1)"Currently covering some small festival in Sarlat, a small french town where the food is better than the movies screened, I just met some PR from Buena Vista French Office... He announces me that Hayao Miyazaki will definetely be in Paris some days between 15 and 23rd of december for the Nouvelles images du Japon at the forum des images. I guess (but I could be wrong) it will be the first time the master will trip to another country. This BV's guy also confirmed that the zone 2 Princesse Mononoke's dvd is delayed once more. Even if the press report from the video district assures that it will be on the shelves before the end of january, the guy cross his heart that it won't be before at least march. He also told that BV is amazed by the demand on Spirited Away from the theaters. They will launch it as they do for any Disney's animated film : massively. If Spirited Away does the same that Mononoke did here (+ 500,000 tickets), BV will release each january a Ghibli film."
2)"Sijmen sent me a very useful list of confirmed foreign language Oscar entries from countries worldwide:" from Japan, Go. According to the description it is "a less known drama by Yukisada Isao about a boy who is both Japanese and Korean"
Source : http://www.aint -it-cool-news.com/display.cgi?id=10748
BANDAI ENTERTAINMENT SETS JANUARY 25, 2002 FOR THEATRICAL
RELEASE OF ANIMÉ FEATURE
ESCAFLOWNE
Eagerly Anticipated Animé Theatrical To Screen In Top U.S. And Canada
Markets Prior To National Roll-Out Slated For February 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Hollywood, CA (November 11, 2001) - Bandai Entertainment will launch
Escaflowne into theatrical release on Friday, January 25, 2002 within top
U.S. and Canadian markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San
Francisco and Vancouver, opening the eagerly anticipated animé film prior to
a February, 2002 national roll-out.
A motion picture production based on one of the most popular animé titles, Escaflowne is celebrated animator Shoji Kawamori's cutting-edge vision of a world where good and evil hinge on a girl's ability to find meaning for her own life.
Taking animé to new levels as an entertainment form for adults, Escaflowne blends romance and fantasy to tell the story of Hitomi Kanzaki, an ordinary high school student whose life has lost all meaning. Feeling at her most desperate, she wishes that she could just disappear into thin air - a wish that is immediately granted when a mysterious man suddenly materializes and catapults her away from Earth. Hitomi is instantly thrust into Gaia, a strange new world ruled by sword and sorcery, where a fierce battle rages between a rebel group and the ruling Black Dragon Clan for power over the legendary dragon armor called Escaflowne. For the first time in her teenage life, Hitomi realizes she can make a difference - this time the fate of a world is in her hands.
The term used for Japanese animation, 'Animé' offers lifelike characters, rich environments, compelling personalities that range from comical to dangerous and engrossing worlds that appeal to audiences across the globe. Outside of Japan, animé has generated devoted fans worldwide for its unique style that represents a significant departure from the traditional U.S.-produced animated cartoons.
Escaflowne has its roots in the acclaimed anime television series The Vision of Escaflowne, which aired in the U.S. on the Fox Kids Network and YTV in Canada. Since the series' successful telecast, fans nationwide have embraced the story of Hitomi, Van Fanel - prince of the ravaged kingdom - and the legendary god of protection, Escaflowne.
Bandai Entertainment/Escaflowne
Said Ken Iyadomi, Executive Vice President, Bandai Entertainment: "Escaflowne epitomizes Japanese animé, providing a compelling film that breaks down the barrier of animation as an entertainment genre for children only. For fans of animé, as well as for all moviegoers, Escaflowne is a visual feast, and an exciting story brilliantly told with battle scenes and breathtaking displays of supernatural power that unfolds on the screen."
The Director of Escaflowne is Kazuki Akane, who also directed The Vision of Escaflowne television series; Cast includes Kelly Sheridan, Kirby Morrow, Paul Dobson, Andrew Francis, Brian Drummond and Venus Terzo Producers are Masuo Ueda, Minoru Takanashi, Masahiko Minami and Toyoyuki Yokohama; Screenwriter is Ryota Yamaguchi and Kazuki Sekine; Animators are Hajime Yatate and Shoji Kawamori;Music is composed by Yoko Kanno and Hajime Mizoguchi.
Bandai Entertainment Inc. is the premier distributor of Japanese animation home video in North America. Launching under its online brand - AniméVillage.com in 1998, Bandai is committed to the mainstream success of Japanese animation in the United States for the new millennium. In little less than two years and with over 40 home video releases - Bandai has quickly become the leader in the Japanese animation. The company has distributed notable titles like "Mobile Suit Gundam series", "The Vision of Escaflowne" and "Cowboy Bebop." Bandai Entertainment Inc. is a subsidiary of Bandai America Inc., who makes the toys for the FOX hit television series, Power Rangers and Digimon. Bandai Entertainment Inc. focuses on home video distribution and licensing. All U.S. operations are headquartered in a large, ultra-modern facility in Cypress, Calif. Bandai Co., Ltd is the third largest toy company in the world comprising 53 subsidiaries in 18 countries. In addition to toys and children's entertainment, Bandai Co.'s global interests include video game software, multimedia, music and full-length feature films, vending machines, trading cards, candies, and licensed apparel.
Within only a matter of a few days, the limited supply of the Cowboy Bebop Art Boxes have already sold out! Thanks to everyone who made the Box sale such a success and congratulations to those who got their orders in early enough to secure one. Boxes should begin shipping sometime late next week.
You've asked for it and after long hours of grueling work (not to mention food depravation), it's finally here. Our online store now features the ability to check the availability of all our great products! To check item status, simply select any item in our catalog and then just scroll down to see Product Availability! Items will either be listed as In Stock, On Order from the Manufacturer, or Available for Pre-Order. If the item is a pre-order item, the release date will be given above it. Remember, we're still testing this new system and working hard to bring you the features you want, so if you experience any technical difficulties or would like to suggest further improvements, please email info@rightstuf.com. Thank you for your continuing support of our efforts!
Bandai has informed us that they will no longer be producing a VHS version of Jinroh. Instead, the company will be focusing on producing two DVDs: the Regular Jinroh DVD and a Special Edition DVD. The special edition is expected to be packed with goodies including: Special Edition Slip Case Packaging, JinRoh Original CD Soundtrack, Interviews with Cast and Creators, 12 Page JinRoh Booklet, Japanese Theatrical Trailers, English Theatrical Trailers, and more! If you had placed a pre-order for the Jinroh VHS with us, please contact customer service at 1-800-338-6827.
Buy your airline tickets to Tokyo now. Live orchestral performances of video game music have become increasingly common in Japan over the last number of years, with some series such as Dragon Quest publishing several symphonic albums sometimes performed by orchestras as prestigious as the London Philharmonic. Final Fantasy, however, despite the relative fame of series composer Nobuo Uematsu and the immense popularity it enjoys on both sides of the Pacific, has only seen one orchestral performance: a 1989 concert consisting of music from Final Fantasy I & II by the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra, and published as Final Fantasy Symphonic Suite. Although some pieces from Final Fantasy games have since been arranged and performed as part of the Orchestral Game Concert series, there has never been a dedicated Final Fantasy concert since '89.
That will no longer be true come February 20th of next year, when Square is planning a concert titled simply "Music from Final Fantasy" at 7:00 PM at the Tokyo International Forum. For those of our readers fortunate enough to be in the area at that time, tickets will be available for presale from November 12th to 20th and go on general sale on December 8th at the price of 6000 yen for all seats. There's still hope for the rest of us, however, as Square is likely to release an album of the performance. Although no official announcement has been made, the previous concert was released as an album, and given the number of soundtracks Square has announced recently, it's unlikely that they'd pass up an opportunity like this.
The TV animation of G-Gundam was produced by Sunrise, running in Japan in 1994, composing the season of Gundam just prior to Shin Kido Senki Gundam Wing in 1995. Plot-wise G-Gundam has been refered to as the "Dragon Ball" of Gundam due to the fact that the story, occuring in FC 95, revolves around a battle tournament where the "13th Gundam Fight" has began, the ring is the planet Earth. A nanotechnological monster of unspeakable power has been set free an now Neo Japanese Gundam fighter Domon Kasshu has came to Earth, not only to win the tournament but to find the Devil gundam, created by his father and was stolen by his brother, Kyouji Kasshu, before a catasthrope befalls the world. Of note production wise is G-Gundam director Yasuhiro Imagawa was also involved with the Giant Robo series.
Staff and Air Data:
49 episodes - aired April 22, 1994 to March 31,
1995
Director: Yasuhiro Imagawa
Scenario: Fuyushi Gobu
Character design: Hiroshi Osaka
Mecha design: Hajime Katoki
Kunio Okawara
Kimitoshi Yamane
Mechanic design: Hirotoshi Sano
The new Lycos Search site (http://search.lycos.com) is simpler and easier to use, delivering the freshest results available on the Web. The new index refresh rate is conservatively two and one half times more frequent than any other full Internet index. The less cluttered layout reduces the search area from five sections to two and Web Results are now presented above the fold. E-commerce searches take users directly to a section marked ``Sponsored Listings.''
Terra Lycos is a leading provider of content for young adults. The new, redesigned Angelfire (http://angelfire.lycos.com) is entertainment-focused with strong network integration promoting content from TV, Entertainment, Celebrities, Movies and Games, geared to the largest Angelfire audience, users under age 20. New site features include ``Zones'' inspired by teens' favorite homepage topics, like movies, music, comics, celebrities and anime. When Angelfire users are ``in the zone,'' they'll have access to the latest news, video clips, MP3s, links to clubs and chats, polls and much more. Angelfire users also have direct links to other Terra Lycos Network products and services including e-mail, instant messaging, Teen Matchmaker, chat, message boards and clubs and content areas like Lycos Entertainment and Lycos Music. New site features also include daily interactive polls and surveys giving Angelfire users even more ways to tell the world what they are thinking.
Check out the Anime section here.
Tacky animation not fit for a ``Prince'' The Prince Of Light: The Legend Of Ramayana (Animated, Japan-India-U.S., color, PG, 1:36)
By Robert Koehler
HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - A curious fusion of an interesting if simplified literary adaptation with emphatically second-rate animation technique, ``The Prince of Light,'' in the works for the better part of a decade, leaves much of its magic on the drawing board.
While the picture manages to compress the sprawling Indian epic ``The Ramayana'' into a 96-minute action-oriented piece shorn of the tale's Hindu notions -- a compression seemingly in line with recent animated features and shrewdly designed to appeal to a global, non-Hindu audience -- that audience is nevertheless, also firmly accustomed to highly refined animation conceptions and technology. It's here, as well as in the gratingly poor vocal casting and direction, where the picture is thoroughly sub-standard and looks profoundly dated.
After a short invasion of theaters, pic will survive as a video item for parents looking to introduce their kids to world literature.
Story begins with a primal battle of good vs. evil as the nasty king of Lanka (the mythic version of Sri Lanka), Ravan (Tom Wyner), attacks and pillages his neighbors. He hasn't yet gotten to the land of King Dasharatha (Mike L. Reynolds), who ensures his rule by bestowing trust in his two eldest sons, Ram (Bryan Cranston) and Lakshman (Richard Cansino).
Producer Krishna Shah's and helmer Yugo Sako's script adapts the Valmiki version of ``The Ramayana'' with an eye toward maximum action and minimal court intrigue -- and even less Hinduism -- so it's no accident that the brothers' (especially Ram's) training in superhuman powers has more than an echo in it of ``Star Wars.''
Having defeated monstrous witch Tataka (Catherine Battistone), Ram triumphs in a contest to win the pretty Sita (Edie Mirman) as his wife. Unlike in the original epic, matters become murky, as Ram, Sita and Lakshman are abruptly sent into a forest exile due to a misguided promise Dasharatha had made to one of his wives. Sita is exposed to the clutches of Ravan, who kidnaps her and sets up a battle royal with Ram. Epic's division into two halves is roughly adhered to, but the animation suffers badly from the wait until Ram's troops -- comprised mostly of wily monkey soldiers -- wage war on the island of Lanka. The combination of Manga and the Indian animated style of Ravi Varma might have worked with the right artists, but Sako's team produces stiffness all around, from silly mouth movements to ludicrous facial expressions and mechanical body motion, which are more visible in the exposition and court scenes than on the battlefield.
Ram finally takes over in the inevitable face-off with Ravan, which also finally allows animators to display some dynamic range of colors and movement -- and the kind of fun stuff that recalls Ray Harryhausen, as when Ravan, seemingly beheaded, revives with seven heads.
Just as the background illustration appears stylistically removed from the forms of the characters, so the blatantly American vocal casting and direction are painfully out of kilter with the 5,000-year-old Indian setting.
Voices: Bryan Cranston, Edie Mirman, Tom Wyner, Richard Cansino, Michael Sorich, Mike L. Reynolds, Tony Pope, Mari Devon, Simon Prescott, Barbera Goodson, Kirk Thornton, Steve Bulen, Eddie Friarson, Jeff Winkless, Catherine Battistone, Michael McConnohie.
A Showcase Entertainment release of a Showcase Entertainment and Krishna Shah presentation of a Nippon Ramayana & MRI Inc. production. Produced by Krishna Shah, Yugo Sato. Executive producer, Atsushi Matsuo.
Directed by Yugo Sako. Screenplay, Krishna Shah, Sako, based on ``The Ramayana'' by Valmiki . Animation director (WRS Motion Picture and Video Lab color), Kazuyuki Koyabayashi; editors, Makato Arai, Wayne Schmidt; music, Vanraj Bhatia, Alan Howarth; art director, Hajime Matsuoka; sound (Dolby), Raj Dutt; sound designer, Howarth; supervising sound editor, Matthew Mitchell; special visual effects, Tokiko Tamai, Takeshi Soto, Kaoru Tanifuji, Matsuko Shibata; associate producers, Daniel M. Levine, Sean Brennan, Mark Dolev; assistant directors, Koichi Sasaki, Ram Mohan; voice direction, Steve Kramer; casting, Reuben Cannon. Reviewed at Big Time Picture Co. screening room, L.A., Nov. 5, 2001. REUTERS
Bandai Entertainment Sets January 25, 2002 for Theatrical Release Of Anime Feature 'Escaflowne' Eagerly Anticipated Anime Theatrical to Screen in Top U.S. and Canada Markets Prior to National Roll-Out Slated for February 2002
Nov. 9 - Bandai Entertainment will launch ``Escaflowne'' into theatrical release on Friday, January 25, 2002 within top U.S. and Canadian markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco and Vancouver, opening the eagerly anticipated anime film prior to a February, 2002 national roll-out.
A motion picture production based on one of the most popular anime titles, ``Escaflowne'' is celebrated animator Shoji Kawamori's cutting-edge vision of a world where good and evil hinge on a girl's ability to find meaning for her own life.
Taking anime to new levels as an entertainment form for adults, ``Escaflowne'' blends romance and fantasy to tell the story of Hitomi Kanzaki, an ordinary high school student whose life has lost all meaning. Feeling at her most desperate, she wishes that she could just disappear into thin air -- a wish that is immediately granted when a mysterious man suddenly materializes and catapults her away from Earth. Hitomi is instantly thrust into Gaia, a strange new world ruled by sword and sorcery, where a fierce battle rages between a rebel group and the ruling Black Dragon Clan for power over the legendary dragon armor called Escaflowne. For the first time in her teenage life, Hitomi realizes she can make a difference -- this time the fate of a world is in her hands.
The term used for Japanese animation, 'Anime' offers lifelike characters, rich environments, compelling personalities that range from comical to dangerous and engrossing worlds that appeal to audiences across the globe. Outside of Japan, anime has generated devoted fans worldwide for its unique style that represents a significant departure from the traditional U.S.-produced animated cartoons.
``Escaflowne'' has its roots in the acclaimed anime television series ``The Vision of Escaflowne,'' which aired in the U.S. on the Fox Kids Network and YTV in Canada. Since the series' successful telecast, fans nationwide have embraced the story of Hitomi, Van Fanel -- prince of the ravaged kingdom -- and the legendary god of protection, Escaflowne.
Said Ken Iyadomi, Executive Vice President, Bandai Entertainment: ``'Escaflowne' epitomizes Japanese anime, providing a compelling film that breaks down the barrier of animation as an entertainment genre for children only. For fans of anime, as well as for all moviegoers, 'Escaflowne' is a visual feast, and an exciting story brilliantly told with battle scenes and breathtaking displays of supernatural power that unfolds on the screen.''
The Director of ``Escaflowne'' is Kazuki Akane, who also directed ``The Vision of Escaflowne'' television series; Cast includes Kelly Sheridan, Kirby Morrow, Paul Dobson, Andrew Francis, Brian Drummond and Venus Terzo. Producers are Masuo Ueda, Minoru Takanashi, Masahiko Minami and Toyoyuki Yokohama; Screenwriter is Ryota Yamaguchi and Kazuki Sekine; Animators are Hajime Yatate and Shoji Kawamori; Music is composed by Yoko Kanno and Hajime Mizoguchi.
Bandai Entertainment Inc. is the premier distributor of Japanese animation home video in North America. Launching under its online brand -- AnimeVillage.com in 1998, Bandai is committed to the mainstream success of Japanese animation in the United States for the new millennium. In little less than two years and with over 40 home video releases -- Bandai has quickly become the leader in the Japanese animation. The company has distributed notable titles like ``Mobile Suit Gundam series,'' ``The Vision of Escaflowne'' and ``Cowboy Bebop.'' Bandai Entertainment Inc. is a subsidiary of Bandai America Inc., who makes the toys for the FOX hit television series, ``Power Rangers'' and ``Digimon.'' Bandai Entertainment Inc. focuses on home video distribution and licensing. All U.S. operations are headquartered in a large, ultra-modern facility in Cypress, Calif. Bandai Co., Ltd is the third largest toy company in the world comprising 53 subsidiaries in 18 countries. In addition to toys and children's entertainment, Bandai Co.'s global interests include video game software, multimedia, music and full-length feature films, vending machines, trading cards, candies, and licensed apparel.
Source: Daniel
Source: Daniel-san
Fantasy, Adventure, Romance and Comedy Start the New Year
MONTHLY COMIC SERIES'
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - November 7, 2001 - Viz Communications, Inc. today announced the January 2002 release of various comic titles. Part of the extensive Viz Comics line, the following titles are the next installments in their respective, continuing series and feature black & white art for prices ranging from $2.95 to $4.95 U.S.
CERES, CELESTIAL LEGEND PART 2 #2: RESIDING REACTIONS - After Ceres' power hospitalizes her mother, a grief-stricken Aya returns to the Aogiri household. Meanwhile, Aki's escape from the Mikage family compound may not have lasted long if Tôya had not found him. How will Aya react when she sees her twin brother? Story & Art by Yű Watase 32 pages $2.95 U.S. ($4.95 CAN)
DRAGON BALL PART 4 #6: MONSTER MASH - Goku and his friends must get past an old witch's gauntlet of supernatural fighters to ask one question of her - "Where is the last Dragon Ball?" First, Kuririn, Oolong and Pu'ar fight the Vampire then, Yamcha steps into the ring against the Invisible Man! Story & Art by Akira Toriyama 48 pages $2.95 U.S. ($4.95 CAN)
DRAGON BALL Z PART 5 #1: THE THREE WISHES - Kuririn, Gohan and Dende activate the Namekian Dragon Balls and summon the Namekian Dragon God. Their first two wishes bring Piccolo back to life and transport him to Planet Namek, his homeworld, which he has never seen before. But Vegeta demands that their third wish be to give HIM immortality! And Freeza, who wants the same thing for himself, is only seconds away! Story & Art by Akira Toriyama 48 pages $2.95 U.S. ($4.95 CAN)
INU-YASHA PART 6 #9: THE WRATH CONTINUES - Kagome vaporizes most of Naraku's demonic body with a pull of the bow and the whiz of an arrow, to the awe of all witnesses! But with Naraku defeated for now, Sango must come to grips with the fact that her brother is now an agent of the very demon that slaughtered their entire village. Story & Art by Rumiko Takahashi 40 pages $2.95 U.S ($4.95 CAN)
MAGICAL POKéMON JOURNEY PART 6 #3: GREEN JEALOUSY - Hazel must take care of a group of Hoppip for the day. Can she handle the stress of being around dozens of these crazy characters? Then, Chikorita and Pistachio are getting cozy.but Bulba might have something to say about it! Story & Art by Yumi Tsukirino 40 pages, Squarebound $4.95 U.S. ($7.95 CAN)
POKéMON ADVENTURES PART 6 #2: AGATHA'S ARBOK - Crusading Pokémon Trainers Green, Blue, and Bill must team up with their old archenemies in Team Rocket if they hope to stand a chance to battle the incredible strength of the Elite Four! First encounter: Blue and Koga versus Agatha! Story & Art by MATO 48 pages, Squarebound $4.95 U.S. ($7.95 CAN)
RANMA 1/2 PART 10 #10: IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE - Shampoo's evil brooch is found to be the reason for her mood swings and Ranma takes her on a date to get the scoop. Then, Ranma is supposedly scheduled to declare his love for Shampoo, but what's the real story? Story & Art by Rumiko Takahashi 32 pages $2.95 U.S. ($4.95 CAN)
Did you already buy your copy of the Cowboy Bebop DVDs?
Well fear not! Now you can
turn them into a Limited Edition!
In an exclusive deal with Bandai, Right Stuf will be selling the Art Box to
the
upcoming Cowboy Bebop DVD Limited Edition Set! These heavy duty boxes will
stand
up to rigorous use. The boxes have a hinged lid at the top and sport a
sleek
coated picture of our favorite crew of bounty hunters on the front (not to
mention
a great spot of Ein on the back).
We only have a limited amount of these so when they're gone, they're gone!
Get yours today!
http://www.rightstuf.
com/mailing-preorder/cbbox
The Prince of Light This Japanese-made cartoon is less an adaptation of the ancient Indian epic Ramayana than a Cliffs Notes, clocking in at just less than an hour and a half and rushing from plot point to plot point in an attempt to get everything in. Sad to say, it's at the expense of character development. All the hallmarks of classic myth are here: the banished prince, his true love, an evil emperor, demons, giants, flying horses, magic powers and, since we're in India, elephants and giant monkeys. It's a good story with a different kind of fantasy setting than we're used to, and one that hasn't been filmed in the West, but director Yugo Sako and producer Krishna Shah don't pull it off as well as it should be done. The animation's at a primitive pre-Akira level, the songs sound like Michael Bolton rejects, and the translation is frequently dubious ("An arrow? To kill a mountain? How arrow-gant!"). Best case scenario: A motivated viewer with money and a camera will decide to give this story the epic treatment it really deserves. And it's still probably better for your kids than Dragonball Z. (L.Y.T.) Opens Friday exclusively at the Diamond Bar Super 8 theaters. Source: N ew Times L.A.
"Once again I've moved the site to yet another host, The last server promised one thing but when you all came to visit the rules and Quality of service changed. How can so many people visit in such a short period of time? I have new movies to post but I can't until I find a "stable and dependable" web host. I'm updating and uploading the pages so there may be a few errors, broken links, etc., here and there but I will fix them as I find them. Also I have to once again script the site from PHP to ASP/HTML. Don't Ask."
Source: Daniel
Source: Daniel
Bandai Entertainment will launch Escaflowne into theatrical release on Friday, Jan. 25, 2002 within top U.S. and Canadian markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco and Vancouver, prior to a February, 2002 national roll-out. Escaflowne is celebrated animator Shoji Kawamori's cutting-edge vision of a world where good and evil hinge on a girl's ability to find meaning in her own life.
Action-Adventure Shows On Demand at CartoonNetwork.com with the Return of Toonami Reactor
Beginning November 14, Toonami Reactor returns to CartoonNetwork.com. Reactor, the online extension of the on-air Toonami franchise offers popular action-adventure episodes on demand while demonstrating the potential for interactive entertainment. The program presents enhanced videos that allow users to view complete episodes while exclusive information about the characters and the storyline is simultaneously displayed on a split screen. Toonami Reactor will feature full-length episodes and will introduce several unique games.
Over the course of several months, Reactor will continuously debut content, which differs from the animation currently available on Cartoon Network. At launch, Reactor will include episodes from Record of Lodoss War, Star Blazers (second season), The Harlock Saga, and Patlabor (original video releases), as well as animated music videos from French electronica duo Daft Punk. The site will also feature popular games such as Batman, Superman and Dragonball Z and Toonami-related trivia. Editorial content will be provided by Animerica.
Famed Japanese animator Leiji Matsumoto is the creative force behind much of the content on Toonami Reactor, including Star Blazers, The Harlock Saga and the Daft Punk videos. Reactor will give fans the opportunity to sample material that spans Matsumoto's 30-year animation career.
The Reactor re-launch follows the marked success of the original Toonami Reactor, launched in March 2001 on CartoonNetwork.com. Over its three-month initial run, Reactor served an average of 30 million page views per month to its 800,000 unique users. The original Reactor also featured enhanced video content, exclusive series information and brand-new Toonami games.
"We received such positive feedback from the fans during the initial release of Reactor, that we decided to continue the program," said Paul Condolora, general manager of Cartoon Network Online. "By featuring new content, different from what you can find on-air, Reactor offers us an opportunity to provide our fans a chance to expand their Toonami experience." Although a high-bandwidth user will enjoy the most complete Toonami Reactor experience, users surfing at 56K will also have access to the episodes, games, feature areas, and most of the text content. The screen will be split into three sections, each containing specific episodic and character information.
One window features the video content and will be available for broadband advertising. Advertisements and relevant interactive content will be displayed in a second window, giving the user in-depth information and insight into their favorite shows. The remaining HTML window will allow users to simultaneously view sponsor Web sites, game content and other Toonami information.
"Madonna's use of these clips is another strong indication that anime is already becoming the next big thing for people of all ages." "Veneno has remained true to Madonna's image of pushing the envelope in every facet of her career. We at CPM are grateful that when the tour is over, there will be a lot more people exposed to this exhilarating genre."
Josef Lebeau of Veneno recently commented:
"Central Park Media (CPM) saw what we were trying to accomplish and helped us every step of the way."
Dago Gonzalez, Director for Veneno also commented:
"When we saw Overfiend and MD Geist, we knew they were perfect for the show. We were glad to have a partner who would work with us as quickly as CPM did to arrange the appropriate licensing paperwork. The initial response to the footage has been tremendous."
- Booska Booska
- Zankoku Na Tenshi No Te-ze
- Oshiete
- Infinity
- Segata Sanshirou
Also according to Jarry:
Today is Friday. This day is the 1st of the 12th Cartoonist in Paris, at the Cite des Sciences et de l'Industrie. Very very good festival. After many hesitations because terrorists attacks, all Japanese guests accepted to Going in Paris.
The TV program will be broadcasting on 2001/12/24, at 21:00. About Cartoonist, it's open until sunday, 19:00 (Franch Time). There's a webcam. http://www.cartoonist-france.com
Fans can view the live image updates from this posting until Sunday.
11/9 Restaurant Row 9 1 Waterfront Plaza - 500 Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, Hawaii
11/9 Cleveland Institute of Arts (Cinematheque) Cleveland, OH
11/9 The Mayan Denver, CO
Not confirmed: 11/9 Crossroads Cinema Cafe - postponed from 11/2 Roanoke, VA 5002 Airport Rd NW in Roanoke VA; 540-265-6721. Call ahead and see if it's playing.
The Sci-FI UK anime being shown throughout December is as follows:
Riding Bean (P) - Saturday 1st December
AD Police - Saturday 1st December, 12:55am
Shadow Skill: The Movie - Saturday 1st December, 2:25am
Akira - Saturday 8th December
Black Magic M-66 - Saturday 8th December, 2:25am
Wings of Honneamise - Saturday 15th December
Goshogun the Time Etranger - Saturday 15th December, 2:20am
Ghost in the Shell - Saturday 22nd December
Golgo 13: The Professional - Saturday 22nd December, 1:35am
The Return of the Overfiend - Saturday 29th December
The Return of the Overfiend - IV - Saturday 29th December, 3:05am
All titles showing at midnight unless otherwise stated.
Anyone looking for Comet Anime.com should look at http://www.cometanime.co.uk thanks.
Hi
minna,
Shoujocon is open for registration, complete with a newly designed website:
http://www.shoujocon.com
--Angela
New "Aibo" is a MEKAROBO(mechanical+robot) system. Thurs., November 08, 2001 22:24 JT. Sony announced the new model "ERS-220" of an entertainment robot "AIBO" (Aibo) on the 8th. A mechanical robot type design is suddenly adopted with "RATTE" put on the market in September, and "MAKARON." The wireless LAN remote control function of an option was strengthened, and it came to be able to perform remote control operation, carrying out [ sound / a picture or ] a monitor from a personal computer. It is said that the real thrill of "the robot which operates it by remote control" can be experienced. With a silver-metallic body, a "retractable headlight" is carried in a head. It shines, when a dark place is illuminated or "feeling" increases. Moreover, in preparation for the head, the back, and a tail, feeling expression and a state display of operation are performed for a total of 19 Light Emitting Diode lamps. Rather than the animal, features and a design are completely robots and Mr. Kawamori Shouji which dealt with mechanism designs, such as "Macross", and a movie "Gunhead", "Ghost In The Shell", took charge of them. A network remote control function uses the new version "the AIBO navigator 2" of an optional wireless LAN card and remote control software. The picture photoed with the 100,000-pixel CMOS camera of a head and the sound gathered with the microphone are transmitted to a personal computer by wireless LAN. Aibo can be managed acting as a monitor from a personal computer. It is likely to appeal to the former boys "which dreamed of operation of a robot." Although the function of the relation of a main part of operation was almost the same as child lion type "ERS-210", four motors of a mouth, an ear, and a tail of it were lost, and it became a total of 16 flexibility. 64-bit RISC and 32MB of memory are carried. A size is about 152x296x278mm and the weight of about 1.5km. Battery drive time is about 1.5 hours. A main part price is 180,000 yen (1,500 Yen) and serves as positioning of the higher rank model of RATTE which cut 100,000 yen, and MAKARON. At home, it will put on the market for 23 days. Sony is the character program "AIBO Explorer" (ERS-210/220 community, 9000 yen) which combines, and searches for and turns around the circumference to the motion and sound more in character with a robot, and "halo AIBO which will become fine character if it acts as an adult and is made "informal party mode" with feeling! Options, such as type B" (9000 yen), are also put on the market. Furthermore, "220 Transformer form kit" (120,000 yen, memory stick lump) which exchanges for the head of ERS-210, a leg, and a tail part, and is transformed into ERS-220 is put on the market early in December.
Source: Japan Cnet
The official U.S. website for the new AIBO can be viewed at: http://www.aibo.com/exp/index.html
This press announcement has also been circulated for the new AIBO's American Debut:
SONY COMMITS TO EXPANDABLE ENTERTAINMENT ROBOT PRODUCT LINE WITH FUTURISTIC AIBO
New Artificially Intelligent Companion Boasts Modular Hardware and Innovative Software Capabilities
Los Angeles, November 7, 2001 - Entertainment Robot America (ERA), a division of Sony Electronics Inc., has developed a new, highly futuristic robot that boasts modular hardware and innovative software capabilities.
Pre-sale orders for the new AIBO Entertainment Robot [model ERS-220] will be accepted beginning Nov. 7. These futuristic models will start appearing on store shelves and made available through the Internet (www.sonystyle.com or www.us.aibo.com) in late November. The [ERS-220] model will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $1500.
Available in silver, the new AIBO Entertainment Robot [ERS-220] fuses an ultramodern design with a host of expressive and interactive features. This new AIBO model is visually differentiated from its predecessors by its aggressive, more futuristic look. Further, this enhanced model is representative of a commitment to the expandability of the Entertainment Robot platform through both its modular and upgraded software.
New hardware features for AIBO [ERS-220] will include an extensive array of 21 LEDs. They are located around the head, face and visor for more expressive communication. There is a retractable headlight within the robot' s head for increased emotional expression and multiple enhanced touch sensors located on the robot's head, face and tail, providing for varying degrees of response and increased interaction between owner and robot.
AIBO [ERS-220] is also equipped with 16 degrees of freedom (head sensor x 1, neck x 3 joints, legs x 3 joints x 4), enabling smooth body movement.
"The new 220 model completes this year's strategic expansion of the AIBO Entertainment Robot product line. Specifically, we are targeting this model for the most discerning tech-savvy robotic enthusiast," said Victor Matsuda, ERA's vice president. "We feel that the coupling of the strong functionality of the 200 series with the futuristic design of this new model will be an ideal match for these enthusiasts."
Additionally, the new AIBO [ERS-220] will include several innovative software-enabled features, such as a 75-word vocabulary (up from 50 words) and advanced photo-taking (JPEG format) options including Surveillance Mode (AIBO Explorer only), a new motion detection photo-taking feature.
Further added software features include increased tonal expressions such as AIBO Step which allows owners to change the sounds AIBO makes when it walks and AIBO Boost Mode a newly added mood that shifts the robot into becoming excited, curious and alert when communication with its owners goes well.
Orders for the new AIBO Entertainment Robot [ERS- 220] will be accepted over the Internet (www.sonystyle.com or www.us.aibo.com), telephone (1-888-917-7669) and at dozens of retail outlets, including Sony Style Stores (New York and San Francisco), the Sony Gallery (Chicago), Good Guys! Stores (select), Hammacher Schlemmer and Discovery Channel Stores (select) and select independent retailers nation-wide. AIBO Explorer AIBO-ware Software
AIBO Explorer AIBO-ware, a Memory Stick??? software package sold separately, brings to life a mature robot allowing users to experience the full range of adult AIBO behaviors. AIBO acts as an autonomous fully mature robot that makes independent decisions about its own actions and behaviors right out of the box. AIBO owners are able to develop their robot's personality with progressive interaction without having to raise an AIBO to maturity.
Also, exclusive to AIBO Explorer is Surveillance Mode (must be used in conjunction with Energy Station). With Surveillance Mode, you can leave AIBO to guard a room and if the robot senses movement it will snap a photo for you to look at later (photos are saved as JPEGs and saved directly to a dedicated AIBO-ware Memory Stick).
AIBO Life 2 AIBO-ware Software
With AIBO Life 2 software, another Memory Stick software package sold separately, AIBO owners have the opportunity to raise their robot from infant to adult, learning new behaviors based on the level of interaction with humans and its environment. Equipped with enhanced interactivity, AIBO Life 2 allows you to train your AIBO through its touch sensors.
Additional features include AIBO Choreography, a new mode that allows AIBO owners to teach AIBO original actions and have the robot play them back with voice commands and Training Mode, a new mode that allows AIBO owners to assign names to preprogrammed AIBO motions.
AIBO Navigator 2 AIBO-ware Software
New for AIBO Entertainment Robots [both the ERS-210 and the 220 model] is AIBO Navigator 2, an upgraded version of the AIBO Navigator, a PC-based software package that allows owners to control and navigate AIBO from distances of up to 300 feet via a wireless LAN capability from PC to AIBO.
Sporting a new graphic user interface this version of Navigator not only enables users to view in streaming video what AIBO sees but also boasts several new features including the ability to initiate actions created by AIBO Master Studio 1.1 (AMS 1.1), to send audio messages from a PC to AIBO, to hear what AIBO hears via a PC, to control AIBO's [ERS-220] retractable spotlight.
AIBO Entertainment Robot [ERS-220] Series Includes: AIBO Entertainment Robot [ERS-220], AC Adapter, Lithium Ion Battery Pack, Pink Ball, Release Pin and Manual.
AIBO Entertainment Robot [ERS-220] Series Accessories (sold separately): Available AIBO-ware Memory Stick Software Accessories: ? AIBO Explorer [ERF-220AW02E]:Mature autonomous robot software ? AIBO Life 2 [ERF-220AW01E]: Raising and autonomous robot software ? AIBO Master Studio Version 1.1 [ERF-PC03]: Robot programming software (available early 2002) ? AIBO Programming Memory Stick [ERA-MS008] AIBO Hardware Accessories: ? AIBO Transformation Kit [ERS-220E1] (modular hardware kit available late December) ? AIBO Wireless LAN Card [ERA-201D1] ? Energy Station [ERA-210P1] ? Portable Charger [ERA-301P4] ? Special Lithium Ion Battery [ERA-201B1] ? Carrying Bag [ERA-210C1]
Sales Schedule: ? Pre-Sale Reservations: Begins Nov. 7 ? Purchase AIBO/ Delivery: Begins late November ? Suggested Retail Price: $1500
?? Please note all references to Memory Stick refer specifically to the AIBO-ware Memory Sticks.
How to Purchase an AIBO Entertainment Robot [ERS-220]: ? Internet: www.aibo.com ? AIBO Adoption Hot Line: Toll free 1-888-917-7669 (seven days a week, 24 hours a day) ? Retailers: Sony Style (San Francisco, New York), Sony Gallery (Chicago), and Good Guys! (select), Hammacher Schemler (select), Discovery Channel and independent retailers nation-wide
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