Super Dimension Fortress Macross (Season 1)

"Super Dimension Fortress Macross" (1982) — watch online on iFILM — is the Japanese anime series that set the template for space-opera mecha for a generation. In 1999 a massive alien spacecraft crashes on a small Pacific island. Humanity spends ten years rebuilding it, names it Macross, and prepares a triumphant launch.

The launch goes badly wrong. A Zentradi battle fleet materialises in orbit — a warrior race of giants who recognise the ship as enemy technology from a war that predates human civilisation. When Macross fires its main cannon uninstructed, Earth is suddenly at war with an interstellar force it never knew existed. Running through all 36 episodes alongside the dogfights: a love triangle between pilot Hikaru Ichijyo, pop singer Lynn Minmay and combat officer Misa Hayase.

Produced by Tatsunoko Production and broadcast in 1982–83, Macross launched a franchise that's still releasing new entries. Stream every episode of "Super Dimension Fortress Macross" online on iFILM.