Anime News Service - February 13-17 Anime News

2-17-02---- Anime Toys & Hobbies Moves

From the announcement:

We've moved! We're now at:

www.otaking.org/~athobbies

Anime Toys & Hobbies is an online store selling a large selection of model kits and garage kits. We sell anime toys, accessories, T-shirts, posters, wall scrolls, books, and magazines. We also sell Japanese live-action, American comic book, sci-fi, and movie merchandise. If you collect classic anime or the sometimes rare items, we're the place for you!

Have your own store or thinking of starting one? We welcome wholesale orders for those of you with reseller licenses. Have an anime club? Get a large group order in, and we can offer discounts.

Our site is currently being revamped, but the major merchandise sections are up and ready for viewing.

2-17-02---- Sakura Taisen Movie International Premiere In Santa Monica - Insect Gardner Unveiled

Production I.G's English site has updated mentioning the international premiere for Sakura Wars the Movie will take place at the 2002 American Film Market in Santa Monica, California. Screening information is as follows:

Film :: "Sakura Wars the Movie" (Japanese / English Subtitled)
Length :: 85 Minutes (Color / Animation)
Date :: Thursday, February 21, 2001
Time : 9:00AM
Place :: Broadway Cineplex #2, in Santa Monica

Meanwhile, according to this update to the Japanese Xebec site, Production I.G. is screening a special 4 minute preview at this weekend's Tokyo International Anime Fair 21 for their new project Insect Guardner featuring many key ZOIDS production staff.

2-17-02---- Anime / Manga Gaming

Accrding to The Magic Box:

Sega WOW Entertainment has confirmed that they will be showing a new Naomi keyboarding arcade game Lupin the 3rd The Typing at the AOU 2002 Amusement Expo on February 23. The game is planned for an April release in arcade. The game is based on the classic TV animated cartoon series, the game supports up to 2 players simultaneously, and it is possible to select either Kanzi or Roman character input method.

According to The Gaming Intelligence Agency

While Japanese fans of the Lunar are eagerly awaiting yet another remake of the first game in the series, it seem they will have to wait a bit longer. While the Game Boy Advance release of Lunar Legend was previously scheduled for mid-March, the developer, Media Rings, recently announced on the company's homepage that the game would be delayed until April 12.

Though no exact reason was given for the change, Media Rings apologized for the delay and stated that the company just needed a little more time to prepare a game that would live up to the fans high expectations. Lunar Legend is due out on its new date at a price of 5,800 yen (about $44 USD).

2-17-02---- German Anime Brief

A huge thanks to our German News contributor David for these details:

- Connichi 2002
03.05. - 05.05.2002 in Ludwigshafen, Germany
Biggest Anime Convention from the biggest Anime Online Community "Animexx
e.V." (ca. 10.000 Members)
http://www.connichi.de

- Ranma 1/2 will be on Television in Germany from 11th of april on RTL 2
- From the third of april will be on RTL 2 "Uchuujin Tanaka Tarou" - Taro, the Space Allien
- Detective Conan will be also on german Television from 10th of April on RTL2 too.
- Crayon Shin-chan will be shown on german TV on RTL2 from the 05th of april.
- Pay TV "Premiereworld" will be airing "Slayers" from the 18th of march
- From the first of april will MTV Germany show "Vision of Escaflowne" on german TV
- Pro 7 announced on the 28th of december 2001 that they bougth the licence for Card Captor Sakura
- Sen to Chihiro wins golden Bear at the german Berlinale in Berlin.
- Saber Marionette J Manga will be available from the End of 2002 in german by EMA.

2-17-02---- DVD Vision Japan Updates

From the release:

We are proud to announce that we have reached over 10,000 hits in just under 4 months. To everyone who has visited our site, we thank you for time and support. We apologize for such a long delay in updating. We have had some serious changes going on here. For one, we have joined forces with the folks over at Animebb.org, one of the fastest growing anime BBS's out there. We are providing exclusive "expanded" reviews for them, as well as maintaining DVD Vision @ AnimeBB.org, their main review page. However, this is just the beginning. DVD Vision Japan is now expanding it's reviews to cover all types of DVD's. BIG NEWS! Being ever watchful of hot anime trends, we've noticed that a huge number of you are looking for information about Zoids. Anyone interested if getting a peek at this cool anime has two options: 1. Order the Cartoon Network version due out April 9th, 2002 that retails for under $20 (depends on where you go). Keep in mind that this is a dub only release, edited for Cartoon Network. Plus, the series is actually the second Zoids show, called " Zoids Slash 0" in Japan. 2. Order the Japanese version. This option will set you back about $50 a disc( and it will ONLY work on region 2 or region free DVD players). However, you do get the original series as well as the Zoids Slash 0. As you can see, we have been very busy. We covered a lot, and we still have a lot more to do. Catch you all later and once again, thank you so very much for your support. Matt Anderson DVD Vision Japan

Our Main Page: DVD Vision Japan

2-17-02---- Toynami What's New

Toynami has updated it's site listing details for the company's Saturday-Morning Action toy line, comprised of licenses for the following properties: "Birdman and the Galaxy Trio," "Dynomutt," "The Herculoids" and "Thundarr the Barbarian!" The toys should begin to reach retailers' shelves in mid-to-late 2002, in toy and comic shops and specialty stores nationwide. Along with action figures, Toynami will be producing a line of fantastic busts and maquettes as well. Check out their catalog for further details.

Also Toynami is talking about their new I-Men mini-action figures line. The I-Men line will encompass all of the toymaker's licensed properties, including Robotech, Birdman, the Herculoids, Dynomutt and Thundarr the Barbarian. More details can be had here.

2-17-02---- Tokyo International Animation Anime Fair 21 Japanese Press Mentions

According to Kyodo News:

TOKYO, Feb. 15 - A three-day international festival of animated films opened Friday in Koto Ward in the Tokyo waterfront area, with the aim of promoting Tokyo as the capital of the animation industry, organizers said.

The Mainichi has an image from the fair here.

2-17-02---- Turn A Gundam Movie Soundtracks

According to Newtype Asylum:

Starchild / King Records (Japan) releases Turn-A Gundam the Movie Soundtracks: I Kissed in the Planetary Afternoon (KICA 566; ¥2800) on February 6. This is a 24-track original soundtrack album for Yoshiyuki Tomino's Turn-A Gundam movie duology Earth Light and Moonlight Butterfly premiered in Japan nationwide on February 9. The new Turn-A OST features new compositions by Yoko Kanno, the famous music composer / director for Turn-A Gundam TV series, Macross Plus, and Cowboy Bebop animations. It is now available in Hong Kong at HK$250.

2-17-02---- High Definition DVD's Coming

According an article running via Nikkei News here Mitsubishi has developed MPEG2 video encoding technology that enables two hours of recording of high-vision images of satellite digital broadcasting and terrestrial-wave digital broadcasting on a common, currently existing DVD discs.

In satellite digital broadcasting, the MPEG2 stream is currently transmitted at the encoding speed of 18Mbps or 24Mbps. By recompressing the MPEG2 stream, however, it is possible to squeeze the stream to nearly half of the original volume to realize about 10Mbps and maintain almost the same level of image quality. This means that a high-definition television (HDTV) image data of about two hours long, which is the standard running time of a movie, can be recorded onto one single-sided, two-layer 9.4GB DVD.

2-17-02---- Cartoon Network To Premiere Original ZOIDS

Thanks to several readers for mentioning this item:

On Cartoon Network's website I found this. This may mean they are going to show the original Zoids series. http://alt.cartoonnetwork.com/Schedule/0,3671,CTN|0|321826|Eastern,00.html

2-17-02---- Gutsoon! To Debut America's First Weekly Manga Anthology

Los Angeles area manga fans will want to take note that opinions will be fielded and free merchandise will be given out at Gutsoon! Media's focus group of manga lovers and experts on wenesday (2/20) or thursday (2/21), the company will supply food and drinks, as well as goodies from japan, they are asking fans to bring their opinions to the forum. Gutsoon! Media is a japanese-based company with years of manga publishing experience. Their current plans are to bring manga stories and characters into the American market, starting with Raijin, the first weekly manga anthology ever to be published in America. Further details should be developing soon.

2-15-02---- Sen To Chihiro Wins Golden Bear At Berlin Intl. Film Festival

The Golden Bear is the first prize award given at the Berlin International Film Festival. "Spirited Away" shared the prize this year with "Bloody Sunday".

Source: Nausicaa.net

2-16-02---- Business Locus - Tokyo International Animation Fair 21 Kicks Off

The Asahi Shimbun has a piece on this weekend's Tokyo International Animation Fair 21.

There, fans and an assortment of companies have arranged to celebrate the medium of animation. A major function of the fair which has not received as much press is the business aspect which serves to make this event a focal point for various companies in and outside of Japan to meet and interact. On the Japanese side it can be expected that many new manga and Anime works will be showcased and plans for series scheduled 1-2 years down the line will be be exchanged and prospected by the foreign firms. Likewise, licensors from such markets as the United States and North America are making their impression on the various animation production companies in Japan, showcasing their adapted / licensed works and ability to bring the newest Japanese works to a foreign market. Although the fair has not recevied much media play in America it will serve invariably as a vector point for the exchange of knowledge and business that will manifest itself as products brought to the American market many months from now, in that respect it could possibly be the most singular significant oppertunity for the various players in the industry to interact this year. A total of 104 animation production and film companies are involved, including 28 foreign businesses.

2-15-02---- Pioneer Announcements For June - July

According to the Pioneer Animation Update:

June:

06/25: Armitage: Dual-Matrix

Starring the voice of Juliette Lewis as Naomi Armitage

July

07/09: Cardcaptor Sakura
Vol. 10 "School Daze" Subtitled VHS/Subtitled DVD Running Time: 100 min Rating: 13 up SRP: VHS: $24.98/DVD: $29.98

Cardcaptors
Vol. 9 "Star Power" Dubbed VHS/Dubbed DVD Running Time: 75 min Rating: 7 up SRP: VHS: $14.98/DVD: $24.98

Gate Keepers
Vol. 6 "Discovery" Dubbed VHS/Bilingual DVD Running Time: 75 min Rating: 13 up SRP: VHS: $24.98/DVD: $29.98

Vandread
Vol. 4 "Pressure" Dubbed VHS/Bilingual DVD Running Time: 75 min Rating: 13 up SRP: VHS: $24.98/DVD: $29.98

Zoids
Vol. 2 "The High Speed Battle" Dubbed VHS/Dubbed DVD Running Time: 90 min Rating: 7 up SRP: VHS: $14.98/DVD: $19.98

Series Synopsis

2-15-02---- Rinkya Updates

Anime auctions site www.rinkya.com has updated announcing it's message board is now open.

2-15-02---- Mini Pato Carrying Strap

A collectors Mini-Pato carrying strap is being offered by Animate for those buying tickets to the coming double bill Patlabor WXIII / Mini-Pato feature.

2-15-02---- Toyfair Figures Updates

Ben's World Of Transformers has uploaded info and several hi-res images of figures coming from the recently announced Transformers Armada line. Meanwhile Raving Toy Maniac has images and details of several Hasbro lines including Zoids, Beyblade etc...

2-15-02---- Students Bring Suit Against Seiyuu School

The Japanese edition of the Asahi Shimbun is reporting 12 former students of a "seiyuu training school" have gone to the Tokyo District Court seeking 13,000,000 Yen reprehension, alleging misleading advertising by the facility that "famous" seiyuu would lecture there daily. A school advertisement for 2001 enrollments reportedly made mention to chances to learn from first-rate seiyuu, and the school's admission guidebook also refered to seiyuu teachers. The annual enrollment fee was 800,000 Yen and the students enrolled in the spring, dropping out by November. According to those students bringing the action, 1 of the 5 seiyuu gave lectures per week, although mentioning the low number of seiyuu lecturers to the school they maintain there was no change to the scheduling. Asahi mentions that the seiyuu school does maintain that the 5 seiyuu did lecture and says the students in question were disturbing matters in class.

2-15-02---- Cowboy Funk Episode Airs

The subject of much net hype, rumor and discussion, Cowboy Bebop episode 22, "Cowboy Funk" has aired on 2/14/02 on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim block. The episode did not air other times when it was previously scheduled or otherwise expected to air leading to speculation regarding it's absence.

Source: Anime News Network

2-15-02---- Power Puff Girls Japanese DVD Release

Celebrity Japanese seiyuu magnet and Japanese anime fan favorite, the American TV cartoon Power Puff Girls is headed for DVD release in the land of the rising sun with the 1st 5 disc DVD-BOX streeting on March 13th at 19800 Yen. Extras include booklet and pin badges.

2-15-02---- Yoko Kanno Attached To Rahxephon Project

Hailed Anime / Games Musical Composer Yoko Kanno has officially been announced to compose some musical elements of BONES forthcoming Rahxephon TV anime. Kanno's name and talent is added to a list of others that represent one of the most all-star lineups attached to a TV anime project in recent years. Presently Kanno is confirmed to compose the music to seiyuu Maaya Sakamoto's OP for Rahxephon entitled "Hemisphere".

Based on the manga by Takeaki Momose and Yutaka Izubuchi (mecha-designer for GASARAKI, AURA BATTLER DUNBINE, PATLABOR, GUNDAM: CHAR´S COUNTERATTACK etc.), Rahxephon, a Scifi TV anime series to begin airing on Fuji TV. The show's staff will be headed by premium talents as well including Director / Rahxephon Designer Yutaka Izubuchi (Mechanical Designs: Patlabor OVA), Chara Designer Akihiro Yamada (Illustrator: Lodoss War), and Mecha Designer Michiaki Sato (Producer: Earth Girl Arjuna). The plot occurs on Earth in Japan where in the year 2012 an "intruder" appears in Tokyo's sky called the "MU". An autonomous region called " TOKYO JUPITER " is formed in response to the threat and the viewers are flashed forward to the present: 2027. Tokyo Jupiter consists of a dome type, self contained city 150km in diameter centered from Tokyo Haneda airport and extending out over open sea. A high school student must meet his challenge in this world threatened by unknowns. Broadcast is set for Mondays from January 21st at 4: 25 on Fuji TV. Seiyuu include Maaya Sakamoto (Escaflowne).

2-15-02---- Pita Ten Singles

Running in Japan from April 7th, the new Pita Ten TV series will see the series OP theme released on April 24th with the ED theme due on May 22nd for 1200 Yen.

2-15-02---- The Men Who Made Gundam

Kodansha's ongoing Men Who Made Gundam Japanese Language feature series has updated here continuing the interview with Gundam Chara designer Yaguhiko Yoshikazu. New in this update is a 6 minute interview video which can be accessed in Real Media and Window Media.

2-15-02---- Arcade Gamer Fubuki Trailer

ZDNet Japan has updated it's Arcade Gamer Fubuki website with new media including a trailer for the forthcoming OVA in MPEG and Windows Media formats. Visit the Japanese site at the below link: http://www.zdnet.co.jp/gamespot/ova/fubuki/index.html

2-15-02---- Bandai & Godzilla Toy News

From Daniel:

The following came in from Cinescape:

"FROM BRAD CARLSON:...i got the following in an email newsletter from Explosion Toys about the NY Toyfair:

"NEWS FROM BANDAI:

"A surprise announcement has Bandai US with plans to release GODZILLA vinyls in the US!!! A selection of 6" and 2.5" figures were on display in the very last room of the Bandai showroom. Not much was said about these figures...they were not promoted by the traditional overly-enthusiastic costumed actors. Sales sheets, however, have the Godzilla items being promoted with a movie release.should we even dare to dream???!!! This could be very exciting news for all G Fans!!"

"FROM CLUB DAIKAIJU VIA EMAIL:

"At Toy Fair, Bandai America had Japanese Godzilla product on display with new mock-up packaging. Among the products on display were the Godzilla 2002 and Baragon 2002 figures, and about half a dozen 6" vinyl figures including Heisei Godzilla, Burning Godzilla and King Ghidora. The Godzilla 2002 was displayed on card packaging, while High Grade Godzilla capsule figures were being offered as a boxed set. The items are scheduled for a tentative September release in time for Christmas.

"The unofficial comment from the folks that I spoke with is that Bandai was simply testing the product at Toy Fair to see if anyone will bite (not the first time that Bandai America has taken this approach with Japanese product). Without a solid release date for a Godzilla film in the USA as of yet, Bandai can't push this product to the big distributors like Toys R' Us

2-15-02---- PS2 Game News

Thanks to Daniel for these items:

You can see the Japanese game lineup for PS2-for 2002-at Gamespot. What might interest fans is that Clock Tower 3 is coming out later this year. As Nick reminded me, and as Gamespot indicated, Kinji Fukasaku-director of Battle Royale-worked on this game.

Also, you can read about the games and prices available for Sony's Japanese PS2 broadband service at http://gamespot.com/gamespot/stories/news/0,10870,2847592,00.html

2-15-02---- Production I.G. Updates

Building on it's newly launched web domain, Production I.G. has updated with a Valentine's Day message and a formal launch of it's forums.

2-15-02---- CPM Manga For June 2002

Below are CPM Comics June releases. The manga label has mentioned it is effectively stepping up the production schedule to release as many graphic novels as possible:

Fantasy Fighters (Graphic Novel)

To save her father's life CHISATO would do anything, including being forced into servitude by the rich and sadistic HEBINO family. Now her father is back like a phoenix and he's been cyberized. Can he save Chisato? What is the menace of the BOUGEROIDS? Read about all the sex and struggle in FANTASY FIGHTERS.

6/5/2002 $16.95 176 pages Black and White Manga18 Adults Only ISBN: 1-56219-935-8 UPC: 7-19987-00621-8-00111 Catalog: CMX 62101G

Slayers Special #6

Here it is, the final installment of the Dark Crystal saga! Will LINA and NAGA be able to defeat the evil VOLDO and MASTER GALDIN, or will SHIA WOO lose the Dark Crystal to the forces of evil?

6/12/2002 $2.95 32 pages Black and White CPM Manga All Ages ISSN: 1534-7451 UPC: 7-19987-06391-4-00611 Catalog: CMX 639106

Maxion - Book 3: Waves Of Misfortune (Graphic Novel)

MAKI, SHION, and YUICHIRO have enough problems just trying to decide amongst themselves where their feelings lie. Now its time for things to get much more complicated with two more otherworldly love interests. Its love, lust and scandal in MAXION BOOK THREE: WAVES OF MISFORTUNE.

6/19/2002 $15.95 208 pages Black and White CPM Manga Suggested for Mature Readers ISBN: 1-58664-852-7 UPC: 7-19987-00620-1-00311 Catalog: CMX 62003G

Slayers Super-Explosive Demon Story Book 1: Legend Of Darkness (Graphic Novel)

Despite her tender age, 15-year-old LINA INVERSE is already a master sorceress, known throughout the land for her skills and power…and the fact that her heroic deeds are usually more destructive than the foes she battles against! Teamed with GOURRY GABRIEV, a swordsman supreme who is dumb as a stump, Lina travels the land in search of fame, fortune and free food.

6/26/2002 $15.95 192 pages Black and White CPM Manga All Ages ISBN: 1-58664-866-7 UPC: 7-19987-00633-1-00111 Catalog: CMX 63301G

2-15-02---- New York ­ Tokyo Music Festival

From the release:

NEW YORK ­ TOKYO MUSIC FESTIVAL

We are planning to host a music festival, which will be held at several cool spots in New York during Memorial Day weekend of 2002.

Included herewith is a "Festival-at-a-Glance" plan which will show you what the festival is all about. We hope you¹ll share our enthusiasm for this first-of-its-kind festival, mark your calendar, and attend.

An event layout proposal can be viewed here.

Check the official website here: http://www.newyork-tokyo.org/

2-14-02---- Shoujocon Goes To 3 Days

From the release:

You asked for it - you got it! Due to the overwhelming response of over 1,200 shoujo fans at our 2001 event, Shoujocon is back at the Brunswick Hilton and Towers in East Brunswick, New Jersey, for an extended Three- Day Event for 2002!

From Friday, July 19 to Sunday, July 21, you'll have three full days chock-a-block with more videos, more workshops, more shopping, more opportunities to meet industry luminaries and fans who love girls' and women's manga and anime as much as you do!

REGISTER NOW AND SAVE

Deep discounts on three-day passes to Shoujocon are still available! Register before March 15 and pay only $35.00 USD - a $10 saving over at-the-door registration! Even if you miss the March 15 deadline, you still have until June 16 to register for the low price of $40. But once June 16 comes and goes, pre-registration closes and at-the-door rates rise to $45 for the weekend. So don't wait any longer - register today! For more information about registration, either online or by US Postal Service, visit http://www.shoujocon.com/registration.html

SPECIAL HOTEL DISCOUNTS FOR SHOUJOCON ATTENDEES

Because of their hospitality and wonderful customer service, the Brunswick Hilton and Towers is once again playing host to Shoujocon this year, and offering our attendees special discounts to boot! Until May 18, single and double rooms can be had for the special Shoujocon rate of $95 per night; triple/quad rooms can also be had at the low price of $115 per night. Don't forget to mention Shoujocon by name when making your reservation to ensure this discount! Time and rooms are limited, so reserve your room today! Complete hotel info, including amenities and directions, can be found at http://www.shoujocon.com/location.html

GET THE SHOUJOCON BUZZ VIA EMAIL

Get up-to-the-minute information on con events, guests and more by joining our Shoujocon Chat mailing list! Not only will you receive regular convention updates delivered piping-hot to your email, you'll also have the opportunity to mix 'n mingle with fellow attendees from all over the country. Visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SJCON_chat/ to sign up today!

Thanks again for your continued support of the Shoujocon genre - for more information about this singular convention experience, or its parent company, the Shoujo Arts Society, visit our website: http://www.shoujocon.com

See you in July!

Tracy PR Staff Shoujocon 2002 http://www.shoujocon.com

2-14-02---- 2010 Target For 100 Megabit Internet Via Satellite

According to the The Yomiuri Shmbun The Japanese Public Management Ministry has drafted a plan to set up a system in 2010 that will use a communications satellite to provide nationwide ultrahigh-speed Internet access as fast as that provided by a fiber-optic network. According to the plan, the ministry will start developing the satellite in 2003, with a view to launching a test satellite in 2005.

2-14-02---- Right Stuf Updates

According to The Right Stuf International:

Tokyopop has set a release date of 4/30 for Masami Tsuda's Kare Kano manga (the basis for the hit anime coming soon from Right Stuf). The series follows the rivalry of two highly competitive high school students Yukino and Soiichiro. Both always wanting to one-up the other's achievements. But their rivalry eventually leads to more than Yukino ever imagined... It's a love story for the budding romantic in everyone. You can pre-order this title at: http://www.rightstuf.com/mailing-preorder/mm4798

Another upcoming manga from Tokyopop, Angelic Layer has also been scheduled for a 4/30 release (now we just have to wait for the anime series to reach American shores!) The story follows little Misaki who is beginning school in Tokyo. Upon arriving in Tokyo she spots a competition being broadcast called Angelic Layer - the latest high tech battle game fought by using dolls (Angels). Enchanted with one of the Angels she sees fighting, Misaki is inspired to create her own Angel and it leads her on an adventure that she never even dreamed was possible before coming to Tokyo! You can pre-order this title at: http://www.rightstuf.com/mailing-preorder/mm447x

Cartoon Network has announced their next round of shows for the Toonami Reactor. In a press release this week, the company announced that Patlabor: Mobile Police will begin its online run on Toonami Reactor starting 2/18.

2-14-02---- Asia AICN News

Thanks to Daniel for these items:

This is all from AICN :

1)"Taiwanese singer-songwriter Jay Chou is in final negotiations to star in the Hollywood remake of Bruce Lee's kung fu classic "The Chinese Connection (Fists of Fury)". The 24 year-old is the biggest break-though star in recent Asian music showbiz and this will be his acting debut. [Sorry, but I don't think any remake can beat Fist of Legend!]

2)"Michelle Yeoh's dream project "The Touch" now has its official site and the film will be released in Asia this summer. The site now has a plot synopsis and an ok trailer, but will soon feature various behind-the-scenes documentaries. Here's the link: http://thetouchmovie.com

3)"Jackie Chan and his crew are still filming "The Highbinders" in Thailand during the Lunar New Year. An ancient castle set is built in the studio there for the big finale. Meanwhile the official site of the film is also up, though there still isn't much to see: http://highbinders.emg.com.hk/

And here's an on-set pic of Jackie Chan and a slimmer Sammo Hung, who is the action director of the film: Just Click Here To See"

4)Finally, "Digimon O2" and "Doraemon: Nobita's Adventure" were at number 7 and number 8 in the HK box office.

2-13-02---- Votes Now Accepted Online For Second Annual Akars Japanese Animation Awards

From the Akadot release:

Today marks the launch of Akadot's Second Annual Anime Academy Awards. The Awards, affectionately called the Akars, are voted on by the anime community and represent the best anime had to offer throughout the year.

Along with the nominations and voting, Akadot also highlights past content including Akar related articles and reviews with more to come.

02/13/02 - Presenting the Second Annual Akadot Anime Academy Awards! Voting for the best anime had to offer in 2001 begins today!

http://www.akadot.com/akars/

2-13-02---- Legacy Of Goku Game Now Up For Preorder

Thanks to Daniel for the contribution:

Legacy of Goku is available for preorder from http://www.zstore.com. www.dragonballz.com also has trailers of Legacy of Goku and DBZ: Collectable Card Game. Not too much major news here. Legacy of Goku isn't out until May (DBZ:CCG in June) though and it is already available to preorder.

2-13-02----- Metropolis DVD Delay Confirmed

ANS has received direct confirmation on the Metropolis DVD delay from Columbia Tristar Home Entertainment. Excerpted from text of the announcement:

Due to a continued strong box-office performance, Columbia Tristar Home Entertainment has changed the DVD & VHS release date for Osamu Tezuka's acclaimed Japanese anime film METROPOLIS to April 23, 2002 (it was previously scheduled to street on March 12)

2-13-02---- TOKYOPOP Marmalade And Brigadoon Press

From the official TOKYOPOP announcement:

TOKYOPOP® ACQUIRES THE RIGHTS TO MARMALADE BOY AND BRIGADOON Two Long-Awaited Anime Series Will Round Out TOKYOPOP’s Growing Line-Up

Los Angeles – 2/13/02 – The fans have been asking for it, and now TOKYOPOP has answered with confirmation that it will deliver the highly anticipated Marmalade Boy anime to the U.S. The DVD series will begin with an initial 24 episodes from the hit Japanese TV show, as well as a host of bonus features. Plans also include the half-hour movie prequel to Marmalade Boy. This news comes as TOKYOPOP prepares to launch the Marmalade Boy manga series in April.

With an edgy plot guaranteed to command attention, Marmalade Boy tells the colorful story of Miki, a teenage girl whose dysfunctional family gets her caught up in some of the strangest love triangles imaginable. While on vacation, her parents decide to end their marriage and swap spouses with another couple. But the situation gets even more bizarre when both sets of parents decide to live under the same roof. The soap opera really takes off when Miki, who has always had a crush on Ginta, suddenly finds herself falling for her new stepbrother, Yuu.

TOKYOPOP has also acquired the rights to the highly acclaimed Brigadoon, an action-packed, hyper-comedic Japanese sci-fi series featuring stunning animation from Sunrise, one of Japan’s top animation studios. Demonstrated by Cartoon Network hits like Gundam Wing, Cowboy Bebop and Outlaw Star, the work of Sunrise is already immensely popular in the United States.

Brigadoon follows the often-crazy adventures of Marin, an orphan girl who suddenly finds herself hunted by a living, bio-weapon robot out to wreak havoc on her hometown. Ironically, it is none other than another robot who enters the picture as Marin’s protector. Together, they set off on an unforgettable quest for justice.

“TOKYOPOP looks forward to bringing these exciting properties to North America,” said President John Parker. “We have been overwhelmed by the level of fan enthusiasm for Marmalade Boy. Our development efforts indicate that there are more than 1,000 websites, newsgroups and forums dedicated to Marmalade Boy, placing it in the upper echelon of anime worldwide. Brigadoon, with its engaging synergy of comedy, fantasy and adventure, is also a natural complement to our growing platform of anime titles.”

2-13-02---- New Tenchi GXP Trailer

Tenchi Web has updated with a new REAL streaming trailer for Tenchi GXP here.

2-13-02---- Toei Animation Fair 2002

March 2nd has been deciced as the start of the 2002 Toei Animation Fair. There the latest One Piece film and Digimon theatrical work will screen.

2-13-02---- Gainax Statement On Amateur Licensing

Gainax has issued new guidelines for amateur licensing of it's characters for products, you can view the Japanese release at the above link.

2-13-02---- Cream Lemon Complete Works DVD BOX Collection

Hentai fans should note Creamlemon.net has updated with details of a very special Region 2 Cream Lemon Complete Works DVD Box Collection which will street in 2 parts. Set for release on 4/25 the 1st set arrives in a 10 Disc, 500 minute group at 28000 Yen with part 2, an 8 disc set due on 5/25 at 600 minutes and 28000 Yen. Set 1 comprises volumes 1-10 with extras including picture discs, radio drama recordings, and art box. Set 2 covers volumes 11-18 with picture discs, Cream Lemon Movie Reissue DVD, Memorial Video DVD, radio drama plus drama CD recordings and collectors BOX.

2-13-02---- Captain Harlock TV Series Details - To Begin Running In Japan In Fall

Metropolis Director RinTaro has been announced to retake the reigns of direction on the forthcoming Captain Harlock TV anime, which is currently scheduled to begin broadcast in Japan this fall with a September start date currently established. As fans may recall, Rintaro directed the original 1978 Harlock series. At the director's request the new Harlock will feature a completely original story.

Staff:
Direction: Rintaro (Metropolis)
Chara Design: Nobuteru Yuki (Escaflowne, Loddoss War)
Story: Sadayuki Murai (Perfect Blue, Boogiepop Phantom)

Cast:
Harlock: Kouichi Yamadera (Spike - Cowboy Bebop)
Dr. Zero: Nachi Nozawa: (Cobra)
Yuko Minakuchi
Seki Tomokazu (Van - Escaflowne)
Emi Shinohara
Fumiko Orikasa

2-13-02---- Amano At ACTOR Auction

Electra (C) Yoshitaka AmanoFrom the release:

LOS ANGELES, Calif., – February 13, 2002 - ACTOR (A Commitment To Our Roots), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping older comic creators in need, is pleased to announce a partnership with All-Star Auctions in conjunction with ACTOR’s next fundraising auction.

All-Star will host online bidding for Famed Japanese artist Yoshitaka Amano’s Elektra painting, donated to the ACTOR cause. Bidders can register and bid on the piece via All-Star’s Website at: www.allstarauc.com

All-Star bidding for this coveted lot will end at Midnight EST on Friday, Feb. 22, 2002. The high bid will be brought to ACTOR’s live auction event at the Orlando MegaCon on Friday, Feb. 23, and entered as the opening bid. Live floor bidding will then ensue, with the high bid taking the lot. There are no buyer’s premiums at the ACTOR auction, and in light of this special event, All-Star has even waived its hammer premium in the event that the high bidder comes from their Website bidding.

"ACTOR is a great cause that represents All-Star’s sensibilities, and helps many of the comic creator heroes that out customers love," said Nadia Mannarino of All-Star Auctions. "It was an easy decision, and one we were happy to make, to help this great organization."

The Amano painting up for auction is the very first Elektra painting Amano ever did. It was created as a promotional piece for Marvel Comics’ Elektra & Wolverine: The Redeemer series. More importantly, Amano, who has a dedicated following both in America and in Japan, is letting go of one of his paintings for the first time in 20 years.

"I have always admired American comics," said Amano. "I have always had special feelings towards this culture, and all my animation work has been heavily influenced by American comics. So it means a lot to be able to contribute to the community I grew up with."

Proxy bidding for the floor auction is also available for Japanese bidders who are interested in the Amano painting, but unable to attend. Contact Auction Coordinator Tony Panaccio via fax at 813-891-0542 or via e-mail at tony.panaccio@crossgen.com for full information.

2-13-02---- Metropolis DVD Rescheduled

Anime Nation reports it has been officially informed by it's distributor that the release of Metropolis on VHS and DVD, originally scheduled for March 12th, has been rescheduled for April 23rd. The delay is in response to the success of the limited theatrical release of the film. Metropolis has now earned over $400,000 in 3 weeks of limited American theatrical release.

2-13-02---- Slammed: 3G?

Does the present day reality of 3G communication via mobile phone fall somewhere short of the ideal? The Chicago Tribune has an article which offers a partial review of P2101V handset from Matsushita.

2-13-02---- North American G-Gundam MS Official Names

Following up on the afformentioned www.alteredstatesmag.com Bandai Toyfair report, Newtype Asylum reports:

For G Gundam, some of the mechas have been renamed to suit North Amercian broadcast and merchandises. They include:

Confirmed new names:
GF13-017NJII God Gundam - new name: Burning Gundam;
JDG-009X Devil Gundam - new name: Dark Gundam;
Unconfirmed new names:
GF13-021N Gundam Spiegel - new name Shadow Gundam;
GF13-003NEL Johnbull Gundam - new name: Royal Gundam;
GF13-052NT Minaret Gundam - new name: Gundam Scimitar;
GF4-001NE Pharoah Gundam IV - new name: Mummy Gundam;
Gundam Heaven Sword - new name: Raven Gundam; and
Death Army - new name: Dark Army.

2-13-02---- Hinata Residents Guide

Bandai Entertainment has updated mentioning a post of a Love Hina character profile "Hinata Apartments Resdients Guide" which can be accessed here.

2-13-02---- .hack America Bound?

According to The Gaming Intelligence Agency:

A series of posts on Working Designs' message board by a supposed employee of Babbage's reveals the retail chain's release dates for the rest of the year for all the major game platforms. Among other preliminary release dates for numerous titles, the PlayStation 2 release list has an entry for .hack (although without the "dot"), to be released by Bandai on October 2 of this year.

2-13-02---- Toyfair Anime Coverage

Figures.com has a report on Apple Seed figuress from Toycom and Alpha, upcoming 12" Metal Gear Solid figures from Toycom and Konami, new Toycom Hellsing figures, Palisades' Resident Evil Series 3 action figures.

Meanwhile Raving Toy Maniac has coverage of Palisdades Showroom and Toycom's Showroom.

2-13-02---- Upcoming Bandai America Product Report - Toyfair 2002

Fans can now see and read about Bandai's product line for 2002, focusing on G Gundam at: www.alteredstatesmag.com Please note some of the links to other parts of the report are still not up yet but the staff is working as fast as possible to upload the remaining files.

2-13-02---- UK Sen to Chihiro Rights Acquired

According to a newsgroup posting by Sany:

"...according to the latest news from the Berlin Film Festival film distributor Pathe has acquired the U.K. rights for Miyazaki´s "Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi" (Pathe will also distribute the movie in the Switzerland). Currently there´re no details about the contract itself whether it also includes video and dvd rights.."

2-13-02---- Anime Central Announces Toshihiro Kawamoto

Anime Central 2002 has announced Toshihiro Kawamoto as Guest of Honor.

Toshihiro Kawamoto will be best known to US anime fans for his character designs on "Cowboy Bebop" and "Golden Boy." However, he also worked as animation supervisor for the animation for the "Ghost in the Shell" Playstation Game opening, and as the character designer on "Gundam 0083," and "08th MS Team," as well as animator on numerous other animations. This is Mr. Kawamoto's first appearance at Anime Central.

2-13-02---- Legend Of Zu Exclusives

Thanks to Daniel for the following:

After scouring the net, I have finally found the Miramax Quicktime trailer for the upcoming Legend of Zu. (retitled "Zu Warriors" here) Go to here to see the Tsui Hark film, starring Zhang Zhiyi, Sammo Hung, and Ekin Chang. (Best known as "Wind" in The Storm Riders", the movie based off of the comic from manga dealer Comics One, and available for sale at Amazon .) Thanks to www.rottentomatoes.com for the scoop. Also, having checked the official U.S. Zu Warriors site-www.zuwarriors.com-I have found that the film has a release date for "Spring 2002".)

2-13-02---- Sparse Details As Kojima Confirmed To Gamecube Project

The February 12th edition of Gamespot Letters states that Hideo Kojima will be producing a game for Game Cube.

Source: Daniel

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

Questions,Comments,News Submissions

Back To Anime News Service