written: 09-22-1996
Spirit Of Wonder, brought to us both subbed and dubbed by Animeigo, is a very enjoyable story set during the turn of the century. The title character, Miss China, runs an restaurant/boarding house in which lives Dr. Brekenridge. The good doctor is a typical mad scientist type: hair in disarray, always working on weird inventions, and perpetually poor because he sinks all his money into his inventing. This also means he is perpetually late with the rent, which irks Miss China to no end. She probably would have kicked him out long ago if she weren't in love with Dr. Brekenridge's assistant, Jim.
This being Anime, Brekenridge really has invented something spectacular, but he can't get any investors interested. Jim hits on an idea to simultaneously publicize Brekenridge's invention and let Miss China know how he feels about her. The plan involves going to the moon, but not in anything resembling the way you'd think.
I highly recommend this one. It has drama as well as some action. The action coming from the fact that Miss China bears some resemblance to Street Fighter II's Chun-Li in temperament and martial arts ability, not so much in appearance. Perhaps she's one of Chun-Li's ancestors. If you like stories with Jules Verne-ish qualities then this one is for you. If you enjoyed Nadia then you'll probably enjoy Spirit Of Wonder.
Yours In Anime,
Jay The Obscure