Anime News Service - August 14-27 Anime News

8-26-02---- Dragonball GT Target Air

ANS has learned from several well placed sources that the long awaited Dragonball GT will begin airing in the next several months replacing the wrapping DBZ. On The International Channel, DBZ will end on IC on November 3. The following Sunday, November 10, DBGT begins.

8-23-02---- You're Under Arrest Dorama Announced

Courtesy Yukio-san (Dead Shot Club):

Sachie and Misaki "Arrest you". It becomes [ comics / "Arrest you" (a Kousuke Fujishima work, Kodansha publication) / extremely popular / of 4,800,000 part sales ] a serial drama by the TV Asahi system. Two persons, Sachie Hara (24) and Misaki Itoh (25), will star at a start (every week Thursday, after [ 9-00 ]) in October. It is an invigorating tale of a comedy touch of two policewomen called Natsumi (Itoh) with Miyuki (Hara) and the quarrel it is mechanically strong and strong which were carried out gently. these comics -- the past -- animation, a movie, and a game -- becoming -- this time -- TV of fan great desire -- a drama -- it is-izing "I want to betray the image of original Miyuki in a good meaning. Hara says that I want to perform Miyuki more active than an original and finer." Itoh which serves as drama first starring on the other hand "the figure in which a woman does her best in the office surrounded by the male is wonderful, and Cool. Concentration is contained in I having many women see and wanting to give courage." The shooting game of two persons whom the position cool and gentle until now had, and the scene on which it burst with automobile pursuit are also a highlight. Furthermore, photogravure popular idols, such as an Otoha(21) Miho Yoshioka(22) Eri Kyokuyama (23), assemble to the role of a fellow policewoman. The Jun Akiyama producer of TV-Asahi "the fresh actress was chosen. Confidence was shown as there being smile and crying, although it is a comedy."

In the partner of the love of Miyuki performed Hara by whom Kazushige plays a police motorcycle policeman, it is Kazushige. Nagashima (36). Youth earnest on a motorbike is sent and it is a role of a police motorcycle policeman preeminent for operation technology. Kazushige said, "I want to do my best in myself as hard as possible." Although it is thick to love and duty and the place to decide is the man with a sufficient parenthesis who decides, to love, it is awkward. It is attention at a Cool police motorcycle figure.

Goo News

8-23-02---- BAAF Film Tix Online

Thanks to Megazone for the following:

You've already announced that the film tickets are available at the box office, but that doesn't help non-locals.

Fortunately, tix for the three premieres (Cowboy Bebop, Millenium Actress, and Gundam: Char's Counterattack) are available now only from Fandango.com. Under 'Buy Tix' search for the title and use '10036' as the zip code, then make sure to select the correct day for the showing and you'll find the listing for the premier and you can buy tix for the $10 ticket fee plus $1.50 handling per ticket.

I bought a Bebop ticket this way.

They do not appear to be selling tickets online for the other films.

8-23-02---- GTO Soundtrack Rollout

From the relase:

GTO: ORIGINAL ANIMÉ SOUNDTRACK RACES TO NORTH AMERICAN RETAILERS

Punk Band Four of Five Contributes Bonus Song to TOKYOPOP Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Los Angeles, CA (August 26, 2002) - TOKYOPOP is pleased to release the highly-anticipated CD, GTO: Original Animé Soundtrack. The CD features 20 tracks, including music from the hit animé series, GTO: Great Teacher Onizuka, and will roll-out to retailers nationwide in late August.

Composed by acclaimed Japanese composer Yusuke Honma (Yu Yu Hakusho and Fushigi Yuugi) the soundtrack offers an eclectic variety of jazz, blues, pop, and hard rock that expresses the many moods of the popular animé series. The CD also includes a bonus track performed by popular Orange County, CA punk band, Four of Five. "School's in Session." This memorable combination of melodic guitar rifts, upbeat rhythms and punk lyrics capture the essence of Onizuka (GTO), a former gang member who strives to be one of the greatest teachers in Japan. Also featured is an exclusive interview of Mr. Honma by GTO manga artist and creator Tohru Fujisawa.

Originally an award-winning manga (graphic novel) series that sold over 37 million books worldwide, GTO was adapted into a record-breaking Japanese live-action TV drama, anime series and feature film. Running time for GTO: Original Animé Soundtrack (Stuart Levy, Executive Producer; Joel Baral, Producer) is 48 minutes.

8-22-02---- BAAF 2002 Film Tickets On Sale

Thanks to the crew at Akadot for this info:

BAAF 2002 FILM FESTIVAL ADVANCE TICKETS ON SALE!!

Tickets for the BAAF 2002 Film Festival are now on sale at the Loews State Theater Box Office! Loews State Theater is located at the B2 level in the Virgin Megastore in Times Square. (1540 Broadway between 45th & 46th Street) All premieres are $10 and $5 for all other films. Hurry and get your tickets now!

Box Office Hours: Saturday - Sunday, 12 noon to 12 midnight. Ticket Availability: (212) 391-3960

8-22-02---- Gamera Child Actor Interview

Former 60's Gamera child actor Carl Craig is interviewed at http://www.henshinonline.com/. Thanks to Daniel for the link.

8-22-02---- Canadian Gundam Model Building Competition

Much thanks to Silver for the folowing:

The Canadian National Gundam Model Building Competition Brought to you by Bandai America and Bandai Entertainment, Hobby Star Marketing and AnimeXtreme

There is a limit for Gundam Model Entries of one per person.

This competition is open to Modellers of ANY Skill Level or Age and only to those attending CNAnime. We DO NOT supply model kits for you to build.

Registration: Registration for your completed model will take place at the AnimeXtreme booth at CNAnime on Friday 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Judging: The judges for this event will be:

"Toys'R'Us Canadian Gundam Model Building Champion", AnimeXtreme's own, Stephen Choo Chee, Modeller Johnny Pham

The categories for the competition are as follows: Novice, Intermediate and Advanced

The category that your entry belongs to will be decided at the AnimeXtreme booth.

There will be 4 prize packages to be awarded per category.

If you have any questions regarding the competiton, email us: silver@hobbystar.com

Prizes: There will be 4 prize packages to be awarded per category.

AnimeXtreme and CNAnime will be donating a Perfect Grade RX-178 Gundam Mk II to be won via raffle!

All you have to do is enter the competition to win!

Tons of Prizes to be won... Here's just a small taste of the action!

PG RX-178 Gundam Mk II (A.E.U.G Prototype Mobile Suit)

MG RX-93 Nu-Gundam MG MSZ-006A1 Zeta Plus Gundam MG MS-07B Gouf MG RX-78-2 Gundam x 4

HG 1/144 AMX-004 Quebeley

HG 1/144 MSA-0011 S Gundam HG 1/100 Gundam Wing HG 1/100 Gundam Epyon HG 1/100 Gundam Deathscythe HG 1/100 Shenlong Gundam

1/144 Shining Gundam x 2 1/144 Gundam Maxter 1/144 Dragon Gundam 1/144 Rose Gundam 1/144 Bolt Gundam

1/144 Gundam NT-1 x 2 1/144 Kampfer 1/144 Gelgoog-J 1/144 Hy-Gogg 1/144 Rick-Dom II

*Phew* and also.... 9 Mobile Suit Gundam Movie: Char's Counterattack DVD's

*PLUS* Loads of G Gundam Mobile Suit in Action toys and more!

For more information please visit CNAnime's site at: http://www.hobbystar.com

8-22-02---- CNAnime Last Minute Guests Reminder

Thans to Silver for this:CNAnime Japanese Guests of Honor

Kia Asamiya *Updated* CNAnime will be giving away a very limited "Kia Asamiya Print" to only the first 1000 anime attendees!!!

Kia Asamiya is a Japanese manga artist famous for his creation 'Dark Angel'. He also produced the works 'Silent Mobius', 'Steam Detectives' and 'Nadesico'. Kia Asamiya is also known as Kikuchi Michitaka, a well-known animator and character designer whose works include “Detonator Orgun” and “Hades Project Zeorymer”.

Tommy Ohtsuka Among Otsuka's many hit series are “Saber Marionette”, “Orphen”, and “Slayers Special”, which has been appearing in “Dragon Jr.” magazine since 1999. Collaborating with Komada, he has also worked on the manga version of the film “Slayers Premium”, and together they are working on the new “Slayers” project, “Sui-Ryu-Oh no Kishi”. Tommy Ohtsuka appears courtesy of Central Park Media.

Yoshihiro Komada Komada quit his desk job and became the team's full-time writer. Among Komada's many works is the manga version of “Slayers Premiere”. Lately, he's been working on a new “Slayers” series called “Sui Ryu-Oh no Kishi”, featuring new characters and twists in the expanding “Slayers” universe! Yoshihiro Komada appears courtesy of Central Park Media.

CNAnime American Guests of Honor Kirby Morrow Kirby Morrow is multi-talented actor who has lent his voice to beloved characters in many animated series including; "X-Men: Evolution" as Scott Summers / Cyclops, “Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: The Movie” and "Mobile Suit Gundam Wing" as Trowa Barton, "Escaflowne" as Van Farnel, and “Ranma ½”.

Josh Martin Voice actor Josh Martin is best known for his work on Dragonball Z as the character of Majin Buu.

Kyle Hebert Voice actor Kyle Hebert is best known for his work on Dragonball Z as the character of Teenage Gohan and the Ox King.

The Sailor Moon Voice Stars Stephanie Morgenstern (Sailor Venus), Susan Roman (Sailor Jupiter), Roland Parliament (Director and Voice of Melvin)

Feature: Hollywood Anime CNAnime is also host to the Official Canadian Premiere of Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack on 35 mm film! (Japanese with English Subtitles) Part of a double bill with Jin-Roh.

Watch Anime as it is meant to be seen. Screened at one of Toronto's most popular theatres, the Bloor Cinema. Not to be missed!

Friday August 23, 2002 At Bloor Cinema 506 Bloor St. W Both films appear courtesy of Bandai Entertainment

8-22-02---- AnimeXtreme Club In Toronto Opens Own Shop

Thanks to Silver for this:Anime Xtreme was originally founded as an anime club on Friday January 16th, 1998. Since then, AnimeXtreme has gone on to become Toronto's largest and most well respected anime club with over 1500 members, not to mention become the driving force behind Canada's largest anime convention, the Canadian National Anime Expo (CNAnime).

And now, 4 years and nearly 100 shows later, AnimeXtreme the Store was formed with the the sole purpose of promoting a new culture of Anime, toys, models/ Model Building and DVDs, while at the same time properly educating anime fans, both new and old.

AnimeXtreme the Store will be celebrating this new achievement by unveiling their presence at this year's CNAnime (Friday August 23) at their booths (S603-606) with just a small sample with what AnimeXtreme the Store has to offer the many Canadian anime fans. Plus we'll be throwing a big Grand Opening Party open to the public (details at CNAnime)!!!

So come by, say hi and grab a "Bit Char-G" while you're at it. ^^

Many thanks go out to our many member and supporters, without you none of this would have been possible.

8-22-02---- Adult Section Added To Akadot Retail

Akadot Retail has recently unveiled their latest digital boutique addition, an Adults only section which can be viewed at the above link.

8-21-02---- Fanime Guests

From the announcement -

Courtesy Ryu HayabusaDOA2:

FanimeCon 2003 Guests of Honor(present time) source: http://www.fanime.com (FanimeCon 2003)

Kunihiko Ikuhara

Best known as the director/co-creator of Shoujo Kakumei Utena (Revolutionary Girl Utena) and one of the series directors of Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon, Kunihiko Ikuhara is also the head of the creative group BePapas. Born in Tokushima prefecture on December 21, 1964, Ikuhara joined Toei Douga in 1986, and he worked on various series before working on Sailor Moon. His directorial debut came about in Maple Town Monogatari as an assistant director, which he was also for Shin Maple Town Monogatari - Palm Town Hen (New Maple Town Stories - Palm Town Chapter) (1987), "Toushou!! Ramen-Man" [Fighter General!! Ramen-Man] (1988), "Akuma-kun" [Devil-kun] (1989-1990), and "Mo-retsu Atarou (shin)" (1990). During the run of "Mo-retsu Atarou", he was promoted to a (senior) director, and as a starter he directed episode #18 which aired on 8/18/90. This he followed up with directing "Kingyo Chuuihou" [Goldfish Warning] (1991-1992) in conjunction with Junichi Sato, who was series director.After years of working at Toei, he earned his way and became the director of Sailor Moon. In 1996, he joined up with Chiho Saito, a shoujo manga artist, and founded the creative group BePapas. As a part of BePapas, Mr. Ikuhara created and directed the TV show Shoujo Kakumei Utena and the 1999 Movie Shoujo Kakumei Utena: Adolescence Mokushiroku, using Chiho Saito's characters. He also wrote and published the novel Schell Bullet 1 in 1999 and 2 in 2000.BePapas has a very important meaning. It means to ?be a Papa? or a parent of one's own self or one's own work. Creative control is a luxury he did not have working for Toei. BePapas is his chance to have that control and take Utena in the direction he wants to take her. In essence, it's not just an Utena Revolution, but also an Ikuhara Revolution.

Studio Ironcat Steve Bennett

Steve Bennett is the co-founder and Art Director of Studio Ironcat L.L.C. Back in the early 1980's, Steve worked at Studio Aoehyma in Tokyo, Japan, as an apprentice animator to the Japanese animator, Noboru Furusei (New Dominion Tank Police, Lupin III, etc.). While at Mr. Furusei's contract studio, Steve worked on Cat's Eye, the Urusei Yatsura TV Series and first movie (Only You). Other projects ranged from Walt Disney's Duck Tales , Warner Brothers' animated commercials, to many popular 1980's Japanese TV series. So Steve has a well-rounded, international background in animation! After attending college for a while, and working as a Jack-of-All-Trades (ie. sushi, construction, Paramount's King's Dominion...), Steve was invited as a guest to his first anime convention where he taught the art of cel painting. In 1997, Steve co-founded Studio Ironcat L.L.C., with the help of Masaomi Kanzaki, the creator of Xenon. During the summer of 1999, Kuni Kimura (Ironcat's other co-founder) departed the company and Steve, his brother Kevin, and his father Steven Bennett III, have taken control of the young comic company. Currently Steve is Ironcat's lead spokesman and exuberant convention personality, while maintaining his duties as Art Director and big Boss Man at the office. Call him the Goodwill Ambassador of Manga, and he'll tip his cap with big smile. The rest, as they say, is history...but if you really want to know more, just look for Steve in his Civil War Confederate cap while he wanders the halls in between his cell-painting classes and panels. Steve is always willing to share interesting stories, witty anecdotes of his experiences, and any news about Studio Ironcat's upcoming projects

The convention will be held at the Santa Clara Convention Center on June 20-22, 2003.

8-21-02---- Viz Acquires Spirited Away Publishing Rights

Fans can get Spirited Away on DVD from Akadot Retail

From the release:

Japan's Highest-Grossing Film Of All Time...For the First Time In English! VIZ ACQUIRES SPIRITED AWAY PUBLISHING RIGHTS Enters Agreement with Studio Ghibli

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - August 20, 2002 - Viz Communications, Inc. today announced its acquisition of the publishing rights to Hayao Miyazaki's Spirited Away. Through a partnership with Studio Ghibli, Viz plans to publish graphic novels, art and coffee table books, which will also serve as the official print adaptations of the movie being released by The Walt Disney Studios this September. Viz will begin releasing Spirited Away in August, marking the debut of this long-awaited and beloved story in English.

The critically acclaimed box office hit (box office totals to date equal $234 million) and winner of the Berlin Film Festival's Golden Bear Award, Spirited Away tells the story of Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who discovers a secret, magical world while traveling with her family. When her parents are turned into pigs, Chihiro must learn to navigate this secret world full of ghosts, spirits and goblins, while struggling to maintain her identity and free her parents from its magic spell. A fabulous supernatural adventure full of action, suspense, bizarre creatures and compelling human characters, Spirited Away is the pinnacle of animated fantasy and the latest fantastical creation by animation master Hayao Miyazaki.

Hayao Miyazaki is the most beloved animator in Japanese history and the creator of several successful films, including Princess Mononoke (winner of the Japan Academy Award for Best Film release of 1997), My Neighbor Totoro and Kiki's Delivery Service. Though famous worldwide for his anime, Hayao Miyazaki is also a great manga artist. His major work was Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (also available from Viz), which tells the story of a gentle young princess, Nausicaä, and her struggle to negotiate peace between kingdoms battling over the last inhabitable land after a future ecological disaster. Whether working with comics or animation, Miyazaki's work is known for its entertaining plots, compelling characters, and breathtaking art. He currently works out of Studio Ghibli, where he writes, draws and directs with partner Isao Takahata (Grave of the Fireflies).

With full color artwork, Spirited Away, Volumes 1-5 present the entire movie in a manga-like format, with thousands of beautiful stills from the film arranged to read as a comic book, complete with translated dialogue. Each title will be presented in its original Japanese format (reads right-to-left) and feature distinctive Japanese sound effects with a bonus translation in the back. Beginning in July, Viz will release the following Spirited Away print titles:

SPIRITED AWAY, Volume 1 - Mom, Dad and their daughter, Chihiro, are driving on their way to their new home, but when Dad takes a wrong turn, the family becomes lost in a forest. Eventually, they find their way to a strange abandoned amusement park and when Chihiro wanders off, she returns only to find out Mom and Dad have turned into pigs. Frightened as night falls, Chihiro discovers she's in a world inhabited by ghosts, demons and strange gods. A mysterious boy named Haku helps her and tells her that to survive in this world, Chihiro must find work. She must go down to the boiler room and seek out an old man named Kamaji... $9.95 USA/$16.50 CAN, paperback, 168 color pages

SPIRITED AWAY, Volume 2 - Into the boiler room! Chihiro encounters the old arachnoid Kamaji and his bizarre army of soot balls who keep the hot water running. Chihiro tries to help but she's not really suited for this kind of work. When Lin the slug girl comes to deliver lunch, though, Kamaji tells her to take Chihiro with her. Lin introduces Chihiro to the bizarre bathhouse wonderland where she works and to her boss, the giant-size matriarch Yubaba. After a demonstration of her powers, Yubaba renames Chihiro "Sen" and puts her to work. Sen goes through a grueling first day of scrubbing floors and being made fun of by the other workers for being human, but she forges on. In the middle of the day, while everyone's asleep, she sneaks outside to meet Haku... $9.95 USA/$16.50 CAN, paperback, 168 color pages

SPIRITED AWAY, Volume 3 - Haku takes Sen to visit her parents, who have turned into pigs. Sen promises to rescue them and get them out of their predicament one day. Back to work, Sen is forced to do the grossest jobs, like cleaning out the giant tub. And then the dreaded Stink God pays a visit to the bathhouse and Sen is sent to serve him. Through pluck and determination, though, Sen perseveres and wins a valuable prize in the process. Meanwhile, the mysterious No-Face monster is lurking about. What does he want? $9.95 USA/$16.50 CAN, paperback, 168 color pages

SPIRITED AWAY, Volume 4 - Sen finally sees Haku's real identity: a flying white dragon. But it may be too late for Haku as he's chased by a flock of paper birds and dying from a fatal spell that's been put on him. Sen discovers that Haku's stolen a precious ink stamp from Yubaba's twin sister and it's she, a powerful sorceress, who's put this spell on him. To save Haku's life, Sen must journey to Swamp Bottom and return the stamp to Yubaba's sister. Meanwhile, why is the No-Face monster randomly devouring the workers of the bathhouse? $9.95 USA/$16.50 CAN, paperback, 168 color pages

SPIRITED AWAY, Volume 5 - The exciting conclusion! No-Face reveals his true nature. Sen escapes from his wrath and, with two new friends, makes for Swap Bottom in search of Yubaba's sister. Haku, meanwhile, revives and goes off in search of Sen. After they are reunited, No-Face finds a new job with Yubaba's sister and Sen learns Haku's real identity. Now, to save her parents, all she has to do is identify the right pig! $9.95 USA/$16.50 CAN, paperback, 168 color pages

THE ART OF SPIRITED AWAY - A large, hardcover coffee-table book featuring artwork from the renowned animated film, Spirited Away, directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Features color stills, sketches, storyboards and illustrations used to envision the rich fantasy world of the film. Also includes extensive production notes and a complete English-language script from the film. $34.95 USA/$57.95 CAN, paperback, 240 color pages

SPIRITED AWAY PICTURE BOOK - A large, hardbound book for kids that tells the entire story of the hit animated feature film, Spirited Away, directed by Hayao Miyazaki and being distributed this fall by Disney. Generously illustrated by color stills from the film. $19.95 USA/$32.95 CAN, hardbound, 168 color pages

8-21-02---- Nightow Interview

Akadot has interviewed Trigun's Yasuhiro Nightow here. Thanks to Daniel for the link.

8-21-02---- Ohio Fandom News

Justin Porter has written in to announce the debut of a new anime film festival in Ohio and a new organization formed to bring the best of anime fandom to otaku everywhere. The North East Ohio Anime Fandom Renasaince Organization proudly presents The Twilight Anime Carnival. This film festival will be running this fall from noon til midnight, with big screen showings of both the latest and greatest anime films, plus mini-features comprising some of the best episodes of great anime series. Also, there'll be cosplay to look forward to, as well as door prizes, vendors, an AMV contest, and the anime quiz show you the fans compete in "Win Some Money" that pits you against our anime expert. More information and ticket pre-registration is available at pub72.ezboard.com/bneoafro.

8-20-02---- Jerry Chu's AE86 Making Print

Hachi fans can look for Jerry Chu's 1/1 scale Initial D AE86 replica in the current issue of Suncoast's Play Magazine.

8-20-02---- Tokyopop Manga Talent Contest

From the press release:

Los Angeles, CA (August 5, 2002) - TOKYOPOP®, the premiere manga publisher in the U.S. and a burgeoning force in youth entertainment, is thrilled to announce the launch of its TOKYOPOP® "Rising Stars of Manga(tm)" Talent Competition. Answering the call of countless manga fans, this contest will give aspiring local U.S. artists the opportunity of a lifetime: to submit their original stories (written in English) for the chance to win cash prizes and get their work published worldwide. The TOKYOPOP® "Rising Stars of Manga(tm)" Talent Competition officially opens on August 15, 2002 and runs through December 16, 2002.

Since 1996, TOKYOPOP® has been committed to bringing Japanese manga and, more recently, Korean manga (manwha) to English-speaking audiences. This Competition is not only indicative of the company's commitment to seek out and foster new manga talent, but it also responds to an increasingly active fanbase. Aspiring local U.S.-based manga artists, searching for the perfect outlet for their creative renderings, have sent TOKYOPOP enough mail to fill a small swimming pool.

"With the "Rising Stars" competition, TOKYOPOP hopes to discover some of the best untapped manga talent the world has to offer," said Stu Levy, the company's Founder and Chief Executive Officer. "We know that many aspiring manga artists here at home are looking for an opportunity to be published, and TOKYOPOP is proud to be the first U.S. manga publisher to support turning their dreams into reality."

The grand prizewinner will receive $2,500 and the chance to pitch a full-length manga series to TOKYOPOP's top brass. The second place winner will earn a cash prize of $1,000. Eight runner-ups will each receive a cash prize of $500. All ten prizewinners will be published in a TOKYOPOP manga anthology (The Rising Stars of Manga(tm)) scheduled for publication in Spring 2003.

Entrants are encouraged to submit content from all genres -- comedy, drama, horror, science fiction, action, fantasy, romance--and even under-represented genres such as political, historical or instructional manga.

To obtain entry forms and the official Rules and Regulations, visit the TOKYOPOP website (www.TOKYOPOP.com) on or after August 15 or send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Rising Stars of Manga, c/o TOKYOPOP, 5900 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 2000, Los Angeles, CA 90036. Entries must be postmarked by December 16, 2002.

8-20-02---- Bandai October Releases

Arjuna 1From the press announcement:

Arjuna Rebirth (V.1)

Two of Japan’s most popular creative team of all time pool their talent to create the most highly anticipated anime release of the year – Arjuna. Created and directed by veteran animator – Shoji Kawamori (Macross, Macross Plus, Escaflowne) with music composed by Yoko Kanno (Macross Plus, Cowboy Bebop, Escaflowne) – The battle for Earth’s future has begun!

High school, archery club, and boys were the things that filled Juna’s daily life. But when an accident leaves her clinging tenuously between life and death, fate intervenes as she becomes the sole witness to scenes of Earth’s destruction. Juna is given a new chance at life and bestowed the powers of the Earth, a power she must wield in order to stop an evil bent on Earth’s destruction.

Arjuna – Rebirth is presented as a special “Director’s Cut” edition featuring interactive animated menus, English and Japanese language tracks featured in both Dolby Digital 2.0 and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, Anamorphic Widescreen presentation, additional bonus footage, Isolated Orchestral Score in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, English subtitles option, preview collection, Arjuna dictionary bonus feature and Arjuna voice cast interviews.

English/Japanese Language English Subtitles TRT: 75 min. / Rated 13UP SRP: $29.98 UPC# 669198222092 / EDP# 11847 Order Date: 8.27.2002 / Street Date: 10.8.2002

Betterman Seeds of Death (V.3)

The mystery surround Algernon continues to thicken as the fight against this growing menace escalates. Having discovered the mysterious Animus Flower in the Ajanta caves in India, the team has a new lead in their quest against Algernon, but Keita and the group are faced with more questions than answers! When the rest of the team arrives at the BPL facility, they soon face a new breed of genetically engineered creatures - Among them is...Chandy? As the defeat of Betterman by the hands of these evil creations continues to linger, just when all looks lost, a new hope shines in the darkness. Could it be...another Betterman?

Betterman – Seeds of Death features interactive animation menus, scene selection, a collector’s DVD cover, Limited Edition foil collector’s card, English and Japanese language tracks, English subtitles option, textless openings, the third installment of Mode Warp File, and Bandai Entertainment Previews.

English/Japanese Language English subtitles TRT: 100 min. / Rated 13UP SRP: $29.98 UPC# 669198147791 / EDP# 10374 Order Date: 8.27.2002 / Street Date: 10.8.2002

Love Hina Summer by the Sea (V.5)

Based on the best selling comic book series by Ken Akamatsu! The Love Hina romantic comedy continues to win over new fans as Keitaro attempts to keep his promise to his long lost love and enter the prestigious Tokyo University! But who is this mystery girl!?

Its summer time! And the gang of Hinata Inn winds up on a lush tropical island! Sounds like a fun time, right? WRONG! Supernatural mysteries run wild as our vacationers deal with Naru who is seemingly possessed by a spirit of the island! Outrageous summer fun! Outrageous summer visits from Kaolla's relatives! Outrageous summer vacation mayhem!

Love Hina – Summer by the Sea features interactive animated menus, scene selection, English and Japanese language tracks, English subtitles option, Dolby Digital audio, Keitaro’s Sketchbook feature, and Bandai Entertainment Previews. Be sure to check out the Love Hina website at lovehina.bandai-ent.com for more information!

English/Japanese Language English subtitles TRT: 100 min. / Rated 13UP SRP: $29.98 UPC# 669198190490 / EDP# 11740 Order Date: 9.10.2002 / Street Date: 10.22.2002

Ronin Warriors The Evil Priestess (V.7)

The anime cult hit has finally arrived on DVD home video! One of the first wave of anime hits broadcast on syndication, Sci-Fi channel, and Cartoon Network’s Toonami block – Ronin Warriors is presented uncut from its original North American and Japanese broadcast! (as Samurai Troopers)

The Ancient has appeared to the Warriors in a dream, telling them that they must all work hard and hone their powers! Has the time finally come for the final battle? The warriors split up and begin their training, but Talpa is waiting for them. One by one, the Warriors fall prey to Talpa’s henchmen until there are only two of them left. And then, they evil Lady Kayura appears to deal with the last two Warriors…

English/Japanese Language English subtitles TRT: 200 min. / Rated 13UP SRP: $24.98 UPC# 669198195693 / EDP# 11777 Order Date: 9.10.2002 / Street Date: 10.22.2002

Saber Marionette J to X Program 04

The continuation of fan favorite, Saber Marionette J! Otaru, Lime, Cherry, Bloodberry, and friends have a new adventure ahead of them, but with new adventure comes new enemies!

Otaru and the Marionettes have arrived in Xian and are beginning to enjoy their well-deserved vacation, despite the fact that Hanagata has managed to tag along. However, Otaru suddenly collapses with a burning fever! When the doctor advises that the cure must be gathered from plants in the surrounding countryside, Lime, Cherry, and Bloodberry selflessly go on a quest to save Otaru. When Otaru wakes from his illness, five days have passed, the Marionettes have disappeared, and he’s been branded an international terrorist by the Xian government! Now, Otaru must find the others and clear his name before it’s too late!

Saber Marionette J to X – Program 04 features interactive animated menus, scene selection, English and Japanese language tracks, English subtitles option, SMJ to X bonus features, and Bandai Previews.

English/Japanese Language English subtitles TRT: 100 min. / Rated 13UP SRP: $29.98 UPC# 669198049392 / EDP# 10451 Order Date: 9.10.2002 / Street Date: 10.22.2002

Silent Mobius DVD Collection 3

Based on the best selling comic book series from internationally renowned artist, Kia Asamiya (Dark Angel, Batman, Marvel Comic’s Manga Mania)! The journey of Silent Mobius comes to climatic end with this special 2 disc set!

Has Katsumi truly embraced the Lucifer Hawk blood that flows in her veins? Her friends, hurt and angry by her sudden departure, try to go on with life as they know it. But everything is different now that Katsumi’s gone. So when she suddenly returns to their ranks, is she really the same Katsumi they knew, or is she merely masquerading as her former self, waiting for the right time to strike? The final battle is at hand...

Silent Mobius – DVD Collection 3 contains the last 8 episodes within a two disc set! Featuring interactive animated menus, scene selection, English and Japanese language tracks, English subtitles option, Bandai Previews, and a limited edition Silent Mobius mini-comic book from Viz Communication!

English/Japanese Language English subtitles TRT: 200 min. / Rated 13UP SRP: $44.98 UPC# 669198117299 / EDP# 10457 Order Date: 9.10.2002 / Street Date: 10.22.2002

8-20-02---- eigoManga Party In Bay Area

This is a special reminder to all you Bay Area eigoMANGA fans that our big event, ELECTRICITY, is coming up this coming Wednesday, August 21 at Studio Z! Dust off your weekday party shoes and enjoy hot DJs and anime all night from 9 to 2.

Come in your best Manga costume or show up before 10:00 and get in FREE! The person in the best Manga costume will be featured in an upcoming eigoMANGA comic.

For more details, see our evite at http://www.evite.com/admin@eigomanga.com/party . See you there!

8-19-02---- Low Brow Interview

Akadot has uploaded part 1 and part 2 of new interview with George Kristic and Chris Prynoski regarding their new animated pilot, Low Brow, premiering on Cartoon Network. The project will bring a new aspect of anime colaboration to CN.

In other related news, sister site Comictones.com has updated with a new look.

8-19-02---- Theatrical Latest From Media Blasters

Thanks to Daniel for these new listings:

November 01 Fudoh Cinema du parc, Montreal, Canada
November 01 BioZombie The Grand Illusion, Seattle, WA
November 07 Fudoh Royal Cinema, Toronto, Canada
November 10 Riki Oh - The Story of Ricky Subway Cinema, Asian Horror Festical, New York, NY
November 10 Visitor Q Carnegie Melon U, Pittsburgh, PA
November 13 BioZombie Subway Cinema, Asian Horror Festical, New York, NY

Source: http://www.media-blasters.com/theatrical.cfm

8-19-02---- Kingdom Hearts Event In San Francisco

RyuHayabusaDOA2 sends us this:

August 23 will be a busy day at the PlayStation Store in San Francisco, as Square has set up another event prior to the release of one of its titles. This time, the lucky game is Kingdom Hearts, which will be the centerpiece of the Kingdom Hearts Consumer Demo Day, as the event is officially being called. The name is fairly self-explanatory; the PlayStation Store will throw open its doors to customers at 2:00 PM, and from then until 6:00 PM, gamers and press alike will get the chance to play some of Kingdom Hearts.

To sweeten the deal, the store will be giving away posters on a first-come, first-serve basis, and as previous events have drawn up to 1500 fans, hardcore fans of Square products might want to show up early to secure their propaganda piece. For those in the San Francisco area, the store is at 101 Fourth Street, at the corner of Fourth and Mission. On the downside, the game will not be available for sale, so those looking forward to the adventures of Sora and friends will have to wait like everyone else until September 17

Source: RPG Gamer

8-19-02---- Kung Fu Cult Cinema Briefs - Live Action Perfect Blue Trailer

Perfect Blue Live adaptation
The web site of the live adaptation of the Japanese anime Perfect Blue is now online with a trailer! The movie directed by Toshiki Sato (Tandem) will be released on August 24 in Japan and will feature the now well known Japanese actor, Naoh Oomori (Ichi). Website: http://www.palnet.tv/perfectblue/index.html Trailer: http://www.palnet.tv/perfectblue/PBCM-056.wmv

Bruce Lee in 3D
Here's a retro use for DVD technology. Razor3D have announced they will be releasing 3D versions of 20 movies, the majority of which will be genre in nature. Of the three big titles coming, starting in September, the Zombie classic NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD but there's also something for us kung fu movie addict. Bruce Lee's THE CHINESE CONNECTION and FIVE DEADLY VENOMS has also been announced. The companies promise 2D versions on the discs along with the 3D formats, giving the viewer the ability to switch between the two.

Naked Weapon
The official web page of NAKED WEAPON is now online: The Hong Kong action movie directed by Chiu Siu-Tung and produced by Media Asia tell the story of a cold blood female killer, who uses her body to seduced her victims. One day she has to use her ultimate naked weapon against her boss and to rescue her lover, a fellow female killer, and her long lost mother. The movie will feature Maggie Q, Anya and Daniel Wu. Official web Site: http://www.naked-weapon.com/

A review of Takashi Ishii's (Gonin) latest film "Freeze Me" being released soon from Media Blasters can be read here: http://www.kfccinema.com/reviews/horror/freezeme/freezeme.htm Finally, an interview with Patrick Macias: http://www.kfccinema.com/articles/patrickinterview/patrickinterview.html All news and links Courtesy http://www.kfccinema.com and Michael.

8-19-02---- I.G. View From Anifes

Fans can view pictures of Production I.G. at Anifes in Japan here.
Thanks to Daniel for the link.

8-16-02---- Nickelodeon Picks Up First Anime - 1997 Speed Racer Series

The American children's pogramming channel Nickelodeon has announced 1997's Speed Racer Anime TV series as an addition to the network's new Sunday programming block SLAM, set to premiere August 25 (4-6 p.m. ET/PT). Speed Racer's slot is Sundays at 5 p.m.

"Nickelodeon SLAM will get the adrenaline pumping with this new version of the ever-popular Speed Racer that first captivated millions of kids in the Sixties and Seventies," said Cyma Zarghami, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Nickelodeon.

Nick's description of the series is as follows:

A young Lancelot of the raceways, Speed Racer returns with his legendary Mach 5, a vehicle with no equal, racing into a brave but dangerous world filled with exciting new technologies, in this rendition of the classic series. In the suspense-filled, search-and-destroy dramas, the 16-year-old, who aimed to become the world’s best race car driver after losing his brother in the Earth Grand Prix, encounters spies and counter-spies in a web of subterfuge, conspiracy and espionage while trying to uncover the truth behind his brother’s disappearance. He battles evil forces with his friends, aspiring camerawoman Trixie Fontaine and her little brother Spritle.

8-16-02---- EW News

Courtesy Daniel:

The August 23/30 issue of Entertainment Weekly talks about Spirited Away, Pokemon 4Ever, The Ring re-make, Shanghai Knights, and the Tuxedo in their fall preview. Also mentioned is the limited re-release of Akira Kurosawa's Ikiru. Finally, they gave the new Transformers: Armada a D-, claiming it's more appealing to DBZ and Pokemon fans than people who grew up on the 80's G.I. Joe cartoons.

8-16-02---- Monsters Inc Manga Acquired By Tokyopop

From the Academy Award®-winning creators of Toy Story, Monsters, Inc. is the #1 animated box office hit that captured the hearts of critics and fans around the world. Now available for the first time in the U.S., this best-selling manga from Japan lets you relive your favorite adventures all over again.

Source: Tokyopop

And www.tokyopop.com has a headline stating that the first volume of Karekano will be out on January 2003.

Thanks to Daniel for the news

8-16-02---- Spiriteed Away Official Redirect Site Up

From the post by Debbie to the Hayao Miyazaki Discussion Group:

The link www.spiritedaway.net, which leads to http://bventertainment.go.com/movies/spiritedaway/index.html is now live. There are lots of cool Flash animations. There is only one trailer, the Japanese-language "Kaonashi" trailer (the one with the ending song as BG music).

The official logo in the US appears to be the "Sen" character on a red circle, as we've seen on the poster images that have been popping up around the net.

Fans can order Spirited Away from Akadot retail at this link.

8-15-02---- ADV Gearing Up For Nadia Movie DVD Release

From the release:

ADV Films has set a street date of August 27, 2002 for the DVD-only Nadia-The Secret of Blue Water: The Motion Picture, the feature-length follow-up to the wildly popular 39-episode television series of the same name. From the creators of "Neon Genesis Evangelion."

The television series tells the story of circus performer Nadia and her globe-trotting submarine adventures with Jean, an inventor, who once rescued her from an attempted robbery. The motion picture picks up the action several years after the series ending.

The Story: On the eve of a worldwide conflict, when businessmen, admirals and ministers of state are evaporating into thin air, a mysterious girl named Fuzzy reunites Nadia and Jean after years of separation. Together with the Grandis Gang, they must fight off the minions of a new nemesis-Giegar-bent on world domination. Giegar plots to use a mind control device to set the world ablaze with war, and in the ensuing chaos conquer the world with his own personal army. It's up to Jean and Nadia to stop him and save the day again. A final, feature-length adventure for the pair, with their tempestuous relationship tested even as they struggle to stop Giegar once and for all.

Nadia-The Secret of Blue Water: The Motion Picture ($29.98 SRP) is a DVD-only release including both English- and Japanese-language versions, and English subtitles. DVD extras include original Japanese opening footage, clean closing animation, original trailers and ADV previews.

NADIA-THE SECRET OF BLUE WATER: THE MOTION PICTURE Running Time: 90 minutes; Age Rating: 12+ Pre-Book Date: 7/30/02 Street Date: 8/27/02 Format SRP DVD $29.98

8-15-02---- Yamato Ad Campaign

Matsumoto Leiji has ok'd his Space Battleship Yamato to appear in an advertising campaign of the car maintenance company Car Convenience Club Co. Ltd. In the "Yamato Vehicle Inspection" commercial, the great space battleship docks for a quick inspection prior to its mission to save the Earth. The official site for the Yamato advertising campaign can be found here, with the commercial on this page. As production of the Great Galaxy Series anime is currently underway by Venture Soft (see my 19 July 2002 entry), the design of the Yamato seen in the advertising campaign will be similar to that of the ship in the anime.

Source: Natsume Maya

8-15-02---- Spirited Away In Finland

From the post to The Hayao Miyazaki Discussion Group:

Spirited Away (Henkien ka"tkema"), will be shown in Helsinki at Rakkautta & Anarkiaa - Helsinki Film Festival. This information comes directly from the festival's tabloid magazine. No more details are known at this time (except that the date will be between 19 and 29th september), but more information will be presented at www.hiff.fi in the near future. Most likely the film will be in Japanese with English subtitles.

Fans can order Spirited Away at Akadot retail here.

8-15-02---- Latest Articles At Midnight Eye

From the latest Midnight Eye newsletterInterview: KATSUYUKI MOTOHIRO
The guiding hand behind the cult favorites Bayside Shakedown and Space Travelers talks about his latest film, Transparent. http://www.midnighteye.com/interviews/katsuyuki_motohiro.shtml

Move of the Week: THE CAT RETURNS
It's pussy galore in the latest piece of summertime magic from the Ghibli studios, as newbie director Hiroyuki Morita brings the unofficial sequel to that old favourite, Whisper of the Heart. http://www.midnighteye.com/reviews/catretur.shtml

Review: SPACE TRAVELERS
Motohiro's live action/anime crossbreed gets a thorough going over. http://www.midnighteye.com/reviews/spactrav.shtml

8-15-02---- First Anime Central Japanese Guests

Thanks to Frank Sanchez of Anime Central and Chris Mattiuz for this:

Takeshi Honda
Animator and character designer for many famous animations, Mr. Honda will be best known for his work as Animation Director for the sensationally popular Neon Genesis Evangelion. He was also the character designer for Metal Fighter Miku, as well as the art director for the second volume of the Ah! My Goddess OVA. U.S. fans can also look forward to Mr. Honda's character designs and art direction for the movie "Millenium Actress," directed by Perfect Blue director Satoshi Kon, soon to be released in US theaters by Dreamworks. This will be Mr. Honda's first appearance at a US convention.
Satoru Akahori
Anime writer extraordinaire, Mr. Akahori is the brains behind many of the comedies that anime fans enjoy today. Bakuretsu Hunters, Saber Marionette, Sakura Taisen, Master Mosquiton, Lamune &40, KO Seiki Beast, Maze, Bakuen Campus Guardress are just some of the works of this incredibly prolific creator. This will be Mr. Akahori's first convention appearance.
As a returning guest, we will have:
Hidenori Matsubara
Character designer and art director for Ah! My Goddess and Sakura Taisen, Mr. Matsubara also worked as Art Director for series such as Silent Moebius II, Otaku no Video and parts of Bubblegum Crisis. Mr. Matsubara will be teaching a drawing class at ACen 2003.

8-15-02---- Sony Tech News

From the August 14th edition of IMDB, courtesy Daniel's post to our ML:

Sony is planning to stage a massive exhibition of futuristic entertainment products currently in development in Yokohama City on the weekend of Sept. 14 and 15, it announced in Tokyo today (Wednesday). Among the products is the new Grating Light Valve digital projector, which reportedly offers unprecedented clarity and contrast and levels. (Scenes from Star Wars: Episode II -- Attack of the Clones, from Sony rival 20th Century Fox will be screened.) In its FourthVIEW Theater, Sony will be displaying images captured by an "all-direction" camera, enabling viewers to see objects from virtually any angle. "They experience 360-degree images and feel they are 'really there, ' a Sony press release said.

8-15-02---- Jet Li PS2 Game Title

Thanks to Daniel for the following:

Sony announced a new PlayStation 2 game this morning that currently goes under the working title of Rise to Honor. The game will strive to achieve realism mixed with the cinematic stylings of Hong Kong cinema and will star Jet Li, who has appeared in such films as The One, Lethal Weapon 4, and High Risk. Li will be motion-captured for the game, and the movement will be directed by Cory Yuen, who has choreographed fights in several of Jet Li's films.
Li will be cast in the role of Kit Yun, the bodyguard of a Hong Kong crime boss named Boss Chiang. After Chiang's assassination, Yun is charged to find the crime boss's daughter in America and return her to Hong Kong. Yun's journey will take him to San Francisco.
"Working with the Foster City Studio team to create a game for the PlayStation 2 has been an exciting experience--very different from making a movie," said Jet Li. "The motion-capture system allows for extremely realistic movements, and, in addition, we were able to use a lot of actions in the game that we can't normally put in a film. The results in the final game should provide the player with a genuine feel for the action."
Rise to Honor is currently scheduled for a fall 2003 release.
Source: Gamespot

8-15-02---- Final Fantasy Gamecube Info

A recently released Japanese GameCube commercial features footage from a couple of upcoming GameCube games, one of which appears to be Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicle. Square announced last week that Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicle will be one of the games that will utilize the GC-GBA connectivity feature. The Game Boy Advance will reportedly display character information on its screen while players progress through the game. Unfortunately, no other details have been released. Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicle is scheduled for release in 2003

Source: Gamespot | Ryu Hayabusa DOA2

8-15-02---- Taboo Review

A review of this recent samurai drama with Takeshi Kitano-and which is now on R1 dvd-can be found at LA Weekly. thanks to Daniel for the link.

8-15-02---- First Yugi-oh DVD Street Release

From the release:

4KIDS ENTERTAINMENTfS HIT ANIMATED TV SERIES YU-GI-OH! SLATED AS FIRST RELEASE FROM NEW HOME VIDEO UNIT

The #1 Ranked Childrenfs Show On Network Television Available on DVD and VHS September 24, 2002

New York, NY (August 13, 2002)--4Kids Entertainment Home Video, Inc., the newly established home video unit of 4Kids Entertainment (NYSE: KDE), in association with FUNimation, will release the first two YU-GI-OH! home videos on September 24. Yu-Gi-Oh!: The Heart Of The Cards and Yu-Gi-Oh!: Into the Hornetfs Nest, each with three episodes, will be available at retail and at the yugioh.com Web site in both DVD and VHS formats.

Yu-Gi-Oh! is currently the #1 rated network television childrenfs television series earning the top 2 spots in the most recent Nielsen ratings.

"The television ratings confirm that Yu-Gi-Oh! has generated a groundswell of enthusiasm among kids across the country,h said Al Kahn, Chairman and CEO of 4Kids Entertainment. gWe anticipate this same success with the release of the series on DVD and VHS, which will let kids watch the shows as often as they like, whenever they like."

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 1: The Heart of the Cards

Episode 1, The Heart of the Cards Yugi and his friends are in awe of his grandpafs collection of Duel Monster cards, but when #1 ranked Duelist and ruthless tycoon Kaiba kidnaps grandpa to get the rare Blue Eyes White Dragon card, Yugi must face Kaiba in the Ultimate Duel Monsters showdown and avenge his gramps!

Episode 2, The Gauntlet is Thrown Yugi and friends take a break from honing their card playing skills to watch Weevil and Rex Raptor compete in the Duel Monsters Regional Championship. When Yugi opens a package from Duel Monsters creator, Maximillion Pegasus, Yugi is forced to face him in the mysterious Shadow Realm where all the monsters and magic are real.Yugi loses, and Pegasus claims grandpafs soul as his prize.Yugi must travel to the Duelist Kingdom and Pegasusfs tournament if he is ever to see his grandpa again.

Episode 3, Journey To The Duelist Kingdom Yugi gives up one of his own star chips so Joey can board the boat bound for the Duelist Kingdom and duel to save his sisterfs eyesight. Meanwhile, Tea and Tristan stowaway to join their friends. But when word spreads that Yugi was the one who defeated World Champion Kaiba, the cheat Weevil tries to cripple Yugifs deck by tossing his best cards overboard just as they reach the island.

DVD extras: Yu-Gi-Oh! music video, gYu-Gi-Oh! Rap,h along with selected Monster Stats, Duelist Biography and a bonus Spanish version of each episode!

Volume 2: Into the Hornetfs Nest

Episode 1, Into the Hornetfs Nest Once Yugi and his friends reach Duelist Kingdom, Pegasus announces that there are many strange secrets on the island, which will make his ultimate tournament unlike any theyfve ever had. But when Weevil begins to use mysterious new rules against Yugi in a duel, Yugi must not only figure the rules out, but master them if he is to survive.

Episode 2, The Ultimate Great Moth After Yugi defeats Weevilfs first wave of Duel Monsters, hefs shocked to discover that Weevil has one last trick up his sleeve: a ravenous great moth that grows in power with every turn! Can Yugi find a way to destroy this winged beast before it destroys him?

Episode 3, First Duel Joey searches for a dueling opponent he stands a chance of beating when he finds himself courageously accepting a challenge from veteran duelist, Mai. But when Mai begins to demonstrate an unnerving psychic-like ability, Joey becomes totally flustered, leaving him no choice but to figure out Maifs secret strategy before falling victim to it!

DVD Extras: Yu-Gi-Oh! music video, gYour Move,h along with selected Monster Stats, Duelist Biography and a bonus Spanish version of each episode!

TITLES: Volume 1: The Heart Of The Cards, Volume 2: In the Hornetfs Nest RUNNING TIME: Approximately 60 minutes RATING: Not-rated SRP: $14.95 / $19.95 PRE-BOOK: 8/20/02 STREET DATE: 9/24/02

8-14-02---- Yoshitaka Amano FF News

Amano's World has updated with Amano cover art for the new FFXI cd, fans can ge tthe CD's at Akadot Retail.

Also from Jagged Team:

Even though Square's Final Fantasy XI is a bit of a departure for the series, the company still feels it deserves the same recognition as previous installments in the series. To clarify their position, the company is releasing a collection of art based off of the game, some of which has been created by, Yoshitaka Amano. A lot of the sketches involved deal with the creation of the game. The Final Fantasy XI Art Box is due out in Japan on September 26th for 8000 yen.

Thanks to Daniel for the news.

8-14-02---- Movie News

A new trailer for the Mecha Godzilla film is linked to Monster Zero.

Among the rumours being proven or discredited, Movie Poop Shoot states that the cgi Hulk will finally be revealed in a new trailer for one of Universal's fall films.

Thanks to Daniel for the info.

8-14-02---- Kouji Watanabe - Okazaki Takeshi On Various New Anime CG Works

Kouji Watanabe's novel Platonic Chain, will be animated for TV in a new series utilizing full 3D CG by the company ACiD. Character designs are by Okazaki Takeshi. Platonic Chain includes five short stories about three girls Hitomi, Rika and Kanae and will be set in the Shibuya district of Tokyo in the future when mobile telephones have expanded functions. The anime is also planned to be distributed online. Watanabe and Okazaki also worked together to produce the colour sci-fi manga @Run-city, previously serialised in Shogakukan's manga magazine Ikki. That story is also being turned into a TV series.

Sources: TA Group BBS Eizo Shimbun aCID Natsume Maya

8-14-02---- Various Rumor Mill Related Itmes

Sources are telling us that among MGM's tentatively slated DVDs for 2003, you'll find Akira Kurosawa's Rhapsody in August...Speaking of Kurosawa, we understand that his Kagemusha is under consideration for future DVD release from 20th Century Fox. Criterion is expected to release almost everything earlier than Dodes'ka-den. And don't forget that Wellspring's (formerly Fox Lorber) new anamorphic widescreen re-issue of Ran is due in 2003....One other little bit of good news. Artisan is going to be releasing the first volume of Speed Racer episodes on DVD in R1 before the year is out. And if you fans buy enough copies, the rest of the series MIGHT follow next year.

Source: 8/14 update of The Digital Bits Via Daniel

8-14-02---- Manga Style Rants

Via Daniel-san, in his complaints about the comic industry Ken Cuperus discusses his problem with American comic companies using manga art at Moviepoopshoot. Daniel mentions:

Feel free to e-mail him if you'd like, but show some constructive criticism if you disagree with his views.

8-14-02---- DVD Release Date For Live Action Katsuhiro Otomo Film So What

Katsuhiro Otomo database site, Apple Paradise mentions the live action "So What", based on Otomo's short manga of the same name, will make its DVD debut October 25th in Japan. The DVD will be titled the So What Special Edition. Price 4,700 yen (excluding tax), catalogue number BIBJ-3221, approximately 98 minutes with approximately 15 minutes of bonus materials such as a discussion between the staff. The first 5,000 units will also come with a booklet containing the original manga.

Source: Aniota via Natsume Maya

8-14-02---- Admitted Disney Miyazaki Influences

Nausicaa.net linked a USA Today article which talked about how the animators of Lilo and Stitch were inspired by various Ghibli films. Thanks to Daniel for the news.

8-14-02---- El Capitan Miayazaki Exclusives

A huge thanks to Daniel for these mega-scoops:

I got the following info from a flier, when I was purchasing tickets for the film: "The film will be digitally projected for this special engagement at the El Capitan Theater in Hollywood from September 20th-October 10th. Plus, see an exclusive Miyazaki art exhibit. Among the treasures will be concept art and storyboard sketches that went into the making of many Miyazaki films.

Showtimes(subject to change):

In English: 10:00, a.m., 1:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., and 10 p.m. daily

In Japanese with English subtitles: 7:00 p.m. Thursdays and Sundays

General Admission: Adults $10.00, Children/Seniors $6.50 VIP Admission: $19.00 Includes popcorn, soft drink, a reserved seat and no waiting in line. Group Rate Tickets: $6.00(20 or more)

For tickets, call 1-800-DISNEY6(Tickets will be mailed and are subject to fees)

Also, here's a few things for rumour-mongerers to chew on. The cover of the brochure uses the same art as the "official poster" AICN posted. And when they talk about Miyazaki's previous work, they include the films Nausicaa, Laputa, Totoro, Kiki, and Porco Rosso, obviously bringing up the question of whether there are any immediate theatrical/home video plans for these films.

8-14-02---- Jeff Thompson TRSI Interview

Daily-Reviews.com Report - Issue #62 at http://www.daily-reviews.com/ includes the final part of their interview series with Producer Jeff Thompson from Right Stuf. You can find that segment in the articles section: here.

All Stories, Graphics And Material © Anime News Service Unless Otherwise Cited

Questions,Comments,News Submissions

Back To Anime News Service