Since the first Mobile Suit, works in the Gunda series have tended to end in space. Whether it's a sequel or an alternate universe, they often leave the confines of Earth to take part in a major interstellar battle. But Gundam: Reconguista in G is different: It starts on Earth, has the characters adventure into space and then return home for the final battle. This is where we find the characters in the fifth and final film, Crossing the Line Between Life and Death, and I think the decision to end the series there underlines it all. messages are set out through G-Reco from the beginning. Whether those messages are conveyed clearly is another matter.
Bellri Zenam and the rest of the main cast have arrived at the distant Sphere of Venus, gathering space colonies near Venus. They see a society far from the destruction of Earth, where people are taught that war is barbaric, but sometimes they do not see the hidden barbarism within themselves. Having returned to Towasanga on the far side of the moon, they are now in Earth orbit, where once again, the various terrestrial super-nations are all vying for control of resources. At this point, characters and groups have switched sides so many times that it's hard to keep track of who's fighting for what, but that's less important than the simple fact that factionalism still exists in. Bellri, Aida and the others aim to go in their own direction and fight in their own way, neither completely separate nor completely entrenched in any side.
There's one scene in particular that I think encapsulates the final movie and the series as a whole: As the various forces battle in Earth orbit, they are forced to undergo atmospheric entry. This is a return to one of the more iconic scenes from the original anime, where rival character Char Aznable has to break the unfortunate news to one of his soldiers that the poor guy and his poorly equipped robot got too close to their planet and planet. death is inevitable. We see history repeat itself as various characters have to decide what to prioritize (trying to land safely, trying to get the upper hand in battle, retreating, etc.), and there is a sense of as both the madness and the hope of humanity never die.
Speaking of death, there is no shortage of deaths. Some are more intriguing to me, like a certain character who might actually be a Newtype. The important thing is that this person is also a fool, as if to say that we should not worship Newtypes or anyone who is supposed to be the next evolution of humanity and its savior. The biggest death is so random and fortuitous that it feels fitting—a belligerent being pulled up by his own pet.
One major change from the television series is the actual ending, which has been expanded significantly. The new scenes emphasize the fact that the changes only happen little by little. Humans, whether born on Earth or in space, seem to adapt to their circumstances and beliefs do not just change overnight. On top of that, many of the characters are young, so while they may have fought in many mortal battles, that doesn't necessarily fully define who they are or will be. The ultimate message may be that people, especially those who are still young, can overcome any entrenched barriers that previous generations have erected.
When looking at the G movies: Reconguista in G it's generally safe to say that they should be the definitive way to experience the series. It clarifies and expands on the TV anime, is better paced, and conveys more about the world and its complexities. G-Reco can present itself in the best light, and for those who dismissed it for the first time, I think this is a great opportunity to experience one of the most unique entries in GTA.
(Happy 10th Anniversary, G-Reco.)