Anime News Service - September 20 - 26 Anime News

9-26-00---- Anime / Manga Gaming

Following up on today's new info on the Blood Project, Sony has announced Blood The Last Vampire for PS2 will be released in Japan on December 21, retailing at 6800 Yen. The main character is a 17 year old boy, who has the blood of the Shadow Ninja in his body. A vampire has awakened and began feeding on him.

Hudson's PSX title Bomberman Land is out in Japan in December. This game features several mini games in addition to the traditional game and is being designed to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Bomberman.

9-26-00---- AnimeVillage Newsletter

Anime Village has sent out it's latest newsletter for September with various updates from Bandai Entertainment, you ca read it here.

9-26-00---- Fanboy Entertainment News

Who is the character featured on the splash screen of Fanboy Entertainment's homepage?

The "babe" in question is Katsumi from Silent Mobius. She appears in that balck leather costume in the prequel to Silent Mobius called Mobius Klein. An upcoming press release will announce it officially but Mobius Klein kicks off the new line of Fanboy manga titles starting January 2001! Expanding,
C.B.

Artists Wanted:

Excerpted from the Fanboy Entertainment forum post:

Artists Wanted - Help Fanboy!
Mon Sep 25 20:37:09 2000

Hello, all.

No, that headline is not a joke. Yes, Fanboy is looking for artists. We need your help with a few upcoming projects. The guidelines are rather specific though so before you pack up a submission and send it off to us, be sure you can meet the criteria we are looking for.

We need one female penciler with a shojo manga influenced style. We also need two inkers who will ink over already penciled comic pages. No previous professional experience neccessary. You need not have been published. We are looking for hardworking new talent committed to giving their all to bring a few exciting comic projects to fruition which Fanboy will be publishing in 2001! Sound good? Ready to work?

As far as submissions are concerned, we want to see what you've got. All artwork has to be SNAIL MAILED to us. WE WILL NOT ACCEPT INTERNET SUBMISSIONS VIA E-MAIL! ANY WE GET WILL SIMPLY BE DELETED AND NOT EVEN CONSIDERED!

Pencilers: We need to see 6 to 8 pages of sequential art. They must clearly demonstrate your layout and storytelling ability. We are looking for a subtle yet kinetic style. We do not want just sketches or pin-ups, although you may feel free to include them. We need fully penciled pages that show you understand pacing and panel-to-panel transition. The pages must tell a complete story. Including the script you work from would also be helpful so we can see how you translate the written page into the visual medium. Please send only photocopies. NO ORIGINALS. We will not return any artwork as it will go on file.

Inkers: Please feel free to send us whatever you like that you feel best demonstrates your skill in capturing the line work of the original penciler. We will need copies of the original penciled work in addition to your inks of the same pages. We would like to see actual inked comic pages as well as covers and pin-up art. Please send only photocopies. NO ORIGINALS. We will not return any artwork as it will go on file.

Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, best time to call and e-mail addresss with your submissions. If you have a webpage with addtional art we can check out, be sure to include that address as well. Also, please write your name and e-mail address on each page you send as they tend to get separted sometimes.

Please send all samples by United States Postal Service. However, you need not use Priority Mail or Express Mail. PLEASE do not send us any samples by UPS, FedEx, Airborne or other express carrier. Just because we get your work earlier does not mean we look at it any faster or give it any kind of preferential treatment.

Also, if we think you have the skills we are looking for, we will contact you. Please do not send constant follow-up e-mails asking if we've seen your work. We'll call you.

We are sorry but we are not looking at any writing samples or story submissions at this time.

Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions at cbcebulski@fanboyinc.com. Also, please feel free to spread the word if you know anyone who you think could fit the bill.

Thanks for your cooperation. I really look forward to seeing what you've got.

Read manga,
C.B. Cebulski
Fanboy Entertainment

9-26-00---- AOL And NTT DoCoMo Tieup

Japan-based telecommunications giant, NTT DoCoMo, is reportedly teaming with the world's largest internet service provider AOL (America Online) to integrate services in Japan. Under the agreement, NTT DoCoMo will take a stake of more than 40% in AOL Japan, making it the largest shareholder of AOL's Japanese unit. Through AOL Japan, DoCoMo will gain a foothold in the fixed line Internet access market, but it is already Japan's biggest Internet service provider with 12 million users logged on through its popular "i-mode'' service, which allows users to browse the Web on business-card sized screens on cell phones. Next year, it will become the first company to introduce wireless high bandwidth service, which will be capable of delivering video and CD-quality sound to mobile phones. Some Analysts are predict the similar services could be launched to the American and European markets. For the entire Reuters article regarding this click here.

9-26-00---- Blood Project Details Revealed

News of Production I.G.'s Anime feature film Blood: The Last Vampire has been in circulation for sometime now, after a recent special U.S. screening in L.A. and at various film festivals around the world, it will be released in Japanese theaters in November. Less known is that the Blood film is actually part of a 3 tiered multimedia wide release known as "BLOOD PROJECT".

Today in Tokyo new details on the Blood Project were revealed. In production since 1996, the project includes the film release as well as a novel and Playstation 2 videogame.

The film Blood: The Last Vampire is jointly produced by SPE Visual Works and Production I.G., directed by Hiroyuki Kitakubo, and totally digitally produced it tells of events in 1966 taking place on a U.S. military base in Japan.

The novel Blood The Last Vampire - Animal is being released by Kadokawa Shoten in Japan this October. It tells of events taking place in Tokyo in 1969. Mamoru Oshii is writing the novel and character designer Katsuya Terada will be providing illustrations.

The Playstation 2 game version of Blood The Last Vampire is out in Japan December 21st from SCE, the story occurs in Tokyo in the year 2000, the player has a multiple path plotline to navigate and the game features exclusive animation sequences.

9-26-00---- History Of Shoujo Exhibit In Tokyo

A postwar history of Shoujo Anime exhibit will be held at the Fine Arts Museum in Tokyo October 1st - December 24th.

9-26-00---- Gundam Wing Toys In Canada

Bandai America introduced it's Mobile Suit Gundam Wing models in Canada Sept. 16 at a Toronto toy retailer.

9-25-00---- New Spirit Of Wonder OVA Planned

According to the October issue of Newtype magazine a new Spirit of Wonder OAV is currently in production for a January 2001 release in Japan.

9-25-00---- BGC DVD Upgrade Info

A reader of Anime On DVD sent in a reply from Multimedia 2000 today on the upgrade path for those who already own the original Bubblegum Crisis series on DVD.

"If you send us your three old discs, than you can have the new MegaSeries 4 pack for $39.95 + shipping and handling. That's opposed to the $69.95 that it normally costs. If you wish to do this, you can send us a check with your discs. Shipping and handling is $6.95, so the total is $46.90. You can send them to:

Multimedia 2000 / BGC Upgrade
2017 8th Ave. 3rd Floor
Seattle, WA 98121"

9-25-00---- Bubblegum Crisis 2040 - Martian Successor Nadesico ADV Films Release Details

Excerpted from the official press release:

For Immediate Release September 25, 2000

ADV Films Announces DVD Release of Bubblegum Crisis: Tokyo 2040 Volume 2 & Martian Successor Nadesico Volume 2

HOUSTON - ADV Films is proud to announce the DVD release of two of the greatest anime series to come out of Japan, Bubblegum Crisis: Tokyo 2040, and Martian Successor Nadesico.

Bubblegum Crisis: Tokyo 2040 Volume 2: Trial By Fire DVD Genom unleashes a new wave of rogue Boomers, and the AD Police declare open war on the Knight Sabers! A bloody street battle is the only way out as, trapped in a maze of intrigue carefully laid by conspiring foes, the vigilante heroines fight to survive.

Martian Successor Nadesico Volume 2: Desperate Journey DVD As the Nadesico heads for Mars and a deadly encounter with the Jovian menace, new recruits, a tragic death, an enemy ambush, a budding romance and a frantic battle all spice up the plot as the action really begins to heat up. Is it a recipe for disaster or mankind's last hope for salvation?

This December, ADV Films will continue these exclusive anime series on DVD. Each DVD will include the original Japanese version with English subtitles, plus the English-dubbed version of the films.

If you haven't yet bought Volume 1 of Bubblegum Crisis: Tokyo 2040 and Martian Successor Nadesico on DVD, now is the time to buy them, so you can start the DVD series off right.

ADV Films, the premiere label of A.D.Vision, Inc. formed in 1992, is North America's #1 distributor of top-quality Japanese animation ("anime"), with titles such as Neon Genesis Evangelion, Samurai X and Gasaraki. ADV also distributes American and Japanese live-action programming for theatrical and broadcast release. ADV Films can be found on the web at www.advfilms.com

Ratings: Bubblegum - 15yrs.+; Nadesico - 12yrs.+

Pre-book Date (for both titles): 11/7/00
Street Date (for both titles): 12/5/00

Martian Successor Nadesico Volume2: Desperate Journey DVD $29.98

Bubblegum Crisis: Tokyo 2040 Volume 2: Trial By Fire DVD $29.98

9-25-00---- Mikkakan Announced

Excerpted from the info release:

Location: Radisson Hotel and Conference Center, Merrimack NH
Date: June 15-17, 2001
Con Hotel Rate: $79/night double occupancy, mention Mikkakan or you won't get the rate Features:
3 Theaters of anime
A panel room to meet and greet guests
An informal artist's alley to watch the great's at work
A dealer's room filled with cool anime and manga
A con suite to provide a little hospitality to you folks
And a real live con mascot!

As I mentioned before we have confirmed our first guest. Tristan MacAvery has agreed to visit us from Texas. He's known best for his work with A.D. Vision doing voices for many of their dubs and for directing features. Thanks again Tristan.

Now, You're probably asking yourself, "OK, so what does this cost and where do I send the money?". At least I hope that's what you're saying. Here it is.

Preregistration:
$25/person until 12/31/00
$30/person until 5/25/01
$35/person then on and at the door

Also available is one-day passes for $15/person for Friday and Saturday and $12/person for Sunday. We can only accept cash or check. Make your check out to: Mikkakan and mail payment to:
Mikkakan
P.O.Box 137
Durham, NH 03824-0137

With payment please include the following information. Your name, Nickname(if any), Mailing Address, and e-mail address.

Send Cash at your own risk. $25 fee will be charged for bounced checks. Refunds cannot be issued, sorry.

Website: http://mikkakan.gehirn.net
E-mail: mikkakan@gehirn.net

Ray, Con-Chair Mikkakan 2001

9-25-00---- Mayumi Izuka Very Strwberry Tour 2000 Wraps

Seiyuu Mayumi Izuka's (Kasumi - Pokemon, Uchida Yukari - Tenkuu No Escaflowne, Sakuya - Shin Tenchi Muyo) recent live performance tour Very Strawberry Tour 2000 wrapped last week on 9/21 with the final show in Tokyo.

9-25-00---- Toyfare Top Figures Of All Time Anime Entries

The October issue of Toyfare magazine features an in-hose compiled list of the greatest action figures of all time. Editors judged the figures on the basis of sculpting, articulation, special features or novelties, manufacturing quality and "that special something that can only be described as 'coolness'."

Below are some entries of note:

1) RX-78-2 Gundam Perfect Grade (Gundam, Bandai)
2) Jetfire (Transformers, Hasbro)
5) Great Mazinga (Soul of Chogokin, Bandai)
9) Rockman (Rockman, Bandai)
10) EVA Unit 00 Prototype (Neon Genesis Evangelion, Kaiyodo)
14) Soundwave (Transformers, Hasbro)
15) Captain Harlock (Real Action Heroes, Medicom)
16) Astro Boy (Miracle Action Figures, Medicom)

9-25-00---- Anime / Manga Gaming

At the Tokyo Game Show occuring presently in Tokyo, Bandai announced that their PS2 Mobile Suit Gundam for PlayStation 2 will be released in Japan on December 21st. The game will be based in the continuity of the original 1979 Gundam TV series and feature 40 minutes of animation.

9-24-00---- Toyfare Article Sheds Light On Future Gundam Broadcast Plans

The November issue of Toyfare magazine includes some interesting Gundam broadcast info. Previously known is the original Gundam TV series is likely to debut on Cartoon Network during the first quarter of 2001. Questions posed to Toonami's creative director, indicate that Bandai has "really insisted" on Mobile Suit Gundam as the series to immediately follow Gundam Wing, this was meant to introduce American viewers to the UC timeline from the beginning, which will "open the door for several series to come." Reportedly, this will allow CN to show the OVAs Gundam 0080 and Gundam 0083. Toonami's creative director also added, "When MS 08th Team comes on, it will be the greatest animated thing we've ever shown."

(On showing the original Gundam series on TV, Bandai has conveyed at conventions that after the succes of Gundam Wing traditionally viewed as the "most popular" Gundam series of the 90's, showing the original Gundam series in the U.S. (in a recently reported Japanese poll of 200,000 people Gundam was voted favorite anime of all time.), will lay a "foundation" on which 20 years of the Gundam franchise universe can be built.)

The Toyfare article also mentioned Bandai's future U.S. toy plans in the U.S., Bandai's Vice President of marketing told Toyfare that while "nothing is concrete," figures from Mobile Suit Gundam seem very likely in 2001.

9-24-00---- Samurai X In Billboard Top Ten Videos

The latest issue (10/7) of Billboard Magazine lists ADV Films' Samurai X as the #7 highest sold video in America.

9-24-00---- Princess Mononoke Screening In NYC

Excerpted from the info release:

SPECIAL BIG SCREEN SCREENING THIS WEDNESDAY!

After hours of tireless work, the Anime Club of Columbia, in association with the Columbia University Science Fiction Society, is VERY proud to present one of the greatest animated movies of all time.

On Wednesday, 9/27, at 8PM, in the new Lerner Hall Cinema, there will be a special showing of Miyazaki's masterpiece, Princess Mononoke.

Come see the movie that many consider Studio Ghibli's crowning achievement on the big screen, as it was meant to be seen. Tickets are three dollars, and can be bought at the time of the screening.

To get to Lerner Hall, simply get to 115th and Broadway, either via the 1/9, the m104, the m60, or the m4, enter the Columbia campus via the 115th street gate, and enter the first doors on your right. Lerner Hall is the large building with the ramps.

9-24-00---- 6 Angels

A new 90 minute Anime theatrical feature titled 6 Angels is currently in development with a projected winter release in Japan. A team of industry veterans are bringing this Shoujoesque Scifi adventure to realization:

Direction: Akira Kouson ( Macross, YAMATO 2520, Rock Man )
Script: Yasushi Hirano ( City Hunter )
Character Designs: Hiromi Kato ( Tenshi Ni Narumon, Violinist Of Hamelin )
Mecha Designs: Kobayashi Makoto ( Venus Wars, Gundam ZZ, Giant Robo )
Layout and Original Concepts, Series Supervisor: Akimoto Yasushi

A three minute trailer of 6 Angels can be viewed via Quicktime or Windows Mediaplayer at www.kyoming.com.

Source: www.kyoming.com, Anime Nation

9-23-00---- Escaflowne Road Show - Bandai Taking Questions From Fans

As previously reported, an advance premiere of Escaflowne the Movie in Japanese and with Korean subtitles will be shown in Fukuoka City, Japan on September 30 and October 1, other panels and events will be held also. Director Kazuki Akane and Hitomi's Japanese voice actress Maaya Sakamoto, Hitomi's TV English dub voice actress Kelly Sheridan and Bandai Entertainment Vice President and Executive Producer Ken Iyadomi will also be attending. Bandai has set up a special page and asking fans to submit questions they would like to ask Escaflowne staff members, the questions could be used in taping and interviewing key people at the event the Animevillage website and for possible inclusion in a future DVD. You can visit the site here.

9-23-00---- Nelvana Launches New Cardcaptors Site

Nelvana has launched a new Card Captors site at www.clowbook.com. There you can find updated character and story info.

9-23-00---- DBZ Interview Online

DBZ remote recently conducted an interview with FUNimation's Gen Fukunaga on future Dragon ball plans. You can check it out here.

9-23-00---- BGC DVD Pages Online

M-2K has uploaded some additional details on it's Bubblegum Crisis Megaset release, you can check it out here.

9-23-00---- UK Anime News

- Details on Channel 4's upcoming Animation week running from Sept. 23rd-29th are out. An Anime related documentary "Manga Erotica" will air at 3am on Monday morning, following it, "Shadow Skill The Movie" (OVA's) will show.

- The final U.K. Manga Entertainment Video release this year, Ninja Scroll DVD, is out on Nov. 13th. Sales of the Ghost in the Shell and Perfect Blue DVD's in the U.K. market have been very impressive, and Manga hopes to release more Anime on DVD next year. Unfortunately, authoring problems are reportedly limiting the speed of releases, and Manga is unable to get any other releases out this year. Street Fighter Alpha, which was scheduled from release in November has been pushed back until after the start of the new year so Manga can shoot for a simultaneous US/UK release on both VHS and DVD. Other new titles Manga U.K. has aquired for release include Blood, Virus, and Devilman Amon.

Source: www.animejin.org.uk

9-23-00---- Mononoke DVD Listing Updates

Amazon has updated their listing for the upcoming American Princess Mononoke DVD:

Release Information:
Studio: Walt Disney Home Video
Reason for Rating: Violence; Gore
Theatrical Release Date: November 26, 1999
DVD Release Date: December 19, 2000
Run Time: 134 minutes
Production Company: Buena Vista Home Entertainment
Package Type: Keep Case

Aspect Ratio(s):
Widescreen Anamorphic - 1.85:1

Discographic Information:
DVD Encoding: Region 1
Layers: Dual
Available Audio Tracks: Japanese (Original) (Dolby Digital 5.1), English (Dolby Digital 5.1), French (Dolby Digital 2.0)
Available subtitles: English

Edition Details:
Region 1 encoding (US and Canada only)
Color, Animated, Widescreen, Dolby
Theatrical trailer(s)
Production Featurette
Widescreen anamorphic format

9-22-00---- Special Gundam Issue Of Animerica

Excerpted from the officla press release:

FIND OUT ALL ABOUT GUNDAM IN A SPECIAL ISSUE OF AMERICA'S #1 ANIME MAGAZINE!

ANIMERICA GUNDAM SPECIAL NOVEMBER 22, 2000

San Francisco, CA (9/22/00)-The Cartoon Network's top-rated TV show GUNDAM WING is only the beginning! On November 22, Viz presents the ultimate resource on the ultimate mecha series: ANIMERICA SPECIAL #1: THE WORLD OF GUNDAM, a special one-shot issue of ANIMERICA!

GUNDAM has been the biggest thing in Japan for over 20 years. Now it's invading America! ANIMERICA is here to explain the stories of all the different Gundam animated sagas. In Japan GUNDAM has been the basis for:

Nine GUNDAM TV series and eight GUNDAM movies Four original video series (OAVs) Plus video games, model kits, toys, novels and ongoing comic book stories

We'll tell you which worlds are which, who the heroes are and who the villains are, how the science works in the GUNDAM world, and more! Plus, we'll give you the rundown on all the fantastic model kits based on them, and which ones you'll definitely want to have. And the very latest news on the newest GUNDAM shows to play on the Cartoon Network: ENDLESS WALTZ (October 2000) and MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM 0079 (coming in 2001). You'll want to hang on to this invaluable reference guide to the incredible world of GUNDAM.

9-22-00---- New Bandai Gundam Models

At a figure con taking place now in Tokyo Bandai has revealed a new metal laden 1/60 scale Gundam W Wing 0 Custom Perfect Grade model kit which will retail close to 15,000 Yen when it's released in Japan in November. A new master grade MS- 07 Gouf kit was also shown, it will retail at around 2,800 Yen and has a release date of October. Pictures of these and a few other new kits can be seen here.

9-22-00---- M2K / Animeigo Bubblegum Crisis DVD Megaset Details

Excerpted from the official press release:

Multimedia 2000 Releases Bubblegum Crisis DVD MegaSeries: the Ultimate Anime Collection Bubblegum Crisis MegaSeries Includes DVD Debut of Hurricane Live!, Also Sold Individually.
SEATTLE--Sept. 22, 2000-- Multimedia 2000 (www.m-2k.com) today announced the revamping of its phenomenally successful Bubblegum Crisis DVD line with the release of two new titles: Bubblegum Crisis Volume Four: Hurricane Live! and the Bubblegum Crisis MegaSeries.

These new releases extend and collect the action-packed adventures of the Knight Sabers; four beautiful, high-tech mercenaries fighting a battle against corporate evil in post-apocalyptic MegaTokyo. The DVD remaster of this classic animated series has been a consistent best-seller, and the new titles are sure to bring continued success.

``We have always been proud of our close relationship with Bubblegum Crisis' avid fans, and it was their many letters and phone calls which brought about these new titles,'' said Greg Hutcheson, VP New Business/Marketing of Multimedia 2000. ``Right from our initial release the questions started coming in: 'Where was Hurricane Live?' 'When will you release the series in standard Amaray packaging?' 'Where was the leader of the team, Sylia Stingray?' These two new titles will answer all of those questions and more.''

Bubblegum Crisis Volume Four: Hurricane Live! is the DVD debut of this integral part of the Bubblegum Crisis series, collecting all thirteen music videos from the two original VHS tapes. Music is as much a part of Bubblegum Crisis as the action or animation, and in Hurricane Live! the hard-rocking sounds of Priss and the Replicants are accompanied by the hottest action sequences from the series, animation unavailable anywhere else, and rare live footage featuring the original voice actresses from the special ``Tinsel City Rhapsody'' concerts in Japan. The package features Knight Saber leader Sylia Stingray, meaning that each Knight Saber is now featured on her own individually sold, Amaray-sized Moviepak.

Having released the ultimate anime series on DVD, Multimedia 2000's next goal was to create the ultimate DVD anime collection; a goal they feel they've reached with the Bubblegum Crisis MegaSeries. The MegaSeries takes all four Moviepaks, collecting the original eight episodes and thirteen music videos, and puts it all together in a gorgeous slipcase that will add sparkle to any home collection. At a fraction of the cost of the original VHS tapes and laserdiscs, this is the one collection no anime fan can afford to be without.

Retailers and distributors interested in ordering the Bubblegum Crisis DVDs should contact Mark Abes (tel: 760/730-0188; e-mail: mabes@m-2k.com). Individuals can place orders by calling 206/622-5530, or by visiting www.m-2k.com.

Multimedia 2000 (www.m-2k.com) develops and distributes DVDs and CD-ROM software, including the new American Sign Language for Kids educational program and the ASL Dictionary on CD-ROM. Multimedia 2000 has also begun distributing applications for the exploding Palm Pilot market, including PocketPhoto, which lets users store photos and images on their handheld, and PocketRetriever, which lets users remotely access their home or office PC through their handheld device.

Editorial Note: Online Graphics http://www.m-2k.com/promo/bgcboxset/index.html

9-22-00---- ADV Films Joins Moonshine Overamerica Tour

Excerpted from the offical press release:

HOUSTON, Sept. 2 - ADV Films announced today that the Moonshine Overamerica 2000 tour will feature on-screen anime from the #1 distributor of Japanese animation in North America.

Starting September 28th, Moonshine Music will kick off their 4th annual Moonshine Overamerica tour. In addition to the many great artists and DJs that Moonshine will roll out, this year's tour will carry an added bonus. ADV Films will be providing visual stimulation for the guests attending the tour. On five screens around the venue, awesome footage from the best in anime will have continuous play and will only add that much more to the ambiance created by the already-hyped and anticipated musical features across the country.

Moonshine Overamerica is the longest running annual techno tour in America. Every year, Moonshine Music assembles a group of the label's talented artists and DJs, puts them on a rock 'n' roll tour bus, and spends a month on the road playing at clubs and raves around the country.

ADV Films, the premiere label of A.D. Vision, Inc., is the largest distributor of anime in North America, and with the continued support of Moonshine Music, should continue to dominate this market. This marriage of anime and future music is just the beginning of a relationship between the two companies that will provide fans of both genres with the type of specialized entertainment that has shaped an entire culture and will continue to push the envelope of future entertainment for years to come.

For more information on Moonshine Music, their artists and the Moonshine Overamerica 2000 tour, visit www.moonshine.com or www.overamerica.com.

For more information on ADV Films, visit www.advfilms.com.

9-21-00---- Goku II U.S. Release

The second (and final) volume of the Kawajiri-directed series, Goku, (Goku II: Midnight Eye) will be available in stores nationwide in the U.S 9/26/00.

9-21-00---- Madman Catalog

Excerpted from the info release: Anime Fan,

This is a message to let you know that there is a fantastic NEW MADMAN FULL COLOUR 44 PAGE CATALOGUE now available. The catalogue lists all current and coming soon Madman video and DVD releases, including Manga Video, ADV Films and Dragon Ball Z.

We are currently posting these catalogues out free of charge to all those who want them, and as an added bonus there will be a special video offer inside.

If you wish to receive this catalogue, please complete your delivery details on the following web page: http://www.madman.com.au/subscriber.html

Note the catalogue offer is only valid in Australia.

Regards,
Madman

9-21-00---- Houston Museum Of Fine Art Features Anime From ADV Films

Excerpted from the offical press release:

ADV Films announced today that during the month of October, the Houston Museum of Fine Art will feature animation and presentations from the #1 distributor of Japanese animation in North America.

The three-week ``Absolute Anime'' extravaganza will kick off Saturday, October 7th at 7:30 pm with the big-screen presentation of the classic ADV Films titles, Queen Emeraldas and Battle Angel. Over the following weeks, other great ADV Films anime features will be showing, including Sin: The Movie, ADV's full-length production based on the popular game from Ritual Entertainment.

A special presentation, ``Meet A.D. Vision,'' will be held on Friday, October 13th, giving fans a chance to meet the ADV staff and get an inside look at this popular genre that is taking America by storm, Japanese animation (``anime'').

"Absolute Anime" Schedule

Saturday, 10/7 7:30 pm Queen Emeraldas
8:45 pm Battle Angel
Sunday, 10/8 7:00 pm Sin: The Movie
8:15 pm Gamera: The Guardian of the Universe
(live -action)
Friday, 10/13 7:30 pm "Meet A.D.Vision"
Saturday, 10/14 7:30 pm Samurai X: Trust
Sunday, 10/15 7:00 pm Sakura Wars
Saturday, 10/21 7:30 pm Ninja Resurrection
Sunday, 10/22 7:00 pm Ruin Exporers (1 and 2)

ADV Films, the premiere label of A.D.Vision, Inc. formed in 1992, is North America's #1 distributor of top-quality Japanese animation (``anime''), with titles such as Neon Genesis Evangelion, Bubblegum Crisis: Tokyo 2040 and Martian Successor Nadesico. ADV Films will soon be releasing top-quality, computer-animated titles such as ReBoot, Weird-Ohs and Shadowraiders. ADV Films also distributes American and Japanese live- action programming for theatrical and broadcast release. Check out ADV Films on the web at www.advfilms.com.

For directions or more information about the Museum of Fine Art in Houston, please call (713)639-7515.

9-21-00---- Tokuma Shoten President Dies At 78

President of publishing company Tokuma Shoten and producer of well known Studio anime including Mononoke Hime and Tonarino Totoro died Wednesday in Japan. Tokuma was 78 years old.

9-21-00---- Anime Article: "Japanese Anime Takes America By Storm"

The Rocky Mountain Collegian via U-WIRE is currently running the article: Japanese Anime Takes America By Storm.

9-21-00---- Clamp Update

Print News:
- On November 6th Kadokawa will release "MD (mystery deluxe)" - "Legitimate Drug"
- On November 24th Kadokawa will release "ASUKA" - "X"
- On November 25th Kadokawa will release "Shonen Ace" - "Angelic Layer"

Sakura News:
- New Card Captor Sakura cards go on sale in Japan in November with a retail of 380 Yen per pack.
- A special Sakura binder also goes on sale in Nov. at the retail of 2600 Yen.

9-21-00---- Digi Charat Concert

The upcoming live-action Digi-Charat concert "Digi Charat 4th Concert In Vefarre" will take place October 21st in Japan.

9-21-00---- Anime Music News

- 2 new compilation soundtrack CD's featuring music from several classic anime TV series' with the tentative titles "Television Cartoon Deluxe - Hero" and - "Heroine" are out October 21st. "Television Cartoon Deluxe - Animation Hero Compilation" retails at 3,500 Yen and includes themes from One Piece, Kinikuman, Dragon Ball, Tiger Mask, Gatchaman, Cyborg 009, and other shonen series'. "Television Cartoon Deluxe - Animation Heroine Compilation" retails at 3,500 Yen and includes themes from Sailor Moon, Dog Of Flanders and other Shoujo series'.

- Including music from the Rainy Blue PC videogame, " Rainy Rain Of Blue - June - " the original sound track & drama CD is out in Japan November 22nd at the retail price of 2913 Yen.

- An ending theme single for Sunrise's new Arujentosoma Tv series to begin in Japan in October, "Horizon" (performed by SPHERE) is out from Victor on November 22nd. The single will retail at 1,000 Yen.

- "Space Battleship Yamato Eternal Edition - Fileno. 2 & 3", a compilation soundtrack is out in Japan November 1st at the retail price of 3,800 Yen. The release will include previously unreleased music from "Goodbye Space Battleship Yamato" and a bonus track from "Galaxy Express 999".

9-21-00---- Furi Kuri Volume 4 DVD Release

The 4th volume of GAINAX's OVA series Furi Kuri is out in Japan on October 25th. The disc will feature the option of English subtitles and has a program running time of 30 minutes. Retail price is 3,700 Yen.

Future Furi Kuri VHS and DVD Release Schedule:
4th volume "Furi Kiri" October 25th - 3,700 Yen
5th volume "Brassiere Blurring" December 21st - 3,700 Yen
6th volume "(title undecided)" - release undecided - 3,700 Yen

9-20-00---- Note From Urban Vision

Rhona Medina of Urban Vision:

"Just a reminder to everyone - Vampire Hunter D Special Edition DVD is now available for pre-orders at all major retailers, online and offline." The Special Edition DVD will be available nationwide October 17, 2000.

9-20-00---- Animeigo DVD Bits

Robert Woodhead of Animeigo posted a few interested items to the Animeigo mailing list today. Around 90 of the final Urusei Yatsura DVD sets will be shipped within a few days, at that point the company will address two hundred "problem orders" (declined credit cards, incorrect addresses etc.). Animeigo owned Lupin III movies will see the video conversion to DVD after "more popular shows".

9-20-00---- "Less Cut" Kite On The Way To VHS From Media Blasters

Excerpted from the Anime On DVD forum post by John Sirabella of Media Blasters:

"But I am responding to you to let you be the first to know that the Uncut (Less Cut) kite is being released in January under Kitty. We can not put it under AW becasue of the nature of the video. More important the only scenes cut will be the ones involving the young sawa. Once I get the dman people at my internet provider to have www.kittymedia.com pointing to www.mediablasters.com I will give specifics. I know you will want to know exactly what scenes will be added back. And before you ask it will be on VHS since Kitty and adult guys still are big on VHS. Maybe way down the road we can think about a DVD but alot of stores will not carry this version of KITE. I am doing this one becuase of the persistance.

I must warn you all UNCUT KITE will stick in your mind...and may change the way you think of KITE. It is graphic to the extreme."

9-20-00---- Anime Alberta Website Launches

The Anime Alberta anime club which has been running for over two years, announced the launch of it's official website today as a place for members of the anime clubs in Alberta, Canada to get together online, chat and discuss anime in their home province and abroad, show off combined creative skills, and work on larger multi-club projects for the benefit of all the member clubs.

The site can be accessed at:
www.anime-alberta.org

9-20-00---- Anime Music News

- King Records announced the release of a new, and as-yet untitled Yonekura Chihiro album with the Japanese release date of Nov. 2nd and a retail price of 2913 Yen. Songs to be included are "Just Fly Away" and "Return To Myself".

- 2 maxi-singles related to the previously announced new anime TV series Yami No Matsuei - Descendents Of Darkness. # 1: Opening Theme (OP by To Destination) Single (title undecided) release November 2nd at the retail price of 1200 Yen. #2 Ending Theme (ED By Hong Kong Knife) Single "Love Me" (tentative title) release date Nov. 2nd at a retail price of 1200 Yen.

- Mariko Kouda's upcoming single tentatively titled "Mariko Kouda's Special Selection Album - Colorful" has a release date in Japan of December 6th and a retail price of 2913 Yen.

- Konami and King Records are set to release Tokimeki Memorial 2 Drama CD series with the first volume out in Japan Drama October 25th listing at 2718 Yen. Vol. 2 is to be released in late November, and Vol. 3 in late December, both will also retail at 2718 Yen.

- 2 different Useless Witch Doremi Sharp singles are out in Japan November 2nd, each will retail at 1443 Yen.

- The PS2 videogame title "Mashikusumisu Randema" is being adapted to an anime TV series to air in Japan in the spring of next year, a "Super Sound Album" for the game is out in Japan on October 25th at the retail price of 2667 Yen.

- Upcoming Totsutoko Hamtaro Music Release:
Totsutoko Hamtaro Character CD - Oct. 21 - 1912 Yen
Totsutoko Hamtaro Theme single (includes OP And ED) - Sept. 30 - 1200 Yen

9-20-00--- Media Blasters Kenshin DVD News

Excerpted from a post to the Media Blasters Website:

Hello, Here is the official word from Media Blasters on the Rurouni Kenshin Vol. 1 DVD. So read and be informed.

On the first Kenshin disk, certain players were having sound problems of various degrees. After much effort, I have finally tracked down their causes and had them corrected. In fact, the reason the second Kenshin disk was delayed was that we decided to be absolutely sure that every trace of the audio problems had been eradicated. The problems with the crossed stereo on certain scenes had to do with the fact that the audio track was encoded in segments, so that certain parts could be crossed while others were not. The other problem was that the original master used to encode the video and audio from had the Japanese audio on tracks three and four. Even though they were then encoded on to tracks one and two of the DVD, some more temperamental players got confused, and had trouble deciding whether or not these two tracks were supposed to be front (channel one and two) or rear (channel three and four) stereo. Usually a forced down mix to straight stereo or a tweak to the player's virtual surround or 3D Phonic settings could correct this problem. Switching the output to the rear and front speakers, either via tuner settings or manually will also solve the problem. Our second Kenshin disk, Battle in the Moonlight, is free of these problems. It also has some improvements in the video quality and even more extras than the last one. There is no time-search for this one however, in order to allow a DVD player to search by time-code, the disk must have a certain file structure. As this structure is rather storage-inefficient, we didn’t have the space to implement it on this disk, but I think we’ll end up doing a DVD-9 for disk three, so we can have it then. In addition, we will be re-printing the first Kenshin disk with the sound problem corrected, so if you are one of those with a player that didn’t like the first printing, you can still enjoy Kenshin on DVD.

--Sean Molyneaux, Production Media Blasters

Now the word from the Pres is that we will be replacing the DVDs that have been sent into us but you have to be patient. We have been back logged due to the delay in the Kenshin Vol. 2 disc so we must get those out first and than we will reprint the corrected Vol. 1. So for those who have sent in their discs, we have them and will replace them but be patient. We apologize for this inconvenience and hope you continue to support Media Blasters.

9-20-00---- Anime / Manga Gaming

- Bergen is running an article on Tenchu 2 and has some details on how the first game influenced the creators of The Matrix, you can read it here.

- Excerpted from the official press release:

Orphen: Scion of Sorcery to Launch Simultaneously With the PlayStation2 Computer Entertainment System
Activision, Inc. announced today that Orphen(TM): Scion of Sorcery(TM) will launch on October 26, 2000, day-and-date with the new PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. The DVD-based game is being developed exclusively for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and will take full advantage of the system's technological and graphical advancements to deliver crisper, cleaner graphics and a more immersive gameplay experience. Orphen: Scion of Sorcery will be one of the first action role-playing games available at the launch of the new hardware system and has been rated ``T'' (Mild Animated Violence -- ``Teen'' -- content suitable for persons ages 13 and older) by the ESRB.

Based on a popular Japanese anime television series, Orphen: Scion of Sorcery is set on the mystical Chaos Island and challenges players to escape by unraveling the island's many mysteries. As they embark on their quest, players assume the main role of Orphen and along the way will be able to play five additional characters and three different storylines each with unique challenges.

``Activision is firmly committed to maintaining its console market share by having two titles tied closely to the launch of the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system -- Orphen: Scion of Sorcery and Sky Odyssey,'' states Ron Doornink, President and COO, Activision, Inc. ``Orphen: Scion of Sorcery's rich story driven gameplay and breathtaking graphics set the stage for the game to be a stand out action role-playing game for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system.''

Developed by Shade, Inc. and produced by Kadokawa Shoten and ESP, Orphen: Scion of Sorcery immerses players in a fantastical story in which they must run, climb and jump through a variety of beautiful environments including underground caverns, giant castles, and dark forests. As they travel through the game, players will encounter 30 different stunningly detailed monsters and nine bosses, each with their own unique attacks and strengths and weaknesses. The action-packed gameplay is laced with hundreds of puzzles and secrets that challenge players to utilize over 30 spells and weapons. Additionally, beautiful anime movies further enhance the game's compelling storyline.

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