It was announced on the 18th that JR east (East Japan Railway Company) changes the departure bell of the Yamanote Line Takadanobaba station (Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo) into the theme song of the popular comics "Astro boy" of Mr.Osamu Tezuka from an electronic melody.Astro boy is supposed to have been produced in Takadanobaba on April 7, 2003. The local shopping center was requested from JR East Japan as commemoration of birth of Astro boy.JR east has consented with "if it becomes an aid of local activation." It tries for two months from March 1, and it will be planned to continue if satisfactory. In JR east, there is an example for which the Kamata station uses the theme song of a movie "Kamata march" (Kamata koushin-kyoku.Directed by Kinji Fukasaku) for, and the Shinagawa station uses "Tetsudou Shouka" (Railroad song) as a departure bell.
Source: Goo News
The Metropolitan Police Department arrested the suspect who sold animation products featuring popular characters without notice. By February 18, a Metropolitan Police Department High technology criminal center and the Suginami police station are the violation suspicion of the Copyright Act, and arrested the president of the miscellaneous-goods selling company of Kitamoto-shi, Saitama. According to investigation, the suspect sold the character of a popular animation movie "Spirited Away" and "TOTORO" in January through the pin badge and strap Internet auction which carried out unapproved use from December, last year. This suspect infringed on the copyright which Studio Ghibli holds. Source: Goo News
http://www.supertechnoarts.com/ has updated with an official Jojo page at http://www.jojo-ova.com/, a contest at http://www.animenation.com/contest0203d.html , and the following press release:
The first volume of "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure" DVD will be released on March 11, 2003. 13 episodes will be available on total of 6 volumes, with sound and music upgraded to 5.1 surround system for the original 6 episodes. Character design and animation director by Junichi Hayama, music composed and arranged by Marco d'Ambrosio of MarcoCo., and sound design by Tom Myers of Skywalker Sound.
- Street Date: March 11, 2003 - Episode count: 1st Volume 3 Episodes x 30 minutes each - Format: Region 1 DVD - Animation Production: A.P.P.P. - Executive Producer: Kazufumi Nomura - Distribution by: Super Techno Arts Inc.
This 13-episode anime is based on the long-running manga by Baoh creator Hirohiko Araki. The series follows 17-year-old Jotaro "JoJo" Kujo and his grandfather Josef Joestar as they battle the immortal vampire Dio, who holds Jotaro's mother prisoner in a nightmare-filled coma. Joining them in this effort are four warriors who, like Jotaro and his grandfather, each posses mystical powers called a "Stand," derived from the names and meanings of certain Tarot cards. These powers are manifested in giant spectral warriors that emerge from the bodies of the group. But Dio has gathered Stand warriors as well, and he possesses a secret and incredibly powerful Stand of his own.
In 2003, Hasbro will bring kids and fans even more new and unique ways to challenge themselves while they build, customize and mobilize their team of ZOIDS beasts into battle, with approximately 80 new line items, including: an all new Z-BUILDER MODEL KIT collectable segment; an expanded core model kit segment with new looks, action features, figure sizes and characters; and new ways to build and customize ZOIDS action figures to recreate the ZOIDS battles to be showcased in 26 new episodes of the hit Cartoon Network animated series slated for fall 2003.
I am one of the Brazilian journalists responsible for helping in the promotion of the movie "A viagem de Chihiro" (Spirited Away) in Brazil. The film will be really release between March and April, taking advantage of all this Oscar's merchandising. This release is very important to brazilian fans, because it will be the first Hayao Miyazaki's movie to arrive at Brazilian Movie Theaters. This can be the beginning of a new level of Japanese animation in the Brazilian theaters. The last Japanese animation to come to Brazil at cinemas was the "fast Food" Pokemon. Nothing really original and interesting. As Buena Vista/Walt Disney Company didn't want the rights for this film distribution in Brazil, Europa Filmes get the rights. Me and Manga Xplosion's team (http://www.mangax.com.br), as journalists and fans of Hayao Miyazaki, decided to offer help in this release of the film here in Brazil. T! he official site will be ready in some weeks. The web site is being elaborated by the Manga Xplosion's team with the general coordination of the Web Designer Edson Ishigami, with reporter Edicarlos Rodrigues and me as editor. The film "A Viagem de Chihiro" will be released in Brazil with subtitles and dubbed versions. The dubbing is being made in Rio de Janeiro.
You can see the brazilian poster at Nausicaa.net
A young rebel, Yusuke saves the life of a child and ultimately surrenders his own. His noble sacrifice earns him a second chance and he is permitted to return to Earth from the Afterworld with new and amazing powers that must be used for good. His mission is to solve troubles between the Spirit World's dark creatures and the unsuspecting Living World. Yusuke joins a motley crew of former rivals, Kuwabara, Kurama and Hiei, who join forces as friends to fight spirit criminals in this action-packed adventure series.
"Yu Yu Hakusho was very successful in Japan, and has certainly found an audience here in the states," said Sean Akins, Toonami Creative Director. "Bringing Yu Yu Hakusho to Toonami, gives even more fans a chance to join the adventures of the spirit detective."
Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam A property with a legendary history of more than 20 years in Japan, the Gundam series has returned with more action, drama and Gundams in Zeta Gundam. Along with the new Zeta Gundam series comes an intricately designed line of 4.5-inch action figures with more than 14 points of articulation, 4.5-inch deluxe figures with more than 20 points of articulation, 7.5-inch action figures with more than 25 points of articulation, battle scarred figures and action figure model kits with unique articulation and action. The Zeta Gundam series, directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, will be released on DVD later this year. Bandai has assembled an all-star cast for this new series including character designer Yoshikazu Yasuhiko; mecha designers Kunio Okawara and Kazumi Fujita; and art director Junichi Higashi.
“The Mobile Suit Gundam saga stands without equal as an enduringly popular and successful anime franchise,” said Mark Simmons of “Animerica”.
The Zeta Gundam series begins seven years after the defeat of the Zeon army during what has now become known as the ‘One Year War’. An elite Federation military force, the Titans, must prevent further uprising of space colonies orbiting the Earth. The tragic destruction of an entire space colony at the hands of fascist-like Titans threatens to undermine peace between the Earth and those living in space. The world is once again on the brink of war and the future of humanity is at stake!
“Its a potent combination of high-tech mecha, political scheming and memorable heroes and villains draws fans like nothing else!,” according to Wizard Magazine.
Mobile Suite Zeta Gundam consists of 50 thirty-minute episodes. The timeline is as follows:
o Universal Century 0079 - Mobile Suit Gundam (TV series) o Universal Century 0079 - Mobile Suit Gundam 08th MS Team (OVA) o Universal Century 0080- Mobile Suit Gundam-War in the Pocket (OVA) o Universal Century 0083-Mobile Suit Gundam-Stardust Memory (OVA) o Universal Century 0087-Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (TV series) o Universal Century 0092-Mobile Suit Gundam - Char’s Counterattack (Theatrical Feature)
s.CRY.ed In line with Bandai’s commitment to bringing top anime to the forefront of home entertainment, the company has just announced the acquisition of one of the hottest anime properties of the year, s.CRY.ed. Animated by animation powerhouse Sunrise studios (Cowboy Bebop, Argentosoma) -The story takes place in a desolate world devastated by a mysterious environmental catastrophe. While the city has been rebuilt, the catastrophe has caused some humans to undergo genetic mutations granting them unique powers. These enhanced humans are known as Alters. The star of the series is Kazuma, an Alter whose freedom is being threatened by a secret organization called ‘Holy’. His fight for freedom will consume humanity and Alter alike! The series will feature a plethora of DVD extra materials including textless opening/endings, special clips, footage, trailers, exclusive interviews and commentary from producers and creative staff from the show including Goro Taniguchi (Infinite Ryvius), director; Yousuke Kurodo, scriptwriter; and Hisashi Hirai (Infinite Ryvius), character designer.
.hack//SIGN First there was anime, then versatile action figures, and now Bandai is jumping into the world of virtual gaming with its new anime series, .hack//SIGN. The series made its North American television debut this month on the Cartoon Network and is accompanied by a concurrent launch of the video game, .hack//INFECTION (part I) for PlayStation®2. This runaway Japanese hit series, presents “The World,” an engulfing, futuristic gaming environment where players log-on to test skills in virtual adventures and battles. Follow Tsukasa (character designs by famed illustrator Yoshiyuki Sadamato), as he searches for a way out of “The World” after being stuck while logged-in. The .hack//SIGN limited edition DVD with collector’s box will include an exclusive “Grunty” plush doll, t-shirt, original CD soundtrack, postcard set, stickers, and a free .hack//INFECTION (part I) demo game. In addition, subsequent volumes of this best selling series will feature both a limited edition release bundled with an original CD soundtrack and a standard DVD release.
Kikaider As a follow up to its string of hits on the Cartoon Network, Bandai Entertainment will bring Kikaider, one of Japan’s most renowned animated properties (based on the live action works of Shotaro Ishinomori) to North America this summer 2003.
Kikaider is a human-like robot tasked with the protection of his creator’s son and daughter. Tune in to see if this robot gifted with human emotions can protect Dr. Komyoji’s children and battle against the evil Dr. Gill and his army of androids…the suspense never ends!
Yuki Koyanagi...has recorded an original version of her single "Cross Colors" for Dynasty Warriors 4, Koei announced today. The new version, with English lyrics, plays over the closing credits of the latest Three Kingdoms-styled action game by Omega Force. This is only the latest in a string of noteworthy hits from Ms. Koyanagi, who debuted in September 1999 with the single "Anata no Kiss o Kazoemasho" and followed it up with a string of successful records. Most noteworthy to Western readers would be the album "intimacy," recorded with Nathan Morris and Shawn Stockman of Boyz II Men.
Camino - Makes their US debut! Camino is a hard working indie rock band heading down the path to success. Coincidentally in Spanish, Camino means "road or path" but actually the name is a reference to the planet in Star Wars Episode II where the clones are made. These genetically altered musical fighting machines hope to turn you over to the dark side! Their official Japanese website is at: www.camino-project.com or for you can also check them out in English at this fan site: http://www.jpopusa.com/camino.html
Camino will open for Duel Jewel after welcoming ceremonies on Friday night! Don't miss this! We are very excited to get these guys, they are great
MORE NEW GUESTS (Guests mentioned in previous e-updates are listed at the end). Again, this is not a complete listing, more come in all the time!
TADASHI NEGISHI - former editor of Shonen Jump, he will be doing art portfolio reviews - Take this opportunity to have your art assessed and tips given by one of the editors of the largest comic in the world!
BOB BERGEN - his first visit to A-Kon, Bob is the current voice of Loony Tunes (Marvin the Martian, Porky Pig, Sylvester, Tweety, and others), and Spirited Away (the frog, the faceless spirit), Lupin, Akira, and has a voice credit list as long as anything we've ever seen! We're going to talk real nice to him and SEE if he will run a short version of his voice acting class, which he's been doing for the past 16 years. We are honored to welcome Bob to A-Kon.
Samurai Legend (GN) * From the pages of history, comes the legend of the Samurai JUBEI and the book he was pledged to protect. Now that book has been stolen and Jubei must retrieve it before Japan descends into bloody civil war. Artwork by the Tezuka award-winning artist of Benkei in New York, Jiro Taniguchi.
TITLE: Samurai Legend (GN) FORMAT: Black and White 5.5 x 8 - a right to left pocket-size book LENGTH: 240 Pages RATING: 16 & Up SRP PRICE: $15.95 CATALOG #: CMX 63801G STREET DATE: March 12, 2003 PRE-ORDER DATE: February 10, 2003
13300 East Live Oak Avenue Irwindale, CA 91706
The hosts are flying 3 professional drift Racers from Japan along with their cars to the US for this event on March 2 at Irwindale Speedway for a demonstration and contest against US locals.
HOUSTON, February 10, 2003-ADV Films today launched http://www.mutineersmoon.com, a content-rich website offering an extraordinary behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the upcoming title Mutineer's Moon, a 26-episode animated science fiction series currently in production by ADV Films' ADV PRO division. Mutineer's Moon is based on a series of popular science fiction novels by New York Times-bestselling author David Weber. These novels, terrifically successful in their initial release, are soon to be re-released by Baen Books in a special hardcover volume titled Ashes to Empire.
The site: The Mutineer's Moon website includes the story behind the creation of the series; details about the production-in-progress; galleries of character art, concept art, costumes and scene renderings; and a moderated forum, allowing fans to discuss the series and its progress. The site also includes downloadable desktop wallpapers, and will soon include downloadable trailers and customized fonts as well.
The Story: Mutineer's Moon tells the story of Colin McIntyre, an NASA astronaut who, during a routine test flight over the Moon, is drawn down to-and then into-the moon's core. He discovers that the Moon is not a natural satellite of the Earth, but is Dahak: an immense, artificially intelligent alien battle cruiser that has lain dormant for millennia in the wake of a crew mutiny. But now, sensing an impending alien threat, Dahak has reactivated, and has picked McIntyre to be its new captain. Salvation for the Earth will only come if her people are united against the alien invaders, and such unity will only come if McIntyre is able to defeat the mutineers-whose descendents have wreaked havoc on Earth for thousands of years...
MIAMI, Feb. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- For four weeks beginning February 10, 2003, some of Cartoon Network's best-loved characters will be leaping off the TVscreen and landing in participating BURGER KING(R) restaurants nationwide. Four characters from each of the top two shows on Cartoon Network(TM) -- Dragon Ball Z(R) and The Powerpuff Girls(TM) -- will join forces for a powerful BURGER KING(R) Kids Meal and Big Kids Meal promotion, providing hours of entertainment for boys and girls alike. Not only does every kid get two great toys, but each toy pair comes with two special codes, which can be used online to interact with other BURGER KING(R) and Cartoon Network(TM) fans and to win prizes.
In addition, kids will get a fun bonus when they order their favorite CHICKEN TENDERS(R). In conjunction with The Powerpuff Girls(TM) and Dragon Ball Z(R) promotion, CHICKEN TENDERS(R), one of the most popular items on the Big Kids menu, will come in the shapes of stars and lightning bolts.
"The Powerpuff Girls(TM) and Dragon Ball Z(R) toys are extremely appealing to our young customers -- both boys and girls," said Craig Braasch, vice president, advertising, Burger King Corporation. "And, since each Kids Meal and Big Kids Meal comes with two toys, we are providing significant value and twice the fun, not to mention fun-shaped food that kids can play with AND eat."
Each toy is interactive, allowing kids to play pinball, launch power discs or punch fun-shaped holes in paper. Two toys, one character each from both Dragon Ball Z(R) and The Powerpuff Girls(TM), will come packaged together inside a special dual polybag. One toy combo will be distributed each week for four weeks.
"Dragon Ball Z(R) fans will be excited to learn that during this BURGER KING(R) promotion, a new Dragon Ball Z(R) feature movie is available," said Gen Fukunaga, president, FUNimation. The feature will introduce a new character, Super Android 13!, who will be one of the four featured Dragon Ball Z(R) characters in Big Kids Meals. "BURGER KING(R) is giving out the first-ever Super Android 13! toy -- sure to become a collectible."
The other toys include: Dragon Ball Z(R) Characters * Super Android 13! -- Load the energy disc to witness Super Android 13's awesome energy blast. * Super Saiyan Goku -- Push the energy ball into Super Saiyan Goku's hands. Press the button on his back to launch it. * Trunks -- Snap Trunks into the Dragon Ball Z launcher. Press the activation button and watch Trunks storm out. * Vegeta -- Slide the thumbwheel on Vegeta's back to make him twist into power moves.
The Powerpuff Girls(TM) Characters * Blossom -- Push down and the green beaker of Chemical X lights up as Blossom takes off. * Buttercup -- Ask Buttercup a question and turn the toy over to see her answer. * Bubbles -- Place a sheet of paper into Bubbles' base and press down. She will punch star- and lightning bolt-shaped holes. * Mojo Jojo -- Mojo Jojo's turban hides a pinball maze. Open his turban and launch the balls into the maze using your superpowers to guide them through.
---Super-powered Online Fun--- Building on a record-breaking on-line promotion last year and to add further excitement to The Powerpuff Girls(TM) and Dragon Ball Z(R) promotion, each premium will contain special codes kids can use on the Cartoon Network Web site to collect cToon online trading cards and and also play WinBall for a chance to win screen savers, BURGER KING(R) BURGER BUCKS(R) gift certificates and more toys, featuring their favorite cartoon characters.
"We are extremely excited to be involved with such a creative, fully integrated promotion surrounding two of our most popular cartoon properties," said Phyllis Ehrlich, senior vice president, promotions marketing, Cartoon Network Sales and Marketing. "From the customized food presentation, to the double premium offer, to the online cToons component for real added value, BURGER KING(R) clearly demonstrates why it's a true leader in kids promotions."
Both Burger King Corporation and Cartoon Network(TM) will run television advertising to support the promotion. The BURGER KING(R) spots, created by Campbell-Mithun, will feature the lightning bolt and star-shaped CHICKEN TENDERS(R) in addition to The Powerpuff Girls(TM) and Dragon Ball Z(R) cartoons and toys. In addition, the CHICKEN TENDERS(R) will be the featured food item at the 2003 Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards, which will be broadcast on April 12, 2003 from Los Angeles, CA.
New York, NY (February 11, 2003) - Central Park Media announced the upcoming DVD releases in March that include Gall Force: Eternal Story, Gall Force 2: Destruction, Gall Force 3: Stardust War, Rhea Gall Force, Gall Force DVD Collection, Revolutionary Girl Utena: Darkness Beckoning, Descendants of Darkness: Devil's Song, and Naughty Guide to Tokyo Nightlife. All new releases will be available on March 11, 2003.
Gall Force: Eternal Story War rages in deep space between women warriors and a ruthless bio-mechanical race. Fighter pilot Lufy and the crew of the spaceship Star Leaf survive ambush only to discover a monstrous alien stalking their ship! From the Director of Armitage Dual Matrix & Bubblegum Crisis.
The Gall Force: Eternal Story DVD offers the following features:
* Re-mastered Video * Comic Preview * Gall Force: Eternal Story Trailer * DVD Sneak Previews * English & Japanese with English Subtitles * Extensive DVD-ROM Features
TITLE: Gall Force: Eternal Story RUNNING TIME: 86 minutes RATING: Ages 13 & Up SRP PRICE: $19.99 CATALOG #: USMD 2331 STREET DATE: March 11, 2003 PRE-ORDER DATE: February 10, 2003
Gall Force 2: Destruction Ace pilot Lufy thought she was dead when the spaceship Star Leaf exploded around her. Instead she's survived to destroy the enemy doomsday machine that is headed toward her people's final outpost! From the Director of Armitage Dual Matrix & Bubblegum Crisis.
The Gall Force 2: Destruction DVD offers the following features:
* Art Gallery * DVD Sneak Previews * English & Japanese with English Subtitles * Extensive DVD-ROM Features
TITLE: Gall Force 2: Destruction RUNNING TIME: 50 minutes RATING: Ages 13 & Up SRP PRICE: $19.99 CATALOG #: USMD 2259 STREET DATE: March 11, 2003 PRE-ORDER DATE: February 10, 2003
Gall Force 3: Stardust War Catty leads the Gall Force to a distant star, to challenge their age-old nemesis, the Paranoids, to a devastating final battle! From the Director of Armitage Dual Matrix & Bubblegum Crisis.
The Gall Force 3: Stardust War DVD offers the following features:
* Art Gallery * DVD Sneak Previews * English & Japanese with English Subtitles * Extensive DVD-ROM Features
TITLE: Gall Force 3: Stardust War RUNNING TIME: 62 minutes RATING: Ages 13 & Up SRP PRICE: $19.99 CATALOG #: USMD 2260 STREET DATE: March 11, 2003 PRE-ORDER DATE: February 10, 2003
Rhea Gall Force In the year 2085, a scientist resurrects the bloodthirsty Paranoid machines, bringing about the end of civilization. Now, one woman must rise to fight this inexorable army and lead humanity in one last stand! From the Director of Armitage Dual Matrix & Bubblegum Crisis.
The Rhea Gall Force DVD offers the following features:
* Art Gallery * Rhea Gall Force Trailer * DVD Sneak Previews * English & Japanese with English Subtitles * Extensive DVD-ROM Features
TITLE: Rhea Gall Force RUNNING TIME: 60 minutes RATING: Ages 13 & Up SRP PRICE: $19.99 CATALOG #: USMD 2251 STREET DATE: March 11, 2003 PRE-ORDER DATE: February 10, 2003
Gall Force DVD Collection This collection contains four DVDs in the Gall Force series: Gall Force: Eternal Story, Gall Force 2: Destruction, Gall Force 3: Stardust War, and Rhea Gall Force.
The Gall Force DVD Collection DVD offers the following features:
* Art Gallery * DVD Sneak Previews * English & Japanese with English Subtitles * Extensive DVD-ROM Features
TITLE: Gall Force DVD Collection RUNNING TIME: Approx. 260 minutes RATING: Ages 13 & Up SRP PRICE: $74.99 CATALOG #: USMD 2261 STREET DATE: March 11, 2003 PRE-ORDER DATE: February 10, 2003
Descendants of Darkness: Devil's Song Supernatural detective Tsuzuki is investigating a cursed musician when he himself is possessed by a demon. It's up to his brash young partner to solve the mystery and destroy the curse... before it claims Tsuzuki as its next victim! From the Producer of Evangelion and Revolutionary Girl Utena: The Movie.
The Descendants of Darkness: Devil's Song DVD offers the following features:
* Art & Sketch Gallery * Music Video * Character Profiles * Descendants of Darkness Trailers * DVD Previews * English & Japanese with English Subtitles * Extensive DVD-ROM Features
TITLE: Descendants of Darkness: Devil's Song RUNNING TIME: 75 minutes RATING: Ages 13 & Up SRP PRICE: $29.99 CATALOG #: USMD 2217 STREET DATE: March 11, 2003 PRE-ORDER DATE: February 10, 2003
Revolutionary Girl Utena: Darkness Beckoning Utena must escape the clutches of a mysterious professor, or she will become a pawn in his next experiment. From the Director of Sailor Moon!
The Revolutionary Girl Utena: Darkness Beckoning DVD offers the following features:
* Interview with the Director * Interview with U.S. Voice Actor Carol Jacobanis * Art Gallery * English & Japanese and English Subtitles * Extensive DVD-ROM Features
TITLE: Revolutionary Girl Utena: Darkness Beckoning RUNNING TIME: 75 minutes RATING: Ages 13 & Up SRP PRICE: $29.99 CATALOG #: SSDVD-6206 STREET DATE: March 11, 2003 PRE-ORDER DATE: February 10, 2003
Naughty Guide to Tokyo Nightlife Descend into the forbidden depths of Tokyo's underworld, where beautiful women will enact untamed fantasies for anyone willing to pay the price!
The Naughty Guide to Tokyo Nightlife DVD offers the following features:
* Photo Gallery * Naughty Guide to Tokyo Nightlife Trailer * DVD Previews * English & Japanese and English Subtitles * Extensive DVD-ROM Features
TITLE: Naughty Guide to Tokyo Nightlife RUNNING TIME: 80 minutes RATING: Recommended for mature audiences SRP PRICE: $29.99 CATALOG #: APCD 2208 STREET DATE: March 11, 2003 PRE-ORDER DATE: February 10, 2003
Kazuyoshi Katayama, Director of Appleseed and the Big O
Hiroaki Gohda, Director of Oh! My Goddess and Character Designer for Onegai Teacher
Monica Rial, voice actress: Kirika in Noir, Hyatt in Excel Saga, Haruka Shitow in RahXephon
Chris Patton, voice actor: Kamina Ayato in RahXephon, Yu Ominae in Spriggan, Yushiro Gowa in Gasara
Also scheduled to appear at Acen: Satoru Akahori, Takeshi Honda, Yoko Ishida, Hidenori Matsubara, Johnny Yong Bosch, Richard Cox, Fred Gallagher (Megatokyo), Robert DeJesus, Scott Frazier and Bruce Lewis,
For more info on Acen, guests and other updates, please check out www.acen.org.
1)Special Announcement #1: Issue one of Ghost In The Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface is out. Get your copy before they're all gone! For more info on what it took to bring this series to you, click on this link: Mini-Manga Newswatch, Dateline: Dec 26, 2002.
2)Also, Blade of the Immortal: Beasts is number 13 in Bookscan sales.
3) www.kodanclub.com is the link to the official Kodansha site, which has a lot of interesting stuff on it, including some info about untranslated manga and some sample translations. The official link title is "Kodansha's official English-language website for manga information and company profile."
4)Finally, SP's letter section says the following: they have the English rights to the Akira Club art book; the Man Machine Interface TP will include extras such as illustrations; certain parts of MMI are still unflipped, while the manga will be in black and white; Intron Depot(Shirow's art book series) 3's done with 4+5 coming soon; the company will also be publishing Shirow's poster series, Young Magazine Uppers for Intron Depot, with a hint of uncensored versions.
ALSO NOMINATED IN THIS CATEGORY - ICE AGE - LILO & STITCH - SPIRIT: STALLION OF THE CIMARRON - TREASURE PLANET
SPIRITED AWAY Hayao Miyazaki
ACADEMY AWARDS HISTORY This is the first Academy Award nomination for Hayao Miyazaki.
FILM SYNOPSIS Chihiro and her parents are on their way to their new home when they take a wrong turn and enter an abandoned theme park. The park is enchanted and Chihiro's parents soon fall under a spell, leaving the little girl to fend for herself in a world of ghosts and demons. Source: http://www.oscar.com/nominees/nom_32068.html
INTRONDEPOT3 presently in the midst of production
March of 2003 sale schedule
Estimate value: 2800 Yen
The number of pages: Page 116
Format: B4 deformation (' IntronDepot2 ' with the same size)
Please wait the announcement of details
Hi everyone, I'm the webmaster of Anime Pitstop! Even though Anime Pitstop has been offline for almost a whole two years I felt that it was time to bring it back online. I've been getting numerous e-mails, and even my friends asking me if I would ever bring it back online, and that they miss the site. That really feels good to know that people really missed the site.
I also noticed that there aren't very many good places to find Anime Links anymore, so I thought maybe the return of Anime Pitstop would help in some way. If not, then it wasn't ever meant to be to bring it back.
I sure hope that you find it in your hearts to forgive me for why I brought the Anime Pitstop down in the first place.
We are using our old database, but with a brand new search engine system. So it should be a lot faster then it used to be! We are still weeding out the dead links.
So come on down. http://www.theanimepitstop.com
THURSDAY 13 FEBRUARY 12:15am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 01:00am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 01:30am ROUJIN Z
THURSDAY 20 FEBRUARY 12:05am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 12:35am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 01:05 PATLABOR
THURSDAY 27 FEBRUARY 12:20am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 12:50am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 01:20 SPRIGGAN
THURSDAY 6 MARCH 12:05am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 12:35am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 01:05 MAKYU SENJO
THURSDAY 13 MARCH 12:35am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 01:05am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 01:35 BLACK JACK: THE MOVIE
THURSDAY 20 MARCH 12:10am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 12:40am AD POLICE: TO PROTECT AND SERVE 01:10 PERFECT BLUE
THURSDAY 27 MARCH 12:20am THE LEGEND OF THE OVERFIEND
Source: Rory of UKA (http://www.uk-anime.net/)
Happy Mania, Erica Sakurazawa, FAKE & Demon Diary are Guaranteed to Shake Foundations with Their Unique Spins on the Human Situation
Los Angeles, CA, (February 5, 2003) Answering the call of myriad fans, TOKYOPOP® - the leading U.S. graphic novel publisher - announces the release of four new manga titles, each with its own provocative twist on the complexities of human relationships.
Happy Mania (Comedy/Romance, Volume 1: April 15) Think Sex in the City, manga style! Love and relationships are explored in this revolutionary new manga series created by Moyoko Anno (Seishingja, Love Master and the Chasing Amy manga). The story follows Shigeta, a young woman of 24, who spends her days working at Tanaka Books and fretting over her love life or, more accurately, the lack thereof. The biggest obstacle between Shigeta and a satisfying relationship seems to be Shigeta herself. When it comes to men, this girl has exceedingly poor judgment, leading to comedic situations that are well worth the read!
Erica Sakurazawa Series (Romance, Volume 1-Between the Sheets: May 6) A sophisticated chick-lit series from acclaimed manga-ka Erica Sakurazawa. These fairy tales for adults are lovingly drawn and feature elements of magic and mystery, as well as some gritty realism drawn from daily metropolitan life in our times. Though each of the six volumes stands alone, all are united by Sakurazawa's spirit and style. The first release in the series - Between the Sheets - is the story of two best friends, Saki and Minako, and the blurring of the line between their friendship and romance. Hidden within Minako is the powerful desire to possess the beauty that Saki so freely shares with her male companions.
FAKE (Action/Adventure/Comedy, Volume 1: May 6) Sanami Matoh's FAKE, a shounen-ai favorite, is the unlikely love story of two NYC cops - who both happen to be guys. Meet Ryo and Dee, two New York City cops with an attraction for action and for each other! When Ryo, a soft-spoken officer, joins the NYPD's 27th precinct, he's soon partnered up with Dee, a cocky, confident cop with attitude to spare. FAKE began appearing in tankoubon (graphic novel) form in Japan from Biblos in 1994 and ended its 7-volume run in 2000.
Demon Diary (Fantasy, Volume 1: May 6) The creation of author Jee-Hyung Lee and top shounen-ai artist Kara Lim, Demon Diary is not your typical fantasy. In this fictional world, gods and demons wage a never-ending battle with the mortal realm, and hatred is a way of life. Any hope of peace lies in the hands of one being who has the power to rise up and restore harmony. Enter Raenef... heir to the demon king, but hardly royal material. He'll need the tutoring of a mentor called Eclipse in order to find his proper demonic shape. Yet Raenef and Eclipse experience far more than the archetypal student-teacher relationship - the two begin an intimate journey of self-discovery as well.
.hack//SIGN (typically referred to as "dot hack") explores the issues of what happens when the real world and virtual reality collide. In .hack//SIGN, "The World" is an immersive virtual gaming environment of the future. Millions of players log on each day to test their skill in virtual adventures and battles. But when "The World" combines with their world, a whole new adventure unfolds.
.hack//SIGN includes character designs by famed illustrator Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, who has worked on Neon Genesis Evangelion and Wings of the Honneamise. The engaging story was scripted by Kazunori Ito, well-known by animé aficionados for his work on Ghost in the Shell and Patlabor. .hack//SIGN was directed by Kouichi Mashimo (Noir and Irresponsible Captain Taylor).
Burbank, Calif., February 4, 2003 - After breaking domestic and international box-office and DVD sales records, garnering four Academy Awards® and setting the standard by which all futuristic action films are measured, The Matrix is poised to break new ground with the highly-anticipated release of Warner Home Video and Village Roadshow Pictures' The Animatrix.
An unprecedented fusion of CG-animation and Japanese anime, The Animatrix is a collection of nine original short films conceived by the Wachowski Brothers, the creators of The Matrix trilogy. Inspired by the visionary action and innovative storytelling that power the trilogy, this spectacularly visual short film series delves deeper into the mind-bending world of The Matrix and the characters who inhabit it. Created in the anime style pioneered by Japanese animation artists and helmed by world-renowned anime directors, The Animatrix also features the voices of actors Keanu Reeves (Neo) and Carrie-Anne Moss (Trinity) in two of the shorts.
One complete episode from The Animatrix, The Final Flight of the Osiris, will accompany the worldwide release of the supernatural thriller Dreamcatcher when it debuts in theaters on March 21. Written by Larry and Andy Wachowski, this nine-minute computer-generated short serves as an explosive prelude to The Matrix Reloaded.
The Animatrix debuts worldwide on DVD and videocassette on June 3, between the release of the next two films in The Matrix trilogy - The Matrix Reloaded, which opens theatrically on May 15, followed by The Matrix Revolutions, which debuts in theaters in November. The Animatrix will be available on DVD for $24.98 SRP/$19.95 MAP and on VHS for $19.98 SRP/$13.95 MAP from Warner Home Video (WHV).
The Animatrix features an eclectic techno soundtrack supervised by renowned DJ/producer/remixer Jason Bentley with some of today's hottest electronica artists such as Juno Reactor, Death in Vegas, Meat Beat Manifesto and others. The original score for the project is provided by Don Davis, who crafted the music for all three films in The Matrix trilogy.
The Animatrix features short films directed by some of the world's premiere anime filmmakers, including: " Yoshiaki Kawajiri (writer/director of the anime classics Ninja Scroll and Vampire Hunter D) " Shinchiro Watanabe (writer/director of the anime feature Cowboy Bebop) " Koji Morimoto (animation supervisor of the seminal anime film Akira) " Mahiro Maeda (director of the sci-fi anime series Blue Submarine No. 6) " Takeshi Koike (lead animator on several of director Yoshiaki Kawajiri's films, including Wicked City) " Peter Chung (creator and director of the popular MTV series Aeon Flux) " Andy Jones (animation director for the stunning CG film Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within)
This "ultimate dream team" of anime collaborators provides The Animatrix with the creative power to take viewers on a cerebral journey of cutting-edge animation, mind-blowing visuals and pulse-pounding music.
To generate early awareness for the release, fans will be able to view several complete episodes before street date as well as learn more about The Animatrix by visiting www.theanimatrix.com.
"The Animatrix is certain to become the genre-defining standard by which all other anime films are judged. More than three years in the making at animation studios in Japan, Korea and the U.S. with some of the most revered talent in the anime world, The Animatrix is truly a not-to-be-missed experience," said Mike Saksa, WHV vice president U.S. marketing. "With the release of The Animatrix along with The Matrix two-disc Special Edition DVD, the two theatrical films, the new video game and other ancillary projects spawned by the franchise, 2003 is strategically poised to become 'The Year of The Matrix.'"
THE ANIMATRIX DVD FEATURES
The Animatrix DVD is highlighted by the following special features: " Scrolls to Screen - The History and Culture of Anime " Seven "making-of" featurettes including director profiles featuring interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at each film " Four audio commentaries (featured on the films The Second Renaissance Pt. 1 & 2, Program and World Record) - all with Japanese audio and English subtitles " Enter the Matrix Game Trailer - exclusive look into the creation of the "Enter The Matrix" video game, featuring interviews from some of the film's stars including Jada Pinkett and Carrie-Anne Moss
THE ANIMATRIX FILM SYNOPSES
The Final Flight of the Osiris Written by Andy and Larry Wachowski; Directed by Andy Jones Animation and production design by Square USA, Inc. The crew of the hovercraft Osiris must get a message back to Zion, a message of vital importance. Easy to do, but for the armada of Sentinels between them and Zion.
The Second Renaissance - Parts 1 and 2 Written by Andy and Larry Wachowski; Directed by Mahiro Maeda Animation and production design by Studio4°C, Tokyo The Genesis of the Matrix: the last cities of mankind, the war with the machines, and humanity's ultimate downfall. An epic guided tour of the Zion archives and the history of the Matrix.
Kid's Story Written by Andy and Larry Wachowski; Directed by Shinichiro Watanabe Animation and production design by Studio4°C, Tokyo Sitting in his high school classroom, THE KID gets a personalized invitation from Neo (voiced by Keanu Reeves) to escape the Matrix. But finding an exit proves more difficult than he ever imagined.
Program Written and directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri Animation and production design by Madhouse Studios, Tokyo In the simulated world of a Samurai training program, CIS, a soldier of Zion, is forced to choose between love and her comrades in the real world.
World Record Written by Yoshiaki Kawajiri; Directed by Takeshi Koike Animation and production design by Madhouse Studios, Tokyo Through an incredible combination of will power and physical strength, DAN, a world-record-holding sprinter, breaks out of the Matrix and gets an all-too-brief glimpse of the real world beyond.
Beyond Written and directed by Koji Morimoto Animation and production design by Studio4°C, Tokyo In a quiet town where all is not as it seems, YOKO finds a bug in the system: an abandoned mansion in which anything seems possible. And then the exterminators arrive to "de-bug".
Detective Story Written and directed by Shinichiro Watanabe Animation and production design by Studio4°C, Tokyo Hard-boiled private investigator ASH tracks cyber-criminal TRINITY (voiced by Carrie-Anne Moss) through the looking glass…
Matriculated Written and directed by Peter Chung Animation and production design by DNA, Seoul A small group of rebels have captured a sentient robot and proceed to program it to act as an ally for their cause. They succeed too well in teaching the robot to prefer their "human Matrix" to machine reality. And the robot's appetite for the "human Matrix" may exceed the humans' ability to supply it.
The Matrix revolutionized science-fiction action films and boggled the minds of moviegoers, becoming one of the most successful sci-fi films of all time, with a domestic box-office gross of nearly $172 million. Recently inducted into the DVD Premiere Academy of Artistic Achievement, the DVD was the first ever to reach sales of three million units. Voted "DVD of the Year" by the Video Software Dealers Association at the first annual DVD Festival 2000 Awards, it has sold over 15 million units worldwide, and its fiercely dedicated fan base has spread feverish anticipation of The Matrix sequels across the Internet.
BASICS DVD SRP $24.98/$19.95 MAP VHS SRP $19.98/$13.95 MAP Street Date: June 3, 2003 Languages: ENG (5.1), JAP (5.1) Subtitles: ENG, FR, SPAN Program Running Time: Approx 90 mins. DVD Running Time: Approx 180 mins. Rating: Not Rated Dolby/Digital [CC]
Source: The Hollywood Reporter Via Daniel
Featuring the combined creative efforts of anime’s greatest creators, Argentosoma weaves of an epic tale of heroism and revenge. Directed by anime veterans Kazuyoshi Katayama (Appleseed, Giant Robo) character designs by Shukou Murase (Gundam Wing), and mechanical designs by Kimitoshi Yamane (The Big O) – the “giant robot” genre is alive and well in both Japan and here in North America. www.argento-soma.com provides an in-depth look into the Argentosoma series including story background, main character profiles, mecha information, DVD home video information, trailers, and the source for updated news and information.
Life Ends… Takuto Kaneshiro is a gifted young man and considered by most to be something of a genius. With a sweet, lovable girlfriend, he’s got a lot of dreams for his future. But those dreams soon turn to nightmares when Takuto is involved with a freak accident during a secret experiment. He will have the things most dear to him...taken away. With Takuto Kaneshiro dead, Ryu Soma is born. And the only thing on his mind is revenge.
Argentosoma – Another Reality will be released as a Limited Edition with Collector’s Box (Limited to 15,000 units) and as a stand alone DVD release. DVD Features and Extras include: Interactive Animated Menus, English/Japanese Language, English Subtitles Option, Dolby Digital Surround Sound, Textless Opening, Argentosoma Tech Files, and features a special Reversible DVD Cover.
Argentosoma - Another Reality Limited Edition DVD w/ Collector’s Box – SRP: $34.98 Regular DVD – SRP: $29.98 Street Date: 2/4/2003 Rated 13UP TRT: 125 min.
Following the success of the first two festivals, the 2003 WFAC returns with an greatly expanded programme, featuring animated feature films from around the world. In addition to premieres and award-winning entries from other prestigious film festivals in the world, the WFAC will present a retrospective programme of animated feature films from Japan that demonstrate the versatility and power of animation in moviemaking.
All films will be screened in the venues these works of art are meant to be seen in: in a theatre, on film, with digital sound. Screenings will be held at the Galaxy Cinemas at Conestoga Mall (550 King Street North, Waterloo, Ontario) and at the Princess Cinema (6 Princess Street West, Waterloo, Ontario).
The WFAC web site (http://www.wfac.ca) will open on February 7th, 2003 where the latest news, tidbits and film announcements will be posted. Schedules and ticketing information will be posted on the web site on March 3rd, 2003.
Source: Yahoo Movies via a post to rec.arts.anime
Source: Hollywood Reporter, thanks to Daniel for the news
Fans of The Animatrix can also mark June 3rd on their calendears, will Warner will release the nine short films inspired by the film. Produced by the Wachowski Brothers, these shorts is an animated anthology of sorts from teh likes of anime directors such as Yoshiaki Kawajiri, Takeshi Koike, Peter Chung and Andy Jones. This set incldues the shorts "Beyond," "Detective Story," "The Final Flight of the Osiris," "Kid's Story," "Matriculated," "Program," "The Second Renaissance Parts 1 & 2," and "World Record." Retail is $24.95.
Source: DVD File via Daniel-san
Our hearts and genuine condolences here at ANS go out to these 7 pioneers of human exploration, their families, a heart broken nation and an awestruck planet.
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