Chrome Shelled Regios DVD Part 1 Impression

A fight for survival that feels like a refreshed E’s Otherwise meets Blue Gender

Chrome Shelled Regios from FUNimation is solid. The characters, design, story is all solid but not spectacular. This series of survival keeps the mood lighthearted but mixes in the action and an intense storyline for one solid anime. Let’s take a look at a bit more of the story then pass a wee bit more judgment.

Humanity is mobile, living in large domed cities and on the watch for monstrous Contaminoids that prey on humans. These large insect like creatures swarm and attack if not avoided and the only line of defense are soldiers with military arts powers. One such fighter is a young boy named Layfon who finds himself enrolled in a military academy. His abilities are incredible but he hides them for some reason, a past reason that will catch up with him. Layfon has a past with these Heavens Blades is quickly coming to the fore but as a new student, a member of the 17th platoon and a few young ladies with a crush on him, Layfon not only has to deal with the past but the very real present. Battles, special missions, desolate cites and pools all await Layfon.

The story in Regios does no real explaining of the mobile cities, military arts users or Contaminoids in this first volume but rather its focus is on Layfon. Viewers will explore parts of his past mixed into his current enrollment and member of the 17th platoon. The school portions feel like a typical anime school series but with action thrown in. Full Metal Panic anyone? Layfon has fled something and the fun is finding out what. The awkward situations are great fun, heck there’s even a maid café in here, but the action is what will get viewers jazzed. There is a lot of promise in this first volume but so much more to see as anyone paying attention to the opening theme (decent song) and animation will notice. There are a lot more players to be introduced. So volume 1, solid story about Layfon, a very likeable character, and his platoon/schoolmates but not enough about what the heck happened to the world. Even a quick intro would have been nice, but no, all viewers get is a bunch of mobile cities and big-ol-bugs.

The animation is solid (liking this word today). Each character is very shonen cookie-cutter down to their not-overly spiky hair. The personalities from tech wiz to playboy are all present but this formula never gets old. Each character and setting will feel familiar to fans of the genre, even the desolate settings feel familiar (hi Desert Punk). Also with FUNimation fans can be assured they will get outstanding voice work and background music.

Overall Chrome Shelled Regios is not a revolutionary, ground breaking anime but what it is translates into a great purchase. A solid story and characters that has great pacing in revealing just enough to get viewers back to the next episode. How will volume 2 play out? From the looks things are going to get serious very fast now that the groundwork has been laid. The past will crash into the present and viewers will take pleasure especially if the nasty bugs get explained a bit more.

One Piece Season 3 DVD Impression

Luffy and the crew of the Going Merry continue their adventures in Sky Island and take on God

It’s been a while since we’ve taken a look at One Piece but with these new adventures what better time to regroup. See the edited version and even un-edited versions only hit most televisions on cable in limited form. This means not every episode folks. Even if they did it’s tough to keep up with these sequential offerings. That being said the One Piece Season 3 DVD sets from FUNimation give fans a chance to get all the action broken up into 12-13 episode purchase (or online, your choice).

What’s so great about these releases? Besides great story, characters and action the flow of One Piece allows for fans to get hooked and attached to the narrative. The release schedule from FUNimation makes it easy on the fans bank account with affordable purchase options and plenty of episodes to dive into and finally the release schedule. These episode hit fairly frequently with only weeks between release so fans are not left forgetting key story points.

With Season 3, the reason I jump in here is it’s a more unique path in its entirety for Luffy. The journey to Sky Island was outlined on TV (Cartoon Network among others I believe) but due to the amount of episodes it’s better to get the full sets. Season 3 sees a majority of the crew assembled in an adventure seen in the manga but not fully chronicled in Shonen Jump (which has of course jumped ahead in story in the same manner Naruto did). From here on out I’d like to take a look at this outstanding series so let’s get to it with a look at these DVD releases.

Season 3, Part 1 – (Episode 144-156) Another day at sea turns odd as a ship wreck falls from the sky. After checking out the remains for treasure and encountering an odd sort of salvager the crew of the Going Merry make their way to Mock Town where they manage to get into trouble. The local tough guys are not so touch and after Nico learns of a legendary liar a new goal is targeted; the Knockup Stream.

A good start to this new adventure but just that, a start.A tale of a city of gold, yeah, that will get a pirate going.

Season 3, Part 2 – (Episode 157-169) A risky move to travel the Knockup Stream leads to the land of Skypiea located in the clouds with oceans of clouds. After being saved by the Sky Knight and meeting with some friendly locals the crew is quickly marked as fugitives at the mercy of God. Who is this God in the Upper Yard and why is being from the blue sea such a crime.

Now this is adventure. A new land, really new and unique with some cool people in the Skypiean’s and their dial technology. Whoever this God is he’s not very nice and he’s sending his priest to take down the Straw Hats...

Season 3, Part 3 – (Episode 170-182) The city of gold is real? God, better known as Eneru who rules Skypiea has started a game, a deadly contest where his priest and the Shandorian warriors will battle until only a handful remain. Luffy and crew, all separated, are included in this game where losing means death. Nico makes some amazing discoveries while the history of war between the Skypiean’s and Shandorian’s comes into focus.

Action, action and more action. Eneru has nothing but death in mind for all. There is a lot more going on then I outline above, that can be said for each part of season 3, but it’s not until this volume, part 3, that the action really kicks in and takes shape, forms what’s been building to this point. There is still some background needed but all the players are now present and the game has begun.

Season 3, Part 4 – (Episode 183-195) The battle which everyone wanted; Luffy takes on Eneru in a battle of lighting and rubber. History is revealed, plans outlined and agendas laid bare. The sad tale of Shandora brings endless cycles of battle but these will soon end but how? Even if Luffy can take down Eneru will the fighting between the Skypiean’s and Shandorian’s end? How will the crew get back to the blue sea? These questions will be resolved one way or another.

Ah the conclusion and what a very satisfying one it is. There are losses and a land is devastated but the golden bell does ring and it’s such a sweet sound. Trust me this will make sense and after watching you’ll be as thrilled as the Shandorian’s. The story arc’s in One Piece really establish themselves well with background that builds and builds to an epic encounter that’s resolved in unique manners. The legend of Luffy is building and this is one story fans will want to follow.

Season 3, Part 5 – Well, not out yet but we’ll be checking back in April as the crew is back in the blue sea right in the middle of new trouble.

Overall the action in One Piece is great and really going to new levels not seen before in the badly edited versions. These uncut divided up season DVD’s are outstanding and come out frequently enough that the action never stops. The animation quality is rock solid with outstanding voice acting and a style that’s unique among a crowded anime field. Like Naruto, Luffy and his crew are on one long and epic journey that is not full of filler and fluff but story driven action that’s yummy to digest. Having read the updated manga in Shonen Jump I get super jazzed at what’s to come and know that the seasons are nowhere near ready to end.

Fans of Naruto, of great action anime with unique characters, design and action owe it to themselves to checkout One Piece. It really is a shining example of how to do a long running animated series with substance.

Black Butler DVD Set Part 1 Impression

Is ones soul worth the best butler on Earth?

Stylish and classy with a bit of the dark mixed in. Black Butler from FUNimation will satisfy fans looking for a more sophisticated, less gruesome anime that feels parts Hellsing and parts Pandora Hearts. What’s not to love I say; but oh first you need to see to believe. What’s it about, let me tell you.

He may be powerful, the watch dog of the queen of England and he may be young but one thing Ciel Phantomhive is not is a pushover. The young lord rules his estate with an emotionless fist in which he holds the most unlikely of swords … his butler. Sebastian is quite simple one hell of a butler as he often say and not only does he make the best tea and keep the best household but he is also contractually bound to Ciel, a bond only a demon can forge. Sebastian has served Ciel’s family before and will continue to do so after Ciel is gone but while they both reside in the land of the living their task is to hunt down those that do evil, especially of the super natural type. From a town haunted by a demon dog to a mysterious camera and even involvement with reapers no day is ever dull. Add to this an interesting crew of servants and the running of normal business and Ciel is anything but an average boy but luckily he has one hell of a butler to guide him and protect his soul.

First the animation; beautiful with a very shoujo look similar to that seen in Pandora Hearts or Ouran High Host Club. Don’t let these comparisons fool you as the old English style and class hides a darker story where contracts are sealed with demons and bumps in the night can be very bad things. This compares to the look seen in Hellsing with a bit more polish. These are proper noble folk with their servants and real world settings. It’s a great looking anime with a high level of polish on the animation and action but it’s all driven by the story.

Ah the story; poor Ciel, so young but his path already determined. The mystery to his contract with Sebastian is not revealed in this first volume but like any good story it’s hinted at with more and more players introduced as the story progresses. Does Sebastian really care about Ciel? One question as well as the Phantomhive family history that will intrigue viewers. Thing is the story is really well done with great pacing, really solid characters a nice mix of humor and a variety of mysteries to be resolved. The larger plot keeps moving all the while sucking viewers into caring about Ciel and Sebastian knowing this can’t end well.

So overall who do I recommend this to … anime fans who like Pandora Hearts, anime set in old English times where the ladies and gents are classy and a dark, super natural entity lurks in the shadows. Borderline reality anime that is almost believable. Fans of the gore in Hellsing won’t be happy but fans of the demons, action and setting in Hellsing will be happy. This is quite simple one hell of an anime.

Beyblade Metal Fusion DVD vol. 2 Impression

The Beyblade action is still spinning, should otaku care?

Pokémon is the gold standard for gaming and anime collectible/battling franchises. The amount of trading cards released, merchandise and games shows no signs of slowing and is a formula Digimon and Yu-Gi-Oh! have replicated to varying levels of success. Beyblade is another such entry with a stronger anime and product line than gaming but still with a solid presence in all arenas. The latest anime offering which gives greater meaning to the games and products is Beyblade: Metal Fusion. The story in Metal Fusion drives the game action and gives fans greater need to buy those spinning tops. What does this mean to gamers and anime fans alike?

The Story: As Gingka continues his blading the evil organization Dark Nebula sets their plans in motion to neutralize him as he’s the only one with the power to prevent their unleashing of a dark and evil Beyblade. With a love of blading fueling him Gingka must overcome an odd game show which harnesses and assesses his power while confronting friends turned foes to be turned friends again. His courage and belief in his blade keep him going but Dark Nebula close in and engage Gingka in an epic battle where all could be lost.

There is more to the story but the points above keep the fun plot points intact. Gingka is the latest hero who has amazing potential and he’s put into amazing battles and must convince friends and foes alike what is the right path. The real star are the beyblades themselves which have power and character. The overall formula for this story has been seen before and it’s fit for the younger viewer but is a lot of fun. It reminds of all the tales above from Pokémon to Yu-Gi-Oh! and don’t mark this off as a kids show, it’s got a lot more depth than expected even if some of the story points are a bit hard to grasp.

The Animation and Action: Clean bright and vivid animation show off the colorful characters and settings which again reflect this overall genre. This is what many think of when told the word anime with big eye, big hair characters with over the top moves. If you’ve ever seen Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Digimon then you’ll know what to expect in the animation and action category.

What’s It Mean to Gamers: Gamers can get a taste of the full story for the DS and Wii games available which they or their kids will be playing. Any game that has a story driving it is greatly enhanced with a fleshed out story via animation or a book.

What’s It Mean to Anime Fans: Want more young boy growing into his power and overcoming evil? This is the latest in a long line of shonen anime and it fits in just perfect. Great mid-day Cartoon Network fodder also.

Overall Beyblade: Metal Fusion is a solid entry, a new round of anime episodes for young and old fans to embrace with good gaming backing and tops on steroids to buy and battle with. A successful product just needs a new story and setting to makes kids go gaga and Metal Fusion is hitting on all cylinders from the marketing front.

Pandora Hearts Volume 1 Premium Collection Impression

A new take on the tale of Alice with one bloody B-Rabbit

Alice in Wonderland, Disney’s well known version, is fun and entertaining, full of interesting characters and settings. Recent interpretations such as the theatrical Alice with Johnny Depp and Tokyopop’s manga Alice in the Land of Hearts have taken the tale to new heights either rewriting it completely or picking up the tale after the original tale was over. Now anime fans get a taste of a new interpretation, one that’s enjoyable, recognizable and so very, very different. NIS America continues its splendid anime title release with Pandora Hearts volume 1 Premium Collection and the tale of Wonderland will never be the same. Let’s take a look at this new tale of hearts.

Oz Vessalius has it all. A rich privileged life as heir to the Vessalius estate, one of the four great dukedoms. As he turns fifteen, his Coming of Age Ceremony is interrupted by amazing events as he’s drawn into the Abyss, a dark dimension full of chains. Thrust into this new, odd world where these living weapons, chains, wish to devour him, he must make a contract with a special chain named Alice, the Bloody Black Rabbit, or B-Rabbit for short, to survive. Alice assisted in saving Oz at his ceremony from the mysterious group Baskerville. After forging the contract which allows Alice to access more of her full power, both Oz and Alice depart the Abyss and come into contact with the Pandora organization, specifically Sharon and Break. Much time has passed for Oz in the Abyss, what seemed only hours is years in the real world. What happened to Oz family, sister Ada and uncle Oscar? What about his best friend and servant Gilbert? Why was he drawn to the Abyss, what are chains and why are both Baskerville and Pandora looking to control them? Why can’t Alice remember her past, was she horrible to be called Bloody Black Rabbit? Many mysteries abound but Oz seems to take everything in stride as he works to help Alice recover her memories and uncover secrets along the way.

Wow, this is only the tip of the iceberg that is Pandora Hearts. The animation style is solid with an older, noble setting that seems to be in Europe with major houses ruling and dukedoms overseeing all. The character designs are well done with Alice in human and rabbit form being powerful while Oz shows his youthful innocence and dark side (used to torment Gil). The designs almost feel shojou with a pretty boy aspect to just about every character and the use of humorous expressions lightens the at time very dark mood. The settings feel alive with a great amount of detail that seems very much pulled from the pages of history. It’s a beautiful anime and twisted also with the Abyss settings that are, well off. The chains are also pulled from the pages of Wonderland and twisted to fit the story and setting. Pretty, pretty, pretty is the best way to describe this anime.

The story has ties to Wonderland but is wholly unique and new. Alice, B-Rabbit, is not the sole central figure. This falls on Oz who serves as a sort of white rabbit and Alice hybrid. It’s Oz who’s sucked into Abyss and is the target of the various groups in play. Due to his contract with Alice, B-Rabbit, she also becomes central but not sole central. There are many layers to this story, layers of interest from Pandora to the power of the chains and Key of the Abyss. There is a mystery about Gil, his appearance years ago, his relationship with Oz, the watch Oz finds and Alice. Alice is missing her memory and it seems to be key to events 100 years ago, events tied to Abyss and the Dukedoms. Sharon Rainsworth and her agenda is also hidden as she works for Pandora yet seems to do things her own way. Yes much mystery in this series. The fun of this series is seeing how it ties into the original Wonderland tale yet weaves a very unique path.

Listen, what Pandora Hearts offers is great animation with great voice work, albeit in Japanese (yup, English subtitles only). The story is unique and sometimes familiar but there is no denying it’s originality and action. Anyone who loves a new Alice tale will dig Pandora Hearts and anime fans looking for a new and unique purchase really can’t go wrong. The included art book is sexy, I mean really nice quality, hardbound so pretty to read and look at. This is the third title from NIS America and so far they’ve hit on three very unique titles that are all gorgeous and well packaged. Check out Pandora Hearts in what’s a crowded anime market.

Superman Batman Apocalypse Movie Impression

DC nails another feature this time detailing the arrival of Supergirl

Thank you DC for bringing back the voices that matter. The voices I’m referring to are Kevin Conroy as Batman and Tim Daly as Superman in the latest DC Comics animated feature Superman Batman: Apocalypse. While the animation may vary, having a stable and close to iconic group of voice actor’s helps fans identify and tie together these heroes whom we love. The banter, the way the actors work together, it’s just nice to see and it continues what has been an outstanding and somewhat surprising run of animated features from DC, ones that tie into various comic story treads. Past dandies include Superman/Batman: Public Enemies and Green Lantern: First Flight which have been good but Apocalypse takes it to such a sweet level … let’s take a look at what I’m blathering about.

A crash landing in Gotham harbor triggers a series of events that will see Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman go head-to-head with Darkseid. The question is what crash landed to cause such a monumental battle? Her name is Kara and she’s another surviving Kryptonian and Kal-El’s cousin. Kara holds untapped power, power Batman does not trust, that Wonder Woman wants to train and that Superman wants to embrace and believe in. If having the holy trinity of heroes interested in you wasn’t enough Kara has also drawn the attention of a more sinister, purely evil player in Darkseid. As Darkseid puts his plans into motion its Kara who’s front and center as the battle begins on Apocalypse and continues on Earth. What’s a girl to do with so much power, a new life and all shades of good and evil wanting to control you … shopping anyone?

Ok so cheesy ending to the synopsis but not too far off once you watch. That’s the key, you will need to watch if you’re a DC Comics fan, fan of Batman, Superman or Wonder Woman or just love what’s a well created piece of comic animation. The character design is mostly great. The ladies have a very anime vibe to them with nice curves, clean figures and larger ‘anime’ type eyes. Superman and Darkseid retain their closer comic and animated Justice League look while Batman goes in a taller, darker model. Its bats that seems a bit off in certain scenes as he does not have the heroic look of Superman and Wonder Woman all the time … hard to describe but he misses in a few scenes in his looks. Now this is nit picking at its finest as this feature really comes close to the feelings, the epic battles felt in Justice League and the voice work really, really makes this feature shine. The story moves along at a nice pace and manages to touch on enough key points without glossing over too much. Days, weeks and months pass but there is not feeling of drag or missing pieces in the story. Knowledge of DC Comics will help but is not 100% needed to enjoy Apocalypse.

So where does that leave the overall package? Solid voice work, great character design, quality animation and a story that paces itself between plot and action without missing a beat, well it’s a can’t miss feature. No quirky trouble in parallel worlds here, this is a great animated feature and one that’s I highly recommend. Hell, it even made me like Superman a little, a little.

Vampire Girl vs. Frankenstein Girl Blu-ray Impression

Gory, over the top action that would make Tarantino proud

Twisted and a little sick. An endearing description of the action found in Vampire Girl vs. Frankenstein Girl on Blu-ray from FUNimation. While known for their anime release library, FUNimation has seen quite a few solid live action features put out on US shores, titles with a more historic setting, a serious tone … until now. The action and gore found in VG vs. FG is reminiscent of so many 80’s horror flicks. The special effects are cheesy at times while the acting is, well it’s acting but this is why we love this type of movie. While not for everyone there is most definitely an audience for this genre of gore and over the top action. Who are you and what do you like, let’s see.

Monami is just an average school girl nobody seems to take notice of even on Valentine ’s Day when all girls’ chocolates but hers are confiscated. She managers to deliver her chocolate to Mizushima with a bit of a secret. The filling is blood, her blood and Mizushima is about to be transformed into a vampire. Issue with this is his forced upon him girlfriend Keiko is not cool with this and tries to stir up trouble only to end up … well as Frankenstein girl. The action kicks into overdrive as a serial killing, psycho principal and his twisted nurse assistance reconstruct a few students and the fight is on. A grudge over a boy soon escalates into Vampire Girl vs. Frankenstein girl and nobody is safe.

Ok so this is not an Academy Award winning plot. The story has many more funny and offensive points from the opening killing scenes to the African centric student group and the wrist cutting club. This feature does not worry about offending anyone but that’s just the beginning. The special effects are so ridiculous they are great and the action is very, very over the top. The actors ham it up from the very beginning and why not with this much blood spewing all over the screen and such a twisted group of individuals contained in one school.

Overall Vampire Girl vs. Frankenstein Girl is a guilty pleasure. It’s sick, gory, sadistic, bit perverted and just plain not right at times but it works for what it is. A film that knows it wants to be gross and over the top but at the same time fun and entertaining. Look at the cover, read the description, it is what it thought it is and so tasty to watch.

Spice and Wolf Season 1 DVD Impression

FUNimation serves up an anime about commerce and wolf spirits

Can an anime that sounds more like a backwoods cooking recipe really be that engaging? Spice and Wolf Season 1 on DVD from FUNimation is an interesting bird as it gets into some interesting merchant politics then tosses in … well let’s take a look shall we.

Lawrence comes and goes, taking his goods to the proper location for the most profit. He’s a merchant and must be shrewd in his dealings utilizing a keen business sense to stay in the black and he gets a bit of assistance. During an annual seasonal festival Lawrence stumbles across a naked girl with the ears and tail of a wolf and before he knows it he has a new partner, the harvest goddess Holo. The two strike an agreement that will see Holo travel with Lawrence to her northern home. Their journey sees the two encounter shady business dealings, the devaluing of certain materials along with a mob out for Holo’s head. Being setup to fail by corrupt business partners Lawrence and Holo must take desperate measures to avoid imprisonment. The journey is just beginning for this unlikely pair nicknamed Spice and Wolf.

First thing that may put viewers off about this series is the setting. A travelling merchant is not the most engaging pitch angle for an anime. Thing is in a very odd way it works. The strong animation, detail and character design helps as does solid voice acting but it’s the story that is both curious and engaging. Lawrence gets into pretty vivid detail on trading, the life of a merchant, what to beware of; how gold can be devalued … it’s a grand lesson that does not always feel entertaining. Think of this as the episode of a sports anime where they explain the rules. Just like a sports anime the action picks up which is the other half of the quirkiness. The shady business dealings are the fuel but Holo’s transformations are the fire. She is a wolf deity and can take on a pretty savage form, which she does to great effect. So viewers get a dose of trading teaching mixed in with some more super natural adventuring. Wrap this up with a budding relationship, a friendly bond, and you get one unique anime.

I don’t really know how to categorize Spice and Wolf. I love the animation quality and voice work but the odd pacing keeps throwing me off. Is it going to go all super natural with cool action or become a merchant simulation, or a relationship cross specials? I’d recommended checking out 1-2 episodes online before purchasing. It’s not a bad anime by any stretch but rather it’s unique.

Corpse Princess Shikabane Hime DVD Impression

Despite an odd title, Corpse Princess Shikabane Hime from FUNimation is one rock solid anime full of mature action that's on par with both Tokyo Majin and Persona: Trinity Soul in it's look, feel and overall storytelling. The title may sound like a B-movie being a princess of corpses and all but the title is anything but. Why is judging a book by its cover bad for this shikabane hunter, lets take a look.

Die with strong enough regrets and it's possible to be reborn as a shikabane, a spirit that's evil an twisted, needing to be wiped out before humans are hurt or worse. Enter Makina Hoshino, a living dead girl also referred to as a Shikabane Hime. Paired with a Buddhist priest, Keisei Tagami, Makina hunts down shikabane and eliminates them in order to gain access to heaven. By killing, or re-killing 108 shikabane then Makina, and those like her can enter heaven. There are more like Makina, shikabane themselves but ones who have kept part of their humanity in order to hunt. MAC-11 machine guns are Makina's weapon of choice as firepower to the brain is the one way to destroy other shikabane. Things get complicated for Makina as Keisei's younger brother (not by blood) Ouri Kagami soon encounters her in battle and is not scared. The two begin to grow closer as conspiracies grow, come to light around all the contracted monks, their shikabane hime and a deadly group called the Seven Stars. The origins and truth behind these corpse princesses will come to light and for those involved life, and death will never be the same.

Damn I want to tell you more. This series starts with a narrower look at Makina and Ouri but quickly expands to incorporate the larger Contracted Monk organization, multiple shikabane hime, a few freelance monks and of course the Seven Stars. The story also shifts to place Ouri front and center as star 1A to the 1B that is Makina. It does not get overly complicated but viewers will need to play attention. The story ramps up at a very nice pace introducing characters and concepts then unfolds into the larger paranormal world. Much like Tokyo Majin and Persona: Trinity Soul, Corpse Princess has a deep and dark past and various layers of gray on factions and their purpose. The characters are varied and interesting. The art style looks simple at first but delivers the action. The action gets pretty insane at times with great sequences of acrobatics and gun battles. The character designs are interesting as they are not as 'cool' as the series mentioned but still have an air of bad-ass about them that is enhanced due to the story and action.

Overall, while I found the title Corpse Princess a bit off this was an amazing and awesome viewing experience. The story made me want more, the outcomes and plot points are anything but predictable. The characters are awesome with good back-story and solid design while the action keeps going throughout the series. Rock solid but not lacking on the violence, so keep this in mind when purchasing. Highly recommended.

Initial D First Stage DVD Impression

Initial D First Stage on DVD is by no means a brand new series, but seeing release recently by FUNimation made this anime fan pick up a genre long passed over and wow am I happy. Simple put this series is about street racing, specifically mountain-pass drift street racing. So why after all these years am I geeked for Initial D? The story centers around the mentioned street racing and how teenage Takumi Fujiwara gets involved in the underground battles. Takumi's father owns a tofu story and since he was young Takumi has been making the evening deliveries. Over the years, without knowing it, he's honed his driving skills. Once evening another racer, Keisuke Takahashi of the Red Suns racing team sees and challenges the Ghost of Akina (name given to the unknown Takumi). Urged by his friends and former street racing father, Takumi takes part in the race using is AE Eight-Six. Knowing the mountain like the back of his hand Takumi wins but the challenges are just beginning. Welcome to the world of drift street racing Takumi, could you be the best?

Simple concept, yes but one executed awesomely. Funny thing is the animation, character design are dated and feel dated. Like watching some Lupin from back in the day and even looking at anime of the late 90's, Initial D was not that pretty to look at. The cars are done with some early animation meets computer stuff (yes, stuff is a technical term). So I've just said the animation and character design is not that great while the story is pretty straightforward, so what gives? Why am I geeked about Initial D? The flow folks, the flow! The Euro inspired J-pop, J-rap music is still sick and matches the racing action perfectly. The story takes the sports concept of raw protege and puts it on four wheels ... it's just plain sweet. The racing, learning about cars and yes they teach you about cars, the family history, other racers and styles ... it's the flow of all of this that makes Initial D so very relevant even now.

There will be anime fans who just don't dig this genre, so pay attention. It's an anime about racing cars. Sound interesting then check it out but if not don't waste your money then complain. Initial D keeps the action grounded in reality from race types to cars. It's solid anime fun that I'm taking for a second drive, a third drive, a fourth ... well you get the point. Watch if on Hulu and decide if you've missed a gem, sadly this was true for me.

Big Windup! Oofuri DVD Complete Series S.A.V.E. Impression

Great baseball action at a nice low price! Are we talking about cheap seats to a bad MLB team? Nope, we’re talking about Big Windup! Oofuri from FUNimation. This anime of an all freshman high school baseball team has received the S.A.V.E. (super amazing value edition) treatment and getting a full series for the price should not be missed. What’s the story all about? How’s the animation? Lots of questions so let’s get to it.

Middle school is over, time for high school baseball. For Mihashi this means a new school where is failings of the past, not to mention his family ties to the school, are in the rear view mirror and he can work to be the #1 pitcher he wishes to be. With splintered confidence but an array of solid pitches Mihashi must learn to trust his new catcher Abe and the new team behind him. The first challenge is building trust and a practice game against his old school Mihashi Academy. Conquering this challenge won’t be easy nor will the summer baseball tournament where Nishiura draws the defending champs Tosei full of seniors and experienced players. The challenges facing Mihashi and the players of Nishiura will be many but with an energetic female coach and faculty advisor full of off-field mental exercises the team will be in great shape to compete. Warm-ups are over, it’s time to play ball.

Sports anime are interesting. How do you recreate the love of a game in a story driven animation? Well for Big Windup! it’s all about the characters and setting. Mihashi is not the prototypical ‘hero’ athlete and his issues, failings are easy to connect with for many a viewer. The story introduces enough background to make the characters seem real and the two games (yes two games) played over the course of the series not only add drama but show growth in each player and teaches a bit about baseball. All this is accomplished by using humor and intensity at the right time and the outcome is never 100%. It’s a really, really well told story with great characters. The animation does not let down the action with good character design and moments of intensity that come across as any major moment in an ESPN highlight. The action and animation deliver to the point of feeling the nervousness and excitement of the game. Well done on all fronts.

Let me state this. I’m not a big sports anime fan. I’ve gotten into the manga Slam Dunk and really dug the anime for Bamboo Blade but this is the first American sport anime I’ve dove into and it was good, not what I expected. There are a few baseball lessons thrown in but I found myself liking these characters and their issues, even the bonus episode about a different group of players, it’s just fun. I will most definitely be grabbing a few more sport anime to check out and for the price of S.A.V.E. I’m not really sure how any anime fan can pass up this series.

Avatar: The Last Airbender Book 2: Earth Impression

Book 1: Water, the first season of Avatar: The Last Airbender surprised with its hidden depth and fluid animation but it’s Book 2: Earth that takes the series and moves it to new levels. The same great animation is present but emotions are taken to new levels as are conspiracies. How to explain without ruining the collection and possibly the second Airbender movie? Let’s try...

Aang looks to continue his elemental training by seeking out his old friend King Bumi in order to master Earth bending only to find Omashu has fallen to the Fire Nation. Bumi grants Aang sound advice in seeking out the master he needs, the master he is destined for, advice which leads the travelling trio to a very insightful swamp. A new enemy presents herself in the form of Princess Azula, Zuko’s cruel and calculating sister. She will dog Aang’s steps every step of their journey. Soon Aang finds his Earth bending instructor in a most peculiar and amusing way and she soon joins the trio. Her name is Toph, a blind and headstrong brilliant Earth bender who is just what Aang needs. As the group takes knowledge gained from a hidden library so too is Appa taken and lost to Aang. Finding themselves in the walled city of Ba Sing Se the group must now deal with political cover ups, a fire princess in disguise, Zuko and his uncle serving tea and a plan that soon falls apart. Just when things were looking up they quickly being to fall apart.

Animation is just as bright and vibrant, smooth and flowing as in Book 1 but it’s the story, the emotional hooks, ebb and flow that really takes flight in Book 2. Some of the highlights include Appa being take, Aang dealing with more loss, Zuko confronting his desired and real destiny and a city that choose to hide from the war thanks in large part to political conspiracies. Aang continues his training and finds a master Earth bender in the blind, headstrong Toph. Toph is not the only new fame-fatale to join the story as Zuko’s sister, Azula, is now on the hunt for both Zuko and the Avatar and she is deadly. Seeing both Aang and Zuko having to confront their inner turmoil and hardships gives these two … heroes … a more human side, that they must and are growing. Seeing the betrayals and political aspects of Ba Sing Se shows just how real and gray this war really is. It’s not good versus bad, it’s a ton of in-between.

There were times while watching Book 2 that I was expecting Vader to walk out and announce he’s Aang’s father. There are plenty of ways that Book 2 compares to Empire Strikes Back from revelations, training, loss and even the ending, it’s quite good. With Book 2, Avatar goes from being a good, solid show with aspects adults and kids will both dig to being an emotionally charged tale that’s larger than the main characters. Good stuff, cannot wait to see how Book 3: Fire goes.

Toradora! DVD Set 1 Special Edition Impression

Toradora! From NIS America is great! The concept of a high school romantic comedy is nothing new but the characters and animation are what make Toradora! shine. This is the second entry in the land of anime made by NIS America, known for their video game division but if this quality keeps up NIS is going to soon have a place in anime lovers hearts everywhere. What’s so great, let me count the ways ..


The Story – Ryuji Takasu may look like a delinquent thanks to his eyes but this cleaning obsessed youth is one of the most caring individuals you’ll come accorss. New classmate Taiga Aisaka puts this kindness to the test with a botched love note handoff to Takasu’s best friend Yusaku Kitamura. Quickly the two find themselves in an unlikely friendship as Takasu just happens to have a crush on Taiga’s best friend, and fellow classmate, Minori Kushieda. The two form a pact to assist each other in their love conquest only to have everyone mistake them for a couple. Funny situations become the norm and a fifth wheels joins the crew in the guise of model Ami Kawashima, Kitamura’s childhood friend. Let the relationship battles begin as Ryuji likes Minori who’s friends with Taiga who likes Kitamura who’s friends with Rtyuji who has an interesting relationship developing with Ami, Kitamura’s friend as well as Taiga. Who knew five teenagers could be this engaging.


Again the story is not original in conept but nails ‘it’ in how the characters interact, their personalities and the situations they are placed in. The settings are standard fare also with a school fare, sports competition, beach trip and first encounters. Fans of this anime type know who you are and the genre does not get much better than Toradora! Relationships and awkward encounters mixed with humor, emotion, anger and love … it’s a great formula.


The Animation & Design – Beautiful character design that keeps it real. Characters are not all overly anime in their look (big eyes, breast, legs, etc) but rather these are teenagers and their design reflects as much. The source of issue for both Ryuji and Taiga come direct from their eyes and height respectively and of course the fact Ami’s a model play direct into her design. Every outfit, uniform and setting is real world which allows the viewer to focus on the relationships and not a bad design decision. This design is brought together with good animation that again does not draw away from the characters and story in either a good or bad way. The viewer is watching school age kids go through their growth and it’s as natural as any sitcom … minus the few strange dream sequences. Favorite design for me is Taiga due in large part to her attitude, what a great match.


The Voicework & Music – The opening theme, Pre-Parade, is great and set to animation sequences that will actually excite the viewer for the story to come. It’s a beautiful mix of characters, color and logo design that will have fans singing along … if you sing Japanese. The ending theme, Vanilla Salt, is a slower pace with less animation but a catchy beat and all main characters accounted for. Again great use of color and white space. The voice work is outstanding but all in Japansee. Did NIS make the sacrifice on an English voice cast to offer more extras? We’ll look for an answer on this but be warned you will be reading a lot whilte watching. There was a time when the Japanese track was always, ALWAYS, better than the English version but those days are done. Voice talent here in the states is quite excellent now and would do nothing but enhance Toradora! for the fringe anime fan. I mean if a Prinny gets the English treatment why not the Palm-Top Tiger?


Special Edition Includes – Besides two DVD’s full of 13 great episodes, fans also receive clean opening and closing sequences and some bonus food completion animations. The box is larger due to the included full color, hardcover art book episode guide. This book shows off the beautiful design of Toradora! as well as an episode summary, key terms, character relationship maps, cast interviews and … well that’s it but what a great package.


Overall what’s not to love? The one gripe, same with Persona: Trinity Soul, is the lack of English audio. For me, no problem, I’ll read along and I urge the same from you. If you’re a fan of teenage relationship anime mixing every range of emotion then Toradora! is a must for you. The package does include a beautiful art book and great packaging along with 13 episodes but it’s not cheap, hence the term premium. Shop around to find the best deal but don’t pass on Toradora! NIS America is doing a fine job delivering anime. True fans will love these sets and the overall value while casual fans will need to take a hard look and decide if it’s for them.

Dragon Ball Season 5 DVD Impression

Dragon Ball Season 5 on DVD from FUNimation is a must have for DBZ fans. This season is the bridge from a young Goku to the insane action to come in DBZ and as quickly as Goku grows so does the series. So what happens to make this fifth season of Dragon Ball so memorable, let’s take a look.


After defeating King Piccolo the group recovers and rest while mourning the loss of close friends. But all is not lost as Goku soon learns from Koren that he can revive the Eternal Dragon and thus his friends by travelling to see the Guardian of Earth Kami. Goku makes the journey and agrees to undertake three years of training with Mr. Popo and Kami in order for the Eternal Dragon and his friends to be revived. Kami is a bit of a surprise for Goku as his and Piccolo’s origin is revealed and preparation for the next martial arts tournament begins. Goku now knows that Piccolo Jr. will be there and it’s another battle for the fate of the planet. Training complete a more grown-up Goku meets up with his friends as well as foes old and new at the tournament which takes the destruction to new levels thanks to Jr. As the battle concludes Goku sets out to marry Chi Chi and fulfill his childhood promise of marriage but a little fire is in the way.


So there you go, one tournament over, another set of training, another tournament and a marriage. Good times but not the reason for DBZ fans to dive in. What makes this a must for DBZ fans is it is Dragon Ball Z lite, like a pilot episode of a TV show … a long one but concept holds true. Dragon Ball had a heavy focus on searching for the Dragon Balls, something not done too much in season 5. The tournament is front and center again, as is training but it’s the Z style/trends this takes on that is worth mention. No longer are the fighters doing Roshi training or even Korin but now there is Kami. Training in the Time Room, going to the past, using energy and flying … these are Z styles of fighting not seen too much in DB. The look and fell, Goku is older, Chi Chi is older … all the fighters are older and set in the manner they will appear in DBZ and as bad as King Piccolo was, Piccolo Jr. brings that true bad guy center stage with the battle he brings. Another Z trend is the case of an old enemy that was tough to be coming back and being whupped up on but good. This would be Cyborg Tao, just wait till you see what Tien does to him. Aliens in the room, a nice hint at future. Hero tells Yamcha while fighting him he’s an alien, Hero being Kami in disguises trying to stop Jr. (Piccolo). Well that comment carries so much unseen weight as Kami and Piccolo are aliens and the Z Saiyans (Goku) are aliens, a nice nod to the future when the battle for earth is carried out by aliens and ½ humans, good times. The tail is also gone, just gone, and no more. Goku also shows fair play, letting Piccolo live which has huge impact on Z and is not the last time a Z fighter lets an adversary live. The battles are also way over the top with more special moves, faster fighting and more destruction. Its Dragon Ball Z lite folks.


Finally the biggest reason for DBZ fans to dig in and dig in deep is it’s new. I’ve seen all the original VHS, DVD, DVD re-release, Z Box, Kai and on and on so many times. I know the DBZ storyline, battles and action but I did not know this full battle. It’s not kiddie, it’s not young Goku (the whole time) it’s much much more, it’s Dragon Ball as it bridges the gap to Dragon Ball Z and it’s so refreshing. The animation may be dated but the voice acting and memorable characters are top notch as is the action. Not to be missed, did I mention this before? Not to be missed by any DBZ fan, it’s great and just what I was hoping it would be.

Batman: Under the Red Hood Movie Impression

When I was younger the Death in the Family storyline in Batman comics touched me in a unique way at a very young age. This was not a super hero dying but a boy, savagely beaten by a psycho that turns a dark knight even darker. It was a story that said the good guys can lose; they can die and is still a favorite today for me. But this is the realm of comics and who really stays dead in comics? Batman: Under the Red Hood is the latest animated feature from the DC Universe and its rock solid on so many levels beginning with the death of Jason Todd, the second Robin, at the hands of the Joker. From the beginning the inclusion of Ra’s al Ghul will tell viewers where the story is going in the first five minutes but it still does not detract from the feature. Let’s take a look at this from a few angles.

The Story – A new villain takes control of the drug trade in Gotham and the Dark Knight must confront his past to reveal just who the new Red Hood is. To confront this new treat an old partner, Nightwing, lends a hand and two of his greatest rivals are taken on in the Joker and Ra’s al Ghul. Who is the Red Hood and why do his moves, techniques seem so familiar? To fight in the present Batman must confront the past.

Such a great story and one fans should and will know. In case not I’ll try to avoid SPOILERS but please take note. While fans will know where the Red Hood is coming from, who he may be, getting there in an animated manner is a treat. The story is well told with great drama brought on by the next two points. What DC is doing with these animated features is bringing to life some of the best stories from DC printed past. Batman fans do not miss out on this story.

The Animation – Yet another animation style is brought to Under the Red Hood. There was a time when the Batman/Justice League/Superman designs of recent years dictated all DC animation, the best being Justice League Unlimited but no longer. Each new tale from Wonder Woman to Green Lantern is different, as different as the artist that pens the comics we fans love. The animation and design in Under the Red Hood is more realistic than anime-ish. This is great in that the more realistic Joker brings home a more psychotic look and feel, gets home the severity of the murder he commits. The humanism of Batman, he’s a man angle, is easier to relate to thanks to the animation style. The action is superb and would make a great live action Batman tale … just forget the cyborg battle, that’s more super hero than anything else in this feature. Great animation folks that sets the emotional and action terms from the press of play.

The Voice acting – Emotion is real and felt. Joker is cold and methodical and while we long for the crazy of Mark Hamill the work delivered by John DiMaggio shows a crazy and real Joker. Bruce Greenwood does a great job with Batman showing signs of emotion, despair, regret and plain coldness while Jason Isaacs as Ra’s could have been a little more arrogant but he does show decent range. The rest of the cast, Neil Patrick Harris as Dick Grayson, is ok but Joker and Batman set the stage and delivers the emotion started with the animation. It’s a sad and somber tale with some funny lines from Wade Williams as Black Mask.

Overall Batman: Under the Red Hood is a must own, MUST OWN, for all Batman fans. He is the world’s greatest detective but not infallible and seeing him face his past, his greatest failure is a heart string pulling tale that sets a new bar for DC animated adventure. I’ll watch again and again and am pulling out my old Death in the Family comics (first print) to revisit the original tragedy. Emotions are the best selling point, stop reading and go out and buy/rent now folks.

Heat Guy J DVD Series Impression

A few years back I came across an anime being shown on MTV. It looked interesting but for some reason the animation was stretched, almost like trying to fit a widescreen image to a standard television. This and the hazy image led me away never to look back. Fast forward a few years and FUNimation has released that same series in one collection which I’ve finally picked up. Heat Guy J is the series and having watched all 26 episodes it’s sad that MTV did such a horrible job as I thoroughly enjoyed this anime and surprising it does not feel dated at all. What’s it about after all these years, let’s take a look …

In the city of Judoh all android are illegal with one exception. The government built and sanctioned J. J is unique in his AI program allows him to grow as a person not just follow orders and this comes in handy in his role with the partner Daisuke Aurora. The two track down and investigate special crimes, many of which involve rogue android, items the regular cops can’t handle. With the death of the old Vampire, mob boss, and the ascension of his not too stable son J’s and Daisuke’s job is going to get a whole lot more interesting. Know as Heat Guy J the duo is in for a ton of action with genetically altered criminals, mysterious Celestials and a few internal mysteries to resolve.

High level story folks, there is a lot more here. First the animation, on the DVD not MTV, is still fresh and relevant today. Some series just look good no matter how many years old they are and Heat Guy J is one of them. Much like Cowboy Bebop to which it draws comparison, J looks good and delivers a solid animation quality even if a few scenes are recycled. The characters are solid in design if not predictable in a few cases (hot scientist chick, pretty and young secretary). The animation keeps it relevant and fresh but it’s the story that drives the series.

I mentioned it has been compared to Cowboy Bebop but know this, Bebop it is not. Heat Guy J is more about Daisuke and his partner J. Daisuke drives the story more and it’s his family at the core with J more a co-star. J is the cool android with all the power and the headliner on the title but not so from the story. He is integral but his role could have been explored so much more, on a higher evolutionary level … something that Asimov would have written but oh well. The story starts with some pretty straightforward mafia vs. good guys stuff then quickly evolves into mafia infighting, government conspiracy and much more. The characters are cool and will grow on the viewer making you want to come back for more.

Overall Heat Guy J offers up great action, a few recycled scenes weaved together with memorable characters. If Cowboy Bebop is an A+ then Heat Guy J is a solid B and should not be passed up by fans of Bebop. When compared to many anime hitting shelves today J still stands solid and it’s surprising we’ve not seen a run on Adult Swim or Spike TV, Heat Guy J is made for these channels and time slots so make it so!

Persona Trinity Soul vol. 1 Premium Edition Impression

Video games and anime do go hand-in-hand if done right. There is a time and place for everything and NIS America has found that time, now, and place for the anime Persona: Trinity Soul. Based on the niche/mainstream gaming franchise the anime takes all the addictive pieces from the game and translates them to DVD for a true viewing treat. What makes Persona so great as an anime and why should gamers and anime fans care, let’s take a look … 

The Story – Brothers Shin and Jun Kanzato move to their childhood home back north to be with their older brother Ryo whom they’ve not seen in ten years. In place of a warm reception the brothers meet with a detached and cold Ryo who is more interested in seeing them relocate than stay with him. The reasons seem to center around a series of student disappearances, cases where bodies are turned inside out. Quickly Shin and Jun are wrapped up in these events along with schoolmates. Shin learns he controls an inner power, a Persona, a power at the center of these strange events and attacks. How is Ryo tied to these cases as the chief of police and what does the new trend of Shadow Extraction among kids mean?

Like all Persona based games the anime is covered in mystery. What are Persona’s and how do they tie to the mysterious group trying to gather them and what does Ryo know? What happened to Jun in the past, why does he seem a bit … off? What viewers do know if they have mysterious powers a shadowy and dangerous organization trying to gather them, an edgy and cold police chief, brothers and their fellow students all wrapped up in the middle and mysterious feathers. Classic mystery story wrapped around stylish students and badass Personas. 

The Design & Animation – Beautiful design on every level. The scenery and settings are beautifully created and stand out more than other anime. The environments are alive. The characters are Persona, they are the stylish look and feel that fans of the games know and love. The Persona themselves are unique to each character and each breaks it’s own mold, no two the same. The included art book in the premium edition is hot and just enhances the viewing experience.

The animation is rock solid with plenty of action but a real human feel to each character, their emotions and struggles. What attracted this gamer to the Persona titles was the design. What kept me was the gameplay and story. The same is now true of Trinity Soul with the same addictive design, amazing action and animation in place of the gameplay experience and plenty of mystery to go around. 

Why Gamers Should Care – Let’s keep it very simple. Gamers who loved, even liked, the Persona video games with their stylish design and mysterious stories will love Trinity Soul. Published by NIS America, these are folks who get the J-RPG genre, niche games that become mainstream and what they’ve done with this collection is offer up not just a rock solid anime but a package and book that fans will LOVE! Persona fans stop reading and go buy. 

Why Anime Fans Should Care – First you gotta love NIS getting into the anime game with Viz, FUNimation and Bandai. There are others, yes, but getting Persona is a treat. Please note it’s only in Japanese so fans looking to listen need to read. Think of the bright side. In place of voice over cost viewers get the sweet art book and casing, it really is beautiful. A great collection and one worth the purchase for the story and animation alone. 

Overall, Persona: Trinity Soul volume 1 offers up 307 minutes of excellent anime based on a niche/mainstream RPG universe that will delight fans. The style is outstanding, story and pacing well delivered and overall package a prize to be had by collectors. The only knock will be the Japanese only audio but listen to the passion in the voices and enjoy, it’s not really a knock but a treat.

Avatar: The Last Airbender: The Complete Book 1 Collector’s Edition DVD Impression

Forget the blue skinned version of Dancing with Wolves, this is the real Avatar. With the upcoming The Last Airbender set to hit theaters it’s time to take a look at the source material which is the true Avatar as seen on Nickelodeon. The right place to start is with the DVD collection Avatar: The Last Airbender: The Complete Book 1 Collector’s Edition (whew!). Don’t blow off Avatar as a kids show, something I was guilty of until the movie trailers made me realize ‘wow, there is some story for adults here.’ This series about the last Airbender and his role as Avatar is great for kids but should not be missed by anime fans with its Korean animation roots. Let’s take a look at a few pieces on why you need to check out Avatar on DVD before checking out the movie. 

The Story – Four elements, four tribes. Water, Earth, Fire and Air. Every generation one individual will inherit the power to control all four elements and be known as the Avatar. 100 years ago the fire nation declared war and the Avatar disappeared. Only the Avatar can bring an end to this war and set things right but where is he? Water tribe siblings Katara, a water bender, and her warrior brother Sokka discover the 12-year old Aang, an airbender and the missing Avatar. The only hitch is he’s been frozen for 100 years, is still 12-years old and still needs to master all the elements. Thus a journey begins to the North to learn from a true water bender while avoiding an honor seeking fire nation prince. Aang must come to terms with what is required of him while learning that the world he remembers is no longer around.

So the story seems very simple but is actually quite deep. The world of Avatar is alive with varieties of people within each of the four nations. War is ugly and this is shown many times even in a kid’s friendly show such as Avatar. This is actually the strength that will draw many adults to the series; it’s not just about kids. The action is great, pacing simple at times but hints to more, more history, depth and characters than expected. I was hooked, I am hooked and this has only increased my interest all the more for the movie, the games and the rest of the series. 

The Animation – Bright and vivid but not lacking in detail. This is not a US based series that has no true look and it’s not an anime, Japanese animation, that also has a handful of established looks, it’s a unique bird all its own. The animation shows Aang in all his childlike mannerisms and expressions but when the action gets fast Aang is intense in all his emotions. It’s a well delivered animation that again bridges the gap from the younger audience to the more mature anime/toon viewing fandom. The included book, a snipped/sample, of Dark Horse comics The Art of the Animated Series, really shows what my words are not allowing me to relay. This is a real world, one alive with hardship and life that’s faced with war and its harsh realities. These settings are married with one frozen for 100 years who is still a child and puts his air bending spin on what is going on. 

For Kids or … – I’ve touched on this a few times and it’s a point I truly want to drive home in that this is a great kids series but it’s not empty for adults. This is not SpongeBob where any episode can be watched in any order. It’s a story, a narrative about more than just the young airbender. It’s a world at war not unlike those seen with World War I and II. The Fire Nation is scary and for most of this first DVD set viewers are only shown pieces of the monster they truly are. Kids are spared most of the ravages, onscreen, but adults will find the workings of war intriguing. This is a series for kids, their parents, aunts, uncles and anyone else looking for a great way to spend 20 minutes or three hours. 

Compares to Movie Trailers – So tasty, oh so tasty to see Aang and crew brought to life, see scenes pulled right from the animation and some not (in this DVD collection). The movie looks very, very solid and brings to life the awesome action Avatar fans have known about for years. As long as Aang does not say he sees dead people then we should be good to go as fans. 

Korean Animation vs. Japanese Animation – I’ve watched a lot of anime and it’s rare when a unique series comes along in look and feel. No matter the anime watched there is almost always a predecessor, similar series. Same is true of manga but in that medium there is much more creative freedom. Avatar is animated by the Korean Animation Studios (Making of DVD included) and just like with the King of Hell manhwa (Korean manga) there are similarities to the Japanese cousins but it’s unique. Look at the cover of the Avatar art book and its inner pages and you will see a style, a subtle look in the face and clothing that speaks to the Korean animation style. It’s a style I’ve received limited exposure too but I’ve seen enough to spot the changes, the uniqueness.

Bottom line is its not cheap anime or a wanna-be anime series. It’s a solid animation and design quality that retains a simplicity and humor that most anime fans will enjoy. 

Overall, Avatar: The Last Airbender was created for a more tweener audience on Nickelodeon but it was built with a story and world that is worthy of the big screen treatment (which it’s getting). Kids will love the action, story and humor that’s mixed with unique cultures, characters and funny facial expressions while adults will enjoy the series with their kids, or alone, while seeing a larger world that’s more than a young adult on a quest. There is war, infighting, fights for survival and a rich history which Aang is tied to directly as the Avatar. How often can that be said about a show many must imagine is for kids.

Looking for more Avatar, more Avatar games?  Check out Avatar The Last Airbender Games now and get to playing.

Gundam Seed Destiny Anime Legends Remembrance

Anime Legends; The reduced price naming which Bandai gives to their older anime series in order to repackage and appeal to more anime buyers. Gundam Seed Destiny falls into this category with two very nicely priced collections taking up the space of 1 regular DVD case each. Six disc in each set, 26 and 24 episodes respectively in each set. This is a lot of anime in a space saving setup at a great price, but why am I talking about it now years after it finished? Simple put the follow-up to Gundam Seed maintains a style, storytelling and mix of action and great voice acting that even the most recent, cutting edge anime are rare to match. Let’s take a look at how well GDS holds up …

Animation & Design – Character and mecha design is beautiful. These are the best looking Gundam fans will find this side of the other pond. The character design will seem familiar to fans of Fafner or the more recent Linebarrels. The characters are a mix of Gundam’s past by pulling in the teen idol looks of Gundam Wing but mixing in the heritage and seriousness of Stardust Memory and the original Gundam. It is Gundam Wing meets Gundam with character designs both familiar and new. Destiny is actually the second 50+ episodes in the Gundam Seed universe so many of the characters are already established. As for the various Gundam’s they look fantastic with nods to the past.

The animation is still perfect. For a longer running series to have the quality of all 100+ Gundam Seed episodes is rare. There is usually a drop-off but not in the case of Bandai’s best series (yup, I said it). All the launch and combine sequences are canned animation but this does not detract from the solid action. The animation flows, characters look great and the entire package will leave you wanting more even after 50 episodes.

Action & Storytelling – The second story arc, one that sees the Earth Alliance and Orb back at it again shows that, even with the original conflict ended, there will always be those who want to bring war. Before hitting on that more let me just say the action is awesome. The battles are epic, span more than just the core characters and speaks to a grander epic in much the manner the original Gundam did. No matter how powerful or how much Kira wants to end the fight he is only one man. The story has many predictable plot points, reunions, conflicts but it’s the new kid, Shin Asuka, who’s the real wild card. He is not as engaging as Kira or Athrun but since those two are still present Shin is allowed to blend in an do his thing. That’s the interesting point, what is his thing? He has the power of Kira, at times, but a hate and rage not seen since Kira and Athrun thought they killed each other.

Killing each other, emotions, this is another part of the story worth mentioning. Yes it’s anime, yes it’s fictional but damn if the viewer won’t come to care what happens to these characters and feel a true sense of sadness when someone you’ve come to root for dies. There are also cheering moments of joy, one that gives me shivers as I think about it but I’m not here to spoil the story just tell how well it picks up where Seed left off and continues to shine.

Voice acting & Music – The intro and ending music is out on CD and a must for anime music fans, J-Pop fans and really anyone looking for some good, catchy music. The music, the background music also, helps tie the fans emotions to the series and will get you jazzed for the action to come. The voice acting is excellent and all original cast return from Gundam Seed so it’s a rare treat to have so much talent. The sounds bring the whole package together.

Overall, Gundam Seed Destiny is best enjoyed having watched the original Gundam Seed but that’s not the point. Great movies, great stories transcend time and while the original Gundam’s story does just this it’s animation does not. Gundam Seed Destiny holds up and surpasses much of the animation seen today, it’s just plain solid and so well done. The universe, characters, Gundam designs all should be savored by fans looking for something new that is not necessarily new. Gundam Seed Destiny was a great purchase when it first hit a few years back but now with it’s reduced priced collection there is zero, ZERO reason to pass. Older anime rocks, just do some homework before purchase as dollars are tight today.

Hard to find; yes and no. Since there are still plenty of the original, individual DVD’s floating around don’t get tricked into buying only 4 episodes. The collection is the way to go and Amazon and Right Stuff will hook you up if your local DVD shot won’t.

My Bride is a Mermaid, Season 1, Part 1 DVD Impression

Question. How do you freshen up the tried and true harem anime formula? Simple, throw in some mermaids, sharks, squid, yakuza, submarine, crazy shell sized assassin and one Total Recall reference and it’s quite simple. FUNimation’s My Bride is a Mermaid, Season 1, Part 1 on DVD takes these pieces and mixes together for pure anime bliss. It’s funny and fun, makes you want to keep watching and will leave you sad that it’s only the first 13 episodes. Let’s take a look …

Nagasumi takes an ordinary summer vacation to the beach with his parents only to find himself drowning. Just as life is about to bubble away he’s saved by a beautiful mermaid, Sun. As he tries to explain this unbelievable story to his parents and grandmother a young girl shows up and ask for Nagasumi to be her husband. Sounds like a fairy tale, well it is as Nagasumi and his parents are introduced to Sun’s father, the head of the Seto crime family … yup yakuza mermaids. He wants Nagasumi dead as that’s the rule for a human seeing a mermaid but Sun steps up to protect the boy she saved. Nagasumi agrees and as vacation ends Sun moves back to the city with his family. Not only Sun but her father, mother, family assassin and pet shark all take up positions within their school making life anything but ordinary especially since getting wet turns Sun back to a mermaid. Throw in a pop idol from Sun’s childhood, also tied to a rival crime family and childhood friends and the chances of Nagasumi seeing his wedding night continue to dwindle. Would it have been so bad to just admit he could not swim? Hindsight is 20/20 as Nagasumi deals with the face his bride is a mermaid.

Funny, damn funny and not expected. From its surface art, very anime-ish, and title one would expect this to be a sappy, semi-Tenchi harem knock-off but oh how wrong that is. This is a harem anime with the very odd twist of two of the ladies, including Sun, being from mermaid crime families. Throw in some childhood friends and the formula is set but throw in two crazy fathers and now the funny begins to happen. See Sun’s father Gozaburo wants Nagasumi dead while Lunar’s father (the other mermaid) is a buff copy of Arnold from back in the day. The interactions, over the top emotions and integration of living styles makes this series shine. There is a bit of Excel Saga mixed in, it’s funny just plain funny.

The animation and design is solid, clean and a pleasure to watch. The characters themselves are very anime in their look, don’t set any new standards but really gets the job done. Lunar in particular reminds of a certain Disgaea star with her hair and evil looks. The shifts to serious, more grown up art styles at times of seriousness or silliness works so well. This is funny delivered in a structured manner and it looks good doing it.

Overall, while I feel a bit scattered in my description what I will say is My Bride is a Mermaid is an anime that fans to funny harem anime will enjoy as well as fans of crazy and zany anime. I thought I was getting into a soft and sweet series but I’ve been blindsided by a series as funny, offbeat and engaging as I could ever wish for. Plenty of fish in the sea but this one is a keeper.

Masa is so dreamy!