Title: Blood Honey Author:  Sakyou Yozakura [...]
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Supernatural, Youkai, Slice of Life Category:  TV Year:  October 2, 2008 – December 18, 2008 Studio:  Nomad Episodes:  12 Licensed!  Sentai Filmworks Synopsis The story revolves around four teenagers; Akina, Hime, Ao, and Kotoha; each of them having their own unique abilities. They run an office called Hiizumi Life Counseling Office, where their job is to help and protect the townspeople of [...]
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This series really has Baccano!'s magic . . . because even when you think the previous episode you've seen of it is so epic, the next one you see turns out to be even better! I've been avoiding to mention Baccano to show that I still find it genius even if I don't liken it to Baccano! (in other words, it's good as its own. It doesn't need blessings from its predecessor). Ah well, I still think Baccano! is better (DRRR!! unfortunately has to limit itself to the shounen category . . . and to what may appeal the majority. The majority couldn't handle Baccano's epic storytelling. It was TOO BRILLIANT for their brains. *stabbed by those who underestimated Baccano*. Gah, there I go with my Baccano's-lack-of-popularity rants . . . anywayz, now onto the episode![ NEW CITY, NEW LIFE ]One of the ways to start over a new life is when you go to a new city, where no one will know your past, and you introduce the new you. However, it's not that easy to change. And it's still the same you no matter where you go. Mikado's seeing that. He tries to do things differently little by little. Don't worry, Mikado dear, Kida had seen that and he'll be helping you out.[ I'M THERE FOR YOU ]Oh best friends~ Mikado was feeling down about the changing himself thing . . . later, Kida continues to warn Mikado of the troubles he may face but he assures him that there's nothing to worry since he'll be around. Kida's way of cheering Mikadoup . . . it made Mikado touched. Oh Kida, you made me touched too. Hehe~ He's just soooo sweet~[ THE KIDA POSES ]Ah well, aside from the main character's best friend, Kida's other role is being one of the main clowns in the series. LOLz~ I know I've said it before, but Miyano Mamoru is just so perfect in expressing his lines. Hahaha![ EPIC FAIL FLIRTING ]But unlike Tamaki of Ouran, Kida's not very good in seducing women. Lame guy is lame in everything. LOLz~ What's even funnier is that he doesn't see failure in his flirtings . . . but when he does he blames it on Mikado's gloomy expression. Haha![ SHIPPER ]Despite him being a "playboy", he seems to be the type who will support his best friend if Mikado has found a loved one. Heck, his pink chalk illustration already shows that he ships Mikado x Anri, LOLz Funny that he has like completely forgotten that he had though Anri was in love with him in the previous episode. Haha! Shows that he's not serious in so many things~[ MIKADO'S ADORABLE EFFORTS ]Mikado's thoughts presented like a puppet show were so cute~ Haha! I like it that he's no idiot to just stop the fight even though he's not physically strong. His alternative on saving Anri (which is, running away with her), is what he had thought of as the cooler one . .. LOLz~Later he sees Anri being so frightened in watching the fights . . . so he takes her hand and runs away (But Mikado, it was bad for you to leave your best friend. Your best friend had you first on his mind while you had been concerned about Anri. Ah well, Kida wasn't around in the manga . . . ). It's cute that he got tired easily after a little running though. Haha! But I'm glad that he's not a homebody that suddenly got enough energy to run as much as he want. The show is being realistic on Mikado's physical abilities.[ ANRI'S A TYPICAL GIRL? ]About Anri . . . she appears to be the shy type . . . easily gets frightened . . . the victim of bullying and sexual harassers. Yeah, with those traits I could've seen her as someone uninteresting, if not irritating.However, this is a Ryohgo Narita female character. I had thought of Baccano's Eve as someone boring at first impression, but she turned out to be one amazing girl. So I'm not underestimating Anri for now.Besides, I'm already spoiled on what she's capable of. Moreover, it had somehow been hinted that she may not be as ordinary as she seems to be. Like when she ran with Mikado. He's the one who got tired at once while she had more energy to go on. But for being a girl that seems weak and shy, isn't that odd? I really think there's something more about her . . . she's just not showing it yet~[ MYSTERY GIRL ]Anri's so pretty that guys in her class had been thinking of working with her as a class representative just to be able to work with a beauty. This unkown girl is yet another beauty. Anri has mistaken her for someone else though. (Anri, who's Hajima?) She seems to be the same girl with the scar on her neck in episode 1. Her appearance here makes me so confused because I don't think she has that scar in the manga. Perhaps the anime will be changing some of the storyline . . .hmmmm . . .[ SEIJI and HIS LOVE ]Now to Seiji, what he's saying that he finds hell more important than going to school is searching for his love. It didn't take him long though. Oh my god . . . that look when he saw her. And he keeps on referring to her as his love . . . . he's so romantic. For a guy that didn't give much of damn to the world, he's such a lover boy. How romantic . . . kyaaaa~[ BATTLES ]Ah well, this show isn't just for comedy and love stories . . . but for action too~ I love fights that are badass yet they don't take so freakin' loooooooooooong to finish. So when I see a shounen show that has fights that don't last for episodes, I'm so grateful.Shizuo may just be beating up a bunch of weak punks in this episode (shounen shows just love to brag the talented main characters' abilities by beating up a bunch of weak ones) but he had still been so badass and entertaining!And I think though there had been a Shizuo vs Simon part . . . Simon was just in defense mode and wasn't fighting back. We see Simon having injuries in the end while Shizuo's clean. Either that or Shizuo can heal fast. Then hhhmm . . .if that's the case, Shizuo may not be human.[ SUPER HUMANS ]Aside from the black rider, the three most dangerous guys in the series don't seem to be ordinary humans either.We have Simon, who can do acrobat and has incredible strength.Then we have Shizuo, who is a demon (I was laughing when his eyes were flashing like a monster though, haha!) and also has a habit of throwing vending machines and the like when angry.Lastly we have Izaya, who is not only an evil manipulator, but also a fast dude with knife fighting skills.I don't think they're supernatural beings though . . . just extraordinary humans. Hehe.Oh boy there's a lot to tell about this incredible trio that I needed to make a separate post dedicated to them. Haha![ PATHETIC "COOL PEOPLE" WANNABES ]The dangerous trio are involved in the chaos but they're interesting individuals. The series also showed other people that bring trouble to society, and these are the types that you get to see in real life, in all parts of the world. There are punks who pretend to be part of a popular dangerous gang (and certainly, when they face the real deal, they're too helpless), just because they think they're cool. Girls who brag that they're boyfriends of dangerous people think that makes them cool. Ugh . . .they're just attention whores. And seriously, what's so cool about keeping on saying "Yo man" and making poses while touching his own dick? It's disgusting, I wanna spit at him.[ BULLIES ]Aside from the suicide thing, bullying is also very common in Japan. Heck, I believe it's common in all parts of the world. I'm a victim of bullying myself, but not physical bullying though . . .Anyway, bullies are very pathetic. As Izaya says, they're weak. I love it that the show is ridiculing the bully cliche by makign the bullies have this ugly makeup. They think they're doing something cool, when in fact it was something stupid. They think they're wearing something pretty, but it actually makes them fugly. Even though Izaya's been an evil character, he's being used in the series to somewhat satirize the ugly sides of human society in real life. How brilliant~[ OTAKU ]Okay, that it for the ugly types of people in the real world. But for some of the fun types of people in the real world, (particularly the otakus, haha!) we get to see our otaku characters again. Haha! It's funny when Erika and Walker are describing Kyohei as some anime character. Haha![ RUSSIAN SUSHI ]We have been told since episode 1 that Simon's working for his Russian friend that owns a sushi restaurant. And by "sushi restaurant", for me it still means the Japanese style sushi. As in, a foreginer's just cooking the local cuisine of the country he's staying at. But when I've heard that Simon called it Russian sushi, it made me think: There's such a thing as Russian style sushi???? Well, I googled it, and apparently there is. Ahhh . . . it reminds me of how ignorant I am on Japanese cuisine and its foreign varieties. Ah well, I don't eat sushi in the first place anyway (oh don't lecture me on how delicious it is as many of my friends and relatives already have. I really really PICKY on food).[ REFERENCES ]We have three posters of Baccano (they're actually the actual DVD covers). . . then a poster of Cencoroll and two posters of Jigoku Shoujo . . . also a tankoubon of Yozakura Quartet and even a mention of "book signing" by Yozakura Quartet's mangaka: Yasuda Suzuhito. Haha! I don't know if there's more, but I'll feel sad if I missed other Baccano references. Hehe. And ohohohoho, as if I'd miss my number one bishie:HELLO BELOVED!!!! I've been loving you for almost three years already, Firo~[ OTHERS ]Alrighty, on other stuff . . . chatmates are different now??? . . .and hhmm . . looks like Shizuo and the Rider actually know each other! Well, we know she lives with Shinra and had worked for Izaya . . . but I don't see how she could be connected with Shizuo. And we get a glimpse of other characters as well: the teacher and Shizuo's friend (Tom?). Hopefully we get to know them more in future episodes. Lastly, THE TRACKS PLAYED IN THIS EPISODE ARE SO AWESOME!!!! I WANT OST NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW!!!! Hehe . . .Anywayz, It looks like we'll be meeting Shinra next time. Plenty of him in the preview and I hear FukuJun voice. Splendid~
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There often seems to be one new show that most people despise, but I think is outstanding.A couple of summers ago, it was Mahou Tsukai ni Taisetsu na Koto, which it seems only I thought was one of the best shows of 2008. Last fall, it was the hilarious and deep Seitokai no Ichizon, which was derided by its early reviewers. This season, the show in question is Dance in the Vampire Bund. (click images to enlarge)Posters on the show's AnimeSuki forum, and also many bloggers, have been enraged at the way the first episode bears no relation to the manga. They find the TV game show that is used to introduce the story quite stupid. They rail against the fuzzy drawing in the two episodes that have been aired so far. They repeat the common criticism of Shaft and director Shinbou Akiyuki that there are too many still frames and not enough actual animation. They ridicule the use of monsters and amnesia in the plot. They say the show is boring and trite.But after watching episode two, I consider this by far the most promising show of the season, with great visual art, excellent voice-acting, unusual story-telling, fascinating rhythms in the direction, interesting characters, and a romantic story with strong elements of myth.Japanese comments have been mixed, but nowhere near as negative as those in the West. Posters on the Japanese discussion board 2channel have compared the look of the show to shows of the 1980s and earlier. To me, it has echoes of the great German "proto-postmodern" artist Joseph Beuys and his school: dry, unemphatic, strange. The dramatic visual patterns of Shinbou's Bakemonogatari are still there, but muted and more complex. For me, Bakemonogatari took Shinbou to a new level, and this show -- or at least episode two -- is yet another step up.The rhythms of the scenes are brilliant. The deft interplay of sound and silence, image and blank screen in an early classroom scene in episode two is a masterpiece in itself, embodying the protagonist's unsettled state of mind in a way that moves like music.The basic situations are mythical: a queen of the vampires who looks like a child. A vampire island in Tokyo Harbor. A young man who has forgotten his true nature and his life's purpose. A spider/vampire who restrains the queen from crossing the water to her home, but whose attack on the hero releases him from his amnesia and launches him on his true path. The monster spider is like the guardian who blocks the start of the Hero's Journey in classic myth.And mythic images keep appearing: the head poking out of a tiny window in a school wall is like some subterranean or subconscious god. The little queen's face peeking out of the shrubbery shows her integration with the power of the natural world.There is a sequence in episode two where the queen, Mina Tepes, wears the Noh mask of a woman's vengeful ghost and gives a brief Noh-like performance introducing her real vampire nature: "First, drink the lifeblood of humans. Second, live a free life in an immortal body. Third, destroy anyone who interferes with my world." For me, this is a memorable 20 seconds of animation: script, image, and voice.Vampires have always embodied forbidden sexuality. The queen is really the age of an adult, but appears so far in the form of a pre-pubescent child. The scene in which the hero rubs protective gel on her half-naked body is forbidden sexuality for our time, a time when most other forms of sexuality are considered perfectly okay.This aspect of the anime is one that does justify people in shutting it off in horrified disapproval, if that is what they feel.Her apparent age aside, the love story between the queen and her hero is already quite moving: she is searching for the boy who comforted her years ago and promised to protect her. When she comes to him, he has lost his memory. But at a time of crisis, he instinctively tries to protect her and suddenly remembers everything, and they are reunited in joyful tears. Meanwhile, the human girl who also loves him says, in a voiceover: "This is the story of a promise, a fairy tale about a great demon queen and the young man who offered her everything. A story of love, both beautiful and evanescent."People who came to this expecting a shounen anime featuring vampires and fighting may find the emphasis on romantic myth less than ideal. Even if they just expected a faithful adaptation of the manga, they will be justifiably disappointed. The mangaka himself, Tamaki Nozomu, has approved the re-imagining of his manga and is working closely with the director, Shinbou Akiyuki (Tsukuyomi Moonphase, PaniPoni Dash, Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei, Bakemonogatari, etc.), and the lead writer, Yoshino Hiroyuki (Mai-HiME, Macross Frontier, Denpateki na Kanojo, So·Ra·No·Wo·To).Realism plays little part here. We have attack helicopters strafing the streets of Tokyo with no apparent response from the authorities. We have a hero being dashed against a building with great force and surviving. And so on. But this is myth, not reality. I have always believed that anime does myth best.The voice-acting is really outstanding. Seventeen-year-old Yuuki Aoi (Murasaki in Kurenai) as Mina Tepes demonstrates why she is getting so many and such varied roles. She can be commanding and distraught in equal measure. She can scream and she can whisper. It is amusing to hear her in the totally different role of Ichigo, the aspiring young pastry-maker in the excellent little girls' anime Yumeiro Patissière. Mina is about the most varied character imaginable, ranging from vulnerable child to romantic heroine to confident queen to vicious and athletic vampire.The hero, Akira, is played with a beautiful gentle strength by Nakamura Yuuichi, who was Alto in Macross Frontier and Graham Akers in Gundam00.And Saitou Chiwa, who gave last year's best seiyuu performance, as Senjougahara in Bakemonogatari, returns as Yuki, the girl whom Akira leaves behind. And also in the important role of narrator.But what most strikes me about this show is the ironic but powerful way the story is being told. There is a lightness that makes it seem as if some things are just being tossed off. Drama is not artificially induced. But somehow the feelings of the characters come through vividly.The first episode -- which many are now calling "episode 00" -- introduced the situation by way of a cheesy Japanese TV panel show discussing whether vampires were real. The show was thrown in chaos by the revelation that one of the panelists was a vampire himself. He transformed into a ludicrous reptilian monster and then was killed by a glance from the tiny queen, who had been pretending to be an audience member. Serious events happen, but surrounded by bizarre humor.The story is told with great economy. Each sequence has a meaning, and the links are brief and not explicit. Instead, there can be a punctuation of short scenes from elsewhere in the narrative: such as when we see a series of still scenes around the school, informing us that the afternoon has passed.The still scenes work wonderfully well for me. But many people hate it when the screen is still, and say it is not real animation. For me, the still scenes can be drawn with more art and care than an animated sequence, and that has a force of its own. They are certainly a way for the director to save money in the production, which for me is a good thing, since it allows him to make money and therefore more shows.The music is by Dobashi Akio, who was the keyboardist for the group Rebeccca in the 1980s, is a well-known music producer and DJ in Japan, and did music for the Wellber shows and Yozakura Quartet. The music is quite odd, and often used to undercut the message of a scene, either by trivializing it or working directly against it. This is a technique I usually find quite effective, to keep a scene from being too heavy or blunt.The OP song is enjoyable, a cover by Nakano Aiko of the song "Friends," a big hit for Dobashi and Rebecca in the 1980s, used here apparently by special request of the mangaka. The visual rhythms are excellent in the OP animation, which was storyboarded and directed by assistant director ("series director") Sonoda Masahiro. He is a veteran key animator and episode director who has directed many episodes of various animes, including Welcome to the NHK, Di Gi Charat Nyo, Scrapped Princess, and some Galaxy Angel shows. He also storyboarded and directed episode 2.The OP includes a passionate dance at faster than human speed by Mina Tepes, wearing next to nothing. It is an index the "dangerousness" (to quote the Moonphase blog) of the animation that I will not post it here. Look it up on YouTube, if you want. Some posters on the Japanese discussion board 2channel think it is the best OP of the season. So do I.The art director is Azuma Kouji, who got his start in hentai, as art director in a couple of Bible Black anime, but has recently become a close collaborator of Shinbou and Oonuma Shin, having done many episodes of ef melodies, as well as being art director of both Natsu no Arashi series and the current Baka to Test.The overall animation director is Konno Naoyuki, the director and animation director of 009-1, a fanservicey adventure show that looked great, whatever else it lacked.A note about the title: bund in German means an association or league. But that is not its meaning here. In the period around a hundred years ago when Britain occupied Shanghai, the main waterfront area there was known as "The Bund." This comes from the Urdu word band, which means an embankment or dam. The connection to this show is that an artificial island rising from Tokyo Harbour is occupied by the vampire nation.Will the show continue to impress me? We shall see. But since one writer is doing all the episodes, and the director/storyboarder of episode two is the man who will direct more episodes than anyone else, I expect the quality to keep coming. At least for me.
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Left to right, the back row is Nanako, Nanae, and Nanamo; front row is Nana and Nanami Not sure how many of you heard the news a while ago that the new search engine, Bing, hired on a bunch of voice actresses-- including Saki Fujita, the woman whose voice was sampled to create your favorite non-anime-non-manga-non-game character, Miku Hatsune.Well, the latest piece of news: the mascots have reached their click goal and have kept their promise: they released a bunch of special digital prizes, aimed at Windows users (but not completely worthless for you Mac-lovers).   For Windows 7 users, there are themepacks, and for Vista and XP users, a pack of audio files for each mascot character. And you can download them even if you're not in Japan, so-- sweet! Maybe if I wind up buying a new laptop with Win7 tonight I'll have to check it out. Each pack has a WAV file for the following events: window maximization and minimization, alert, battery low, battery off, bing searching, plugging in and unplugging devices, logging on and off, mail and message notifications, system error, emptying the trash, and closing a window.The characters and their respective voice actresses are:Nanae - Eriko Nakamura - Gintama's Matsuko, Koihime Musou's Enjutsu - The responsible, clever, but occasionally frantic boss lady. (The files in her download pack are different than the preview ones on the main page.)Nana - Ai Matayoshi - Yozakura Quartet's Rin, Saki's Seika Bundou - The cute, young, precocious girl.Nanako - Juri Takita - Nodame Cantabile: Parihen's Noemi Creve - The sweet, kind girl.Nanami - Asami Imai - Needless' Solva, Strait Jacket's Rachel Hammond - In the sample she calls you master, but in the filepack she's a bit more flippant.Nanao - Saki Fujita - Miku Hatsune, Tokimeki Memorial ~Only Love~'s Mina Yayoi - The energetic tomboy girl.   Nanao, played by Miku Hatsune singer Saki Fujita You know, it's cute that they used "Nana" (7, as in Windows 7) in all of the girls' names, but doesn't that also mean there should be seven of 'em? Anyway, click here for the downloads, and thanks to reader mattmagician for the tip!
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Like Dance in the Vampire Bund, here we go with an another atypical anime. From Baccano's creator novelist (I haven't watch but I always heard good thought on it) and illustrated by Suzuhito Yasuda (who did Yozakura Quartet) so we can expect something good. By the way, I invite you to read these two files on wikipedia : Durarara!! and Dullahan, I'm sure you will see the link. Well, let's begin
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Reminder Sentai Filmwork (Anime) + Switchblade Pictures (Live Action) = Section 23 Section 23 = the people behind ADV  You've got to hand it to them. The usual calender release is pretty boring, but the people at Section 23 just love tell you what acquired and when they are going to release it in one fell swoop. 6 total new announcements (across live action and animated features) all set for a March 2010 release date.   Section 23's March 2010 Calender:You're Under Arrest: Full Throttle, 1st Collection Yozakura Quartet Complete CollectionTayutama: Kiss on my Deity Cat Girl/ Super Dimension Odyssey Tritia Double Feature Buyusenki Battle ChronicleNeo Angelique Abyss Season 2 Collection (not new, but a March release none the less) Anime Reference Sheet  You're Under Arrest: Full ThrottleWelcome to You’re Under Arrest: Full Throttle, the follow up to Fast & Furious! The ladies of Bokuto Police Station are back, but there have been some BIG changes! Miyuki's been in the U.S., studying American police techniques while Natsumi's actually been serving in the military! So have these world-changing experiences had any effect on how everyone's favorite girls in blue carry out their duties protecting the Japanese public? Have they gained a more "mature" perspective? Well. let's just say that, if anything, they may be even wilder and less cautious than before! (Except for that blossoming "relationship" between Miyuki and Nakajima, where things are getting decidedly delicate.)   Yozakura QuartetWhen Demons Walk the Streets, The Cops need to recruit More Demons! In a town where humans and demons co-exist, it takes more than a normal police force to maintain the peace. Enter the Hiizumi Life Counseling Office, a fantastic foursome of unique teenagers, each gifted with an amazing super power! Since it sometimes takes real demon-fire to fight demon fire, the first three quarters of the team aren't exactly human: Ao, a cat-eared telepath; Kotoha, a half-human conjuror and Hime, descended from a dragon (and the town's acting mayor,) all of whom also happen to be delightfully female. Rounding out the group is the token male and human, Akina, the office director and "Oyakume," capable of banishing spirits permanently (and from their point of view quite fatally) via a process called tuning. Tayutama: Kiss on my Deity Yuuri Mito is a typical, normal Japanese teenager. He goes to school, works on people's motorcycles and performs exorcisms. Okay, that last part's a little bit unusual, but his family lives in a shrine and they do that sort of thing. Still, you would think he'd know enough to be careful with an ancient relic he finds in the woods, especially when a mysterious goddess appears and tells him to leave it alone. Unfortunately, despite Mito 's best efforts, the seal gets broken anyway and a number of dangerous "tayuti" that it held in stasis get loose. This is bad. Mito also ends up with a beautiful goddess girl who decides that she's going to marry him. This might not be so bad. if he wasn't already caught up in the middle of a war between the entities he's released.    Neo Angelique Abyss In a land with no sun, the light of the soul must show the way. Six months have passed since the shocking climactic events of season one. As the monstrous Thanatos run rampant, and the world of Arcadia is enveloped in a shroud of smoke and darkness. The mysterious disappearance of the Orb Hunters has lead many to believe that their former protectors are responsible for the disaster. But the truth is even more shocking, for Angelique has actually been unconscious the entire time. Now, waking for the first time, she realizes that she must embrace her destiny, but to do so will mean placing her trust in those who could destroy her!   Live Action Reference Sheet Cat Girl/ Super Dimension Odyssey Tritia Double Feature    Cat Girl:  When a secret illegal fighting syndicate needs to recruit new wrestlers, the best and most logical way to do this is to kidnap unsuspecting women who visit an elite Beauty institute and dose them up with an experimental Cat DNA serum, right? Unfortunately for the bad guys, their latest feline enhanced femme fatale is actually an undercover reporter named Natasha, and they're in for a real pussy whipping from their latest CAT GIRL!    Super Dimension Odyssey Tritia: The scantily clad Princess Tritia of Blue Land comes to Earth in search of the long lost Treasure Sword, a mission so urgent that she apparently didn't have time to pack any pants. That's okay though, because while Tritia may be one of the ditzy-est super-heroines of all time, her well exposed assets are more than sufficient to counter the sinister conspiracies spun by Prince Gananga of Red Land ! There's sleaze, cheese and loads of color coded chaos galore in Super Dimension Odyssey Tritia!   Buyusenki Battle Chronicle Mix motorcycles, drugs and yakuza under pressure and the result is bosozoku, the brutal motorized street gangs that terrorize Japan armed with swords and baseball bats. Kyosuke Jinnai was the leader of the "Buyusenki," the largest group of its kind in the Kanto region, but sick of the violence, he had planned to give it all up to make a family with his pregnant girlfriend. Instead, all of that was stolen from him in a moment of savage betrayal, and the man who dreamed of a life of peace has instead been transformed into an angel of death!     ConclusionNothing super surprising on the announcement front. Full Throttle and Neo Angelique Abyss were kind of given, though predictability is not reflective of their nature. Actually, I know almost nothing about most things on this list, though Yozukara Quartet seems like the kind of show I occasionally fall into.  On the other hand... the live action releases sound... amazing. Cat Girl? Really? On my scale of shitty/amusing live action movies, Cat Girl had me at hello. Add in that its a double feature packed with something equally outlandish for live action... and I'm sold.
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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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Takagaki Ayahi 高垣彩陽 is 4' 11" of talent and hard work. And over the past two years, she has become one of the better seiyuu actresses around.She brings alive the laconic young killer Ein in Requiem for the Phantom. She made Nina Antalk the emotional centre of Chrome-Shelled Regios. Before that, she helped create an amazing romantic innocent with Noe in true tears.And the role that first got my attention was the mature Otome in Da Capo 2 SS. Especially her powerful emotional expressiveness near the end of the series. Ayahi can be a bit melodramatic, but the emotion works. (click photos to enlarge; mouseover for captions)Her ability is being rewarded with more and more roles. She has nine roles this year, and this fall will star in Sasameki Koto and will have an important role in Sora no Otoshimono.And don't be surprised if she gets a real recording career. She graduated from a music college in Tokyo, with a major in operatic singing (hear her opera voice in the Da Capo 2 interview, below). Sony made her part of their group Sphere, composed of Tomatsu Haruka, Toyosaki Aki, Kotobuki Minako, and Ayahi. I found some of her earlier work rather stiff, but her character song album as Ein from Phantom is excellent.Personal databorn 25 October 1985; 23 years old.150.8cm (4'11")from Tokyoagency: Music Ray'n (Sony)blood type Anickname: Ayahi, Ayahii, Ayahimeshe uses her real surname, not a stage name, because she likes it so much. She says it gives a feeling of fighting (tatakau) and energy (genki-ness, like a kid, a gaki).backgroundcomes from a large familyattended a girls' school from kindergarten through high schoolin kindergarten, wanted to be Sailor MoonLina Inverse's incantations in Slayers made her think that seiyuu could be magicianswhen she was younger she once wrote that her career goal was to be a seiyuu, but she gradually drifted over to a greater interest in musicgraduated from music college in March of 2008becoming a seiyuuher interest in seiyuu work revived after she saw Gundam Seedshe qualified at a series of Music Ray'n auditions in 2005-2006she only took the audition due to a friend's encouragement, and barely made the deadlineshe got her first role a month later, in 2006her first named role was Tsubaki in Ouran HS Host Club (2006)her first starring role was Ruchia in Venus Versus Virus (2007)Video clips of Ayahi's roles:<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/IJJzhMlS6hY&amp;color1=0xb1b1b1&amp;color2=0xcfcfcf&amp;feature=player_embedded&amp;fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/IJJzhMlS6hY&amp;color1=0xb1b1b1&amp;color2=0xcfcfcf&amp;feature=player_embedded&amp;fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>rolesshe has a fairly wide acting range, from little kids to romantic teens to gentle weak girls to elder sister types to proper young ladies to boyish girls to serious young womenshe uses her voice well, but it is not particularly distinctivemajor roles: Ruchia (Venus Versus Virus), Jasmine (Deltora Quest), Otome (DC Da Capo 2), Feldt Grace (Gundam00), Noe (true tears), Tsubasa (Kyou no Go no Ni), Nina Antalk (Chrome-Shelled Regios), Ein (Requiem for the Phantom), Aresta Blanket (Charger Girl Juuden-chan), Sumika (Sasameki Koto) skill and talentvery studious, memorizes a script perfectlycarries a notebook and writes down things older cast and staff saymakes and organizes notes about each production and each characterseiyuu usually check a script by whispering through it; she surprises people by speaking it out at full voiceother seiyuu say she really gets into her role, becoming one with itTomatsu Haruka has praised her vocal range, nimble tongue, and pronunciation and breathingHisakawa Aya has said, rather cryptically, that Ayahi is just what a seiyuu should beInterview re Da Capo 2. Watch for her singing a bit of opera around the 6:00 minute mark. The interviewer nearest Ayahi is Sakai Kanako, who starred in REC:<object width="420" height="339"><param name="movie" value="http://www.dailymotion.com/swf/xag78d"/><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"/><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"/><embed src="http://www.dailymotion.com/swf/xag78d" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="420" height="339" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always"></embed></object>personalitystaff and seiyuu say she is majime (modest, serious, and polite)she gives coworkers presents and cards, particularly for birthdays and Valentine's Daynatural and direct, approaches problems head-ona bit of an airhead at times; Taniyama Kishou says she should be the Tokyo representative in the World Airhead Championshipsshe herself admits it's a bit true, but apologizes to the real airheadsfriends with Chihara Minorieasily moved to tears, often crying at events and on radio, and especially at anime wrap-up partiesa terrible cook: there are stories about her not being able to peel a boiled egg, and failing at making pancakes; she says she just needs more practicethe pancake story got included as part of Nina's back-story in Regioscarries a large bag and surprises people by pulling all sorts of things out of its jumbled interior familyvery close to her family, always talking about her motherlives with her mother and younger sisterher mother checks everything she writes on her blogher grandmother does her hairet ceterashe is very concerned with the roles she plays; at a live event, she went on and on mentioning the minor roles that were not included in her Wikipedia entry, and described her feelings about shows she had unnamed roles in.she considers it very important to sing a character song in character: for Regios songs, she had pictures of her character and a script set up in the recording booth.she says she is an otaku for her own shows, getting books, figures, etc.fell in love with the Toyama area, where true tears was set and where the show's PA Works studio is located; other seiyuu call her the "ambassador for sightseeing in Nantou" (a city in the Toyama area)on 2channel, there are almost 12,000 posts in her main threads; but there are also several hundred in anti- threads, criticizing her voice and acting ability, as well as her dark skin and supposed common manner. It's true that her dark skin sometimes makes her look like a tanned Japanese "gang girl." So does the fact that she sometimes seems to use a lot of make-up.she likes to wear her hair piled up high on her head, to make herself seem tallerSphere (l-r) Tomatsu Haruka, Kotobuki Minako, Takagaki Ayahi, Toyosaki Aki:music2009.2.15, at Music Ray'n Girls Spring Choco Matsuri, formation of Sphere was announcedat 23, Ayahi is the group's oldest member: Tomatsu Haruka is 19, Kotobuki Minako 18, and Toyosaki Aki 22.singers Ayahi likes: Honda Minako 本田美奈子, KOKIA. She did Honda's signature tune Amazing Grace at the Music Ray'n Girls Autumn Harvest Festival event, and KOKIA does OP1 and ED2 for PhantomKOKIA wrote the music and lyrics for two Gundam00 character songs Ayahi will release October 21Sphere's debut event:<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xmS8QhEnpL0&amp;color1=0xb1b1b1&amp;color2=0xcfcfcf&amp;feature=player_embedded&amp;fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xmS8QhEnpL0&amp;color1=0xb1b1b1&amp;color2=0xcfcfcf&amp;feature=player_embedded&amp;fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Good TV interview with Sphere:<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/g0l7tu-lOx0&amp;color1=0xb1b1b1&amp;color2=0xcfcfcf&amp;feature=player_embedded&amp;fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/g0l7tu-lOx0&amp;color1=0xb1b1b1&amp;color2=0xcfcfcf&amp;feature=player_embedded&amp;fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>non-anime workdubbing: three roles, including the female lead in the movie 10,000 BCa role in a stage musicalten radio shows, four of which are continuing (Takahashi Daisuke and Takagaki Ayahi's Nightly Hustle, Web Radio Planet Sphere, Phantom Radio, Canaan radio)roles in eight games (none adult), including leading roles in Da Capo 2 Plus Situation, and Dungeons & Damroles in four radio dramas, including the online voice comic ("vomic") Sugars links:official siteblog Anime News NetworkJapanese Wikipedia video clipsTV show with Shiraishi Ryouko and Nabatame HitomiTV show with Nazuka Kaori and Iguchi Yuka for true tearswith Tomatsu Haruka in a promo for an “audio novel”with Iguchi Yuka in a TV interview re true tearsseiyuu visit Toyama, location of true tearsinterview re her debut in Venus Versus Virusinterview with Sphereinterview re recording Regios EDCast in:2006 Ouran High School Host Club (TV) as Female university student (ep 17); Kamigamo TsubakiPocket Monsters: Diamond & Pearl (TV) as Chinatsu (ep 76)Jigoku Shoujo Futakomori (TV) as Kitazaki (ep 18)2007Deltora Quest (TV) as JasmineGakuen Utopia Manabi Straight! (TV) as Student (ep 10); Sweets Student (ep 3)Venus Versus Virus (TV) as Nahashi RuchiaToward the Terra (TV) as AlteraKenko Zenrakei Suieibu Umisho (TV) as Oyamada Asami; Nanjou Karena (ep 8-13)Baccano! (TV) as Lumiere Sylvie D.C. II: Da Capo II (TV) as Asakura OtomeMokke (TV) as Aida (ep 22)Goshuushou-sama Ninomiya-kun (TV) as Ninomiya Shungo (young)Mobile Suit Gundam 00 (TV) as Feldt GraceRental Magica (TV) as Female Student; Male StudentAyakashi (TV) as Natsuhara (ep 6)2008true tears (TV) as Isurugi NoeAllison & Lillia (TV) as Meg (ep 23)D.C.II S.S. ~Da Capo II Second Season~ (TV) as Asakura OtomeNet Ghost PiPoPa (TV) as Yukiya KarinWagaya no Oinarisama (TV) as Hashimoto Shunta (ep 22)S.A. (TV) as Yamamoto Megumi; Takashima household Maid C (ep 12); Yuki-pon (ep 11)Slayers Revolution (TV) as Girl (ep 13)Battle Spirits: Shounen Toppa Bashin (TV) as SuirenYozakura Quartet (TV) as Tatebayashi MizunaJigoku Shoujo Mitsuganae (TV) as Moriyama Jun (ep 3)Macademi Wasshoi! (TV) as PaltiaKyo no 5 no 2 (TV) as Kawai TsubasaMobile Suit Gundam 00 Second Season (TV) as Feldt GraceSkip Beat! (TV) as Miya2009Maria-sama ga Miteru 4th Season (TV) as MiyukiZoku Natsume Yūjin-Chou (TV) as Sui (ep. 2)Chrome Shelled Regios (TV) as Nina AntalkPhantom ~Requiem for the Phantom~ (TV) as EinCharger Girl Ju-den Chan (TV) as Aresta BlanketCANAAN (TV) as NeneZan Sayonara Zetsubō Sensei (TV) as Oora KanakoSora no Manima ni (TV) as Minami SayuriSora no Otoshimono (TV) as Satsukitane MikakoSasameki Koto (TV) as Murasame SumikaKyou no 5 no 2 Takarabako (OVA) as Kawai Tsubasa2010 Hanamaru Kindergarten (TV) as HiiragiStaff in:2008S.A (TV) : Theme Song Performance (OP/ED2)Battle Spirits: Shōnen Toppa Bashin (TV) : Theme Song Performance (ED2)2009Chrome Shelled Regios (TV) : Theme Song Performance (ED)Hatsukoi Limited (TV) : Theme Song Performance (OP - Sphere)Charger Girl Juuden Chan (TV) : Theme Song Performance (OP)Sora no Manima ni (TV) : Theme Song Performance (OP – Sphere)(lists from Anime News Network)Music CDsVenus Versus Virus Character Vocal AlbumDC Da Capo 2 Character Songs v.6true tears Image Album "Tears...For Truth"true tears Character Image Song CD "Another World" (DVD6 extra)S.A. Character mini-AlbumS.A. ED2Kyou no Go no Ni BGM Collection Sound Festival Chrome Shelled Regios: character songs 1 and 2 "Yasashii Uso" (from Chrome-Shelled Regios)Dungeons & Dam Audio Collection"dear-dear Dream" (Battle Spirits Shounen Toppa Bashin)Requiem for the Phantom character maxi single "Inspired by Ein"Canaan Insert Song "China Kibun de High Tension"Gundam00 Voice Actor Single "Inori" and "Justice"Fight Ippatsu Juuden-chan ED "TeCh=NoloGy"Ragnarok Online 7th anniversary song (Sphere) -- "Kaze wo Atsumete" and "Brave My Heart"(list from Neowing and 2channel)upcoming eventsLantis Matsuri (27 Sept) - SphereTokyo Asia Music Market (23 Oct)Ragnarok Online World Championshiup 2009 (1 Nov) - SphereSphere Colorful Concert (10 Jan 2010)(list from 2channel)Ayahi sings (streaming audio) the Regios ED Yasashii Uso, as back-up singer to Chrome Shelled (studio musicians).
(Read the rest of this entry) (Entry meta)

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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