Naruto volume 55 by Masashi Kishimoto (a J!-ENT Manga Review)

February 7, 2012 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

The Great Ninja war begins and the unity of the ninja villages take on the revived legendary ninjas of the past led by Kabuto. A thrilling, all-action volume that “Naruto” fans will surely love! Recommended!

MANGA TITLE: Naruto Volume 55

STORY AND ART BY: Masashi Kishimoto (岸本斉史)

FIRST PUBLISHED IN JAPAN: SHUEISHA, Inc.

PUBLISHED IN USA BY: VIZ Media, LLC/Shonen Jump Manga

RATED: T for Older Teen

RELEASE DATE: March 6, 2012

The Great War Begins. Evil masterminds Kabuto and Madara instigate skirmish with Naruto and friends on Turtle Island. The Allied Shinobi Forces prepare to attack, but are they read for Kabuto’s horde of reanimated dead ninja?!

The popular manga series “Naruto” has been going strong since its debut in Shueisha back in 1999 via “Weekly Shonen Jump” magazine.

The manga by Masashi Kishimoto is about a young ninja named Naruto Uzamaki, a ninja of the Konoha leaf village who grew up facing prejudiced within his fellow ninjas because the evil nine-tailed fox was sealed inside him. But throughout the series, we have seen how Naruto is a kind-hearted boy who has worked hard in protecting his friends and staying true to his word with the goal of someday becoming the next Hokage of the village.

In the beginning, Naruto was part of Team Kakashi, alongside Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno and as a team, have grown up together taking on missions and also, joining with other teams of Team Konoha as well as other villages in taking on other major missions as well.

But now years have passed since those earlier years of Team Kakashi and Naruto and his friends are much older and his teammate Sasuke has left the village to pursue his brother Itachi for revenge of killing everyone of the Uchiha clan but worst of all, Sasuke is in search of the traitor of the Konoha village, the evil Orochimaru, in order to obtain more power.

During Naruto’s last confrontation with Sasuke, it appears that a black evil curse has consumed him. But as a promise to his teammate Sakura, Naruto will do what it takes to bring Sasuke back despite whether or not Sasuke has become evil.

Volume 55 of the “Naruto” manga series features the beginning of the Great War as the ninja villages have united to take on the dead, past Gokage and deceased Akatsuki members and other deadly ninjas revived by Kabuto to take on the various ninja clans.

The dead know they have been revived but are not able to control their bodies (which is being controlled by Kabuto). The goal of capturing Naruto for his nine-tail powers continues, but the ninja villages were able to hide Naruto in a moving island. Meanwhile, Naruto is unaware of what is going on the outside world other than he is working on a mission. But everyone is hoping that Killer Bee can train Naruto on how to gain control of the nine-tail fox and prepare for the big war.

Meanwhile, as ninja units have been assembled on both sides, it’s a battle to the death as the ninjas of other villages must take on the ninjas that have been revived. This includes the return of a few of the deadly Akatsuki and also for Kakashi, the return of Zabuza and Haku. But this time, Zabuza and the revived legendary swordsmen of the mist are ready to fight.

Here is a brief summary of each chapter of “Naruto Volume 55″:

Number 515 – The Great War Begins! – Naruto learns from Killer Bee on how to control the nine-tails chakra while the Ninja villages set up squads to prepare for the Great War. Kabut sends out the revived Gokage and Akatsuki members and takes control of them for battle.
Number 516 – Gaara’s Speech – As rival ninja villages must work together, Gaara tries to bring unity to the rival clans and prepare for war.
Number 517 – Omoi’s War – Commando Unit Captain Kankuro takes his team to take on the revived Deidara and Sasori. Meanwhile, Sai confronts his brother.
Number 518 – Battle of the Commando Units!! - The battle between the opposing units continue.
Number 519 – The Biju Bomb – Killer Bee tries to teach Naruto the Biju bomb and also learn of the ramifications of the new jutsu.
Number 520 – Secrets of the Edotensei – Kabuto reveals the secrets of the Edotensei.
Number 521 – The Main Regiment in Batle!! – The battle continues as Kakashi takes on the revived Zabuza.
Number 522 – We Died. – Zabuza and Haku find out that they have died and have been revived.
Number 523 – The Legendary Seven Swordsmen of the Mist!! – The commando unit led by Kakashi must take on the legendary seven swordsmen of the Mist.
Number 524 – That Which Ought to be Protected – Kakashi vs. Zabuza to the death.

“Naruto” vol .55 begins the Great Ninja War and one can expect plenty of action in these latest chapters.

And despite all ninja villages banding together for the war, Kabuto has revived legendary ninjas, swordsmen and former leaders of ninja villages, including the Akatsuki and he has complete control over them. No matter how hard the dead try to fight Kabuto’s control, they are unable to break it and must fight against their former rivals, family members and friends.

As for Naruto, the training he is receiving from Killer Bee is starting to work but he finds out that through this new jutsu, he is unable to use shadow clones otherwise, the nine-tail fox will consume as much chakra to kill Naruto. Naruto must learn how to control the beast within and utilize its power (essentially swapping his power with nine-tails power) without dying.

Needless to say, this latest volume of “Naruto” is an intense, all-action fight-fes! And the war is captured amazing well in this latest volume as Masashi Kishimoto tries to capture the essence of battle between the ninjas as the village may have the numbers, but Kabuto’s revived dead ninjas have the power. Strategy comes to play and who will win and who will lose will be quite interesting because it seems that as of now, Kabuto has the edge.

I can’t wait to see how this overall storyline develops especially how Naruto develops from his training.

Overall, “Naruto” is an awesome manga series and for those who have appreciated the anime series first, will definitely enjoy the manga series as well. And once again, another thrilling, action-packed volume of “Naruto” the manga series. Highly recommended!

Filed Under: Manga News and Reviews

VIZ MEDIA EXPANDS DIGITAL MANGA TITLES AVAILABLE FOR BARNES & NOBLE’S NOOK TABLET™ AND NOOK COLOR™

February 6, 2012 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

15 New Shonen Jump Series Now Available For Barnes & Noble’s 7-Inch NOOK© Devices, Including BAKUMAN｡, BLEACH, DEATH NOTE, NARUTO, ONE PIECE And More!

The digital manga convergence continues across North America as VIZ Media, LLC, largest distributor and publisher of anime and manga in North America, announces the launch of 15 additional manga (graphic novel) series for the Barnes & Noble NOOK Tablet and NOOK Color. Beginning today, the company expands its library of digital manga titles offered in the NOOK Store™ to include a variety of popular manga series published under the Shonen Jump and Shonen Jump Advanced imprints.

Volumes are presented in their original Japanese Right-to-Left reading format and are available for purchase and fast download in the U.S. and Canada for $4.99 -$9.99 (U.S. / CAN) each. Over 35 series and 400+ volumes are now available, and new digital manga volumes, including previews, are added weekly.

Viewing manga on NOOK Tablet and NOOK Color is authentic thanks to Barnes & Noble’s newly implemented technology that formats manga in its original right-to-left reading order. Fans can read favorite graphic novels on the award-winning NOOK 7-inch devices, which feature a full-color VividView™ touchscreen. NOOK Tablet and NOOK Color also give users access to the world’s largest digital bookstore, popular movies, TV shows, music and more through the top entertainment services, as well as a collection of high-quality apps, fast Web browsing and email.

The following VIZ Media manga titles are now available, with more to be announced soon:

BAKUMAN｡ Vols. 1-8 · Rated “T” for Teens
BLEACH Vols. 1-37; Vols. 49-50 · Rated “T” for Teens
BLUE EXORCIST Vols. 1-6 · Rated “T+” for Older Teens
CLAYMORE Vols. 1-19 · Rated “T+” for Older Teens
D.GRAY-MAN Vols. 1-21 · Rated “T+” for Older Teens
DEATH NOTE Vols. 1-12 (Full Series!) · Rated “T+” for Older Teens
DRAGON BALL Vols. 1-16 (Full Series!) · Rated “A” for All Ages
DRAGON BALL Z Vols. 1-26 (Full Series!) · Rated “T” for Teens
NARUTO Vols. 1-57 · Rated “T” for Teens
NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN Vols. 1-6 · Rated “T” for Teens
ONE PIECE Vols. 1-58 · Rated “T” for Teens
ROSARIO + VAMIPRE Vols. 1-10 (Full Series!) · Rated “T+” for Older Teens
ROSARIO + VAMPIRE SEASON 2 Vols. 1-6 · Rated “T+” for Older Teens
RUROUNI KENSHIN Vols. 1-28 (Full Series!) · Rated “T+” for Older Teens
TORIKO Vols. 1-7 · Rated “T” for Teens

For more information on VIZ Media manga titles, please visit www.VIZ.com.

For more information on NOOK devices, please visit www.nook.com.

Filed Under: Manga News and Reviews

GLOBAL YAOI MANGA PUBLISHER SuBLime KICKS OFF 2012 WITH TANTALIZING DIGITAL OFFERINGS

February 1, 2012 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

Bold New Publisher Releases Acclaimed Boys’ Love Manga
LOVE PISTOLS, OKU-SAN’S DAILY FANTASIES,
THE BED OF MY DEAR KING, And HUSBAND, HONEYMOON

San Francisco, CA, February 1, 2012 – SuBLime, the global yaoi manga (graphic novel) publishing initiative between VIZ Media and Japan’s Animate, Ltd. (Animate) and Libre Publishing Co., Ltd. (Libre Publishing), opens 2012 with a variety of notable new releases. Today, the company launches LOVE PISTOLS Vol. 1 by Tarako Kotobuki, HUSBAND, HONEYMOON Vol. 1 by Haruka Minami, OKU-SAN’S DAILY FANTASIES by Noboru Takatsuki, and THE BED OF MY DEAR KING by Sakae Kusama.

The new titles are rated ‘M’ for Mature Readers and carry an MSRP of USD $5.99 each. The $5.99 purchase price offers fans digital access to two versions of each manga volume on www.SuBLimeManga.com – a downloadable PDF that is viewable on any enabled eReader device and computer, and via the online manga viewer found on the web site.

“Yaoi fans will not to want to miss this collection of exciting releases available now from SuBLime,” says Jennifer LeBlanc, Editor, SuBLime. “Haruka Minami and Tarako Kotobuki are two of the most acclaimed creators within the genre. We invite fans to visit the SuBLime web site to take advantage of the speed and ease of digital download, and to further explore these titles.”

LOVE PISTOLS by Tarako Kotobuki · Rated ‘M’ for Mature Readers ·
MSRP: $5.99 USD · Available Now!
Norio Tsuburaya is just your average, regular high school student—until the day when he drives his scooter into a garden wall and wakes up with the ability to see zoomans! His eyes aren’t the only things affected—his pheromones are working overtime, and all the hot beast breeds at school are looking to mate… with HIM! Just when he thinks things can’t get any worse, his heavyweight schoolmate, Kunimasa, “marks” Norio as his! What’s an in-demand premium to do? Series is known as SEX PISTOLS in Japan.

HUSBAND, HONEYMOON by Haruka Minami · Rated ‘M’ for Mature Readers · MSRP: $5.99 USD · Available Now!
Sakuya and Shuji are a couple of love-struck newlyweds. Shuji is a hard-nosed section chief who, unbeknownst to his employees, sneaks away on his coffee breaks to gaze lovingly at pictures of his sweet Sakuya. Sakuya, on the other hand, struggles with the simplest of household chores, desperate to please his loving, hardworking husband. With the sudden intrusion of a handsome next-door neighbor, Sakuya’s days are about to be just as stimulating as his sexy nights with Shuji!

OKU-SAN’S DAILY FANTASIES by Noboru Takatsuki · Rated ‘M’ for Mature Readers · MSRP: $5.99 USD· Available Now!
Oku-san is a normal office worker who has one joy in life, to fantasize about his local deliveryman, Sudo-kun. To feed his fantasies and his desire to see Sudo-kun, Oku-san habitually shops online filling his room with useless and sometimes very erotic things. It’s all pretty harmless until one day his neighbor Yokoshima finds out about his secret hobby. Caught between two hot guys—at least in his mind—will Oku-san be able to fantasize his way out of this one?

THE BED OF MY DEAR KING by Sakae Kusama · Rated ‘M’ for Mature Readers · MSRP: $5.99 USD · Available Now!
A suite of emotionally resonant, romantic stories told by a critically acclaimed manga creator. In “The Bed of My Dear King,” an electrician called to a remote job deep in the mountains discovers the startling reasons behind the behavior of the house’s lone occupant, an eccentric young sculptor. In “Cherry,” an overachieving high school student forms an unexpected bond with a laid-back classmate. And in “Flowers,” the secrets surrounding a tragic death lead to an unexpected, and poignant, resolution.

For up-to-date news and release information, please visit the SuBLime website at www.SuBLimeManga.com, or follow SuBLime on Twitter at @SuBLimeManga and Facebook at facebook.com/SuBLimeManga.

About SuBLime
SuBLime is a global yaoi/boys’ love manga publisher, and is a partnership between VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, and Japan’s Animate, Ltd. (Animate). This bold, global publishing initiative will present English-speaking fans everywhere with a broad selection of high quality titles. SuBLime will offer titles digitally worldwide available at www.SuBLimeManga.com, with many available in Download-to-Own format, and selections in print also available in English-language editions worldwide.

Filed Under: Manga News and Reviews

Digital Manga Anthology WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA Debuts Today!

January 30, 2012 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

North America’s First Weekly Digital Manga Anthology Debuts With A Special YU-GI-OH! Trading Card Promotion For All Subscribers

San Francisco, CA, January 30, 2012 – The wait is finally over! VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, launches the debut issue of its new digital manga (graphic novel) magazine – WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA – today! The first issue is available now through VIZManga.com; it will also be part of the upcoming update to the VIZ Manga apps for iPad®, iPhone®, and iPod touch®.

Each new digital edition of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA treats manga fans in North America to the latest chapters of some of the world’s most popular manga series only two weeks after they debut in Japan’s massively popular WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP magazine. The first issue of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA also includes part 1 of an exclusive of an interview with NARUTO creator Masashi Kishimoto, where he discusses the inner workings behind his creative process and how he creates a story that captivates audiences from all over the world.

To further celebrate the launch, WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA has joined forces with Konami to delight Duelists and manga fans with a special offer! Fans that sign up for an annual membership to WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA will receive highly collectable YU-GI-OH! game cards four times a year, delivered right to their doorstep before anyone else has them.

Debut manga chapters featured in WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA include:

BAKUMAN｡(rated ‘T’ for Teens) Chapter 162:
With their new series Reversi doing well in Weekly Shonen Jump magazine, Akito and Mashiro are invited to an important industry party. The duo seems on the verge of getting their first-ever anime series, but what hurdles still stand in their way…?
BLEACH (rated ‘T’ for Teens) Chapter 476:
After regaining his true Soul Reaper powers thanks to Rukia and the captains from the Soul Society, Ichigo begins his final battle against Kugo Ginjo. As the fight heats up, both use Bankai to reveal their most powerful forms.

NARUTO (rated ‘T’ for Teens) Chapter 569:
Naruto has been swallowed by the Four-Tailed Beast. He’s transported to another world where he as a deep discussion with the biju, who asks for Naruto’s help from freeing it from the influence of the man masquerading as Madara. Is Naruto strong enough to help a Tailed Beast?!

NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN (rated ‘T’ for Teens) Chapter 185:
On the human front, it looks like girl trouble for Rikuo as Tsurara starts showing some jealousy over his relationship with Kana. And on the yokai front, the battles may be won, but the war is always on as Ryuji shows up with the news that the Nenekirimaru weapon is complete…and Rikuo must go with him to Mt. Osore to check out the brewing situation.

ONE PIECE (rated ‘T’ for Teens) Chapter 652:
After a tough fight, the Straw Hats were able to defeat the New Fish-Man pirates and bring peace to Fish-Man Island. The crew celebrates with a grand feast, but trouble looms as Luffy challenges an even bigger threat in the form of one of the four emperors, Big Mom.

TORIKO (rated ‘T’ for Teens) Chapter 171:
Pumped up – literally! – by their victory at Gourmet Casino, Toriko and company journey to the capital of Jiddal in search of information on foods that will power them up to enter the savage Gourmet World. But will the King of Jiddal and his personal chef keep the info Toriko needs a secret?

WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA is available through an annual membership that provides 52 weeks of access to 48 weekly issues for just $25.99. Single issues of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA can be read for four weeks for only $0.99. Each issue may be read on VIZManga.com, and once available, on the updated VIZ Manga App for iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch. Subscribers to WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA will also receive an annual collector’s yearbook and access to exclusive content, including creator interviews and videos.

For more information on WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA and exclusive subscriber offers, please visit SJAlpha.com.

About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, VIZ Media distributes, markets and licenses the best anime and manga titles direct from Japan. Owned by three of Japan’s largest manga and animation companies, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media has the most extensive library of anime and manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa. With its popular monthly manga anthology SHONEN JUMP magazine and blockbuster properties like NARUTO, BLEACH and INUYASHA, VIZ Media offers cutting-edge action, romance and family friendly properties for anime, manga, science fiction and fantasy fans of all ages. VIZ Media properties are available as graphic novels, DVDs, animated television series, feature films, downloadable and streaming video and a variety of consumer products. Learn more about VIZ Media, anime and manga at www.VIZ.com.

Filed Under: Manga News and Reviews

VIZ MEDIA KICKS OFF 2012 NINJA STYLE WITH NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK

January 12, 2012 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment

New Guide Offers Fans Essential NARUTO Character Info As Well As Never-Before-Revealed Data And Secrets

San Francisco, CA, January 12, 2012 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, opens the new year with the latest addition to its extensive library of NARUTO titles. NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK is available now, offers essential information on key characters from the smash-hit action series, and includes 8 full-color pages. NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER BOOK is rated ‘T’ for Teens and will carry an MSRP of $14.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN.

A ninja knows all! And now you can too! Here’s all the intel you need on who’s who in NARUTO!.THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK gives you all you need stay the expert on all things NARUTO. Whether you’re catching up, brushing up, or just getting started with the goings-on in ninja world, this handy, huge guide covers the whole story all the way to Volume 43 of the best-selling manga (graphic novel) series!

“NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK is a treasure-trove of essential information that will be a must-read for both casual and die-hard NARUTO fans,” says Joel Enos, Editor. “Inside these pages, you’ll find never-before revealed data, secrets, and even a few scandals involving your favorite, as well as most-hated, shinobi. And fans won’t want to miss a new manga tale from NARUTO creator Masashi Kishimoto that you can’t find in English anywhere else!”

Created by Masashi Kishimoto, NARUTO was first introduced in Weekly Shonen Jump magazine in Japan in 1999 and quickly became that country’s most popular ninja manga targeting tweens and teens. The manga series (rated ‘T’ for Teens) and animated counterpart (NARUTO rated ‘T’ for teens, and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN rated ‘T+’ for older teens), depicting the adventures of ninja-in-training Uzumaki Naruto, is one of VIZ Media’s most successful properties and has captivated millions of fans across North America, Europe and South America. The NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN animated series are co-productions of TV TOKYO, VIZ Media parent company Shueisha Inc., and Pierrot Co., Ltd.

More information on NARUTO is available at www.Naruto.com.

Filed Under: Manga News and Reviews

Bleach Vol. 37 – Story & Art by Tite Kubo (a J!-ENT Manga Review)

January 12, 2012 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

All-out action in the pages of vol. 37 of “Bleach”! As Ichigo and friends go to rescue Orihime, the Soul Reapers take on the Arrancars and for those who have wondered why Uruhara and Tsukabishi are no longer Soul Reapers, this volume finally answers that question. Definitely recommended for “Bleach” fans!

MANGA TITLE: Bleach Vol. 37

STORY AND ART BY: Tite Kubo (久保宣章)

FIRST PUBLISHED IN JAPAN: SHUEISHA, Inc.

PUBLISHED IN USA BY: VIZ Media, LLC/Shonen Jump Manga

RATED: T for Older Teen

RELEASE DATE: December 6, 2011

Soul Reaper captain Shinji Hirako has uncovered Aizen’s betrayal, but it may be too late. As some of the Soul Society’s greatest Soul Reapers transform into Hollows, it will be up to Kisuke Urahara to save them. And back in the present time, the grand battle between the Thirteen Court Guard Companies and the remaining Espada finally begins!

“Bleach”… It’s definitely one of the most successful anime and manga titles in Japan and well-known to anime/manga fans all over the world.

“Bleach” has a strong fan following and since its run began back in 2001, series creator, writer and illustrator Noriaki “Tite” Kubo has been hard at work, continuing to crank chapter after chapter for Weekly Shonen Jump in Japan and with the success of the series extending out to films, OVA’s, feature films and video games and other merchandise.

Because of its airing on the Cartoon Network and it being featured on Shonen Jump magazine, “Bleach” has gone on to become a fan favorite in America but also fans all over the world.

A Brief History of what “Bleach” is about

“Bleach” is a story about a guy named Ichigo Kurasaki who has a gift in which he can see spirits. One day, he saw a Soul Reaper (one who can govern the flow of souls between the human world and the afterlife) named Rukia Kukichiki who has come to find a Hollow (a lost soul). She ends up being wounded in battle when she tried to defend Ichigo and so she illegally transfers her reiatsu (spiritual pressure) to him, so that he can defeat the Hollow. But during the process, he nearly takes all of her energy and becomes a Soul Reaper himself and defeats the Hollow quite easily. So, the first storyline arc features Rukia now powerless stranded in the human world until she has the time to recover her true powers, while Ichigo fills in and battles Hollows in her place. And with each fight, Rukia starts to notice something special about Ichigo’s abilities.

The second storyline arc of “Bleach” features the Soul Society wanting to sentence Rukia to death for transferring her powers to Ichigo. His friends also begin to develop special abilities. His childhood friend, Orihime Inoue, is given special abilities courtesy of her loving brother who has turned into a Hollow. Yasutora “Chad” Sato is Ichigo’s tall friend (who is half Japanese/half Mexican) who suddenly becomes aware of spirits and develops an ability to have a special armored right arm that has special abilities. And Ichigo’s rival/friend, Uryu Ishida, who is a desendant of a hollow hunting group known as the Quincy and are enemies of the Soul Reapers.

Through various chapters, the Soul Reapers learn that one of their own, Sosuke Aizen, is a traitor. It was learned that Aizen has been creating Visoreds, Soul Reapers who have obtained hollow powers (Hollowfication) and are known for their hollow masks (which look like skulls on a human’s face) and Arrancars, a stronger form of hollow which has acquired human form.

It is learned that Ichigo has a Visored that is manifesting within him that has great power. During a fight, this visored tries to take over Ichigo’s body but Ichigo is trying his best to control it and using this power wisely.

Together, Ichigo and his friends continue to increase and enhance their abilities overtime and to take on tough enemies which leads us to the Visored/Arrancar arc.

The Current Storyline

Ichigo and friends are now on a mission to stop the traitorous soul reaper, Sosuke Aizen who along with his army of Arrancars are preparing their plan to destroy the Soul Society and wiping out Karakura Town. Meanwhile, in order to protect Ichigo and her friends, Orihime willingly stays with Aizen’s group but Ichigo and friends will do all they can to save her. Meanwhile, the Thirteen Court Guard Companies head to Karakura.

With “Bleach” vol. 37, focuses on three different storylines. One focuses on the past (110 years ago) during a time when Kisuke Urahara was captain of the Twelfth Company and when Fifth Company rushed to investigating an area where a task force has disappeared. This is where Shinji confronts his own Assistant Captain Sosuke Aizen. The storyline gives insight of why Urahara and Tsukabishi left the Soul Society.

The other storyline features Ichigo and friends making their way to rescue Orihime but waiting for an intruder is the Arancar Ulquiorra.

The third storyline focuses on the battle between the Soul Reapers and King Barragan’s four pillars. The battles consist of Assistant Captain, Ninth Company Shuhei Hisagi vs. Findorr, Yumichika Ayasegawa vs. Charlotte Chul-Hourne, Madarame Ikkaku vs. Poww and Kira Izuru vs. Abirama.

Suffice to say, this latest volume is another action-packed volume as the majority of the chapters focus on actual fighting. While the earlier chapters focus on the treachery of Aizen and also giving readers a reason why Kisuke Urahara and Tessai Tsukabishi now live in the land of the living and are no longer Soul Reapers. So, this is a pretty significant volume for “Bleach” fans!

As always, the artwork by Tite Kubo is fantastic. This volume alone features so many characters and the action is literally non-stop. It’s definitely one of the better volumes out and for any manga fan who craves action-driven storylines, especially if you love “Bleach”, you can’t go wrong with vol. 37.

Definitely recommended!

Filed Under: Manga News and Reviews

Naruto volume 54 by Masashi Kishimoto (a J!-ENT Manga Review)

December 30, 2011 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

Another action-packed volume of “Naruto” as Guy takes on Kisame, Konan vs. Tobi, Tsuchikage vs. Kabuto and the race to protect Naruto and Killer B from the Akatsuki continues!

MANGA TITLE: Naruto Volume 54

STORY AND ART BY: Masashi Kishimoto (岸本斉史)

FIRST PUBLISHED IN JAPAN: SHUEISHA, Inc.

PUBLISHED IN USA BY: VIZ Media, LLC/Shonen Jump Manga

RATED: T for Older Teen

RELEASE DATE: January 3, 2012

Naruto and his team engage in an intense battle with the Akatsuki organization as both sides seek the power to determine the future of their land. Internecine fighting weakens the Akatsuki, but will their dark forces sideline Naruto?

The popular manga series “Naruto” has been going strong since its debut in Shueisha back in 1999 via “Weekly Shonen Jump” magazine.

Now, Sasuke along with his new team featuring team captain Yamato, Sakura and a ninja named Sai (an emotionless young ninja who was hired by the Black Ops leader Danzo to spy on Naruto) are now on a mission to investigate the Akatsuki criminal organization led by its founder Madara Uchiha who have been doing all they can to capture all tailed-beasts including Naruto’s nine-tailed demon fox.

As for the story thus far, Sasuke has aligned wit the Akatsuki who wants to destroy the Leaf Village – Konoha. Madara has declared war and thus an Allied Shinobi Force is formed. The elder leaders of all villages, allies to the Leaf Village have realized that the Akatsuki are after Naruto (Nine Tail) and Killer B (Eight Tail Beast). They have since accomplished extracting the beasts (Jinchuriki) from others. Meanwhile, Naruto’s mother has reappeared to explain the secrets of his birth and learns about heir hopes and renews his vow to be come Hokage!

In volume 53, all was revealed about what transpired during the day of Naruto’s birth and who was responsible for attacking the Leaf Village with the nine tails. And given the final moments to meet and speak with his mother one last time and eventually gaining the power to seal the Nine Tail jinchuriki.

And now the story continues…

For Volume 54, in order to hide the fact from Naruto that he is a prime target of the Akatsuki, Yamato, Guy and a few other Leaf Ninja, including Killer B have convinced Naruto that he is on an S-Ranked Environmental Mission at an island.

But hiding among them is the Akatsuki Kisame (who was thought to be dead) and has been spying on them all this time and now is trying to leak the intel back to the Akatsuki. But in order to stop them, only one man will be to take him on…Guy.

Meanwhile, in a battle for peace, Konan of the Amegakure takes on Tobi (Madara Uchiha) in the battle to the death. Who will become victorious?

Also, Kabuto unveils his secret army to use in the war.

Here is a brief summary of each chapter of “Naruto Volume 54″:

Number 505 – Nine Tail’s Chakra, Opened!!! – Naruto learns how to control the chakra of Nine Tails.
Number 506 – Guy vs. Kisame – Kisame tries to escape with the intel and Guy tries to stop him.
Number 507 – A False Existence…!! – The history of Kisame and how he met Itachi.
Number 508 – Shinobi Death Style - Kisame escapes!
Number 509 – Peace Viaduct – Konan vs. Tobi
Number 510 – Forbidden Jutsu Shock!! – Konan vs. Tobi continues…who survives?
Number 511 – We Shall Return – A flashback when Konan, Nagato and Yahiko were taken in by Jiraiya and learned from him.
Number 512 – The Truth About Zetsu!! – The elders learn about the leaked intel and know they must send help to where Naruto is located.
Number 513 – Kabuto vs. Tsuchikage!! – A battle between Tsuchikage vs. Kabuto.
Number 514 – Kabuto’s Plan!!! – Kabuto’s plan unveiled.

With the emotional volume 53, that revealed what happened on the day of Naruto’s birth and how he was sealed with the nine-tail jinchuriki, the setting of the danger of impending war continues.

With volume 54, we have another action-packed volume as Guy takes on Kisame, who had been thought to be dead. But to realize, he had transformed and affixed himself onto Killer B’s sword and spying on the group all this time. Now its a race against the clock as they try to stop him from leaking the intel to the Akatsuki.

Meanwhile, fighting for a peaceful future, Konan takes on Tobi (Uchiha Madara) but can Konan survive against Madara? And the plant of Kabuto is unveiled when you learn about the secret army he had developed.

Needless to say, the actions of this “Naruto” manga volume has major ramifications that will affect the course of the “Naruto” manga series.

While the last volume was primarily focused on the history of Naruto’s parents and revealing that his father was the fourth hokage and that his mother was the previous shinobi that had the nine-tails within her, we now know that the ninjas look at Naruto, even from his birth, as possibly the person who will save the world from evil and right now, through this volume that Tobi and Kabuto working together is a significant evil, especially with the unveiling of this second army.

I can’t wait to see how this overall storyline develops.

Filed Under: Manga News and Reviews

Naoki Urasawa’s 20th CENTURY BOYS vol. 18 (a J!-ENT Manga Review)

December 26, 2011 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

Naoki Urasawa’s manga masterpiece…”20th Century Boys” is simply awesome!!! The manga series continues to get better and better and with so much despair in these last three volumes, volume 18 begins to show readers a glimmer of hope. Meanwhile, another teaser/bombshell is dropped on the reader and definitely sets things up for the final four volumes of the manga series. If you have wanted a manga series that is well-written and just all out-exciting, Naoki Urasawa’s “20th Century Boys” is highly recommended!

MANGA TITLE: 20th CENTURY BOYS vol. 18

STORY AND ART BY: Naoki Urasawa (浦沢直樹)

FIRST PUBLISHED IN JAPAN: Shogakukan, Inc.

PUBLISHED IN USA BY: VIZ Media, LLC

RATED: T for Older Teen

Available on December 13, 2011

Far, far from Tokyo, a man approaches the checkpoint at the Northern Border… Everyone north of the gate is dead, but here he comes on a motorbike with a guitar strapped to his back. Who is this man who calls himself Joe Yabuki, and why does he break out in song? Is he a Messiah here to save the people, or is he just a deluded nut?

Justice Never Dies.

The words that came from the mouth of a young Kenji back in the 1970′s.

But Japan has since changed since the resurrection of the friend.

In volume 16, we were introduced to a future where Japan was divided, a wall was put up and the years were now known as “The Friends Era”. What has happened to Japan?

In volume 17, we learn what has happened to Otcho as he witnessed people fighting and killing over vaccinations and as for Kana, learning that she and Yoshitsune have splinted into two factions. Yoshitsune trying to save people, while Kanna…a young woman who has lost so much, has become a terrorist known as a White Queen, still leading an army of freedom fighters trying to fight against the Friend but are in constant pursuit by the Global Defense Force.

But we were treated with a little teaser with volume 17… who is the older man driving around with a guitar on his back. Could it be…Kenji? A man who was thought to be dead all these years?

“20th Century Boys” is simply the masterpiece manga series created by Naoki Urasawa. Having created excellent titles such as “Yawara! A Fashionable Judo Girl”, “Pineapple ARMY”, “Master Keaton” and “Monster”, his manga series “20th CENTURY BOYS” was the winner of the 2001 Kodansha Manga Award, Winner of the 2003 Shogakukan Manga Award and Urasawa was the recipient of the “Excellence Price at the 2002 Japan Media Arts Festival”.

The manga has been made into a live film, with the first film having been released as a part of a trilogy with a budget of 6 billion yen and will feature a cast of 300 people, it’s natural to say that the manga series “20th CENTURY BOYS” will definitely be a manga classic. And now the the seventh volume of the popular manga series has been released by Viz Media.

Naoki Urasawa’s “20th CENTURY BOYS” follows a group of friends when they were as children and the present time as adults. When these friends were children, they played a group of super heroes who would take down evildoers. But first, they needed to come up with their own storyline and scenarios of the bad things the evil side would do and how they, as superheroes would have to conquer the evil bad guys.

This plot of what the evil group would do was written down in a little guide which they called “The Prophecy”. As for the group, they devised a symbol of their group. But now many years later, this symbol has re-emerged as the symbol of a religious cult who may be behind terrorist activities.

Kenji and friends tried their best to stop the Friends but something happened on December 31, 2000 and fourteen years later, Kenji and friends are seen as the terrorists and the Friends have now further permeated into society worldwide.

What we know of December 31, 2000… Many lives were lost and although Kenji and his friends did what they can to stop the Friend’s giant robot from killing people in the city. They were blamed for it and since then have been reviled as the terrorists who massacred innocent people (when it was actually “the Friends” who were responsible).

And 15 years later, the Friends have used the massacre to grow their cult and to take control of society, politics, law enforcement and have their foot in the door worldwide.

But for friends of Kenji who survived that fatal day, they will continue to do what they can to defeat their friends in the honor of their friend Kenji and save the world. The last volume featured Kanna, who is now a teenager who will never forget her uncle and is investigating any details or leads to her uncle Kenji but also her mother and possible father.

In volume 16, we saw how Otcho was being sneaked into Shinjuku courtesy of two children but unfortunately, the soldiers working for the Friends have discovered their ruse and now they are on the run.

In volume 17, we learn that when the Friend was resurrected, he literally took control of Japan. Those who were there at the Japan Expo to witness the resurrection were given a vaccine against the virus and live in one half of Japan, while those who didn’t go, were all forced to live on the other side of Japan where only a few vaccines were given out and of course, because of that, chaos.

And here we are with volume 18, as we are learning that many people have heard of Kenji’s old song…but this time, a new revision with the words, “Gutarara Sudarara”. It was thought that Kanna was the only person who had access to Kenji’s music via cassettes, but how is it that people in Japan have heard of Kenji’s music today? Could it mean that Kenji…is still alive?

Meanwhile, as Otcho tries to stop Kanna from sending her people from going to war against the Friends, they are captured by someone who they know quite well. And this mysterious person also has something quite interesting to reveal, that will add yet another twist in the story of Naoki Kursawa’s “20th Century Boys”.

“20th CENTURY BOYS” features the following characters:

Kanna Endo: The daughter of Kenji’s missing sister. She is now a 17-year-old teenager who tries to keep her missing uncle Kenji in her memories. In the Friend Era, she is known as the “White Queen”.

Chono Shohei – A freshman detective following his grandfather’s footsteps of being a great detective and to have the name “Cho-san”. In the Friend Era, he is stationed to work and watch over farmers.

Kamisama - The homeless man who had visions of what Kenji should be doing and would relay it to him but 14 years later, he has become millionaire.

Kyoko Koizumi - A high school student who has helped the Kenji faction and is now working for a music company searching for talent during the Friend Era.

Otcho – One of Kenji’s friends who escaped from prison to reunite and help Kanna. Now on the run during the Friend Era and was able to make it through the wall.

Maruo – A friend of Kenji who now works at a music company and has used his position to help the Kenji faction.

Here is a brief summary of each chapter of volume 18 (spoiler-less summaries):

Chapter 1: Gutarara Sudarara - Otcho looks for the missing Sanae.
Chapter 2: The Two Who Survived - Officer Chono comes across a person known as “Yabuki Joe”… Can this man be Kenji?
Chapter 3: Oh, Daughter - Kanna explains what has happened to her since the beginning of the Friend Era.
Chapter 4: Everybody’s Strong - Otcho does all he can to stop Kanna, even by telling her that he thinks that there is a chance that Kenji is still alive.
Chapter 5: Come Together - Kanna makes her decision.
Chapter 6: Get Up! Stand Up, Joe!! - Officer Chono and the other Friend officers confront Yabuki Joe.
Chapter 7: Encore! Encore!! - Kanna finds out that something dire has happened to her followers. Meanwhile, Officer Chono is inspired by Yabuki Joe!
Chapter 8: Starting to Change the World - Otcho and Kanna are captured!
Chapter 9: What Should Not Be Seen - Maruo and Namio discover something about Manjome Inshu.
Chapter 10: What Should Not Be Heard – Who is the child that came across Manjome Inshu?
Chapter 11: What Should Not Be Known - A new twist revealed by Manjome Inshu.

We sensed that after reading volume 16 & 17 and seeing how Japan has gone through chaos since the Friend Era, that things were not going to be the same.

We learned of what happened to Otcho during the Friend Era and seeing the carnage as people killed each other in order to get a vaccine from the deadly virus and we were treated with teasers of possibly Kenji being alive.

With volume 18, it takes a step forward in furthering the tease that Kenji is still alive…but is he the same man as “Yabuki Joe”? Also, we learn about what has happened to Kanna since the first year of the Friend Era and that she has become cold and bitter because of so many friends she has lost due to the Friends.

But we expected those things to happen as part of the progression from the last two volumes covering the Friend Era, but there is so much more story to be told of what happened to Yoshitsune and friends but also these twists that Urasawa has planted in this latest volume. One being the Yabuki Joe storyline in which so many followers (ala hippies) have joined in following the singer in his nationwide tour. But yet this person sings variations of Kenji’s song, so it may or may not be him that is being heard on the radio.

But possibly the biggest twist was the final page of volume 18 which I best not spoil for readers of this wonderful manga series! Suffice to say, the unveiling of that final page definitely showcases a major change that definitely sets things up for the final four volumes of the series.

I personally don’t know what is going to happen now, especially with these twists. Needless to say, this volume really has me excited in seeing how things play out for the final volumes because the storyline not only has gotten exciting but this time, our heroes are in so much despair at this point in time that all hope seemed to be lost, that is until Otcho and Kanna hear Kenji’s song being played on the radio, albeit a new version of the song.

Naoki Urasawa’s “20th Century Boys” just gets better and better and as we now are nearing the final stretch of the series, one can only wonder what Naoki Urasawa has planned. And I’m guessing that we are going to see a lot of deaths and possible demise of several main characters.

Featuring wonderful illustration and awesome storytelling, which Naoki Ursawa is known for, “Naoki Urasawa’s 20th Century Boys Vol. 18″ is awesome! And I emphasize “AWESOME!”. Every chapter in this volume just builds and builds to the final shot and you can’t help but be surprised!

As always, Naoki Urasawa knows how to grab the attention of the reader. His artwork and how he is able to capture the sense of action and emotion through the pages is magnificent and so far, this series has been engrossing and highly enjoyable thus far.

If you have been following this series this long, you’re probably as addicted as I am and can’t wait until the next volume. “Naoki Urasawa’s 20th CENTURY BOYS vol. 18″ is highly recommended!

Filed Under: Manga News and Reviews

Bleach the Movie 3: Fade to Black (a J!-ENT Anime Blu-ray Disc Review)

December 26, 2011 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

For fans of “Bleach”, “Bleach the Movie 3: Fade to Black” is an interesting storyline that does take things back to Ichigo and Rukia, but also features quite a bit of surprises and plenty of action! As the first of two films from Viz Media for its entry of anime on Blu-ray, this is an awesome Blu-ray release if you are a “Bleach” fan and one can only hope that Viz Media continues to release more “Bleach” on Blu-ray in the near future!

TITLE: Bleach the Movie 3: Fade to Black

MOVIE RELEASE DATE: 2008

DURATION: 90 Minutes

BLU-RAY INFORMATION: 1080p High Definition, DTS-HD MA English 5.1 and Japanese 5.1, Subtitles: English

COMPANY: Warner Bros./Viz Media

RATED: 13+

Release Date: November 15, 2011

Originally created by Kubotite

Directed by Noriyuki Abe

Screenplay by Masahiro Okubo, Natsuko Takahashi

Music by Shiro Sagisu

Character Design by Masashi Kudo

Art Director: Sawako Takagi

Director of Photography: Toshiyuki Fukushima

Producer: Ken Hagino, Mikihiko Fukazawa, Shunji Aoki

Anime Production: Studio Pierrot

Featuring the following voice talent:

Fumiko Orikasa/Michelle Ruff as Rukia Kuchiki

Masakazu Morita/Johnny Yong Bosch as Ichigo Kurosaki

Hiroki Yasumoto/Jamieson Price as Sado “Chad” Yasutora

Kentarou Itou/Wally Wingert as Abarai Renji

Masakazu Morita/Johnny Yong Bosch as Hollow Ichigo

Noriaki Sugiyama/Derek Stephen Prince as Ishida Uryuu

Satsuki Yukino/Wendee Lee as Shihouin Yoruichi (human form)

Shinichiro Miki/Michael Lindsay as Urahara Kisuke

Yuki Matsuoka/Stephanie Sheh as Inoue Orihime

Kaya Matsutani/Megan Hollingshead as Rangiku Matsumoto

Nobuyuki Hiyama/Vic Mignogna as Ikkaku Madarame

Jun Fukuyama/Brian Beacock as Yumichika Ayasegawa

Romi Paku/Steve Staley as Toshiro Hitsugaya

A mysterious figure has broken into Mayuri Kurotsuchi’s laboratory in the Seireitei. Rukia witnesses this catastrophe, and the intruders abduct Rukia as she feels something inside of her fade away.

Meanwhile, in the World of the Living, Ichigo and Kon experience a strange disturbance and head to Kisuke Urahara’s shop for some answers. When Kisuke informs them about the destruction of the Seireitei, the two set out for the Soul Society.

What awaits Ichigo in the devastated Seireitei, however, are Soul Reapers who seem to have lost all memory related to both him and Rukia. Ichigo must find out what happened to Rukia and try to save her before the two are forced to part ways forever!

[Note: I am reviewing a Blu-ray screener and will not be able to comment on packaging.]

In Dec. 2008, the third “Bleach” movie was released in theaters.

With an anime production by Studio Pierrot, the film is directed by Noriyuki Abe (“Bleach”, “Ninku”, “Ghost Stories”, “Flame of Recca”) and a screenplay by Masahiro Okubo (“Sugar Sugar Rune”, “Tantei Gakuen Q”) and Natsuko Takahashi (“Bleach”, “Prince of Tennis”, “School Rumble”).

The film would be more notable to fans as it would feature Kon taking part in the action and also Kisuke Urahara returning to the Soul Society. Also, none of Ichigo’s friends from the world of the living appear in this film.

“Bleach the Movie 3: Fade to Black” begins with soul reaper/scientist Mayuri Kurotsuchi working in his laboratory. He senses an intruder which slashes him with a scythe and immediately, he has forgotten his entire memory. As his assistant Nemu goes to check on him, he thinks that Nemu is an intruder and doesn’t understand what is happening.

The mysterious intruder activates something inside the laboratory and Mayuri unleashes his Ashisogi Jizo.

The mechanism that was triggered immediately produces huge snakes which wreaks havoc in Seiretei and many of the Soul Reapers try to evacuate or fight it to no avail. Meanwhile Rukia who sees this, tries to go to Seireitei, but a girl takes her and tells her that she will erase her existence. A male attacker comes and slashes her with his scythe, which deals no damage but Rukia becomes unconscious.

Meanwhile, back in the world of the living, Kon is reading a note from Rukia but as Ichigo goes to check on the note…he doesn’t know who Rukia is, which surprises Kon.

When Ichigo goes to sleep, he has dreams of Rukia, sensing that she is in trouble. He is able to remember Rukia once again and looks at the note and learns that Rukia has went back to the Soul Society.

Concerned that he has forgotten Rukia, he goes to visit Kisuke Urahara, who has also forgotten Rukia. But Urahara wonders if forgetting Rukia is because of news that he has received that there is chaos in Seireitei.

Fearing the worse, Ichigo takes Kon with him to the Soul Society to find Rukia and when they arrive, Seireitei looks as if it was destroyed. He sees a familiar face, Shuhei Hisagi and asks him what has happened to Rukia. But the two who have taken Rukia unleash a snake on Ichigo, Shuhei and the soul reapers.

Ichigo is then confronted by Shuhei and the other soul reapers who have no idea who he is and begin attacking him. Renji shows up and also tries to attack Ichigo and Ichigo does all he can to make him remember but is unsuccessful and escapes. But what is troubling to the soul reapers captains is why does this mysterious guy (Ichigo) seem to talk to them as he knows him and he knows the area quite well?

Meanwhile, Rukia comes to her senses and realizes she is in Rukongai, where she grew up. She is greeted by the two people (who kidnapped her) and they discuss the past and how Rukia was to name both of them but hasn’t done so. Rukia remembers meeting the two when they were children and promising to name them. But with no memories, she wonders what has happened all this time.

VIDEO:

“Bleach the Movie 3: Fade to Black” is presented in 1080p High Definition and “Bleach” looks fantastic on Blu-ray! Granted, it helps that this is a film and not the TV series, as there is much more detail in the actual character designs, more emphasis on fluidity on the action sequences, especially during the “bankai” segments. But this is what I enjoy about seeing the transition of popular TV series for film, a higher production and also the fact that animators have more time in production and quality of the animation and art backgrounds than the typical quick turn around that they are expected to do on a TV series.

Once again, I am reviewing from a screener Blu-ray disc but I didn’t notice compression artifacts or banding during my viewing of the film.

AUDIO & SUBTITLES:

For “Bleach the Movie 3: Fade to Black “, the menus don’t say if it’s a lossless track and since I am reviewing from a screener disc, I don’t have packaging that says what kind of audio is featured. But according to the details that my receiver is providing and also testing on another Blu-ray player, the information provided for me is that the lossless audio is both DTS-HD MA 5.1 English and Japanese.

While I was watching the film, I was pretty impressed because it’s the best I have heard from a “Bleach” soundtrack. I also noticed that there was a good amount of surround channel use with explosions and action sequences, during those battles, the sound was quite immersive at times. And also moments of LFE.

But if anything, I’ve never heard “Bleach” sound this good and for the film to be on Blu-ray, I can only hope that Viz Media continues their plan to release more “Bleach” films in HD!

Subtitles are provided as English optional during the English soundtrack and also featured in the Japanese soundtrack of the film.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

“Bleach the Movie 3: Fade to Black” comes with the following special features:

Movie Trailers - Featuring the Japanese and English trailers for “Bleach the Movie 3: Fade to Black”.
Production Art Gallery - Using your remote (or mouse and keyboard), you can cycle through various production art.
More from Viz Media

For any fans of anime series, especially those that have a long duration, you come to realize that the films are typically out of the canon of the series. Did the story actually happen in the timeline? Is it a one-shot story just created for the kids during the winter? Who knows.

But will say that “Bleach” fans will come to find this series to be exciting, action-packed and also different in some ways than other films and the series itself, for the fact that Ichigo’s usual friends that accompany him to the Soul Society, are not in this series. No Orihime, no Chad, no Uryuu…instead, we get Kon.

And this rather intriguing, because as we know…when it comes to the anime series, Kon is just the comedy character that shows up for a brief time and Ichigo rarely has the patience to deal with him. But in this case, Ichigo accompanies Kon to the Soul Society.

But perhaps the most intriguing part of this film is the fact that no one remembers Ichigo and look at him as an intruder to the Soul Society and everyone tries to take him down. And of course, by this time that the film was released, this Ichigo is quite powerful, even if he is a “substitute” soul reaper.

But in some way, one of the finest things about this film is that it is a return to basics. And what I mean by that is, it’s about Ichigo and Rukia. The way things were in the beginning and the way things will be played out in this film. Two individuals have manipulated Rukia’s memories and she doesn’t not remember Ichigo.

So, for those who have been wanting a return to those simpler times of Ichigo and Rukia, this film does feature a storyline focusing on both individuals.

And of course, there is that surprise element of Kisuke Uruhara returning to the Soul Society. We know he left…leaving his old-self behind and never returning as a Soul Reaper, but in this case, he returns to set things right with the damage caused by the two assailants.

While “Bleach the Movie 3: Fade to Black” doesn’t come with much special features, my review copy of the screener disc does feature very good PQ (which one would expect from a film) and lossless audio via DTS-HD MA (English and Japanese).

Overall, if you are a “Bleach” fan, more than likely you will be watching this film as it is part of the debut entry of Viz Media to anime on Blu-ray (the other release was the “Naruto Shippuden” film, “Bonds”). It’s an exciting, action-packed film featuring plenty of characters and of course, an Ichigo and Rukia storyline that fans will definitely be entertained by.

Filed Under: Anime on Blu-ray

Naruto 3-in-1 Omnibus vol. 2 (Volumes 4-6) by Masashi Kishimoto (a J!-ENT Manga Review)

December 22, 2011 by Dennis Amith · Leave a Comment

The second volume of “Naruto 3-in-1 Omnibus” (vol. 4-6) and the conclusion of Team Kakashi vs. Zabuza and Haku is featured but also the Chunin Exams in which Naruto, Sasuke and Sakura are pitted against other ninja teams from all over the area in a battle for two scrolls. It’s a battle to the death… How will they fare?

MANGA TITLE: Naruto 3-in-1 Omnibus Vol. 2 (Volumes 4-6)

STORY AND ART BY: Masashi Kishimoto (岸本斉史)

FIRST PUBLISHED IN JAPAN: SHUEISHA, Inc.

PUBLISHED IN USA BY: VIZ Media, LLC/Shonen Jump Manga

RATED: T for Older Teen

RELEASE DATE: July 5, 2011

In the Land of Waves, Naruto and his teammates Sakura and Sasuke, along with their sensei Kakashi, struggle to protect the bridge builder Tazuna and his family from Gato’s hired thugs. When one of Naruto’s friends falls in battle, Naruto is faced with the most difficult choice of his life. How far will he go to protect his friends? And does he have what it takes to be a hero?

Collects volumes 4-6 in an omnibus edition.

The adventure of Naruto Uzumaki continues in “Naruto-3-in-1″ Omnibus Vol. 2 featuring the collected manga volumes 4-6.

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

Currently in Japan and also the United States, “Naruto” is currently in “Shippuden” mode focusing on an older teenage Naruto Uzumaki and for fans who were not around when “Naruto” was airing on television or were not around when the manga series was first released, some newer fans may have not had a chance to know how it all began.

Fortunately, Viz Media has released an omnibus for “Naruto” featuring three volumes in one 600-page graphic novel.

“Naruto” is a manga series based on a young boy with big dreams, a boy who dreams about becoming a hokage (the leader of a ninja village) and is very determined in getting stronger to prove that he can one day become a leader. The problem is that he is often teased, ridiculed because his ninja arts has not been like everyone else and because he is often ignored or teased, he has become a bit of a prankster/trouble maker for the village.

But the reason for the ridicule is because Naruto has the spirit of the Fox with Nine Tails sealed inside him.

The Fox Spirit was an evil spirit that it took several ninja clans, great shinobi’s to work together, sacrifice their life in order to make sure that the villages will continually thrive and survive the onslaught from the Fox Spirit and the Fourth Hokage, the champion of the village, Konoha, hidden in the leaves, would seal the Fox Tail spirit in a boy, the boy is Naruto Uzumaki.

And thus the reason why the village has treated Naruto with disdain.

While trying to pass a test to become a ninja, unfortunately Naruto’s ninja arts are so weak that he continually flunks. His teacher Iruka is a littler harsh on him but he really wants Naruto to pass. One day, one of the ninjas in Konoha lied to Naruto and told him that in order to pass and become a ninja, he would have to steal secret scrolls. Naruto, being the naive boy that he is, does so. The ninja who told him to steal it, then tells the village that Naruto has stolen the sacred scrolls of the village that have been under lock and key, in fear that someone can use the jitsu’s for the wrong purpose.

The thing is that Naruto did read one jitsu and has mastered it, he learned to create hundreds of doppelgangers of himself and uses it to protect his teacher Iruka from the ninja traitor. And with his new skills, he has passed to become a real ninja.

From this point on, Naruto Uzumaki joins Team Kakashi and becomes teammates with Sakura Haruno and Sasuke Uchiha. This will be the team that Naruto will train and go on adventures with but part of the problem is that the team is not exactly well-disciplined and it doesn’t help that Naruto and his teammate Sasuke get on each others nerves.

While these young ninja learn their training, during their first mission, they come in contact with a powerful enemy, Zabuza Momoichi, of the Land of the Mist and his consort Haku.

Will these young ninja who are still being trained, will they be ready to fight against Zabuza and Haku? And can these three young ninja work as a team or will they continue to fight as individuals?

In volume 2 of “Naruto 3-in-1″, the battle between Team Kakashi continues as Naruto wants vengeance against Haku for killing Sasuke. Team Kakashi takes on Zabuza and Sakura protects the bridge-builder Tazuna.

The volume is also the beginning of the Chunin Selection Exams in which young ninjas from different villages have come to the leaf village.

We are introduced to Gaara and friends from the sand village, meanwhile Rock Lee of Team Guy challenges Sasuke to a battle. We are also introduced to Team Asuma: Akimichi Choji, Nara Shikamaru and Yamanaka Ino. We are also introduced to other teams such as the mysterious Otonin (Sound) teeam, the mysterious Kusanin Grass Ninja team and a team led by Kabuto.

For the first challenge of the Chunin exams, each team must take part in the written test exam and pass, followed by a second exam in the forest of death in which 26 three-member teams must acquire the “Scroll of Heaven” and the “Scroll of Earth”. Whichever team acquires both scrolls wins the exam. With poisonous plants, bad animals and everyone vying for the scrolls, if any member is injured or dead, the team is disqualified. Also, each team is forbidden to look at the contents of the scrolls.

How will Naruto and team fare?

Entertaining, fun and possibly one of the best manga series to appear on “Shonen Jump” since “Dragon Ball Z”.

As a long time reader of the Japanese Shonen Jump magazine and long time anime viewer/reviewer, the “Naruto” series was a bit of surprise when I first had the opportunity to read and watch the series. Mainly because of how entertaining and how well-written the series was but also how mangaka Masashi Kishimoto built upon its characters by character development, making you care of what is happening with the protagonist Naruto, his teammates and also becoming captivated by the world around him.

Naruto is the classic underdog. The boy that everyone seems to hate, the boy who just wants to fit in, the boy who wants to have friends and in some ways, many of us have a little of “Naruto” within us and having those emotions of dreaming big, even though you feel that everyone doesn’t expect much from you. Insecurities, sadness, being a practical joker, for me, I can identify with Naruto and feel his pain.

But what made me enjoy this series is seeing him persevere, working hard to prove that he is a capable ninja and most of all, his way of thinking helps to inspire those that come across him.

He may be goofy, he may seem lazy at times and also always hungry but he is also dependable and a teammate who will fight to protect you, a ninja who knows that he has a cursed beast inside him, that everyone fears and he lives with that pain.

This second volume is actually a very important volume in the whole “Naruto” world. For one, we get to see what happens when the nine-tailed fox tries to consume Naruto during the heat of battle, we also get to see how Naruto has this inability to change people for the positive, to inspire people he comes across.

But I suppose the true significance of this second omnibus volume is the introduction to the other teams of the Leaf Village and our introduction to Gaara and the sand ninja and also Kabuto. And this is a very action-packed volume because of the Chunin exams and various teams are fighting for their lives.

We are introduced to Rock Lee, a person who was not born with ninja abilities but pushes himself so hard to have his own abilities but also seeing how he has a slight attraction towards Sakura. And for Team Kakashi, we know Naruto and Sasuke’s power, but this time around, we get to see Sakura in battle as she fights to protect her teammates who have been taken down. Will she survive?

For anyone getting into “Naruto”, this 3-in-1 omnibus is fantastic! For the price of less than two manga volumes, you are getting a total of three. And if you have only watched the anime series, “Naruto” fans may want to check out the manga series because there are a few scenes that didn’t appear on the anime series.

And also, throughout each volume, you get to read notes and even see sketches from series creator Masashi Kishimoto of how he originally drew Naruto (he had goggles) and also other early character designs for other characters and also thoughts that Kishimoto had at the time, for example, how he drew Sakura and how he’s not that good at drawing female characters and why her character appealed to him. Also, how he came up with certain names for the characters and how he feels about the names today.

Overall, if you have wanted to read the “Naruto” manga series from the very beginning, like the first volume, volume 2 is just as entertaining, action-packed and an important volume in the overall storyline. “Naruto 3-in-1 Omnibus” vol. 2 is highly recommended!

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