Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 12 – Original & Uncut (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)

Naruto learns the fate of Master Jiraiya and Sasuke learns the truth about his brother Itachi in “Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 12 – Original & Uncut”!  Highly recommended!

Image courtesy of © 2002 Masashi Kishimoto/2007 Shippuden. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 12 – Original & Uncut

DURATION: Episodes 141-153 (350 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: 2.0 Stereo Surround Sound, Bilingual (Japanese & English), English Subtitles

COMPANY: Shonen Jump/Viz Media

RATED: Rated T for Older Teen

Release Date: October 9, 2012

Originally created by Masashi Kishimoto

Series Directed by Hayato Date

Produced by Tomoko Gushima, Ken Hagino

Series Coordinator by Junki Takegami, Satoru Nishizono

Character Design by Tetsuya Nishio, Hirofumi Suzuki

Music by Yasuharu Takanishi, Yaiba

Music Production by Aniplex

Anime Production by TV Tokyo, Pierrot

Featuring the following voice talent:

Junko Takeuchi/Maile Flanagan as Naruto Uzumaki

Chie Nakamura/Kate Higgins as Sakura Haruno

Noriaki Sugiyama/Yuri Lowenthal as Sasuke Uchiha

Akira Ishida/Liam O’Brien as Sabaku no Gaara (Gaara of the Desert)

Hideo Ishikawa/Crispin Freeman as Itachi Uchiha

Houchu Ohtsuka/David Lodge as Jiraiya

Kazuhiko Inoue/Dave Wittenberg as Hatake Kakashi

Kentarou Itou/Robbie Rist as Chouji Akimichi

Kenyuu Horiuchi/Troy Baker as Pain

Kouichi Toochika/Steve Staley as Neji Hyuuga

Kousuke Toriumi/Kyle Hebert as Kiba Inuzuka

Kujira/Steven Blum as Orochimaru

Masako Katsuki/Debi Mae West as Tsunade/Fifth Hokage

Nana Mizuki/Stephanie Sheh as Hinata Hyuuga

Nobutoshi Canna/Henry Dittman as Kabuto Yakushi

Rikiya Koyama/Troy Baker as Yamato

Romi Paku/Tara Platt as Temari

Ryoka Yuzuki/Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Ino Yamanaka

Satoshi Hino/Ben Diskin as Sai

Shinji Kawada/Derek Stephen Prince as Shino Aburame

Yasuyuki Kase/Michael Lindsay as Kankurou

Yoichi Masukawa/Brian Donovan as Rock Lee

At the Akatsuki hideout, a weakened Sasuke hears the history of the Uchiha clan from Madara and learns of Itachi’s true intentions. Meanwhile, Kakashi and Naruto, having lost the trail, must abandon their mission to capture Itachi and find Sasuke. The team is heading back to the village when an urgent assignment comes in from Tsunade that will lead them on a perilous journey to protect a young woman!

Madara informs Sasuke of the true reason why his older brother Itachi slaughtered their family and the Uchiha clan.  And Naruto finds out the fate of his Master Jiraiya in “Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 12 – Original & Uncut”!

What is “Naruto”?

Since 1999, “Naruto” created by Masashi Kishimoto (“Karakuri”) has been one of the most popular anime and manga series in Japan and has easily become a favorite best selling anime/manga series among fans all over the world.

For the anime series, since 2002, “Naruto” lasted until 2007 with a total of 220 episodes. The series would follow the adventures of a boy named Naruto Uzamaki, who may not be the brightest ninja from the Konoha Village but he makes it up with heart and also tremendous power as the killer beast known as the nine-tailed fox has been sealed within him.

Earlier in the series, the anime series focused on Naruto and his team members Sasuke Uchida and Sakura Haruno as they would go on adventures and learn to become a team and also honing their ninja abilities. The series would then begin to introduce other young ninjas from the village who Naruto would be paired up with and the young ninjas would take on rival clans to helping people in need. But somehow as the series continued, Sasuke Uchida would then go off on his own personal mission to stop his brother Itaki Uchida, who murdered the whole Uchida clan and his family, only leaving Sasuke alive.

Within those six years, we have seen Naruto and his friends grow as friends and also in their abilities. For Naruto, all he has wanted is to become the next Hokage (the leader of the village) when he grows older and to help his friends accomplish missions. He knows that to be a good leader, he will need to get stronger so he can protect the village once he grows older. Of course, there is so much involved in the “Naruto” anime series and what makes its special is its humor, its action but also how well the series integrates so many characters but yet features a good number of character driven episodes that makes the viewer appreciate many of the characters in the series.

“Naruto”, the first series ended with the young ninja leaving to train with Jiraiya for two-and-a-half years.

What is “Naruto Shippuden”?

In “Naruto Shippuden”, the storyline now features everyone a little grown up but the stakes are much higher. We learn that the Akatsuki including Orochimaru are looking for those who possess a jinchuriki. With this power, this will give too much power to evil and this can lead to the death of many people and the destruction of many villages.

In the past few volumes, the Leaf Village along with other villages have managed to defeat the Akatsuki, unfortunately the price paid was the death of Asuma and a few other members of the Leaf and Sand Ninja.

Now, Orochimaru using Kabuto, have their sites set on capturing the other jinchuriki, as do the Akatsuki who have been after Naruto.

In volume 10, featuring episodes 113-126 (which kicked off season 6 in Japan), we learn how Orochimaru became interested in “reanimation” and the “Sharingan” but leads to a fight to the death between Sasuke and Orochimaru. We then get to learn more about the new team that Sasuke is putting together. A team that will lead an assault on the Akatsuki and literally give Sasuke the revenge on his brother, Itachi (it was revealed in earlier episodes that Itachi was responsible for the Uchiha clan’s demise and the only person he kept alive was Sasuke), that he has been wanting for so long.

Sasuke is on a mission to find the following people to join his team: Suigetsu Hozuki (a former test subject of Orochimaru and has the power to turn into liquid form), Karin (Orochimaru’s former assistant and specializes in tracking) and the homicidal maniac, Jugo.

Meanwhile, as word gets around about Sasuke’s growing power and his new team, Lady Tsunade organizes a team from the leaf village (which includes Team Kakashi and Team Kurenai) to capture Itachi before Sasuke can get to him. The Akatsuki send out Deidara and Tobi to go after Sasuke.

In “Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 11 – Original & Uncut” (Episodes 127-140, Season six in Japan), Jiraiya infiltrates the Hidden Rain Village where he finds out that the Akatsuki that he has been tracking, are the children he took care of and trained when they were younger.

But will the legendary sage be enough to defeat his former pupil, especially Akatsuki’s Pain?

In “Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 12 – Original & Uncut”, it is important to note that the episodes featured in DVD Set 12 covers the final episodes of “Naruto Shippuden” Season six as Naruto and his team take on the Eight Tails and learning from Madara of why his older brother Itachi massacred their family and the Uchiha clan and now this information will forever change Sasuke.

For episode 144-151, this was a shortened season seven and aired from January through March 2012 in Japan.  This season features Lady Tsunade sending Team 7 and Yamato to assist Utakata and Hotaru after they learn that a clan known as Tsuchigumo and an elder named En no Gyoja developing a forbidden Jutsu.

It is revealed that Utakata is a Jinchuriki and he carries the Six-Tailed Demon Slug and a man named Shiranami is trying to kidnap Hotaru to be used as a vessel to collect natural chakra energy to release the forbidden jutsu.

Naruto and Team 7 must find a way to protect Hotaru from any harm.  But another group appears to be interested in Utakata.

While a filler episode, it does show how the six-tail was taken.

For episodes 152-153, this begins season 8 of “Naruto: Shippuden” and brings back the Pain storyline as Naruto is summoned to Lady Tsunade and is informed by Jiraiya’s master Fukasaku of the fate of Jiraiya in his battle with Pain and the Akatsuki.

VIDEO:

One thing I noticed when it came to “Naruto” is that the series has had its share of well-animated and well-painted artistic backgrounds but then for some of the filler episodes, has had a decrease in quality. Fortunately, “Naruto Shippuden” continues to look awesome. I really like how the characters look much older and the emotions on the character’s faces. For this volume, it does go back to a bit of monotonous landscapes. A lot of trees, a lake, underwater and mountains. Not much of the action is taken place anywhere else. But the storyline focuses on the action than location and as far as picture quality goes, it is good and what one can expect from DVD.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

As for the audio, the audio for “Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 12″ is pretty much Dolby Digital Stereo 2.0 Bilingual (Japanese and English). Similar to a series like “Dragon Ball Z”, with “Naruto”, I have always enjoyed the voice acting of the English dub series. It’s well done and the voices fit the characters very well.

Especially Maile Flanagan’s Naruto Uzumaki. Personally, I didn’t think there would be a voice actor that could capture Junko Takeuchi’s Naruto vocals and sure enough, Flanagan does a great job. But I have watched the series in Japanese and English and for the most part, voice acting for both soundtracks are well-done.

Since the series is front channel driven, for those with a modern home theater receiver probably will enjoy a more immersive soundscape by selecting stereo on all channels.

Subtitles are in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 12 – Original & Uncut” comes with the following special features on disc 3:

• Clean Openings
• Clean Endings
• Production Art – Using your remote, you can view through ten pages of artwork.
• Omake – (6:11) All the omake ending portions (after the credits) from the episodes featured in DVD Set 12 of “Naruto Shippuden”.
• English Credits

An important volume of “Naruto Shippuden” as both Naruto and Sasuke are forever changed by tragedy.

For “Naruto Shippuden”, it has been a long ongoing storyline of Naruto and Sasuke’s friendship and rivalry.  But for Sasuke, he is fueled by hatred towards his brother Itachi as Itachi is responsible for the murder of his family and the Uchiha clan.

But as Sasuke and his group confront the eight-tales courtesy of Killer Bee, Sasuke takes on his most challenging opponent yet.  Meanwhile, Madara finally reveals the truth to Sasuke of the true reason that Itachi murdered the Uchiha clan and this revelation will now make Sasuke the #1 enemy of the Leaf Village.

Meanwhile, the next episodes features a short arc that involves the six-tailed beast.  While a filler episode of the series, it’s also another tragic storyline of how the Akatsuki is continuing their goal of slaughtering jinchuriki and in this case, the storyline centers on Utakata, who possesses the Six-Tailed Slug.

And with the final two episodes on the DVD, it’s an emotional two-episodes as Naruto finds out what happened to his Master Jiraiya who died in battle against Pain and the Akatsuki.  Can Naruto bounce back after hearing about the death of his master and mentor?

Featuring a volume that will no doubt make an impact on Naruto and Sasuke, fans of “Naruto Shippuden” will definitely want to check out this latest DVD volume.

As for the DVD set, you get a total of 13 episodes and a the typical special features such as storyboard, production art and the ending omake for each episode.

Overall, “Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 12 – Original & Uncut” is another important volume especially now that Konoha must prepare to take on Pain and the Akatsuki.  But also for viewers finally seeing Sasuke in a different and more evil light after learning why his brother slaughtered the Uchiha Clan.  While Naruto mourns his master’s death, Sasuke now has a new resolve and that is to destroy every living being in Konoha.

Exciting, action-packed and recommended for “Naruto Shippuden” fans!

 

InuYasha: The Final Act DVD Set 1 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)

For eight years, anime fans have waited for the conclusion of “InuYasha” which last aired back in 2004.  Here we are now in 2012 and it all comes down to these final 26-episodes!  It’s a race to collect the final fragments and with the evil Naraku not far behind, a character dies, others nearly die and things are starting to look grim for InuYasha and friends.  Find out who dies and who survives in the first half of “Inuyasha: The Final Act”!  Recommended!

© Rumiko Takahashi/Shogakukan • Yomiuri TV • Sunrise 2000

DVD TITLE: InuYasha: The Final Act DVD Set 1

DURATION: 315 minutes (13 Episodes on 2 discs)

DVD INFORMATION: Original Uncut Episodes, Stereo, Bilingual (Japanese and English), English Subtitles

COMPANY: Viz Media

RELEASE DATE: November 20, 2012

Originally created by Rumiko Takahashi

Director: Yasunao Aoiki

Series Composition by Katsuyuki Sumisawa

Music by Kaoru Wada

Character Design: Yoshihito Hishinuma

Art Director: Shigemi Ikeda

Anime Production: Sunrise

Featuring the following voice talent:

Kappei Yamaguchi/Richard Ian Cox (Inuyasha)

Satsuki Yukino/Kira Tozer (Kagome Higurashi)

Kouji Tsujitani/Kirby Morrow (Miroku)

Ken Narita/David Kaye (Sesshoumaru)

Houko Kwashima/Kelly Sheridan (Sango)

Kumiko Watanabe/Jillian Michaels (Shippo)

Toshiyuki Morikawa/Paul Dobson (Naraku)

Noriko Hidaka/Willow Johnson (Kikyo)

Taiki Matsuno/Scott McNeil (Koga)

Izumi Oogami/Janyse Jaud (Kagura)

 

Kagome is an ordinary schoolgirl who finds her destiny linked to the half-demon Inuyasha and the powerful Shikon Jewel. In their quest to restore the shattered Shikon Jewel, Inuyasha and Kagome face their ultimate enemy, the demon mastermind Naraku.

 

Meanwhile, Sesshomaru learns the truth behind his sword Tenseiga, and Kikyo discovers a secret that could defeat Naraku! With the jewel nearly complete and in enemy hands, the race to collect the remaining shards intensifies, and an epic battle is brewing on the horizon!

There are not many long running anime series that I find wonderful but for “InuYasha”" is one of those special titles that is what you can call a total package. Cool characters, cool storyline, cool animation, cool art background… A good balance of everything that you can want in an anime.

But it’s something that I expected no less coming from a manga series from Rumiko Takahashi, one of my favorite manga-ka’s in Japan known for anime TV series hits such as “Urusei Yatsura”, “Maison Ikkoku”, “Ranma 1/2″ and “InuYasha”.

In Japan, Takahashi has written 56 volumes for “InuYasha” and the first 167 episodes aired on Yomiuri TV from 2000-2004.  As many long anime series go on break in order for the mangaka to work on the manga series or the animators create a story on their own that is different from the manga, fortunately the anime series was put on hold for several years in order to have Takahashi finish the series.

By 2009, the second series “InuYasha: The Final Act” (26-episodes) began airing on Yomiuri TV from Oct. 2009 through March 2010 and now will be released on Blu-ray and DVD courtesy of Viz Media with the first 13 episodes slated for release in November 2012.

“InuYasha: The Final Act” is based on the last 21 volumes of the manga series.  The original staff and cast of the series returned for this final season and would feature the continuing storyline of InuYasha, Kagome, Miroku, Sango, Shippo and Kirara searching for the final fragments of the shattered shikon jewel and prepare for their final battle against Naraku.

In the first half of the series, InuYasha and friends to all they can to find the remaining final shards but so is Naraku.  The fight against Naraku continues as one character is killed and another uses power to the maximum to the point of nearly killing themselves.  Meanwhile, one confesses their love and in the process, their power grows.

Find out who lives, who dies and who becomes more powerful in the first half of “InuYasha: The Final Act”.

“InuYasha: The Final Act” features the following characters:

InuYasha – The half demon/half human who drawn a liking towards the human Priestess Kikyo and has some feelings for Kagome but his ego prevents him from saying anything about his emotions. Has the ability to leap far distances, has quite a few special attacks including claws that can cut through anything. Also, wields his father’s sword, Tetsusaiga. His goal is to take control of the Jewel of Four Souls to turn into a demon. Wears a necklace that forces him to listen to a single command from Kagome. When Kagome says “sit”, he drops or literally is thrown down to the ground harshly. He and Kagome are constantly bickering. In the first day of each month, he resorts back to human form. Later in the series, Kikoyo has been awakened and thus his feelings are split for both Kikyo and Kagome.  Meanwhile, he does not get along with his brother Sesshomaru because he is half demon and because he possesses the family heirloom.

Kagome Higurashi - A high school student who is a reincarnation of Kikyo. Carries a bow and arrow as a weapon but a human who has the ability to go back to her time period through a well in her home and a well in the feudal period. Has conflicted emotions towards InuYasha but always caring for other people. Has the ability to control InuYasha by a special bead necklace on InuYasha that forces him to listen. She has the ability to sense and see the jewels and the shards from long distances or on a monster.  She cares a lot for InuYasha.

Shippo – A young orphan fox. Human in appearance with a big fox tail. His father was killed by a demon and eventually gets himself into trouble while trying to obtain the crystal shards to become powerful and get revenge on the demons that killed his father. He has nowhere to go and is eventually taken in by InuYasha and Kagome.

Miroku – A Buddhist monk who travels the countryside and performs exorcisms. He’s a bit lecherous and likes to take people’s belongings and sell them for a profit. But his goal is to find the evil Naruku who has taken Miroku’s right hand and given him the power of “wind tunnel”, a powerful ability that can suck anything into a black hole like void in his hand. The hole is growing and eventually he will be sucked into it unless he finds the person who cursed him with it and gets his life back. He eventually travels with Kagome, InuYasha and Shippo in search of Naraku.  Later in the series, Miroku and Sango fall in love with each other and in “Final Act”, Miroku will do all he can to protect her.

Sango – Sango is a demon slayer who’s family was slayed by demons. The person responsible is Naraku, thus joins Kagome, InuYasha, Shippo and Miroku to go after him. Her main weapon is a large boomerang that is powerful and able to cut monsters in half.  In the beginning, she was always being hit on by Miroku but eventually, she begins to fall for him.  Sango is often seen accompanying her faithful demon-cat companion, Kirara.

Sesshoumaru – The brother of InuYasha. A demon who can’t stand InuYasha because he’s half demon and half human and blames their father for being so weak and trying to protect a human. The two despise each other and twice in season one, he and InuYasha fight to the death. Has the ability to turn into a white wolf and much stronger and ruthless than InuYasha.

Kikyo – The Priestess who used to wear the Jewel of Four Souls. Cared for InuYasha but believed he is the one that fatally injured her. In season 1, she is brought back to life as an undead and wants her revenge against InuYasha.

Kaede - The sister of Kikyo, she is shown in past clips of Kikyo as a young little girl but currently she is 50+ years older, wears an eye patch and assists InuYasha and Kagome with information in their missions when they need her.

Naraku – The main evil antagonist who has manipulated everyone in order to get his hands on the crystal shards. Very evil demon who is responsible for Kikyo’s death, Miroku’s curse and the death of Sango’s faily.  He is driven to become a full demon, possessing a fully corrupted Shikon jewel and possessing Kikyo.:

Kikyo: Continuing from the first season, we learn that Kikyo was brought back to life and driven by her hatred towards InuYasha for deceiving her. Eventually she finds out the true facts about what took place the night she passed away and learns that it was Naraku’s evil work in play to deceive both of them. She vows to get her revenge on Naraku. But to do that, she must stay close with him and thus she pretends to be on Naraku’s side.

Koga: The other important character we are introduced to is Koga, the wolf-demon (episode 36). Koga is the leader of the southern yokai-wolf tribe and has three shards that give him incredible speed and power. He develops a crush on Kagome (especially since she can sense the jewel shards) and thus he and InuYasha are often fighting with each other. Koga wants revenge on Naraku because his tribe was nearly all wiped out because of his deception. Although he is there to help Kagome and even InuYasha, he is on no one side but is their ally.

Kohaku: The younger brother of Sango brought back to life by Naraku (episode 29). Has an impure jewel shard given to him by Naraku that keeps him alive but he has lost all memories of his sister and can easily be used by Naraku to fight against InuYasha and friends.  He was eventually freed from Narku’s grasps and became good friends with Rin.

Kagura: Naraku’s creation and second “detachment”. She is a wind sorceress (introduced in episode 40) that is lethal and deadly and has killed many innocents but at the same time, she hates Naraku and wishes to be free of him. Thus she tries to play the hands of InuYasha and possibly use him to kill Naraku.

Rin: An orphan girl who helps nurse Sesshomaru in the woods after he was badly injured in a fight against InuYasha (episode 34). Rin’s family was killed by bandits and so, she has been living alone by having to steal food. She’s mute and but communicates via hand gestures or facial emotions. Because Sesshomaru wields the Tenseiga (which heals), he returns the favor back to the girl after she was killed by wolves. Despite Sesshomaru’s uncaring attitude towards humans, he appears to tolerate her for some reason. Rin shows a loyalty towards him and eventually becomes part of Sesshomaru’s group.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“InuYasha: The Final Act” definitely shows the animated differences from the previous seasons created nearly a decade ago.  With today’s use of computers and better utilization of CG and more detailed artwork, “InuYasha: The Final Act” looks better. Not only are art backgrounds much more detailed but you can tell that Sunrise didn’t lax on this TV series, they did a wonderful job in animation and with the art backgrounds and making Rumiko Takashi’s manga series come alive!

As for the audio, audio is presented in 2.0 and both languages are done quite well. The English dubbed seems a bit more clearer and a little louder coming through my front speakers over the Japanese track but overall, it’s a purely dialogue driven anime and there are no 5.1ch tracks, so it’s pretty much a front-channel driven soundtrack. For “Ranma 1/2″ fans, you will see the reunion of Ranma 1/2 voice actor Kappei Yamaguchi (Ranma) return as the voice for InuYasha which was pretty cool and also Noriko Hidaka (“Ranma 1/2″ character Akane) as Kikyo.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“InuYasha: The Final Act” comes with:

• ORIGINAL JAPANESE TRAILER – The Japanese trailer for “InuYasha: The Final Act”
• ORIGINAL CAST CREDITS IN ENGLISH

When it comes to anime series, especially long running series, rarely do you see one going on hiatus in order for the manga artist to create newer material or to finish up their series.  We have seen it many times before with series such as “Dragon Ball z”, “Naruto”, “Bleach”, long series that had its challenges of trying to allow the author to develop the manga series and so, what ends up happening is that readers are treated with many filler episodes.  Or similar to “Fullmetal Alchemist” or “Hellsing”, the writers create their own storyline.

But in Japan, there are few mangaka where studios will bow down to when it comes to creator control and one of the most well-known mangaka in Japan is Rumiko Takahashi, creator of “Urusei Yatsura”, “Maison Ikkoku”, “Ranma 1/2″ to name a few.

And with a hiatus that has lasted eight years, the manga series and now the anime series is now complete in Japan and with the release of “InuYasha: The Final Act” on Blu-ray and DVD, fans who have waited a long time, can now finally watch and see how the series will end.

I have always felt that when it comes to an anime television series based on a Rumiko Takahashi manga, you really can’t go wrong. Her first three are classics in their own right and “InuYasha” will surely join the others as not only popular hit manga series but also great anime TV series of all time. There are not too many manga creators who have a lot of their works get the anime adaptation that spawn many films, CD drama series and soundtracks and also a lot of merchandise. For Rumiko Takahashi, she’s had three decades worth of series that have lasted for a long time and even today, fans still crave her works because they can be watched any time and they are good now as they were then.

But when it comes to “InuYasha”, where I’ve had such a strong affinity towards her previous releases and even “Ranma 1/2″, I have to admit, “InuYasha” is a solid series and there was not many episodes that were bland or “OK”, they were all very good and again, there are not many TV series where I want to continue watching nearly every episode in one sitting.

So, everything is fantastic about this series but are there any negatives with this DVD release?  Well, I’m sure one can argue that they wish all 26-episodes were released as one volume and some can wish that there were more special features included.  But it’s hard to argue since Viz Media has always broken up their DVD’s into volumes and rarely release full collections.  And as for special features, while past “InuYasha” collections had some rare swag included in the limited edition releases, pretty much all you’re going to get is a Japanese trailer.   Yes, Japan’s DVD release of “InuYasha: The Final Act” received a bonus DVD, a calendar and DJ CD but Viz Media has not really released limited edition DVD releases for many years now.

But as for the series itself, “InuYasha: The Final Act” is what many people expected to see.  Characters risking their lives to take down Naraku and not only does a character die, but we also get to see others nearly get killed as they sacrificed themselves for the greater good or to save the person they love.

Right now these 13-episodes are just a build-up of what is coming up for the second and final half.  Things have been slowly building from the final fragments being found to those making decisions on who’s side they will fight on and why.  Others have developed purpose, courage and a few secrets will be revealed.

Sesshomaru learns the truth about his sword Tenseiga, Kikyo discovers a secret regarding Naraku and the race to obtaining the shards becomes deadlier.

I personally can’t wait to see how “InuYasha: The Final Act” ends and if you are a fan who have watched the series for a long time and have been waiting for this conclusio of this anime-series, it’s a no-brainer…”InuYasha: The Final Act DVD Set 1″ is recommended!

 

 

Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)

“Naruto” fans will surely enjoy this movie.  Naruto vs. Gaara, Naruto vs. his teammates in the hopes of saving Kakashi.  Exciting, action-packed and definitely the best “Naruto” film yet! “Naruto Shippuden The Movie: The Will of Fire” is recommended!

Image courtesy of © 2002 Masashi Kishimoto/2008 Shippuden. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire (NARUTO-ナルト-疾風伝 火の意志を継ぐ者)

DURATION: 90 Minutes

DVD INFORMATION: 16×9, 1:85:1, English and Japanese, English subtitles

COMPANY: Shonen Jump/Viz Media

RATED: Rated T for Older Teen

Release Date: October 23, 2012

Originally created by Masashi Kishimoto

Directed by Masahiko Murata

Screenplay by Junki Takegami

Music by -yaiba-, Yasuharu Takanashi

Character Design by Tetsuya Nishio

Anime Production by Studio Pierrot

Featuring the following voice talent:

Junko Takeuchi/Maile Flanagan as Naruto Uzumaki

Chie Nakamura/Kate Higgins as Sakura Haruno

Noriaki Sugiyama/Yuri Lowenthal as Sasuke Uchiha

Akira Ishida/Liam O’Brien as Sabaku no Gaara (Gaara of the Desert)

Hideo Ishikawa/Crispin Freeman as Itachi Uchiha

Houchu Ohtsuka/David Lodge as Jiraiya

Kazuhiko Inoue/Dave Wittenberg as Hatake Kakashi

Kentarou Itou/Robbie Rist as Chouji Akimichi

Kouichi Toochika/Steve Staley as Neji Hyuuga

Kousuke Toriumi/Kyle Hebert as Kiba Inuzuka

Masako Katsuki/Debi Mae West as Tsunade/Fifth Hokage

Nana Mizuki/Stephanie Sheh as Hinata Hyuuga

Nobutoshi Canna/Henry Dittman as Kabuto Yakushi

Rikiya Koyama/Troy Baker as Yamato

Romi Paku/Tara Platt as Temari

Ryoka Yuzuki/Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Ino Yamanaka

Satoshi Hino/Ben Diskin as Sai

Shinji Kawada/Derek Stephen Prince as Shino Aburame

Yoichi Masukawa/Brian Donovan as Rock Lee

Four ninjas with kekkei genkai who have been guarding the Hidden Villages of Cloud, Stone, Mist, and Sand disappear from their respective villages. The Land of Fire comes under suspicion as it is the only country to have suffered no loss, and the tension among the five countries almost brings about a fourth Great Ninja War. In the Hidden Village of Leaf, Tsunade orders her men to keep strict guard against war and to try to find out what really happened. At the same time, it turns out that Kakashi has left the village. The bad news deeply disturbs Naruto and his friends.

To commemorate the 10th Anniversary of “Naruto” back in 2009, the third “Naruto: Shippuden” film titled “Gekijoban Naruto Shippuden Hi no Ishi wo Tsugumono” a.k.a. “Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire”) was released in theaters (the sixth “Naruto” film overall).

As the “Naruto” manga series has begun the “Fourth Great Ninja War” arc and the anime series now gaining momentum in regards to the Akatsuki arc, “Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire” has been released in the U.S. courtesy of Viz Media on Blu-ray and DVD courtesy of Viz Media.

“Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire” begins with Kakashi giving Naruto a bell for him to fix.  The bell is a reminder to both Naruto and Sakura that a person who betrays his friends is the worst ninja out there.  And that memory of him and Sakura training with Sasuke enhances his resolve to find Sasuke because despite him being an enemy, he was their friend.

The film revolves around the potential outbreak of the Fourth Great Ninja War courtesy of a ninja known as Hiruko, a former friend of the legendary Sannin Orochimaru, Jiraiya and Tsunade.

When ninjas with Kekkei Genkai abilties begin to disappear from various villages with the exception of Konoha, villages start to suspect that Konoha may be involved in the disappearances of the missing ninjas.  And as troops start to threaten an invasion of Konoha, the Feudal Lord of the Land of Fire orders Tsunade to capture the real culprit or else the Land of Fire will break the peace and attack the village.

As for Hiruko, he is a missing ninja who left Konoha and developed the Chimera technique which allows him to absorb the chakra and kekkei Genkai of other ninja.  Having a few followers protecting him in Mount Shami, Hiruko is intent of obtaining the Kekkei Genkai of the Land of Fire to gain invincibility and to cause the Fourth Great Ninja War in order to conquer the world.  And to do that, she intends to use Kakashi, as she put a puppet curse on him over a decade ago and plans to use his Sharingan.

Before leaving to face Hiruko and risk his life, Kakashi asks Shikamaru for a favor and that is to tell Naruto not to follow him.  In fact, worried that Naruto would do something rash, Naruto is placed in a jail cell as Kakashi goes out to find Hiruko.  He also asks Tsunade to put a special seal on him if Hiruko attempts to absorb him.  Kakashi disappears under Hiruko’s influence of the puppet jutsu.

Meanwhile, Tsunade brands Kakashi a missing nin and orders everyone to stay away from Kakashi.

When Sakura overhears this, she goes to visit Naruto and Naruto begs for her to release him from the cell.  He reminds her of the bond that they had with Sasuke and Kakashi and that friends would never betray their friends and to protect one another and to this day, he intends to keep that promise he gave Sakura that he would rescue Sasuke.  Hearing this, Sakura releases Naruto and both head out to find their teacher, Kakashi.

Upon hearing this news, Tsunade sends out Team 8, Team 10 and Team Guy to retrieve them and immediately some of the team members get into an argument when Shikamaru tells them that they may need to use lethal force against Naruto, while Rock Lee defends Naruto about protecting their group and his friends and he believes in Naruto.  But for Shikamaru, he intends to carry out the promise left to him by his teacher, the late Asuma Sarutobi who told him that he must protect the children of Konoha village.  And if Naruto threatens that, he will need to kill him.

As Sai is now part of the team and joins Naruto and Saura on their mission to find Kakashi, waiting for them are Hiruko’s followers, Ichi, Ni and San.  But also, hot on their trail are Team 8, Team 10 and Team Guy who are trying to stop them as well.

Will Naruto be able to save his teacher?

VIDEO & AUDIO:

Before I begin, it’s important to remind people that a Blu-ray release is available for “Naruto Shippuden The Movie: The Will of Fire”and if you want the best picture and audio quality, the Blu-ray is the way to go.

As for the DVD, the film tends to have this look that is appropriate for television, but for a summer movie in Japan, you expect better, detailed artistic backgrounds and the good news is that is what you get with this film.  Presented with an aspect ratio of 1:85:1, the film looks very good.   A lot of detail in the trees, the ground and surrounding environments but also the amount of shading and detail on the characters.  As “Naruto” films become more recent, there is an obvious increase in detail in overall look of the films and “The Will of Fire” looks very good!

As for the audio, the audio for “Naruto Shippuden The Movie: The Will of Fire” is featured in Dolby Digital English and Japanese. Similar to a series like “Dragon Ball Z”, with “Naruto”, I have always enjoyed the voice acting of the English dub series. It’s well done and the voices fit the characters very well.  Especially Maile Flanagan’s Naruto Uzumaki. Personally, I didn’t think there would be a voice actor that could capture Junko Takeuchi’s Naruto vocals and sure enough, Flanagan does a great job. But I have watched the series in Japanese and English and for the most part, voice acting for both soundtracks are well-done.

Subtitles are in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Naruto Shippuden The Movie: The Will of Fire” comes with the Japanese theatrical trailer.

When it comes to “Naruto” related films, for the most part, a lot of the films are not canon and really have no affect on the main storyline of the manga or anime series.

But what I enjoyed about “Naruto Shippuden The Movie: The Will of Fire” is that it brings up three important plot lines that Naruto fans who are watching the anime series have just seen.  Important plot lines that do play a big part in the future of “Naruto Shippuden”.

Those three plot lines revolves around Naruto’s ongoing promise to Sakura that he would bring Sasuke back.  The second revolves around Shikamaru’s promise to Asuma about protecting the children of the village and the third which revolves around Kakashi’s past of how he obtained the Sharingan and from who.

The first two are ongoing promises that are mean to be kept, while the third plays a much bigger part in the “Naruto Shippuden” series which is now being featured in Japan (note: America is a few years behind in storyline via anime series, and a few manga volumes behind from Japan).

But “The Will of Fire” is important to show the bond between the Konoha ninjas and as always with Naruto, he is never the type of person that would let anyone be hurt.  He is a protector and his goal to be Hokage means protecting everyone from harm’s way.

And when both his goal and Shikamaru’s goal clashes, it’s quite interesting to see how their fellow teammates respond when they must stop Naruto, as some believe in what Naruto is doing and others knowing they have a mission to do and the mission is priority.

There is also another cool addition to this film and that is another fight between Naruto and Gaara which I was not expecting.  It’s one thing for Naruto, Sakura and Sai to go after Kakashi and get into a duel with Hiruko’s protectors and also his own fellow ninja from Konoha, but to see Gaara involved and possibly meant to stop Naruto as well, that was cool to see another skirmish between the two, despite their admiration towards each other.

Suffice to say, this is an action-packed film and definitely one of the better summer “Naruto” films created because it has a stronger connection to the series when it comes to the characters and what they are fighting for.   While the previous film “Bonds” was great to see Naruto and Sasuke fight against each other and briefly work together, “The Will of Fire” is much more exciting due to the amount of characters and battles involved.

As for the DVD, picture quality and audio are good but if one wants better PQ and AQ, the Blu-ray is the way to go.  While I’m not sure if the Blu-ray release has more special features, I was surprised that the DVD only has the Japanese theatrical trailer.

Overall, “Naruto” fans will surely enjoy this movie.  Naruto vs. Gaara, Naruto vs. his teammates in the hopes of saving Kakashi.  Exciting, action-packed and definitely the best “Naruto” film yet!

“Naruto Shippuden The Movie: The Will of Fire” is recommended!

 

Children Who Chase Lost Voices (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)

Makoto Shinkai once again has created a masterpiece and another film added to his oeuvre of magnificent animated films created within the last decade.  “Children Who Chase Lost Voices” is a gorgeous, touching animated film worth watching, worth owning and is highly recommended!

Image courtesy of © Makoto Shinkai/CMMMY. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Children Who Chase Lost Voices (星を追う子ども, Hoshi o Ou Kodomo)

MOVIE AIRDATE: 2011

DURATION: 116 Minutes

DVD INFORMATION: 16:9 Anamorphic Widescreen, English and Japanese Dolby Digital 5.1, English subtitles

COMPANY: Sentai Filmworks

RATED: TV PG

Release Date: November 13, 2012

Written and Directed by Makoto Shinkai

Music by Tenmon

Character Design by Takayo Nishimura

Art Director: Takumi Tanji

Animation Director: Takayo Nishimura

Anime Production by CoMix Wave Inc.

Featuring the following voice talent:

Hisako Kanemoto/Hilary Haag as Asuna Watase

Kazuhiko Inoue/David Matranga as Ryūji Morisaki

Miyu Irino/Leraldo Anzaldua as Shin/Shun

Fumiko Orikasa/Shelley Calene-Black as Asuna’s Mother

Junko Takeuchi as Mimi

Rina Hidaka/Emily Neves as Mana

Sumi Shimamoto/Shannon Emerick as Risa/Lisa Morisaki

When she hears a strange song from a crystal radio, Asuna tunes into more than just a magical stream of music. Soon, she is transported to a mysterious world where mythical beasts roam and brave warriors fight for their lives. Agartha is a land of breathtaking beauty and unimaginable danger – a place where, it is believed, even the dead can be brought back to life. But at what cost?

Makoto Shinkai, the former Falcom graphic designer, who took the anime industry by storm back in 2001 when he released his anime OVA titled “Voices of a Distant Star”, which he created on his Power Mac G4 and using several software and voice acted by he and his wife Miko and music provided by his friend Tenmon.

The OVA inspired many for the fact it was independent, created on a small budget but looked significantly better than some major anime series by well-known animation studios.

Suffice to say, the person who grew up inspired by Miyazaki films was now given a chance to create more animated films and he would eventually achieve success with “The Place Promised in Our Early Days” (2004) and “5 Centimeters Per Second” (2007).

In 2011, Shinkai returned with the animated film “Children Who Chase Lost Voices (“Hoshi o Ou Kodomo”) which he directed, wrote and produced.

And now the film will be released in the U.S. on Blu-ray and DVD courtesy of Sentai Filmworks.

“Children Who Chase Lost Voices” is a film that revolves around a girl named Asuna.  A girl who is good at school but because her father had died, she had to grow up quickly and managed to take care of herself while her mother, a nurse, worked long hours at the hospital.

In her spare time, Asuna likes to go to a cliff area overlooking the mountains and listen to music with her cat’s-whisker receiver (a crystal radio receiver that is powered by radio waves and uses no batteries) that her father gave her a long time ago.

One day, while at school, the students receive a warning that there have been possible bear attacks and they must be careful.  While walking to her clubhouse on the bridge, she is approached by a large creature who looks as if he will attack her.  Out of nowhere, a boy named Shun saves her and manages to kill the creature.  But a train comes and there are witnesses.  While Shun manages to help Asuna escape, she worries about his wounds.  Shun kisses her on the forehead and leaves.  While looking at the stars, it is thought that he may have died.

The following day, Asuna hears that a boy was found dead near the river and believes it may be Shun.

After hearing the substitute teacher, Mr. Morisaki, talking about bringing back someone from the dead, her teacher asks her if she is the one who came across a person from Agartha.  She is told by the teacher about Gods (gatekeepers/Quezalcoatls) who guided the path to humanity until they no longer were needed.  When humanity grown, the Gods were no longer needed but that the land of Agartha, a mystical place possibly underground, those who find Agartha can resurrect the dead.

While walking home, she sees her cat Mimi and Asuna runs towards the cliff area and finds a mysterious boy who she thinks she is Shun.  But while the two are talking, they are approached by a group of men in military fatigues known as Arch Angels and a helicopter and are wanting him to give them a clavis (jewel).

Immediately, they are fired upon and they escape to a cave which may lead to Agartha.

But as the two think they are hiding in the caves and are safe, the men continue to pursue them and both escape under the caves and come into contact with a gatekeeper (a huge lizard).  But because the polluted air, the gatekeepers have lost their minds.

The Gatekeeper attacks the boy but he tells Asuna he doesn’t want to kill the gatekeeper but wants to make him sleep.

As the two were able to escape, they are approached by the Arch Angels, it was revealed that the commander is Mr. Morisaki.   He explains that he wants to find Agartha in order to resurrect his deceased wife.  It is also revealed by the boy that Shun died that day for going up above land and that he is Shin, the younger brother of Shun.

As Mr. Morisaki is intent on going to Agartha, Asuna joins him and together both enter the realm underwater and hope they can go to the Gate of Life and death and bring back the souls of people they cared about. But will quickly learn that the world of Agartha may not be safe at all.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Children Who Chase Lost Voices” is presented in 16:9 Anamorphic Widescreen and English and Japanese Dolby Digital 5.1 with English subtitles

It’s important to note that if you want the best picture quality for this animated film and also the best audio, there is a Blu-ray release for this animated film that will be released on the same day of the DVD.

As far as the DVD is concern, the film has the trademark of a Makoto Shinkai film.  Beautiful, well-detailed clouds.  Characters that almost have a Studio Ghibli look and scenery that is lush and well-detailed with animation design that is shaded, colorful but art backgrounds that are just stunning to look at.

Personally, this is one film that would look amazing via HD on Blu-ray but for DVD, picture quality is very good.

As far as the soundtrack is concerned, the audio is very good. Not only do you hear the ambiance of bugs, outdoor environments such as Asuna running on the grass and the roar of the gatekeepers and izoku, the audio is well-done through the surround channels.  But no doubt, I can’t help but think how much more impressive the soundtrack would be via lossless (Blu-ray).  But those who purchase the DVD should be pleased by the overall soundtrack. As for voice acting, both Japanese and English soundtracks are well acted.

As for subtitles, the subtitles are in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Children Who Chase Lost Voices” comes with the following special features:

• Audio Commentary - Featuring audio commentary by Makoto Shinkai, Asuna voice actress Hisako Kanemoto and the “Hoshi o Ou Kodomo” production crew.
• Interviews with the Staff and Cast – (55:40) Featuring interviews with the voice talents Hisako Kanemoto (voice of Asuna), Miyu Irino (voice of Shin/Shun), Kazuhiko Inoue (voice of Ryuji Morisaki) and filmmaker Makoto Shinkai.
• A Brief Interview with Makoto Shinkai – A text based interview with the director/writer/producer Makoto Shinkai.
• The Making of Children Who Chase Lost Voices – (45:18) Similar to previous Makoto Shinkai releases, a making of diary of the creation of the animated film, discussion with the cast and crew and overall making of the film.
• The Works of Makoto Shinkai – (7:26) A look at Shinkai’s previous work.
• Japanese Promotional Video – (5:04) Japanese PV for “Hoshi o Ou Kodomo”.
• Japanese Teasers – (2:26)

If experience is a factor of determining a person’s ability to create amazing work, with only three major films under his belt, there are still some who claim that Makoto Shinkai has many years to go to prove he is the real deal.

After watching “Children Who Chase Lost Voices”, I have to differ.  As filmmaker Jean Vigo had done in France, creating only three films in his career but yet his life was cut short of tuberculosis, cineaste yet consider Vigo as one of the great French filmmakers of all time.

Makoto Shinkai may have gotten into the industry through a different process than other veterans but there is no doubt that his talent is a rarity.  As Shinkai was influenced by the great Hayao Miyazaki, many who have watched Shinkai’s work continually grow within the last decade, can’t help but be amazed of his accomplishment with three films and the growth as a director, writer and producer.

Shinkai has been a rarity in which he works with the people that he wants to work with, he creates and writes anime the way he wants to do it and so far, many people all over the world have been overjoyed by his work because its not more about creating animated films for the sake of commercialism or the sake of getting something out there to make profit for a major studio.  He creates a film because of his passion for it.

Prior to watching “Children Who Chase Lost Voices”, I have always felt that Shinkai’s “5 Centimeters Per Second” is his true masterpiece.  A gorgeous animated film that was not only heartbreaking but also beautiful and touching.  It was a film about life and love that many people have experienced.  Love, heartbreak but people moving on.

With his latest film “Children Who Chase Lost Voices”, you can apply the same idea of love, heartbreak and people moving on but in a context of alternate worlds and one wanting to bring back a deceased loved one.

The film looks absolutely gorgeous from its animation to its art backgrounds.  Each scene can be appreciated for its beauty and for anime fans, Shinkai’s films are almost like a painting that you just loved to look at over and over again and sometimes after looking at it, you have a different interpretation.  This is not a film that is commercial or quickly made.  It was well-planned and perfectly executed.

The characters of “Children Who Chase Lost Voices” are all characters who have lost a loved one and no doubt has altered or changed their lives.  Asuna, losing her father and having to grow up in order to prove to her mother that she is old enough to take care of the house while her mother works.  But then seeing that side of her that wants that peace and serenity and take out this radio which reminds her of her father.  It’s her time of remembrance but also her time of reflection.

The two other characters outside of the protagonist are quite different.  With Mr. Morisaki determined in bringing his wife back, part of us can’t call him an antagonist because we know that a man who found love, lost his one true love, will do all he can to bring his love back to life if he can.  It’s hard to dislike a man with those intentions, but at the same time, we know that his actions are against people who live in Agartha.

For Shin, he lost his brother, but he hasn’t had the time to mourn.  If anything, he is conflicted of his goals to save the one girl that his brother saved, despite her being a “top-dweller”.  But knows that by assisting her, he himself can be banished from Agartha.

While the film may seem complex with its concept of hidden worlds, Quetzalcoatls (gatekeepers) and people who are trying to protect their land from the top-dwellers, the storyline is easy to understand.

Like previous Shinkai films, people trying to seek resolve may be disappointed.   There are no easy answers to the storyline of Shinkai’s films.  Like in reality, things happen and people must live life by adjusting to their new environments and the new people that they are with.

I’m sure the gate is still open for more stories that involve Asuna, Shin and Mr. Morisaki but similar to “5 Centimeters Per Second”, I looked at the film as we experience life with the people we love and as we get older or years pass by, some lose those people they were once close with.  Fall outs of relationships or by unfortunate circumstances including death.  There is no going back to the past nor is there reviving the deceased, one must move forward.

As for the DVD release of “Children Who Chase Lost Voices”, as mentioned, if you want the best in video and audio, the Blu-ray is the way to go.  But as for the DVD itself, the DVD looks good and fortunately the special features were put on a second DVD disc.

Overall, Makoto Shinkai once again has created a masterpiece and another film added to his oeuvre of magnificent animated films created within the last decade.  “Children Who Chase Lost Voices” is a gorgeous, touching animated film worth watching, worth owning and is highly recommended!

 

 

Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia – Collection 1 (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)

“Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia” is an anime series that combines its characters from the idol world of the popular video game series with an alternative mecha storyline that Sunrise Studios is known for.  The first half features an action-packed, enjoyable and captivating storyline and I can’t wait to see how the second half of the season plays out.  If you are looking for a mecha anime series with upbeat characters (primarily all-female), definitely give “Idolm@aster: Xenoglossia” a chance!

Image courtesy of © Sunrise/Bandai Visual. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia – Collection 1

DURATION: Episode 1-13 (325 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: 16:9 Anamorphic Widescreen, Japanese 2.0, Dolby Digital, English subtitles

COMPANY: Sunrise/ Sentai Filmworks

RATED: TV 14 VD

Release Date: October 16, 2012

Originally created by Hajime Yatate

Original Character Design by Toshiyuki Kubooka

Directed by Tatsuyuki Nagai

Music by Tsuneyoshi Saito

Character Design by Hiroshi Takeuchi

Art Director: Toshiyuki Tokuda

Chief Animation Director: Hiroshi Takeuchi

Mechanical Design by Junichi Akutsu

Anime Production: Bandai Visual/Sunrise

Featuring the following voice talent:

Yui Horie as Yukiho Hagiwara

Yuka Iguchi as Haruka Amami

Yukari Tamura as Iori Minase

Ami Koshimizu as Yayoi Takatsuki

Eri Kitamura as Makoto Kikuchi

Kaori Nazuka as Ami Futami

Kaori Shimizu as Chihaya Kisaragi

Mai Nakahara as Ritsuko Akizuki

Momoko Saito as Mami Futami

Tomo Sakurai as Azusa Miura

Akeno Watanabe as Hakobe

Akira Ishida as Karasu

Chihiro Kusaka as Gojou

Daisuke Ono as Naraba Daido

Eiji Miyashita as Yoshinaga

Emiri Katō as Hotoke

Hiroshi Naka as Yokoyama

Kazuhiro Nakata as Joseph Shingetsu

Mamiko Noto as Naze Munakata

Mikako Takahashi as Sorewa Suzuki

Naomi Shindoh as Chikako Minamoto

Nozomi Sasaki as Suzuna

Ryoka Yuzuki as Hotaru Yasuhara/Serika

107 years ago, the Moon was destroyed in a massive cataclysm that shattered Earth’s former satellite into 81 quintillion tons of orbital debris. However, thanks to super-science, the Earth itself was saved and today no one really thinks much about that century-past disaster. Which is why when teenage Haruka Amami auditions for something called the Idolmaster Project, she thinks she’s trying out to be a singing idol. Instead, Haruka finds herself at a secret school run by the Mondenkind Agency, living with a group of other girls who have also been selected as candidates to pilot an IDOL – an advanced robot specifically designed to intercept falling chunks of moon rock.

Unfortunately, there aren’t enough Idols for all the potential pilots, and there are some who will do anything to earn the coveted seats, even if the consequences are lethal. And then there’s the question of whether the Idols are really just robots, because from almost the first moment, Haruka starts to feel emotions resonating from within the Idol called Imber. The mysteries are mounting, the competition is furious and the mission to save Earth is on!

Back in 2005, Namco would create the popular arcade video game known as “The Idolm@ster”.  Based on the career of a fictional producer for a production studio, many games have been released for the XB360, Sony PSP, Nintendo DS, PlayStation 3 and its characters would appear in other Namco Bandai video games.

In 2007, the first anime series titled “Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia” is based on the video game series and was created by the anime studio, Sunrise (best known for their Gundam and mecha series).

And why not combine the idol-factor of “The Idolm@ster” and Sunrise’s mecha themed series?  But taking the characters that were popular from the video games and putting them in a brand new mecha-themed storyline?   And sure enough, you get “Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia”.

The anime series begins with Haruka Amami, a teenage girl who dreams of becoming an idol.  She’s shy, not so confident of herself but during an audition, she captures the attention of the staff.

And next thing you know, Haruka receives a letter that she has passed her audition and will become an idol and must leave to Tokyo to start her new career and meet with her new agency.

While she and also another girl named Yukiho Hagiwara who has also been invited to the agency are excited for their new singing careers, other members such as the very hotheaded Iori Minase, the tomboyish but proud Makokoto Kikuchi await for Haruka to arrive.  So they can begin training.

But as Haruka and Yukiho arrive and enjoy the scenery of Tokyo and see the fragments of what was once the moon (a.k.a. “Kompeito”) before meeting with their agency Mondenkind, the two are caught in the middle between a skirmish between member of Mondenkind and Turiavita.  Mondenkind trying to protect the world, while Turiavita are more determined to find and acquire all IDOLS.

The fight gets so rough, that Haruka’s communication device awakens a mecha known as Imber, a mecha that has been dormant and non-functional for a long time.  But somehow Haruka has awaken it, to the surprise to the members of Mondenkind and Turiavita.  When the Turiavita attacks, the mecha Prometheus-1 Imber comes to Haruka’s rescue and places her into its cockpit.  And the skirmish between both groups, comes to an end.

When Haruka arrives to meet with the agency and ask about the idol position, she is informed that she was auditioned to become an idol.  But not a singing idol, but an IDOLmaster who can pilot the the mecha to save the world from drops.

A drop is the remnants of the moon, after its destruction 107 years ago that is falling towards Earth.  It’s up to the IDOLmasters to pilot their IDOLS to destroy  the drops.  It’s also important to note that IDOLmasters can only be female and the IDOL must pick out their IDOLmaster.  And in this case, Imber has chosen Haruka to be its IDOLmaster.

But Haruka’s naivety and inexperience, she makes up with determination and persistence.  And as her relationship with fellow IDOLmasters begins to strengthen, as wit her bond with her IDOL, what happens when she gets attacked by the rival agency who try to kill her?

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia” is presented in 16:9 Anamorphic Widescreen and in Japanese 2.0 with English subtitles.

When it comes to anime series, “Sunrise” is one of the longer running, well-known anime studios in Japan.  And “Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia” manages to keep the look of the characters as seen in the “idolm@ster” video game series but also feature beautiful background art and mecha design.  The background scenery is well-painted and well-detailed.  Fans of the “Idolm@ster” games will no doubt enjoy the look for the series and for those who expect the quality from Sunrise, they deliver with so many different locations and scenes, characters design featuring different outfits and also use of technology.

It would have been great to see an anime series such as “Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia” in HD via Blu-ray but for the most part, the series looks very good on DVD!

Subtitles are in English and are in yellow with a black border and are easy to read.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia – Collection 1″ comes with the following special features:

DISC 2:

• SHORTS 1-5:  Featuring a total of five comedy shorts (on disc 2) that are about 5 minutes long.

 

As a fan of the “Idolm@ster” video games, at first, I was curious about “Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia” because the anime studio behind the anime was Sunrise.  Typically, with Sunrise, I’m use to watching mecha or sci-fi anime related series, so I found a bit odd at first.

But with “Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia”, you get both idol and mecha together in one anime series.

Fans of the video game series will be happy to see characters like Haruka, Yukiho, Iori and Makoto (to name a few), appear in the series.  And the characters and their traits are somewhat carried over to “Xenoglossia”.

The series pretty much focuses on one girl for the first half.  Haruka is naive, a bit clumsy and thinks that she is going to be an idol pop singer.  But in reality, she’s going to be an IDOLmaster that pilots mecha known as IDOLS.  Through the series, we see how she gets along with her fellow IDOLmaster teammates.

Haruka was the primary character of “The Idolm@ster” and for the first few episodes, she is the primary focus.  But then the series starts to focus on the actual team itself.

Unlike the video games, Yukiho is not a cry baby but more of a person who sleeps a lot, more of the cheerleader of the group and also is often looked at special because her breasts are bigger than the other girls.  Iori’s snobbish behavior of the video game also extends to the anime series.  Thinking she is the best, she is not afraid to speak her mind.  And Makoto, who was seen as the “pretty-boy” idol in the video games, has the tomboyish appearance in the anime series and these young women all represent Mondenkind.

And like “The Idolm@aster” which pitted Studio 765 vs. Studio 961, the anime series pits two organizations against each other…Modenkind vs. Turiavita.

So, fans should be happy that “Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia” does retain the character styles from the video games.  And while music is not the focal point of these idols, there is quite a bit of music featured in the series soundtrack.

But this is a mecha anime series.  Plenty of action and emotional angst, while “Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia” can be comparable to other mecha-related series such as “Bubblegum Crisis”, the camaraderie of “Strike Witches” and even a little “Gunbuster” thrown in.  But then for your antagonist, you have another side of female pilots of Turiavita with their IDOLS who don’t seem too evil or bad, but because they are enemies, we see how the Turiavita will do all they can to hurt the Mondenkind pilots.

With the first half of the series, as mentioned, the series focused on Haruka but manages to integrate the other team members.  While Haruka is able to treat her IDOL Imber with compassion, Yukiho is unable to have that similar connection.  Meanwhile, Makoto who is Mondekind’s best pilot does not have any emotional feelings towards her IDOL.  She sees them as mecha to be controlled not as beings or like Haruka tries to have an emotional connection with them.

And because of this, the series storyline ends with her being at her most vulnerable when she needs the power of her IDOL, Prometheus-2 Nebula.  And what happens because of that lack of connection to her IDOL.

And will definitely lead to a more chaotic second half because who knows what will happen to Mondekind without their best pilot.

As for the DVD, as one can expect from Sunrise, animation compliments the video game series while the art background and mecha design are trademarks of the studio.  For a TV series, the art backgrounds are well-detailed and painted and it’s one of those series that you wish was released in HD because it looks very good for an animated TV series.  You do get five comedy shorts included as special features as well!

Overall, the first half of “Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia” is quite promising.  For fans of the video games, the characters are given new life in this alternative world storyline and as a mecha anime series with its fair share of action, the series also is fascinating, action-packed and a lot of fun!

If you are looking for an action-packed mecha anime series with upbeat characters (primarily all-female), definitely give “Idolm@aster: Xenoglossia – Collection 1″ a chance!

 

Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora – Complete Collection (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)

“Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora” is an enjoyable, heartwarming anime series. There is no storyline about magical battles or magical girls fighting magical villains, it’s a straightforward coming-of-age story of a teenager learning more about her powers and her limits, but also how magic can help people.  But also a love story about how two people, from opposite backgrounds, can come together and help each other.  “Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora” is recommended!

Image courtesy of © Norie YAMADA/Someday’s Dreamers II Sora Committee. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora – Complete Collection

DURATION: Episode 1-12 (300 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: 16:9 Anamorphic Widescreen,  Japanese 2.0, Dolby Digital, English subtitles

COMPANY: Sentai Filmworks

RATED: TV PG

Release Date: October 16, 2012

Originally created by Norie Yamada

Directed by Osamu Kobayashi

Screenplay by Norie Yamada

Unit Director: Osamu Kobayashi

Music by Takefumi Haketa

Character Design by Kumichi Yoshizuki

Art Director: Hisaharu Iijima

Animation Character Design: Yusuke Yoshigaki

Anime Production: HAL Film Maker

Featuring the following voice talent:

Kana Hanazawa as Sora Suzuki

Tomoaki Maeno as Gouta Midorikawa

Daisuke Matsubara as Jitsu Oohara

Daisuke Namikawa as Kouji Kuroda

Eriko Matsushima as Yoshiko Satou

Fuyuka Oura as Michiru Satou

Hiromu Miyazaki as Satoru Narusawa

Marina Inoue as Honomi Asagi

Mikako Takahashi as Hiyori Yamabuki

Miku Sasao as YASUKO

Naoki Tatsuta as Gouta’s father

Porushe Okite as Mage Morishita

Rikiya Koyama as Seiichirou Hara

Takeshi Aono as Tsuneyoshi Satou

Tooru Nara as Seiko Suzuki

Urara Takano as Saori Shiraishi

Yoko Soumi as Mage Kawada

Yoshino Takamori as Seiko Suzuki

Get ready for a second magical journey to the world of Someday’s Dreamers, where spellcasting is a profession that requires both the proper training AND a license. It’s to get that license and fulfill a promise made to her late father that young Suzuki Sora has made the long journey from her distant home in the countryside town of Biei to the big city of Tokyo. It’s a daunting challenge, but she’s got a little bit of talent, a charming personality and, most important of all, the promise of an internship!

What Sora isn’t expecting, however, is how different life in the city will be, especially the people themselves. While she gets along with the ascerbic Asagi, Kuroda, and the timid Hiyori, she’s completely confused with the mysterious boy Gouta. Yet, as a result of their internships, they keep ending up in the same situations and slowly learning to understand more about each other than they ever imagined possible.

In 2002, mangaka Norie Yamada and illustrator Kumichi Yoshizuki created their magical girl manga series “Someday’s Dreamers” (Mahotsukai ni Taisetsu na Koto), which was serialized in Kadokawa Shoten’s “Comic Dragon Magazine”. A year later, a 12-episode anime series was produced and while the series would continue with “Someday’s Dreamers: Spellbound” and in 2007 with “Someday’s Dreamers: Summer Skies”.

In 2007, the third series “Summer Skies” was to be adapted into an animated film but instead, adapted into a new anime series featuring a new main character named Sora.

The series which has been renamed to “Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora” features anime production by HAL Film Maker, the anime series was directed by Osamu Kobayashi (“Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad”, “End of the World”, “Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt”, screenplay by Norie Yamada, music by Takefumi Haketa (“Antique Bakery”, “Vampire Knight”, “Ikebukuro West Gate Park”) and art direction by Hisaharu Iijima (“Uta~Kata”, “Hidamari Sketch”, “Gad Guard”, “Cowboy Bebop”).

“Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora” revolves around a country girl named Sora Suzuki who lives in the small town of Biei in Northern Japan (Hokkaido).  She lives with her mother and her dog Joe and lives a happy teenage life.  But she finds out that she has been accepted by the Bureau of Magic for her mage internship.

So, Sora takes off to Tokyo for her internship and while there, one of the first people she meets is Gota Midorikawa, who acts as if he doesn’t like magic.

When Sora gets to her live quarters which is owned by Seiichirou Hara, she finds out the other mage that lives there is Gota, along with his guardian, Saori.

Both are attending school for an internship, but unlike Sora who is happy to learn, Gota is not so thrilled.  For one, he found out not long ago that his father was a mage.  And because of that confession, his mother left the family because of her hatred towards mages.  Also, his friends have stayed far away from him, accusing him for getting good grades because maybe he used his magic illegally.

But the truth is that Gota feels he has no magical powers.  Despite his father being a mage and never using his power, Gouta doesn’t understand why his life has been changed and now he must attend school to become a a mage, where everyone can use power except him.

As both continue to attend school and are trained, both learn about the importance of magic but what one can and can’t do.  But also creating new friendships with their classmates which include Kouji Kuroda , Honomi Asagi and Hiyori Yamabuki.

And the more Sora and Gota are together, the two end up getting closer with one another.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora – Complete Collection” is presented in 16:9 Anamorphic Widescreen.  While the character design may seem simplistic, the artwork compliments the original character designs by Kumichi Yoshizuki.  The anime series incorporates actual photos, but also artwork integrated into the photos with amazing detail.  There are some backgrounds that look photo realistic but the more you look, you can see how much of the backgrounds were painted. For an anime series such as “Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora”, the animation and CG work of the backgrounds bring this anime to life.  The backgrounds are detailed and look fantastic!  If anything, the animation and art backgrounds are remarkable.

As for picture quality, while animation and art backgrounds do look good, it looks good for DVD.  But I do hope that one day, Sentai Filmworks continues releasing an HD version on Blu-ray.

As for the audio, the anime series is presented in Japanese 2.0 (Dolby Digital Stereo) and because of its emotional nature of the series, Kana Hanazawa did a magnificent job of playing Sora Suzuki.  As did Tomoaki Maeno as Gouta Midorikawa.  The soundtrack is front-channel driven but audio is clear and understandable.  While the first series had an English dub, this second series does not.

Subtitles are in English and are in yellow with a black border and are easy to read.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora – Complete Collection” comes with the following special features:

DISC 2:

• Japanese Promo Video – (3:16) Featuring the 2008 promotional video for “Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora”.
• Someday’s Dreamers Live Action Trailer – (1:55) Japanese trailer for the live action film of “Someday’s Dreamers”.
• Clean Opening Animation
• Clean Closing Animation

The “Mahoutsukai ni Taisetsu na Koto” (Somweday’s Dreamers) manga and anime series has a strong fan following.  For years, fans have waited for the first anime series to be released on DVD in the U.S and Sentai Filmworks did fans a big service by bringing the series to America.  And here we are with the second anime series, with a new storyline featuring new characters.

“Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora” is a series that distinguishes itself from other magical girl (mahou shojou) titles as the focus is not about sugary sweet characters in magical girl outfits. In fact, the whole setting tries to capture realism but with the fantasy element of mages co-existing with humans in society.

Instead of a series about magical girls taking on magical villains, the two series features a straightforward story of a teenage girl training to become a certified mage but learning that special powers are not going to save or help everyone. Also, that those who have been born with that power must adhere to the rules that no one can use these powers without permission.

As the saying goes, “With great power, comes great responsibility”.

With the first series, the whole concept of power and responsibility was an important part of its storyline.

With the second series “Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora”, the theme still remains relevant.  But this time around, it focuses on a group of students attending school, learning about their responsibilities as mages but also a love story between a teenage girl named Sora who wants to help people with her magic but its her incredible heart that people eventually gravitate too.   But who would expect Saori to fall for a guy who is cold and distant.  A guy who’s thoughts towards magic is quite negative because he is not sure if he has any power whatsoever.  Suffice to say, Gota is your banal cold and rebellious teenager, while Sora is your sweet and pure character.  Somehow these two individuals who are completely opposites, become attracted towards each other and want to learn from each other.  And eventually, find a way to grow as individuals through their training and relationship.

Also, it was interesting to have a final episode in which the story would pick-up five years later but it’s an ending that may make it or break it for some people as even I didn’t expect it.  Just prepare to have the tissue box nearby as the final episode may make you shed some tears!

“Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora” features a beautiful,simple yet effective, coming-of-age storyline.  While the two series have similarities with a young girl coming from the country, coming to the big city to train but also to make a difference in the people they come in contact with,  both are different in story and both are very enjoyable in their own way.

As for the DVD, for a 2007 anime series, the animation holds up very well, especially with the realistic to photorealistic scenes of the beautifully painted surroundings around the city. I was surprised there was no English dub but for the most part, I was quite pleased with the Japanese vocal track.  And you get a few special features included with “Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora” as well!  But with Sentai Filmworks including a trailer for the live film version of “Someday’s Dreamers”, it makes you wonder if there will be a chance that the film will be released in the U.S.

With the release of “Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora” on DVD, having enjoyed this series…I can only hope that Sentai Filmworks brings both series to Blu-ray in the near future. Granted, I know it will be an upconvert, but it’s definitely a series that looks beautiful and may benefit from being seen in HD.

Overall, “Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora” is an enjoyable, heartwarming anime series. There is no storyline about magical battles or magical girls fighting magical villains, it’s a straightforward coming-of-age story of a teenager learning more about her powers and her limits, but also how magic can help people.  But also a love story about how two people, from opposite backgrounds, can come together and help each other.

“Someday’s Dreamers II: Sora” is recommended!

 

Deadman Wonderland: The Complete Series (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)

From the creators of “Eureka Seven” comes an anime series that is a little mix of “Hunger Games”, “Battle Royale” and “Guyver”!  And for those who enjoy more mature, violent and bloody anime series will surely enjoy the chaotic, action-packed episodes of “Deadman Wonderland”!

Image courtesy of © 2012 FUNimation. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Deadman Wonderland: The Complete Series

DURATION: 12 Episodes (Duration: 325 Minutes, 3 DVD’s)

DVD INFORMATION: 16:9, Japanese and English 2.0 Stereo, Subtitles: English

COMPANY: FUNimation Entertainment

RATED: TV M

Release Date: October 9, 2012

Directed by Koichi Hatsumi

Series Composition: Yasuyuki Muto

Music by NARASAKI

Originally Created by Jinsei Kataoka, KAzuma Kondou

Character Design by Masaki Yamada

Art Director: Michie Watanabe

Mechanical Design by Takayuki Yanase

Anime Production: Manglobe

Featuring the following voice talent:

Kana Hanazawa/Monica Rial as Shiro

Romi Park/Greg Ayres as Ganta Igarashi

Iori Nomizu/Leah Clark as Minatsuki Takami

Junichi Suwabe/Eric Vale as Tamaki Tsunenaga

Masayuki Katou/Patrick Seitz as Kiyomasa Senji/Crow

Mina/Lydia Mackay as Rei Takashima

Takako Honda/Colleen Clinkenbeard as Chief Makina

Yuuki Kaji/Aaron Dismuke as Yo Takami

Ganta is the only survivor after a mysterious man in red slaughters a classroom full of teenagers. He’s framed for the carnage, sentenced to die, and locked away in the most twisted prison ever built: Deadman Wonderland. Then it gets worse.

At Deadman Wonderland, convicts are forced into brutal deathmatches for the amusement of the masses, the cheers of the crowd drowning out the screams of the dismembered. Even when Ganta befriends Shiro, an unusual female inmate, his dark fate crushes all hope – until he discovers a strange ability to wield his spilled blood as a weapon. Ganta learns his new skill might be related to the murderous man in red and uncovers disturbing secrets that could expose those who stole his freedom. He’s determined to see justice served – but first he’ll have to fight for his life in a prison that holds a million ways to die.

From the creators of “Eureka Seven” comes a violent sci-fi prison anime series known as “Deadman Wonderland”.  Created by Jinsei Kataoka and illustrated by Kazuma Kondou, “Deadman Wonderland” was a manga series published in Shonen Ace back in 2007.

An anime adaptation based on the first 21 chapters was created and released on Japanese television from April through July 2011 and aired on Adult Swim’s Toonami block.

The anime production is by manglobe and is directed by Koichi Hatsumi (Aishiteruze Baby”, “Darker than Black: Gemini of the Meteor”, “Moribito – Guardian of the Spirit”), series composition by Yasuyuki Muto (“Basilisk”, “Afro Samurai”, “Sengoku Basara – Samurai Kings”), character designs by Masaki Yamada (“Appleseed”, “Bubblegum Crisis: Tokyo 2040″, “Great Dangaioh”), art direction by Michie Watanabe (“Eureka Seven”, “Haibane Renmei”, “Wolf’s Rain”, “Mobile Suit Gundam Seed”) and music by NARASAKI (“Penguin Drum”, “Dragon Crisis!”, “Aquarian Age the Movie”).

And now the series will be released on DVD courtesy of FUNimation in October 2012.

“Deadman Wonderland” takes place during a time when Tokyo has been ravaged by a massive earthquake and 3/4 of Tokyo is now submerged in the ocean.

Ten years later, we are introduced to a kind middle-school student named Ganta Igarashi.  Ganta loves hanging out with his friends and all was going great one day, until some man clad in red is seen floating outside of the school window and destroys the classroom.

When Ganta wakes up, his classmates are all dead, including his best friend, who’s head is being held by the man in red.  The man in red then implants something into Ganta’s chest and he collapses.

When Ganta wakes up in the hospital, he is accused of murdering all the students at school.  Ganta tries to plead his innocence but the authorities do not listen to him.  Despite having a lawyer represent him, footage is shown to the judges and parents of the deceased students of Ganta bragging about killing all his school classmates.  Knowing that is not him, Ganta is shocked that there is video of him saying such a bad thing.

Unfortunately, due to the number of people killed, Ganta is sentenced to death and will be incarcerated in a theme-park like prison known as “Deadman Wonderland”. A prison that houses prisoners from all over Japan and raises money from its brand of violent entertainment among prisoners to raise money to rebuild Japan.

At “Deadman Wonderland”, all prisoners must wear a special collar which monitors their activity and location.  The special collar injects poison into his bloodstream but can only be neutralized if he eats a specialized candy every three days.  And the only way to get access to the candy is by performing activities in prison.

But the most significant activity is winning Cast Points which allows a prisoner to purchase ordinary lunches, furniture, take years off their sentence and also purchase the specialized candy.

But Ganta quickly learns that at “Deadman Wonderland”, Chief Guard Makina is the law.  Harsh, cold and has no qualms of slashing prisoners for disobedience, she is known for being severely harsh and also being well-endowed.   Also, within the prison, prisoners are used for entertainment courtesy of Assistant Warden Tsunenaga Tamaki, a sadist who butchers prisoners for amusement and profit.

While in the prison, Ganta makes friends with a mysterious albino girl named Shiro, a girl that reminds him of his best friend Mimi.  She has become good friends with Ganta and seems to possess special abilities which include superhuman strength and also knowledge of the prison.

Ganta also befriends Yo Takami, a thief and informant sent to watch over Ganta for Assistant Warden Tamaki.  But the real reason he is in in prison and doing these services is to help find his sister Minatsuki and buy her freedom by accumulating cast points.

While in prison, Ganta sees the man in red trying to kill people within the prison.  Upset for being incarcerated for the murders  that he did not do, and that the red man is responsible for, after nearly being killed, Ganta’s special ability (known as “The Branch of Sin”) from the crystal embedded in his chest from the Man in Red that he encountered, allows his blood to be manipulated to weapons and automatically begins attacking the Red Man.

Wanting to fight for his innocence, Ganta hears that the Man in Red that he is after may be inside one of the secret rooms inside Deadman Wonderland.  But the more Ganta and friends research the hidden areas of the prison, Ganta learns that others inside the prison have the same special ability and are Deadmen being prompted to battle and fight each other to the death inside the Deadman Wonderland arena.

Since Ganta is not a person used to fighting, will he be able to survive this ordeal of facing experienced fighters who want to kill him?

“Deadman Wonderland” the anime series comes with the 12-episodes of the first season plus the OVA that revolves around one of the Deadmen characters, Senji, who becomes a police officer and must catch criminals.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Deadman Wonderland” is presented in 16:9 widescreen with audio presented in Japanese and English 2.0.  The character designs and animation are very cool and chaotic at times!  As one should expect from a violent anime series, there is a lot of blood featured in “Deadman Wonderland”.  Not because many people are killed, but also because the Deadmen’s “Branch of Sin” powers is about utilizing one’s blood to create weapons.  So, a character like Senji can create a large sword using his blood.  Or Minatsuki who uses her hair to turn into blades and impale enemies or grab hold of them.

But when it comes to animation, Manglobe did a wonderful job balancing out animation with CG.  I am a bit surprised that this series was not anime series released on Blu-ray, since it was released on Blu-ray and DVD in  Japan.

As for audio, audio for the series is primarily Japanese and English 2.0 stereo.  But as the Japanese soundtrack is well-done especially during the more emotional scenes, the English dub actually makes things much more intriguing because as one would expect in a prison, these people talk with a lot of profanity.  In fact, this is probably the most profane when it comes to dialogue that you will hear on a FUNimation animated series, also with the audio commentary as the English dub voice talent go crazy with the F-bombs and C-word.

Subtitles are in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Deadman Wonderland” comes with the following special features:

• Episode 6 Audio Commentary – Featuring Audio commentary with Leah Clark and Aaron Dismuke.  (Note: Because this anime series is rated mature, the audio commentary features profanity)
• Episode 12 Audio Commentary – Featuring Audio commentary with Monica Rial and Greg Ayres. (Note: Because this anime series is rated mature, the audio commentary features profanity)
• U.S. Video Commentary - (24:27)  A wonderful video commentary with ADR Director Joel McDonald and voice talent Greg Ayres, Monica Rial and Leah Clark.
• Promo Videos – (6:57) Japanese promotional videos for “Deadman Wonderland”.
• Original Commercials – (1:25) Japanese commercials for the Blu-ray and DVD release
• Textless Opening Song “One Reason”
• Textless Opening Song “One Reason” (Director’s Version)
• Textless Closing Song “Shiny Shiny”
• U.S. Trailer

From the creators of “Eureka Seven” comes a new, violent and bloody anime series titled “Deadman Wonderland”!

But while the anime series may prove to be too violent for some viewers, the concept is quite interesting.  Because Japan is in dire need to rebuild after a devastating earthquake, one of the popular areas of entertainment is the “Deadman Wonderland” theme park facility.

While the place attracts many people and makes quite a bit of money, not many people realize that inside the theme park is where gladiator battles between Deadmen take place.  And of course, the scientists of the facility are experimenting on the prisoners for the sake of monetary and political gain (of course, in the effort to help rebuild Japan).

What is interesting about the series is that the prison is home to vicious criminals, but somehow, Ganta Igarashi, a middle school student is targeted and framed for murdering his classmates and then being injected with the Deadman power, which is utilizing one’s blood to become a weapon of destruction.

And so, this meek boy must be put in a prison full of dangerous criminals.   Ganta is your banal weak character who gets stronger as he learns to become brave and wants to protect the people that he cares about.

Then you have Shiro, a mysterious albino girl who loves being around Ganta.  We know that she is gifted with amazing power but at the same time, she is naive and is always cheerful, wanting to play or eat pudding.

But the series features really interesting characters.  Some who are jerks and badasses, and some who are are just really wicked looking.  And for the most part, by the second half of season one, these characters start to become an integral part of this series.

The 12-episode TV series plays out like a prison-escape film, but each time Ganta encounters people who also want to escape from prison, there is always an antagonist who are Deadmen with amazing power and happen to be quite sadistic.  Also, included is an OVA, but instead of featuring Ganta and Shiro, it focuses on Deadman Senji, who becomes a police officer two years after the Red Hole incident.

While the series is violent and bloody, the English dub takes the series dialogue and enhances it was mature language, to make it more raw and real and what you would expect from a major prison holding the worst criminals.

The dialogue that you hear, coming out of the mouths of the characters is really surprising because it’s really profane.  Shocking even the voice talent who were beaming about playing these roles, because they had the opportunity to really say some crazy, dirty and profane dialogue.

The only caveat with the series is that it ends in hopes that a second season would perhaps continue the storyline and end it with a similar ending to the manga series.  There are a lot of questions that were not answered in the first season and unfortunately, the second audio commentary does spoil things by providing the answer of who exactly was responsible for murdering all the students and Ganta being framed for it.  So, if you don’t want to know, it’s best not to listen to the second audio commentary.

As for the animation, expected to see a lot of red blood splashing everywhere.  Not because of people getting murdered or maimed, but it’s because the Deadman’s power is the ability to use their blood to form weapons.  It’s not that scary, there are people getting slaughtered but it’s not too gory.  But the animation from Manglobe was wonderful and it’s a shame that the series was not released on Blu-ray, as it was released on BD and DVD in Japan.

As for special features, there are two naughty audio commentaries and as a FUNimation first, a video commentary which I hope becomes common in all upcoming Blu-ray and DVD releases from FUNimation!  But you also get promo videos, commercials and textless opening and closing songs.

While “Deadman Wonderland” has similarities to films such as “Battle Royale” and maybe even a little “Hunger Games” mixed in with anime series such as “Guyver”, the violence is not too bad and the story is actually quite fascinating and action-packed.  Also, I have to give FUNimation a thumbs up.  Although I’m not too big on profane anime series, the dialogue for “Deadman Wonderland” fit.  It’s a prison setting filled with vicious criminals, so why not make the dialogue fit the setting.  And the writers at FUNimation did just that!

For anime fans wanting a more mature and violent, bloody anime series, you’ll definitely want to give “Deadman Wonderland” a chance!

 

Tenchi Muyo! Universe Box Set (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Disc Review)

A hilariously, fun anime classic…All 26-episodes of “Tenchi Muyo! Universe” in one DVD box set!  If you are looking for classic old school anime with crazy storylines full of sci-fi adventure and fun, “Tenchi Muyou! Universe” is highly recommended!

Image courtesy of © 2012 FUNimation. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Tenchi Muyo! Universe Box Set

DURATION: 26 Episodes (Duration: 650 Minutes, 4 DVD’s)

DVD INFORMATION: 4:3, Japanese and English 2.0 Stereo, Subtitles: English

COMPANY: FUNimation Entertainment

RATED: TV 14

Release Date: October 16, 2012

Directed by Hiroshi Negishi

Series Composition by Ryoe Tsukimura

Music by Seikou Nagaoka

Original Character Design by Masaki Kajishima

Character Design: Hiroyuki Horiuchi

Art Director: Chitose Asakura

Sound Director: Yasunori Honda

Producer: Kazuaki Morijiri, Keisuke Iwata

Anime Production by AIC

Featuring the following voice talent:

Ai Orikasa/Petrea Burchard as Ryoko

Masami Kikuchi/Matthew K. Miller as Tenchi Masaki

Yumi Takada/Jennifer Darling as Ayeka

Akiko Yajima as Ken-Ohki

Chisa Yokoyama/Sherry Lynn as Sasami

Etsuko Kozakura/Debi Derryberry as Ryo-Ohki

Kenichi Ogata/Mark Tracy as Azaka

Mizue Ohtsuka/Julia DeMita as Nagi

Norio Wakamoto/Michael Scott Ryan as Kagato

Takeshi Aono/Jay Hopper as Katsuhito Masaki/Nobuyuki Masaki

Wataru Takagi as Kamidake

Yūko Kobayashi/Kate T. Vogt as Washu

Yuko Mizutani/Ellen Gerstell as Mihoshi

Yuri Amano/Sherry Lynn as Kiyone Makibi

In the beginning, there was Tenchi. Back when the only cure for an anime fix was a trip to the mall to load up on VHS tapes. Back when cable television first introduced this amazing new genre to American fans. The times may have changed since those good old days, but we’re thrilled to be bringing Tenchi back! A true classic never goes out of style, and Tenchi is the original anime harem comedy that started it all.

Everyone’s favorite luckless hero is back for more intergalactic hijinks in Tenchi Universe, an alternate universe retelling of the original Tenchi canon. Seventeen year old Tenchi Masaki is a regular guy whose life takes a turn for the outrageous when Ryoko the stunning space pirate crashes at his grandfather s shrine. In the bat of an eye, Tenchi finds himself surrounded by a bevy of bodacious intergalactic beauties who’ll do everything they can to make him late for class!

One of the popular series to make its debut in America, “Tenchi Muyou!” (which translates to “Useless Tenchi!”) was one of the first anime series to be released in home video in America.

From its popular 6-episode OVA series known as “Tenchi Muyo! Ryo-Ohki” (1992-1994), which was released in 1992 followed by more OVA episodes from 1994-2003, an expanded television series focus on the first six OVA’s were released.

Titled “Tenchi Universe”, the series was a retelling of the OVA series, debuted on Japanese television in April 1995 through September 1995.  And would air in the United States via the Cartoon Network in 2000.  And two films “Tenchi the Movie: Tenchi Muyo in Love” and “Tenchi Forever! The Movie” would be released in theaters.

“Tenchi Universe” featured animation production by AIC and is directed by Hiroshi Negishi (“Bounty Dog”, “Burn Up W”, “Shadow Skill”), a screenplay by Ryoe Tsukimura (“El Hazard”, “Moldiver”, “Revolutionary Girl Utena”), music by Seikou Nagaoka (“El Hazard”, “801 T.T.S. Airbats”, “Dual! Parallel Trouble Adventure”), character design by Hiroyuki Horiuchi (“Araiso Private High School Student Council Executive Committee”, “Detective Conan”) and art direction by Chitose Asakura (“Maison Ikkoku”, “Fate/stay night”, “Fafner”).

While the series was released on DVD in America in several volumes through Geneon Pioneer in 2000 and once again in 2004, the complete collection would be released by Geneon in 2007.  With FUNimation now acquiring the license for the “Tenchi Muyo!” series, the DVD’s featuring the same voice acting, will be re-released in America in October 2012.

Tenchi Muyo! consists of:

Tenchi Masaki – The main protagonist and is the first prince of Jurai and grandson of Juraian prince named Yosho and an Airaian priestess named Airi.  In “Tenchi Unverse”, his powers are much more limited than the OVA series.  During the beginning of the series, he has no idea who his grandfather’s true identity really is and tries to live a simple life.  But life changes when Ryoko comes to town.

Ryoko  – A wanted space pirate.  In “Tenchi Universe”, she crash landed on Earth during a battle with Mihoshi and when Tenchi discovered her, it was love at first sight for Ryoko.  She has special powers.

Ayeka Masaki  – The princess of Jurai who has come to Earth with her sister Sasami to follow a distress signal sent by Mihoshi.  Whe she meets Tenchi, she falls in love with him and she and Ryoko become major rivals for Tenchi’s affection.

Sasami Masaki -  The young sister of Ayeka and a princess of Jurai.  She loves playing with Ryo-Ohki and loves video games.  Unlike the OVA series, she does not transform to her older alter-ego, Tsunami in “Tenchi Universe”.

Ryo-Ohki- Came to Earth as Ryoko’s companion and becomes Sasami’s pet.

Washu Hakubi – A mad scientist who was banished from the Universal Science Academy for producing weapons of mass destruction.  She was imprisoned in a shrine for 700 years until she was freed by Ryoko and Ayeka.

Mihoshi Kuramitsu – A blonde ditzy member of the Galaxy Police.  She is partners with Kiyone Makibi

Kiyone Makibi – A person who is known for capturing bad people for the Galaxy Police, she along with Mihoshi are scheduled to capture Ryoko and find the two missing Jurai princesses.  Very serious but often gives in to Mihoshi’s demands.

Katsuhito Masaki – Grandfather of Tenchi who has kept a secret of his true identity and true Juraian lineage.

VIDEO & AUDIO:

“Tenchi Muyo! Universe” is presented in 4:3 and in Japanese and English 2.0.  It’s important to first emphasize that this is old-school anime.  The animation was utilizing cel-work and you can see the sketched in strokes of the characters.  You can see the softness and yes, you can occasionally see white specks.  There is also artifacts that can be seen on the video. Picture quality was soft… But that was how TV series were back then.  There is a difference compared to its OVA and film counterpart, but that all TV series, including the TV series today are nowhere in the same quality as their film or OVA versions.

But personally, one should not be too picky when it comes to older series that were released on VHS and LD and were later released on DVD (and sometimes on Blu-ray).    At the time, we considered the character animation to be good and the art backgrounds to be well-detailed.  Granted, anime newbies may not feel the same way about older anime series but I always looked at “Tenchi Muyou!” at that time as a Grade A anime release.

Watching it today, of course, I can see how the anime has aged and its weaknesses.  But the series’ strength always revolved around its characters.

As for the audio…while I will always love the Japanese voice acting for “Tenchi Muyo!”, back when this series was released, it was during a time where a lot of people including myself, debated about Japanese vs. English dubbing.  Back in the mid-90′s, many of us were heavily pro-Japanese voice acting because many anime that did try to include English dubs were terrible.  Suffice to say, I appreciate of how English dubbing has evolved for American releases but back then, I really couldn’t stand it.  And watching “Tenchi Muyo! Universe”, there was something about the English dub voice acting that continues to irk me.

The fact was the voice acting was not that good and it’s opening and ending themes really irked me as well.  But English dubs are what brought many people to know anime and with that being said, despite the quality of the English dubs were back then, I feel that Ryoka, Sasami, Kiyone and Mihoshi were good, especially the voice acting for Ryoko.  There was a change of a few voice actors from the old OVA release, but suffice to say, this FUNimation release continues to use the Geneon voice dub.

While it may not be my cup of tea back then, and even a little now…there were many people who grew up watching this anime series with this English dub.  So, if you enjoyed the original, then you’ll enjoy the voice acting on this DVD release.  And for those who don’t, fortunately the Japanese soundtrack is included!

Subtitles are in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Tenchi Muyo! Universe” comes with the textless opening and closing themes plus the U.S. trailers and FUNimation Entertainment trailers.

Back in the early ’90s, if you were a hardcore anime fan, you would purchase a LaserDisc player and anime LD’s.

In America, most of the LD’s at the time were OVA’s or movies, and one of the popular titles was the “Tenchi Muyo!” series because it was looked at as a quality release (released in CAV format and Pioneer was one of the most reputable companies to release anime-related LaserDiscs).

Suffice to say, many fans including myself, were in love with the “Tenchi Muyou!” OVA series and what followed was the TV series, “Tenchi Muyou! Universe”.

I admit at the time, I was  a bit peeved because while part of me was happy to have more Tenchi being released, to find out there would be a new TV series featuring a loose adaptation of the OVA series, the thought of having to purchase the series on LD was a bit disconcerting, considered one episode of “Tenchi Muyou! Ryo-Ohki” cost $35 on LD.

But that was back in 1992.  Here we are 20-years later but this time with the “Tenchi Muyo! Universe Box Set”.  A re-release of the Geneon collection but this time from FUNimation.

So, for those who owned the series years ago and are wondering if you should re-buy this set, the answer is no.  But for those who missed out on the set in 2007 or the single volume DVD releases, then “Tenchi Muyou! Universe” can easily be recommended.

But it’s important to remind people that this is old school anime, this was before anime companies put a lot of hard work into casting talented voice talent and this is animation via cel-work, so don’t expect the vibrancy, sharpness and modern look of today’s anime series.  There are no special features but there is one major reason to get this series is that “Tenchi Muyo! Universe” is a classic anime series.  And back then, it cost a lot just to collect the whole series on DVD.

But now, all 26-episodes are being released in a complete box set that is much cheaper today than it was back in 2002 and 2007.

And as an anime fan, for collectors, “Tenchi Muyou! Universe” (and the OVA series) are simply must-own titles for old school anime fans.

But what I’ll always remember about the  series was it’s randomness.  From a cool ensemble cast, each episode was always something new.  May it be Ryoko or Ayeka always at each other’s necks, Kiyone always wanting to get out of her work obligations because Mihoshi is bringing her down, the alternate universe storyline, or the characters being on the run and being wanted by Jurai or the more serious Kagato episodes.  The series had a lot of fun moments, but writers were not afraid to leave the lighthearted episodes and focus a much more serious and deeper storyline for the second half of the series.

Overall, “Tenchi Muyo! Universe” is a series that I will recommend to any old school anime fan.  It’s one of the few series that has a great storyline, awesome characters and manages to keep things different from episode to episode.  But there is a lot of history of this series, may it be its previous OVA release, its special or its films.  A lot of people grew up with “Tenchi Muyo!” and I recommend this series for those who are curious or those who just didn’t want spend that much money collecting each volume.

But for the new fans who want to discover a fun and entertaining and classic anime series will definitely want to own the “Tenchi Muyo! Universe Box Set”!

 

 

One Piece: Season Four, Voyage One (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)

I’m just excited that “One Piece” is back again!  It’s a series that I tend to look forward to every month and is definitely one of my favorite anime series to be released in the U.S..  So, I’m definitely looking forward to the continuing episodes between the Straw Hat Pirates vs. the Foxy Pirates. Crazy, fun and action-packed… if you are a “One Piece” fan, “One Piece: Season Four, Voyage One” is definitely recommended!

Image courtesy of © 2001 Toei Animation Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: One Piece: Season Four, Voyage One

DURATION: Episodes 206-217 (Duration: 300 Minutes, 2 DVD’s)

DVD INFORMATION: 4:3, English 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound, English and Japanese stereo

COMPANY: FUNimation Entertainment

RATED: TV 14

Release Date: August 7, 2012

Originally created by Eiichiro Oda

Directed by Hiroaki Miyamoto, Konosuke Uda, Munehisa Sakai

Series Composition by Hirohiko Uesaka

Script by Hirohiko Uesaka, Hiroshi Hashimoto, Junki Takegami, Michiru Shimada, Naoki Koga, Ryota Yamaguchi, Suminori Takegami, Yoshiyuki Suga

Music by Kouhei Tanaka, Shiroh Hamaguchi

Character Design by Kazuya Hisada, Noboru Koizumi

Animation Production by Toei Animation

Featuring the following voice talent:

Mayumi Tanaka/Colleen Clinkenbeard as Monkey D. Luffy

Akemi Okamura/Luci Christian as Nami

Hiroaki Hirata/Eric Vale as Sanji

Ikue Ohtani/Brina Palencia as Tony Tony Chopper

Kappei Yamaguchi/Sonny Strait as Usopp

Yuriko Yamaguchi/Stephanie Young as Nico Robin

Monkey D. Luffy refuses to let anyone or anything stand in the way of his quest to become King of All Pirates. With a course charted for the treacherous waters of the Grand Line, this is one captain who’ll never drop anchor until he’s claimed the greatest treasure on earth: the legendary One Piece!

Along for the ride are his loyal crewmates, a wonderfully-bizarre collection of outcasts and misfits from the far corners of the world. Each member has their own special talent, and they’ll utilize their skills to help Luffy achieve his dream! Together, the rubberman and his crew can conquer any challenge and defeat any foe!

It has been well over a year since we have seen a DVD release of  “One Piece”, the anime TV series.    But Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates are back as they take on the Foxy Pirate crew in “One Piece: Season Four, Voyage One” courtesy of Funiamtion.

What is “One Piece”?

“ONE PIECE” is a popular anime series based on the popular manga series serialized in Shonen Jump by Eiichiro Oda. Suffice to say, “ONE PIECE” is the highest selling manga for Weekly Shonen Jump and its popularity has extended to various anime (via the TV series, OVA and films) and video games in America and also worldwide. The series is so popular, the episode count currently in Japan is at 563 episodes and despite receiving a heavily edited version in North America via 4Kids Entertainment earlier on, FUNimation Entertainment began releasing the original, uncut versions since May of 2008 and here we are now with the DVD release of “One Piece: Season Four, Voyage One”.

“ONE PIECE” is an adventure anime about a 17-year-old boy named Monkey D. Luffy who gained enormous strength (and stretching abilities) after eating a magical demon fruit. He eventually teams up with a group of pirates and have the name “The Straw Hats”. Luffy’s driven to one day obtain the most sought out treasure known as “One Piece” and eventually become the King of the Pirates.

The Straw Hat Pirates consists of:

Monkey D. Luffy – A 17-year-old guy who is the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates and dreams to be a pirate king by getting his hands on the “ONE PIECE” artifact. When he was young, he accidentally ate a devil fruit which made his body rubbery and can stretch and blow up. An airhead of sorts, loves to eat but always believes and fights for his friends.

Roronoa Zoro – A 19-year-old skilled swordsman. A skilled and very strong fighter. Wants to be the greatest swordsman in the world.

Nami – The navigator of the group. The main female crew member and really good at weapons.

Usopp – A 17-year-old marksman. A talented inventor and artistic. Known by his long nose, his marksmanship with slingshots and weapons are great.

Sanji – The chef of the crew. A skilled fighter that uses only kicks in battle and is passionate towards Nami.

Tony Tony Chopper – A reindeer with a blue nose. Ate a devil fruit known as human-human fruit which makes him human in someways but keeping his reindeer look. Able to speak to humans, walk upright and also able to have transformations to become a huge beast. But his talent is his medical skills as he was trained by the Doctrine to become a doctor. Has very low self-confidence because he had been treated badly not only by his kind but also by humans and has not really had a friend but the Doctor and Doctrine.

Nico Robin – The former Vice President of Baroque Works who has become the newest member of the Straw Hat Pirates despite some of the crew not trusting her since she was a former enemy. Has the ability to use her body parts and project them elsewhere and other mysterious abilities not yet known.

While the DVD release is listed as season four for America, in Japan, “One Piece: Season Four, Voyage One ” is actually part of season seven.  “One Piece”, Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates continue their search for “One Piece” and last when seen them, the Straw Hat Pirates were taking on the Marines who have captured them and have taken all their treasure.

But the crew have managed to work as a team and take back their treasure.  Now they escaped from the Marines but immediately come into contact with a mysterious pirate ship and are captured by the Foxy Pirate crew.  And now Captain Foxy and his subordinates have challenged Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates to a “Davy Back Fight” contest and to make things worse, the Foxy Pirate Crew have taken Chopper and if the Straw Hat Pirates don’t win, Chopper will need to join their crew.

The “One Piece: Season Four, Voyage One” comes with episodes 206-217 on two DVD discs (note: In Japan, these episodes are actually considered as season 7). Here are the spoiler-less summaries of each episode:

DISC 1:

• EPISODE 206 – Farewell, Marine Fortress! The Last Battle for Escape! - How will the Straw Pirates crew escape from the Marine Fortress?
• EPISODE 207 – Great Adventure at Long Ring Long Land – The Going Merry is captured by the Foxy Pirate Crew.
• EPISODE 208  – A Davy Back with the Foxy Pirates – Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates are challenged by the Foxy Pirate crew in a Davy Back Fight.
• EPISODE 209 – Round 1! One Lap of the Donut Race! – The first challenge….a tiny boat race around the island.
• EPISODE 210 – Silver Fox Foxy! The Merciless Interference! – Fox shows off his Devil Fruit powers and Porche takes Chopper.
• EPISODE 211 – Round 2! Shoot It Into the Groggy Ring! – The Straw Hat Pirates vs. the Foxy Pirates in a ball game.

DISC 2:

• EPISODE 212 – A Barrage of Red Cards in Groggy Ring! – Sanji and Zoro must work together in order to win…but can they?
• EPISODE 213 – Round 3! The Round-and-Round Roller Race! - The next round…roller skate competition.
• EPISODE 214 – A Seriously Heated Race! Into the Final Round! – The Straw Hats come back and now it’s time for the final round!
• EPISODE 215 – Screaming-Hot Bombardment! Pirate Dodgeball! – Chopper returns back to the Straw Hats but instead of leaving, Luffy accepts another challenge by Foxy.
• EPISODE 216 – Showdown on the Cliff! Red Light, Green Light! – Foxy takes Robin from Luffy.
• EPISODE 217 – The Captains Square Off! The Final Combat Round! - It’s the final game….a battle between Luffy and Foxy in a battle of brawn aboard Foxy’s ship.

VIDEO :

For most television series, because they are created nearly before they are aired on television, unlike film and OVA’s, there typically is not much detail involved in a Japanese animated television series. “ONE PIECE” is probably one of those rare exceptions in that it has really cool character designs and very detailed artistic backgrounds. Of course, since it is on DVD, you will see some artifacting, combing and edge enhancement but it’s not so noticeable unless you are really looking for it.

The anime series is presented in standard 4:3 definition but for a television series, “ONE PIECE” sports cool and unique character designs and beautifully painted artistic backgrounds. Definitely one of the better looking anime series that has remained consistent and has not downgraded since it first aired on television. Character designer Kazuya Hisada (who worked on the “Dragon Ball” and “Dragon Ball GT” series) and Noboru Koizumi (who worked on “Giant Robo”, “Dragon Ball GT” and “Tenchi Universe”) have been very good of capturing “One Piece” creator Eiichiro Oda’s unique style.

It’s important to note that in Japan, the 207th episode was the first “One Piece” episode to be broadcasted in HD and in widescreen.  So, it will be interesting to see if FUNimation does release this season on Blu-ray.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

As for the audio, the series is presented in English 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound, English Stereo and Japanese Stereo. Of course, the English 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound is the better audio choice to listen to, although one who has a receiver that can set their audio to all channels can definitely enjoy the Japanese stereo track as well. But both audio tracks are done very well and I have to admit that “ONE PIECE” has one of the most solid English dub tracks for an anime TV series. Very well done on both audio tracks but again, have been very impressed by the voice talent for the series thus far.

Subtitles are in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“One Piece: Season Four, Voyage One” comes with the following special features:

DISC 1:

• EPISODE 211 Audio Commentary - Audio commentary by Mike McFarland (Line Producer/ADR Director) and voice actors Ian Sinclair, Eric Vale and Christopher Sabat.
  

DISC 2:

• EPISODE 215 Audio Commentary - Audio commentary by Mike McFarland (Line Producer/ADR Director) and voice actresses Tia Ballard (Porche) and Colleen Clinkenbeard (Luffy).
  
• Textless Songs – Textless songs for “BON VOYAGE”, “Kokoro no Chizu”, “Dreamship” and “Eternal Pose”.
• U.S. Trailer – Funimation trailer.
• Trailers - Trailers for upcoming FUNimation Entertainment releases.

It’s great to have “One Piece” back again!  I can’t believe it has been over a year since the last DVD from Funimation was released (back in April 2011).  But with a popular series such as “One Piece”, also a very long series, I’m glad we’re back on track for season four (or Japan’s season 7).

With this new DVD volume, the Straw Hat pirates have escaped the Marine Fortress but after escaping one troublesome group, they run into another.  This time they run into the very odd Foxy Pirate crew.

These episodes are actually quite fun and what makes it so different from past antagonists is that the Captain Foxy and his crew are somewhat, like rejects.  Obviously, Captain Foxy and his crew have not received any recognition, so that is why they are taking on the Straw Hat Pirates who have gained notoriety and are wanted by the marines.

And as odd as Foxy and his crew look, you think it’s all fun and games until you realize that the Straw Hat Pirates are put at a disadvantage (Foxy Pirates are constantly cheating) but suffice to say, Luffy and gang have met another challenge.  We see Zoro and Sanji being put together as a team and this is a major challenge as both teammates are always at each other’s throat. And because they are distracted towards each other, they are in dangerous of losing their matchup.

Possibly the cutest situation of this entire volume is seeing Chopper being taken by Porche and with Tony Tony Chopper in tears, the crew makes him remember he is a man and must be brave and watching his character trying to put on brave face for his teammates.

But this is probably one of the craziest seasons of “One Piece” that I have seen yet.  These episodes are essentially a game competition filled with colorful, odd looking characters but yet so fun to watch.  It may not be the darkest or most threatening of adversaries but despite how nonthreatening or goofy the Foxy Pirates look, they have become an interesting opponent so far.  And it’ll be interesting to see how things continue for the remainder of this series and to see if Foxy does pose a threat in the next few episodes.

With “One Piece: Season Four, Voyage One” and with episode 207 being the first episode to be broadcast in HD and widescreen in Japan, it would be interesting if that means the series would get a Blu-ray release in the United States.  But for the DVD, the DVD is colorful, vibrant and looks good on DVD, but it would be interesting to see how this series would look in HD and I’m looking forward to whenever that day comes.  Audio is good, dialogue is clear.  And for special features, we do get two fun audio commentaries featuring the English dub voice talent, textless opening and ending themes plus trailers.

Overall, I’m just excited that “One Piece” is back again!  It’s a series that I tend to look forward to every month and is definitely one of my favorite anime series to be released in the U.S..  So, I’m definitely looking forward to the continuing episodes between the Straw Hat Pirates vs. the Foxy Pirates. Crazy and action-packed… if you are a “One Piece” fan, “One Piece: Season Four, Voyage One” is definitely recommended!

 

Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 11 – Original & Uncut (a J!-ENT Anime DVD Review)

“Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 11 – Original & Uncut” features two tragic deaths of significant characters that will play a major part in episodes to come.  Shocking, emotional and action-packed, these are episodes that hardcore Naruto fans will not want to miss!

Image courtesy of © 2002 Masashi Kishimoto/2008 Shippuden. All Rights Reserved.

DVD TITLE: Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 11 – Original & Uncut

DURATION: Episodes 127-140 (350 Minutes)

DVD INFORMATION: 2.0 Stereo Surround Sound, Bilingual (Japanese & English), English Subtitles

COMPANY: Shonen Jump/Viz Media

RATED: Rated T for Older Teen

Release Date: July 11, 2012

Originally created by Masashi Kishimoto

Series Directed by Hayato Date

Produced by Tomoko Gushima, Ken Hagino

Series Coordinator by Junki Takegami, Satoru Nishizono

Character Design by Tetsuya Nishio, Hirofumi Suzuki

Music by Yasuharu Takanishi, Yaiba

Music Production by Aniplex

Anime Production by TV Tokyo, Pierrot

Featuring the following voice talent:

Junko Takeuchi/Maile Flanagan as Naruto Uzumaki

Chie Nakamura/Kate Higgins as Sakura Haruno

Noriaki Sugiyama/Yuri Lowenthal as Sasuke Uchiha

Akira Ishida/Liam O’Brien as Sabaku no Gaara (Gaara of the Desert)

Hideo Ishikawa/Crispin Freeman as Itachi Uchiha

Houchu Ohtsuka/David Lodge as Jiraiya

Kazuhiko Inoue/Dave Wittenberg as Hatake Kakashi

Kentarou Itou/Robbie Rist as Chouji Akimichi

Kenyuu Horiuchi/Troy Baker as Pain

Kouichi Toochika/Steve Staley as Neji Hyuuga

Kousuke Toriumi/Kyle Hebert as Kiba Inuzuka

Kujira/Steven Blum as Orochimaru

Masako Katsuki/Debi Mae West as Tsunade/Fifth Hokage

Nana Mizuki/Stephanie Sheh as Hinata Hyuuga

Nobutoshi Canna/Henry Dittman as Kabuto Yakushi

Rikiya Koyama/Troy Baker as Yamato

Romi Paku/Tara Platt as Temari

Ryoka Yuzuki/Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Ino Yamanaka

Satoshi Hino/Ben Diskin as Sai

Shinji Kawada/Derek Stephen Prince as Shino Aburame

Yasuyuki Kase/Michael Lindsay as Kankurou

Yoichi Masukawa/Brian Donovan as Rock Lee

In two featured episodes, “Tales of a Gutsy Ninja: Jiraiya Ninja Scrolls,” go back in time to witness how the young Jiraiya meets his destiny at Mount Myoboku and trains to become the Toad Sage! Back in the present, Jiraiya successfully infiltrates the Hidden Rain Village and finds the hideout of the Akatsuki’s Pain. But will he be as successful in discovering the secret behind the multiple Pains?

Meanwhile, Sasuke heads for the Uchiha hideout, where his brother, Itachi, awaits. The amazing visual prowess of the Uchiha come into full play as the fateful battle begins!

 

“Naruto Shippuden” is back with an eleventh volume featuring two tragic deaths that will rock the Leaf Ninja of the Konoha village!

The first storyline features Jiraiya infiltrating the Hidden Rain Village and confronting the children that he once trained to become ninja, all grown up and are now members of the Akatsuki.  Meanwhile, the confrontation that many people have wanted to see… Sasuke Uchiha vs. Itachi Uchiya.

Who will live and die in this latest DVD volume of “Naruto Shippuden”?

What is “Naruto”?

Since 1999, “Naruto” created by Masashi Kishimoto (“Karakuri”) has been one of the most popular anime and manga series in Japan and has easily become a favorite best selling anime/manga series among fans all over the world.

For the anime series, since 2002, “Naruto” lasted until 2007 with a total of 220 episodes. The series would follow the adventures of a boy named Naruto Uzamaki, who may not be the brightest ninja from the Konoha Village but he makes it up with heart and also tremendous power as the killer beast known as the nine-tailed fox has been sealed within him.

Earlier in the series, the anime series focused on Naruto and his team members Sasuke Uchida and Sakura Haruno as they would go on adventures and learn to become a team and also honing their ninja abilities. The series would then begin to introduce other young ninjas from the village who Naruto would be paired up with and the young ninjas would take on rival clans to helping people in need. But somehow as the series continued, Sasuke Uchida would then go off on his own personal mission to stop his brother Itaki Uchida, who murdered the whole Uchida clan and his family, only leaving Sasuke alive.

Within those six years, we have seen Naruto and his friends grow as friends and also in their abilities. For Naruto, all he has wanted is to become the next Hokage (the leader of the village) when he grows older and to help his friends accomplish missions. He knows that to be a good leader, he will need to get stronger so he can protect the village once he grows older. Of course, there is so much involved in the “Naruto” anime series and what makes its special is its humor, its action but also how well the series integrates so many characters but yet features a good number of character driven episodes that makes the viewer appreciate many of the characters in the series.

“Naruto”, the first series ended with the young ninja leaving to train with Jiraiya for two-and-a-half years.

What is “Naruto Shippuden”?

In “Naruto Shippuden”, the storyline now features everyone a little grown up but the stakes are much higher. We learn that the Akatsuki including Orochimaru are looking for those who possess a jinchuriki. With this power, this will give too much power to evil and this can lead to the death of many people and the destruction of many villages.

In the past few volumes, the Leaf Village along with other villages have managed to defeat the Akatsuki, unfortunately the price paid was the death of Asuma and a few other members of the Leaf and Sand Ninja.

Now, Orochimaru using Kabuto, have their sites set on capturing the other jinchuriki, as do the Akatsuki who have been after Naruto.

In volume 10, featuring episodes 113-126 (which kicked off season 6 in Japan), we learn how Orochimaru became interested in “reanimation” and the “Sharingan” but leads to a fight to the death between Sasuke and Orochimaru. We then get to learn more about the new team that Sasuke is putting together. A team that will lead an assault on the Akatsuki and literally give Sasuke the revenge on his brother, Itachi (it was revealed in earlier episodes that Itachi was responsible for the Uchiha clan’s demise and the only person he kept alive was Sasuke), that he has been wanting for so long.

Sasuke is on a mission to find the following people to join his team: Suigetsu Hozuki (a former test subject of Orochimaru and has the power to turn into liquid form), Karin (Orochimaru’s former assistant and specializes in tracking) and the homicidal maniac, Jugo.

Meanwhile, as word gets around about Sasuke’s growing power and his new team, Lady Tsunade organizes a team from the leaf village (which includes Team Kakashi and Team Kurenai) to capture Itachi before Sasuke can get to him. The Akatsuki send out Deidara and Tobi to go after Sasuke.

In “Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 11 – Original & Uncut” (Episodes 127-140, Season six in Japan), Jiraiya infiltrates the Hidden Rain Village where he finds out that the Akatsuki that he has been tracking, are the children he took care of and trained when they were younger.

But will the legendary sage be enough to defeat his former pupil, especially Akatsuki’s Pain?

Also, Sasuke goes after his brother Itachi and the fateful battle begins.  Also, revealed is the true culprit of why the Uchiha clan was massacred and why!

Two major deaths and a storyline that will no doubt send shockwaves to Leaf Village!

VIDEO:

One thing I noticed when it came to “Naruto” is that the series has had its share of well-animated and well-painted artistic backgrounds but then for some of the filler episodes, has had a decrease in quality. Fortunately, “Naruto Shippuden” continues to look awesome. I really like how the characters look much older and the emotions on the character’s faces. For this volume, it does go back to a bit of monotonous landscapes. A lot of trees, a lake, underwater and mountains. Not much of the action is taken place anywhere else. But the storyline focuses on the action than location and as far as picture quality goes, it is good and what one can expect from DVD.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

As for the audio, the audio for “Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 11″ is pretty much Dolby Digital Stereo 2.0 Bilingual (Japanese and English). Similar to a series like “Dragon Ball Z”, with “Naruto”, I have always enjoyed the voice acting of the English dub series. It’s well done and the voices fit the characters very well.

Especially Maile Flanagan’s Naruto Uzumaki. Personally, I didn’t think there would be a voice actor that could capture Junko Takeuchi’s Naruto vocals and sure enough, Flanagan does a great job. But I have watched the series in Japanese and English and for the most part, voice acting for both soundtracks are well-done.

Since the series is front channel driven, for those with a modern home theater receiver probably will enjoy a more immersive soundscape by selecting stereo on all channels.

Subtitles are in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 11 – Original & Uncut” comes with the following special features on disc 3:

• More from Viz Media - Trailers for upcoming or current Viz Media releases.
• Clean Openings
• Clean Endings
• Production Art – Using your remote, you can view through ten pages of artwork.
• Omake – (6:11) All the omake ending portions (after the credits) from the episodes featured in DVD Set 11 of “Naruto Shippuden”.
• English Credits

Watching “Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 11 – Original & Uncut”, I don’t know how to describe this volume without spoiling anything.  The only thing  I can reveal is that there are two deaths and one story involves Jiraiya while the other focuses on Sasuke.

But I suppose I can describe watching this as a long time “Naruto” fan and how one of the death’s was so surprising, I just never saw it coming.  Having watched “Naruto” for over two hundred episodes, you get emotionally invested in the characters.  But this one, this one was surprising because it was a character that you grown to enjoy and a character that has appeared in a good number of episodes.

And it was a character that fought valiantly to the very last breath against an enemy that is so powerful, it’s going to setup one of the greatest battles between a Leaf Ninja vs. the Akatsuki.

As mentioned, there were two storylines.  One involving Jiraiya, as he tries to infiltrate the Hidden Rain Village but we learn about his desire to make his life more meaningful and to find the prophecy.  How he trained children to be ninja and also how Naruto got his name.

The second storyline revolves around Sasuke and Itachi.  We have seen this buildup of revenge and hatred within Sasuke and once he was able to find his older brother, there would be a major battle to the death.   This storyline also reveals why the Uchiha clan were annihilated and more.

Suffice to say, the two deaths featured in these episodes are going to have a tremendous impact on the series.  The two deaths were not minor characters, they were pretty significant and I look forward in seeing how things play out in this long battle between the ninja vs. the Akatsuki but also how both Naruto and Sasuke will be affected from this point on.

As for the DVD set, you get a total of 14 episodes and a the typical special features such as storyboard, production art and the ending omake for each episode.

Overall, “Naruto Shippuden DVD Set 11 – Original & Uncut” is a fantastic DVD volume featuring action-packed episodes and two major deaths with major ramifications in the “Naruto Shippuden” series.  Quite simply, if you are a long-time fan of the “Naruto” anime series, this latest volume is highly recommended!

 

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