The 90s Sci-Fi Comedy Anime Space Opera Perfect for Star Trek Fans
Now that Star Trek: Discovery is nearing its final episode, it’s high time to find a new sci-fi series with a space opera setting while we wait for Brave New Worlds Season 3 to finally air. And in spite of the most recent news in which AI models are now being trained to make new anime—as if nothing is sacred anymore—what better opportunity than to watch some ’90s anime that just so happens to play out in space? It’s killing two birds with one stone. Allow us to introduce you to The Irresponsible Captain Tylor.
The Most Irresponsible Man In Space
The Irresponsible Captain Tylor is a 1993 anime series that’s currently streaming on Crunchyroll. It’s based on The Most Irresponsible Man in Space light novel series and takes its title from the series’ first volume.
It has a rather interesting plot that’s perfectly described by its title, as it revolves around a mysterious young man, Tylor, who has no real purpose in life, has a state of mind that’s very hard to determine, and a talent for nonchalantly getting himself out of dangerous or near-death situations, often with a childishly cavalier attitude. In fact, he often doesn’t even realize he’s in danger.
A Universe Similar To Star Trek’s In Scope
The space opera setting of The Irresponsible Captain Tylor contains a vast universe with a number of different alien species and space-faring adventure, and despite a massive number of ships, space battles, and exploration, the show often explores themes of peace, diplomacy, and understanding between different alien cultures.
But it does so in a much more comedic and haphazard way, which makes the whole anime hilarious.
An Idiot Or A Genius?
That’s not to say that the series doesn’t have its moments of seriousness. The Irresponsible Captain Tylor does touch on some deeper philosophical and moral questions—just like Star Trek—especially since the main character somehow finds himself in situations in which everyone wants him dead, but everyone benefits from his shenanigans.
In fact, “I can’t decide if he’s an idiot or a genius” is a recurring line throughout the series, and it refers to the eponymous character.
The Original Release
The anime was released as a 26-episode TV series initially broadcast by TV Tokyo, running from 1993, followed by an additional 10-episode OVA series that ran between 1994 and 1996 and reached the US in the subsequent year.
The Irresponsible Captain Tylor received positive reviews and enjoyed a good deal of success, mainly thanks to its unique blend of humor delivered by an unconventional protagonist. It also received plenty of praise from the critics, who praised the clever writing of the show and its balance between comedy and seriousness.
Stream It Now
Ultimately, while it may not have reached the levels of mainstream success as some of its contemporaries, it garnered a dedicated fanbase and a cult following of fans who have learned to appreciate its quirky humor and distinct take on the genre.
Since then, it has been released on VHS tape and standalone DVD collections, as well as streaming. Those interested in watching The Irresponsible Captain Tylor can catch the episodes at Crunchyroll.
