anime for the anime n00b?

Absolutely nothing to do for the next 3 weeks, so I've decided for the first time ever to delve into the world of anime.
What's really popular out there?
What are your favorites?
How would I go about watching these animes?
P.S. erotic content is fine (appreciated =D) but only as long as it doesnt take precedence over the plot, so dont give me hentai please.

>>47,48
I WATCHED IT FOR THE SUPERIOR ACTION (NOT THE KIND OF ACTION YOU SICK FUCKS WILL THINK OF FIRST) SEQUENCES YOU SONS OF BITCHES OH AND ALSO THE NUKES LOOKED BETTER THAN IN AKIRA THERE I SAID IT

ALSO IT IS CALLED EROANIME NOT HENTAI YOU BAKA