Breaking Metal Windows

TWELVE GATES: ISSUE 1: January 2012

2012-02-07T12:40:00.000-08:00

The debut of the new online bi-monthly manga magazine Twelve Gates! This issue includes chapter 1 of the following series (not in order);

Angels Among Us
Infinite Dreams
Love, Grim
Masquerade
Open Hands
Revival Psalm
Sisterella
The humanBEing
The Sparrow Cafe

~Check Out Twelve Gates~

THE REVIEW

I discovered the magazine a bit on accident. One of the mangaka apart of it, Sai Reba, had a link to it on her deviantart, so I decided to check it out. She is the mangaka of such titles as Two Kingdoms and FireWire, which runs in the onlime magazine DREAM. In this magazine, however, she has a third title under her belt entitled the humanBEing. What really caught my interest, however, was what kind of manga this magazine carries; positive/Christian!

As part of my effort to give exposure to not only webcomics, but Christian and/or positive manga, I've decided that I will review each issue of Twelve Gates that are released, giving short comments about all the stories that are inside! So the way I review them will be slightly different and more condensed than usual. Thinking of it more of an overview. I will point out what I like and not like in each story, and which ones I am more apt to follow (though for everyone's sake, I will read through them all!). Due to a multitude of stories, I shall begin reviewing them one by one (not in order of appearance in the magazine).

Sisterella by Cali Mica. Rated G.
DESCRIPTION: The tale of Cinderella with a twist. This story focuses on the step sisters of Cinderella, mainly Betia, who hopes to find her true love.

I found this story to be adorable in it's own right. The art of this story is probably the most amatuerish and rough compared to all the others, but cute none the less. It sort of reminds me of selenaloong's style, which I like, and with more practice, I'm sure Cali will get better as the story progresses! So, obviously, it's a twist on Cinderella. It actually seems like a whole different story entirely, with inspiration from the original tale, but that's also why it is interesting. Our main character girl, Betia, wishes to have a BIG FAMILY, and she likes babysitting children as it's "good practice". In this chapter, she and her sister fear to return home due to the mom and sister making them clean until midnight! S

Interest? High.
If I were a normal reader, I would follow this regularly.

Open Hands by Mushi. Rated PG-13.
DESCRIPTION: In the land of Diyro, racism against beast-men is becoming more acceptable. Although most beast-men have fled, some half-bloods like Hwro and Fel managed to blend in with men. But when their secret is found out, their life of leisure is taken from them as they are forced to flee like the ancestors before them.

I have to admit I have mixed feelings about this one. Obviously, it's a fantasy manga. On the other hand, it's a Christian manga. Is it well blended? Not exactly. In my opinion, it just seems sort of odd when talking about the God in our world in a fantasy setting. Unless you refer to God differently, or give Him another name for that world (since the events in this world obviously did not happen in their world), it can seem a bit out of place. Hwro and Fel have the ability to shape shift, and they are on the run from Jin's assassins. There also seems to be a side-plot coming into play about a girl named Aya dating a jerk who treats her badly. The art in this pretty good, but still very rough.

Interest? Curious.
If I were a normal reader, I would probably glance back at this from time to time.

Love, Grim by H.E. Hinze. Rated PG-13.
DESCRIPTION: When told she has 2 months to live, Ainsley's shocked. But as time passes, she learns she needn't be concerned with herself, but someone else; that there may be more to life than rolling with the punches, more to others than their past, and that people may choose to suffer a fate worse than death for the one they love.

Now this one is a rather interesting story! I like how it's a bit on the dark, supernatural side. We are first introduced to this guy, he's kind of like a Grim Reaper. He works for a demon who (obviously) works for the devil. His job? To take souls down to Hell. Well, the demon gives him a new assignment; there's a girl who has 2 months to live. So for these 2 months he has to follow her until it's time to take her soul. However, she's stated that her soul belongs to God, and trusts in His mighty power. The art in here is a bit rough, but has a nice, distinctive flavor I feel fits the series well.

Interest? VERY HIGH
If I were a normal reader, I'd be an instant fan.

Revival Psalm by Scumash. Rated PG-13.
DESCRIPTION: The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.

This was another interesting one, although I admit to being fairly confused to what the heck is going on, but all the more interested in it. Our main character is all alone, and there's mentioning of the other people disappearing or getting eaten by their own shadows, and have become apart of...trees and stuff? It's actually really creepy. I'm not sure if I really understand everything, but I am curious to see how this story unfolds. The art, though pretty good, is still a bit rough around the edges. The shading looks to be done traditionally, which gives for a more pencil-sketch look, but all the same pleasing to the eyes.

Interest? High and Curious
If I were a normal reader, I'd follow this regularly.

the humanBEing by Sai. Rated PG-13
"A story about friends and enemies; love and hate; forgiving and forgetting; holding on and letting go. A story about being human, and being MORE..." Follow the story of ten friends as they survive college, friendship, love, and life in general. No matter who we are, what we know, or what we believe, we are all HUMAN.

This story comes from the same lady who does Two Kingdoms and FireWire. If any of you have heard of her, and may be a fan, you'll definitely like to see this. It has her distinctive art style and great story-telling skills. I really like how she does comic relief moments! This chapter serves more of an introduction to our main characters, and so what it's main premise will be is still a bit vague, but it's still enough to draw you in. Characters make a story, so introductions are of upmost importance. I like how the characters have their own personalities, and it's fun to watch them.

Interest? VERY HIGH
If I were a normal reader, I'd be an instant fan.

Infinite Dreams
DESCRIPTION: Freddy is beginning to worry about what the future holds for him after high school, causing him to have so much anxiety that he begins having trouble distinguishing fantasy from reality. Freddy cannot run from what is in store for him. He must go on towards the future, the slowest way possible

This is most likely the oddest story in the group. And the way it was written was hard to follow. The art is pretty rough, though not too bad. What I found odd was, okay, he's in school and admits to not listening to the teacher and so forth. Then there's this hamster in a shirt that shows up? Somehow this is suppose to lead to an epic adventure. While I am curious, the delivery of this introduction was a bit on the poor side and not enough to hold my interest. However, I am curious to see the artist's growth in skill as more chapters are released.

Interest? Low
If I were a normal reader, I'd probably pass.

Angels Among Us by Erika Bias. Rated PG-13.
DESCRIPTION: After the death of her older brother, Rin Kisagi is living alone in a dangerous world. Rescued from those responsible for his death, she finds herself in the company of two young warriors, Ryo and Taro, as she is pulled into the secret world of the ninja! Will Rin trust them with her life, when there’s no one else to turn to?

Now this manga has the most eye-pleasing art out of all of them! Just by looking at the beauty full-color illustration of the first chapter I wanted to take a look! This is based in a somewhat alternate, modern day Japan. Rin Kisagi is our main character. It begins with showing her coming home, to an empty home, as she lives alone with no family. She is still pained by the death of her brother, who was killed by a bunch of attackers. The city is not safe. She has two caring friends who are willing to take her in, but kindly refuses as she wants to remain in the house that she's always lived in...with her family. This is an action story, and it has ninja in it. The delivery of this first chapter was great, and the art is very good! This is probably the most professional-looking series in the whole magazine thus far!

Interest? VERY HIGH
If I were a normal reader, I'd be an instant fan.

The Sparrow Cafe by Alison Varela (aka The Lady Dove). Rated PG-13.
DESCRIPTION: When Jenny learns that she and her family are moving to Mexico – her entire world is turned upside down! From culture shock, missing her friends, and the icy glare from Micah, nothing will ever be the same for her.

This was a pleasant surprise! I had been reading this manga at the website Christianmanga.com, and for awhile it wasn't updated. It was not only nice seeing this again, but this appears to be an entirely NEW version. The art is a little better, but still with the same, distinctive touch. In the old version, Jenny discovers that her family is moving to Mexico via her friend, but this time her parents tell her directly. This chapter focuses on her finding out and saying goodbye to all her friends. However, I kind of wish that the redone version was like the old version, but I will give this new version a chance. It was a bit short, and not enough to really judge, so I'll be hanging on.

Interest? Medium
If I were a normal reader, I would follow this from time to time.

Masgquerade by bbqbert. Rated PG-13.
DESCRIPTION: Life sucks. Life sucks worse when you’re doing it alone. Elias learns the hard way that falling down can be devastating without friends. And getting up after falling down is never easy. Unless, of course, you’re not alone anymore.

This is another one of the more professional-looking ones. The delivery of the first chapter is a bit messy. I found too much going on, and it was a rush introduction of some of the characters. It had a good prologue, though. Obviously, it's setting up for an interesting story. My interest was mostly peeked at the end however. What was said on the last page convinced me I have to see the next chapter!

Interest? Medium, but Curious.
If I were a normal reader, I'd probably follow this often.

And there you have it! My first impression of the debut of Twelve Gates! They have quite an interesting variety of both Christian and positive stories. I'd highyl recommend this magazine to anyone looking for an alternate to some of the manga out there. Each manga is rated appropriately to what is obviously there, or what is to come. Be aware of content based on the ratings (they have a list of what the ratings mean, and what the manga could contain if so rated). Some of the manga contains violence (including a little blood), disturbing images, and minor language. Watch the rating to see if the story is okay for you!

Until the next issue coming in March!

AN INTERVIEW WITH ROCKLOBSTER

2012-02-04T13:17:00.000-08:00

My first vic---I mean, guest, for this interview series is rocklobster, blogger of Lobster Quadrille. We talked about reviewing, anime openings, faith, and Thundercats!

1. How long have you been an anime fan?
I've been an anime fan technically since I was nine, when Voltron first aired in USA. But it wasn't until Ronin Warriors came out that I started to slowly become an anime fan. By the time Dragonball came out, I was hooked.

2. Any series you are fond of, anime or American, from your childhood?
Anime=Voltron, even though I saw the Japanese version and it's better, I still like it for the nostalgia.
American=Transformers and all the cartoons Bruce Timm and Paul Dini made out of the DC characters.

3. What is it that you like about anime, and do you like it better than American cartoons?
I like anime better because most of the time when I watch American cartoons, I feel as though they are taking the audience for granted. Just because people will watch anything doesn't give you a license to make utter garbage.

4. Mecha. If you could drive one of these, what would you do with it?
I'd probably figure out some way to control it with a wristwatch like Roger Smith in Big O.
5. You are highly known for recommending anime to anyone who will listen (especially if they are reviewers). Any reason for that?
With Cartoon Network deciding that anime isn't that profitable anymore, the Internet's really the only venue left for anime other than DVD's. As reviewers, we are the ones who are now promoting the anime.

6. Do you recommend stuff simply out of kindness or is there an alterior motive? (Muahahaha!)
I know if there are more viewers, a show becomes more popular.

7. The earlier reviews on your blog, "Lobster Quadrille", are often very short. Is it because you like to keep things "short but sweet", or you just don't have much to say about it?
To be honest, I wrote the blog to practice for CAA back when they had the old review system. It got to the point that I got so uptight with the mods rarely updating their review page that I stopped caring. Now that they have a new system, I've been remedying that by making longer reviews.

8. How would you describe your current reviewing style?
I try to watch and/or review an anime on paper by starting it at least two months before I actually want to post my review. I figure out about how long it will take to watch the show and give myself a temporary deadline. While I watch the show, I take notes.

9. As a reviewer, what important points do you like to convey to your readers?
I want people to realize that just because Japan's culture is different from ours doesn't mean you shouldn't watch anime. I call attention to the offensive material because I want my readers to know what to watch out for.

10. Have you ever come across a series that you can simply say "Do. Not. Watch" and leave it at that?
Yes. FLCL, or Fooly Cooly as it's also known. It's just 6 episodes of utter garbage. Do not watch it. I don't care how popular it is.

11. Would you consider yourself an otaku?
Yes.

12. Are you an avid reader of manga?
No, manga is harder to come by for me. My library has trouble getting it and the nearest bookstore is too far away. I also don't have the space for it.

13. Which is better, anime or manga, and why?
Anime, because it takes a shorter time than most manga to tell its story.

14. I notice on your review entries, you love to link up to the intros and endings. Would you consider yourself a person who loves to sit through the opening and ending sequence of a show just 'cause it's cool or has an awesome song (maybe both)?
Yes, I consider the intro like an advertisement for the actual show. That's why I think they're so important.

15. What are some of your favorite opening and ending sequences?
I'll narrow it down to five openings and five endings:
For openings: .hack//sign, Trigun, Cowboy Bebop, Serial Experiments Lain, and Gundam Wing's 1st opening.
For closing: Cowboy Bebop, Mr. Stain on Junk Alley, Rahxephon, Azumanga Daioh, and Spirited Away.

16. When you are watching an anime with favorite said intro, do you get excited each time an episode starts?
Cowboy Bebop, Lain, and Trigun got me pumped up all the time.

17. Have you ever discovered an anime with an awesome intro but terrible storyline, and/or vice versa?
Bad, intro, but good story: Big O and Berserk
Good intro, but bad story: Tenchi Muyo GXP

18. Being a Christian, has your faith ever effected how you view anime and manga?
Yes, I found Chrono Crusade very enjoyable because they portray the Catholicism so well, even with the liberties taken in the story.

19. Has your faith ever been the reason for deciding whether or not to view a series?
Yes, for a while, I was very reluctant to watch Neon Genesis Evangelion because I'd heard it was anti-Christian. I eventually watched it on Adult Swim, and found it very enjoyable in spite of that.

20. Have you ever seen a "glimpse of God" in an anime or manga before? For example, something that either strengthened your faith or made you think of Him?
Yes, in Haibane Renmei, we meet angelic creatures called Haibane. In one episode, Rakka, the protaganist is talking with an elder Haibane, who tells her that sin traps us in a circle and that the only way out is to acknowledge our weakness.

21. What is your opinion on Christian attempts at manga?
I like the idea, but I have reservations because I find that many Christian writers tend to spend too much time preaching to the choir.

22. Have you read any attempts at Christian manga?
I've read a little bit of Shelter of Wings.

23. Why do you think many Christian manga fail miserably?
Secularism is more inviting in the long run. We need to stop thinking that we are going to change the world. It's God's job to change hearts, not ours. We merely plant the seeds. I think most Christian writers and/or artists don't realize this. As an EWTN priest once said, "God's in management. We're in sales."

24. If you had the chance to direct a Christian anime, what would it be about and who would be involved?
I'd make a series of movies based on Madeliene L'Engle's Time Quintet. I think every Christian who likes good fantasy or a good story period should check out her books. I'd get either Paul Dini and Bruce Timm or Walden Media, the people behind the Narnia movies.

25. Let's discuss a little more about your blog. When did you decide you wanted to start a review blog?
I started it because I got tired of CAA not updating their reviews quickly enough. I wanted to get my thoughts out there, so I thought a blog would be the best route.
26. Have you ever reviewed a recommendation? If so, what was it and did you enjoy it?
I've reviewed four recommendations so far: Rahxephon, Mushi-shi, Gosick, and Ouran High School Host Club. I'm in the process of reviewing two more recommendations: The World God Only Knows and Romeo X Juliet.

27. I notice you like a few old school anime. What are among some of your favorites?
Galaxy Express 999, Captain Harlock, Astroboy, Speed Racer, and Beast King Golion.

28. What differences do you notice most between newer and older anime?
Older anime is looser because the technology we have today didn't exist back then.

29. Several series in the 1980's had an obvious anime-style to it because it had Japanese animators. What are some of these American series you would almost like to consider anime, and why?
Transformers, because some of the writing on it was actually quite profound for a kids show. I remember an episode where Beachcomber had a Pyrrhic victory defending a forest from the Decepticons. At the end of the episode, he's standing in the now smoldering forest and says very sadly "We won" because he's realized the cost of his victory--the forest is now dead. I also remember the episode where the Decepticons turned almost the whole population of Earth into their supporters with a "hate plague". That one was really heavy stuff!

30. Thundercats: New vs. Old - the winner, and why?
New.

31. What do you like and not like about the old and the new series? What are some of the pros and cons of the two?
The new show has better story and animation. However, I hate the fact that there's no opening, and that the Thundercats practiced slavery.
The old show had a great opening and I still think it would entertain a child who'd only seen the new version.

32. Time for the random question of the day; Lion-O vs. He-Man. Who would win?
Lion-O, because Lion-O actually managed to defeat Mumm-ra without the Sword of Omens.

33. Before we end this, did you enjoy this interview? Any questions you liked or disliked answering?
Yes, but I didn't like the manga questions. I don't read manga, so I couldn't answer those very well.

34. Recommend something. Then run away.
How about I recommend more than one title?
Anime:
Slayers--all 5 seasons. (I haven't watched seasons 4 or 5, but I have a feeling they'll be just as good. You can watch it on Hulu, FUNimation, or Youtube. Here's the order you should watch each season: Slayers, Slayers Next, Slayers Try, Slayers Revolution, and Slayers Evolution-R.
Erin--this is a great coming of age story. I really enjoyed this one. You can watch it on Crunchy Roll
Mr. Stain on Junk Alley--want to see what you can do in seven minutes with no dialogue? Check this out!
Manga:
The only manga series I'd recommend is Maison Ikkoku.

A special upcoming segment - Interviews with anibloggers and aspiring mangaka!

2012-01-24T13:11:00.000-08:00

I would just like to announce to you all that I am conducting a special segment for Breaking Metal Windows in which I wlll interview anibloggers and aspiring mangaka and discuss things like what they like and not like about anime and manga, some questions that pertain only to them, as well as how their faith might effect how they view anime and manga.

Here are those who have agreed so far (in no particular order);
- Sweetpea (author of the review blog "Paper Chimes" and "Going in Blindly")
- rocklobster (author of the review blog "Lobster Quadrill")
- AngelicAlchemist93 (author of the FMA fanfiction "Truth Within All Truths" and aspiring artist/writer)
- TWWK (author of the blog "Beneath The Tangles")
- Asuka Neko (mangaka of "Square", "Etsu!", and the doujinshi "The Anti-Squee")
- Marshmellow Muffin (mangaka of "The World Stops!" and "1WishRoses")
- Ayu Sakata(writer and aspiring voice actress for the visual novel team sakevisual)
- SteeKira (mangaka of the oneshot "Broken" and hiatus "Impossigirl")
- Inkhana (mangaka on "Game Plan!" and unfinished "Steelblood")
- Lady Rushiya (author of the blog "Caught Up In The Rush")
- Sparkle Foxie (mangaka of "Advocate Voice")

Look forward to these in the future! I hope you will enjoy these interviews, as well as learn something new about some of your favorites if they are on this list ^.^

SEND ME AN ANGEL: VOL.4: FROM THE CORAZON

2012-01-21T13:08:00.001-08:00

Manga-Ka: Christina
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Unrated

{I, the reviewer, give Send Me An Angel, Vol.4, 9 out of 10!}

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

COMMENTS

The fourth installment of Send Me An Angel deals with an issue probably a lot of us Christians fell at one point; feeling inadequate, like we're not good enough. April's church is going to a mission trip to Costa Rica, to help with construction and the children's VBS. Micah, as well as April's other friends, are extremely excited that they get to use their God given talents to spread the gospel in another country. April, however, is a bit nervous, not being to a foreign land, but most of all...she feels as though she's nothing special compared to everyone else.

This feeling of inadequacy effects her performance greatly. Everything seems to be going wrong while she's down there. And worst yet? A beautiful girl, Adela, has her eye on Micah, and her ambition is to "steal him away". What's worse? All the teens are matched up with volunteer housing, and guess who's family April and her friend gets to bunk with? Adela's!

What I liked about this chapter, is it explored all of April's feelings of inadequacy, and even a little jealousy. April begins to compare herself to this other girl, feeling as though she was inferior to the gorgeous and fun Adela. Nothing she seems to do feels good enough, and she feels as though Micah is slipping away from her. And most of all, she feels utterly useless, like God can't use her for anything. Basically, April feels worthless.

Many people can somehow relate to how April is feeling. I myself can admit to feeling like I'm not worth anything, like I'm nothing special, how can God use me? I mean, I've even had my own art literally insulted with a blunt "it sucks!" and almost feeling like "Why am I doing this? Will I ever get better? Am I ever going to reach someone?" So I can totally relate to how April is feeling, and I loved the Author's Notes at the end of this chapter explaining how she herself has felt inadequate, and saying such is an insult to God, for he does not make junk!

I absolutely loved how this chapter ended. It may have not been perfect, and some might find some of the dialogue a little cheesy, but all in all, this was an honest chapter straight from the heart. In fact, that's what this chapter is called, since "corazon" means "heart". It helped remind me that God loves me, and that I am not junk. Just let God step in, and He can use you to do amazing things!

Overall, this was an excellent chapter that, once again, is honest and talks about issues even Christian experience.

Recommended?
Highly recommended! If you've enjoyed the last 3 chapters, or have ever felt inadequate like April, I think you'll enjoy this!

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Adela tries to "steal Micah" away from April. Also, another guy seems to be hitting on her. But that's basically it.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
The worst it gets is when April is hit in the face with a charging soccer ball, but no blood or injury is really shown.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
This is a Christian comic.

*CHAPTER INDEX*
Chapter 4: From The Corazon

MILLENNIUM ACTRESS

2012-01-19T19:46:00.000-08:00

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: This is undubbed, but licensed by Dream Works.
Animation: Madhouse
Manga adaption?: No, this is an original movie.
Rating: PG

{I, the reviewer, give Millennium Actress, 10 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Millennium Actress is an epic masterpiece that blends past experiences and movie cutscenes so seamlessly, that at times it is hard to decipher the real from the fake. This movie's unique aspect is that it's like a documentary, but this is unlike any documentary you've ever seen. Genya Tachibana is thrilled he finally gets to interview legendary actress Chiyoko Fujiwara. With him is the camera guy, Kyoji, who does not understand Genya's fascination with this "old woman".

When they reach her house, Genya is ecstatic to finally be in her presence, and even brought her something special he found of hers - a key. Now this key is very special, and will play a major part in Chiyoko's life. Now, when Chiyoko begins to tell her story for their documentary short, both Genya and Kyoji, are instantly pulled into the scenes as if it were actually happening!

The amazing thing about this experience is sometimes you don't know whether or not you're witnessing one of Chiyoko's memories, or a famous scene from one of her movies. Her life and her movies blend so well together, it's almost impossible to tell the difference, unless the time period is different. You will witness Chiyoko's happy moments, sad moments, intensity, and hopefulness as she recaps everything she's experienced. You might even be pulled in yourself, just like Genya and Kyoji, who are constantly thrown in different scenes and memories without warning!

Another thing to note is that the art and animation for this film is simply gorgeous. It's a little bit more on the realistic side in charachter designs, and the colors are just lovely and befitting for the theme. The music is just as emotional as the scenes they are backdrops of, really setting the mood for the kind of emotion that you are suppose to be experiencing.

The only problem I found with this film is that there were a couple of things left unexplained and unresolved. The ending wasn't completely satisfying. While there really wasn't much left to go on, I wish the ending could feel a bit more satisfying than it was, but it's not particularly a terrible ending, as it still works for this film. All in all, despite thoses things, it does not hinder the film enough to take away points, leaving it with the perfect score of ten.

Will you join Genya and Kyoji on Chiyoko's journey through her memories and her movies? It may not always be so pleasant, and sometimes can be painful, but it's nevertheless and amazing experience!

Recommend?
HIGHLY. This is a truly artistic and beautiful film with brilliant story telling that is rather unique, in my opinion. If you do not like sad stories, then I am afraid this is not for you. But if you don't mind shedding a few tears, and experiencing something that's sad but beautiful, you'll love this!

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
I really liked the music! It fit perfectly with the film, and was the [perfect backdrop for the emotion you were suppose to feel during the scenes.

[SUB VS. DUB]
This is only subbed. The Japanese acting was perfect. Everyone fit their characters.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
None.

[RELATED TITLES]
Other titles by Satoshi Kon.

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
Some "d" here and there.

[TOBACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
I think there was a little bit of smoking.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
The man Chiyoko seems to be in love with she met when she was a girl, so obviously he's much older than her, but other than that, there's really nothing to worry about.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
When Chiyoko first meets the man and he runs off, there's some blood in the snow. In some of her films, there are fight scenes, some involving death, but never graphic. The worst it gets is one scene where Chiyoko plays a Princess, and she points a sword to her own neck about to commit suicide (but she ends up not doing it).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
There is one scene when Chiyoko goes to see a Fortune Teller. Also, there's this creepy ghost-like woman who curses her in one of the actress' movie scenes. However, this seems to haunt Chiyoko throughout the rest of her life.

*EPISODE LIST*
(this is a movie)

THE TRUTH WITHIN ALL TRUTHS

2012-01-04T21:46:00.000-08:00

THE TRUTH WITHIN ALL TRUTHS
A Fullmetal Alchemist fanfiction by AngelicAlchemist93 (Rated K)

Ten years after The Promised Day, Edward continues to wonder about the nature of the universe. Can an ancient religion give him any answers? - FanFiction.Net description.

~*~Click Here To Read

REVIEW (10 out of 10)

I must commend AngelicAlchemist93 for her boldness of faith to write this fanfiction entitled The Truth Within All Truths. What makes this fanfiction so unique compared to most fanfiction you find out there on the Internet? It's the fact that this one could actually be labeled a Christian fanfiction. What's ironic? It's based on Hiromu Arakawa's masterpiece, Fullmetal Alchemist. Yes, this is a series where many Christians have problems with, so many different opinions and views. Some stay far away from it, others enjoy it, and (surprisingly enough) some of us (and I'm admittedly one of them) finds a glimpse of God and faith in it. Obviously being the latter of the three, AngelicaAlchemist93 brilliantly visualizes this concept in words.

For those who have seen the anime or read the manga, we all know that Edward Elric has openly proclaimed to being an agnostic. The redeeming value of Fullmetal Alchemist is many of the Christian themes in it, such as making things right, defeating enemies with the names of the 7 Deadly Sins, and showing mercy. However, AngelicAlchemist93 takes it a step further. This happens after the series' ends, so if you haven't seen it yet, stop reading this review....

Okay, so you know how it ends? Good. On to the review! Ed and Winry are married with two adorable children. Alphonse right now is excavating and restoring the ruins of Xerxes and would every so often send Ed stuff. Lately, Ed has been thinking about life, if there is more. He receives a package from Alphonse with a letter to read to the whole family, and a section that is only meant for his eyes. Al has been onto something big, and he wants to share it with Ed. What he has discovered might be the answer to what Ed has been pondering on lately.

I applaud the author for being brave enough to even write this, and more so, not failing at providing a beautifully told story. The writing style as simple, yet has it's own sense of elegance. The message weaved into the story flows so naturally, this almost feels like the true ending of Fullmetal Alchemist. Nothing feels out of place, the characters remain in character, and it shows that anyone is capable of finding God and the peace that comes with it.

Overall, this was a brilliant story that was bold enough to exist, and the scenario was executed beautifully. Once again, I applaud AngelicAlchemist93 for producing such an amazing story that has obviously came straight from her heart, as well as showing some love for Hiromu Arakawa's awesome tale. I recommend this to any Christian FMA fan, as well as those who may be curious to the angelic alchemist's intergration of Christianity and the Full Metal.

RECOMMEND?

Highly. This is a must-read for any Christian anime fan of Fullmetal Alchemist, and may also be enjoyable by other fans as well who are curious as to whether or not they feel the writer suceeded in how she wove the story.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Ed and Winry briefly show affection to each other, but it's completely innocent; nothing more than a kiss.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Fans of Fullmetal Alchemist are aware that the story is about alchemy, but alchemy is not the focus on this story, nor is it described being used. This story talks about God, and He is shown in a postive light.

*CHAPTER INDEX*
(one-shot)

RE:ALISTAIR++

2012-01-02T16:36:00.000-08:00

Merui loves video games, especially her favorite MMORPG, Rivenwell Online. Merui also has a very short temper, so when some JERK named Alistair steals a rare item from her, she's determined to exact revenge on him. Unfortunately, she has no idea who he is in real life. But hey, that's never stopped anyone, right?
Take control of Merui and make new friends, balance schoolwork and fun, go shopping, search for the culprit, and maybe even discover a new romance.
(sakevisual description of RE:Alistair++)

Developers(s): sakevisual
Rating: All Ages

To play, download for free here: Click Me!

{I, the reviewer, give RE:Alistair++, 10 out of 10!)

COMMENTS

RE:Alistair++ is the re-released version of the original Alistair++ visual novel that is refined, resolved crashing issues, and added more story. Thankfully, by the time I discovered this game, it was this lovely new edition. And the best part is? It's part of sakevisual's line of free games!! When you play this, it's actually hard to believe it's free. The artwork is spledid, the CGs gorgeous, you can raise stats and buy stuff, and there's even an e-mail system! With a total of 5 endings, which you need to see to unlock all the CGs, bonus scene, and character profiles, you'll get a lot of use out of it!

Our story begins with our heroine, Merui, on the battlefield with her friend, FionaWings, against this boss. She's nearly clobbered it, and with one more swipe that Blessed Stone would be hers! Unfortunately, right at the last minute, another player suddenly swoops in and steals her kill, claiming the precious item for herself. Naturally, our short tempered Merui gets angry, demanding it back. In fact, she even challenges him to a dual for it! He accepts, but then....server crash! Now we're back in the real world, where Merui furiously bangs her fists on the desk in front of the school computer during lunch break!

During the rest of the school, we are introduced to 3 male character, these three being our possible obtainables in the story. At the end of school, you (Merui), head back to the computer lab to log back on Rivenwell Online to make sure that jerk Alistair wasn't hacking away at poor RuiOfTheSword (your knight avatar) if it wasn't a clean disconnect. FionaWings is there and wonders what happened. Evidently, Alistair as well is gone, which makes Merui think; what if their connections both dropped because they were on the same network? This is later confirmed to be true when Merui and Fiona are face to face with Alistair again, then making a bet - "If you can find out who I am in real life in a month's time, I'll give you your Blessed Stone. If not, you must fork over all the gold you make for a month!"
And with that said, you accept his challenge. Four people were on the network during the crash at lunch; you of course, Travis (Computer Games Club president), Shiro (your partner for a school project), and Derek Nevine (School Vice President). You know one of these guys has to be Alistair, and by the end of a month, you have to confront one of them as being Alistair.

I found this game to be really fun! I actually was lucky enough to guess who Alistair was right off the bat! I really enjoyed the game play. When you're at the mall, there's three stores you can buy all kinds of stuff with the money you get from allowance or the school's work program. These items can increase or decrease states, so be sure to read descriptions carefully. Every night, you get to check your e-mail, and raise one of your stats by either studying, watching television, or surfing the net. At school, you can have lunch in three areas, and in each area you're most likely to run into one of the three guys. How you spend your time, or how much time, you spend with any of the guys will determine whether or not you fall in love, or you may obtain neither of them.

Overall, I LOVED this game! It's my very first stat-raising Dating Sim that's free, beautiful graphics, lots of things to do, and a fun storyline! My favorite ending was Shiro's Endings, and due to spoilers, I won't say why, other than the fact he's so sweet! Another cool thing about this game is that it's super clean, which is an excellent plus. So if you're girl who's never tried or dating sim, or looking for a fun and clean storyline, you'll love this! If you fidn yourself stuck in getting all the endings, the RE:Alistair++ sakevisual page has a detailed walkthrough on how to obtain them.

RECOMMEND?
Highly! It can be difficult to find clean visual novels that have beautiful graphics, a good storyline, and not to mention FREE.

I certify this *VISUAL NOVEL NEWCOMER WORHTY* as it introduces you into the world of stat-raising dating sims. It's not that long of a game (and you can save anytime anyway), so it shouldn't take you too long to finish.

PLAYER'S COMFORT

[MUSIC]:
The music is very fitting for the game. The songs used when you play RivenWell Online suits the mood perfectly, it really feels like you've logged onto the game! The rest of the music is not exactly memorable, but works for it. I really like the song that's played when you discover who Alistair is and have obtained one of the two other guys.

[ARTWORK]:
Beautiful! I love the colors and character designs iboth the in-game and out-of-game world. The CGs are vibrant and gorgeous. The backgrounds fit and don't look odd when the sprites are in front of them.

[INTERACTION]:
There's a lot of interaction in this game, aside from your typical choice menus. You can raise stats when you study, watch TV, or surf the net. You can earn money by gonig to the school's work project. You can buy stat-raising items at three different stores in the mall. You even can receive e-mail!

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
No actual language in the story. The only time there appears to be language is when Merui first meets Alistair on Rivenwell Online. It is shown she typed in cuss words in the chat, but it's complety censored, so whether or not the words are harsh or tame is up to your imagination.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
There is none.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
There's one scene when Merui accidently falls on Shiro, but it's mainly a scene of embarrasment. If you get close enough to Shiro, there's an instance when you invite him to your room to work on the project, and since he feels uncomfortable you tease him saying "were you planning to do something bad?". Another scene involving Travis is where he pins you to a wall, but it's nothing sexual (he's just telling you to get over this Alistair stuff, but I felt it's worht mentioning considering how it may look). There's also (depending on the ending) a kiss or a hug, but that's it. Very clean and sweet. Oh, and...
(SPOILER! If you obtain Shiro, you'll learn that on Rivenwell Online, he plays a girl, your friend FionaWings! If you play MMO's, a guy playing a girl is quite the common occurence, and so it shouldn't be very shocking)

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
On Rivenwell Online, the beginning of the story you try to take down this huge boss (but no fighting is shown). There's once instance where Merui goes to have lunch while watching the guys practice basketball, and she gets hit with a basketball. It's not really shown, though. Also, Merui accidently falls on Shiro in another instance (but no one is hurt, just embarrased).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Other than Rivenwell Online being a fantasy game that include killing strange creatures and including classes such as Angels and Demons, none.

A belated Merry Christmas (2 years of reviews)

2011-12-27T17:39:00.000-08:00

Forgot to post on Christmas Day, as I was busy. Had a great time with the family! We had good food, we played Scrabble, my auntie and I gave my brother the traditional gag gift before giving him his real one....ahhh, what memories!

Christmas Day also marked the second anniversary of Breaking Metal Windows! Here's to another year of reviews!

Look forward to....

Send Me An Amgel, Vol.1 (Manga)
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya: Volume 1 (Anime)
The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya (Movie)
When They Cry (Anime)
Higurashi When They Cry (Manga, several arcs)
Natsume's Book of Friends, Vol.1 (Manga)

...and many more. Early Happy New Year!

MONSTER GIRL, VOL.1

2011-12-11T22:58:00.001-08:00

A group of high school students have the ability to transform into animals, but what's the story behind their mysterious powers? Find out on their dangerous search for the answer.
(Smackjeeves description of Monster Girl)
[NOTE: image is both the series and the "volume 1" cover)

Manga-Ka: Lydia Jane
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Monster Girl vol.1, 9 out of 10!}

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

COMMENTS

Lydia Jane debuts on Smackjeeves with her experimental project entitled "Monster Girl". From the description, you can tell this is going to be an intense and interesting, mysterious story. The interesting thing about this comic is it's yet another webcomic that lists each chapter as a "volume", and this story is completed at 12 volumes (aka 12 chapters) and I shall review them one by one.

The story begins with a girl named Esme, dreaming about something that happened to her when she was a girl. That snake, which bit her, always gives her nightmares, and she has obtained a mysterious mark because of it. Evidently her friend, Rachel is just like her. This volume ends quite abruptly, hearing the sounds of a scream. Though this tactic is perfect for keeping you hooked, wanting to go further into the story.

The art in this manga is a bit on the amatuer side, but suits the story very well. Sometimes the characters do look a bit awkward with their long neck lengths, but other than that, there isn't much to complain about. Lydia-sama even warns that, due to the comic's experimental nature, that the art styles will change throughout the progression of the story.

Overall, though not much is explained in this chapter, er, volume, the ending will surely have you curious as to what happens, and it's a story that's worth sticking to.

Recommend?
Sure! It's a rather interesting story, and the dream memory sequence gives it a promising start.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Other than the typical short schoolgirl skirts, none.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
In Esme's dream of a memory, it is implied a snake bit her forhead. The volume ends with someone screaming.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Though not shown in this volume, this is about people who have the ability to transform into an animal.

*CHAPTER LIST*
Chapter 1

BROKEN

2011-12-02T14:04:00.000-08:00

Manga-Ka: SteeKira
Distributor: Online exclusive (for now)
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give Broken, 9 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Out of all the Christian attempts at manga I have ever read, I have to say that Broken is one of the most unique in the genre. Written and drawn by SteeKira, the mangaka of the unfinished Impossigirl, she returns with this very promising and fantastic one-shot comic that she plans to sell in print. It's about a heartbroken girl who wishes to go numb, and so we find her laying out in the snow with her bare feet. The story becomes surreal when, while seen in the same place, she enters a dream and meets a coffee grinder wearing a suit who invites her to a diner, and that's where they begin discussion. She tells him her heartbreak, and he tells her not to give up.

I found this one-shot to be beautiful, as well as epic in it's own right. The art in here is no less than fantastic. The use of shading and some blue really adds to the surreal atmosphere of the comic. Her art has improved much since she started her first manga, Impossigirl, and for the better. The storytelling is no short of amazing, delivering the emotion quite effectively. Everything about this one-shot I feel is very well executed, succeeding in the message it's trying to convey.

Any flaws? A minor one. The ending seems to be a bit abrupt. For a second, I thought the comic wasn't finished, but according to the post I read which gave the link, it is finished. But perhaps maybe it was intended that way. The last line of advice the "coffee grinder" gives her is what ends the story, and perhaps it ended that way so the impression of that line will stick with you. Yes, we are left to wonder whether or not the nameless main character actually puts it into practice, but nevertheless, this is still a good piece which I would definitely consider to be a masterpiece. Hopefully the printed version will have an extended ending, but if not, this is still worth your time.

Recommend?
Highly. The art is beautiful, and the story meaningful. I think it's worth your time.

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it's left-to-right, but the surreal feel gives you a taste of how manga is without getting too out there.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
One use of "d" and "h"

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
It's a Christian manga. This manga focuses on what appears to be the main character's dream, which gives a surreal effect, but as said, it's only a dream and one she needs to have.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(15 pages)

NG LIFE, VOL.2

2011-11-20T11:07:00.000-08:00

Talk about getting into a hotspot!

Keidai Saeki's life is pretty confusing, what with his past life's friends and family being reincarnated in the wrong bodies and all. And now it's about to get downright crazy! Another former Pompeiian joins the party, and, just like Keidai, he retains the memories of his past life! It's unfortunate for our hero this relationship didn't stay dormant. They didn't really get along 1,900 years ago, and someone's holding a grudge...
(From the backcover of NG Life, Vol.2)

Manga-Ka: Mizuho Kusanagi
Distributor: TokyoPop
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: 13+

{I, the reviewer, give NG Life (vol.2), 8 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

The thought that always run through my mind when I read this are two words; poor Keidai. When you think Keidai's life couldn't get anymore confusing, well...it just did! In this second installment of NG Life, things get even more complicated and confusing for Keidai as he still envision Yuuma as his beloved Serena, yet on top of that, it appears as if he his developing some feelings toward Serizawa. These confused, mixed up feelings really throw Keidai into his bizzarre moments of fits and yelling at himself. Especially that time when they went to the hot spring, and a ghost gets involved! Or what about the time Serizawa was sick and Yuuma and Keidai had to dress up as girls in order to see her? (Wait...they dressed up as girls? Trust me, there was a legit reason...)
But all that pales in comparison to another Pompeii reincarnate Keidaa is about to meet in this second volume of NG Life!

Keidai keeps having this dream. It seems to be a memory of Pompeii, but even he is uncertain of it. He remembers getting beaten with a whip, he remembers Serena crying out. However, the dream, or memory, isn't clear. And he even begins to doubt, just a little, about the validity of his Pompeii memories. But he is quickly reassured that what he remembers DID in fact happen to him. For 2 weeks, they'll be having a student teacher, Kagami-sensei. Instantly, when he sees Keidai, he glares at him. Hmm..why? Have they met before? And why is he so overprotective of Yuuma?

Apparently, he is his older cousin. Serizawa's theory is that maybe he was one of Serena's fans in his past life, and even if he doesn't remember, just looking at Keidai, once Sirix, ticks him off. Serizawa's was getting warm, but not quite hot. You see, Kagami-sensei can remember all that happened in the past, too. And how did he know Serena? They were blood related back then, too! At first, Keidai is happy to have finally found someone who can remember Pompeii just as he can. However, he soon leanrs WHO Kagami-sensei is. He didn't like him then, and he CERTAINLY doesn't like him now. Kagami-sensei was....*SPOILER STARTS HERE* Serena's older sister, Smryna! Oh boy, another gender switch! And with the memories, too! She was the one who whipped him, threatening to turn him into lion feed after he had proposed to his beloved Serena. So now Kagami-sensei does all he can to keep Yuuma away from Keidai, and if that's not enough, he might even keep Serizawa away, too! *SPOILER ENDS HERE*

Once again; poor Keidai. Poor, poor Keidai. Confused, and now going through a living hell. I never thought the story could get more complicated, but it just did. I could almost call this an intense volume, I couldn't put it down once I began reading it! I really like how Keidai, despite the gender switch, still defends his friends and want to remain together. They cannot be what they were in their past lives, but that eternal bond still ties them together. It's as if they were meant to be friends no matter what! Overall, I enjoyed this volume and am looking forward to how the third one pans out.

Recommend?
If you liked the first volume, you MUST read this one!

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
The usual minor swears words like "d" and "h", and even some use of the illegitimate child word.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Keidai's dad is seen smoking a few times.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Keidai often suddenly sees Serena whenever Yuuma is around. He hates when that happens, but still enjoys seeing her gorgeous face instead of a boy's. There's an instance when Yuuma says to Keidai "I love you" and when Serizawa asks to "sleep together", but that was against their will (a ghost was speaking through them). When Serizawa is sick, Yuuma and Keidai dress up as girls, but only because her father is crazy overprotective and he won't let them near her if he knows they're guys. Also, when Serizawa faints due to sweating, Keidai is about to undress her to put her into new clothes (and he wasn't in his disguise), and when her father walks in he gets the wrong idea when he was only trying to help! Also...
(SPOILER! Kagami-sensei was a woman in his past life, Smryna, Serena's elder sister who was freakishly overprotective of her and was only nice to girls. She admits she likes being a man ;cause she gets to be with so many girls (they fall head over heels for him), so it appears to be implied that even as a woman, he liked girls.)

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Keidai's father mentions that a certain place is a famous suicide spot. In Keidai's dreams, a memory actually, he remembers being beaten with a whip and you see some injury. There's also mention how Smyrna tried to murder Keidai several times when he was Sirix, such as posioning, assination, eaten by lions, but that is all mentioned, not shown. The rest is comedic violence.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
This story is about reincarnation and how Keidai seems to be the only one who can remember. However, he meets another soul who has retained all their memories of Pompeii as well. There's a scene where Keidai imagines Serena in a yukata and says "Oh, God bless this image of Serena in a yukata!"
At a famous suicide spot, Keidai prays for the souls to find happiness in their next lives. Keidai's father has the ability to see spirits. One attachs herself to Keidai and temporarily inhabits Yuuma's body, then jumps into Serizawa's.

SEND ME AN ANGEL: VOL.3: FASHIONABLY ACCEPTABLE

2011-11-17T23:38:00.002-08:00

Manga-Ka: Christina
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Send Me An Angel (vol.3), 10 out of 10!}

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

COMMENTS

The third installment of Send Me An Angel touches on the issue of modesty and presents it in a very realistic way. It begins with April, hanging out with some of her other friends, going shopping. They're at a clothes store which is a little out of league in her price range. Anyway, she spots a top she thinks is cute and her friends tell her to try it on. They also tell her that her fashion sense is "outdated" and that she should buy the top. Not having enough money, she tells them, they decide to buy it for her and throw in a skirt as well. When it's all said and done, she is a bit embarrased to be seen out in public in a midriff shirt and a mini skirt. That is, until she falls into the arms of a cute guy she's seen in her Physics class. Hmm....maybe these clothes aren't too bad after all!

From then on, April begins to start dressing this way. She received a bunch of old clothes from her friend which are a bit on the skimpy side. Micah, who has now become a Christian himself in the last chapter, can't believe it when he hears his friends talking about April in a bad way. No, that can't be the April he knows! Of course, once he sees it for himself....he can't deny she looks hot, but as the nice Christian man he is, he does his best to push that out of his mind. And he knows he must defend April's honor!

What I liked about this chapter is it focuses on the lust issues from both perspectives. April felt wrong wearing those clothes, but did not deny it felt good to get guys' attention when she wore them. And Micah, a good Christian young man, although wanted to protect her from his lustful friends, could not deny she looked good in those clothes. His eyes sometimes focused in the wrong areas, looking at her body and not at her face. Sure, he did his best to fight the urge, but it was still there. And that's why he knew that her dressing in such revealing outfits would put her at risk, 'cause as a guy himself, he knew that it caused the wrong thoughts.

Overall, I loved this chapter! It presented the issue in a very realistic way, both guys and girls could relate to. This chapter was special, as it had two sets of notes - the author's notes, and reader's notes. The reader's notes were very interesting, as it was from a guy named Mark who praised Christina speaking of this issue, and confirmed that when girls dress that way, the guy won't be thinking about her...he'll be thinking other thoughts. All in all, it's an excellent read that presents the issue of modest in a realistic way, covering all the bases.

Recommend?
OH YES! This is an issue we're all dealing with here and now, and should be brought up. How you look does matter in the respect of modesty, and this chapter presents it beautifully and realistically.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
This deals with the issue of modesty. You'll see April wear a little bit more revealing clothes, such as tight jeans, midriff tops, and short skirts. There's a scene where Micah over hears his friends talk about her, and one guy talks about how April's "stacked". Micah does have staring moments when he sees her that way, but does his best to force himself to look at her face, not at her chest.
(SPOILER! When April is in the car with Brad, it is implied he tries to do something with her when she yells "don't touch me there!" She gets out of the car before anything is taken any further).

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
It's a Christian comic, so God is shown in a good light.

*CHAPTER INDEX*
Chapter 3: Fashionably Acceptable

SEND ME AN ANGEL: VOL.2: ANOTHER SIDE, ANOTHER STORY

2011-11-17T23:38:00.001-08:00

Manga-Ka: Christina
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Send Me An Angel (Vol.2), 8 out of 10!}

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

COMMENTS

The second volume, or actually, the second chapter of Send Me An Angel takes place two years after Micah and April had met. He loves how April is always smiling, and in some ways, admires her faith (even though he doesn't quite understand it). He wishes they were more than just friends, though. He's planning to ask her to the school dance, perhaps to confess his true feelings. This chapter is from Micah's perspective, while the first chapter was through Aprils perspective, so it's a nice little switch off.

The art in this chapter seems to have some improvements from the previous chapters. Although the characters do look awkward in some panels, there's obviously some progression in the art. While I liked this chapter, there was some things I didn't like. For example *SPOILER BEGINS HERE* She told Micah she wouldn't go to the dance, but later when he goes to get his scienece book, he finds April dancing with Ian...yes, THAT Ian who was treating her badly two years before. Everything's explained when April's friend calls up Micah and explains her side of the story, but I still find it kind of rude that April didn't even give him a ring about it. Plus, though it is explained Ian goes to her church and April's mom trusts him, it still doesn't explain whether or not he had changed from the Ian he was two years ago. *SPOILER ENDS HERE*.

However, despite that, the story is still weaved nicely and presents a scenario that could happen. I still wish she did give him a ring about it before hand, but we're not perfect. Maybe that was the point of that scene in the first place. Also, the final pages of this chapter I thought were beautiful, and I especially loved how it ended! This chapter feels a lot more meaningful once you give it a second read, and I found that the scene I mentioned in the spoiler tag was actually not that bad at all since everything is explained, except for a few minor details.

Overall, this story is still as good as when it started, and now I'm curious how Micah's character will develope in the future chapters.

Recommend?

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Micah grabs a guy by the collar, but he just walks away from the fight.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
It's a Christian comic.

SQUARE: CHAPTER 1: BE OUR GUEST

2011-11-13T10:44:00.000-08:00

Four guys. Four panels. So many antics, you wonder how it fits.
(Smackjeeves description of Square)

Manga-Ka: Asuka Neko
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Square, 7 out of 10!}

~*~Click Here To read~*~

COMMENTS

Square is the latest creation to come out of the crazy and hyper mind of Asuka Neko, the one responsible for title suchs as Etsu!, Kindergarten Promises, The Anti-Squee, and many others. This is Asuka's second attempt at the 4-koma (4 panel strip manga), which was the original format Etsu! started in. It's about four guys; Dietrich, Cameron, Lewis, and Liam, and all the crazy antics they go through. Knowing Asuka Neko, you won't have to worry about shounen-ai coming to the picture. So even if this is about four guys, it's just that; about four guys. No one's paired with each other!

While for the most part, 4koma strips can be read in random order (for the most part), the first 4 strips is the introduction section, and all must be read in order. Other than that, each of the Square strips are pretty much individual, save for a few meant for mini arcs. What I like about 4koma is the fact one has to be skillfully clever in order to deliver comedy within only 4 square panels. These strips are very fun and at least one of the are sure to put a smile on your face.

Her art has undergone a significant change from when she was doing Etsu! amd The Anti-Squee. It's still distinctively Asuka Neko, but you can tell there's been a lot of improvements in character designs and anatomy. I actually quite like this new style, and it feels just right for this little project. I like how in some of the strips, their eyes are colored, and the rest of the art is entirely in another color (example; brown or blue). It gives for a unique feel.

Overall, it's an enjoyable little series that's pretty clean and clever, with an interesting bunch of characters. Some get more spotlight than others (for example Dietrich, the dumb blond). While some of the comic strips I could take it or leave it, this is a promising start to Asuka-sama's new 4-koma series, I am excited to see how it developes and fleshes out. Probably my favorite strip is when Dietrich points at us (the audience) and wonders who "all those people are".

Recommend?
Why not? If you enjoy 4koma and looking to brighten your day, you'll have fun reading this.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
One of the guys is always known for getting the hot girls. One of the guys makes fun of another guy for always looking like he's wearing his sister's jeans. There's also one or two instances when you see one of the guys with his shirt off.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
None.

*CHAPTER INDEX*
This is chapter 1, but I will list all the comic strips contained:
1. Be Our Guest
2. Quadrilaterals
3. Nice To Meet You, Fandom
4. Interview With a Rectangle
5. Dumb Blonds
6. Fan~Service (Filler)
7. Happy Birthday, Di!
8. Back To School
9. Always Too Short
10. It's Because He's Brittish
11. Recollections of Freshman Year
12. Logic Puzzles
13. In The Dark
14. Surprise!
15. Pink (Illustration)
16. Thanks! (Thank-You Message)

NG LIFE, VOL.1

2011-11-13T10:09:00.000-08:00

From the creator of Mugen Spiral come a manga comedy filled with loads of gender-bending frolic and fun!

Keidai Saeki is a high school student who remembers his past life in Pompeii, living as the Italian warrior Sirix...His friends around him are all also reincarnated--althought they don't quite remember things the way he does. Keidai's wife from the past? She's now a middle school boy--while his best male friend is now a cute girl?! Throw in a case of lvoe at first sight, and you have a new look at romance--manga style!
(From the backcover of NG Life, Vol.1)

Manga-Ka: Mizuho Kusanagi
Distributor: TokyoPop
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: 13+?

{I, the reviewer, give NG Life (Vol.1), 9 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I was shocked. Surprised. I liked this. No, I LOVED this. My friend lended me a couple volumes of her favorite romantic comedy, just in case I didn't like Future Diary. By reading the synopsis, I admit I was a bit skeptical and very iffy, considering the subject matter. But I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed reading it.

Keidai, in his past life, was from Pompeii. His life was ended shortly when the volcano errupted, burying the city in ash. He had two people most important in his life, his best friend and the love of his life, who also died. His best friend had reincarnated in Japan as well, but guess what? He's a GIRL now! It gets even worse... a new family moves in the neighborhood, and the love of his life has now also reincarnated in Japan. Only one problem - she's a GUY now! This really messes Keidai up. He loves Serena with all his heart, but now as Yuuma, he has to force himself to forget about her. She's a guy now, he can't fall in love with A GUY! Also, his best friend Serizawa, who is a girl now, seems to have some affection for him, but he still remembers her as a guy. And also, Yuuma really likes Serizawa. What a COFUSING love triangle.

There were moments in this manga that really made me laugh out loud. Literally. I felt bad for poor Keidai as he suffers from the major confusion of his feelings, since the memories of his current and past lives are suddenly blended together. He says his life is "NG" (I assume it means "no good"). However, he soon comes to realize that in the end, the two most important people in his life has returned with him, and they all got to be together again. Maybe not in the way he had wanted, but at least he got to see them again. This manga isn't just comedy and pretty artwork. There's even some emotional parts that ltierally brought me to tears, when Serizawa made a play based on Keidai's past life and he stars as himself! The scene where they reinact the volcano erruption and when Sirix (Keidai) had to leave Serena, it was so touching! He felt that he had abandoned her, left her to die, 'cause he never came back to her.

Overall, I had fun reading this, and look forward to more! I'm usually not into the gender-bender genre, but this takes a unique twist at it.

Recommend?
If you like to laugh, I think you'll like this. It can seem a bit edgy at times, but overall it's fun to read.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
Minor swear words such as "d" and "h" I believe.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
I don't remember any.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Keidai's past love, Serena, has reincarnated as a boy, and his best friend as a girl. These switched genders leave Keidai VERY confused. Serizawa who was a man in the past seems to have feelings for Keidai, and Yuuma who was once a woman, Keidai feels sickened when his heart goes "bdmp!" because he knows it's Serena, but she's not a girl this time! There's even a scene where Yuuma crossdresses, but it's for comical purposes, not 'cause Yuuma is a crossdresser. It's also mainly to play with Keidai's mind (poor guy). When Keidai first met Yuuma, not knowing Serena had become a boy, he embraces her, but is then punched back and is heartbroken when he tells him "I'm a guy!"

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
I don't remember any major violence, if there was anything, it's mostly comical.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
This deals with reincarnation. Keidai was from Pompeii in his past life and has reincarnated as a Japanese boy. Two of the most important people in his life has reincarnated in Japan as well, but they're genders are switched! His parents are also people he knew, his mother was his little sister, and his father was his rival. When Keidai first saw Yuuma (realizing it was Serena) he says "God must have brought us back together!". There's also a scene when they go to a past-lives expert (but of course, he doesn't get it right).

SEND ME AN ANGEL, VOL.1

2011-11-13T09:39:00.001-08:00

Manga-Ka: Christina
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Send Me An Angel (Vol.1), 8 out of 10!}

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

COMMENTS

I discovered this comic through theproject.us (it's not hosted on the site, they just link to it). Finally, I had decided to go give it a read. I never realized there were more amatuer Christian manga than I thought there was, and it's always nice to see. Send Me An Angel begins with a girl named April who is a Christian, but is afraid to admit such things for fear of people calling her weird. A new boy comes to her class, someone who is said to be a trouble-maker. Hearing that, she decides at the start she'll have nothing to do with him, but nothing ever goes as planned as the teacher asks if Micah could be her partner in a project.

Although she's only heard he's a troublemaker (yet there doesn't appear to be any shred of evidence to support that), he's actually a really nice guy. He asks about a certain time he'd like to start the project, but April tells him she has Youth Group. She's afraid to say this, but is pleasantly surprised he actually doesn't make fun of her for it. "I'm cool with it," he says. "I wish I had something like that to believe in."

What I found interesting about this story is it doesn't feel like the typical "conversion" story. We start with a Christian girl who actually fears being made fun of, who cares how people view her. And yet, here is Micah, a non-believer, and yet he says meaningful things to her that makes her realize she's been wrong to care about what others think when it's all about what God thinks of her. Micah was the least likely, but that's why God used him.

The art in this manga is very amatuerish, but I really love it's distinctive flavor. Also note that the woman drawing this started the comic in High School (and she's 22 years old now). An interesting thing is though this is labeled as Volume 1, it's only a chapter long. So reading it volume by volume would be the same as chapter by chapter. I find that an interesting release format.

Overall, I think this is a start to a really cute Christian shoujo manga. The beginning is very promising, and let's hope that as it developes, it remains as wonderful, if not more, than it's start.

Recommend?
Sure! It's clean, it's cute, and it has a good message.

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it goes Western style and is a simple, slice-of-life.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
April's mom mistakes Micah as being her boyfriend. Yeah, this area is clear.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Micah gets into a fight with a guy who makes fun of April. It's not shown, though.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
It's a Christian comic.

*CHAPTER INDEX*
Chapter 1

BURN

2011-11-12T13:21:00.000-08:00

It's something I thought of considering what Jesus has done for us.
(Description from theproject.us)
[NOTE: There's no cover, so I used the first page as an image].

Manga-Ka: Mave
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Burn, 9 out of 10!}

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

COMMENTS

This little 8-page webcomic I admit was a rather interesting theme. It follows a nameless woman with beautifully long, black hair. She talks about having many desires and why would her Master deny her anything? Shortly after saying that, she falls to her knees, coughing, coming down with some sort of sickness. She's tried everything to cure herself, but it just won't work. She debates whether or not she should return to the Master, but afraid of showing up with her cursed body.

The art in the manga is done well. Nothing on the spectacular, distinctive level, but eye-pleasing nonetheless. It was for the CAA Monthly Manga challenge, but Mave didn't reach the deadline for it. Anyway, mentioned in the notes, it was based on an interesting conversation about "So are you trying to say only Christians go to Heaven and non-believers go to hell?"
Executed in the comic, the answer was; "No. I'm trying to say that Jesus went through hell to save all of us."

This manga executes that idea fairly well and it is worth a read at least once.

Recommend?
Sure. It won't take long to read and is a truly inspiring story.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There's talk about burning, and it seems the woman has a disease.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
It's a Christian comic. There is mention about the woman trying everything to cure her, including magic spells before she returns to her Master.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(8 pages)

FLEETING

2011-11-12T12:56:00.001-08:00

Lust to be lusted.
(Description from theproject.us)
[NOTE: No cover, so I used the first page]

Manga-Ka: Psycho Ann
Distributor: Online exclusive/ZIP File
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Fleeting, 10 out of 10!}

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

COMMENTS

From the amazing Psycho Ann is another one-shot, executed shortly in 3-pages, concerning the issue of lust from a female's perspective. This apparently was made for Megazeen's LUST issue (evidently the 8th issue). Mentioned in her notes, Psycho Ann says they wanted it from a girl's perspective, and found it quite hard since we don't lust the same way guys do. Then she came to this conclusion; we lust to be lusted.

This one-shot executes that idea, starting with a girl who is looking for something to wear to impress a boy named Andy. She then finds a skimpy top in her closet and doesn't even remember having it. However, she daydreams in her mind what would happen if she were to wear it for Andy.

I feel this manga, though only in 3 pages, executed the issue pretty well. Though it's not deep and complex, and not delving in deeper, it says what it needs to say, short but sweet, and is able to show the main point of it. We are given two verses on the last page that fits the topic well, and some notes from Psycho Ann.

All in all, I totally agreed with what Psycho Ann was trying to convey about us girls lust to be lusted. The reason why we dress a certain way...it's to get a guy's attention, at least for the most part (and depending on the girl). To fully appreciate the comic, I also suggest reading the notes at the end for more understanding and depth.

Recommend?
Yes! It's well executed for only 3-pages, and addresses a subject matter that makes a lot of sense. I'd have to say this would be more appreciated by a girl than a boy, since it is the female perspective of lusting.

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it goes Western style and is a simple story.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
The main character daydreams about wearing the skimpy top she finds in her close, and when it's about to show the end resukt of Andy's reaction, she quickly snaps herself back in reality.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
She slams her head into the wall, but it's more comical if anything.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
This is a Christian manga, so nothing to worry about.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(3 pages)

THY NAME

2011-11-12T12:25:00.001-08:00

Kate Bakely suddenly finds herself trapped in an elevator with a tormented young man. Can she make him see the light before it's too late?
(Description from theproject.us)

Manga-Ka: Psycho Ann
Distributor: Online exclusive/ZIP File
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Thy Name, 10 out of 10!}

~*~Click Here To Read~*~"

COMMENTS

Psycho Ann, perhaps you've heard of her? She's the mangaka of a certain title know as the Psychoteers. This one-shot, if you read the notes, was actually a result of a seven-day manga making challenge (14 pages, plus a cover and backcover, making it a total of 16). Whether or not it won is not mentioned, but nevertheless, for a story crammed within 14 pages, it came out epic!

It's about a girl named Kate Bakely. She wakes ups, wondering what happened. She and a guy named Joseph are trapped in an elevator after an earthquake struck. Now Kate is confident that God will help them through this, but Joseph doesn't. He says there's no way out, he checked. However, when she says again that Jesus will help, some walls collapses and they can go up some emergency ladders. As they try to find a way out, Kate shares a testimony of how she knows for a fact that God is able to save them if they call on His name, because she's experienced that herself when her heart stopped due to the combination of blood loss and drugs.

I found this one-shot to be very well done, despite how short it was. There was even a few pages that were quite intense, almost putting you to the edge of your seats. The ending was also very satisfying. The art in this manga is done quite well, and the message doesn't seem forced or too unrealistic. Psycho Ann actually has a written version of the story, which is longer and has more detailed, but I have yet to read it myself (I probably will review it on the site at a later date).

Overall, this was an amazing story for it's short length, packing as much emotion and intesity it can within it's limited amount of pages.

Recommend?
YES!!! Probably one of the best few Christian manga out there that executes the story quite well for it's limited amount of pages. Due to some violence and some dark themes, I recommend for those 13-14 and up in age.

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it goes Western style and the story is not confusing at all.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
I don't remember any.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
It is briefly mentioned that Kate took drugs one time (I believe in a suicide attempt).

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
When Kate wakes up, she finds out there was an earthquake and she and another guy are trapped in an elevator. There's some blood on their faces.
(SPOILER! There's a scene where the floor collapses and they're about to fall, but to save her Joseph decides to let go and fall...but at the end, we find out he lives.)

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
It's a Christian comic, but deals with a lot of stuff. It seems implied by Kate she attempted suicide when she tells Joseph that God will help them. Joseph doesn't believe in God and does't believe that.

DEAR EMILY

2011-11-12T11:44:00.000-08:00

Poem from God to Emily.
(Description from theproject.us)
[NOTE: There is no cover, so I used page 4 for the image]

Manga-Ka: Valerie/Mave
Distributor: Online exclusive/ZIP File
Format: Left-to-Right
Rating: not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Dear Emily, 9 out of 10!}

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

COMMENTS

"Dear Emily" is a dark, deep, and passionate manga where the dialogue is mostly in God's perspective. It's written like a poem to a struggling girl named Emily, who is going through so much pain in her life and can't grasp the idea of a loving God.
It's a very well written poem, where God asks why can't she hear Him or see Him? He's always been there, listening to her, even though she doesn't believe.

There's even a part where we hear a little bit from Emily's perspective. You can see she just seems to push the idea of God away, because she cannot accept things blindly. She wants proof! She needs to know for a fact that He's there! And why, if He does exist, would He even go through dying just to save us messed up people, and all we need to do is believe? Heh, too easy!
I have to admit that this one-shot almost made me cry. You really feel for Emily as you see her go through all her doubts and pain, but also hearing God's words to her makes you think "is he saying that to me? Is he waiting for me to call out His name?"

In conclusion, I found this to be a beautiful one-shot that conveys God's love with us. It also expresses the doubts many people have about Him, which are very much legitimate questions and feelings. We can't hold it, we can't physically feel it, so how does it exist? I also liked how it was a bit angst. It conveyed someone who struggles with the belief in God, but also shows that God won't give up in waiting to hear you call. You see Emily cry, conflict pain, and even use a bit of language, so this isn't something for younger children to see.

So if you're okay with the angst, I totally recommend giving this one-shot a read at least once.

Recommend?
Highly recommended, if you can deal with some angst. Due it's dark nature, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone under 14.

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it goes Western style and is an easy story to understand.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
One use of the "f" word (but it's censored).

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
You see Emily with a knife, looking like she's about to slice her wrist, but it's only implied and not shown. We also see in about 3 small panels Christ's crucifiction, and there is some blood.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Being a Christian manga, I don't think there's much to worry about. This is a poem from God to Emily. Emily struggles with the belief in God, because she doesn't have proof.

HAIBANE RENMEI [Complete Series]

2011-10-29T21:31:00.000-07:00

GUEST REVIEW BY rocklobster - thanks for submitting!

In a long-forgotten walled town, humans coexist with the Haibane, angelic-like beings of unknown origin. Rakka becomes the newest Haibane, after she awakens from a strange dream and finds herself hatching from a massive cocoon. With no memories of her previous life, Rakka struggles to adjust to her new surroundings, however burning questions remain in the back of her mind. What is Haibane and what is their purpose? What lies beyond the huge, forbidden town walls? Thus, Rakka begins her wistful journey of self-discovery and wonderment.
(From the backcover of Haibane Renmei, vol.1)
[NOTE: This review is of the entire series, but the cover art is of the first volume].

Original Japanese Title: Haibane Renmei
Dubbed by: Geneon
Animation: Radix
Manga adaption?: none (Hope_In_Song NOTE: Actually, this WAS a manga first before an anime, but I don't think it's licensed in the states).
Rating: 13+, but I'd say 7+

{I, the reviewer, give 10 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

This series takes place in a walled town called Glie, where humans and angelic creatures called Haibane coexist. The story is done from the point of view of Rakka, a new arrival to the Haibane. Through her eyes, we learn about the people and the Haibane, and the mysteries surrounding them and the town itself. She also comes to see them as a surrogate family, thanks primarily to Reki, a Haibane who seems very motherly towards her.

If you want a story with lots of action, this isn't for you. It's more for someone who wants to relax and let the story evolve and meet all the characters. This anime takes a real amount of patience at first, but with 13 episodes, when things get going, they get going fast.

Recommend?
YES! This anime is very beautiful and very rewarding. The backdrops are very realistic. For example, the town is powered by windmills, and you can actually see every brick on them! The colors are very vivid and everything has a pleasant feel to it. There's not much story in the early goings, but once you get to episode 5, the story really begins to pick up and you get to see some of the mystery being revealed.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC] The music is very relaxing, especially the opening theme, "Freebird", a dreamy violin piece that sets the mood very well.

[SUB VS. DUB] I'd say either one works excellent. The dub managed to get a very good cast and the VA for Rakka sounds very close to the original voice.

[MOVIES/MANGA] None
(Hope_In_Song NOTE: As I mentioned, there actually IS a manga for this, but whether or not it's licensed is uncertain).

[RELATED TITLES] Yoshitoshi Abe, the main animator, has also worked on Niea_7, Serial Experiments Lain, and Tehnolyze

[DVD EXTRAS] textless opening and ending, along with character sheets and an interview with Yoshitoshi Abe.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE] Reki does say a few curse words, but that's it.

[TOBACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE] Reki is quite a chain smoker.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY] None, except in the opening sequence when we see Rakka in the fetal position, but she's covered up nicely. Besides, she's too young for you to see anything anyway.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE] The only blood occurs in episode 1, when Rakka gets her wings for the first time. They burst through her back, causing lots of pain.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL] While the Haibane do look like angels, it's never explicitly stated that they are actually angels. It's implied that they were once alive (in fact, each Haibane suffers from amnesia of their previous lives. They do not remember their names or anything else from their pasts. All they have from their past is a dream, which becomes the inspiration for their names.

*EPISODE LIST*
Volume One: New Feathers
1."Cocoon — Dream of Falling from the Sky — Old Home"
2. "Town and Wall — Toga — Haibane-Renmei"
3. "Temple — The Communicator — Pancakes"
4. "Trash Day — Clock Tower — Birds Flying Over the Walls"
Volume Two: Wings of Sorrow
5. "Library — Abandoned Factory — Beginning of the World"
6. "End of Summer — Rain — Loss"
7. "Scar — Illness — Arrival of Winter"
Volume Three: Free Bird
8. "The Bird"
9. "Well — Rebirth — Riddle"
10. "Kuramori — Haibane of Abandoned Factory — Rakka's Job"
Volume Four: Day of Flight
11. "Parting — Darkness in the Heart — Irreplaceable Thing"
12. "Bell Nuts — Passing of the Year Festival — Reconciliation"
13. "Reki's World — Prayer — Epilogue"

FUTURE DIARY, VOL.1

2011-10-20T23:31:00.000-07:00

Yukiteru is a quiet boy who spends most of his time typing on his cell phone diary. One morning he realizes that the entries in his diary are from the future! But according to what his cell phone tells him, waiting in the near future is his death. Unknown to him, Yukiteru has been dragged into a battle of survival involving cell phones that tell the future. With a shady girl named Yuno, who may be friend or foe, at his side, Yukiteru must face 12 opponents who all posses Future Diaries.
(Amazon.com description of Future Diary Vol.1)

Manga-Ka: Sakae Esuno
Distributor: TokyoPop
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Older Teen

{I, the reviewer, give Future Diary vol.1, 9 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I've been interested in this title ever since my friend reviewed it on her blog. The title sounded interested and so did the premise, and finally I asked my friend if she could lend it to me. And thus, results in a review of the first volume of this suspenseful story!

Yukiteru is a boy who lives his life as "just a bystander". He uses his cell phone to keep a diary and writes down various things he sees happening all around him. To keep from being too lonely, he talks to someone whom he assumes is just in his imagination, Dues ex Machina, the God of Time and Space. Dues tells him that he plans on starting a game, a "fun" game. Yuki senses he doesn't really like that, that Dues is up to something. The next day when he wakes up he sees that his diary is written for the whole day. At first, he doesn't realize that these are from the future until he sees them happening. At first, he starts enjoying this, since he has a heads up of what's going on and the answrs for the test!

Well, that's until Dues tells him that if the phone is destroyed, so will he. And he receives a Dead End Notice. Running for his life, he meets a girl named Yuno who also is a diary holder. Unlike his diary that tells the random things he sees everyday, her diary keeps track of everything he does, as she calls it the "Yukiteru Diary of Love". Well...turns out this girl's been stalking him! But she may be his only hope to survive. Dues explains the rules of the game to all diary holders, telling them this is a SURVIVAL GAME. The last one standing will become Deus's successor. So in order to get this power, the diary holders will seek each other out until only one of them is left.

I have to say, this was an INTENSE RIDE! Even holding a diary that predicts your future still holds so much uncertainty. Like when they do something opposite of the diary, it would rewrite. Being uncertain whether or not they can escape the set future that their diary fortells. The lengths the other diary holders will go to kill off the competition to gain ultimate power. I have to be honest that I didn't really like Dues from the start. Something was wrong about him, and it turned out to be true! God of Time and Space? More like an evil demon entity to me is the vibe I get from him. So now Yukiteru, who's lived his life as just "a bystander", will have to try and survive this crazy game. It becomes hard to trust, since you never know if they're out to kill you. He's seemed to ally himself with Yuno, the girl obsessed with him. But are there any other allies he can trust?

The art isn't anything outstanding or special, but fits the story well. I especially loved the way their eye expressions are in certain intense situations. I keep thinking to myself that this series would make an EXCELLENT anime series. Overall, I found the series to be intense, causing you to feel on the edge of your seat. If still frames such as manga can do that to you, then obviously the story it's doing it's job! It's well written and executed and I am excited to see how this all pans out!

Recommend?
Sure! If you're looking for an intense ride, pick this up!

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it's an intense action story that is thoroughly explained leaving little confusion. It uses concept of time travel (having a diary that fortells the future) and trying to survive 'till the story ends, which is something most of us are familiar with.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
There was some language, mostly minor. I think I recall one use of "b" though.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
I don't think there was any.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
The first scene you see is Yuno kissing Yuki. The worst it gets is you see her kissing him and she's looming over, and the position looks kinda bad, but nothing happens other than kissing.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Being a game of survival, many of the diary holders will go to great lengths to kill their target. For example, one crazy girl sets bombs all through the school and there are various explosions. People get injured and death is mentioned. Probably the worst scene is when (SPOILER! Yuki finds his way through the land mines and pokes a dart in her eye. It's not shown, as you see the dart coming at her eye, then the next seen you see her covering it with blood trickling down, so you get the idea).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
The one who started this game is called Deus ex Machina, the God of Time and Space. At first Yuki thought he was just someone he made up in his imagination, but it appears not so. Yuki and 11 other players have a "cell phone diary" that can look 90 days into the future. Whoever wins the survival game will take Dues ex Machina's place as ruler of time and space.

The great manga exchange - tons of reviews backed up in the que line!

2011-10-06T14:43:00.000-07:00

So an online friend and I have started this manga exchange. We send each other titles that we either request or think the other might enjoy via mail and when we're done, we send it back. Since we're both review bloggers, doing so would not only benefit both of us, but give us a chance to get into some new series. Now, she owns A HECK OF A LOT MORE manga than I do. And so far has sent me the most (I feel like I owe her a lot for this, so I am greatful beyond greatful). I've read quite a few already, and you know what this results in? TONS OF BACKED UP REVIEWS IN THE QUE LINE! I think I'm gonna have to start taking notes instead of relying on memory for the Content Card. And since we both appear to love scary stuff, she sent me some Higurashi, Future Diary, and The Dreaming. I intend to get the reviews for these hopefully all within October! The rest will be kind of spread out. So you have A LOT to expect!

Here's to name a few of the stuff I've finished reading;

Higurashi When They Cry - Curse Killing Arc, v.1
Higurashi When They Cry - Time Killing Arc, v.1-2
Higurashi When They Cry - Abducted by Demons Arc, v.1-2
The Dreaming, v.2-3
Nabari no Ou, v.1-5
Natsume's Book of Friends, v.1-2
Fullmetal Alchemist, v.4-6

Here's the stuff I STILL need to get to/finish;

Natsume's Book of Friends, v.3
Rozen Maiden, v.2-8
Nabari no Ou, vol.6
Bakuman, vol.1-5
Millinium Actress (movie)
When They Cry (anime)
Higurashi When They Cry - Curse Killing Arc, v.2
Higurashi When They Cry - Beyond Midnight Arc, v.1-2
Future Diary, v.1-2
NG Life, v-2

Is that it? I think it is. Anyway, so expect a whole bunch of reviews later on centering around those titles.

Also, here's some other stuff I need to get to in the que;

Steins;Gate episodes 13-24
Ramen Fighter Miki - Complete Series
FMA: Brotherhood (Part 3)
Kiki's Delivery Service
Dream Saga, v.1-2
The Worlds Stops! v.2
Tegami Bachi, v.1-2
Fullmetal Alchemist, v.2-3

...and so much more. I think that's enough to look forward to for now, don't you think? Okay, that's it for now. And of course, surprise webcomic reviews will pop up here and there, as always, and maybe even some Ren'Py visual novels.

THE ART OF FULL METAL ALCHEMIST 2

2011-10-02T11:17:00.002-07:00

A second art book featuring the characters from the top-selling and award-winning manga series, Fullmetal Alchemist. Includes original color artwork from creator, Hiromu Arakawa--each illustration presented in sequential order with commentary from Arakawa himself. Also included are nine pages of detailed character designs for the FMA PS2 video game, plus two pages of brand new manga. Wow!

[Amazon.com Description of The Art Of Fullmetal Alchemist 2]

Artwork For: Fullmetal Alchemist [Manga]
Artist: Hiromu Arakawa
Extras: Video game designs and a 2-page manga afterword

{I, the reveiwer, give The Art Of Fullmetal Alchemist 2, 9 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Artbooks are very useful, in my opinion. I feel that they inspire and make good references for fanart. Plus it's always nice to just gawk at them. This second collection of full-color FMA artwork is no exception. Featuring artwork from 2004 up to I think 2006 (or maybe just to 2005), this artbook is not only nice to stare at, but fun as well!

Underneath each illustration is a comment from Hiromu Arakawa herself. Sometimes they're informative, sometimes they're kinda random. You could tell she did her best to make sure the comments were as entertaining and fun to read as possible. She'll mention mistakes she made in an illustration and complain about deadlines, or sometimes have random one-liners such as "That coat sure is long..."

If you're looking for something with extreme detail in clothing and backgrounds, you won't find it here. The artwork of FMA leans more toward simplicity, but I think that is what makes these illustrations so brilliant. It doesn't try to be so flashy and overdramatic. Most of the pictures are really fun, such as childhood Ed, Al, and Winry eating watermelon, or most of the entire cast drawn as chibis stuffed in one truck. Several of the illustrations come with no background, which makes the character stand out more. But what I love most about these pictures is Arakawa-sama's coloring. Many of these illustrations are PAINTED, and you can sometimes tell when you see the brushstroke marks at the end. She also uses other coloring methods, such as Copic markers, and sometimes even digital coloring.

Probably the most fun I had out of this artbook was the 2-page manga afterward as she explained the making of this artbook. It's interesting how much is needed to be done to release a collection of illustrations. I also liked how she said she wanted this artbook to be "cheap", affordable to others since she remembers not being able to afford artbooks as a kid. Now I paid the standard 20 bucks for this thing (at least it's hardback though), but it's money well spent. But it makes me wonder how much it cost in Japan.

Another neat extra is that this also contains character designs for the PS2 video games. I didn't particularlly care for them as much, though it is interesting to see. The characters are drawn from many angles, so if you're a fan of the video games, they'd make EXCELLENT fanart reference pictures. They're roughly colored, as if not much time was spent into coloring it really, but they're just designs anyway to give you the idea.

Overall, this is a lovely collection of illustrations any fan of Fullmetal Alchemist would love. I think even people who've never read the manga would also appreciate these images. They're simple, they're fun, and somewhat comforting I think. One of these illustrations are sure to bring a smile to your face or uplift you, as there aren't too many intense images in here (not that there aren't any). Trust me, this is a fun collection to add to your manga shelves!

RECOMMENDED?
Yes! If you love images that are fun to look at, I think you'd appreciate this. The comments are witty, the coloring is gorgeous, Ed looks REALLY GOOD in many of these pictures...what more could you ask for?

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Havoc is often seen with a cigerrette in his mouth.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Armstrong never has a shirt on. When does he ever? There's also a couple of illustrations of Ed shirtless (but he still has his red coat on his shoulders). In the game designs, a female character named Elma's "golem form" is naked, but it;s undetailed. Also there's a couple of shirtless guys in the character designs.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There is one illustration with some blood, but nothing horrific. There's also one where it looks like Ed defeated Al in a fight and the symbol looks drawn in blood. Weapons are present, but usually not shown in use. One of the video game designs, a character is covered in blood.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
You'll see the symbol of a cross with a serpent wrapped around it a lot, since it is one of the main symbols in the series. One of the video games is called The Girl Who Surpasses God and it includes the character designs for that game in here.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(There's actually 4 chapters)

BROKEN DREAMS

2011-09-23T13:53:00.000-07:00

I wanted to draw a short comic and had no idea for a plot. It was for a contest and it was on such short demand that I didn't really have time to come up with anything, so a good friend of mine gave me a scenario she wrote a few months back. She was delighted with the finished results and says she could not have done any better, which made me feel really special. I hope you can also enjoy it and, maybe, even cry.
(Smackjeeves description of Broken Dreams)

Manga-Ka: ClefdeSoll. Originally written by Kikiine.
Distributor: Online exclusive.
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give Broken Dreams, 4 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

This comic, as stated in the description, was created for a contest. The story was originally written by one of her good friends who gave her permission to use it. Whether or not this won the contest is not mentioned, but it's up for public view at the webcomic site known as Smackjeeves.

It's a full-color manga about two friends, Laura and Sara. Laura keeps telling Sara to keep her problems to herself, and so she does. Deep inside Sara feels useless and she clings to a silver bell that is hanging by a tattering thread. She cries, as apparently the bell is precious to her and she considers herself to useless to reattach the breaking string.

I have to say, for 10 pages, this was packed with emotion, but so much was unexplained. For example, why Sara feels the way she does and why the bell was so important. Also, some details were left out from the original written version of the story, explaining how the blue and white scarf Sara always wore was made by Laura, her friend.

When comparing the comic version and the written version, each had their own special way of conveying the emotion. The written version has a little more detail (but still lacking in explaining the bell) but less dialogue, while the comic version, being more visual, has more dialogue and packs even more of a punch since everything described is seen. I also loved the how cute the artwork is and the SAI coloring.

Overall, it was a very depressing story that lacked detail and made it a bit confusing. I wouldn't suggest reading this if you're having a bad day. I thought the ending was sad and unfair, and I also thought it was mean of Laura to tell Sara "no one wants to hear about your pathetic problems" which I didn't think helped Sara's confidence.

If you're curious about the written version, you can read it at deviantART:
Click Here To Read!

Recommend?
Unless you're really curious or like depressing stories, I suggest not.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
(SPOILER! It's not explicity shown, but you get the idea that Sara hung herself).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
(SPOILER! There's suicide.)

*CHAPTER LIST*
(10 pages)

THE WORDS

2011-09-23T13:24:00.000-07:00

[NOTE: I used page two as the reference image as I think it conveys the story best than the first page]

Manga-Ka: fayedove
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give The Words, 7 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

This Tsubasa doujinshi takes place after the 213th chapter (so if you haven't read that far, be warned of spoilers in this review that briefly references the final volume). Syaoran finds himself in a dark void and discovers Sakura there as well. He then asks her what were the words she was going to say to him as she faded away in the Dream World.

What happens here appears to be an alternate version of what happens in the beginning chapters of the final volume of Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicle where after the clones' death they appear in a void and meet up with Yuuko. Now they don't meet up with Yuuko in here, it's just them. And instead of Sakura finally getting the chance to tell him her feelings, she is asked by Syaoran what she was going to say before she disappeared and so she tells him.

I think this alternate version of what happens after 213 was rather cute and well executed. The artwork is on the amatuer side, but I think done fairly well considering the artist admits to having a hard time drawing them (mainly the difficulty of drawing Syaoran). With more practice, I'm sure she'll be able to master it. But you can tell she put a lot of heart and effort into drawing this, which makes it shine.

All in all, it was a short but sweet little doujinshi, well executed in only 5 pages.

Recommend?
Yes! It's cute and if you're a SyaoxSaku fan, you'll love it! Plus it's squeaky clean, which can be hard to find at times in doujinshi.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
There is one panel focusing on Sakura's chest, but it doesn't look like it was meant to be sexual (maybe just filler?)

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Other than the fact that this is concerns Clone Syaoran and Sakura, none.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(5 pages)

PROPOSAL

2011-09-22T17:56:00.000-07:00

Manga-Ka: TheWerewolfMustang
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give Proposal, 9 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

If you're a fan of RoyAi (nickname for the Mustang and Hawkeye pairing of Fullmetal Alchemist) I think you'll love this doujinshi. Based on dialogue of the voice actors acting out a proposal at an anime con, you can easily guess by the title it's about Roy Mustang asking his sabordinate, Riza Hawkeye, to marry him.

There's no need to watch the video of the "proposal" to enjoy this doujinshi, but it is nice to see to know where the concept came from. I thought, despite only being 3 pages in length, that this little doujinshi was rather cute, ESPECIALLY the scene involving Armstrong storming in! The artwork is a little bit on the rough side, but the character designs are very recognizably them.

If you are a fan of the RoyAi relationship, I'm sure you'll get a kick out of this, especially if you have watched the video. (The link to the video is actually provided in the Author's Comments on the first page).

Recommend?
Yes! For only 3 pages, it was cute and in-character. I could totally imagine that happening.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
One use of "d".

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None, just (SPOILER! Armstrong hugging Mustang 'till he falls unconcious!)

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
None.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(3 pages)

SHRINKLED

2011-09-16T00:19:00.001-07:00

You, Mandy, are an ordinary girl. However, one day, something happens that changes your life. What is it, you ask? Did you win the lottery? Nope. Are you secretly a princess? Sorry. Do you fall into a vat of radioactive waste and suddenly gain abilities that make superman weep? You wish. Unfortunately, none of these things happen. What does happen is that you accidentally get caught in a science project's misfiring range, and get shrunk down to a quarter inch in height! The student body president, Jake, is caught in the crossfire with you. Working together, you must find a way to reach normal height by the end of three days; else you remain shrinkified forever! With the help of bugs, crumbs, and possibly a grumpy old mouse, you just might find a way out in time...
(Description of Shrinkled)

Developers(s): choklit
Rating: All Ages

{I, the reviewer, give Shrinkled, 8 out of 10!)

COMMENTS

So as I browsed the list of many games created with the Ren'Py engine at their main website, I came across this title; "Shrinkled". What convinced me to download and play this game was the description. It sounded really cute and funny, plus it was rated All Ages indicating it to be most likely very clean, content wise. So, I downloaded the game and installed it into my computer and proceeded through the story.

You take the roll of high school student Mandy. After school, before you exit, you bump into Jake who requests you to show the notes you took in class. That's when you run into the first choice. Anyway, let's just say you chose the first one. You need to quickly get something back in the classroom. Accidently you bumped into this thing that was covered with a cloth. Suddenly, everything around you is bigger! And it happened to Jake, too. You've both been shrunk! The first interesting creature you meet is Andy the Ant. You explain the situation and he directs you to Morgrimm the Mouse. He's very gumpy and not of much help and the two of you try to find out how to get to your original size. Upon reading some of the notes of the one who invented the thing that shrunk you, Jake finds out a horrible truth; if you don't find a way to be normal size in 4 days, you'll both be stuck that way forever! Even with both your weight, at an insect size, you're not heavy enough to push the button. Andy the Ant comes back and suggests an idea to get Morgrimm to help you push it! To win his favor, you will need to find crumbs of crackers, cookies, and chocolate. To get it from the other insects, you must agree to taking a quiz from each of them to test your smarts and each question you get right gets you a crumb! You only have 4 days to do so.

This was a really cute, fun game. Most of the questions do deal with genuine information, such as what is the capitol of California and who was the 16th president of the United States. Others deal with knowledge of Ren'Py and the game you are playing, and there was even one interesting question about who Osamu Tezuka is (thankfully I knew, but do you?) There was ONE mathematical question I wasn't sure I would get, but I ended up choosing the right answer. I like how it tests your knowledge on some things. The artwork is so-so, with lovely character designs but with slightly cheesy drawn backgrounds. The two main characters, Jake and Many, are drawn fairly well and some of the insects are cute. My only major complaint is lack of character expressions. The characters seem stiff and basically stand in the same position. Sometimes their expressions in their face changes, but it doesn't really add much effect. Other than that I have no complaints.

Overall, it's a cute little story about a girl and a boy who gets shrunk and throughout the span of 4 days collect enough crumbs to win the favor of the mouse who will hopefully assist them in pushing the button. A random interesting fact is that the creator, choklit, apparently is a Christian (this is proclaimed in the end credit Thank You's). Anyway, it's a fun, clean visual with excellent interaction.

RECOMMENDED?
Sure! It's fun, clean, and quick to finish.

I certify this *VISUAL NOVEL NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it short but sweet, has multiple choices to give you a good feel of how a visual novel works, and is simple and easy to understand.

PLAYER'S COMFORT

[MUSIC]:
The music is very simple and relaxing, though a bit repetitive at times and sometimes didn't feel like it quite fit the mood. But otherwise, rather soothing.

[ARTWORK]:
Backgrounds are drawn a bit amatuer-ish, but the character designs make up for it.

[INTERACTION]:
Excellent interaction! You are quized by the insects you need to collect crumbs from and the questions asked are really neat. Whether it's who Osamu Tezuka is, the capital of California, or the formula for a triangle hypatonuse, you'll have fun seeing if you choose the right answer!

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Nothing beyond a kiss.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
It's a science fiction story about getting shrunk to insect size by a science project machine and evidently insects can talk. There's no magic, so I'm pretty sure there's no problems.

x-My World Stops-x

2011-09-04T16:22:00.001-07:00

Manga-Ka: Marshmellow Muffin
Distributor: Self-published
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: (not rated)

{I, the reviewer, give x-My World Stops-x, 10 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Andor, a young staff user who's mission is to find a way to save his world by getting more time. As he's about to go off on his journey to find one of the two people who were able to use their powers without a staff, a strange souless girl shows up and puts everyone under her control.

This 21 page story is a bonus story that happens somewhere in between chapters 17 and 18 of Muffin-sama's "The World Stops!" series. It appears as a bonus in vol.2 of the manga. Though only 21 pages, this was a well written side-story that continues to show the principal's cruelty in stopping worlds for his own personal reasons. The creepy girl Breath is, for a few moments, given the ability to feel emotion when Andor uses his ability to make her see her true desire. And in this case, her desire is to have emotions.

The way the story ended is uncertain, but gives a glimpse of hope. Plus this character seems like someone that Muffin-sama will bring into the main story later. If you're a fan of "The World Stops!" you will definantly enjoy this side story, especially if you'd like to see Breath think for herself for once.

Recommend?
Totally! All fans of this manga should read this.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Andor is a World Keeper. He is also a "staff user" someone who has powers. There are only two people who can use their powers without a staff and Andor wants to seek them out to save his dying world. Breath is an emotionless girl who temporarily is given the ability to feel because of Andor.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(21 pages, no chapters)

SUMMER WARS

2011-08-16T18:06:00.001-07:00

From the visionary directory of The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2007 Japanese Academy Award winner, Best Animated Feature) comes the story of an ordinary family going to extraordinary lengths to avert the impending cyber apocalypse!
Kenji is your typical teenage misfit. He's good at math, bad with girls, and spends most of his time hanging out in the all-powerful, online community known as OZ. His second life is the only life he has until the girl of his dreams, Natsuki, hijacks him for a starring role as a fake fiance at her family reunion. Things only get stranger from there. A late-night email containing a cryptic mathematic riddle leads to the unleashing of a rogue AI intent on using the virtual word of OZ to destroy the real world, literarily. As Armageddon looms on the horizon, Kenji and his new family set aside their differences and band together to save the worlds they inhabit in this near-perfect blend of social satire and science fiction . (AnimeNewsNetwork.com) First Press includes collectible art cards.
[Description of Summer Wars]

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: FUNImation
Animation: Madhouse
Manga adaption?: No, this is an original anime.
Rating: PG

{I, the reviewer, give Summer Wars, 8 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Oz - a virtual world where people around the globe can come together. You can buy, sell, chat, play games, and even have important Internet meetings. Many Oz users use their accounts for business and to control things like water lines, alarms, even satellites and weapons. No matter what language you speak, it translates in real time, enabling anyone to communicate with anyone. All accounts have their own custom made avatar. Yes, Oz is a fascinating place. Everyone depends on it.

Kenji, someone who does maintenance checks on Oz, is hired to do an interesting job by a girl named Natsuki. To go meet her family and pretend to be her fiance! Why is she doing this? Her Great-Grandmother is turning 90 years old and she said she can't die until she meets her awesome boyfriend. All her family are coming together because it's her birthday. The Juunochi clan is a very interesting family. Like all families, you have a variety of people, a history, as well as drama. Kenji has to survive that for 4 whole days?! It's not gonna be easy, as he doesn't have much experience with girls, and to pretend to be her boyfriend? A lot of pressure.

One night he gets a strange text message he assume is a math problem. He writes it down to solve it and sends it back. Little does he know it's the Security Code for Oz and just by replying he has given over access of his account! Worst yet, it's hacked into by a very complex A.I. program known as Love Machine. This A.I. is very dangerous, as it's made to learn. It starts to hack and take over millions of other accounts and start messing with things across the globe. Even more disturbing, it resets the world's clocks, causing it to go backwards. What will happen when it finally reaches zero? It's up to the Juunochi family, Kenji, and Takashi to battle it out and stop this thing before the clock reaches zero!

The animation of this film is rather nice. Being the same director as The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, the art style is exactly like in the film, leaning toward a more "realistic" anime style. The animation of the virtual world known as Oz is bright and colorful and very fun to watch. Due to so many characters, being a large family and all, there isn't too much room for character developement and some characters get a longer spotlight than others, but each character is individual despite quite a few don't get much screen time. The pacing is done nicely, not rushing into things too fast, but not advancing too slowly either. It starts out as what would appear to be a simple slice-of-life, but then turns into a somewhat sci-fi adventure when Oz is being manipulated by an unknown A.I. program designed for hacking. I also liked the message about family, how you should stick together, spend time with each other, and eat together. Because, according to Granny, there's nothing worse than being hungry and lonely. I have to say, I agree with that. I really like how family is portrayed in this film as important. Sure, no family is perfect, and this film does not hide that fact, but despite it, you all still love each other. I also like how it shows a scenario of the dangers of too much technology dependence. While technology is good, trusting Cyberspace too much with your personal information and work is a bad idea.

While I did enjoy this movie much more than I did The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, I have to admit I am a little disappointed. I was really excited when I saw the movie trailer and the date it came out. Now after finally seeing it, I have to admit there are some things that bothered me. For one, the language. It's nothing really harsh, but this would of been a more family oriented film if that wasn't in there (though I heard that's only the dub, the sub has little to none). Plus, who released the A.I. Unit, though not heavily focused on, also turned me off. ~SPOILER ALERT BEGINS~ (Though Wabisuke is the creator of Love Machine, he sold this program meant for hacking to the U.S. Military and they decided to "test" it's abilities on Oz, the major virtual world that THE WHOLE WORLD relies on) ~SPOILER ALERT ENDS~
I'm sure I'm not the only one who is just a little bothered by this, but other than that, I loved the story and the message about family. Plus the showndown in Oz I have to admit is pretty epic, in my opinion.

This movie isn't perfect, it has it's flaws. But it's still worth watching at least once. It's a good family film, though considering the language in the dub, it's not something for your younger kids/siblings. But all in all, a very enjoyable and highly entertaining movie.

Recommend?
Sure. It's a highly entertaining film with a pretty interesting plot and a message about the importance of family. If you can looked passed a few things, I think you'll enjoy it. It's something you could at least see once.

I certify this *ANIME NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it's a simple plot about family getting together but also has the interesting scifi plot of an A.I. program taking over the Internet to add some excitement. Nothing too weird and out there to cause confusion.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
Nothing I'd consider really memorable, but fitting for the film, nonetheless.

[SUB VS. DUB]
I've only seen the dub as of this moment, and Funimation as always does an excellent job.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
(none)

[RELATED TITLES]
This is by the same director who did "The Girl Who Leapt Through Time". Neither of these stories are related, however.

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
Minor swearing such as "d" maybe some "h" and one use of both the "a" and "bs word" in the dub. I heard that the subbed version has little to NO language at all.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Some of the family members drink beer and there is mention of needing "plenty of sake".

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
A family member asks Kenji when the "baby is due" assuming he got Natsuki pregnant (which wasn't true). Natsuki is a bit "in love" with her Uncle, but nothing goes on between them and she eventually gets over that. There's a brief scene of a kid running naked (only the butt is shown) and Kenji about to take a bath (but he's covered below the belt). There's almost an undetailed magic girl-like transformation of Natsuki's avatar.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There's some fight scenes in the virtual world of Oz, but as it being virtual, there is no real world injuries. There's a scene where Granny takes a weapon and threatens to "kill" Wabisuke. There's also a scene where Kazuma punches another family member.
(SPOILER! One morning when the family wakes up, Granny is dead. They try reviving her, but it's no use. Also, when the satellite is set to crash on the Juunochi household, there's a big explosion, but not injuries).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
I don't remember any.

HEAVEN BOUND (Prologue)

2011-08-06T17:25:00.001-07:00

Developer(s): Christian Manga, Calbhach, Inkhana
Rating: (unknown)

{I, the reviewer, give Heaven Bound (prologue), 7 out of 10!)

COMMENTS

If you were a fan of Heaven Bound, many of you are probably aware of the fact that the mangaka, Calbhach, decided to cancel it not long after Volume 1 was released in print. However, she decided to bring it back, no longer in the form of manga, but in the form of a visual novel. As of this moment she releases whatever she has finished piece by piece at the now revamped HB site you can find at Christian Manga's main site. This is a review for the first released part, The Prologue.

Now I've never played a visual novel before, so it was exciting to see one of my favorite manga be converted into this new format. The Prologue gives us a more detailed look into what happened to cause our protagonist, Elijah Worthy, to become metal. We begin in the office where his parents are talking to the guy in charge, getting ready to have the implants put in. We see little Elijah on his mother's lap, which I felt looked very cute. We also see the part where the implant is put on Elijah. It's not as intense as it was in the manga, though. And of course, we witness him briefly "mutating" as you can see his skin starting to turn gray.

The coloring looks rather interesting and gives you a better feel of how the characters look (since there wasn't any color artwork for the original manga). Game play is fairly simple. As far as I can tell, there is absolutely no interaction at all. You're just reading through the story. One thing I found odd was that the characters lips would move whenever there is speaking dialogue. It seems a bit unnescessary considering there is NO VOICES in this visual novel. Other than that, I really have no complaints with how the visual novel was constructed for The Prologue.

So even if you're a fan of Heaven Bound, downloading the visual novel of The Prologue will still offer you something new and fresh, storywise, as this is a longer flashback than the 3-page one we see in the manga. And I think it's a good start for new visual novel players, as it gives you an idea of how it looks and feels. So far, the HB visual novel seems very promising and I look forward to see it go further in developement.

Recommend?
If you've been looking for a Christian visual novel, or are new to playing, this is good to start with, as it's pretty short (being only a prologue). Plus, if you were a fan of the Heaven Bound manga, it gives you a somewhat fresh look at the story in it's new format.

I certify this *VISUAL NOVEL NEWCOMER WORTHY* as the gameplay is simple without interaction and gives you an idea of how a visual novel looks and feels.

PLAYER'S COMFORT

[MUSIC]:
The music is a bit on the cheesy side, sounding like the old school arcade music at times, but overall fits the visual novel nicely. In no way is it annoying.

[ARTWORK]:
It's a step up from the manga. The characters are drawn like how you remember them, but does not look like a rush job. The colors look very nice and interesting. The backgrounds are especially nice, since the manga often lacked such.

[INTERACTION]:
There is no form of interaction.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Everyone wakes up with mutations, screaming, but it's blacked out and only described, not shown. Death is also mentioned, but not shown.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Those of you familiar with the Heaven Bound story should remember it is about a guy who claimed he saw Heaven in a telescope, so many Christians built the HB station to be put in a long, ageless sleep to awake in Heaven. In The Prologue we witness when Elijah gets the implant and wakes up mutated, having a metal body. It is also mentioned many were either mutated.

STEINS;GATE [Part one: Episodes 1-12]

2011-06-28T15:11:00.001-07:00

Steins; Gate follows an eclectic group of individuals who have the ability to send text messages to the past. However throughout their experimentation process, an organization named SERN who has been doing their own research on time travel tracks them down. Now it’s a careful game of cat and mouse to not get caught and moreover, try to survive.
(CrunchyRoll description of Steins;Gate)

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: Undubbed. Eatch the subs at CrunchyRoll.
Animation:
Manga adaption?: No, but it is an adaption of a visual novel of the same title.
Rating: (unknown)

{I, the reviewer, give Steins;Gate (episode 1-12), 8 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

This is my first CrunchyRoll show where I am watching it as it goes along, as it's still airing. This is also the first time I am reviewing a show that is still airing. Steins;Gate (set in the same universe as Chaos;Head, though no knowledge of it is needed) is set to be a 24 episode series, and I am currently reviewing the first half that has been released. Browsing through the vast collection of CR, this title peeked my interest. The premise of the show made me even more curious. And when I started watching it, it instantly became one of my favorites!

It's about Okabe Rintaro, a crazy character who admits to being a "mad scientist". He has a really intense laugh that fits his "mad scientist" image well. The way they began the show in the first episode instantly pulls you in. However, the prologue is toward the confusing side, as it's hard to understand what happens. Despite how confusing it was, it's intense and interesting enough to keep your glues glued to the screen, waiting to see what happens next. Okabe sends a text message about a woman named Makise neing stabbed and something happens. Everyone disappears for a moment, then he sees Mayuri, and now he's back and sees a satellite crashed into the building!

Later in the series, Okabe discovers that the text message he sent was sent to the past! Makise, the one who was supposedly stabbed, is found alive and well. She doesn't believe in time travel, but when she joins their group, she cannot deny the possibility anymore. They experiment sending messages into the past, but only Okabe remembers life before the message was sent. And each time a message is sent, something changes. It starts out minor at first, but soon major changes begins to happen. And someone is watching them....

The series is a bit slow paced, at first. Despite it's confusing and intense ending, several of the beginning episodes focuses on them preparing for the experiments, trying to find an old IBN computer, hacking into SERN, and some random stuff, too. It's funny to see how this eclectic group interacts with each others. Each character has a unique personality, and provides interesting situations. And despite the serious premise, this show can be down right hilarious at time. My only disappointed is it can be a bit perverted at times, with the otaku "super hacker" Daru. Other than that, the show has nice OP and END songs, loveable characters, an intense plot, lots of humor, amd beautiful animation. It's probably one of the best and unique time travel stories I've seen in awhile, with their own unique twists. I was horrified to see the "jellyman" experiments O.O

The series really picks up by the 11th episode. Okabe gets another strange text message saying "you know too much" and a bloody picture of a girl. And by the end of the 12th episode, you'll be at the edge of your seats at it's shocking end! All in all, this series is off to a good start. What will Okabe do after what has taken place right before his eyes? Will lives be lost or saved? Can the future be saved from this strange SERN Organization, and who is John Titor?! There's only 12 episodes left to go, let's hope they end it well!

Recommend?
If you're looking for a time-travel anime with it's own unique twist, this is totally for you!! It may seem a bit confusing at first, and slow paced at the beginning, but it's worht sticking to 'cause it DOES pick up and start to get interest! Recommended for 14+, though.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
There actually isn't much music that plays, but what's there works for the atmosphere of the show. The OP sequence song is really good, but the END song is really amazing!

[SUB VS. DUB]
There is no dub. The Japanese voice acting is excellent.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
Not that I know of.

[RELATED TITLES]
Steins;Gate (visual novel), Chaos;Head (anime and visual novel).

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
A few minor words every once in awhile, such as "d" and "h". The harshest it every got was one use of the "b" word.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
I acutally don't remember any.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
In the beginning credits, there's some minor undetailed nudity of naked people in a crunched up position. In the end credits, you see a woman (Makise, maybe?) naked, but it's undetailed and her hair covers most of her breasts. Daru is a pervert. A few times he's tried to get the girls to say something bad. In one episode, both Okarin and Makise kept accusing each other of being perverted. One of Okabe's nicknames for Makise is "Pervert Girl Genius". When Okabe panics that someone is going to harm Mayuri, he quickly runs back to the lab only to find both Makise and Mayuri taking a shower together (only their bare backs are seen). There's one character who is a guy, Rukako, but looks like a girl and Mayuri dressed him in girls' cosplay.
(SPOILER! He wanted a D-Mail sent to the past to his mother to eat more fruits and veggies so that he would be born a girl, as he's embarrased as a guy to look like a girl. Despite not scientific evidence to back it up, they do it anyway, and Okarin finds out that it worked when he tries to show the lab members he's a guy, but when he touches down in her nether-regions he finds she is indeed a girl).

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
In the first episode, he finds Makise stabbed and there's blood (but during an apparent worldline jump, she's alive and well the next time he meets her). In one episode, Okabw gets a disturbing message with a strange picture of a girl bleeding from the head. When they hack into SERN, they discover the "Jellyman" experiments where ...
(SPOILER!! SERN tried to physically send people through time, but in the time they were sent, their body is found in a jelly state, just like the gel-bananas. At the end of episode 12, time is suspended and they are found out and Shining Finger shoots Mayuri. When Okabe holds her dead body in shock, you see some blood dripping down her forehead).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Well, it's about Time Travel. There's a man named John Titor who claims he's from 2036 and is warning everyone about SERN. Rukako's family owns a shrine. When they send a D-Mail, Okabe seems to be the only one who can remember what happened before it was sent. Mayuri tells Okabe many years ago when he had a really bad fever, she thought he would die, so she prayed to the sky for Okabe not to die, and she saw a shooting star.

*EPISODE LIST*
1. Prologue to the Beginning and End
2. Time Travel Paranoia
3. Parallel Process Paranoia
4. Interpreter Rendezvous...
5. Starmine Rendezvous
6. Butterfly Effect's Divergence
7. Divergence Singularity
8. Chaos Theory Homeostatis (Part 1)
9. Chaos Theory Homeostasis (Part 2)
10. Chaos Theory Homeostatis (Part 3)
11. Dogma in Event Horizon
12. Dogma in Ergosphere

KINDERGARTEN PROMISES

2011-06-27T09:45:00.001-07:00

A short manga that I wrote for a contest under the theme "school". Mostly about me in elementary school.
(Smackjeeves description of Kindergarten Promises)

Manga-Ka: Asuka Neko
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: All Ages

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give Kindergarten Promises, 10 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

This is a short one-shot comic by Asuka Neko (The Anti Squee, Etsu!, Bittersweet, Triskaidekaphobia) that she submitted to a contest (and won). It's an 8-page story about two best friends, Beth and Brittany, who promised to be friends forever since Kindergarten. Nothing like fashion or popularity mattered to them, but as they grew older, they began to drift apart. Brittany became more into fashion while Beth peeked interested in anime and manga.

This manga really touched me. It made me think of some of my friends back in Kindergarten. I felt a bit sad as Brittany seemed to drift away from Beth. It seems Beth never forgot the promise, but Brittany did. Neko-sama mentions how it's based upon her in Elementary School, which is probably why this manga is really heartfelt, as I get the vibe that this one-shot is based upon what happened in her life. Obviously, Beth represents Neko-sama, as she's the one who became the "anime nerd".

All in all, despite being a slightly sad story, I thought it was a brilliant read. The art is completely adorable and distinctively hers, as all of Asuka Neko's works are. Plus this manga is as clean as a shiny new whistle! So if you're looking for a short read that delivers sincere emotion in only 8 pages, free of objectionable content, this is worth a go!

Recommend?
Totally! The art is cute, it's clean, and it feels real.

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORHTY* as it's a simple story most people could relate to, and uses familiar names.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Haha, none.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
None.

THE DREAMING, Vol.1

2011-06-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

When twin sisters Amber and Jeanie are accepted into an exclusive Australian boarding school, their future looks bright. But the school's halls harbor a terrible secret; students have been known to wander into the surrounding bushlands and vanish...without a trace! No one knows where they went---or why. But as Amber and Jeanie are about to learn, the key to the school's dark past may lie in the world of their dreams...
(From the backcover of The Dreaming, Vol.1)

Manga-Ka: Queenie-Chan
Distributor: TokyoPop
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: 13+

{I, the reviewer, give volume 1 of The Dreaming, 8 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I do admit, I DO love a good, scary story. And it's hard to come across one that has very little grusome violence. Thankfully, The Dreaming seems to fit the bill of what I'm looking for in an excellent horror story! It's about twin sisters, Jeanie and Amber. Jeanie is the more friendly, outgoing twin, while Amber is the more quiet, superstious twin. They were accepted into a very nice boarding school whom their aunt is the Headmistress of. Strangely enough, this boarding school is literally located in the middle of NOWHERE, somewhere deep in the bushlands. The headmistress, their aunt, tell them not to let Vice Principal Skeener know that the two of them are twins. Jeanie appears a bit offended by this, but her aunt said she worked hard on getting them in and that ythe vice principal is probably very superstious, as their are rumors of twins bringing back luck.

It doesn't take long for weird stuff to be noticed. In the school there is a sealed off room with a creepy painting of a girl and a candle, with her finger up to her lips intending to be quiet. Why would there be a sealed off room with a creepy painting on it? It really starts to get weird when the twins have strange dreams. Jeanie finds herself in a Victorian dress in the bushlands with a bunch of other Victorian dresses and blood oozes out of the trees. Amber has the same dream and thinks it's some kind of omen, but Jeanie tries to blow it off as just a coincidence and that it's only because they're twins. They meet a guy who shows them an artbook of the school that features a series of paintings called the "Merriweather Vanishings". The school has a dark history, back when it was a finishing school for girls, some girls just disappeared and never were found. He tells them that each painting can be found somewhere in the school.

A fellow student, Millie, invites them to a secret party after lights out. This is when things really start to get creepy. And after Millie takes The Mirror Dare, it seems from then on she's never the same. This school is no ordinary school. It has a dark history, a secret past. No one is allowed to go into the bushlands, because those who go in never come out. An interesting thing to point out is that Queenie-Chan's inspiration for the story is loosely based on true events. At the end of the book, she explains how a friend of hers just vanished, somewhere in the outback. They found her camping gear and everything, but no trace of her. That story in itself is just as creepy as the manga!

Overall, this is a solid start to The Dreaming. It's full of a lot of mystery and creepiness. I have to say there were moments when I was totally creeped out! This manga does a good job of sending a few chills up your spine as you're reading it. The artwork is rather nice. I loved the detail of the school and the Victorian dresses. Sometimes the paneling can be a little confusing though, and some of the character's positions are a bit stiff, but that's about it. The chapter covers are drawn especially will, giving a creepy, eery effect, as some of the pictures are of female skeletons in dresses. If you're a fan of supernatural mystery or horror, I think you'll get a kick out of this!

Recommend?
If you're looking for a horror story that isn't too scary, but is scary enough to give you chills and creep you out, I think this is right up your alley. Who needs a sea of blood and torn off limbs to freak you out?

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it uses simple names and it's a simple dark mystery story that isn't overly confusing, as most people are familiar with the concept of vanishings.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
I don't remember much, if there was any, it was very minor.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
In the twins' dreams, blood starts to leak out of the trees.
(SPOILER! At the end of this chapter, Millie is found dead, floating out of the water).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Amber is very into the supernatural. When in the restroom, she thought something was there. The twins have identical dreams that seem to be more than just dreams. When Millie has a secret party, some girls are performing a type of seance with scattered letters around a bottle. There's also the "mirror dare" where you say the name of a dead person 5 times. When Millie does it, she seems to fall ill because of it.

*CHAPTER LIST*
Chapter 1: A New School
Chapter 2: The Door
Chapter 3: The Dreaming
Chapter 4: The Mirror
Chapter 5: The Vice Principal
Chapter 6: Circle
Chapter 7: Reflection

Black Cat [Complete Series]

2011-06-13T22:50:00.000-07:00

Sven is your run-of-the-mill sweeper (a.k.a. bounty hunter) - down on his luck, haunted by the perpetual grumbling of his stomach and looking to make enough cash just to get by. When a damsel in distress enlists his aid, Sven crosses paths with the worst possible luck - Black Cat (a.k.a. Train Heartnet). At odds now with the branded assassin, Sven seeks to save a young girl before the unlucky Number can carry out his mission. But fate has brought these three together for a reason, as Sven adopts two stray pupils - The former Chronos Eraser Train and the young bio-weapon Eve. As these newfound companions seek out a new way of life, the past proves unwilling to let them go free. Sought by both the Chronos Numbers and the Taoist revolutionary group risen against them, the Apostles of the Star, their happy ending will require more than just luck…
(Funimation.com description of Black Cat)

Original Japanese Title: Kuro Neko
Dubbed by: Funimation
Animation: Gonzo
Manga adaption?: Yes, "Black Cat" by Kentaro Yabuki
Rating: 13+

{I, the reviewer, give Black Cat: Complete Series, 9 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I've been interested in this series ever since I saw the boxset at Best Buy. It was at the time I was looking for a lot of anime to watch, since despite not being totally new to it, I haven't watched much anime and wanted to expand. Sadly, I did not buy the boxset at the time. It interested me 'cause the title sounded cool, the premise was interesting, and the box said it was only rated 13+ so it shouldn't be too bad as far as content goes. Later on, I was happy to find that it was streaming for free at both Funimation and Hulu. I was now finally able to give it a go!

I fell in love by the first episode. I knew that the series would be a highly action-packed anime due to the premise, but I didn't expect how hilarious it would be as well. It's sort of an action-comedy if you will, sort of a feel-good anime. You got your awesome action sequences and you got your comic relief, all tied up in one bundle. Though this anime does manage to get serious when needed to. It's about Train Heartnet, former #13 of the Chronos Numbers Erasers. The first few episodes focuses when he is still an Eraser. He meets a woman named Saya, a girl who is always in a kimono and also loves to drink milk. An interesting fact about her is that she is a Sweeper (bounty hunter). During a short span of time, they start to become friends. Being with her makes him rethink his life as an Eraser and he begins to consider leaving Chronos. A fellow number, Creed, also leaves Chronos, but for a different reason - to start an organization called The Apostles Of The Stars and he wants Train to join him. Naturally, Train refuses as he wants to live life his way. This causes a problem, and Creed then targets Saya who, in his mind, "betwitched" Train. And the measures he takes against her enrages Train and he becomes Creed's enemy. He later becomes a Sweeper and teams up with Sven and Eve.

The show's primary focus is taking down the Apostles Of The Stars, but it also involves several sweeping cases as well, many of which are entangled with Apostles Of The Stars. What I love most about Black Cat is the loveable characters. It's honestly hard to pick a favorite. There's Kyoko, who after Train saves her, becomes obsessed with him. This leads to alot of comical moments between them. Train is, of course, our carefree hero and is totally awesome. Eve is also really awesome and has neat abilities. I also like Sven, how he is often poor and can hardly afford meals. And of course, the kind-hearted Saya who helped Train find his way. The animation for the show is pretty good. I like the art style and felt it was better than the manga artwork. It also had some pretty good music as the soundtrack. I especially loved Saya's song that she would sing. It sounded absolutely beautiful! Also, I felt that the cast was perfect! Some of my favorite dub actors were in here, such as Jason Liebrecht as Train (Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicle, Ghost Hunt, Eden Of The East), Caitlin Glass as Saya (Fullmetal Alchemist, Ouran Highschool Host Club, Heroic Age), Aaron Dismuke as Leon (Fullmetal Alchemist), Chris Patton as Creed (Angelic Layer, Kanon 2006, Fullmetal Alchemist), Monica Rial as Kyoko (Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicle, Angelic Layer, Heroic Age), and J. Michael Tatum as The Doctor (Ouran Highschool Host Club, Heroic Age, xxxHOLiC) just to name a few.

I had alot of fun with this show. It was action packed, full of intensity, lots of humor, and even got emotional at times. I couldn't help but finish up this series quickly, as I found it to be very addicting, always wanting to watch episode after episode! I especially liked seeing how Train developed, especially after all that has happened with Creed and what he did to Saya. And the interesting thing is even after you think it's over, when the main plot comes to it's climax, before the series finale there is one last major battle with another threat involving Eve, our dear little bio-weapon! Although the show ended nicely, I can't say I'm completely satisfied with it. I'd like it if the anime was longer, like a sequel or OVA or even a movie to be made. But despite that, I still highly enjoyed the series and think it deserves more recognition. It's become one of my favorite series and I wouldn't mind watching it several times over. Of course, the slightly unsatisfying ending has kept this anime from a perfect score. It's not that everything isn't wrapped up and there's questions, oh no, everything is tied up pretty nicely. I guess it's just how Train is such a wanderer at times.

Overall, it's not a perfect series and it has it's flaws, but it's a very enjoyable ride. I think I enjoyed it more than most people though. Some think it wasn't all that great, but personally, I beg to differ. Personally, I found it to be a really fun, action-packed anime that had a pretty good storyline, awesome characters, lovely animation, and that ties up fairly well at the end. I really can't get enough of this anime. I really, really enjoyed it! So if you're looking for something full of action and that's fun to watch, then I think Black Cat is right up your alley.

Recommend?
YES! It's really enjoyable to watch and fun too, with a good balance of eye-pleasing action, comedy, and a pretty good storyline to boot! You should at least try it out once.

I certify this *ANIME NEWCOMER WORTHY* as there's easy to pronounce names, it's not overly weird, and the premise of the show is pretty easy to udnerstand. Nothing really confusing. This would make a pretty good starter anime!

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
It has a pretty nice soundtrack. I also LOVE the song that Saya sings acapella. The intro, "Daia no Hana" is an excellent opening song!

[SUB VS. DUB]
I've only watched it dubbed, but it's an excellent dub with great voice actors that fit their characters perfectly!

[MOVIES/MANGA]
"Black Cat" manga series.

[RELATED TITLES]
None that I am aware of.

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
Minor swearing, such as "d" and "h" here and there, and I think a few uses of the illegitimate child word.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Sven is ALWAYS seen with a cigerette in his mouth pratically and there's some minor drinking.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Creed appears to have a sort of sick love Train. While nothing really implies that Creed is literally "in love" with Train, his sick and twisted admiration for Train is rather creepy and feels that way. Rinslet Walker sometimes wears skimy clothing that shows her cleavage line. There's a scene of her in the shower, but you really only see her back. There's also a scene of Train coming out of the shower, but you only see him from the torso up and he has a towel wrapped around "below the belt" so you don't see anything. There was also a scene of Creed taking a bath, but he is submerged in water, so nothing is scene. During one case, Sven dressed up as a woman to attract a certain criminal they were after. This killer only goes after women, and has a record of raping and murdering them.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There is A LOT of fighting and battles in this anime. In fact, the first scene is Creed and Train in a fight. The first few episodes focuses on Train's life as an "Eraser" (an assassin for Chronos) and so we witness him shoot a couple guys (very little blood). It is mentioned and slightly shown that Train's parents were murdered when he was a child and their murderer taught Train how to use a gun. When Eve goes beserk, she stabs right through Sven (but luckily missed vital parts so he lives). A character killed in episode 6 is seen with blood trickling down her face. Since this show is about "sweeping", capturing dangerous criminals, there is alot of implied death. When Taoists give "spirit water" to some criminals, they either horribly mutate (which looks painful and disturbing at times) or literally just drop dead in an instant. So yeah, there's a lot of fighting and some blood, but nothing too extreme. The most disturbing it gets is when people mutate from Spirit Water.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Eve is a bio-weapon. She has nano-machines in her bloodstream that allows her to transform parts of her body at will. There is this organization called Apostles Of The Stars, and they have this strange power called Tao. In a few episodes, the Taoists were giving criminals "spirit water" which gives them the power of Tao, however alot of times they either drop dead or mutate (which later results in horrible death).
(SPOILER! There is a secret project I think was called Project Eden. Eve is taken to be bonded with this computer program and meets a boy named Adam, who is also a program. The digital world she sees is called Eden. The project is to cover all the Earth, abducting people and using them as energy or keeping them in sleep in a so-called "utopia" or something to that effect).

*EPISODE LIST*
1. The Solitary Cat
2. The Hesitant Cat
3. The Cat In The Dark
4. The Grinning Cat
5. The Departing Cat
6. The Cat Under Fire
7. The Wounded Cat
8. The Sweeping Cat
9. The Charming Cat
10. The Cat Unleashed
11. The False Cat
12. The Fighting Cat
13. The Love Cat
14. The Kitty Cat
15. The Distant Cat
16. The Cat and The Lizard
17. The Napping Cat
18. The Cat Deploys
19. The Sprinting Cat
20. The Cat's Showdown
21. The Drowning Cat
22. The Cat Bares Claws
23. The Cat's Paradise
24. The Carefree Cat

HETALIA: AXIS POWERS (Episodes 1-10)

2011-06-11T21:55:00.000-07:00

With a loose nod to history (and a smattering of ethnic stereotypes), this inventive anime personifies the Axis powers that we all know from World War II -- Italy, Germany and Japan -- and re-imagines them as super-cute boys. Japan is shy, Italy loves pasta and, of course, Germany's got blond hair and blue eyes. But when Allied powers America, England and France show up, there's bound to be a little conflict. Includes episodes 1-26.
(Netflix description of Hetalia: Axis Powers [Season 1])

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: Funimation
Animation:
Manga adaption?: Yes
Rating: TV-MA

{I, the reviewer, give Hetalia: Axis Powers, 4 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

How in the world did I end up watching this? It was rated "MA" which already was a red flag. Well, my parents watched a few episodes and told me it wasn't that bad. So I watched it. And at first, I didn't understand why it was rated MA. The first few episodes were actually quite clean, to say the least. And I have to admit, it was pretty funny. Also, each episode is very short, only 5 minutes. And so we kept watching and watching another one.

It's about "personified" countries, mostly being bishies. Our main characters are The Axis of WWII; Germany, Japan, and Italy. We also have the personified Allies as well in the show. The whole idea of the show is also to throw every single cliche of each country's culture. For example, we have Italy always talking about pasta, America eating a bunch of fast foot while he's telling the other Allies his plan, Germany being harsh and scary, and so on. I have to admit that it was pretty funny to see the personified countries. I laughed alot, especially how the show seems to keep bagging on Italy (poor Italy).

The animation is decent. Most MA rated shows usually have terrible character designs and cheap animation, but Hetalia: Axis Powers is done surprisingly well. While not top-knotch, the character designs are rather nice and with an interesting style of animation. The show was beginning to get quite addicting. After one episode is finished you'll just want to get to the next episode. And I think that's due to the fact that each episode is a short, being only 5-minutes long. It's amazing how much this show packs in within only a 5-minutes span of time. Within this 5-minute span of time is nothing but pure random and insanity, which is why it's so hilarious.

However, after episode 10 I decided I wanted to drop this series. Yes, I decided to drop it on the same night I began watching it. It just started to get worse and worse as I progressed through the episodes and I couldn't take it anymore. While I do admit that the concept is sheer brilliance and it was pretty hilarious (America and China are my favorite!) I still couldn't forgive some of the content that was in there. What a shame, it was dubbed by my favorite company, Todd Haberkorn's in it (as Italy!!), and it actually was funny. But I really don't appreciate some of the things that were in it, which is why I always avoid MA rated shows. When it gets too adult it's just not funny anymore to me.

Overall, it was fun while it lasted. While I'd love to see how the development of the personified countries with every cliche you can think of, to me, the bad outweighs the good and makes what could of been a really fun show into something that isn't very enjoyable.

Recommend?
No. While the show is okay if you skip some episodes, overall, I'd avoid this if you don't appreciate too much adult content.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
Nothing all that great, then again, you don't expect a comedy to have an amazing soundtrack anyway. Plus the ending theme is rather annoying (but after seeing it so many times, it's kinda catchy and gets stuck in your head!)

[SUB VS. DUB]
I only watched it in English. And the acting is really good. Most of the actors did pretty well with the accents.

[MOVIES/MANGA]

[RELATED TITLES]

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
In the episodes I did watch, it's not as heavy as I thought, though further in the show did begin to go into alot more harsher words. Also, whenever the other countries captured Italy, they always sent him back to Germany in a box with the "f" word written on it.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
If there was anyway, I don't think it was much.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
In the "Chibitalia" segment, there's this one country that seems to be attracted to Italy (they're both male). When Italy and Japan are in a pool together (I think naked) it appears that Italy comments on the size of Japan's...private area, I think. There was some other stuff too that were either minor or I don't remember.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There really isn't any violence, mostly just slapstick.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
I don't remember any.

*EPISODE LIST*
1. Episode 1
2. Episode 3
3. Episode 3
4. Episode 4
5. Episode 5
6. Episode 6
7. Episode 7
8. Episode 8
9. Episode 9
10. Episode 10
(and it goes all the way to 26)

OTOME YOUKAI ZAKURO "Demon Maiden Zakuro" [Complete Series]

2011-05-29T14:47:00.000-07:00

"Demon Girl Zakuro," an ongoing favorite in Gentosha Comics's Monthly "Comic Birz," is being adapted into anime form! Watch Lily Hoshino's gorgeous characters in motion!
This story takes place during the Westernization Movement in an alternate world where humans and spirits coexist as young half-spirit girls team up with army officers to battle against spirits who would do wrong!
Onward with the spirits!
[CrunchyRoll description of Otome Youkai Zakuro "Demon Maiden Zakuro")

Original Japanese Title: Otome Youkai Zakuro
Dubbed by: Undubbed.
Animation: J.C. Staff
Manga adaption?: Yes, "Otome Youkai Zakuro" by Lily Hoshino.
Rating: (rating unknown)

{I, the reviewer, give Otome Youkai Zakuro "Demon Maiden Zakuro", 7 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I remember seeing clips of this anime in a Multi-Editor AMV mix for the song "Watercolour" by Pendulum. I instantly wanted to know what anime that was so I could watch it. It was called Otome Youkai Zakuro, and luckily, it was available for streaming at CruncyRoll. It was a rather short series, only 13 episodes, so it shouldn't take too long to finish. So, I began watching it.

The first sequence we see is Zakuro, our heroine, in battle. She quickly takes down a huge monster with ease. This takes place in a slightly alternate Japan, during the Westernization. In this alternate world, spirits and humans coexist. However, many humans do not like or fear the spirits. The military starts this thing called Spirit Affairs, where soldiers would be paired with a half-spirit to investigate several human-spirit cases. The soldiers sent are Agemaki, Riken, and Ganryu. Agemaki is paired with our heroine, Zakuro, whose specialty is fighting. Riken is paired with Susukihotaru, whose specialty is sensing the feelings of living beings, as well as objects. And then Ganryu is paired with the twins, Bonbori and Hozuki, whose specialty is singing during battle and magic rose petals.

It's kind of hilarious how Agemaki is apart of Spirit Affairs, due to the fact he is deathly afraid of spirits. It probably doesn't help he is paired with the hot-tempered Zakuro, who isn't afraid to call him weak and a wuss. Despite the odd pairing, they end up being our main canon couple and eventually start to have feelings for each other. As the series progresses, we learn that there's a secret about Zakuro. Kushimatsu knows about it and Zakuro begs to know but Kushimatsu tells her that it's not yet time. We do know she is very powerful, and there are other spirits after her. Why is that?

All in all, I highly enjoyed this series. It was rather fun and intense to watch. I loved to see how the relationships between the half-spirit girls and their soldiers developed, as well as all of the comic relief between them. The story in itself was rather interesting, mostly revolving around Zakuro's past. There were even moments where I cried, as some of the stories are sad. And a few of the battle scenes were intense enough to put you on edge, wondering if they'll be able to make it out. Though I wouldn't call this much of an action show. It's a bit of a slow paced series, mostly focusing on character developement and finding out about Zakuro. But the action that does take place is rather satisfying and executed very well, and happens often enough. I also really liked the character designs and animation. The colors were very beauty and I love the way the eyes look. The ending was decently satisfying. When I say "decently" I don't mean that I didn't like the ending (I did, it was cute) but I still wish there was more. But I can tell you that everything is pretty much wrapped up in the climax, leaving no more questions about Zakuro. Anyway, it's not perfect, but is still worth a try.

Recommend?
Sure. It's a cute, engaging series, with a storyline interesting enough to keep you hooked. Plus it doesn't take long to finish and it wraps everything up fairly well in the climax.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
The music is pretty nice and fitting for the show. I especially love the opening song, as well as the song the twins sing.

[SUB VS. DUB]
There is currently no dub for this anime. However, the original Japanese is done well with splendid acting.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
"Otome Yokai Zakuro" by Lily Hoshino. No movies that I know of.

[RELATED TITLES]

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
I acutally don't remember any. If there was, it must of been very minor.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
The shop owner of Ori's is seen smoking on her first appearance. At the ball, both Bonbori and Hozuki get a little drunk.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
In the opening sequence, there is some brief undetailed nudity of the twins. Zakuro is also seen naked in the opening, but is covering herself with her arms. The shop owner of Ori's is very well endowed. When Zakuro meets her, the first thing she says is "they're huge!"
Also, The Black Widow is even more endowed and there were a couple of shots focusing on her cleavage line. When Agemaki and Zakuro go to a village for a case, they both have to sleep in the same room and Zakuro freaks out (nothing happens between them, though).
(SPOILERS! When Hanadate (the soldier Zakuro crushes on), who is revealed as Lord Omodaka captures Zakuro, she is chained to a bed and he tries to kiss her and probably go further, but she pushes him away. He wants her to bear his child. He senses some of her power on Byakuroku and kisses her, pulling her in very close. Also, we later find out that Omodaka and Zakuro have the same mother, but Omodaka only wants Zakuro to bear his child, though it still seems like incest there is no love, and he never actually gets the chance to wed and mate with her anyway.)

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
In the first episode, Zakuro kills a huge monster and there's blood all over her face. When Susukihotaru is entranced by the demonic blade and tries to kill Mugi and the Ori's shop owner, Riken stops her by grabbing the blade and there's some blood. The Black Widow seduces men and eats them (but it's not shown). During one case, Agemaki and Zakuro are faced with a huge monster that feeds on women and children. The cave which it dwells has skeletons of the victims and it's breath smells of rotting corpses. Most of the battle scenes aren't very bloody, though there are alot of injuries.
(SPOILER! When Zakuro sees her mother's memories, there is a scene where her father is killed in front of her mother and his blood splats all over her face. When Zakuro finally defeats The Black Widow, Omodaka rushes to where the mother's body is, and finds she has finally decayed).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
The entire premise of the show is about humans and spirits coexisting with each other. Zakuro, Susukihotaru, and the twins are Half-Spirits, half human and half fox spirit. They have powers and fox ears on their head. There is a place called The Village Of Oracles, basically the spirit world. When pregnant women are spirited away, they come back bearing half-spirits. So there's alot of magic use and spirits.
(SPOILER! The reason why spirited away women bring back half spirits is because a ceremony is conducted to transform their child into a half spirit. Females are the lucky ones, 'cause for the most part they look human, but males do not).

*EPISODE LIST*
1. Prepare to be Bewitched
2. Crimson Brilliance
3. Tragic Past
4. Timid Distance
5. Sticky Trap
6. Onward Together
7. A Feline Home
8. Fickle Rain
9. Joy Of Love
10. Creeping Shadows
11. Hollow Touch
12. Looming Crisis
13. The Brilliant Finale

NO FATE

2011-05-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

NoFate- A sweet oneshot story about the price of life itself. ^^
Nothing is what it looks like... <.<
(Smackjeeves description of No Fate)

~*~Click Here To Read*~*

Manga-Ka: Alera
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give No Fate, 6 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

This manga, despite only being 7 pages +cover in length was rather thrilling. In such a short span of time, the story is engaging from the start! It's about a girl named Ayumi atop a building. She wants to jump and commit suicide. A fellow student from the same school, Akira, quickly meets her up at the building and asks her why she wants to kill herself. She cannot speak, so she writes it down, saying..."it's THEIR fault..."

This story is very mysterious and dark. At the end, there's still so many questions that are left unanswered, but it seems the Alera-sama would rather leave it that way. I was intrigued and pulled in at the start, each page wondering what was going to happen next, all the time wondering who is this "they" that Ayumi speaks of? I have to admit this manga had me a bit on edge, and the shocking moments were very well placed. But as a dark story, I can't promise you any hope of a happy ending.

All in all, if you're a fan of the thriller/horror/gothic/supernatural genre, then you'll probably get a good kick out of this piece. Though it appears unsatisfying, for the genre, it's best to be written this way, leaving the mystery open. You'll be asking yourself what has this "they" done to Ayumi and Akira. What is their motive? Are they evil spirits? Or perhaps voices of a person's own insanity? However, the dialogue was written with several grammar mistakes that made it a little hard to follow, so it wasn't as clear as it should be. That's my major complaint. But overall, I liked the art style, the confusing plot, and the open ending. Though I can't say I like how it ended, it was a thrilling read for only 7 pages.

Recommend?
I'd only recommend this manga to those who are a fan of this genre. But it's very dark, so I suggest most people should stay away from it if you're depressed or would like to stay in a cheery mood.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Ayumi wants to commit suicide. She writes a note saying her tongue was cut out so she can no longer speak. Near the end...
(SPOILER! Akira takes off his eyepatch and reveals he has no eye, but its not graphic. Also, at the end, it seems to imply Ayumi was shot and there's blood on a note).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Ayumi is suicidal. There is talk about these people and only refers to them as "they" or "them" (voices or demons, maybe?). It's a very dark story.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(this is a oneshot)

PALE COCOON [OVA]

2011-05-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

Before we knew it, humans were living here in this world. A future where the continuity of history has broken off, a world of enormous ruins that continue endlessly. Ura works in the Archive Excavation Dept., which excavates records of the past world. One day, he restores a mysterious visual record...
(CrunchyRoll description of Pale Cocoon)

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: Undubbed. Watch the subs on CrunchyRoll.
Animation:
Manga adaption?: No, this is an original series.
Rating: (rating unknown)

{I, the reviewer, give Pale Cocoon, 7 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

This 23-minute OVA was directed by YOSHIURA, the same one who directed Time Of Eve and Mizu no Kotoba. It's about a man named Ura and a woman named Riko who both work in the Archive Excavation Department. In these archives are recors of the past world humans used to live in known as the "green world" (aka Earth). Humans now live in a gigantic station that have multiple levels, most people residing down in the bottom away from the top. Ura is very interested in digging up the old records, to learn about the past and finds that very important.

While Ura is analyzing some of the newly found records sent to him, he uncovers a strange video. It's scrambled and distorted, so he has to work on restoring it. Riko is usually found lying on the ground, just lookng upward. At first glance, one might think it's because she's lazy and doesn't want to work, but later on in the story you will find out the true reason she is always lying there. Ura shows the video he is trying to restore to Riko. He is very interested in finding out about that book she is holding. Riko explains that's how they used to keep records, on printed books instead of electronic ones. Though many people have wished the archives were never uncovered, Ura wants to know about the world before. Eventually, he finally restores the video...

I have mixed feelings about this anime. I was in awe at the beauty of the animation and found the music to be quite lovely. The song in here is also very beautiful, but also a bit sorrowful. Despite this anime's beauty, I have to say that it is a bit depressing. Although I know nothing like this could ever happen in reality, to think of a world like that where the world as we know it is only history of once was is a very depressing thought. The people in this anime live in some kind of gigantic, metal dome of some sort. Some of the emotion I felt in this anime, aside from saddness, was also emptiness. Perhaps it was due to the fact that there was no mention of hope or any kind of higher power, so it leaves you with a somewhat empty feeling. However, I have to admit I did like the ending. Though abrupt, it was hopeful. But it was a very open ending. An interesting thing to note is this anime was marked as "OVA 1" like there were plans to make more, but so far, there is no news of another episode in production. Despite the ending, however, it seems it was made so you can either continue or stand alone. So it can go both ways.

Though I felt a little unsatisfied with this anime, I'm glad I watched it once, and I probably wouldn't mind seeing it again someday. The animation, the music, the sci-fi themed story was all very brilliant, but there were a few things that I admit I did not like in this anime. So even though I'd consider this a very artistic piece, I don't suggest watching this when you're feeling down. This is not something to watch if you want to stay in a cheery mood. It's not ultra depressing or sad, but just enough where you'll be dwelling on it just a little, thinking about it. Perhaps that was the idea of the OVA, to make you think. I'm not sure. But I can tell that YOSHIURA is a talented director, and I hope to see more from this director in the future. Maybe someday they'll be a sequel to Pale Cocoon that'll make it a little more satisfying, but for now, it's okay standing by itself.

Recommend?
I don't consider this a "must see" but it's something quick to watch. It is very eye-pleasing, and also very, very clean content wise. Though I wouldn't recommend it to younger viewers due to it's slow pace and deep storyline.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
I found the music to be very lovely, fitting the theme of the anime, as well as the one song that plays near the anime's climax.

[SUB VS. DUB]
There is no dub, you can only watch it subbed on CrunchyRoll. But the acting is done very well in Japanese.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
None that I know of.

[RELATED TITLES]
Unrelated titles by YOSHIURA "Time Of Eve" and "Mizu no Kotoba".

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There is a mention of a death and near the end Ura is seen with a little blood on his face. But that's all.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
There was a comment about humans originally coming from the ocean. Also, there is some enviromental themes in here, as the reason for the people living here was due to over population and destroying the Earth's enviroment. In the song Ura restores, there was a line that says "when people believed in God".

*EPISODE LIST*
This is a single episode OVA.

POKEMON 3: SPELL OF THE UNOWN

2011-05-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

Fall under the SPELL OF THE UNOWN! Get set for an action-packed adventure unlike anything you've seen before! A crystal catastrophe is unleashed upon Greenfield and Ash, Pikachu and friends must figure out how to undo the damage to the once-beautiful town. But the unthinkable happens when Ash's Mom is kidnapped by the powerful Entei, a Pokemon thought to have existed only in legend. Now Ash must go to her rescue, uncertain of what he'll uncover when he unlocks the real secret power behind the unbelieveable turn of events: a young girl whose dream world is being turned into a nightmarish reality by the most unstoppable Pokemon ever -- the Unown!
(From the backcover of Pokemon 3: Spell Of The Unown)

Original Japanese Title: Gekijōban Poketto Monsutā Kesshōtō no Teiō ENTEI (Pocket Monsters: Emperor Of The Crystal Tower ENTEI)
Dubbed by: 4Kids
Animation:
Manga adaption?: No.
Rating: G

{I, the reviewer, give Pokemon 3: Spell Of The Unown, 10 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

The thing I like most about the Pokemon movies is that they are usually quite deep with an engaging storyline. The films offer alot more than the actual television series. The third movie in the Pokemon franchise is no exception. In fact, I'd have to say that this film is probably my favorite of the Pokemon movies I have so far seen. It's one of the most mystical and mysterious anime films I have seen. I remember when I watch this film in theaters. Sadly, it appeared the only ones there was my parents, brother, me, and a mother and her son. I'm not sure if this film was a hit or not, but that's too bad, 'cause that would mean TONS OF PEOPLE seriously missed out on an extremely EPIC Pokemon adventure unlike anything you've ever seen!

It's about a girl named Molly. Her father, Professor Hale, is a researcher of Legendary Pokemon. Molly's mother had mysteriously disappeared (reasons unknown) and her dad busy with work, so she is often lonely. We are introduced to both Professor Hale and his daughter when he is about to tuck her in bed. He shows her a book of legendary Pokemon where the artist imagines what some of them may look like. Molly's favorite is Entei. Suddenly, he gets an e-mail of an amazing discovery at one of the ancient ruins, so he goes there to investigate. That is when he is taken by the Unown. Molly is heartbroken that both of her parents have now vanished. She opens a box of these letter tablets that have pictures of the Unown, and she uses it to spell "Papa" and "Mama". This summons the Unown, and that's when the trouble begins! Her entire household is turned into a crystal castle, and begins engulfing the entire town of Greenfield! Everything Molly wishes becomes a reality.

Our heroes Ash, Misty, and Brock happen to meet another trainer named Lisa. They all decide to go to Greenfield and are horrified to see what is happening. At the Pokemon Center, they run into Professor Oak and Ash's mother. When Molly sees Ash's Mom on the screen, she wishes for her mother, and so Entei kidnaps Ash's mother and takes her to the Crystal Castle to replace Molly's mother. Ash is determined to rescue her, and along with his friends, venture into the castle where anything can happen. And as usual, somehow Team Rocket find themselves wound up in the story for no apparent reason.

Everytime I watch this movie I am simply in awe. The animation, mixed with a touch of CGI effects, is completely gorgeous! The magical storyline is filled with mystery, determination, and sincere emotion. Even at the film's climax it remains a mystery, as certain questions go unanswered, but it is best left that way for the mystique of the story. And the best part is that the film, despite some left over mystery, has a very satisfying ending. Be sure to watch the ending credits to get complete closure of the film, as an important scene does takes place. Overall, if you're a Pokemon fan, I'm sure you'll enjoy this movie. But even if you're not and think Pokemon is dull and uninteresting, you'll be proven wrong when you watch this movie, as it offers so much more than the series itself!

Recommend?
This has to be one of the best Pokemon movies ever! Whether you're a fan of Pokemon or not, this is a film well worth seeing as it's beautiful in both visual effects and storytelling woven with mystery.

I recommend this *ANIME NEWCOMER WORHTY* as alot of us anime fans got started on Pokemon, and this film has the beautiful mystical feeling and mystery of anime without being overly confusing.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
I actually found the music really good and fitting for the film. They matched each scene perfectly, whether during action scenes, frightening scenes, emotional scenes, etc.! I hope it's on the soundtrack!

[SUB VS. DUB]
This is only the English adaption, and possibly an edited version. However, the voice acting in the dub is actually done quite well. There were a few times where it seemed a little stiff, but overall it was done well.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
Way too many movies to list here. I think there are some manga adaptions of the series.

[RELATED TITLES]
Way too many series and movies to list O.O

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Brock always goes head over heels for pretty girls (as usual), but it's for comic relief and is pretty innocence.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There's a couple of Pokemon matches when Molly challenges them, and Brock and Misty accept her challenges. Just the usual fights, no blood or serious injury. When Ash tries to take Molly out of that place, Entei defends her and battles Ash and his Pokemon. There was a seen where Entei almost kills Ash's Charrizard, but Molly stops him.

[RELIGOUS MATERIAL]
"The Unown" is one of the legendary Pokemon, and are of the Psychic variety. They are the reason for Professor Hale's disappearance. They have the ability to tap into the thoughts of other life forms, including humans, and are turning Molly's thoughts, dreams, and wishes into a reality.
(SPOILER! Near the film's climax, it almost seems to be hinting that Entei was Molly's father, since he was captured by the Unown, perhaps his subconcious mind was inside the Entei Molly had dreamed, and when the dream world dispeled, that is when her feather was finally released.)

*EPISODE INDEX*
Pikachu and Pichu (Short Film)
Pokemon 3: Spell Of The Unown

TSUBASA RESERVOIR CHRONICLES [VOL.2]: Seeds Of Revolution

2011-05-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

BRAVING THE FATES, Syaoran, Kurogane, Fai and Sakura must continue on their journeys with stout hearts and heroic determination. These four must travel through dimensions unknown on their quest to reunite the princess with her memory. As each new world offers up new adventures, trouble has found them in this one even before they arrive... Delivered into a land suffering under evil rule. With the help of a young orphaned rebel, the noble crew must unite a weary populace to overthrow the cruel feudal lord and his brutal son. The uprising will prove fierce and the magic astounding... But victory must be achieved before the quest can continue.
(From the backcover of, Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles [Vol.2]: Seeds Of Revolution]

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: Funimation.
Animation: Bee Train.
Manga adaption?: Yes, "Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles" by CLAMP.
Rating: PG.

{I, the reviewer, give Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles "Seeds Of Revolution" [Vol.2], 10 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

When I first got into Tsubasa Chronicles, it was the second world that really got me hooked to it. That's when I felt the story really started to get interesting. This second volume of the anime contains the last episode of the Hanshin Republic arc where they discover who's kudan contains Sakura's feather, an unlikely candidate. Once Syaoran finally pulls out the feather and returns it to his beloved princess, he finally has to face the reality of the price he payed to Yuuko to begin this journey. When her eyes open and she sees Syaoran faithfully by her side, the first thing she asks is "Who are you?". Due to the price of his wish, he tells her the situation, leaving out the fact that the two of them have known each other since childhood.

So the journey continues and they land in the second world. And instantly, they find themselves in the middle of trouble once again. But this time, it's alot more serious. This town is under the evil rule of Lord Tombal and his son who practices "hijutsu" the secret art and uses it for selfish gain. Chun'Nyan, a young girl who's mother was killed by Tombal, wants to help overthrow the evil lord and his son, as well as avenge her mother's death. Tombal's hijutsu is being amplified by Sakura's memory fragment. It's hard for Mokona to sense do to the many magical waves, since the town is surrounded by a protective barrier keeping the people in and others out.

This is one of my favorite arcs of the series. It has a well written backstory, nice action sequences, as well as beautiful, emotional parts. But one of the interesting things about this arc is how Chun'Nyan refers to Sakura as "God's beloved daughter", which by her deceased mother's definition is someone whom God pays special attention to and that's why they're so lucky. In other words, it seems to refer to someone blessed with God's favor. Now, when translating Japanese it can be tricky, as the word for God ("kami") can be translated as God, a god, or many gods. So the phrase could of been translated as "beloved daughter of the gods" (which I think it is in the manga, from what I remember in volume 19) but I am glad Funimation had chosen to translate it this way, as it adds a wonderful, beautiful depth to the story. Sakura is a gentle and kind soul, a loving and caring person, so it would make sense that she would be a blessed child. Even though that part isn't mentioned too heavily, it was very inspiring to see in a story such as this.

All in all, this was an excellent volume containing a wonderful set of episodes. It ends with a cliffhanger, making you eager to watch the third volume which contains the last episode of this arc before they continue on their journey. I really have no complaints, as this arc is almost perfect, very little flaws. If you enjoyed the first volume of Tsubasa, you'll enjoy this volume even better!

Recommend?
HIGHLY! This is where I feel the story really kicks in and becomes exciting. If the first set of episodes didn't pull you in, this one will.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
Beautiful, as always. Matching the scenes quite well.

[SUB VS. DUB]
Excellent in either language.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
1 movie "Tsubasa Chronicles: Princess Of Birdcage Kingdom" and based on CLAMP's manga "Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles".

[RELATED TITLES]
"Cardcaptor Sakura" and the edited version "Cardcaptors", the movie "Tsubasa Chronicles: Princess Of Birdcage Kingdom" and it's sister "xxxHOLiC: A Midsummer Night's Dream", the OVAs "Tsubasa TOKYO REVELATIONS" and "Tsubasa Spring Thunder". Also related to "xxxHOLiC", "xxxHOLiC Kei", "xxxHOLiC Shunmuki" and "Kobato" due to episode 20.

[DVD EXTRAS]
Character Guide, World Guide, Faces In The Crowd: Cameos from the CLAMP Universe, Textless Songs, Trailers.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None (based on the dubbed translation).

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
When Syaoran reaches into someone's kudan, that person is in pain (but does not die). In the second world, Chun'Nyan mentions Tombal was the one who killed her mother (in a flashback, you see her already dead, but it's not graphic). There was also a house burnt down due because they did not pay their taxes (whether people were inside is uncertain). There are also battles, but they are bloodless.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
The kudan that Sakura's feather is inside supercharges it with alot of power, so the wielder can no longer control his kudan. In the second world they are in, there is a secret art called "hijutsu". Chun'Nyan's mother told her that hijutsu is to be used to bring happiness to others, and not for selfish gain. The evil lord Tombal and his son use hijutsu for evil, having it amplified with Sakura's feather. After Sakura wins 4 first prizes, Chun'Nyan tells her she is God's beloved daughter, whom her mother described as someone God pays special attention to and that's why they're so lucky (this is actually quite endearing and not offensive). Tombal took Chun'Nyan's dead mother inside his castle so that her body will not rest in the earth and her soul will not ascend to Heaven, but forever drift in limbo. There's also a woman named Kiishimu, Princess Of Shadows who is manipulated by Tombal to use her hijutsu for his doing.
(SPOILER! Chun'Nyan's spirit temporarily inhabits Sakura's body. After she has a long talk with her daughter about hijutsu, her spirit leaves).

*EPISODE LIST*
6. Unshed Tears
7. The Broken Memento
8. God's Beloved Daughter
9. Princess Of Shadows
10. Mirror Of Seperation

TIME OF EVE [OVA series]

2011-05-15T16:59:00.001-07:00

The future, probably Japan.
Robots have long been put into practical use, and androids have just come into use.
Influenced by the Robot Ethics Committee, it’s become common sense for people to treat androids like household appliances. Their appearance - indistinguishable from humans except for the ring over each android’s head – has lead some people to empathize unnecessarily with androids. Known as “android-holics,” such people have become a social problem. Rikuo (Jun Fukuyama), a high school student, has been taught from childhood that androids are not to be viewed as humans, and has always used them as convenient tools. One day Rikuo discovers some strange data in the behavior records of his family’s household android. Rikuo and his friend Masaki (Kenji Nojima) trace Sammy’s (Rie Tanaka) movements, only to discover a mysterious café that features a house rule that “humans and robots are to be treated the same” . . .
(CrunchyRoll description of Time Of Eve)

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: Undubbed. Watch the subs on CrunchyRoll.
Animation:
Manga adaption?: No, this is an original series.
Rating: (rating unknown)

{I, the reviewer, give Time Of Eve, 9 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

How'd I come across this six-episode anime? Well, I actually saw a review for it on a friend's blog and decided to finally give it a try myself. I was absolutely in awe at the beauty of the animation. Everything is so clear and smooth. Also, one of my favorite seiyuu was in it, Jun Fukuyama (who played Watanuki in xxxHOLiC). And the story? Well, it's quite a simple one. Yet beautifully executed. It's about humans and androids. Rikuo is wondering where his android Sammy has been. He and his friend Masaki find the place - Time Of Eve.

So, what exactly is Time Of Eve? It's a small cafe where everyone is welcomed, just as long as you follow this one rule: no discremination against humans and robots. Here, everyone is treated the same. Rikuo and Masaki is a little disturbed that an android was able to act on it's own, without an order. They figure it must be a "grey zone". Both Rikuo and Masaki start to visit the cafe more often to learn more about this place and meet all kinds of interesting "people". But there's an organization called The Robot Ethics Committee which wants to close places like these down.

For an anime that focuses most of it's time in the cafe, it was brilliant! In a short amount of time, you already start to get close and feel for these characters. You want to know their story and why they've come to Time Of Eve. Some backstories are given, others only merely mentioned, but enough to tie everyone together. I really loved the final episode, as it explained why Masaki is the way he is. I have to admit that this series had me in awe. I laughed and I even cried. And now, I'm inspired to make a manga about androids O.O

My only complaint is how short it was. Being a short anime, you can finish it quickly. However, despite how well executed it was for only six episodes, there was still so much more to be explained and so much more character developement to happen. However, Rikuo explained this being his story of how he enjoyed Time Of Eve and that more happened - but that's another story. Hopefully, a second season is in the works that will go further into what the Ethics Committee is planning and how Time Of Eve will endure. But for now...you may not bere here for that long, but I hope you enjoy Time Of Eve!

Recommend?
Yes! It's a simple story, but brilliant in it's simplicity. Who knew an anime about A.I. could be so simple? Despite how short it is, it's worth watching. It's delightful and very enjoyable for almost all ages (but if you plan to show younger viewers, I suggest skipping episode 3 due to some sexual content). It may seem a little weird at times, but should definantly be appreciated.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
The music is rather nice and fits the mood perfectly well.

[SUB VS. DUB]
This is subbed-only for the time being and can be watched at CrunchyRoll. But the voice acting is done extremely well.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
There's a theatrical version called "Time Of Eve: The Movie" but it sounds like it's nothing more than just all six episodes as one, having a bonus song. I also heard there is a manga adaption of this.

[RELATED TITLES]

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
I remember only 1 "h".

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Don't think there was any.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
In the third episode, when Rikuo's sister is watching TV, there's a brief mention of androids being used for sexual intercourse. Also, Rikuo kept staring at one of the women's chest. Her outfit shows her cleavage line.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Other than seeing a robot expload, none.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Time Of Eve is a cafe where humans and robots come together, and it seems like the robots have feelings and some of their masters care for them, too. Nothing disturbing, though.

*EPISODE LIST*
1. Akiko
2. Sammy
3. Koji & Rina
4. Nameless
5. Eve's Melody
6. Masaki

MISTRESS FORTUNE

2011-05-06T10:56:00.000-07:00

Fourteen-year-old Kisaki Tachikawa has psychic powers. She works for PSI, a secret government agency that fights aliens. She's in love with her partner Giniro, but PSI won't allow operatives to get involved. Just when Kisaki thinks she may be getting closer to Giniro, she finds out she's going to be transferred to California!
(From the backcover of Mistress Fortune)

Manga-Ka: Arina Tanemura
Distributor: Viz Media
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Teen

{I, the reviewer, give Mistress Fortune, 6 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I won't lie that I appear to have a developing love for shoujo. Looking at my collection, I like shoujo manga more than I thought! Just look at some of my favorite webcomics at SmackJeeves! O.O Man, I got to find some more shounen series, quick! But no matter. As a girl, there's no shame in lovin' shoujo, right? This single-volume story, "Mistress Fortune", is a sci-fi/fantasy story by Arina Tenemura. I really enjoyed the first volume of her new series, "Sakura-Hime: The Legend Of Princess Sakura", and when I saw this manga and saw it was by the same person, I decided to give it a go. The story sounded fun and interesting, the artwork is cute as usual, and it's short to boot, so it won't take me long to finish!

It's about Giniro and Kisaki, two fourteen-year-olds who work for a secret organization called PSI, where they fight "ebe" (weird little alien creatures). However, they are not allowed to exchange personal information to each other, they only see each other at work. Giniro is highly skilled in his powers while Kisaki still needs alot of work to master them. She is in love with her partner and is not sure how to convey her feelings, especially due to the PSI restrictions. And what's this?! She might be transferred from PSI Japan to PSI America??!!

It was a fun read, to say the least. I highly enjoyed it and wish to see it develope more. I hope Tanemura-sama someday releases a sequel, but it's still a good stand-alone volume. The relationship between Giniro and Kisaki is extremely cute, but the only thing I did not like is how Giniro is such a pervert! He keeps talking about how large Kisaki's breasts are, which sickened me a few times. Though it was funny how Kisaki reacted towards that, which made the story more funny. Still, it was quite bothersome. I have no idea how Kisaki could even have those feelings toward a guy who thinks that way about her. Maybe it's a weird way of him showing affection? Even so, it's rather disgusting.

I loved the part when Kisaki went to California and experienced some "culture shock". What's interesting is the character Nancy is an actual person from Viz! In the end notes, she mentions what an honor it was to be used as a character and she explains all the references to Tanemura's visit that shows up in the manga. Also, the two extra Mistress Fortune bonus stories are cute, too. It almost feels like it serves as bonus chapters, but they're still bonus stories due to the fact they really have nothing to do with the main plot. The first one is about Ebe-ko trying to get a job to earn some money so she can be a Shiroganese. The second one, which I liked the best (despite some of the characters' dirty minds), is where Dr. Gunjo's sabordinates are suspicious that he's really a woman, and so they hire Giniro and Kisaki to find out!

Though I adored this cute little story, Giniro's perversion did drive me crazy several times. Why is he so obsessed with her cup size? WHY??! Is that really all he thinks about?! Despite that, I still enjoyed this story, and will probably read it several times over, but due to Giniro's perversion alone, I have lowered my score way down to "it's OK" number 6.

Recommend?
If you like a nice light-hearted adventure that deals with aliens and psychic powers (and can ignore Giniro's perversion), it's a sweet little story that is absolutely adorable! But I wouldn't recommend it to anyone younger than 14.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None, surprisingly.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Don't think so.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Giniro keeps talking about Kisaki's DD size breasts. In the second bonus story, Dr. Gunjo's sabordinates think he's a woman and want Giniro and Kisaki to uncover his secret! There's also a scene where Giniro is on top of Kisaki. Nothing happens, but Dr. Gunjo spots them and wonders what they're doing. When the two are at Dr. Gunjo's, they all sleep on one bed and Dr. Gunjo rolls over to Kisaki, practically hugging her (not to be sexual, though, he's unaware of what he's doing 'cause he's dreaming). When Giniro goes beserk with his powers, Ebe-ko tells Kisaki to do a panty shot.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Fantasy and slapstick violence. No blood at all. There is mention of death, but it is not shown.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Giniro and Kisaki have psychic powers and they fight "ebe" (little alien creatures). They appear to undergo a transformation to become Quartz and Tiara (instant, you see nothing), where they have wings. They also have a special drink that enhances their psychic abilities. Their outfits as Quartx and Tiara has a cross on it. In the second bonus story, when Giniro goes "beserk" with his powers, there's a crazy narration about him ruling the world, being known as the "thunder god" being feared by all, but this is a joke and for comical purposes, not to be taken seriously.

*CHAPTER LIST*
Chapter 1: Angels Descend From The Sky?! Mistress Fortune
Chapter 2: A Fight Like No Other! A Maiden's Heart Lies Within Hear Breast?!
Chapter 3: The ESP Of Love! At Times Be Honest?! Absolute Awakening
Bonus Story: Ebe-ko's Earth Immigration Plan
Bonus Story: Dr. Gunjo's Secret?!

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood [Part 2]

2011-05-05T00:03:00.000-07:00

The moment has finally arrived for fans of Edward and Alphonse Elric as the brothers encounter new characters, dangers, and mysteries in Part Two of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, “the most anticipated new anime in years.” (Otaku USA)
The path to the Philosopher’s Stone now enters unfamiliar territory, where the Elrics face exotic strangers who use alkahestry, a version of alchemy native to the distant kingdom of Xing. As insight is gained into the secret world of the Homunculi and their enigmatic creator, Lust feels the fires of Mustang’s rage in battle – and the outcome of the clash will shock you. Winry endures the trial of her life when new horrors of the Ishvalan massacre are revealed. Truly, the gate is opening on a new era of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Are you ready to see what’s on the other side?
(Amazon.com description of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood [Part 2])

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: Funimation
Animation: BONES
Manga adaption?: Yes, "Fullmetal Alchemist" by Hiromu Arakawa.
Rating: 14+

{I, the reviewer, give Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood [Part 2], 9 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I loved the first anime series of Fullmetal Alchemist due to how complex, deep, and beautiful it was. However, I did not really like how the movie concluded things. Still, it ranks as one of my top favorite series. I also am enjoying the manga, however, I am still in the process of reading it and have yet to get to the volumes where the anime had diverged. Now, the second series, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, is not a sequel but a complete remake of the first series. Done by the same animation company, the episodes in the "Part 1" set is a rehash of what we've already seen. However, since this anime series is based close to the manga, those differences would probably follow the manga more closely. But the first series had expanded that part so beautifully, and since I already seen it, I decided to go ahead and skip the rehash and start on the part where the new stuff kicks in (I will eventually watch "Part 1" though and see how the rehash was done and review it, so don't worry!).

I was a bit hesitant at first about watching the remake series, as the CAA review seemed to report much more gruesome content in the violence department. However, I had the same feelings for the first series at one point, and since I loved the first series too much and have been enjoying the manga, I decided to give it a go. I am glad I did. Despite having to close my eyes and cringe many seems, due to some of the graphic nature, I was amazed at where the story was going. So this was how Hiromu Arakawa intended for the series to go? Though I love the first series, the second series is even more brilliant, deep, and emotional! And also, switching from emotional to comedy almost seemlessly. The story almost seems darker and more shocking than it's counterpart. We're introduced to new characters; Mei Ching and her panda Shao Mei from the country of Xing. From the same country is Ling Yao,a prince from Xing, with his ninja guards Fu and Lan Fan. They are searching for the secret of immortality to save their country. We are also introduced to a different type of alchemy known as alchehistry (sp?), a type of alchemy that specializes in healing.

Every episode I watched, I was utterly amazed. I was wondering what a character would do next and why a character did what they did and the explanation behind it. And I still have so many question! Who is "Father"? What did Trisha mean when she said "sorry that I died before you"? What do the homunculi need human sacrifices for? What does the people of Xing need immortality for? And so much more, but I can't say, as it'll give away spoilers! If you loved the first anime series, you will really love this one! Almost everyone in the English cast reprised their roles, except for Alphonse and Scar. It was understandable why Aaron Dismuke could not reprise the role of Alphonse due to his voice maturing, and Maxey Whitehead actually does a pretty good job to sounding similar to him, but I don't know why the guy who played Scar didn't come back. Though I was skeptical at first, I was surprised how well J. Michael Tatum plays him! (Still, the original dub voices will always be what I hear when I read the manga!)

Some of the violence and dark tones are a bit frightening and disturbing, compared to the first anime series, but it all adds to the depth of the story. I am curious to see how the story plays out in the next set of episodes, as the last episode in this set leaves you hanging. All I know is that it appears the series is setting us up for more twists, turns, and shocking revelations!

Recommend?
Yes without a doubt! This series is even more brilliant than it's counterpart, so if you loved the first "Fullmetal Alchemist" than you'll love "Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood" even more!

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
There were times where it seemed the music didn't fit, but overall the music is pretty good, and probably worth getting the soundtrack. I really love the second ending "Let It Out".

[SUB VS. DUB]
I've only watched the dub, and it is excellent.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
"Fullmetal Alchemist" manga by Hiromu Arakawa.

[RELATED TITLES]
"Fullmetal Alchemist" the first anime series.

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
Words such as "h", "d", and the other "b" word are used quite a bit, as well as one use of "b" word that ryhms with witch.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Jean Havoc is seen constantly smoking.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
When Havoc finds out that Lust was his girlfriend, Mustang comments on how Havoc has always been a sucker for large breasts. Also, when they focus in on her tattoo, you see her breast bounce and she says how it's not polite to stare. Besides that, I don't remember anything.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
The violence in here is more gruesome than the first anime. During the battle between Wrath and Greed, Wrath severely injures Greed and it's rather graphic with alot of blood. A woman hiding in Alphonse's armor is killed inside him and blood spills. Lust badly injures both Havoc and Mustang. Riza shoots Lust up with all of her bullets, but of course, Lust doesn't die. When Ling Yao and Edward are trapped in void, they are literally in a sea of blood. Alot of battle scenes where people get battered up and bleeding.
(SPOILERS! It is implied that Mustang burns Maria Ross to a crisp and all you see are her remains, but in truth, her death was faked and Mustang only made it look like he killed her. Mustang burns Lust over and over again and she screams in pain and eventually dies and blows away as ash. We find out that Scar murdered Winry's parents. It's really not shown, but you get the idea.)

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
There's of course your alchemy use and the arays looking much like hexagrams. There's the homunculi (artificial humans). The portal is known as "The Gate Of Truth" and Gluttony was "Father's" failed attempt at creating his own portal of truth. Ling Yao and Mei Ching are looking for a way to obtain immortality to save the country of Xing. There's alot of talk about human sacrifice. The candidates are those who have opened "The Gate". When Ed discovers these ancient ruins, there's an inscription that basically says something like "I will smack God down" or something to that effect. When Ling Yao notices how Ed uses alchemy without a circle, he thinks in his head how it almost looks like he is praying.
(SPOILERS! We find out that the thing Ed and Al brought back when trying to bring back their mother was actually not their mother, but something else entirely, so they are relieved they did not cause her to die twice. Fuher Bradley, though a homunculus, was actually a real human at one time, but later became Wrath. Envy's true form is a horrible green monster with a bunch of human souls in constant agony trapped inside him. These souls were from an ancient city that disappeared in one night. In order to get out of the defective "Portal Of Truth", Ed had to transmute those souls inside Envy).

*EPISODE LIST*
14. Those Who Lurk Underground
15. Envoy from the East
16. Footsteps of a Comrade-in-Arms
17. Cold Flame
18. The Arrogant Palm of a Small Human
19. Death of the Undying
20. Father Before the Grave
21. Advance of the Fool
22. Backs in the Distance
23. Girl on the Battlefield
24. Inside the Belly
25. Doorway of Darkness
26. Reunion

A STORY OF GEM: BOTTLED UP CONFESSION

2011-05-04T23:26:00.000-07:00

A young man moving to a new home. A little girl with a strange quirk. What happens next?
(Smackjeeves description)

Manga-Ka: Le Mishie
Distributor: Online exclusive.
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Not rated

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give The Story Of Gem: Bottled Up Confession, 4 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

The first time I read this one-shot was in an issue of DREAM, the online manga magazine I submit to. This is actually one out of a collection of different oneshots about Gem. I thought the story was interesting and cute, and unique considering there is no dialogue. It's like watching a silent movie, manga style, and the artwork is rather nice, as well as how it was tone. It's about a young man who moves in and he keeps seeing this young girl who likes to collect bottles.

However, I did not know it was a lolicon. The young man in the story, in my opinion, looks like a young teenager. Though from closer examination and reading it again, I think he might actually be older than that (say, college age or just out of?). And the little girl, Gem, well it seems as if she has a crush on him. Not much of a big deal, since little girls do have crushes on older guys. However, near the end, it almost seems like he feels the same way for her. It wouldn't freak me out so much if he were like 13 and she was only 5 years younger, but it appears they have a larger gap than that, and that just seems wrong to me. I'm not really sure how far aprt in age they are, but it's obviously more than 5 years (at least as far as I can tell). Nothing happens between them, and even the author said it's not explicit lolicon, but it's still there.

So despite it's cuteness, unique storytelling, and brilliance, the fact that it is lolicon has lowered my score way down. It was really hard for me to do that, as I did really like the story, but despite it not being explicit lolicon, it is still lolicon.

Recommend?
Due to the nature of the comic, I personally cannot recommend it.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
No dialogue, no language.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Gem kisses nameless guy on the cheek and there's some blushing. Gem's dress is rather short, but not to be revealing.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
None.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(this is a oneshot)

BOKU TO GHOST "Ghost and I"

2011-04-30T21:25:00.000-07:00

Boku to GHOST ("ghost and I") is a one-shot comic created to take on portfolio reviews to editors at comic publishing companies while I was in Japan for a month in fall 2010.

story summary:
Takuya died before he was able to experience the adolescence he really wanted...
so he comes back as a ghost and forces his childhood friend Hideto to experience it for him.
but their ideas of what is important in life turn out to be just a little different...
(Smackjeeves.com description of "Boku to Ghost").

Manga-Ka: rainysidewalks.
Distributor: Online exclusive.
Format: Right-to-left.
Rating: Not rated.

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give Boku to Ghost, 7 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Rainysidewalks is the mangaka for an ongoing manga entitled Farewell Feeling (now on it's third revamp). This oneshot was created to show some publishing companies for review while in Japan. Though a webmanga, it's pretty authentic, to say the least, as you can tell that it was originally written in Japanese, but translated into English for the online version.

The story is about two childhood friends, Takuya and Hideto. Takuya has had a heart condition for a long time, so for a good portion of his life has always been confined to a hospital bed. One day, he tells Hideto that he wants him to experience the "youth" that he could never have. Shortly after that statement, he passed away. However, Hideto never expected that his now passed best friend would now huant him as a ghost, practically ordering him to live life like in the comics!

This was a rather entertaining read. Obviously, Takuya is a major otaku. Alot of the things he wanted Hideto to "experience" for him was rather typical and cliche in alot of shoujo manga, but that made it all the more fun. The humor had perfect timing, the screentone was well placed, and the art is rather eye-pleasing. Though I wouldn't call her art the most distinctive, it's different enough where you know who's drawing it. You know that rainysidewalks developed her own style. If you liked the art in Farewell Feeling, then you should like the art here.

Though there could have been more added to this comic, such as a few more "like in the comic" moments Takuya wanted Hideto to experience, it was a nice, entertaining read. It's a fun comic and I am sure most manga lovers would enjoy it! I certainly got a kick out of it.

Recommend?
It's a fun read and would be enjoyed mostly by manga readers, due to the kind of life Takuya wants his friend to experience. I suggest giving it a try, it'll bring a smile to your face ^.^

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Everything is innocent.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There's a part where Hideto gets beaten up by a girl, but it's for comical reasons.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
When Takuya dies, he comes back as a ghost and won't pass on until Hideto experiences the kind of "life in the comics" he didn't get a chance to.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(this is a oneshot)

WHO I AM

2011-04-30T18:10:00.000-07:00

Comic made for my friend's church... <3

About being Christian... General stuff all sects(Catholic, Protestant..etc.) believe in...

Comments and critiques appreciated.^^
(Smackjeeves.com description of Who I Am)

Manga-Ka: elrensail
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give Who I Am, 8 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

"Who I Am" is a short, 9-page webmanga that the mangaka made for her friend's church. It starts off with a girl being chased in the night by a group of guys. She finds herself in a dark alley, trapped, and at knife point. The reason? One of the guys say because her gospel preaching ticks them off. She then pushes the knife away and starts to say what it means to be a Christian.

This comic, though so simple, was beautifully done. The way she poetically states what it means to be a Christian was cute and elegantly done. The nameless character states how being a Christian doesn't mean you're saying you're clean, strong, perfect, but that you're dirt, weak, and full of flaws, and that is why we need God so much. And I totally agree with that. Being a Christian is like being a living testimony of God's mercy and grace, a testimony of how Jesus saved you and changed your life. I also love how the comic ends and the final page having a verse from Psalm 23.

The art was very well drawn. I loved the screentoning and character designs, as well as the backgrounds that were there. If you've been looking for an inspiring comic to read, then this is a good choice!

Recommend?
YES! Especially for the Christian manga fan!

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it goes Western-style and is a simple story.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
1 harsh version of "ticked".

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
None.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
These guys chase the girl down the street and one of them puts a knife to her neck, threatening to harm her.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
This is a Christian comic that talks about being a Christian, nothing objectionable for the Christian reader ^.^

*CHAPTER LIST*
(this is a oneshot)

Results for Poll #1

2011-04-30T17:28:00.000-07:00

Sorry I am late on this, but now is the time to announce the poll results! Out of the 6 of you that voted, 5 items from the poll was voted on. "Kiki's Delivery Service" got 2 votes, making it our winner. I will be sure to watch it again and start to get a review of that one up soon. I've never watched it in it's original Japanese audio, so in order to post an analysis on both the English and Japanese audio, I will watch it in Japanese (because I've watched it in English so many times, I already know it's amazing).

The other 4 items (all anime) which got a vote each were; Fullmetal Alchemist: Season 1 Part 2, Black Cat: Complete Series, Summer Wars, and Rozen Maiden. I shall be sure to be working on the reviews for them soon as well (and on "Summer Wars" when I actually get a chance to rent it or buy it!). Also, one persom who didn't vote commented how she would like to see more reviews of webmanga. Well, as an avid webmanga reader I whole-heartedly shall do so. I will actually be posting a review for a one-shot called "Boku to GHOST" by rainysidewalks, the same creator of the webmanga "Farewell Feeling" (which is now on it's third version), as well as a manga called "Royal Icing" that has been self-published, as well as many more. I have to say, probably most of my manga reviews are of the non-professional kind. It's nice to review little known titles and get it out there.

I'm not sure if "Kiki's Delivery Service" will be the first of the voted items to be posted, but it will be posted none-the-less, and due to the demand, the selected titles will get top priority. But a good review can take time, and the nature of the poll was to see what my readers are eager to see because I was curious. Thank you for voting! The second poll will be up shortly! I just need to think of a good topic :P

THE LAST AIRBENDER

2011-04-11T16:40:00.000-07:00

Experience the thrilling live-action adventure based on the hit Nickelodeon series Avatar: The Last Airbender. Join Aang, an extraordinary boy with incredible “bending” powers, as he journeys through an exotic land filled with magical creatures and powerful friends. As the Avatar, he is the only one who can end the age-old conflict between the four nations: Air, Water, Earth and Fire. An inspirational journey, The Last Airbender is exciting entertainment for the entire family!
[Amazon.com description of The Last Airbender]

Director: M. Night Shyamalan
Based on: Avatar: The Last Airbender (Book 1: Water)
Studio: Paramount
Rating: PG

{I, the reviewer, give The Last Airbender, 1 out of 10!}

Often times, anime or any animated series, is tainted by a live-action adaption. Of course, there are always exception to these rules (such as the Transformers), but for the most part, they fail. Why do they fail? It's not really the fact that it has cheesy special effects, but mainly when they utterly butcher the story and get things wrong. Unfortunate to say that M. Night Shyamalan's live-action adapation of the popular Nickelodean series Avatar: The Last Airbender (shortened to just "The Last Airbender") is one of those butchered adapations. Anime and anything like it is sacred, and should not to tainted by live-action. This movie is a good example why. Let me warn you - this review is has some spoilers for those who have not watched the first season of the animated series, as well as this movie. (If you want, just skip to content if that's what you're worried about).

I can't even begin to describe how much they got wrong in this movie. After I had read all of the 1 and 2 star slams at Amazon, I was simply just expecting the film to have actors who don't fit the characters and the storyline to be a bit off from the animated series, with some lovely visual effects. But it was worse than I had anticipated. The costumes were completely wrong. Everyone looked like a bunch of cosplayers. In fact, if you would have hired cosplayers to star in this movie, it probably would have been better 'cause they look much more accurate and believeable then the people in this movie. And the visual effects? Oh, come on! Appa looked like a monster, the bending wasn't all that great....and speaking of bending, it takes them FOREVER to bend an element! The bending forms weren't as elegant and quick as they were in the animated series. Not only that, but they made the Fire Benders weaker than weak! They made it like they can only bend fire that was there, which they can, but they can also MAKE their own fire by using the heat from their bodies! How could a nation that cannot create fire from their fingertips have all the other nations trembling in fear for 100 years? Not only that, but they got so many things wrong! I know you can't fit an entire season into one movie, but this was WAY too condensed that if you haven't seen the series, you would be totally confused. And the guy they chose for Fire Lord Ozai?? Not intimidating at all, PLUS his face wasn't even supposed to be revealed 'till book 3! But you see him in this film! And Admiral Zhao wasn't intimidating either. Wasn't his firebending supposed to be out of control? Which reminds me, Aang's first firebending teacher, Jong Jong, was cut from this movie!

Too many things were cut and done differently, making this film NOTHING like it's animated counterpart (the superior counterpart). And not only is the humor totally sucked out of this movie, leaving it to be WAY too serious, but even the emotion and passion entirely was also sucked out, leaving this film dry and passionless. Where is Zuko's scar? Oh, they did show the flashback of how he got the barely noticeable mark around his eye. There was alot of emotion in Zuko's backstory, where you felt really bad for him in the animated series, but in the movie, you feel nothing. In fact, you feel nothing for any of the characters. When Aang finds out all of his people were destroyed, you feel nothing, while in the anime, you feel Aang's overwhelming saddness. Then there's the relationship between Sokka and Yue. You honestly feel no attachment or sympathy for these characters at all throughout the entire thing. For only an hour and 30 minutes, this film drags. And the scene where Yue gives back life to the moon spirit is TOTALLY screwed up in this film. It was originally an emotional scene where she makes the decision to give up her life. When she "dies" and falls into Sokka's arms, her body vanishes and then she becomes the moon spirit, where she and Sokka have their final kiss and she tells him goodbye and she'll always be with him. In this movie, however, though there's a final kiss between her and Sokka before entering the water, there's no emotion at all. As you watch, it's like "meh, whatever". And she goes into the pool, and then when her life is gone, her hair returns to black. She doesn't become the moon spirit, she just...dies. That totally ruined the beauty and elegance, and not to mention the emotion in the final of book 1. This scene which brought me to tears in the anime had me full of outrage at how they ruined it! They even cut the part about Princess Yue being in an arranged marriage, just like their GranGran (oh yeah, Kana's 'arranged marriage' wasn't mentioned, either!).

I can go on and on about several other things. Such as Zuko's missing passion (he doesn't yell at all in this movie!), several beloved side characters not making an appearance, the fact that a stupid dragon spirit replaces Aang's spirit journey with Avatar Roku (actually, Avatar Roku is NOT EVEN in this film!) And they also cut out Ko, The Face Stealer, that really scary creature that, when I first saw it, sent chills up my spine! Also, Aang could not have a family? That's not true! And where did Sokka's sarcasm go? Where did Katara's encouraging speeches of hope go? Where did Uncle Iroh's wisdom, love for tea, and care for his nephew go? Where did Aang's childness go? What happened to the awesome bending battles? They even cut Master Paku and Katara's epic water-bending battle, where she was angry how the Nothern Tribe doesn't allow women to bend! Also....they made it like Katara had ease learning waterbending and Aang had trouble, IT WAS THE OTHER WAY AROUND! And worst yet...WHERE were the Aang and Katara moments? In the series, he fell into her arms and it was practically love at first sight, but in this film they just found him and nothing sparked between them. There's so much more I can say...but I don't think I have enough time to rant on and on about it, nor do I think you guys really want to read all that....heheh.

Final thoughts? This was a disaster. It was like the entire film was based on only a description of Avatar: The Last Airbender. I mean, you just can't get THAT many things wrong! If you've ever watched Mystery Science Theater 3000 where they make fun of cheesy movies, I'm sure you'll recall alot of those movies and wonder how does stuff like that even get made! And The Last Airbender looks like a movie that could be on that show! It's like a weird mix of high budget and low budget. It was a high budget film that looked low budget. O.O
And I thought Masters Of The Universe, the live-action adaption for He-Man was bad. At least that was amusing. This was just a pain to watch. To fans of the series, spare yourself the pain and agony of trying to stomach this film and stick with the cartoon, and for those who have never seen the cartoon, stay far away from this film and check out the cartoon. There's action, adventure, light romance, depth, emotion, awesome bending, friendship, character developement...and a solid story! Everything this film lacked.

Recommend?
I didn't want to hate this film, but it butchered one of my all-time favorite animated series and turned it into a dark, emotionless disaster. The special effects couldn't save it 'cause even that fell short. If you want a real story, then watch the animated series which this film was supposedly based on. You and your family will have alot more fun watching that than this.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
This film hardly had any music it seemed, and even when it was there, it's nothing very memorable.

[SUB VS. DUB]
This film was always in English, but the acting was pretty bad.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
There's like a cine-manga type comic for the animated television series.

[RELATED TITLES]
"Avatar: The Last Airbender" animated series and yet to be premiered follow-up "Avatar: The Legend Of Korra".

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
There wasn't any,

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Not that I can remember.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Clear of this.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There's alot of fighting, but all of them bloodless. In a flashback of Zuko, it is implied he was burned by his father. When Aang, Sokka, and Katara are at one of the air temples, they find the skeletons of the Air Nomads that were killed by the Fire Nation.
(SPOILER! Princess Yue gives her life back to the moon spirit by going into the sacred pool. Her hair just returns to black and she floats, dead).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
There are those with the ability to "bend" one of the four elements. The Avatar is the only one who can bend all four elements. There is the Avatar Cycle, where when the Avatar dies, is then reincarnated into the next nation in the cycle. Princess Yue was a still born, but the moon spirit gave her life. When Aang enters the spirit world, he speaks to this dragon spirit.

*EPISODE LIST*
(this is a movie, so none)

FIRST POLL UP: What review are YOU looking forward to?

2011-04-09T20:33:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!! I listed a few titles that can be found in my "Coming Soon" page of this blog in a poll. I am curious to see what YOU GUYS, the readers, are interested in seeing posted soon on this review blog. This is the first poll I have ever staged here, and I plan to post more up. Every time a new poll is up I will make a new post to let you know it is there and then when the poll closes I will make a post of the results!

So, of course, this question deals with tallying what the readers really want to see on this blog. I picked titles that I felt people may be more curious about, such as Fullmetal Alchemist annd Avatar: The Last Airbender, as well as newer titles such as Kimi Ni Todoke and Sakura-Hime. I am curious to know what my readers have been looking forward to on my blog. If none of the titles you are looking forward to reading a review for that is on my 'coming soon' page is not on the poll, feel free to drop a comment below of what title you are looking forward to seeing a review for.

I can't wait to see what the results will be!! The poll is located at the VERY BOTTOM of the blog (basically, underneath the last of the recently posted). Have fun and God Bless!!

HIGURASHI: When They Cry: Cotton Drifting Arc, Volume 1

2011-04-05T18:27:00.000-07:00

You've already met Keiichi Maebara and his mischievous friends in the Abducted by Demons Arc. But Oyashiro-sama's curse is poised to strike anew in Hinamizawa village. When Keiichi spots tomboy Mion working at a maid café, he can hardly believe his eyes! But it's not Mion after all - it's her identical twin sister, Shion. Keiichi's never heard of this "twin sister" before and suspects it's just another one of Mion's pranks. But through Shion, Keiichi is able to see a quieter, more feminine side of his best friend, even if it is all an act. As Keiichi spends more time with Shion, however, Rena grows more accusatory...
(Barnes & Noble description of Higurashi: When They Cry: Cotton Drifting Arc, Vol.1)

Manga-Ka: Story by Ryukishio7 & Art by Yutori Houjyou
Distributor: Yen Press
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Older Teen

{I, the reviewer, give Higurashi When They Cry: Cotton Drifting Arc vol.1, 6 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

After I had read the second volume of this particular arc of the story, returning it to my friend, she then lended me the first volume. Yes, it's a bit odd to read in backwards order, but I wasn't confused at all when I read the second volume. However, the first volume helps you to get to know the characters, so it's probably best to read this one first so you can really feel the horror of the tragedy. Because this volume only serves as an introduction to the characters (though weird and slightly disturbing things do happen in this volume), the really frightening and dark stuff won't happen until you proceed on with the next volume.

I have to admit, this volume was a rather fun read, with several humerous parts. You really got to know Keiichi and his friends. It was fun to see them having fun with each other and making memories. You can tell that his friendship with these girls mean the world to him. Mion is a total tomboy and appears to be the leader of the group and Keiichi would never expect her to be really feminine. However, when he and his father go to Angel Mort and sees who appears to be Mion in a revealing, girly outfit, he decides to make fun of her to get her back. However, this girl claims to be a girl named "Shion", the identical twin sister of Mion. Keiichi doesn't buy it, but despite that, seems to play along, as he likes seeing this side of her. But does Shion actually exist? Also, Rena seems to be hinting at something. And also, there's something strange about this town and it's people.

I can tell this is a very well executed series. Although this volume isn't dark and terrifying as the second volume, it does drop hints that something strange is stirring. This volume only serves as an introduction of the characters so you can know them and care for them, so whatever happens, you try to wish the best outcome for them. That is brilliant storytelling, I'm telling you. My favorite part is when Keiichi and his friends defended "Shion" at the Angel Mort from those guys harrasing her. However, my only disappointment was how much sexual content was in it, especially the scenes at the Angel Mort. I actually was NOT expecting that, and that has caused me to lower my rating a bit. But I still enjoyed reading it and will probably eventually end up buying my own copy and add it to my little "manga library". But it can be hard to looked passed, though. If I had gotten this volume first, I'm not sure if I would of even continued reading it, but since I got the second one, well, it's kind of hard to detatch myself from it now. So if you're planning to read this arc, be warned of the inappropriate content. Otherwise, if you're looking for a good horror/supernatural with less of that, then I suggest either "Ghost Hunt" anime or "xxxHOLiC" (believe it or not) manga and anime.

Recommend?
This is a bit tricky, but if you can look passed that stuff, then yes, it's a pretty entertaining read. The storytelling is excellent and you really get to know the characters in a fun way!

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
I remember some minor swearing, nothing too harsh, if I remember correctly.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None that I can remember.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Well, well. On the first page, you see both Mion and Shion naked, but it's undetailed (like a Barbie Doll). Keiichi ended up getting the penalty game, and the penalty was for him to wear a Maid's Costume. At a resteraunt called Angel Mort, the uniforms are a bit revealing. Keiichi ends up seeing who he thinks is Mion (but claims to be her twin, Shion) and decides to embarras her, and one of them is he says how the outfit really shows her bust. When these guys come and harras "Shion", one of them seemed to have purposely spilled some of his food on his crotch area and asked her to wipe it off.
(SPOILER! After Keiichi found out that Shion is Mion, and the real twin Shion shows up, there's a scene where Shion lifts up her shirt to show she and Mion wear identical bras).

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
The only violent part I remember is seeing a dead body. There's blood and his head is detatched from his body.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
The people in the town act really weird and strange, and you can see it in their eyes when they act so weird. There's also the talk of the Cotton Drifting festival and the Saiguden temple. (See my review for the second volume of this arc for more detail).

*CHAPTER LIST*

SPIRIT SONG

2011-03-18T10:33:00.001-07:00

~*~Click Here To Read

Manga-Ka: Selenaloong
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Spirit Song, 6 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Selenaloong as one of the mangaka who submits to DREAM who is the artist and author for two ongoing series, Historian and Tales Of Riona. She's also helping me on one of my own projects, being the artist for my story entitled Amina-hime. This one shot "Spirit Song" was a contest entry, but sadly did not win.

It's a 10-page story that starts out with an exploration team. The main character finds a legendary plant and goes to sketch it in his book until he hears a beautiful melody. Following this melody, he finds a girl singing it, and she tells him it's called "Spirit Melody".

It was a rather well-done piece for only 11 pages. Though not much is explained, it seems best told that way, as it seems the mangaka wanted it to remain mysterious. The art is toned very well, and though is a bit sketchy, you can tell she put her heart into this. The panels are a bit crooked, however, and there were a few typos. Backgrounds need a bit of work, and the character designs need some tweaking, but overall it was a good one-shot.

Selena-sama has alot of interesting ideas and I'm sure as she continues she'll become an amazing mangaka someday. I look forward to watching her grow and read more of her stories!

Recommend?
It's one of Selena's less confusing, simplier stories, and if you'd like to get a taste of her work, this is a good place to start.

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORHTY* as it's really not all confusing to understand and the art is cute and would probably be appealing to young kids.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Zero.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Zilch.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
(SPOILER! Though it's never explained, the girl Kingsley met just suddenly vanishes without a trace, perhaps implying she was some kind of forest spirit).

*CHAPTER LIST*
(one-shot)

COUTURE

2011-03-18T00:20:00.001-07:00

Nakita Williams is a talented young fashion designer who likes creating clothes for men. She transfers to a private school to take advantage of their top-rated design curriculum. While there she meets Hayden, the son of a popular fashion designer that Nakita admires. Their relationship starts out well, but beneath his smile is an ulterior motive. And when Nakita finds out, things seem to fall beyond repair.
(Smackjeeves description of Couture)

~*~Click Here To Read

Manga-Ka: Arcadia
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Couture, 6 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Arcadia is the mangaka of a currently ongoing webmanga entitled Mascara which you may have seen run in the monthly online manga magazine DREAM. While Arcadia-sama's ongoing series is about make-up, this one-shot is about fashion design.

It's about a girl named Nakita who designs clothes for men. However, she tranferred schools and wanted to have a broader clothes line by learning how to design clothes for women. She meets Hayden, the son of Katie Grace, a famous designer that she admires. And later...Hayden and Nakita start going out. But then she finds out that the designer whom she admires is using her son to keep her less focused on her work, that way she can do well in the fashion show instead of Nakita.

Though this is explained, the story actually starts after all this occured. It flashes back to when Nakita listens in on Hayden and Katie's conversation, and she is heartbroken. As I read this story, I found Hayden's mother to be real cruel and horrible, and it made me even more mad that her name is "Katie" 'cause that's my name, too! But that aside, I did not like her at all. And why did Hayden let his mother use him like that?

The story has a pretty much satisfying conclusion, though it sort of leaves you wanting. Not that the story didn't deliver, but more like it'd be nice if it had maybe a few more pages. Plus, it didn't really go into much detail of the times before she found out about what Katie was up to, which in itself would of made a good story. The art is rather unique and distinctive, and is drawn very well. Though it's still a bit on the rough side, it's pretty much almost professional level. If you've read Arcadia-sama's ongoing manga, Mascara, and liked the art and story, then you'll probably also like this.

Overall, it was a pretty well written story, but a little too short and with lack of character developement. Though I know you can only do so much in a one-shot, I wish the story could of been fleshed out more, like show a quick flashback maybe of when she first met Hayden and then maybe narrate their time together before. Though I am usually not into manga about fashion, I kind of enjoyed this manga and am curious to see more of Arcadia's work in the future.

Recommend?
If you'd like something to read as a past-time, this is a pretty good story.

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it's not a confusing story, reads Western-style, and uses names you're probably more used to.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None that I can remember.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Nothing really.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Nakita violently stabs the sewing mannikin and says to Hayden "this could be you!" but that's all.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
None.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(None, one-shot)

THE HOUSE WITH BUTTERFLIES

2011-03-17T23:46:00.001-07:00

[NOTE: This did not have cover art, so this image is the first page of the manga]

Manga-Ka: MoonLover
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Not rated

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give The House With Butterflies, 7 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Upon searching for some completed webcomics, I came across this 16-page manga entitled The House With Butterflies. I thought the title sounded interesting and since it was only 16 pages in length, it wouldn't take that long to finish. Though the art is still on the beginner's side, and there's alot of negative space, the character designs are rather cute.

The story is about two friends, a boy and a girl that who's names are never mentioned. The story is through the boy's perspective and there is very little dialogue, most of it is the boy narrating the story. In the story his friend tells him she has cancer. It follows the times he visits her in the hospital and times they spent after the hospital. It's a really cute, innocent love story, but with a heartbreaking ending.

Though I absolutely loved this story and found it well written, I still found the way it ended seemed....rather unfair. But even so, I still liked this comic and found it to be sorrowfully beautiful. I especially loved the last page and how the girl always kept smiling despite what was happening to her.

Recommend?
It's a beautiful but sad story, but if you don't mind the possibility of shedding tears, then it's worth a look at.

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* since it is a very simple story.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Completely innocent.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
It's about the boy's friend suffering from cancer.
(SPOILER! The girl just suddenly dies at the end)

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
There's a story about when a butterfly lands on your hand and flies away smoothly, you'll have a good life, but it's the opposite if it flies away and then flinches.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(This is a 16-page one-shot)

xxxHOLiC - A Midsummer Night's Dream

2011-03-17T23:03:00.000-07:00

Invited to a wealthy client's mansion, time-traveling witch Yuko and her companions arrive to find a group of collectors assembled to participate in a mysterious auction. And the mystery only deepens when the collectors go missing one by one. As more guests disappear and strange occurrences abound, Yuko and her friends realize they must solve the mystery before they vanish as well.
(Netflix description of xxxHOLiC: A Midsummer Night's Dream)
(NOTE: This cover is ONLY of the xxxHOLiC movie. However, both the xxxHOLiC and Tsubasa movies are sold together as a dual-pack called CLAMP Double-Feature).

Original Japanese Title: xxxHorriku: Manatsu no Yoru no Yume
Dubbed by: Funimation
Animation: Production I.G.
Manga adaption?: Yes, "xxxHOLiC" by CLAMP
Rating: PG

{I, the reviewer, give xxxHOLiC: A Midsummer Night's Dream, 8 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Now I'm a huge fan of Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles, and of course I heard it was crossed over with xxxHOLiC, the series in which Dimensional Witch Yuuko resides. I actually never really planned on watching it, but my mom seemed to want to (she thought the concept of a wish-granting shop sounded cool). Of course, eventually I got into xxxHOLiC when my mom started to watch the anime, and I enjoyed the series even more when I picked up the manga.

This 1-hour movie of xxxHOLiC entitled "A Midsummer Night's Dream" was actually my first taste of xxxHOLiC. I had gotten the CLAMP Double Feature which has both of these movies in it, and of course, since they tie in together, I watched this as well. I read a review on Amazon.com saying you should watch this first, and so I decided to give this a shot before putting in Tsubasa. It was...a whole new experience for me, to say the least. Upon first impression, I found this anime to be kind of strange....no, not kind of, just totally weird and creepy. But then again, that's the whole point. Plus, I got to see Black Mokona, who is MUCH more hyper than White Mokona! And I got to see a side of Yuuko you don't see in Tsubasa. While she's very professional in conducting business when it comes to wish-granting, she actually isn't all that serious. She's actually pretty loose, fun-loving, and also overdemanding. And on top of that...she eats alot....and drinks alot. Never expected that!

Our story begins with a typical Watanuki day. He just takes a normal afternoon stroll and suddenly a whole horde of creepy spirits engulf him. Of course, they dispel when Doumeki, the guy who just irritates him to the core, shows up. But that all seems to melt away when his beloved Himawari shows up. Of course, he won't get to see her that much....he'll not only have his hands full with working for Yuuko, but it's summer vacation and they usually only get to see each other during school. When he goes to Yuuko's shop to begin his day of work, there's a strange invitation for Yuuko. It's an invite for collectors to go to this mansion and saying something about completing their collection. Also, a girl comes to her shop with a wish to return to her home. She has the key, but it won't work so she can't get inside. Strangely enough, this is the same place the mysterious gathering of collectors are happening. So, Yuuko decides to go to this gathering....dragging Watanuki and Doumeki of course. Strange things begin to happen, as their "mysterious host" never is visibly present, and the collectors begin disappearing one by one.

This movie creeped me out the first time I watched it. It also seemed a bit confusing at first, but I began to appreciate this movie the more and more I watched it, and eventually I just fell in love with it. It's now one of my favorite anime movies of a series. It's about twice as long as it's sister movie, Tsubasa Chronicles - Princess Of Birdcage Kingdom, and they both tie in at the end by Syaoran contacting Yuuko. As you know of the anime series, all Tsubasa references and contacts were completely cut, so it was nice to actually see the crossover in action. This was a perfect xxxHOLiC movie, even if it was only an hour long. It's more of a mystery than it is horror, but it can get a little creepy. The music in here matched the mood well, setting the right feel for a scene and was elegant and beautiful in a haunting way. The animation is amazing, the style looking like the characters literally peeled off the pages of the manga! If you're a xxxHOLiC fan, or even if you've never heard of this series, if you're looking for dark anime that has mystery, creepiness, even some humerous moments, as well as beautiful art style and haunting soundtrack, I think you'll like this!

Recommend?
Sure! I think all xxxHOLiC fans would appreciate this short 1 hour feature, and even if you haven't seen xxxHOLiC, if you just enjoy a good supernatural mystery story, this is worth a try!

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
The music in here is absolutely gorgeous! It fits the film perfectly, giving the right feel for the scenes. I really loved the piano piece that played when Doumeki and Watanuki saw all of those collections.

[SUB VS. DUB]
I've only watched it dubbed, but it's an excellent dub!

[MOVIES/MANGA]
It's sister movie "Tsubasa Chronicles: Princess Of Birdcage Kingdom" and the manga "xxxHOLiC"

[RELATED TITLES]
The anime series "xxxHOLiC" and "xxxHoliC Kei", the OVAs "xxxHOLiC Shunmuki" and "xxxHOLiC Rou", the sister to this movie "Tsubasa Chronicles: Princess Of Birdcage Kingdom" as well as the anime series "Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles" and the OVAs "Tsubasa Tokyo Relveations" and "Tsubasa Spring Thunder". Also, "Kobato" as Watanuki makes a small appearance.

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
Minor swearing, such as "h" and "d" here and there.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Yuuko is seen drinking sake, as usual, in the beginning of the film. There's also some smoking.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
When they arrive at the mansion and Watanuki complains about Doumeki coming, Yuuko then says "were you wanting to be alone?" and lowers one of her straps, but Watanuki says "you know that's not what I meant!". Yuuko's outfit is a little revealing, showing her cleavage line.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Violence is very little. It seems to be implied that two of the collectors die when the roof sinks lower and lower and you only hear them scream. Strange giant objects start attacking, but no serious injuries.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
As you know from the regular series, Watanuki is haunted by spirits and Doumeki drives them away, and Yuuko runs a shop that grants almost any wish for a price. The film begins with a horde of spirits surrounding Watanuki, but dispeling when Doumeki comes around. Yuuko is invited to a strange mansion, among others, about completing their collection and many weird things start to happen.
(SPOILERS! When they finally discover the owner of the mansion, it seems to be implied that he is a ghost since Watanuki could see him but it appeared Doumeki could not. This guy was collecting the souls of the collectors).

*EPISODE LIST*
(this is a movie, so none)

Tsubasa - The Princess Of Birdcage Kingdom

2011-03-15T20:53:00.000-07:00

Experience magic, mystery and intrigue in this anime adventure. In the enchanted Birdcage Kingdom, Syaoran -- a brave young archaeologist who also happens to be a martial arts whiz -- and his companions find the land in the grip of an evil king. Determined to set things right, the group resolves to free the people from oppression, as well as help a mute bewitched princess regain her voice.
(Netflix description of Tsubasa Chronicles: The Princess Of Birdcage Kingdom)
[NOTE: This image is ONLY of the Tsubasa movie. Both the Tsubasa and xxxHOLiC movie are sold dogether in a dual-pack called CLAMP Double Feature).

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: Funimation
Animation: Production I.G.
Manga adaption?: Yes, "Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles" by CLAMP.
Rating: PG

{I, the reviewer, give Tsubasa Chronicles: The Princess Of Birdcage Kingdom, 9 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I remember how excited I was when I finally got to see this movie. I had already finished the first season of the anime, so I was already pretty much a pretty big fan of the series already. When the CLAMP Double Feature arrived in the mail, I quickly unwrapped it and was ready to watch with my brother. I first popped in the xxxHOLiC Movie, and once finished, we started on what we were really looking forward to...Tsubasa!

Now, the way they did this movie, if you have not already seen the series, you could probably still watch this with little confusion. The movie begins with a flashback of when Syaoran first came to Yuuko's shop, begging for her to help him save his princess. This scene is done differently than in the series, so it's a fresh experience. However, they only go into Syaoran's price and reason for travel, while with Fai and Kurogane, you hear no reason for their wish to travel and only get a glimpse of their price as you see it float about Maru and Moro's hands.

After that flashback, the actual movie begins. Syaoran, Sakura, and Mokona get separated from Fai and Kurogane. A boy discovers Syaoran and Sakura, and later takes them to Princess Tomoyo, who the villagers have hidden from her evil uncle, the king, who wants to use her power to release the cage of darkness. Fai and Kurogane, on the other hand, run into the royal guard and defeat them all. However, they later get captured, and spend most of their time in separate cages.

The animation in this movie is beautiful, done by Production I.G. (the same people who animated xxxHOLiC). It looks alot closer to the manga style, only they got Syaoran's hair color wrong (they made it WAY too light, but at least Sakura's hair color was corrected from the series!). What I also like about this movie is how fast paced it is. You don't have to wait too long for something to happen. Though that also leaves little time for character developement and world exploration, and only a brief explanation of the world's situation.

My only major complaint about this movie is that it's only 35 minutes long, so it's more like an OVA than a movie. I honestly wish it was longer, like the xxxHOLiC movie (which was an hour). This is the only thing keeping me from giving this film a perfect score of 10. Despite how short it was, I found it to be a rather enjoyable, exciting adventure. Also, at the end it ties in with the xxxHOLiC movie, showing their side of contact to Yuuko.

Recommend?
YES! If you love Tsubasa, you'll enjoy this movie. It may be a short adventure, but you'll love every minute of it!

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
Done by Yuki Kajiura. It's virtually the same as the series, aside from a couple new pieces and a song by KINYA at the beginning and an ending song by Sakura's seiyuu Yui Makino at the end. It's still pleasant to listen to, and fits the movie well.

[SUB VS. DUB]
I almost like the sub just slightly better than the dub, because Miyu Irino really puts alot of passion into his role as Syaoran, as well as whoever played Tomoyo's uncle. However, the dub is excellent and it seems they put alot of heart into it, and I like Jason Liebrecht's "battle scream" better than Miyu's.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
It's sister movie "xxxHOLiC: A Midsummer Night's Dream" and the manga "Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles"

[RELATED TITLES]
It's sister movie "xxxHOLiC: A Midsummer Night's Dream", the manga "Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles" and it's sister "xxxHOLiC", the anime "Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles" and "xxxHOLiC", the OVA "Tsubasa Tokyo Revelations" and "Tsubasa Spring Thunder" and it's sister "xxxHOLiC Shunmuki". Also, "Kobato" due to episode 20.

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
There is none in the dub, but the sub has 1 use of the "d" word.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
There's a scene where they hide in barrels to secretly go down the river, and when they go down a waterfall, Syaoran ends up on top of Sakura and blushes in embarrasment. The scene is portrayed innocently though, and is in some ways, kinda cute.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
When Princess Tomoyo gives Princess Sakura her ring, she has a vision and sees the sillouette of a couple men being killed. When battling some of the evil king's men, Syaoran gets injured (nothing major, just punches).
(SPOILER! When Syaoran defeats the evil king's bird, it sort of goes inside out and dissolves as a fleshy mess. It also seems he killed the evil king, as you see his foot on his head with the thing on his head split open.)

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Tomoyo's uncle stole her voice. She has a ring that has magical powers, and she gives it to Sakura, who later gives it to Syaoran and he uses it at the end of the battle. The evil king uses Tomoyo as a "key" to open the cage of darkness so he can take over the birdcage kingdom.
(SPOILER! After Syaoran defeats Tomoyo's uncle, a feather falls out of his head. Also, he dies in a strange way...turning into a bat then disappearing.)

*EPISODE LIST*
(This is a movie, so none)

STRAWBERRY LOLLIPOP

2011-03-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

Angela is crazy about sweets. One day, she got a package with three pieces of candy. She got it for a month every morning. One day she met with the sender Greg, who offered her a job in his parents confectionery. She accepted and start to work with Greg. She fells in love with him but she's not sure in her feelings...
(SmackJeeves description of Strawberry Lollipop)

~*~Click Here To Read

Manga-Ka: Konohana
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Strawberry Lollipop, 4 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Out of curiousity, I decided to finally give this comic a try. I've seen this particular webcomic for some time at SJ, and have hesistated to read it, but when I saw that it was completed, I thought I'd try it out for the sake of review here.

Well, the premise of the story was interesting enough. It's about a girl named Angela who loves sweets. One morning, she gets a package in the mail with 3 pieces of candy in it, and it's the best she's ever tasted. And she begins to receive this package every morning, until finally the sender asks to meet her. When she goes to meet her, it's a boy no older than her, and his reason for asking her to come is:
To ask her to work at his parents confectionary. Well, that shattered her fantasy about being asked out, but she takes the job nonetheless.

This comic was interesting to say the least. The art was rather cute and done quite well, and it's your typical shoujo-style of sparkly eyes and lots of screentone. I wouldn't call the art anything rather spectacular, but it is cute and pleasing to the eyes. There were times on certain pages when I couldn't figure out what the heck was going on, though. I found myself totally confused during the entire read of this comic. However, that might be due to the fact it is highly possible that the mangaka's primary language is not English. I suspect this due to the many Hungarian references, and it didn't seem like the mangaka was bad at grammer, but perhaps just had problems with English.

Despite that, it was a cute story. It had an interesting premise, but the writing could use a little work, as well as how everything was portrayed. Sometimes certain things that happened in the story seemed totally random and without a purpose, and sort of ruins the focus of the story, making it more confusing and harder to understand. It was a good attempt, to say the least.

Recommend?
Not really. It's a cute idea and all, with adorable artwork, but it's really not a "must read" and you'll find yourself a bit confused as to what's going on sometimes.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
Minor swearing, such as "h" and "d" and the harsher version of "ticked". Also, God's name taken in vain about 3 times or so...

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
There was a scene of these chibi angels, and one was a naked male but his private part was covered with a leaf. After Angela tells her friends at school about the 3 pieces of candy she's getting, one of them comments saying he bets it's a peverted old man (of course, he was wrong). When Angela goes to work at the confectionary, Greg's mother comments on Angela's small breast size and Greg says that they're perfect. Also, a girl named Viola is mentioned to have alot of boyfriends.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There's a scene where Angela punches a guy and you see blood. Also, Greg's mom injures him. Though a bit violent, it's meant for comical purposes.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
None.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(1 chapter, it's a oneshot)

THE GIRL WHO LEAPT THROUGH TIME

2011-03-15T13:41:00.000-07:00

Something strange has happened to Makoto Konno. Time has suddenly stopped and moved her backwards. With her newly discovered ability to literally leap backwards in time Makoto finds that tests become a piece of cake, embarrassing situations are corrected and she can have her favorite food anytime she wants. Unfortunately her carefree time traveling has adverse effects on the people she cares for. With every successful leap Makoto somehow alters the fate of those around her. This was not supposed to happen and as she races back in time to fix everything, she notices that her abilities are not limitless but with every successful jump she is one step closer to discovering the most wonderful secret in her young adult life.
(Amazon.com description of The Girl Who Leapt Through Time)

Original Japanese Title: Toki o Kakeru Shōjo
Dubbed by: Bandai
Animation: Madhouse
Manga adaption?: This is based on a novel by Yasutaka Tsutsui.
Rating: PG

{I, the reviewer, give The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, 7 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

If you had the power to turn back time, what would you use it for? Would you try to prevent a major life-changing event, or try not to be late for class? Would you use it wisely or foolishly? What exactly would you change? And what sort of consequences would you experience due to your meddling?

Makoto Konno is a girl.....who literally "leapt" through time. Her day begins with her rushing to school, barely making it on time. In cooking class, she ends up falling backward due to oil splatter. Also, a student ends up getting thrown on her. And...her sister ate her pudding! Not a fun day. However, when she was at school, she hears someone in one of the rooms and goes to check it out. On a chalkboard is written "time waits for no one". She slips on something, and when she hits the groudn....well, she experiences seeing a bunch of weird things flash before her eyes, almost like a strange dimensional jump. And then she finds herself on the floor and all the books she was carrying falls on her.

After school, when she's riding on her bike downhill, she finds that her brakes won't work! A train is coming, and she can't stop! When her bike hits, and she flips over to what was supposed to be her death....time rewinds. She discovers she has the power to "leap through time" back to any moment she wants. She's able to get to her pudding before her sister does, arrives to school early, avoids the cooking accident, and doesn't get smashed against the tree. Whenever she needs to fix something, she just leaps through time and does it all over again. Then she discovers...a number tattooed on her arm. It seems everytime she makes a leap the number goes down.

For a movie where very little happens, it was quite intense, mainly near the end. The movie starts out pretty slow, but starts to pick up speed when she time leaps multiple times. The film starts to become a bit dark towards the end, and there was even a twist near the end I didn't see coming. The animation is different, to say the least. I was surprised that it was by Madhouse, as this style of animation looks different from other works I've seen by them (Cardcaptor Sakura, Kobato). Personally I don't find the animation anything special, but it was still pretty good and unique. It leans a bit more towards a realistic style of anime, sort of like Studio Gibli does. Due to the beginning slow pace, I have lowered my score on the movie a few points, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't watch it. If you can get past the slowness at the beginning, I'm sure you'll find yourself enjoying this film more than you'd expect.

Recommend?
Yes! I totally recommend this movie! Despite it's slow paced beginning, the film gets pretty deep and emotional by the end, which makes watching this movie worth it. Plus, it's something to watch with the family if you have kids/siblings about 8 and up.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
The music fits the movie quite well. Nothing extremely special, but there are a few pieces which give the right feel for the scene. Also, the lyrical song that plays at the end of the film (or was it near the end?) is, in my opinion, gorgeous.

[SUB VS. DUB]
I have yet to see the sub, but I can say that the dub was done quite well (though they pronounce "Makoto" weird). There were a few stiff moments, but overall well done.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
This is based on a novel by Yasutaka Tsutsui. I heard there's a manga adaption of this movie, but whether it is licensed I do not know.

[RELATED TITLES]

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
I think I remember some minor swearing, but nothing harsh. (Based on the dub)

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Don't remember any.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
There's a scene of Makoto taking a bath, but she's totally submerged in water, so nothing is seen.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Not too far in the film, Makoto was suppose to die by being hit by a train, but she unknowingly rewinds time before it happens. Whenever she time leaps, she tends to always hit her head. One of the students in her school gets bullied, and then he decides to fight back. He ends up throwing a fire exstingushier, and someone gets injured.
(SPOILER! Makoto lets one of her friends barrow her bike to take an injured girl to gte her leg checked out, and she remembers her brakes were broken. When she tries to stop them, she gets injured with bruises and cuts, and she's too late...however, time is then wound back and stopped to prevent that).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Well, there's time travel. Makoto somehow has the ability to leap through time to any moment she pleases.
(SPOILER! We later find out her friend, Chiaki, is from the future. He had lost his time device and that's how Makoto got charged with it and gained the ability).

*EPISODE LIST*
(this is a movie so none)

KIMI NI TODOKE "From Me To You" Volume 2

2011-03-15T12:01:00.001-07:00

Sawako Kuronuma is the perfect heroine...for a horror movie. With jet-black hair, sinister smile and silent demeanor, she's often mistaken for Sadako, the haunting movie character.

Rumors start flying about Sadako's new friends claiming that Yano's been around the block and Yoshida's a former gang member. And the source of all this tattle? Sadako herself! Will Sadako retreat to her former life as a loner because of a simple misunderstanding?!
(From the backcover of Kimi Ni Todoke volume 2)

Manga-Ka: Karuho Shiina
Distributor: Viz Media
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Teen

{I, the reviewer, give Kimi Ni Todoke vol.2, 10 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Due to all of the rumors about Sawako (nicknamed "Sadako") being able to summon ghosts and cast curses, she had gotten used to being alone. However, ever since Kazehaya, Yano, and Yoshida reached out to her, she's been overwhelmed with happiness. The people she highly admires most are being friendly toward her. However, ever since then Yano and Yoshida are now suddenly being attacked by vicious rumors...and everyone's saying Sadako said all of that!

It's interesting to see how far a misunderstanding can go. Yano and Yoshida, at first, highly doubt Sadako would even be capable of starting a rumor since she doesn't talk to very many people. However, when they catch her in the hallway talking to someone who asks if she's friends with Yano and Yoshida, she says "We're not friends". But before they can hear the whole conversation and what she meant by that, "Pin" interrupts them and drags them away to deliver a schedule to Ryu. Later they tell Sadako they like her, and ask if she likes them. She says "Like isn't...rather than like..." but they never let her finish, and assumed she didn't like them.

Then Sawako later hears classmates talking about Kazehaya, and that if he keeps hanging around with Sadako than he might lose his popularity. Already she's not sure what's up with Yano and Yoshida, and whose really spreading the rumors, and now Kazehaya might lose popularity just by Sawako being near him? She never wanted to be the cause of harm or saddness to people who were nice to her, and so then she starts avoiding all three of them. It's really emotional to see after so many good things have happened in the previous volume, and then in this volume everything seems to go wrong for Sawako. And it's all due to a misunderstanding. I really felt for Sawako when she started crying, realizing she had forgotten what it's like to be lonely. And then Yano and Yoshida, who realize they had become friends with Sadako.

This is one of my favorite volumes, so far, of Kimi Ni Todoke. I really love the character developement and the emotion, it was all very well written. It just goes to show you that everything is not always as it seems. This whole mess would of probably been avoided if they only heard what Sawako meant by "we're not friends" and "like isn't..."
The drama in volume 1 is nothing compared to the drama in volume 2. In fact, there really wasn't much drama in the previous volume as there is in this one. So if you've been waiting for something major to happen, then I think you'll enjoy this volume much more than the first one.

Recommend?
This has got to be one of the best volumes in the series so far! If you liked the first volume, then you'll probably enjoy this one even better!!

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None that I can remember.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Pin tells Kazehaya about how he saw "little men" when he was drinking sake (Japanese rice wine).

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
One of the rumors is that Yano went out with a hundred guys in MiddleSchool. Also, there's a scene of Sawako taking a bath, but she is completely submerged in water so you don't see anything.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Nothing really serious. Sawako gets pushed to the ground in the girls' restroom and the rumor about Yoshida is that she beat up alot of people.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
There's of course the rumor about Sawako able to summon ghosts and cast curses, which is untrue.

*CHAPTER LIST*
Episode 4: Rumors
Episode 5: True Intention
Episode 6: Resolution
Episode 7: Friends

LOVE STRING

2011-03-09T14:33:00.001-08:00

A short work about a young girl who can see the red strings that bind soul mates together.
(Smackjeeves description of Love String)

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

Manga-Ka: FatHobbit
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Love String, 10 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

For such a simple, 12-page story, I was fascinated and intrigued. The art, though it looks a bit sketchy, is done so beautifully. I think the story's simplicity is it's strong point. You never see anyone's faces, which gives the story an almost dark and eery effect on it. The only color you will see is the "red string of fate" which binds soul mates together.

The story follows a nameless girl with the ability to see the red string that binds someone to their true love, their soul mate. There is no real dialogue, just the girl narrating as she goes throughout the story, explaining some of the experiences she has when seeing these red strings. The story is told very well, although somewhat makes you feel a bit sad. Then we reach the story's conclusion, where the girl talks about her red string of fate. The ending was unexpected and marvelous, completely satisfying.

Some may wish for it to be expanded and longer, and go into more detail of what happens afterward, but I actually like how the story ended. Even though you never see the girl's face, you could feel her expression on the last page. This is probably one of the best one-shots I have read in awhile, totally unique and almost flawless. I honestly doubt you'll find a manga quite like this anywhere else, go give it a try!

Recommend?
This little masterpiece deserves at least one read. Give it a try!

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
There's one random character with a slightly skimpy outfit, but not too revealing.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
The main character girl has the ability to see the "red string of fate" that binds soul mates together.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(none, just 12 pages)

MOONDARELLA

2011-03-09T13:52:00.000-08:00

It's a one-shot manga version of the classic fairytale "Cinderella" under the particular vision of the author.
(Smackjeeves description of Moondarella)

Manga-Ka: KawaiiDream
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Left-to-right
Rating: Not rated

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give Moondarella, 3 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Seeing a unique spin on a classic fairytail is always fun to see. That's why I gave "Moondarella" a try, as it's suppose to be a spin on the story of Cinderalla. However, I found myself very disappointed as I started reading through this 16-page oneshot.

For one, the grammar is really bad. Sometimes I couldn't even understand what was going on in the dialogue because of this. Also, there's an instance where the main character Usako walks in on two people having sex which really had no place and doesn't even fit in the story at all. The whole act was completely random and pointless. Another thing is, the story doesn't even seem close to Cinderella at all. Aside from all that, the art is rather cute. Even though it seems a bit beginner-like at times, but getting close to professional. The screentone is nice, and I like the design of the clothes. But that's this manga's only strongpoint, as it seems weak everywhere else.

Aside from the cute art, the storytelling was poorly developed and it was hard to understand what was going on. I think KawaiiDream has potential though, but she really needs to work on her storytelling and developement, as well as grammar.

Recommend?
I'm sorry to say that I do not, due to so many weak points and a random inappropriate scene. It's best that you skip this one.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
One "d" and God's name taken in vain once.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
There's a seen where Usako walks in on Ookaru and some girl having sex. It only lasts for one panel, but it is shocking as it's so abrupt. The random girl you see her breast cleavage line and Ookaru only his bare back.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Nothing.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(this is a one-shot, so no chapters)

WISH AWAY

2011-03-09T13:18:00.000-08:00

It's a OneShot I entered in the Manga Contest during SacAnime Summer 2009.
It didn't win but I still wanted to post it ^ ^
(Smackjeeves description of Wish Away)

Manga-Ka: Nikkiecole
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Not rated

~*~Click Here To Read~*~

{I, the reviewer, give Wish Away, 5 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I really love one-shots, no matter how long or short they are. It's interesting to see a story conveyed within a limited amount of pages and the mangaka's skill in cramming all that in. "Wish Away" is a 12-page one-shot that was Nikkiecole's entry for SacAnime Summer 2009.

The story is about a girl named Aki who spots a strange bird. This bird actually has a somewhat humanoid form and gives her a gift; an airplane with a genie-in-training inside. The bird-creature (who's name is Hayato) said she can have as many wishes as she wants. So the bird leaves and Aki is stuck with this airplane, and when she summons out the genie, she introduces herself as Tsume. She tells Aki the more magic she uses, the closer she is to becoming a full genie!

This manga was cute, to say the least, but underdeveloped. We only get to see Aki make one wish, and of course, Tsume grants it. But it would of been nice to see Aki make more wishes and Tsume use her power, as well as maybe somewhere in the future becoming a full genie. Whether or not Tsume and Aki become close friends is never explained, as it ends pretty abruptly. The art is pretty much beginner quality, but still rather cute. I really did like the way the eyes were drawn and the character designs, but the backgrounds could use some work.

Overall, it was a pretty good attempt. I'm sure if the mangaka practices more, I'm sure we'll see some better titles come from Nikkiecole. I actually look forward to see what else she can come up with, so this little oneshot entry is a good start. It just needs to be fleshed-out more and lengthened.

Recommend?
It's a very clean manga, so if you have any little brothers or sisters, they might like it.

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* as it's rather short and simple, as most people are familiar with the concept of genies.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Tsume wears a typical female genie costume wear her midriff is exposed.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
It's about a genie-in-training, so there's some magic use.

*CHAPTER LIST*
(This is a one-shot, so none.)

SAKURA NO NEGAI "Wish Of The Cherry Blossom"

2011-03-08T21:03:00.000-08:00

You told me that we would never be apart...so long as this cherry blossom tree blooms every spring...
(SmackJeeves description of Sakura no Negai)
~*~Click Here To Read~*~

Manga-Ka: Cherriuki
Distributor: Online exclusive
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Not rated

{I, the reviewer, give Sakura no Negai, 8 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I had discvoered this comic by browsing the favorites of one of my friend's SmackJeeves account. The title and the beautiful artwork is what drew me into checking it out. The coloring of the front cover was lush and beautiful, and the black and white pages (though sometimes a bit sketchy) were also quite beautiful.

It's about a boy named Kentaro meeting a girl named Sakura under the cherry blossom tree. This one-shot is about the times they spend together throughout the entire week the tree is blossoming. It's not shown in much detail, but it's cute how they act around each other. But then the week comes to an end, and Sakura has to tell Kentaro something.

It was a beautiful manga at only 55 pages in length. I only wish what they did together throughout the week was shown in more detail. This could of easily made at least a 3-5 chapter manga, but despite the limited amount of pages, the story was told pretty well. As I reached the final pages, I was almost brought to tears. It's a bittersweet story, to say the least, yet sorrowfully beautiful (if that makes sense). Yes, the ending is probably this manga's strong point, as it's presented so emotionally and artistically, I can almost call it a masterpeice! My only complaint is all the manga pages have the DeviantArt watermark, which sort of takes away from the mystical effect, but it isn't too annoying and is understandable, as it's obvious the artist does not want her work stolen.

This comic is well worth your time, with lavish art, and it won't take you too long to complete. Hopefully someday this short manga will come into print. I look forward to see what else Cherriuki-sama will create in the future!

Recommend?
If you like cute romance stories, I think you'll like this! But be prepared...you might shed a few tears!

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Lots of innocent blushing, but that's all.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None, really, but...
(SPOILER! It appears Sakura dies at the end, but she fades into cherry blossoms, so nothing violent or disturbing).

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
(SPOILER! It's very vague, but it almost seems to be implying that Sakura is a spirit, and it was forbidden for her to fall in love again. After a week when the blossoms started to die, she too faded away, and the tree never blossomed again).

*CHAPTER LIST*
(this is a oneshot)

SHELTER OF WINGS: Volume 1: The Master's Bench

2011-03-08T12:56:00.000-08:00

Manga-Ka: Story and art by JinLi
Distributor: Gold Plum Studio
Format: Left-to-right
Rating:

{I, the reviewer, give Shelter Of Wings: The Master's Bench, 9 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Good Christian manga is very hard to find, especially titles that have traditional black-and-white style art and that looks professional and visually stunning. Not only that, but it's hard to find a Christian manga that actually has a really good, engaging storyline, that touches the heart and doesn't try too hard. With most good Christian titles being done by amatuer artists, are there any among the few titles that exist like that? Well, Lisa's "Shelter Of Wings" is among those manga that actually seem to meet these expectations. Nothing at all feels forced here. And you don't have to worry about the story being too serious, as there is comic relief that is seems properly placed and handled well, not at all ruining the moment. Also, the message of this manga is clear and simple, presented not to sound all complicated, but where the reader can easily understand, and it's very inspiring.

It's about a young girl named Jenna who lost her mother in an accident. She's been in alot of pain and despair due to this, but she has been given the gift of artistic ability. A gift which one day she'll use to heal broken hearts. Both angels and demons are aware of this, and little known to her, there are demons trying to sabatoge her, but then she comes face to face with her guardian angel who has sworn to protect her and guide her. The story seems to focus alot on one's purpose, and how our pain and misery can be used to our advantage, how it can be used to minister to others. I noticed that most of the story seems to focus on the spiritual realm, where we see what the angels are up to, and what the demons are up to. It's interesting to see the difference in personality. The demons tend to fight among each other and always constantly insulting each other, while the angels have better choice of words, are encouraging, and love to praise the Lord. So a large chunk of the story is mainly focused on them, while it seems Jenna, her brother Sam, and her grandparents aren't as spotlighted in this volume. But it does not at all take away from "our heroine" Jenna, as it shows that even the "smallest of saints" is not ignored, and that all of Heaven and Hell takes notice of us, whether we feel unimportant or not!

The art in this manga is extremely beautiful! I was just in awe as I went through the pages on the official website. It's in black and white, like traditional manga, and inked traditionally. The characters are all rather unique, with their own personalities and design. The way characters are drawn kind of reminds me of the art in "Manga Messiah" but the lush, visually stunning art and detail in the outfits of the angels reminds me of lush and beautiful art in various CLAMP works. The battle scenes are a bit confusing at times, sometimes I'm not even sure what happened (which reminds me of how CLAMP sort of draws their battle scenes). That's this manga's only major weak point. This story has alot going for it, and I can't wait to see how it developes! It's hard to believe this is Lisa's very first manga. I really felt the story spoke to me personally, as I am an aspiring artist myself and I too want to reach people with my creative works. So, I must say, this manga has personally inspired me, and I'm sure it has the power to speak to many other people who read it as well.

Recommend?
I STRONGLY recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good, deep story with a positive message, that has beautiful, lush artwork!

I recommend this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* since it goes Western-style of left-to-right, but has the beaitful and lush black-and-white art style of traditional manga. The story is easy to understand and rarely feels confusing.

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Jenna is warned to keep her heart in check around Zach. Other than that, none.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
There's alot of battle scenes, most of them are bloodless, and some are comical. There is a scene where Jenna gets hurt and there's some blood on her face. The most graphic scene is seeing a demon missing one eye, but it's not as bad as it sounds.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
This whole manga is about angels and demons. As a Christian manga, there's probably nothing you really need to worry about in here, as God is shown in a positive light through and through. Some people may not like some of the personalities of the angel and demons, as they almost seem to have human traits, but the writer said not to take the characteristics of them as bibically sound, since most of these characters are purely fictional.

*CHAPTER LIST*
Chap 1: The Chosen Vessel
Chap 2: Evil Devices
Chap 3: Messenger Of Hope
Chap 4: A Higher Calling

CARDCAPTOR SAKURA: The Sealed Card

2011-03-07T19:22:00.000-08:00

Never before seen on TV! Sakura Kinomoto has finally captured and converted all the Clow Cards into Sakura Cards and now faces her biggest challenge yet. How is she going to tell Shaoran that she loves him... To make matters worse, some of her magical cards are missing . Apparently, someone or something is stealing them away and is erasing vast parts of town including people she cares about! Now Sakura has to find out who is behind this if she is ever to find her friends again...
(From the backcover of Cardcaptor Sakura: The Sealed Card)
[NOTE: This review is based on the regular edition, not the special]

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: Bang Zoom
Animation: Madhouse
Manga adaption?: Yes, "Cardcaptor Sakura" by CLAMP.
Rating: 13+

{I, the reviewer, give Cardcaptor Sakura: The Sealed Card, 7 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I was probably only one of the few people who got to see part 2 of the series finale "Revelations" of Cardcaptors, the edited and dubbed version of Cardcaptor Sakura, on Kids WB (thought now I've watched all 70 dubbed on YouTube....lucky Canadians!!). I always thought it was sad that Li had to leave, and you got to see how much Sakura really cared and had feelings for him, and with her own tears, she created a card of her own. I always had wondered if they would ever show her use that. And now, years later, I discovered that they had a second movie which concludes the story! However, the unfortunate thing was that a new company had taken over, which meant a totally NEW dub cast. This version is not edited, it's an uncut dub...which is all fine by me, BUT I seriously COULD NOT stand some of the voices! As I watched this, I kept thinking how much I missed the old voices. I wish they had come back to reprise their roles, but alas, just gonna have to deal with them. That's my only major complaint, now let's move on to the story...

The movie begins with an epic battle sequence of Cardcaptor Sakura and her guardians, Keroberos and Yue, up against a strange monster in Penguin Park. Of course, we discover it was another home video of her best friend, Tomoyo Daidouji. It was a completely made-up story this time around, since after she had transformed the cards, there hasn't been anything strange going on, so Sakura didn't need to use her powers which left Tomoyo with nothing to film. After the credits finished rolling, there's still some old recordings that didn't get recorded over. It was of her and Syaoran capturing "The Bubble" and seeing that reminded her of how much she had missed him. It has already been about 2 months since he had left, and she still hasn't responded, she still hasn't confessed her true feelings.

Eriol's house had been torn down after he left to build an amusement park. When Tomoyo and Sakura go to this amusement park that has yet to be opened, she feels a strange, but familiar presence....A Clow Card?? But that's impossible! She captured them all, right?? Could she of missed one?? While running frantically to try and find where this strange feeling is coming from, she bumps into...Syaoran!! Oh, and Meiling is here, too! Sakura and Meiling talk to each other on the swing, and she tells her that Syaoran broke off their engagement and despite that, he's still a cousin most important to her. I have to admit, that part made me cringe, since it's like an incest relationship. In "Cardcaptors" they were changed to just childhood friends. But hey, Meiling was an anime-only character anyway, so....
But both Tomoyo and Meiling have a plan...to help Sakura in telling Syaoran how she really feels! This, of course, leads to some hilarious situations.

There's also a play going on at Sakura's school, and she is playing the role of the princess! With all this stress of practicing for the play and trying to tell Syaoran she loves him, what else could go wrong? Well, some of her cards starts to go missing, and a strange girl is stealing them! Not just any girl...a Clow Card! Eriol phones her and tells her about this mysterious card, and that she must capture it and turn it into a Sakura card before it's too late! However, when she captures it, the card must take away a most precious feeling. She asks what feeling the card will take, and of who, but Eriol says "The card will decide".

The animation for this movie is extremely beautiful, a major and noticeable improvement from the original anime series. It's alot smoother and clearer. Plus, I really loved the story's plotline, though it does take awhile for things to start happening, as the movie's main focus seems to be on Syaoran and Sakura. This is, by no means, an action film. There's one big battle at the end, but that's it. However, it is displayed rather well and is probably the best sequences in the whole entire movie. Despite my passionate dislike for most of the new voice cast, well, I can't just give it a low rating! I just can't! It;s because the animation, the story, and the fact that it's still "Cardcaptor Sakura"...I DID very much enjoy this movie, but it is hard to rewatch due to having to stomach the voices, but I've gotten pretty used to it...sort of. So bad dub voices aside, this is an excellent movie with beautiful animation and a really good story. And the ending is satisfying, bringing the story to a pretty good conclusion.

But is this the end of Sakura's adventures? In this dimension, yes. In another dimension called Clow Country, paralell teenage versions of Syaoran and Sakura in "Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles" begin an epic-size adventure, in which Syaoran travels far and wide across worlds looking for Sakura's lost memories, all in the name of saving her life! So if you enjoyed Cardcaptor Sakura, you'll probably enjoy Syaoran and Sakura's new, paralell adventures, in which instead of Sakura being the heroine, Syaoran will be the hero! Just thought I'd mentioned that so you have a related series to look into after you're done with this movie.

Recommend?
I'm sure if you're a fan of the original uncut version, you'll probably lvoe this movie, but even if you're a fan of the edited dub version, if you'd like to see this story's conclusion, you'll really want to watch this because it IS a really good movie and storyline despite the new dub.

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
There were times when the music seemed absolutely cheesy, in my opinion, but there were a few good pieces, such as the piano one that played when Sakura was running in the rain.

[SUB VS. DUB]
The new dub voices are absolutely terrible! There were a few decent ones, but most of them sounded rather annoying, mostly the girls sounded like adults who don't know how to sound like a kid! I do admit, though, that Meiling's voice sounded VERY CLOSE to the other actress who voiced her in the first dub, and so did Eriol, which was nice. I have no comments on the sub, as I have not watched it yet.

[MOVIES/MANGA]
"Cardcaptor Sakura" manga by CLAMP and the first movie "Cardcaptor Sakura: The Movie".

[RELATED TITLES]
"Cardcaptor Sakura" (original uncut anime series), "Cardcaptors" (edited dub), "Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles", "Kobato", and "xxxHOLiC".

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
1 "d" and 1 use of the stronger version of "ticked". (Based on the dub translation)

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Meiling is Li's cousin, and there is a mentioning of them being engaged, however Meiling tells Sakura he broke it off. The Windy card is naked, and you really notice it when Sakura uses her to blow the cards back, but it's undetailed nudity.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
The mysterious 53rd card makes people vanish, but it's not violent. There's some battles, but not serious injury.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
As a magical girl story, you have your expected magic. Such as the Sakura Cards being magical spirits that have their own unique power. Syaoran also can use magic to summon the elements. Sakura uses an incantation to turn her key into a staff, and a magic circle appears beneath her feet. This movie is about a 53rd card, which is negative, while the other cards are positive. If I remember correctly, it had something to due with balance, sort of like Ying and Yang, and Clow had sealed the card under his house due to this particular card being too dangerous. It's power is to turn everything into void, nothingness.
(SPOILER! At the end of the movie when Sakura captures the card, it chooses to take away Syaoran's most precious feeling, which was his feelings toward Sakura. However, the card then combines with the unnamed card Sakura had created when Syaoran left, and it then becomes "The Hope" and the feelings she took are given back).

*EPISODE LIST*
(This is a movie, so none)

KIMI NI TODOKE "From Me To You" Volume 1

2011-03-07T16:10:00.000-08:00

Sawako Kuronuma is the perfect heroine...for a horror movie. With striking similarities to a haunting movie character--jet black hair, sinister smile and silent demeanor--she's mistakenly called Sadako by those around her. But behind her scary facade is a very misunderstood teenager. Too shy to fit in, all she wants to do is make some friends. But when the most popular boy in class befriends her, she's sure to make more than just that--she's about to make some enemies too!
(From the back cover of "Kimi Ni Todoke" Vol.1)

Manga-Ka: Karuho Shiina
Distributor: Viz
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Teen

{I, the reviewer, give Kimi Ni Todoke "From Me To You" (vol.1), 8 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I remember this being one of the manga someone had recommended me when I was on a searcj for relatively clean manga. And at AX, at the "Manga Cafe", I decided to pick up and give it a read. Now, I only had time to read the first chapter, but since then I had fallen in love with this series! And not too long afterward, I ended up purchasing the first volume of Kimi Ni Todoke to continue from where I left off!

Do you remember that horror movie "The Ring" which was an American remake of the Japanese horror film "RingU"? Well, that character is whom everyone says Sawako Kuronuma resembles! No one knows her real name, and thus people simply call her the name of the horror movie character "Sadako". Everyone at the school has spread rumors that she can summon spirits and see ghosts and if you stare into her eyes for more than 3 seconds you'll be cursed! She really does appear to be freaky and dark sometimes, but in reality, she's a shy, smart, sweet girl who's motto is to do one good deed everyday. All she wants is to have a few friends, but no one even wants to approach her. However, Shota Kazehaya, always says "Good Morning" to her and treats her like everyone else--a normal human being. Because of this she has high admiration for him because he is extremely nice and well loved by everyone. And because of this, she starts to open up and appears to be making friends.

This manga is extremely cute, and Kazehaya and Sawako make a cute couple. It's obvious from the start that they like each other, and this series seems to be free of those annoying love triangles where there are two guys and the girl needs to decide which one she'll love >.<
Ahhh....none of that here! And it's nice to see a story about fellow classmates being nice and friendly towards "an outcast". Sawako starts out so lonely, and then suddenly she becomes very happy. It's a very encouraging story that can make you cheer up on a gloomy day! Though from how this volume was ended, this series has some serious drama to come!

The art in this manga is rather beautiful. It's not a real typical sort of shoujo style with really large, sparkly eyes and overly cute faces, as well as glittery screentone. Though it's still manga-ish, it almost has a slightly more realistic look toward it (sort of like Studio Gilbli films) but not quite. It's amazing how Sawako can look from really creepy to really beautiful. And she has a really cute, dumbfounded chibi mode as well! I don't really have too many complaints about this volume, other than Sawako saying "they're so nice!" and "I'm so happy!" a little bit too much, but it's really not that irritating and it's there to emphesize how overwhelmed she feels that people are actually treating her like a normal girl.

For a simple slice-of-life story, it really pulls you in. You really feel bad for Sawako when people are scared of her, and are moved by when Kazehaya, Chizu, and Ayane talk to her and appear to be building a friendship. This series was originally just going to be a one-shot (which is why the firts chapter is "episode 0" because that was the original one-shot) but Shiina-sama could not think up another manga and decided to just continue this story. I'm glad she did, because this is a wonderful, cute story that's one of the cleanest series in my manga collection! So if you're looking for an innocent shoujo story, then this is for you!

Recommend?
Highly!! If you've been looking for a sweet, innocent shoujo slice-of-life story, then you'll want to read this!!

I certify this *MANGA NEWCOMER WORTHY* since this story could relate to anyone who might feel outcasted, and it shows how much just saying "Good Morning" and treating everyone nicely can make all the difference in a lonely person's life!

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
One "h".

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Nothing beyond innocent blushing. There is a panel when Kazehaya says to Sawako "I'm not nice" and in his thoughts he says he's your average horny guy, but that's it.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
There's rumors that Sawako can see and summon spirits as well as if you stare into her eyes more than 3 second you'll get cursed, but of course that is untrue.

*CHAPTER LIST*
Episode 0: Prologue
Episode 1: Seating Change
Episode 2: After School
Episode 3: Smile

BLACK CAT: Vol.18

2011-03-06T11:46:00.001-08:00

Train Heartnet, also known as "Black Cat", was an infamous assassin for a secret organization called Chronos...until he abandoned that cold-blooded existence to live life on his own terms as an easygoing bounty hunter. But is Train's past as far behind him as he thinks?

Train and Eve are drawn into a bizarre illusory world controlled solely by the Doctor's warped imagination. Train finds himself confronting dopplegangers of Kyoko and Saya. When the two women that should love him the most try to kill him, Train is left in a terrible predicament!

Manga-Ka: Kentaro Yabuki
Distributor: Viz
Format: Right-to-left
Rating: Older Teen

{I, the reviewer, give Black Cat Vol.18, 7 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

Wait, why am I starting all the way on volume 18?? Well, yesterday I was at a certain local bookstore, a really, really small one, and they had a very small, puny section of manga, and with Black Cat they only had volumes 11, 18, and 19. I chose this volume 'cause it sounded the most interesting, the cover art looked really cool, plus I had watched all of the anime, so I couldn't be that confused, right?

Well, this volume kicks off where Train wakes up, on a train, with Kyoko standing there. He's not sure what happened, since the last thing he remembers was being in Creed's hideout. Kyoko seems a bit odd, too. When he rejects kissing her, she goes insane, using her Tao ability she had promised to stop using. Later on, Saya also comes into the picture, ready to kill him. Eve is also lost, looking for Train, and is attacked by giant toy dolls and a memory of herself! They are trapped in the doctor's imagination, Warp World. His goal? To capture Eve and dissect her, to learn everything about how she ticks.

I felt the battle scenes seemed a bit too quick sometimes, but mostly were rendered pretty well and easy to follow. The art is pretty good, alot of inking I can tell for dark areas. The character designs look a bit different compared to the anime. In the anime, they looked slightly better in my opinion, but they still look well drawn here. Also, this volume was rather entertaining, to say the least, and something I can read several times over without getting sick of it (I already read it through like 2 or 3 times already). Also, this particular arc WAS NOT in the anime at all, and I wish it was. It would of been amazing to see these scenes animated and in color, plus the battles would look much cooler in motion.

The ending of this volume only makes you more eager to pick up the following, to see how Sephira's battle with Creed concludes. I was surprised at the lack of language that was in this volume, and wondered why it was rated "Older Teen" (which suggest 16 and older) rather than "Teen" (13 and older). The battles weren't at all that grusome and there was only one minor swear word throughout the whole thing (the anime had more of this). Then again, it could be possible other volumes might be more viocious compared to this one, but this volume was rather tame. Honestly, Tsubasa Chronicles manga is more bloodier than this. Not that I am complaining, it's nice to see a volume of manga not too high in the objectionable content. However, before I can fully judge my opinion on the rating, I'd have to read more of the series, and then maybe I could see why it was rated so high.

But anyway, great volume, great series, awesome characters, one of my favorite shounen series! It's worth looking into, and I can't wait to see how the battle ends between Creed and Chronos Captain Sephira in volume 19!

Recommend?
Of course I recommend it! Very good volume, it's re-readable!

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
Only one use of the "d" word.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
None.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
There was a seen where the doctor was going to cut off Eve's clothes to dissect her, but he never got to finish the job.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
Lots of action, such as battles, explosions, and beating up. There is some blood, but nothing major. Such as the doctor bleeding from the mouth, Creed's soldiers when they get defeated, and even an instant where Creed licks the blood from his own wound.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
With the power of Tao, Train and Eve were stuck in the doctor's own imagination. There's a scene where Saya's spirit helps Train and Eve. The soldiers of Creed look like they have pentagram like star on their mask, only right-side-up and without a circle.

*CHAPTER LIST*
Chapter 159: Nowhere World
Chapter 160: Room Of Fear
Chapter 161: Captive World!
Chapter 162: Hurry To The Other Side!
Chapter 163: Guidling Light
Chapter 164: The Tao Copy
Chapter 165: Shaolee's Technique
Chapter 166: Collision In The White Snake World
Chapter 167: Creed vs. Sephira

WHISPER OF THE HEART

2011-03-03T00:43:00.002-08:00

From the creators of the Academy Award(R)-winning SPIRITED AWAY (Best Animated Feature Film, 2002) comes a tale based on the screenplay from the legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki. During summer vacation, a schoolgirl named Shizuku, who longs to discover her true talents, observes an ordinary-looking cat riding by himself on the train. Intrigued, she decides to follow him. This chance encounter leads her to the mysterious Seiji, a boy who is determined to follow his dreams, and The Baron, a magical cat figurine who helps her listen to the whispers in her heart. Soon, Shizuku's exciting adventures carry her far beyond the boundaries of her imagination. Featuring extraordinary storytelling, enchanting animation, and an all-star voice cast, this 2-disc set will inspire dreams and warm hearts of all ages.
(Amazon.com description of Whisper Of The Heart)

Original Japanese Title:
Dubbed by: Disney
Animation: Studio Gibli
Manga adaption?: Not that I know of.
Rating: G

{I, the reviewer, give "Whisper Of The Heart", 10 out of 10!}

COMMENTS

I don't know what it is, but despite how simple this movie was, I was enchanted. It just goes to show you that you don't always need an epic-sized plot where alot is going on, like the world falling apart, massive wars, characters with dark pasts....while I love stories like that, "Whisper Of The Heart" was a nice little change from all that. Simple, but artistic. In fact, I think it's simplicity was why I fell in love with it so much!

It's about a young girl named Shizuku who loves to read books. She often spends time in the library and reads fairy tales, though spending too much time in this has caused her grades to slip a little. She meets a boy in her grade that seems a bit jerkish. When she is on an errand to deliver lunch to her father, on the train she meets this cat. When the train stops, the cat leaves, and she decides to follow it. From there she discovers a strange shop and meets the kind old man who lives there. Later on she finds out that the store owner is that jerk boy's Grandfather! However, she learns more about this boy and starts to get to know him. He likes to make violins and his dream is to become a master violin maker. Amazed at how he's already decided what he wants to do, she then decides to take up writing. She's read enough fairy tales, why not create her own?

As a writer/dreamer myself, I felt I could really connect with Shizuku as she strived to finish her story in a specific deadline she set herself. It sort of made me think about how I am. I feel as though an artist sees the world differently. There's constant inspiration, and I often find myself visually imagining my stories as I create them, kind of like Shizuku does. I guess that's another reason why I fell in love with this movie, 'cause it was about a young aspiring writer, and I felt I could relate to that. I guess it was also comforting to me, too, since I feel not everyone I know really supports my goals and dreams, and this film inspired me to keep improving myself as an artist.

Not much going on, yet it's still so magical! The animation style is wonderful (like all Gibli films), the story is enchanting, and it's so simple! Plus it's clean, so the whole family can watch! I'm not usually into much slice-of-life stuff, but this is one of those anime that despite it's simplicity, it just draws you in. I especially loved the scenes where you got to see into Shizuku's story as she visually imagines it! The story she writes would make an awesome movie in itself, and it made me wish I could read it. So, if you're looking for an anime that's easy to understand, something that's free of objectionable content, or would like to relax and take a break from the more intense stories, then I think you'll love this!

Recommend?
It may not be an action film, but it's simplicity is what makes it so enchanting! And if you like other works by Studio Gibli, this will NOT disappoint you! Plus, it's one of the cleanest anime I have seen in awhile!

I recommend this *ANIME NEWCOMER WORTHY* since it's a simple anime with a simple story, not hard to understand!

[VIEWING PLEASURE]

[MUSIC]
The music fits the series very well. While I wouldn't call it a masterpiece, the music is rather good. I especially loved the part when Shizuku sings while some people with instruments accompany her.

[SUB VS. DUB]
I haven't watched the Japanese version yet, but the English dub was pretty good. I felt a few parts seemed a bit stiff, but for the most part it was a great dub!

[MOVIES/MANGA]
None that I know of.

[RELATED TITLES]

[DVD EXTRAS]

[CONTENT CARD]

[LANGUAGE]
None.

[TABACCO/ALCOHOL/DRUG USE]
Not that I can remember.

[SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY]
Clear of this.

[VIOLENCE/BLOOD AND GORE]
None.

[RELIGIOUS MATERIAL]
Nothing in the actual story. When Shizuku is writing her story, she imagines the events in her head, and there's some magic in her story. All just fantasy.

*EPISODE LIST*
(This is a movie, so no episodes, just chapter selection)