I spent most of the last 12 hours watching the 3rd and 4th box sets of the "Nana" anime. All in all, not a bad series, though the last episode left the series with an incomplete ending (at least, in my opinion!)
Synopsis of Box Set 3
Nana K. is happily involved with Takumi from Trapnest, though she doesn't fully trust him. Nana O. graciously stays away from the apartmen for a while, and both Nanas feel the loneliness of their separation. Then in the midst of BLAST preparing to sign their first record deal, Nobu makes a surprise confession to Nana K. Now she must make a difficult choice, and someone's heart is bound to be borken.
Synopsis of Box Set 4
As if BLAST's debut wasn't causing enough stress, Takumi and Nana K.'s announcemnt sends everyone reeling, but none more than Nona O. and Reira. While Reira turns to Shin for comfort, Nana O. is drawn to Yasu and his calm understanding, leaving her questioning her relationship with Ren. Nana K. meanwhile is happily nesting in her new home, but her continued estrangement from Nana O. weighs heavily on her heart.
After all is said and done, this was truly an interesting anime with one of the highest ratings in my book! I'm gonna miss it! Undoubtedly, I will pull out the entire series to watch again sometime in the future! But for now, I'll quote the song: "Na Na Na Na Hey Hey Hey Goodbye!!!!!!!!!!!"
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Friday, December 2, 2011
"Shinjuku" Superb!
I just finished watching "Demon City Shinjuku," one of the anime DVDs my Hubby bought for me at Anime USA 2 weekends ago! I decided to get it after Amazon recommended it based on the fact that I liked "Wicked City."
From the director of Ninja Scroll!: The near future. The glittering skyline of Tokyo now lies broken and crumbling under the weight of an oppressive evil: The tyrannical Rebi Rah. Desperate to rescue her father, who was taken captive by Rah and his monstrous minions, the beautiful Sayaka Rama enlists the help of Kyoya, a streetwise Tokyo teenager. The two must bravely venture into the Demon City, where even the army fears to tread.
From the director of Ninja Scroll!: The near future. The glittering skyline of Tokyo now lies broken and crumbling under the weight of an oppressive evil: The tyrannical Rebi Rah. Desperate to rescue her father, who was taken captive by Rah and his monstrous minions, the beautiful Sayaka Rama enlists the help of Kyoya, a streetwise Tokyo teenager. The two must bravely venture into the Demon City, where even the army fears to tread.
The movie begins with a battle between fates, the evil Rebi Ra (also pronounced Levi Ra or even Devi Da) versus the short-lived hero Genichirou. Rebi Ra has allowed himself to be possessed in order to gain the incredible powers of evil and plans to summon demons to conquer the world. Defeating Genichirou and destroying Shinjuku, a part of Tokyo, with a devastating earthquake, the area becomes a demon-haunted wilderness.
Ten years later, the World President, put in place to uphold world peace, is attacked by Rebi Ra indirectly to keep his old master, Aguni Lai (Aguni Rai), as the protector of the president, occupied. However, Rebi Ra did not know that Genichirou had a son who inherited his powers and more. After an emotional plea from the president's daughter, Sayaka Rama, the unlikely hero Kyoya Izayoi follows her deep into the heart of the evil city, finding new allies and terrifying enemies along the way.
This is definitely a dark anime, and while it is similar in some ways to Wicked City, and while I do consider the animation quality and storyline to be superb, there weren't nearly as many sexual situation and comic relief characters to put it as high on my ratings list as Wicked City! All in all, it was an interesting anime that I wouldn't mind checking out again sometime. (Maybe Hubby will be with me instead of working the next time I watch it!)
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Anime USA 2011: The Last Hurrah!
I just spent the greatest weekend ever at Anime USA (probably the last anime convention I'll attend until Katsucon in February 2012.) I, along with my Hubby (Christopher Wanamaker), cosplayed all 3 days! We cosplayed as Wonder Woman & Wolverine from the comic book world, Jem & Rio from the popular 1980s animated series, and Mario and Toad from the "Super Mario Bros." video game franchise. I also managed to get some great DVDs (Thanks, Hubby! I love you!), including the last 2 box sets of "Nana," "Demon City Shinjuku," and "High School Of The Dead," but the highlight of my weekend was meeting AND getting to take a picture with Monica Rial, one of my fave voice actresses in the anime world!!! She also autographed my "Angelic Layer" manga!!!!!!!!!! I wasn't impressed with the Cosplay Masquerade this year. Only one of the skits impressed me, the one involving "The Cat Returns" featuring con attendees Jay & Lee (I don't know who they are, I just liked their skit)! LOL! That being said, maybe I'll try to do better and put my money where my mouth is and perform a skit at Katsucon 18 (February 17-19, 2012)!!!!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
"Brilliant Blue" Is A Brilliant Anime!
I just finished watching the entire series of "Daphne In The Brilliant Blue." What a great anime!!!!! In spite of the massive amount of fan service, I find that the series deserves to be rated high up on the scale. In fact, it may become one of my Top 10 Favorite Series!
Daphne in the Brilliant Blue (光と水のダフネ Hikari to Mizu no Dafune) is a 2004 anime series animated by the studio J.C.Staff and produced by GENCO. It was licensed by Geneon USA in 2004. However, Geneon USA had ceased operations in September 2007 and lost all their titles. In 2009, Sentai Filmworks had picked up the license and re-released the series in two complete collection sets.
In the future, water has covered much of the Earth due to the effects of global warming, leaving the human race to live on neighboring floating cities. The orphaned Maia Mizuki, 15, just graduated from middle school and has already applied for employment in the elite Ocean Agency, part of the futuristic world government. Only the best, most intelligent, and physically fit students are eligible for admission. Maia, the series' protagonist, is set to become one of the few.
But her ideal life quickly falls apart. To her disappointment, Maia unexpectedly fails her entrance exams despite her high grades. Making matters worse, she promptly gets evicted from her house, pick pocketed, taken hostage, then shot. She is "saved" by two women (Rena and Shizuka) that are part of an unorthodox help-for-hire organization called Nereids (inspired by the Greek mythological Nereids). With nowhere to go, Maia joins up with Nereids, taking jobs from capturing wanted criminals to chasing stray cats, often with unexpected results. Gloria and Yu later join up with Nereids.
"Daphne", Greek for "Laurel tree", in the title refers to Maia's grandfather last words. "Brilliant Blue" refers to the fact that this is a world covered by water with almost no land. The world consists of vast oceans, a few islands, and floating cities. This subplot that starts midway into the series concerns Maia's journey to retrieve a time capsule of her past buried under a laurel tree in Elpida, an undersea city lost over a century ago.
In almost every episode, there is a recitation of a verse that Maia's grandfather taught her. She and others say it whenever her life is difficult or in danger - "A tree that is planted by water will produce fruit in due season, its leaves will never whither...". It is never identified as Psalm 1:3, "He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers." (NIV)
I did find one annoying character, Yukari Hanaoka, the daughter of the Branch Manager, who is Maia's Branch Manager at the Nereids Kamchatka branch. In spite of the annoying character and the large quantity of "panty shots," the storyline kept me interested, and the ending (which was a complete surprise!) renders this "Brilliant" anime to be worth a second look sometime in the future!!!!!!
Daphne in the Brilliant Blue (光と水のダフネ Hikari to Mizu no Dafune) is a 2004 anime series animated by the studio J.C.Staff and produced by GENCO. It was licensed by Geneon USA in 2004. However, Geneon USA had ceased operations in September 2007 and lost all their titles. In 2009, Sentai Filmworks had picked up the license and re-released the series in two complete collection sets.
In the future, water has covered much of the Earth due to the effects of global warming, leaving the human race to live on neighboring floating cities. The orphaned Maia Mizuki, 15, just graduated from middle school and has already applied for employment in the elite Ocean Agency, part of the futuristic world government. Only the best, most intelligent, and physically fit students are eligible for admission. Maia, the series' protagonist, is set to become one of the few.
But her ideal life quickly falls apart. To her disappointment, Maia unexpectedly fails her entrance exams despite her high grades. Making matters worse, she promptly gets evicted from her house, pick pocketed, taken hostage, then shot. She is "saved" by two women (Rena and Shizuka) that are part of an unorthodox help-for-hire organization called Nereids (inspired by the Greek mythological Nereids). With nowhere to go, Maia joins up with Nereids, taking jobs from capturing wanted criminals to chasing stray cats, often with unexpected results. Gloria and Yu later join up with Nereids.
"Daphne", Greek for "Laurel tree", in the title refers to Maia's grandfather last words. "Brilliant Blue" refers to the fact that this is a world covered by water with almost no land. The world consists of vast oceans, a few islands, and floating cities. This subplot that starts midway into the series concerns Maia's journey to retrieve a time capsule of her past buried under a laurel tree in Elpida, an undersea city lost over a century ago.
In almost every episode, there is a recitation of a verse that Maia's grandfather taught her. She and others say it whenever her life is difficult or in danger - "A tree that is planted by water will produce fruit in due season, its leaves will never whither...". It is never identified as Psalm 1:3, "He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers." (NIV)
I did find one annoying character, Yukari Hanaoka, the daughter of the Branch Manager, who is Maia's Branch Manager at the Nereids Kamchatka branch. In spite of the annoying character and the large quantity of "panty shots," the storyline kept me interested, and the ending (which was a complete surprise!) renders this "Brilliant" anime to be worth a second look sometime in the future!!!!!!
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Ponyo: The Little Fish With The Round Tummy
I can't believe that, as many times as I've watched "Ponyo" since I started this blog, I have never voiced my opinion on it!!!!!!!!!! But after watching "Moonphase," an anime with a major focus on vampires, I felt I needed something a little more lighthearted!!!!!
"Ponyo" is an animated adventure centered on a 5-year-old boy (Sosuke) and his relationship with a goldfish princess (Ponyo) who longs to become human. Ponyoconfirms Academy Award®-winning director Hayao Miyazaki's reputation as one of the most imaginative filmmakers working today. Loosely based on Hans Christian Anderson's "The Little Mermaid," Ponyo is a magical celebration of innocent love and the fragile beauty of the natural world. The daughter of the sea goddess Gran Mamare (voiced by Cate Blanchett) and the alchemist Fujimoto (Liam Neeson), Ponyo (Noah Cyrus) begins life as an adventurous little goldfish. Chafing at her father's restrictions, she goes in search of adventure and meets Sosuke (Frankie Jonas), a good-natured 5-year-old who lives by the sea. Sosuke adopts Ponyo and quickly wins her heart. Fujimoto uses magic to bring her back, but Ponyo's love for Sosuke proves stronger than his elixirs. She transforms herself into a human girl and returns to him during a spectacular storm at sea, but her metamorphosis upsets the balance of nature, precipitating a crisis only Gran Mamare can resolve.
I may be prejudiced by my love for almost anything Miyazaki, but "Ponyo" definitely gets the highest rating in my book!!!!!!!!!!
"Ponyo" is an animated adventure centered on a 5-year-old boy (Sosuke) and his relationship with a goldfish princess (Ponyo) who longs to become human. Ponyo
I may be prejudiced by my love for almost anything Miyazaki, but "Ponyo" definitely gets the highest rating in my book!!!!!!!!!!
"Moonphase" Phase Out?
I've spent the majority of the time since I woke up this morning watching "Moonphase." This anime most definitely does not fall under the "sugary" anime category, but something about it makes me think that when I'm done watching it, my final opinion won't be that favorable.....
All Morioka Kohei wants to be a regular photographer, but all he ever seems to capture on film is ghosts! With 70 percent of his photos inhabited by the undead, Kohei has managed to gain not only a reputation, but alsoa job at an occult magazine. Things couldn't be more "normal" until he is sent to a obscure castle where he photographs a mysterious girl with a knack at disappearing, thus piquing his interest to return. And thus, Kohei sets out on a journey that takes him into the heart of the occult, on a mission to help the cutest vampire in existence find her long lost mother! What started out as a seemingly cute anime about a vampire eventually evolved into a martial arts battle for survival! But it once again diverted itself back to the original storyline. All in all, not a bad series, though I did find Haiji, the little spirit, to be slightly annoying! On a positive note, one of my fave voice actresses (Monica Rial) has a role in this particular anime! I'm not sure what rating to give this anime, but it was neither the worst nor the best I've seen since I became interested in anime about 10 years ago!!!!!!!!!
All Morioka Kohei wants to be a regular photographer, but all he ever seems to capture on film is ghosts! With 70 percent of his photos inhabited by the undead, Kohei has managed to gain not only a reputation, but also
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Back 2 "Nana"!!!!!
I took advantage of the fact that the family decided not to attend today's services at church to watch some anime. I watched the second box set of "Nana" this morning!
Careers, friendship, love--can two bright young women named Nana manage to have it all? Nana K.'s Tokyo experiment is in jeopardy when she finds herself strapped for cash and her relationship with Shoji on uncertain ground. Nana O.'s love life takes an unexpected turn when she's reunited with her old flame, Ren from Trapnest. With such a close connection to her favorite band, will Nana K. get to meet the man of her dreams--Takumi? Sometimes dreams do come true...
I guess this is the part of the blog where I talk about what I liked and didn't like about the anime. That's going to be incredibly difficult!!!!!!!!!!!!! I guess the characters are so real that it's hard to find one to dislike!
I am definitely enjoying this anime and can't wait to purchase the 3rd box set from the Dealer's Room at this year's Anime USA convention in a few weeks!!!!!!!!!!! (Along with a few other anime titles!)
Careers, friendship, love--can two bright young women named Nana manage to have it all? Nana K.'s Tokyo experiment is in jeopardy when she finds herself strapped for cash and her relationship with Shoji on uncertain ground. Nana O.'s love life takes an unexpected turn when she's reunited with her old flame, Ren from Trapnest. With such a close connection to her favorite band, will Nana K. get to meet the man of her dreams--Takumi? Sometimes dreams do come true...
I guess this is the part of the blog where I talk about what I liked and didn't like about the anime. That's going to be incredibly difficult!!!!!!!!!!!!! I guess the characters are so real that it's hard to find one to dislike!
I am definitely enjoying this anime and can't wait to purchase the 3rd box set from the Dealer's Room at this year's Anime USA convention in a few weeks!!!!!!!!!!! (Along with a few other anime titles!)
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Chobits On The Chopping Block?
I just finished watching the final episode of "Chobits," and I'm not sure what to think. While it's not on the sugary level of "Fancy La La," I didn't find it interesting enough to give it the high rating of "Angelic Layer," either.
"Chobits" tells the story of Hideki Motosuwa, who finds an abandoned persocom, or personal computer with human form, that he names "Chi" after the only word it initially can speak. As the series progresses, they explore the mysteries of Chi's origin together and questions about the relationship between human beings and persocoms. The manga is set in the same universe as Angelic Layer, taking place a few years after the events of that story, and like Angelic Layer, it explores the relationship between human beings and electronic devices shaped like human beings. Chobits branches off as a crossover into many other stories in different ways, such as Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle, xxxHolic and Kobato.
I will say that there was one slightly annoying character, Sumomo, but she was still likeable. As I said, I don't know what to think of this series. I didn't fall asleep on it, so that says something. However, even though the series was set in the same universe as Angelic Layer, I still didn't enjoy it nearly as much as I did the first time I saw Angelic Layer, which is my #1 favorite anime series of all time!
"Chobits" tells the story of Hideki Motosuwa, who finds an abandoned persocom, or personal computer with human form, that he names "Chi" after the only word it initially can speak. As the series progresses, they explore the mysteries of Chi's origin together and questions about the relationship between human beings and persocoms. The manga is set in the same universe as Angelic Layer, taking place a few years after the events of that story, and like Angelic Layer, it explores the relationship between human beings and electronic devices shaped like human beings. Chobits branches off as a crossover into many other stories in different ways, such as Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle, xxxHolic and Kobato.
I will say that there was one slightly annoying character, Sumomo, but she was still likeable. As I said, I don't know what to think of this series. I didn't fall asleep on it, so that says something. However, even though the series was set in the same universe as Angelic Layer, I still didn't enjoy it nearly as much as I did the first time I saw Angelic Layer, which is my #1 favorite anime series of all time!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
"Fruit's Basket": A Plum Of An Anime
After being prejudiced by my Hubby's negative opinion of "Fruit's Basket," I avoided it for most of my years of anime fandom; that is, until a friend expressed his love for it and suggested I check out an episode via YouTube. I enjoyed that episode so much, I added "Fruit's Basket' to my Anime Wish List. Surprisingly, my hubby bought it for me at Otakon 2011! (Thanks, Boo! I know how much you must've hated doing that! I owe you big time!) "Fruit's Basket," or "Furuba," tells the story of Tohru Honda, a 16 year old orphaned girl who gets invited to live in the house of her classmate, the handsome boy Sohma Yuki, and his cousins, 16 year old Kyo and 27 year old Shigure. However, these young men and parts of the rest of their family (both close and distant) hold a curse; if they are hugged by the opposite gender, they transform into animals of the Chinese Zodiac. Everyday is an adventure for sweet Tohru, as she gets to know everyone in the large family better (especially Yuki and Kyo), in both common and bizarre situations. But, the Sohma Family curse is certainly no laughing matter... it also holds horrible cruelity and heartbreak. Of course, there are characters loathed and loved. The aforementioned main characters are quite amusing, and more or less endearing, while other characters--such as Momiji Sohma and Hiro Sohma--seemed to be a pain in the ass! There was one character that had me asking WTF....Ritsu Sohma! All things considered (characters, sugar level, plot), "Fruit's Basket" was pretty entertaining, and may be worth a second look sometime in the future!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
"Rumbling Hearts" Settle Down
I just finished watching "Rumbling Hearts," and I'm not sure what to think of it. It did get better after the initial episodes, but I think it was overloaded with drama. What do people think is gonna happen after waking up from a 3-year nap? Would you expect the person you loved to still be waiting for you? Then again, if the last thing you remember happens to be being with that special someone, to wake up and find they had moved on with someone else would be a shock, I suppose. "Rumbling Hearts" is the story of four fast high school friends – Haruka, Takayuki, Mitsuki and Shinji. Life’s promise shines brightly on these companions, until one day a random accident leaves Haruka in a coma. Her boyfriend, Takayuki, cannot forgive himself and seems determined to follow Haruka into a comatose state. Mitsuki dedicates her life to taking care of this tragic young man, and the pair salvage what they can, falling into a self-destructive relationship floundering in guilt. When Haruka awakens three years too late suffering from anterograde amnesia, everyone has to act as if not a day has passed. Torn between his unhappy real-life train wreck with Mitsuki and the warm and fuzzy daydream high school romance with Haruka, Takayuki watches what little silver lining was left in life be mercilessly and methodically stripped away. I'm not sure what kind of rating I'd give this. It doesn't come close to "Angelic Layer," which is my #1 fave anime, but it doesn't fall to the disappointing level of "Fancy La La" either. It was more of a teenage soap opera. On the whole, in spite oaf a questionable beginning, I found myself enjoying this romantic earthquake of an anime, which is appropriate considering the tremors that rocked the DC metropolitan area on August 23! I don't think anyone who was around will ever forget where they were when it hit! I know I won't! Anyway, I'm going to try to squeeze in some more anime before calling it a night! I think I'm in the mood for "Lupin The 3rd Episode 0: First Contact!" Lupin is after mafia boss Galvez's single most precious treasure: a treasure within a treasure. Jigen is Galvez's hired gun who fails to kill cat-burglar Lupin in his first attempt on the treasure and seeks revenge. Fujiko is the girlfriend of Lupin's rival, Brad. Zenigata travels from Japan to America to find and arrest Fujiko. Goemon seeks the almighty sword that cuts steel, Zantetsuken. This sword is mysteriously connected to the treasure in Galvez's vault.... After a series of twists and turns, these complete strangers become acquainted in their "First Contact," an epic adventure!
Is "Rumbling Hearts" A Heartbreaker?
An hour ago, I was wondering if I made a mistake in wanting the "Rumbling Hearts" anime. 2 or 3 episodes in, and the best scene was 2 of the main teenage characters almost being caught together in bed by the girl's sister! However, just having finished the first DVD, I find that the drama was climatic, and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens! Friendship and faith, love and betrayal… And guilt. "Rumbling Hearts" weaves a tale not of superheroes or science fiction, but of the silent sufferings of any potential passerby. This is real life. Happy endings are bittersweet at best.
Meet four fast highschool friends – Haruka, Takayuki, Mitsuki and Shinji. Life’s promise shines brightly on these companions, until one day a random accident leaves Haruka in a coma. Her boyfriend, Takayuki, cannot forgive himself and seems determined to follow Haruka into a comatose state. Mitsuki dedicates her life to taking care of this tragic young man, and the pair salvage what they can, falling into a self-destructive relationship floundering in guilt. When Haruka awakens three years too late suffering from anterograde amnesia, everyone has to act as if not a day has passed. Torn between his unhappy real-life train wreck with Mitsuki and the warm and fuzzy daydream high school romance with Haruka, Takayuki watches what little silver lining was left in life be mercilessly and methodically stripped away.
While at first this seemed like a cutesy anime of the "Fancy La La" (a sugary anime that I absolutely hated and ended up falling asleep on) variety, I quickly discovered that adult situations kind of nixed that theory! Who's sleeping with whom? Strange love triangles. One guy who can't be with his true love. So, I guess for now, I'll say that "Rumbling Hearts," isn't a heartbreaker, but merely a soap opera, anime-style! Final judgment to come later! Now, on with the show!
Meet four fast high
While at first this seemed like a cutesy anime of the "Fancy La La" (a sugary anime that I absolutely hated and ended up falling asleep on) variety, I quickly discovered that adult situations kind of nixed that theory! Who's sleeping with whom? Strange love triangles. One guy who can't be with his true love. So, I guess for now, I'll say that "Rumbling Hearts," isn't a heartbreaker, but merely a soap opera, anime-style! Final judgment to come later! Now, on with the show!
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Ah! My Goddess! Ah! What A Movie!
I am so happy! I was FINALLY able to watch "Ah! My Goddess: The Movie" from beginning to end without nodding off! It was fantastic! The feature, released in 2000, is set three years after the end of "Ah! My Goddess:Flights Of Fancy." (Season 2 of the series). Keiichi has grown more attractive and less awkward, less clumsy. Belldandy remains essentially unchanged--until she encounters Celestin, her former "mentor." For centuries, Celestin has been imprisoned on the moon for betraying the kingdom of Yggdrasil. Released by the fairy Morgan Le Fey, Celestin travels to Earth to reunite with his former pupil, the goddess Belldandy. Things go awry as Celestin erases Belldandy's memories of her boyfriend Keiichi and uses her as a catalyst to wreak havoc on Earth and Yggdrasil. Will Beldandy get her memory back and stay with Keiichi??? Will Celestin be returned to his prison on the moon? That I cannot and will not say, for fear of spoiling the movie! I will say that the movie featured characters from the original anime, including members of the Auto Club--of which Keiichi is also a member-- as well as new characters like Celestin & Morgan. I can FINALLY say that I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and may have to re-watch both seasons of the original series (which I watched before I started this blog) and "The Adventures of Mini-Goddess" (which I covered in a previous blog post) ! It will be a while before I'm able to do that, though! I have more anime to get through before Anime USA in November! "Daphne In The Brilliant Blue," "Rumbling Hearts," and "Fruit's Basket" were all purchased for my by my Hubby at Otakon 2011, and I can't wait to watch them all!!!!!!!!!! (And no, Chris, you do not have to watch "Fruit's Basket" with me! I know how you feel about that particular series! LOL!) All in all, I'd say finishing the movie was a great way to end a great anime marathon that started off black--"Black Butler," that is!!!!!!!!!!! (You can find out what I thought about that series in another blog post!)
"Black Butler": One Hell Of An Anime About "One Hell Of A Butler!"
After checking out a few episodes of "Black Butler" via the Funimation Channel, I decided to add it to my Anime Wish List. I was happy when my Hubby was able to find it in the Dealer's Room at Otakon 2011! I spent most of a rainy Saturday watching the first season on DVD! It was very entertaining, in spite of the fact that I found myself comparing it to "Hell Girl," an anime that received a less-than-favorable review from me. (See the post "Is Hell Girl A Hell No?") "Black Butler" tells the story of Ciel Phantomhive. The most powerful boy in all of England, he bears the scars of unspeakable suffering. Forced to watch as his beloved parents were brutally murdered, Ciel was subsequently abducted and violently tortured. Desperate to end his suffering, the boy traded his own soul for a chance at vengeance, casting his lot with the one person on whom he could depend: Sebastian, a demon Butler summoned from the very pits of Hell. Together, they'll prowl the darkest alleys of London on a mission to snuff out those who would do evil. They're a rare sight, these two: the Butler who dismembers with dazzling cutlery, and the Young Master who carries the devil's marking. Rest assured that wherever they may be headed, it'll be one Hell of a ride! I liked Sebastian, the demon butler. I especially liked the way he protectd Ciel. Yes, I know he was contractually obligated to do so, but it was still interesting to watch. All in all, this dark anime was thrilling to watch, and I will probably pull it out again! However, it probably won't be anytime soon, as I still have more anime to finish before I attend Anime USA in search of new anime!!!!!
Monday, August 1, 2011
Otakon: O-What-A-Kon!
I spent the final weekend of July 2011 (7/29-7/31) in Baltimore, Maryland celebrating the 18th anniversary of Otakon! It was also my fourth appearance at this particular anime convention (I previously attended in 2003, 2009, & 2010)! Of course, the biggest draw was the Dealer's Room! I hardly had to spend a dime, as my Hubby was willing to spend most of his hard-earned money from his job to make me happy! (SN: Thanks for a great weekend, Chris! I love you!) I ended up with most of the anime titles I was looking for, including: 1. Season 1 of "Black Butler," 2. The entire series of "Chobits," 3. The complete collection of "Moonphase," 4. "Rumbling Hearts," 5. "Daphne In The Brilliant Blue, 6. "Fruit's Basket" (which I truly appreciate, because I know how much Hubby hates the series!), and 7. The second box set of the anime "Nana!"
I'm going to be busy watching all that anime! Hopefully, it will keep me satisfied until Anime USA (November 18-20, 2011)! Sadly, I'm already working on my Anime Wish List for that con! I missed the premiere screening of "The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya" at Otakon 2011! It is definitely something I would have loved to have seen, because I have both seasons of "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya" on DVD! Hopefully, "Disappearance" will be available in the US by the time AUSA starts! I believe it's already out in Japan! http://www.amazon.com/Disappearance-Haruhi-Suzumiya-Region-Japanese/dp/B0050XOCLK/ref=sr_1_3?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1312243121&sr=1-3
And before the question is asked, yes, I did cosplay! Only 2/3 days though. I cosplayed as Toad from the Super Mario Bros. video game franchise and also as a catgirl! (SN: I hope at least one person got a pic of me in that outfit!).
I really didn't do much interacting with the guests this year, though I did manage to get an autograph from Peter S. Beagle. who wrote the book that inspired the movie of the same name --"The Last Unicorn!" Perhaps the next time I see him at a con, I will be able to buy his book (Or maybe the graphic novel that came out this year)!
One good thing that happened outside the convention center walls was another anime-related event, the premiere of the ThunderCats on Cartoon Network on July 29! Based on all the Facebook posts my Hubby received via his Blackberry, he & I were not the only ones who left the con to go back to our hotel room to check it out!
Of course, the last day of the con was bittersweet: checking out of the hotel, saying good-bye to new friends, making last minute purchases from the Dealer's Room, and packing up and clearing out of the Baltimore Convention Center! Still, I'm looking forward to cuddling with Hubby while watching some of the anime he bought for me! As I said, I'm sure it's enough to keep me occupied until Anime USA! And if not, there's always the Funimation Channel!
I'm going to be busy watching all that anime! Hopefully, it will keep me satisfied until Anime USA (November 18-20, 2011)! Sadly, I'm already working on my Anime Wish List for that con! I missed the premiere screening of "The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya" at Otakon 2011! It is definitely something I would have loved to have seen, because I have both seasons of "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya" on DVD! Hopefully, "Disappearance" will be available in the US by the time AUSA starts! I believe it's already out in Japan! http://www.amazon.com/Disappearance-Haruhi-Suzumiya-Region-Japanese/dp/B0050XOCLK/ref=sr_1_3?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1312243121&sr=1-3
And before the question is asked, yes, I did cosplay! Only 2/3 days though. I cosplayed as Toad from the Super Mario Bros. video game franchise and also as a catgirl! (SN: I hope at least one person got a pic of me in that outfit!).
I really didn't do much interacting with the guests this year, though I did manage to get an autograph from Peter S. Beagle. who wrote the book that inspired the movie of the same name --"The Last Unicorn!" Perhaps the next time I see him at a con, I will be able to buy his book (Or maybe the graphic novel that came out this year)!
One good thing that happened outside the convention center walls was another anime-related event, the premiere of the ThunderCats on Cartoon Network on July 29! Based on all the Facebook posts my Hubby received via his Blackberry, he & I were not the only ones who left the con to go back to our hotel room to check it out!
Of course, the last day of the con was bittersweet: checking out of the hotel, saying good-bye to new friends, making last minute purchases from the Dealer's Room, and packing up and clearing out of the Baltimore Convention Center! Still, I'm looking forward to cuddling with Hubby while watching some of the anime he bought for me! As I said, I'm sure it's enough to keep me occupied until Anime USA! And if not, there's always the Funimation Channel!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
America's Greatest Otaku (Revealed)!
I'm not as far behind in my blogging as I thought I was!!!!!!!!!!!! Yay!!!!!!!!!!!! I watched the finale of America's Greatest Otaku today (FINALLY!) !!!!!!!!!! I am sad to say good-bye to the Otaku 6: Diana Hsu & Dre Jean-Jacques (Team D & D), Stephan Cho & William Sullivan "Sully" Brown (Team S & S), and Meera Marie & Dominique Kruse (Team Mangaloids)! (SN: Have I used too many parentheses in this blog post yet? LOL!) I am absolutely thrilled to announce that my Hubby, Christopher Wanamaker, was declared AMERICA'S GREATEST OTAKU, with contenders Selene Schneider & Gina Gallego coming in close!!!!! As the winner, Chris was rewarded with a trip to Japan, where he visited such hot spots as Toei Animation Co., Ltd., creative residence to such popular anime as Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball, & Fist Of The North Star! Another not-to-be-missed spot along his journey was the Sanrio Puroland, a Hello Kitty theme park!!!!!!!!! (Note to Chris Wanamaker: Thanks for bringing me back such great souvenirs from this spot, Honey!) He was even lucky enough to be able to see a Sentai (known in America as the Power Rangers) Show! Wow! I hope he goes to Japan again for a visit someday! (If I'm lucky enough, I'll be able to go along with him!) In the meantime, I'll be content to immerse myself in Japanese culture by attending as many anime cons as possible! Which reminds me, Otakon will be here before I can blink! I guess I'd better put together my Wish List for the Dealer's Room! If it's anything like it has been in the past, it's gonna be HUGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (The Dealer's Room, not my Wish List! LOL!) Congratulations to AGO contenders: 1. Ryan Tumaliuan, 2. Christine Choi, 3. Gina Gallego,4. Elizabet Schweizer, 5. Shireen Al-Zahawi, 6. Di-Khiem Tran, 7. Todd Haberkorn, 8. Brianna Berry, 9. Janet Enriquez, 10. Becky Rasch, 11. Alexandra Lewis, 12. Selene Schneider, 13. Jasmine Salters, 14. Dianna Santodonato, 15. Joey Hanell, 16. Greer White, 17. Ryan Donafey (female), and 18. Jillian Marcus! It's too late for me to say "May the best man win!," because the contest is over and he already did! Congratulations, Chris! Wife Chan is very proud of you!!!!!!!!!!!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
America's Greatest Art-taku?
I'm a little behind on my blogging, so this post is 1 of several that I'm hoping will be published over the next few days! The April 7th episode of "America's Greatest Otaku" focused on the core quality of "Imagination" and emphasized the belief that "Life is short, but art lasts forever," a paraphrasing of a Hippocratic quote. To reinforce this belief, the Otaku 6 were challenged to paint a mural. While working on this project, the Otaku 6 met several different artistic people, including Matt Booth, the owner of "Videodrome," dubbed "one of Atlanta's greatest movie rental places." Sharing the same name as David Cronenberg's cult classic, Videodrome (http://www.videodromeatl.com/) offers pretty much everything and anything to tickle your movie nerd fancy. Another person that crossed the path of the Otaku 6 was Cynthia Kado Shannon, the lead instructor-or godan-at the Shingetsu Kyudo Kai (http://www.shingetsu-kyudo.com/), a school dedicated to the study of archery. Day 2 of Week 7 was spent learning about the art of Puppetry. After meet-ups with Jeremy Underwood-who serves as curator of exhibits for the Center for Puppetry Arts (http://www.puppet.org/) -and Theodora Skipitares-a contemporary New York Puppeteer, the gang slearned about the bunkaru, or the traditional Japanese Puppet Theater. Sounds like fun to me! And, of course, you can't talk about puppets without mentioning Jim Henson, one of the greatest puppeteers who ever lived!!!!! Without Jim Henson (September 24, 1936 – May 16, 1990) , great Muppets such as Kermit the Frog, Big Bird, Elmo, and duo Bert & Ernie (my childhood faves!) would not exist!!!!!!!! OK! I'm getting weepy with nostalgia, so I guess it's time to move on to Week 7, Day 3 & Day 4! Team D & D (Dre Jean Jacques & Diana Hsu) sojourned to New Orleans and discovered the Japanese poetic form haiku! The pair visited the New Orleans Haiku Society (http://www.neworleanshaikusociety.blogspot.com/) and discovered an Otaku Hot Spot in the Boutique Du Vampyre (www.feelthebite.com), owned by Marita Jaeger! The crew met up with 2 other artistic individuals-New Orleans stained glass artist Sarah Segovia & clothing designer Lady Angelique-before finally introducing AGO contender Greer White!!!!! What makes White believe herself to be America's Greatest Otaku???? Maybe it's her aspiration to be an artist! Or it could be that she is an avid cosplayer! But then again, several people could argue that they cosplay as well! So, maybe it's the fact that Greer White loves Para Para dancing!!!!!!!! Or it could be the fact that she has attended anime conventions-Mechacon (http://www.mechacon.com/) in particular-and cosplayed as characters such as Momo Adachi from "Peach Girl" (I've seen that anime!) But then again, what anime fan hasn't done that??? So, does Greer White have what it takes to be "America's Greatest Otaku?" Only time will tell!!!!!! In the meantime, Meera Jogani & Dominique Kruse (Team Mangaloids) visited Chicago, Illinois to find other contenders who think that they have what it takes to be "America's Greatest Otaku!" It is in Chicago that they discover an Otaku Hot Spot in Wizard World. Wizard World is a producer of pop culture and multimedia conventions across North America that markets movies, TV shows, video games, technology, toys, social networking/gaming platforms, comic books and graphic novels. It has the rights to the names, marks, domains, customer lists and production rights for a portfolio of pop culture and multimedia conventions (http://www.wizardworld.com/). Chicago is also where AGO viewers were introduced to business owners Phil Schlaefer (www.comiccollectorshop.com), Xavier B. Hamilton (www.thegrandillumination.com), and Steve Oertel (www.galleryofink.com). Finally, they introduced another AGO candidate, Chicago's Miss Ryan Zanfei! She makes a very cute Sweet Lolita, loves making accessories, and illustrates manga, but does she deserve to be "America's Greatest Otaku?" If you can equate Lolita Love with Otaku Fandom, and add it to the fact that she runs her own website (http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=95549&op=new&body=2) , then,yes, it is very possible for Ryan to win the coveted title. of "America's Greatest Otaku!" To close out the Chicago visit, Team Mangaloids visited with Masato Takai, the Manager of Mitsuwa Marketplace (www.mitsuwa.com) and Jillian Marcus, Chicago's AGO candidate! Among Jillian's qualifications are her career as an Otaku baker and her aspiration to be an anime editor!!!! And, like many other, anime and manga fans, she cosplays (as "Lucy" from Elfin Lied). But if merely cosplaying was enough for someone to be declared "America's Greatest Otaku," then I'd definitely have a shot at the title! "Life is short, but art is long," as is this blog post!!!!!!!! May the art of anime live forever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
AGO To The Websites!!!!!!!!!
I am just getting around to blogging about the March 31 episode of "America's Greatest Otaku" for 2 reasons: 1. My computer was acting funny! & 2. Every time I sat down to watch it, people were bothering me with text messages, IMs, Skype, e-mails,phone calls, etc!!!!!!!!!! Damn them all!!!!!!!!!!!! Anyway, I'm not sure what to think of the Week 6 Episode! The cities visited were Philadelphia (PA), Indianapolis (IN), and Louisville (KY). Several of the individuals interviewed had websites promoting themselves, their artwork and/or their business or merchandise!
www.shofuso.com : Shofuso Japanese House and Garden is a traditional-style Japanese house and nationally-ranked garden in Philadelphia’s West Fairmount Park that reflects the history of Japanese culture in Philadelphia, from the 1876 Centennial Exposition to the installation of its contemporary paintings in 2007.
www.phillymagicgardens.org (Be sure to check out the mosaic murals of Ellen M. Owens & Isaiah Zagar!): Philadelphia's Magic Gardens is a folk art environment, gallery space, and nonprofit organization that showcases the work of mosaicist Isaiah Zagar. Located at the site of Zagar's largest public mosaic installation, the Magic Gardens includes a fully mosaiced indoor gallery and a massive outdoor labyrinthine mosaic sculpture. The installation, primarily consisting of found objects and contributions from the community, covers half a city block with myriads of tile, texture, and color. A walk through the labyrinth will reveal sculptures from Latin America and Asia, bicycle wheels from local South Street shop Via Bicycles, Zagar's hand-made tiles, and mirrors of every shape and size.
http://www.gencon.com/: Gen Con Indy is the original, longest running, best attended, gaming convention in the world. For over 41 years, Gen Con Indy has been setting the trend and breaking records. Get lost in a phantasm of art exhibits. Stare at jaw-dropping costumes, or better yet, wear one of your own. Meet the movers and the shakers in the gaming industry. Check out the newest games and get a sneak peek at the latest editions. I think one of the coolest exhibitions at this con was the Monster Chess by Steven Hassenplug, who, of course, has his own website--http://www.teamhassenplug.org/!!!!!!!!!!!!
The gang met up with several other individuals with their own websites before introducing Joey Hansel, who believes he can claim the title of "America's Greatest Otaku" because he is: 1. a lifelong anime fan, 2. an avid collector, & 3. an aspiring voice actor. Does he have a chance????? Only time will tell, but after seeing some of the previous contenders, I doubt it!!!! A good voice alone does not an Otaku make!!!!!!!!!!! Anyway, on to Day 3!!!!!!!!!!! Video Games Live (www.videogameslive.com) is where the gang caught up with Tommy Tallarico, one of the co-creators of the gaming event! I've never been, but I'm sure I'd like it because it reminded me of when Star Wars In Concert (http://www.starwarsinconcert.com/) came to Washington, DC in the Summer of 2010!!!! Now, that was an epic event!!!!!!!!
Midweek, Day 4, took the gang to the Indiana State Fair, where they discovered Theresa Kulczak and the "Bridges To Japan" exhibition! (www.in.gov/statefair) . The final stop for the week was Louisville, KY, where the "Rockin' Pockies," an anime & manga group, has its foundation. Louisville was also where AGO viewers were introduced to Paul Lepree and his website, www.ultra-pop.com.
All in all, it was a good episode, but it was a little tough picking a theme to focus on in this blog!!!!! It turned out alright in the end, though, so all that remains to be seen is what will happen in the remaining episode(s)!!
Midweek, Day 4, took the gang to the Indiana State Fair, where they discovered Theresa Kulczak and the "Bridges To Japan" exhibition! (www.in.gov/statefair) . The final stop for the week was Louisville, KY, where the "Rockin' Pockies," an anime & manga group, has its foundation. Louisville was also where AGO viewers were introduced to Paul Lepree and his website, www.ultra-pop.com.
All in all, it was a good episode, but it was a little tough picking a theme to focus on in this blog!!!!! It turned out alright in the end, though, so all that remains to be seen is what will happen in the remaining episode(s)!!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
I Want AGO Home!!!!!!!!!!!!! And It Comes Close!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I've looked forward to last Thursday night's episode of AGO ever since I saw the bus at Otakon last Summer! The AGO crew spent Week 5 of their search in Baltimore, MD; Washington, DC; and New York! Since I live in that area, I expected to see at least one person I recognized! And I was not disappointed!: My husband, Chris Wanamaker, the President of the DC Anime Club (http://www.dcanimeclub.org/), turned out to compete for the coveted title of "America's Greatest Otaku!" If anyone embodies the Otaku Quality of Participation, which is what the Otaku 6 Challenge of the Week was based on, it is definitely Christopher Wanamaker (and I'm not just saying that because I'm married to him)! Not only is he the President of the most active anime club in the nation, but he also attends several anime cons throughout the year! I attend at least 3 with him: Katsucon, Otakon, & Anime USA. Also, he participates in events such as "Animania" at the FYE stores, as well as the Japanese Street Festival during the Cherry Blossom Parade. Perhaps I'm biased, but I think my hubby has a real shot at being declared "America's Greatest Otaku!" Only time will tell, though, so I'll move on to some of the others vying for the coveted title! Jasmine Salters, an aspiring ainme creator and manga designer, has also created a few plushies. Some of her spare time is reserved for drawing several times a week, even creating her own characters and stories. Does she have a chance to win the coveted title of AGO?????????? Who knows????? And as for Dianna Santodonatto, AGO's New York candidate, she and Salters have something in common: they both love to make plushies!!!!!!!!!!! As for what separates Santodonatto from the rest of the crowd, it's the fact that she can play songs from popular anime on her flute!!!! Wow!!!!!!!!!! And of course, the search for "America's Greatest Otaku" would not be complete without some maids & music!!!!!!!!! Reni Mimura is both! The Japanese Cosplay Singer specializes in Moe style performances, a genre that emphasizes the cute look of Japanese pop-culture with the hip appeal of Japanese animation! Mimura is a very busy maid! Right now, her schedule reveals that she is slated to appear at Jaycon in Pennsylvania on March 26, and a Maid Show the following day in New York! If she can maintain a busy schedule like that, she definitely has a good chance of claiming the title of "America's Greatest Otaku!" However, only one person can be declared "America's Greatest Otaku"!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Who will it be????? Only time will tell, so I'm going to keep logging in every week to http://americasgreatestotaku.com/ until the contest is over and a winner is declared!!!!!!!!
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Not Enough Time To Get From Golden To Garden....Color My Face "Red"!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm watching the final episode of "Golden Boy" right now. I was planning to watch "Red Garden" when I was done, but I may not have the time, as the running time for the entire series of "Red Garden" is 10 hours!!!! It's nearly 2 p.m. right now!!!!!!!!!!!! At the most, I think I've got about 6 hours of anime-watching time left. I must wash my hair tonight!!!!!! What else can I watch????????? I've got plenty of anime, but how's a girl supposed to choose???????????? One of the cardinal rules of anime is "Hentai is not to be watched alone!" I've got plenty of hentai, but I dare not watch it because Hubby is out for the moment. Oh, well! I'm sure I'll think of something! If not, there's always the Funimation Channel!!!!!!!!!!!
A Colorful Anime Marathon
As of this morning, I watched the last "first time" anime I own-"Ah! My Goddess: The Movie"- so I have to get creative! I've decided to give today's anime marathon a color theme! Today's lineup includes "Perfect Blue," "Golden Boy," "Red Garden", and, if there's time, a (sans-color) Miyazaki movie to finish it off!!!!!!!!!!! It's a hue-filled combination of thrillers, comedy, paranormal activity, and more!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ah!_My_Goddess:_The_Movie
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perfect_Blue
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Boy_(manga)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_Garden
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ah!_My_Goddess:_The_Movie
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perfect_Blue
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Boy_(manga)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_Garden
Sunday, March 20, 2011
The Otaku Search Continues: San Di-AGO, Oklahoma, & Beyond!
I tuned in to Hulu (http://www.hulu.com/americas-greatest-otaku) this past Thursday for another webisode of "America's Greatest Otaku!"This week, the crew decided to continue the search for America's Greatest Otaku at the San Diego Comic Con International! Among the attending vendors were representatives from "Munky King" (http://www.munkyking.com/) and So So Happy (http://www.sosohappyonline.com/). Among the guests who made an appearance were comic artist Emily Warren (http://frozenlilacs.com/). The AGO crew then spent Day 5 of Week 4 of their search for America's Greatest Otaku in Oklahoma City! They dined at the Sushi Neko restaurant (http://www.sushineko.com/) ! I wonder how they liked it, because I'm always looking for a good sushi restaurant! (Even though I've never been to Oklahoma!) Oklahoma is also where the crew caught up with Becky Rasch, the youngest contender for the title of "America's Greatest Otaku!" However, Oklahoma is not where their search ended! After Oklahoma, the AGO crew ended up in Nashville, TN! It is there that the crew met up with Matt Corlew and Laura Myers, co-owners of the "Happy Japan" store (http://www.happyjapan.net/). According to the official website, "Happy Japan is an anime and Japanese specialty store, offering retail sales of rare and hard to find items, imported snack goods, novelties, and couture fashions." The part I really enjoyed was when Laura handed the crew Bento Boxes with "Totoro" sushi! Also in Tennessee, the crew met AGO contender, Alexandra Lewis, a self-proclaimed "Otaku Evangelist," as well as an avid cosplayer! I particulary loved when she talked about doing a "Death Note" cosplay, as it is one of my fave anime series! She even provided pics, and I must say THEY LOOKED AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And then there was an entire family of Otaku: Amanda, Matthew, Selene, and the rest of the Schneiders felt that they were fair game for the coveted title. I would almost agree, considering one of them spent $393 and some change on manga in just one day!!!!!!!!!!!! (I wonder what her monthly Visa bill looks like?) LOL! Next week, more than halfway through the tour, the crew comes close to home when they hit New York, Baltimore & Washington, DC! I am especially looking forward to that episode, because I'm sure I'll see at least one person I know in the area! But only time will tell!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Anime-niac Is Excited About Anime USA!!!!!!!!!!!!
When I wrote my first post for this blog, the dates for Anime USA, the third and final con I attend every year, had not been announced. I am happy to say that that is no longer the case! The information for Anime USA 2011 is now on the official website! Anime USA 2011 will run from November 18-20, 2011. The venue for the con will be the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Arlington, VA. Expected guests include Trina Nishimura, Laura Bailey, and Travis Willingham! Nishimura provides the voice of Shiore Tsuzuki in the ever popular Witchblade, one of my favorite anime series!!!!!!!!! Laura Bailey is known for lending her voice to the character Tohru Honda in Fruits Basket, an anime I've avoided for years based on my Hubby's opinion. After borrowing it from a friend, I found out that it's really not that bad. I may start collecting it! If you've ever watched Naruto, then you might recognize Travis Willingham's voice. Willingham is the voice behind Juugo/Black Zetsu in the popular anime series! Out of the 3, I think I am most looking forward to seeing, and perhaps, meeting, Ms. Nishimura! As I stated previously, I enjoyed the Witchblade anime, which Nishimura lent her vocal talents to. I can't wait to see what other guests will make an appearance at Anime USA 2011! I'll keep checking the official website for information, and update my blog as necessary!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
"Earthsea" is a Must-See!!!!!!!!!!
I just concluded another anime marathon by watching "Tales From Earthsea," a Studio Ghibli Film directed not by Hayao Miyazaki--who is known for blockbuster films such as "Spirited Away" and "My Neighbor Totoro"--but by his son Goro Miyazaki! It was definitely a little less kid-friendly and a little more action-oriented than Miyazaki fans are used to, but definitely still a good movie!!!!!!!!!!!!! Mariska Hargitay, whom I love in her role as Detective Olivia Benson in "Law & Order: Special Victims' Unit," lent her voice to the project, as did Cheech Marin, the actor who gained recognition as part of the comedy act Cheech & Chong during the 1970s and early 1980s. All in all, the movie was decent, though I'd question whether or not I'd show this to my 8-year-old niece as willingly as I would something like "Ponyo" or "Kiki's Delivery Service," which are unquestionably kid-friendly. It definitely held my attention!!!!!!!!!! I think I'm just about out of anime, with the exception of "Lupin the 3rd Episode 0: First Contact," which will no doubt be a part of my next anime marathon! As for the rest of it, I will probably end up resurrecting some old favorites! But for now, I'm going to give my DVD player a break and spend some quality time with my Hubby!
Mini-Goddess Marathon & Earthsea To End!
I just finished watching the entire series of "The Adventures Of Mini-Goddess!" It was OK, but with Gan-Chan the rat providing the comic relief instead of Keiichi Morisato, it just didn't have the same flavor as the original series. It held my attention, but I still didn't take to it like I did the original "Ah! My Goddess!" series. Oh, well!!!!! It's time for me to watch "Tales From Earthsea," which I just purchased on DVD, for the very first time!!!!!!!!!!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tales_from_Earthsea_(film)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tales_from_Earthsea_(film)
Ah! Mini-Goddess!
"One ordinary day in May, 3 goddesses from Heaven appeared at the door of a likeable young college student. The goddesses used their many powers to help people find happiness and sometimes for a lark, they would make themselves small! This is their story!" So begins the tale of "The Adventures of MIni-Goddess." After viewing both seasons of the "Ah! My Goddess!" series and still pining for the movie, I knew I had to have "The Adventures of Mini-Goddess!" I found it at Katsucon 2011!!! The story tells what happens when Keiichi (the "likeable young college student") goes to class each morning. The Norse goddesses Urd, Skuld, and Belldandy who live with him shrink themselves down for brief, comic adventures with a wall-eyed rat named Gan. The cleverest episodes parody familiar genres and anime series. In "Gabira," Gan turns into a monster-rat in a spoof of the Godzilla movies of the '50s. Skuld zaps the air conditioner into overdrive in "Snowfield," and soon the room is covered with snow. Skuld, Urd, and Gan use pushpins as climbing spikes to reach the crazed appliance in a send-up of outdoor adventure films. "Gan-Chan the Locomotive" begins with a funny parody of Galaxy Express 999, with Gan as Tetsuro and Belldandy as Maetel, but the comedy degenerates into a weird variation on Starlight Express with the characters as locomotives. When Urd, Skuld, Belldandy, and Gan-Chan find themselves on camera without a script in "This Happens Once in a While," they stage a sci-fi romance Space Cruiser Uzushino that satirizes the space operas of the Star Blazers era. Occasional villainy is provided by the voluptuous blonde sorceress-demon Marla, who sometimes sounds like wannabe Naga from Slayers. The miniature versions of Urd, Skuld, and Belldandy have little of the charm that made the Oh My Goddess OAVs so popular. The series is clearly aimed at much younger viewers, with slapstick humor replacing the mixture of romance and mythology. (Rated 13 and older, but appropriate for children two years younger: minor slapstick violence, brief nudity)
OK, I admit it! I stole this summary from the Amazon website! Does anyone really care????????? I'll post my own opinion, summary, or whatever after I'm through with the series!!!!!!!!!!!!
OK, I admit it! I stole this summary from the Amazon website! Does anyone really care????????? I'll post my own opinion, summary, or whatever after I'm through with the series!!!!!!!!!!!!
No More Magikano!
After watching such anime as "Ai Yori Aoshi" and "Boys Over Flowers" (romantic, comedy), I can honestly say that there's little to no romance or comedy in "Magikano." I would say that there's enough profanity and panty shots to make some people happy, but (and I'm watching the final episode as I'm writing this) the series is doing nothing for me. I think I only added it to my Wish List because it was recommended by Amazon. (http://www.amazon.com/) And it truly didn't seem that awful when I checked out the trailer on YouTube
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJ2ywlfAZ_Q)
One review on Amazon even said "the truth of the matter is that Magikano certainly isn't one of Gonzo's shining achievements in anime." I have to agree, and I honestly like the majority of the anime Gonzo has the license for that I have seen. "Red Garden" wasn't too bad once I got into it. "Romeo x Juliet" is one of my faves, even though it didn't stay true to Shakespeare's original story (SN: I wrote about it in a previous blog post in late January/early February.) And I truly enjoyed "Witchblade," in spite of my hubby's expectation that I wouldn't because of the physical attributes of the main heroine. "Magikano," in my opinion, is not equal to the standards set by its Gonzo predecessors. Yes, I know Gonzo is only responsible for licensing, and not the actual creation of the series, but after enjoying other anime series released by them, "Magikano" comes off as a magical disappointment!
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJ2ywlfAZ_Q)
One review on Amazon even said "the truth of the matter is that Magikano certainly isn't one of Gonzo's shining achievements in anime." I have to agree, and I honestly like the majority of the anime Gonzo has the license for that I have seen. "Red Garden" wasn't too bad once I got into it. "Romeo x Juliet" is one of my faves, even though it didn't stay true to Shakespeare's original story (SN: I wrote about it in a previous blog post in late January/early February.) And I truly enjoyed "Witchblade," in spite of my hubby's expectation that I wouldn't because of the physical attributes of the main heroine. "Magikano," in my opinion, is not equal to the standards set by its Gonzo predecessors. Yes, I know Gonzo is only responsible for licensing, and not the actual creation of the series, but after enjoying other anime series released by them, "Magikano" comes off as a magical disappointment!
Magikano No-No?
This morning, I picked up my anime marathon exactly where I left off. I'm watching "Magikano." So far, 2 or 3 episodes in, the series is not holding my attention. However, since it's only 13 episodes long, I'll try to stick it out and withhold judgment. Or I might just give up after the first disc. I hope that after this is over and I make my post on it that I have time to watch "The Adventures of Mini-Goddess!" It's part of the "Ah! My Goddess" anime family. I have the first 2 seasons of "Ah! My Goddess" on DVD, and hope to someday find and own the movie! But for now, back to Magikano!!!!!!!!!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002FOQXUU/ref=cm_rdp_product
http://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Mini-Goddess-Limited-Boxed-Set/dp/B00009B8CQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=dvd&ie=UTF8&qid=1299932006&sr=1-1
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002FOQXUU/ref=cm_rdp_product
http://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Mini-Goddess-Limited-Boxed-Set/dp/B00009B8CQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=dvd&ie=UTF8&qid=1299932006&sr=1-1
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Here We AGO Again!!!!!!!!!!!!
http://www.hulu.com/watch/222242/americas-greatest-otaku-otaku-heat#s-p1-so-i0
The third episode of "America's Greatest Otaku" was broadcast over the Internet tonight. The crew ended up in Phoenix, AZ and Albuquerque, NM. (SN: Remember to check out the website for Lobo Anime & Comics in New Mexico!) http://www.loboanime.com/
I just have one question: What do eating contests have to do with becoming "America's Greatest Otaku?" One guy almost made himself sick gorging on noodles and ice cream (or it might've been yogurt!), while another overdid it on the pancakes!!!!!!!!!! If you watch the show--click (or copy & paste) the link at the top of this post--you'll see what I mean!!!!!!!!!! I can't wait to see what happens on next week's episode!!!!!!!!!
The third episode of "America's Greatest Otaku" was broadcast over the Internet tonight. The crew ended up in Phoenix, AZ and Albuquerque, NM. (SN: Remember to check out the website for Lobo Anime & Comics in New Mexico!) http://www.loboanime.com/
I just have one question: What do eating contests have to do with becoming "America's Greatest Otaku?" One guy almost made himself sick gorging on noodles and ice cream (or it might've been yogurt!), while another overdid it on the pancakes!!!!!!!!!! If you watch the show--click (or copy & paste) the link at the top of this post--you'll see what I mean!!!!!!!!!! I can't wait to see what happens on next week's episode!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, March 3, 2011
"AGO" is A Go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's not exactly anime, but it is anime-related, so it needs to be mentioned in this blog!!!!!!! The second episode of "America's Greatest Otaku" was broadcast over the Internet tonight. "America's Greatest Otaku," or "AGO," is a revealing documentary series that searches the United States for the number one American otaku. The term “otaku” refers to any uber-passionate fan of anime, manga, games, and Japanese pop culture for whom it is less of a hobby, and more of a lifestyle. Todd Haberkorn, a voice actor whom I had the pleasure of meeting at one of the anime cons I attended, is one of the contenders. Haberkorn is most widely known for his voice work in Hell Girl (as Ren Ichimoku), My Bride is a Mermaid (as Nagasumi Michishio), and xxxHolic (as Kimihiro Watanuki). I am looking forward to next week's episode of "America's Greatest Otaku!'" I wonder if anyone else I recognize will show up!!!!!!!!!!! The link for the series is: http://www.hulu.com/watch/218497/americas-greatest-otaku-otaku-quest-revs-up?from=fb_share. Episodes 1 & 2 are available to view now!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Fruit For Thought, & A Favorite to Finish!!!!!!!!!!!!
I've finished with the "Fruit's Basket" DVDs my friend loaned me (Thanks, MDC!), and it's really not a bad series. I may look into getting the entire collection. In the meantime, it doesn't look like I'll get around to watching "Magikano" today. That'll be good for my next anime marathon (or at least part of it!). I've decided to conclude today's anime marathon with one of my favorite movies--Hayao Miyazaki's "My Neighbor Totoro!" At its core, it is a story about childhood innocence, friendship and the belief that magic is all around us.
Sisters Satuski and Mei have recently moved to a countryside area of Japan with their Father. Their Mother has been rehabilitating at a nearby hospital and the move was made so that they could be closer to her, as well as to provide a better environment for her once she is allowed to go home. Although Satsuki and Mei were at first frightened by their new strange house, they soon discover that there is a magical presence there. Soon, they meet their new neighbour, a tree guardian named Totoro who lives in the forest behind their house, and together a wonderful adventure begins.
Some might say that it is a movie for kids, but I can watch it alone as easily as I can watch it with my 8 1/2-year-old niece and my 4-year-old nephew. I can't say that about every anime labeled as "sugary" or aimed towards the kiddies. That is part of the appeal and talent of Hayao Miyazaki, one of the greatest and most famous directors of Japanese animation. Miyazaki manages to create masterpieces aimed at kids of all ages, from 4 to 104! OK! Maybe that was an exaggeration....but not by much!!!!!!!!!!!!! Miyazaki is a cinematic genius, and I can't wait to see what he comes up with next!!!!!!!!!! I can't think of a better way to end an anime marathon than with one of his best movies!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sisters Satuski and Mei have recently moved to a countryside area of Japan with their Father. Their Mother has been rehabilitating at a nearby hospital and the move was made so that they could be closer to her, as well as to provide a better environment for her once she is allowed to go home. Although Satsuki and Mei were at first frightened by their new strange house, they soon discover that there is a magical presence there. Soon, they meet their new neighbour, a tree guardian named Totoro who lives in the forest behind their house, and together a wonderful adventure begins.
Some might say that it is a movie for kids, but I can watch it alone as easily as I can watch it with my 8 1/2-year-old niece and my 4-year-old nephew. I can't say that about every anime labeled as "sugary" or aimed towards the kiddies. That is part of the appeal and talent of Hayao Miyazaki, one of the greatest and most famous directors of Japanese animation. Miyazaki manages to create masterpieces aimed at kids of all ages, from 4 to 104! OK! Maybe that was an exaggeration....but not by much!!!!!!!!!!!!! Miyazaki is a cinematic genius, and I can't wait to see what he comes up with next!!!!!!!!!! I can't think of a better way to end an anime marathon than with one of his best movies!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Nana Nana! Nana Nana! Hey, Hey, Hey! Good bye..... For Now!
I just finished watching the first box set of "Nana." It was a little repetitive for 2 or 3 episodes, but not bad. I can't wait until Otakon to get "Nana: Uncut Box Set, Vol. 2". I'm not sure if I want to wait until Otakon, but I might have enough anime to satisfy me until I do. What's next on my watch list for today? I have 2 DVDs of "Fruit's Basket" that a friend loaned me (Hi, MDC!). My hubby's attitude toward the series has discouraged me from purchasing it until now. I did check out an episode online, so now I'm going to watch some of the series to see if I want to collect the rest. I think I'll watch "Magikano" after I finish with the 2 "Fruit's Basket" DVDs.
Fruits Basket (called "Furuba" by fans) is the story of Tohru Honda, a high school student who has lost both of her parents. Her mother died only a year before the start of the series, and Touru misses her so much that she always carries her picture around with her. Tohru was living with her paternal grandfather until he began renovations on his home, so he asked her if she'd mind staying with some friends for awhile. Touru didn't want to impose on either of her friends, so she decided to set up a tent in the woods until the house was finished.. until one day she stumbles across the home of her classmate Yuki Sohma, and accidentally discovers his family's BIG secret - when "huggled" by someone of the opposite sex, they are cursed to turn into the animals of the Chinese zodiac. Tohru ends up moving in with the Sohma family as a housekeeper/cook in exchange for room and board, and she is introduced one-by-one to the rest of the clan (some of whom are.. VERY.. unusual).
Summary of "Magikano"
Haruo Yoshikawa always thought he was your average run-of-the-mill middle school student: Great attendance record, no real plans for the future, and three adorable, loving sisters, Maika, Chiaki and Fuyuno. Perfectly normal, right?
Wrong! What Haruo doesn’t know is that his three sneaky sisters have been keeping him in the dark about a little family secret: They’re all magic users! In the blink of an eye, Haruo’s “normal” life does a 180 degree turn into the insane with the arrival of the enchanting Ayumi, who for some reason seems very interested in turning Haruo into a “real man”…as well as awakening his dormant powers! (Wow! What a witch!) Warning! There’s supernatural slapstick, magical mayhem and great jiggling gobs of fan service galore in the most totally witching series ever: Magikano!
A great addition to any harem collection!
They both sound pretty interesting to me, but before I continue with my anime marathon, I'm going to shower and eat!!!!!!!!!!!!! TTFN!!!!!!!!!!!!
Fruits Basket (called "Furuba" by fans) is the story of Tohru Honda, a high school student who has lost both of her parents. Her mother died only a year before the start of the series, and Touru misses her so much that she always carries her picture around with her. Tohru was living with her paternal grandfather until he began renovations on his home, so he asked her if she'd mind staying with some friends for awhile. Touru didn't want to impose on either of her friends, so she decided to set up a tent in the woods until the house was finished.. until one day she stumbles across the home of her classmate Yuki Sohma, and accidentally discovers his family's BIG secret - when "huggled" by someone of the opposite sex, they are cursed to turn into the animals of the Chinese zodiac. Tohru ends up moving in with the Sohma family as a housekeeper/cook in exchange for room and board, and she is introduced one-by-one to the rest of the clan (some of whom are.. VERY.. unusual).
Summary of "Magikano"
Haruo Yoshikawa always thought he was your average run-of-the-mill middle school student: Great attendance record, no real plans for the future, and three adorable, loving sisters, Maika, Chiaki and Fuyuno. Perfectly normal, right?
Wrong! What Haruo doesn’t know is that his three sneaky sisters have been keeping him in the dark about a little family secret: They’re all magic users! In the blink of an eye, Haruo’s “normal” life does a 180 degree turn into the insane with the arrival of the enchanting Ayumi, who for some reason seems very interested in turning Haruo into a “real man”…as well as awakening his dormant powers! (Wow! What a witch!) Warning! There’s supernatural slapstick, magical mayhem and great jiggling gobs of fan service galore in the most totally witching series ever: Magikano!
A great addition to any harem collection!
They both sound pretty interesting to me, but before I continue with my anime marathon, I'm going to shower and eat!!!!!!!!!!!!! TTFN!!!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, February 25, 2011
Kiki Delivers Nana
I am so excited! This weekend, I get to watch some of the anime I purchased at Katsucon last weekend! I am especially eager to watch "Nana!" I saw one or 2 episodes on TV a while back, and it looked like an interesting series. As usual, I'm starting off my anime marathon with a movie. "Kiki's Delivery Service" is one of Hayao Miyazaki's best films, and teaches a very good, if not predictable, lesson in believing in oneself!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kiki's_Delivery_Service
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kiki's_Delivery_Service
2 Girls...1 Name...Nana!
On board the train to Tokyo to meet her boyfriend Shoji, Nana Komatsu ("Hachi") happened to sit beside Nana Osaki who was traveling to Tokyo to fulfill her dreams of becoming a musician. The vocalist for her punk band "Blast", Nana aims for a major debut for "Blast" in Tokyo where her boyfriend, Ren, is the guitarist for a popular band "Trapnest". Sharing the same name "Nana", both girls quickly form a bond of friendship. Their paths cross again when they encounter each other while searching for accomodation in Tokyo. Eventually they decide to live together in the same unit and this further strengthens their bond as the two "Nana(s)" go through their love lives and career.
The two completely different girls who share the same name; Oosaki Nana and Komatsu Nana (Hachi) meet on a train to Tokyo. Oosaki Nana leaves her band 'BLAST (Black Stones)' to become a pro musician and Hachi moves to Tokyo to be with her boyfriend, Shouji. Girls encounter each other while looking for the same apartment, and they decide to live together. From that moment on, they face the hardships and good things of the life together...
I hope I enjoy the entire series as much as I did the first episode, but only time will tell!!!!!!!!!!!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Katsucon 2011: Celebrate The Spirit
I am exhausted! I spent the majority of President's Day Weekend 2011--Friday February 18-Sunday February 20--at the National Harbor and the Gaylord National Resort. celebrating the 17th anniversary of Katsucon, "Washington's Premiere Japanese Animation & Manga Festival," and the only anime con I've attended annually from 2003 (Katsucon 9) to the present. The theme of this year's convention was "Celebrate the Spirit!" And boy, did I celebrate! I cosplayed all 3 days!!!! Friday, I was dressed as comic book heroine Wonder Woman; Saturday, I costumed as Toad, Mario's mushroom pal from the Super Mario Brothers video game franchise; Sunday (today) my alter-ego was Rei Ayanami, best known for her role in "Neon Genesis Evangelion!" Sadly, my MasterCard did not survive the weekend unscathed! I used it to purchase several DVDs, including: boxed sets of "Nana" & "The Adventures Of Mini-Goddess," as well as the 30th anniversary release of the "Lupin the 3rd" television special "Episode 0: The First Contact!" That ought to be enough to keep me occupied until I attend Otakon this summer! Then again, time is passing so fast, the weekend of July 29-31, 2011 will be here before I can blink! I pray that my MasterCard recovers by then!!!! I already have some things in mind that I saw at Katsucon but could not afford to purchase! I hope that some of the vendors that were at Katsucon decide to make an appearance at Otakon! Go, anime!!!!!!!!!!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
A Heart-felt Ending
After experiencing a disc malfunction with "Ai Yori Aoshi," I decided to watch Rumiko Takashi's "Mermaid Forest." Takahashi is best known for her work with the "Ranma 1/2" anime and manga franchise. I've only viewed the first 2 seasons and 1 or 2 of the "Ranma 1/2" movies, and I find her work interesting. I've watched "Mermaid Forest" in the past, so I knew what I was getting into.
An ancient Japanese legend says that if one were to partake of the flesh of the mermaid, one would be granted eternal life and youth. Yuta ate the mermaid's flesh 500 years ago and became immortal. Since then he has had to deal with living a lonely never-ending life, watching his loved ones grow old and die. Wishing to have a normal life, to live and to die like others, he searches for a mermaid for centuries, thinking she may be able to tell him a way to become mortal again. When he arrives a village, he meets a girl named Mana, who also became immortal by eating a mermaid's flesh. Together, they start their journey in attempting to find a mermaid and regain their humanity.
After watching the entire series of "Mermaid Forest," I was in the mood for something romantic--don't ask me why--so I pulled out Studio Ghibli's "Whisper of the Heart." This was not directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, but he was involved with some of the production work.
From the creators of the Academy Award(R)-winning SPIRITED AWAY (Best Animated Feature Film, 2002) comes a tale based on the screenplay from the legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki. During summer vacation, a schoolgirl named Shizuku, who longs to discover her true talents, observes an ordinary-looking cat riding by himself on the train. Intrigued, she decides to follow him. This chance encounter leads her to the mysterious Seiji, a boy who is determined to follow his dreams, and The Baron, a magical cat figurine who helps her listen to the whispers in her heart. Soon, Shizuku's exciting adventures carry her far beyond the boundaries of her imagination. Featuring extraordinary storytelling, enchanting animation, and an all-star voice cast, this 2-disc set will inspire dreams and warm hearts of all ages.
I can't think of a better end to my final anime marathon before I attend Katsucon over the President's Day weekend, especially since Valentine's Day is this Monday!!!!!!!!!!
Ai Yori Aoshi: Bluer Than Indigo Made Me Blue
I woke up around 6 o'clock this morning in anticipation of one final anime marathon before I attend Katsucon over the President's Day weekend, I was in the mood for a romantic comedy, so, of course, Ai Yori Aoshi (Bluer Than Indigo) came to mind. I love the storyline!!! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ai_Yori_Aoshi
Sadly, a scratched disc brought my marathon to a grinding halt around noon!!!!!!!! DAMMIT!!!!!!!!!!!!! After fixing myself a quick lunch, I decided to watch "Mermaid Forest," an anime based on the work of Rumiko Takahashi, who is best known for Ranma 1/2.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mermaid_Forest
I wish Katsucon would hurry up and get here so I can see if the vendors in the Dealer's Room have any of the anime I want!!!!!!!!!!
Sadly, a scratched disc brought my marathon to a grinding halt around noon!!!!!!!! DAMMIT!!!!!!!!!!!!! After fixing myself a quick lunch, I decided to watch "Mermaid Forest," an anime based on the work of Rumiko Takahashi, who is best known for Ranma 1/2.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mermaid_Forest
I wish Katsucon would hurry up and get here so I can see if the vendors in the Dealer's Room have any of the anime I want!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, February 11, 2011
Grave-ly Entertaining
With Katsucon rapidly approaching, I find myself eager to purchase new anime. Until then, I must satisfy myself with what is already in my collection. As I write this, I am watching "Grave Of The Fireflies," one of my favorite movies. I think I will watch "Ai Yori Aoshi" tomorrow.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grave_of_the_Fireflies
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Ai_Yori_Aoshi_episodes
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grave_of_the_Fireflies
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Ai_Yori_Aoshi_episodes
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Shakespearean Anime?
After being unsuccessful in my search for "Nana" at FYE's "Animania" event last Sunday, I found myself with no new anime to watch on this cold Saturday! So what did I do? I pulled out a classic! For some inexplicable reason--or possibly inspired by the upcoming "Gnomeo & Juliet" film--I got the urge to watch "Romeo x Juliet" (released by Funimation Entertainment). Since I have the entire series on DVD, I settled in for a relaxing post-birthday anime fest! I have seen several renditions of this classic tragic love story, but I think that I like the anime take on it best! Don't get me wrong--the 1968 and 1996 renditions were noteworthy--it's just that the anime, and I'll say this without spoiling the story for those who've never watched it, gave the story some happier twists that Shakespeare himself probably would never have imagined.
http://www.gnomeoandjuliet.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=gnomeo%20and%20juliet&utm_content=Gnomeo%20and%20Juliet%20-%20HV&utm_campaign=Title
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romeo_x_Juliet
http://www.funimation.com/romeoxjuliet/
http://www.gnomeoandjuliet.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=gnomeo%20and%20juliet&utm_content=Gnomeo%20and%20Juliet%20-%20HV&utm_campaign=Title
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romeo_x_Juliet
http://www.funimation.com/romeoxjuliet/
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Animania!!!!!!!!!!!
I spent the better part of this afternoon at the FYE in Ballston Mall (4238 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22203), where an anime frenzy, or "Animania" broke out!!!!!!!!!!!! Sponsored by the DC Anime Club (http://www.dcanimeclub.org/) and Transworld Entertainment, the event featured a trivia contest, cosplayers, and dancers. My husband Chris, President of the DC Anime Club, dressed as Mario from the Nintendo video games franchise, and I cosplayed as Toad!!!! (SN: Man, it was cold in that costume! LOL!). A few of our friends showed up as well. Still, the overall turnout was somewhat of a disappointment. The store didn't have the one anime I could think of that I wanted to buy, so I will wait until President's Day weekend when I can attend Katsucon (http://www.katsucon.org/) and hope that I can find what I'm looking for in the Dealer's Room!!!!!!!!! On the upside, I did find a new friend in one of the store's employees, so the event wasn't a complete failure!!!! I may try to check it out again if there is one in the spring!!!! Hopefully, it'll be warmer by then!!!!!!!!!!!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Funimation's "Hell Girl" Is No Fun For Me!
I just finished watching the complete first season of Funimation's "Hell Girl!" I am usually a major fan of the majority of Funimation's projects, especially the "Lupin The 3rd" movies and the series "My Bride Is A Mermaid," so I was completely stunned by my lack of interest in "Hell Girl" after viewing only a few episodes. I decided to finish it off and see if my opinion changed as the series progressed. Sadly, it did not. I may try to exchange it at one of the Anime Swap Meets sponsored by the DC Anime Club, presided over by my husband Chris. (http://www.dcanimeclub.org/). I am not giving up on Funimation, in spite of my disappointment with the "Hell Girl" series. I refuse to let one bad apple spoil the bunch! What's the old saying? "Not everything is made for everybody!" This certainly applies to me when it comes to Funimation's "Hell Girl,". ImagineFX had this to say: "An enchanting series, HELL GIRL is very different but it's also a joy to watch, perfect for those who like their anime a little darker than normal." I guess I'm just not a "darker than normal" anime fangirl!!!!!!!!!!
Is "Hell Girl" A "Hell No?"
I've been up for more than 6 hours now watching "Hell Girl," produced by Aniplex & Studio Dean! While there are aspects of it that remind me of Viz Media's "Death Note"--a pretty decent anime in my book--there's something about it that's just not capturing my attention completely. I will say that content and profane language make it unsuitable for children to view. Some of the characters are repetitive, with little to no change in dialogue. However, I will refrain from passing final judgment until I've viewed the entire series. Now, on with the show!!!!!!!!!
Friday, January 14, 2011
"Spirited Away" to "Hell?"
I love lazy weekends when I can just chill out and watch some anime!!!! I spent today watching part of the first season of "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya" with my Hubby!!!! As I'm writing this, I'm watching Hayao Miyazaki's epic masterpiece, "Spirited Away." A large portion of my Saturday will be spent watching "Hell Girl!" I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!
http://www.amazon.com/Melancholy-Haruhi-Suzumiya-Complete-Collection/dp/B0019HABE8/ref=sr_1_3?s=dvd&ie=UTF8&qid=1295059993&sr=1-3
http://www.amazon.com/Spirited-Away-Hayao-Miyazaki/dp/B00005JLEU/ref=sr_1_1?s=dvd&ie=UTF8&qid=1295060066&sr=1-1
http://www.amazon.com/Hell-Girl-Complete-S-V/dp/B003AZCZ5U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1295060367&sr=1-1
http://www.amazon.com/Melancholy-Haruhi-Suzumiya-Complete-Collection/dp/B0019HABE8/ref=sr_1_3?s=dvd&ie=UTF8&qid=1295059993&sr=1-3
http://www.amazon.com/Spirited-Away-Hayao-Miyazaki/dp/B00005JLEU/ref=sr_1_1?s=dvd&ie=UTF8&qid=1295060066&sr=1-1
http://www.amazon.com/Hell-Girl-Complete-S-V/dp/B003AZCZ5U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1295060367&sr=1-1
"Spirited Away" to "Hell?"
I love lazy weekends when I can sit back, relax, and watch some anime!!! I'm already off to a good start!!!!! I spent today watching "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya" with my Hubby. As I'm scripting this post, I'm watching Hayao Miyazaki's masterpiece, "Spirited Away," and I plan to spend tomorrow watching "Hell Girl" for the very first time!!! I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!
http://www.amazon.com/Hell-Girl-Complete-S-V/dp/B003AZCZ5U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1295058814&sr=8-1
http://www.amazon.com/Hell-Girl-Complete-S-V/dp/B003AZCZ5U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1295058814&sr=8-1
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)