Anime News Service - October 19023 Anime News

10-23-01---- Plastic Little DVD Details

Source: Anime On DVD

10-23-01---- Chrono Crusade 3rd Drama CD

10-23-01---- Tokimeki Memorial 3 Site Launches

10-23-01---- UK Anime News

(A)=ADV Films, (K)=Kiseki Films, (M)=Manga Entertainment, (V)=MVM, (T)=VHS tape, (D)=DVD, (B)=Both

10-23-01---- More Mononoke Press

The week's other animated fairy tale, Princess Mononoke, was briefly the most successful film ever at the Japanese box-office, before Titanic splashed down. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, it concerns a young warrior who, cursed by a demon, goes searching for a cure. His travels take him among animal gods who are fighting to the death with human invaders, an allegory, we are given to understand, on the battle of technology and nature in modern Japan. I can't see this knocking Disney off its perch over here: the animation has no great subtlety, the script is almost entirely humourless, and at 134 minutes, it will test the patience of the staunchest eco-warrior."

In the same newspaper the next day, the film was listed as one of the 5 best films showing that week.

10-23-01---- BAAF AIBO Appearances

Where to find AIBO at BAAF? Throughout the festival, AIBO Entertainment Robots will make numerous appearances, showing off the many talents for which they have quickly become renowned, as the world's most intelligent and compassionate robotic companions. Among these special appearances are:

· AIBO will make its debut at BAAF joining the audience at the screening of METROPOLIS at the Director's Guild Theatre on October 26 at 5:15 PM.

· Later on, AIBO will drop by at the Opening Night V.I.P. Dinner hosted by Media Copy at 7:00 PM at the Parker Meridien Hotel on Friday, October 26. AIBO will be on-hand to deliver a short but eloquent keynote speech and interact with other V.I.P. guests as they kick off the weekend's activities.

· For a more in-depth experience with artificial intelligence at its best, AIBO will be at the Dealer Room at Park Central Hotel (7th Ave. between 55th/56th St.) on October 26, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, October 27, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, and October 28, 9:00 AM - 5 P.M.

· At the Programming Room at Park Central Hotel, visitors to BAAF will also be able to view a special promotion video of AIBO Entertainment Robot [ERS-210].

AIBO's appearance at BAAF coincides with Japan's recent Fuji Television Network Inc. premiere of the animated primetime television program PIROPPO, starring the adorable LATTE and co-starring the mischievous MACARON of the new AIBO LM series.

AIBO LM Series can also be seen starring in Sony Music's new group PLAY's debut single video Us Against the World.

Other AIBO sightings as of late include the 2nd Generation AIBO [ERS-210], has also become quite the celebrity recently, with guest starring roles on a number of television shows including the highest-rated syndicated series V.I.P., starring Pamela Anderson, and MTV's boy band sitcom 2GETHER.

10-23-01---- DVD Offerings

Sadly, no word on Angel's Egg from Anchor Bay. ;-;

From Daniel

10-23-01---- North American Vampire Hunter D Bloodlust DVD Minus Japanese Language Track

As I hate to lay moot to a great debate, I must announce that due to a number of reasons, the North American version of Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust DVD will NOT have a Japanese language option included as we had originally wished.

Source: Daniel

10-23-01---- Genryu's Blade

10-23-01---- Totoro - Kiki Next For UK DVD

Source: Daniel

10-23-01---- Katsuhiro Otomo Withdraws From Academy Tribute

10-23-01---- Tokyo Purine Join Seiyuu Cast Of Detective Conan

10-23-01---- Super Robot Taisen Mailer

10-23-01---- Yonekura Chihiro Music Details

10-23-01---- Animage European Beat CD

10-23-01---- 3 New Anime Soundtracks From Pioneer In Japan

Next up the Sugar TV series soundtrack is out on the same date collecting tunes from the anime broadcast weekdays on Tuesday at 26:20 via TBS. Retail is 2,913 Yen. Op theme Sugar Baby Love and Ed Snow Flower.

Finally the Mahoromatic soundtrack is due collecting music from the Studio Gainax Anime TV series broadcast on Fridays from October 5th at 24:30 on TBS. Retail is 2913 Yen. A special version will be sold where 5 different CD liner boards will contain exclusive character illustrations by the creator.

10-23-01---- DVD Items

According to a bit more info added to the Right stuf site, Soul Taker's features will include Holographic Foil Cover, Anamorphic, non-credit openings and closings songs, art gallery, and a 16 page Soultaker Encyclopedia Booklet.

The The Right Stuf site has updated with some known and some new information this evening:

Gundam MS 08th: Miller's Report | 03/19/2002 | 50 minutes | 29.98$ | Bandai
Jin-Roh | 03/05/2002 | 102 minutes | 29.98$ | Bandai
Jin-Roh SE | 03/05/2002 | 142 minutes | 59.98$ | Bandai
Magic Woman M | 01/08/2002 | 60 minutes| 29.98$ | CPM
Now and Then, Here and There 1 | 01/08/2002 | 125 minutes | 29.98$ | CPM
Pilot Candidate Vol. #3| 03/05/2002 | 75 minutes | 29.98$ | Bandai
Soul Taker Vol. #1 | 02/26/2002 | 75 minutes | 29.98$ | Pioneer
Z-Mind | 03/19/2002 | 150 minutes | 34.98$ | Bandai

The $29.99 Jin-Roh DVD version will have Japanese DTS Audio, Japanese and English Dolby Digital 5.1, English subtitles and trailers. The $60.00 Special Edition will have a Special Edition Slip Case Packaging, Jin-Roh Original CD Soundtrack, Japanese DTS, Japanese and English Dolby Digital 5.1, English subtitles, Interviews with Cast and Creators, 12 Page Jin-Roh Booklet, Japanese Theatrical Trailers, English Theatrical Trailers, and supposedly more.

10-23-01---- Matrix Casting Issues

10-23-01---- Perfect Blue Review

10-23-01---- Argentina News

The projections that were made last Friday (19/10) in the Faculty of Sciences Exactas and Tecnologia in Tucuman, were everything a exito surpassing by distant spot the espectativas of the students. In Tucuman 180 profit to join itself for the first time to fans of animates in a projection. I organize fans Yakuza club and conto with the collaboration of ex- members of fans Micronianos club. Announcement that was once made this projection per month of totally gratuitous form. The following titulos were emitted: Robotech 2 (sentinelas), Macross Flashback, Tekkaman Blade 2 (ep 1), and experimental Serial Lain (ep 1). They have confirmed Tekkaman Blade 2 (ep 2), Experimental Serial Lain (eps 2 and 3), and a OVA of Rorouni Kenshin for proxima projection with date attempt to the 15 of November. To part of those titulos pelicula is going away to pass one and the opening of a series to confirm.

10-22-01---- J&R Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Featuring Giuliani - BAAF Kickoff

Official Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony, Hosted by Mayor, to Take Place Thursday, October 25 Week-Long Celebration With Microsoft XP Madness, Big Apple Anime Fest Stars And Limited Edition T-Shirts Benefiting the Twin Towers Fund

NEW YORK, Oct. 22 J&R Music and Computer World announced today that Mayor Rudolph Giuliani will continue his outstanding efforts on behalf of New York City's downtown businesses by hosting J&R's official grand re-opening ribbon cutting ceremony. J&R will reopen on Monday morning, October 22nd but Mayor Giuliani will host the official ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, October 25th. This will be the first time J&R's Park Row store will be open since they were shut down on September 11th, due to their proximity to the World Trade Center. The NYC landmark has spent the last six weeks discarding damaged product, repairing and replacing damaged interiors and exteriors and bringing in factory-fresh merchandise to provide their customers with the quality of product and service they have come to expect. J&R's entire retail complex will participate in the grand re-opening, with special low prices, promotions, giveaways and prizes, around the highly anticipated sales of Microsoft XP, special guests from the Big Apple Anime Fest and limited edition patriotic T-shirts, whose proceeds will benefit the Twin Towers Fund.

"We are very excited to welcome our loyal customers back to the music, computer and electronics megastore they have come to depend on," said Rachelle Friedman, co-owner of J&R Music and Computer World. "Our thanks go out to all our customers, vendors, and members of our community who have supported us through what has been a challenging time. We are grateful to have Mayor Giuliani's support and look forward to joining him and the rest of New York in getting back to work."

In addition to the grand re-opening on Monday, J&R will host exciting events all week long. On Thursday, October 25, J&R will celebrate the highly anticipated sale of Microsoft XP with XP Madness -- the store will open an hour earlier at 8:00 am and from that time until 10:00 am, they will have Microsoft vendors answering customer questions, as well as giveaways and free prizes every 10 minutes. Later in the day, J&R will host the kick-off of the weekend long celebration of Anime Manga Culture. Starting at 12:30 pm, anime celebrities will be signing autographs. The Big Apple Anime Fest runs October 26-28 at venues throughout Manhattan.

The following famous voice actors from the world of anime will be at the J&R signing:

Eric Stuart -- supplier of the voice of "Brock," the lead character of Pokemon and of countless others in the mega-popular series of Pokemon films Rachael Lillis -- an actress best known for her portrayal of the title character in Revolutionary Girl Utena Crispin Freeman -- provider of voices for characters in countless anime films including lead roles in Revolutionary Girl Utena and The Slayers Roxanne Beck -- voice of characters in Wakaba, Revolutionary Girl Utena and star of Urusei Yatsura 2: Beautiful Dreamer J&R will also be remembering the events of September 11 and all those who have been touched by that tragic day by selling limited edition patriotic T-shirts, featuring the American flag and the Big Apple's signature initials: NYC. These T-shirts will be sold for $4.99 or for a $1.00 donation with any purchase over $50.00 and all proceeds will go to the Twin Towers Fund.

10-22-01---- Largest Ever Gundam Figure Sold

Source: Newtype Asylum

10-22-01---- Bandai Anime Collector Toys

Bandai America (22 October 2001) The long-awaited ANIME COLLECTOR SERIES has recently arrived on toyshelves across the country. The three items in the series so far are BIG O (with Roger & Dorothy figures), ESCAFLOWNE (with Van & Hitomi figures) and the OUTLAW STAR STARSHIP (with Gene & Melfina figures). The mechs are about 7 inches tall/long while the figures are 4.5 inches tall. After the prototypes were displayed at Toy Fare at the beginning of the year, there had been much speculation if these toys would be released due to the non-phenomenal reception of the TV shows. It's good that they've finally arrived, since they are quality items. But wait, there's more. At Toy Fare, prototypes of BIG DUO and SCHERAZADE were also on display. These secondary characters were subsequently NOT on display at the Bandai America booth at both AXE and COMICON. While I'm sure if the line does very well in sales they'll rush these sets into production, keep in mind that minor robots from marginally popular shows are always prime candidates to get axed in development. Hopefully, the line will be a success and Bandai America will move forward with them.

10-22-01---- Strange Dawn Press

VHS DVD
Catalog #: UV1072 Catalog #: UV1076
UPC: 638652 10723 7 UPC: 638652 10760 2
Stereo HiFi 5.1 and stereo extraction
English Language English and Japanese Languages
MSRP: $22.95 MSRP: $29.95

10-22-01---- Blood Screening Part Of Double Halloween Feature In

Blood: the Last Vampire, Japan's first fully digital animated feature film, is set on an American military base in Japan, where a new kind of vampire emerges: Teropterids. They are monstrous shape-shifting creatures that can only be killed with special swords. A mysterious girl named Saya is the last "original", the only person capable of dealing with menace of these monsters. Posing as a student at the base's school Saya races to hunt down the beasts before they turn an ordinary Halloween into a bloody massacre. The film, which has set a new standard for quality digital animation, won the Best Theatrical Film at the 2001 World Animation Celebration.

Bayou Place, 510 Texas Avenue (corner of Smith) Houston, TX 77002 (713) 225-5232

10-22-01---- Sailor Moon Visibility Down

Nov 5 - 5:00AM (Encore Action) Nov 5 - 11:20PM (Encore Action) Nov 8 - 3:00AM (Encore Action) Nov 12 - 1:45AM (Encore Action) Nov 16 - 5:30AM (Encore Action) Nov 20 - 7:05PM (Encore Action) Nov 22 - 3:10AM (Encore Action)

10-21-01---- Cowboy Bebop Mook

10-21-01---- FF XI To Feature "Resurected Evil"

The game will take place on a world called Vana Dir, and will once again involve the search for crystals. To no one's surprise, Vana Dir is a world where technology and magic co-exist, and the plot will feature an idea never before used in an RPG, let alone a Final Fantasy title: a resurrected evil. In a nice breath of fresh air, Hironobu Sakaguchi did say that the title would be more plot-intensive than present online RPGs.

10-21-01---- Sen To Chihiro Highest Grossing Foreign Film In History

Japanese animated fantasy ``Spirited Away'' will enter the record books this week by becoming the first foreign-language film in history to gross $200 million outside North America. It's already the highest-earning Japanese film ever, and is on course to become that market's all-time box office champ, overtaking ``Titanic,'' which made $219.5 million. Playing in its 13th week in Japan, the Hayao Miyazaki-directed picture reached $199.3 million Tuesday, according to local distributor Toho, which means it will cross $200 million Friday or Saturday. ``Princess Mononoke,'' also directed by Miyazaki, was the previous homegrown box office champ, notching $163.5 million. Only four foreign-language films have earned more than $100 million outside North America. In addition to the Japanese duo, the others are Italy's ``Life Is Beautiful,'' which grossed $157.6 million, and the French-German co-production ``Asterix & Obelix vs. Caesar.'' Gallic blockbuster ``Amelie'' is a sure bet to join that elite club, having amassed $63.5 million through last week from its home market plus lucrative runs in Germany, the U.K. and a few smaller territories.

10-20-01---- NTT Demonstrates Wireless, Data-Sending/Receiving Circuit Driven By 1V

NTT Telecommunications Energy Laboratories has developed an experimental wireless, data-transmitting circuit driven by a power source voltage of 1V. It demonstrated the circuit at the "NTT R&D Forum in Atsugi" held on Oct. 15. Because the circuit works with such a low voltage, it enables reduced power consumption for the RF circuit. "The RF circuit consumes approximately 40mW when receiving data, and approximately 35mW when sending data," an NTT Labs official said. The demonstration worked in the 2.4GHz frequency band using a 1.2V nickel metal hydride battery. The company realized the data-receiving part by using a CMOS circuit on which a low noise amplifier and a mixer were integrated. A demodulation circuit and a power amplifier, a voltage controlled oscillator, and other components were not yet integrated onto it, so an external circuit was used for those functions. NTT plans for the final version to be a one-chip CMOS circuit that includes such peripheral circuits, but said it will take a little more time to realize such a circuit. The circuit is expected to be applied to Bluetooth/HomeRF devices and wearable wireless terminals, according to the Labs.

10-20-01---- Cleveland Showings

Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust (Animated)
Fri. Nov. 9 7:30 P.M.
Sat. Nov. 10 9:20 P.M.
Sun. Nov. 11 8:40 P.M.

Jin-roh: The Wolf Brigade (Animated)
Sat. Dec. 8 9:30 P.M
Sun. Dec. 9 7:00 P.M

Dead or Alive (Live-Action)
Thur. Dec. 6 9:00 P.M
Sun. Dec. 9 9:00 P.M

Female Convict Scorpion: Jailhouse 41 (Live-Action)
Thur. Dec. 13 7:00 P.M
Sun. Dec. 16 8:45 P.M

Black Tight Killers (Live-Action)
Thur. Dec. 13 8:50 P.M
Sun. Dec. 16 7:00 P.M

10-20-01---- News Reference Of Akira

10-20-01---- Manga: Blood Breaking Records

Manga Celebrates 2001 with Record Breaking Year - Blood the Last Vampire is the fastest selling title in Manga's history

"She {Saya, the slayer} makes Buffy look like a bed-wetting Girl Scout." - SPIN

Chicago, IL - Honored as Winner of Best Theatrical Film by this year's World Animation Celebration film festival, Manga's new vampire anime thriller Blood: The Last Vampire, is the fastest selling title in the company's 8-year history - selling over 120,000 units during the first month of release.

Blood: The Last Vampire is now competing for Outstanding Achievement in an Animated Feature Film at this year's Annie Awards in Hollywood alongside Osmosis Jones, Shrek and The Emperor's New Groove.

"Akira meets Buffy"- WIRED

After breaking the record for the most successful video broadcast in sputnik7's history, on Halloween night (from dusk till dawn), Blood: The Last Vampire will have another video-on-demand streaming broadcast on www.sputnik7.com (6pm-9am EST), which is available to sputnik7 newsletter subscribers.

'Blood' also remains in theatrical release since August, and has been held over in many theatres. 'Blood' is currently touring as a feature film in RESFEST, the international digital film festival (www.resfest.com).

"We are very excited to bring a film like 'Blood' to America and present the newest digital film technology to all entertainment platforms." "Its success has proven to be a landmark time in the history of Manga Entertainment," stated Marvin Gleicher, President.

Blood: The Last Vampire debuted at #10 in Video Business's Top 20 DVD Sales, #14 in Billboard's Top 40 Overall DVDs, #12 in Video Store Magazine's Top 25 DVD Sellers List and #10 in Entertainment Weekly Top DVD Sellers List.

U.S. critics have praised Blood: The Last Vampire with Top Critics Pick in Time Out New York calling the film "Extraordinarily Beautiful." The Los Angeles Times calls it "Eerie, compelling...rendered in a stunning photo-realistic style!" and Entertainment Weekly gave the film a B+.

10-20-01---- DBZ UK Item

Due to the huge sucess of the first DBZ marathon in the UK, Cartoon Network have announced they will once again be repeating their "One day. One show. One saga" compaign by letting the viewers of Dragonball Z choose their favourite saga which will be shown all day this weekend. Since the Saiyan saga was choosen last time, it has now been taken out of the running. The marathon of DBZ episodes will commense on Sunday 21st of October, starting from 8am, and screening for the rest of the day.

10-20-01---- Jade Cocoon Clip

10-19-01---- Mayumi Izuka Tour Info

Mayumi Izuka's Birthday Concert - Strawberry Party 2002 - schedule is as follows:

January 3rd - Tokyo
January 5th - Nagoya - CLUB QUATTRRO
January 6th - Osaka - ON AIR OSAKA

10-19-01---- Macross Plus Movie Edition Confirmed For DVD Release In February

10-19-01---- MGS 2 Kubricks

Shipping in randomly packaged, single-figure boxes, these new Kubricks from Medicom feature authentically detailed characters from the upcoming Playstation 2 epic, Metal Gear Solid 2. Featuring releastic costume pieces and weaponry, these figures replicate the cool characters from this popular video game series. This first series, offered for pre-order in the November issue of Diamond Previews, will include: Solid Snake, Hal Emmerich, Revolver Oceleot, Olga, Gurlukovich Soldier in Woodland Camo, Gurlukovich Soldier in Tiger Camo, and a seventh mystery character. Scheduled to ship in March 2002 for $5.99 each. To find a store near you that carries these figures, click HERE or call 1-888-comic-book.

10-19-01---- Initial D - Love Hina - Cowboy Bebop Manga Licensed

New License Announcements from TOKYOPOP In a surprise announcement, TOKYOPOP has announced several new American licenses on both the anime and manga front. In January, TOKYOPOP will debut the English language versions of the Love Hina, Cowboy Bebop and Initial D manga. The first comic issues of Cowboy Bebop and Love Hina will contain 32 pages and retail for $2.95. The first issue of Initial D and the second issue of Cowboy Bebop will be double sized 64 page issues but still retail for only $2.95. All three series will be published in the original Japanese right-to-left page format. TOKYOPOP has also announced that their first Cowboy Bebop Complete Anime Guide will be released in January. This 100 page reference guide will cover TV episodes 1-5 with cel art story guides, and monochrome character bios, technical guides, behind-the-scenes photos, and story details- just like a Japanese import art-book. The first of the 5 volume Cowboy Bebop Anime Guide books will retail for $12.95. And in another surprise announcement, TOKYOPOP has confirmed that they will be bringing the Initial D anime to America. No detail was provided on the extent of the anime franchise license. Initial D is a popular 22 volume manga series that spawned 2 TV series, a TV special, an OAV, a theatrical movie and numerous arcade and console video games. Initial D revolves around Japanese teen-age street car racing culture and is famous for its extensive use of "Euro-beat" Japanese techno/house/rave dance music and CG rendered cars and backgrounds which create a thrilling sense of speed and momentum in the show's frequent car race action sequences.

10-19-01---- Paracon Updates

Event Summary
Industry Panels.

Reps from Manga ENT, Urban Vision, and Viz will be on hand to discuss Views important to anime growth in the North America. They will lend their opinions on what has made anime the fastest growing sub culture in America.

Fan World Panels

Reps from the various anime clubs, conventions, and online groups will join for a "fire side chat" to discuss issues prevalent in the Anime scene. Attending groups include: FanimeCon, Yaoi-Con, Bay Area Animation Society, and leaders from bay Area College and High School anime clubs.

CosPlay Work Shops

CosPlayers can exchange fashion tips and views at the cosPlay workshop. The workshop is mandatory for all CosPlay participants. Cospaly will be in "walk through " only format. Music will provide back ground, as cosplayer compete for prizes and bragging rights in the first annual ParaCon Cosplay (come up with event title)

Prize Give a ways

ParaCon will give a way anime prizes through out the Con. Prizes include DVDs, CDs, Tee Shirts, Anime Cels, a Nintendo Game Cube!

Import Car Promo

With the continuing success of anime's such as Initial D, and video games Grand Torismo A: spec, ParaCon is proud to present Import Show cars. These post market vehicles will be on display through out the Park for your viewing pleasure.

Game Developer Conference

ParaCon will host a game creator seminar, the first of its kind at any major anime event in North America. There is no doubt that anime and video games go hand in hand, ParaCon and capcom are proud to present to you, the first annual game creation seminar. Reps from the Capcom production nd design team will lend their views on gaming around the world, and the process it takes to create industry leading games such as ;Onimusha, resident evil and the up coming PS2 release "Maximo". Come listen and interact with With the company that produced hits such as: the Legendary Street Fighter Franchise, Mega Man, and the Capcom VS series.

Art workshops

Find out how to draw in the anime style. Industry artist will be on hand to show the efiner points in Illustrating and Producing: Manga, TV and Theatrical character design. Will will offer Anime Modeling workshops. "Bring Your Own Gundam" work shops.

Video Premier's

ParaCon is will host anime premiers in our Paramount theatre, and IMAX cinema. Come see the North American debut of " Strange dawn" and " TekkaMan-Boy" Bandai, VIZ, and Manga ENT premier will be announced @ www.PGAthrills.com

Event Registration

Limited edition ParaCon badges (lami's) are available to the first the first 2000 Pre reg's. All registrant's names will be included in Nintendo Game Cube drawing. Attendee's can register day of at a ParaCon info booths, and reg booths located out side of the admissions area. The came Cube will be given away @ the pavilion near the end of Business. Any one who pays admission is eligible for a "non" laminated badge, by simply registering @ an info booth or at ParaCon reg near the admissions area. Registration is $18. Registration includes all ParaCon events, and admission to Paramount's Great America.

PGA

Note that rides will be operational for paraCon event.

Dealer pavilion

Over 11,000 square feet of anime merchandise will descend upon the Paramount pavilion. Find all the Lasrtest DVDs, anime sound tracks, Novelties, and all other anime related goods in the pavilion.

Info Plaza

Our info plaza is the place to get paracon info, and meet the local leaders of the anime scene. Meet reps from local anime clubs, and conventions. Info plaza will be the spot to get up to minute info on up coming anime release and events as well.

Guests

Here are the Cons industry guests:

Keith Burgess

Keith Burgess was the voice of the imdominatable "Akuma" in Street Fighter Alpha; the Movie. He's also the man with all the low down on Manga ENT. Keith will be available @ the Industry Panel, and a special presentation of Manga Premiers.

Carl Gustav Horn

Referred to by many as the most knowledgeable authority on anime culture in the US. Carl is a contributor to the nation's leading Anime magazine, Animerica. He also edits Manga monthly for titles including Neon Genesis Evangelion. Carl will be available for all your questions on fan topics @ our fan based panels

Rhona Medina

Rhona will be on hand to give all the latest info on Urban Vision. One of the nations leading anime publishers. She will have all the details on the much anticipated "Vampire Hunter D" sequel

Otaku Tribe

The otaku are the elite aniem con DJs. They have Djed events at every major anime Festival in the nation. They have member's world wide including Gainax, Co- founder and CEO Hiroyuki yamaga, and star of the smash UK comedy "Red dwarf", Danny John Jules. The tribe will liven up ParaCon with their Musical selections across the park! Attending members include: Club DJs: DJ MOD & DJ Muteki, Animixer DJ Socket, and our very special guest DJ 8Ball, honorary member of the Legendary " Invisible Scratch Picklez" .

JAPANESE ANIMATION CONVENTION TO "DRAW" ANIME FANS TO PARAMOUNT'S GREAT AMERICA

(Note to editors: This news release is available online at www.pgathrills.com/media)

SUMMARY Japanese animation (Anime) fans will be"drawn" to Paramount's Great America for the park's ParaCon - the first Anime convention ever at a major U.S. theme park - on Saturday, Oct. 27. See Anime premieres, meet industry leaders, and check out the latest games and merchandise. Discounted tickets are $18 in advance and can be purchased online at www.pgathrills.com or by calling 408-986-5853. ParaCon is free with park admission.

Santa Clara, Calif. - Explore the fascinating world of Japanese animation (Anime) at Paramount's Great America's first annual ParaCon - the first Anime convention ever at a major U.S. theme park - on Saturday, Oct. 27.

Convention highlights:

" See Anime premieres such as the North American debut of Strange Dawn and TekkaMan-Boy in the IMAX Cinema - the first Anime showing ever in an IMAX venue - and the Paramount Theatre. " Learn how to create the next Mega Man or Street Fighter as the production and design team from Capcom Entertainment present a game developer conference - the first of its kind ever at a major North American Anime event. " Meet Anime industry leaders such as Keith Burgess, voice of "Akuma" in Street Fighter Alpha: The Movie; Carl Gustav Horn, Animerica contributor and editor of the Neon Genesis Evangelion comic book; and Rhona Medina, marketing manager for Urban Vision Entertainment, the distributor behind Bio-Hunter and Vampire Hunter D at the industry panel discussion. " Purchase the latest Anime merchandise in over 11,000 square feet of dealer space at the Paramount Pavilion

Plus, learn to draw Anime at the art workshop, dress as your favorite Anime character for the costume workshop and contest, compete in the Dance Dance Revolution championships (US and Japanese versions), listen to the legendary sounds of Otaku Tribe's elite DJ's, join clubs such as Bay Area Animation Society and FanimeCon for the fan panel discussion and win prizes such as clothing, Anime cells and a Nintendo Game Cube

All ParaCon activities are free with park admission.

Discounted tickets for ParaCon are $18 in advance and include park admission and all event activities. Order tickets by calling 408-986-5853. The first 2000 attendees to pre-register for ParaCon receive a personalized limited edition laminated badge.

Once dismissed as simply a cult phenomenon, Anime has crossed into the American mainstream and can be found throughout the U.S. cultural landscape. From legendary hip - hop artist Jay-Z's clothes to some of the top programming on Cartoon Network, Anime's bold and experimental style has attracted fans of all ages and backgrounds.

In recent years Anime fans have increasingly met at conventions throughout the country to make new friends, learn how to design Anime, see the latest Anime premieres, and purchase Anime merchandise. The San Francisco Bay Area is already known for its large Anime fan base and successful conventions such as Fanime.

10-19-01---- New Academy Of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences Anime Tribute Information

Jerry Beck, animation historian and author
Mark A.Z. DippJ, Director - SPAWN, ILM Visual Effects Supervisor
Kunihiko Ikuhara, Director -SAILOR MOON and REVOLUTIONARY GIRL UTENA.
Frank Gladstone, Dreamworks SKG Animation
Katsuhiro Otomo, Writer/Director - AKIRA, MEMORIES
Fred Patten, Streamline Pictures

Tickets Available November 1st. Information - 310-247-3000 x111.

According to Randy Haberkamp who is organizing the tribute, the Academy's approach to this event is to examine the Theatrical features, with a particular interest in those released since AKIRA and the way in which anime was viewed in the US after the release of that work. The tribute will include the running of over a dozen clips mostly in 35mm. Some surprise clips which should be quite interesting to fans are also being arranged for showing. Tickets will go on sale November 1st and are on a first-come, first-served basis. Best advice is to come to the Academy at 8949 Wilshire and buy them as they do not take credit cards. Mail order with checks are also accepted. There are 1100 seats in the theatre and most events sell out quickly.

10-19-01---- Star Exceed Details

10-19-01---- Magical Witchland - More Details

10-19-01---- Sakuara Taisen Online Reservation Extras

10-19-01---- Asia AICN

Note that http://www.aint-it-cool-news.com is still severely lagged, but hopefully improving.

Anyway, here goes.

1)"The Japanese film site, "http://www.midnighteye.com", has just posted an english review of Seijun Suzuki's latest mind-bending release "Pistol Opera". They also have a very recent interview with Suzuki about the film taken from the Venice Film Festival. Please post this info and get the word out, WE MUST GET AN AMERICAN DISTRIBUTION FOR THIS FILM!"

Hong Kong: 1)"At long last, "Shaolin Soccer" has scored a US release date: The film is now set to be open on April 5, 2002 in about 350 theatres across America. Stephen Chow is expected to come here for the promotion. In the meanwhile, Tsui Hark's "Black Mask 2" is also looking at being released in February in both HK and USA. If it happens then this would be the first HK movie ever to do open simultaneously in both HK and the US. [Note from Daniel. And for those who can't wait, www.banzaianime.com has the region-free(legitimate) version of the film with more extras than the average Hk dvd.)]"

10-19-01---- Manga DVD For November: Shadow Skill

Unrated. Contains Violence and Brief Nudity. Parental Discretion Advised.

10-19-01---- New Ghibli Media Site

Highlights include: "MOGA" Museum Of Ghiblies Art (scrolling panels of character sketches and concept art) "Short Strips" (manga style panels) "Ghiblies House" (short QuickTime animated pieces) "Resume" (animated panels containing brief character info) "Ghiblies Craft" (interactive demo/tutorial of 3D CG techniques used in the creation of Ghiblies) "Log Book" (diary of website)

10-19-01---- Cowboy Bebop Encore

10-19-01---- Kaiju News

5)"Daiei will be releasing the Daimaijin trilogy on DVD with English subtitles. The 3 disc box set will be released on December 12, 2001. The first printing will have a poster and figure included. You can pre-order the set at CD Japan..."

10-19-01---- Columbian News

Other anime series being aired: Dragon Ball Z [Rerun], Caracol, Sat 05:00 (10:00 GMT) Tonde Buurin ("Súper Cerdita"), RCN, Sat 09:30 (14:30 GMT) Cardcaptor Sakura ("Sakura Card Captors"), Caracol, Mon-Fri 15:00 (20:00 GMT)

Source: Anihabara

10-19-01---- Latin America News

Source: Anihabara

10-19-01---- Russian News

Source: Anihabara

10-19-01---- Tokimeki Trading Cards

10-19-01---- Bandai Online Realtime Gundam Strategy Game For PC In The Works

10-19-01---- New Fushigi Yuugi OVA Sale Start Commemoration Event

Sapporo - October 28th - 12:30
Osaka - November 4th - 12:00

The 1st volume of the new OVA will retail on VHS for 5800 Yen and DVD for 4800 Yen.

10-19-01---- Gamera Poster Reissue

10-19-01---- DBZ Toys In Top 10

New York - Irwin Toy announced that its Dragon Ball Z action figures are among the "Top 10 Best Selling Toys Overall," based on an survey of retailers by PlayDates Inc., as announced at the PlayDates 2001 exposition in New York.

Kevin Sayer, Director of Marketing, Irwin Toy Development, said, "The tremendous popularity of Dragon Ball Z reflects the hit Dragon Ball Z show, which tops the Cartoon Network's ratings. Irwin Toy's Dragon Ball Z sales are up dramatically, signalling strong retail demand through the holidays."

Alison Myles, Marketing Manager, added, "Retailers are featuring the line as kids and collectors seek out the figures of their favorite Dragon Ball Z characters, which reflect the storyline of the TV show."

Below is the alphabetical listing of the PlayDates 2001 "Top 10 Best Selling Toys Overall:"

Bionicle (Lego) Bob The Builder Electronic Talking Scoop (Playskool) Dragonball Z Figures (Irwin Toy) Tonka Dusty My Talkin' Tool Bench (Hasbro) Jam 'n Glam Barbie (Mattel) LeapPad (LeapFrog) Play TV Sports (Radica Games) Polly Pocket (Mattel) Rescue Heroes (Fisher Price) Rumble Robots (Trendmasters)

PlayDate 2001 highlights the best selling toys and games for the coming holiday season as predicted by the nation's top retailers. The event, organized by PlayDate Inc., was held in New York City and featured a major display of Dragon Ball Z action figures.

PlayDate 2001 provides early predictions on what toys will be the best sellers. The event featured some 25 manufacturers and retailers, toy and game demonstrations, product launches and expert presentations on industry trends. This is the third year PlayDate has been held in the US.

Each year, PlayDate Inc. surveys a broad range of retailers across the country to determine the toys, games, hardware and brands that are likely to be best sellers during the holiday season. The PlayDate best seller lists reflect the results of an annual survey of retailers. PlayDate contacts a broad selection of toy stores, software stores, specialty stores, national retail chains and online retailers, seeking their predictions for the best-selling toys and games for the coming holiday season. Among participating retailers in the PlayDates Survey are Toys 'R' Us; toysrus.com; Amazon.com; Electronics Boutique; Zany Brainy/Noodle Kidoodle; KB/eToys; Babbages/Funcoland; Walmart; Kmart; CompUSA; Meiers; Blockbuster, and more than a dozen independent toy specialty shops.

The Dragon Ball Z toy line, based on the smash hit TV series, includes Dragon Ball Z action figures, Dragon Ball Z Super Saiyan Warriors and Striking Z Fighters, the Dragon Ball Z Trunks Time Capsule with an exclusive 5-inch Trunks figure, new Dragon Ball Z vehicles with exclusive figures, and the popular Dragon Ball Z Energy Blasters, among many others.

Some 500 episodes of the Dragon Ball anime series have been made in Japan, and are produced and licensed for North America and Australia by FUNimation Productions Inc.

Irwin Toy Ltd., headquartered in Toronto, develops, manufactures, markets and distributes a broad range of toys and games globally. Major licensed toy brands include Dragon Ball Z, Reboot, Sailor Moon, Thunderbirds and Caillou, as well as Irwin Toy-developed brands including Blazin? Key Cars!, Girl Zone and Baby Shoe Babies.

10-19-01---- Top 10 From CDNOW

10-18-01---- New Eva Figures

The re-designed packaging by Art Asylum was created to resemble the "Launch Tubes" that house these massive biomechanical giants at NERV. Other EVA's to star in this re-launch include Units 00 (blue), 02, 03, and 04. For a better look at each newly packaged figure, just click below. To find a store near you that will be carring these figures, click HERE or call 1-888-comic-book.

10-19-01---- Cartoon Fantasy Organization Meeting

The Contact Person and Mailing Address is: Cartoon/Fantasy Organization c/o Fred Patten 11863 W. Jefferson Blvd. Culver City, CA 90230 (310) 827-3335 A $2.00 donation at the door would be appreciated from non-members. The Cartoon/Fantasy Organization WWW Page is at: http://c_fo.tripod.com/ The E-mail address is: cfo5@juno.com

10-19-01----- Bandai DVD Dates

January 2002
01/08/2002 Pilot Candidate Vol. 2 DVD $29.98
01/08/2002 Saver Marionette J Again DVD $34.98
01/22/2002 Gundam MS 08 Vol. 4 DVD $24.98
01/22/2002 Gundam MS 08 Vol. 4 Dub $19.98
01/22/2002 G-Saviour DVD $29.98
01/22/2002 Gundam 0083 Vol. 1 DVD $29.98
February 2002
02/05/2002 Mobile Suit Gundam Vol. 6 DVD $24.98
02/05/2002 Mobile Suit Gundam Vol. 7 DVD $24.98
02/05/2002 Mobile Suit Gundam Vol. 6 Dub $14.98
02/05/2002 Mobile Suit Gundam Vol. 7 Dub $14.98
02/19/2002 Gundam 0080 Vol. 1 DVD $29.98
02/19/2002 Love Hina Vol. 1 DVD w/ Box $34.98
02/19/2002 Love Hina Vol. 1 DVD $29.98
March 2002
03/05/2002 Pilot Candidate Vol. 3 DVD $29.98
03/05/2002 Jin-Roh DVD Special $59.98
03/05/2002 Jin-Roh DVD $29.98
03/19/2002 Z-Mind $34.98
03/19/2002 Gundam 0083 Vol. 2 DVD $29.98
03/19/2002 Gundam MS08 Miller's Report DVD

10-19-01---- MSIA NA News

Source: Newtype Asylum

10-19-01---- DBZ Audio Problems

the poor quality Dragonball Z episodes broadcasting in the UK are now back to their original quality. Cartoon Network have apoligised for the poor sound and picture quality of episodes 179-182 (we jsut saw episode 183: Final round, today.) It turns out they just got some bad tapes, they now have the new ones and will show the higher quality episodes when they show re-runs of the Cell/Saiyaman sagas.

10-18-01---- AIC News

Also, Yousuke Kuroda

"Mahou Yuugi(a.k.a Magical Witchland)" OVA #1 with Padudu figurine DVD set will release in Japan by King Records Inc. on 29th December, 2001.

"Mahou Yuugi" online 2D anime website is open on 10/19! © AIC·Magicaland Magic Union ©1998-2001 lycos Japan Inc. This 2D anime is scheduled to boarcast from early November on Lycos Japan.

Credits for both 2D and 3D Edition:
Dirctor: Mr.Hayashi Hiroki
Character designer: Mr. Azuma Kiyohiko
3D Script Writer: Mr.Hideyuki Kurata
2D Script Writer: Mr.Ohnoki Hiroshi

"Mahou Yuugi" comic is serialized on monthly comic magazine "Dengeki Daioh" in Japan by Media Works. This comic edition is created by Mr. Katura Yukimaru

10-19-01---- Sakura Taisen Shinshun Kayou Theatrical Show 5th Anniversary DVD Release

10-19-01---- Film 2001 Transcript

"Now, while in recent weeks I've had to sit through shockers such as 'Original Sin' and 'Driven', this job does have its compensations. Because as well as having Kung Fu Werewolves [Referring to 'Brotherhood of the wolf'], tonight we've got a real landmark in animation." "If your awareness of Japanese cartoons begins and ends with 'Pokemon', then I would urge you, with all the enthusiasm of Patsy Kensit rushing backstage at the Brit awards, to catch 'Princess Mononoke'. Which, 4 years after it became the highest grossing film in Japanese history, finally arrives in Britain this week." "The film's one of the master works of Hayao Miyazaki - the leading light in the world of anime, through his 'Ghibli' company. And an uncompromising figure, whose earlier unhappy experiences with American companies led him to send a Samurai sword to the head of the US studio, releasing a dubbed version of PM, with a note attached reading 'No Cuts'." "To the point perhaps, but who can blame him - This film is a masterpiece" [over a minute of PM footage (dubbed) with commentary from Ross:] "It's an epic tale of a young warrior who gets involved in a battle between humans and various Gods of the forest. In the midst of the conflict our hero meets PM, a girl raised in the woods by the wolf Gods. He tries to persuade the greedy humans and the forest deities that they can live in harmony. But, inevitably, it's not easy." "The film is set in an animated world, that is at once very beautiful and magical but real. It's also surprisingly complex, and about as far removed from the two dimensional plots in a Disney film as 'The Godfather' is from 'Porkies." "Trust me, PM is powerful, subtle, glorious to look at, and wildly imaginative" [Ross gives info' on the Barbican and other film festivals the film is showing at. Plus info' on Mondays video/DVD release] "Once you've seen, and fallen in love with PM, I'm confident that you'll want to know more about the wonderful world of anime. So, here's a guide to just some of Maestro Miyazaki's very best" [Montage of Porco Rosso scenes] "Porco Rosso isn't one of my childhood nicknames, but an indulgence of Miyazaki's boyhood dreams. He was 10 when he saw a seaplane which he fantasised about owning on a little island. He openly admits that this is a very personal film: For years he's wanted to feature his passions for planes and pigs! Quite strange at first glance, but it's really a wonderful piece of work." [After op credits scene from Laputa f. Sheeta falling into Patsu's arms] "'Laputa: Castle in the sky' uses more conventional animated adventure sequences - perhaps because it was the first [second] production by Studio Ghibli." "The inspiration for the castle is the floating island in 'Gulliver's Travels', and the story is driven by a magical pendent. This sequence is just the start of many exciting adventures in search of its adventures" [Totoro, Bus stop scene] "Probably one of the finest animated movies I've ever seen is 'My Neighbour Totoro'. It's beautiful, charming, magical and, comfortingly, simple - The most dramatic the plot gets is when Mei, the 5yr old heroin, gets lost in the woods. Admittedly it doesn't sound enthralling - She's not kidnapped by a giant sea witch, she hasn't got to find a gem to save the world from blowing up - She just goes missing one afternoon." "Writers of lesser animated scripts should stand back and take a note of the observational skill that makes Miyazaki an animation genius. If you watch it with some children, you'll see its really remarkable impact"

10-19-01---- AX Magazine To Suspend Publication Indefinetly

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