Volume 1 was pure awesomeness. Some of the best animation I can remember seeing in a long time. This and 00 has restored my faith in the Gundam franchise. Cant wait for vol 2.

These might be impossible comparisons, but how does it stack up against 0080, 0083, CCA, and Endless Waltz? And is it continuous with the U.C. timeline or does it play things pretty fast and loose?

It takes place during the U.C. 3 years after Chars Counter Attack. The story is pretty consistent with that. As for how it stacks up against the rest. Only having seen the 1st volume I cant judge it as a whole but I'd put it up there with 0083 and 0080 so far.

Interesting. If it compares favorably to 0080 and 0083, then I'll probably like it. I "respect" CCA in that it resolves the Amuro/Char rivalry (to a point), but the movie itself is kind of a mess, particularly in the area of pacing. I much prefer 0080 and 0083, but it has the benefit of far more breathing room.

For me, 0080 is the standard bearer. You just can't beat those Mikimoto character designs.