Natsume Goushin Ryu 1-15 July 2004 news

1-15 JULY 2004 NEWS

15 July 2004

Fourth update.
Yesterday was the fifth anniversary of the Moon Phase fan website - a wealth of information on anime, manga, computer games and other related things. Cyan-san, omedetou gozaimasu! \^_^/
Kimura Youmi's website states that her song Sekai no Yakusoku (The World's Promise) from her album Ryuusei (released in November 2003) has been chosen as the theme song for the upcoming Studio Ghibli movie Hauru no Ogoku Shiro (Howl's Moving Castle). You can listen to samples of some of hte songs on the album at the page linked above. In particular, the sample for Sekai no Yakusoku is here. However, for the movie, the song will be performed by Baishou Chieko who voices the role of heroine Sophie. Source: Moon Phase. Another of Kimura's songs, "Itsumo Nando Demo", was used as the theme song for Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi (Spirited Away).
Moon Phase states that a second season of the Gantz TV anime will commence broadcast on AT-X on 26 August 2004, however no source is stated. On the other hand, people on this AnimeonDVD forum thread have been able to verify this info.
BS-i's website for the upcoming Air TV anime has changed URL - the site is now here. Source: Moon Phase.
BS-i's website for the upcoming Rozen Maiden TV anime has changed URL - the site is now here. Source: Moon Phase. Nothing to see at present, the "enter" link just directs you to the TBS' other page which I mentioned earlier today. (BS-i is one of the broadcast systems within TBS.)
Official website for the upcoming Studio Ghibli movie Hauru no Ogoku Shiro (Howl's Moving Castle). Source: Moon Phase.
This animate.tv webpage gives the releases details for the Tales of Phantasia OVA series (same as the details I posted up on 13 July 2004). In addition, there's promo movie for streaming download. I can't recall whether it's the same promo clip previously made available in late March 2004. Anyway, there are two dark blue buttons at the bottom right hand corner of the page. Clcik on the left if you have a narrow band internet connection, click on the right if you have a broadband connection. Source: ultimatum.
On 26 June 2004 I gave the release details for the advance limited edition version of the KaleidoStar OVA. The official website now has the details for the regular edition: to be released 22 October 2004, catalogue number OKBJ-1017, price 5,250 yen (including tax). Source: ultimatum.
VAP's website for the elfen lied TV anime now has a movie trailer (version A) available from download. Click on the movie section of course. Then the word trailer, then the first blue box in the bottom right hand corner. It's the same as the second ad which I've been hosting (I'll remove my copies now). To commence broadcast on 25 July 2004. Looks like it'll be a 13 episode series.
Volume 6 of the manga Paniponi by Hikawa Hekiru will be published at the end of October 2004. There'll be a limited edition version available, which will come with Paniponi 4 panel manga and short manga. Price 800 yen (including tax). Source: Mangaoh Club.
Old news, but on Satou Tatsuo's website, he writes of remastering the TV anime Nadesico. Source: Moon Phase. Satou was the director of the Nadesico TV series and the movie. A remastered version of the movie was released towards the end of last year. I've heard that ADV Films is re-releasing Nadesico TV later this year without the overlays they put on their original release. Any chance this will incorporate the Japanese remaster? I haven't kept up with R1 news, but I'm assuming not...? I wonder if ADV Films will license this remaster? This will give the company a chance to sell the series a third time :P I was considering picking up the ADV re-release, but maybe I'll just wait for the R2 remaster :)
Toho has announced that Otomo Katushiro's movie Steam Boy has been selected as the closing movie for the 61st Venice Film Festival (held from 1 to 11 September 2004). This is the first time that an animation has been selected as a closing feature for any of the three main world film festivals: Berlin, Cannes and Venice. Source: Moon Phase.
Gpara.com reports that a Ragnarok the Animation movie will be theatrically released next year. Source: Moon Phase.
TBS has a page up for the upcoming TV anime of Rozen Maiden (based on the manga by Peach-Pit). Source: alternative-live. Nothing to see except the title logo, but I note that in the staff credits which I listed on 30 June 2004, I spelt the director's name incorrectly. It should be Matsuo Mamoru, not Matsu Mamoru. The series will commence broadcast in the (northern) autumn.
Sankei Sports reports that a two-part sequel to the live action dorama series Dr Kotoh - Shinryousho (Dr Kotoh - Clinc), based on the manga by Yamada Takatoshi, will be broadcast in the (northern) autumn. Source: ultimatum.
I'm exceedingly busy at work. If news seems erratic over the next fortnight, you know why.

13 July 2004

Fifth update.
animate.tv has release details for the Tales of Phantasia the Animation OVA series, together with more staff details. As previously stated, character design, layout and chief animation director are Matsutake Tokuyuki. I can't recall if I mentioned before, but Matsutake's character designs will be based on designs by Fujishima Kosuke. Animation production by Actas Inc. Production by Frontier Works, Geneon Entertaiment and Geneon Entertainment (USA) Inc. ie Geneon in the US has the rights to this anime. Another instance of a US company involved in the production of anime rather than simply licensing it. Anyway, back to the release details:

Volume 1 - to be released 25 November 2004, duration 30 minutes, 16:9 aspect ratio, linear PCM stereo sound.
Collector's Edition (first pressing limited edition item), catalogue number FCBT-0001, price 8,190 yen, comes with jacket illustrated by Matsutake, 36 page booklet (design works etc), bonus DVD (staff and cast interviews, trailer/promo video, creditless OP, music clip - some contents are the same as the bonus DVD for the Yggdrasil Edition).
Regular edition, catalogue number FCBT-0005, price 6,090 yen.
Yggdrasil Edition (first pressing limited edition item), catalogue number FCBT-0009, price 8,190 yen, comes with special package, episode 1 scenario booklet, bonus DVD (staff and cast interviews, illustration gallery, music clip).

Volume 2 - to be released 21 January 2005, duration 30 minutes, 16:9 aspect ratio, linear PCM stereo sound.
Collector's Edition (first pressing limited edition item), catalogue number FCBT-0002, price 8,190 yen, comes with jacket illustrated by Matsutake, comes with 36 page booklet (design works etc), bonus CD (radio program and mini-soundtrack - BGM and OP & ED).
Regular edition, catalogue number FCBT-0006, price 6,090 yen.
Yggdrasil Edition (first pressing limited edition item), catalogue number FCBT-0010, price 8,190 yen, comes with special package, episodes 2-4 scenario booklet, bonus CD (sound drama based on the OVA story).

Volume 3 - to be released March 2005, duration 30 minutes, 16:9 aspect ratio, linear PCM stereo sound.
Collector's Edition (first pressing limited edition item), catalogue number FCBT-0003, price 8,190 yen, comes with jacket illustrated by Matsutake, comes with 36 page booklet (design works etc), bonus CD (radio program and mini-soundtrack - BGM and OP & ED).
Regular edition, catalogue number FCBT-0007, price 6,090 yen.
Yggdrasil Edition (first pressing limited edition item), catalogue number FCBT-0011, price 8,190 yen, comes with special package, episodes 2-4 scenario booklet, bonus CD (sound drama based on the OVA story).

Volume 4 - to be released in the early (summer) of 2005, duration 30 minutes, 16:9 aspect ratio, linear PCM stereo sound.
Collector's Edition (first pressing limited edition item), catalogue number FCBT-0004, price 8,190 yen, comes with jacket illustrated by Matsutake, comes with 36 page booklet (design works etc), bonus CD (radio program and mini-soundtrack - BGM and OP & ED).
Regular edition, catalogue number FCBT-0008, price 6,090 yen.
Yggdrasil Edition (first pressing limited edition item), catalogue number FCBT-0012, price 8,190 yen, comes with special package, episodes 2-4 scenario booklet, bonus CD (sound drama based on the OVA story).

Furthermore, those who purchase all four volumes of the Collector's Edition or all four volumes of the Yggdrasil Edition will be able to apply for bonus item(s). However, you can't mix and match coupons from the Collector's Edition with those from the Yggdrasil Edition. Source: Moon Phase.
Sankei Sports reports that the upcoming live action (with CG) Devilman movie will be released theatrically on 9 October 2004. On 10 July 2004 various cinemas started selling advance tickets which come with a premium DVD (price 1,300 yen). The premium DVD is a limited edition of 20,000 copies and is approximately 10 minutes in length, containing highlight scenes, CG effects etc. Source: Ma-ten.
Gamersnavi.com reports on the Kakyuusei 2 (Underclassmen 2) TV anime. Title is stated to be "Kakyuusei 2 ~ Hitomi no Naka no Shoujo-tachi ~". Source: Ma-ten. To commence broadcast in October 2004. I find it kinda funny that the opening theme song will be titled "18" :)
TV Tokyo's website for Tennis no Oujisama (Prince of Tennis) with a bit more info on the TenniPri movie coming out in 2005. There'll be a main feature and also a short anime as well. Source: alternative-live. Just like with the Naruto movie coming out this year.
Some people have been complaining about the fog on the Girls Bravo TV anime. I've seen one Japanese fan refer to the series as "Steam Girls" :P Character designer Makino Ryuichi has stated on his BBS that since the fog or "cut scenes" were due to Fuji TV's regulations, the DVDs should not have the same effects. Source: Syosyo and Rakuga Kidou.
Yomiuri Shimbun reports that TMS Entertainment is to release a "Lupin III Official Magazine". See also this press release by TMS Entertainment. B5 size, four issues a year, price 500 yen (including tax) per issue. The first issue is due out on 27 July 2004 and will contain 220 pages (five manga comprising 180 pages - one 80 page story, two mid-length stories and two short stories - and 40 additional pages including information about the Lupin TV special to be broadcast on 30 July 2004 and the Monkey Punch Manga Katsudou Dai Shashin anime to commence broadcsat on 31 July 2004). There'll also be an interview with creator Monkey Punch. Further, it's stated in the Yomiuri report that the Hollywood live action Lupin III movie is to be released in the (northern) spring of 2006. Source: ultimatum.
The official website for Newtype (the Japanese edition, not the US) has been renewed. URL is now http://pc.webnt.jp/. Source: ultimatum.
The September 2004 issue of Champion Red manga magazine (on sale 17 July 2004) will feature a one-shot manga by Tomizawa Hitoshi of Alien 9 fame. The sci-fi manga will be titled "Uchuu wo Kaitakusuru Houhou". Humanity has moved into space, but an unknown danger strikes. There's a murder onboard a spaceship. Who's the murderer? And what was the motive? Source: ultimatum.
Aniplex's website for the upcoming Sweet Valerian anime. Nothing to see at present, though. The anime will commence broadcast on 1 August 2004.
Kill Bill Vol. 2 will be released on DVD (in Japan) on 8 October 2004. dvdcatalog states that there'll be three versions:

Kill Bill Vol. 2 (regular edition)
English soundtracks - DTS and Dolby Digital 5.1ch, Japanese soundtrack - Dolby Digital 5.1ch, first pressing comes with reversible character jacket (there are four types - Bill, Bud, Elle and Pai Mei).
Price 3,990 yen (including tax)

Kill Bill Vol. 2 Premium Box (first pressing limited edition of 30,000 sets)
English soundtracks - DTS and Dolby Digital 5.1ch, Japanese soundtrack - Dolby Digital 5.1ch, comes with "Hissatsu! Kung Fu" T-shirt (M size), Be@rbrick figure (Love Bride version) in a coffin case, Pai Mei keyring, 10 memorial cards, 24 page full colour booket.
Price 7,980 yen (including tax)

Kill Bill Vol. 1 & 2 Twinpack (first pressing limited edition item)
As the name suggests, contains Kill Bill Vol. 1 and Vol. 2
English soundtracks - DTS and Dolby Digital 5.1ch, Japanese soundtrack - Dolby Digital 5.1ch, comes with special outer case.
Price 6,279 yen (including tax)
Yesterday I wrote about the Hagane no Renkinjutsushi (Full Metal Alchemist) Book in(?) Figure Red to be released in December 2004. Animate Web Mail Order has a listing for the item now, including photos of the figure. Note that it's one figure of Ed and Al, not two separate figures. The figure is based upon the illustration by mangaka Arakawa Hiromu.
If anyone wants to buy one of those Hagane no Renkinjutsushi (Full Metal Alchemist) Automail character goods I mentioned on 10 July 2004, Animate Web Mail Order has been able to stock another 15 units.
As to the Jump Festa anime of Bleach, Moon Phase states that director will be Abe Kishi and animation produced by Studio Perriot. For the Ichigo 100% anime, director and character designer will be Yamauchi Noriyasu, with script by Hanada Jukki and animation production by Madhouse. However, I don't know the source for this information.
This Mainichi Shimbun report states that the Full Metal Alchemist movie will take place two years after the events of the final TV episode. As with the TV series, director will be Mizushima Seiji and script will be by Aikawa Shou. Source: Moon Phase.
Episode #7 of Monthly Animage TV (broadcast yesterday on the Family Gekijo channel) has announced that Production IG's TV anime Windy Tale Fuujin Monogatari will be broadcast on a Sky Perfect! pay per view channel on 11 September 2004. Source: alternative-live.

12 July 2004

Third update.
Every (northern) spring since 1980 there has been a Doraemon movie. This year's movie was the 25th movie. However goo anime cites a Yuukan Fuji report that there'll be no Doraemon movie in 2005. Instead, as this message on the official Doraemon website states, the next movie will be released theatrically in 2006.
NHK's website for the live action dorama series adaptation of the manga Hikeshiya Komachi (Beautiful Firefighter) by Ousaka Mieko is now up. Originally scheduled to commence broadcast on 28 June 2004, this series ultimately only started today. Source: ultimatum.
This year's Jump Festa Anime Tour will feature original anime of Bleach and Ichigo 100% (confirming the previous news of an Ichigo 100% anime for the Festa). The tour will visit five cities in Japan including Tokyo on 23 September 2004. Source: ultimatum. Bleach is the manga by Kubo Taito (released in the US by Viz). Ichigo 100% is the manga by Kawashita Mizuki.
Thanks for Neo-Era of Gunota Headlines for bringing to my attention something regarding my post on Gundam Seed Destiny on 10 July 2004: I wrote that music would be by Sahashi Toshihiko, 3D CG production by Sunrise Digital Images Department and ufotable and I suggested that these details had been announced on the official website. However this is not correct. These details were posted on the TA Group BBS, however, like the statement that the series will commence broadcast on 6pm on 2 October 2004, no source was stated. I've updated my earlier post. If you ever see a discrepancy between something Gunota Headlines writes and something I write, go with whatever they say ^_^
Hagane no Renkinjutsushi (Full Metal Alchemist) Book in(?) Figure Red will be released in December 2004 by Square Enix. 12cm figures of Ed and Al togeter with a 64 page mini-book containing analysis of the characters and new manga. This will be a preorder only item - preorder cutoff date is 22 August 2004. Price 1,200 yen. Source: Mangaoh Club and eS! Books. If you check out the eS! Books link, you'll also see a small pic of the Al mobile phone strap figure which comes with the September 2004 issue of Shonen GanGan magazine.
The Tenjou Tenge Great Disc 1 (tentative title) CD will be released on 29 September 2004, catalogue number AVCA-22094, price 3,059 yen (including tax). Source: Mangaoh Club. I assume it'll be a soundtrack CD...
A Best of Inuyasha Seifuu Meigetsu - Inuyasha Theme Zenshuu 2 CD will be released on 8 September 2004, price 3,150 yen (including tax). There'll be a limited edition which comes with DVD, catalogue number AVCA-22090. Regular edition catalogue number AVCA-22091. Source: Mangaoh Club. Presumably containing more theme songs from the anime.
More details on Monster DVD Box Chapter 1. To be released 21 December 2004, catalogue number VPBY-12905, price 25,200 yen. Source: Musicmarket.
Girls Bravo DVD Box 1 will be released on 24 September 2004, catalogue number BIBA-9105, price 24,990 yen, containing four DVDs. This will be a first pressing limited edition item. Source: Musicmarket.
Well, today's issue of August 2004 issue of Shonen GanGan magazine has indeed confirmed that a Hagane no Renkinjutsushi (Full Metal Alchemist) movie is to be released theatrically in the (northern) summer of 2005. As I previously wrote, this issue also comes with an Edward Elric mobile phone strap figure (and the next issue will come with an Alphonse version).
Too tired yesterday.

10 July 2004

Tenth update. That's all for now. I might post more updates later. Or I might go shopping online ^_^
The Gantz website has updated with DVD release info. Furthermore, it's stated that the DVDs will contain ecchi and violent scenes which either were not broadcast in the terrestrial broadcast or were modified for broadcast. For sample scenes, see this page and this page. First pressing of volume 1 will come with an original postcard. Source: Moon Phase.
The official website for My - HiME has updated with a third 30 second trailer for download. Source: Moon Phase. It's previously been stated that this series will commence broadcast in July 2004, but still not firm news/date.
In relation to Sweet Valerian, thanks to Bigblah for pointing out to me who Double Oats are. I've updated that post on today's news.
Something a bit different. NTT Publishing reports that Konami (makers of the bishounen Meine Liebe game, to be animated later this year) are releasing "Full House Kiss" for the Playstation 2 on 22 July 2004. This love housekeeping adventure game for women has you playing the role of Suzuhara Mugi, a female teacher by day, housekeeper by night and part-time detective investigating the disappearance of your sister. The household that you manage has four boarders and there's a mini-game for each boarder. I think one of those mini-games is shown on the NTT page linked above, where you have to massage Kazuya's shoulders ^_^ Price 6,800 yen (excluding tax). Source: Magicalantique.com. I wonder if it's legal for Capcom to only state the tax exclusive price on its website after the changes in the law earlier this year...?
Newtype report on Digital Tokiwa-sou, a government initiative to develop independent CG animation works, by scouting out and bringing together promising creators to Osaka where they'll be able to collaborate. Although the artists' (creative) independence is respected, the government will assist with establishing a business model (financing, advertising, sales). Source: alternative-live. I guess this is more of the Japanese government's recognition of the business and development potential of anime and manga.
ITmedia reports that on 27 May 2004 the Fujitsu research laboratory announced that it had a developed a speech synthesis technology that can reproduce one's voice as that of an anime character. The system works by making of database of the features of a person's speech (rythmn, height of intonation etc). Those features can then be adjusted to make you sound like an anime character, or to reproduce a dialect. This technology could have applications in, for example, answering machine messages, announcements in theme parks etc. The company is aiming at release of a commercial application later this year. Source: Ma-ten.
Umm, some of this news is weeks/months old, but I can't be bothered doing work at present, so I thought I'd catch up on news... ^_^;;;
ITmedia reports on an indication of the global spread of manga - Google Zeitgeist, which monitors search trends on Google. Note that in April 2004, the word "manga" was fourth in popular queries on the Italian version of Google. In the same month, "Inuyasha" was top in the popular queries in the Canadian version of Google. In the Netherlands, "Yu-gi-oh" was third in popular queries. Source: Ma-ten. Those Canucks sure love their Inuyasha... Australia had reality TV show "My Restaurant Rules" among its popular queries, but we'll ignore that little Antipodean embarrassment ^_^;;
I didn't think companies normally gave out their circulation numbers for manga magazines. However, the Japanese Magazine Publishers Association has figures, apparently from around 2003. Male oriented magazines are here. The second box is shonen manga magazines. The third box has seinen (and older?) manga magazines. For example, you can see that circulation for Monthly Shonen GanGan (which serialises Full Metal Alchemist) is around 300,000. Shogakukan's Weekly Shonen Sunday - 1,311,000; Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump (previously Rurouni Kenshin, now Naruto etc) - 3,240,000; Kodansha's Weekly Shonen Magazine (Air Gear ^_^ ) - 3,190,000; monthly Shonen Ace-A (Neon Genesis Evangelion) - 300,000. In the seinen section, monthly Afternoon has circulation of 140,000; monthly Ultrajump (Tenjou Tenge) has 90,000; monthly(?) Gundam Ace has 300,000; monthly Comic Dengeki Daioh has 250,000; monthly Young Animal has 240,000; semi-monthly(?) Young Jump (Gantz) has 1,275,000. Shoujo manga magazines are here, in the second box. None with circulation as the three main shonen magazines, they include monthly Asuka (200,000); Ciao (911,000); Nakayoshi (520,000); Hana to Yume (340,000); Bessatsu Margaret (465,000); Margaret (260,000); Ribon (990,000). Female young adult manga magazines are here, in the bottom box, including Kiss (240,000); Chorus (180,000); Judy (171,000) and Young You (190,000). While manga magazines for the older woman are here, again at the bottom box. Silky has a circulation of 100,000. Source: Tentative Name.
Zakzak reports that Digital Hollywood, which trains IT system creators, is setting up a "Digitial Hollywood University" in April 2005. Matsumoto Leiji will be a special professor at the university. Although the extent of Matsumoto's lecturing duties is not known, he'll give advice on and grade the students' films and computer graphics. Source: Ma-ten.
Nikkan Sports News report that Otemae University is opening a media and arts sciences department next year (in the northern spring). Monkey Punch will be a full-time professor at the department. Source: Ma-ten.
Yomiuri Shimbun article on the Osaka University of Arts offering a course on creating characters from April 2005. In charge of the course will be Koike Kazuo (Lone Wolf and Cub) and Nagai Go (Mazinger Z). In studying character creation, the course will look at not only famous anime and manga characters but also, for example, real life sport stars and Jesus Christ(?). There'll be topics on character theories, reader psychology, copyright issues etc. Ikegami Ryouichi and Satonaka Machiko will be full-time professors and Takahashi Rumiko will also give lectures. Koike says that although Japan's anime and manga do well in the global market, they can improve if more theory is taught. Source: ultimatum.
SilverStar on the Anime on DVD forums has pointed out the release of The Feature Films Neon Genesis Evangelion DTS Collectors Edition on 3 November 2004. See the linked thread for details. A few additional details: duration 163 minutes plus extras (script, TV ads, movie trailers), double layer, anamorphic letterboxed, DTS, 5.1ch and stereo.
Originally, the Yami to Boushi to Hon no Tabibito Visual Fan Book was to be released in June, then July. However Avex Mode has announced that release has been delayed. No new release date has yet been set. Source: Moon Phase.
Impress Corporation report on the Gundam Seed Special Edition DVDs. As previously stated, these digest DVDs contain new scenes and new post-recording. Aspect ratio has been changed from 4:3 to letterboxed. Each disc is double-layer and is approximately 90 minutes long. Volume 1 "Kokuu no Senjyou" was originally broadcast in March 2004 and digests episodes 1 to 21. Volume 2 "Harukanaru Akatsuki" deals with episode 22 onwards and will be broadcast on 27 July 2004. Part 3 "Meidou no Sora" won't be broadcast on TV and will only be available on DVD. So that's how it all fits together. Bandai Visual is aiming at sales of 300,000 of these Special Edition DVDs. Source: Moon Phase. For release details, see my 17 June 2004 entry.
Toei Animation's website for Ojamajo Doremi Na-i-sho is now officially open. There are episode previews to download (for episodes 1 and 2 at present). A complete DVD release schedule and broadcast schedule can be found here. Source: Moon Phase.
The Samurai 7 website has updated with DVD release details. Volume 1 will be released on 29 September 2004, containing two episodes, 5.1ch Dolby Digital sound, 13:9 aspect ratio (anamorphic). There'll be a limited edition version and a regular edition. Limited edition version will come with storyboard book bound in Japanese style and booklet housed in a box in a Japanese paper style, catalogue number JDT-01839, price 7,980 yen (including tax). Regular edition catalogue number JDD-01839. Source: Moon Phase.
The official website for the TV anime "Ninin ga Shinobuden (2 x 2 = Shinobuden) ~ the Nonsense Kunoichi Fiction" has updated with DVD release info. Volume 1 will be released on 22 October 2004, price 5,800 yen (including tax), with monthly releases thereafter. First pressing of volume 1 will come with box to hold all volumes, manga by Koga Ryouichi and omake CD. Source: Moon Phase.
Computer crashed >_<
Marvell Yell, agent for Miyano Shizu, has announced that TV anime Kakyuusei 2 (Underclassmen 2) will commence broadcast on various TV stations in October 2004. Miyano will be a part of the group that sings the theme songs. Source: Moon Phase. The two other singers in the group are Kawaragi Shiho and Nakajima Saki.
ITmedia points out that those who purchase any of volumes 4, 5 or 6 of the Kimi ga Nozomu Eien anime can get a bonus DVD. The DVD contains performances from the "age presents Kayou no Yuube" event held on 31 August 2003 and a 15 second commercial for the DVD release of the series. The DVD jacket is illustrated by character designer Kikuchi Yoko. The bonus DVD is available from participating stores only and only while stocks last. Source: Magicalantique.com and alternative-live.
Anno Hideaki's official website points out that he has an acting role in the live action movie "Cha no Aji" (The Taste of Tea). He plays the role of Kasukabe-san, an anime director ^_^ As pointed out earlier, this movie was screened during "director's week" of Cannes earlier this year. Its theatrical season in Japan commences 17 July 2004. Source: alternative-live. You can view a trailer for the movie here. I like the nice laid-back song on the movie website. In the movie, people from Madhouse also appear as anime staff ^_^
Starchild's website for Futatsu no Spica (Twin Spica) has announced that release of the DVD Box has been put back from 22 July 2004 to 23 September 2004. Source: alternative-live.
The DearS website has a streaming TV commercial for the anime, which commenced broadcast recently. You'll see "on air" buttons on the linked page. Click on the top one if you have a broadband connection. Click on the bottom one if you have a slower connection. Source: alternative-live.
Updated the Ojamajo Doremi Na-i-sho news.
A second elfen lied anime commercial. I'm only going to host it for a limited time. Volume 8 of the manga will be published on 17 July 2004. Source: Rakuga Kidou. The anime will commence broadcast on AT-X on 25 July 2004. This seems to be the moe commercial for the anime, whereas the first one was the violent commercial ^_^
Full colour manga volume "robot" volume 1 edited by Murata Range. To be published by Wani Magazine at the end of August 2004, A4 size, 164 pages, price 1,890 yen (including tax). Includes manga by Murata (and cover by him), ABe Yoshitoshi and Okama. I think I'll have to have a look at this one.
Official website for the fourth Inuyasha movie, to be released in the (northern) winter of 2004 (December 2004). Title will be "Guren no Houraijima". For now there's a 10 second trailer to download. Source: ultimatum. This time the movie will screen in cinemas together with a Hamtaro movie.
Official website for the Gonzo's TV anime Gankutsuou (The Count of Monte Christo) is now open. Just as Gonzo's Samurai 7 is a sci-fi story based on the Seven Samurai, Gankutsuou is also set in a futuristic Paris. Original concept and directed by Maeda Mahiro, but based on the original work by Alexandre Dumas, series composition by Kouyama Shuichi, character designs by Matsubara Hidenori, music by Jean Jacques Burnel (from The Stranglers). animate.tv has a 90 second promo movie for streaming download here. There are two dark blue buttons at the bottom of the linked page. Click on the left for narrow band internet connections, the right for broadband. Source: ultimatum. (Looks like they've decided to render the title as one word.) To commence broadcast in the (northern) autumn.
Official website for Sweet Valerian. This TV anime has original concept and original character designs by CLAMP. Madhouse has stated on its website that it'll commence broadcast at 7.00am on 1 August 2004 on MBS and TBS. Character design by Sakurai Hiroaki, series composition by Ooba Sayuri, anime character designs by Yamakawa Yoshiki, music by Double Oats, animation production by Madhouse of course. Source: ultimatum. Kanoko, Pop(?) and Kate become the Valerians, protecting people from the forces of evil. Thanks to Bigblah for informing me that Double Oats are made up of the duo Abe Jun and Muto Seiji, who worked on the music for Fruits Basket and Kodomo no Omocha (Child's Toy).
Madhouse's update to its website also announces that the Beck anime will commence broadcast in the (northern) autumn.
A Hagane no Renkinjutsushi (Full Metal Alchemist) movie is to be released theatrically in the (northern) summer of 2005. Or at least there will apparently be an official announcement of this in the August 2004 issue of Shonen GanGan magazine (on sale 12 July 2004). Source: ultimatum.
The Gundam Seed Destiny website is now open. It includes the news that the series will commence broadcast on MBS and TBS in October 2004. Director will be Fukuda Mitsuo, series composition by Morosawa Chiaki, character design by Hirai Hisashi, mecha design by Ookawara Kunio, Yamane Kimitoshi and Fujioka Kenki, music by Sahashi Toshihiko, 3D CG production by Sunrise Digital Images Department and ufotable, production by MBS and Sunrise. Source TA Group BBS. The post to the BBS states it'll commence broadcast on 6pm on 2 October 2004 but doesn't state a source. (Update 12 July 2004: the credits for music and 3D CG production are not stated on the official website. They were posted to the BBS but no source was given.)
MBS also has a website up for Gundam Seed Destiny here. In future, this page will have next episode previews for the series.
The official Kimi ga Nozomu Eien anime website has updated with news that volume 7 (to be released 25 August 2004) will contain a new "DVD version" epilogue to episode 14, new scenes and long version ED. For release details, see my 22 October 2003 entry.
Further to what I wrote on 6 July 2004, the TV anime of Kappa no Kai-kata (How to breed kappas) will have five minute episodes. Official website for the anime, manga and related goods is here. Source: Chuosha. To commence broadcast in the (northern) autumn. Sample Flash animated version of the manga here.
New pic/wallpaper up in the gallery section of the elfen lied anime. To commence broadcast on 25 July 2004 (at 10.30pm).
Volume 1 of the new OVA series Ojamajo Doremi Na-i-sho will be released on 24 September 2004. CD Japan has the details here. Update: MMV has a webpage up for the series. MMV has a completely different catalogue number for volume 1: GNBA-7091. Further, the DVD distributor's page states that first pressing of volume 1 will come with Harukaze Doremi paper craft and Mahodou papercraft part 1. The remaining parts of the Mahodou will come with the first pressing of volumes 3 and 7. Source: alternative-live.
Volume 8 of the Gungrave DVD will be released on 22 September 2004. CD Japan has details listed for a first pressing limited edition version (which comes with box for the second half of the DVD release) and a regular edition.
Hagane no Renkinjutsushi (Full Metal Alchemist) Automail. To be released 30 July 2004. Price 14,700 yen. It only went up for pre-order on the Animate Web Mail Order website yesterday (I think) and already it's out of stock. 70cm from shoulder to fingertip, so it's for people of a height of 150-165cm.
A GitS:SAC Visual Book will be published by Hobby Japan on 15 July 2004, price 2,000 yen (including tax). Source: Mangaoh Club.
Sorry, too tired on Thursday to update and fell asleep on Friday.

7 July 2004

Third update.
Back in February 2003, I wrote about the Char model personal computer. Famitsu.com reports that Bandai has now decided to market a second Gundam-themed personal computer. At present, the company is taking votes from people as to what the specifications for the computer should be, including keyboard design and panel/case design (sorry, I don't know how to properly describe computer parts). Source: Moon Phase
Animax will commence broadcast of a new anime Meine Liebe in November 2004. Source: Reinbo Actress. Moon Phase gives the anime the subtitle "~ Yuuga naru Kioku ~" (Elegant Memory) and gives the following staff details: director Mashita Kouichi, series composition Mende Akemi, character design Shiba Minako (based on characters by Yuki Kaori), animation production Bee Train. This anime seems to be based on the Konami simulation game of bishonen love and temptation "Tanbi Musou Meine Liebe" (Aesthetic Dream Meine Liebe), which is marketed at women, of course. Interesting that Bee Train is now working on an anime in this genre. Voice cast listed by Reinbo Actress includes Seki Tomokazu, Koyasu Takehito, Hoshi Souichirou etc. "Meine Liebe" means "my love" in German, doesn't it...?
JVC Music has a webpage up for Steam Boy, where you can sample one of music composer Steve Jablonsky's tracks for the movie. Source: Moon Phase. The movie will be released theatrically in Japan on 17 July 2004.
Official website for the TV anime of Grenadier (based on the manga by Kaise Sousuke). Just a promotional pic up for now. Source: Moon Phase. To commence broadcast in the (northern) autumn.
The TV anime of elfen lied will commence broadcast on AT-X on 25 July 2004. Here's a commercial for the show. I'm only going to host it for a limited time. Source: Rakuga Kidou. The visuals and haunting music give the commercial a dark feel. Hope the anime lives up to that initial impression.
Yesterday I wrote about volume 12 of Dengeki Animaga magazine (on sale 30 August 2004) coming with a figure of Tomi Maya from the series Soukyuu no Fafnir - Dead Aggressor. Now Sate Diary points out that volume 13 of Dengeki Animaga (on sale 30 September 2004) will come with a figure set of Shinobu and Onsokumaru from "Ninin ga Shinobuden" (2 x 2 = Shinobuden) while volume 14 of the magazine (on sale 30 October 2004) will come with figures of Sakurazuki Kira and Sakurazuki Yura from Futakoi. Source: Rakuga Kidou.
Back in April 2002, I wrote about plans for a work Silent Mobius Neos to be serialised in G Fantasy magazine. Now Asamiya Kia and Kikuchi Michitaka's Studio Tron website has announced that the series will commence in a new magazine in October 2004. The manga will be by Asamiya. But there's also a novelisation planned. Furthermore, the 13 July 2004 issue of the seinen magazine Weekly Playboy (not to be confused with the US Playboy magazine) will see the start of Asamiya's car manga "Kanojo no Carrera" (Her Carrera). A manga about "car life", not about "battles" between high powered cars. Source: ultimatum.
Issue number 36 of Weekly Shonen Magazine (on sale 4 August 2004) will see the return of the manga Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo by Satou Fumiya. Source: ultimatum. Published in the US by TokyoPop as The Kindaichi Case Files.
Issue number 34 of Weekly Shonen Sunday manga magazine (on sale 21 July 2004) will contain the final chapter to the manga Midori no Hibi by Inoue Kazurou. Source: ultimatum.
JVC Music's website for anime OPs and EDs has a promo video for the OP to Samurai Champloo along with various other videos and songs to sample. Source: ultimatum.
Speaking of Samurai Champloo, volume 1 of the manga will be published by Kadokawa Shoten on 1 August 2004, price 567 yen, as set out in Toranoana's list of August 2004 manga releases.
DVD volume 1 of Get Ride! Amdriver will be released on 18 August 2004, catalogue number KOBA-4, price 2,900 yen (including tax), containing three episodes. Source: Mangaoh Club.
A Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu Misson Complete fan book will be published by MDN Corporation on 28 July 2004, price 2,415 yen (including tax). A4 size, 96 pages. Contents will include new illustrations as well as military descriptions. Source: Toranoana.
The Avex website for the Tenjou Tenge anime states that there'll be a one week pause in broadcast of the series. Various stations throughout Japan broadcast the series at different times and commenced broadcast on different days, but basically, there'll be no episode of TenTen next week.
Asahi Shimbun English language article "Racked by closures, Osaka electronics district reinvents itself". It's stated that "[o]utlets specializing in comic books, toy models and video games are moving in to fill the void". Shades of Akihabara in Tokyo.

6 July 2004

Fifth update.
An advance copy of the August 2004 issue of Newtype (on sale 9 July 2004) states that Kidou Senshi Gundam Seed Special Edition II Harukanaru Akatsuki will be broadcast on TBS on 27 July 2004 (and again the following day). The issue also confirms that Kidou Senshi Gundam Seed Destiny is a TV anime in the works. The series takes place two years after Seed, I think, but I don't follow Gundam matters. Source: Char Senyou Blog and Moon Phase. For release details for the Gundam Seed Special Edition DVDs, see my 17 June 2004 entry.
Updated the Beck info.
Yahoo Japan cites a Jiji Press article that a 2003 study by the Japan Foundation reveals that the number of foreigners learning the Japanese language (2.35 million) has increased by 12% in the past five years, with one of the major reasons given by respondents for learning the language being "interest in Japanese culture". The article suggests that one of the reasons for the interest in Japanese culture is due to animation and computer game software. Source: Ma-ten. You can read more on the study here at the Japan Foundation's website.
If anyone was thinking of buying the Koikaze drama CD, to be released on 22 July 2004, Rakuga Kidou points out that Getchu.com lists release of the item as having been cancelled. So does CD Japan.
Hakusensha has announced that states that the TV anime "Haruka naru Toki no Naka de ~ Hachiyou Shou ~" (tentative title), based on the manga by Mizuno Tooko will commence broadcast in the (northern) autumn of 2004. Source: ultimatum.
Updated the Majokko Tsukune-chan info.
Issue number 32 of Young Jump manga magazine (on sale on 8 July 2004) states that a TV anime version of the manga Kappa no Kai-kata (How to breed kappas) by Ishikawa Yougo will commence broadcast in the (northern) autumn. Source: ultimatum.
The August 2004 issue of Monthly Shonen Magazine (on sale today) has announced that an anime of the manga Beck by Harold Sakuishi is to be produced. Koyuki and friends form a rock band. Director and scriptwriter will be Kobayashi Osamu, character design by Hori Motonobu, animation production by Madhouse. Source: ultimatum. Moon Phase points out that on Kobayashi Osamu's website, he states (in his profile section) that in 2004 he'll be directing a TV based on a manga adaptation and that it'll have 26 episodes.
Episode 1 of each of m.o.e's three recent anime series Henshin Kosu-pureiya (The Cosmopolitan Prayers), Hit wo Nerae! (Smash hit!) and Love Love? can be viewed (streaming download) on the company's website until 2 August 2004. On the right frame of the homepage, just click on the yellow button under the series which you wish to sample. A window will pop up. Click on the gray button in the middle and then on the "play" button at the bottom of the window. Source: ultimatum.
The official website for Kujibiki Unbalance is now officially open. Source: Magicalantique.com. The TV anime will commence broadcast in the (northern) autumn.
The related Genshiken website is also open. That TV anime will commence broadcast in October 2004.
Bandai has a website up for the new Shin Getter Robo OVA series. Volume 1 will be released on 23 July 2004. For release details, see my 21 April 2004 entry. Sorry, I've sometimes written "Getter" and sometimes "Getta"...
My cough is finally subsiding... :)
VAP has a website up for the Monster anime. DVD Box Chapter 1 will be released on December 2004.
VAP also has a website up for Monkey Turn V.
Interesting that the recent issue of Megami Magazine (on sale 30 June 2004) has an Onegai Friends poster (as well as an Onegai Twins poster).
On 4 July 2004 I posted up details of the special edition version of volume 4 of the manga Ibara no Ou (King of Thorn) by Iwahara Yuji to be published on 25 September 2004. Toranoana now has a pic of the figure of Kasumi which will come with the special edition. Update: see this page on Mangaoh Club's website for more pics. Mangoh Club also states that this is a limited edition version of 10,000 units, and the figure is 110mm tall.
New Air Gear goods on sale at Animate from 23 July 2004: clear postcard set A (price 420 yen), clear postcard set B (price 420 yen), mini-towel (price 367 yen), block memo pad (price 525 yen), Kogarasumaru emblem (price 525 yen), Sleeping Forest emblem (price 525 yen), metal stickers (price 472 yen). Prices include tax.
The TV anime Soukyuu no Fafnir - Dead Aggressor commenced broadcast in the early hours of yesterday morning. Volume 12 of Dengeki Animaga magazine (on sale 30 August 2004) will come with a figure of Tomi Maya from the series. Source: Hobby Search.
Issue number 14 of Young Magazine Uppers (on sale today) has announced that the gag manga Majokko Tsukune-chan (Witch Girl Tsukune-chan) by Magari Hiroaki is to be adapted into an anime. Update: Xebec has announced that the anime will be an OVA series to commence release in 2005. Director will be Sakurai Hiroaki, character designer and animation director will be Otochi Masayuki(?), animation production by Xebec (of course). ultimatum states that this will be a six volume OVA series.
My Yujin figure of Michelle Cheung (from R.O.D - The TV -) arrived. It sucks compared to the Yamato one. IMO of course.
Sorry, I was meaning to update further on Sunday, but in the end I couldn't be stuffed :P And I was too tired and busy to update yesterday.

4 July 2004

Sixth update.
The Mainichi Shimbun's English language homepage has a photo of "anime freaks" at the Anime Expo 2004 ^_^;; See here for another photo of anime freaks ^_^ These links will probably only work for 24 hours (or less).
The official website for CG anime Kidou Senshi Gundam MS IGLOO - Ichinen Sensou Hiwa - (One Year War Secret Story) has a trailer to download at the bottom of this page. Source: Moon Phase. The first part commences screening at Bandai Museum on 19 July 2004.}
The final episode 9 of the m.o.e TV anime Love Love? is available for download from the official website until 5 July 2004. Source: Moon Phase. For details on how to view the show, see my 6 May 2004 entry. Sorry for being so late to post up this info - the episode first became available on 29 June 2004.
Groove Corporation has a page up for the TV anime Boukyaku no Senritsu (The Melody of Oblivion) but it's basically just got info on DVD release (as to which see my 23 April 2004 and 25 May 2004 entries) and an upcoming event. Source: Moon Phase.
The official website for the OVA series Natsuiro no Sunadokei has updated with release details for the concluding volume 2. They confirm the details I posted up on 22 May 2004 for the first pressing limited edition version. No mention of a box (this is natural since the first pressing of volume 1 came with a box). The regular edition catalogue number is KSXA-24802, price 6,090 yen (including tax). First pressing of both the regular and limited edition releases will come with an Aquarian Age special character card. Source: Moon Phase.
If you recall, the scenario Super Kuma-chan (Super Bear-chan) won the 1st Animax Grand Prix, and was made into an anime broadcast on 1 June 2003. Now the winner of the 2nd Animax Grand Prix, "Azusa, Otetsudaishimasu" has been made into an anime and will be broadcast on 1 August 2004. Set in the future, the Karugamo High School baseball team has been the worst for millenia. But then they bring in maid robot Azusa, who knows nothing about baseball. Original story by Kawanabe Yuuko(?), directed by Kamegaki Hajime(?), character design by Hiratsuka Tomoya (based on designs by Nakajima Rie), animation production by TMS Entertainment. Source: Moon Phase.
Last year there was the OVA series Triangle Heart ~ Sweet Songs Forever ~. There was some unconfirmed news (in October 2003) of a sequel. Now a side story TV anime has been announced, to commence broadcast in October 2004: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha. This comical story will be set in an alternate universe and feature Takamachi Nanoha from the Triangle Heart series. Nanoha is an ordinary year three primary school girl who meets a boy from another world and receives magical powers. Director Shinfusa(?) Akiyuki, script by Tsudzuki Masaki, character design by Okuda(?) Yasuhiro, animation production by Seven Arcs(?). See these Dengeki Online, ITmedia and Akiba-K.com reports for some pics. There were some Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha contents on a Triangle Heart variety CD-ROM released in 2001. Source: Moon Phase.
This ITmedia report states that the live action Initial D movie will be released theatrically in Hong Kong in the early (northern) summer of 2005 and in Japan in 2005. Source: Moon Phase. This is slightly different from the previous report I referred to a few days ago which stated that it would be released in Asia in the (northern) summer of 2005. Anyway, you can also get a look at photos of the main cast in the ITmedia report. In the middle and towards the bottom of the report, you'll see two sets of four photos each. In the first set of photos, working clockwise from the top left there's Fujiwara Takumi, then Fujiwara Bunta, then Takahashi Ryoichi (? should this be Takahashi Ryosuke?), then Sudou Kyoichi. In the second set of photos, again clockwise from top left there's Mogi Natsuki, Takeuchi Itsuki, Tachibana Yuichi and Nakazato Takeshi. I can't be bothered trying to work out the actors' Chinese names from the katakana.
The official Stratos 4 website states that the OVA series X-1 and X-2 will be broadcast on Kids Station on 1 August 2004 at 9.00pm. Source: Moon Phase. For release details for volume 2 (X-2), see my 25 March 2004 entry.
The official Mind Game website has updated with the news that the anime movie will commence screening on 7 August 2004. Source: Moon Phase. A bit later than the previous tentative July timeframe.
On 24 June 2004 I wrote about Sunrise registering the domains gundam-seed-destiny.net and gundam-seed-d.net (note that the latter domain transfers you to Sunrise's website). Now Newtype-i's ad for the August 2004 issue of Newtype magazie (due out in a few days' time) states that there'll be a scoop on "Kidou Senshi Gundam Seed Destiny". Moon Phase the work listed as a TV anime to be broadcast in the (northern) autumn of 2004.
On 2 July 2004 I wrote about the live action tokusatsu series Evolver and the fact that if you purchased all three volumes from Jungle SCS, you wouldn't need to send in the application form and coupons to claim your bonus design works booklet. Well, it looks like the shop has had to change it's policy. Even if you purchase all three volumes from Jungle, you'll need to send in the application form and coupons. I've revised what I wrote on 2 July 2004.
Bookstore Manga no Mori has posted up more details on the special edition version of volume 4 of the manga Ibara no Ou (King of Thorn) by Iwahara Yuji. To consolidate the details, it'll be released 25 September 2004. It'll come with first edition limited production original figure of Kasumi, price 1,659 yen (including tax). Source: ultimatum. Regular edition price 651 yen (including tax).
Media Works has a page up for the manga cum TV anime Ninin ga Shinobuden (2 x 2 = Shinobuden). Source: ultimatum. The TV anime will commence broadcast early on 8 July 2004.
Mainichi Shimbun English language article about industry plans to introduce a "Made in Japan" trademark for anime and video game releases.
Yomiuri Shimbun English language article on TV anime "Agatha Christie no Meitantei Poirot to Marple" (Agatha Christie's Great Detectives Poirot and Marple), which commences broadcast today.
On 2 July 2004 I wrote about a book "Shabon" by Oh! great to be published in September 2004. Another post to the BBS at Sa-i points out that the book is now available for preorder at eS! Books, confirming the news and the details. Publication date is 13 September 2004. This will be an adult book.
DVD volume 1 of the Russia arc of Yugo will be released on 27 August 2004, price 5,565 yen (including tax). First pressing will come with a bonus DVD. Source: Animate. CD Japan states that the disc will contain interviews and other footage.
DVD volume 13 of Bouken Yuuki Pluster World will be released on 18 August 2004, price 3,900 yen (including tax). It'll come with soundtrack CD 2, and furthermore first pressing will come with trading card, box to hold six volumes and special figure. Source: Animate. 18 volumes in total. Volume 14 will be released on the same day, same price. First pressing of that volume will come with trading card.
The OVA Prayers will be four volumes in total. Source: Animate. Volume 1 will be released on 6 August 2004, price 6,090 yen (including tax).
Animate states that the DVD release of the Tenjou Tenge TV anime will be eight volumes in total. Hmm, 24 episodes? 26 episodes?
Fell asleep yesterday for updating further.

3 July 2004

Fourth early update. Still in catch up mode from stuff over the past few days.
Bones has stated on its website that on 24 July 2004 there'll be a summer holiday one hour special of Hagane no Renkinjutsushi (Full Metal Alchemist). Source: alternative-live.
goo movie has a section up for the Steam Boy movie, including a photo gallery. The movie will be released theatrically in Japan on 17 July 2004. Source: alternative-live.
TV Tokyo's website for the following anime are now open:
Maria-sama ga Miteru ~ Haru ~
Soukyuu no Fafnir - Dead Aggressor
Monkey Turn V
It's also set up a page for the fourth season of Galaxy Angel. Source: alternative-live.
TV Tokyo has trailers up for the following TV anime:
Soukyuu no Fafnir - Dead Aggressor
Maria-sama ga Miteru ~ Haru ~
Monkey Turn V
Updated the Innocence DVD details.
Nikkan Sports News reports that Kyogoku Natsuhiko's mystery novel "Ubume no Natsu" is to be adapted into a live action movie to be released in the next (northern) summer. Source: ultimatum. The author's novel "Kousetsu Hyaku Monogatari" as the basis for last year's TV anime series Kyogoku Natsuhiko Kousetsu Hyaku Monogatari.
Impress Corporation report stating the OVA Ajisai no Uta was planned for eight years, produced in one year and total production costs were 200 million yen. This is to be a three volume release. Volume 1 will be released on 19 August 2004 (see yesterday's entry). Volume 2 will be released in the second half of September 2004 and volume 3 in the second half of October 2004.
The August 2004 issue of Monthly Shonen Jump manga magazine (on sale 6 July 2004) states that the manga Bouken Ou Beet (literally Adventure King Beet, but the official English title is Beet the Vandel Buster), serialised in the magazine, is to be adapted into a TV anime. Source: ultimatum. The manga is by Inada Kouji, original work by Sanjou Riku.
About the "Aa Megami-sama terzetto version" figures which I wrote about on 26 May 2004. As stated earlier, the official website for Afternoon has a pic of the Belldandy figure which will come with the September 2004 issue (on sale 25 July 2004). This page on Kaiyodo's website has a pic of all three figures. Source: ultimatum.
For Murata Range fans, here's a page on the "rule" book which was released recently. Source: ultimatum.
Broccoli has a website up for the fourth season of Galaxy Angel. Source: ultimatum. Commences broadcast on 7 July 2004 at 1.00am on TV Tokyo.
According to the entertainment section of the 2 July 2004 issue of Nikkan Sports, the live action Hong Kong movie version of Initial D will be released in Asia (including Japan) in the coming (northern) summer. Source: TA Group BBS. The Taiwanese born Jay Chou will star as Fujiwara Takumi. Suzuki Anne will play Natsuki.
Old news but there's been more info on the DVD release of the Innocence movie. For example, on Production IG's website for the movie. There are four flavours available. However, I don't recall seeing a full description in English >_< , so...

Standard Edition
To be released 15 September 2004, catalogue number VWDS-9102, double layer, Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Digital 2ch, Japanese subtitles, price 3,990 yen (including tax). Two discs, with the second disc containing audio commentary, trailer collection, 15 minute "making of" video, discussion between Oshii Mamoru and Suzuki Toshio etc.

Limited Edition Volume 1 Dog Box (limited to 15,000 sets)
To be released 15 September 2004, catalogue number VWDS-9103, double layer, Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, Japanese subtitles, price 6,825 yen (including tax). Two discs as per the standard edition (except for soundtracks on the main disc). Comes with 890 gram polystone Basset Hound music box art figure.

Limited Edition Volume 2 Staff Box (limited to 15,000 sets)
To be released 15 September 2004, catalogue number VWDS-9104, double layer, Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, Japanese subtitles, price 6,825 yen (including tax). Two discs as per the standard edition (except for soundtracks on the main disc). Comes with reprint of storyboards, script and postrecording script booklets used during production.

Innocence DVD Collector's Box (limited edition preorder only)
Preorder cutoff date 10 August 2004, to be released 15 October 2004, catalogue number VWDS-9105, double layer, Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, Japanese subtitles, price 52,290 yen (including tax). Five discs: main disc as per the limited edition, bonus disc as per the standard edition, discs 3 to 5 are the complete "making of" of the movie (CD Japan states that this "making of" film is approximately four hours long). Comes with 40cm Gynoid figure, 194 page colour layout book and "Innocence Official Artbook".

Furthermore, early orders of any of the four versions will receive a 30 minute Premium Guide DVD to understand Innocence more deeply. Part of the DVD is to be watched before the movie, and part after you've seen the movie. Stocks of this guide DVD are limited, so perhaps best to preorder your preferred version sooner rather than later. dvdcatalog states that all four versions come with picture discs. One interesting thing: Mangaoh Club states that it cannot stock the limited edition versions (only the Standard Edition and the Collector's Box). I note CD Japan lists only the Standard Edition and Collector's Box too. But Amazon Japan seems to have all four versions available for preorder.

Update: Impress Corporation states that the main disc is 99 minutes long, and the movie is anamorphic letterboxed. The Gynoid figure with the Collector's Box version has a body made of polystone and resin, hair made of polyester, and the clothing (which can be removed) is part silk, part polyester. The ball joints of the Gynoid figure do work and the position of the eyes can be adjusted too. The base is wooden. As to the layout book, it's stated to be 240 pages (cf the 194 pages mentioned on the Production IG website) and further that a digest version (200 pages) will be available separately half a year after the Collector's Box DVD is released. As to the Innocence Official Artbook, although it will not be sold separately in Japan, an English language version will be published in the US. Click on the pics in the report for enlargments of the goodies with each of the limited edition versions. Source: Rakuga Kidou.

2 July 2004

I'm back. And with a new mouse. Cheap, but workable.
The visual mook "KaleidoStar ~ Aratanaru Tsubasa Hen ~" (tentative title) will be released in early August 2004. Contains design works for the third and fourth seasons of the TV anime. Not sure of the price, but Chara-Ani.com is selling the book in a set with an original telephone card for a total price of 4,215 yen (including tax).
Official website for the upcoming TV anime version of Girls Bravo is now up,although none of the sections is open yet. Source: Chara-Ani.com. To commence broadcast in a few days' time.
Watched volume 1 of live action tokusatsu series Evolver. Produced by the second hand goods store Jungle SCS. Production values are still B-grade (I've never seen an alien shoot cling wrap at people before ^_^ ), but Hada Ichiro's standout acting performance as Dan, the former soldier and leader of the Evolver team, is excellent. This is the best work yet from Jungle (under its new label Gaion label) and the longer format (six episodes to be released on three DVD volumes) allows for better plot development. Good ending theme song "Carmine" by Neo as well. I'm definitely looking forward to volume 2, due out on 23 July 2004. Two gripes, however. The sound recording is bad - dialogue can be muted and difficult to hear at times. Secondly, the timing of the subtitles is poor (this may be in part due to the bad sound recording...) If you purchase the DVDs directly from Jungle, you get a set of three bonus photos with each volume. And if you purchase all three volumes (whether from Jungle or not), you can apply for a design works booklet - further, it seems if you purchase all three volumes from Jungle, the store won't require you to go through the bother of translating the application card and sending it back to Japan to get the booklet. (Updated 4 July 2004.)
Animaxis.com has an English language article about Hayashibara Megumi's baby. Some of it's a bit strange, if you ask me ^_^;;
Animaxis.com also has an article on the upcoming OVA Ajisai no Uta, volume 1 of which will be released on 19 August 2004. CD Japan has release details here.
Release of volume 1 of the OVA Top wo Nerae 2! has been put back from 24 September 2004 to 26 November 2004. For other release details, see my 14 May 2004 entry.
A post on one of the BBS on Oh! great fansite Sa-i states that a Air Gear calendar for 2005 will be released in mid-November 2004. No source is stated, however.
Another post to the same BBS at Sa-i refers to unconfirmed news that Core Magazine will publish a book "Shabon" by Oh! great in September 2004, ISBN 4-87734-756-9, price 1,050 yen (including tax). Core Magazine publishes adult material, so if true, this book will likely contain adult manga.
A One Piece TV Special 2 DVD will be released on 6 August 2004. CD Japan has the details here. Contains the TV specials which were broadcast in the (northern) spring of 2003 and at the end of 2003. First pressing comes with a clear card.
As previously stated, those who purchase all seven DVD volumes of the Mezzo TV series will be able to apply for some bonus goods. Musicmarket states that this will be original pins.
DVD volume 2 of Boukyaku no Senritsu (The Melody of Oblivion) will be released on 27 August 2004. There'll be a limited edition version and a regular edition. Source: CD Japan. The pages linked above for details. The bonus CD on the limited edition version is a voice CD (ie presumably a drama CD).
On 25 June 2004 I wrote about DVD volumes 1 to 3 of Midnight Horror School being released on 27 August 2004. Musicmarket states that first pressing of each volume will come with an original figure.
DVD volume 4 of the new Tetsujin 28-go (Gigantor) TV anime series will be released on 6 October 2004, price 6,510 yen (including tax). First pressing will come with a binder - made of iron. Source: Musicmarket.

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