This is the first season to make me really believe the cries of woe that have been coming from the anime industry for years. My list has only 17 new shows coming out in the first three months of next year. That compares with 36 shows in the same period this year.But there are some promising and/or eagerly awaited shows among them:Baka to Test to Shokanjuu is a school comedy based on a top-rated light novel, and it is directed by Oonuma Shin, who directed the two ef shows for Shaft. Because of him, this is at the top of my list.Dhurara is by the staff that made the underrated Baccano, and is based on a novel by the same author as that show. Dance in the Vampire Bund is Shinbou Akiyuki's next big thing after Bakemonogatari. It is based on a popular manga in which the loli-looking queen of the vampires pays off Japan's national debt in return for an urban island off Tokyo where her people can live.So Ra No Wo To is by the director of Elfen Lied and the writer of Macross Frontier, but appears to be more like ARIA in a Strike Witches setting, and with K-On character design.Nodame Cantabile: Finale ends that great series under the direction of Kon Chiaki, who directed Higurashi and the somewhat disappointing Nodame Paris. But it is written by the well-known playwright and novelist who wrote Gurren-Lagann.Katanagatari is the second of NisiOisiN's novels to be animated, after Bakemonogatari, and is therefore highly anticipated -- but it is done by the same staff that made School Days and Amenaideyo, so I personally have low expectations. Except for the wonderful art and character design you see above.Ookami Kakushi is a new seinen horror thriller from a game by Ryuukishi07, who created Higurashi.And starting in March, fans will have a new Gundam OVA series, Gundam Unicorn, with an interesting new/old look and written and directed by the men who made Chevalier D'Eon.And there are other shows that will appeal to various audiences. The following alphabetical list links to fuller descriptions of each show. The full descriptions are in order of first broadcast. For the first time this year I have included links to online scanlations of mangas. Also included are links to video previews of most shows, along with detailed staff and cast info, a story synopsis, and an image.// Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu     // Chuu Bra!!     // Dance In The Vampire Bund     // Dhurarara!!     // Hanamaru Youchien     // Haruka Naru Toki no Naka de 3: Owari Naki Unmei     // Hidamari Sketch X Hoshimittsu     // Kaitou Reinya     // Katanagatari     // Ladies versus Butlers!     // Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn     // Nodame Cantabile: Finale     // Omamori Himari     // Ookami Kakushi     // Seikon no Qwaser     // Sex Pistols     // So Ra No Wo ToNOTES:-- dates and times may change, and will be updated in my anime calendar, which should come out around the end of the year-- information from official sites, MoonPhase, AniDB, Anime News Network, Japanese Wikipedia, Who Subs What, et al.-- English titles link to an anime's Anime News Network page, Japanese titles to its official siteHaruka Naru Toki no Naka de 3: Owari Naki Unmei(jp: 遙かなる時空の中で3 終わりなき運命)reverse harem historical adventure fantasyAnother OVA based on the popular reverse-harem girls' adventure game set about a thousand years ago in Japan. Our heroine is a modern girl thrown back in time and involved in fighting leading up to the great civil war battle of Dan no Ura. But the situation is complicated by the presence of a friend from the present on the other side of the battle.Stars Kawakami Tomoko (Utena, Misuzu in AIR, Amber in Darker than Black, etc.), with a harem including Miki Shinichirou, Seki Tomokazu, etc.TV special airs 26 Dec.seiyuus: Kawakami Tomoko, Miki Shinichirou, Seki Tomokazu, Takahashi Naozumi, Miyata Kouki, Nakahara Shigeru, Inoue Kazuhiko, Hoshi Souichirou, Ishida Akira, Kuwashima Houko.director: Kimiya Shigeru (Hand Maid May OVA); chief dir Tsunaki Aki (Harukanaru)writer: Takamura Kouji (new).animation: Yumeta (NeoAngelique, Miracle Train). chara-des: Tsunaki Aki (Harukanaru, Miracle Train); orig Mizuno Touko (manga). art: Shibata Chikako (Rozen Maiden, Honey Clover, NeoAngelique).music: Hirano Yoshihisa (Beyblade, Death Note, Bantorra).manga.sun 03 jan 25:00 (DVD 24mar)Chuu Bra!!(jp: ちゅーぶら!!)seinen ecchi pantsuEducational show (lol) about a junior high school girl who has strong principles regarding underwear. In order to educate other students, she starts the "Underwear Club" at her school.Good cast stars Chihara Minori (Yuki in Haruhi), Yahagi Sayuri (Izumi in Hayate), Kotobuki Minako and Hikasa Youko (Tsumugi and Mio in K-On). The stars sing the OP and ED.Strange staff group for a show of this kind: the director of Gakuen Heaven and the writer of Saiunkoku and RomeoxJuliet.seiyuus: Chihara Minori, Kotobuki Minako (Tsumugi/K-On), Yahagi Sayuri, Hikasa Youko (Mio/K-On).director: Hiiro Yukina (Gakuen Heaven, Shikabane eps)writer: Yoshida Reiko (Marimite, K-On). Nakata Yumi (manga).animation: ZEXCS. chara-des: Yatsu Miyako (Idaten Jump).OPED seiyuus.manga. subs: Hatsuyuki?.mon 04 jan 23:30So Ra No Wo To(jp: ソ・ラ・ノ・ヲ・ト)moe slice-of-lifeSet in a "near distant"future in a land that, after years of war, has settled into decline. Kanata Kumika is a 15-year-old girl who fulfills her dream of enlisting in the army and joins a unit of five girls who protect a fortress that looms over a little village. The girls play music that reverberates across the skies over towns without people and seas without fish. Setting reportedly modelled on the Spanish city of Cuenca and the nearby Alarcón Fortress. (anidb)First in the "Anime no Chikara" series, produced by Aniplex and aired on TV Tokyo, supposedly to televise inventive new series.Director Kanbe Mamoru did Elfen Lied and Denpateki na Kanojo. Writer Yoshino Hiroyuki did Mai-Hime and -Otome, Macross Frontier and Denpateki na Kanojo, as well as this season's Dance in the Vampire Bund.Stars model/actress Aikawa Juri (also known as Kanemoto Hisako). Young Yuuki Aoi gets a second winter show (along with Vampire Bund). Kitamura Eri, Kobayashi Yuu, and Endou Aya also appear.Original character design by Mel Kishida has been simplified to look like K-On, and the situation is reminiscent of Strike Witches, but I don’t think this is like either of them. Has a chance to be quite good: may be more ARIA than K-On. OP and ED written by Kajiura Yuki, and performed by Kalafina (OP) and Tomatsu Haruka.seiyuus: Aikawa Juri (aka Kanemoto Hisako, actress/model), Kobayashi Yuu, Kitamura Eri, Yuuki Aoi, Endou Aya, Fukuen Misato, Ishizuka Unshou, Yasokawa Mayuno.director: Kanbe Mamoru (Elfen Lied, I"s Pure, Denpateki na Kanojo)writer: Yoshino Hiroyuki (Mai-HiME, Mai-Otome, Macross F, Denpateki na Kanojo). Paradores (orig).animation: A-1 Pictures (Kannagi, Birdy Decode, Fairy Tail). chara-des: Akai Toshifumi; Mel Kishida. art: Kai Masatoshi; Aoki Tomoyuki.music: Ooshima Michiru (Xamdo, FMA1). OP Kalafina, ED Tomatsu Haruka (both written by Kajiura Yuki).trailer. subs: pwq, Yuurisan-Subs & m.3.3.w, Chihiro, Hatsuyuki.13eps.mon 04 jan 25:30Seikon no Qwaser(jp: 聖痕のクェイサー)ecchi shounen action adventureAt St. Mihailov Academy, a Japanese Eastern Orthodox school, two students encounter many hardships until they find a mysterious silver-haired boy. The boy is a "quasar," a powerful being who derives power from sucking women's breast milk. Thus begins a shounen action adventure story involving lots of oppai fanservice and bloody violence.Stars the capable voice of Sanpei Yuuko (Nakiami in Xam'd, Renton in Eureka Seven, Hajime in Natsu no Arashi). Also features two of the K-On girls: Toyosaki Aki and Hikasa Youko, as well as two more seiyuu/singers: Hirano Aya and Chihara Minori. And two top seiyuu actresses: Kawasumi Ayako and Takagaki Ayahi. The creepy voice of Chiba Susumu (Scythe in Phantom) and the deep bell of Ookawa Tooru round out a stellar cast.Writer Uezu Makoto (School Days) is one of my least favorites, however. Director Hiraku Kaneko is doing her first show.seiyuus: Sanpei Yuuko, Fujimura Ayumi, Toyosaki Aki, Chihara Minori, Hirano Aya, Hikasa Youko (Mio/K-On), Kawasumi Ayako, Takagaki Ayahi, Chiba Susumu (Scythe/Phantom), Ookawa Tooru.director: Kaneko Hirakuwriter: Uezu Makoto. Yoshino Hiroyuki (manga story).animation: Taki (Godannar, Sonic the Hedgehog movie). chara-des: Uno Makoto; Satou Kenetsu (manga art). animation supervisor: Iijima Hiroya, Sugimoto isao.OP Faylan, ED seiyuus.trailer. manga. subs: Yuurisan-Subs.24eps.mon 04 jan 25:30Ladies versus Butlers!(jp: れでぃ×ばと!)seinen maids romantic comedyThe director of Kanokon and the writer of Strike Witches and Nogizaka Haruka team up for ecchi shenanigans in a high school that trains butlers and maids.Outstanding cast includes Kawasumi Ayako, Nakahara Mai, Koshimizu Ami, Kugimiya Rie, Gotou Mai, and 15-year-old Hidaka Rina (Last Order in Index).First episode preview 29 Dec.seiyuus: Okitsu Kazuyuki (Izmal/Hanasakeru), Kawasumi Ayako, Nakahara Mai, Koshimizu Ami, Kugimiya Rie, Gotou Mai, Hidaka Rina (age15, Last Order/Index, Anne/Konnichiwa), Itou Mariya, Sakuma Kumi.director: Ootsuki Atsushi (Kanokon)writer: Tamai Tsuyoshi (Strike Witches, Nogizaka Haruka).animation: Xebec (Kanokon, Phantom, The Third). chara-des: Takami Akio (Busou Renkin, Kanokon); Munyuu (manga).trailer.tue 05 jan OP seiyuus, ED Nakahara MaiOmamori Himari(jp: おまもりひまり)catgirl romantic comedyOur hero is an orphan living alone, cared for by his childhood friend next door. All he has from any relative is a mamori (good luck charm) left him by his grandparents, but that loses its potency on his 16th birthday. But on that day, a mysterious cat-girl samurai shows up to protect him. Unfortunately, he is allergic to cats.From a popular bishoujo manga. There are complaints from fans about the character design, which is by the person who did charades for Akane Maniax and directed animation for Ranma 1/2. The director and writer seem an odd couple: one directed Strait Jacket, the other wrote Otoboku.Stars the outstanding Koshimizu Ami and Hirakawa Daisuke, with Nomizu Iori (Nymph in Sora no Otoshimono) and Shindou Kei (Kuro in Kodomo no Jikan).seiyuus: Koshimizu Ami, Hirakawa Daisuke, Nomizu Iori (Nymph/SoraOto), Shindou Kei (Kuro/KnJ), Okame Asuka (Meishen/Regios), Neya Michiko.director: Ushiro Shinji (Strait Jacket)writer: Hasegawa Katsumi (Final Approach, Otoboku, DC2SS), Matra Milan (manga).animation: ZEXCS. chara-des: Isono Satoshi (Ranma anidir, Akane Maniax).OP Sakamoto Aya & Kawada Ruka.trailer. manga. subs: ExSSubs, Mochi Fansubs.wed 06 jan 25:30Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu(jp: バカとテストと召喚獣)shounen comedy school romance fantasyBased on the top-rated novel of the year and directed by Oonuma Shin, who directed the excellent ef animes. Not only that, but the writer wrote the ef animes, Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora, and Natsu no Arashi.This one is definitely on my list.The novel is said to be hilarious. It is set in a school that strictly stratifies students, and the comforts of their classrooms, by test scores. The lowest ranked class uses every means to battle the higher ranked classes. Our hero has the lowest marks in the school. The heroine is a smart girl who missed exams due to illness and was ruthlessly relegated to the bottom class.Talented cast includes Shimono Hiro (Jin in Kannagi), Harada Hitomi (Tomoe in Sasameki Koto), Mizuhashi Kaori (Ogiue in Genshiken), Katou Emiri, Miyata Kouki (Arthur in Emma), Nanjou Yoshino (Koko in DC2, and the new singer in fripSide), and Taketatsu Ayana (Azusa in K-On).seiyuus: Shimono Hiro (Hiro/ef, Jin/Kannagi), Harada Hitomi (Tomoe/Sasameki Koto), Mizuhashi Kaori (Ogiue/Genshiken, Miyako/Hidamari), Suzuki Tatsuhisa (Tezuka/Library War, Sugata/SoraOto), Katou Emiri, Miyata Kouki (Arthur/Emma), Taketatsu Ayana (Azusa/K-On, Vanilla/Yumeiro Patissiere, Ako/kissxsis), Terashima Takuma (Teppei/Princess Lover), Nanjou Yoshino (Koko/DC2, Maria/Canaan, fripSide singer).director: Oonuma Shin (ef)writer: Takayama Katsuhiko (Hantsuki, ef, Natsu no Arashi). Inoue Kenji (novels).animation: Silver Link (Tayutama). chara-des: Oshima Miwa (Love Love, Saiunkoku, Koihime Musou); Haga Yui (orig). animation supervisor: Oshima Miwa (Love Love, Koihime Musou). art: Azuma Kohji (Mushiuta, Natsu no Arashi).OP Aso Natsuki, ED milktub.trailer. manga. subs: Mochi Fansubs, KazenoKoe-Fansubs & Keishou-Subs.wed 06 jan 26:20Dance In The Vampire Bund(jp: ダンスインザヴァンパイアバンド)vampire action violence fanserviceMina Tepes, Queen of the Vampires, pays off Japan's national debt in return for an urban island off Tokyo where her people can live. Akira, a werewolf teen, comes to her service, having been raised from birth to be her bodyguard. In the manga, Mina usually appears to be a loli, but sometimes appears as a beautiful -- and often naked -- young adult woman. As Mina and Akira get to know each other, they must defend themselves and the island from attacks from within and outside.Shinbou Akiyuki gets another title he can really sink his teeth into. Young Yuuki Aoi (age 17, Murasaki in Kurenai) takes the lead, supported by Nakamura Yuuichi (Alto in MacrossF) and Saitou Chiwa -- who was Shinbou's first vampire, in Tsukuyomi Moon Phase.Adapted by the writer who did Mai-HiME, MacrossF, and Denpateki na Kanojo.This should be good.seiyuus: Yuuki Aoi, Nakamura Yuuichi, Saitou Chiwa, Kaida Yuuko, Itou Shizuka.director: Shinbou Akiyuki; series dir Sonoda Masahiro (eps/boards NHK, Gendai Mahou)writer: Yoshino Hiroyuki (Mai-HiME, MacrossF, Denpateki). Tamaki Nozomu (orig).animation: Shaft. chara-des: Konno Naoyuki (Kikaider, 009-1). animation supervisor: Konno Naoyuki (009-1, Shina Dark promo). art: Azuma Kohji (Mushiuta, Natsu no Arashi).music: Dobashi Akio (Wellber, Yozakura). OP Nakano Aiko, ED hibiku.trailer. manga. subs: Kesenai Subtitles?, Yuurisan-Subs, gg, Hatsuyuki.thu 07 jan 09:00Dhurarara!!(jp: デュラララ!!)seinen comedy dramaFrom light novels by the author of Baccano. Produced by many of the same people who made Baccano, including director Omori Takahiro and writer Takagi Noboru (who also did Koi Kaze).Set in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, with an amazing ensemble cast including Miyano Mamoru, Hanazawa Kana, Kamiya Hiroshi, Ono Daisuke, Fukuyama Jun, Nakamura Yuuichi, Kaji Yuuki, Takagaki Ayahi, Kobayashi Sanae and Toyonaga Toshiyuki (Ayumu in Zettai Shounen) playing roles such as street thugs, high school students, a female radio host, an underworld doctor, a young information vendor, and a headless Irish fairy.This show has my full attention.seiyuus: Toyonaga Toshiyuki (Ayumu/Zettai Shounen), Miyano Mamoru, Hanazawa Kana, Kamiya Hiroshi, Ono Daisuke, Fukuyama Jun, Nakamura Yuuichi, Kaji Yuuki, Takagaki Ayahi, Kobayashi Sanae.director: Omori Takahiro (Baccano, Natsume Yuujinchou)writer: Takagi Noboru (Koi Kaze, Baccano); Narita Ryohgo (novels).animation: Brains Base. chara-des: Kishida Takahiro (Koi Kaze, Noein, Baccano);orig Yasuda Suzuhito (Kamisama Kazoku, Yozakura Quartet). animation supervisor: Takada Akira (new, keyanim GITS:SAC, Samurai Champloo). art: Itou Akira (Elfen Lied, Baccano, Denpateki Kanojo).music: Yoshimori Makoto (Koi Kaze, Baccano, Natsume Yuujinchou).trailer. manga. subs: Moetaku-Fansubs?, gg.thu 07 jan 25:25Hidamari Sketch X Hoshimittsu(jp: ひだまりスケッチ×☆☆☆(ほしみっつ))moe slice-of-life comedyA new series of yet another of Shinbou Akiyuki's successful franchises. Two new girls are introduced: Nori and Nazuna. Nori in particular seems to be arousing some excitement on 2channel.seiyuus: Asumi Kana, Mizuhashi Kaori, Gotou Yuuko, Shintani Ryouko, Matsuki Miyu, Kugimiya Rie, Sawashiro Miyuki, Chou, Fukuen Misato.director: Shinbou Akiyukiwriter: Hasegawa Nahoko (Hidamari1); Yoguchi Natsue (eps of Hidamari). Aoki Ume (mangaka).animation: Shaft. chara-des: Itou Yoshiaki (Hidamari, Gakuen Alice). animation supervisor: Itou Yoshiaki (Hidamari, Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei).music: Kikuya Tomoki (Potemayo, Kyouran Kazoku). OP seiyuus, ED marble.manga. subs: Yuurisan-Subs?.thu 07 jan 25:29Ookami Kakushi(jp: おおかみかくし)seinen horror thrillerSixteen-year-old Kuzumi Hiroshi moves to a town in the mountains. A river divides the town into new and old districts. Class rep Kushinada Nemura gives him a word of advice: “Stay away from the old streets." Set in 1983 -- and centuries before.Based on a PSP mystery adventure game from a concept by Ryuukishi07, who wrote the Higurashi game, and with designs by Peach-Pit.Director Takamoto Nobuhiro did Rakugo Tennyo and Tokimeki Memorial. Lead writer Machida Touko did Muteki Kanban Musume and Lucky Star. She is working from Ryuukishi07's original work this time, though.OP and ED written by Kajiura Yuki and performed by Fiction Junction and by Nanri Yuka.seiyuus: Kobayashi Yuu, Fujita Saki, Katou Emiri, Ise Mariya, Gotou Yuuko, Fuchigami Mai.director: Takamoto Nobuhiro (Rakugo Tennyo Oyui, Tokimeki Memorial, 07-Ghost)writer: Machida Touko (Muteki Kanban Musume, Lucky Star, Tears to Tiara). Ryuukishi07 (orig., Higurashi creator), Konami.animation: AIC. chara-des: Watanabe Atsuko (Valkyria, Charger Girl, GA); orig Peach Pit. animation supervisor: Watanabe Atsuko (Valkyria, Charger Girl).OP Fiction Junction, ED Nanri Yuka (both written by Kajiura Yuki).subs: Formula, Hatsuyuki.thu 07 jan 25:29Kaitou Reinya(jp: 怪盗レーニャ)kids adventure comedyMorning Musume memberTanaka Reina stars, and was the inspiration for this show and for the comic strip on which it is based. Reinya is a convenience store's kanban musume ("signboard girl") by day, and a whimsical thief by night.The story follows her adventures, chased by bumbling cops: a handsome detective and a cool inspector. Joining Reinya on her escapades is her trusty mouse assistant, Chuutarou.seiyuus: Tanaka Reina (Kirara/Onegai My Melody, MoMusu), Youki Sou, Noto Arisa (Hello! Project), Misawa Sachika, Wakabayashi Naomi.director: Iwami Hideaki (key animator Top wo Nerae, Eva); Something Yoshimatsu (chief dir)writer: Kanemaki Kenichi (Ai yori Aoshi, PaniPoni Dash, Natsume Yuujinchou, 11eyes). Up-Front Style (draft).animation: Stingray. chara-des: Mr. A (draft).12eps.sat 09 jan 24:50Hanamaru Youchien(jp: はなまる幼稚園)seinen slice-of-lifeSlice-of-life comedy featuring kids and teachers in a kindergarten. Nothing ecchi, just cute with a bit of serious.I'm not sure what the director of Gundam00 and FMA1 is doing here. The contrast is intriguing.I'll watch anything starring Takagaki Ayahi (Noe in true tears, Sumi-chan in Sasameki Koto). Also stars Shindou Kei (Kuro in Kodomo no Jikan), and MAKO (Yurie in Kamichu!).seiyuus: Shindou Kei (Kuro/Kodomo no Jikan), Takagaki Ayahi (Sumi-chan/Sasameki), MAKO (Yurie/Kamichu), Hino Satoshi, Hirota Shimu, Ise Mariya, Mizuhara Kaoru, Honna Youko, Saitou Chiwa, Konishi Katsuyuki.director: Mizushima Seiji (Gundam00, FMA1)writer: Oguro Yuichirou (Zoku/Goku Sayonara Zetsubou). Yuto (manga).animation: Gainax. chara-des: Otsuka Mai (Shakugan no Shana). art: Matsumoto Hiroki.trailer. manga. subs: pwq.sun 10 jan 25:30Nodame Cantabile: Finale(jp: のだめカンタービレ フィナーレ)shoujo/josei music romanceThe conclusion of the popular anime, the first season of which had the highest late-night anime ratings of the past ten years.Kon Chiaki, who directed the second series, returns. But there is a new writer: playwright and novelist Nakashima Kazuki, who wrote Gurren-Lagann. Those of us who were a bit disappointed by Nodame Paris can possibly derive some hope from that.seiyuus: Kawasumi Ayako, Seki Tomokazu.director: Kon Chiaki (Higurashi, Nodame Paris, Hanasakeru Shounen)writer: Nakashima Kazuki (playwright, novelist). Ninomiya Tomoko (manga).animation: JC Staff. chara-des: Shimamura Shuuichi.OP Sakai Yuu.manga. subs: Frostii, BSS?.thu 14 jan 24:45Katanagatari(jp: 刀語)samurai adventure comedyThe second NisiOisiN novel to be animated, following Bakemonogatari. But that was done by one of the best staff groups around: Shinbou and Shaft. This is done by what I consider one of the worst: the director and writer who did Amenaideyo and School Days.The story involves a young man who is the master of a "swordless" sword technique. He and his sister live alone on an island. He is sent on a quest to gather the twelve best swords made by a great swordsmith.The previews are gorgeous. A screening of the first episode got high praise for the animation -- which is directed by someone new to the staff group -- but there were rumblings of discontent from fans over lines that were changed from the novel.Lead seiyuu Hosoyo Yoshimasa did a fine job as Juuzawa Juu in Denpateki na Kanojo, and he is backed up by some top names: Tamura Yukari, Nakahara Mai, Ookawa Tooru.Twelve one-hour episodes broadcast monthly. First ep 25 Jan, second 8 Feb, third 8 Mar. I am apprehensive, but ready to be amazed.seiyuus: Hosoyo Yoshimasa (Juuzawa Juu in Denpateki), Tamura Yukari, Nakahara Mai, Ookawa Tooru.director: Motonaga Keitarou (Yumeria, Amenaideyo, School Days, Akasaka)writer: Makoto Uezu (Yumeria, Amenaideyo, School Days, Akasaka). Nishio Ishin (orig; Bakemonogatari).animation: White Fox. chara-des: Kawada Tsuyoshi (Best Student Council), Take (orig). animation supervisor: Kawada Tsuyoshi (HoneyClover2). art: Kudou Tadashi (Mizuiro 2003).music: Iwasaki Taku (Getbackers, Gurren-Lagann).trailer. subs: Moetaku-Fansubs? Gg?.OVA. 12x1hr eps.mon 25 janMobile Suit Gundam Unicorn(jp: 機動戦士ガンダムUC)shounen mecha adventureThe new Gundam OVA adopts the new fashion of six one-hour episodes. Theatrical and Playstation previews of episode one will be released on 20 feb.Interesting new/old-style look. Appropriate music. Promising new cast. Expectations run high among Gundam fans.Director Furuhashi Kazuhiro did Real Drive, Chevalier D'Eon and Rurouni Kenshin. Writer Muto Yasuyuki did Persona, Basara, and Chevalier D'Eon.Uchiyama Kouki was Soul Eater. Fujimura Ayumi is Niche in Letter Bee and Cecily in Blacksmith. Kaida Yuuko was Mari in Tokyo Magnitude 8. Shimono Hiro was Jin in Kannagi.seiyuus: Uchiyama Kouki (Soul Eater), Fujimura Ayumi (Cecily/Blacksmith), Shimono Hiro (Jin/Kannagi), Namikawa Daisuke (Kazehaya/Kimi ni Todoke, Benawi/Utawarerumono, Rock/Black Lagoon), Toyoguchi Megumi, Kaida Yuuko, Ikeda Shuuichi, Kakihara Tetsuya, Tezuka Hideaki.director: Furuhashi Kazuhiro (Real Drive, Chevalier D'Eon, Rurouni Kenshin)writer: Muto Yasuyuki (Persona, Basara, Chevalier D'Eon). Fukui Harutoshi.animation: Sunrise. chara-des: Takahashi Kumiko (Tokyo Babylon, CCS, Ouran). art: Ikeda Shigemi (Planetes, Gantz, various Gundams). mecha: Ishigaki Gunya, Katoki Hajime.music: Sawano Hiroyuki (Yoakena, Gigantic Formula, Sengoku Basara).trailer.OVA. 6x50mineps.12 marSex Pistols(jp: Sex Pistols)yaoi sci-fi romanceAdaptation of a yaoi manga series. In the 2003 sci-fi manga, a teenage boy discovers he is one of a select group of humans who evolved from animals other than apes -- animals such as leopards and bears. Cat ears, romance, and physical relationships ensue.Staff list not yet published. Ep2 25jun. Preview and manga both NSFW.seiyuus: Hatano Wataru (Yuuto/Nogizaka Haruka), Sugita Tomokazu (Kyon/Haruhi), Shimono Hiro (Hiro/ef), Kawahara Yoshihisa (Yasu/NANA), Nojima Hirofumi (Shuga/Moribito, Scarecrowman), Yusa Kouji (Vincent Law/Ergo Proxy).trailer. manga.OVA. 1/2eps.26 mar
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I know, I know, I missed a few weeks recently due to all the conventions and traveling and whatnot. Sorry, but #AniWednesday is back in action!that said, Iiiiii'm hungry. So it's probably no surprise that the anime I decided to recommend this week is a light, silly, fluffy, food-oriented show-- perfect for a summer evening. Ramen Fighter Miki-- originally titled Muteki Kanban Musume –is a Media Blasters release based on Jun Sadogawa's manga (released as Noodle Fighter Miki in English by ADV). The story revolves around the titular Miki, a 20-year-old with the mental maturity of a pre-teen, who works at her family's ramen shop as a delivery girl.Miki's immature competitive streak is enabled by her rival, Megumi Kannazuki, who is the delivery girl for the Kannazuki Bakery. The two frequently butt heads, although they've been known to work together when the need is great enough. (Also worth noting: Megumi is voiced by Ami Koshimizu, aka Code Geass' Kallen and Spice and Wolf's Horo!)Further characters appear to round out the series, resulting in something akin to an arc of Ranma ½, except that it's delivery girl martial arts (actually, there WAS a short arc about something along those lines in Ranma 1/2)-- but with female leads and none of the baggage of constant repetitiveness. At a mere 12 episodes, Miki may not be change your life a la a Code Geass or a Gurren Lagann, but she won't wear out her welcome, and she'll bring her own snacks.And the best part, of course, is that the entirety of the series is available subtitled on Hulu, at least for those in the US (Canada? Anyone?). I'll go ahead and embed the first episode here, and you can get the rest on this page.   <object height="296" width="512"><param name="movie" value="http://www.hulu.com/embed/GgaripGfQPbxdBOnhFx9hg"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed wmode="transparent" src="http://www.hulu.com/embed/GgaripGfQPbxdBOnhFx9hg" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" height="296" width="512"></embed></param><param value="transparent" name="wmode"></param></object>  It's also worth reading the comments on Hulu, there's a fun little sub-vs-dub debate-- very nostalgic, reminiscent of my earliest IRC days (i.e. when I was 12 and such things felt so dramatically important). Hee.
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When I asked Steven about Negima, I expected an executive summary like the one with which vintage Jason Miao sold me on Muteki Kanban Musume. But his answer is far longer. It works though, I think I see what is good about the series. Notably though, we don’t know if the ending is any good [...]
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This is the second time when I watch a series because of the top rotation at Chizumatic. The first was Cosplay Complex, and what a disaster it was. I thought the lesson well taken, but one picture was just irresistible. I still consider Megumi of Muteki Kanban Musume the most beautiful character design I have seen, [...]
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Derailed by Darry (or Anime on My Mind to anyone who won't accept the name change) has always been one of my top favourite anime blogs to visit (honestly, I think I love it more than my own! lol). Put simply, Jason's mix of obvious hilarity and insight in his posts is one of a kind (even especially his gimmick posts are pure win), though admittedly all the sports references fly past my head faster than anything on Oofuri did. Basically when Jason blogs a series, a huge part of the show's entertainment value, I swear, really comes from his postings on it. Cases in point: Minami-ke, Gundam 00 (which I don't even watch!), Code Geass, Kanon, Muteki Kanban Musume and the first season of Higurashi (which was probably when I started following DbD AoMM as it was called back then).Okay, better stop the blog stalker-ish rant there and come to the actual content of this post... March Madness 2008 on Derailed by Darry! (so much for not sounding like a total blog stalker...)Since I only started following Derailed way after the last time Jason held March Madness on his blog, the details are still rather sketchy to me but in essence it looks like yet another anime popularity contest driven by DbD's readership which undoubtedly must be bloated enough to support the venture. Hopefully it doesn't collapse on itself like the late SaiGar *touches wood* and will make for yet another interesting excuse to return to Derailed throughout this one month(not like one is needed really =P). Anyways, I'm jumping on the bandwagon this time around, so here's a rundown on where I cast my votes in Round 1:Philosophical Division: No contest here, my vote went instantly to Mushishi, a series I find so good on the 'philosophic' front that if it were up to me it would take a mere one episode of this show to conquer this entire division (of course the whole point of it is that if it did come down to one person, it'd be Jason himself -_-")! I'm sure the guys over at Epic Win should agree... if they ever come back from that terrible inconvenience that is 'real life'...Shoujo Division: Sigh, the torned-ness... Nostalgia dictates that Full Moon, one of the earliest fansubbed anime series I watched independently (not via TV or *ahem* commercial sources), but of all series Jason lists in this category, the one true shoujo show on the list for me is definitely NANA, which contained all the right elements I look for in a good shoujo anime - solid drama and a good dose of humour that always cut into the tension caused by a good many unpredicted romances that sprouted throughout the series. Too bad I wasn't objective enough in the end to deny my loyal bias towards Ouran in the end >.<Comedy: Probably the most difficult category since it's incredibly subjective what makes one laugh. Trying to be objective here proved near impossible with contenders such as Minami-ke and Azumanga Daioh in the mix, even Fumoffu and Keroro Gunsou throws a difficult wrench in the mix (as funny as I found parts of Haruhi and NHK to be, those shows had much more than just humour to go by and weren't supposed to be comedy orientated anyways). But I just couldn't resist supporting emo-ramen since it's the one comedy series featured on DbD which cracked me up as much it was meant to (so Code Geass doesn't count) even before reading Jason's posts on it.Action: Black Lagoon 4tw! As much as people tell you about how the series is really a serious attempt at human study disguised under much explosions and gunfights, to me this series has always been about the over the top action (superhuman meido of doom/killer vampire trap lolis WTF???) and total bad-ass attitude it exudes (cheesy Engrish, I'll take it!).Looking at the polls currently, there seem to be clearly predicted winners in each category already. Those who are still interested have till 11PST on March 3rd to vote for these 4 divisions before Jason posts the next 4 divisions. Since the top 2 series in each division will advance to the next stage together with the next 8 series with the highest total votes as wild cards, there seems a pretty good chance for all the series I've voted for to make it, with the sad exception of Muteki Kanban Musume T.T (Where is the emo-ramen love???)No image this post since I think the one on the current March Madness post is just totally awesome by itself (can you spot 'me' in it? =P) Will probably report back on March Madness during the voting for the next 4 divisions come along, and probably up until the juggernaut series like Haruhi and er... Haruhi steamrolls the competition later on :P
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It sure is! So today I watched... true tears 7, the recent high drama episode everyone has been raving about, only I found i totally lolz. Yes, something must be wrong with the part of my brain which is support to govern my emotions, which may just explain my thoughts in my previous post (on CLANNAD's attempt so far in taking me on a emotional roller coaster ride... only I'm still stuck in the queue).Take the catfight between Hiromi and Noe for example. Two girls feeling shitty about the same boy they like taking it out on one another - when it's really the guy's fault for making them feel shitty in the first place! Okay, so maybe Hiromi's just feeling shitty over her possibly incestuous feelings (come on, this is anime, it's the place to be incestuous!). But when Hiromi dies of bird flu through eating Noe's chicken-pecked bentou, wouldn't it be Shinichiro's fault for not paying attention to the chicken girl then? And Hiromi's friends' attempted intervention with the basketball and mop? Yea, real useful girls...Oh, and the scene when Ai tosses the scarf thing at Shinichiro as a blind to dive in for the kiss... More drama, only I'm thinking of the scene in Muteki Kanban Musume where Kankuro thinks of using a love letter in the same way to blind Miki and moving in for the kill... At least Ai succeeds in her intentions :PBut really, the true hilarity pertaining this episode is reading Jason's post right after (or in my case, before) it. Have to agree with Calawain's comment there about the post being more entertaining than the show itself (well just this episode anyways).Rather than just mindlessly poke fun at true tears, I will give it credit for delivering what I expect from it: there's the drama, the well paced plot and character progression, with each girl getting their developments simultaneously, and how they act is at least justified within the confines of the story (Noe's quirkiness, Hiromi's moodiness and Ai's desperation - and how the last two can be attributed to Shinichiro's denseness and unwittingly disastrous actions. Yes, this last point should be frustrating, but I find it quite amusing to note really, since we don't expect much from the lead male in these shows anyways, so why not make them the cause of all the drama?). What gives the show extra points would be Noe's lovable nonconformity, which makes her an instant fan-favourite, as well as how they've so far succeeded in weaving a web of conflicts between the characters without coming across as too contrived.In short, I'm enjoying the show for what the more serious aspects it offers, but there's nothing wrong with getting a few unintentional side laughs as well =P
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Today’s results: Group H3 有効コードがある票の順位 1位　1112票　フェイト・T・ハラオウン＠魔法少女リリカルなのはStrikerS << Fate T. Harlaown@Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS >> 2位　237票　ミレイ・アッシュフォード＠コードギアス 反逆のルルーシュ << Millay Ashford @ Code Geass >> 3位　166票　鬼丸美輝＠無敵看板娘 << Onimaru Miki @ Muteki Kanban Musume >> Group H7 有効コードがある票の順位 1位　766票　川澄舞＠Kanon << Kawasumi Mai @ Kanon >> 2位　625票　銭形巡＠瀬戸の花嫁 << Zenigata Mawari @ Seto no Hanayome >> 3位　142票　聖三咲（赤ロリ）＠Saint October << Hijiri Misaki (Red Loli) @ Saint October >> Group H11 有効コードがある票の順位 1位　514票　いばら姫＠おとぎ銃士 赤ずきん [...]
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Also known as “Noodle Fighter Miki”, which is pretty much what this show is about. Noodles and fighting - all revolving around Miki. Miki Onimaru is a girl who works in a chinese noodle shop and it seems as if she’s having a bit of a hard time… There’s really no plot [...]
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Koshimizu Ami 小清水亜美 is just 21, but already she is one of the top voice actresses in Japan. The youthful vibrancy and great professionalism of her voice have won her numerous good roles, and she was recognized as the top supporting actress of 2006 in the first annual Seiyuu Awards."Amisuke," as she is called, is a big puppy-dog of a woman, with a lot of energy, a sweet temper, and a big mouth -- and many, many friends. Her blog is full of pictures of her with her seiyuu pals: Sanpei Yuuko, Mizusawa Fumie, Iizuka Mayumi, Itsuki Yui, Nazuka Kaori, Nabatame Hitomi, Yukana, Mizuhashi Kaori, Shimizu Kaori, Kadowaki Mai...the list goes on. She seems to be a strong, friendly person, with a sense of fun and an open, innocent heart.Depite her youth, she is already a veteran. Her debut role was as Nadja in Ashita no Nadja, when she was 17 years old and in 11th grade. Her most famous role is Tenma in School Rumble. And she won her supporting actress award for the role of Karen in Code Geass.Ami was born in Tokyo and was involved in acting from an early age. She was in the famous Wakakusa ("Young Grasses") Theatre Group when she got her debut role as Nadja in 2003. Wakakusa represented her for two years, then she became an independent, not attached to any agency, but hiring her own manager/assistant. The good roles she has got since then attest that leaving the protection of an agency did not hurt her. Recently, she is even branching out into production. She produced a singing event on Saturday at the Ginza branch of a karaoke chain, starring herself, Sanpei Yuuko, and others. (l-r) Ami at about ten; Nadja; Tenma; Ami; Ami.Ami's voice has a bright quality that gives her characters a strong presence. It was her striking performance as Tenko, the down-to-earth angel in Kamisama Kazoku, that put her at the front of my mind. The sweet immediacy she gave the role just blew me away.She also has great voice-control, the kind of supple control that can give a phrase a lot of movement and nuance. And she has tremendous range: from gentle Tenko to the masculine Paraietta in Simoun. From serious rebel Karen in Code Geass to scatterbrained Tenma.(left) Ami with Noto Mamiko: Tenma and Yakumo, sisters in School Rumble. Amisuke shows her typical exuberance, Noto-Kawaii her typical tranquillity.Ami can make even minor roles stand out. She made Kotomi in Asatte no Houkou come alive within seconds. As Sae in sola, she created a weird, somewhat unlikeable character with a unique fey drawl. The portrayal was so strong that it turned some viewers right off.Ami is proud of her ability as a seiyuu -- in a good way, as Kitamura Eri once said. She has declared that she intends to be as good a seiyuu as anyone. She is beginning to get roles that demand serious emotion, such as Paraietta and Karen, but she is so far best known for comedy.She can also sing. She has numerous character CDs, and is one of the better seiyuu singers. Unfortunately, her first album, Natural, did not do very well commercially, despite the two good video features that came with the premium edition. She has also performed on stage in the musical version of School Rumble.People have said that Ami's real personality resembles that of the wise fool Tenma in Sukuran (School Rumble). But when Nabatame Hitomi and Shimizu Kaori said that on-air, Ami bridled, saying she wasn't that dumb, and that people probably thought so just because it was her voice. Of course, the naive openness of her reaction just confirmed that she does in fact have something in common with Tenma. (l-r) Ami at her radio show; Ami with the figure of her character from Shuraki; Ami with Chinese chopsticks on location in Shanghai.When she was 17 and recording the drama CD for Nadja, she made a number of reading mistakes, since she didn't know kanji that well. She says in her blog that she still has a lot to learn. She dropped out of high school when her career took off, and only recently got her graduation diploma, by distance education from a school in Aomori. But her comparative lack of education doesn't mean she isn't smart and capable, as her success as an independent shows.Since 2005, she has been a regular host on the anime music radio broadcast Comchat Countdown, along with Sakurai Takahiro. With her nimble tongue, she is good at repeated catchphrases and puns; and with her straightforward nature, she often just blurts out what she thinks. Once when Ohara Sayaka was a guest on the show, Ami said she wanted to give as mature and womanly an impression as Ohara-san. Sakurai and Nabatame Hitomi, who was also a guest, laughed that that would be a real stretch. (l-r) Ami with her close friend Sanpei Yuuko; Ami's friend Itsuki Yui; Ami with Naba-sama (Nabatame Hitomi).Ami has said of herself that she talks too much, and speaks out when she should keep quiet. She had a moving piece in her blog earlier this year, lamenting how words can hurt people, and saying that since words were a seiyuu's profession she should be more careful with them.But it doesn't seem to make much difference to her friends. She and Sanpei Yuuko -- whom she calls "Pe" -- have been friends for ten years, since middle school. Pe is another highly talented and successful seiyuu. She was Renton in Eureka7, Souta for the last thirteen episodes or so of Otogijushi Akazukin, and Cure Dream in Precure 5. They are so close that Ami sometimes refers to Pe as "my wife" (in English). They even held a mock wedding banquet on a radio show last January, with Ami as the bride. The fact that neither one of them referred to the other in their blogs for a few weeks after that makes me think they realized they had maybe gone a bit too far. (l-r) Ami with her senpai Iizuka Mayumi; Ami, Nazuka Kaori (Eureka in Eureka 7), Kitamura Eri (Saya in Blood+), and Sanpei Yuuko; Ami's friend Mizusawa Fumie (Juliet in RxJ).Yuri pretense is a common meme in seiyuu radio shows, so the wedding banquet was probably all joke. But Amisuke and Pe are definitely very close friends, and Ami says she hopes they can be together forever. Nabatame Hitomi (Nobue in Ichigo Mashimaro) is a friend of Ami's who makes the yuri meme part of her public myth. The joke is that Ami is Naba-sama's "number three girlfriend": Itou Shizuka (who had a radio show with Naba-sama, and was Rei in Marimite) is her wife, and Noto Mamiko and Shimizu Kaori (Lain) are her first two girlfriends.Seiyuu Iizuka Mayumi (Makoto in Kanon) was part of the stimulus for Ami to become a seiyuu. She was an admired senior, several years ahead of Ami in the Wakakusa troupe, and they are still friends. (l-r) Ami, Makino Yui, Pe; Yukana and Ami; Shimizu Kaori.Ami had unspecified health problems a few months ago, although they don't seem to have affected her work schedule. She has said that since she reached 20, sometimes her body won't follow where her mind wants to go. Once when she was ill, her friend seiyuu/singer Itsuka Yui ("Yuin", Kira in Futakoi), who lives only five minutes' walk away, brought over some rice porridge for her.Ami has mentioned staying the night at Yuin's place, as she has at Pe's. On her 21st birthday, in February, Yuin and Kadowaki Mai (Souju in Futakoi) made her a cake. She has previously gone traveling with the pair, and she visited a hot spring last week with Saiga Mitsuki (Francis in Nadja, Makoto in Genshiken) and the (female) director of her radio show. Ami and Pe were invited to a birthday party for pro wrestler Kikutarou. He is apparently also a friend.These days, you can hear Ami in many shows. She is Yayoi in Xenoglossia, Yutira in Heroic Age, Sae in the recently concluded sola, Aika in AIKa R-16 Virgin Mission, and Kanako in the Marimite 3 OVA series. The final two episodes of (the first series of?) Code Geass will air at the end of July. This fall, Ami will star in Kimi Kiss ~pure rouge~. And she is swordswoman Akatsuki in Shuraki, a drama CD that is coming out this fall, marketed with quite dramatic 1/8 scale figures. (l-r) Itsuki Yui and Kadowaki Mai with the cake they brought Ami on her 21st birthday; Pe with a cake for her own 21st birthday, a few days after Ami's; Saiga Mitsuki. (below left) a capybara.In a show where seiyuu were asked what animal they would be, Noto Mamiko, Nabatame Hitomi, and Horie Yui all said that if Ami were an animal she would be a rodent. Ami felt put down. Then in a game center UFO catcher, her friends all wanted her to go for a capybara cellphone strap. The fact is, she does look a bit like a capybara, the South American animal that is the largest rodent in the world -- an extremely pretty capybara, of course.Ami has said she would like to buy land on the moon -- on the side facing the Earth -- and to make a "Koshimizu Shogunate" there, where she would create a "good country." I think big Amisuke would make a great ruler, positive and humane. She's looking for taxpayers, she says. Where do I sign up?Statistics: Born Tokyo, 15 February 1986. Height 168 cm, weight 48 kg (just over 5'6" and around 106 lb).Roles: Here are her major roles over the years, with a few recent minor roles included. Full info is available from the sites following the list:-- 2003: Nadja (Ashita no Nadja), Claes (Gunslinger Girl).-- 2004: Tenma (School Rumble), Kanoko (Sweet Valerians), Ichijou Sumireko (Futakoi)-- 2005: Anemone (Eureka 7), Natsuko (Futari wa Precure Max Heart), Nina Wang (Mai-Otome)-- 2006: Tenko (Kamisama Kazoku), Saya (Lemon Angel Project), Paraietta (Simoun), Megumi (Muteki Kanban Musume), Karen (Code Geass), Kotomi (Asatte no Houkou), Ritsuko Kubel Kettenkrad (Kujibiki Unbalance), Yukari (Gift~Eternal Rainbow~).-- 2007: Yayoi (Idolmaster Xenoglossia), Sae (sola), Yutira (Heroic Age), Kanako (Marimite 3), Aika (AIKa R-16 Virgin Mission), Ichiru (Keitai Shoujo), Yumi (KimiKiss pure rouge).English-language sites:Anime News Networken.wikipediaHashihime seiyuu galleryJapanese sites:ja.wikipediaAmi's home pageAmi's blogSeiyuu Watch Koshimizu Ami postsSanpei Yuuko's blogItsuki Yui's blogKadowaki Mai's blogMizusawa Fumie's blogNazuka Kaori's blogIizuka Mayumi's blogYouTube:-- Ami at 17 in an appearance for Ashita no Nadja (YouTube)-- Ami (Nina) and Kikuchi Mika (Arika) in a ten-minute TV talk for Mai-Otome. It takes a couple of minutes for them to relax, but after that they are quite funny. (YouTube)-- Ami and Mika at a Voice NewType photoshoot. (YouTube)-- Ami and Horie Yui performing at the Futakoi Live event (YouTube)
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I'm not as high on this season as fans of shounen shows and mecha are, but I'm sure there will be some pleasant surprises. There always are. However, I don't see anything like the three masterpieces that debuted a year ago: Suzumiya Haruhi, NANA, and Simoun. Then again, I didn't see them coming, either.Since everyone likes different kinds of shows, I'll just go through the week, starting with Monday, talking about each show, and you can draw your own conclusions. Titles link to more information. Titles of the shows I myself am most anticipating are violet. Click pictures to enlarge.This is the season of "Ohagi": rising seiyuu star Yahagi Sayuri is in four new anime this season. Having proven herself in Karin, Otogijushi Akazukin, and Kyoushirou to Towa no Sora, she will now be in Gigantic Formula, sola, Hayate, and Over Drive, all at the same time.I'm also eager to hear more of comparative newcomer Fujimura Ayumi, who played Karada in Asatte no Houkou and is in two of the new shows: Kaze no Stigma, in which she stars, and Touka Gettan. And the incredible voice of Sasaki Nozomi (Nana-chan in Bokura ga Ita), who was discovered last year during a seiyuu workshop in Kobe, returns in a supporting role in Lucky Star, which stars Hirano Aya.El Cazador. A girl named Elis is suspected of murder and on the run from the Hunters. A woman bounty hunter offers her help in escaping and in finding out the truth about her past. Nice cast, including Shimizu Ai, Itou Shizuka, Hisakawa Aya and rising male star Miyano Mamoru (Light in Death Note). Music by Kajiura Yuki. Questionable director, unless you like the .hack shows. Bee Train animation. (mon 25:30, starts apr02)Touka Gettan. This is the anime that most intrigues me this season. A fantasy romance from Studio Deen, written by the writer of YKK and Yami to Boushi to Hon no Tabibito and director of Zettai Shounen (Mochizuki Tomomi), and directed by the director of Yamibou and Strawberry Eggs (Yamaguchi Yuji). Animated by Nishida Asako of Simoun, F/SN and Yamibou. And with the sound director of those three shows, veteran seiyuu Tsujitani Kouji, there to work with the cast.Stars two new seiyuu, but also has Yukana (Dominura in Simoun, CC in Code Geass, Lottie in Soukou no Strain), Kitamura Eri (Saya in Blood+, Tatiana in Chevalier), Kobayashi Yu (Setsuna in Negima), Fujimura Ayumi (Karada in Asatte no Houkou), and Nojima Kenji in the cast. Like Yamibou, it is an adaptation of an adult PC game by Carnelian. And like Yamibou, it will likely have some yuri elements. (mon 25:30 apr02)Idolmaster Xenoglossia. One of the most anticipated shows of the season, a mixture of mecha and moe. After the moon is destroyed, only moe young maidens qualify to pilot the mecha that protect Earth from its fragments. The mecha-fication of an idol game (!?). Great cast includes Horie Yui and Tamura Yukari, as well as Koshimizu Ami, Nakahara Mai, Noto Mamiko, Yukana and Takahashi Mikako. Director Nagai Tatsuyuki did Honey & Clover 2. Lead writer Hanada Jukki did Rozen Maiden and Kashimashi. Animation by Sunrise. (mon 26:30 apr02)Kiss Dum - Engage Planet. AD 2031. Grotesque beings attack humanity, which is defended only by brave young pilots. Will we survive? What is the secret of the "Book of Death" discovered by a scientist? Classic mecha SF plot. Director Nagaoka Yasuchika (Crest of Stars) was said on a staff blog to be way behind schedule, and then to have left the project. Then he returned as "chief director," with Sato Eiichi (Slayers Next) as "director." Hard to say what's going on, or whether the upset will be good for the show or bad. Mizuki Nana and Ono Daisuke in the cast give it a chance. Satelight. (tue 25:00 apr03)CLAYMORE. Kuwashima Houko and Paku Romi. Wow. From a tough, atmospheric manga set in a world where humans coexist with demons called Yoma. Yoma feed on humans, hiding themselves in human society until they strike. Warriors called Claymores protect humans, infusing themselves with demon flesh and blood to become powerful half-human hybrids, with silver demon-seeing eyes. Beautiful Claymore warrior Claire struggles to retain her humanity. Animation by Madhouse. (tue 25:26 apr03)Over Drive. Sports anime based on a manga about cycling. Directed by the director of Busou Renkin, written by the writer of Kaikan Phrase. With two newish stars and a fine supporting cast of Nojima Kenji, Taniyama Kishou, Nazuka Kaori, Yahagi Sayuri, and Okiayu Ryotarou. A potential sleeper. Animation by Xebec. (tue 25:30 apr03)Oh! Rocket. Based on a stage play by Nakashima Kazuki, a playwright who specializes in spectacular period pieces. In in the 1840s, a bomb disposal expert and his young friend are approached by a mysterious girl asking them to make an illegal firework that will shoot high into the sky and "awaken" the populace. With Soumi Yoko (Marciano in Coyote Ragtime), Yamadera Kouichi (Spike Spiegel in Cowboy Bebop), Paku Romi and Kugimiya Rie. Director Mizushima Seiji and writer Aikawa Shou did Fullmetal Alchemist together. This looks very different from that, but definitely has possibilities. Animated by Madhouse. (tue 26:00 apr04)Shining Tears. Animation of a fantasy role-playing game with character designs by Tony Taka. Great cast includes Mizuki Nana, Kuwashima Houko, Kawasumi Ayako, Horie Yui, Okiayu Ryoutarou and Houshi Souichirou. Studio Deen. I'll watch an episode or two for the sake of the cast and see what's going on. (tue 26:10 apr03)Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS. A new series of the very successful magical girl show which I for some reason find unwatchable. Set ten years after the end of the last series, with the entire crew now working in the Time-Space Adminstration Bureau. What a great cast: Tamura Yukari, Mizuki Nana, Ueda Kana, Saitou Chiwa, Nakahara Mai, Inoue Marina, Takahashi Mikako, Shimizu Kaori, Yukana. OP by Mizuki Nana, ED by Tamura Yukari. Animation by Seven Arcs (Inukami). (tue 26:30 apr03)Sisters of Wellber. Promising adventure drama. Victim of a forced engagement to the prince of an enemy country, princess Rita stabs her fiance and flees toward a neutral country. Tina the thief becomes her protector. Director and writer did Prince of Tennis (Hamana Takayuki and Maekawa Jun). Animation by Trans Arts (Prince of Tennis), with support from Production I.G. The wonderful Takahashi Mikako as the princess, and Takeuchi Junko (Naruto) as the protectress. Namikawa Daisuke and Sugita Tomokazu also in the cast. (tue 26:00 apr03)Saint Beast: Kouin Jojishi Tenshi Tan. Female director Shimazaki Nanako directs a cast of popular male seiyuus in a new series of this shounen-ai fantasy: Yoshino Hiroyuki (Yuuji in Tona-Gura), Miyata Kouki (Isami in Noein), Sakurai Takahiro (Suzaku in Code Geass), Fukuyama Jun (Lelouch), Sugita Tomokazu (Kyon in Haruhi), Midorikawa Hikaru (Seiran in Saiunkoku), Ishida Akira (Athrun Zala in GSD), Morikawa Toshiyuki (Ernst in the Angelique shows). Animation by Tokyo Kids. (tue 26:58 apr03)Shinkyoku Soukai Polyphonica. Human beings rely on the miracles of fairies, while fairies that have materialized in this world survive on the music played by humans. A great young musician in a romance with a powerful female spirit.Top sound director Aketagawa Jin did Ichigo Mashimaro, Honey & Clover, etc., and can get great performances from his seiyuu. Excellent cast includes Kawasumi Ayako, Mizuki Nana, and Satou Rina. Kamiya Hiroshi (Takemoto in H&C) returns to a leading role after his serious motorcycle accident. This is the first full production project for the animation producer, Ginga-ya, which assisted on Shinigami no Ballad and Zettai Shounen. OP by eufonius. (tue 28:15 apr03)Hitohira. The staff that did PetoPeto-san animates another cute manga. A new girl in school sometimes gets so nervous she can’t speak, yet she is recruited into the drama club. The promo video made this look sweet and emotional, like PetoPeto-san. Director Nishimori Akira, writer Sasano Megumi, and animation producer Motohashi Hideyuki all worked on that show. The cast includes Kawasumi Ayako, Narita Ken (Lin in Ghost Hunt), Kishio Daisuke (Yunoki in Corda D'Oro), Hikami Kyoko (Rabi~en~Rose in Di Gi Charat) and Yukino Satsuki (Ai in Planetes). This one gets a head start on the other shows, opening on 28 August. Animation by Xebec M. (wed 11:00 mar28)Nagasarete Airantou. A boy is shipwrecked on a desert island inhabited only by beautiful girls desperate for a man. Need I say more? This could set a new standard in harem comedy. Great cast includes Horie Yui, Takahashi Mikako, Chiba Saeko, Itou Shizuka, and Shiraishi Ryouko. Intriguing writers involved in Emma, Fruits Basket, NANA, etc. New director. Animation by Feel (Otome wa Boku ni Koi Shiteru). (wed 25:20 apr04)Kotetsujin Jeeg. Classic hard-core giant robot action. Takes place 50 years after the original Jeeg, with a new cast. The previously defeated "Haniwa" evil robots re-emerge, and Kotetsushin Jeeg is manned to fight again. Ono Daisuke, Ueda Kana, Susumu. Directed and animated by the Shin Getter Robo team of Jun (Innocent Venus) and Kikuchi Akira. OP by JAM Project. (thu 23:30 apr05)Darker than Black- Kuro no Keiyakusha. Action thriller set in Tokyo involving spies with supernatural powers and violent supernatural bad guys. Bones production. Yoko Kanno music. Creator/director Okamura Tensai (Wolf's Rain). Cast of experienced pros, with Ikeda Masaru (Ren in NANA) and Fukuen Misato (Liz in Red Garden), and Mizuki Nana in a supporting role. OP by abingdon boys school. Definitely worth a look. (thu 25:25 apr05)Ookiku Furikabutte. The director of Genshiken and XXXHolic, Mizushima Tsutomu, animates a manga about kids playing baseball. Written by Kuroda Yousuke, who wrote Gokujo Seitokai and Infinite Ryvius. Animation by Yoshida Takahiko (Honey & Clover, Welcome to the NHK). The magazine (Afternoon) that serializes the comic also did Gankutsuou, Yume Tsukai, Genshiken, YKK, and AMG. Could be a sleeper. Animation by A-1 (Aniplex). (thu 25:25 apr12)Kaze no Stigma. Could be good. Based on a fantasy novel by Yamato Takahiro. Ono Daisuke (Yukito in Air) is a member of the fire-controlling clan who is banished for his inability to control fire. He returns to as a wind-master and immediately becomes a suspect in a murder in his clan.Great-looking cast: Fujimura Ayumi (Karada in Asatte), Itou Shizuka (Shouko), Morinaga Rika (Mamiina in Simoun), Makino Yui (best new seiyuu nominee as Misaki in NHK), Inokuchi Yuka (Anju in Karin). Director Sakata Junichi did Comic Party Revolution and storyboards for many shows, including CCS and FMP. Writer Sekijima Mayori did Tsukuyomi and Angel Sanctuary. Gonzo. (thu 25:30 apr05) Princess Resurrection. Schoolboy Hiro dies in a car accident, but is resurrected by the princess of darkness, who feeds him her precious blood, which is an elixir of immortality. The director last did Strawberry Panic. Animation director/character designer Kuroda Kazuya did Vandread and Chrono Crusade. Kawasumi Ayako, Noto Mamiko, Shimizu Ai, Morinaga Rika, Oura Fuyuka. From a manga. Animation by Madhouse. (thu 25:55 apr12)Koutetsu Sangokushi. This may be the first anime I watch for its male cast: Miyano Mamoru (Light in Death Note), Koyasu Takehito (Sakujun in Saiunkoku) and Suwabe Junichirou (Ren in Karin). Add Nabatame Hitomi and there you go. Set in an alternate version of Three Kingdoms China, with a magic jade added. Written by Takahashi Natsuko (Gakuen Heaven, involved in Gankutsuou). Character design by Tsukamoto Chiyomi (Chevalier). Animation by Picture Magic (Kagihime, Lamune, and the notoriously poorly animated Soul Link). (thu 26:15 apr05)Kishin Taisen Gigantic Formula. Gotoh Keiji (Uta~Kata, Kiddy Grade) goes mecha. About a dozen famous mecha designers have contributed mecha, including Kawamori Shoji andIzubuchi Yutaka. And Yahagi Sayuri gets another prominent role, beside Satou Rina (Negi in Negima). Definitely worth a look. (thu 26:28 apr05)Keitai Shoujo. An unusual little romance show based on a cellphone game, with an amazing cast. Five four-minute episodes will be streamed online for PC and cellphone. Yahoo! is asking the public to choose which direction the plot should go. Koshimizu Ami, Ishida Akira, Ueda Kana, Nazuka Kaori, Takahashi Mikako, Satou Rina, Suzuki Chihiro. The director and animator did Happy Seven, but the animator also did the Gargoyle of the Yoshinagas. Starts in mid-March. Studio Hibari. (fri 12:00 mar17)Kamichama Karin. Very, very cute. Orphaned 12-year-old girl whose dead mother's pink ring gives her god-like powers. She gradually finds other people who have similar rings that give them their own god-like powers. Directed by Anno Takashi (YKK, Maison Ikkoku), written by Kakihara Yuuko (Otogijushi Akazukin) from popular manga by Koge Donbo (Di Gi Charat, Pita Ten). Add Nakahara Mai and Sawashiro Miyuki and we may really have something. Satelight animation. OP by Ali Project. (fri 17:30 apr06)Emily of New Moon. From the novels by Lucy Maud Montgomery, author of Anne of Green Gables. Also involves a girl sent to the country to live with relatives, but Emily is apparently a harder case than Anne. Emily is played by Kawakami Tomoko, who was Utena, Misuzu in Air, Soi Fong in Bleach, etc. NHK Saturday morning can make good things happen, so I'll take a look. Animation by TMS. (sat 07:25 apr07)Seirei no Moribito. From a novel by Uehashi Nahoko, set in a fantasy land reminiscent of old Korea. A prince is chosen to bear a fairy's egg. His father wants to kill him, but his mother hires a woman guard. Star Adachi Naoto is 13. VAs are a mix of unknowns and older pros. VA Tsujitani Kouji (who played the Irresponsible Captain Tylor) was sound director of Simoun. Director Kamiyama Kenji did GITS:SAC. Animation by Production I.G. (GITS:SAC, Chevalier, etc.) Great-looking backgrounds. A typical NHK cast of old pros. This has possibilities, with echoes of Saiunkoku and Changeum, and something more. (sat 08:06 apr07)Saiunkoku Monogatari new series. Second season of a great fantasy adventure/romance, set in an analogue of old China. Kuwashima Houko is amazing as Shuurei, the brilliant, kind, moral - and human - girl who becomes an official. Yoshida Reiko's adaptation of a successful series of novels. I watched the first 39 episodes, and I'm ready for more. I hope for the return of Shuurei's one weakness: Sa Sakujun. Animation by Madhouse. (sat apr07)Blue Dragon. Takes over Otogijushi Akazukin's Saturday morning 9 am time-slot on TV Tokyo. Director Matsushita Yukihiro did Marimite. Writer Yamatoya Akatsuki did Gintama and helped with Simoun. Namikawa Daisuke, Hazuki Erino, and Paku Romi in the cast. Worth a look. Maybe it will be a kids' show for adults, as Akazukin was. Studio Pierrot. (sat 09:00 apr07)Lovely Complex. Highly popular shoujo manga about a tall girl and a short boy who are a bickering comic pair, but may become a romantic couple. Unknown seiyuus and kid-oriented director (One Piece, Sailor Moon S) give me pause, but one of the writers was lead on Hana yori Dango, and worked on Marmalade Boy, Gokinjo Monogatari and Ashita no Nadja. I will be there for at least the first couple of eps. Toei. (sat 17:30 apr07)To Terra... Light-years from Earth, where everyone's life is controlled by the great master computer, if you are a telepath, you are doomed. Telepaths have been hiding for centuries, and Terra (Earth) may be their last sanctuary. Saiga Mitsuki, Sugita Tomokazu, Koyasu Takehito (yes!), Kobayashi Sanae, Inoue Marina and Namikawa Daisuke make an outstanding cast. Let's see what director Yamasaki Osamu (Gallery Fake 13-on) can do with them and a classic SF plot. The art on the home page looks good, and some of the writers were involved in shows like Ergo Proxy, Eureka 7, and Noein, so there is promise here. Remake of an older film. Animation by Minamimachi Bugyousho (Gallery Fake, episodes of Mushishi). (sat 18:00 apr07)Emma - A Victorian Romance, Second Act. Second season of the excellent period romance. Animation studio has changed from Studio Pierrot to Asia-Do, but the staff remains largely the same. Touma Yumi (Mel in Angelique, Urd in Ah My Goddess) continues as Emma, and there are other great voices, too: Kobayashi Sanae (Maya in Glass Mask), Ohara Sayaka, Mizuhashi Kaori, Inoue Kikuko, Ueda Yuuji (Morita in H&C). Directed by Kobayashi Tsuneo (Twelve Kingdoms). Music by Ryo Kunihiko (Twelve Kingdoms, Saiunkoku). (sat 25:30 apr07)Skull Man. Mass murders and catastrophes all over Japan are committed by a masked/caped psychic madman, called the Skull Man, and his shape-shifting sidekick. The calamities are investigated by a detective agency and the son of a yakuza. Directed by the director of Vandread, Mori Takeshi, written by the auteur of Rahxephon, Izubuchi Yutaka. Not my style, but could be good for those who like this sort of thing. Preview episode 21 Apr. Bones. (sat late night apr28)Tengen Toppa Gurren-Lagann. Mecha comedy with great animation and a nice cast (Asumi Kana, Ueda Kana, Inoue Marina, Konishi Kaysuyuki, Taniyama Kishou, Itou Shizuka, Satou Rina). But a kiddyish shounen look that doesn’t appeal to me personally. Set in the future, in an underground world where a boy is suddenly confronted by a mecha and a girl from the upper world no-one was sure existed. Shows Sundays at 8:30 am. Gainax. (sun 08:30 apr01)Gegege no Kitaro. A cast of veterans, including Takayama Minami (Detective Conan), revive a classic kids' show. Animation by Toei. (sun 09:00 apr01)Hayate the Combat Butler. From a popular comedy manga. Hayate Ayasaki's parents sell him to the yakuza to pay off their debts. Escaping, he finds a rich girl called Nagi wandering in a park at night. He decides to kidnap her for ransom, but she thinks he's confessing love. She pays off Hayate's debt in return for him being her butler until he earns the money back -- which will take decades. She's a very dere tsundere, and he becomes her "combat butler." The trailer makes this look like a good-hearted show.Great cast includes Shiraishi Ryouko (as Hayate), Kugimiya Rie (as Nagi), Tanaka Rie (as the maid), Itou Shizuka, Matsuki Miyu, Ueda Kana, Nabatame Hitomi, Takahashi Mikako and my current favorite, Ohagi (Yahagi Sayuri). New director Kawaguchi Keiichirou is demonstrating his talent with Getsumen to Heiki Miina. OP by KOTOKO. Animation: Synergy SP (Kirarin Revolution). (sun 10:00 apr01)Lucky Star. Cuteness so thick you could spread it on toast. SaiMoe here we come. From a smart 4-koma comic strip that has a bit of Hidamari Sketch and a bit of Ichigo Mashimaro. Kyoto Animation's first venture into this kind of show. Director Yamamoto Hiroshi was series director of Suzumiya Haruhi. Lead writer Machida Doko wrote Muteki Kanban Musume.This is Hirano Aya's only new spring show. The all-star drama CD cast was replaced by Aya (Suzumiya Haruhi), Chihara Minori (Yuki) and a lot of unknowns. For me, this is a must-see: because of KyoAni and Aya, because the manga is funny, and also for the incredible voice of Sasaki Nozomi (Nana-chan in Bokura ga Ita). (sun 24:00 apr08)Heroic Age. Mecha SF adventure. Humanity, the "Iron Race," is the last of the sentient races to enter space. Aeons later, it is threatened with extinction by the Silver Race. In order to save her people, the queen sets out toward a far-off galaxy, following the prophecies. She meets a boy called Eiji.... Good cast includes Yazaki Hiroshi, Kugimiya Rie, Tamura Yukari, Arai Satomi and Kondou Takashi. Writer Ubukata Tow (Fafner, Chevalier d'Eon, Mardock Scramble) is a larger-than-life character who can create real SF. Animation director Hirai Hisashi did the designs for Gundam Seed, Fafner and Infinite Ryvius. We can hope. I will give this one a chance, especially since it has conscious references to the ancient Greek heroic age. Animation by Xebec. (sun 25:30 apr01)Bokurano. One of the most anticipated shows of the season, from an extremely popular manga. During summer vacation, a group of 15 children discover a mysterious man living in a seashore cave. The man says he is a game developer creating a video game in which 15 giant robots defend Earth from alien invaders. He asks the kids to test the game for him. They soon begin to find the game horribly real, especially after one of them dies following their first victory. And they have no idea how to leave the "game." Mecha adviser: Suzuki Tsutomu (Zone of the Enders). Gonzo. OP by Ishikawa Chiaki, who did the great OP for Simoun. (sun 25:30 apr08)sola. An original story by the writer of Kanon, adapted by the screenwriter for Rozen Maiden, directed by the director of Utawarerumono, with original character designs by the designer of Da Capo adapted by the designer for ARIA, and starring an amazing cast including Nakahara Mai, Noto Mamiko, Koshimizu Ami, Fujiwara Keiji, Kaneda Tomoko, and Yahagi Sayuri. Genki classmate whose imouto is in hospital, onee-san figure, mysterious girl in a church, goth loli: they're all there. Let's see what the staff and cast can do with them. Animation by Nomad. (sun 25:30 apr08)Seto no Hanayome. Mermaid saves boy's life and must marry him because he has seen her true form. But her father, the underwater mob boss, is not pleased and tries to do away with him, while he and his parents try to keep it a secret that his bride is a mermaid. From a popular manga. Great chance for Momoi Halko to show her talent as the "Bride of the Inland Sea." From the director of Magikano, with good-looking animation from Gonzo. The writer did Utawarerumono, which is good, but also Amenaideyo and Lovedol, which is bad. (sun 26:00 apr02)And there are some good shows continuing: Nodame Cantabile, Les Miserables, Death Note, Rocket Girls, and the recently started Moonlight Mile.Information for this post came from Moon Phase, AniDB.net, Anime News Network, Japanese Wikipedia, anime official sites, the AnimeSuki forums, and Shoboi Calendar. Anime titles link to their pages in the Anime News Network encyclopedia.
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