Editing Last Exile

{{Short description|Japanese anime television series}}
{{Good article}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=June 2012}}
{{Infobox animanga/Header
| name = Last Exile
| image = <noinclude>LastExile DVD vol1 cover.jpg</noinclude>
| alt = A red-haired girl holding a canteen and a boy in a pilot suit looking up at her
| caption = Cover art of the Japanese volume 1 compilation [[DVD]] for ''Last Exile'', featuring main characters Lavie Head and Claus Valca
| genre = {{ubl|[[Adventure (genre)|Adventure]]<ref name="funimationadssLE"/> |[[Fantasy]]<ref name="funimationadssLE"/> |[[Steampunk]]<ref name="azn"/>}}<!-- Keep the three most relevant, sourceable genres per [[WP:MOS:A&M]]. -->
| creator = [[Gonzo (company)|Gonzo]]
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Video
| type = tv series
| director = [[Koichi Chigira]]
| producer = {{ubl|Hiroyuki Birukawa|Naoshi Imamoto}}
| writer = {{ubl|Koichi Chigira|Gonzo}}
| music = Hitomi Kuroishi
| studio = Gonzo
| licensee = [[Crunchyroll]]
| network = [[TV Tokyo]]
| network_en = {{English anime network|CA=[[G4 (Canadian TV channel)|G4techTV]] ([[Anime Current]])|US=[[TechTV]]/[[G4techTV]], [[AZN Television]]|ZA=[[Animax]]}}
| first = April 8, 2003
| last = September 30, 2003
| episodes = 26
| episode_list = List of Last Exile episodes#Last Exile (2003)
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Print
| type = manga
| title = Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing
| author = Gonzo
| illustrator = Robo Miyamoto
| publisher = [[Kadokawa Shoten]]
| demographic = ''[[Seinen manga|Seinen]]''
| magazine = [[Young Ace]]
| first = July 4, 2011
| last = October 4, 2012
| volumes = 3
| volume_list = 
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Print
| type = manga
| title = Last Exile: Travelers from the Hourglass
| author = Gonzo
| illustrator = Minoru Murao
| publisher = [[Kadokawa Shoten|Kadokawa]]
| demographic = ''[[Shōnen manga|Shōnen]]''
| magazine = Newtype Ace
| first = September 10, 2011
| last = June 10, 2012
| volumes = 2
| volume_list = 
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Video
| type = tv series
| title = Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing
| director = {{ubl|Yukio Takahashi {{small|{{abbr|(Chief)|Chief director}}}}|Koichi Chigira}}
| producer = {{ubl|Hiroyuki Birukawa|Tadashi Hoshino|Masami Abe}}
| writer = Kiyoko Yoshimura
| music = Hitomi Kuroishi
| studio = Gonzo
| licensee = [[Crunchyroll]]
| network = [[Chubu-Nippon Broadcasting|CBC]]
| network_en      = {{English anime network
| SEA = [[Animax|Animax Asia]]}}
| first = October 15, 2011
| last = March 24, 2012
| episodes = 21
| episode_list = List of Last Exile episodes#Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing (2011)
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Video
| type = film
| title = Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing: Over the Wishes
| director = Yukio Takahashi
| producer = 
| writer = Shūichi Kōyama
| music = Hitomi Kuroishi
| studio = Gonzo
| licensee = 
| released = February 6, 2016
| runtime = 120 minutes
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Footer|portal=yes}}

{{Nihongo|'''''Last Exile'''''|ラストエグザイル|Rasuto Eguzairu}} is a Japanese [[anime]] television series created by [[Gonzo (company)|Gonzo]]. It featured a production team led by director [[Koichi Chigira]], character designer [[Range Murata]], and production designer [[Mahiro Maeda]]. The three had previously worked together in ''[[Blue Submarine No. 6]]'', one of the first [[Computer graphics|CG]] anime series. It aired on [[TV Tokyo]] from April to September 2003. A sequel series, {{Nihongo|'''''Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing'''''|ラストエグザイル～銀翼のファム～|Rasuto Eguzairu Gin'yoku no Famu}}, aired from October 2011 to March 2012. A film adaptation of the series, '''''Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing: Over the Wishes''''', was released in February 2016.

The story is set on the fictional world of Prester, where its inhabitants use [[Aircraft|aerial vehicles]] known as vanships as a means of transportation. On this world, which is divided in eternal conflict between the nations of Anatoray and Disith, sky [[courier]]s Claus Valca and Lavie Head must deliver a girl who holds the key to uniting the two factions. Although Prester itself is not a representation of Earth, it features technology reminiscent of nineteenth century Europe at the dawn of the [[Industrial Revolution]]. Many of its designs were also inspired by Germany's technological advances during the [[interwar period]].

The series was licensed in North America by [[NBCUniversal Entertainment Japan|Geneon Entertainment]] in June 2003, two months after the first episode aired in Japan. [[Funimation]] began licensing the series after Geneon ceased production of its titles, later licensing the sequel series. It was also licensed for English releases in the United Kingdom, originally by [[A.D. Vision#ADV Films|ADV Films]] until its closure in 2009, and is now licensed by [[Crunchyroll UK and Ireland|Manga Entertainment]], and in Australia by [[Crunchyroll Store Australia|Madman Entertainment]]. Other published media included two soundtracks, two manga, and artbooks.

''Last Exile'' has received widespread critical acclaim and is considered to be one of Gonzo's best works. It has been praised for its narrative, visuals, themes, soundtrack and production values.

==Setting==
''Last Exile'' is set on the fictional world of Prester.<ref name="Official story">{{cite web | url = http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/story/index.html | title = Story | publisher = [[JVC]] | language = ja | access-date = May 14, 2008 | archive-date = June 20, 2010 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100620133721/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/story/index.html | url-status = live }}</ref>{{efn|Although not mentioned during the series, the name "Prester" was published in additional materials released by Gonzo and its subsequent licensors Geneon Entertainment and Funimation Entertainment.{{cn|date=January 2024}} }} Prester's two nations of Anatoray and Disith are separated by a turbulent region of the sky known as the Grand Stream and are engaged in conflict according to the code of [[Chivalry|chivalric warfare]]. A superior faction known as the Guild enforces these rules. It also provides the two nations with technology but, unknown to them, has dishonorable intentions, to preserve the status quo and enforce its dominance of both sides. Although the story is set in the future, the technology employed differs from that in a typical [[space opera]].<ref name="NYT">{{cite news | last = Gustines | first = George Gene | title = An Anime Marathon, and It's Not Just for Adults | url = https://www.nytimes.com/2004/03/14/tv/for-young-viewers-an-anime-marathon-and-it-s-not-just-for-adults.html | work = [[The New York Times]] | date = March 14, 2004 | access-date = August 1, 2009 | archive-date = September 1, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125408/https://www.nytimes.com/2004/03/14/tv/for-young-viewers-an-anime-marathon-and-it-s-not-just-for-adults.html | url-status = live }}</ref> Instead, the show's [[Retro-futurism|retro-futuristic]] setting resembles nineteenth-century Europe at the height of the [[Industrial Revolution]]. Inhabitants of Prester operate aerial vehicles known as vanships in the world's Golden Age of Aviation; although the technology is primitive, the aerial vehicles use a form of [[antigravity]] (developed by the Guild) and lighter-than-air methods of flight rather than the use of [[wing]]s.<ref name="Star-Bulletin">{{cite news |last=Yadao |first=Jason |date=January 25, 2009 |title=Mysteries multiply in 'Last Exile' anime |work=[[Honolulu Star-Bulletin]] |url=http://archives.starbulletin.com/content/20090125_mysteries_multiply_in_last_exile_anime |url-status=dead |access-date=August 1, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140715000906/http://archives.starbulletin.com/content/20090125_mysteries_multiply_in_last_exile_anime |archive-date=July 15, 2014}}</ref>

[[File:Vanship concept in Last Exile.jpg|thumb|left|alt=Drawings of a wingless aircraft with lateral and dorsal views as well as ornament and engine details|Designs of the vanship, a type of aerial vehicle, were based on Germany's [[Junkers A 35]] monoplane produced in the 1920s.<ref name="Cycnos">{{cite journal|last=Paquet |first=Olivier |title=A-chronies japonaises: l'histoire comme ''ikebana'' dans les séries de science-fiction (l'exemple de ''Last Exile'') |trans-title=Japanese anachronism: history as ''ikebana'' in science fiction series (the example of ''Last Exile'') |url=http://revel.unice.fr/cycnos/document.html?id=596 |journal=Cycnos |volume=22 |issue=1 |publisher=[[University of Nice Sophia Antipolis]] |date=December 2005 |language=fr |access-date=August 1, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090718095352/http://revel.unice.fr/cycnos/document.html?id=596 |archive-date=July 18, 2009 }}</ref>]]

Various scenes in the series also show existing tension between the upper and lower classes.<ref name="NYT"/> Anatoray's nobility and military officers generally believe that commoners do not understand their codes of chivalry. On the other hand, the lower class also despise the aristocracy for their monopoly on resources.{{efn|Mad-thane Chief of Staff: "No child or commoner could understand the ways of chivalry, and especially not vanship pilots!" [[List of Last Exile characters#Claus Valca|Claus Valca]]: "That's not true! We understand!" [[List of Last Exile characters#Lavie Head|Lavie Head]]: "Have you ever had a day where you couldn't sleep because you were too hungry? As far as I'm concerned, chivalry can kiss my ass!"<ref> {{cite episode | title = Luft Vanship | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep02 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = April 14, 2003 | number = 2}}</ref>}} This tension extends to the accessibility of clean water, which varies in price according to purity grades.{{efn|{{Nihongo|First Water|一番水|Iciban Mizu}} is a high-quality drink sold at [[List of Last Exile characters#Walker|Walker]]'s floating repair station, the ''Casino Royale'', for 80 Claudia. Upon learning of the price, [[List of Last Exile characters#Lavie Head|Lavie Head]], who comes from the rural town of Norkia, reacts with astonishment.<ref> {{cite web | url = http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/entry/words_8.html | title = Words 第8話 | trans-title = Episode 8 Words | publisher = [[JVC]] | language = ja | access-date = August 3, 2009 | archive-date = August 4, 2012 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120804063700/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/entry/words_8.html | url-status = live }}</ref> {{Nihongo|Third Water|3番水|Sanban Mizu}} is the highest grade of drinking water available at the rural mining town of Norkia and is taken directly from [[groundwater]].<ref> {{cite web | url = http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/entry/words_14.html | title = Words 第14話 | trans-title = Episode 14 Words | publisher = [[JVC]] | language = ja | access-date = August 3, 2009 | archive-date = September 1, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125409/https://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/flyingdog/-/Discographylist2/Z0785.html | url-status = live }}</ref>}} In the larger story, the advanced Guild society is portrayed as degenerate and lazy, while the people of Anatoray and Disith are creative and industrious.

The series introduces viewers to a wide range of naval and military vocabulary.<ref name="Detroit News">{{cite news | last = Henrickson | first = Eric | title = 'Last Exile' provides eye candy that's sweet | work = [[The Detroit News]] | page = 6E | date = November 4, 2003}}</ref>{{efn|A [[glossary]] defining unfamiliar terms and technology [http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/entry/mb_words_index.html is provided] ({{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081231201333/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/entry/mb_words_index.html |date=December 31, 2008 }}) on the Japanese-language website published by [[JVC]]. The English-language version of this glossary was made available on Geneon Entertainment's former Flash-based website under the "Story" section in the menu. }} More primitive navigational methods such as [[dead reckoning]] and instruments such as the [[sextant]] are also used in the series.{{efn|[[List of Last Exile characters#Alister Agrew|Alister Agrew]]: ''(Peering through a sextant)'' "The stars are becoming unreliable. You can't get a correct bearing even if you look at the stars."<ref> {{cite episode | title = Develop | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep11 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = June 16, 2003 | number = 11}}</ref> }}

==Plot==
{{See|List of Last Exile characters{{!}}List of ''Last Exile'' characters}}
===''Last Exile''===
The story revolves around fifteen-year-old pilot [[List of Last Exile characters#Claus Valca|Claus Valca]] and navigator [[List of Last Exile characters#Lavie Head|Lavie Head]], who fly their vanship as sky [[courier]]s in the nation of Anatoray. Although they usually take up missions of relatively low difficulty, they are one day asked to complete the mission of a dying courier. The mission, rated seven stars out of ten, is to deliver a young girl named [[List of Last Exile characters#Alvis E. Hamilton|Alvis Hamilton]] to the mysterious battleship ''Silvana''.<ref>{{cite episode | title = Transpose | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep3 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = April 21, 2003 | number = 3}}</ref> Despite their fears, Claus and Lavie deliver Alvis to the battleship but decide to remain aboard to keep her safe.<ref>{{cite episode | title = Positional play | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep5 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = May 5, 2003 | number = 5}}</ref> Claus and Lavie are initially treated as intruders but eventually befriend the crew of the ''Silvana''. They learn that the Guild intends to capture Alvis for reasons unknown to them. In the first battle between the ''Silvana'' and Guild forces, Guild member [[List of Last Exile characters#Dio Eraclea|Dio Eraclea]] takes an interest in Claus's flying skills and his signature move, the [[Immelmann turn]].<ref>{{cite episode | title = Interesting Claus | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep7 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = May 19, 2003 | number = 7}}</ref> Wanting to learn more about Claus, Dio willingly allows himself to be captured. He reveals to the ''Silvana's'' captain, [[List of Last Exile characters#Alexander Row|Alex Row]], the existence of one of four Mysteria which act as a key to something known as ''Exile''.<ref>{{cite episode | title = Develop | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep11 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = June 16, 2003 | number = 11}}</ref>

When the ''Silvana''{{'}}s executive officer, [[List of Last Exile characters#Sophia Forrester|Sophia Forrester]], is revealed to be the Emperor's daughter and heir, she returns to Anatoray at the request of the prime minister. Sophia assumes the throne after the Emperor is killed during a surprise attack at the capital by the Disith nation and pleads for an alliance with Disith in order to capture ''Exile'' and end the Guild's control.<ref>{{cite episode | title = Promotion Sophia | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep18 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = August 4, 2003 | number = 16}}</ref> Sophia reveals to Claus that Alvis is linked to the Mysteria,<ref>{{cite episode | title = Sicilian Defence | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep19 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = August 11, 2003 | number = 19}}</ref> but as preparations for the assault are made, Alvis is captured by the Guild.<ref>{{cite episode | title = Rook Dio | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep21 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = August 25, 2003 | number = 21}}</ref>

[[List of Last Exile characters#Delphine Eraclea|Delphine Eraclea]], the Maestro of the Guild, reveals that ''Exile'' is a [[Generation ship|colony ship]] used by those who first settled their world, and she intends to use Alvis and the Mysteria to take control of it.<ref>{{cite episode | title = Queen Delphine | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep22 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = September 1, 2003 | number = 22}}</ref> However, Claus and Alvis escape the Guild stronghold and are reunited with Lavie when the alliance fleet attacks.<ref>{{cite episode | title = Quiet move | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep25 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = September 22, 2003 | number = 25}}</ref> As the fleet follows ''Exile'' past the Grand Stream and enters Disith, it is able to destroy Delphine's forces. After Claus and Alvis recite the four Mysteria, ''Exile'' reveals itself as a starship that will carry people back to their old home world.<ref>{{cite episode | title = Resign | episode-link = List of Last Exile episodes#ep26 | series = Last Exile | network = [[TV Tokyo]] | airdate = September 29, 2003 | number = 26}}</ref>

===''Last Exile: Travelers from the Hourglass''===
A manga set right after the events of ''Last Exile'' and before ''Fam, the Silver Wing'', ''Travelers from the Hourglass'' continues the story of Claus, Lavie, Alvis, and the others who left Prester and settled on Earth, their ancestors' home world. As they get used to their new home, Al is pursued by the Earth Guild.

===''Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing''===
Taking place two years after the events of ''Last Exile'', ''Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing'' is set on Earth, the original home world of the colonists of Prester. The new story focuses on Fam Fan Fan and Giselle Collette, two vespa vanship pilots who work as [[Air pirate|Sky Pirates]], capturing and selling battleships for a living. Fam and Giselle get into an adventure when they and the Sky Pirates rescue Liliana il Grazioso Merlo Turan and her younger sister, Millia Il Velch Cutrettola Turan, Princesses of the Turan Kingdom, from the clutches of the mighty Ades Federation. The Federation, led by Empress Sārā Augusta and Premier Luscinia Hāfez, is on an all out war against nations who descended from immigrants who came back to Earth by Exile ships.

As Ades was the only nation to stay on Earth when it was in a state of chaos and ruin, Luscinia believes that the Exile immigrants have no right to return to Earth since their ancestors abandoned Earth when it was in chaos only to return when Earth was viable to live on again and force the original inhabitants of Earth off their lands to form their own nations. To return these lands to their original inhabitants, Luscinia leads the Ades Federation to conquer the immigrant nations and destroy their armies, with Turan being one of them. After Luscinia kidnaps Liliana, who has the ability to control an Exile, Luscinia summons an Exile to destroy Iglasia, the capital of Turan, killing its soldiers and the King of Turan, leading to the surrender of Turan to Ades. With everything she cared for lost, Millia is given refuge by the Sky Pirates, where Fam promises to help Millia regain her kingdom.

==Production==
''Last Exile'' was created by [[Gonzo (company)|Gonzo]] in celebration of the company's 10th anniversary.<ref name="LicenseAnnounce">{{cite news |last=Macdonald |first=Christopher |date=June 1, 2006 |title=A-Kon News |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2003-06-01/a-kon |access-date=May 14, 2008 |archive-date=September 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125407/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2003-06-01/a-kon |url-status=live }}</ref> It featured a production team led by director [[Koichi Chigira]], character designer [[Range Murata]], and production designer [[Mahiro Maeda]]. The three had previously worked together to create ''[[Blue Submarine No. 6]]'', one of the first [[Computer graphics|CG]] anime series.<ref name="Anime Fringe">{{cite journal | last = Arnold | first = Adam | title = Last Exile: A Time for War | url = http://www.animefringe.com/magazine/2004/01/feature/01.php | journal = Anime Fringe | date = January 2004 | volume = 5 | issue = 1 | page = 2 | access-date = August 3, 2009 | archive-date = September 1, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125408/http://www.animefringe.com/magazine/2004/01/feature/01.php | url-status = live }}</ref>

===Art design===
[[File:Last Exile art chessboard.jpg|thumb|Complex [[chessboard]] design by Makoto Kobayashi. All episode titles utilize terminology from chess, and the game appears throughout the series.<ref group="Note">See the [[List of Last Exile episodes|list of ''Last Exile'' episodes]] for details on specific chess terms that are used.</ref>]]
Conceptual designs were created by [[Range Murata]], who was given complete freedom to create the setting. He began drawing detailed [[Sketch (drawing)|sketches]] of machines and everyday objects from a daily newspaper. His research was given no constraints with the exception of production deadlines.<ref name="Cycnos"/> Gonzo initially intended for ''Last Exile'' to be shown in a space setting, but producers did not want the characters to wear sterile [[space suit]]s. Murata believed the design took "the course the story had laid out".<ref name="ANN Murata">{{cite news | last = Mays | first = Jonathan | title = Interview: Range Murata | url = https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/feature/2005-02-28 | publisher = [[Anime News Network]] | date = February 28, 2005 | access-date = August 4, 2009 | archive-date = September 1, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125408/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/feature/2005-02-28 | url-status = live }}</ref> His character conceptualization included a great amount of time spent on [[costume design]]. Wanting to portray each character's personality more fully, he "tried to draw in the kind of material that would have been used in creating their clothes and try to represent the stitches connecting the fabric." In contrast to crewmembers of the battleship ''Silvana'' who wear modern and utilitarian uniforms, other characters wear traditionally aristocratic attire.<ref name="Cosplay Murata">{{cite web | title = An interview with Range Murata | url = http://www.cosplaylab.com/articulation/rangemurata/ | publisher = Cosplay Lab | access-date = August 4, 2009 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090817234611/http://www.cosplaylab.com/articulation/rangemurata/ | archive-date = August 17, 2009 | df = mdy-all }}</ref> High amount of attention was given to character animation. Animators especially experienced difficulties with [[List of Last Exile characters#Alexander Row|Alex Row]]'s hair and flowing cape.<ref name="J LHLS">{{cite web | last = Mayerson | first = Ginger | title = An interview with Range Murata | url = http://liheliso.com/buzz/archive/00000401.htm | work = The Journal of the Lincoln Heights Literary Society: Miscellanea and Ephemeron | publisher = [[Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles, California|Lincoln Heights]] Literary Society | date = July 4, 2005 | access-date = August 6, 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160303181508/http://liheliso.com/buzz/archive/00000401.htm | archive-date = March 3, 2016 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

Production of ''Last Exile'' relied heavily on [[3D computer graphics|3D]] [[computer animation]]. Of the 350 shots used in the first episode, more than 200 included computer-generated animation. In comparison, Gonzo's previous work, ''[[Vandread]]'', used an average of 40 to 50 computer-generated shots per episode.<ref name="Newtype">{{cite magazine| title = Into the borderless skies... | url = http://scans.hisdivineshadow.net/newtype/aug03/ntusa.aug03.le.jpg | journal = [[Newtype USA]] | date = August 2003 | pages = 30–31 | access-date = August 1, 2009 | archive-date = July 23, 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110723143615/http://scans.hisdivineshadow.net/newtype/aug03/ntusa.aug03.le.jpg | url-status = live }}</ref> Animation was also supplemented with [[Victorian era]] flourishes.<ref name="Detroit News"/> In order to combine hand-drawn animation with computer-generated ones, the production team used a technique for [[non-photorealistic rendering]], which could not be used for ''Blue Submarine No. 6'' because of a stylistic conflict.<ref name="ANN Murata"/> At the 2003 [[Anime Expo]], Maeda, who also worked with [[Studio Ghibli]]'s production of ''[[Castle in the Sky]]'', commented that "[''Last Exile''] is very advanced in how it will incorporate the two mediums".<ref name="Video Store">{{cite magazine | last = Wolf | first = Jessica | title = Director Maeda Blends Mediums in 'Last Exile' | magazine = Video Store | date = July 13, 2003 | volume = 25 | issue = 29 | page = 28}}</ref>

===Historical references===
Real-world historical designs were also adapted for the fictional world. Flying battleships of the Anatoray and Disith nations included components of Japanese [[dreadnought]]s in commission at the turn of the twentieth century. Uniform designs for Anatoray's [[musketeer]]s were based on [[Napoleon I of France|Napoleon Bonaparte]]'s army and [[American Civil War]] soldiers. On the other hand, [[Red Army|Soviet Red Army]] fur coats provided the basis for Disith uniforms. Another inspiration for creators came from a [[silent film]] of the airship ''[[LZ 129 Hindenburg|Hindenburg]]'', which depicted the aircraft's [[Unidentified flying object|UFO]]-like silver-plated design in contrast to the traditional buildings below. This imagery was reproduced in the series.<ref name="Cycnos"/>

Producers selected a specific historical time frame to serve as a point of reference.
{{Quote|We had this image of Germany at the beginning of the twentieth century. We thought that Germany of the [[interwar period]] had very interesting characteristics. People think of something of dark and negative because of the rise of the [[Nazism]]. But so much of things appeared at that time, like a rapid growth of the cities and richness. Industrial technology, chemistry, scientific discoveries, much of inventions also in the design. [[Bauhaus]] appears there, for example. [...] I think that all that Germany produced at that time was extreme and unique.|Mahiro Maeda|interview in Geneon Entertainment's volume 1 compilation DVD of ''Last Exile''<ref name="Cycnos"/>}}

Several characters were also named after historical figures. The name of Claus Valca's father was derived from [[Hamilcar Barca]], the leading commander of [[Carthage|Carthaginian]] forces during the [[First Punic War]] and father of the talented tactician [[Hannibal]].<ref>{{Nihongo|Hamilcar Valca|ハミルカル・ヴァルカ|Hamirukaru Varuka}}. {{cite web | title = Words 第13話 | trans-title = Episode 13 Words | url = http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/entry/words_13.html | publisher = [[JVC]] | language = ja | access-date = August 5, 2009 | archive-date = August 4, 2012 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120804041603/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/entry/words_13.html | url-status = live }}</ref> An Anatoray general was named after [[Vitellius]], who led the [[Roman Empire]] for several months during the [[Year of the Four Emperors]].<ref>{{Nihongo|Vitellius|ヴィテリウス|Viteriusu}}. {{cite web | title = Words 第16話 | trans-title = Episode 16 Words | url = http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/entry/words_16.html | publisher = [[JVC]] | language = ja | access-date = August 5, 2009 | archive-date = August 2, 2012 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120802215834/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/entry/words_16.html | url-status = live }}</ref>

==Media==
===Anime===
{{See also|List of Last Exile episodes{{!}}List of ''Last Exile'' episodes}}
''Last Exile'' premiered in Japan on April 8, 2003, and aired on [[TV Tokyo]] until the airing of its final episode on September 30.<ref name="Official story"/> A total of 13 [[DVD]] compilations were released by [[JVCKenwood Victor Entertainment|Victor Entertainment]] from July 23, 2003 to July 21, 2004. A complete seven-disc boxed set was released on November 21, 2004. The deluxe edition of this set included a model of Tatiana's and Alister's red vanship, a short story on the fictional Battle of Otranto;<ref group="Note">In episode 11, "[[List of Last Exile episodes#ep11|Develop]]", Vincent Alzey reveals that he and Alex Row once served together in the Anatoray military during the Battle of Otranto.</ref> unpublished articles on the series, and illustrations by character designer Range Murata.<ref name="Victor">{{cite web | title = DVD & Video | url = http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/dvd/index.html | publisher = [[JVC]] | language = ja | access-date = August 3, 2009 | archive-date = August 22, 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090822012511/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/dvd/index.html | url-status = live }}</ref>

Pioneer Entertainment (later [[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) licensed the series in June 2003, two months after the first episode aired in Japan;<ref name="Star-Bulletin"/> and the first compilation DVD was released on November 18.<ref>{{cite web|title=Last Exile, Vol. 1: First Move |url=http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=013023212497 |publisher=[[Borders (retailer)|Borders]] |access-date=August 5, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721114732/http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=013023212497 |archive-date=July 21, 2011 }}</ref> [[TechTV]] premiered the series in English during its [[Anime Unleashed]] programming block on March 8, 2004. The first thirteen episodes aired nightly until March 14;<ref>{{cite news |last=Macdonald |first=Christopher |date=January 29, 2004 |title=Tech TV Updates on Last Exile |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2004-01-29/tech-tv-updates-on-last-exile |access-date=May 14, 2008 |archive-date=March 31, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080331095422/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2004-01-29/tech-tv-updates-on-last-exile |url-status=live }}</ref> and remaining episodes premiered on December 6 after channel was merged into [[G4techTV]], with new episodes airing each weeknight until the series concluded on December 22. All 26 episodes were also aired in a marathon broadcast on Christmas Day.<ref>{{cite news |last=Macdonald |first=Christopher |date=November 18, 2004 |title=Last Exile 14–26 on Anime Unleashed |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2004-11-18/last-exile-14-26-on-anime-unleashed |access-date=May 14, 2008 |archive-date=September 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125408/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2004-11-18/last-exile-14-26-on-anime-unleashed |url-status=live }}</ref> [[AZN Television]] and [[G4techTV Canada]] also broadcast the series in 2007.<ref name="azn">{{cite news |last=Loo |first=Egan |date=June 16, 2007 |title=''Last Exile'' to Start Airing on AZN Television June 25 |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2007-06-16/last-exile-to-start-airing-on-azn-television-june-25 |access-date=November 13, 2009 |archive-date=September 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125408/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2007-06-16/last-exile-to-start-airing-on-azn-television-june-25 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | title = G4 Canada continues exclusive anime programming with six new concurrent series | url = http://www.g4techtv.ca/aboutus/press/p_20070625_release.shtml | publisher = [[G4 Canada]] | date = June 25, 2007 | access-date = November 13, 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110519022441/http://www.g4techtv.ca/aboutus/press/p_20070625_release.shtml | archive-date = May 19, 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> After Geneon ceased distribution of its licensed titles in North America, rights to the series were transferred to [[Funimation]];<ref name="Star-Bulletin"/> and a four-disc boxed set was released on May 5, 2009;<ref>{{cite web|title=Last Exile: The Complete Series |url=http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=704400090011 |publisher=[[Borders (retailer)|Borders]] |access-date=August 5, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090423215108/http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=704400090011 |archive-date=April 23, 2009 }}</ref> and again on June 14, 2011, under the "Anime Classics" line.

[[A.D. Vision#ADV Films|ADV Films]] originally owned the license for the series' English release in the United Kingdom until its parent company's shutdown in 2009. It was then relicensed by [[Crunchyroll UK and Ireland|Manga Entertainment]],<ref>{{cite news|title=ADV Films UK Press Releases for February 2005 |url=http://www.mania.com/adv-films-uk-press-releases-for-february-2005_article_84769.html |publisher=Mania |date=January 7, 2005 |access-date=August 5, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090328182317/http://www.mania.com/adv-films-uk-press-releases-for-february-2005_article_84769.html |archive-date=March 28, 2009 }}</ref> while distribution rights in Australia and New Zealand are owned by [[Crunchyroll Store Australia|Madman Entertainment]].<ref>{{cite web | title = Last Exile Collection (Fatpack) | url = http://www.madman.com.au/actions/catalogue.do?releaseId=4657&method=view | publisher = [[Madman Entertainment]] | access-date = August 3, 2009 | archive-date = September 26, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120926020553/http://www.madman.com.au/actions/catalogue.do?releaseId=4657&method=view | url-status = live }}</ref> ''Last Exile'' is also licensed for regional language release in France;<ref>{{cite web | title = Last Exile | url = http://www.declic-images.com/declic/index.php?script=catalogue&id_serie=637 | publisher = [[Déclic-Images]] | language = fr | access-date = August 5, 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110709010035/http://www.declic-images.com/declic/index.php?script=catalogue&id_serie=637 | archive-date = July 9, 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Germany;<ref name="AnT">{{cite journal | last = Schubert | first = Karsten | title = Last Exile – Schlachtschiffe im Wolkenmeer | trans-title = Last Exile – Battleships in the Sea of Clouds | url = http://www.tomodachi.de/html/reviews/anime/f37_last_exile.html | journal = Funime | issue = 37 | date = April 2004 | page = 29 | language = de | access-date = August 5, 2009 | archive-date = May 1, 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080501035248/http://www.tomodachi.de/html/reviews/anime/f37_last_exile.html | url-status = live }}</ref> Sweden;<ref>{{cite web | title = Last Exile | url = http://www.tv4.se/1.585742/last_exile | language = sv | publisher = [[TV4 Science fiction]] | access-date = August 5, 2009 | archive-date = December 5, 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081205221041/http://www.tv4.se/1.585742/last_exile | url-status = live }}</ref> Russia;<ref>{{cite web | script-title = ru:Аниме | trans-title = Anime | url = http://www.mc-ent.ru/anime9.html | publisher = [[MC Entertainment]] | language = ru | access-date = November 13, 2009 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081221101600/http://www.mc-ent.ru/anime9.html | archive-date = December 21, 2008 | df = mdy-all }}</ref> and Taiwan.<ref>{{cite web | script-title = zh:最後流亡 | trans-title = Last Exile | url = http://www1.e-muse.com.tw/catalog/index.php?cPath=26_46 | publisher = [[Muse Communication]] | language = zh | access-date = November 13, 2009 | archive-date = September 12, 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080912032501/http://www1.e-muse.com.tw/catalog/index.php?cPath=26_46 | url-status = live }}</ref> It has been hosted at the streaming media website [[Crunchyroll]].<ref name="Star-Bulletin"/>

On February 1, 2011, Gonzo revealed that a new ''Last Exile'' anime was planned titled ''Last Exile -Fam, the Silver Wing-'';<ref>{{cite news |last=Loo |first=Egan |date=February 2, 2011 |title=Gonzo Lists Last Exile -Fam, The Silver Wing- for 2011 |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2011-02-01/gonzo-lists-last-exile-fam-the-silver-wing-for-2011 |access-date=February 2, 2011 |archive-date=September 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125409/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2011-02-01/gonzo-lists-last-exile-fam-the-silver-wing-for-2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> described as "a new series of ''Last Exile'' [with] new story, [main] characters, and mechanical designs." [[Koichi Chigira]] and Hitomi Kuroishi returned to direct and score the anime, respectively.<ref>{{cite web | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110516090943/http://www.lastexile-fam.com/about.html | archive-date=May 16, 2011 | url = http://www.lastexile-fam.com/about.html | title = Staff | publisher = [[Gonzo (company)|Gonzo)]] | language = ja | access-date =October 28, 2015}}</ref> The series aired in Japan from October 15, 2011 to March 24, 2012 and was also simulcasted on the same day in Asia by [[Animax|Animax Asia]], making it the fifth anime to be simulcasted the same time as its Japanese premiere on the channel, after ''[[Tears to Tiara]]'', ''[[Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood]]'', ''[[Inuyasha: The Final Act]]'', and ''[[Maid Sama!]]''. [[Funimation]] licensed the series for streaming and home video release and simulcast the series as it aired.<ref name="funimationadssLE">{{cite web |last=Hodgkins |first=Crystalyn |date=June 22, 2011 |title=Funimation Adds Last Exile – Fam, the Silver Wing |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2011-06-22/funimation-adds-last-exile-fam-the-silver-wing |access-date=June 22, 2011 |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |archive-date=June 24, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110624151659/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2011-06-22/funimation-adds-last-exile-fam-the-silver-wing |url-status=live }}</ref> A film adaptation of the series, titled ''Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing: Over the Wishes'', was released in theaters on February 6, 2016.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Loo |first=Egan |date=November 9, 2015 |title=''Last Exile -Fam, The Silver Wing-'' Films Trailer's Visual Posted |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2015-11-09/last-exile-fam-the-silver-wing-film-trailer-visual-posted/.95177 |access-date=September 1, 2022 |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |archive-date=November 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211109113201/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2015-11-09/last-exile-fam-the-silver-wing-film-trailer-visual-posted/.95177 |url-status=live }}</ref> The film recompiles the events of the television series with some newly animated footage.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Egan |first=Loo |date=November 6, 2015 |title=Last Exile Film's February 6 Date, Newly Animated Sequences Revealed |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2015-11-06/last-exile-film-february-6-date-newly-animated-sequences-revealed/.95081 |access-date=September 1, 2022 |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |archive-date=September 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125410/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2015-11-06/last-exile-film-february-6-date-newly-animated-sequences-revealed/.95081 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Soundtracks===
Two pieces of theme music were used for the series. "Cloud Age Symphony", performed by Shuntaro Okino, was used as the opening theme for all 26 episodes. It was released by [[Victor Entertainment]] as a [[maxi single]] on May 21, 2003, and remained on the [[Oricon]] music charts for six weeks, where it peaked at 52nd position.<ref>{{cite web | title = Cloud Age Symphony | url = http://www.oricon.co.jp/music/release/d/507838/1/ | publisher = [[Oricon]] | language = ja | access-date = November 13, 2009 | archive-date = October 20, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121020145342/http://www.oricon.co.jp/music/release/d/507838/1/ | url-status = live }}</ref> Hitomi Kuroishi's "Over the Sky" was used as the ending theme.<ref name="CDReleases">{{cite web | url = http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/music/index.html | title = Music | publisher = [[JVC]] | language = ja | access-date = May 14, 2008 | archive-date = September 1, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125412/https://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/flyingdog/-/Discographylist2/Z0785.html | url-status = live }}</ref> Music trio Dolce Triade, which includes Kuroishi, produced two CD soundtracks for the series. ''Last Exile O.S.T.'' was released by Victor Entertainment on June 21, 2003, and remained on the Oricon music charts for seven weeks, where it peaked at 52nd position. It includes both theme songs and 17 additional instrumental tracks.<ref>{{cite web | title = Last Exile O.S.T. | url = http://www.oricon.co.jp/music/release/d/509992/1/ | publisher = [[Oricon]] | language = ja | access-date =November 13, 2009}}</ref> The second soundtrack, ''Last Exile O.S.T. 2'' was released on September 3, 2003, and remained on the Oricon music charts for five weeks, where it peaked at 55th position. It includes an alternate version of the ending theme song and 19 additional instrumental tracks.<ref>{{cite web | title = Last Exile O.S.T. 2 | url = http://www.oricon.co.jp/music/release/d/515291/1/ | publisher = [[Oricon]] | language = ja | access-date =November 13, 2009}}</ref>

Geneon Entertainment licensed both soundtracks for release in North America. The first soundtrack was released on February 17, 2004;<ref>{{cite web | title = Last Exile, Vol. 1 | website = Amazon | url = https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00012QLZU/ | access-date = November 13, 2009 | archive-date = September 1, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125410/https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00012QLZU/ | url-status = live }}</ref> and the second was released on April 13.<ref>{{cite news |last=Macdonald |first=Christopher |date=March 11, 2004 |title=New Geneon CDs |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2004-03-11/new-geneon-cds |access-date=May 14, 2008 |archive-date=September 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220901125411/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2004-03-11/new-geneon-cds |url-status=live }}</ref> Both soundtracks are out of print in North America after Geneon ceased production of its licensed titles in 2007.<ref>{{cite news |last=Loo |first=Egan |date=September 26, 2007 |title=Geneon USA to Cancel DVD Sales, Distribution by Friday |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2007-09-26/geneon-usa-to-cancel-dvd-sales-distribution-by-friday |access-date=August 5, 2009 |archive-date=June 23, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110623032042/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2007-09-26/geneon-usa-to-cancel-dvd-sales-distribution-by-friday |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Art book===
A 136-page art book titled ''Last Exile Aerial Log'', was released in February 2005. It was published in Japanese and was never translated for English-language release. The book contains detailed character sketches and descriptions as well as technical manuals for aircraft that appeared in the series. It also includes exclusive interviews with members of the production staff.<ref>{{cite web | title = Last Exile Aerial Log | url = http://www.hlj.com/product/IPC35783 | publisher = HobbyLink Japan | access-date = November 13, 2009 | archive-date = March 18, 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110318182256/http://www.hlj.com/product/IPC35783 | url-status = live }}</ref>

===Manga===
There is two [[manga]] series published in Japan. The first, is an adaptation of ''Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing'' written by Gonzo and illustrated by Robo Miyamoto, serialized in ''[[Young Ace]]'' magazine and published by [[Kadokawa Future Publishing|Kadokawa]].<ref>{{cite web|script-title=ja:ラストエグザイル 銀翼のファム 1|url=https://mediaarts-db.bunka.go.jp/id/M397740|website=Media Arts Database|publisher=[[Agency for Cultural Affairs]]|access-date=August 23, 2023|language=ja|archive-date=August 23, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230823163555/https://mediaarts-db.bunka.go.jp/id/M397740|url-status=live}}</ref> The second, titled {{Nihongo|''Last Exile – Travelers from the Hourglass''|ラストエグザイル – 砂時計の旅人|Rasuto Eguzairu – Sunadokei no Ryojin}}, tells what happened to the Claus and his friends after the events of ''Last Exile'' and before the events of ''Last Exile: Fam, the Silver Wing''. The manga was written by Gonzo and illustrated by Minoru Murao, one of the original animators of the ''Last Exile'' anime. ''Last Exile – Travelers from the Hourglass'' was serialized in ''[[Newtype Ace]]'' and published by Kadokawa.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kadokawa.co.jp/product/201108000665/|script-title=ja:ラストエグザイル 砂時計の旅人（１）|publisher=[[Kadokawa Future Publishing|Kadokawa]]|access-date=August 23, 2023|language=ja|archive-date=August 23, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230823163558/https://www.kadokawa.co.jp/product/201108000665/|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Live-action film===
On February 11, 2005, a report on [[Anime News Network]] mentioned a possible [[live-action]] ''Last Exile'' film. It was based on a blog post by [[Patrick Macias]], writer for ''[[Animerica]]'' and author of several books on Japanese pop culture and anime, which noted that while he was attending the [[Tokyo International Anime Fair]], a Gonzo employee suggested that an unnamed [[New Line Cinema]] producer was interested in adapting the series for a live-action production.<ref>{{cite news |last=Macdonald |first=Christopher |date=February 11, 2005 |title=Live Action Last Exile? |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2005-02-11/live-action-last-exile |access-date=May 14, 2008 |archive-date=May 13, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080513225442/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2005-02-11/live-action-last-exile |url-status=live }}</ref>{{efn|In his blog post, Macias quoted Arthur Smith, president of Gonzo's parent company GDH International: "[[Joel Silver]] is not looking at ''Last Exile'' as far as I know…although that would be great. There is, however, a producer who works with New Line who is looking into two of our titles for live action adaptation…''Last Exile'' and ''[[Burst Angel]]''."<ref>{{cite web | url = http://patrickmacias.blogs.com/er/2005/02/free_soul_wada_.html | title = free soul wada akiko | first = Patrick | last = Macias | author-link = Patrick Macias | work = An Eternal Thought in the Mind of Godzilla | publisher = Blogs.com | date = February 9, 2005 | access-date = May 14, 2008 | archive-date = December 23, 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081223065128/http://patrickmacias.blogs.com/er/2005/02/free_soul_wada_.html | url-status = live }}</ref>}} On July 8, 2009, a concept art image was leaked on the Internet but was removed at the request of filmmakers.<ref>{{cite web | last = Billington | first = Alex | url = https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0390733/news#ni0868436 | title = Check This Out: Cool Concept Art from The Last Exile Project | work = FirstShowing.net | publisher = [[Internet Movie Database]] | date = July 8, 2009 | access-date = August 3, 2009 | archive-date = March 12, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160312165911/http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0390733/news#ni0868436 | url-status = live }}</ref> However, as of 2013, there has been no new news about the film, suggesting it has been canceled.

==Reception==
After receiving a respectable amount of attention in the United States, the series was licensed to Pioneer Entertainment (later [[Geneon Universal Entertainment|Geneon Entertainment]]) in June 2003, only two months after the first episode aired in Japan.<ref name="Star-Bulletin"/> It received numerous praises for its artwork and production, placing it as one of [[Gonzo (company)|Gonzo]]'s best work. By integrating music and sounds of a European theme, the soundtrack contributed to the series' unique flavor. Divers Allen of [[Anime News Network]] gave it an A, and describes the series as "''Last Exile'' is filled with breathtaking scenery, non-stop action and intriguing characters that will keep even the most casual anime fans glued to the edge of their seats. It is a stunning series that leaves viewers craving for more, it continues to shine as a TV series that has the production values of a theatrical animated film. A visual masterpiece with the story to back it up".<ref name="ANN review">{{Cite web |last=Divers |first=Allen |date=February 5, 2004 |title=Last Exile DVD 1 |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/last-exile/dvd-1 |access-date=September 1, 2022 |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |language=en |archive-date=November 17, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117014411/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/last-exile/dvd-1 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Divers |first=Allen |date=April 20, 2004 |title=Last Exile DVD 2 |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/last-exile/dvd-2 |access-date=September 1, 2022 |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |language=en |archive-date=November 17, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117044124/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/last-exile/dvd-2 |url-status=live }}</ref>

''Last Exile'' has been likened to [[Hayao Miyazaki]]'s classic work ''[[Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (film)|Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind]]'' and the early [[steampunk]] novel trilogy ''[[A Nomad of the Time Streams]]''.<ref name="AnT"/><ref name="ANN review"/>

Enoch Lau of [[THEM Anime Reviews]] gave the anime series 5 out of 5 stars. Lau praised the series for its great story, outstanding animation and characters. Saying that "resembling something from Miyazaki more than Gonzo, ''Last Exile'' looks different. From the faces of the characters down to the stylings of the battleships, it evokes a classic feel but all the while look entirely new. The vanships and battleships are rendered in CG, and so are the myriad of battle effects and the plot is quite solid and intriguing. ''Last Exile'' has one of the most interesting settings that I have come across in recent anime. It is a time of war, and chivalry dictates how the opposing forces battle. But instead of using horses and chariots, they use battleships".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lau |first=Enoch |title=Last Exile - Review - THEM Anime Reviews 4.0 |url=https://www.themanime.org/viewreview.php?id=550 |access-date=September 1, 2022 |website=[[THEM Anime Reviews]] |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617130616/https://www.themanime.org/viewreview.php?id=550 |url-status=live }}</ref> When Geneon's compilation DVDs were released, reviewers such as ''[[IGN]]'' praised them despite the use of Dolby Digital 2.0 audio mix over a 5.1 mix. "The separation is masterfully taken care of with voices, music, and sound effects leveled off very cleanly for both the Japanese and English audio tracks."<ref>{{cite web | last = Diaz Jr. | first = Efran | title = Last Exile Vol. 3 – Discovered Attack | url = http://dvd.ign.com/articles/509/509205p1.html | publisher = [[IGN]] | date = April 26, 2004 | access-date = August 4, 2009 | archive-date = March 9, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120309035406/http://dvd.ign.com/articles/509/509205p1.html | url-status = live }}</ref> In an interview with director [[Koichi Chigira]] given in July 2004, he was surprised to find that the series had reached a great level of popularity among fans in the United States.<ref>{{cite video |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SSMxaAJ20M |title=Interview with Last Exile director Koichi Chigira – Part 2 |date=June 27, 2009 |publisher=[[YouTube]] |time=1:30 |access-date=August 4, 2009 |format=FLV |archive-date=April 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160412131816/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SSMxaAJ20M |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[TechTV]] vice president Laura Civiello stated that ''Last Exile'' "had more universal appeal than other types of anime shown on the network, which often contained lots of references recognizable only by hard-core fans." When the series premiered on the network, ''[[The New York Times]]'' recommended it for young audience as well with the headline "An Anime Marathon, and It is Not Just for Adults."<ref name="NYT"/> The network moved its [[Anime Unleashed]] programming block into prime time to take advantage of the quality of the series;<ref>{{cite news |date=February 2, 2004 |title=Anime in Prime Time |publisher=[[ICv2]] |url=http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/4198.html |access-date=August 5, 2009 |archive-date=January 7, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100107093404/http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/4198.html |url-status=live }}</ref> eventually launching it into a top ten position on the [[Nielsen VideoScan]] anime survey in the middle of 2004.<ref>{{cite news |date=October 5, 2004 |title='Read or Die the TV' On G4/Tech TV |publisher=[[ICv2]] |url=http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/5799.html |access-date=August 5, 2009 |archive-date=January 7, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100107094812/http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/5799.html |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Sony Pictures Entertainment]] selected ''Last Exile'', ''[[Blood+]]'', ''[[Gankutsuou: The Count of Monte Cristo]]'', and ''[[R.O.D the TV]]'' as part of its promotional campaign throughout 2007 and 2008 targeting a bigger audience. It streamed the four series throughout Europe, Latin America, and other parts of Asia on [[Animax]] and [[Animax Asia]] through various [[3G]] mobile phone services.<ref>{{cite news | title = Sony Pictures Television International's Global Animax Brand Goes Mobile | url = https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2007-06-13/sony-pictures-television-international%27s-global-animax-brand-goes-mobile | publisher = [[Anime News Network]] | date = June 13, 2007 | access-date = November 13, 2009 | archive-date = December 23, 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20091223013503/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2007-06-13/sony-pictures-television-international%27s-global-animax-brand-goes-mobile | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | title = Animax Mobile spreads festive cheer in Malaysia and Singapore | url = http://www.animax-asia.com/news/animax-mobile-spreads-festive-cheer-malaysia-and-singapore | publisher = [[Animax Asia]] | date = December 1, 2008 | access-date = November 13, 2009 | archive-date = November 7, 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20091107070947/http://www.animax-asia.com/news/animax-mobile-spreads-festive-cheer-malaysia-and-singapore | url-status = live }}</ref>

==Notes==
{{notelist}}
{{reflist|group=Note}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

* {{cite video | people = [[Koichi Chigira|Chigira, Koichi]] (director) | year = 2003 | title = Last Exile | medium = DVD | language = ja, en | publisher = [[Funimation]] | isbn = 1-4210-1819-5}}
* {{cite book | last1 = Murata | first1 = Range | author-link1 = Range Murata | title = Last Exile Aerial Log | edition = 1st | year = 2005 | publisher = [[MdN Interactive|MdN Corporation]] | location = Tokyo | language = ja | isbn = 4-8443-5783-2}}

==External links==
* [http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/last-exile/ ''Last Exile''] at [[JVC]] Music official website {{in lang|ja}}
* [http://www.funimation.com/shows/last-exile ''Last Exile''] at [[Funimation Entertainment]] official website
* [http://www.madman.com.au/actions/catalogue.do?releaseId=4657&method=view ''Last Exile''] at [[Madman Entertainment]] official website
* {{IMDb title|0390733}}
* [http://www.lastexile-fam.com/ ''Last Exile -Fam, the Silver Wing''] at [[Gonzo (company)|Gonzo's]] official website {{in lang|ja}}
* {{Anime News Network|anime|2294}}

{{Gonzo}}
{{Young Ace}}

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