HIDDEN ON STREAMING: “gen:LOCK”

Sci-fi is a huge hit-or-miss in the world of TV. Nobody knows this better than me because I have been extremely disappointed in the past with some of the shows that have attempted to bring what was described as something "new" or "unique" to the science-fiction genre but really wasn't anything to write home about. Now, I’m not into anime, and if it is animated, it has to bring something special to the table to get my attention. So when I first heard of “gen:LOCK”, I was ready to swipe left very quickly. But then I started to learn more and my curiosity truly began to pique. And after I witnessed the first trailer for the sci-fi animated series from the team over at Rooster Teeth, I’ll have to admit, I was kind of hooked.

When the series finally debuted, I watched it and have to say it doesn't feel like an anime series or even a cartoon. The show provides a solid balance of sci-fi and action with a very compelling premise that combines many tropes of the genre in a very satisfying manner. The story is set in a dystopian future where a North American nation, known as The Polity, is fighting a hostile invading force known as The Union. The show follows the members of the gen:LOCK program, who participate in the development and testing of an experimental technology which allows these individuals with unique mental layouts to have their minds uploaded to giant robot warriors. These individuals are brought to life by a solid list of voice actors. Michael B. Jordan and Dakota Fanning lead the way, along with such fan favorites as “Dr. Who” star David Tennant and “Game of Thrones”'s Maisie Williams. The characters develop well within the story, and the action sequences are some of the best any animated piece of media has ever put on screen.

Besides the all-stars bringing the story to life being a huge positive, the story itself is great. It’s technologically savvy while not being too boring for the audience. “gen:LOCK” takes robotics, nanotechnology, and brain-computer interfaces to a whole 'nother level, basically evolving those tropes into an intriguing and entertaining plot. A world where a person can lie in a tube and control a giant robot in a battle miles away is just downright awesome. And these ideas of tomorrow are visually showcased in a stunning manner within the series thanks to the phenomenal animation style. This animation is leagues beyond the capabilities many would have assumed Rooster Teeth, the guys behind “RWBY” and “Red vs. Blue”, could pull off. The style makes “gen:LOCK” a much different experience than most shows. And looks aren't everything in this one, because even the soundtrack is off the chain. The intro theme song is proof that the fans are in for some great tunes along with epic robot battles. From the moment you hear it start, you’ll be hooked and forced to binge all the fun.

Rooster Teeth’s “gen:LOCK” can be streamed on the streaming service VRV.

(Image via Rooster Teeth)

- D.J. Rivera, YH Contributing Writer