Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts – Season 2 (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Review)

January 23, 2013 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

“Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts – Season 2″ is a fun and enjoyable series that can be easily described as wild, crazy and even perverted at times. More crazy adventures for Class F and a crazy love triangle and character histories are revealed in season two! Recommended!

TITLE: Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts Season 2 – The Complete Set

DURATION: 13 Episodes (325 Minutes)

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition, English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 and Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0, English Subtitles

COMPANY: FUNimation

RATED: 14 and Up

Release Date: January 29, 2013

Originally created by Kenji Inoue

Directed by Shin Oonuma

Seriest Composition by Katsuhiko Takayama

Music by Nijine

Original Character Design by Yui Haga

Character Design by Miwa Oshima

Art Director: Kohji Azuma

Anime Production by Silver Link

Featuring the following voice talent:

Hiro Shimono/Josh Grelle as Akihisa Yoshii

Hitomi Harada/Alexis Tipton as Mizuki Himeji

Akio Ohtsuka/Kent Williams as Sōichi Nishimura

Ayana Taketatsu as Miharu Shimizu

Emiri Katou/Brina Palencia as Hideyoshi Kinoshita/Yūko Kinoshita

Kaori Mizuhashi/Leah Clark as Minami Shimada

Kenjiro Tsuda/Anthony Bowling as Shin Fukuhara

Kouki Miyata/Greg Ayres as Kōta “Muttsuriini” Tsuchiya

Mana Hirata/Lindsay Seidel as Hazuki Shimada

Takuma Terashima/Joel McDonald as Toshimitsu Kubo

Tatsuhisa Suzuki /Scott Freeman as Yūji Sakamoto

Tomomi Isomura/Jamie Marchi as Shōko Kirishima

Yoshino Nanjou/Trina Nishimura as Aiko Kudō

Akio Ohtsuka as Narration

Daisuke Kageura as Hasegawa

Hiromi Igarashi/Terri Doty as Yūka Koyama

Hiromu Miyazaki/Todd Haberkorn as Kyōji Nemoto

Yoshii’s a good-hearted goofball enrolled at a school where students settle their differences by summoning Avatars, pint-sized stand-ins with battle powers based on academic ability. That “academic ability” part is bad news for idiotic Yoshii – he’s stuck in lowly Class F with the slackers. If these misfits want to escape their dump of a classroom and earn some respect, they’ll have to fight their way up the ranks and take on Class A, the brightest students on campus. It’s going to be tough, that’s for sure, but once the underachievers of Class F get motivated, they don’t give up – and Yoshii can’t even spell surrender!

In 2007, “Baka to Test to Shokanju” (Baka and Test) was created by Kenji Inoue. Featured as a light novel series and featuring the illustrations by Yui Haga, a total of 12 volumes have been printed thus far and a manga adaptation by Mosuke Mattaku began in 2009 in the magazine “Shonen Ace” and also on “Famitsu Comic Clear”.

An anime adaptation began in 2010 and a second season which aired in Japan in July 2011. And with the first season released in America on Blu-ray/DVD back in 2011, the second season will now be released by FUNimation in January 2013.

The anime series features animation production from Silver Link and the previous staff from the first season which includes director Shin Oonuma (“Mahou Sensei Negima!”, “Pani Poni Dash!”), screenplay by Katsuhiko Takayama (“Cat Planet Cuties”, “ef: a tale of melodies”, “Fullmetal Alchemist”, “Ga-Rei-Zero”), music by Nijine (“Akikan”, “Hatsukoi Limited”, “Idolm@ster: Xenoglossia”), character designs by Miwa Oshima (“Hit o Nerae!”, Rakugo Tennyo Oyui!”) and art direction from Kohji Azuma (“Natsu no Arashi!”, “Tokyo Requiem”, “Arakawa Under the Bridge”).

With the second season, Akihisa may not be the brightest guy in class but this time, both Mizuki Himeji and Minami Shimada want to make their move towards Akihisa. But which girl will he pick?

What is “Baka and Test”?

“Baka and Test” revolve around a not-so-smart teenager named Akihisa Yoshii. Because he is not so smart, he is constantly called “Baka” (in Japanese which means stupid). Akihisa is also living on a very tight budget and because he doesn’t have much money, he often has to cut his ramen noodles in pieces and eat them for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Akihisa goes to Fumizuki Academy where staff separate their students based on their test scores. The better the grade, the better their life will be in school. For example: “A” students have great furniture and desks and luxurious studying areas, while those with F’s have regular classrooms but have crates or cardboard boxes as desks.

But there is a way that lower grades students can get things from higher grade students and that is to challenge them in a battle for facilities.

How this works out is that a student can call forth their “Shokanju” or Avatar and during the battle, a teacher supervises the battle. While students compete in various subjects, avatars can lose HP when struck by an opponent and when their point count reaches zero, they are disqualified. But a student can leave the battle before reaching a zero, take a supplemental exam and return back into battle.

For Akihisa, his first day at Fumizuki Academy is to take a placement test. Its pretty much a given that Akihisa will be in the lowest class but when the intelligent student Mizuki Himeji is sick as is unable to complete her test, unfortunately she is given a zero and must join Akihisa and other delinquents in class F. The other delinquents include their class rep Yuji Sakamoto, the oftenly mistaken for a girl Hideyoshi Kinoshita, the perverted Tsuchiya Kouta and the tomboy Minami Shimada. Interesting enough, both Mizuki and Minami have a crush on Akihisa.

But because Class F has the intelligent Mizuki (who should be an A student), it gives them an edge in battle. Also, despite students being in F class, they may not be good in certain subjects but some may be great in one.

For the second season of “Baka and Test”, the season focuses on Class F’s interpersoal relationships as friends, but meanwhile, Akihisa is totally oblivious that he has two girls that like him a lot, Mizuki Himeji and Minami Shimada.

We also learn the history between Class F leader Yuji Sakamoto and Shoko Kirashima and why she is so attached to him.

Meanwhile, enemies of the past return for revenge against Class F, but does Class F have any chance of winning this time around?

Find out in “Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts – Season 2″!

The main characters of “Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts” are:

Akihisa Yoshii– The protagonist of the story and is known as “baka”. Despite his stupidity, he is good at heart and has a problem of spending his money on video games (thus making him poor and so he tends to eat cut up ramen in pieces). Unknown to Akihisa is the fact that a few of the female students in his class like him but he is too stupid too notice. He is also a great cook. His avatar has also a special ability to break inanimate objects (which others can’t do).

Mizuki Himeji – One of the smartest students at Fumikuzi Academy, because she was sick on placement day, she is forced to be in F class. She is Class F’s secret weapon because of her intelligence. She is shy but always adapts to get close to Akihisa. Known for her bouncy chest and terrible cooking.

Minami Shimada– The tomboy who likes Akihisa and often hurts him when he behaves badly to her. She lived in Germany, so she is weak in kanji and hurts her in class. She is good in math, unless there are mathematical word problems. Often teased for not having big boobs like Mizuki.

Yuji Sakamoto – The head of Class F. He is cool, intelligent and very good at strategy and it is unknown why he is in Class F, especially since he was a child prodigy when he was younger. He is also held in a ball and chain with his childhood friend Shoko Kirishima of Class A. Because Class F had lost a battle with Class A, he is forced to date Shoko and if he even looks at other girls, she will poke him in the eyes.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita – A male student who is always confused to be a girl. He is the fraternal twin of Yuko Kinoshita of Class A. He is bad in school but great in acting.

Kota Tsuchiya – Very perverted and will do all he can to snap photos whenever his fellow female students are in uncompromising positions. He is terrible in all subjects except Health Education and is great in battle.

Shoko Kirishima – The top student and Class A rep who is very intelligent but is infatuated with Yuji Sakamoto. She is shy and soft-spoken but will definitely poke Yuji’s eyes out if he looks at other girls.

Toshimitsu Kubo – The calm second ranked student of Class A. He thinks that Akihisa is trying to hit on him and so now he has developed a crush on him and is jealous when he sees Akihisa with other girls.

Yuko Kinoshita – The eldest twin sister of Hideyoshi Kinoshita. Unlike Hideyoshi, she is very arrogant and often arguing with her brother. She hates her brother because he once masqueraded as her and did something to really upset her.

Miharu Shimizu – A girl from Class D who has an attraction to Minami of Class F. She can’t stand Minami being close to Akihisa.

Hazuki Shimada – Minami’s younger sister who wants to be Akihisa’s bride in the future.

Akira Yoshii – Akihisa’s older sister who graduated from Harvard. She is often trying to tease Akihisa by acting as if she is going to kiss him and also upsets her when she is scantily clad. She observes Akihisa and decides how much allowance he can get.

VIDEO:

“Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts” is presented in 1080p High Definition. I actually like the look of the series and the concentration of really elaborate artistic backgrounds. A very colorful series with good pastels, also use of poka dots on backgrounds and foregrounds. And also there is quite a bit of detail for a TV anime series and I think the efficacy of the animation and backgrounds is because SILVER LINK is a company that is used to doing in-between animation and “Baka and Test” is their first major anime production.

So, unlike other major anime production studios who are often busy with other anime series, to have a company who is able to focus on a series definitely makes for a better production. Picture quality for this TV series is very good!

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts” is presented in English Dolby TrueHD 5.1 and Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0. First, the good news is the voice acting for soundtracks are very well done. I watched the series in both soundtracks and typically I am biased to the Japanese soundtrack but for this series, both are well done!

Second, because the English soundtrack is presented in lossless 5.1, there is better use of the surround channels and musical score. The series is not truly immersive because battles don’t happen every episode but there is a good amount of sound effects that are presented through the surround channels.

Subtitles are only in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts – Season 2” comes with the following special features:

Episode 3 Audio Commentary – Featuring audio commentary from Jamie Marchi (lead writer/voice actress for Shoko) and Brina Palencia (voice actress for Hideyoshi/Yuko)
Episode 13 Audio Commentary – Featuring audio commentary from ADR engineers Kevin Leasure and Stephen Hoff about the series and how they got into FUNimation as engineers.
Mission: Impossible: Baka Preview – (1:19) A “Mission Impossible” preview.
Baka-Only Cross-Dressing Contest – (3:56) It’s a cross-dressing contest and who will win?
Mission: Impossible: Baka Mission 01 -(3:39) Hideyoshi Kinoshita stars in his first “Baka Mission”.
Mizuki Himeji Girls’ Meal – (3:19) Mizuki (who is the worst cook) teaches people how to cook.
The King Game in Fumizuki Academy – (4:54) The F class plays the “King” game.
Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts Spinout! - Featuring nine animated shorts and cm: “Beauty and the Beast”, “Magical Hideyoshi, Hideyoshi, CM 1″, “Karaoke Mix”, “Magical Hideyoshi, Hideyoshi, CM 2″, “Magical Hideyoshi, Hideyoshi”, “Mission Impossibler: Baka”, “Runaway Haduki”, “Akihisa’s Inquisition”, “Cherry Blossoms Viewing Party”.
Promo Videos – (4:11) Japanese Promotional video for “Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts – Season 2″.
Original Commercials – (1:03) Original Japanese TV commercials for “Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts – Season 2″.
U.S. Trailer – FUNimation trailer for “Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts – Season 2″.
Textless Opening Song: “Kimi + Nazo + Watashi de Jump!”
Textless Closing Songs: “Eureka Baby”, “Baka to Koshitsu to Kodoku Meshi”, “Hi-Ho!!”
Trailers – FUNimation trailers

EXTRAS:

“Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts Season 2 – The Complete Set” comes with a slip over cover case, Blu-ray and the DVD versions of the series.

Last season, I discussed how the actual concept of “Baka and Test” was pretty intriguing. As a big fan of RPG games, I felt that the concept of classes getting into battle, especially the underdogs – The F Class challenging the other grades was pretty cool and also the introduction of the Avatar system.

But as the first season focused on the battles between Class F and other higher classes, with season two, the season focuses on interpersonal relationships within Class F and also the history of some of the characters.

Also, much noticeable in the second season is much more fan service, as Akihisa, Yuji and the guys can’t help but look at other girls, while the other girls in Class F are not too thrilled and will show their anger towards them.

With the first half of episodes being fun and upbeat with the group hanging out at the beach. attending a festival (in which they group ends up in a crossdressing contest), we are also introduced to some past stories as how Akihisa met Mizuki (the Punishment Inspector) and why Minami and Mizuki fell for him. And also the guys trying to find a way into the girls bathroom.

The second half of the series continues to focus on the love triangle between Akihisa, Minami and Mizuki and what happens when Akihisa accidentally sends Minami in what appears to be a love confession. And what happens when she kisses him in front of Mizuki. We also learn the history of Yuji and Shoko and why she fell for him.

And what is “Baka and Test” without a class battle, and this time around the enemies of the past return for payback against Class F.

Needless to say, “Baka and Test” season two turned out to be a crazy, hilarious entertaining season. While the first season was good in focusing on the class battles, this time around, it’s all about love triangles and the guys just wanting to have fun with other girls yet, oblivious to how upset the other girls of Class F are when they behave that way.

But with this second season, there is more character-drive plots and also character building storylines that we didn’t get to see much of, in the first season.

And as for the animation and character designs, as mentioned earlier, I felt that SILVER LINK, a newer company did a great job. Especially since they are not a major studio and their talent are focusing on several series at one time, SILVER LINK had more time to dedicate to the overall look of the series. From the detailed and artistic backgrounds to the character designs, for a TV series, “Baka and Test” looks pretty good on Blu-ray and you get a good number of special features as well.

Overall, “Baka and Test” is a fun and enjoyable series that can be easily described as wild, crazy and even perverted at times. But it’s great to see FUNimation bringing out a series that focuses on comedy and for those who want a break from the usual dark or action-oriented anime series on Blu, will definitely enjoy “Baka and Test: Summon the Beast Season 2″.

Recommended!

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray

King of Thorn (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Disc Review)

September 6, 2012 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

“King of Thorn” is a film that will entertain those who enjoy action, horror and fantasy. But also can appreciate a complex film that is not too banal or simplified. With that being said, it’s one of those films that probably requires multiple viewings. Featuring beautiful artwork and animation from Sunrise, “King of Thorn” may be different from the manga series it was loosely-based on, but still manages to be an enjoyable film worth watching!

TITLE: King of Thorn

DURATION: 110 Minutes

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition, English and Japanese 5.1 Dolby TrueHD, Subtitles: English

COMPANY: Sunrise/FUNimation Entertainment

RATED: TV MA

Release Date: September 18, 2012

Directed by Kazuyoshi Katayama

Screenplay by Hiroshi Yamaguchi, Kazuyoshi Katayama

Storyboard by Kazuyoshi Katayama, Tsukasa Sunaga

Music by Toshihiko Sahashi

Originally Created by Yuji Iwahara

Character Design by Hidenori Matsubara

Art Director: Goki Nakamura

Chief Animation Director: Naoyuki Onda

Mechanical Design: Kimitoshi Yamane

Anime Production: Sunrise

Featuring the following voice talent:

Kana Hanazawa/Brina Palencia as Kasumi Ishiki

Akiko Yajima/Luci Christian as Timothy Laisenbach

Ayako Kawasumi/Anastasia Munoz as Laura Owen

Eri Sendai/Alexis Tipton as Shizuku Ishiki

Kenji Nomura/Bob Carter as Ron Portman

Kousei Hirota/R. Bruce Elliott as Alexandro Pecchino

Misaki Kuno/Monica Rial as Alice

Sayaka Ohara as Katherine Turner

Shinichiro Miki/Christopher Bevins as Peter Stevens

Toshiyuki Morikawa/Patrick Seitz as Marco Owen

Tsutomu Isobe/John Swasey as Ivan Coral Vega

Yoshinori Fujita/Todd Haberkorn as Walter

Panic spreads worldwide as the Medusa Virus – a fatal pandemic that solidifies the body to stone – threatens to wipe out the human race. One-hundred and sixty infected individuals are selected to be cryogenically frozen while a cure is developed. Kasumi is one of those chosen for the experimental program.

Forced to enter without her twin sister, Shizuku, her distress multiplies when she awakens to find the facility overrun with thick, thorny vines and ravenous monsters. As Kasumi and six others fight a losing battle to escape this labyrinthine nightmare, questions cloud her distorted mind. Where is her sister? Why did their only salvation mutate into a deathtrap? If they survive, how much longer do they have to live?

In 2002, Yuji Iwahara created “Ibara no O” (King of Thorn), a manga series that featured elements of science fiction, horror and fantasy, the manga series was published in “Monthly Comic Beam” from 2002-2005, and was released in America via “Tokyopop” in 2008.

In 2010, an animated film produced by Sunrise and directed by Kazuyoshi Katayama (director of “Appleseed”, “Dragon Warrior”, “Doomed Megalopolis”, “Those Who Hunt Eves”. The series adaptation (a loose adaptation) was co-written by Katayama and Hiroshi Yamaguchi (“Bastard!!”, “Blue Submarine No. 6″, “Gate Keeppers”), music by Toshihiko Sahashi (“Akazukin Cha Cha”, “Cutey Honey Flash”, “Angel Links”), character design by Hidenori Matsubara (Ah! My Goddess”, “Elementalors”, “Sakura Wars”) and art direction by Goki Nakamura (“Cat Soup”, “Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence”, “Ashita No Nadja”).

And now “King of Thorn” will be released on Blu-ray & DVD courtesy of FUNimation.

“King of Thorns” takes place during a time when the world is suffering from a deadly Medusa virus. Hoping to find a cure to defeat the virus, 160 people in the entire world was selected to become candidates to experiment a cure against the virus.

We are introduced to one of the candidates, Kasumi Ishiki (the main protagonist). A teenage girl who struggled with leaving behind her twin sister Shizuku. Despite having the Medusa Virus, Shizuku encouraged Kasumi to be brave and take the opportunity to be part of the potential experiment, if it would give her the chance to be cured.

While she and the other 159 people were put into their hibernation, they were told by Venus Gate Labs, the company responsible for the system that an artificial intelligence known as Alice would be taking care of them.

One day, all 160 people have awaken. But what they have awakened to, was giant vines with thorns and these monster bats that try to eat at them.

While many were being attacked and killed, seven of them managed to escape. Kasumi is joined by Marco Owen, a tattooed individual who seems to be someone with soldier experience; Katherine Turner, a blonde woman who had the worst Medusa case among the survivors, she is the motherly guardian of a little boy named Tim; Timothy Laisenbach is a six-year-old infected by the virus but very mature and intelligent, that for some reason, the whole entire situation with the monsters feels like a video game he mastered and seems to know the monsters and how to defeat them. Others joining them include Peter Stevens, the creator of the hibernation capsules; Alexandro Pecchino, a politician; Ron Portman, a Black man from the United States and a man known for his strength.

Thinking that they have been in hibernation for years, they realize through data in the lab that they have only been asleep for 48 hours.

Now each of the seven try to escape from the monsters that are trying to hunt them down inside the laboratory.

But as the survivors continue trying to escape from the laboratory and surviving, the more they learn about the true intent of the Venus Gate Labs, Alice and themselves.

VIDEO:

“King of Thorn” is presented in 1080p High Definition and is HD Native. And as one can expect from an animated film, especially from Sunrise, the amount of detail on the art backgrounds are fantastic. Colors are vibrant, character animation is features detail and shadowing but the most amazing aspect is how CG was incorporated in this animated film.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“King of Thorn” is presented in English and Japanese Dolby TrueHD 5.1. Because the animated film features a lot of action sequences, there are a lot of gunfire, a lot of rampaging eels and vines attacking their prey. The film is quite immersive and good utilization of the surround channels and LFE. Aside from language differences, the Japanese and English lossless soundtracks are well-acted and pretty much utilizing the same mix for special effects.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“King of Thorn” comes with the following special features:

Talk Event at Cinema Sunshine Ikebukuro – (29:23) Featuring the May 2010 event featuring Jun Chiba (Kadokawa Pictures Advertising Producer), director Kazuhoshi Katayama and Yasumasa Tsuchiya (Producer) who discuss the film and answer questions from the audience.
Director Interview - (11:32) Anime critic Ryusuke Hikawa interviews director Kazuhoshi Katayama.
Pilot Film - (1:54) A short pilot (usually created to get animated sponsors to create a feature film).
Original Trailer – (1:55) Original Japanese theatrical trailer for “King of Thorn”.
Overseas Trailer -(1:48)
TV Spot – (:17) Japanese TV spot for “King of Thorn”
U.S. Trailer – (1:02) Funimation trailer

EXTRAS:

“King of Thorn” comes with a Blu-ray and DVD version of the animated film. Also, included is a slipcover case.

“King of Thorn” is one of the most complex manga series out there. Fascinating, bleak and in some ways, the story reminds you a bit of films such as “Aliens”, “2001: A Space Odyssey”, “Matrix” films, “Sunshine” and “Flatliners” (and other sci-fi related films), there is so much story featured in the original manga series that for its film adaptation, Yuji Iwahara had to simplify it for those who would watch the film but never read the manga.

And surprisingly, director Kazuhoshi Katayama and Hiroshi Yamaguchi were both able to accomplish it through their film adaptation by not following the manga 100%, but using the characters featured in the manga series. Having read a few volumes of the manga series, while not faithful to the original storyline, on its own, it does make for a fascinating yet complex anime film.

For one thing, when it comes to differences, for those who read the manga series may be disappointed to find out that Zeus, the antagonist is not even in the film. And also situations have changed for certain characters, as well as having a completely different ending for the animated film.

While some may cry foul by the change of the film vs. the manga series, in Japan, for those who have watched animated films based on an anime or manga series have grown accustomed in seeing animated films that are different from its original source. Fortunately, if one is entertained by the film, possibly then after, they can pursue reading the much better, original manga series.

With that being said, “King of Thorn” is a film that combines horror and fantasy. At first glance, the animated film plays out like survival horror/disaster film, with survivors who have awaken from their hibernation capsule find out that the entire lab have been filled with monsters and large plants with thorns. And you try to figure out which one of them will survive by the end of the film.

For the most part, the film is exciting with a lot of tension and plenty of action scenes that look and sound great on Blu-ray! But because of the corruption that has taken place in the lab, there is this whole entirely different element that is introduced to the whole “survive the entire ordeal” storyline, situations that make you start to doubt the characters in the film. Are these people genuine? Are these people crazy? Needless to say, I found myself having to watch the film twice and had to rewind many times, because I felt I was missing something.

The film can get complex and confusing and unfortunately, even discussing the complexities of what I was confused about, would be spoiling the film. But let’s just say that once you get to the big reveal at the end of the film, you kind of feel cheated. In a way, “King of Thorn” is a perfect example of a complex manga series that would have benefited from an 13 or 26-episode anime series rather than a 110 minute film.

As for the Blu-ray release, Sunrise did a magnificent job in providing us a film that looks incredible and features beautiful artwork, the lossless soundtrack for both English and Japanese soundtracks were well-done and was pleased to hear the soundtrack of “King of Thorn” being immersive. And it was great to have a few special features including the talk event at Cinema Sunshine Ikebukuro and giving us the opportunity to understand what Kazuhoshi Katayama was trying to accomplish for this film.

Overall, “King of Thorn” is a film that will entertain those who enjoy action, horror and fantasy. But also can appreciate a complex film that is not too banal or simplified. With that being said, it’s one of those films that probably requires multiple viewings.

Featuring beautiful artwork and animation from Sunrise, “King of Thorn” may be different from the manga series it was loosely-based on, but still manages to be an enjoyable film worth watching!

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray

Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Eight (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Disc Review)

September 1, 2012 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

“Dragon Ball Z Kai” is an anime series that action-packed from beginning to end. And now this final eight volume has been released on Blu-ray! Featuring the final battle against Perfect Cel, if you are a “Dragon Ball Z” fan or one that has been wanting to watch the series but can’t dedicate the time to watch the complete series, will definitely want to give “Dragon Ball Z Kai” a chance! Otherwise, DBZ fans who have already purchased previous volumes of DBZ Kai will definitely want to own this final volume for their collection!

TITLE: Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Eight

DURATION: (Episodes 89-98) 250 Minutes

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition (4:3), English Dolby TrueHD 5.1, Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0, Subtitles: English

COMPANY: Toei Animation/FUNimation Entertainment

RATED: TV PG

Release Date: June 5, 2012

Originally created by Akira Toriyama

Directed by Yasuhiro Nowatari

Produced by Kazuya Watanabe, Kohei Obara, Kyotaro Kimura, Makoto Seino

Music by Kenji Yamamoto

Theme Song Arrangement: Seiichi Kyouda

Anime Production: Toei Animation

Featuring the following voice talent:

Masako Nozawa/Colleen Clinkenbeard as Son Gohan

Masako Nozawa/Sean Schemmel as Son Goku

Hikaru Midorikawa/John Burgmeier as Tenshinhan (Tien)

Hiromi Tsuru/Monica Rial as Bulma

Masaharu Satou/Mike McFarland as Kame-sennin

Mayumi Tanaka/Sonny Strait as Krillin (Kuririn)

Naoki Tatsuta/Bryan Massey as Oolong

Naoko Watanabe/Cynthia Cranz as Chi-Chi

Ryo Horikawa/Christopher R. Sabat as Vegeta

Brina Palencia as Chiaotzu/Puar

Tohru Furuya/Christopher R. Sabat as Yamcha

Toshio Furukawa/Christopher R. Sabat as Piccolo

Shigeru Chiba/Justin Cook as Raditz

Tetsu Inada/Phil Parsons as Nappa

Yasuhiko Kawazu/Christopher R. Sabat as Mr. Popo

The legendary Z reborn!

For the first time in history, experience the legendary Z as the master intended with this manga-centric, fresh take on Akira Toriyama’s original vision!

The last descendants of an evil race of warriors known as the Saiyans are on a collision course with Earth, and Goku – the strongest fighter on the planet – is all that stands between humanity and extinction. To save his friends and the world he loves, Goku must travel to a realm from which few return, but should he survive, he’ll discover the power to face the villainous Saiyan warlord – Prince Vegeta.

The exciting action-packed anime series “Dragon Ball Z” is back with the final HD version of “Dragon Ball Z Kai” (volume seven) as the safety of the world rests on the shoulders of young Gohan, as he takes on the evil Perfect Cell.

Having grown up with “Dragon Ball Z” and during my teenage years visiting the local Japanese video rental store and always in heavy anticipation of what was being shown on television in Japan that week and waiting the two weeks it would arrive in the US and watching it in Japanese, despite not knowing what was being said, I enjoyed the series tremendously.

The main protagonist Son Goku was Japan’s equivalent to America’s Superman. I’m sure the juxtaposition of both Superman and Dragonball can be seen as a baby from other planet comes to Earth, the baby growing up to becoming a boy with tremendous strength and abilities and raised by a loving person who instilled good in his heart.

Granted, Goku’s original mission when landing on Earth was to destroy humanity but learning kindness towards people, nature and animals, he became a hero that protected all that he loved from any evil. But most importantly, Goku was a character that was far from perfect. He was a character that was always learning about people, enjoying life but most of all, setting a goal to becoming stronger and developing his skills in order to protect the people and the planet that he loves.

I was captivated by the original “Dragon Ball” series (which featured Goku as a child) and later with “Dragon Ball Z” featuring Goku as an adult. The series would bring back the characters that were seen on the original “Dragon Ball” series but this time around, the series took on more of a serious tone as the enemies became more deadly and Goku and his friends were put into grave situations that they have never had to face before. “Dragon Ball Z” would feature wonderful character development, intense action sequences and most of all, knowing how to extend the series to tease fans and keep people in high anticipation of what would be happening next.

Since then, I have had the opportunity to see this DBZ fandom grow in the US from the very early ’90s and seeing “Dragon Ball Z” viewing parties at the early anime conventions and then seeing how the series exploded into American pop culture once the series began airing on television in the US and with its DVD releases. It’s hard to believe that this series I have followed for years and began in 1989 has celebrated its 20th Anniversary celebration in 2009.

But the celebration was fantastic news for fans as this time, “Dragon Ball Z” would be remastered for HD TV and would be called “Dragon Ball Z Kai” which would include a brand new opening and ending sequence, commercial cut scenes, new frames produced digitally, re-recording of the voice talent, new music and most importantly, focusing on the main story arcs and reducing the series 291 episodes to a total of 97 episodes (plus a bonus 98th episode or extra which was included in the Japanese release).

Needless to say, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” received rave reviews from fans in Japan, while some hardcore DBZ fans had a hard time watching a new interpretation of the series (especially with newer music) but when it was announced that the series would be released in the USA on Blu-ray and DVD, fans were happy and with the first volume, needless to say, I was quite happy with the first Blu-ray release of “Dragon Ball Z Kai” and if you enjoyed the past six volumes, there is no doubt that you are going to enjoy “Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Seven”.

For my review of this Blu-ray release, I’m going to assume that many of the people reading this are familiar with the series. If you aren’t, if you want to experience the full “Dragon Ball Z” 291 episodes, FUNimation Entertainment currently has the full series of “Dragon Ball” and “Dragon Ball Z” available on DVD but at the same time, it is not imperative to watch the original “Dragon Ball” series to understand “Dragon Ball Z Kai”. But watching it completely is important if you want to know the relationships of each character.

As mentioned, currently available from FUNimation Entertainment is “Dragon Ball” which covers the younger years of Goku. “Dragon Ball Z” covers the adults years of Goku and have been released in nine volumes (seasons) via an “orange box release”. All nine volumes covers all 291 episodes and were remastered by FUNimation Entertainment but presented in 16×9 and utilizes both English and Japanese dub but caters to the English audience crowd who watched the series on television.

FUNimation Entertainment have also released the “Dragon Box Z” DVD box set releases (all eight volumes of “Dragon Box Z” have been released). These releases are to satisfy the hardcore Dragon Ball Z fans who wanted the original Japanese uncut episodes, original Japanese music score but most importantly, the series being presented in its original aspect ratio of 4×3.

Also, released from FUNimation Entertainment were the movies and specials (on Blu-ray and DVD) and also the next story arc known as “Dragon Ball GT” (which “Dragon Ball” manga creator Akira Toriyama had nothing to do with until the final episode) which follows the Z-Warriors ten years later and focuses on Goku, an adult Trunks and Goku’s granddaughter Pai. This series was released on DVD in 2009 by FUNimation.

So, here were are in 2012 with the final eighth volume release of “Dragon Ball Z Kai” presented in HD. These episodes are without the non-essential scenes or filler episodes and instead of 291 episodes, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” has a duration of 98 episodes and with this latest volume, you have 10 episodes (Episodes 89-98).

It’s important to note that this is not a remake of the series, nor is it a new HD recreation of the animated version of the series. The series uses the original 1989 animation but is cleaned up of all damaged cels and blemishes. Only the opening, ending and commercial cut scenes feature new animation.

Here is a basic summary of “Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Eight” (episodes 89-98) on the two Blu-ray discs:

Disc 1:

EPISODE 89 – Battle at the Highest Level! Goku Goes All Out! – The battle between Goku vs. Cell continues.
EPISODE 90 – The Opening Round is Concluded! Goku’s Moment of Decision! – Goku’s energy is getting lower as the fight with Cell continues…who else can step up for Goku if he is unable to fight?
EPISODE 91 – Get Angry, Gohan! Release Your Hidden Power! – Gohan not wanting to fight, tries to convince Cell to end the Cell Games!
EPISODE 92 – Tears for an Android! Gohans’ Inner Rage Bursts Forth! – Cell vs. Android 16 and the aftermath.
EPISODE 93 – Unleash the Warrior Within! Gohan Takes the Offensive! – Gohan attains the level of Super Saiyan 2.
EPISODE 94 – Perfection’s End! A Fury Beyond Super Saiyan! – Powerful Gohan takes on Perfect Cell.
EPISODE 95 – A Hero’s Sacrifice! Last Chance to Save the World! – Perfect Cell tries to destroy Earth.

DISC 2:

EPISODE 96 – Combine Your Strenth! The Final Kamehameha! – It all comes down to Gohan as he goes up against Perfect Cell.
EPISODE 97 – A Bittersweet Victory! Until We Meet Again! – The Z Warriors must decide what to do with the Dragon Balls and what wish they will make.
EPISODE 98 – Peace for the Future! The Spirit of Goku is Forever! – With the fight now over, Trunks returns to the future.

VIDEO:

I always find it interesting when it comes to “Dragon Ball Z” because each review, I’ve always mentioned how things look much better when I saw the series especially comparing to my old Japanese TV recordings. But with the release of the series via the orange box season sets and then the Dragon Box Z releases, although they look good…nothing compares to how gorgeous “Dragon Ball Z Kai” looks. The picture quality is clean, no spotting, no blemishes, no dust, no speckles… Colors are absolutely vibrant, blacks are nice and deep and the series looks absolutely fantastic on Blu-ray.

Presented in 1080p High Definition and 4×3. As mentioned earlier, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” is not a remaking of the series in HD. The most noticeable addition is the opening and ending sequence and also the commercial cut scenes which use new animation and featured in HD. But ow awesome would it be if a “Dragon Ball” related series was re-created to look like those digital HD scenes? That would have been amazing.

But once the series begins, for those who have been watching “Dragon Ball Z” long enough or multiple times will just in awe of how beautiful and how clean the anime series looks in HD on Blu-ray. You’ll also notice scenes that you have never seen before.

First, lets discuss the picture quality. Not one blemish can be seen in these episodes. With the sketches and animation cels having since been discarded and anime series back in the ’80s and early ’90s not really being taken care of, Toei animation had new frames produced for this series and it was a laborious job of digitally tracing over still frames from existing footage and filling them with softer colors. Some scenes were cropped and new scenes were added.

But watching this series on Blu-ray, I can say that “Dragon Ball Z Kai” does not look like a series that came from 1989. Tohei Animation did a wonderful job with this animated TV series, editing these episodes and choosing what scenes to include and what new scenes to add to ensure that the pacing works out fine. In terms of picture quality, those ugly dust, speckles and blemishes are gone, I did not see any major edge enhancement or compression artifacts. I have no doubt that fans will enjoy this HD presentation of “Dragon Ball Z Kai”.

Of course, for those wanting the true anime on HD treatment, this is probably not the series one should look for as you do get the original late ’80s animation and this series was created long before animators considered HD let alone were making the series digitally. But it all comes down to how it looks compared to the original series released on DVD and I have to say that this is the best looking version of the series available despite it being a modified and shortened version of the “Dragon Ball Z” series.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

This is where “Dragon Ball Z Kai” shines on Blu-ray and its the lossless audio. The series is presented in Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) and Dolby TrueHD 2.0 (Japanese).

Because the English is mixed and utilizes more channels, there is a dramatic difference in sound, although for those with a modern receiver and have a solid 5.1 or 7.2 setup, can easily switch their receiver to stereo on all channels for the Japanese soundtrack for a more immersive soundscape.

There are online stores showing that the Japanese is Dolby Digital 2.0 but this is incorrect, it is indeed a lossless Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0 soundtrack. And both soundtracks sound great!

But here is the lowdown on the lossless audio. Sound effects are now heavily utilized on the surround channels. Obviously, the more noticeable uses of the surround channels are the music and whenever the Z Warriors are in flight. But the biggest and most noticeable difference when it comes to “Dragon Ball Z Kai” and its previous “Dragon Ball Z” releases on video is the music. As a hero like Superman or Batman will have its own musical orchestra driven theme song in a film, Goku now has a theme, the enemies have their theme and when a Z-Warrior passes away, there is a theme. Music is used to full effect in the series and the majority of it is orchestra driven and also utilized in the surround channels. You will hear the strings or brass playing through the surrounds and its done rather nicely. Some people may have an issue with the battle music as the music tends to incorporate the style that you hear from the most recent video games and transitions from jazz/funk to synthrock.

But these effects and music sound so delightful via lossless, its hard not to be impressed by it. Again, the English soundtrack is much more immersive because it utilizes a 5.1 lossless soundtrack versus the Japanese 2.0 lossless track. But I know fans who have wanted anime on Blu-ray with Japanese lossless should be happy. It’s important to note that this is a TV series and not an OVA or film, so the fact that there is so much going on with this TV series audio-wise is pretty awesome.

Granted, I know there are hardcore fans who will tell me that they loved the original Japanese music and I’m sure there will be fans including myself who love the new music, but of course, this is all subjective. And with that being said, for those who liked the Falcouner music, then buy the orange season box sets. If you want the original Japanese BGM, then the “Dragon Box Z” sets is for you. If you want a lossless soundtrack with outstanding music that is fully utilized with your home theater setup, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” is fantastic.

As for the dubwork, the voice acting has also been revamped with Colleen Clinkenbeard now providing the voice for Son Gohan, Monica Rial for Bulma and Brina Palencia for Chiaotzu and Puar. In Japan, the most noticeable difference is for Kame Sen’nin (Master Roshi) as Kohei Miayuchi passed away during the final season of “Dragon Ball Z” back in 1995 and for DBZ Kai is voiced by Masaharu Satou.

For the most part, both voice acting for the English and Japanese were very good. Of course, listening to both soundtracks voices are much different from each other especially the voice of the main character Goku. But depending on your preference, both Masako Nozawa and Sean Schemmel do a fantastic job as Goku. For those who watched the English dub and have played all the DBZ video games will probably see the most noticeable different with the character of young Gohan.

Overall, because of the clarity of the audio and how much it plays in the part of enhancing the enjoyment of the anime series, the lossless soundtrack for “Dragon Ball Z” is awesome! I enjoy the new BGM and if you have a 5.1 or 7.2 setup, you’re going to enjoy the soundtrack of this series.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Eight” comes with the following special features:

Interview with Mr. Sabat and Mr. Schemmel – (4:34) ADR Director Christopher Sabat and voice actor Sean Schemmel talk about the difference of working on “Dragon Ball Z” a decade ago and working on “Dragon Ball Z Kai” now.
Textless Opening Song
Textless Closing Song
Trailers – Trailers for upcoming or currently available titles from FUNimation Entertainment.

EXTRAS:

“Dragon Ball Z Kai” Part Eight comes with a slipcover case.

“Dragon Ball Z Kai” comes down to these final episodes as the Z Warriors take on Perfect Cell and the hopes of the world will rest on not on Son Goku’s shoulders but the shoulders of his teenage son, Gohan.

Having seen an untapped, enormous power that lies within Gohan, Goku hopes that Gohan can tap into this power and defeat the powerful, Perfect Cell.

For many Dragon Ball Z enthusiasts, many have ranked the Cell saga as the best in the “Dragon Ball Z” series. There was no doubt that Cell was the most destructive adversary the Z-Warriors have taken on and I can easily remember how many episodes it took until we finally saw the matchup between Goku and Cell.

For anyone who has watched the original “Dragon Ball Z” series, it’s not a surprise of how much this battle was dragged out for a long period of time in Japan and even for “Dragon Ball Z Kai”, it’s taken quite a bit of episodes, even when shortened without the filler to get to this ultimate matchup and the buildup to this match has been exciting and quite riveting thus far!

All that went through my mind when I was watching “Dragon Ball Z Kai” was how awesome an experience it was to see this series finally in HD and how fantastic it looked and how incredible the lossless audio track was.

“Dragon Ball Z – Part Eight” is pretty much all action as Goku and the Z Warriors take on Perfect Cell and hopes that Gohan will find the confidence to tap into his inner power.

Sure, the original “Dragon Ball Z” series goes into more storyline details. With “Dragon Ball Z Kai”, viewers are losing a lot of the android saga especially the training episodes in the hyberbolic chamber in preparation for the fight against Cell in “Dragon Ball Z Kai”. So, I do emphasize that if you do want to watch the Android and Cell Saga, try to find the DVD release of the anime series (the awesome orange box series or even the Japanese uncut “Dragon Box Z” series), in order to learn about the complete storyline that leads to the battle against Cell.

As a person who has followed the series for nearly 20 years, watching “Dragon Ball Z Kai” was a bit surreal because everything looked so clean. Especially comparing with how it looks to the first movie on Blu-ray which had dust and scratches galore and HD enhancing those defects, it was great to see a blemish-free DBZ series.

Now does “Dragon Ball Z Kai” replace my feelings towards the original series? Of course not. But I can tell you right now that when watching “Dragon Ball Z” many years ago and even watching it again and again, part of the experience at the time was being kept at the edge of your seat because each saga lasted so long. We would literally have to wait weeks as it would come out to our Japanese video rental store and each VHS tape in bad quality would contain maybe two to four episodes. And this really tested your patience especially with each saga or battle lasting like 30 episodes or more.

If you were an original DVD purchaser of “Dragon Ball Z” when it was released per volume, not only was it an excruciating wait, it was expensive to collect all volumes. Sure, the DVD box set releases definitely have fixed the problem and is much cheaper than how things were back then. But what “Dragon Ball Z Kai” does is cut down all non-essential scenes, all filler episodes and focusing on the more important scenes of the story including the action sequences. Footage was re-edited to closely follow the manga and the action is now a more faster pace and I found the pacing for this series to be quite enjoyable and for those watching anything Dragon Ball related for the first time, especially on television, “Dragon Ball Z” makes it much easier for those viewers, especially those with a short attention span.

For long-time fans, this new revision of the series maintains the heart and soul of “Dragon Ball Z” but gives us the best looking and best sound version of the series. It’s not meant to replace the previous “Dragon Ball Z” series that we have enjoyed (and for many, have spent money for via the box sets) but to compliment it and also to bring the series to HD and now on Blu-ray.

Because the series only lasts 98 episodes, part eight continues and ends with the Cell saga, but there are rumors that “Dragon Ball Z Kai” will continue and perhaps lead to the “Majin Buu saga”. But for now, the animated series ends with the “Perfect Cell saga”.

Overall, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” is easily a must-own anime on Blu-ray series if you love “Dragon Ball Z” or wanting to watch “Dragon Ball Z” but just don’t have the time necessary to watch every episode. Also, it helps that the series is now on Blu-ray, so people can enjoy “Dragon Ball Z Kai” in HD.

Exciting, action-packed from beginning to end, for those wanting to experience “Dragon Ball Z” in HD, will definitely want to watch “Dragon Ball Z Kai” on Blu-ray and for those who have already purchased the volumes, this eighth final volume is the end and definitely worth owning.

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray

Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 3 – Limited Edition Box Set (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Review)

June 4, 2012 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

A fresh, enjoyable yet dark storyline that is absolutely captivating and addictive! “Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 3 – Limited Edition Box Set” concludes the series with a bang! And like the previous two limited edition releases, volume three is another must-own anime on Blu-ray release for anime collectors and is definitely one of the best anime TV series on Blu-ray released in America for 2012. Once again, “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is highly recommended!

Purchase this title from Rightstuf

TITLE: Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 3 – Limited Edition Box Set

ANIME RELEASE DATE: 2011

DURATION: Episodes 9-11 (100 Minutes)

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition (16:9LB Wide Screen), Japanese Linear PCM Stereo, English Linear PCM Stereo, English subtitles

COMPANY: Aniplex, Inc.

Release Date: June 12, 2012

Series Directed by Yukihiro Miyamoto

Director: Akiyuki Shinbo

Series Composition: Gen Urobuchi

Music by Yuki Kajiura

Original Character Design by Ume Aoki

Character Design by Takahiro Kishida

Art Director: Kunihiko Inaba

Chief Animation Director: Junichiro Taniguchi, Mika Takahashi

Sound Director: Yota Tsuruoka

Director of Photography: Shinichiro Eto

Anime Production: Aniplex, Shaft

Featuring the following voice talents:

Aoi Yūki/Christine Marie Cabanos as Madoka Kaname

Chiwa Saito/Cristina Vee as Homura Akemi

Emiri Katou/Cassandra Lee as Kyubey

Ai Nonaka/Laura Landa as Kyōko Sakura

Eri Kitamura/Sarah Williams as Sayaka Miki

Junko Iwao as Kazuko Saotome

Kaori Mizuhashi as Mami Tomoe/Tatsuya Kaname

Ryoko Shintani as Hitomi Shizuki

Seiko Yoshida as Kyōsuke Kamijō

Tetsuya Iwanaga as Tomohisa Kaname

Yuko Goto as Junko Kaname

“Has a loving family and best friends, laughs and cries from time to time…” Madoka Kaname, an eighth grader at Mitakihara middle school, lives such a life. One day, she has a very magical encounter. She doesn’t know if it’s by chance or by fate yet, but this meeting will change her destiny. This is the beginning of a new story of magical girls…

This limited edition combo box set includes the third soundtrack CD, an exclusive collector’s box, two double-sided posters, collectible postcards, and a deluxe 24-page booklet with character designs, a special short manga by Aoki Ume and more!

All is revealed in the final volume of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” vol. 3. Madoka Kaname must make the final decision… Will she become a Magical Girl despite knowing all the risks involved?

For anime fans who grew up with magical girl (majo shojo) anime series, “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” combines the sweet characters that many fans expect from a magical girl series, but this time around, also a darker and more tragic storyline.

Created in 2011, the anime TV series known as “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is produced by Shaft and Aniplex.

The 12-episode anime TV series would feature a talented working staff which included director Akiyuki Shinbo (“Hidamari Sketch”, “Dance in the Vampire Bund”, “Starship Girl Yamamoto Yohko”) and series composition by Gen Urobuchi (“Fate/Zero”, “Phantom ~Requiem for the Phantom”~, “Blassreiter”). Music composition is by Yuki Kajiura (“.hack” series, “Noir”, “My-HiME”, “Mobile Suit Gundam Seed”, “Fate/Zero”), character design by Takahiro Kishida (“Noein – to your other self”, “Macross Zero”, “Durarara!!”) and background art by Kunhiko Inaba (“The Girl Who Leapt Through Time”, “C-Control – The Money and Soul of Possibility”).

The series was well-received and it won the Television Award at the 16th Animation Kobe Awards, it won 12 NewType Anime Awards and also won the Grand Prize for animation in the 2011 Japan Media Awards.

When the series streamed on the Japanese video streaming site Nico Nico Douga in June 2011, it surpassed the previous record held by Lucky Star (at 570,000 viewers) with around 1 million viewers. Also, the first Blu-ray for “Puella Magica Madoka Magica” broke the record of “Bakemonogatari” by selling 53,000 copies in its first week, 22,000 copies on its first day.

The popularity of the series eventually led to a manga series, a Sony PSP video game released in March 2012 and also, a three-film project that is in the works.

In the United States, “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” Vol. 1-2 was released on Blu-ray and DVD courtesy of Aniplex. And in June 2012, the final third volume featuring episodes 9-12 will be released.

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” Summary

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is a series about a young teenager named Madoka Kaname. She’s 14-years-old and comes from a loving family. She loves hanging out with her best friend Sayaka Miki and Hitomi Shizuki.

But lately, Madoka has been having nightmares. A dark world filled with destruction and she watches these girls in battle. As she watches and wishes they would be stopped, she is told by an extra terrestrial known as Kyubey that Madoka can stop it if she makes a contract with him and become a “Magical Girl”.

Meanwhile, a new girl named Akemi Homura has transferred to Madoka’s school and during her introduction in class, she gives Madoka a hateful glance. Homura quickly becomes popular in school and excels in academics and athletics.

When she meets Madoka, Madoka tells her about her love for her family and friends and Homura responds by telling her her not to change.

One day, while Madoka and Sayaka were at a music store, Madoka hears a plea for help and she is led to a dark warehouse and finds a Kyubey that is hurt. She then sees Homura and is frightened that she is about to hurt it. Immediately, Sayaka comes to Madoka’s aid.

As the two are running away, both are whisked into a magical world where they meet a other magical girls such as Mami Tomoe and Kyoko Sakura. But when one of them is tragically killed, the death affects both Madoka and Sayaka and with the prodding of Kyubey, one of them becomes a magical girl.

Magical Girls receive a soul gem which gives them their power. The contract of becoming a magical girl states that a girl will get one wish in exchange for her using magic to fight against witches (which are evil entities born from magical girls who have fallen into despair and failed to purify their soul gem). Each battle features a large amount of risk and during these fights, typically one dies.

Homura for some reason is trying her best to prevent Madoka from accepting the contract in becoming a magical girl but one of them has chosen the path to become a magical girl but also finds out quickly, that if one harbors too much negative energy, they can easily be consumed by it and be turned into a witch.

Volume 3 of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica”

With the final volume of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica”, tragedy happens once again and Madoka is not sure if she can take any more of it. Kyubey finally reveals the true reason why he wants Madoka to become a magical girl and also the secret is revealed in regards to the wishes that magical girls are promised. It is also revealed why Homura has been trying to prevent Madoka from being a magical girl.

It leads to Madoka’s final decision… Will she become a magical girl knowing the risks? Or will Homura succeed in protecting Madoka and preventing her from becoming one?

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” features the following characters:

Madoka Kaname – A caring teenager who loves her family, loves hanging out with her friends and enjoying life. But lately, she has been having nightmares about witches and one of girls from her dream, a girl named Akemi Homura, shows up to her school. From this point on, Madoka Kaname learns about the role of a magical girl but also the challenge that awaits them. With the prodding by an extra terrestrial named Kyubey to become a magical girl, will she do so?
Akemi Homura – A new transfer to Madoka’s school and a teenager trying to prevent Madoka from becoming a magical girl. For what reason is Homura going to great lengths of protecting Madoka?
Sayaka Miki – Madoka Kaname’s best friend and a girl who is in love with a boy who is ill. She knows that being a magical girl, she can be granted one wish. Will she do it?
Mami Tomoe – The first magical girl to befriend Madoka and Sayaka and the first magical girl tragedy that both Madoka and Sayaka had to experience. A kindhearted person.
Kyoko Sakura – A magical girl who is constantly hungry and befriends Sayaka. Kyoko learned how making a wish can always backfire, as she wished for her father, a preacher, to gain more followers. Instead it led to her father’s insanity with tragic consequences for her entire family.
Kyubey – An extra terrestrial who tries to get young girls to become magical girls. Those who form a contract with him will get one wish but in return, they must defeat witches that feed upon the hopes and dreams of people. But there is more to Kyubey and overtime, Madoka learns the true intention of the Kyubey came to Earth. Kyubey’s do not have emotions, so they do not understand the feelings of the girls they come in contact with. There only main intention is to have girls become magical girls.

VIDEO:

A lot of time obviously went into creating the atmosphere of this TV Series and I have to give Takahiro Kishida (the character designer) and Kunihiko Inaba a lot of credit for the visual presentatio of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica. As for character designs, the character designs manage to keep with the “majo shojo” theme of characters looking young, even the older characters looking young. But they are nicely drawn, good amount shading and also at times showing a sketched look.

Typically, most TV series tend to focus on trees, skies, clouds and buildings but with “”Puella Magica Madoka Magica”, a lot of thought went into the series from objects, wallpaper (even Mami’s wall-paper was designed and not just a straight painted background). You see the changes during the day and night, you can see sunset with the orange sky illuminating the area,the magical world with its creative and artistic design.

And overall, these colors really pop via HD. Reds and pinks, greens…they come are absolutely vibrant. Comparisons between the Blu-ray and DVD are mostly in the vibrancy of the colors in HD, while things look a bit softer for the DVD version.

Black levels are nice and deep, the series features vibrant colors galore. If anything, the picture quality for “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is very good considering this is anime TV series. Anime fans should be happy with the overall visual presentation on Blu-ray.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“Puella Magica Madoka Magica” is presented in Japanese and English Linear PCM Stereo and subtitles are in English. While I would have hoped for a 5.1 soundtrack (as I would have loved to have more immersion with the surround channels and LFE), most anime TV series aren’t and are presented in stereo. Still, fans should be happy that two linear PCM tracks are included. They are front-channel driven and for the most part, dialogue and sound effects are quite clear and understandable.

The voice acting on both the Japanese and English soundtracks are well-done. I was expecting the Japanese soundtrack to feature high-pitch voices considering this is a magical girl series, but they kept the voices to the ages of Madoka and friends as 14-year-olds and older. Voice actress Aoi Yuki (“The World God Only Knows”, “Persona 4: The Animation”, “Dance in the Vampire Bund”) takes on the more emotional role as Madoka and her voice acting is wonderful as we see her going through various degrees of emotions from happiness to sadness. But for vol. 2, these are Sayaka-driven episodes and voice actress Ai Nonaka (“Air”, “Negima!?”, “R.O.D. – The TV”) has to play a wide-range of emotions like Aoi Yuki but also a more twisted version of the character as well.

English voice acting was well-done. Similar to the Japanese voices, Christine Marie Cabanos and Lauren Landa had to be much more emotional in these episodes and both voice actresses do a wonderful job for their characters.

And as mentioned in my last review, what stands out the most for me in the TV series is the wonderful musical soundtrack by Yuki Kajiura.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 3″ comes with the following special features:

Textless Ending – Textless ending.

EXTRAS:

Aniplex is a Japanese company that is well-known for their anime releases but also for giving fans wonderful additions with the limited edition releases.

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 3 – Limited Edition Box Set” comes with the following:

3 Discs – Blu-ray, DVD and the original soundtrack

This third soundtrack (which was originally released with vol. 6 of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” in Japan) comes with the following tracks:

Numquam vincar 2:07
Quamobrem? 1:31
Cor destructum 1:28
Surgam identidem 3:36
Confessio 1:49
Sagitta luminis 5:43
Nux Walpurgis 2:34
Cubilulum album 2:19
Taenia memoriae 2:11
La Fille aux Cheveux de Lin 2:34
Symposium magarum 1:47
Pergo pugnare 2:19
コネクト -ゲームインスト- 1:34

Deluxe Collector’s Slipcase
Reversible 2-sided cover for BD/DVD case
2-sided cover for Soundtrack CD case
24-page booklet: Staff and voice actor interviews, character designs, special 4-panel manga by aokiume and art gallery by INUCURRY! (and more!)
Exclusive 2-sided posters
Exclusive postcards of “preview Illustrations” from episodes 9-11

Having watched the first eight episodes of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica”, it has been quite interesting to see how emotional and dark this series had turned out to be.

Typically, there is a banality that is seen with magical girl anime shows. And while most are sweet, cute and lighthearted, in addition to each episode having some type of resolution at the end, this is not the case with “Puella Magi Madoka Magica”.

With this anime series, there is a continuing storyline that revolves around the character of Madoka, as she experiences the pain of watching people she cares about, meeting a tragic end or in a lot of pain.

The writers have made sure that with every four episodes, there is something learned about the life of a magical girl. And with each lesson learned, it usually takes place after tragedy.

In the first volume, Madoka learns that these battles against the witches are not easy. And she doesn’t quite understand why Akemi Homura is often trying to protect her, nor does she know why she has a cold demeanor. But she did learn how tragic things can be for a magical girl.

In the second volume, with the death of Mami, Sayaka who wants one of her wishes granted, decides to become a magical girl herself. But unfortunately, unlike Madoka who has a pure heart, Sayaka is a person that has despair in her soul and these negative emotions start to build up within her, to the point that her soul gem begins to darken.

The lesson learned is that even magical girl can easily become a witch because of the despair within them and further causing harm to their soul gem. In the case of Sayaka, she becomes the witch known as Oktavia von Seckendorff and unfortunately, there is no sparing her life. A witch will do all it takes to kill a magical girl and the magical girl must beat the witch in order to survive.

So, unfortunately, there is no positive way out. And as Madoka grows tired of the killing, the emotional pain, she must make a decision. Will she accept Kyubey’s request to be a magical girl, knowing the risks? Or will Akemi Homura find a way to protect her?

With the third volume, writer Gen Urobuchi was able to craft a continuing storyline that slowly builds up to a magnificent finale. Definitely an ending unlike any other magical girl anime series that I have seen before and for the most part, the efficacy of the storyline is greatly due to a finale that I never expected to happen. So, I was greatly pleased of how the overall anime series turned out and how things concluded with this sereis.

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” turned out to be a wonderful series with great attention to character development but also a storyline that is fresh, unique and captivating.

As for the Blu-ray release, once again, production quality is fantastic, colorful and picture quality is very good for an anime TV series. The lossless soundtrack is Linear PCM Stereo and most series in Japan are released in stereo and while I would love to hear a lossless immersive soundtrack for “Puella Magi Madoka Magica”, dialogue is still crystal clear, as are the effects but most notably, for its wonderful music soundtrack.

And of course, with the limited edition, Aniplex returns with as many wonderful extras that the first limited edition came with. From a beautiful second soundtrack to cool postcards, poster and an informative booklet (and much more), fans of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” will find this third volume limited edition to be another must-own release. Actually, I felt that all three limited editions are must-own releases!

Overall, “Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 3 – Limited Edition Box Set”, is another home run for Aniplex. The storyline is just as captivating and addictive as the last volume but also a bit more emotional and dark. And like the previous two volumes, it’s another perfect release for Aniplex.

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 3 – Limited Edition Box Set” is highly recommended!

Purchase this title from Rightstuf

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray

Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 2 – Limited Edition Box Set (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Review)

April 2, 2012 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

A fresh, enjoyable yet dark storyline that is absolutely captivating and addictive! “Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 2 – Limited Edition Box Set” is another must-own anime on Blu-ray release for anime collectors and the series itself is definitely one of the best anime TV series on Blu-ray released in America for 2012. Highly recommended!

Purchase this title from Rightstuf

TITLE: Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 2 – Limited Edition Box Set

ANIME RELEASE DATE: 2011

DURATION: 5-8 Episodes: (100 Minutes)

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition (16:9LB Wide Screen), Japanese Linear PCM Stereo, English Linear PCM Stereo, English subtitles

COMPANY: Aniplex, Inc.

Release Date: April 10, 2012

Series Directed by Yukihiro Miyamoto

Director: Akiyuki Shinbo

Series Composition: Gen Urobuchi

Music by Yuki Kajiura

Original Character Design by Ume Aoki

Character Design by Takahiro Kishida

Art Director: Kunihiko Inaba

Chief Animation Director: Junichiro Taniguchi, Mika Takahashi

Sound Director: Yota Tsuruoka

Director of Photography: Shinichiro Eto

Anime Production: Aniplex, Shaft

Featuring the following voice talents:

Aoi Yūki/Christine Marie Cabanos as Madoka Kaname

Chiwa Saito/Cristina Vee as Homura Akemi

Emiri Katou/Cassandra Lee as Kyubey

Ai Nonaka/Laura Landa as Kyōko Sakura

Eri Kitamura/Sarah Williams as Sayaka Miki

Junko Iwao as Kazuko Saotome

Kaori Mizuhashi as Mami Tomoe/Tatsuya Kaname

Ryoko Shintani as Hitomi Shizuki

Seiko Yoshida as Kyōsuke Kamijō

Tetsuya Iwanaga as Tomohisa Kaname

Yuko Goto as Junko Kaname

At what price will one pay to become a Magical Girl? In Vol. 2 of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica”, Sayaka decides to become one, but at what price?

Created in 2011, the anime TV series known as “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is produced by Shaft and Aniplex.

The popularity of the series eventually led to a manga series, a Sony PSP video game released in March 2012 and also, a three-film project that is in the works.

In the United States, “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” Vol. 1 was released on Blu-ray and DVD courtesy of Aniplex. And in April 2012, the second volume featuring episodes 5-8 will be released.

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” Summary

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is a series about a young teenager named Madoka Kaname. She’s 14-years-old and comes from a loving family and hangs out with her best friend Sayaka Miki and Hitomi Shizuki.

But lately, Madoka has been having nightmares. A dark world filled with destruction and she watches these girls in battle. As she watches and wishes they would be stopped, she is told by a cat looking extra terrestrial known as Kyubey that Madoka can stop it if she makes a contract with him and become a “Magical Girl”.

When she meets Madoka, Madoka tells her about her love for her family and friends and Homura responds by telling her her not to change.

As the two are running away, both are whisked into a magical world where they meet a kind magical girl named Mami Tomoe who begins fighting against a witch in the magical world and defeats it with ease.

The Kyubey asks for both Madoka and Sayaka to sign a contract with him and become magical girls.

Homura for some reason is trying her best to prevent Madoka from accepting the contract in becoming a magical girl. But will Madoka and Sayaka want to become one?

Volume 2 of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica”

In volume 2, Sayaka wants to make one wish come true and so she decides to become a magical girl. But becoming a magical girl comes at a price and Madoka will learn how someone as sweet as Sayaka can change after becoming one.

VIDEO:

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

And as mentioned in my last review, what stands out the most for me in the TV series is the wonderful musical soundtrack by Yuki Kajiura.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 2″ comes with the following special features:

Textless Opening – Textless opening by “ClariS”.

EXTRAS:

Aniplex is a Japanese company that is well-known for their anime releases but also for giving fans wonderful additions with the limited edition releases.

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 2 – Limited Edition Box Set” comes with the following:

3 Discs – Blu-ray, DVD and the original soundtrack

This second soundtrack (which came with vol. 4 of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” in Japan) comes with the following tracks:

Decretum 1:49
Agmen clientum 1:44
Venari strigas 2:47
Signum malum 1:47
Amicae carae meae 2:02
Incertus 1:40
Inevitabilis 1:55
Serena ira 2:01
Anima mala 1:44
Pugna infinita 1:55
Vocalise Op. 34 no. 14 3:37
Ave Maria 4:49

Deluxe Collector’s Slipcase
Reversible 2-sided cover for BD/DVD case
2-sided cover for Soundtrack CD case
24-page booklet: Staff and voice actor interviews, character designs, special 4-panel manga by aokiume and art gallery by INUCURRY! (and more!)
Exclusive 2-sided poster (side 2: Magical Girls Group shot)
Exclusive postcards of “preview Illustrations” from episodes 5-8

In my last review, I talked about how I enjoyed this series because of how different the overall storyline was compared to other mahou shojo (magical girl) anime series.

With the second volume of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica”, I was surprised how things got even darker, especially how things change with the character of Sayaka after she decides to become a magical girl. Also, with many anime series with a cute alien or animal-type of character, these characters are most often pure and used for comedy purposes. For the character of Kyubey, it may look cute but let’s just say that we get to learn more about this being and viewers may be a bit surprised by some of the revelations made in this second volume.

Revealing anything else would be spoiling it, so all I will say is that fans of the first four episodes will be intrigued by the introduction of a new character but also revelations of the magical girl process, which is unlike any other magical girl anime series that I have seen within the last 30-years.

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is turning out to be a wonderful series with attention to character development but also a storyline that is fresh, unique and captivating.

And of course, with the limited edition, Aniplex returns with as many wonderful extras that the first limited edition came with. From a beautiful second soundtrack to cool postcards, poster and an informative booklet (and much more), fans of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” will find this second volume limited edition to be another must-own release.

Overall, “Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 2 – Limited Edition Box Set”, is another home run for Aniplex. The storyline is just as captivating and addictive as the last volume but also a bit more emotional and dark. And so far, I’m enjoying every episode. It’s definitely one of the best anime series to be released on Blu-ray in 2012.

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 2 – Limited Edition Box Set” is highly recommended!

Purchase this title from Rightstuf

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray

Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Seven (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Disc Review)

March 11, 2012 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

All-out action! “Dragon Ball Z Kai” is DBZ in HD and this series looks absolutely wonderful on Blu-ray! In this seventh volume of DBZ Kai, the Z Warriors take on their most powerful adversary yet, Perfect Cell. If you are wanting an action anime series, I definitely recommend “Dragon Ball Z Kai”!

TITLE: Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Seven

DURATION: (Episodes 78-88) 300 Minutes

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition (4:3), English Dolby TrueHD 5.1, Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0, Subtitles: English

COMPANY: Toei Animation/FUNimation Entertainment

RATED: TV PG

Release Date: March 20, 2012

Originally created by Akira Toriyama

Directed by Yasuhiro Nowatari

Produced by Kazuya Watanabe, Kohei Obara, Kyotaro Kimura, Makoto Seino

Music by Kenji Yamamoto

Theme Song Arrangement: Seiichi Kyouda

Anime Production: Toei Animation

Featuring the following voice talent:

Masako Nozawa/Colleen Clinkenbeard as Son Gohan

Masako Nozawa/Sean Schemmel as Son Goku

Hikaru Midorikawa/John Burgmeier as Tenshinhan (Tien)

Hiromi Tsuru/Monica Rial as Bulma

Masaharu Satou/Mike McFarland as Kame-sennin

Mayumi Tanaka/Sonny Strait as Krillin (Kuririn)

Naoki Tatsuta/Bryan Massey as Oolong

Naoko Watanabe/Cynthia Cranz as Chi-Chi

Ryo Horikawa/Christopher R. Sabat as Vegeta

Brina Palencia as Chiaotzu/Puar

Tohru Furuya/Christopher R. Sabat as Yamcha

Toshio Furukawa/Christopher R. Sabat as Piccolo

Shigeru Chiba/Justin Cook as Raditz

Tetsu Inada/Phil Parsons as Nappa

Yasuhiko Kawazu/Christopher R. Sabat as Mr. Popo

The legendary Z reborn!

For the first time in history, experience the legendary Z as the master intended with this manga-centric, fresh take on Akira Toriyama’s original vision!

The action-packed anime series “Dragon Ball Z” is back with another HD version of “Dragon Ball Z Kai” (volume seven) as the Z-Warriors take on their most powerful adversary yet, Cell!

So, here were are in 2012 with the seventh volume release of “Dragon Ball Z Kai” presented in HD. These episodes are without the non-essential scenes or filler episodes and instead of 291 episodes, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” has a duration of 98 episodes and with this latest volume, you have 11 episodes (Episodes 78-88).

Here is a basic summary of “Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Seven” (episodes 78-88) on the two Blu-ray discs:

Disc 1:

EPISODE 78 – Cell on the Verge of Defeat! Krillin, Destroy Android 18! – Goku trains Gohan while Cell tries to absorb Android 18.
EPISODE 79 – The Battle Turns For the Worst! Cell Attacks Android 18! – Trunk vs. Cell, Cell continues to try and absorb 18 to become a perfect Cell.
EPISODE 80 – The Tables are Turned! Witness the Power of Perfection! – Krillin and Vegeta vs. Cell.
EPISODE 81 – Vegeta’s Final Push! Defeat the Invincible Cell! – Vegeta vs. Cell.
EPISODE 82 – The Strongest Super Saiyan! Trunks Power Unleashed! – Trunks vs. Cell
EPISODE 83 – Cell Invades the Airwaves! Announcing “The Cell Games” – Cell arranges a tournament in anticipation to fight Goku.
EPISODE 84 – Training Complete! Goku Sizes up the Competition! – Goku and Gohan complete their training and plan to participate in the Cell Games.

DISC 2:

EPISODE 85 – The Truce is Broken! The Defense Force Strikes Back at Cell! – Piccolo and Vegeta train in the Hyperbolic chamber.
EPISODE 86 – A New Guardian! The Return of the Dragon Balls! – A new Kami and Mr. Satan challenges Cell.
EPISODE 87 – Mr. Satan Takes the Stage! The Curtain Rises on the Cell Games! – Mr. Satan tries to intimidate Cell.
EPISODE 88 – Showdown! Cell vs. Goku – Goku vs. Cell

VIDEO:

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

This is where “Dragon Ball Z Kai” shines on Blu-ray and its the lossless audio. The series is presented in Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) and Dolby TrueHD 2.0 (Japanese).

There are online stores showing that the Japanese is Dolby Digital 2.0 but this is incorrect, it is indeed a lossless Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0 soundtrack. And both soundtracks sound great!

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Seven” comes with the following special features:

Textless Opening Song
Textless Closing Song
Trailers – Trailers for upcoming or currently available titles from FUNimation Entertainment.

EXTRAS:

“Dragon Ball Z Kai” Part Seven comes with a slipcover case.

“Dragon Ball Z – Part Seven” features Krillin trying to save a woman that he has fallen for, Vegeta’s ego getting in the way and thus playing into the plans of Cell and of course, the heavily anticipated matchup between Goku and Cell.

Granted, you are losing a lot of the android saga especially the training episodes in the hyberbolic chamber in preparation for the fight against Cell in “Dragon Ball Z Kai”. So, I do emphasize that if you do want to watch the Android and Cell Saga, try to find the DVD release of the anime series (the awesome orange box series or even the Japanese uncut “Dragon Box Z” series).

“Dragon Ball Z” has been such a part of the lives of many people for two decades and with this release, hopefully will entertain a new generation of DBZ fans or hook fans who have been curious about the series for a long time. Because the series only lasts 98 episodes, part seven continues with the Cell saga and will conclude in the eight volume (note: “Dragon Ball Z Kai does not showcase the Majin Buu storyline).

Overall, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” is easily a must-own anime on Blu-ray series. Granted, I’m sure that many of us are quite biased towards the “Dragon Ball” series but for those who have always been curious about “Dragon Ball Z” and have no intention watching every episode made, then “Dragon Ball Z Kai” is definitely recommended, especially now that it’s in HD!

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray

Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 1 – Limited Edition Box Set (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Review)

February 3, 2012 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

“Maho Shojo” (Magical Girl) anime series in Japan tend to be cute and sugary sweet but with the release of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” on Blu-ray/DVD, audiences will quickly discover that this magical girl anime series incorporates that cute/sweet storyline with dark, tragic undertones as well. And because of that, this award-winning anime series is not only unique, it’s also creative and exciting! And for American anime fans, Aniplex Inc. absolutely delivers in swag with the Limited Edition Blu-ray release. Definitely one of the best limited edition anime box sets to come out in the U.S. Highly recommended!

Purchase this title from Rightstuf

TITLE: Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 1 – Limited Edition Box Set

ANIME RELEASE DATE: 2011

DURATION: 4 Episodes: (100 Minutes)

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition (16:9LB Wide Screen), Japanese Linear PCM Stereo, English Linear PCM Stereo, English subtitles

COMPANY: Aniplex, Inc.

Release Date: February 14, 2012

Series Directed by Yukihiro Miyamoto

Director: Akiyuki Shinbo

Series Composition: Gen Urobuchi

Music by Yuki Kajiura

Original Character Design by Ume Aoki

Character Design by Takahiro Kishida

Art Director: Kunihiko Inaba

Chief Animation Director: Junichiro Taniguchi, Mika Takahashi

Sound Director: Yota Tsuruoka

Director of Photography: Shinichiro Eto

Anime Production: Aniplex, Shaft

Featuring the following voice talents:

Aoi Yūki/Christine Marie Cabanos as Madoka Kaname

Chiwa Saito/Cristina Vee as Homura Akemi

Emiri Katou/Cassandra Lee as Kyubey

Ai Nonaka/Laura Landa as Kyōko Sakura

Eri Kitamura/Sarah Williams as Sayaka Miki

Junko Iwao as Kazuko Saotome

Kaori Mizuhashi as Mami Tomoe/Tatsuya Kaname

Ryoko Shintani as Hitomi Shizuki

Seiko Yoshida as Kyōsuke Kamijō

Tetsuya Iwanaga as Tomohisa Kaname

Yuko Goto as Junko Kaname

This limited edition combo box set includes the first soundtrack CD, an exclusive collector’s box, a double-sided poster, a Kyubey sticker, collectible postcards, and a deluxe 24-page booklet with character designs, a special short manga by Aoki Ume and more!

“Maho Shojo” (Magical Girl) anime series in Japan tend to be cute and sugary sweet but with the release of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” on Blu-ray/DVD, audiences will quickly discover that this magical girl anime series incorporates that cute/sweet storyline with dark, tragic undertones as well. And because of that, this award-winning anime series is not only unique, it’s also creative, fresh and exciting! And for American anime fans, Aniplex Inc. absolutely delivers in swag with the Limited Edition Blu-ray release. Highly recommended!

For anime fans who grew up with magical girl anime series, from the “Magical Sammy” series spun-off from “Tenchi Muyou”, “Cardcaptor Sakura”, “Akazukin Cha Cha”, “Fancy Lala”, “Creamy Mami” to name a few, most of these anime series tend to be so sweet and sugary and cater to a niche group of anime fans.

While the series featuring older girls such as “Sailor Moon”, “Cutie Honey”, “Project A-Ko”, “Magic Knight Rayearth” had a bit of edge to the series and were known more for their action and characters which were designed as being a bit older than the “Maho Shojo” characters (which are typically young girls). And one thing about Maho Shojo anime series is that it tends to stay within the confines of storylines and characters that are typically safe, cute, bubbly and sweet.

Once in awhile, you do get the melding of cute and sweet with an atmosphere of edgy and darkness.

A 2011 anime series known as “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” took things in a much different direction that the past magical girl anime series because of its edginess and tragic elements.

Produced by Shaft and Aniplex, the 12-episode anime TV series would feature a talented working staff which included director Akiyuki Shinbo (“Hidamari Sketch”, “Dance in the Vampire Bund”, “Starship Girl Yamamoto Yohko”) and series composition by Gen Urobuchi (“Fate/Zero”, “Phantom ~Requiem for the Phantom”~, “Blassreiter”).

Music composition is by Yuki Kajiura (“.hack” series, “Noir”, “My-HiME”, “Mobile Suit Gundam Seed”, “Fate/Zero”), character design by Takahiro Kishida (“Noein – to your other self”, “Macross Zero”, “Durarara!!”) and background art by Kunhiko Inaba (“The Girl Who Leapt Through Time”, “C-Control – The Money and Soul of Possibility”).

The series was so popular that it won the Television Award at the 16th Animation Kobe Awards, won 12 NewType Anime Awards and won the Grand Prize for animation in the 2011 Japan Media Awards.

When the series streamed on the Japanese video streaming site Nico Nico Douga in June 2011, it surpassed the previous record held by Lucky Star (at 570,000 viewers) with around 1 million viewers. Also, the first Blu-ray for “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” broke the record of “Bakemonogatari” by selling 53,000 copies in its first week, 22,000 copies on its first day.

The popularity of the series eventually led to a manga series, a Sony PSP video game planned for release on March 2012 and also, a three-film project which was announced late last year.

And on Valentine’s Day of 2012, “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” will be released on Blu-ray in the United States courtesy of Aniplex. The first volume of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” features the first four episodes on Blu-ray and DVD.

But lately, Madoka has been having nightmares. A dark world filled with destruction and she watches these girls in battle. As she watches and wishes they would be stopped, she is told by a cat looking extra terrestrial known as Kyubey that Madoka can stop it if she makes a contract with him and become a “Magical Girl”.

When she meets Madoka, Madoka tells her about her love for her family and friends and Homura responds by telling her her not to change.

The Kyubey asks for both Madoka and Sayaka to sign a contract with him and become magical girls.

Homura for some reason is trying her best to prevent Madoka from accepting the contract in becoming a magical girl. But will Madoka and Sayaka want to become one?

VIDEO:

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is presented in 1080p High Definition and is presented in 16:9 LB. I have to admit that Shaft and Aniplex have done a fantastic job in this series. For one, the amount of detail for the art backgrounds is incredible. A lot of time obviously went into creating the atmosphere of this TV Series. Typically, most TV series tend to focus on trees, skies, clouds and buildings but with “”Puella Magica Madoka Magica”, a lot of thought went into the series from objects, wallpaper (even Mami’s wall-paper was designed and not just a straight painted background). You see the changes during the day and night, you can see sunset with the orange sky illuminating the area,the magical world with its creative and artistic design.

And overall, these colors really pop via HD. Reds and pinks, greens…they come are absolutely vibrant.

As for character designs, the character designs manage to keep with the “majo shojo” theme of characters looking young, even the older characters looking young. But they are nicely drawn, good amount shading and also at times showing a sketched look.

Blacks are nice and deep, the series features colors galore. If anything, the picture quality for “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is very good considering this is anime TV series. Artistic backgrounds, creative magical worlds, cool character designs… “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” looks great!

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is presented in Japanese and English Linear PCM Stereo.

While I would have hoped for a 5.1 soundtrack (as I would have loved to have more immersion with the surround channels and LFE), most anime TV series aren’t and are presented in stereo. Still, fans should be happy that two linear PCM tracks are included. They are front-channel driven and for the most part, dialogue and sound effects are quite clear and understandable.

But what stands out the most in this soundtrack is Yuki Kajiura’s music. Each time I see her name associated with an anime series, if you are familiar with her work, you immediately know that the soundtrack is going to be wonderful and beautiful. With “Puella Magi Madoka Magica”, once again Kajiura’s music is captivating and it really enhanced my enjoyment of the series.

Subtitles are in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” comes with the following special features:

Ending Theme: “Magia” Music Video – (5:18)”Magia” music video featuring Kalafina.
Textless Opening – Textless opening by “ClariS”.
Trailers – The original Japanese TV commercials and trailers for “Puella Magica Madoka Magica”

EXTRAS:

Aniplex is a Japanese company that is well-known for their anime but also known for their releases which come with a lot of swag. And it’s one thing that I love about Aniplex because not many companies do that anymore and it’s something that fans in America tend to wish for, getting these limited edition art booklets, soundtracks, etc.

Well, with “Puella Magi Madoka Magica”, I can gladly say that this is possible one of the most impressive anime sets to come out in the United States.

This exciting limited edition set includes the Blu-ray and DVD of the first volume of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” but also featuring the original soundtrack which comes with a 2-sided cover, a deluxe collector’s slipcase, reversible 2-sided DVD cover, a 24-page booklet featuring staff and voice actor interviews plus character designs and a 4-panel manga by aokume, a 2-sided poster, postcarts of “preview illustrations” from episodes 1-4 and exclusive KYUBEY stickers.

This is a very impressive release and it’s important for fans to know that the booklet is English translated and the CD soundtrack features a total of 13 songs (soundtrack duration is 28:06 minutes) and features the beautiful music by Yuki Kajiura.

The soundtrack comes with the following tracks:

Sis puella magica!
Salve, terrae magicae
Gradus prohibitus
Credens justitiam
Clementia
Desiderium
Conturbatio
Postmeridie
Puella in somnio
Umbra nigra
Terror adhaerens
Scaena felix
Pugna com maga

I have watched a lot of magical girl anime series and there are some that are just too sugary and sweet and some that are just flat out, bad.

“Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is one of the better anime series out there and for one, not only do you have a few very well-known anime industry talents from Japan working on this series, the production and look of the series goes far beyond what one would expect from an anime TV series. From the moment you watch this anime series, the first episode shows us the amount of detail that goes into the art backgrounds, the artistic creativity that goes into the making of the magical world during battles, the character designs and experimental ways of presenting it onscreen and of course, the fantastic music by Yuki Kajiura in combination with a storyline that is not only cute, but also dark and tragic.

You don’t usually see this in an anime TV series, let alone a magical girl anime series. “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” features wonderful production values and I can see why this series has won so many awards in Japan. It’s quite unique and creative in presentation and as for the storyline, what I enjoy is how things go from cute to dark really quickly.

And for American fans, once again, Aniplex has done a wonderful job by providing possibly one of the best anime box set releases that I have seen released in America. When you think about it, the days of the box sets have come and gone in the U.S., and although we see these limited edition sets for video games, I’m quite thrilled that Aniplex has chosen to release this Blu-release with a limited edition box set with so many cool swag. Soundtrack, booklet, postcards, stickers, etc. Possibly the icing on the cake for the near future for anime fans would be the inclusion of nenodroids and action figures, which hardcore anime fans are known to spend money on.

But there is no denying that this is a wonderful Blu-ray release and a limited edition box set worth owning. And it’s important for people to know that Aniplex releases are highly desired, not many are made and when they say limited, these are truly limited editions, so you may want to try your best in getting this release if you can before they run out!

Overall, you don’t usually come across an anime series especially a magical girl anime series that has wonderful anime production, doesn’t look rushed or simple. “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is a creative, unique and captivating series that is not too banal or too sweet and shows that the character’s choices can lead to tragic circumstance.

As for the “Puella Magi Madoka Magica Vol. 1 – Limited Edition Box Set”, it’s one of the better anime swag-filled limited edition box sets to come out in the United States and for the anime fans who are collector’s, you definitely want to get this limited edition release.

Definitely recommended!

Purchase this title from Rightstuf

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray

Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Five (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Disc Review)

September 26, 2011 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

Another action-packed, thrilling volume of “Dragon Ball Z Kai”! Part Five of “Dragon Ball Z Kai” features the introduction of Future Trunks as he comes from the future to give the Z-Warriors a dire message that the androids are coming! If you are looking for an action anime series, look no further. “Dragon Ball Z Kai” is awesome!

TITLE: Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Five

DURATION: (Episodes 53-65) 325 Minutes

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition (4:3), English Dolby TrueHD 5.1, Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0, Subtitles: English

COMPANY: Toei Animation/FUNimation Entertainment

RATED: TV PG

Release Date: June 28, 2011

Originally created by Akira Toriyama

Directed by Yasuhiro Nowatari

Produced by Kazuya Watanabe, Kohei Obara, Kyotaro Kimura, Makoto Seino

Music by Kenji Yamamoto

Theme Song Arrangement: Seiichi Kyouda

Anime Production: Toei Animation

Featuring the following voice talent:

Masako Nozawa/Colleen Clinkenbeard as Son Gohan

Masako Nozawa/Sean Schemmel as Son Goku

Hikaru Midorikawa/John Burgmeier as Tenshinhan (Tien)

Hiromi Tsuru/Monica Rial as Bulma

Masaharu Satou/Mike McFarland as Kame-sennin

Mayumi Tanaka/Sonny Strait as Krillin (Kuririn)

Naoki Tatsuta/Bryan Massey as Oolong

Naoko Watanabe/Cynthia Cranz as Chi-Chi

Ryo Horikawa/Christopher R. Sabat as Vegeta

Brina Palencia as Chiaotzu/Puar

Tohru Furuya/Christopher R. Sabat as Yamcha

Toshio Furukawa/Christopher R. Sabat as Piccolo

Shigeru Chiba/Justin Cook as Raditz

Tetsu Inada/Phil Parsons as Nappa

Yasuhiko Kawazu/Christopher R. Sabat as Mr. Popo

Mayumi Tanaka/Mike McFarland as Yajirobe

The epic showdown between Goku and Frieza reaches its climax as planet Namek crumbles beneath their feet! In the aftermath of battle, neither fighter is anywhere to be found, but Earth’s few remaining heroes have much bigger problems. A mysterious and powerful stranger known only as Trunks arrives from the future with a warning: the Androids are coming, they take no prisoners, and even Goku – wherever he may be – is no match for their kind!

The action-packed anime series “Dragon Ball Z” is back and not long after Goku’s battle with Frieza, we are introduced to a mysterious teenager from the future named Trunks who warns the Z-Warriors of the pending arrival of the Androids. With three years to train, will Goku and friends be ready to take on the power androids which devastated Trunks world?

Needless to say, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” received rave reviews from fans in Japan, while some hardcore DBZ fans had a hard time watching a new interpretation of the series (especially with newer music) but when it was announced that the series would be released in the USA on Blu-ray and DVD, fans were happy and with the first volume, needless to say, I was quite happy with the first Blu-ray release of “Dragon Ball Z Kai” and if you enjoyed the first five volumes, there is no doubt that you are going to enjoy “Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Six”.

For my review of this Blu-ray release, I’m going to assume that many of the people reading this are familiar with the series. If you aren’t, if you want to experience the full “Dragon Ball Z” 291 episodes, FUNimation Entertainment currently has two releases of the series on DVD but at the same time, it is not imperative to watch the original “Dragon Ball” series to understand “Dragon Ball Z Kai” but it is important if you want to know the relationships of each character.

Currently available from FUNimation Entertainment is “Dragon Ball” which covers the younger years of Goku. “Dragon Ball Z” covers the adults years of Goku and have been released in nine volumes (seasons) via an “orange box release”. All nine volumes covers all 291 episodes and were remastered by FUNimation Entertainment but presented in 16×9 and utilizes both English and Japanese dub but caters to the English audience crowd who watched the series on television.

In 2009 and currently in the present, FUNimation Entertainment has released the “Dragon Box Z” DVD box set releases (as of this review, there have been a total of four volumes released featuring over 30-episodes each). These releases are to satisfy the hardcore Dragon Ball Z fans who wanted the original Japanese uncut episodes, original Japanese music score but most importantly, the series being presented in its original aspect ratio of 4×3.

So, here were are in 2011 with the fifth volume release of “Dragon Ball Z Kai” presented in HD. These episodes are without the non-essential scenes or filler episodes and instead of 291 episodes, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” has a duration of 100 episodes and with this latest volume, you have 11 episodes.

Here is a basic summary of “Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Five” (episodes 53-65) on the two Blu-ray discs:

Disc 1:

EPISODE 53 – Goku’s Final Attack! Countdown to Planet Namek’s Destruction! - A new Grand Elder is selected, meanwhile will Goku escape from Planet Namek before it explodes.
EPISODE 54 – Goku Vanishes Into Space! Welcome Home, Super Warriors!- Z-Warriors resurrected.
EPISODE 55 – There Is Planet Earth, Father! Frieza and King Cold Strike Back! – A year later and the Z Fighters gather to fight Frieza and King Cold.
EPISODE 56 – I Will Defeat Frieza! Another Super Saiyan! – Who is the mysterious teenager that is taking on Frieza?
EPISODE 57 - Welcome Back, Goku! Confessions of the Mysterious Youth, Trunks! – Goku returns and a message from Trunks.
EPISODE 58- Goku’s New Move, Instant Transmission! The Three-Year Training Session Begins – Goku and team train for three years to prepare for the battle against the Androids.
EPISODE 59 - Undetectable Monsters! The Androids Appear! – Yamcha vs. the Androids.
EPISODE 60 – The Unbeatable Enemy Within! Goku vs. Android 19!- Goku vs. Android 19.

DISC 2:

EPISODE 61 - No Victory for Android 19! Enter Super Vegeta! – Vegeta vs. Android 19.
EPISODE 62 – Piccolo’s Assault! Android 20 and the Twisted Future! – The Z-Warriors look for Android 20.
EPISODE 63 – The Hunt for Doctor Gero! Discover the Hidden Laboratory! – Krillin and Tien search Dr. Gero’s lab.
EPISODE 64 - Number 17 and Number 18! The Androids Awaken!! – Android 17 and 18 awaken.
EPISODE 65 - A Sweet Face and Super Power?! Android 18 vs Vegeta! - Vegeta vs. Android 18.

VIDEO:

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

This is where “Dragon Ball Z Kai” shines on Blu-ray and its the lossless audio. The series is presented in Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) and Dolby TrueHD 2.0 (Japanese).

There are online stores showing that the Japanese is Dolby Digital 2.0 but this is incorrect, it is indeed a lossless Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0 soundtrack. And both soundtracks sound great!

As for the English dub work, the voice acting has also been revamped with Colleen Clinkenbeard now providing the voice for Son Gohan, Monica Rial for Bulma and Brina Palencia for Chiaotzu and Puar. In Japan, the most noticeable difference is for Kame Sen’nin (Master Roshi) as Kohei Miayuchi passed away during the final season of “Dragon Ball Z” back in 1995 and for DBZ Kai is voiced by Masaharu Satou.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Five” comes with the following special features:

Textless Opening Song
Textless Closing Song
Trailers – Trailers for upcoming or currently available titles from FUNimation Entertainment.

EXTRAS:

“Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Five” comes with a slipcover case.

Possibly one of the greatest characters to make an appearance in an anime series, Future Trunks, definitely made a tremendous impact when he first appeared on “Dragon Ball Z”.

The future son of Vegeta and Bulma, Future Trunks was a big surprise when he went on to take on Frieza and his father all by himself and in the past Frieza saga, everyone knows how long and how far Goku and Vegeta and friends had to go in order to defeat him.

Yet, this mysterious teenager from the future came with incredible power but also with a warning of two androids who would literally destroy humanity. If Future Trunks can’t beat them who can?

This latest saga in the “Dragon Ball Z” storyline is the primary focus of “Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Five” and this latest volume incorporates Future Trunks and the Z-Warriors as they prepare and take on their deadliest foes yet.

Granted, you are losing a lot of the android saga in “Dragon Ball Z Kai”, especially the Future Trunks special which to me was an important part of the original series. So, I do emphasize that if you do want to watch the Android and Cell Saga, try to find the Blu-ray release of the Future Trunk specials and check out the series. It’s important to note that FUNimation Entertainment is planning to re-release the complete series of “Dragon Ball Z” on Blu-ray and also, the “Dragon Box Z” uncut DVD box sets are still being released.

Overall, if you are a “Dragon Ball” fan, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” is easily a must-own anime on Blu-ray series. Granted, I’m quite biased towards the entire “Dragon Ball” series but for those who have always been curious about “Dragon Ball Z” and have no intention watching every episode made, then “Dragon Ball Z Kai” is definitely recommended, especially now that it’s in on Blu-ray.

Definitely recommended!

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray

Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Six (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Disc Review)

September 11, 2011 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

The action continues in part six of “Dragon Ball Z Kai”! The series features the conclusion of the Android Saga and sets up the beginning of the Cell Saga.

TITLE: Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Six

DURATION: (Episodes 66-77) 300 Minutes

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition (4:3), English Dolby TrueHD 5.1, Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0, Subtitles: English

COMPANY: Toei Animation/FUNimation Entertainment

RATED: TV PG

Release Date: September 13, 2011

Originally created by Akira Toriyama

Directed by Yasuhiro Nowatari

Produced by Kazuya Watanabe, Kohei Obara, Kyotaro Kimura, Makoto Seino

Music by Kenji Yamamoto

Theme Song Arrangement: Seiichi Kyouda

Anime Production: Toei Animation

Featuring the following voice talent:

Masako Nozawa/Colleen Clinkenbeard as Son Gohan

Masako Nozawa/Sean Schemmel as Son Goku

Hikaru Midorikawa/John Burgmeier as Tenshinhan (Tien)

Hiromi Tsuru/Monica Rial as Bulma

Masaharu Satou/Mike McFarland as Kame-sennin

Mayumi Tanaka/Sonny Strait as Krillin (Kuririn)

Naoki Tatsuta/Bryan Massey as Oolong

Naoko Watanabe/Cynthia Cranz as Chi-Chi

Ryo Horikawa/Christopher R. Sabat as Vegeta

Brina Palencia as Chiaotzu/Puar

Tohru Furuya/Christopher R. Sabat as Yamcha

Toshio Furukawa/Christopher R. Sabat as Piccolo

Shigeru Chiba/Justin Cook as Raditz

Tetsu Inada/Phil Parsons as Nappa

Yasuhiko Kawazu/Christopher R. Sabat as Mr. Popo

Mayumi Tanaka/Mike McFarland as Yajirobe

Earth’s heroes continue their brave battle against the Android attackers, but a far greater evil looms on the horizon! As Goku hovers between life and death, the monster known as Cell blazes a trail of death and destruction on a quest to achieve his horrifyingly perfect form.

Should the hideous creature succeed in devouring his Android brethren, not even the combined powers of a Super Saiyan and a Super Namekian will be able to spare the people of Earth from excruciating extinction!

The action-packed anime series “Dragon Ball Z” is back and the threat of the Androids and Cell is featured in the latest part six of the series!

Needless to say, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” received rave reviews from fans in Japan, while some hardcore DBZ fans had a hard time watching a new interpretation of the series (especially with newer music) but when it was announced that the series would be released in the USA on Blu-ray and DVD, fans were happy and with the first volume, needless to say, I was quite happy with the first Blu-ray release of “Dragon Ball Z Kai” and if you enjoyed the first five volumes, there is no doubt that you are going to enjoy “Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Six”

So, here were are in 2011 with the sixth volume release of “Dragon Ball Z Kai” presented in HD. These episodes are without the non-essential scenes or filler episodes and instead of 291 episodes, “Dragon Ball Z Kai” has a duration of 98 episodes and with this latest volume, you have 11 episodes.

Here is a basic summary of “Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Six” (episodes 66-77) on the two Blu-ray discs:

Disc 1:

EPISODE 66 – The Time For Reunification Has Come! Piccolo’s Unshakeable Resolve! - Krillin uses the remaining Senzu beans to help Trunks, Tien and Piccolo. Piccolo tries to convince Kami to merge in order to fight the androids.
EPISODE 67 – Another Time Machine? Bulma Uncovers a Mystery! – Trunks receives a message that another time machine may have come to his world…
EPISODE 68 – The Monster Goes Into Motion! Strike Up the Super Namekian! – Trunks, Gohan and Bulma investigate the other time machine which they notice remnants of a shell belonging to whoever was in the other time machine.
EPISODE 69 – I Am Your Brother! The Monster With Goku’s Energy – Piccolo takes on the monster named Cell.
EPISODE 70 – The Dizzying Deception and the Daring Escape! Defeat the Android! – Cell talks about how if he absorb Androids #17 and #18, he can achieve his “perfect” form.
EPISODE 71- The Hunt For Cell Is On! Goku, Back in Action! – Trunks and Krillin investigate Cell in Dr. Gero’s laboratory.
EPISODE 72 – Break the Super Saiyan Barrier! Into the Hyperbolic Time Chamber! – Goku uses his Instant Transmittion ability to take Gohan, Vegeta and Trunks with him to the Hyperbolic Time chamber.
EPISODE 73 – The Super Namekian Powers Up! Piccol vs. Android 17! – Bulma tries to decipher Dr. Gero’s blue prints, meanwhile Piccolo takes on Android #17.

DISC 2:

EPISODE 74 – Run, Android 17! Piccolo’s All-Or Nothing Struggle! – Krillin tries to use the shut-down device before Cell can absorb Androids #17 and #18.
EPISODE 75 – Power Unknown! Android 16 Breaks His Silence! -Android #16 tries to fight Cell in order for him not to reach his perfect form. Cell tries to absorb Android #17.
EPISODE 76 – Tien’s Desperate Attack! Save Your Friends, Goku! – Tien vs. Cell, meanwhile Gou and Gohan enter the time chamber for training. Meanwhile, Cell’s path of destruction continues as he tries to search for Android #18.
EPISODE 77 – Beyond Super Saiyan! Vegeta Confronts the Monster Cell! – Cells destruction continues, Vegeta vs. Cell.

VIDEO:

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

This is where “Dragon Ball Z Kai” shines on Blu-ray and its the lossless audio. The series is presented in Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) and Dolby TrueHD 2.0 (Japanese).

There are online stores showing that the Japanese is Dolby Digital 2.0 but this is incorrect, it is indeed a lossless Japanese Dolby TrueHD 2.0 soundtrack. And both soundtracks sound great!

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Dragon Ball Z Kai – Part Six” comes with the following special features:

Textless Opening Song
Textless Closing Song
Trailers – Trailers for upcoming or currently available titles from FUNimation Entertainment.

EXTRAS:

Like the previous five volumes of “Dragon Ball Z Kai”, this release comes with a slipcase.

For many “Dragon Ball Z” fans, the battle between the Z Warriors and Cell is a fan favorite. With part size of “Dragon Ball Z Kai”, you get the conclusion of the Android saga which leads up to the beginning of the Cell Saga and this is definitely one of the more intense action-packed battle sagas in the whole “Dragon Ball Z” series and was popular in Japan due to the popularity of Future Trunks.

“Dragon Ball Z – Part Six” was pretty cool. . From Kirilin having feelings for Android 18, Android 16 showing his love for nature and wanting to help the team, Goku showing his newfound power but noticing that his son has an even impressive power and so much more!

Granted, you are losing a lot of the android saga in “Dragon Ball Z Kai”, especially the Future Trunk special which to me was an important part of the original series. So, I do emphasize that if you do want to watch the Android and Cell Saga, try to find the Blu-ray release of the Future Trunks specials and check out the series. It’s important to note that FUNimation Entertainment is planning to re-release the complete series of “Dragon Ball Z” on Blu-ray and also, the “Dragon Box Z” uncut DVD box sets are still being released.

“Dragon Ball Z” has been such a part of the lives of many people for two decades and with this release, hopefully will entertain a new generation of DBZ fans or hook fans who have been curious about the series for a long time. Because the series only lasts 100 episodes, part six completes the Android saga and begins the Cell saga which will be a big part of part seven and eight (note: “Dragon Ball Z Kai does not showcase the Majin Buu storyline).

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray

Needless: Collection 2 (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray review)

May 6, 2011 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

“Needless: Collection 2″ (The final twelve episodes) continues the action, fan-service and perversion of the series that fans enjoyed from the first half. Much more deeper, much more action, “Needless: Collection 2″ reveals how the Adam’s came to be, what happened to Cruz’ sister and the fate of Blade and the team. Recommended!

TITLE: Needless: Collection 2

DURATION: Episodes 13-24 (300 Minutes)

BLU-RAY DISC INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition 16×9 HD Native, Dolby TrueHD English 2.0 and Dolby TrueHD Japanese 2.0, Subtitles: English

RATED: TV 14 VLD

COMPANY: Showgate/Sentai Filmworks

RELEASE DATE: April 12, 2011

Originally Created by Kami Imai

Directed by Masayuki Sakoi

Series Composition by Satoru Nishizono

Screenplay by Satoru Nishizono and Yuki Enatsu

Music by Masaaki Iizuka, Tatsuya Katou

Character Design by Hiromi Kato

Art Director: Yuka Okamoto

Chief Animation Director: Kazuo Watanabe, Yoshio Kosakai

Anime Production: Madhouse Studios

Featuring the voices of:

Aya Endo/Luci Christian as Cruz Schild

Eri Kitamura/Brittney Karbowski as Eve Neuschwanstein

Takehito Koyasu/Andrew Love as Adam Blade

Asami Imai/Elizabeth Bunch as Solva

Emiri Katou/Serena Gonzalez as Disc

Hiroki Touchi/David Matranga as Adam Arclight

Kaori Fukuhara/Maggie Flecknoe as Seto

Kenji Utsumi/David Wald as Gido

Kentarou Itou/Rob Mungle as Momiji Teruyama

Kishô Taniyama/Leraldo Anzaldua as Saten

Mariya Ise/Carli Mosier as Aruka Schild

Megumi Toyoguchi/Taylor Hannah as Riru Rōkakuji

Minori Chihara/Raven Hand as Kuchinashi

Saori Goto/Jessica Boone as Setsuna

Yui Makino/Hilary Haag as Mio

Adam Arklight and his band of super-hotties are ready to take over the world, but not if the macho, mutant hero Blade has anything to say about it. Still, it’s tough when your opponents are ridiculously cute girls in really sexy school uniforms. But with this much at stake maybe even Blade can keep his mind on the job and his eyes on the prize. (Yeah, right.)

In 2004, the manga series “Needless” was published for the first time on Shueisha’s Seinen magazine “Ultra Jump”. Created by Kami Imai (also creator of “Katatsumuri-chan” and “Shirasunamura”), a total of eleven volumes have been published. By 2009, “Needless” would receive its 24-episode TV anime adaptation courtesy of Madhouse.

The anime series would be directed by Masayuki Sakoi (“Kamen no Maid Guy”, “Spice and Wolf”, “Princess Resurrection”), series composition by Satoru Nishizono (“Duel Masters”, “Mazinkaiser”, “Naruto”, “Sgt. Frog”), character designs by Hiromi Kato (“6 Angels”, “CLAMP in Wonderland 2″, “Bush Baby”) and art background by Yuka Okamoto (“Kamen no Maid Guy”, “Princess Resurrection”, “Trigun”, “Ichigo 100%”).

And now the series has been released in America courtesy of Sentai Filmworks on Blu-ray and DVD. Collection 1 feature the first 12 episodes, was released in Feb. 2011, Collection 2 features second half of 12-episodes on 2 Blu-ray discs.

“Needless” Back-Story

“Needless” takes place sometime in the 21st century when World War III has taken place all over the world and a power bomb was detonated. Half a century later, the highly contaminated crater where the bomb was detonated became a black hole in Japan, known as “The Black Spot”.

Suddenly people from that black spot began to appear. They were treated as undesirable from people of other cities because among those undesirables were people who were able to wield superhuman powers. The ability to control these powers, fragments and these people with special abilities became known as “Needless”.

The series begins with Cruz Schild, a young boy running away with his sister Aruka. Both have are wanted by the Simeon and are being hunted down by a Testament. Aruka was able to save Cruz from danger but Cruz believes that his sister died in battle.

When Cruz was about to be hunted down, he is quickly rescued by the mysterious Adam Blade and Eve Neuschwanstein. When it is explained that he is the last surviving person of the rebellion, Adam takes him in with their group (as a gopher). But when word gets out to the Simeon that Adam Blade has rescued Cruz, other powerful Needless are anxious to take on Adam Blade and his group and kill them.

Leading the group of Simeon is Adam Arclight, a spitting image of Adam Blade who is a clone that was rejected and was supposed to be destroyed. Because of that, he harbors a hatred towards Adam Blade (for being the successful clone) and hatred towards the scientists who created him. Now he has created an empire in the Black Spot, having his Four Strongest of Simeon and other Needless scouring the land for other Needless. His goal is to obtain Blade’s body because his own body is unstable from absorbing the powers of captured Needless, making him absolutely powerful.

“Needless: Collection 1″ features Adam Blade’s group taking on various Needless who are on the Simeon side including the Simeon Girl Force but while traveling, the group recruit other Needless who are willing to join Adam Blade’s side and take on Adam Arclight and the Simeon Needless.

“Needless: Collection 2″ kicks off where the last episode ended with the Simeon Girl Force nearly slaughtering everyone in Adam Blade’s team thanks to a Simeon controlled Eve. As everyone thought they were able to save Eve from mind control, it was all a ruse and with Eve’s doppelganger technique, she was able to nearly impale everyone.

Meanwhile, Cruz learns the truth of what happened to his older sister, Aruka Schild and we learn more about the past of Adam Blade, Adam Arclight, Eve and Saten.

This all leads to a final, long-awaited battle between Blade vs. Arclight.

“Needless” features the following characters:

THE MISFITS (BLADE FACTION)

Adam Balde- A destroyer priest who lives in the church in sector. He sports a metal collar with the character “079.AB” on his neck. Adam has superhuman strength and endurance, a skeletal structure with a special metal known as “Orichalum” and a quick healing factor. He also has the ability to learn an enemies ability and is a bit perverted.
Eve Neuschwanstein – Blade’s partner who is bad at names and is an excellent fighter. She has the power to create a “doppelganger” and shapeshift into whatever she wants. Her power can last long when she drinks an energy drink known as “Super Gel Dero Doro” because it carries 5000 kilocalories. For some reason, the enemy is wanting to capture her.
Cruz Schild - A young boy who escaped with his sister Aruka. While Cruz was rescued by Adam, his sister Aruka is thought to be killed. Cruz accompanies Adam and Eve in a gopher type of capacity. Very smart for his age.
Dr. Gido - An elderly scientist who has helped Adam and Eve.
Disk – A cyborg from Iron Mountain who has the appearance of a girl but she is actually 100 years old. She has the power to scan enemies and learn their power and also measurements.
Momiji Teruyama - A flame Needless who wants to fight Blade to avenge his fallen comrades. But when he mistakes Adam Blade for Adam Arclight, due to the damage he created during their fight and unable to pay for it, he is forced to join Adam’s group.

SIMEON UPPER MANAGEMENT (ARCLIGHT FACTION)

The main antagonists of the series.

Adam Arclight – Identical in appearance to Adam Blade, Arclight is the clone of The Second. He also wears a metal collar which features the engraving “078.AA”. Because his right eye and heart rejected the cloned cells of The Second, he is deemed as a failure clone and was supposed to be destroyed. Instead, he made himself powerful and now hunts down Adam Blade and the other members of the resistance. (note: I have seen spelling of the last name as “Arclight” and “Arklight”)
Riru Roukakuji – A well-endowed woman who is one of the four strongest of the Simeon and is Adam Arclight’s right hand person. She leads the Simeon Girl Force.
Mio – One of the members of The Simeon Girl Force. She looks very young and helpless but in fact, her fragment power is enormous strength. She is often called “Stripes” by Blade because she wears striped underwear.
Setsuna – One of the members of The Simeon Girl Force. Her fragment power is speed and is the leader of the group.
Kuchinashi – One of the members of The Simeon Girl Force. Her fragment power is fragrance and is able to control a person’s brain and body functions when they inhale the fragrance she emits. She is unable to speak and writes down what she wants to say.
Saten – One of Arklight’s four strong Simeon and his right hand man. He seems to have his own agenda and may have feelings for Eve.
Riru Roukakuji – One of the four strong Simeon and the leader of the Simeon Girl Force. Known for her power “Psychokinesis” and also being well-endowed. She is deeply in love with Adam Arclilght.

VIDEO:

“Needless: Collection 1″ is presented in 1080p High Definition. Madhouse did a very good job with the animation for this film. The character design for the series varies from sexy to action-packed craziness! For a TV series, the character designs have a good amount of shading, the color palette is vibrant and the artistic backgrounds of a post-apocalyptic Earth was well-done! Even when you see vehicles or buildings, they are painted quite well, the backgrounds for not just the characters but vehicles and other objects are well-shaded. And every character was drawn with emotion and detail as well.

I actually did a test to compare the Blu-ray and DVD version of “Needless” and the Blu-ray is so colorful and vibrant, I was quite impressed. The DVD version actually had compression and I was pleased that none of that showed up during my viewing of the Blu-ray. I did not see any distortions, artifacting, haloing, edge enhancement during my viewing of “Needless: Collection 1″. Overall, solid PQ for this anime series!

AUDIO:

“Needless: Collection 2″ is presented in English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. Both lossless soundtracks were very good. Would have loved for it to be a 5.1 or higher soundtrack but if you have a receiver, you can easily make all channels to stereo for a more immersive soundscape. I watched the series both in English and Japanese and I felt that both were well-done.

The primary difference is that I sense a bit of “valley girl” in the English dub for some of the Simeon female warriors but for the most part, I think those who prefer to watch in Japan or English will feel the acting was well-done for both and actually for this series, I enjoyed the English dub over the Japanese vocal track.

Subtitles are in English.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Needless: Collection 2″ comes with the following special features:

The Secret of Saint Lilly Academy – Featuring the following final six fan service driven short episodes as Cruz continues to live in an all female dorm room, disguised as a female student.
Needless Information – Information on certain words used throughout the series.
Production Sketches – Featuring production sketches playing along with along with the opening theme music.
Textless Opening and Closing Songs – The textless opening and ending theme songs.
Trailers – Sentai Filmworks trailers.

When I reviewed “Needless: Collection 1″, I talked about how this fan-service anime series took me by surprise because aside from the fun and risque situations that the characters find themselves in, by episode 10-12, things became more dire, more bloody, violent and a little dark.

Here we are with “Needless: Collection 2″ continuing the storyline of what happened to Adam Blade’s team after a mind-controlled Eve who is with the Simeon Girl Force, has literally impaled many members of the team. And because of this, I felt the anime series really was a shocker.

Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on the viewer), not many people stay dead in the series. There are many who die, are brought back to life and in the second half, it seems to repeat itself quite a bit that I was a wee bit disappointed because I found myself asking… “Does anyone ever stay dead in ‘Needless’?”.

Aside from the dying and resurrections, a positive of the second half of the series is we get to learn more about what really happened at the resistance with Cruz and Aruka. And what really happened to Aruka. We are also taken to the distant past to learn about how both Adam’s and Eve and a few others were developed and how Dr. Seto played a part in the development of Blade, Arklight and Eve.

And there are other twist and turns along the way which leads to the final battle against Adam Arklight.

As for the Blu-ray release, the fact that this release does have special features, especially the perverted “The Secret of Saint Lilly Academy Shorts” was rather amusing. You also get production sketches and the usual textless opening and ending theme.

The second half still continues to showcase plenty of panty shots, so those who love anime series with plenty of fan service will no doubt enjoy “Needless”. I will say that the first half was a little more risque compared to the second half of the series.

While I did enjoy the whole entire series, and while the first half of the series was very exciting, the second half was still a very entertaining second half with a lot of action (yes, more action than the first). If there were two things that irked me a bit though with the second half is that no one really stayed dead. I would have felt the series would have true impact if characters stayed dead and not being constantly revived. The other is how the series ended. While, the series does give closure to how things end, I wished a little more time was given to how the series would close out. I felt that too much was crammed in for the final minutes of the series.

But I can understand why the female characters were constantly revived as these characters, with their scantily-clad outfits, I wouldn’t be surprised if the “Needless” figures are quite popular in Japan and that many otaku have become fixated on a certain character. The finale still provides closure, I just wanted a bit more storyline. But I can easily say that these two collections of “Needless” were exciting, fun and I found myself watching episode after episode because they were enjoyable and addicting.

If you are looking for an anime series that is action-driven but also has its share of comedy, perversion and fan-service, look no further, “Needless: Collection 1 and 2″ on Blu-ray is for you!

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray