Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-fi (Mecha), Shounen
A few years ago while getting back into the swing of watching a new generation of anime (those not shown on Toonami), I kept on coming across overwhelming praise for Gurren Lagann. Seeing that it's a mecha anime, I was reluctant to even start watching, but after 27 ceiling-caving, beastmen-hunting, boob-bouncing, head-joining, civilization-building, heaven-shattering, action-packed episodes, it all didn't matter.
Story
In a desolate world where people live in underground villages, life is bleak and depressing for those alive. Very little is known about the surface, with mere rumors and tall tales spread about. All people know about is their dark subterranean world, nothing else. Each day people live in fear of potential earthquakes and cave-ins. Stricken with very few resources, it is an ongoing struggle to survive considering their unfavorable conditions. Simon is a digger in his local village of Jiha working to find more resources to live on. One day he discovers a small shiny drill whilst digging to expand the village. At the same time, his friend Kamina, one who believes there is a land above the village and beyond attempts to break through the ceiling to leave underground prison. As they are punished by the village leaders, an earthquake occurs, the ceiling collapses followed by a giant robot.
Now certain of the of the world above them, Kamina recklessly fights the robot. Without warning, a young girl named Yoko also drops in from above, with rifle in hand to fight the robot. Despite her efforts, she was only able to distract the robot. In the midst of escaping from the robot, Simon shows Kamina and Yoko what he had found earlier; a mysterious robot whose head is also its body. Separated by two distinctive arcs, the first encompasses the ongoing struggles of the Gurren Brigade against the never-ending onslaught of Gunmen while the second focuses on the aftermath seven whole years after their ordeals. The structure, pacing, and presentation of the first arc is simply bliss--the epitome of what how a great story should be told. The second arc on the other hand gets some mixed results. The initial watch through I was pumped for every consequent episode waiting for the next scene while in retrospect, the time jump disconnected me from the awesome cast, which I had developed a close connection with prior. Aside, Gurren Lagann has a unique story that demands your attention--and for good reason.
Characters
Kamina: Carefree and a little bit reckless at times, yet passionate about his beliefs, he provides the actively wild and high-octane pace of the show. Naturally charismatic, he becomes the leader of the Gurren Brigade commanding their rebellion against the Gunmen.
Simon: Forever supported by his mentor and lifelong friend Kamina, he slowly gains confidence in himself and his own abilities. Despite lacking confidence, his unwavering determination is a catalyst for those who surround him. 
Yoko: Abruptly dropping down into Kamina and Simon's village, she introduces them to the dangerous world of above. Blatant eye candy/fan service for the series, one will enjoy a plethora of boob and ass shots of her. Her character does develop a bit as the series goes along, but don't expect anything too deep. There are plenty of other minor characters that will be introduced as the plot moves along; only a few of them are worth mention whether it be their charismatic nature or they're just quirky enough to get a couple chuckles out of. Its main protagonists are probably the strongest in its genre, producing adrenaline-inducing rush whenever they make an appearance; it's minor characters leave a lot to be desired--one won't mind if they're not around.
Voice Acting/Sound
Originally exposed to the original Japanese voice actors, I will definitely give a nod to them first. From Katsuyuki Konishi's role as Kamina, oozing testosterone whenever he shouts his usual mantra, to the delicate musings of Yukari Fukui (Nia), it's a varied and impressive cast. I also managed to watch a few episodes of the English dub over Hulu and SyFy network and can attest that it's no slouch either; you can't go wrong with either. Much can be said about the musical score as well. Simply jaw-dropping, memorable tracks, setting the perfect tone for each scene. Scores are influenced with hints of jazz, rock, hip-hop, and sometimes heavy metal for those blood-curdling action sequences. An overwhelming use of brass and string instruments throughout produces a very powerful, orchestrated feel. I personally haven't heard such a striking and impressively varied soundtrack since Cowboy Bebop. No doubt this is one hell of a soundtrack.
Note: Looking for more Gurren Lagann goodness? Check out some music video releases called Gurren Lagann Parallel Works which feature alternative scenarios of Gurren Lagann to set to the more popular or distintive songs from the original soundtrack. Loved
Strong Plot: At times just plain absurd and over the top, one cannot discount the well-executed storytelling for the first half of the series. Not remotely serious as its spiritual predecessor Neon Genesis Evangelion, Gurren Lagann manages to still deliver a captivating plot initially drawing one in with striking visuals, and following up with strong character/plot development. I was pulled in from the very beginning, its unique story coupled with nonstop high-octane action will keep one drawn in to the very end.
Delicious Fanservice: Most anime nowadays are guilty of it, with some series containing 99.9% fanservice and .1% substance, Gurren Lagann delivers just the right amount to keep one satisfied. Yoko, the sole source of fan service, she's not just a pair jiggly boobs. Despite wearing a bathing suit for nearly the entire series, her character has a solid foundation behind it. I was rather put off when she was abruptly cast off for a good portion of the series as she had the most potential for character development. Hated
Episode 4: Although not instantly noticeable, the high-quality animation present in all the other episodes was conspicuously absent in this one. A little dodgy, with a different style, it looks unpolished compared to the rest of the series. There's a story behind the art direction, but don't let the one episode be a determining factor whether you'll like the series. Watch it once and be done with it. Gurren Lagann does so many things well, this is merely a minor blemish of the series. Rossiu: From the first time I saw his character, I instantly did not like him. He's an instant buzzkill on Kamina and Simon's unbound spirit. Although he provides some reality and practical insight to the plot, regardless, he's a real negative Nancy. Rossiu is essentially the antithesis of what Gurren Lagann stands for. Unfortunately his contrasting views provide the necessary base for the inspiring, fist-pumping, and heaven-breaking scenes thereafter--live with him.
The Lowdown: Regarding it as a spiritual successor to Gainax's Neon Genesis Evangelion, or as a work on its own, Gurren Lagann is certainly worth the all the praise it has received. Though technically categorized as a mecha anime, it appeals to non-mecha anime watchers as well as non-anime audiences in some cases. Overall, it delivers a simple yet powerful message everyone can apply to their own lives. Pierce the heavens...
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