror. Volk Lindsay Barnes & Noble