Nanako SOS [Episodes 17-20,22-29,31-36]

Alright, let’s dive into the world of Nanako SOS—a hidden gem from the 80s that’s been flying under the radar for way too long. If you’re into retro anime with a mix of sci-fi, humor, and heart, this one’s for you. Let’s break down what makes episodes 17-20, 22-29, and 31-36 so special, based on what I’ve gathered from the anime’s background and the few fan discussions floating around.

First off, Nanako SOS is a 1983 anime series produced by Kokusai Eiga-sha, based on Hideo Azuma’s seinen manga. The story follows Nanako, a young girl who suddenly gains supernatural powers after losing her memory. Enter Marlow, a genius scientist who witnesses her power surge and becomes her unlikely ally. Together, they tackle dangerous missions and unravel the mysteries behind her amnesia and abilities. Think of it as a blend of Sailor Moon (minus the transformation sequences) and E.T., but with more slapstick comedy and 80s anime charm.

Now, let’s talk about the specific episodes in question. From what I can piece together, these episodes mark a turning point in the series. Nanako’s powers start to evolve—she goes from accidentally levitating objects to controlling elements like fire and water (though she still messes up sometimes, which is hilarious). Marlow, ever the scientist, is both fascinated and stressed by her progress, often muttering, “Why can’t she just use a notebook like a normal kid?!”

One standout arc is in episodes 22-25, where Nanako and Marlow investigate a series of “ghost” sightings at an old school. Spoiler: It’s not ghosts—it’s a group of kids using Nanako’s leftover power orbs to prank people. The twist? The kids are actually Marlow’s former students, who he’d accidentally abandoned during a lab experiment gone wrong. The emotional depth here is surprising—Nanako learns about responsibility, and Marlow confronts his past mistakes. Fans on forums (yes, even in 2024, there are die-hard fans!) rave about this arc, calling it “the moment the show stops being just silly and becomes meaningful.”

Another highlight is episode 31, where Nanako’s powers glitch out, causing her to switch bodies with Marlow. Imagine a 10-year-old in a 40-year-old scientist’s body trying to navigate a high-stakes meeting with government officials, while Marlow (trapped in Nanako’s body) struggles to tie his shoes. The comedy is gold—Nanako uses Marlow’s lab equipment to make giant ice cream sundaes, and Marlow accidentally uses his newfound “kid strength” to break a vending machine. Fans say this episode is “pure chaos” and “the funniest 20 minutes of 80s anime.”

But it’s not all laughs. Episodes 27-29 deal with Nanako’s growing fear of her powers. After she accidentally destroys a local park, she runs away, convinced she’s a danger to everyone. Marlow, in a rare moment of vulnerability, tracks her down and tells her, “Your powers aren’t a curse—they’re a part of you. And I’ll help you control them, no matter what.” Cue the waterworks. Fans love how the show balances humor with genuine heart, making Nanako’s journey feel relatable even with all the sci-fi fluff.

Visually, Nanako SOS is a product of its time—think bright, bold colors, exaggerated facial expressions, and that classic 80s anime “sparkle” effect whenever something magical happens. The animation quality isn’t top-tier by today’s standards, but that’s part of its charm. The soundtrack, composed by someone whose name I can’t find (sorry, retro anime deep cuts!), is catchy as hell—there’s a theme song that will get stuck in your head for days, trust me.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Nanako SOS is pretty obscure. Most streaming services don’t have it, and even finding fan subs is a challenge. But that’s part of the appeal! It’s like discovering a hidden treasure in your grandma’s attic. Fans who’ve seen it often describe it as “a love letter to 80s anime tropes” and “the kind of show you’d watch after school with your friends, eating Pocky and laughing until your sides hurt.”

Critics (back in the day) were mixed—some called it “too silly for adults” and “lacking in plot,” but others praised its “endearing characters” and “surprisingly deep themes.” Today, it’s gained a cult following, with fans organizing virtual watch parties and creating fan art that’s equal parts cute and chaotic. One fan even made a Nanako plushie that glows in the dark—because why not?

In conclusion, Nanako SOS episodes 17-20, 22-29, and 31-36 are a perfect snapshot of what made 80s anime so special: heart, humor, and a willingness to be unapologetically weird. If you’re tired of modern anime’s over-the-top action and convoluted plots, give this a try. It’s not perfect—some episodes drag, and the pacing can be off—but it’s pure, unadulterated fun. As one fan put it, “Nanako SOS isn’t just an anime—it’s a mood. And that mood is ‘let’s eat snacks, laugh at silly jokes, and believe in magic.’”

So, grab your favorite 80s-themed snack, dim the lights, and let Nanako and Marlow take you on a wild ride. You won’t regret it—unless you hate fun, in which case, why are you even reading this?

P.S. If you do find a way to watch it, hit me up. I need more people to gush about Marlow’s terrible fashion sense with. 😂