Anime News Service - April 10-29 Anime News

4-29-03---- Tokyo Mint Statue Schedule

Here’s an update on the statues currently solicited by Tokyo Mint with ship dates.

Statue Name Ship Date
Naru Narusegawa in Bikini December, 2002
Shinobu Maehara in Bath Towel June, 2003
Aoyama Motoko with Sword July, 2003
Naru Narusegawa in Pink August, 2003
Naru Narusegawa in Bath Towel September, 2003
Mitsune Konno in Purple October, 2003

Note: There will be two additional Love Hina statues from Tokyo Mint shipping November and December, 2003, which will complete the Tokyo Mint Love Hina statue series.

4-29-03---- Sega Adapts Tezuka Manga

Gamespot mentions Sega will make a game based on Osamu Tezuka's manga, Dororo, which is about a samurai named Hyakkimaru who goes on a journey "to uncover his past and regain his humanity". It's being developed for the PS2.

4-29-03---- Tokyo Mint Announces Mitsune In Purple

Mitsune In PurpleTokyo Mint Announces “Mitsune Konno in Purple” Sixth in Love Hina Series

Tokyo Mint has announced that the sixth statue in its Love Hina line will be the Mitsune Konno in Purple Statue, which is being pre-solicited in May for shipment in October. Mitsune Konno polls near the top of the Love Hina character list, and this larger (1/6 scale) rendering in a dramatic pose and striking outfit make this a strong entry in the line. The exclusive North American Tokyo Mint edition size for the Mitsune Konno in Purple Statue will be only 600 pieces. Each statue displays beautifully on a wooden base, and comes carefully packaged in an attractive color box (Japanese packaging with Tokyo Mint edition labeling). MSRP will be $129.

4-29-03---- ADV Official Details For Latest Acquisitions

From the official ADV Films release:

ADV FILMS ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF "AZUMANGA DAIOH" SWIRLING RUMORS AT LAST PROVE TRUE; ADV FILMS PLANS MULTI-VOLUME DVD RELEASE FOR CAPTIVATING JAPANESE ANIMATED SERIES

HOUSTON, April 28, 2003-ADV Films today formally announced the acquisition for stateside release of "Azumanga Daioh," an acclaimed Japanese animated series that premiered in early 2002 in Japan. "Azumanga Daioh," was produced by Genco ("Serial Experiments Lain") and JC Staff ("Excel Saga"), and is based on the manga (serialized in the Japanese magazine Dengeki Daioh) by Kiyohiko Azuma. ADV plans an Anime Network(tm) debut, followed by a DVD-only release for this comedy title.

About "Azumanga Daioh" "Azumanga Daioh" follows the day-to-day adventures of a comical group of high school girls and their equally eccentric friends and teachers. The manga by Kiyohiko Azuma was published as a series of four-panel strips, much like the traditional comic strips published in American newspapers. To reflect the concept of the manga, each episode of the "Azumanga Daioh," anime consists of several loosely related, character-driven segments, many of which adapt Azuma's original strips.

ADV Films leadership praised the title. "'Azumanga Daioh' is one of the most inventive and clever anime series to come out of Japan in the last few years," ADV Films President, CEO and Co-Founder John Ledford said. "The original manga was a master stroke of originality, and the anime is very much in keeping with it. I think fans are going to be thrilled."

Release Plans ADV has not yet announced specific release plans for "Azumanga Daioh," but Ledford expects the title to debut sometime later this year.

ADV FILMS TO RELEASE "NEON GENESIS EVANGELION: DIRECTOR'S CUT" EPISODES FINAL SIX EPISODES OF ACCLAIMED TELEVISION SERIES TO BE RE-RELEASED ON TWO DVD VOLUMES, EACH INCLUDING ORIGINAL AND DIRECTOR'S CUT VERSIONS.

HOUSTON, April 28, 2003-ADV Films today announced formally that the firm will release the Director's Cut of the final six episodes of the enormously influential anime series "Neon Genesis Evangelion." These Director's Cut episodes include additional footage, never before released in the U.S. ADV Films expects to release the Director's Cut in two three-episode DVD volumes; each volume will include both the extended Director's Cut versions and the original versions of the episodes.

ADV Films Co-Founder and Senior Producer Matt Greenfield produced ADV Films' original release of "Neon Genesis Evangelion," and he is at the helm of the firm's Director's Cut release as well. "It's very exciting to be working on 'Evangelion' again after so many years," said Greenfield. "The release of the original series was a pivotal moment in the development of the North American anime market, and we're very eager to see how fans will react to the revisions and refinements the creators have made to their original vision.

"By including both the original and revised episodes," continued Greenfield, "we've made it possible for Eva-philes to get an inside look at the directorial decisions that went into the creation of one of anime's most brilliant and original series. If you've ever wondered what Eva's really all about, these new collections will get you closer than you've ever been before."

Release Plans ADV Films has not yet announced release dates for "Neon Genesis Evangelion: Director's Cut" (note: this is a working title only).

ADV FILMS ACQUIRES "MAGICAL SHOPPING STREET ABENOBASHI" FOR BOTH TELEVISION BROADCAST AND HOME VIDEO MAGICAL, HILARIOUS 13-EPISODE ANIMATED (ANIME) SERIES COMBINES JAPANESE SPIRITUALISM, ADVENTURE, AND SAVVY GENRE PARODY

HOUSTON, April 28, 2003-ADV Films today formally announced the acquisition of the rights to release the hit 13-episode Japanese animated (anime) series "Magical Shopping Street Abenobashi" (AKA "Abenobashi Maho Shotengai"). ADV plans an Anime Network(tm) broadcast debut followed by a DVD-only release for the acclaimed title. "Magical Shopping Street Abenobashi" was originally broadcast in Japan in 2002, earning favorable comparisons to such disparate titles as the satirical "Excel Saga" and Hayao Miyazaki's spiritually informed "Spirited Away."

"Magical Shopping Street Abenobashi" was directed by Hiroyuki Yamaga ("Neon Genesis Evangelion," "Wings of Honneamise," "Automatic Maiden") from a script by Satoru Akahori ("Sorcerer Hunters," "K.O. Beast"). It was produced by the Japanese animation powerhouses GAINAX (producers of the seminal titles "Neon Genesis Evangelion," "FLCL," "His and Her Circumstances," "Otaku no Video" and many others) and Madhouse ("Vampire Hunter D," "Trigun," "Cardcaptor Sakura," "Doomed Megalopolis," "Ninja Scroll" etc.).

About "Magical Shopping Street Abenobashi" While in pursuit of the truth about a bit of minor family intrigue, the two friends Sasshi and Ayumi discover that, courtesy of a cross-shaped layout and a quartet of animal deities (cleverly disguised as signs), their familiar neighborhood shopping district is actually a portal to a series of parallel existences. The two are mistakenly transported to an alternate Abenobashi shopping area, and the series details their efforts to return home, with each episode structured as a side-splitting parody of an specific anime or film genre.

ADV Films leadership is excited about the acquisition. " 'Magical Shopping Street Abenobashi' is arriving on U.S. shores with an outstanding reputation among anime fans, and its charm, humor, intelligence and striking animation quality are really going to draw in U.S. viewers," said ADV Films President, CEO and Co-Founder John Ledford. "We're looking forward to putting it forward into the U.S. market."

Release Plans ADV Films has not yet announced specific release dates for the title, but Ledford says he expects an Anime Network broadcast debut toward the end of 2003, with a DVD release in 2004.

ADV FILMS ACQUIRES THE MAINSTREAM ANIME HIT "FINAL FANTASY: UNLIMITED" FOR BOTH TELEVISION BROADCAST AND HOME VIDEO SENSATIONAL 25-EPISODE ANIMATED (ANIME) SERIES; ACCOMPANIES POPULAR VIDEO-GAME FRANCHISE

HOUSTON, April 28, 2003-ADV Films today announced the acquisition of the rights to release the hit 25-episode anime series "Final Fantasy: Unlimited" on home video. ADV plans an Anime Network(tm) debut followed by a DVD-only release for the fantasy/adventure title, companion to the acclaimed "Final Fantasy" series of role-playing video games.

Chief director for the anime "Final Fantasy: Unlimited" is Mahiro Maeda, one of the most respected anime directors in Japan. Maeda was recently hand-picked by the producers of "The Animatrix," the upcoming anime side project based on the hit "The Matrix" film franchise, to direct two of the animated shorts featured in the project.

"Final Fantasy: Unlimited" is produced by SQUARE, TV Tokyo ("NOIR") and Dentsu ("Princess Mononoke," "Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex"), with animation produced by Gonzo Digimation, animators of "Hellsing," "Full Metal Panic!" and several more of anime's most popular recent titles.

About "Final Fantasy: Unlimited" "Final Fantasy: Unlimited" is the story of the warrior Kaze, the enigmatic Lisa and a pair of twin children, Ai and Yuh, who meet them as they search bravely for their missing parents. Taking place in a mysterious world, accessed only by an enchanted subway, "Final Fantasy: Unlimited" is packed with monsters, mystery, intrigue, beautiful animation and a plot that twists and turns and doubles back on itself in the truest anime style.

ADV Films leadership is pleased with the acquisition, and expects strong sales for the title. "'Final Fantasy: Unlimited' arrives with excellent title recognition from the video game, and extensive U.S. fan interest as well," said ADV Films President, CEO and Co-Founder John Ledford. "We're excited to be bringing it to the U.S. market."

Release Plans ADV Films has not yet announced specific release dates for the title, but Ledford says he expects a broadcast debut in late summer and home video release before the end of September 2003.

4-28-03---- Best Motoring Japanese Site Revamp

Drift and JDM fans note Best Motoring Magazine's Japanese website has undergone a major revamp at the following link, also the video preview for the June edition has been uploaded. www.bestmotoring.jp

4-28-03---- BAAF Power Pass Lite Debuts

New York, NY, April 15, 2003 - The Big Apple Anime Fest (BAAF) today announced the BAAF PowerPass Lite™, a special ticket option for the serious anime fan (otaku), to enjoy the ultimate fan experience while attending the annual Labor Day Weekend festival in Times Square, New York City (August 29 to 31, 2003). The BAAF PowerPass Lite ticket is for people who do not need hotel rooms, but who want to experience every aspect of BAAF, including guaranteed seating at all BAAF Film Premieres and priority seating at all VIP events, panels, autograph sessions, and Guest of Honor meal functions. Get BAAF PowerPass Lite™if you live in the New York area, or are staying with a BAAF PowerPass™ holder at the Marriott Marquis, BAAF's official headquarters hotel.

The BAAF PowerPass Lite™ is a VIP invitation to special events. BAAF PowerPasses are the only way to guarantee a seat at the premieres, including the Friday Night World Premiere of Initial D-The Movie, and the premiere party, plus lots more goodies. BAAF PowerPass Lite™ will be sold on a limited, first come first serve basis. They are on sale now and available only online (www.bigappleanimefest.com).

Ryoko Maebayashi, BAAF's Liaison Manager, says, "We know that many otaku come with friends to BAAF, and many more live in the Big Apple already and do not need accommodations, so we have added BAAF PowerPass Lite™. This new pass will allow BAAF fans to get in all the Guest of Honor attended premiere lineups, to receive guaranteed and priority seating, and more. Like the BAAF PowerPass™, BAAF PowerPass Lite™ holders will have VIP access throughout BAAF weekend."

The BAAF PowerPass Lite™ provides the following benefits for the all-inclusive price of only $595 ($25 discount for all purchases thru May 31, 2003):

Special Admission: All BAAF PowerPass Lite™ holders will receive a limited edition BAAF 2003 mechandise item, limited to 400 pieces. BAAF PowerPass Lite™ holders will also receive a limited edition BAAF 2003 T-shirt, not available to the general public. These will become instant collectibles!

Exclusive Merchandise: All BAAF PowerPass Lite™ holders will receive a limited edition BAAF 2003 mechandise item, limited to 400 pieces. BAAF PowerPass™ holders will also receive a limited edition BAAF 2003 T-shirt, not available to the general public. These will become instant collectibles!

BAAF Bag: To hold your selection of free goods and samples from BAAF sponsors, including comics, videos, discount coupons and other special values, you will get a super cool BAAF 2003 carryall bag, perfect for carrying convention essentials during the event.

Goodies: BAAF PowerPass Lite™ holders will receive a selection of free goods and samples from BAAF sponsors, including comics and graphic novels, videos, discount coupons, and other special values.

Price: $570 if purchased by May 31st, 2003. $595 from June 1st, 2003.

Notes:

· The only difference between BAAF PowerPass™ and the BAAF PowerPass Lite™ is that the PowerPass Lite™ does not include a hotel room at the Marriott Marquis.

·Only attendees with a BAAF PowerPass™ or BAAF PowerPass Lite™ will be able to attend the Opening Night and other Guest of Honor - Introduced Film Premieres.

· Just like First Class passengers boarding airplanes, BAAF PowerPass™ and BAAF PowerPass Lite™ holders will be given priority seating for all live events, autograph sessions, video and film screenings. We appreciate your understanding that these full priced tickets help subsidize lower ticket prices for everyone else.

For full ticket information and online ordering for the BAAF PowerPass™, BAAF PowerPass Lite™ and Weekend Passes, please visit: www.bigappleanimefest.com. BAAF PowerPass™ and BAAF PowerPass Lite™ are only available via on-line credit card ordering, with discount for all orders placed by May 31, 2003.

4-28-03---- Boston Globe Piece: Anime Brings New Style To Classic Genres

In the wake of the city's fist anime convention a few weeks back, The Boston Globe has published a new article entitled "Anime brings new style to classic genres".

4-28-03---- Matrix Gathering

this link says that the Los Angeles Comic Book and Science Fiction Convention will have Neil and Adrian Rayment-the twin albino assassins in Reloaded-appear at the show on May 4, at 1:30 p.m.

Furthermore, according to This link (limited)Matrix merchandise will be handed out, including a "Making Of" Animatrix dvd, as well as Reloaded posters, shirts and caps. Admission is $7.50.

Thanks to Daniel for the info

4-27-03---- Anime North Scheduled To Commence Against SARS Backdrop

Toronto, Canada's Anime North convention is currently set to go off as planned despite fears of the asian born SARS infection which have gripped the city for weeks. The website has updated with relevant information in this respect, currently no Guest of Honor has cancelled due to concerns and the pre-register tally has incresed since the outbreak with only few attendee cancelations.

4-25-03---- Japan For Sale Volume 3 Hits In 3 Days

Only 3 days remain until Sony's Japan For Sale Volume 3 compilation CD hits US streets. The official website at www.japanforsale.net has updated with an exclusive interview with featured artist GOKU. Read it and leave your comments and you could win a signed poster.

Click left to read the ANS exclusive review. This album's released is complemented by an official release party spanning May:

Limited Space so come early to the Polysics live performance. Sponsored by: ANA, asian man records, Giant Robot, SMITI, and SPECTRE

May 26 (Mon) - Double Door (Chicago) 1572 N. Milwaukee Chicago, IL 773.489.3160 (www.doubledoor.com) Age: All Shows 21+ Time: 7-10pm

May 27 (Tue) - Bottom of the Hill (San Francisco) 1233 17th St. San Francisco, CA 94107 415.621.4455 (www.bottomofthehill.com) Age: All Shows 21+ Time: 7-10pm

May 29 (Thu) - Knitting Factory (L.A.) 7021 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028 323.463.0204 (www.knittingfactory.com) Age: All Ages Time: 7-9pm

4-25-03---- Spirited Away US Box Office Rankings

Box Office Mojo says Spirited Away has beaten the Digimon: Movie in box office sales, making it the 4th highest grossing anime in the U.S. and the second highest grossing film after Pokemon.

Thanks to Daniel for the news

4-25-03---- New Brazilian Anime Con In July: Anime Friends

Courtesy to Marcel for the following:

Anime Friends 2003, our new anime convention here in Brazil, is generating a lot of talk among fans and many people who are not necessarily "otaku", but simply know titles like Dragon Ball Z, Saint Seya and live-action shows from the 80´s, which were really huge around here. The reason being it´s the first time ever japanese guests are being brought to a brazilian con.

They are: - Hiroshi Watari: actor who starred in metal hero series like Sharivan and Spielvan, and, among other roles, was Boomerman, one of the main characters in Jaspion. - Akira Kushida: singer of several live-action series in the 80´s, like Jaspion, Jiraya, Jiban, Kamen Rider, and, more recently, Gaoranger, Hurricanger and Abaranger (y´know, the source material for all that Power Ranger stuff...) - Hironobu Kageyama: probably the best known of our guests over there in the USA, star singer of Dragon Ball Z, Saint Seya, Soul Taker, Sonic X and other anime series. Each singer will have a "talk & live" session, some sort of interview/tribute in which they sing some of their songs, and they´ll make a show together in the last night of the con.

Besides that, AF is helping to create a Brazilian Cosplay League, has managed to gather the support of many of the other local conventions, and virtually all companies interested in anime and manga by here. Our expectations are that it will start a new era for animecons in Brazil, professionally planned, and with more ties to Japan.

It´ll occur from 3 to 6th of July, in São Paulo, SP, Brazil. The official homepage is here: www.animefriends.com.br In portuguese only, for the moment, but some translations are being arranged, since there are some international caravans coming.

4-25-03---- Henshin News Items

The SciFi Channel will run all three films in Toho's recent Mothra series on May 31. REBIRTH OF MOTHRA airs at 11 am, followed by REBIRTH II at 1 pm and REBIRTH III at 3pm. This will be the first time the English dub of REBIRTH OF MOTHRA III will be shown in the US. American fans have been hoping for a US release because it features the return of classic villain King Ghidorah. Source: Scifi.com

Sandy Frank Entertainment, the company responsible for originally bringing the GATCHAMAN anime series to American television in 1978 as BATTLE OF THE PLANETS, has established a new corporation to focus entirely on marketing the series in the US. "Battle of the Planets Inc." will release a DVD box set this June in association with Rhino Home Video, followed by video games, toys, trading cards and apparel. Future plans include a new 53 episode TV series combining the original 1972 GATCHAMAN footage with new animation created in the US, and new BATTLE OF THE PLANETS films created by Ocean Productions, a Canadian animation studio. Source: Animation Magazine

GAMMERA THE INVINCIBLE is coming to DVD from Alpha Video on May 20. This is the original US edit of the film, which contains additional scenes with actors Albert Dekker and Brian Donlevy. DVD bonus features include a poster gallery, lobby cards and photos. Alpha Video also announced plans to release the second Gamera movie, WAR OF THE MONSTERS, on June 24. Both films have a suggested retail price of $6.98.

Source: Henshin Online via Daniel's submission

4-24-03---- Utena Fan Farewell Art Contest

To celebrate the long-running Revolutionary Girl Utena series coming to a close, Central Park Media is having a Farewell to Utena contest. We will be accepting fan art and cosplay photos until May 30th.

From the submissions, three winners will be chosen to receive a free Utena Apocalypse Saga (Episodes 27-39) DVD boxed set! Additionally, the winners will have their art displayed on the final disc! For full rules check the doc. file here.

4-24-03----Japanese Cinema At Cannes

A thread from "ray" at Production I.G. mentions a MadHouse film called "Nasu-The Summer of Andalsia" directed by Kosaka Kitaro(who worked on many Ghibli titles) to be shown there before heading to Japan. Also believed to appear at Cannes is Steamboy.

Furthermore, news at the 4/23 IMDB indicates that Kyoshi Kurosawa's "Bright Future" Naomi Kawase's "Shara" and Ye Lou's "Purple Butterfly"(with Zhang Zhiyi and Toru Nakamura, according to Monkey Peaches )will be in competition at the film festival.

Thanks to Daniel for the news

4-24-03---- ADV Word Out Of Anime Boston

ADV Films has acquired, for broadcast and home-video distribution, “Azumanga Daioh,” “Final Fantasy: Unlimited,” and “Magical Shopping Street Abenobashi,” and will be releasing the Director’s Cut of “Neon Genesis Evangelion.”

From Eric K.
http://www.mayday-anime.com

4-23-03---- Matrix Reloaded SFX

Wired Magazine's Steve Silberman has written one of the best behind the scenes pieces yet on the utterly amazing special efects coming in the next Matrix film. Read also how Animation studio Madhouse assisted the Wachowski bros. by setting them up with a custom reel of explosion effects. Check out the piece here and if you have no idea what special effects we're talking about check out the final teaser trailer for Matrix Reloaded here.

4-23-03---- Sakura Matsuri In The NYC This Weekend

Shoujo Arts Society, the organization behind Shoujocon 2003, is heading out-of-doors this weekend to celebrate the annual Cherry Blossom Festival--known as Sakura Matsuri.

If you're a NYC metro local, join us for a visit to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden on Sunday, April 27 at 11:30am--rain or shine. You'll meet SAS and Shoujocon staff at the BBG to enjoy its celebration of this traditional Japanese event, as well as to view the gorgeous greenery of the world-famous conservatory.

For more information, visit http://www.flowerstorm.net/angela/shoujocon/sakuramatsuri.html.

4-23-03---- San Francisco Japan Town Anime Fair - Sept. 03

Event Name: Japan Town Anime Faire 2003 DATE: September 13-14, 2003 Location: Best Western Miyako Inn (1800 Sutter Street); San Francisco, California

TBA Events: Screening Room, Masquerade/Cosplay Contest, Anime Faire Swap Meet, Information Tables, Guest Panels, Video Gaming Room and more events to come!

At-The-Door Admission Prices: Single Day (Saturday or Sunday): $8 Full Weekend (Saturday AND Sunday): $12

Faire Updates at jtaf@yahoogroups.com Website Coming Soon!

For volunteering, swap meet, panel and sponsorship and informational table information, please contact worldofanime760@yahoo.com

Please come and show your support for Japan Town's Anime Convention for all ages!

Presented by: WORLD OF ANIME (worldofanime.come.to)

4-23-03---- Japanese Mask Maker Sales Boom Under SARS Outbreak

Somewhat of a cultural curiosity (although commonplace domesticly) to outsiders visiting Japan are 10's upon hundreds of commuters seen with white medical style face masks. Often they are worn to safegaurd themselves and/or others from viral agents and the like which can spread via airborne vectors in the close quarters experienced in one of the most densely populated cities on Earth. With the recent pandemic like outbreak of the SARS respritorty tract infection in Southeast Asia, what was once only cursory precaution has now manifested into a vital neccesity to personal well being for many. And The Guardian has an incredible behind the scenes look at one of the Japanese companies riding a wave of (admittingly reluctant) success as a leading supplier of the masks against the current critical backdrop.

4-22-02---- Bandai Prepares Junkers Come Here DVD Release

After years of barking from enthusiastic fans, Bandai Entertainment, the premiere distributor of Japanese animation in North America, has slated August 19 for the DVD release of the animated feature film, Junkers Come Here. An anime family classic released in 1995, the film's story has developed a diverse following from audiences who cannot seem to get enough of Junkers, a dog that speaks the human language and the companionship he provides his owner during troubled times.

"We are delighted to bring to North America one of the most compelling anime feature films produced in Japan," said Jerry Chu, Marketing Manager, Bandai Entertainment. "Junkers Come Here is a story of life, hardship and growth told through the eyes of a young girl. With the recent success of Hayao Miyazaki's Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away, Junkers Come Here is a film that we believe American audiences can appreciate and relate to."

Based on Naoto Kine's two-volume novel published in 1989, Junkers Come Here boasts an impressive assembly of anime creators, including director Junichi Sato (Sailor Moon) and animator director Kazuo Komatsubara (Miyazaki's Nausicaa: The Valley of the Wind). Junkers Come Here is a touching tale that illustrates the subtle and confused teenage emotions experienced by 11-year-old Hiromi, and her unique friendship with Junkers, a talking dog. As their relationship develops, Hiromi struggles with a longing for adulthood as she is faced with the challenges of her parents' unexpected divorce. Will Hiromi be able to restore happiness in her life?

Junkers Come Here originally debuted during a limited theatrical release in Japan in 1995 where it received critical acclaim. To this day, independent screenings continue to be held annually throughout Japan at the request of the local communities, schools, and universities. Junkers Come Here has received the distinct honor of being officially approved by the Japanese Ministry of Education. As an advance preview to the DVD release, Bandai Entertainment will present Junkers Come Here on Sunday, May 4th in its original Japanese-language format (English subtitles) as part of The American Cinematheque Anime Festival in Los Angeles. For additional information, visit www.egyptiantheatre.com.

Junkers Come Here DVD Features: * Interactive Animated Menu * English/Japanese language * English subtitles optional * Creator Background / Interviews * More to be announced * Bandai Previews

Junkers Come Here Credits: * Executive Producer: Ken Iyadomi * Chief Producer: Charles McCarter * Producer: Miho Kinoshita * English Voice Cast: Brittney Wilson (Hiromi), Sanders Whiting (Junkers)

UPC#: 669198223594 RUNNING TIME: 105 Min. RATING: 7UP GENRE: Family SRP PRICE: $29.98 STREET: August 19, 2003 PRE-BOOK DATE: July 8, 2003

4-21-03---- Kenji Fukusaku Tribute At The Egyptian

Kinji Fukasaku's films, Under the Fluttering Flag and Black Rose Mansion will be shown for free Sunday May 18 at 5:00 p.m at the Egyptian Theater, in honor of his contribution to Japanese cinema. Tickets available on a first come, first served basis the day of the event.

Thanks to Danile for this news

4-21-03---- Rumiko Takahashi Items

I found an ad in the new Big Comics Original that published Rumiko Takahashi's brand new short story "Help" today (4/19). The ad mentions a new Takahashi anime debuting in July, and seems to indicate that it might be based on some of her short stories. No indication if it will be a weekly anime or a one shot special though.

Harley Acres

www.inuyasha-movie.com/ has information and a short preview for the upcoming 3rd Inu-Yasha movie, which is going to debut in theaters across Japan in December 2003.

Source: Rumic World (http://www.furinkan.com/rumic)

4-21-03---- DVD Vision Japan Animeigo Spotlight

As part of our ongoing Anime Frontiers project, our April feature is on the "kings of classic anime", AnimEigo. We have just posted our interview with Scott Carson, Production Manager at AnimEigo. We also have an interview with Juliet Cesario, the voice of Miyuki from the AnimEigo dub of "You're Under Arrest". You can also read the stories written by the winners of our "You're Not Under Arrest" contest sponsored by AnimEigo at this link.

4-18-03---- Akadot Japan Reports

Akadot has compiled the following reports from their journies on the first Pop Japan Travel tour:

Part 1 Part 2

4-18-03---- Animatrix A Hot Download

Warner Bros. is claiming that fans of The Matrix have been downloading copies of the first three Animatrix shorts by the millions on its website www.theanimatrix.com....The first short, "The Second Renaissance Part 1," has been downloaded 3.5 million times since it appeared online last month, the studio said....

Source: 3/15 IMDB thanks to daniel for link and info

4-17-03---- Anime Network Expansion

Following a successful launch on Comcast's ON DEMAND service in the greater Philadelphia area, leadership at the Anime Network(tm) today announced that the network, first in North America dedicated to Japanese animation (anime) and anime-related programming, is expanding its reach. The Anime Network will be available in Monmouth, Ocean and Union Counties as part of Comcast's recent rollout of ON DEMAND in those areas.

Leadership at the Anime Network(tm) is pleased with the expansion of network availability. "The Anime Network has been one of the most popular offerings on Comcast's ON DEMAND service in Philadelphia," said John Ledford, President and CEO of A.D. Vision, Inc., parent company of the Anime Network(tm) and ADV Films. "Obviously the convenience and control of Comcast ON DEMAND have made it a good fit for us, and we're excited to be part of its expansion."

Content The Anime Network(tm) on Comcast ON DEMAND is structured around four categorized content areas: Action, Sci-Fi, Comedy, and Martial Arts. The network makes available approximately 25 hours of anime content per month, with regularly scheduled "refreshes" to replace older content with new films and series episodes.

The Anime Network(tm) broadcasts programs including both feature films and episodes from series. Content will include selections from titles such as "Spriggan," "Neon Genesis Evangelion," "Excel Saga," "Martian Successor Nadesico," "Gasaraki," "Noir," "Dai-Guard," "Bubblegum Crisis Tokyo 2040," "Orphen," "Golden Boy," "Steel Angel Kurumi," "Sorcerer Hunters," "Burn Up Excess," "Ninja Resurrection," "RahXephon," "Those Who Hunt Elves," "Gunsmith Cats," "Rune Soldier," "Samurai X," "Blue Seed" and more. Viewers wishing to confirm availability of the Anime Network in their specific areas can do so by visiting http://www.comcast.com.

The Anime Networkä: Ongoing Plans Leadership at the Anime Network(tm) confirms that the network's expansion is continuing, with plans to continue expansion to other geographic areas and additional cable service providers as well. In 2003, the Anime Networkä targets millions of viewers in service areas across North America.

4-16-03---- Junkers Staged To Launch From Bandai

Hiromi Nozawa is in the sixth grade and she hardly gets to see her parents at home because both her father (Shintaro) and mother (Suzuko) are busy with work. But she still manages to stay cheerful in the company of her dog, a schnauzer that speaks the human language and always cares for Hiromi. He is an excellent companion and his name is Junkers.

One night, Hiromi overhears her parents discussing a divorce and is disturbed by this unexpected news. While trying to comprehend her parents' feelings, she cannot admit that she is feeling lonely, and in the midst of all this, Junkers reveals to Hiromi that he can make three miracles happen. What may these miracles be? Can Hiromi restore happiness in her life?

The Director of Junkers Come Here is Junichi Sato and the cast includes Shinnosuke Furumoto, Mei Oshitani, Katsunari Mineno, Sakiko Tamagawa, Hiroko Takahashi, Momoko Ishi, Toshihiko Nakajima, Mitsuaki Madono, Kappei Yamaguchi; Producers are Minoru Takanashi, Kazuo Yokoyama, Yoshimi Asari; Screenplay is by Hiroichi Fuse; Music is composed by Naoto Kine and SYS musicians.

This touching fantasy story about true friendship and a tale of family ties will have its North American premiere on Sunday, May 4 (12:00PM/PT) at The American Cinematheque Anime Festival in Los Angeles. For additional information, visit www.egyptiantheatre.com.

Bandai Entertainment is proud to present Junkers Come Here in its original Japanese-language format with English subtitles and will release the DVD on August 19, 2003.

4-16-03---- Final Fantasy XI Beta Tests

Square has setup a form online for those interested in beta testing Final Fantasy XI for Playstation 2 and/or PC:

http://www.square-enix-usa.com/publicbeta/FFXI

4-16-03---- BAAF To Host Initial D Third Stage Movie World Premiere

The NYC's very own Big Apple Anime Fest has announced the event will host the world premiere of the theatrical English dubbed version of " Initial D: Third Stage The Movie " on August 29th, 7:00pm at Loews State Theater (Virgin Megastore) in New York City's Times Square. The Initial D series is already a big hit among US fans; yet, the fans will be amazed by this new film with the original English-language voices they have come to know and love. Based on the original manga by Shuichi Shigeno, the "Initial D: Third Stage The Movie" was created as a continual story following the "Second Stage" TV series. The movie uses enormous amounts of computer graphics in order to enhance the reality of street racing. In addition to the outstanding graphics, the soundtrack by avex Inc. adds aural excitement to the car racing.

Initial D tells the story of a 17-year-old tofu delivery boy named Tak who suddenly finds himself caught up in the heart-stopping world of street racing. Tak drives an "Eighty-Six," a street term for the Toyota Trueno AE86. When chance puts him up against street racing’s most notorious driver and he actually wins the race, the lure is too much—he is hooked. Word quickly spreads about the famous "Eighty-Six of Mount Akina," and more and more rival racers appear to challenge Tak and his friends in a series of white-knuckle contests.

Stuart Levy, CEO of TOKYOPOP, commented, "Initial D is an exciting and unique property, and BAAF is the perfect place to debut our Initial D feature film. We at TOKYOPOP are looking forward to the heat of summer in the Big Apple, Times Square, enthusiastic fans, and Initial D on the silver screen!"

"It will be a surprising experience for viewers to see how real the animated car racing can be on the huge silver screen," says Ryoko Maebayashi, Liaison Manager at Big Apple Anime Fest. The story is well composed, showing not only exciting car racing, but also adding unique characters to the previous Initial D series. "It is such an honor to introduce this amazing film at BAAF 2003 to a lot of fans. We truly appreciate TOKYOPOP for its support," Ryoko said.

4-16-03---- Cowboy Bebop Movie DVD Release

Courtesy CTHE:"Exciting & Vital" -Los Angeles Times

"Delivers Hardboiled Action & Sci-Fi Fun...A Must See!" -Animation Magazine

Big Screen Smash Animated Sci-Fi Feature Film from Renowned Japanese Anime Director Shinichiro Watanabe Based on the Wildly Popular TV Series

COWBOY BEBOP: THE MOVIE

Critically-Acclaimed Futuristic Noir Thriller Premiering June 24 on Special Edition DVD

Culver City, CA (April 15, 2003) - Touted as one of the greatest Japanese anime imports ever, COWBOY BEBOP: THE MOVIE, based on the enormously popular animated television show from acclaimed director Shinichiro Watanabe (Macross Plus, The Animatrix) and currently airing on Cartoon Network, will be premiering June 24 on Special Edition DVD from Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment following its successful national theatrical release. Priced at $26.95 SLP, the Special Edition DVD will feature dozens of exciting bonus materials including behind-the-scenes featurettes, character profiles, music videos, storyboard comparisons, conceptual art galleries and more.

Critics nationwide have been enthused by COWBOY BEBOP: THE MOVIE, praising the film as "the classiest anime series to be brought to America" (Anime Insider), "a stylish and sexy thriller" (Orange County Register) and "an interstellar treat full of eye-popping visuals and intelligent storytelling!" (Yolk Magazine). Including the original English-language voices that fans have come to know and love, COWBOY BEBOP: THE MOVIE fuses "cutting-edge sci-fi action" (Heavy Metal Magazine) with stunning animation paced by an original captivating soundtrack. A nail-biting climax is guaranteed to keep you hanging on the edge of your seat!

Mars - 2071 A.D. On the eve of Halloween, a tanker explodes on a freeway in the crater of Alba City, releasing a deadly virus that kills hundreds. When the surviving witnesses begin to die mysteriously, the police suspect a terrorist attack using a biological weapon and offer an astronomical reward for the arrest and capture of the person behind the destruction.

On the space ship "Bebop," Spike Spiegel and his crew of intergalactic bounty hunters (muscle-bound brute Jet Black, vixen Faye Valentine, computer whiz Ed and data dog Ein) are in dire straits as usual, but the news of the reward changes everything and this rogue vigilante crew gets on the case, each using his or her own tactics to stop the tragedy.

Spike begins his search to identify the poison on Moroccan Street, where "anything can be had." He obtains a vase containing a small round capsule from a guy named Rashid. Meanwhile, using his ISSP connections, Jet comes across a rumor that a pharmaceutical company may be involved in the incident. After analyzing an image taken from the scene of the crime, Ed and Faye discover that the prime suspect has a tattoo on his arm and further investigation leads to the information that he is a military officer named Vincent Volaju. The case becomes stranger as they learn, according to official records, that Volaju has been dead for some time and has a dangerous connection with Spike's love interest Elektra.

As the Bebop crew pieces the information together, the mystery takes shape. A suspect who died a long time ago. A pharmaceutical conglomerate. A special unit of the military. And a mysterious round capsule. It's obvious that there was more to this incident than just a random terrorist attack.

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES INCLUDE: * Digitally Mastered Audio & Anamorphic Video * Mastered in High Definition * Widescreen Presentation * "From the Small Screen to the Big Screen" featurette * "International Appeal - What's Not to Like?" featurette * "Spike: A Complex Soul" featurette * "Faye: Intellectual Vixen" featurette * "Ed: Resident Eccentric" featurette * "Jet: No Ordinary Dad" featurette * Character Profiles * Music Videos - "Ask DNA" & "Gotta Knock A Little Harder" * Conceptual Art Galleries (Characters / Aircrafts / Automobiles / Monorail / Accessories) * Four Storyboard Comparisons * Theatrical Trailers * Audio: English 5.1, Japanese 5.1, French (Dolby Surround) * Subtitles: English, French * Interactive Menus * Scene Selections

Rated R Color Close Captioned Running Time: 114 Minutes DVD Cat # 09055 / UPC Code: #0-43396-09055-5 DVD Order Date: 05/15/03 DVD SLP: $26.95

Also available is the Cowboy Bebop: The Movie / Osamu Tezuka's Metropolis DVD 2-pack priced at $48.95 SLP (DVD Cat #01019 / UPC Code: #0-43396-01019-2)

4-15-03---- New At Japan For Sale

-All songs can be heard.
-Also, GOKU's special interview will be up on the net next week.

http://www.japanforsale.net

4-14-03---- Yuricon And ALC Announce Original Manga Project

Yuricon and ALC Publishing is proud to present Yuri Monogatari, the first original English-language shoujoai and yuri manga compilation.

The publication has over 120 pages of stories - 9 original shoujoai and yuri stories from talented artists and writers from all over the globe, ranging from coming out, to exploration, love, comedy, tragedy and sex.

Yuri Monogatari, or "Lily Tales" is named after the generation-defining work, "Hana Monogatari," by early twentieth century shoujo and shoujoai author Yoshiya Nobuko. Yoshiya's stories created the conventions that still fill modern shoujo literature, anime and manga.

ALC Publishing is already looking forward to a second publication to be released this summer, the English translation of Yuricon 2003 Guest of Honor Rica Takashima's "Rica 'tte Kanji?!"

For more informtaion about ALC Publishing, please visit our website at http://www.yuricon.org/projects.htm

For more information about Yuricon or shoujoai and yuri anime or manga, please visit our website at http://www.yuricon.org or email us at yuricon@hotmail.com

4-14-03---- Excel Saga Creator At AX

Koushi Rikudo: Mr. Rikudo is the creator and manga artist of the immensely popular manga Excel Saga that is serialized monthly in Young King Ours and has been animated into a TV series. Mr. Rikudo's other manga works include Holy Brownie and Arahabaki. Anime Expo 2003 is Mr. Rikudo's first U.S. convention appearance.

Source: http://www.anime-expo.org/guests.html via Daniel

4-14-03---- Manga Announces Read Or Die Release

Manga Entertainment presents on DVD May 27th, Read or Die, a brand new three episode anime action series directed by Kouji Masunari (Tenchi Muyou in Love) with Production Design by Kunyuki Jinguji (Trigun). Winner for "Best OVA" at Anime Expo 2002, Read or Die features top-rate animation and design and is based on the popular manga of Hideyuki Kurata.

Synopsis: A sinister plot is afoot and only one young school teacher with an overdeveloped affinity for literature can stop it - Ms. Yomiko Readman ... better know to her colleagues in Section A of Library Special Operations as "Agent Paper."

It seems someone is bent upon procuring several rare volumes of a lost Beethoven text and has somehow enlisted a few of history's most extraordinary ladies and gentlemen to aid in the endeavor. From the banks of the Ganges to the burgeoning book stalls of Tokyo, Ms. Readman and her fellow super-powered operatives must tangle with the likes of Tokugawa-era scientist Gennai Hiraga, aviation pioneer Otto Lilienthal, and 19th century entomologist Jean-Henri Fabre in a desperate race to find the books and save the World!

DVD features include: 5.1 Dolby Digital English & Japanese Audio; 2.0 Dolby Digital English & Japanese Audio; English Subtitles; Original Trailer; Historical Biographies; Photo Gallery; Director & Crew Interview; Free Poster; Manga Previews, Fan Club & DVD Catalog.

READ OR DIE Pre-book Date: April 29, 2003 Street Date: May 27, 2003 Studio: Manga Entertainment Sales & Distribution: WEA Running Time: 90 minutes SRP: $29.95 Genre: Action/Adventure Rating: Unrated. Suggested at 13 & up Barcode: 6060200-4139-2 (7) Selection: MANGA4139-2

4-14-03---- San Farancisco Anime Concert Coming Together This Weekend

eigoMANGA, a comic book publishing company in San Francisco, CA, in collaboration with San Francisco State University's AnimeFX, is producing a live anime concert (first-time production of its kind in the United States) and convention on the campus of San Francisco State University on Friday, April 18, 2003. The concert starts at 12:00pm. The concert is called eigoMANGA CAMPUS INVASION, which is used to spread the awareness of anime and manga to a larger community outside of typical comic book/anime demographics.

“Comics and anime have an unjust stigma of being for ‘geeks’ and ‘nerds’ but that’s not clearly the case, claims, eigoMANGA CEO Austin Osueke. “Comics and anime can appeal to all people; it just has to be shoved in their faces, in a good way of course. Most college audiences listen to rock and pop music so that’s going to be the perfect bridge because anime uses the same music.”

Japanese animation has always been connected with pop music, which they call either J-rock or J-pop. There’s even J-hip/hop. Many Japanese bands and record companies have been formed simply because of the saturated demands of the anime industry. J-rock or J-pop is often used to help convey or amplify storyline. Japanese anime fans have spent billions of yen on anime soundtracks alone. eigoMANGA CAMPUS INVASION has invited various anime theme artists and rock bands like Oval to perform at the event. Rising pop star Natalise will headline the concert. She will be performing her hit single 'Wonderful' at the event. “Natalise has a large Asian-American audience in California and her music which is a mix of dance and pop is very appealing to the anime audience as well.” Austin explains.

eigoMANGA CAMPUS INVASION is a free outdoor concert event but it will still have the anime/comic book convention feel because there will be retail dealers, anime screenings, free giveaways, anime/comic fans, custom dress up and cos-play contests(the winner will appear in future eigoMANGA comics).

eigoMANGA CAMPUS INVASION is also featuring an anime fashion show (also an innovative production of its kind in the United States). The fashion designs are from Kayo Street Anime Gear and the designs are directly inspired from anime clothing. “Anime is huge now, and everybody knows how large Cos-play is (dressing up as anime characters). I strongly feel that a fashion line of anime-inspired clothing will be very successful when the awareness is out.” Austin explains.

eigoMANGA CAMPUS INVASION is also a forum for eigoMANGA fans and new artists hopefuls alike to meet with the executives and creators of eigoMANGA. "Our core fans are very important to us. CAMPUS INVASION is like an open-house event where, anyone and everyone can come meet with us about anything," asserts Osueke." It's always great to meet with fans in person; seeing the pure enthusiasm about eigoMANGA is a feeling that's indescribable. And sometimes they know more about the comics than I do."

Whether the students at San Francisco State University are anime fans or not, the simple exposure to the best that the anime and manga industry can offer will be a real eye-opener for them and make them think twice of it being 'geeky'.

4-11-03---- WFAC Detailed Updates

Joseph sends the following:

Continuing the proud tradition of screening wonderful animated films from Japan, the third annual Waterloo Festival for Animated Cinema (WFAC) brings six anime films to the big screen: two rare screenings of Laputa - Castle in the Sky by the legendary Japanese director Hayao Miyazaki, whose latest film "Spirited Away" was the winner of the 2003 Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film; the North American premiere of Princess Arête, a heart-warming tale of a clever princess who must find the strength to find her own identity and save herself; the Canadian premiere of WXIII Patlabor, a stylish detective story of genetics research gone wrong; and fan favourites Escaflowne, Utena, and Perfect Blue, which show the diversity of genres tackled in Japanese anime.

The WFAC will also take its first foray outside of the anime world in a big way, beginning with a look at the first wave of animated feature films from Korea that demonstrate the Korean industry's ability to produce its own projects - and fantastic projects they are. Mari Iyagi, the 2002 Annecy Grand Prix winner about a lonely boy who stumbles into a fantasy world, makes its Canadian premiere. Wonderful Days is an exhilarating action sci-fi, set in a devastated world in which a few elite rule from and are succoured by an organic city that feeds off pollution. Making its world premiere at the WFAC, this is the first feature film from the acclaimed advertising production team Tin House, using a seamless mix of 3D computer-generated graphics, cel-shaded animation, matt paintings and miniatures. The WFAC also features two films from France: Princes and Princesses, a delightful silhouette animation from the master animator Michel Ocelot; and the North American premiere of Corto Maltese - the Secret Court of Mysteries, a critically-acclaimed and faithful translation of Hugo Pratt's famous existentialist hero to the silver screen. Set in the chaos during the fall of the Russian and the Chinese empires in the late 1910s, this historical adventure pits Corto against one of the most lunatic of the White Army's generals as he tries to seize a train loaded with the gold of the czars. There is one film from the United States: Missing Persons (Canadian premiere), a quirky and wry tale of four lost souls set in Coney Island; produced and animated by Matt and Dan O'Donnell, using their own custom rendering software. Finally, a long-time Hong Kong comic strip favourite, made into a film that is full of the experiences of its native land: My Life as McDull, the winner of the FIPRESCI prize at the 2002 HKIFF. A comedy with angst, the film describes the growing-up experiences of an irrepressible young piglet named McDull who's a bit slow.

Finally, the WFAC has selected some wonderful short films for our inaugural Tidbits programme, to celebrate the heart and the work that is possible at the hands of a small (often, one-person) team of dedicated artists. The Tidbits programme features short films from Poland, Japan, Germany, the Netherlands and Israel. A trio of Canadian shorts, Showa Shinzan, Black Soul and Strange Invaders, will also be screened in front of three of our feature film presentations.

About the Festival

The WFAC is a film festival dedicated to promote recognition for animation as a legitimate medium for cinema, and to celebrate the power of animation in feature films. WFAC 2003 will be held April 23rd-26th, 2003 at the Princess Cinema and the Galaxy Cinema, Conestoga Mall in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. The schedule is available on the festival web site at http://www.wfac.ca.

Tickets and passes are now available for purchase online at http://www.wfac.ca. Tickets are $10 per film. A $2 discount per ticket is available for advance orders totalling five or more tickets. A limited number of festival passes ($75) are also available for those who would like to experience the entire programme. All prices are in Canadian dollars.

Tickets may also be purchased at Generation X, Gemini Jetpack, Princess Cinema, and Steve's TV, or at the door. To ensure seating, we suggest that tickets and passes be purchased in advance.

A printed film guide, containing detailed film information, the screening schedule, an index of films and directors, interviews and more will also be available for purchase at the festival.

4-11-03---- Current Issue EW Exclusives

Thanks to Daniel for the following:

The April 18 issue of Entertainment Weekly has comments from Joel Silver, Koji Morimoto (animation supervisor for Akira) and Shinichiro Watanabe on the making of the Animatrix. The magazine also reviews the new Ghibli dvd's from Disney and gives Castle in the Sky a B, Kiki an A, and Spirited Away an A.

4-10-03---- Yugioh Volumes 8-9 Street Dates

4Kids Entertainment Home Video, Inc., the home video unit of 4Kids Entertainment, Inc., (NYSE: KDE) in association with FUNimation, will release Volumes 9 and 10 of YU-GI-OH! home videos on May 6, 2003. Champion vs. Creator and Duel Identity, each with three episodes from the hit television series, will be available at retail and at the www.4KidsHomeVideo.com http://www.4KidsHomeVideo.com Web site in both DVD and VHS formats.

Volumes 7 and 8 of YU-GI-OH! home videos - Double Trouble Duel and Faceoff: Yugi vs. Kaiba - were released March 18, 2003.

Based on a popular Japanese comic book series, YU-GI-OH! follows the adventures of Yugi and his buddies - Joey, Tristan and Tea, who spend most of their free time playing the coolest new game ever ... Duel Monsters. The game allows them to challenge their minds using logic and strategy while players pair up different mystical creatures against one another in wild, magical duels. When Yugi's grandfather gave Yugi an old Egyptian artifact called the "Millennium Puzzle," Yugi pieced the puzzle together and was infused with incredible mystical powers. With the help of his friends, his belief in the heart of the cards and the mysterious power of his Millennium Puzzle, Yugi sets out on the adventure of a lifetime!

VOLUME 9: Champion vs. Creator

Episode 25: Shining Friendship Having lost his star chips to Kaiba and his only opportunity to save Grandpa, Yugi is in a state of shock. Can Tea bring Yugi back to consciousness by defeating Mai for her extra star chips and teach Yugi the heart of the duelist?

Episode 26: Champion vs. Creator Part I Yugi and friends enter the castle to discover Kaiba ready to duel Pegasus with Mokuba's soul hanging in the balance! The power of the Millennium Eye gives Pegasus the ability to read other people's minds. Can Kaiba defeat an opponent who knows his moves even before he does?

Episode 27: Champion vs. Creator Part II Kaiba is helpless against Pegasus' Toon World deck and mind-reading abilities. As the duel ends, Pegasus imprisons Kaiba's soul into a card, just like Grandpa and Mokuba! Yugi has had enough!

DVD extras: Monster stats, preview of Konami's new video game Yu-Gi-Oh!: Duelists of the Roses; an exclusive YU-GI-OH! music video; and a Yu-Gi-Oh!: Music to Duel By song sampler.

VOLUME 10: Duel Identity

Episode 28: The Night Before T'was the night before the final battle, and many creatures are stirring! Yugi vows to overthrow Pegasus for the sake of his Grandpa. Tristan leads an exploration party to uncover Pegasus' secrets. While Joey sleeps, Bandit Keith steals from him the card that permits his entry in the final battle!

Episode 29: Duel Identity Part I Under Pegasus' weighty glare, Yugi is distracted from his duel with Mai. After making foolish tactical errors and allowing Mai to gain a huge advantage with her Harpie's Pet Dragon, will Yugi gather his focus or succumb to the intense pressure?

Episode 30: Duel Identity Part II Mai has rebounded from her previous loss to Joey to become a better duelist. Has Yugi learned from his loss to Kaiba, or is the emotional defeat still weighing on his heart? The answer is in the cards!

DVD extras: Monster stats, preview of Konami's new video game Yu-Gi-Oh!: Duelists of the Roses; an exclusive YU-GI-OH! music video; and a Yu-Gi-Oh!: Music to Duel By song sampler.

TITLE: Volume 9: Champion vs. Creator TITLE: Volume 10: Duel Identity RUNNING TIME: Approximately 60 minutes RATING: Not-rated SRP VHS: $14.95 SRP DVD: $19.95 PRE-BOOK: April 1, 2003 STREET DATE: May 6, 2003

4-10-03---- Lupin III Scores Big In Anime Survey

Courtesy to Tzara in Tokyo who found the following in the April 10 edition of the Print Version Daily Yomiuri:

Anime Survey, Lupin III Characters Score Big The Daily Yomiuri (an English language newspaper in Japan) ran a story in its April 10th edition, entitled "Boys will be Lupin III, girls will be Fujiko", about an Anime survey taken by Nikkei Entertainment Magazine. According to the survey of 10,000 Japanese adults, the most popular male Anime characters were: Number 1: Lupin III (Lupin III), 2 - Char Aznable (Kido Senshi Gundam), 3 - Doraemon (Doraemon), 4 - Conan (Meitantei Conan), and 5 - Joe Yabuki (Ashita no Joe). The most popular female characters were 1 -Nausicaa (Kaze no Tani no Nausicaa), 2 - Minami Asakura (Touch), 3 - Mine Fujiko (Lupin III), 4 - Lum (Urusei Yatsura), and 5 - Kyoko Otonashi (Maison Ikkoku). The article also included the results to the question "which anime character would you most like to be?', with Lupin and Fujiko taking first place and Minami Asakura and Doraemon taking second. The most hated characters according to the survey were, female: Ocho-fujin (Ace o Narae), male: Shinnosuke Nohara (Crayon Shin-chan).

The article continued with a very negative editorial on Crayon Shin-chan, blaming the show for "introducing cynicism and sarcasm to small children". It then moved on to reviewing a few of the new animated shows that started this month, with D.N.Angel, Kaleidostar, and Tantei Gakuen being it's picks for "the most likely prospects this quarter".

[Source: Daily Yomiuri, April 10, 2003]

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