Win Sexy Voice and Robo

The manga release not to miss this summer, the manga release to pick up for people who don't read manga, or the manga release to read if you think manga has become predictable has to be Sexy Voice and Robo. Think the teen detective built from scratch with completely modern sensibilities. A girl with a cell phone and a genius for reading people by their voice takes some contract work, and eventually finds that spy work isn't exactly about creating happy endings. Collected in a single phone book sized volume, Sexy Voice and Robo is the manga release of the summer, it is unusual and unbeatable.
Check out the review here.

Want a copy?
Send you answer to the trivia question: name three series created by "God of Manga" Osamu Tezuka that Viz has released to animecontest@gmail.com and you may be one of the winners selected to receive a copy of the manga.

Anime Spotlight:
Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: The Empty Battlefield

Released by Bandai Entertainment

Gundam SEED was a back to square one revival of Gundam. Rather than figure out some creative new deviation as was done in the alternate universe Gundams (G Gundam, Gundam Wing, Turn A Gundam), SEED worked teen drama and more colorful giant robots into the original Universal Century Gundam series' reluctant warrior tragedy.

The Empty Battlefield is the first of SEED's compilation movies. Anime, and Gundam in particular has a history of releasing these abridgements in which some quantity of new footage is used to cement the revival of a franchise, keep movement going or in a few cases capitalized on continued interest. Being that SEED itself was intended to reignite interest in the Gundam franchise, and wildly successful at that, you arrive at some interesting recursion in a movie to fan the flames of a series, which is keeping the interest going for a franchise.

One could probably follow The Empty Battlefield without having seen the original TV series presentation, but expect a better reception from fans who may have seen the series on TV and want a digest version that accentuates the high points. Like the unabridged version the moves pumps vigor into the Gundam anti-war tragedy. Maybe pop anti-war should be an oxymoron, but being colorful and fast, along with not toning matter down for viewers whose emotions and hormones are raging, SEED couldn't help but find an audience.

Empty Battlefield covers the first third of SEED, up to the duel with Rommel-like desert commander Andrew Waltfeld. The compilation tones down the extraneous plot devices, like robot power limitations, that drive episodes, and play up elements that are either memorable, or in hindsight more important. Which means, plenty of the twisted relationship between bioengineered genius/reluctant robot pilot Kira Yamato and war maddened debutante Flay Allster in the movie, a relationship with some of the most grippingly disturbing (though not graphic) teen sex in a non-hentai (pornographic) anime.

The abridgement does lose some of what the series did well, such as conveying the flow of the war, and most viewers will find some fondly remembered moments missing (with less Lacus Clyne, who would have thought that a bubbly singer character would be done well enough that a reduction would be missed). Still, there is enough TM Revolution J-Pop backed explosive mecha fights, melding the shoujo outreach of Gundam Wing, into the war time machinations of the Universal Century Gundam that a Gundam SEED fan on a budget will be able to relive much of what they liked about the series.

Manga Spotlight Blade Of The Immortal:
Last Blood (volume 14)
by Hiroaki Samura

released by Dark Horse

Blade of the Immortal is a brilliant work of art violence, increasingly plagued by pacing problems as its plot complexity compounds. Where previously the issue looked to be a function of the extended cycle between trade paperback collections, it now seems a character of the work itself.

Blade of the Immortal still buries other action series, using a style that could only be produced in manga, that will not be seen adapted into another medium. It's mixed media illustration, panel to panel shifts from pencil, to ink to charcoal, lends a beauty to the ugliness of flesh ripping combat. The effect is something that comics/manga can offer. If you've ever been enthralled by a depiction of swordplay, you owe it to yourself to check out Blade of the Immortal. 14 volumes in, Samura's fight illustration is still fresh, intricate, and jaw dropping.

Last Blood is a real turning point volume in the series, reintroducing the series' original high concept, reuniting all the fan favorites, clearing out a major subplot, and setting a new direction. As good as it is, there's a missing momentum. Like returning to a favorite after moving on to other interests, it should be incredibly satisfying, but that you register a lack of expected emotional charge. It's your birthday, and you get the gift you wanted last year. Past reviews have lamented the six to ten months between collected releases in recent years. However, at this point, it looks like Samura packed this phase of his story with plenty of excellent character moments and fights, but left a style of pacing he was familiar with, in favor of one he hadn't mastered.

Manji, the swordsman granted a form of immortality when his body was infected with wound-knitting blood worms rejoins the fray in feud between the maverick Itto-Ryu and tradition bound Shingyoto-Ryu after being out of the loop in the recent, more political machinations of the conflict. The conflict has evolved since Manji move to the outskirts, and it is no longer a simple matter of aiding the girl Rin, in her quest for vengeance against the killers of her parents. No longer fighting psychotic rapists and murderers, his role new doesn't clearly fit his redemptive vow to kill a thousand evil men to make up for killing one hundred good ones (law enforcement officers sent after him).

This climax, while hinting at a return to form, Manji's old weapon collecting days even get a mention, becomes a clear preclude to something new rather than a return to duel punctuated, linked mini-quests, which tracked down the Itto-Ryu present at Rin's parents' execution. It's now the Itto-Ryu fighting for survival against agents of the government with Manji and Rin deeply uncertain of their roles, or even if they're working together. Even the character of the series' players has been changed, with the introduction of a new 10 member core Itto-Ryu, the majority of which are new introductions.

There have been some action light phase of Blade of the Immortal. This isn't one of them. The only element missing from the best action of the series is death murals (symbolism laced expressive expansion of the moment of a death, found earlier in the series). At one point or another, the volume's two battles offers samples of the battle forms of nearly all the still living combatants, previously introducing in the series.

The first is a cataclysmic one in which the most prominent of the series' exotic fighters, including the Itto-Ryu classics, work their magic against something truly unusual within the series, tradition bound swordsmen of the Shingyoto-Ryu. If you've seen Sony Chiba's Street Fighter, think the match against dojo master... a unconventional warrior fighting other unconventional warriors except for this one case in which he is almost matched by someone fighting brilliantly with a hard, recognizable form based style.

The second goes back to the foundation of the series, a duel between Manji and Mugai-Ryu's (death-row convicts earning pardons) Giichi, one the of series' inspired anachronisms with a shaved head, chin stubble and Natural Born Killers sun-glasses, armed with circled blades on hand-cuff like swinging mechanisms linked a long chain. Manji's abilities surpass most trained swordsman, but on the tier of the series unique fighters, he is more gutsy than good, and he's certainly not the best. And there are plenty of guts in this fight. Giichi's familiar with Manji's immortality, and goes ahead ripping him apart.

Anime Spotlight: Di Gi Charat: The Original Series

Released by Synch-Point

Synch-Point's Di Gi Charat is the first anime incarnation of a franchise that has been dived among a number of the North American anime distributors (same for it's manga among the publishers). Not a bad level of interest for a character who is basically a company's mascot. The interesting thing about this anime series, all 16, five minute episodes of which are collected in the release, is that it bridges the loud anime comedy heroines of the late 90's (ie the Megumi Hayashibara's Lina Inverse type work) to the more manic roles of recent series.

Like the Galaxy Angel anime, though maybe not as inspired, Hiroaki Sakurai's (Cromartie High, Kodocha) Di Gi Charat is less kiddy oriented, and more for older anime fans, especially compared to the other ther Di Gi Charat series. If you'd rather have comedy than cute, this is right Di Gi Charat series. It pairs irony and absurdity with a character whose personality is very much like a slightly obnoxious female geek's. (There's a great scene in which she makes some rather inappropriate yaoi, homosexual male romance, manga of two the characters)

The five minutes cuts render an inconsequential subject less consequential, but like Galaxy Angel, the reception is improved by being matter of fact of presentation the insanity. Crazy things happen, people are very loud, but scenes move by quickly and there's no need to light a neon sign to find the jokes. As a result, the original Di Gi Charat doesn't leave a huge impression, but you can become entrancing in the inviting fun.

If you're a newcomer to Di Gi Charat, it isn't completely clear who she is without reading some of the supplementary material, not that it's a terribly complex concept. Di Gi Charat (aka Dejiko), is a green haired alien girl in an in outfit that's a bit of a fetish collage (cat ears and tail over a maid's frilly apron and gloves along with oversized bells) who comes to become a famous superstar. Instead, she becomes a clerk at geek mecca Akihabara's Gamers store (a real retail outlet associate with the distributors of the anime, who has used the character as a mascot). Along with her follow aliens Petit Charat (aka Puchiko), a smaller cuter Dejiko with a sailor school uniform rather than a maid's apron and Gema, a floating yellow globe with an upside down face, and Dejiko's human rival, Rabi~en~Rose (Usada), frilly apron again this time with rabbit ears, ribbons, and large dice beside her ears.

For some very wrong love interests (sortof), it introduces pair of unhygienic geeks who obsessed with Dejiko, a handsome doctor who falls for Puchiko, and a young boy who attaches himself to Usada. The world is then filled out with anonymous people depicted a faced finger like columns, and the likes of a leering bear that ends up sitting in the corner of the store.

Synch-Point's deluxe edition release includes a booklet with series information and annotations, along with a sound track CD featuring fast beat anime on J-Pop song, that are catchy, with a number of mixes of the Party Night music video episode.

Resource Spotlight:
The Comics Journal 269
The Shoujo Issue

orderable from Fantagraphics Books

If you're unfamiliar with The Comics Journal, it's the periodical that looks the significant movements and creations in the comic medium without being tied to hype (or commercial prominence). At this point, sales of shoujo (female audience) manga have been staggering for long enough that one has to consider them a land change in the market. The phenomenon isn't just that shoujo made such as splash, dominating domestically distributed manga, but that it contradicted the previously accepted knowledge that the comics market had no chance to find female readers.

The Comics Journal examination is some of the most thoughtful comments on topic available in English. Rather than generating hype, or promoting the hot thing it digs into why shoujo succeeds in North America, as well as what makes the genre ticks and looks into specific creators and releases.

Articles are contributed by a mix of experts such as Matt Thorn and intelligent observes, such as the new editor Dirk Deppey and online critic Johanna Draper Carlson.

The contributors are weighed more to people who watch and analyze the medium that the manga experts. Consequently, the look is skewed more to the reception in America. The thought process and analysis is dominantly unimpeachable, but purists may disagree with the mapping to original Japanese concepts.

Manga genres, including "shoujo" are defined by which anthology the manga was original published in. The Comics Journal examines how series like Chobits and Love Hina fall into the shojo category rather than original shonen (though a article on yaoi does some correcting on the original use of the term) or lumps more teen series like Land of the Blind Folded with younger audience like Popcorn Romance or Aria and even original English work Peach Fuzz because of their all audience ratings given by their North American distributor. It differentiates and examines older female audience josie, and ancillary topics about the medium in its English adaptation, such as scanslations (fan translated manga).

Most do an excellent job writing about manga analytically (Lea Hernandez's longevity and influence are undeniable, hell, she's even in Gainax' pseudo-documentary Otaku No Video, but her entry shows her propensity to turn the topic of conversations to herself, sparsely going into the genre craft itself).

Thorn's entries specifically are a real treat, including introducing a North American audience to an brilliant creator most would be unfortunately unfamiliar with, including interviews and sample work from Motto Magio, a dazzling genre bender creator of beautiful, almost magic realism works, who's seen alot of Japan's manga history. (Viz published her "A,A'" which is now out of print, which brings up a point that would have been interesting to see addressed, what is the cost of the prominence of popular shoujo in North American distribution. To look at what Viz has released in the past, through its Pulp days, to some degree shoujo seems to have pushed out some worth while works). For manga fans, the issue is worth the purchase price for a gallery of Motto Magio's covers, splash pages and water colors, and her story word "Hanshin: Half-god," a beautifully heart rending story about conjoined twins, one of whom receives all the nutrients and is angelically beautiful and innocent; one of whom receives all the intelligent and is withered but aware. Shoujo is certainly open for criticism, but "Hanshin" stands as a testimony to the heart and humanity that can be found within the genre.

Anime Spotlight: Human Crossing
Volume 3: Message in White

released by Geneon

A drama anthology is an odd subject to put into anime, especially if like Human Crossing it doesn't use the animation to shift perception or have a youth orient tie-in. Animation may not be for kids, but it does skew young, or to genre fans, with popular wide appeal order audience manga generally being adapted into live action work. Apart from a few sets (a prison and Paris), there aren't many visuals in the series that call for animation.

Comparison can be drawn to the recently released Rumiko Takahashi Theatre, but Takahashi is a highly recognizable creator of manga, which is considered a sibling to anime, and her stories occasionally do shift into odd body types, or fly on unnatural visual elements.

The drama of Human Crossing does not use shoujo story subjects. They are more for a post-college audience, and especially people old enough to start pondering the mistakes in their own live. Without a solid common theme, the stories about cross roads of life have more in common with short stories than building soap opera. While it doesn't build an emotional attachment to the characters, the animation puts on the right expressions and the music that keys the rights notes and it does achieve some effect moments of emotional manipulation, especially capturing the thin margin between good and bad personal decisions.

The volume packages three stories that are more about introspection and decisions than actions. The first tells the story of a rookie women's prison guard, who took the career to gather material in an effort to improve her abilities as a novelist. The guard begins to feud with a prisoner becoming increasingly difficult to manage as her release date nears.

In the second story, an up and coming middle manager finally manages to buy a house for his family, when, much to the dismay of his wife, his dead father's possibly now senile mistress moves in, saying that she is his mother.

The volumes final story looks at an idealistic ex-pat artist living in Paris who goes back to Japan on family business and reluctantly takes some commercial work. A few decades later, his wife can no longer stand the direction his career took.

One noteworthy feature in the series is its great packaging that captures an intrigue faces of humanity feel. A distinctive thumbnail snap shot grid cover met with an opening animating featuring a fog colored water surface on top of which human shadows reveals video scenes of flowers or traffic really works for the series.

The time and thrust of the stories don't create much character depth. Nor are the twists of the stories unexpected or profound. While it does hit some emotional resonance, most anime fans probably wouldn't be inclined to check out this type of story in another medium, and being animated doesn't add much to the title. Human Crossing is a better rental than a purchase.

Manga Spotlight:
Fushigi Yugi: Genbu Kaiden
By Yuu Watase

Released by Viz

Genbu Kaiden can be read on its own, but for those who read/watched the original Fushigi Yugi, they know the side story is a tragedy. Rather than using this foreknowledge, it builds the concept fresh. Watase returns to her strong emotions, with lighter counterbalances, from a basic reintroduction. Fans of the original will enjoy a deepening of the mythos, and some interesting alternate takes on familiar concepts and themes. Newcomers will a world intriguing and emotionally compelling enough to consider a look at the longer original.

The core story of Fushigi Yugi follows a girl who is transported from our world to a fantasy version of China (a bit like the romanticized Three Kingdoms period), where she becomes the priestess of one of the four directional gods (Suzaku, Seiryu, Byakko, and Genbu). Protected by seven Celestial Warriors, marked for the constellations associated with the direction, the priestess can eventually summon the god to grant wishes. Complications are introduced through the politics of the world, and more significantly, her relationship with guardians.

While like the original Fushigi Yugi's modern heroine Miaka, Genbu Kaiden's schoolgirl Takikio Okuda is a forceful personality, Genbu Kaiden shifts the base date back to year 12 of the Taisho era (1923). She's a well-to-do forceful girl who takes out some of her aggression in naginata spear practice. As her problems comes to a head, with her mother dying of consumption and an absent father returning from a journey to China to complete his translation of "Universe of the Four Gods" . In the middle of a confrontation with her father Takiko is transported to a frozen waste where the first of her warriors is chained to a bolder.

Yuu Watase retains the crown of girl's fantasy epic. With a lot of adventure and compelling character that will appeal to male readers (and Watase's action scenes have improved beyond placeholders), with a reverse harem cast (a girl surrounded by attractive and exotic men, who are all interested in her in some capacity), and a heroin who's both brash and sensitive, it has the foundation for great serial romantic drama.

G.I. Joe Sigma Six Trailer

Anime News Network points out that Hasbro has posted a trailer of the Gonzo animated G.I. Joe Sigma Six here. 4Kids.tv will host a "sneak peek" at episode 1 this Saturday, August 6th.

DragonBall Z Sparking Preview

The Magic Box has screenshots of Bandai's Playstation 2 fighting game DragonBall Z Sparking! (Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi) here. The game will be released in Japan on October 6.

Mechademia Collecting Submissions

The Mechademia anime academic journal for is collecting submissions.

Kids' WB Fall Schedule

According to Anime News Network , beginning Saturday, August 13 the Saryrday morning schedule for Kids WB will be as follows:

8:00am The Batman (new time period)
8:30am The Batman
9:00am Xiaolin Showdown
9:30am Xiaolin Showdown
10:00am Pokémon - Advanced Challenge
10:30am Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends
11:00am Yu-Gi-Oh! Waking the Dragons
11:30am MegaMan NT Warrior: Axess

The Monday to Friday weekday afternoon Schedule is as follows:
3:00pm Pokemon
3:30pm Jackie Chan Adventures
4:00pm Xiaolin Showdown
4:30pm Xiaolin Showdown

Initial D Live Action DVD Release

Anime News Network and The Asian DVD Guide report that the region 3 DVD release of the hit live action adaptation of street racing anime/manga Initial DVD will be released on August 19th. The UMD format release will be on August 26th. The DVD will only include Chinese dialog, however it will include English subtitles. A second disc will include extras such as behind the scenes features, a 20-minute making of movie, deleted scenes, outtakes and more.

Black Cat Anime Website

AnimeNation reports that the official site for anime adaptation of action manga Black Cat is online here. The show will air on Japanese TV starting October 6th.

Black Jack Movie Trailer

AnimeNation and TwitchFilm point out that the official site for the Black Jack: Futari no Kuroi Ishaa (loosely translated, "Black Jack: Pair of Dark Doctors") anime movie and bonus short, Dr. Pinoko no Mori no Houken ("Dr. Pinoko's Forest Adventure") has posted a trailer. The movie is scheduled for Japanese release on December 17th.

October New and Significant Manga Releases

From Diamond Comics distributor's solicitation for this August. See you local comic shop to pre-order.

A. D. Vision

Yotsuba&! Manga Vol 3
written and illustrated by Kiyohiko Azuma
ALL AGES COMEDY. From the nutty mind of Kiyohiko Azuma, creator of the hit manga, Azumanga Daioh, comes the story of the new kid in town little Yotsuba, a green-haired and wide-eyed girl who doesnt have a clue about anything! SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $9.99

Princess Tutu Manga Vol 2
Created by Ikuko Itoh & Junichi Satoh
Illustrated by Mizuo Shinonome
DANCING QUEEN. An awkward young girl undergoes a magical transformation and becomes Princess Tutu, a beautiful ballerina with superpowers and the only one who can safe the prince! Just in time for the second volume of the anime coming in November!

Broccoli International USA INC

KAMUI #2 GN
by Shingo Nanami

CMX

Cipher Vol. 1 Written and illustrated by Narita Minako
CMX. Anise cant believe her luck when she finds herself in the same high school as famous former child star Siva. Although the cool and handsome Siva seems unapproachable, Anise manages to become his friend. But her happiness turns to surprise when she discovers Sivas secret: for years, hes been switching identities with his twin brother, Cipher!
On sale October 5 5" x 7.375" 192 pg, B&W, $9.99 US TEEN

Kamikaze Kaito Jeanne Vol. 1
Written and illustrated by TANEMURA ARINA
CMX. The international blockbuster manga which also spawned a hit anime series comes to the U.S.! By day, Kusakabe Maron is an ordinary high school girl with more than her share of problems. But by night, she is Kamikaze Kaito Jeanne, the reincarnation of Joan of Arc! Her mission: to hunt down demon-possessed paintings and exorcise the evil spirits! Too bad accomplishing this mission puts her into conflict with the authorities, who view her as a mysterious stranger vandalizing works of art. With only the help of angel-in-training Finn, she must survive high school during the day and battle evil by night!
On sale October 26 5" x 7.375" 176 pg, B&W, $9.99 US ALL AGES

Kikaider Code 02 Vol. 1
Story by Ishinomori Shotaro
Art by Meimu
CMX. The manga behind the cult favorite animated series seen on Cartoon Network is here! What happens when a robot suffers an identity crisis?

On the surface, Jiro appears to be a normal teenage boy hes riddled with self-doubt, has trouble making friends, and owns a guitar he doesnt know how to play. But hes really Kikaider, a super-powered android with a secret Gemini device implanted in his brain to help simulate human qualities.

Professor Gill, a former associate of Kikaiders creator, is hunting for the Gemini device and hell go to any lengths to recover it!
On sale October 19 5" x 7.375" 204 pg, B&W, $9.99 US MATURE READERS

Dark Horse (November releases)

Eden Volume 1: Its An Endless World! Tpb
Hiroki Endo (W/A)
On sale November 2, SC, 216pg, b&w, 5" x 7", $12.95
Eden Volume One is both a brilliant love song to the post-apocalyptic survival genre and the beginning of a deep exploration on mans role in the natural order. In the near future, a large portion of humanity is wiped out by a brutal, new virus that hardens the skin while dissolving internal organs. Those who arent immune are either severely crippled or allowed to live with cybernetically enhanced bodies. Taking advantage of a world in chaos, a paramilitary force known as the Propater topples the United Nations and seeks world domination. Elia, a young survivor searching for his mother, travels towards the Andes Mountains with an artificially intelligent combat robot. When he encounters a group of anti-Propater freedom fighters, a maelstrom of unique characters unfolds. Graphic, cyberpunk, and philosophical, Eden is a place where endearing heroes face a constant struggle for survival and violent surprises wait around every corner!

Oh My Goddess! Colors Tpb
Kosuke Fujishima (W/A)
On sale November 2, SC, 192pg, b&w & FC, 7" x 10", $19.95
Oh My Goddess! Colors is Dark Horses English-language edition of a special collection first published in Japan. Whats inside? Original publisher Kodansha, working with artist Kosuke Fujishima, produced color versions of four of the best-loved stories from the series, each centering on one of the goddesses. The Number You Have Dialed Is Incorrect is the one which started it all, as Belldandy appears when Keiichi reaches The Goddess Technical Help Line. Belldandys big sister Urd becomes small in Urds Fantastic Adventure, and in Crazy Little Thing Called Love, Skuld, the youngest of the sisters, wobbles through her first romance while learning to ride a bicycle. Finally, Are You Being Served? brings in the Fourth Goddess, the vampish Peorth, when Keiichi misdials again to reach Belldandys rival agencythe Earth Assistance Hotline! In addition to the four color stories, the Oh My Goddess! Colors collection contains a bonus original manga story by Fujishima fan Yoshitou Asari. And if that doesnt do the trick, Kosuke Fujishima weighs in with an eight-page profile of the Goddesses. Plus, an eighteen-page Encyclopedia of Goddess Terminology, cross-referencing the people, places, and events of the first twenty-two volumes of OMG!, four pages on the cars, bikes, and planes of the series, the two-page Rules of the Goddess World, and a six-page thumbnail guide to the OMG! story chapters. Oh My Goddess! Colors is the ultimate official fan companion to the manga series!

Club 9 Volume 4 Tpb
Makoto Kobayashi (W/A)
On sale November 2, SC, 200pg, b&w, 5 3/4" x 8 1/4", $15.95
Haruo Hattoris a country-fried cupcake, the sweetest dish at Club 9, the most happening hostess bar in Tokyos notorious Ginza district. Shes staying true to her fella back home, but her guileless beauty is one major bulls-eye for some of Tokyos most eligible bachelors, including a down-on-his-luck baseball superstar, one of the countrys hottest manga artists, and a bonafide super-rich playboy with fast-track matrimony on his mind. And with her boyfriend off to Europe to study for the next few years, will poor Haruo be able to stave off this onslaught of affection? Collecting stories from Super Manga Blast! issues #37-#46.

volumes 1 - 3 will be re-released

Blade of the Immortal volumes 1 - 14 will be re-released.

Trigun Maximum Volume 7: Happy Days Tpb
Yasuhiro Nightow (W/A)
On sale November 2, SC, 192pg, b&w, 5" x 7", $9.95
Unlike the subtitle of this new installment of Trigun Maximum, our hero, Vash the Stampede isnt exactly experiencing the happiest of days. Rather, his struggle with his brother-in-destruction, Knives, is escalating to extreme heights. But wait, before we get to the frantic action, creator Yasuhiro Nightow would like readers to know about these boys mysterious pasts, and uses almost half of this issue presenting the lives of the two supermen before they fell to the dusty planet. This volume of Trigun Maximum promises not only past history, but future frenzy. For instance, youll soon discover that not only is Vash not the only one of his kind, but neither is Wolfwood.

Digital Manga Publishing

Bambi & Her Pink Gun Vol. 2
Written and Illustrated by Atsushi Kaneko
Available in October. SC/w dust jkt., 208 pg, Partial color through out 5 7/8 x 8 1/4, $12.95
Determined to steal back Pampi, Bambi goes head-on with a battalion of gangsters who have taken over an old west-style town and are using it as a hideout while they terrorize the locals for fun. To get Pampi back, Bambi will have to mow them all down, including the seemingly unkillable gang leader Mama. Bambi will also have to deal with psychos in bear costumes, trucker gangs t, a 100- year old psychotic ex-wrestler, and more! For Mature Readers.

Caf Kichijouji De Vol.1
Written and Illustrated by Kyoko Negishi/ Yuki Miyamoto
Available in October. SC/w dust jkt., 160 pg, B/W 5 7/8 x 8 1/4, $12.95
Irrashai! welcome to the most unruly cafe in Kichijouji and its charming staff of fi ve who have absolutely nothing in common. When tempers rise, so do mop handles, giant boulders and repair bills. Meet Jun, a mild mannered high school student with a sharp tongue and superhuman strength. Tarou, a clean freak with a deadly aim in the art of mopping. Maki, a sloppy, lazy woman chaser. Minagawa, a talented pastry chef equally skilled in the arts of voodoo, and the impulsive, cheerful, though desperately unfortunate Tokumi. A feast of comedy based on the popular Japanese radio drama.

Jazz Vol. 1
Written and Illustrated by Tamotsu Takamure / Sake Maeda
Available in October. SC/w dust jkt., 192 pg, B/W 5 7/8 x 8 1/4, $12.95
Jazz Narusawa and Naoki have way-overstepped the bounds of their doctor-patient relationship. Naoki is instantly attracted to Narusawa, and will stop at nothing to be together with him. One glance into Naokis despaired eyes and Narusawa, caves instantly for Naokis advances. Will this relationship go beyond a simple fl ing? The doctors in, will the patient be out? For Mature Readers

La Esperana Vol.1
Written and Illustrated by Chigusa Kawai
Available in October. SC/w dust jkt., 208 pg, B/W 5 7/8 x 8 1/4, $12.95
Georges Saphir is an excellent student and well-liked by everyone at his school. However, his fear of intimacy with others keeps him from forging any truly close bonds. Suddenly, he encounters a new student named Robert, a misfit whose brash statements about Georges force him to realize things about himself. And a dangerous incident in a crumbling cathedral could prove to be a turning point for Georges as he draws ever closer to Robert. But, an upperclassman who knows of Robert warns Georges of the danger that Robert poses, revealing that Georges is the perfect image of the girl whom Robert once loved and whose death he may have caused!

Our Everlasting Vol.1
Written and Illustrated by TOKO KAWAI
Available in October. SC/w dust jkt., 200 pg, B/W 5 7/8 x 8 1/4, $12.95
Surfs up for Horyu and Shouin as their feelings of attraction turn to love. However, Shouin had his heart broken before and is now reluctant to begin a new relationship. Meanwhile, Osaka native Takehiko is aggressively pursuing the shy Momose. But the way he shows his love seems to be too much for Momoses heart to handle. Can love strike it big on the beach? For Mature Readers

Our Kingdom Vol. 1
Written and Illustrated by Naduki Koujima
Available in October. SC/w dust jkt., 184 pg, B/W 5 7/8 x 8 1/4, $12.95
Upon the death of his grandmother, country boy Akira Nonaka is taken in by the immensely wealthy and powerful Takatou family. There, he is told that he is a candidate to become next heir to the Takatou name. However, there is another candidate - the princely, handsome Rei, who turns out to be a cousin of Akiras. Far from being competitive, Rei shows no interest in the prospect of inheritance, and instead takes an immediate liking to Akira. Reis aggressive show of affection muddles the nave country boy, until Akira begins to discover a budding attraction towards Rei within himself.

Go! Comics

Crossroad Volume 1 Gn
by Shioko Mizuki
Kajitsu has never known a proper family. Her dad and her mom change husbands like most people change socks. Her long-lost stepbrothers, Taro and Natsu, are also refugees from negligent parents. Abandoned by everyone but each other, the three teens make one last attempt at building a family. Its hard enough getting along in a home with rampant hormones and no adults, but when an unexpected bundle of joy is dropped in their laps, they have to learn to be parents, too!
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $10.99

Tenshi Ja Nai (I'm No Angel) Volume 1 Gn
by Takako Shigematsu
Former child model Hikaru has been tormented by jealous classmates all her life. Transferring to a new school should have given her a chance to blend in, but anonymity isnt in the cards her new roommate, Izumi, is a super-popular idol! But Izumi is far from the perfect girlfriend of her onscreen persona. When Hikaru learns her shocking secret, Izumi and her stern (and sexy!) bodyguard will do whatever it takes to keep her silent. Wherever Izumi goes, scandal follows, and now Hikarus along for the ride.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $10.99

Cantarella Volume 1 Gn
by You Higuri
From birth, Cesare Borgia is surrounded by shadows. Damned by his father and pursued by the demons of Hell, Cesares quest for power threatens to set the world of Renaissance Italy ablaze unless one innocent person can redeem his soul! Enter the world of the Borgias. A family whose murderous intrigues would make them infamous throughout history. A history written in blood and a poison called Cantarella.
SC, 5x7, 200pgs, B&W SRP: $10.99

Ice Kunion (Korean Manwha)

Bring It On! Volume 1 Gn
by Hye-Kyung Baek
Tomboy, Miha is an extremely active and competitive girl who never likes to lose to anyone. Shes such a tomboy that all boys are scared of her, and thats exactly what her brother wanted and trained her to be. It took him 6 long years to train her into pseudo- military style girl to protect her from anyone else. Bishonen Sung-suh is a new transfer student whos got the looks, the determination, and attitude to sweep her off the feet. Could this male beauty be able to tame the beast? Will Mihas brother let them be together and happily ever after? If you want it youve got to bring it on!
SC, 5x7, 180pgs, B&W SRP: $10.95

The 11Th Cat Volume 1 Gn
by MiKyung Kim
Spunky but clumsy Rika is a witch in training. Her first solo assignment on is to rescue a Princess from an abductor, the Demon King. But it a simple search and rescue becomes very complicated when it seems that there are major secrets involved. Fortunately, Rika and her cat familiar, Nomi are a clever team, who will unravel the mystery of the disappearance of the Princess. Follow Rika and Nomi on their fabulous fantasy adventure!
SC, 5x7, 180pgs, B&W SRP: $10.95

Angel Diary Volume 1 Gn
by YunHee Lee & EunSook Jung
The only Angel Princess of Heaven is betrothed to the Emperor of the Underworld. Unable to accept her future with the Demon King, she realizes that her only choice is to run away. Her plan is to join the human world disguised as a schoolboy! Now all of the Gods from Heaven and Hell are searching high and low on the earth trying to make sure that a wedding happens. This is a fantastical gender-bending, romantic comedy about an Angel Princess and the King of Hell, learning to live among us. SC, 5x7, 180pgs, B&W SRP: $10.95

Chocolat Volume 1 Gn
by Ji-Sang Shin
How far would you go to meet your favorite boy band? Keum-Ji was little late getting under the spell of the chart topping boy band DDL. Unable to join the DDL fan club, she almost gives up meeting her idols until she develops a cunning plan, becoming a top member of their rival fan club for a brand-new boy group, Yo-I (Chocolat). This way she can always be near Yo-I at all their concerts. Funnily enough Yo-I always seem to play the same shows with DDL. Its almost the perfect plan except its really complicated being a super fan for one band when your heart lies with another. Follow the adventures of Keum-Ji in this full-blown romantic comedy as she tries to keep her scheme together.
SC, 5x7, 180pgs, B&W SRP: $10.95

Last Gasp Inc

Barefoot Gen Tp's (New Printing, cancelled and resolicited)
by Keiji Nakazawa
Volume three follows Gen, his mother and baby brother as they search for a place to rest in the bomb's aftermath. Facing rejection, hunger and humiliation, they come to realize that they still have and can share self-respect, hope, and inner strength. Volume four, resumes nine days after the bomb, as Gen and his mother continue to struggle for food, shelter and water amid chaos and vast human suffering. Though confronted with the most despicable aspects of humankind, Gen acts with love and compassion.
VOLUME 3SC, 6x8, 284pgs, B&W SRP: $14.95
VOLUME 4SC, 6x8, 284pgs, B&W SRP: $14.95

TOKYOPOP

Samurai Champloo Volume 1
Author: manglobe
Art By: Masaru Gotsubo
In a world full of evil, a hardworking waitress, an arrogant mercenary and a mysterious samurai meet. Through a series of misunderstandings, Fuu, Mugen and Jin find themselves running from officials and wanted by the law. Together they form an uneasy alliance to search for the enigmatic Sunflower Samurai. Along the way they come across misleading characters, ninjas, assassins and a prince in disguise. Their journey proves to be nothing less than a roller coaster ride of battles, danger, desperation and companionship.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W $9.99

Mark Of The Succubus Volume 1
Author: Ashly Raiti
Art By: Irene Flores
Maeve, a succubus-in-training, is sent to the human world by her mentor, Veril, to learn how to blend in and hone her skills of seduction. However, things get a little complicated after she meets Aiden, a smart, but unmotivated student at her new high school. Unfortunately for her, Sylne, the head succubus of the Demon World, has sent a spy to catch any missteps by her former protege. Between Aidens witchy girlfriend, his nutty best friend, biology class, and Demon World conspiracies, Maeve is going to be lucky to make it out of high school alive.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W $9.99

A Midnight Opera
By: Hans Steinbach
For nearly a millennium, undead creatures have blended into a Europe driven by religious dogma... Ein DeLaLune is an underground Goth metal sensation on the Paris music scene, tragic and beautiful. He has the edge on other Goth music powerhouses...hes undead, a fact hes kept hidden for centuries. But his newfound fame might just bring out the very phantoms of his past from whom he has been hiding for centuries, including his powerful brother, Leroux. And if the two dont reconcile, the entire undead nation could rise up from the depths of modern society to lay waste to mandkind.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W $9.99

Pita Ten Official Fan Book Volume 1
By: Koge-Donbo, Various
Features new stories involving Koge-Donbos loveable characters, including Kotarou, Misha and Shia. Each chapter is illustrated in a unique, fresh style. These fan comics take familiar stories from the manga and add to them. In a sense, they fill in the gaps and are very much in the mood set by the first four volumes of the mangabefore it went ultra-angsty. Yes, you will see Pita-Ten as youve never seen it before!
SC, 5x7, 176pgs, B&W $9.99

Psy-Comm Volume 1
Author: Jason Henderson, Tony Salvaggio
Art By: Shane Granger
In the not-too-distant future, sovereign nations have been replaced by corporate city-states. War is entertainmentscheduled, televised and rated. Its the new opiate of the masses and its stars are the elite Psychic Commandos, known as "Psy-Comms." In the corp-state of Electromedia, no star shines brighter than that of Mark Leit, a young man destined to become possibly the greatest Psy-Comm of all time. But a tragedy from his past, and a desire for redemption, will cause Mark to abandon everything his life has stood for.
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W $9.99

Telepathic Wanderers Volume 1
Author: Yasutaka Tsutsui
Art By: Sayaka Yamazaki
Nanase, a beautiful young telepath, comes back to her hometown to settle down... but her life soon becomes more than unsettling. Using her telepathic powers, Nanase combats vengeful enemies and stumbles across others possessing telepathic powers themselves. On a train, she meets Tsuneo, a man with the power to tell the future. What dire prediction does Tsuneo have for the riders of this train? Will Nanase find her way to safety in time?
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W $9.99

Scrapped Princess Volume 1
Author: Ichiro Sakaki
Fourteen years ago, a dark and devastating prophecy was revealed: a girl will bring about destruction and death and the world will lie in ruins. A decree was handed down to destroy this baby girl and all evidence of her prophecy to come but despite all efforts, the myth lives on...and so does the Lost Princess. Fourteen years later, the prophesized destroyer of the world is alive and well! Will she doom all and destroy the world or will she defy the gods and prove them wrong?
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W $9.99

Earthian Volume 1
By: Yun Kouga
Unbeknowest to humans, angels walk among us. Save for the occasional annual angelic convention, they are scattered across the globe interacting with humans and their crises. Chihaya and Kagetsuya consistently find themselves in different parts of the world dealing with an array of characters and their hopeless problems. This seems to be the only source of their worries, until news arrives of a growing legion of fallen angels plagued by the "Black Cancer." What will happen when Chihaya and Kagetsuya are asked to find one of the feared Great Fallen Angels, Lord Seraphim? What is it about Chihaya that lands the Great Fallen Angel right at his doorstep?
SC, 5x7, 408pgs, B&W $14.99

Love Mode Volume 1
By: Yuki Shimizu
Sakashita Izumi, your typical straight high school student, gets into a sticky situation with a gay translator, Takamiya Katsura, when he gets mistaken for an escort! After a night of passion and romance, is Izumi developing feelings for another man? Izumis confusion and denial is catapulted into the stratosphere when Takamiya showers him with compliments and affection and talks of taking a vacation together. No worries, Izumis confusion is easy enough to remedy by a box of aphrodisiac-laced chocolates in this volumes bonus chapter!
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, FC $9.99

Shinobu Kokoro: Hidden Heart
Author: Temari Matsumoto
The Ninja: A stealth fighter expertly trained in ancient Japanese martial arts. No man can resist his skilluntil now! Follow the sizzling sessions with a young, innocent ninja-in-training as his master teaches him the secret methods of the clanwith a little hands-on instruction! Meanwhile, two experienced shinobi take their relationship to new heights when a tragic separation leaves one of them caught between a rock and hard place. Filled with over-the-top action, boys in tight uniforms, and one very lascivious snow spirit, this romantic fantasy collection is one part passion, one part affection, and all heart. Shinobu Kokoro: Protecting the clan with some man-on-man!
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, FC $9.99

Battle Royale Volume 14
Author: KOUSHUN TAKAMI
Art By: MASAYUKI TAGUCHI

Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad Volume 2
By: Harold Sakuishi

BLAME! Volume 2
By: Tsutomu Nihei

Initial D Volume 20
By: Shuichi Shigeno

Kindaichi Case Files, The Playing The Fool
Author: KANARI YOZABURO
Art By: SATO FUMIYA

Initial D Volume 14: Extra Stage (DVD)

PSYCHIC ACADEMY BOX VOLUME 2
Author: Katsu Aki
Limited Edition Bundle that includes volume 2 of the Psychic Academy Manga and volume 2 of the never-before-released anime on DVD.

Viz Media LLC

Bobobo Bo Bo-Bo Volume 1
by Yoshio Sawai
In the year 300X, the cruel Emperor Tsuru Tsururina has mandated the hunting of all hair in the Maruhage Empire. But a single man rises to the occasion and takes a stand against this violation of human hair rights. Bo-bobo, master of Fist of the Nose Hair, uses the prehensile hairs of his shnoz to most lethal ends. Follow the nonsensical adventures of Bo-bobo and his sentient sidekick snacks as they lead their hilarious rebellion against the Empire.
SC, 5x7, 256pgs, B&W SRP: $7.99

BAttle Angel Alita: Last Order Volume 6 Tp
by Yukito Kishiro
Master manga creator Yukito Kishiro brings back his most celebrated character, cyborg sweetheart Battle Angel Alita. If you're a longtime fan, prepare to meet Kishiro's latest bevy of bizarre and tormented characters, as well as revisit many of your favorite friends and foes in a post-apocalyptic universe where nothing is as it seems.

Competing in the rigged Z.O.T. Tournament in hopes of rescuing her friend Lou's brain from enslavement as a computer component, lovely cyborg Alita is locked into a battle to the death with a vampire! Also, Master hacker Ping's alliance with Alita pays off; mad scientist Desty Nova makes a reappearance; and an encounter with strangers raises a disturbing possibility about Alita's mysterious past...
SC, 5x7, 192pgs, B&W SRP: $9.95

volumes 1 through 5 will be re-released

The Art Of Fullmetal Alchemist
by Hiromu Arakawa

Translated faithfully from the Japanese edition, this coffee table book contains all the Fullmetal Alchemist color artwork by manga artist Hiromu Arakawa from 2001 to 2003. The Art of Fullmetal Alchemist contains over 90 pages of gorgeous painted illustrations.
SC, 8x11, 96pgs, FC SRP: $19.99

Rurouni Kenshin: Profiles
by Nobuhiro Watsuki
Now, for the first time in English, get the facts on your favorite rurouni in one comprehensive volume. If you thought you knew everything about Nobuhiro Watsuki's Rurouni Kenshin, think again. Into the bustling streets of Tokyo, the capital of Japan and epicenter of the Meiji Restoration, enters Himura Kenshin, a rurouni or "wanderer."
SC, 8x11, 200pgs, PC SRP: $14.99

STeamboy Ani-Manga Volume 1 Tp
by Katsuhiro Otomo
Experience Katsuhiro Otomo's film Steamboy in this spectacular and immersive full- color ani-manga. The highly anticipated anime production from the director of Akira is set in an alternate historical London in 1866 where competing inventors create every possible weapon and contraption powered by the steam and the imagination. The film which demonstrated Otomo's unique story-telling and illustrative artistry finds new voice in this book where readers can explore the steam universe and return for new discoveries.
SC, 188pgs, FC SRP: $19.99

The Art Of My Neighbor, Totoro
A generous collection of concept sketches, fully rendered character and background drawings, paintings and cell images! Meet the well-loved animations principal characters and read interviews and comments with the production staff.
HC, 8x11, 176pgs, FC SRP: $29.99

My Neighbor, Totoro Picture Book
by Hayao Miyazaki
Eleven-year-old Satsuki and her sassy little sister Mei have moved to the country to be closer to their ailing mother. While their father is working, the girls explore their sprawling old house and the forest and fields that surround it. Soon, Satsuki and Mei discover Totoro, a magical forest spirit who takes them on fantastic adventures through the trees and the clouds-and teaches them a lesson about trusting one another.
SC, 112pgs, FC SRP: $14.99

The Beauty Is The Beast Volume 1 Tp
by Tomo Matsumoto
When bubbly eleventh-grader Eimi Yamashita finds out that her parents must relocate for work, she strikes out on her own and moves into a dormitory for girls. Little does Eimi suspect the exciting romantic adventures that await her there!
SC, 5x7, 184pgs, B&W SRP: $8.99

1 World Manga Volume 1 & 2 Tp
by Annette Roman & Leandro Ng
A humanitarian joint project with The World Bank! Teenage Rei survives by his wits and guts on the mean streets of the world. A supernatural being who transforms into animals is training him to become the greatest martial artist ever. But he's developing Rei's mind, spirit, and-ugh!-heart more than his raging, thrashing fighting moves! Then Rei meets a young woman fighting just to survive.... Can he vanquish the specter of abject poverty?

Geneon Talks August/September DVD Releases

August

DearS Volume One

Acclimating to a new culture can be difficult... but for the DearS, a race of beautiful humanoid aliens that crash lands in modern day Tokyo, the learning curve is filled with hilarious and sexy obstacles in DearS Volume One - 1st Contact, debuting on DVD August 2 from Geneon Entertainment. With saucy fan service, outrageous comedy and romantic drama, DearS is an instant draw for anyone who fell in love with Chobits and Love Hina.
The series is directed by Akira Suzuki (Happy Lesson), adapted from the manga by Peach-Pit (Rozen Maiden), with design by Nobutsugu Ochi, script by Tako Yoshioka (Ikki Tousen, Happy Lesson), animation by DOME and English dub by New Generation Pictures (Haibane Renmei, Paranoia Agent, Ikki Tousen and R.O.D - The TV -).

DearS Volume One - 1st Contact Synopsis

One year ago, an alien spacecraft crashed into Tokyo Bay, leaving an entire crew stranded on Earth with no means of returning home. In no time, the aliens are granted Japanese citizenship and begin participating in a home-stay program with the local people in order to learn all about human culture. When one DearS goes astray and wanders into the life of an ordinary high school student named Takeya, the adventure begins-and this DearS is about to learn things they don?t teach you in school!

Hellsing and Gungrave on UMD

Hellsing and Gungrave - both of which feature hardcore action and gritty, supernatural plotlines - will be blazing the trail for anime on the popular PSP device, unleashing must-have action-packed mini-discs on August 16th. The first and second episodes of each series will be available for the suggested retail price $14.98.

A wildly popular title among action lovers, Hellsing tells the story of a secret war brewing in the night... where the worst enemy of the darkness is one of its own. The rogue vampire Arucard is the ultimate weapon against the undead... and humanity?s last hope of survival in an unholy war. The UMD release of Hellsing will pave the way for the release of a long-anticipated sequel, Hellsing Ultimate OVA Series, currently in production.

Featuring hardcore action and bloody mayhem, Gungrave follows mob enforcer Brandon Heat on his dark journey back from the dead, driven by his thirst for revenge against the organization that betrayed and murdered him. Based on the Playstation 2 Gungrave game, Yasuhiro Nightow?s (Trigun) edgy series showcases production by Masao Morosawa (Jubei-Chan, Ninja Scroll TV) and Shigeru Kitayama (Ninja Scroll Movie, Noir) as well as music by Tsuneo Imahori (Trigun) and animation by the powerhouse studio Madhouse (Animatrix, Tokyo Godfathers, Trigun, Texhnolyze, X).

Tenjho Tenge - Round Two

High school is a difficult time for most teenagers... but it?s even tougher when the campus is a raging battleground for warring factions, clubs and student groups. With even more violence and sexy babes than the first installment, get back into the ring with the ultimate male fantasy, Tenjho Tenge Round Two, debuting on DVD August 16 from Geneon Entertainment. Filled with uncensored fan service and maintaining the edgy action from the original Japanese manga by Oh! Great, Tenjho Tenge is an outrageous blend of sex, violence and comedy... all set at the coolest high school you could possibly imagine. The DVD features animation by MADHOUSE (Trigun, X, Gungrave), scripts by Toshiki Inoue (Ninja Scroll TV) and English dub by fan-favorite studio Bang Zoom! (Last Exile, Gungrave, Samurai Champloo).

Ultramaniac Volume 3 - Magical Stone
Junior high school was never quite like this! When it?s discovered that the mysterious transfer student is really a witch from a neighboring kingdom, the entire campus is turned upside down with magic, mayhem... and fun! Adding a more than a dash of fantasy and humor to upend the typical junior high school experience is UltraManiac Volume 3 - Magical Stone, coming to DVD on August 16 from Geneon Entertainment.

Channeling the power of love and the belief in magic with hilarious and uplifting results, UltraManiac follows the ups and downs of the teenaged years, exploring themes of friendship and hope along the way. Perfect for teens and tweens, as well as the entire family, UltraManiac features an English dub by Media Concepts (Sugar, Someday?s Dreamers, Fighting Spirit) and animation directed by Maki Fuji (Strawberry Eggs, Hand Maid May). With character design by Marmalade Boy-creator Wataru Yoshimizu, UltraManiac is a tale of adventure, magic and love for the young at heart everywhere.

Ghost Talker?S Daydream
Saiki Misaki?s life is anything but normal. She?s a celebrated dominatrix with a devoted fan base, for one. And, perhaps even more strangely, she can talk to ghosts, and uses her unique ability to solve supernatural mysteries for a secret government organization in Ghost Talker?s Daydream, debuting on DVD August 23 from Geneon Entertainment. The sexy psychic has her hands full as she delves deep into horrors from beyond the grave...and into the darkness of man?s soul.

The atmospheric horror anime Ghost Talker?s Daydream boasts an original screenplay by Kenichi Kanemaki (Ai Yori Aoshi, Record of Lodoss War), direction by Osamu Sekita (Mobile Suit Gundam Seed, W-Wish) and character design by Akemi Kobayashi (Air The Movie, Pretear). Ghost Talker?s Daydream is available as a single disc for a suggested retail price of $29.98.

Ghost Talker?s Daydream Synopsis
Ever since she could remember, Saiki Misaki has had the ability to 'talk' to ghosts. She works as a special consultant for the city's secret division that deals with supernatural cases. She also works as a dominatrix at an S&M club, where she has gained a cult following for her extraordinary ability to tame men's twisted desires. These special talents, however, forbid her to lead an ordinary life. Everyday she has to deal with overzealous fans/stalkers, and worse, lost spirits in desperate need of help...

The Melody Of Oblivion Volume Two - Monotone

Bearing the weight of the world taxes the soul, but for one girl who is destined to be humanity?s salvation, the price of peace is a burden she must carry alone.
Join the quest in The Melody Of Oblivion Volume Two - Monotone, arriving on DVD August 23, 2005 from Geneon Entertainment. Directed by Hiroshi Nishikiori (Gad Guard, Angelic Layer) with series creator Hiroshi Enokido (Fooly Cooly, Raxephon) and animation by the stellar collaboration of J.C. Staff (Ai Yori Aoshi, Ikki Tousen) and Gainax (Neon Genesis Evangelion, FLCL), the 20th Anniversary Gainax production The Melody Of Oblivion Volume Two allows another peek into the provocative, delightfully-inventive world rife with action, adventure and beautiful illustration. With strong appeal for fans of both the Neon Genesis Evangelion and Revoltuionary Girl Utena franchises, The Melody Of Oblivion Volume Two single disc DVD is available in a specially packaged clear keepsake with reversible wrap for a suggested retail price of $29.98.

The Melody Of Oblivion Volume Two Synopsis
Is the saving of innocent lives a worthy cause when everyone else condemns you for the act? This burden weighs on Bocca?s heart as he continues his fight against Midnight Hiyoko. But who is the real enemy? Later Bocca and Sayoko arrive at a town filled with mechanical mice and meet a girl who could be a warrior of Melos if it wasn?t for her hatred of warriors.

Jubei-Chan 2 Volume Two - Vendetta

Round two of Jubei vs. Jubei begins when the samurai-sword swinging ladies of this fast-paced, fan-favorite series return in Jubei Chan 2: Vendetta - Volume Two landing on DVD August 30, 2005 from Geneon Entertainment. Two seemingly ordinary teenage girls pay homage to the legendary samurai, Yagyu Jubei, as they duel for her celebrated title. The staff that brought the outrageous, slapstick comedy of the original Jubei Chan to life return for the satisfying sequel, which features original story, scripts and executive direction by Akitaroh Daichi (Fruits Basket, Rurouni Kenshin), character design and animation direction by Yoshihiko Umakoshi (Berserk, Street Fighter Zero), chief direction by Hiroshi Nagahawa (Now and Then Here and There, Revolutionary Girl Utena) and animation production by MAD HOUSE (Animatrix, Vampire Hunter D, Ninja Scroll). Jubei Chan 2: Vendetta - Volume Two is available as a single disc with a reversible DVD cover for a suggested retail price of $29.98.

September

Girls Bravo Volume Two

Gorgeous women, minimal clothing and lots of laughs - who could ask for anything more? The average male?s fantasy... and afflicted high school student Yukinari?s worst nightmare continues, overflowing with bouncing babes and comedic hilarity in Girls Bravo Volume Two debuting on DVD September 6 from Geneon Entertainment, T&A, costume play and more girl-on-girl action provide for scintillating laughs and uproarious romantic-antics, for just the right dosage in this outrageous fan-service anime, based on the six-volume manga, Girls Bravo, that has sold over 900,000 copies in Japan.

Directed by Ei Aoki (Please Teacher!, Please Twins!), the series features an all-star cast of voice talent that includes Mamiko Noto (Full Metal Panic, X, Paranoia Agent, InuYasha), Ayako Kawasumi (Samurai Champloo, Ai Yori Aoshi, Mahoromaatic) and Chiwa Saito (Last Exile, R.O.D -The TV-). Girls Bravo Volume Two is available as a single disc for a suggested retail price of $24.98. Prebook is August 2, 2005.

Kyo Kara Maoh Volume Three

Royalty can be found in the most unlikely places as long-lost Demon King, Yuri, has discovered. Journey to a world of sorcery, colorful characters and conflict in Kyo Kara Maoh! God (?) Save Our King! Volume Three available on DVD September 6 from Geneon Entertainment. Based on the Japanese novels that have sold over two million copies, Kyo Kara Maoh! is a skillfully written, wonderfully illustrated epic fantasy series. Kyo Kara Maoh! God (?) Save Our King! Volume Three includes five episodes filled with fantasy, adventure and comedy, and is available for the suggested retail price of $24.98. Each volume additionally contains a limited character film card (while supplies last).

Petit Cossette
The secrets of the past are sometimes best left undisturbed; in Geneon Entertainment?s sweeping tale of horror and romance, Petite Cossette (full title: Petite Cossette, Le Portrait de), a Venetian glass is the portal into a gothic mystery that threatens to consume a young man who chances to gaze into its tangled web. The tragic beauty and timeless enchantment of doomed love comes to DVD on September 13, featuring cast and crew interviews and a music video starring Marina Inoue. The all-star creative team features direction by Akiyuki Shinbou (Soul Taker, Moon Phase), screenplay by Mayori Sekijima (Video Girl Ai, Saber Marionette), character design by Hirofumi Suzuki (Naruto, lain) and music by Yuki Kajiura (Noir, .hack). Petite Cossette is available for the suggested retail price of $29.98. Available on September 6 is Petite Cossette - Original Soundtrack, which features the haunting, atmospheric score for a suggested retail price of $14.98.

Petite Cossette, Le Portrait de
Eiri, a talented art student, works part-time in an antique shop in a quiet part of town. One afternoon, he uncovers a delicate Venetian glass holding a startling secret within. When Eiri peers into the glass, he can see a young blond girl, her life playing out like a movie solely for him to see. Curious, he stares into the glass, hoping to learn more about the enchanting girl inside. This is Cossette, a mysterious beauty haunting the glass, waiting 250 years for someone to finally see her, and set her free. Eiri is soon obsessed with Cossette, determined to do anything he can to help her. Will Eiri see past all the illusions and discover the tragic truth about Cossette, or will he be consumed by anguish and obsession?

Mermaid Forest Volume Two - Bitter Flesh

In his search for death, after 500 years of desperate and lonely immortality, Yuta uncovers the mystery of the place of undying, lost souls in Mermaid Forest Volume Two - Bitter Flesh, debuting on DVD September 20 from Geneon Entertainment. From renowned storyteller Rumiko Takahashi (InuYasha, Ranma 1/2, Rumiko Takahashi Anthology) comes the original story, Mermaid Forest, a tragic adventure series that warns those who seek eternal life of the solitude and pain of everlasting life. Mermaid Forest Volume Two - Bitter Flesh is available as a single disc for a suggested retail price of $29.98.

Shibuya Kaidan: The Locker
Japan has set the new gold standard for horror films, with atmospheric imports such as The Ring (Ringu), The Grudge (Ju-On) and Dark Water using imagery and mood to tap into deep-seated psychological fears. Now Asia?s eeriest and most unsettling urban legend comes to terrifying life when Geneon Entertainment opens
THE LOCKER: SHIBUYA KAIDAN on DVD September 13. When a group of young couples who seek to fulfill their dreams of romance visit a Shibuya coin locker purported to have magical powers, they instead unlock a terrifying curse from which there is no escape.

Twisting everyday images and mundane occurrences into dark and foreboding atmospheric terror, J-Horror has raised the bar for on-screen scares high above mere blood and gore. With the road paved by worldwide successes such as Ringu and Ju-On - and their domestic counterparts, The Ring and The Grudge - it?s clear that North American audiences have embraced the disturbing ambiance and chilling vision of Japanese terror.

Tetsujin 28 Volume One - Monster Resurrected

First airing in the US in 1966 under the title Gigantor, the fan-favorite animated classic Tetsujin 28 is back in its fourth incarnation, debuting on DVD September 27 from Geneon Entertainment. The story of a boy who operates a giant robot originally designed as a classified weapon developed during World War II, the action-packed series set the standard for the "giant robot" anime genre, and is one of the early and most beloved masterpieces of Japanese TV animation. Now, the classic series is souped-up with cutting edge animation and new storylines, bringing Tetsujin to the next generation of anime fans. Tetsujin 28 - Monster Resurrected (Volume One) is available as a single disc for a suggested retail price of $19.98. The limited edition collector?s box with room for subsequent volumes has a suggested retail price of $24.98. Featuring pulse-pounding action music from the series, the Tetsujin 28 Music Collection CD will be released on September 6 for a suggested retail price of $14.98.

Tetsujin 28 - Monster Resurrected (Volume One) Synopsis
The journey begins when Professor Kaneda creates the ultimate soldier robot, Tetsujin, as a substitute for his son, Shotaro, whom he mistakenly believed died in a bomb raid on Tokyo during World War II. To prevent the army from using Testujin as a tool for destruction, the professor hides the robot on a remote island. Ten years after the war, Tetsujin is finally resurrected after 28 attempts made by the late Professor Kaneda's protege, Professor Shikishima. Meanwhile, Shotaro has grown up to become a genius boy detective and now joins forces with his beloved Tetsujin to wage a courageous battle against evil! A legendary masterpiece, which shines in the history of postwar manga, is now resurrected brilliantly!

TOKYOPOP Hires News Execs

In support of its strategy for continued international growth, the TOKYOPOP Group has bolstered its worldwide finance and accounting infrastructure by announcing the addition of two key personnel to its Tokyo and Los Angeles offices.

TOKYOPOP U.S. has appointed Cary Tan to the role of V.P. & Controller. In this capacity, Cary will oversee the company's U.S. accounting systems, financial reporting and outside royalty reporting. Tan comes to TOKYOPOP with more than 18 years of progressive hands-on financial and managerial experience. With an impressive background that includes posts at Veritami Inc. and Crown Bolt, Tan most recently served as Vice-President of Galleria, Inc., where he supported company growth by negotiating an impressive increase in bank credit facility from $30MM to $82MM over a 4-year period.

TOKYOPOP K.K. has named Cathy Liu to the position of Group Finance & Administration Director. Liu also comes to TOKYOPOP with a wealth of financial industry experience which includes crucial financial posts at Hitachi, Toyoichitsusho Co. Ltd. and Mitsubishi. Most recently, Cathy served as Controller at The Hudson Software Co. LTD., where she headed International Business Development Planning while overseeing the company's worldwide operations. In her new role at TOKYOPOP, Cathy will manage all accounting and financial reporting for the Japan operating entity and holding company.

November Media Blasters Releases

From the AnimeWorks Line

11/15 Gokusen - Premium Box w/Jacket $49.95
Kenshin Economy Box TV season 1 (of 3) (episodes 1-39) ($79.95)
Otogi Zoshi Vol.5 (of 6) Crossing Boundaries (episodes 19-22)
The Twelve Kingdoms - Premium Box II (of 2) $99.95

11/29
Seven of Seven (economy case) ($39.95)
Ah! My Goddess Vol.2 (of 6) Love Plus One (episodes 6-10)

Kenshin
The Meiji Era was one of great renewal for Japan, where swords and killing were outlawed. However, many survivors from the time of Revolution still live, lurking in the shadows and waiting for a chance to use their killing blades again. Only Kenshin Himura, formerly one of the most brutal of killers, hopes to keep his swordsman's honor and still live in the new era.

Gokusen
Kumiko Yamaguchi is the heir of the Oedo Yakuza family, but it's her dream to teach the youth of Japan. She puts aside her cunning nature and takes up the role of a normal air headed graduate, landing a high-school teaching job. Now Kumiko is determined to understand the teen-age mind, teach higher math, and maybe carry on a little romance. This is assuming she can stop her slavishly loyal army of brutal hit men from murdering the students who misbehave. 3 discs, 13 episodes, 325 mins.

Seven of Seven (economy case)
As far back as Nana Suzuki could remember, her Grandfather wanted to capture the rainbow. After years of fruitless tinkering he finally discovered a crystal that would separate the light from a rainbow into its seven basic colors. The experiment only needed to bake for another few seconds. And that?s when Nana accidentally opened the microwave...
Now there are seven Nanas!! Everything about her has been multiplied by seven. There's a grumpy Nana, a giggly Nana, a crybaby, a slowpoke, a cool Nana, and a Nana who's just a little strange in addition to the original Nana - but they're still all Nana. She?s got seven times the problems, seven times the hopes and seven times the love for that cute boy Yuichi. How can Nana possibly compete with herself and what are her parents going to say when they find out that they now have seven daughters? Whoever said that seven was a LUCKY number?
6 Discs, 26 Episodes

Media Blasters Press
AnimeWorks

11/16
Baron Gong Battle Book 4

Also, Zatoichi - TV Series Vol.1 will be released 11/29

The first four Hour long episodes on a 2 disc set.
1 10/3/1974 A Challenge of Chance directed by Kazuo Mori
2 10/10/1974 The Flower that Bloomed with the Lullaby directed by Yoshiyuki Kuroda
3 10/17/1974 A Memorial Day and The Bell of Life directed by Shintaro Katsu
4 10/24/1974 The Kannon Statue That Was Tied directed by Kenji Misumi

4Kids Entertainment To Release Yu-Gi-Oh! Season 4

4Kids Entertainment Home Video, Inc., the home video unit of 4Kids Entertainment, Inc., in association with FUNimation Productions LTD, will release Yu-Gi-Oh! Volume 4.1: A New Evil featuring seven action-packed episodes from the current Kids? WB! broadcast season on DVD on December 6, 2005.

YU-GI-OH! Volume 4.1: A New Evil
Episode 401 A New Evil - Part I
Episode 402 A New Evil - Part II
Episode 403 Legend of the Dragons
Episode 404 The Creator Returns
Episode 405 Deja Duel! - Part I
Episode 406 Deja Duel! - Part II
Episode 407 An Unexpected Enemy

4Kids will also be starting value-priced DVDouble Shot. Culled from such hit 4Kids Entertainment television series as Yu-Gi-Oh!, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Winx Club, Sonic X, Cabbage Patch Kids and Kirby: Right Back at Ya!, each DVD will feature two of the most memorable episodes, hand-picked by the series? original producers and writers, with input from the show?s most devoted fans.

Designed as an inexpensive new purchasing option with a high entertainment value, "DVDouble Shots" will be offered in slimray packaging with an enticing packaging design. Sixteen SKUs will be available this fall at mass and specialty retailers including grocery stores, drug stores, party stores and others. The suggested retail price is $3.99 to $4.99.

Next Super Robot Taisen

The Magic Box reports Banpresto announced they will release Super Robot Taisen J for GBA in Japan in September, the game will have characters from 15 anime series, including Gundam Seed.

Naoki Urasawa Talks Pluto

An English language article about Naoki Urasawa's (Monster, 20th Century Boys, Master Keaton) Pluto is online at Asahi. Pluto expands on a robot character created by Osamu Tezuka in his classic Astro Boy story "The Greatest Robot on Earth."

"It's a tale of the 21st century where skyscrapers soar, no-wheel cars fly and robots move around," Urasawa says. In this future world, due to human egoism, "robots are set against each other, wavering between good and evil. It's such a tragic and fascinating drama," he says.

Traditionally in Japan, manga characters were under the exclusive control of their creators and perished with their authors. In the United States, popular comic characters, such as Superman or Batman, are immortal, as the copyright holder passes them on to new artists.

Despite breaking with convention, Urasawa's Pluto, based on the Tezuka's original, has been applauded by both fans and critics. While the original story centers on the battles between Pluto and Atom, Urasawa tells the story through the perspective of a German robot cop, one of the seven robots targeted by Pluto.

"Like Shakespeare, Tezuka should be regarded as a literary master," Urasawa says. "Yet, his work is confined to the manga genre. I hope my `Pluto' helps people see him in a new light. That's one of the reasons why I am writing this."

Old Anime Found in Kyoto

Animania Blog and Asahi report an animation film which seems to have been made in Meiji period was found at the personal residence of an old family in Kyoto. Matsumoto, adjunct instructor of Osaka University of Arts, estimated the period by the technique it was made by. The technique is called ¡Ãˆkappa-ban¡Ã‰which used to be used on a lantern slide in Meji period (1868 - 1912). If it is verified, it will break the record of Japan¡Ã‡s oldest animation film.

Kyoto Seika University to Create First Manga Faculty

Kyoto Seika University reports Kyoto Seika University has announced it will establish a manga faculty to train comic and animation writers. The faculty of cartoon art, which will begin from next spring, will be the first such faculty at a Japanese university, officials said. The university reportedly plans to accept 200 students into the faculty.

Hideki Hamasu Profile

AniPages Daily has posted a profile of Hideki Hamasu, an animator with an interesting history with Satoshi Kon and Toei.

Central Park Media News

October Central Park Media Releases:

From the press release:
Halloween comes early this year as Central Park Media?s October release of Kakurenbo-Hide & Seek on DVD will be available for only $19.95 SRP. Everyone understands the innocent game of Hide & Seek, but in Kakurenbo-Hide and Seek, the game is not so innocent as a group of kids play against demons that want to do more than win. The anime short film has already received the Best Film Nomination at Seoul Comics and Animation Festival 2005, was a Tokyo Anime Fair 2005 winner, and was recently awarded the golden prize (top prize) for the Best Short Film at the Fantasia Film Festival 2005. In anticipation of its upcoming release in October, Kakurenbo-Hide & Seek has already been screened at such noteworthy conventions as Anime Expo and San Diego Comic-con and received an impressive response. With three awards under its belt and outstanding convention praise, Kakurenbo-Hide & Seek will be the Halloween movie to see.

Also available will be Patlabor The Mobile Police: The New Files DVD Collection. Fans can continue to enjoy the classic adventures of Noa and Alphonse in this latest edition of Patlabor The Mobile Police. This DVD Collection, containing all sixteen episodes, comes in a three-disc set and for a price of $29.95 SRP, it?s a DVD deal that will not be beat.

Kakurenbo-Hide & Seek will contain English and Japanese with English subtitles, while Patlabor The Mobile Police: The New Files DVD Collection will contain English and Japanese with English subtitles on the first disc and Japanese with English subtitles on the last two discs. Both will have a preorder date of September 13, 2005 and street date of October 11, 2005.

Central Park Media is holding a sneak preview screening of its upcoming "Kakurenbo: Hide and Seek" at Otakon. CPM's going to be showing "Kakurenbo" at 6:30 PM on Friday, August 19 in Video Room 1.

Central Park Media has uploaded a "Hammerboy" PSP Promo to its PSP download page download page .

Gravitation OAV Delayed

Anime on DVD reports The Right Stuf's release of the OAV (direct to home video) continuation of popular yaoi (homosexual love) Gravitation has been delayed to September 13th.

Avenger Price Increase

Bandai has announced that the price of the collected release of sci-fi action anime Avenger, to be released September 13th, has been increased to $34.98.November Bandai Releases

11/8
Mars Daybreak Vol. #2
Mars Daybreak Special Vol. #2 with CD

11/22
Cowboy Bebop Remix: Vol. 3
Gundam Seed Movie III (DVD)
Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Movie III with Collector?s Artbox ($39.98 )
Gundam Seed Movie I, II & III (PSP Versions, $59.94)
Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam: Chapter 2
Panda-Z Vol. 2
s-CRY-ed: 3 Volume Anime Legends Edition
Wolf?s Rain Limited Complete Collection ($149.98)

Wolf?s Rain
There is an old legend that speaks of a hidden paradise on Earth that only wolfs can find. Thought to have been extinct, wolves still walk the Earth...hidden among mankind. A group of wolves set out to find Paradise with each being driven by their own personality and desires. A difficult and long journey lies ahead, with Paradise waiting to be found.
The Entire 26 Episode TV Series
4 Bonus OVA Episodes
Wolf?s Rain Original Soundtrack CD

From Bones Studio (Cowboy Bebop the Movie & Raxephon)
Character Designs by Toshihiro Kawamoto (Cowboy Bebop, Full Metal Alchemist and Witch Hunter Robin)
Music by Yoko Kanno (Cowboy Bebop, Chost in the Shell: SAC and Escaflowne)

Live Action Afrosamurai Confirmed

The Hollywood Reporter confirms that Samuel L. Jackson has signed on to star in and co-produce "Afrosamurai" a live-action feature film version of the upcoming Gonzo anime of the same name.

From the article

The story centers on No. 2, the Afro Samurai, who travels the road looking for revenge on those who murdered his father in front of him when he was just a boy. His nemesis is No. 1, a three-armed gunman who is the lord of the dark swordsman's road.

Production on the film is slated to begin next year, with the film targeting a 2007 release. An animated TV version of "Afrosamurai" is scheduled to air on Spike TV next year before being reverse imported to Japan, where it will air with Japanese subtitles. Jackson also will lend his voice to the series.

Range Murata Interview

Akadot has posted an interview with artist/design Range Murata (Robot, Last Exile) here

Digital Manga Licenses Gorgeous Carat Galaxy

Anime News Network reports Digital Manga Publishing has added You Higuri's Gorgeous Carat Galaxy to their yaoi library.

ICE Kunion Interview

Icv2 has posted a three part interview with new Korean manwha distributor ICE Kunion here, here and here.

Shinichiro Watanabe at AnimeFest

Shinichiro Watanabe will make an appearence at the Dallas convention, AnimeFest. He is the director of Samurai Champloo, Cowboy Bebop: Tengoku no tobira (aka Cowboy Bebop: The Movie), Cowboy Bebop (TV Series), and Macross Plus. He is also the writer and director for Kid's Story (The Animatrix: Kid's Story), A Detective Story and writer of the screenplay of the Cowboy Bebop TV series.

Lucas Looking to Anime?

AnimeNewsNetwork reports in a CNN Article, George Lucas commented, "I also look at this as a way to get my foot into anime," in regards to an animation facility he has set up in Singapore and "[T]he amazing artistic talents in the Asian community."

Viz Talks Zatch Bell

Vip has announced the forthcoming release of the manga and anime series for ZATCH BELL!. The first two volumes of the manga series will debut in August with a rating of "T" for teens and an MSRP of $9.99 each. The first volume of the anime series will debut on DVD and home video in November and contain 4 episodes and retail for $19.98. ZATCH BELL! currently also airs on the Cartoon Network in North America and is slated to begin showing in Canada on YTV in September.

Written and illustrated by Makoto Raiku, ZATCH BELL! tells the story of 14-year old Kiyo Takamine, a brilliant junior high school student whose inflated ego and ability to blow the grading curve make him a major target for teasing and harassment by his fellow students. His holier than thou personality and apathetic attitude towards life concern Kiyo?s father and he decides to try to help his son with the aid of a mysterious birthday present - a strange little boy named Zatch whom he finds unconscious in the woods in England. Zatch has no memory of who he is, but he possesses a strange and powerful red volume of magic spells. The father sends Zatch to Japan to meet his son, hoping he can help reform Kiyo?s bad attitude and help him make friends. When Kiyo looks through Zatch?s mysterious book he notices that there is one word he can read, and when he does, lightning comes out of Zatch's mouth.

It turns out Zatch is a "mamodo," an imp-like creature from another world, and he has been sent to the human world along with 99 other mamodo children to fight a battle to determine who will be the next king of the mamodo world. All the mamodo have their own books, which enable them to awaken their inner powers when they find human partners who can read the spells inside. Exciting, hilarious, and heartwarming adventures ensue throughout the series as other mamodo children keep coming to Zatch and Kiyomaro to try to beat them, and the duo tries to defeat their enemies, make friends, and find out more about Zatch's shadowy past! "We are pleased to expand our manga and anime libraries with this popular and well-loved title and are confident that fans in North America will embrace the magical adventures of this impish and brazen young boy." said Anthony Jiwa, director of marketing for VIZ Media. "The positive messages contained in the story about a person?s ability and willingness to change and the power of friendship are inspiring and we look forward to the title?s success."