Anime News Service - March 9-14 Anime News

3-14-01---- Akira Restoration Comparison

Pioneer has updated it's Akira restoration site with a comparison shot of the restoration being done on the film, you can view it here.

3-14-01---- Yamato Eternal Edition Conclusion CD

The score of 'Chapter Of Space Battleship Yamato Conclusion' which opened in theaters in Japan in 1983 is headed to CD as part of Nippon Columbia's Yamato Eternal Editon collection. "File No. 8.9" retails at 3,800 Yen and was released on March 1, 2001. On disc are 21 tracks of rare BGM music. "Space Battleship ETERNAL EDITION File No. 10 "Space battleship Yamato vocal collection" goes on sale at 2500 Yen when it is released on March 31. The CD includes 14 tracks of voacal tunes, a limited edition BOX will go sale also with a limited production run of 5000.

3-14-01---- Anime Videos In Kids Top 10

The Top 10 Childrens Videos as of March 17, 2001 as posted to The WB Animation Archive:

2.``Sailor Moon: The Legend Begins,'' DIC Entertainment.
6. ``Digimon: The Movie,'' FoxVideo.
8. ``Pokemon: The Movie 2000,'' Warner Home Video.
10. ``Batman Beyond: Return Of The Joker,'' Warner Home Video.

3-14-01---- Figure / Toy News

Toynami has posted images of their Capcom vs SNK key chains.

Figures.com has posted these">this article on the recently released Great Mazinga figure.

The Getter 1 Robo figure which is part of the Getter Robo Kubrick Box Set is shipping with a variant head that will be based on either the manga or anime version of the character. Boxes containing the variant carry a silver starburst sticker on the front panel (with Japanese text) for easy identification.

3-14-01---- Amano And DC

DC comics has announced new painted posters of Batman and Superman (individually) by well known artist and character designer Yoshitaka Amano, each retails at $7.95 and the posters arrive in stores on July 18. Each measures 22" x 34.

3-14-01---- Sen to Chihiro Going Digital

According to the March the 13rd issue of Nippon Keizai Shimbun, Movie distributor firm Toho and telecommunication company NTT West Japan decided to conduct tests on distribution of digitalized films via high-speed network joinly with the Geneal Affairs Ministry. They start distribution of Miyazaki's latest film Sen to Chihiro in July to some Toho-running theaters in Osaka. Toho also plans to conduct tests on distribution of Final Fantasy movie in fall via digital network.

Source: ANN

3-14-01---- DVD News

Anime News Network is reporting the following info gleaned from a reader's email response to ADV Films:

"Sorcerer Hunters 2 is in the works (in fact, I have the relevant masters piled up on my desk right now ;p). Nadesico will be 6 DVDs; the last two volumes will have 5 each. We'll definitely be releasing the Prince of Darkness movie; no news yet on the Gekigangar 3 OAV. We'll be doing the remaining two missions of Dirty Pair Flash, as well as the original Dirty Pair OAVs.

Andy Kent ADV Films"

Anime On DVD is reporting:

Some folks have started seeing the Rurouni Kenshin/Samurai X movie DVD appearing in a few stores over the past couple of days and have come across a problem; there's no reversible cover! Recalling when the OVA's came out, ADV indicated that the movie would receive the same treatment, allowing those who don't want to see the Samurai X logo on the cover the ability to see the original Japanese logo. So what happened? According to ADV, the printer goofed and there is indeed supposed to be a reversible cover, not just a Samurai X one. The printer will be redoing them (and handling the trade ins, as it was their error) with details to follow soon both here and from the ADV website.

3-14-01---- DBZ Megacon Report

According to DBZ Kingdom:

MegaCon in Orlando (March 2-4) was an enormous success for Dragon Ball Z and its fans. FUNimation was there in full force selling products and giving out information about Blue Gender and Yu Yu Hakusho while Sean Schemmel, voice of Goku, was interacting with the fans. The FUNimation booth had to be the busiest of the show. Fans came by to chat, ask questions, buy cool new DBZ merchandise and to show off their DBZ costumes. Fans lined up outside the booth daily to get autographs from Schemmel. Autographs lines exceeded 2 hours each day. Schemmel said, "MegaCon was absolutely unbelievable. I was so glad to see so many fans come out…My personal thanks to every single fan who waited in line for hours…It was my sincerest pleasure to meet each and every one of you and I hope to do so again." Hunter Muse, FUNimation's representative at MegaCon, said, "Dragon Ball Z fans are the coolest, most die hard, loyal fans I have ever met. It was great to talk with them, answer their questions and see their reaction to Sean." Saturday and Sunday fans were treated to a 30 minute Q and A with Schemmel that was followed by a sneak preview of videos Great Saiyaman - Declaration (Saturday) and Great Saiyaman - Gohan's Secret (Sunday). During the Q and A, Schemmel talked about how he started with DBZ and what is involved in being a voice actor. Schemmel constantly had the crowd roaring with his one liners and various impressions.

3-14-01---- Sean Scemmel Chat

From Planet Namek The long awaited chat with Sean Schemmel, voice of Goku, is here. Wednesday March 14, 2001 we will run our first live chat with Schemmel. Since this chat is our first this will also be a test. Please pay close attention to the chat rules. Only 100 simultaneous users will be allowed in the room. We apologize more people will not be able to get into the room. We want to keep the numbers low for the first time to ensure success. If all goes well with this chat we will allow up to 500 people in the room next time. If that goes well we may allow even more later. (We are tentatively planning on having a chat each week with different actors from the show). The chat will run from 6:00pm - 7:30pm eastern standard time. Each person in the room will be allowed to ask 3 questions (pace yourselves). Because of time, constraints the questions will be sorted by a monitor. Schemmel will respond to as many questions as possible in the time allotted, so please make your questions count.

We do not anticipate any problems with the chat, however, if one should arise, we will keep you updated. We look forward to a fun time!

3-14-01---- Gaming News

From Daniel:

Idea Factory is making two titles for X Box: a card battle game called Neverland and an action rpg known as X-Chaser. They will be at the TGS from March 30 to April 1. I got this news at This Gamespot article.

Nintendo will also be at TGS. Speculation is they'll be promoting their handheld products. But Nintendo denies this and says they're only there to support the event. I got this one at this link.

3-14-01---- Kodoma No Omocha Second Half DVD Release

Argueably one of the wackiest kids's anime TV series in recent memory, the second half of the 102 episode Kodoma No Omacha anime, broadcast from April 1996 by TV Tokyo is finally headed to DVD conversion in Japan. Each of the planned 12 volumes will reportedly go on sale at the reasonable price of 3800 Yen. A special storage box will be available for those buying the special version of the 1st volume with postcard and stickers in vol. 2-3. Release details:

The 52-55th story 5/23 sales Vol.1 SVWB-1460/is collected.
The 56-59th story Vol.2 SVWB-1461/is collected.
The 60-63th story Vol.3 SVWB-1462/is collected.

The 64-67th story 6/20 sales Vol.4 SVWB-1463/is collected.
The 68-71th story Vol.5 SVWB-1464/is collected.
The 72-75th story Vol.6 SVWB-1465/is collected.

The 76-79th story 7/18 sales Vol.7 SVWB-1466/is collected.
The 80-83th story Vol.8 SVWB-1467/is collected.
The 84-87th story Vol.9 SVWB-1468/is collected.

The 88-92th story 8/22 sales Vol.10 SVWB-1469/is collected.
The 93-97th story Vol.11 SVWB-1470/is collected.
The 98-102th story Vol.12 SVWB-1471/is collected.

3-14-01---- Galaxy Angel DVD Release

Following is information on the DVD Release of the new Broccoli Sci-Fi anime TV series Galaxy Angel to broadcast on SkyPerfecTV's Animaccess station from April 7, 2001. Reportedly, the ever fan oriented Broccoli is planning to release a regular and collectors edition packed with many extras for collectors. The regular release of vol. 1 retails at 3,800 Yen when it debuts in Japan on July 25th. The disc inlcudes eps. 1-2, Promotion clips, and for first presses: a character postcard and metallic Aquarian Age card. The limited special edition retails at 5,800 Yen and is also due on July 25th. Included are:

1. Whole volume storage BOX
2. Figure set by which angel corps has been painted (prototype cooperation:Eugene)
3. Character original bill or character postcard.
4. Character postcard holder
5. Special metallic Aquarian Age acard
6. Promotional footage including Yoshiko Shintani appearance

Serialization of the Galaxy Angel Manga adaptation began in "Dragon Jr" magazine May edition, the April edition went on sale Feb. 27.

3-14-01---- ARMS TV Series

An anime adaptation of the ARMS manga which runs in Weekly Shonen Sunday is headed to Japanese TV via TV Tokyo starting Saturday, April 7th 24:57, Tomus Entertainment will supervise production.

3-13-01---- Fanboy Blowout Sale

From the official announcement:

FANBOY ENTERTAINMENT BLOWOUT SALE!

Out with the old and in with the new! Fanboy Entertainment is getting an early spring cleaning done and we are truly cleaning house. In order to make room for all the exciting new comics and products we have coming out over the next few weeks, we are slashing prices on everything we currently have in stock. Most items have been reduced by up to 50%!

All order taken off the website, www.fanboyinc.com, made from now until March 30th will be subject to the sale prices. As we are also now currently in the process of updating the site, our usual credit card services have been suspended. However, in order to insure that fans with credit cards will be able to get their merchandise at these discounted prices, we are working with www.paypal.com to make your purchases easy and secure. Payment will also be accepted by check and money order.

We have a few new specials available which we are proud to offer to our website customers:

The SIDEKICKS Starter Pack $7.50

This is a limited edition SIDEKICKS Starter Pack that contains Sidekicks #1 (Asamiya Cover), Sidekicks #2 and a signed copy of the Sidekicks Preview Edition that was given out to retailers last year through Diamond and at conventions. Now sold out and hard to find. The Preview is signed by both J. Torres and Takeshi Miyazawa. Severely limited.

The DARK ANGEL: Phoenix Resurrection Four Pack
Story and Art by Kia Asamiya
Colored by J.D. Smith
Published by Image Comics
$10.00

This is a specially priced DARK ANGEL: Phoenix Resurrection Four Pack. This set contains all four issues of DARK ANGEL: Phoenix Resurrection currently available. You get Dark Angel: Phoenix Resurrection #1 with the Dark cover and the Kyo cover and Dark Angel: Phoenix Resurrection #2 with the Dark cover and the Leen cover. This reduced priced four pack is just $10.00, saving you $2.00 off the suggested cover prices of the comics if you bought them individually.

Dan Brereton's NOCTURNALS Christmas Lithograph
Art by Dan Brereton
Unsigned $10.00
Signed by Dan Brereton $15.00

Bringing new meaning to the phrase "When Hell Freezes Over!" Dan Brereton's supernatural team of off-beat heroes, The Nocturnals, make another unseasonal appearance in this new painted Christmas themed lithograph. This beautiful full color image painted by Dan Brereton himself features the Gunwitch dressed as Santa Claus carrying his bag of evil toys. And he definitely knows who's been naughty! The Nocturnals as you've never seen them before! Perfect for framing! Measures 11" x 17", printed on a sturdy 80lb. paper with a gloss vanish. While supplies last.

So be sure to check out www.fanboyinc.com today to take advantage of this sale. Once you place your order, you will be contacted within 24 hours with confirmation. All orders will then be shipped Priority Mail within 24 hours of receipt of payment.

3-13-01---- Escaflowne At Newport Beach Film Festival

From the official Bandai Entertainment Release:

ESCAFLOWNE at Newport Beach Film Festival 2001

Shoji Kawamori’s ESCAFLOWNE THE MOVIE: A GIRL IN GAIA will be screened at this year’s Newport Beach Film Festival - Sunday, April 1 at 11 a.m. at the Edwards Island Cinemas in Fashion Island, Newport Beach, CA.

Hitomi Kanzaki is an ordinary high school student who feels that her life has lost all meaning. She wishes that she could just disappear into this air - a wish that is granted…Thrust into a strange new world called Gaia. Hitomi is caught in a struggle for power over a legendary dragon armor called Escaflowne. Ruled by sword and sorcery, Hitomi and the young Prince Van join a rebel group in fight against the Black Dragon Clan. But as the fierce battle rage on, Hitomi will find her destiny colliding with those around her and the lives of everyone on Gaia hanging in the balance.

Escaflowne the Movie: A Girl in Gaia will be presented in Japanese with English subtitles - Courtesy of Bandai Entertainment

Advanced Tickets: (949) 253-2880. Newport Beach Film Festival 2001 runs March 29 through April 5. More information at: www.NewportBeachFilmFest.com

###

Blending the best of classic and contemporary filmmaking, the Newport Beach Film Festival is proud to showcase an exclusive selection of award-winning independent films from around the world, including features, shorts, animation, documentaries and special tributes. International entries, including selections from South Africa, China, Sweden, Japan, Mexico and Argentina, are carefully chosen to represent a truly unique mix of genre and medium.

3-13-01---- Final Fantasy Movie Time

Thanks to Daniel for this news:

Well there's not really much new about the FF movie. But in the March 13 preview at www.cinescape.com , they mentioned the movie itself will be about 93 minutes-sans credits-because there were too many people involved in production. And there's also an advanced review of the AD Police dvd. (The new show.) Apparently, it's considered a prequel to BGC 2040. It also contains 3 episodes. I hope I can get more game news later.

3-13-01---- Figure News

From Figures.com:

*new details on the Dark Angel figure line from Yamato Toys: released in Japan in January 2001 are two figures based on characters from Dark Angel: Phoenix Resurrection, the original full color manga from Kia Asamiya published by Image Comics. These will include: -Dark and his fairy companion Kyo -Leen and her fairy companion Shiki Approximately 6 to 8 inches tall, each figure is highly detailed and has 12 points of articulation. Each figure will have the price of $12.95. Their U.S. release date is planned for April 2001 through Toycom in association with Studio Tron and Fanboy Entertainment. According to Fanboy Entertainment founder C.B. Cebulski, "Kia Asamiya is designing some cool new packaging for these toys so they will really pop off the shelves and look more appealing than a lot of plain blister packs we see in stores today."

*Figures.com reports Irwin will place their Striking Z Figures on the domestic U.S. market in June. Each Fighter will come with a fighting action--for example, Piccolo will come with a double-punch action, Trunks with a kicking action, and Vegeta with a flipping action. Each figure will be to the scale of the regular 5" figures, and will be priced around $7.49. The line includes Piccolo, SS Goku, SS Trunks, and SS Vegeta.

*Ranked as one of the top twn best-selling toys of 2000 by the NPD Group, the Digimon toy line has experienced great success since its launch in the fall of 1999. Here's is the action figure line up for this year:

Deluxe Playsets: $9.99 each. Playsets digivolves from rookie level to champion level and opens up to reveal a unique play environment that includes 1" Digimon figures.

Shipping in March 2001: -Veemon (digivolves to Flamedramon) -Hawkmon (digivolves to Halesmon) -Armadillomon (digivolves to Digimon)

Shipping in September 2001: -Guilmon (digivolves to Growlmon) -Terriermon (digivolves to Gargomon) -Renamon (digivolves to Kyubimon)

Collectable Sets: Shipped January 2001 1.5" 4-6 Packs- $4.99 each- 28 sets in all with free poster included 1.5" 20 Pack- $39.99- includes Mimi, Joe, Kari, Tai, Matt, T.K., Sora, Izzy, Garudamon, Togemon, Agumon, Gabumon, Numemon, Monzaemon, Gomamon, Palmon, Gatomon, Patamon, Biyomon, and Tentomon.

2.5" Action Feature Digimon: Each has a special action feature and comes with a collectable sticker. 2.5" Series 1- $2.99 each, Shipped January 2001. Includes: -ExVeemon -Stingmon -Paildramon -Magnamon -Ankylomon -Aquilamon -BlackWarGreymon -Sylphymon -Shakkoumon -Imperialdramon (Fighter Mode) -Imperialdramon (Dramon Mode) -Terriermon -MaloMyotismon -Omnimon -Rapidmon

2.5" Series 2- $2.99 each, Shipping May 2001. Includes: -Guilmon -Calumon -Renamon -Growlmon -Kyubimon -Gargomon -Impmon -WarGrowlmon -Taomon -Rapidmon -Gallantmon -Sakuyamon -Megagargomon -Beelzemon -Calumon 2

4" Digi-Warriors: Shipped January 2001, $5.99 each. Articulated and come with deatachable armor. Includes: -WarGreymon -Omnimon -Paildramon -Imperialdramon

New Digi-Warrior figures for the fall season include: -Growlmon -Kyubimon -Gargomon -WarGrowlmon -Gaultmon -MegaGargomon -Beelzemon -Rapidmon -Taomon -Sakuyamon

4" Digi-Action Figures: Shipping March 2001, $5.99 each. Includes: -Armadillomon -Wormmon -Shurimon -Submarimon

5" Digivolving Figures 5" Series w/ 2 Cards- $7.99 each, Shipped January 2001. These came with two exclusive trading cards. Includes: -Flamedragon (digivolves into Digi-Egg of Courage) -Halsemon (digivolves into Digi-Egg of Love) -Digmon (digivolves into Digi-Egg of Knowledge) -Magnamon (digivolves into Digi-Egg of Miracles) -BlackWarGreymon (digivolves into Agumon) -Paildramon (digivolves into ExVeemon & Stingmon) -Sylphymon (digivolves into Aquilamon & Gatomon) -Imperialdramon (digivolves from Dramon mode to Fighter mode)

5" SERIES w/Poster-$7.99 each, Shipped January 2001. These came with a collectible poster and unique foil trading card. Includes: -Raidramon (digivolves into Digi-Egg of Friendship) -Shurimon (digivolves into Digi-Egg of Sincerity) -Submarimon (digivolves into Digi-Egg of Reliability)

5" Series- Dimon Season 3- $7.99 each and Shipping in August. Includes: -Growlmon (digivolves into WarGrowlmon) -Kyubimon (digivolves into Taomon) -Gargomon (digivolves into Rapidmon) -Renamon (digivolves into Sakuyamon)

8" Digivolving Figures: Shipping this September for $14.99 each. Includes: -Guilmon (digivolves into Gallantmon) -Terriermon (digivolves into MegaGargomon) -Impmon (digivolves into Beelzemon)

*Realistic replicas of the characters from the Gundam Wing and Original Mobile Suit Gundam series, these Gundam action figures are fully articulated. Here's what to look forward to:

Gundam Hero Collection: comprised of seven highly detailed 4.5" figures of the pilots from the Gundam Wing saga. Shipping this month for $29.99. Includes: -Heero Yuy -Chang Wufei -Trowa Barton -Duo Maxwell -Quatre Raberba Winner -Princess Relena -Zechs Merquise Also available individually for $4.99 each.

Deluxe Transforming Gundam: 11" Wing Gundam- in stores now for $29.99. Look for Gundam GP-01Fb and Gundam GP-02 this May for $29.99.

Deluxe Gundam Wing Action Figures: 4.5" figures with over 20 points of articulation, in stores now, $7.99 each. Includes: -Wing Gundam Zero -Gundam Deathsythe Hell -Altron Gundam -Wing Gundam Zero Custom -Gundam Deathsythe Hell Custom -Gundam Heavyarms Custom -Gundam Sandrock Custom -Gundam Nataku

Basic Gundam Wing Action Figures: 4.5" in stores now for $5.99 each. Includes: -Wing Gundam -Gundam Deathsythe -Gundam Heavyarms -Gundam Sandrock -Shenlong Gundam -Tallgeese -Gundam Epyon -Army Mode Leo -Space Mode Leo -Tallgeese II

Deluxe Original Mobile Suit Gundam Action Figures With Vehicle: 4.5" figs featuring over 20 points of articulation and come with action vehicles. $11.99 each and coming this Fall. Look for: -Gundam and G-Fighter -Zaku and Mazera Attack Tank

Deluxe Original Gundam Mobile Suit Action Figures: 4.5" figs, $7.99 each and shipping this April. Includes: -Gundam RX-78-NT-1 -RGM-79 GM & RB-77 Ball -MS-07 Gouf & Do-Dai YS -RX-79(G) Gundam Ez8 -Gundam GP-01 Fullburnn -Gundam GP-02 -MS-14A Gelgoog -MAN-02 Zeong -MS-18E Kempfer

Mobil Suit Original Gundam Action Figures: 4.5" figures with 14 points of articulation. Shipping thisApril for $5.99 each. Includes: -RX-78 Gundam -RX-77 Guncannon -MS-06S Char's Zaku -MS-09 Dom -RX75-Guntank -Gundam GP-01 -RX-79(G) Gundam -MSM-03 Gog -MSM-07 Char's Z-Gok -MSM-07 Z-Gok -Char's Gelgoog

Gundam Hero Figures: 4.5" figures based ont he pilots of Mobile Suit Gundam. Shipping in June for $4.99 each. Includes: -Amuro Ray -Sayla Mass -Char Aznable -Garma Zabi -Matilda Ajan -Ramba Ral -Crowley Hamon

MODEL KITS The Gundam action figure model kits have been organized into five catergories to fit any skill level- from novice to an expert model builder. These will include:

LEVEL 1 (5" on 1/144 scale): feature over 65 multicolored parts and over 18 points of articulation when completed. Stand 5" tall and take about 1 hour to build. $8.99 each- shipping now. Includes: -Wing Gundam -Shenlong Gundam -Gundam Deathsythe -Gundam Heavyarms -Gundam Sandrock -Tallgeese -Vayeate -Mercurius -Gundam Epyon -Tallgeese II

LEVEL 2 (5" on 1/144 scale): feature over 70 multicolored parts and over 20 points of articulation. Take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. Shippingnow, $14.99 each. Includes: -Wing Gundam Zero -Altron Gundam -Gundam Deathsythe Hell -GM Command RGM-79G -GM Command RGM-79GS -Z'Gock EMSM-07/E -Zaku FZ MS-06FZ

LEVEL 3 (5" on 1/144 scale): feature over 80 parts and over 25 points of articulation. 1 hour and 30 minutes to build. $14.99 each, shipping now to June 2001. Includes: -Gundam Heavyarms Custom -Gundam Sandrock Custom -Tallgeese III -Serpent Custom -RX-78 Gundam -RX-75 'Guntank' -RX-77-2 'Guncannon' -MS-06S Char's Zaku -MS-07B 'Gouf' -YMS-15 'Gyan' -MSM-03 'Gogg' -MS-18E Kampfer -Wing Gundam Zero Custom -Gundam Deathsythe Hell Custom -Gundam Nataku -RX-79(G) Gundam -RX-79(G) Gundam Ez8 -RGM-79(G) GM -MS-06J Zaku II -MS-07B3 Gouf Custom -Gelgoog-J MS-07H8 Gouf Flight Type -MSM-07 Z-Gok -MSM-03/C Hygog -Rick-Dom II MS-09RII

LEVEL 4: feature over 130 parts and over 30 points of articulation. 1 hour 45 minutes to build. $19.99 and shipping March-July. Includes: -7.5" on 1/100 scale: Wing Gundam, Shenlong Gundam, Gundam Deathsythe, Wing Gundam Zero, Gundam Epyon -5" on 1/144 scale: RX-78 GP01 Gundam, Gelgoog Marine and Dom Tropen. Also available in RX79(G) Gundam vs. Zaku II 2-pack.

LEVEL 5: Contain over 140 parts, decals, and intricate pieces. Over 2 hours to build. $27.99 each coming March through July. Includes: -7.5" on 1/100 scale: Altron Gundam, Gundam Deathsythe Hell, Gundam Nataku, Wing Gundam Zero Custom, Gundam Heavyarms Custom, Gundam Deathsythe Hell Custom, Gundam Sandrock Custom and Serpent Custom. -5" on 1/144 scale: Gundam GP-02

PLAYSETS Transport Playsets: $27.99. These sets open up to reveal a unique environment and include and exclusive 4.5" action figure. Look for: -Gunperry (Earth Federation) -Gallop (Zeon)

*Deluxe Battle Ship Playset: $11.99. This highly detailed set is designed in the shape of a space warship and comes with five 1" Mobile Suits. Each set includes a battleship stand with the Zeon/Earth Federation emblem. Available in the following battleships: -Assault Carrier Albion -Mobile Cruiser Peer Gynt -Mobile Cruiser Zajibar

*Assault Troops Playsets: $11.99. The military airplane sets contain five 1" Mobile Suits. Each set has a hatch that opens to fit the mobile suits inside. Will include: -Transporter Midea -Flying Assault Carrier Gau

From Cool Japanese Toys: D & O Trading Corporation
On March 15th, the popular game, ONIMUSHA-WARLORDS, will be released in the US for the PLAYSTATION 2. The game is already a hit in Japan and D & O Trading Corporation will released three 110 X 80cm (about 42 X 31 inches) ONIMUSHA-WARLORDS wallscrolls in mid-April. In Japan, ONIMUSHA-WARLORDS has been described as "the best game ever done any game console" and these Wallscrolls are the first goods based on it. .
Tomy
Six styles of POKEMON REMOTE CONTROL BATTLE have been released in Japan. If you or your youngster are trying to "catch them all," then you'll have to get LEZARD, FUSHIGISO, HERACLOS, WANINOKO, CHICORITAR and HINOARASHI.
Each item retails for 1,500 Yen and batteries are not included.

Miracle House
This offshoot of Aoshima will continue their line of SHIN SEIKI GOKIN figures with NEO GETTA ROBO. This item comes on the heels of the successful SHIN GETTA ROBO diecast toy, which was released in a multitude of color variations. Neo Getta Robo is the newest entry in the OAV series, and due to the five spikes on his head, feels like he should be renamed Neo Getta DRAGON. The toy will have a fist-launching gimmick, with a chain connecting the fired fist to the forearm. This feature is quite similar to that of the Jumbo diecast toy of ZABOGA by Grip.

3-13-01---- DVD News

David Williams of ADV has posted a message to Anime On DVD's message board relaying the fourth volume of Gasaraki is due on 5/1. The volume has been delayed indefinitely due to the effort in producing the English dubbed track.

The Right Stuf has updated with the following news from Central Park Media who has announcedthe delay of several DVD's:

5/3/01
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 01 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 02 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 03 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 04 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 05 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 06 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 07 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 08 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 09 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 10 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 11 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 12 DVD
Armored Trooper Votoms: Vol. 13 DVD
Goshogun: Time Etranger DVD
Hades Project Zeorymer 1-2 DVD
Rhea Gall Force DVD

3-13-01---- Dark Horse Manga Releases

From The Dark Horse June Manga Release Solictation:

DIRTY PAIR: SIM HELL REMASTERED #2
By Adam Warren.
In the midst of an employee evaluation gone horribly awry, the Dirty Pair struggle with a series of increasingly nightmarish virtual-reality scenarios. From outer space to the ocean depths to the infinity of cyberspace, can Kei and Yuri survive the simulated (but still lethal) terrors of the apocalyptic "Nanoclysm?" In addition to all-new front and back cover art, this issue also features new, never-before-seen Dirty Pair artwork by writer/artist Adam Warren and friends.

OH MY GODDESS!: THE DEVIL IN MISS URD TRADE PAPERBACK
By Kosuke Fujishima, translated by Studio Proteus; cover by Fujishima.
When the goddesses Belldandy, Skuld, and Urd win a free trip to a hot springs resort, it turns out they're not the only deities off on vacation. Demon First Class Mara is checked into the same rustic retreat. The old enemies call a truce, but the malicious Mara is once again up to no good. She builds an Urd clone from a lock of the half-demon Urd's hair that she swipes at the hot-springs resort. The purpose of the clone: Mara wants to merge the 50% demon blood of Urd and the 50% demon blood of her clone to make a 200 Proof Demonic Urd, who's hell-bent on seducing mortal earth-guy Keiichi and sending a brokenhearted Belldandy back to heaven. Collecting the five-issue series.
176 pages, black and white, $14.95, arrives in stores on June 20.

GUNSMITH CATS: MISTER V #9
By Kenichi Sonoda, translated by: Studio Proteus.
Who's Jim Max? If it wasn't for the mysterious Max, Rally wouldn't have been following Bean, Misty wouldn't have tried to break into Bean's car, and now Misty wouldn't be naked in the back of a bad guy's van, with Rally and Bean in hot pursuit down the streets of Chicago. Jim Max is the key to the mystery, and what none of our heroes know yet is that the bad guys have Jim Max in the bag - literally.
40 pages, black and white, $3.50, arrives in stores on June 20.

OH MY GODDESS!: PART X #5
By Kosuke Fujishima, cover by Kosuke Fujishima.
"Hand in Hand," part two of two. A drunk Belldandy has magically glued her hand to her boyfriend Keiichi's hand. Not the best potions or worst machines that the goddesses Urd and Skuld can come up with can pull these two hands apart...and Keiichi's just beginning to notice there might be some benefits to being linked to the most beautiful goddess on Earth. It's bath time! But what if their friends wake up from their hangovers and notice the consequences of a drunk goddess's rampage of kindness...?
40 pages, black and white, $3.50, arrives in stores on June 27.

LONE WOLF AND CUB VOL. 10: SEPARATE PATHS TRADE PAPERBACK
By Kazuo Koike and Goseki Kojima, cover by Frank Miller.
The six paths and four lives are split asunder, as Itto Ogami and Daigoro become separated in one of this series' most powerful stories to date! The Lone Wolf's arch-enemy, Yagyu Retsudo, pursues Ogami to retrieve the secret letter stolen from him, only to watch dozens of his men fall victim to the Lone Wolf's hungry sword. But Yagyu drives father and son apart as they tumble down a cliff and must survive on their own. Little Daigoro must begin his honorable search for his father. But with Yagyu's henchmen hunting high and low for the Lone Wolf and his cub, the net drags closer and the danger wraps tighter, but the blood flows ever freely...
320 pages, black and white, 4 inches by 6 inches, $9.95, arrives in stores on June 27.

AKIRA VOL. 3 TRADE PAPERBACK
By Katsuhiro Otomo.
In the 21st century, the glittering Neo-Tokyo has risen from the rubble of a Tokyo destroyed by an apocalyptic telekinetic blast from a young boy called Akira -- the subject of a covert government experiment gone wrong now imprisoned in frozen stasis. But Tetsuo, an angry young man with immense and rapidly growing psychic abilities, has done the unthinkable: he has released Akira and set into motion a chain of events that could once destroy the city and drag the world to the brink of Armageddon. Resistance agents and an armada of government forces race against the clock to find the child with godlike powers before his unthinkable destructive abilities are unleashed! One of the true international classics of graphic fiction and unavailable for nearly a decade in America, Akira has once again taken America by storm, its first Dark Horse volume selling out almost overnight in comic shops and bookstores across the country.

3-13-01---- Macross 7 Japanese DVD Release

From 1994, the Macross 7 TV series is finally destined for DVD conversion with vol. 1 due on March 25th on a 136 minute disc. Included is Dolby Digital soundtrack, dual layer format, at the retail price of 4,800 Yen. Jacket illustration is by a major character artist.There will be an image special edition of Vol. 1 including these extras: TV special (Aired October 2nd of 1994), Music clip " TRY AGAIN " (acoustic version), Music clip " HOLYLONELY LIGHT " (Rave version).

3-13-01---- DBZ Collectible Card Series II

Figures.com reports Voice actor stars of Dragon Ball Z are set to make their mark in card collecting history as they pen there names on a series of Original Japanese Hero Collection Dragon Ball Z trading cards that will be hidden treasures in Artbox Entertainment's long awaited Series II Dragon Ball Z collectible trading cards, announced FUNimation Productions Ltd. and Artbox. On Thursday, March 15th, five voice actors from the top rated Dragon Ball Z TV series on the Cartoon Network will gather at the headquarters of FUNimation Productions Ltd., producers and licensors of Dragon Ball Z based in Forth Worth, Texas, for the big one-time signing session. The actors will ink a limited number of Dragon Ball Z cards, which Artbox will randomly place in Dragon Ball Z collectible card packs. For every 240 packs of the cards, one signed card will be included for lucky purchasers. Most cards will be should be discovered during the next 60 to 90 days, but some may remain in the market for a half-year or more. Gen Fukunaga, President of FUNimation, said, "The collectors of the Artbox Dragon Ball Z trading cards are a loyal and wonderfully supportive group and all of us at FUNimation want to bring them something special. We hope they enjoy finding and saving the signed cards." Among voice actors signing cards will be Sean Schemmel, known as the voice of the legendary character Goku, one of the most popular on Dragon Ball Z; Chris Sabat, who brings Majin Vegeta's voice to his life; Kyle Herbet who is the voice of Gohan; Laura Baily, whose lucid tones are heard as Young Trunks, and Kara Edwards, who speaks for Goten. Cindy Fukunaga, Vice President of FUNimation, said, "In addition to Artbox, more than 70 licensees market Dragon Ball Z products from action figures to apparel. With more than $3 billion at wholesale worldwide, Dragon Ball Z is among history's premiere licensed properties. Dragon Ball Z Videos set sales records. Dragon Ball Z DVDs, with duel soundtracks in English and Japanese, sell out to fans of the TV show specifically and anime generally. The Dragon Ball Z action figures and other products are extremely popular."

3-13-01---- You're Under Arrest New TV Series Update

Begining to run on Japanese TV very shortly, the first episode of the latest You're Under Arrest TV series completed voice recording on March 6th. The team who had worked on numerous YUA animation projects in the past approached this latest go with the same amount of vigor, however, as fans will see, this latest rendition of Fujishima-sensei's comedic police woman drama portray's our regualar cast of characters in a somewhat different light, it's also reported that at least some of the characters will undergow substantial "growth". Broadcast begins April 7.

3-13-01---- Crayon Shin-chan Movie Video Release

Crayon Shin-chan the movie is out on Hi-Fi VHS on March 25th, with a running time of 88 minutes it will retail at 3,800 Yen.

3-13-01---- EX Driver Clip Video / DVD Release

Originally debuted in Japanese theaters in the fall of 2000, Fujishima-sensei's Ex Driver Clip mini movie is about to head to a home format release in Japan. EX-D Clip x Clip (x driver double clip) is out April 25th on VHS:BES- 2722, and DVD:BCBA- 0725, on both formats the clip runs15 minutes and both formats retail at 2000 Yen. Featured is a new recording of the music clip produced by Kawagoe Jun. An "EX-D CLIP x Clip" plusbox is scheduled to go on sale on April 25th at 3000 Yen, apparently the box can be used to store the clip and all the DVD releases of the Ex Driver OVA.

3-13-01---- Escaflowne Movie DVD / VHS Release

Running from June of 2000 in Japan, Studio Sunrise's Escaflowne movie is headed for home video release on VHS and DVD formats in Japan. The DVD DTS LIMITED EDITION goes on sale April 25th with a running time of 140 minute / DTS 5.1 CH & Dolby Surround / Japanese / single sided 2 layer plus 1 special disk: one side 1 Layer Disc in stereo / vista size. Retail is 9,800 Yen. Included are cast and staff interviews, theater trailer, TV Commercials, 36 P booklet, package illustration by character designer Nobuteru Yuki. Reservation deadline is March 20th of 2001.

The regular DVD edition is out April 25th on a 95 minute disc, included is a Dolby Digital 5.1 CH soundtrack, Japanese and Korean audio, retail is 7,800 Yen. Extras are commercials trailers and booklet.

The VHS version runs 95 minutes in stereo hi-fi, retail is 12,800 Yen. Extra are trailers, commercials and a 12 page booklet.

3-13-01---- Gaming And CTHD News Links

Thanks as always to Daniel for the following:

At Gamespot, it's mentioned that Capcom will now only make El Dorado Gate 7 chapters, instead of the intended 24, due to Sega's business transitions. The fourth chapter will be out on April 12 in Japan, while the remaining chapters will be out on their original release dates.

According to Gamespot, Sony, Toshiba and IBM are working together to produce a microchip with the processing power of a supercomputer. IBM made a microchip-based on the one used in its PowerPC-for the GameCube.

Nintendo and Electronic Arts have dropped their joint lawsuit against Yahoo. The suit came about, because of yahoo allowing pirated games to be sold through their auctions and classified ads. A Yahoo representative in this article mentions that Yahoo will be using technology which will block pirated games.

And Konami confirmed that MGS2 will be out in the fall in N. America, despite rumours that it'd be delayed until 2002. This information was obtained at ZD Net

In the March 12 update of The IMDB , it was mentioned that Ang Lee won the Director's Guild Award, while being in competition with Steven Sodenbergh, Cameron Crowe, and Ridley Scott. Lee is quoted as saying: "Mainstream films have occupied Hollywood but you can get bored very easily. It can be very repetitive and I think now we want something fresh and something inspiring and different, daring. The mainstream film is very expensive to make and it scares people. It's made for the worldwide audience, you have to please so many people, and the business men start running the movies rather than artists. This is back to the oldest way of Hollywood filmmaking, creating a fantasy, but it has been lost. It seems to take a foreign language film to recoup that ultimate movie viewing experience."

3-13-01---- Otaku Television Update

From the release:

OTAKU TELEVISION EPISODE 2 PREMIERES

Gaithersburg, MD, March 12, 2001 -- After an extended delay, Episode 2 of Otaku Television is finally finished! This special episode (which the crew of OTV has unofficially dubbed it Episode "1A"!) focuses on last month's Katsucon 7. Drop by our website at www.otakutelevision.com and watch the episode in its entirety via streaming video. Be sure to stop by the Forum and send us some viewer mail to let us know what you thought of the show.

Episode 2 will also be shown on UMUC Television in Maryland starting March 16th at 11:30PM.

Otaku Television is a public access television program that focuses on the fandom community and is produced solely on a volunteer basis. We appreciate all the support from our fellow anime fans.

3-12-01---- Hobby Link Changes

From the Hobby Link Japan release:

This message is a quick update to let you know about some important changes in HobbyLink Japan's services that have taken place, and that are coming up in the weeks and months to come.

Major order status system improvement: You can now check your order status by e-mail! There's no longer any need to visit our web site. To do so, just send a message to mailto:status@hlj.com from the same e-mail account you used to place your order with us. This can be a blank message. Our servers will return to you an automated message showing the exact status of your orders and all items you've requested within a few minutes. What could be easier?

About our regular mailing list: "HLJ News" has been suspended permanently. We've realized that our customer's interests are just too broad to attempt to cover everything in a single newsletter. Instead we will be creating separate lists for each of the major genres of the hobby. We hope to begin those in late April. Watch our web site for news on this.

State-of-the-art shopping and search system coming: Since last fall, we've been hard at work behind the scenes creating an all-new HLJ Web site that will feature password account protection, better searching, more product categories, and a host of other improvements. Final development is taking place now, and we expect to ask a random group of our customers to offer their opinions on the changes in the weeks to come. With luck, we should be able to debut the new site by sometime in May.

If you're interested in providing your opinion about our new Web site when it's ready for testing, or if you have any other comments about how we're doing, feel free to contact us at webmaster@hlj.com. I cannot promise to respond personally to all messages, but they will all be read and carefully considered.

2000 was HLJ's best year ever, and in fact the first year that we showed a solid profit for our efforts. Thanks to your support, we've managed to be one of the few "dot-com" businesses that is actually making some money. While most of our profits are going to paying back the loans that got HLJ started in the first place, we're managing to spend some of it on service improvements. We think you'll find them worthwhile! Watch the web site for further announcements about our upcoming changes.

3-12-01---- Jpop Feature At Audio Galaxy

www.audiogalaxy.com has a new spotlight on jpop artists including Pizzicato Five and Shonen Knife.

3-12-01---- New Official Toonami Site In The Works?

This interesting image on the Cartoon Network website appears to be a possible rough outline for a new Toonami exclusive site. The domain name www.toonamireactor.com has been registered by Turner Broadcasting System since mid January.

3-12-01---- Gaming News

Thanks to Daniel for the following:

At Gamespot , Square announced an airplane strategy simulation game-for the Wonderswan-called Blue Wing Blitz.

Gamespot mentions that Sega of Japan will add a PSO append disc that has extra features including a prevention of item loss. (This option is supposed to be available in the North American and European versions.)

And according to ZD Net , Nintendo Co. Ltd. will not be at the 2001 ETCS show in London. But it will create its own preshow event called The Nintendo Show, which will be held September 1-2.

3-12-01---- Genso Maden Saiyuki Final TV Episode Recording

The highly popular TV series Genso Maden Saiyuki, broadcast on TV in Japan for 1 year wrapped voice recording on the final episode March 2nd. Production on the movie version set for release in the Summer is already underway. Voice actors on the anime TV series expressed feelings on this final go around on the TV season and thoughts looking forward to the movie. The final episode is scheduled to broadcast on March 27th.

3-12-01---- GALS Anime

This week it was officially unveiled that the long running Shibuya girls manga series "Gals" running in Ribbon weekly will be converted to TV with broadcast slated to begin in Japan in April. "Super Gals! Tomy is planning to market toys and accessories in the real world that are also used by the characters in the anime. The mangaka is expected to make appearences at talk shows are held in the Tokyo toy show hall in commemoration of making to the animated cartoon on March 24. Fujii-sensei will talk about the the anime episodes of 'GALS' including production background. Broadcasting begins at 8:30 on Sunday, April 1 on TV Tokyo. Directing will be Tsuneo Kobayashi and Character designs will come from Yuuko Kusumoto. Sound supervisor will be Kameyama Toshiki.

3-9-01---- Key Fair

Two Shoujo Character franchises AIR and Kanon were the focus of an event, "Key Fair" held in Japan March 3rd - May 6th. Many ultra exclusive goods were sold.

3-12-01---- Tokyo Character Show 2001 Scheduled

The always popular Tokyo Character Show is scheduled to kickoff in Japan during the weekend of July 21st - 22. 55,000 people are expected, the general admission fee will be 1,200 Yen.

3-12-01---- Monkey King Adapted For NBC

In the vein of CTHD, Dragonball and Saiyuki comes the following interesting news from Daniel:

I thought I'd remind you that tonight at 9-on NBC-is one of their Hallmark-produced sweeps movies. (such as The 10th Kingdom) This one is The Lost Empire, originally entitled The Monkey King, which according to this week's TV guide, is an "effects-filled two-part fantasy chronicling an epic battle among Chinese gods."

3-11-01---- Card Game Fest 1

As previously reported, The 1st ever Card Game Fest 2001 was held on March 4 in Ikebukuro, despite the rain the outdoor event drew a crowd of patrons of all ages and from every walk of life. Many businesses were setup selling cards and there were areas for fans to battle using their newly purchased collectible trading decks. A talk show event on the launch of the new Sakura Taisen Dramatic Card Game was put on, voice actors from the series gathered to speak on their role and aide game designers in introducing the crowd to how then game is played. The next event is reportedly scheduled to take place in July.

3-11-01---- Captain Tylor DVD News

Anime On DVD is reporting The Right Stuf has announced Tylor DVDs will begin shipping on March 14th, with direct order being shipped first, followed by retail.

3-11-01---- Toei Animated Cartoon Fair Kicks Off

The present Toei Animated Cartoon Fair is running in nationwide in Japan in Toei affiliated venues. Included this go around are One Piece Film "Adventure of the ONE PIECE screw rolling island", "Dance carnival of ONE PIECE Jango", and "Counterattack of Digimon Adventure 02. A stage greeting was held in Tokyo and Marunouchi Toei on March 3rd, the day that marked the above features' opening to the public. Assembled were cast and staff for the animation,

3-11-01---- Time Magazine Ghibli Mention

Otaku No DVD has updated with news that this week's issue of Time Magazine has listed the Miyazaki / Ghibli films Princess Mononoke and My Neighbor Totoro as "2 excellent films for children."

3-11-01---- One Piece Movie Soundtrack Recording

Recording on the One Piece Film soundtrack is being headed up by Tanaka-sensei, the film opened in Japan on March 3. Studio work on the soundtrack only wrapped in Tokyo on February 11th. Reportedly the music of the movie version carries a very feeling than that of the TV series, and this was because for the TV version almost all of the music was recorded before many of the scenes were even constructed, however this time around Tanaka-sensei is said to have crafted a masterful score with the aide of enitrely completed and running film in which it was possible to create music based on the feeling and atmospherics of every scene.

3-11-01---- Hentai Con

The following was posted to rec.arts.anime.misc:

Why a Hentai Con? because it had to happen, that's why. What with the expanding number of Hentai fans, including a startling number of women, it was just inevitable that a Hentai Con would be arriving.

The Hentai Con is currently in the planning stages, to see the FAQ, or offer assistance visit the web site (http://www.hentaicon.homestead.com/).

Right now the website is pretty rough, and as you've noticed we don't even have our own domain name yet. That's because we are in the early planning stages, if you have any input, write us and tell us.

Anyone is welcome to visit the website (no adult content there), and anyone over the age of 18 is welcome to attend the con, if you are under eighteen, we're sorry, we don't like the law, and we still won't let you in. If anyone wants to help out, please send us some mail.

Any flames and/or death threats will be laughed at, and then posted to the Hentai Con web site so that everyone else can laugh at them too. You have been warned. No one's email address will be published unless they specifically ask me to.

Brad Jackson, coordinator for Hentai Con

3-11-01---- Fanime Final Guest List

Greg Weisman
- creator of the Disney series: Gargoyles
Adam Warren
- US Manga Artist for Dirty Pair & Gen 13
Doug Smith
- US voice actor of Golden Boy's Kintaro Oe. Current member of Studio Ironcat
Jonathan Klein
- Vice-President of New Generation Pictures
Taliesin Jaffe
- Dub Director and Voice Actor for Pioneer
Kunihiko Ikuhara
- Director/Co-creator of Shoujo Kakumei Utena (Revolutionary Girl Utena), series director of Sailor Moon, and founder of the creation group BePapas.
Aro Hiroshi
- Manga author of Futaba-kun Change, Tottemo Shounen Tantenkai (Very Boys Explorers), and more
Tiffany Grant
- VA of Sohyru Asuka Langley from "Neon Genesis Evangelion", Chocolate Misu from "Sorceror Hunters", and Sawaguchi Kome, "Blue Seed"
Amanda Winn Lee
- VA of Ayanami Rei from "Neon Genesis Evangelion", Gally from "Battle Angel", and Fujima Mumiji/Kunikida Kaede from "Blue Seed"
Jason Lee
- VA of Kusanagi Mamoru from "Blue Seed" and Aoba Shigeru from "Neon Genesis Evangelion"
Jonathan Osborne
- VA of William Morris from "Gundam 0083: Stardust Memories"
Stan Sakai
- Author of Usagi Yojimbo and Space Usagi
Hiroyuki Yamaga
- director and producer for Gainax
Mari Iijima
- singer, songwriter, and Japanese voice actress of Macross' Lynn Minmay.
Fred Schodt
- Manga translator and author of Dreamland Japan and Manga! Manga!
Gilles Poitras
- Author of The Anime Companion and Anime Essentials
Fred Patten
- Director of Marketing at Streamline Pictures and co-founder of the Cartoon/Fantasy Organization (1st Anime Club in the US)
Allen Hastings
- Creator of LightWave 3D

3-11-01---- Dragon Ball Coming To CN

FUNimation is extremely pleased to announce that Cartoon Network (CN) will soon begin airing episodes of Dragon Ball- the show that started it all! Starting sometime in May, 26-28 episodes of Dragon Ball will be aired immediately following Dragon Ball Z on Cartoon Network. Long time fans will please note this is NOT the 13 episodes that originally aired in 1995, but an all-new version, truer to the original story line. The new episodes feature the early adventures of Goku, as he encounters the Dragon Ball cast for the first time. Never before seen, these episodes are already in production. Producer Barry Watson says, "Working on is Dragon Ball is a blast! The show is so hilarious and wacked out…" FUNimation wants to include you the fans in producing Dragon Ball. Very soon you will be able to hear sample clips of prospective voice actors for the show and then cast your vote for the one that you like the best. This will be a great way for you to be involved in the process of shaping and developing DB.

Source: DBZ Kingdom

3-11-01---- Daft Punk MTV2 Premiere

Daft Punk's latesed One More Time music video directed by Leiji Matsumoto "One More Time" will premiere this Thursday on MTV2. Virgin Records has established an official site for the single, including Real Media and Streaming Windows Media versions of the clip here.

Thanks to Myk for these details.

3-11-01---- Ah! Megami Sama Movie DVD Update

A bit of possible new info on the Megami movie DVD which comes out in Japan on 6/20. There will be two versions, The normal version which is 6800 Yen and a "dts" version for 12800 Yen. Originally listeings were coming in mentioning the dts version will have dts/and a type of ac-3 sound (possibly surround) (normal version is ac-3 only), now however is some new information that the DTS version will not include a (surround) AC-3 track. One could buy either the "Deluxe" DTS version that comes with extra stuff or the normal version which uses AC-3 (Dolby Digital). The first press of the normal version will be picture discs. Probably the Deluxe version too. The rental version will contain "Bonus video for Maniacs" not available elsewhere, and you can win goods by renting it (in Japan). More details coming.

3-10-01---- Final TriZenon Episode

The final episode of the recent Anime Scifi TV series featuring Slayers Alumni Tri-Zenon completed voice recording on Feb. 22 in Japan. Seiyuu Megumi Hayashibara had warm comments on working with the other staff on this series. Former director of 3 Slayers TV series (works which America may be seeing en masse shortly via national television broadcast) Takashi Watanabe-sensei commented on the last year of production on this series being favorable.

3-9-01---- Metropolis Postrecording

The Postrecording for the long awaited anime feature film from Katsuhiro Otomo (Akira) and Rintaro (X) is said to be nearing completion, the film will make its Japanese theatrical release in 2001. Metropolis has taken five years and cost $10 million to produce, Otomo compiled the script based on the 1949 manga by Osamu Tezuka. The pair are aided by animation director Yasuhiro Nakura and composer Toshiyuki Honda. Voice actors on the project recently gathered at a press conference where they spoke on their thoughts on Metropolis and on the works of legendary mangaka, Osamu Tezuka.

Total production is slated to be completed shortly, and the movie will be distributed by Toho in Japan and through Sony Pictures worldwide in June 2001.

3-9-01---- Anime Harvard Studies

Dr. Susan J. Napier, a professor of Japanese Literature and Culture at the University of Texas at Austin, has focused her recent studies on the cultural aspects of anime and manga both in Japan and in the U.S. This coming spring Palgrave Press (part of St. Martin's Press) will publish her book Anime from Akira to Princess Mononoke, a scholarly look at anime as a medium in the '80s and '90s. This fall she taught an undergraduate course on anime at the University of Texas and will be reteaching the same course this spring as a guest lecturer at Harvard University. (Yes, anime has hit the big time. They're studying it at Harvard now.) Animerica interviewer Marc Hairston caught up with her last fall between classes. Source: http://www.animerica-mag.com/ - Anime Works

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