Anime News Service - March 14-22 Anime News

3-22-05 (11:22PM EST)---- ADV Films Announces Maburaho Release

When a wizard is down on his luck, usually the world cowers in fear of the terrible consequences. However, the less-than-adequate pseudo-wizard Kazuki is certainly not about to be feared by anyone! But he sure has a lot to be afraid of when three powerfully beautiful (and completely insane) magical babes are out to get him for his genes! The magically-charged romantic comedy Maburaho is ready to conjure up some fun when it hits the shelves on April 19th. Adapted from the best-selling Japanese series of novels, Maburaho is sure to leave you spellbound with its hilarious antics, heart-warming romance, and high-energy magical mischief. The series was directed by Shinchiro Kimura (Cosplay Complex, Burn Up! Excess) and features the character-design work of Yasunari Nitta (Azumanga Daioh, Sister Princess, Yu Yu Hakusho).
High school student Kazuki Shikimori comes from a line of powerful magicians with extraordinary DNA and he attends the most prestigious school for wizards in all of Japan. It would seem that life is good for Kazuki. Unfortunately, that couldn't be further from the truth. He's not the most smooth when it comes to the ladies, his grades are poor, his athletic skill is next to none, and to top it all off, he can only use his magic eight times before he turns into dust! However, three magical hotties have learned of his genetic secret and are all after him! Suddenly he has become the most "popular" kid in class. Are all these girls out to romance him, or are they only after his DNA?
Limited Collector's Edition Available! The first volume of Maburaho is also available as a Collector's Edition, which includes the Maburaho: Bewitched and Bewildered Volume 1 DVD and an attractive custom series art box to house all seven volumes of the series (SRP $39.98).
Manga Series Launches in April! This April ADV is launching the Maburaho manga series as well. Written and illustrated by Miki Miyashita, volume 1 of the hilarious new manga runs 168 pages and is available at bookstores everywhere this April for $9.99. Also, be sure to check out the super sexy schoolgirl-sorceress Yuna as she struts her stuff in the steamy centerfold poster for the May issue of Newtype USA, the number one English-language source of anime and manga news.
Maburaho: Bewitched and Bewildered (SRP $29.98) is a DVD-only release featuring four complete episodes presented in English 5.1 and Japanese 2.0 audio with English subtitles. Extras include: "The Magic Times" insert, clean opening and closing animation, The Art of Maburaho, translator's comments, original Japanese promos, and ADV previews.

MABURAHO: BEWITCHED AND BEWILDERED Volume: 1 of 7 Running Time: 100 minutes Age Rating: TV 14 (S, D) CAT: DMB/001 (DVD), DMB/BX1 (Collector's Box) UPC: 702727123429 (DVD), 702727082627 (Collector's Box) Pre-Book Date: 03/22/05 Street Date: 04/19/05 Format: DVD SRP: $29.98 (DVD), $39.98 (Collector's Box)

3-22-05 (11:22PM EST)---- Anime Insider Magazine Goes Monthly

Wizard Entertainment Group, the country's foremost authority on everything related to pop-culture, comic books and collectibles, is pleased to announce that Anime Insider, America's best-selling independent anime magazine, will be issued monthly beginning with issue #22 this June. "We've been looking forward to this for a long time," said Gareb Shamus, founder and chairman of Wizard Entertainment. "Our readers have been asking us to go monthly for years, and we're happy to finally oblige." Every aspect of Anime Insider will be revamped and updated for the ever-growing anime fandom. To this end, Anime Insider will be expanding its coverage with new departments for anime soundtracks and J-pop music, as well as for the newest trends of Japanese youth culture and the hottest spots to hit in Tokyo. Additionally, Anime Insider will be adding a dedicated section for anime conventions. The first issue in Anime Insider's new monthly cycle will include massive coverage of Naruto, the most anticipated show of the year, and an exclusive interview with Akitaro Daichi, the director of such hit series as Fruits Basket and the upcoming Kodocha. Plus, check out the latest news on Fullmetal Alchemist, Tenchi Muyo, Fafner, Gantz and Samurai Champloo. Anime Insider #22 will ship with two covers, the first featuring Naruto and the second featuring Sana from Kodocha. The issue goes on sale June 22nd at comic book specialty stores and on July 5th at newsstands everywhere.

3-22-05 (4:16AM EST)---- 1st Ever Chinese International Animation Festival To Be Held In June

While Japan is gearing up it's largest annual animation event, the TAF (11 Chinese companies will be exhibiting there), kicking off in about a week's time, it was announced Monday the 1st Chinese International Animation Festival will be held in Hangzhou on June 1st-5th. The event will be sponsored by the national broadcasting movie / television bureau and the Chechiang province government. Based on recent announcements, China is aiming to greatly expand it's Contents based industries and this event will serve as a springboard in the internationalization process. Activities planned include screnings animation competition, industrial summit forums, and animation talent invitation rallies.

3-22-05 (3:34AM EST)---- Malaysian Cosplayer Numbers Growing

Those engaged in Malaysian costume play clubs are reportedly on the rise along with the numbers of fans of manga and animation of Japan. While their numbers were estimated at only 50 people in 2003 there are now projected to be 955 people copsplaying as anime, manga and game characters. Series such as Ghost in the Shell, Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle and even the new Stand Alone Complex TV series draw young and old fans alike in Malaysia. The size of the demand is reflected also by the growing number of shops selling related products such as VCD, DVD, and toys. In the last few years the market as witnessed explosive growth though only ten years have passed since Japanese manga and anime entered Malaysia.

3-22-05 (3:25AM EST)---- BECK Soundtrack Scorching Hot In Japan

The rock group BEAT CRUSADERS that represent the creative force behind the music in TV Tokyo's BECK TV Series are reaching new heights of popularity in Japan. Evidence of this can be seen in the sales of soundtrack album "BECK". Artists such as HUSKING BEES who also collaborated on the soundtrack are coming together with BEAT CRUSADERS to hold a "Live BECK" concert on the 25th of March.

3-22-05 (3:05AM EST)---- Sub-Continent's Hungama TV Bulks Up On Anime Programming

Indian Television reports UTV's Hungama TV has recently acquired a slew of Japanese animated content. In the 4 - 6 pm band, Hungama TV will have three new shows - Sonic X, Yugi Oh and Doremon. While Sonic X is the story of the fastest hedgehog, Yugi Oh comes from the creators of Pokemon and is currently the number one kids show in the US. Doremon, touted as the Mickey Mouse of Japan, is the story of a 'cute cuddly' cat who is always ready to be of assistance to a young boy.

3-22-05 (12:03AM EST)---- ADV Films Full Metal Panic Complete Collection Release

The time is now for a full metal release from ADV Films! Get ready for action, romance and a whole lot of laughs when the ThinPak Box Set of Full Metal Panic! hits stores April 19, 2005. This brand new collection includes all seven volumes of the hit show that has become one of North America's top-selling anime series! Produced by GONZO Digimation (Chrono Crusade, Gantz, Peacemaker) and directed by Kouichi Chigara (Last Exile, Gate Keepers), Full Metal Panic! follows the (mis)adventures of top-secret super soldier Sousuke Sagara and high school hottie Kaname Chidori as they stay one step ahead of an evil terrorist organization. With hard-hitting mecha action, zany high school hilarity, and a strange-yet-heartwarming romance, Full Metal Panic! rocked the shores of North America the first time around. Now you have a chance to get in on the full metal fun in its entirety! And for the avid anime collector out there, the brand new Thinpak disc collection will help free up that ever-so-valuable shelf real estate that all collectors crave.
The Story: On the surface, Kaname Chidori appears to be a normal, popular high school student. The problem is, she doesn't realize just how popular she is. Unbeknownst to her, a group of terrorists believe she possesses the special powers of "the Whispered," and they're out to kidnap her. Enter Sousuke Sagara, a young, hotshot agent from the stealthy anti-terrorist organization Mithril. Will he be able to protect Kaname without her finding out what's really going on? Or will he just drive her crazy as he tries to fit in as her awkward, gung-ho, war-crazed classmate? Full Metal Panic! Complete Collection ($89.98 SRP) is a 7-disc DVD-only release with the entire 24 episode series presented in English 5.1, English 2.0 and Japanese 2.0 with English subtitles. Extras include: production sketches, clean opening and closing animation, Japanese piracy warning, and ADV Previews.

FULL METAL PANIC! COMPLETE COLLECTION Volumes: 1-7 Running Time: 600 minutes Rating: TV 14 (V, S) CAT: DFM/BX2 UPC: 702727126420 Pre-Book Date: 3/22/05 Street Date: 4/19/05 Format: DVD SRP: $89.98

3-21-05 (2:53AM EST)---- Full Metal Alchemist English Aide

Gakken is publishing the 176 page Full Metal Alchemist English language book aide "kou no kin jutsushi eigo no kin jutsushi". Retail is marked at 998 Yen. The paperback pocket edition book challenges reader's English skills with various uses of the written English word involving the characters and scenarios of the hit series. The average junior high school student is expected to posess a vacabulary of about 1000 English words and this book is expected to easly integrate with those readers skill level.

3-21-05 (2:34AM EST)---- Anpanman Creator Designs Sumo Apron

The seventh day of the Osaka Prefectural Grand Sumo Spring Tournament held on the 19th saw the wrestler Toyonoshima going into the ring with a special apron custom designed by Anpanman manga creator Takashi Yanase. The cloak features the design of a whale shooting a spout. The apron seems to be something of a good luck charm as Toyonoshima has carried a record thus far of 5 wins and only 2 defeats. When he enters the ring wearing the special apron the children in the audience have reportely rooted quite loudly. The wrestler had requested Mr. Yanase supply a design featuring Anpanman himself last year however a conflict had arisen surrounded the image use copyrights and instead the whale design was picked.

3-21-05 (1:09AM EST)---- Mabinogi MMORPG Buzz

Japanese version BETA testing for the PC MMORPG Mabinogi created by NEXON, a South Korean company began on the 16th. The game mixes celtic themes with anime style avatar character roles players assume and the formula is catching on very well. A special event "Jack Mabinogi Girls Akihabara" was recently held where and army of 50 cosplayers came out in support of the game's promotion.

3-20-05 (11:52PM EST)---- Leiji Matsumoto Superintendent Over Real-Life Yamato Exhibit

60 years after the real life Japanese Battleship Yamato was sank following a U.S. carrier plane attack in the East China Sea with about 3000 crew, a new exhbit in Kure City seeks commemorate it's collossal status as a product of the region and it's role in the Imperial Navy. The Yamato along with her sister-ship Musashi were the largest Battleships ever built weighing in at 72,800-tons fully loaded. Yamato's nine 460mm main battery guns also take the record for the largest battleship guns ever to goto into maritime combat. Yamato was originally built in Kure, now the city's Maritime Affairs History Science Pavilion is exhibiting a 1/10 scale (26.3 meter long) model replica of the warship from April 23. The model was produced by Kure City for about 210 million Yen, basing the scale design on existing blueprints and photography. Kure served as Japan's naval hub from 1889. The museum itself is brand new, costing about 6.5 billion Yen total and commemorates the city's long naval history. Being four stories high, the exhibition pavilion covers an area of 17,400 square meters. About 2000 exhibits and points of interest will be on display therein. Space Battleship Yamato creator Leiji Matsumoto along with Professor and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency member Hiroyuki Agawa have been announced as honored superintendents of the museum.

3-20-05 (10:42PM EST)---- Maaya Sakamoto Clip

A 44 second REAL player audio clip from Maaya Sakamoto's new single "Loop" can be accessed the JVC Music website. "Loop" will serve as the theme for the new CLAMP TV series Tsubasa Chronicle which begins airing on NHK April 9th. The single follows on May 11th, retailing at 1,155 Yen. The B side track on the sinlde is titled "High Touch". On a side note it was announced her radio show "Maaya Sakamoto I.D" which has run many years on NACK5, FM Osaka, and FM Aichi will have it's last broadcast this month.

3-20-05 (10:17PM EST)---- Monkey Punch Pachinko Machines

Idols Maria and Horiguchi Toshimi were present at Pachinko game machine maker Taiyoerekku's symposium where a new model "CR Cinderella Boy" was introduced in Tokyo Friday. The company has signed a deal with Lupin III creator Monkey Punch to market five kinds of the gambling machines themed on his original works. The machines will appear in parlors across Japan.

3-20-05 (9:58PM EST)---- Aichi Expo Goers Get First Peek At New Doraemon

Those at Nagoya's Aichi Expo are able to evaluate the look and sound of the revamped Doraemon TV series before it goes onto broadcast throughout the rest of Japan on April 15th. A 15 minute preview video is running on the giant screen in the main venue of the Expo. Broadcast times are 10:02, 14:40, 19:33, and 20:30 daily. The expo begins March 25th.

3-20-05 (9:46PM EST)---- Shogakukan To Publish Aya Ueto Monogatari

The adapted story of real life Japanese actress Aya Ueto which tracks the secret life behind her career path from debut to stardom will be published in manga form by Shogakukan. "Aya Ueto Monogatari" serializes in Shoujo Comic Magazine (sold biweekly) with the first volume in No. 8 on the 19th. The title appears on the cover.

Part 2 will see a street release with No. 9 sold on April 5. The filming of the movie Azumi which opened in May '03 will be the focus first story installment. According to Shogakukan, Shoujo Comic's largest demographic of readers are females in high school. When they polled readers on their favorite popular entertainer Aya Ueto's name was a clear favorite.
Source: Manga News Service

3-19-05 (6:49AM EST)---- Ebert Pans Steamboy

The noted American movie critic, Roger Ebert has reviewed Katsuhiro Otomo's Steamboy, rating it with only two stars. He still shows his admiration for Otomo's previous projects, Akira, and Roujin Z, but expresses disappointment in the story for this film. Big thanks to Daniel Zelter for the link.

3-19-05 (6:46AM EST)---- ADV Films' Canadian Entertainment Network Awards Showings

ADV Films produced two of the five nominees for "Best Anime DVD" in the 2004 Canadian Entertainment Network Awards. The nominated films were Lady Death: The Motion Picture and Neon Genesis Evangelion: Platinum Edition 0:1. The CEN Awards honor the best in the Canadian home entertainment industry. Lady Death: The Motion Picture, released October 2004, is the critically-acclaimed adaptation of the popular comic book series. It is an original production of ADV Films directed by Andy Orjuela from a script by anime veteran Carl Macek. Lady Death: The Motion Picture was cited by Videoscan as the #1 best selling anime DVD for October 2004. Neon Genesis Evangelion: Platinum is the deluxe edition of the classic anime series. Leading anime publications Newtype USA and Anime Insider have both cited Evangelion as the greatest anime of all time. The first volume of Neon Genesis Evangelion: Platinum was released in July 2004; the seventh and final volume in the Platinum series will be released this April.
"Obviously we're pleased to be recognized for these two very special projects," said John Leford, co-founder and CEO of ADV Films. "Lady Death: The Motion Picture is ADV's most ambitious original production to date, and we're very proud of it. Neon Genesis Evangelion is the greatest anime of all time, and we put a lot of work into making Platinum the finest DVD series of all time. It's nice to see that hard work pay off."

Mike Bailiff, ADV Films' Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing, added, "Canada is extremely important to ADV. The home video market for anime is just taking off, and no anime company has invested more time and attention to Canada than ADV. That's what makes it such a great honor to be recognized by Canadian Entertainment Network."

3-19-05 (6:41AM EST)---- Japan Society Manga Event

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA: As we gear up to celebrate our 100th Anniversary, we are thrilled to present an exciting program aimed to introduce an innovative new method to learn Japanese-through manga! This program, entitled Manga Mania! Quick and Easy Tips to Read Manga, will feature renowned author and translator, Wayne Lammers. His recently published work, Japanese the Manga Way: An Illustrated Guide to Grammar & Structure, provides an in-depth alternative Japanese language textbook using various manga excerpts and examples and Mr. Lammers will present quick and easy tips on using manga to learn Japanese. Joining Lammers will be Fred Schodt, author of Manga! Manga! and Dreamland Japan, who will provide background on the explosion of manga's popularity here in the U.S. Patrick Macias, author of TokyoScope: The Japanese Cult Film Companion and co-author of Cruising the Anime City - An Otaku Guide to Neo-Tokyo, will moderate this one of a kind discussion and Japanese lesson!
This exciting panel discussion on manga and the Japanese language will take place on Tuesday, May 3, 2005 at 6:00 PM at 312 Sutter Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA. Registration begins at 5:30 PM. RSVP required. You may register online at www.usajapan.org or call 415.986.4383. Admission is $10 for members; $15 for non-members; and $5 for students with ID.

About the Japan Society of Northern California This year, the Japan Society of Northern California is proud to celebrate its 100th anniversary! As the West Coast's leading forum on Japan and US-Japan relations, its mission is to strengthen cooperation and understanding between the peoples of the United States and Japan. From politics to pop culture, the Society provides programs that help to expand knowledge, increase interaction and facilitate discussion of important issues. Learn about Hello Kitty, the feline phenomenon, watch the 'Crazy 88' characters from Kill Bill duke it out in a show of supreme swordsmanship, or listen to experts discuss the impact of China's rising status upon Japan. Stay tuned for regular updates on upcoming events and programs as we continue to celebrate the past and envision the future! For additional information, please visit the Japan Society of Northern California's website at www.usajapan.org. Co-sponsored by and books sold courtesy of Stone Bridge Press
Source: Manga News Service

3-19-05 (6:34AM EST)---- Tokyopop Sakura Taisen Manga Set For July Debut

Just added to TOKYOPOP's July manga release schedule is Sakura Taisen, one of the most popular anime franchises of all time. Sakura Taisen began as a videogame in Japan and spawned 4 mega-hit games, a long-running TV show, 5 different OVA series and a feature film, all of which have been released in the U.S., generating an enormous amount of fan awareness and interest A fantastic blend of action and romance in the steampunk tradition, this series has a little something for everyone. Because of the property's popularity, the Sakura Taisen manga by renowned writer Hiroi Ouji (Legend of Himiko, Virgin Fleet), with character designs by the creator of Oh My Goddess, has been much anticipated and long-awaited by the manga fan community. And now the wait is over �c Sakura Taisen, from TOKYOPOP, will be available in stores July 2005!
Source: Manga News Service

3-18-05 (3:30AM EST)---- TANK S.W.A.T.01 Updates

Digital Tokiwa and DOGA has launched an official web space for their upcominng CG Film TANK S.W.A.T.01 at http://tank-swat.jp/. In just the last 24 hours the site has undergone a substantial update. A video trailer in Windows Media, Quicktime and MPEG file formats in 2 bandwidth flavors can now be accessed.

3-18-05 (3:28AM EST)---- Shueisha Brings Manga Settings To Life

The Shueisha girls' comics magazine event "Comic Party" has kicked off in Shibuya at Parco SR6 on Friday. Scenenery settings based on original ones found in the manga series NANA (dressing room), Hachimitsu To Kuroba and Love Con projected on to a screen where visitors can interact. Likewise a "Wall Scribbling System" will present so that particpants can leave their mark on the wall of the nightclub. Related products will also be sold such as reproduction manuscripts and postcards. Life-size character figures from Love Con will be on display. Entrance is free, the event runs through April 12th.
Source: Manga News Service

3-18-05 (2:28AM EST)---- Speed-Grapher Clip

GONZO updated the Speed-Grapher TV series website with a relatively small-size video clip which gives fans a first peek at the animation.

3-17-05 (6:11PM EST)---- Galaxy Angel Musical Opens

The popular Broccoli character franchise Galaxy Angel took to Shinjuku theater March 16th for the first public performance of the live action musical play version. The storyline occurs between the 2nd and thrid video games. It runs through March 22nd at the Kinokuniya Southern Theater.

3-17-05 (6:00PM EST)---- Lorelei Breaks 1 Billion Yen Barrier In 12 Days

It was announced in Japan Thursday that the manga influenced live action submarine film Lorelei has exceeded 1 billion Yen in profits in the 12 days since it's theatrical debut. Sales of the original novel on which the film's story is based have also increased from 1.45 million to 1.81 million copies sold since the openig day.

3-17-05 (5:50PM EST)---- Buck Tick On Trinity Blood OP

The Japanese group Buck Tick has been selected to perform the Opening Theme to GONZO's Trinity Blood TV series. The single with the track being titled "Dress (BLOODY TRINITY MIX)" is scheduled to go on sale April 20th.

3-17-05 (5:41PM EST)---- AIR Theatrical Engagement Extension

Originally opening to the public in Japan on February 5, the AIR animated film directed by Osamu Dezaki has had it's theatrical run extended at Ikebukuro's Cinema Sunshine. The movie is reportedly still a popular draw, and many young women have flocked to see it.

3-17-05 (5:37PM EST)---- New Crayon Shinchan ED Theme

AI will perform the new Crayon Shin Chan theme�gCrayon Beats" which is scheduled to release in CD single format on April 20. The track is joint produced by Kenji Hino and DJ YUTAKA and will serve as the Ending theme of the TV animation as well as be present in the film opening to the public on April 13.

3-17-05 (5:21PM EST)---- PUFFY Records TAF Preview Episode

On March 9th Yumi Yoshimura and Ami Onuki wrapped recording on a special preview episode of Cartoon Network's animated TV series, Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi, which will be broadcast nationwide from August. The special is scheduled to screen at the Tokyo Anime Fair on April 3rd. This was the first time either did a recording for their animated series roles. The original English version broadcast in the USA from November and took a ratings first place in the U.S. for children's animation along with a 4.6% share.

3-17-05 (4:12PM EST)---- NANA Single Tops Oricon

The tribute single to the girl's comic NANA "LOVE for NANA-Only 1 Tribute-" acquired 1st place on Oricon's daily album charts on the 16th.

3-17-05 (4:09PM EST)---- Current Doraemon Cast Records Final Performance

As previously reported the Doraemon TV animation which broadcasts on TV Asahi will be replaced by an all new voice cast from April. The current cast which has been in place for 26 years on the show will record it's final performance Friday.

3-17-05 (3:19PM EST)---- 4Kids Slips Do-Re-Mi Announcement

In a financial statement issued by 4Kids, it's mentioned that a new magical girl series called Do-Re-Mi will be broadcast on 4Kids Tv this fall. Yu Gi Oh also continues to remain a strong brand for the company, as it contributed to an increased revenue for the 4th quarter of 2004. (However, it appears to be losing its value, compared to TMNT and Cabbage Patch Kids.) Finally, there's a mention of a new G.I. Joe series which will be broadcast in September. Whether this is the one announced as being produced by Gonzo is still unknown at the present time.

Source: The Jagged Team Article written by Daniel Zelter

3-17-05 (1:18AM EST)---- Robots Producer Touts Steamboy As Future Of 2D

Long time contributor, Daniel sends in a link from a Box Office Mojo which talks to Jerry Davis, who co-produced studio Blue Sky's Robots:

BOM: Is traditional, two-dimensional animation dead?
Davis: I don't believe it's dead. Right now, it's difficult to make a 2D movie; the way budgets are right now. It's expensive to make a 2D movie that would be a good financial risk because the market seems to be enamored with 3D. You could do something like Team America. Steamboy's coming out. You're going to see some different types of 2D movies.

3-16-05 (10:57PM EST)---- Howl's Moving Castle US Cast And Release Details

New information was released in Japan Thursday on the American release of Howl's Moving Castle. The film, directed by Hayao Miyazaki will debut in the U.S. on June 16th in 60 cities. All told, it's expected to appear on 700-800 screens. An initial release in 3 cities (Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco) will occur June 10th. The English voice cast includes: Christian Bale (Batman Begins) as Howl, Jean Simmons as Old Sophie (Young Sophie is undecided), Lauren Bacall as Witch of Waste, Billy Crystal as Calcifer and Blythe Danner as Madamm Salliman. Distribution will be handled by Walt Disney. This will be the 3rd Ghibli film to open in the USA following Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away. Spirited Away grossed a 10 million 56 thousand dollar profit in America and the expectation for Howl's raises that figure by about 2 million 375 thousand dollars. Monsters Inc.'s Pete Doctor will direct the English dialogue.

3-16-05 (10:53PM EST)---- Bandai Games New PR Firm: Kohnke Communications

"As Bandai Games Inc.'s agency of record for 2005, we are committed to creating memorable campaigns for their titles. We understand the anime, kids, and video game audience, so we feel uniquely qualified to represent Bandai Games Inc. and raise media awareness and coverage for their titles," said Erica Kohnke Kain, President of Kohnke Communications. "Kohnke Communications' proven experience with successful public relations campaigns in the interactive entertainment industry made it easy for us during the selection process. We are thrilled with our new line-up of titles for this year which includes 'One Piece,' 'D.I.C.E.,' and 'Zatch Bell.' We know this agency is excited to work on our titles this year," said John Soller, Marketing Manager for Bandai Games.

3-16-05 (10:40PM EST)---- Navarre Clarifies FUNimation Acquisition Method

The Business Journals Navarre plans $125 million notes sale Navarre Corp. announced Wednesday it plans to sell $125 million in debt this spring, using the proceeds to pay for an acquisition. The offering, in the form of senior notes due 2012, is expected to close on or about April 1. Proceeds will be used to pay for the cash portion of its purchase of Funimation, a Forth Worth, Texas-based home video distributor and licenser of Japanese animation and children's entertainment in the United States.

3-16-05 (5:20PM EST)---- Mosburger To Market 1000 Yen Sandwich

Japan's Mosburger announced they will sale a 1000 Yen hamburger with sales limited. The 368.8g "10 Step" burger includes Yamagata and Yamaguchi prefecture sourced eggs and bacon from Hokkaido. This is the highest price menu item the chain has yet sold.

3-16-05 (4:49PM EST)---- Miss Marple Anime / Manga In UK

C12 Media reports Agatha Christie's silver-haired, handbag-wielding sleuth Miss Marple is set for an unlikely new lease of life in Japanese manga comics, as rights holder Chorion eyes expansion plans following a 35% hike in profits. The veteran detective's return to television screens in the UK last year was highlighted today as one of the factors behind the rise in Chorion's pre-tax profits from �3.2m in 2003 to �4.3m in 2004. The programme, coproduced by Chorion, Granada and US station PBS, has brought the Agatha Christie character to a new generation, with four two-hour dramas on ITV1 last autumn averaging a 33% audience share on Sunday evenings.

3-16-05 (4:49PM EST)---- Train Man Theatrical Play Debut Packs In 700

The theatrical play adaptation of the otaku internet love story Densha Otoko got it's first run in Shinjuku Theater Apple on the 12th. The performance audience became overcrowded, drawing 700 people. The Cast includes well know seiyuu Inoue Kikuko , Yokoyama Chisa , Horiuchi Satoshi and Takahashi Hiroki. The book version published by Shincho became a best-seller in October exceeded 500,000 copies sold. The movie opens in theaters in June.

3-16-05 (4:22PM EST)---- Princess Tenko Part Of American Themed Restaurant

The American themed Trinity restaurant had it's grand opening in Shibuya March 1st. There, visitors can enjoy all the calssic elements of traditional US sports grill including rock music, darts, pinball, slot machines, hamburgers fries and a wide selection of beer. Six plasma televisions stream American professional sports programming including MLB and NBA, NFL, and NHL. In addition, Saban's 1995 animation Tenko And The Guardians Of The Magic is being shown. The series is based on the real life Japanese magician. Three kinds of Tenko themed cocktails of will be served. The restaurant can accomadate 150 people.

3-16-05 (4:16PM EST)---- Korean And Japanese Animation At The NYICFF

Animation Insider has a report from the New York International Children's Film Festival on several Japanese and Korean anime offerings there.

3-16-05 (3:55PM EST)---- Classic Tezuka Disney Manga To Be Reprinted

Osamu Tezuka's 1951-52 circa Bambi and Pinocchio manga originally published in Manga Shonen by Gakudo Sha are headed for their first reprint in Japan in more than 50 years. The copyright holder Disney company has permitted the release, they recently marketed the DVD version of Bambi in the USA. The originals which were never reprinted after the initial sale have since taken on the value of several hundred thousand Yen in the secondhand book market. Disney is said to have permitted the reprint due to the work's cultural meaning. The Tezuka researcher Noguchi Fumio, who owns the best preserved originals known to exist, provided his copies which were scanned into computer editing program and digitally cleaned up. The result provides the master for this new release will sale as a single-unit at 3800 Yen (excluding tax) by Kodansha on April 10. Manga News Service

3-16-05 (3:40PM EST)---- Japan's Video Content Market Grows 8% In 2004

Sales of video content rose 8 per cent in 2004 from the previous year to 375.39 billion yen (US$3.58 billion), according to figures released by the Japan Video Software Association Monday. The market for DVDs, particularly foreign movies and animation, surged 24 per cent, making up for a drop in sales of video cassettes. Sales of DVDs reached 319.76 billion yen, or more than 80 per cent of all video content.
Source: Asia Pulse

3-16-05 (1:23AM EST)---- Kadokawa And CJ Announce Partnership

Kadokawa Holdings and the South Korean CJ Entertainment have announced a business tie-up in Tokyo Tuesday. CJ Entertainment is one of South Korea's largest and best performers in the areas of distribution and production. The new arrangement will facilitate the production of films based on a wide range of contents holdings including books and manga published by Kadokawa Shoten. CJ Entertainment will jointly produce the works which will be released to Japan and South Korea. Joint production of "Arrival of a message ant 3" is scheduled as the first of the business tie-up of the two companies now. The first product from the deal is said to be the horror sequel Chakuari 3.

3-15-05 (8:50PM EST)---- Kaleido Star OVA Announced

One year has passed since the Kaleido Star TV series finished it's broadcast in Japan. Just announced a few days ago is the coming OVA series "Kaleido Star: Treatment". Gonzo's digital staff will be producing and including several and small characters in 3D form. The original Director Sato-sensei will supervise the work. Sale is scheduled for this summer.

3-15-05 (8:46PM EST)---- Combating Anime Piracy In China

The Association for Computer software Copyright Society (ACCS) is aiming at the extermination of pirate edition Japanese software that has flooded the Chinese market. To this end they are establishing an representative office in Shanghai in April. They will cooperate with the Chinese authorities in sweeping away illegal copies and the pirate edition software made in Japan. Not only computer software but also pirate edition and character goods etc. such as Anime DVD's and books are being targeted. The amount damage such pirate media such as CD and DVD has risen to about the three trillion Yen scale as measured in 2002 according to the China State Council.

3-15-05 (6:09PM EST)---- Life Size Elemental Gerrard Figure At TAF

First displayed at the winter Winder Festival 2005, the life-size figure of the Elemental Gerrard character Ren will be present at the jointly set up booth of Geneon Entertainment and Taiken Konaga April 2nd and 3rd at the Tokyo International Anime Fair.

3-15-05 (4:38PM EST)---- Roujin Z HD Master Details

As previously reported Aniplex will release the Roujin Z HD Master Version on April 13th for 4,900 Yen. Disk is one sided, dual layer, running time is about 80 minutes. New details are out on the method used to create the HD master telecine used to encode to MPEG-2. This involved a 1080/24P image from a digital VTR format "HDCAM-SR". It's being said that both a high resolution and the high S/N ratio were achieved using this process. A theaterical run of the HD master version will occur in Ikebukuro April 2nd. Also an all night run entitled "Z Festival" will occur on April 9. Director Kubo will be on hand to talk about the film and answer questions.

3-15-05 (4:33PM EST)---- Satsuki And May Ticket Scalping Row Continues

Sankei Sports reports that substitution tickets to Satsuki and May's House of have appeared on the market in Internet auctions at an unprecedented rate. Simultaneously the official preorder has been completely buried by requests. Although official pre-regs were limited from 6 to 4 tickets, at present the Expo Society has not found an effective way to combat the scalping efforts or even slow it down. The Society investigated the auctions and found the tickets were fetching 3000 Yen on average and at max 10,000 Yen. It's being discussed what legal mesaures can be taken against the scalpers, according to Sankei, it is assumed that such activity may come under a violation of the Aichi Prefecture anti-stalking law. Rportedyl the society is consulting with the Aichi prefectural police about the substitution ticket acquisition for resale purposes now. The Society also proposed deletion of the listings to the auction management companys. Free invitation tickets issued to parties involved with the Expo have had the highest resale value of 30,000 Yen. 120,000 invitation tickets or more in total are being distributed by the exhibition team and the person of the Expo related to the local municipality etc.

3-15-05 (3:31PM EST)---- Weekend Japanese Boxoffice 3/12 - 3/13

Kogyo Tsushinsha has posted it's weekly figures from the Japanese movie theaters. Big moves this week as the double feature Rockman Exe & Duel Masters debuts in the #1 spot, this displaced the waters around the mangaesque submarine film Lorelei which sunk to a new depth at #2, SMAP's Shigo Katori voices Will Smith's original role in Shark Tale which dropped a spot to #3, One Piece The Movie 6 also dropped a spot to #4, Director Shusuke Kaneko's live action adaptation of Yu Koyama's manga Azumi 2 debuted in the #5 slot. All of this movement on the upper end of the chart left Hayao Miyazaki's Howl's Moving Castle down 3 spots from last week in the #8 position.

3-15-05 (3:30PM EST)---- Live Action Transformers

The Hollywood Reporter has an article on some developments in Hollywood on a coming live action Transformers movie project based on the popular Takara toyline. Scribes Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci have been tapped to write the DreamWorks/Paramount live-action adaptation.

3-15-05 (3:25PM EST)---- eigoMANGA Headed To Eisner's And Internet

eigoMANGA is pleased to announce that the company has officially entered its two comic book publications series, RUMBLE PAK and SAKURA PAKK as nomination contenders for the 2005 Eisner Awards. To celebrate, eigoMANGA's website will release the complete first series of RUMBLE PAK and SAKURA PAKK online for free at www.eigoMANGA.com.
RUMBLE PAK and SAKURA PAKK are both competing for the nomination for Best Anthology of 2005. Both comics are manga anthologies published by eigoMANGA that features a collection of original manga stories created by American artists. "We are thrilled that both comics have been recognized by the Eisner Awards committee and have an opportunity to contend against other great comic book anthologies this year", claims Austin Osueke, eigoMANGA publisher for both books.
RUMBLE PAK has been labeled a shonen manga which features comic stories geared towards male readers while SAKURA PAKK has been labeled a shojo manga which features comic stories geared towards female readers. Fans and comic industry experts have positively responded to both comics since its initial release in 2004. RUMBLE PAK has been featured in museum exhibitions and various stories have branched off into successful 3rd party licensing ventures such as animation and endorsement campaigns. SAKURA PAKK has developed a substantial core audience and inspired a new line of shojo manga anthology series from competitive manga publishing companies. I'm particularly interested in the friendly rivalry we have between both comics that have been cultivated by our editors and fans. It will be fun to see which comic wins out in the nomination race" states Osueke.

The editors of eigoMANGA have released the complete first series of RUMBLE PAK and SAKURA PAKK for a limited time on www.eigoMANGA.com in celebration of it's nomination contention. The Eisner Awards are presented under the auspices of Comic-Con International, San Diego, a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to creating awareness of and appreciation for comics and related popular art forms primarily through the presentation of conventions and events that celebrate the historic and ongoing contributions of comics to art and culture.
Source: Manga News Service

3-14-05 (11:32PM EST)---- Kichijoji Animation Festival This Weekend

The 2005 Kichijoji Animation Festival opens at JR Kichijoji Station north exit on the 19th and 20th. The event was started as a related event of the Tokyo International Anime Fair in 2002. The sister Kichijoji Animation Wonderland sister event occurs in autumn. Kichijoji itself is the home to many anime production companies. This year the theme of the lecture portion is "The Culture Sent From Kichijoji". The Kichijoji Toy Market which has become a successful feature will be open there both days 10:30 - 7:30PM, featuring 35 vendors.

3-14-05 (10:27PM EST)---- Steamboy Reviews And Theaters

So far, Rotten Tomatoes has only gathered positive reviews from various critics and trades. Famed American movie critic Roger Ebert should also have a review ready on opening day. The official website has updated with a list of 40 theaters for the North American Region. Thanks to Daniel for the news.

3-14-05 (4:47PM EST)---- AP Article: "Japanese Comic Books Stir Debate In High Schools And Libraries "

Maine Today has repreinted an AP piece on manga coming under debate in American educational institutions and libraries. Source: Manga News Service

3-14-05 (4:47PM EST)---- Go Comics Teams With Tokyopop To Bring Manga To Mobiles

In an exclusive arrangement, TOKYOPOP and GoComics have launched three original properties for wireless use. Princess Ai, @Large and ShutterBox are now available to mobile operators and their subscribers. Manga graphic novels are a Japanese comic phenomena that has quickly become the fastest growing segment of North American book retail sales. "Everything is manga these days," says GoComics CEO Chris Pizey. "Book stores' comic book shelves are dominated by this style of art. It's tremendously exciting to be working with TOKYOPOP to bring the hottest graphic trend in the world to mobile phone users." Manga graphic novels appeal to the new generation of young adults - men and women both - increasingly influenced by international culture, by mixing traditional action with elegant stories about human relationships. "Princess Ai is the #1 selling manga hit comic that appeals to women 16-25. @Large has a following of men 18-30 and ShutterBox is favored by women 13 to 20. These are great demographics for mobile phone users." "We are delighted to work with GoComics in bringing our popular manga titles to the small screen." says Kathryn Klingler, Director of Licensing for TOKYOPOP.
Source: Manga News Service

3-14-05 (4:41PM EST)---- Sean Lennon To Adapt Japanese Novel

A cast is quickly swirling around Sean Lennon's indie screenplay "Coin Locker Babies", with commercials/musicvid director Michele Civetta attached to helm reports Variety. Lennon has penned a script based on the Japanese novel by Ryu Murakami ("Almost Transparent Blue"). Negotiations are under way with Vincent Gallo, Liv Tyler and Asia Argento to topline the indie pic. Production is scheduled to begin late this fall.

The surreal story follows two troubled boys who were abandoned in adjacent train station lockers as infants and raised in orphanages. They set out together to seek revenge on the women who abandoned them. Lennon would play one of the boys.
Thanks to 'Slot Fill'
Source: Dark Horizons | Thanks to Daniel for the link

3-14-05 (2:30PM EST)---- Live Action Dragonball Director?

The Chilean Director Alejandro Amenabar whose film The Sea Inside swept up several movie prizes including the 77th Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film is in Japan currently. And rumors are flying in the Japanese press that it may be becuase he is going to be attached to the coming Live Action Hollywood Dragonball movie project. In 2002 Amenabar appeared on a late night TV show in Spain where he revealed that he was offered directing duties for the film. He mentioned declining the offer.

3-14-05 (1:55PM EST)---- Romance Of The Three Kingdoms Doll Exhibition

The mayor of Iida City announced the scheduled doll exhibition of "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" of NHK on the tenth. It will take place in the spring of 2007 when a new Doll museum opens. The animation director Kihachiro Kawamoto decided on donating the dolls. About 100 Yingjie from "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" will be shown.

3-14-05 (1:35PM EST)---- Naruto Movie to Become First UMD Anime Release

Aniplex announced it was contributing to the small but growing number of anime releases on Sony's UMD video disc format which is proprietary to the PSP handheld. It will be marketed simultaneously with the DVD in Japan on the April 28th. The film originally opened in theaters on August 21, 2004. While other anime UMD ports have been announced, Naruto will have the distinction of being the first to see a street release.

3-14-05 (1:22PM EST)---- Tokyo Dome Aurora Vision Revamp

Tokyo Dome's large video display, "Aurora Vision" has been retrofitted with new technology. The revised version owas unveiled to the public on the 14th. The main scoreboard has been integrated with a hi-res super-panoramic screen color screen 34 meters wide and seven meters in height. With this addition Tokyo Dome now boasts the highest resolution giant video screen of any stadium in Japan.

3-14-05 (1:11PM EST)---- Tales Of Legendia Theme Announced

Namco's Tales Of Phantasia game series has shared a long relationship with both anime and manga and popular seiyuu and J-Pop ever since it's Super Famicom debut. Now, for the coming PS2 release of Tales Of Legendia, the pop unit "Do As Infinity" has been selected to provide the theme song, TAO. "Kill Bill" anime segment supervisor Noboru Nakazawa has been appointed to the role of character design. The theme will be present in the animation OP to the game.

3-14-05 (12:32PM EST)---- PUFFY AmiYumi Releases Promo Clip Collection

Puffy's USA activities including 'Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi' will be the focus of a Promo clip collection (undecided the title) release in Japan on May 11th. The cartoon network theme from TEEN TITANS and six singles from "Boogie-woogie No.5" announced in 2000 to �gSunrise" in February last year has been collected.

3-14-05 (12:32PM EST)---- Card Captor Sakura TV DVD BOX

Watch Impress has some updated details along with the first cover image of the Card Captor Sakura DVD BOX. Originally broadcast by NHK in 1998, the release features Dolby Digital 5.1ch audio and new video matered from the high-definition television telecine.

3-14-05 (11:32AM EST)---- Nagasaki 1945: Anzerasu No Kane

A completion announcement / screening event for the animated movie Nagasaki 1945: Anzerasu No Kane will be held August 6. Marking another anime film which looks back on war in Japan on this 60th anniversary since, Nagasaki 1945 bases it's story around the devastaing atomic bomb drop on the city. August 6th happens to coincide with the Hiroshima atomic bombing. Look for this work to open in 5 venues across the prefecture by the end of August.

3-14-05 (11:20AM EST)---- New Fushigi Yuugi PS2 Game

Idea Factory's new game brand geared toward women, "Aiefu Otomeito" has announced first details on one of their first PS2 games based on Yuu Watase's blockbuster 1995 manga which sold over 14 million copies. Titled "Fushigi Yuugi: genbu kai den gaiden kagami no miko", the game will offer multiple scenario paths, combo attack planning, multiple endings as well as original voice clips supplied the animation cast. Both a limited and regular version will be sold. Goodies with the limited release include original picture collection and seiyuu interview CD.

3-14-05 (11:08AM EST)---- Japan's Movie Industry Up Nearly 5%

The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry announced movie theater ticket sales have shown an increase for 3 consecutive months yeilding sales of 14 billion 499 million Yen or roughly a 4.7% increase compared with the same timeframe of the previous year. The news came according to a specific service industry dynamic statistics investigation news flash announced on the 11th. Attendance figures for hits such as "Tokyo Tower" and "0 years of the north" showed a 53.9% increase while Howl's Moving Castle showed a 24.7% increase.

3-14-05 (10:41AM EST)---- Osaka Based Digital Tokiwa Adapts Masamune Shirow

Newcomer Digital Tokiwa (http://d-tokiwa.jp/) has announced their first animated film will be almost completely computer produced with a planned summer release in Japan. The Osaka based studio took their name from the apartment "Tokiwa" in Tokyo where names such as Osamu Tezuka and Fujiko Fujio gathered when they were young in the 1950's. The company was established last spring, the president is Masaru Kamada. Making use of the latest CG techniques, "TANK S.W.A.T.01 (tank Special Weapons And Tactics Zero-1)" based on the original concept by Masamune Shirow will see it's premiere in Osaka on the 18th. The SF tale takes place in a near future Kobe where police girls protect the law with a special tank regiment. A brokerage firm, Osaka City, and Osaka Prefecture, etc. are participating in the planning. Likewise a fund has been established for the production cost.

3-14-05 (2:22AM EST)---- Latest Crayon Shin-Chan Film

The Crayon Shin-chan animation franchise marches on in Japan with the 13th film due in Japanese theaters on April 16. The plot is said to involve Mirai Man. Directing is Mutouyuge.

3-14-05 (2:09AM EST)---- New Amano Exhibition In Ueno

The visionary artist and designer Yoshitaka Amano (Vampire Hunter D - Final Fantasy Series Chara Designs) has announced a new Exhibition at Ueno Forrest Museum in Tokyo. Being titled "Maniera", the show will run from Tuesday, May 3, 2005 to Tuesday, May 10. This exhibition will be a large-scale one-man show in Japan following his past ventures "THINK LIKE AMANO" held in the museum in 1998, and "New York Nights" which featured 3m�~16m prints. Over 360 iart pieces will be present including a 'Final Fantasy' room.

3-14-05 (1:29AM EST)---- New Doraemon Voice Cast Announced

On Saturday TV Asahi announced the five seiyuu that will replace the current Doraemon TV anime voice cast in the spring. Wasabi Mizuta (14): Doraemon - Megumi Oohara (29): Nobita - Tomokazu Seki (31): Suneo - Yumi Kakazu(30): Shizuka-chan - Subaru Kimura(32): Gian. Pass in a new member from broadcasting on April 15. By contrast, the current voice cast all got their roles in their 40's in 1979. They are: Nobuyo Oyama (68), Noriko Ohara (69), Kazuya Tatekabe (70), Kaneta Kimotsuki (69) and Michiko Nomura (66). The new voice new look version of Doraemon is being screened at the Aichi Expo in Nagoya from the end of this month. An official press conference is being held in Roppongi Hills arena on the 28th to announce the new cast. Source: ZakZak

3-14-05 (12:44AM EST)---- HD Master Roujin Z DVD Release In Japan

Directed by Hiroyuki Kitakubo with Script by Katsuhiro Otomo, Character Designs by Hisashi Eguchi and Art Design by then newcomer Satoshi Kon, the 1991 film Roujin Z originally saw a region 2 DVD release in Japan in 2002. Now, coming April 13th is the "HD Master Version" which is apparantly sourced with higher sound and video resolution than the original. The jacket features a new illustration by Hisashi Eguchi. Retail is 4,900 Yen. Source: CD Journal

3-14-05 (12:44AM EST)---- Sazae-san Voice Changes

Seiyuu will swap on the long running popular anime TV series "Sazae-san" broadcast on Fuji Television Network-affiliated stations on April 3rd. On that date, Makoto Tsumura will takeover the voice of Wakame-chan from Michiko Nomura who debuted in the role April, 1976. Sazae-san has run over 1800 episodes with ratings hitting the double digit mark regularly since it's debut in 1969. Source: Yahoo News (Japanese)

3-14-05 (12:12AM EST)---- New Zeta Movie Trailers And Release Date

Sunrise has uploaded 2 trailers for their coming animation remix film Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam: A New Translation-Heirs to the Stars to the official www.z-gundam.net website. Likewise an official nationwide (Japan) theatrical release has been announced for Saturday, May 28, 2005. Source: Sunrise

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