He wears the outfit But she’s the real bartender: Roadside therapy. Short order fuse cook.
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I know this is a Shizuo episode and it's obviously centered on him already but it's still not absolutely about him and those parts happen to be long enough to have its own post. So I'll separate that.[ THE FIRST ACT OF VIOLENCE ]Many bad things start with something stupid, and it's the same with Shizuo's case. He is aware that it was indeed stupid. It's a little cute though because he's just a kid for being angry for a stupid reason. It appears that he was pissed that his brother didn't let him eat/drink something. Haha! But to hit your brother with a refrigerator . . . whoa! If that's already surprising, what's more surprising is his brother's reaction: still emotionless, like he doesn't see the danger of being hit with such a large appliance. Either he's immune to fear or he's confident that his dear brother wouldn't ever hurt him. Shizuo managed to stop himself luckily. But he was the one who got hurt instead.Shizuo's doesn't seem to be from a rich family. I wonder how the heck those proeprties he damages get paid. Maybe I could understand the current Shizuo is if brother pays for him . . . but from before . . must've been tough financially. Not to mention the hospital bills.[ REALLY SHORT TEMPER ](Oh, the steps before Shizuo starts throwing people/objects: 1) break something 2) throw it on the floor and stomp on it. Seems to be a habit since childhood. Oh Izaya, did you get the stomping idea from Shizuo? Hahah!)I wonder if Shizuo ever tried undergoing anger management *remembers the film*. Haha! Anyway, it seems that he had really tried his best to do something about his temper, but always failed. Because of that, he doesn't hold back anymore. He doesn't see hope in ever stopping it fully, why bother.It's funny that Simon and Tom just think it's an adolescene thing. Like Shizuo is just in a rebellious stage. But he's already in his 20's . . .what the . . .haha. You guys still see Shizuo as a baby/kid? That cute but . . .oh LOLz~It makes me worry about his health though. There are countless illnesses caused by such a temper. Shizuo seems to be an ordinary human aside from his strength so I can't imagine him living that long because of the possible diseases he could get.[ NOT INVINCIBLE ]Yes, even though he has super strength, he has his limits. Like when he was a kid, his little body couldn't hold those big objects. He can be injured, have fractured bones, etc.Even though his grown-up body can handle the big stuff that he carries now, he can still get hurt. Like when he got hit by a car.Though I admit that it's pretty surprising that he could recover to what he was before despite those numerous accidents. His body sure is something.[ ACTUALLY TAME ]As long as he's not angry, he's actually a quiet guy that you can walk around with like normal. He might've been just an ordinary guy, no one special and won't get any attention, if only he doesn't have that temper and strength.[ VIOLENCE HATER ]I like it that even with that strength, he doesn't abuse it. He doesn't do it for evil intentions either. He just becomes violent when he gets annoyed or when he wants to stop something that he hates: which is none other than violence.Ironic that the guy who is popular for his violent actions is actually against violence, huh? Sadly he isn't capable of fighting violence aside from using violence.But you know . . . the people that he hurt actually deserve them . . . in a way. Like the part when a bunch of guys were threatening the lady that was nice to him. And those gang members that attack him are just asking for it. The guy that claims to have money but has time for women . . . and kids not caring about anything else but videogames . . . .can't blame Shizuo on being annoyed with such people. And Izaya . . . do I need to elaborate on that? Hahahaha! If Shizuo is violence itself; Izaya's evil itself. Haha![ TO BECOME STRONGER ]Believe it or not, the person labeled as the strongest character in Durarara actually wants to become stronger. But no, he doesn't mean becoming physically invincible. He wants to be strong enough to stop himself from doing bad things. It's pretty frustrating when you can't help yourself from doing something you actually don't like.[ LOVES NICE PEOPLE ](Lil' Shizuo . . .I wanna cuddle him~)Oh more to Shizuo's adorable side. Because of his strength, he's more used to people being scared of him, or hating him. It must've mean a lot to him when people are being nice and unafraid of him.The part of him and his brother with the nice lady was really sweet. I believe it makes him joyful that there's someone who's concerned about his health. Oh that darling.[ TO CONNECT TO SOMEONE ]I think Shizuo has been saying that he wanted to be alone because people close to him might get hurt or something like that. But since no man's an island and Shizuo's such a nice guy that it's difficult not to be drawn to him, he realizes that it can't be helped. Right now he's attached to certain special people, especially his senpai and his younger brother.[ HELPFUL SENPAI ]Tom might claim that his reasons for hiring Shizuo is just because he makes a good bodyguard and his name makes people pay up and stuff . . . but for certain Shizuo brings more trouble than in helping n the debt collecting, or at least . . . even when if he becomes successful, he still gets to destroy a lot of properties. So I think Tom does care for Shizuo and wants to help him out no matter what. He can't be just using Shizuo; he's really helping the guy. I think Tom has seen the nice side of Shizuo . . . and he's even capable of tolerating Shizuo's temper. And hhhmm . . . it also seems that he's one of those people that doesn't make Shizuo angry.[ BROTHERLY LOVE ]Selty: You really love your brother.(Pfft! As if I will miss my brotherly love fanservice~)I am so DELIGHTED that Shizuo and his younger brother, Kasuka, actually have a good relationship *a sucker for brotherly love*. Yeah, they had petty fights, but they still hang out together. With Shizuo's violent behavior, it must've been really difficult for him to gain friends. So he only has his brother for company, and his brother had always been there. I find it sweet that his brother was by his side whenever Shizuo gets hospitalized. Kasuka may wear an emotionless face, but he did many things for his brother, shows that he cares for Shizuo a lot.[ BARTENDER SUIT ]So now we get an explanation why Shizuo always wears that bartender suit even though he ain't a bartender anymore: it's his brother's present. Kasuka gave him loads of bartender suits in hopes that Shizuo can stay in the bartending job. Kasuka was already a popular celebrity by that time . . . he went all the way to his brother's workplace to give him those (Kasuka's a busy person but he managed to buy stuff for his brother). I think it worried Kasuka that Shizuo kept on switching jobs. I think giving those suits is Kasuka's way of cheering on Shizuo that there's hope for him to stay long in one job. So sweet.So those clothes aren't just uniform (or character costume, haha). So the bartender suit is actually special to Shizuo . . . nice that it actually suits him~ Hehe. Oh it was so cute when he got pissed off with a bunch of teenagers when they ruined the clothes that his precious brother had given him. Daaaw~[ CALM HIM DOWN ]Oh yeah, though it's easy to make Shizuo angry; it's also easy to make him calm down. People that are close to him manage to do that easily.Kasuka seems to be the expert on that. Their eyes just met and it already made Shizuo feel better. And when Shizuo was so annoyed like hell, Kasuka just gave him a drink then Shizuo has finally become quiet. Haha!The company of nice people makes him feel better as well it seems. We see Tom and Selty being able to do that for him.[ FIRST FRIEND ]Oh Shinra~ Instead of being afraid of the violent little Shizuo, he was amazed instead that he kept on following the boy. Haha! I think Shinra's being your typical weirdo who is interested on anything extraordinary; and in this case, Shizuo has been physically extraordinary. And if I remember correctly, Shinra even wants to take blood samples and stuff from Shizuo, haha!But still, thanks to Shinra, Shizuo has company even at school. His brother can't be with him 24/7 after all. Shinra's kinda noisy though . . . he's not an exemption to Shizuo's violence. Haha! (Well, his brother hadn't been an exception either after all). But Shinra's not a bad kid so it's no surprise that he and Shizuo got along.I think Shinra isn't just interested in Shizuo. He had geniunely become Shizuo's friend. At first it was only Kasuka who is at Shizuo's side when Shizuo gets hospitalized. But when Shinra got to know Shizuo, he had visited Shizuo at the hospital as well. Shows that Shinra really cares. So sweet~[ OTHER FRIENDS ]Shizuo met Selty through Shinra. I don't think it'll be a surprise if Shizuo didn't have trouble in accepting the reality that Selty isn't human. He seems to be the type who accepts people (or beings) for what they are. He doesn't discriminate. What a nice guy.And it looks like he's acquianted to Kyohei as well. It could be because they are friends or there's the Dollars connection or both.It's nice that he's actually in good terms with Simon as well, though we saw them fight in a previous episode. I'm so happy that these strong people can get along despite their disagreements. They make up easily. It's so nice.[ HATE AT FIRST SIGHT ]Why are they having the Romeo and Juliet-like scene so often. You know, Izayaliet's on the "balcony" and Shizuomeo looks up from below. Bwahahahhahaha!!!!!!!.Shizuo may be such a nice person that it's not difficult to get long with him as long as you're a good person as well . .. however, there's just one guy that is already obviously rotten to the core by just looking at him. Hahahha! They're like destined to have a special relationship . . .it had been special in a negative way however.Being a violence hater, I guess it's natural for Shizuo to hate Izaya. The bastard may not be doing something explicitly violent, but he has been a trigger or a mastermind on a lot of acts of violence. And he also loooooves provoking Shizuo. It's already easy to make Shizuo angry, what more if you're doing it intentionally?! Haha!In Izaya's case though. I don't think it's necessary to think too deeply on why he hates Shizuo since he's an evil psychopath. Hahahha! But hhhmm . . . if there has to be a reason, my guess that it's because Shizuo's the person whose actions that our evil manipulator couldn't predict (my reason for that guess might be spoilery, so not mentioning here). I thought that might be the type of person whom Izaya could warm up to, but it turns out to be the opposite.But well, if you look at the things that they do as a Shizaya fan's perspective . . . they can still be equal to love. Bwahahahha! Their love is complicated. Bwahahahha. And there's also the saying "The more you hate; the more you love" after all. Bwahahahahhaha . . . .I wonder when Izaya started calling Shizuo with a "-chan". This episode has shown that he used to call him with a "-kun". Oh either way, how Izaya calls Shizuo still has the mocking tone. Haha![ TOM and JERRY COMEDY ]Oh my god these two are so fun to watch. Especially when Shizuo is just chasing Izaya. They're like cat and mouse and it highly reminded me of the Tom and Jerry cartoon. Izaya fits the Jerry role so much because the mouse is often the one being chased . . . and outsmarts the cat. While the cat, Tom, like Shizuo just keeps on chasing the mouse at the sight of it. Without thinking. Oh they're classic comedy. It's more hilarious to see that type of comedy between human characters, bwahehehehehhe.[ POOR GUY ]You know, even though Shizuo is the one throwing stuff at Izaya . . . .Izaya deserves it so much for the things that the bastard has done to poor Shizuo.Shizuo wants to live in peace, but Izaya made a lot of gangs fight against Shizuo. And with Shizuo's temper, it's giving him a bad image. If only those thugs hadn't been initiated by Izaya, Shizuo won't be going out of control in such a way . . .and he won't be involved in gang fights at all.The most cruel thing that Izaya did was framing Shizuo. Shizuo was already doing well on his bartender job, and hoping to stay on it . . . but having him framed for a crime he didn't do ruined his image worse. That's the most probable reason why he lost the bartender job. Thing would've been okay if only Izaya left Shizu-chan alone. Unfortunately, Izaya was evil enough to drag innocent Shizuo in such a mess.And more of Izaya's cruelty . . . when Shizuo got hit by a truck . . . he's lessening the alarm . . .and even paid that truck driver who had hit Shizuo for doing a "good job". Well, it doesn't seem that Izaya had planned it, but doing that is like he's encouraging the driver to continue doing more acts like those to Shizuo. And he may also be paying the driver for beating up Shizuo for him. That was really cruel. Yeah, hilarious in a way. But still so cruel. Poor Shizu-chan. *sobs*[ SHIZU-CHAN NEEDS MORE LOVE ]Need I say more? xDHaha, he's actually a shy fellow you know. He doesn't like admiting openly when he's being so touching, hehe. But he's certainly huggable~I LOVE YOU SHIZU-CHAN!!!!![ MORE SHIZUO NEXT EPISODE ]His and Selty's similar simultaneous reaction's just so cute~Extra: The non-centric episode post will be done some other time. And ah, the ED single is already out! Go here if you want to see the downloads. Just updated the DRRR!! OP and ED page, hehe.
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Day 44/365 From the anime Bartender, Ryuu Sasakura is an amazing bartender who owns Eden Hall. He lends an ear to the people who come into his bar and offers some sound advice that generally works out in the person's favour. His specialty drink is called "glass of god". Why I like him: He can look at [...] Related posts:365 Days of Anime Characters: Day 28/365 Makoto Ito 365 Days of Anime Characters: Day 39/365 Death The Kid 365 Days of Anime Characters: Day 16/365 Yang Wen-li
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Once again, my favorite character, Izaya, had a lot of screentime in this episode! And since he's so awesome, I have so many to tell even if I'm not just fangurling. Ohohohohoho~(wallpaper art by AngelLeila of deviantArt)What made this episode even more delightful is that it featured two other characters that are as dangerous as he is: Shizuo and Simon. Oh they are so badass~The three dangerous people among the normal crowd finally interacted in this episode . . . YAY!!![ CHARACTER FOCUS: SIMON ]Thank goodness I did not hear the narrator from episode 2 again! Anyway, this time we get to see Ikebukuro in Simon's perspective:=== ForeignersI really love it when anime makes its characters speak the actual foreign languages (it's forgivable if they had too many dialogues though). I don't know Russian, so I can't tell if the Russian is accurate though . . . but Russian isn't something I commonly hear in anime (usually it's English . . .ocassionally German or French), so that was nice.Simon had been nice enough to help thouse Russian tourists. I find it nice that aside from Kida and Mikado, we see more characters that haven't been that intimidated by Simon.=== Poor Sushi SellerI guess face value really matters in attracting customers . . . I don't see Simon having much luck in getting customers for the restaurant because his face and built make him look frightening. It also appears that he has a feeling that people think his sushi will kill them that from his "long time no see! sushi is good!" dialogues have later become "sushi won't kill you! you certainly won't die from eating" lines . . . really . . . poor guy.But hhhmm . . . from this episode we get to find out that he also does delivery jobs. That's better for him than calling out customers . . .especially with those skills. But I think he'll be much better if he's just inside the kitchen . . . unless he can't cook. Oh really . . . poor guy.=== The Righteous Super Big Guy(Mikado and Kida's reactions were LOLz)It's already hinted in episode 1 that Simon has incredible strength, and we get to witness that in this episode when he managed to stop a punch from who's said to be the strongest character in this series! Well, it's unfair if we only have one incredibly strong character in a show, right? Hehe. It's fun if he meets a match~It looks like Simon doesn't use his strength to cause chaos, but to stop it rather. I love it when characters are opposite from what they really are. I mean, from Simon's appearance he's like a boss of some bullying gang, but it turns out that he's just a sushi seller who stops fights when he sees one to maintain peace in the community. He's such a nice guy.Yes, he fought with Shizuo, but he just wants Shizuo to . . .stop throwing vending machines. Hahaha! Izaya's lucky to have a peacemaker like him or else he'll be crushed to death. Wahehehe . . . Anyway, so I think Simon doesn't see Shizuo as an enemy . . . nor was he protecting Izaya.[ CHARACTER FOCUS: SHIZUO ]We only get to hear him from the first episode, and a short part of him in the next one, this time we get to see him go badass as much as he wanted! Yay!=== Bartender SuitHe doesn't seem to be someone who has a job . . . but he keeps on wearing that bartender suit. Perhaps he worked on one before . . .or still working as one. Either that or he just likes the suit . . or there's a special reason to it. In any case, it looks good on him anyway so I don't care for a bartender . . . it's quite a mystery on how he could have a lot of money . . . he lended money to some guy in the previous episodes, right? And he also has to pay for those machines he's been throwing around. Or maybe he's actually rich . . . anyway, I don't think he lasts long in a job because of his attitude. When he and Izaya last met, he was working at some place but got fired from it now.=== ViolenceHe's a very very hot-tempered and violent character . . . and this has been such a perfect description regarding his violence:"He's almost like violence dressed up as a human. Someone who lives with only violence in their mind. No... he's simply violence itself."He's THAT violent. His very existence is danger itself. That's so awesome~I love the action in this show~ There are no special moves (unlike Simon who seemed to ahve done some acrobatic stunt, hehe) but he was still so badass for being able to beat up those punks so easily. The part with the first guy he punched was so amusing! The dude was flying and he also got striped in the air! Hahahah! I don't know how the hell that happened and I wonder if Shizuo had stripping powers if he really does, I want him to do that to Izaya please *perverted fan shot*, but still, it had been freakin' hilarious!!!! Bwahahahahaha!!!!!=== Not Really a Bad GuyFor a guy that's considered officially as the strongest character in Durarara!!, I don't think he's your typical strong bad guy that beats up people because he feels like it or he wants to be recognized as powerful.It appears that he only fights people who mess with him (Izaya does a perfect job on it~). He also seems to beat up people only if they started it and . . . have intentions to kill him! Ah . . .can't blame him for getting angry for that.And hhhmm . . . it also looks like he's not the type to kill people. He may have beaten up those punks, but I don't think any of them are dead. Same with the guy he threw in the air in the previous episodes, hehe.I guess what Kida said about him as really right . . . . as long as you don't piss him off, you'll be alright.[ CHARACTER FOCUS: IZAYA ]Oh god he's so crazy I love him~=== Different JacketsI wish in this episode, Izaya's wearing the jacket that he had on in the manga in this scene. It shows that he has more than one fluffy sexy jacket . . . Haha!=== "Old Man"I find it funny that I think he was slightly offended for being called an "old man" even if he's just 23 years old. Wahahahaha!!!!=== Doesn't Harm WomenHe says he doesn't bully girls (except mentally I guess, LOLz) . . . ah well, shows that he's a gentleman somehow? And bullying females is lame after all. Haha!Come to think of it, he doesn't seem to be the type who hurts women physically. Putting aside the mental tortures he does, he actually treats girls . . .lovingly? Heck, he had even hugged one:Okay, he drugged her though. Maybe suicidal women are an exception. Hehe=== Anti-BullyingIzaya may be an evil manipulator but he's against bullying. He finds it lame, and sees humans weak for it.He admired Mikado for wanting to help in stopping the bullying. Funny that he's praising Mikado though he's the one who did the job. He didn't even asked thanks for it. I guess Izaya is also pretty humble.In the manga, he had already met Mikado before this scene. I can see why Izaya had been interested in helping him out from that. But in the anime, they're still strangers. Shows that he's really fond of Mikado at first sight? Hahahaha!=== Hello MikadoSo Izaya finally meets Mikado in the anime . . . I prefer how they met in the manga though. Well, it had been the same that Mikado had realized that he's talking one of the most dangerous people in the city . . . and Izaya has still thought of his name as an aircon's . . . BUT in the manga, Mikado didn't find him scary or intimidating at all. He felt so relaxed with Izaya that he even introduced himself (Kida had scolded him for it). And as for the aircon thing . . . in the anime he just mentioned it causually, but in the manga it was a bit more comical.=== Hello KidaBoth the anime and the manga have shown that Kida and Izaya actually know each other. But, the manga had shown that Kida's actually afraid of him:While the anime didn't show much sign of that. . . . Kida was just . . .hhhmm . . . not as hyper as usual. In other words, so behaved . . . I wish the anime showed that Kida reaction . . . to imply that even without super strength, Izaya's still frightening~=== Happy StompingBack to Izaya, the scene from the trailer that I've been looking forward to very much was finally shown! Izaya happily stomps a pink cellphone! Bwahahahaha! He was more of crazy in the anime but in the manga he seemed more devilish:It had been like his substitute from hitting women. He says he made it his hobby until he got tired of it. Honestly, I didn't see its connection to bullying . . . .but since he's crazy, it doesn't need to make sense. Hahahahha!(By the way, I got addicted to his laugh that I made it my message alert tone. Now I will be laughing everytime I receive a message. Hahahaha!)=== "I'm Scared"Oh I love it how he makes fun of idiots. Instead of beating up the guy he prefered to show the dude's embarassing side then goes "I'm scared~" and "I surrender~". Hahaha! I think he's the type that bullies bullies in a playful and mocking way~ Hehe. That's so cool~=== CuteThis is the cutest Izaya look for me in this episode by the way. So glompable~=== HyperkineticWhat do you call a person that just keeps on moving a lot? I don't think Izaya has a disorder (and I don't think he has something like ADHD or hyperkinetic disorder either) . . . but he really moves a lot. Even in just walking at the end of the episode . . . he was skipping like a kid while looking at his mobile phone. Haha!=== Knife SkillsWe don't know how Izaya is exactly like in combat . . . but he seems to think that his widdle knife is a match against Shizuo's super strength. Oh boy this is making me wish for them to have an uninterrupted fight soon! I wanna see how cunning Izaya could be in battle. It's like brains VS brawns. He may not have super strength, but he's clever and . . .he's fast (so fast that at time you don't get the see how the hell he managed to slice things . . .and even from quite a distance). Waaahh . . . I want a fight between them now . . .=== Epic FallBwahahaahahha!!!! I'm so evil, I know. But seeing my favorite being beaten up that way was still so hilarious. Hahahahha!!!In the manga, Mikado (an Anri)actually ran to him and called out "Orihara-san" though. It's like Mikado has become concerned on Izaya's wellbeing especially after he helped out in rescuing Anri from bullies. Aaawww . . .Anyway, haha! I don't know how Izaya had managed to stand up after being hit by that thing. But come to think of it, Shizuo's still alive after being hit on the head. Hhhhmmm . . .. maybe Shizuo's just not hit on a vital spot . . . and Izaya was just hit by a trash can and not a vending machine . . .that's why they're still alive.[ THE ENTERTAINMENT: IZAYA and SHIZUO ]The most popular DRRR!! duo have finally interacted with each other in the series~ No wonder they're popular . . .they're so crazy! Hahaha!=== First Name BasisUsually, in animanga, those that call each other by their first name are either family members or relatives, lovers, or close friends. I guess it's safe to say that Izaya and Shizuo had been CLOSE FRIENDS?! It's "IZAYA-KUN" and "SHIZU-CHAN". Oh gawd, Izaya even calls him like how he would call cute individuals. Of course he's most likely teasing him, and Shizuo hates being called that way . . . but still, IT'S FIRST NAME BASIS!! KYAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!Okay, I think enemies/rivals may call each other by first name as well . . . for insult maybe . . . . BUT STILL!!! IT'S CUUUUTE!!!! Hahahahaha!!!!!!!!And you just gotta love how they say each other's names~Shizuo: Iiiiiiiiizaaaaayaaaaaaaaaa-kuuuuuuuuun...Izaya: Shizu-chan...=== The HateShizuo may say that he's not mad about it in this episode, but his hatred for Izaya had definitely triggered when Izaya blamed him for a crime in the past. Damn, I wanna know what exactly happened back then. I want Izaya and Shizuo background now~As for why Izaya did such a thing . . . . ah well, he's crazy. I don't think I need to think further. LOLz.=== Fandom(fanart by zaphylla of deviantArt)I love this duo but oh my god I think it's becoming more popular to BL/yaoi fangurls. Twisted duos are really so shippable, huh?But haha, this is shounen. That's so unlikely. I'm no yaoi fangirl, but I'm amused with the BL jokes. This line by istrill about Shizuo throwing the trash can cracked me up so much: "throwing a soda machine is the manry equivalent of giving flowers."BWAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!! So it was love, Shizu-chan? hahahaha!=== The SeiyuusIzaya + Shizuo is a popular combo . . . but don't you know that their seiyuus, Kamiya Hiroshi and Daisuke Ono, is a popular combo as well? Heck, they even have a manga: DearGirl -Stories- HIBIKI. Yes, the characters are the seiyuus themselves!!! I'm not yet done reading and downloading the manga, but so far it's been cute and funny! Hahaha!Oh my god . . . I haven't even talked about the main events in the episode and the other characters yet. Ah well, as usual, they'll be on a separate post xD Yay!Notes:~ Credits to dark_alone of LiveJournal for the MP3 Dialogues! Oh I love them~
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Sapphire Pyro's most anticipated new anime on the upcoming season: Durarara!! (デュラララ!!) [also known as Dulalala!!, DRRR!!, and Dhurarara!!...read more about its romanisation here]I already made something like this before, but this new one's gonna be more detailed. This post will consist of all the general news/information that I could find so far. Chapter and Episode impressions will be out (I'm not that sure if I'll be doing them separately) once scanlations and/or subs are made.I hope you find this general overview helpful, and be convinced to read and/or watch it already because this is . . . totally awesome! Go fan crazy with me! NOW NOW NOW!!! Hahahahahha![ NOVELS ]Durarara!! is a Japanese light novel series written by Ryohgo Narita, with illustrations by Suzuhito Yasuda. As of July 2009, six volumes have been published by ASCII Media Works under their Dengeki Bunko imprint.Volume 7 will be published on January 10, 2010.[ MANGA ]A manga adaptation by Akiyo Satorigi started serialization in the shōnen manga magazine Monthly GFantasy on April 18, 2009.The first volume was released on December 26, 2009.[ ANIME ]An anime adaptation was announced in the wraparound sleeve of the sixth volume of the light novel. The anime is produced by Brain's Base and is scheduled to air on January 7, 2009 on MBS, TBS, and CBC.The media distribution website Crunchyroll is listing the Durarara!! anime series among its list of "All Anime Titles" on its website's main page.Director: Takahiro OmoriSeries Composition: Noboru TakagiOriginal creator: Ryohgo NaritaOriginal Character Design: Suzuhito YasudaCharacter Design: Takahiro KishidaArt director: Akira ItoChief Animation Director: Akira TakataMechanical design: Tatsuo YamadaDirector of Photography: Hitoshi TamuraAction Director: Tatsuo YamadaAssistant director: Shinya KawazuraCG Producer: Norikazu KamibayashiColor design: Hiromi MiyawakiEditing: Kazuhiko Seki[ MUSIC ]Soundtrack will be by Makoto Yoshimori. Like Baccano!'s soundtrack, they consist of jazz music~Opening Theme: Uragiri no Yūyake (Betrayal of the Sunset) by Theatre BrookEnding Theme: Trust Me by Yuya Matsushita[ GOODIES ]Desktop Calendar for 2010.The first DVD Volume will be out on February 24, 2010!A shopping bag that will be out on next year as well.[ TRAILER and PROMOS ]<object height="295" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vJGDTEdY2iA&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x2b405b&amp;color2=0x6b8ab6"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vJGDTEdY2iA&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1&amp;color1=0x2b405b&amp;color2=0x6b8ab6" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="295" width="480"></embed></object>RAW Version of the Subbed Trailer | Official Trailer | Second Official Trailer | Commercial | Durarara's 12-Minute Perfect Guide Special | Trailer Portion of the 12-Minute Special | DVD Commercial[ STORY ]Ryuugamine Mikado is a boy who longs for the exciting life of the big city. At the invitation of his childhood friend Masaomi, he transfers to a school in Ikebukuro. Masaomi has warned him about people he doesn't want to cross in the city: a champion fighter, an informant, and a mysterious gang called "Darazu." Nervous from Masaomi's stories, Mikado witnesses an urban legend on his first day in the city, the Headless Rider astride a black motorcycle. From then on, the existence of supernatural cases and a gang called the Yellow Turbans will rise to the surface, and Ikebukuro will pushed to the breaking point.[ CHARACTERS and CAST ]Many unusual people gather here in Ikebukuro, Tokyo--- a youth who yearns for an un-mundane life, a hoodlum, a stalker denpa-girl, a young man who deals in information ‘for fun’, a black-market doctor, a high-schooler obsessed with magic, as well as a ‘headless rider’ riding a bike painted black.These unusual people begin a series of abnormal stories that never fail to create headaches. But, although their personalities are all twisted— they still talk about love.(order: left to right)Mikado Ryūgamine (Toshiyuki Toyonaga)He's a pretty regular guy, but longs for an 'unordinary' life. Performs well under pressure/in dangerous situations. He later becomes a leader of a gang in order to turn a situation to his advantage.Masaomi Kida (Mamoru Miyano)He's Mikado's childhood friend; an easy-going guy, but actually was once the leader of a gang.Anri Sonohara (Kana Hanazawa)She's a quiet girl who's top of the class, who feels she lacks certain personality traits. Turns out possess the cursed item, and takes over a certain group where she gets absolute control. Izaya Orihara (Hiroshi Kamiya)He's an information dealer who hates Shizuo with a passion and calls him "Shizu-chan". He uses all the information in his hands and manipulates people. He wants to incite an all-out gang war in Ikebukuro.Shizuo Heiwajima (Daisuke Ono)He's a rather non-descript guy who wears a bartender's suit, until you discover his incredibly short fuse and insane strength. He injured his muscles trying to pick up something heavy when little, which broke down the mental limits we usually impose on our muscles and uses them to their full potential. He hates Izaya for framing him for a crime in the past.Shinra Kishitani (Jun Fukuyama)He's a black market doctor and his parents work for Nebula.Certy (or Celty/Selty) Sturluson (???)She is also known as "The Black Rider" or "The Headless Rider", she is a Dullahan from Ireland who came to Japan looking for her stolen head. Her motorcycle is actually a horse in disguise.Kishitani ??? (???)Shinra's father.Kyouhei/Kyōhei Kadota (Yuuichi Nakamura)Walker Yumasaki (Yuuki Kaji)Erica/Erika Karisawa (Ayahi Takagaki)Seiji Yagiri (Kazuma Horie)Namie Yagiri (Sanae Kobayashi)Simon Brezhnev (Семён Брежнев, Seymon Brezhnev) (Takaya Kuroda)???? (Ueda Yuuji?)School teacher????Tom Tanaka (Katsuyuki Konishi)????I'm not sure which is Kinnosuke Kuzuhara (voiced by Keiji Fujiwara). I only found out about this recently. Will update once I know.[ EPISODE ]As of now it's scheduled to have 12 episodes to be aired on the upcoming season.The first episode is entitled "At the Very Beginning" and here's a synopsis translated through Google:Peak months Mikado Ryuugamine boy longing to have a non-routine, there is also a close friend invitation Kisa Masaomi, to live alone in Ikebukuro opportunity to enroll in high school.Tokyo first. Teijin to be deprived of the world ever knew, Masaomi is a piece of advice."If peace in this city 暮Rashitakere, Shizuo Heiwajima, Izaya Orihara, gang colors, unspecified" Darazu "absolutely not involved in, the better -"Just when receiving such advice, sounds like the horse reached the ears of Teijin 嘶Ki. Masaomi appeared in front of the mourners were led by Teijin and its sound,Souten bike 跨Gari dark, urban legend, "the Headless Rider" was a -.Color Gangs take root in more events and Ikebukuro slasher series "Yellow Turban bandits" until there emerged a milestone for hardening the broken streets of Ikebukuro -.Department Silla catchwords GoroGoro Silla [ FAN TALK ]Is my excitement to watch the first episode not yet that obvious? Haha!This got attention mainly because of the weird title. I got more interested when I find out that the story seems awesome (I'm really fond of twisted stories with a great variation of characters) and that the author of this series is the same as Baccano!'s, which is one of my top favorite series of all times.There had been some translations available of the novel and the manga, and as I've expected, the series is definitely fantastic!Greater news was that the staff behind the anime adaptation is almost the same as the ones behind the Baccano! anime! And that's definitely one of their masterpieces! I also greatly adore their other shows, namely Natsume Yuujinchou and Spice & Wolf.What pleased me more is the voice cast! True, a good cast doesn't really much have to do on the quality of the anime in general, but at least we'll definitely hear good voice acting skills . . . and their voices are just that mesmerizing~ I'm happy that even with just the cast, many people will be checking this out. I don't really want fans to watch this series just for the cast, but still, the more the merrier. This series deserves popularity. Please don't let this be unnoticed like Baccano!By the way, my favorite character in this series is Izaya. I find him cute and awesome . . . also freakin' evil (I don't like it that he's heartless even to women though) and very hilarious! And oh he laughs like a lunatic!!! Hahahahah! OH I LOVE HIM!!!!! *hugs*He's definitely twisted, and oh boy his interactions with Shizou are so fun~ "IIIZAAAAAAAAYAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!" Bwahahahahahh!!! Yes, tortured Izaya is fun~Notes/Credits:- Durarara!! Official Site- Anime News Network- Wikipedia- Baka-Tsuki- Elkin for the character info and the teaser- Majikayo and mikage 24 for the manga scans
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Souten Kouro is the hidden gem of this year. It’s a 2-cour show that started in Spring and still isn’t subbed completely to this day. Why? It’s because Lunar is subbing it. Lunar, the group that which I waited a year to complete Bartender (excellent show), and a year and a half for Gigantic Formula [...]
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~ A ~Angela Aki (singer): Tegami~ B ~Bartender: Hajimari no HitoBlack Cat: Konoyo no Uta~ C ~Chevalier D'Eon: Owari ni Mata Kotoba ArikiCode Geass: Mosaic KakeraCowboy Beebop: Goodnight Julia~ D ~Darker Than Black: Tsuki AkariDeath Note: Light Lights Up LightDigimon: Butter-fly
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So, what happens if the “friend” does this? You’ve heard of many things in the service industry. Things like being a waiter, waitress, bartender and more are some of the jobs are that more or less the staple of the service industry. However… Japan, being one of the more unique countries out there, seems to have a [...] Related posts:Japan Craze Cosplay Event @ Singapore PolytechnicPlanned Anime Museum In Japan?The Verdict: Japan Bans Rape Games
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There are more new shows this fall than in any season over the past few years. But I'm not sure the quality -- or at least the appeal to my taste -- will be that high. I don't see any shows I expect to be as good as the great shows of this past summer season, such as Aoi Hana and Bakemonogatari. But I'm ready to be surprised. (click pics to enlarge)We'll certainly have a lot of shows to choose from. But a growing number are OVA episodes or pre-released OPs being used to sell a manga volume, or advertise a future series. I'm not sure what the overall trend is in total production or total profit.I'll give complete details of pretty well all the new shows: staff, cast, dates, times, pics, sub groups, and links to more info in English and Japanese, as well as to the shows' AnimeSuki forums, which have more info and discussion. But first, here are some shows I am looking forward to:Sasameki Koto is a yuri school drama. The manga isn't as subtle and deep as Aoi Hana, but the show stars one of my favorite seiyuus: Takagaki Ayahi.Sora no Otoshimono is a shounen fantasy about a guy who gets a buxom, all-powerful angel as his servant. Ecchi comedy is not everyone's cup of tea, but this stars Hayami Saori, the most beautiful voice in anime, as well as Takagaki Ayahi, and is directed by the director of Bamboo Blade and Kigurumikku.Kimi ni Todoke was voted the top shoujo manga of 2008. I enjoy the manga, and I'm eager to see what Production I.G. can do with it. It stars Noto Mamiko -- the second-most beautiful voice in anime.Winter Sonata may have been the most successful Asian romantic TV drama ever. Now we get a chance to see a Korean animated version, voiced by the original actors.White Album now resumes, giving us the second half of the slowly evolving story of an aspiring idol's romantic and professional life. With Mizuki Nana and Hirano Aya.Miracle Train is the most bizarre show of the season: a comedy in which stations on a Tokyo subway line are personified as bishounen. What makes this so attractive is the fact that it will be directed by Kasai Kenichi, who did a masterful job with Aoi Hana.Darker than Black 2 continues the hard-boiled sci-fi mystery/adventure whose first season I enjoyed. Directed by Okamura Tensai (Wolf's Rain), and starring Kiuchi Hidenobu (Ren in NANA).Koishigure is not so much an anime as an actress reading romance stories over illustrations, but the format and the quality of the stories get my attention.Aoi Bungaku gives us another interesting format: four classic modern Japanese novels animated in three episodes each, with top character designers and artists involved.Tegami Bachi is a charming little fantasy about a girl (played by Sawashiro Miyuki) who is a letter-carrier in a mediaevalesque fantasy world.To is a two-episode OVA based on stories from a famous space-fiction manga and directed by the man who produced Appleseed and directed Vexille.Kuuchuu Buranko is the new offering from the makers of Mononoke, and is based on an award-winning novel about visits of neurotics to their even more neurotic therapist.Denpateki na Kanojo hasn't received much attention, but I loved the first ep of this two-episode OVA starring Hirohashi Ryou, about a weird girl, the boy she adores, and a series of murders.I am also looking forward to the one-episode OVA Aki-Sora, although I hesitate to admit to enjoying the almost-hentai manga, which gets closer to incest than even kissxsis.Yamakan's second music video of the season, Black Rock Shooter pilot edition, is also on my list. His Tonari no 801-chan is growing on me.I'm also looking forward to the big, serious China-Japan co-production of a 52-episode version of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.This may not be my season, but it may well be a season for shounen fans. We have the extremely popular shounen comedy adventure manga Fairy Tail being animated, with Hirano Aya in a leading role, along with Kugimiya Rie and Kakihara Tetsuya (Simon in Gurren-Lagann).And Inuyasha gets a new season, with all the original cast returning.The fighting fantasy ero-game 11eyes is also being animated, starring Ono Daisuke and Gotou Mai, directed by the director of Someday's Dreamers 1 and Zegapain, and written by the writer of Hell Girl.Tatakau Shisho - The Book of Bantorra is another shounen fantasy, based around fighting librarians who guard books that are people's souls. A fabulous cast stars Paku Romi and includes Sawashiro Miyuki, Tomatsu Haruka, Ishida Akira, Hirohashi Ryou and others.The moe fantasy Index also gets a spin-off, in To Aru Kagaku no Railgun.Clamp returns with the anime Kobato, about a girl who must collect in a bottle the suffering from people's hearts, and who must not fall in love with a particular boy.And last but hopefully not least is the yaoi science fiction fantasy Ai no Kusabi, directed by the director of Pumpkin Scissors, and written by the woman who wrote the original novel.Anyway, here is an alphabetical list of all 57 shows, linked to a full preview of each one:||11eyes       ||Ai no Kusabi       ||AIKa ZERO       ||Aki-Sora       ||Anyamaru Tantei Kiruminzuu       ||Aoi Bungaku       ||Asura Cryin' 2       ||Battle Spirits: Shounen Gekiha Dan       ||Black Rock Shooter pilot edition       ||Cheburashka Arere?       ||Darker than Black: Ryuusei no Gemini       ||Denpateki na Kanojo       ||Fairy Tail       ||Gokyoudai Monogatari       ||Hidamari Sketch x 365       ||Inuyasha: The Final Act       ||Isekai no Seikishi Monogatari       ||Kaidan Restaurant       ||Kämpfer       ||Kanokon ~Manatsu no Daishanikusai~       ||Kemono to Chat       ||Kiddy Girl-And       ||Kimi ni Todoke       ||kissxsis       ||Kobato       ||Koishigure       ||Kuuchuu Buranko       ||Mahoromatic: Tadaima Okaeri       ||Mahou Sensei Negima! "Another World"       ||Miracle Train: Ooedo-sen e Youkoso       ||Natsu no Arashi 2       ||Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu: Purezza       ||Nyan Koi       ||Queen's Blade: Gyokuza no Tsugumono       ||Romance of the Three Kingdoms       ||Sasameki Koto       ||Seiken no Blacksmith       ||Seitokai no Ichizon       ||Shakugan no Shana S       ||Shin Koihime†Musō: Otome Ryōran Sangokushi Engi       ||Shoujo Fight       ||Shugo Chara Party!       ||Sora no Otoshimono       ||Tatakau Shisho - The Book of Bantorra       ||Tegami Bachi       ||Tennis no Ouji-sama OVA Another Story: Kako to Mirai no Message       ||Tentai Senshi Sunred 2       ||To       ||To Aru Kagaku no Railgun       ||To Love-Ru OVA       ||Today in Class 5-2 -- Takarabako       ||ToHeart2 adplus       ||Tonari no 801-chan R       ||Utsurun Desu       ||White Album part 2       ||Winter Sonata       ||Yumeiro Pâtissière       ||Zan Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei - Bangaichi       notes:English and Japanese titles link to more info in their respective languages"forum" links to a show's AnimeSuki forumwhere no real trailer is available, "trailer" links to a streamed episode of a previous series of the same showsubs info from the Who Subs What wikistaff, cast, and other info from MoonPhase, official sites, AniDB, and Anime News Networkepisode numbers uncertain; "2/4eps" means "second of four episodes"times and dates may change, and will be updated in the seasonal anime calendar I will post later this monthanimes listed below in order of date of first release: broadcast, rental, or saleTonari no 801-chan R(jp: となりの801ちゃんR)The fourth volume of Kojima Ajiko's Tonari no 801-chan manga shipped in Japan on September 10 with a "Tonari no 801-chan R" anime short on DVD. The manga follows the personal life of a fujoshi (female boys-love otaku) and her otaku boyfriend. Yutaka Yamamoto (Kannagi) directed the production of the 90-second "opening anime" at Aniplex's A-1 Pictures studio (Kannagi, Ookiku Furikabutte). Info from animeanime.jp via ann (Anime News Network).An excellent OP. Not overwhelmingly exciting, but it has grown on me, and seems like something whose appeal will not fade. A good teaser for the coming anime: the characters look interesting. Excellent animation gives the figures a physical presence.director: Yamamoto Yutakaanimation: A1xOrdet. chara-des: Haruna. animation supervisor: Kadowaki Satoshi.music: Nishimura Masatoshi; Slowcurve. theme: Bagyou no Fujoshi.streamed here or here. forum. OP OVA. 1/1eps.thu 10 sepBattle Spirits: Shounen Gekiha Dan(jp: バトルスピリッツ 少年激覇ダン)shounen fighting fantasySecond kids' shounen series based on the trading card game. Great cast, good director, competent lead writer.seiyuus: Sakurai Takahiro, Honda Youko (Ichika/UtaKata, Mana/sola), Oura Fuyuka (Mizuki/Shikabane, Naruki/Regios), Yukino Satsuki, Kawasumi Ayako, Okamoto Nobuhiko (Yorito/sola, Layfon/Regios), Horanai Ai (Lua/YuGiOh 5Ds), Ono Daisuke.director: Nishimori Akira (PetoPeto-san, Hitohira, Zombie Loan)writer: Tomioka Atsuhiro (Nishi no Yoko Majou, Pumpkin Scissors, Zombie Loan, Inazuma 11).animation: Sunrise. chara-des: Yumoto Yoshinori (Growlanser 4, Strait Jacket, some Shounen Toppa).OP Jam Project, ED Oikawa Mitsuhiro.trailer. 13?eps.sun 13 sep 07:00Koishigure(jp: 恋時雨���吉高由里子と6つの恋���)josei love storiesAn illustrated anthology of short stories read aloud by 21-year-old actress Yoshitaka Yuriko. Based on six love stories and their accompanying illustrations from the Koishigure short story series in Media Factory's Da Vinci magazine. A popular music group is contributing a love song to each story. (ann)Music: Mochida Kaori, Koto Ringo, Oohashi Trio, Maekawa Hiroki, Takasugi Satomi, moumoon.Artists: Kishino Makiko, Suwa Sayaka, Nishi Shuhu, Hiramatsu Kei, sioux, MARYCO.This appears to be less anime than reading to pictures, but I'm still eager to see it.seiyuus: Yoshitaka Yuriko (actress; Vanessa in ep13 of Michiko & Hatchin).director: Kamebuchi Hiroshi (? 亀渕裕 )1/6eps.wed 16 sep 26:08Mahou Sensei Negima "Another World" (jp: 魔法先生ネギま������もうひとつの世界���)comedy with magic and moeYet another Shinbou Negima OVA series begins. The OVAs have been following the manga more closely than the TV series did -- perhaps because the mangaka, Akamatsu Ken, is writing the screenplays.seiyuus: Satou Rina, Kanda Akemi, Horie Yui, Inokuchi Yuka, Inoue Marina, Ishige Sawa, Kobayashi Yu, Noto Mamiko, Saitou Chiwa, etc..director: Shinbou Akiyukiwriter: Akamatsu Ken.animation: Shaft. chara-des: Jitsuhara Noboru. animation supervisor: Jitsuhara Noboru.OP Satou Rina, Kanda Akemi, Nonaka Ai, Noto Mamiko, Kobayashi Yu. ED Satou Rina, Inoue Marina.trailer. forum.OVA. 1/4eps. sold with v27 of manga; ep2 comes w/v28 on 17nov.tue 17 sepUtsurun Desu(jp: 伝染るんです)bizarre comedyAn anime adaptation of Sensha Yoshida's Utsurun Desu "nonsensical" gag comedy comic-strip manga. The manga uses a stable of off-the-wall characters to tell jokes that defy logic. (anidb)Director Mankyuu is a young filmmaker (just turned 29) who made his name with short flash animations and now has this OVA series.I haven't seen the first episode, and have no idea what to expect. A guest seiyuu (comedian Takayama Takenori) says that the lines he was asked to say were all just onomatopoeic sounds that he shouted out. (ann)seiyuus: Chafurin (Inspector Megure in Detective Conan), Mamiko Noto, Seki Tomokazu, Nakahara Mai, Wakamoto Norio.director: Mankyuuwriter: Yoshida Sensha (orig).trailer.OVA. 2/3eps. ep3 23oct.fri 18 sepIsekai no Seikishi Monogatari(jp: 異世界の聖機師物語)fantasy adventureEpisode 7 of the continuing fantasy adventure based on the mediaevalesque fantasy world of Tenchi Muyo.seiyuus: Nakagawa Rie, Satou Takaya, Kuwatani Natsuko, Tsunematsu Ayumi, Yasumoto Hiroki, Yonezawa Madoka, Shimono Hiro, Saitou Momoko, Sonozaki Mie.director: Yoshikawa Koji (DN Angel, Goshuushousama Ninomiyakun)writer: Shirane Hideki (Bottle Fairy, Girl's High).animation: AIC/BeStack. chara-des: Watanabe Hajime (School Rumbles). animation supervisor: Watanabe Hajime (School Rumble 3).music: Tada Akifumi (Tenchi Muyou, Touka Gettan, Skip Beat).trailer. subs: Sora.OVA. 7/13eps.fri 18 sep 04:00 (ep7 preview broadcast)Queen's Blade: Gyokuza no Tsugumono(jp: クイーンズブレイド 玉座を継ぐ者)ecchi fantasy adventureWhat can you say about this terrible but very popular show about large breasts? Oh, yes, there is fantasy and fighting in there, too. And a great cast.One thing you can say is that it is popular enough to get a second season immediately on the heels of the first.seiyuus: Kawasumi Ayako, Noto Mamiko, Hirano Aya, Tanaka Atsuko, Mizuhashi Kaori, Kaida Yuuko, Nabatame Hitomi, Kugimiya Rie, Gotou Yuuko, Itou Kanae.director: Yoshimoto Kinji (Plastic Little, Genshiken2, QB1)writer: Yoshioka Takao (Elfen Lied, ZnT, QB1).animation: chara-des: Rin Shin (WordsWorth, Ikkitousen DD, QB1). animation supervisor: Rin Shin, Noguchi Takayuki (Kamichama Karin, QB1).sound director: Aketagawa Jun. OP ENA. ED Kugimiya Rie, Gotou Yuuko, Itou Kanae.trailer. forum.subs: SFW, PZ. 12?eps.thu 24 sep 08:00Tennis no Ouji-sama OVA Another Story: Kako to Mirai no Message(jp: テニスの王子様　OVA ANOTHER STORY ���過去と未来のメッセージ)sports bishounenThe Prince of Tennis Another Story OVA continues.seiyuus: Minagawa Junko, Okiayu Ryoutarou, Kondou Nakayuki, Tsuda Kenjirou, Kaida Yuuki, Takahashi Hiroki.director: Tada Shunsukewriter: Hirota Mitsutaka; Sakai Fumiyo (? 坂井史世). Konomi Takeshi (mangaka).animation: chara-des: Ishii Akiharu. animation supervisor: Irie Kenji; Ishii Akiharu.OVA. 3-4 of 6eps.fri 25 sepBlack Rock Shooter pilot edition(jp: BLACK★ROCK SHOOTER -PILOT Edition-)music videoNinety-second music video in advance of next spring's full series based on huke's revisioning of a Hatsune Miku-like character with guns. Stills here.With Tonari no 801-chan, this is the second animated music video that Yamamoto Yutaka and his staff will put out this fall. Perhaps Yamakan has created a new form, based on his OP and ED triumphs for Haruhi, Lucky Star, and Kannagi.But this one is not directed by Yamakan himself, who passes the job to Yoshioka Shinobu and retains the title of "supervising editor," as Shinbou sometimes does. Music by suddenly famous amateur ryo, who wrote the Bakemonogatari ED sung by supercell.director: Yoshioka Shinobuwriter: huke (orig).animation: Ordet. chara-des: Matsui Yuusuke.music: ryo.forum. OP OVA. 1/1eps.wed 30 sepAsura Cryin' 2(jp: アスラクライン)shounen mecha supernaturalFrom a light novel series involving mecha, romance, and supernatural science. The first series was a decent show that never quite captured me. But it did capture the attention of enough people that it is getting a second season.Irino Miyu stars, with Tomatsu Haruka, Nonaka Ai, and Tanaka Rie. And there are some good names in the supporting cast: Yahagi Sayuri, Morikubo Showtarou, and the K-On combination of Satou Satomi, Toyosaki Aki, and Hikasa Youko.This is from the company that did Nanoha and Inukami, and is directed by the man who directed StrikerS, Sekirei, and Inukami.seiyuus: Irino Miyu, Tomatsu Haruka, Nonaka Ai, Tanaka Rie, Morikubo Shoutarou, Satou Satomi, Yahagi Sayuri, Toyosaki Aki, Hikasa Youko.director: Kusakawa Keizou (StrikerS, Inukami, Sekirei)writer: Akao Deko (script work on Natsu no Arashi and Zettai Seigi Love Pheromone). Mikumo Gakuto (orig).animation: Seven Arcs. chara-des: Komori Atsushi (Inukami, Bleach).sound director: Aketagawa Jin. music: Tajiri Mitsutaka. OPED angela.subs: AllOfThem, Chihiro, AnimeYoshi?. mecha: Oda Hiroyasu13?eps. trailer. forum.thu 01 oct 09:30Kämpfer(jp: けんぷファー)fighting comedy romanceOne day, a normal high school boy wakes up to find himself transformed into a girl. A stuffed tiger comes to life and tells him to fight as a female psychic fighter "Kämpfer". Having no idea about what's going on, Natsuru is involved in the battles against other female Kämpfer. Kämpfer fight each other with guns, swords, and magic. From a series of light novels.Excellent cast includes Inoue Marina, Horie Yui, Nazuka Kaori, Tamura Yukari, Mizuki Nana, and Mamiko Noto, with the reappearance of Nakajima Megumi (Ranka in Macross F) as a seiyuu, as well as a singer.The staff is a bit more questionable, featuring the director of Chocotto Sister. But he also did Kyouran Kazoku, so there is hope for some decent comedy. The lead writer did Kamen no Maid Guy, and Hajime no Ippo New Challenger, so he has breadth. The original writer also did both Maburaho and Umi Monogatari.seiyuus: Inoue Marina, Horie Yui, Nazuka Kaori, Asumi Kana, Nakajima Megumi, Nomura Michiko, Tamura Yukari, Mizuki Nana, Noto Mamiko.director: Kuroda Yasuhiro (Chocotto Sister, Kyouran Kazoku, Yoku Wakaru Gendai Mahou)writer: Fudeyasu Kazuyuki (Kamen no Maid Guy, Hajime no Ippo New Challenger). Tsukiji Toshihiko (creator of Maburaho, Umi Monogatari).animation: Nomad (Rozen Maiden, Yozakura Quartet). chara-des: Senmu (orig), Fujita Mariko (Galaxy Angel, Rosario+Vampire).OP Kuribayashi Megumi, ED Inoue Marina/Nakajima Megumi.subs: Koharubi, SFW. forum. 12?eps.thu 01 oct 25:29Nyan Koi(jp: にゃんこい!)shounen comedy, romanceKousaka Junpei is a second-year high school student who both despises and is allergic to cats. His high school crush, however, is Mizuno Kaede, a girl who adores cats. After a minor accident, he finds he can understand what cats are saying, but if he does not grant 100 wishes from cats, he will turn into a cat himself.Director Kawaguchi Keiichirou (Hayate 1, Zettai Karen, Getsumen) stands a good chance of being able to make something funny out of this set-up. Lead writer Inotsume Shinichi did both Hayate and Ristorante Paradiso.Looks like a normal high-school romantic comedy, but staff and cast make me think there could be something good here.seiyuus: Asanuma Shintarou, Iguchi Yuka, Shiraishi Ryouko, Kobayashi Yuu, Tanaka Atsuko, Fukuyama Jun, Satou Rina, Tomatsu Haruka.director: Kawaguchi Keiichirou (Hayate, Zettai Karen, Getsumen)writer: Inotsume Shinichi (Hayate, Ristorante Paradiso). Fujiwara Sato (mangaka).animation: AIC. chara-des: Morita Kazuaki (Seto no Hanayome, Sunred). animation supervisor: Yamane Masahiro, Sako Yukie.sound director: Iida Satoki (Seto no Hanayome, Sunred, Ayakashi). music: Miwa Manabu, Ookawa Shigenobu (Tayutama). OP Sakakibara Yui, ED Imai Asami.trailer. forum. subs: AnimeHimitsu?, Yuurisan.12?eps.thu 01 oct 25:5911eyes(jp: 11eyes)fantasy adventure ero-game adaptationKakeru lost his sister to suicide and has been living a dull life since then. One day, he is transported into the bizarre world "Red Night" along with his female friend Yuka. In order to survive and escape from Red Night, he and his companions fight against Dark Spirits and Black Nights. (ann)Adaptation of a popular ero-game. Director Shimoda Masami did Someday's Dreamers 1 and Zegapain, as well as the less successful Polyphonica1. Top writer Kanemaki Kenichi did Ai yori Aoshi, PaniPoni Dash, and Jigoku Shoujo.Ono Daisuke and Gotou Mai star. Supporting seiyuus Asakawa Yuu and Morikubo Showtaro were married in 2007 and divorced this year.This kind of anime isn't really my thing. But this particular staff could make something of it.seiyuus: Ono Daisuke (Yukito/Air, Itsuki/Haruhi, Hosaka/Minamike, Jack Bez./Pandora Hearts), Gotou Mai (Mizuki/ef, Mika/Nogizaka Haruka, Mai/Yoakena), Asakawa Yuu (Motoko/Love Hina, Sakaki/AzuDai, Karen Clavius/Yoakena), Rikimaru Noriko (Nori/Rozen Maiden, Komaki/ToHeart2, Mashiro/Tayutama), Ichimura Oma (Ibuki/Happiness), Morikubo Showtaro (Nara/Naruto), Hagiwara Emiko (Mayu/Elfen Lied, Ilfa/ToHeart2), Mizuhashi Kaori (Taeko/Ai yori Aoshi, Yuuno Scrya/Nanoha, Ai/ARIA, Ogiue/Genshiken), Takahashi Chiaki (Mitsuki/KgNE, Takako/Otoboku).director: Shimoda Masami (Someday's Dreamers, Zegapain, Polyphonica1)writer: Kanemaki Kenichi (Ai yori Aoshi, PaniPoni Dash, Jigoku Shoujo, Sayonara Zetsubou, Natsume Yuujinchou).animation: DogaKobo (Ryoko's Case File, Myself;Yourself, Koihime Musou). chara-des: Hara Shoji (Sasami Magical Girl). animation supervisor: Hara Shoji (Sasami, Akasaka).OP Ayane, ED Asriel.trailer. forum. subs: SFW.12?eps.thu 01 oct 26:00To(jp: TO���トゥー���)space adventureAfter producing the first computer-animated Appleseed film and directing Vexille, director Sori Fumihiko is now adapting two stories from Yukinobu Hoshino's 2001 Nights (2001 Ya Monotogari) manga. "Symbiotic Planet" and "Elliptical Orbit" are part of a centuries-long narrative about mankind's voyages into space.The two animated stories will be released simultaneously on DVDs which the distributor (Avex) will begin renting in Japanese video stores on October 2. No other release plans have been officially announced yet.Paku Romi, Fukuyama Jun, Ohtsuka Akio, Hirano Aya. Space fiction and a great cast? I'm there.seiyuus: Ohtsuka Akio, Paku Romi, Fukuyama Jun, Hirano Aya.director: Sori Fumihiko (Appleseed, Vexille)writer: Hoshino Yukinobu (mangaka). CG: Miyazaki Hirokazu.sound design: Kasamatsu Kouji (Hellsing, Appleseed).music: Takahashi Tetsuya (Appleseed).trailer. OVA. 1-2 of 2eps.fri 02 octTatakau Shisho - The Book of Bantorra(jp: 戦う司書 The Book of Bantorra)shounen fantasyIn the story of the light novels, all the dead people of the world have been turned into "books" stored in the Bantorra library. A boy named Koria has had his memories erased and his chest embedded with a bomb. He is sent to kill Hamyuttsu Meseta, the world's most powerful armed librarian. However, he falls in love at first sight with this beautiful woman, who is in charge of the "books," and he becomes enveloped in the great war over the library. (ann)Top cast inludes Paku Romi, Ogawa Toru, Sawashiro Miyuki, Tomatsu Haruka and more big stars. Top writer Okada Mari did true tears, Vampire Knight, and Toradora. But director Shinohara Toshiya did Gunparade Orchestra and Kuroshitsuji, neither of which did much for me. We'll see how this goes. From Studio David Production, animators of Code Geass R2.Not my genre, but could be good.seiyuus: Paku Romi, Ogawa Toru, Sawashiro Miyuki, Tomatsu Haruka, Nakamura Yuuichi, Ishida Akira, Hirohashi Ryou, Miyake Kenta, Irino Miyu, Kawasumi Ayako.director: Shinohara Toshiya (Gunparade Orchestra, Kuroshitsuji)writer: Okada Mari (true tears, Vampire Knight, Toradora, Canaan, Kodomo no Jikan). Yamagata Ishio (novels).animation: David Production (Code Geass R2). chara-des: Yamada Masaki (Appleseed, Magical Kanan).sound director: Motoyama Satoshi (Haibane Renmei, Bartender, Skip Beat). music: Hirano Yoshihisa (Beyblade, Strawberry Panic, Death Note, Real Drive). OP Ali Project, ED Annabel.trailer. forum. subs: AnimeHimitsu?, Enigma Collective. 13?eps.fri 02 oct 22:00To Aru Kagaku no Railgun(jp: とある科学の超電磁砲���レールガン���)seinen superpower comedySidestory from To Aru Majutsu no Index. The story is set in Academy City, where 80% of the 230,000 citizens are students, and deals with the adventures of level-five psychic Misaka Mikoto.The director of Toradora and the writer of Asatte no Houkou bring us the animation of this popular seinen superpower comedy novel. Same studio as Index -- JC Staff -- but the director and writer are new. The novels were both written by Kamachi Kazuma.Interesting cast, with Toyosaki Aki back as the moe voice of the day. She and the wonderful Arai Satomi back up Abe Atsushi, Satou Rina, and Itou Kanae.seiyuus: Abe Atsushi, Satou Rina, Itou Kanae, Arai Satomi, Toyosaki Aki.director: Nagai Tatsuyuki (Honey Clover 2, Toradora, Idolmaster X)writer: Minakami Seishi (Asatte no Houkou, Birdy2, Shigurui). Kamachi Kazuma (creator).animation: JC Staff. chara-des: Hajimura Kiyotaka, Tanaka Yuichi (Last Exile).sound director: Aketagawa Jin (Ichigo Mashimaro, Aoi Hana, Toradora). music: Iuchi Maiko (Index). OP fripSide, ED Elisa.trailer. forum. subs: Eclipse?. 12?eps.fri 02 oct 25:30White Album part 2(jp: ホワイトアルバム)The second half of the series that aired last winter. We were left with a very inconclusive conclusion. What are Rina and Eiji's real intentions? Will Yuki and Touya really get together?From a game by Aquaplus. The first series developed slowly and unevenly, but had some strong aspects.seiyuus: Hirano Aya, Mizuki Nana, Maeno Tomoaki, Takamoto Megumi, Masu Nozomi, Paku Romi, Tomatsu Haruka, Sakaguchi Daisuke (Keel/Tideline Blue, Sunohara/Clannad), Hayami Shou (Maximilian Jenius/Macross7, Julious/Angelique).director: Yoshimura Akira (new, dir. eps of Planetes, Samurai Champloo, Gundam00, etc.)writer: Satou Hiroaki (dir. Yoshimune).animation: Seven Arcs. chara-des: Yoshinari Kou, Kawata Hisashi.sound director: Shioya Yoku. music: Elements Garden. OP: Mizuki Nana, ED: Suara.trailer. forum. subs: Eclipse?. eps. 14-26.fri 02 oct 25:30Seitokai no Ichizon(jp: 生徒会の一存)comedyA private high school has a student council chosen entirely by popular vote. Ken Sugisaki is the only male on the otherwise all-girl council. Only council members are allowed to enter the "sacred sanctuary" of the council's meeting room. The Council President records the minutes of the meetings, which consist of daily conversations about the students. (adb)A cast largely made up of new or unknown seiyuus is directed by Satou Takuya, who directed Ichigo Mashimaro (a good thing) and Mission-E (not so good). The writer is Hanada Jukki, who did Rozen Maiden and sola. From a series of light novels.seiyuus: Honda Mariko, Saitou Yuka (Lucifer/Umineko), Togashi Misuzu, Horinaka Yuki, Kondo Takashi (Train/Black Cat, Ralph/Strain, Ariabart/Tytania).director: Sato Takuya (Ichigo Mashimaro, Mission-E)writer: Hanada Jukki (Rozen Maiden, sola, Sorakake Girl). Aoi Sekina (creator).animation: Studio Deen. chara-des: Horii Kumi, Inugami Kira (orig).sound director: Iwanami Yoshikazu.forum. subs: Nuke.13eps.fri 02 oct 25:58Inuyasha: The Final Act(jp: 犬夜叉 完結編)adventure, comedy, romanceThis series will cover the story in volumes 36 to 56 of the manga. The first series lasted from 2001-2004, with over 160 episodes. Then there have been specials and movies, the last of which was in 2004. But the show continues to be popular in re-run, and there is plenty of excitement at seeing the old cast and staff return.Aoki Yasunao directs, as he has since about halfway through the first series. And what a cast: Yamaguchi Kappei, Yukino Satsuki, Kuwashima Houko, Yajima Akiko, Yukana, Cho, Noto Mamiko, et al.seiyuus: Yamaguchi Kappei, Yukino Satsuki, Kuwashima Houko, Tsujitani Kouji, Watanabe Kumiko, Yajima Akiko, Yukana, Cho, Noto Mamiko, Morikawa Toshiyuki.director: Aoki Yasunao (Inuyasha 45+, Yakitate Japan)writer: Sumisawa Katsuyuki (Ryu Knight, Gundam Wing, Naruto, Yakitate Japan). Takahashi Rumiko (mangaka).animation: Sunrise. chara-des: Hishinuma Yoshihito. animation supervisor: Hishinuma Yoshihito.sound director: Tsuruoka Yota. music: Wada Kaoru (D. Gray Man, Gilgamesh, Inuyasha, Princess Tutu).forum. 13+?eps.sat 03 octSeiken no Blacksmith(jp: 聖剣の刀鍛冶���ブラックスミス���)shounen fantasy adventureAfter a great war, the devils' power was sealed. Later, a young noblewoman knight, Cecily Campbell, is looking for a blacksmith who can repair the sword she inherited from her father. She comes upon a young blacksmith who despatches a gang of hoodlums with one sweep of his own mysterious sword. And their adventure begins. Based on a boys' light novel series by Isao Miura.Good cast: Fujimura Ayumi (Ayano in Kaze no Stigma), Okamoto Nobuhiko (Layfon in Regios), Toyoguchi Megumi, Toyosaki Aki (Yui in K-On). I'm not so sure about the director (Pokemon, Linebarrels) and the writer (Shuffle, Kanokon). Animation by Manglobe (Ergo Proxy, Michiko to Hatchin).Shounen fans are highly optimistic about this one, but the staff makes me pessimistic. To say nothing of the fact that this isn’t a genre I love. Worth a look, however.seiyuus: Fujimura Ayumi (Ayano/Kaze no Stigma, Kyouka/Kyouran Kazoku), Okamoto Nobuhiko (Yorito/sola, Layfon/Regios), Toyoguchi Megumi (Revy/Black Lagoon, Klan/MacrossF), Toyosaki Aki (Yui/K-On).director: Hidaka Masamitsu (Pokemon, Linebarrels)writer: Suzuki Masashi (Shuffle, Kanokon, Minami-ke Okawari). Miura Isao (novels).animation: Manglobe (Ergo Proxy, Michiko to Hatchin production). chara-des: Runa (orig), Nakai Jun (Tokyo Majin).sound director: Yano Satoshi (recording engineer RahXephon, Blood+, Shangri-la). music: Terashima Tamiya (Glass Mask, Jyuushin Enbu). OP Gotou Mayumi, ED Toyosaki Aki..trailer. subs: Saikyo, Nuke, Kesenai?,Koharubi. forum. 12?eps.sat 03 oct 09:30Shugo Chara Party!(jp: しゅごキャラパーティー���)The third Shugo Chara series will be part anime and part live-action. The show will contain three elements: the continued anime, known as Shugo Chara DokkiDoki; some anime shorts known as Shugo Chara Pucchi Puchi; and some live-action.The live-action will be interesting, as will the fact that the OP will be sung by the Shugo Chara Egg teen idol group, whose final member is being chosen by open audition.seiyuus: Itou Kanae, Katou Nanae, Toyosaki Aki, Takagi Reiko, Miyake Kaya, Nakamura Yuuichi, Sawashiro Miyuki, Mizuki Nana, Chiba Saeko.director: Yasuda Kenjiwriter: Ohnogi Hiroshi. Peach-Pit (orig).animation: Satellite. chara-des: Sai Fumihide.OP Shugo Chara Egg!subs: Crunchyroll?.sat 03 oct 09:30Tegami Bachi(jp: テガミバチ)heartwarming fantasy dramaLittle-known special from late last year gets an anime series. Outstanding cast stars Sawashiro Miyuki, Fujimura Ayumi, Fukuyama Jun, Konishi Katsuyuki, Koshimizu Ami.New director, a writer who did work on Death Note and I"s Pure, animation by Kanbe Mamoru (director of Elfen Lied, I"s Pure, Denpateki na Kanojo) for Studio Pierrot. From a manga.Last year's special can be seen here. I liked the special and am looking forward to this. Music by Kunihiko Ryou (Twelve Kingdoms, Saiunkoku, Emma)seiyuus: Sawashiro Miyuki, Fujimura Ayumi, Fukuyama Jun, Konishi Katsuyuki, Koshimizu Ami, Nagasawa Naomi, Nakai Kazuya, Kishio Daisuke, Suganuma Hisayoshi, Mizuki Nana.director: Iwanaga Akira (new, work on I's Pure, Bleach, Gunslinger Girl)writer: Oishi Testsuya (work on Death Note, I's Pure). Asada Hiroyuki (mangaka).animation: Studio Pierrot. chara-des: Shiba Minako (D. Gray Man, Kuroshitsuji, Phantom). animation supervisor: Kanbe Mamoru (dir. Elfen Lied, I's Pure, Denpateki Kanojo).music: Kunihiko Ryou (Twelve Kingdoms, Saiunkoku, Emma). OP Suga Shikao, ED Himeka.trailer. forum. subs: Last Impressions, Mochi, Kesenai. 13+eps.sat 03 oct 22:55Tentai Senshi Sunred 2(jp: 天体戦士サンレッド)seinen comedyTentai Senshi Sunred is a powerful, battle tested hero of many years. He has sold his super bike, which is seen in the opening credits. Now he smokes a lot, is effectively unemployed, and lives by the grace of his girlfriend, Kayoko Uchida. His arch enemies in the Evil Florsheim Army are still trying to take over the world. Under the direction of their local leader, Vamp, they help members of the community, run a cooking show, assist Kayoko Uchida whenever possible, and try to attack the ever powerful Sunred. A light parody of the Japanese hero general. (ann)Directed by new director Matsumoto Takehiko, under the supervision of original director Kishi Seji (dir. Seto no Hanayome). I've never watched this show, but it has some strong followers, and the comedy may work for you. I'll give it a go myself.seiyuus: Takagi Shun, Nabei Makiko, Louis LIII Yamada.director: Matsumoto Takehiko (new). chfdir: Kishi Seiji (dir. Galaxy Angelune, Seto no Hanayome)writer: Uezu Makoto (Utawarerumono, Seto no Hanayome, School Days, Akasaka).animation: AIC A.S.T.A.. chara-des: Morita Kazuaki (Seto no Hanayome, Sunred).music: Kakijima Shinji (Sunred). OP manzo.trailer. forum. subs: ANBU. 13+eps.sat 03 oct 23:30Yumeiro Pâtissière(jp: 夢色パティシエール)family shoujo cookingEarly Sunday morning show about a girl who wants to be the best pâtissière possible. Young Yuuki Aoi (Murasaki in Kure-nai) gets her second starring role of the fall.Director Suzuki Ko has been around a long time, but has only directed one show previously: a 1997 OVA called Princess Rouge. Writer Yamada Takashi, however, did Onegai My Melody and Marie & Gali.seiyuus: Yuuki Aoi, Okamoto Nobuhiko, Taketatsu Ayana, Hamazoe Shinya, Yonaga Tsubasa.director: Suzuki Kouwriter: Yamada Takashi (Onegai My Melody, Marie & Gali). Matsumoto Natsumi.animation: Pierrot. chara-des: Akiyama Yukiko.sound director: Tanaka Kazuya.forum. 13?eps.sun 04 oct 07:00Sora no Otoshimono(jp: そらのおとしもの)comic ecchi sci-fi romantic fantasyTomoki loves his peaceful life in a country town, but a strange girl often enters his dreams, asking for his help. One night, a buxom angel suddenly falls on him from the sky. She turns out to be an "entertainment purpose angeloid" -- and his peaceful life is done. I've read some of the manga, and it is ecchi comic fantasy, but with some interesting sci-fi ideas, too, and a bit of romance.Director Saitou Hisashi did Bamboo Blade and the little-known but hilarious Kigurumikku.Great cast features Hayami Saori, Takagaki Ayahi, and Hoshi Souichirou. Hayamin's popularity is growing quickly with her performance in the virally popular new DS dating game Love Plus.Takagaki Ayahi's career seems to be catching up with her talent. She co-stars in this show and stars in Sasameki Koto. Her range of voice and acting keeps growing.This show sounds a lot like Sekirei on the surface, but the manga doesn’t feel at all the same.seiyuus: Hoshi Souichirou (Kei/Onegai Teacher, Kaoru/Ai yori Aoshi, Kira/GundamSD), Hayami Saori, Nomizu Iori, Takagaki Ayahi, Mina, Suzuki Tatsuhisa (Tezuka/Library War).director: Saitou Hisashi (Bamboo Blade, Kigurumikku v3)writer: Kakihara Yuuko (Kamichama Karin, Stitch!). Minazuki Suu (manga).animation: AIC A.S.T.A.. chara-des: Watanabe Yoshihiro (Yoakena).OP Yoshida Hitomi.trailer. forum. subs: Nekomimi, Hitode/Genjo, Mochi. 12?eps.sun 04 oct 24:00Kanokon ~Manatsu no Daishanikusai~(jp: かのこん ���真夏の大謝肉祭���)ecchi comedy, romance, supernaturalSummertime. More nudity and over-the-top ecchiness. Director Ootsuki Atsushi hit gold with Kanokon as his first directing job, and now gets this new two-episode OVA series. Maybe not the most artistic anime ever, but championship-caliber fanservice.seiyuus: Kawasumi Ayako, Noto Mamiko, Takeuchi Miyu (Nozomu, Aldra/Queen's Blade), Miyazaki Ui (Kirino/Gift, Suzuho/Macademi), Saitou Chiwa, Seto Saori (many bit parts since 2005), Toyonaga Toshiyuki (Ayumu/Zettai Shounen, Kaname/Umisho).director: Ootsuki Atsushi (Kanokon was his debut)writer: Suzuki Masashi (Shuffle, Gift, Minamike Okawari). Nishino Katsumi (manga).animation: Xebec (Fafner, Major, Pandora Hearts, To LoveRu). chara-des: Koin (orig), Takami Akio (Shaman King, Busou Renkin, Kanokon). animation supervisor: Takami Akio (Shaman King, Busou Renkin).sound director: Nakajima Toshihiko (Kemonozume, Rideback). music: Itou Tsuyoshi. OP Sakakibara Yui, ED Miyazaki Ui.trailer. forum. subs: Ayako?. OVA. 1/2eps. TV preview showing 4oct, 11oct; DVD 25nov, 22dec.sun 04 oct 25:00Natsu no Arashi 2(jp: 夏のあらし���春夏冬中)romantic comedy with time travelAnother quality show from Shinbou Akiyuki, but one whose recent first season never quite reeled me in.Sanpei Yuuko does an excellent job as a shounen. Nazuka Kaori is as ethereal as ever as a German girl.Writer Takayama Katsuhiko adapted both ef shows.Worth a look.seiyuus: Shiraishi Ryouko, Sanpei Yuuko, Omigawa Chiaki, Nazuka Kaori, Nabatami Hitomi, Horie Yui, Nonaka Ai, Sugita Tomokazu, Yasumoto Hiroki.director: Shinbou Akiyukiwriter: Takayama Katsuhiko (both efs, Hantsuki). Kobayashi Jin (mangaka).animation: Shaft. chara-des: Ota Kazuhiro (Negima, PaniPoni).OP Yakushimaru Etsuko.trailer. forum. subs: SFW, Crunchyroll?. 13eps.sun 04 oct 25:30Miracle Train: Ooedo-sen e Youkoso(jp: ミラクル☆トレイン���大江戸線へようこそ���)bishounen comedyAnime adaptation of the Miracle Train multimedia franchise, which portrays stops on Tokyo’s Chuo commuter train line as handsome young men.Now, that sounds just weird, except for all the bishounen. But wait a minute: who's the director? Kasai Kenichi, the director of Nodame Cantabile, Honey & Clover, KimiKiss and Aoi Hana? Are you kidding?After the stunningly simple and subtle direction of Aoi Hana, I can’t wait to see what Kasai can do with this odd setup, clearly made possible by the success of Hetalia Axis Powers.seiyuus: Kenn, Sugita Tomokazu, Okiayu Ryoutarou, Ono Daisuke, Kaji Yuuki, Morita Masakazu.director: Kasai Kenichi (Aoi Hana, KimiKiss, Nodame Cantabile, Honey & Clover)writer: Kato Yoichi (script work TM8, Shangri-la).animation: Yumeta (NeoAngelique, Corda D'Oro, Harukanaru). chara-des: Kai Tomohisa, Tsunaki Aki. animation supervisor: Tsunaki Aki (Harukanaru, Yu-Gi-Oh).sound director: Watanabe Jun (Pumpkin Scissors, KimiAru, Hayate).trailer. forum. 12+eps.sun 04 oct 26:00Shin Koihime†Musō: Otome Ryōran Sangokushi Engi(jp: 真・恋姫†無双 ���乙女繚乱☆三国志演義���)ecchi-yuri historical fantasySurprisingly successful yuri parody of Three Kingdoms gets another series. Director Nakanishi Nobuaki did the hilarious Kashimashi and Sumomomomomo. Writer Go Zappa did the rather poor Chocotto Sister and Myself;Yourself. Together they produced a first season that was entertaining for most of its run and which had some hilarious moments, as well as lots of ecchi-yuri ones.The seiyuu are largely game seiyuu, the same ones who voiced the original ero-game.seiyuus: Gotou Mai (Mai/Yoakena, Mizuki/ef), Kurokawa Nami (Raika/Demonbane, Tamaki/DCSS), Nishizawa Hiroka (Asa/Sora no Iro), Narumi Erika (Kagami/Lamune), Motoi Emi (Naoko/CCS), Kobayashi Maki, Amamiya Yuu (Chiharu/KimiAru).director: Nakanishi Nobuaki (Kashimashi, Sumomomo Momomo, Koihime Musou)writer: Go Zappa (Chocotto Sister, Myself;Yourself; Koihime Musou). BaseSon (original game).animation: DogaKobo. chara-des: Hiratsuka Tomoya (Myself;Yourself), Oshima Miwa (Hit wo Nerae, Love Love, Koihime Musou). animation supervisor: Hiratsuka Tomoya (Myself;Yourself), Oshima Miwa (Love Love; Koihime Musou).trailer. forum. subs: Ayako?, AnimeOne/Menclave? 12?eps.mon 05 oct 11:30. ep1 preview broadcast oct1.Anyamaru Tantei Kiruminzuu(jp: あにゃまる探偵 キルミンずぅ)magical girl comedyIn this "heartwarming comedy," three cute sisters come across a mysterious cosmetics compact in an attic. With it, the girls go from cosplay to a magical transformation into real animals. And start solving mysteries.Stars young Yuuki Aoi, who was Murasaki in Kurenai. Project developed by Kawamori Shoji, the creator of Macross. Directed by Masui Soichi, director of Scrapped Princess. As childish as it appears to be, this show may have something going for it.seiyuus: Yuuki Aoi (Murasaki/Kurenai), Satou Satomi (Ritsu/K-On), Anzai Chika, Tamura Mutsumi (Toppa/Battle Spirits Shounen Toppa), Ikebe Kumiko, Tange Sakura (Sakura/CCS), Nojima Kenji (Haruhiko/Touka Gettan, Masaki/Eve no Jikan), Neya Michiko (Honey/Cutie Honey, Melissa Mao/FMP, Riza Hawkeye/FMA1).director: Masui Soichi (Scrapped Princess, storyboards for Soul Eater, Edo Rocket, Melody Oblivion)writer: Kawamori Shoji (creator; dir. Macrosses, Aquarion, created Basquash). Matsuda Eriko (Itazura na Kiss eps), Yuuki Yousuke.animation: Hal, Satelight, JM. chara-des: Aizawa Sumie (dir. eps of Kemeko).sound director: Gotou Masahiro. 13?eps.mon 05 oct 17:30Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu: Purezza(jp: 乃木坂春香の秘密 ぴゅあれっつぁ♪)moe comedyIn the first series, our protagonist discovered that school princess Nogizaka Haruka was actually a secret otaku. He kept her secret and they became boy friend and girl friend. Based on a series of light novels.Good cast stars Noto Mamiko. The first series was funny, moe, and slightly ecchi. I spent a lot of time defending it on AnimeSuki. But it didn’t really have enough to it to last a full season, so I'm not sure it has much to give us in a second season.Director Nawa Munenori did Otome wa Boku ni Koi wo Shiteru. The writer who adapted the novels for anime (Tsuyoshi Tamai) did the same for Inukami.seiyuus: Noto Mamiko, Hatano Wataru (Shuuichi/Monochrome), Gotou Mai, Satou Rina, Shimizu Kaori, Ueda Kana, Matsuki Miyu, Nabatame Hitomi, Kugimiya Rie.director: Nawa Munenori (DCSS, Otoboku)writer: Tsuyoshi Tamai (Inukami).animation: Diomedea (formerly Studio Barcelona). chara-des: Ishino Satoshi (Puni Puni Poemi); Shaa (orig).OP Milan Himemiya and Chocolate Rockers. ED N's.trailer. forum. subs: m33w, Aquastar? 12?eps.mon 05 oct 26:14Kobato(jp: こばと)young shoujo romantic adventureClamp arrives again, in full regalia, with writing by Ohkawa Nanase and Yokote Michiko. The director of Chi's Sweet Home gets a chance with human characters.Kobato is a sweet and perky girl, but extremely naïve about the world. She has a mission to fill a mysterious bottle with the suffering from people's hearts so her wish to go a certain place can be granted. However, she must not fall in love with a particular boy she works with and whose heart she must heal….Hanazawa Kana sounds perfect for the lead. Sakamoto Maaya does the OP and Nakajima Megumi the ED.seiyuus: Hanazawa Kana, Inada Tetsu (Kurogane/Tsubasa), Maeno Tomoaki, Orikasa Fumiko, Kuwashima Houko, Nakajima Megumi, Miki Shinichirou, Saitou Chiwa.director: Masuhara Mitsuyuki (Chi's Sweet Home/New Address)writer: Ohkawa Nanase (CCS, Xxxholic). Yokote Michiko (Princess Tutu, Genshiken, Valkyria Chr.).animation: Madhouse. chara-des: Kato Hiromi (Needless, dir. Beck). animation supervisor: Tazaki Satoshi (Rideback).sound director: Mima Masafumi, Nakajima Toshihiko. music: Hama Takeshi. OP Sakamoto Maaya, ED Nakajima Megumi.forum. subs: ACG/The14th, gg?, Generation NeXt, Yuurisan. 24eps.tue 06 oct 20:00Kimi ni Todoke(jp: 君に届け)shoujo romanceKuronuma Sawako’s one wish in life is to make friends. That’s a difficult proposition when everyone who meets her cowers in terror at her dark expression and strange manner. The class nicknames her Sadako (as in The Ring). She admires her classmate Kazehaya-kun, a popular, easygoing and "100% refreshing" guy who is nice to everyone, even her. (ann)Voted best shoujo manga of 2008. Director Kaburaki Hiro gets his first full anime, after having done episodes of NHK. Writer Kanparu Tomoko has a longer resume: she wrote Nodame Cantabile and Genji Sennenki, among many other shows.Noto Mamiko and Namikawa Daisuke play the leads, and are surrounded with a stunning supporting cast including Sanpei Yuuko, Sawashiro Miyuki, Nakamura Yuuichi, and Hirano Aya.I love the manga, and I’ll be right there for the start of this show.seiyuus: Noto Mamiko, Namikawa Daisuke (Rock/Black Lagoon), Sanpei Yuuko (Nakiami/Xam'd), Sawashiro Miyuki, Nakamura Yuuichi (Tomoya/Clannad), Hirano Aya.director: Kaburaki Hiro (Welcome to NHK storyboards and epdir)writer: Kanparu Tomoko (Nodame Cantabile, Genji Sennenki). Shiina Karuho (mangaka).animation: Production IG. chara-des: Shibata Yuka (key animator).sound director: Yamada Tomoaki (Death Note, Real Drive).forum. subs: Frostii?, Formula? 12?eps.tue 06 oct 24:59Today in Class 5-2 -- Takarabako(jp: 今日の5の2 宝箱���仮���)ecchi heartwarming grade-school comedyThe ecchi grade-school comedy gets another OVA. Only occasionally funny, for me, and sometimes a bit too loli-ecchi even for my liberal taste.seiyuus: Kobayashi Yu (Setsuna/Negima, Mriya/MariaHolic), Shimoda Asami (Ameri/Tayutama), Asumi Kana (Yuno/Hidamari, Marin/Umi Monogatari), Akesaka Satomi (Miho/Suzuka, Nanonano/Galaxy Angelune), Honda Youko (Itsuka/Uta-kata), Takagaki Ayahi (Noe/true tears), Mako (Yurie/Kamichu), Yamato Megumi.director: Nagasawa Tsuyoshi (new)writer: Kouno Takamitsu (Lamune, Ayakashi). Sakuraba Koharu (mangaka).animation: Xebec. chara-des: Chikaoka Nao (Minami-ke).sound director: Kameyama Toshiki (Nanoha, Red Garden, MariaHolic). music: Haneoka Kai (Negima, Himawari).trailer. forum. OVA. sold with a special collection of the manga.sun 06 oct 25:30ToHeart2 adplus(jp: ToHeart2 adplus)moe romantic comedyThe second and final episode of another OVA in the perennially just-popular-enough ToHeart franchise. If nothing else, these shows give Ochiai Yurika some work.And I must admit that they can be enjoyable, lame as they may seem. Of course, their main function is to provide a firm foundation for continuing streams of ancillary goods.Director Sakata Junichi is a long-time storyboarder (NANA, Inukami) who directed Kaze no Stigma. This is his first ToHeart show. (Moonphase and jp.Wikipedia say the director is Katou Yasuhisa. My info is from the official site.)seiyuus: Sakurai Hiromi, Yamakawa Kotomi, Hagiwara Emiko, Ochiai Yurika, Itou Shizuka, Honda Chieko, Natsuki Rio, Ono Ryouko, Kogure Ema.director: Sakata Junichi (Kaze no Stigma, storyboards for Nana, Inukami, etc.).writer: Kobayashi Naruo, Kouno Takamitsu, Sakurajima Eki (? 桜島液).animation: Aquaplus/Chaos Project. chara-des: Yanagisawa Masahide, Katsura Keiichirou, Katou Yasuhisa; Mitsumi Miri, Kawata Hisami.. animation supervisor: Yanagisawa Masahide (ToHeart2, Bottle Fairy).trailer. forum. OVA. 2/2eps.wed 07 octCheburashka Arere?(jp: チェブラーシカ あれれ���)kidsBased on the Russian "national character" Cheburashka. From Eduard Uspensky's story about a mysterious creature who gets accidentally transported to Russia in a box of oranges.The second production -- after Princess Lover -- for new studio GoHands.Star Oohashi Nozomi is only ten years old. She made her debut at the age of three starring in a drama. At eight, she sang the title theme to Ghibli's Ponyo.Director Kudou Susumu did the underrated ecchi comedy KimiAru. Writer Shimada Michiru did Shugo Chara and Konnichiwa Anne. Good staff gives this show possibilities.seiyuus: Oohashi Nozomi (ten years old), Tsuchida Hiroshi (Yamazaki/Honey & Clover), Chou (Mine's father/Nodame Cantabile).director: Kudou Susumu (Koisuru Tenshi Angelique, KimiAru)writer: Shimada Michiru (Shugo Chara, Konnichiwa Anne). supervising editor: Nakamura Makoto (lead writer Noramimi, Princess Lover).animation: GoHands (Princess Lover). chara-des: Kishida Takahiro (Lain, Koi Kaze, Baccano).subs: II-Subs? 26x3mineps.wed 07 oct 07:30Sasameki Koto(jp: ささめきこと)yuri school romanceSumika is in love with her friend Ushio, but Ushio only shows interest in cutesy girls, and Sumika is a tall karate star who helps run her family's dojo. She is forced to watch from the sidelines as Ushio falls for girl after girl, none of them her. So far.Takagaki Ayahi as Sumika is a big draw for me. Takamoto Megumi, Katou Emiri, Saitou Chiwa, and 16-year-old Shimizu Ayaka are also in the cast.Director Suganuma Eiji did a good job with Kodomo no Jikan, and writer Kurata Hideyuki wrote ROD the TV and Kannagi.The manga is not at the level of Aoi Hana, but is still funny and touching.seiyuus: Takagaki Ayahi (Noe/true tears, Ein/Phantom), Takamoto Megumi (Chao Rinshen/Negima, Misaki/White Album), Katou Emiri (Kagami/Lucky Star, Mayoi/Bakemonogatari), Shimizu Ayaka (age 16?), Harada Hitomi, Saitou Chiwa, Makiguchi Mayuki.director: Suganuma Eiji (Kodomo no Jikan)writer: Kurata Hideyuki (ROD the TV, Kannagi). Ikeda Takashi (mangaka).animation: AIC. chara-des: Inomata Masami.sound director: Iwanami Yoshikazu (Marimite, Kanamemo). OPED Kiyoura Natsumi.forum. subs: Chihiro. 12?eps.wed 07 oct 26:20Darker than Black: Ryuusei no Gemini(jp: DARKER THAN BLACK -流星の双子(ジェミニ)-)mystery violence science fictionSecond season of Okamura Tensai's dark sci-fi adventure. I enjoyed the first series, and now Hanazawa Kana and Kuwashima Houko join the cast.Hei and Yin are now on the run after betraying the Syndicate in the previous season. After leaving Japan, Hei encounters Suou Pavlichenko (Hanazawa), a 13-year-old Eurasian girl embroiled in the war and politics of various factions vying for power.Meanwhile, Hell's Gate remains standing in Tokyo, after Hei's efforts to stop the Saturn Ring anti-Gate particle weapon from activating. Although Contractors are safe from the danger of having their existences erased, this does not prevent new and old Contractors from abusing their powers.As Misaki Kirihara and her team in the Public Security Bureau deal with increasing numbers of Contractor cases, she also has to keep at bay the Syndicate, which has major positions in the Japanese police and intelligence bureaus around the world. (ann)seiyuus: Kiuchi Hidenobu (Ren/NANA), Hanazawa Kana, Kuwashima Houko, Hori Katsunosuke, Matsukaze Masaya, Miyake Kenta, Saiga Mitsuki, Mizuki Nana (not mentioned on official site).director: Okamura Tensai (Wolf's Rain)writer: Yoshino Hiroyuki (My-Hime, Macross F), Okada Mari (true tears, Canaan). also Onishi Shinsuke (The Third), Suga Shoutarou (scripts GITS:SAC, Eureka 7, etc.).animation: Bones. chara-des: Iwahara Yuji, Komori Takahiro (Angelic Layer, Scrapped Princess). animation supervisor: Komori Takahiro (also RahXephon, Wolf's Rain).sound director: Wakabayashi Kazuhiro (Escaflowne, Princess Mononoke, Eureka 7). music: Ishii Yasunori.trailer. forum. subs: Koharubi, Yoroshi?, Anime-Devils?, FTV?, BSS? 12?eps.thu 08 oct 25:25Gokyoudai Monogatari(jp: ご姉弟物語)comedyFrom the award-winning comic manga (Baka Kyoudai "Idiot Siblings") about twins who are like the mascots of a shopping street in lower Tokyo.Great starring cast of Matsuoka Yuki and Kobayashi Yumiko as the twins, with Ohara Sayaka as the woman who looks after them in the absence of their parents.One season of about 13 weeks. Staff not yet announced. The setup and especially the cast make this intriguing.seiyuus: Matsuoka Yuki, Kobayashi Yumiko, Ohara Sayaka.writer: Adachi Tetsu (mangaka of Baka Kyoudai).one season of about 13 episodes.sat 10 oct 11:20Aoi Bungaku(jp: 青い文学)Anime adaptations of four literary masterpieces: Soseki Natsume's Kokoro (character design by mangaka Obata Takeshi of Death Note), Dazai Osamu's No Longer Human (charades by Obata), Akutagawa Ryunosuke's Hell Screen (charades by Bleach creator Kubo Taito), and Dazai's Run, Melos! (charades by Prince of Tennis mangaka Konomi Takeshi).Good writing is a great foundation. I will definitely be thre to see how they can adapt these classic novels to about three episodes each. No more staff info and no cast info available.12eps.sat 10 oct 25:20Fairy Tail(jp: フェアリーテイル)shounen comic adventureStory follows a teenaged girl named Lucy Heartfilia who aims to join the world's most notorious mage guild, Fairy Tail. During a daring rescue, Lucy encounters Natsu "Salamander" Dragneel, a quirky Fairy Tail member and practitioner of the ancient Dragon Slayer magic. Lucy is eventually welcomed into the Fairy Tail guild as she, Natsu, and other members go on various quests. (ann)Long-running manga could become a long-running anime. Hirano Aya scores her sixth role of the fall, three of them starring. Kugimiya Rie, Kakihara Tetsuya, Nakamura Yuuichi, Ohara Sayaka -- what's not to like? We'll see what the director of Tokyo Majin can do with this shounen comic classic.seiyuus: Kakihara Tetsuya (Simon/Gurren Lagann), Hirano Aya (Haruhi), Kugimiya Rie (Shana), Nakamura Yuuichi (Alto/MacrossF), Ohara Sayaka (Alicia/ARIA).director: Ishihira Shinji (Tokyo Majin)writer: Sogo Masashi (Gantz, Bleach, Snow Queen). Mashima Hiro (mangaka).animation: A-1/Satelight. chara-des: Yamamoto Aoi 山本碧 (key animator).forum. subs: Kubu, Kyuubi, Generation NeXt, I Eat Anime, Koharubi, SFW. 13++?eps.mon 12 oct 19:30Kaidan Restaurant(jp: 怪談レストラン)kids supernatural"School horror" show based on a series of kids' books that has sold seven million copies since 1996.Magic, monsters, and versions of stories of the supernatural from Japan and around the world.series dir: Ikeda Youko (eps. of One Piece, Yu-Gi-Oh)writer: Yonemura Shoji (Guin Saga, Stitch, Glass Fleet). chief editor: Matsutani Myoko.animation: Toei. "drawing" by: Takai Yoshikazu and Katou Kumiko.tue 13 oct 19:30Kiddy Girl-And(jp: キディーガーランド)space adventure w/moeGotou Keiji is back, with his wife Kadonosono Megumi doing the character design, and Kimura Hidefumi doing the writing, as they did for Kiddy Grade, Uta-Kata, and Gigantic Formula.The story is set in Star Century year 0379, two centuries after the original Kiddy Grade anime and about five centuries from now. The spirited Ascoeur and serious Q-feuille work for the galactic government known as GTO. The two girls are training to become secret agents. (ann)New seiyuus Uchida Aya and Gouda Aya are backed up by Mizuhashi Kaori, Kiddy Grade seiyuus Hirano Aya and Nagata Ryouko, and names like Fukuyama Jun, Yukana, and Matsuoka Yuki.Animation producer Kaneko Fumio did Sketchbook. OP by Chihara Minori.The stories may or may not end up working for me (Uta-kata came closest, for me), but I will always watch the first couple of eps of any Gotoh Keiji show.seiyuus: Uchida Aya (Chikara/Munto2), Gouda Aya, Mizuhashi Kaori (Ogiue/Genshiken), Takizawa Itsuki, Nagata Ryouko (Éclair), Hirano Aya (Lumiere), Yukana, Matsuoka Yuki, Fukuyama Jun.director: Gotoh Keijiwriter: Kimura Hidefumi, gimik (orig).animation: Satelight. chara-des: Kadonosono Megumi. animation supervisor: Kaneko Fumio (Sketchbook).sound director: Satou Junichi (dir. ARIA). OP Chihara Minori. forum.thu 15 oct 24:40Kuuchuu Buranko(jp: 空中ブランコ)uncategorizable josei/seinen?The team that did Mononoke returns with an anime adaptation of Hideo Okuda’s award-winning 2004 novel. The 17th Noitamina presentation.Features the eccentric psychiatrist Irabu Ichirou and his various patients: the disturbed trapeze artist, the obsessive-compulsive neurologist, the professional baseball player who is incapacitated by nervousness. Their neuroses are matched only by their bewilderment at the therapist's eccentricities.One of the most anticipated shows of the season, for good reason.seiyuus: Paku Romi, Mitsuya Yuji (von Kummel/LoGH), Morikawa Toshiyuki, Sakurai Takahiro, Miki Shinichirou.director: Nakamura Kenji (Ayakashi, Mononoke)writer: Ishikawa Manabu (Mononoke screenplay). Okuda Hideo (orig).animation: Toei. chara-des: Hashimoto Toshifumi. animation supervisor: Hashimoto Toshifumi (Mononoke, Karas).sound director: Nagasaki Yukio (Itazura na Kiss, Dragon Ball Kai). music: Mori Hideharu (Yawara, Ranma).forum. 11eps.thu 15oct 24:45Winter Sonata(jp: 冬のソナタ)shoujo/josei romanceThe huge drama hit gets an anime series. Largely Korean production, with some Japanese input. Most of the original Korean actors do the voices.Get out your handkerchiefs. I know I'll be getting out mine. One of the shows I most look forward to this fall.seiyuus: Bae Yong-joon, Choi Ji-woo.director: Yoon Suk-howriter: Kim Hyon-wan (sp?).animation: G&G Entertainment×JM Animation. chara-des: draft by Nakayama Daisuke (studio realthing, ex-Studio 4 degrees C).sound director: Yu He-jyun (sp?).trailer. forum. subs: Koharubi, Saikyo, Live-Evil. 26eps.sat 17 oct 12:00Hidamari Sketch x 365(jp: ひだまりスケッチ×365)slice-of-life comedyThere's a new series coming, but first, here is a two-episode OVA of another of Shinbou's many successful franchises.seiyuus: Asumi Kana, Mizuhashi Kaori, Gotou Yuuko, Shintani Ryouko, Matsuki Miyu, Kugimiya Rie, Sawashiro Miyuki, Chou, Fukuen Misato.director: Shinbou Akiyuki.writer: Hasegawa Nahoko (Hidamari1). Aoki Ume (mangaka).animation: Shaft. chara-des: Itou Yoshiaki (Hidamari, Gakuen Alice). animation supervisor: Itou Yoshiaki (Hidamari, Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei).sound director: Kameyama Toshiuki (MoonPhase, Red Garden, Nanoha Strikers). music: Kikuya Tomoki (Potemayo, Kyouran Kazoku). OP seiyuu, ED marble.trailer. forum. subs: SoonSubs?, WinD?. OVA. 1/2eps. part 1 oct17, part 2 oct24sat 17 oct 24:30Mahoromatic: Tadaima Okaeri(jp: まほろまてぃっく ただいま◇おかえり)ecchi comedy sci-fi romanceAfter a six-year hiatus, here is a two-episode OVA of the automatic maiden, one of Kawasumi Ayako's signature roles.The staff of the OVAs (but not the original series) returns, with the exception of an interesting new writer: Urahata Tatsuhiko, who wrote Monster, Strawberry Panic, and Saki.Mangaka Ditama Bow also did kissxsis.seiyuus: Kawasumi Ayako, Shimizu Ai, Takimoto Fujiko, Kikuchi Yumi, Mizuno Manabi, Sanada Asami, Ogihara Hideki, Kisaichi Atsushi, Koyasu Takehito.director: Saeki Shouji (FLCL, Ugly Beautiful World, He is My Master)writer: Urahata Tatsuhiko (Monster, Strawberry Panic, Saki).animation: Gainax. chara-des: Ditama Bow (manga), Takamura Kazuhiko (Mahoromatic, Ugly Beautiful, dir. Strike Witches). animation supervisor: Takamura Kazuhiko (Mahoromatic, Ugly Beautiful, dir. Strike Witches).sound director: Iwanami Yoshikazu (Marimite, Kanamemo, etc.). music: Masuda Toshio (Naruto, Mushi-shi, Ai yori Aoshi). OP Kawasumi Ayako, ED seiyuus.forum. OVA. 2eps.sat 17 oct 25:00 ep2 oct24Kemono to Chat(jp: けものとチャット)family comicAdaptation of Takayuki Mizushina's Kemono to Chat ("Chatting with Creatures") comic-strip manga.The story centers on high-school freshman Kenomoto Chacha, a girl who can understand the language of cats and speak with them.Brilliant cast stars Sakamoto Maaya, Ueda Kana, and Yahagi Sayuri. This is the director's first anime, but he is apparently well known for 3DCG design.seiyuus: Sakamoto Maaya, Ueda Kana, Yahagi Sayuri.director: Umoto Yuujiwriter: Mizushina Takayuki (creator).animation: Usagi.Ou (founded in April 2008).OVA. 1/1eps.23 octShakugan no Shana S(jp: 灼眼のシャナS)shounen supernatural adventure w/moeThis four-episode OVA will be followed by what is supposed to be one final Shana series. One of the great shounen franchises of the past few years, but I have never liked it much, myself.seiyuus: Kugimiya Rie, Hino Satoshi.director: Watanabe Takashi (Shana)writer: Kobayashi Yasuko (Claymore, Casshern Sins, Shana). Takahashi Yashichirou (novel).animation: JC Staff. chara-des: Itou Noizi (orig; Shana, Haruhi, Nanatsuiro Drops), Otsuka Mai (Shana).sound director: Aketagawa Jin (Genshiken, Ichigo mashimaro, Nodame Cantabile). music: Otani Kou (Haibane Renmei, Pumpkin Scissors, Shana). OPED Kawada Mami.trailer. forum. OVA. 1/4eps.23 octShoujo Fight(jp: 少女ファイト)sports, seinen"The story follows Neri Ooishi, a high school girl who is a talented volleyball player. She once was the captain of an elementary school team that went all the way to the national tournament. However, she spent three years as an alternate at a junior high school renowned for its volleyball program. Now she is in high school with new teammates, and she gets a chance to prove herself again. " (ann)Cast not yet announced, but it is supposed to be the same amazing group that did the drama CD: Mizuki Nana, Noto Mamiko, Watanabe Akeno, Kobayashi Yuu, Yukana, Ohara Sayaka, Yuzuki Ryouka, Kuwashima Houko, Nakamura Yuuichi, Suzumura Kenichi, Namikawa Daisuke, Fukuyama Jun, et al.writer: Nihonbashi Youko (manga and anime).animation: Production IG. OP BLiSTAR.OVA. 1/1eps. sold with v6 of manga.fri 23 octRomance of the Three Kingdoms(jp: 三國演義)historical adventureChina-Japan co-production is already being shown on Chinese TV. I've seen the first two episodes in Chinese, and it is a big, serious production, following the original novel fairly closely.The other end of the scale from Koihime Musou, and shows Liu Bei in a completely different way from Souten Kouro. Seems like the real thing, even though the approach is a bit old-fashioned.animation: Beijing Glorious Animation x Future Planet.trailer. subs: Huzzah?, FTV?. 52eps.octoberTo Love-Ru OVA(jp: OVA ToLOVEる)ecchi science fiction comedyModerately successful ecchi comedy gets yet another OVA. It appears that they will keep releasing them, one per manga volume, for at least two more volumes.A glamorous interstellar princess suddenly shows up naked in a teenage boy's room and decides he is to be her husband. Directed by the director of Busou Renkin and Rockman.EXE. Written by the lead writer for Blue Dragon, Busou Renkin, and Simoun.Outstanding cast features Tomatsu Haruka, Watanabe Akeno, and Yahagi Sayuri, as well as Koyasu Takehito. Tomatsu and Yahagi combine for the OP and ED.seiyuus: Watanabe Akeno, Tomatsu Haruka, Yahagi Sayuri, Arai Satomi, Koyasu Takehito, Hanazawa Kana, Kawasumi Ayako, Nazuka Kaori, Oura Fuyuka.director: Kato Takao (Busou Renkin, Rockman.EXE)writer: Yamatoya Akatsuki (Blue Dragon, Busou Renkin, Simoun).animation: Xebec.sound director: Mima Masafumi. OPED Tomatsu Haruka, Yahagi Sayuri.trailer. forum.OVA. 4/? eps. comes with v16 of manga. OVA5 w/v17 in feb.wed 04 nov 25:55Zan Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei - Bangaichi(jp: 懺・さよなら絶望先生)Another successful season begets another OVA series for what is now one of the most successful franchises of recent years. The world's most negative man teaches a class of fairly odd high-school girls. Hilarious, for those who like the style of humor.After his brush with death in a motorcycle accident near the end of recording Honey & Clover, Kamiya Hiroshi has come back to be one of the top male seiyuus of all, having won the award as best leading man of 2008 for this role and that of Natsume in Natsume Yuujinchou.seiyuus: Kamiya Hiroshi, Nonaka Ai, Inoue Marina, Tanii Asuka, Sanada Asami, Kobayashi Yuu, Sawashiro Miyuki, Gotou Yuuko, Shintani Ryouko.director: Shinbou Akiyukiwriter: Tou Fuyashi (Zoku Sayonara). Kumeta Kouji (orig).animation: Shaft. chara-des: Morioka Hideyuki. animation supervisor: Morioka Hideyuki (REC, D.Gray-man, Sayonara, MariaHolic).trailer. forum. OVA. 1/2eps. comes with v19 of manga.tue 17 novkissxsis(jp: kiss×sis)ecchi comedy with incestDVD comes with volume 5 of the extremely ecchi manga, about a high-school boy whose two (non-blood-related) sisters are constantly trying to get into his pants. Episode one, while not that well made, was as hilariously over the top as the manga. Borderline hentai.seiyuus: Takeuchi Ken, Taketatsu Ayana, Tatsumi Yuiko.director: Nawa Munenoriwriter: Ditama Bow (Mahoromatic, mangaka).animation: feel. chara-des: Shitaya Tomoyuki (Night Wizard). animation supervisor: Shitaya Tomoyuki; Masuda Kuniaki (Kanamemo).sound director: Kikuta Hiromi.trailer. forum. OVA. 2/2eps.fri 20 novAIKa ZERO(jp: AIKa ZERO)ecchi comedySecond episode of "the return of the legendary low-angle, sexy action anime in an all-new OVA series." In this story, set in a future world (mostly submerged under water), the 19-year-old Aika Sumeragi is going to college while training as an agent. (ann)This show is all legs, boobs and guns, with a bit of plot to hold it all together. But with wonderful voices: Koshimizu Ami, Noto Mamiko, Gotou Yuuko, and Takahashi Mikako, in particular.Lead writer Kanemaki Kenichi was lead writer on Natsume Yuujinchou, Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei, Jigoku Shoujo, Ai yori Aoshi, etc.Star Koshimzu Ami gets a chance to sing both the OP and the ED.seiyuus: Koshimizu Ami, Noto Mamiko, Fukuen Misato, Gotou Yuuko, Takahashi Mikako, Shimoda Asami, Ohtsuka Akio.director: Yamauchi Noriyasu (new, charades/animator)writer: Kanemaki Kenichi (Natsume Yuujinchou, Sayonara Zetsubou).animation: Studio Fantasia. chara-des: Yamauchi Noriyasu (Stratos 4, Najica Blitz Tactics). animation supervisor: Yamauchi Noriyasu.OPED Koshimizu Ami. trailer. forum. OVA 2/3eps. ep3 22 dec.tue 27 octDenpateki na Kanojo(jp: 電波的な彼女)mystery violence romanceI loved episode one. Hirohashi Ryou gave one of the best performances of 2009 as the weird girl who suddenly shows up and swears allegiance to the protagonist, just as a series of horrific murders is taking place.Director Kanbe Mamoru did Elfen Lied and I"s Pure. Writer Yoshino Hiroyuki did My-HiME and Macross Frontier.One of several OVAs this fall that are being sold with special editions of manga volumes. Sold with v4 of the Kure-nai manga (from a novel by the same author).seiyuus: Hirohashi Ryou, Hosoya Yoshimasa, Kobayashi Yu, Ueda Kana, Yoshizumi Kozue, Kitamura Eri, Nakahara Mai, Koshimizu Ami, Saiga Mitsuki.director: Kanbe Mamoru (Elfen Lied, I"s Pure)writer: Yoshino Hiroyuki (My-HiME, Macross Frontier). Katayama Kentarou (novel).animation: Brains Base. chara-des: Tanaka Chiyuki (animator), Yamamoto Yamato (orig).sound director: Shimizu Katsunori (Elfen Lied, Kite Liberator).trailer. forum. OVA. 2/2eps.fri 04 decAki-Sora(jp: あきそら)ecchi comedy romance with cross-dressing and incestSora has an older sister Aki and a younger twin sister Nami, They have grown up saying "I love you" to each other. But now that they are older, do they still mean it in the same way? Incest happens.The manga is, uh, stimulating, with relationships and ecchiness to the point of hentai. We'll see how the anime works out. If sex sells, this could be a big success.Kitamura Eri is a great start on the cast. Director Takahashi Takeo did the fir
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Show 82 concludes with Daryl's review of Bartender and Clarissa's review of One Outs. But first, a special voice mail from the ONE AND ONLY Vic Mignogna, who tells us all about his experience at Whack-a-Nerd at Anime Festival Orlando! Keep your eyes on our Youtube channel for possibly related material in the near future. Visit www.animeworldorder.com for full show notes and supplemental links.
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