Archive for the 'Features' Category

Edition 12: Appleseed the Movie

Monday, February 27th, 2006

http://www.appleseedthemovie.com - U.S. Official Site
http://www.a-seed.jp/ - Japanese Official Site

In 2131, World War X had left the face of the planet torn and devastated. No country gained to benefit from the war as a superpower. However, there was one that thrived both economically and politically. Olympus through its sheer influence served as the head administrator of the other countries. Particular to this society is the coexistence of a race of Bioroids, cloned humans whose genetic traits were specifically selected in order to maintain the stability of the civilization. This poses an inevitable conflict between the Bioroids and militant groups that are opposed to these modified humans. Can true harmony exist or are we as humans doomed to be always at war with ourselves?

U.S. Release: January 14, 2005
Distributed by GENEON ENTERTAINMENT (USA) INC.
Rating: R (for some violence)
Running Time: 103 Minutes

Based on the manga by Masamune Shirow (Seishinsha Publishing) first published in 1985
Directed by Shinji Aramaki
Creative Producer Fumihiko SORI
Writers Haruka HANDA, Tsutomu KAMISHIRO
Executive Producer Sumiji MIYAKE
Producers Hidenori UEKI, Naoko WATANABE
Associate-Producer Norio KONISHI
CG Producer Yusaku TOYOSHIMA
CG Director Yasuhiro OTSUKA
Character Designer Masaki YAMADA
Music Producer Shin YASUI
Music Score Tetsuya TAKAHASHI
Music by Paul Oakenfold, Basement Jaxx, Boom Boom Satellites, Carl Craig Vs. Adult, Akufen, Atom, T.Raumschmiere, and Academy Award winner Ryuichi Sakamoto (APPLESEED Original Soundtrack by Sony Music Records Inc.)
Production Companies MICOTT & BASARA INC., TBS, Geneon Entertainment, YAMATO, TYO, and Digital Frontier Inc.

Thoughts:

hinatasou:Fan raves have been mixed for those who have already seen the Japanese DVD version. The blend of 3D computer graphics coupled with traditional 2D cel-style animation creates a breathtaking atmosphere although the shading on the characters themselves tends to appear disagreeable at times. As is always the case, there are some Japanese elitists who can only tolerate listening to the Japanese dialogue and are dismal about the English translation. Nevertheless Appleseed has the makings of an excellent futuristic action thriller with an equally exceptional soundtrack.

The film boasts its superior visual art rivaling that of Squaresoft’s unrewarding Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within. While this is true on the big screen, animes have been steadily integrating computer dynamics in their works for years and it has been progressing at an exponential rate. Compare the first installments of the rendered spacecrafts of Lost Universe to the marveling mecha designs and camera angles of the anticipated Macross Zero. More and more romance animes like DNAngel are utilizing computer elements to produce scenery and backgrounds.

The US website http://www.appleseedthemovie.com/ has an excellent flash interface. The Quicktime TVR feature provides you a full 360-degree perspective of three environments. They forgot to mention that you could zoom in and out by pressing the shift and ctrl keys respectively. The site features the official trailer, story information, character profiles, wallpapers in their download section, a cast list, nationwide theater locations, and a passage by Masamune Shirow himself. At the bottom left corner you can scroll through samples of the soundtrack. I recommend visiting the Japanese site http://www.a-seed.jp/ because it contains useful storyboards and design sketches, models, and a character relationship chart. If the Appleseed movie does well in the States expect to find the toy figurines on sale at your local video retail stores.

:Piro^kunBased on the Appleseed manga Masamune Shirow (Ghost in the Shell), Appleseed The Movie both defines the sci-fi genre and sets the bar for computer animation and cel-shading techniques.

Appleseed presents us with a human race teetering on the brink of self-extermination. In a situation brought on by their own seemingly endless need to argue over and over again, perhaps humans deserve to reap whatever they have sown, collectively zooming towards their grim fate.

If you were hoping for a remake of the older Appleseed OVA series, then you are in for disappointment. But don’t get too down, because this new movie still focuses on Deunan and Briareos and tells a solid story, mixing relentless violence and surprising depth. Also, Appleseed The Movie doesn’t just have the human/bioroid tension as an interesting subplot, but brings this to the forefront of the fight for survival of the human race. And anyone who is new to the Appleseed universe and worried about not having any prerequisite knowledge can breathe easy. This new movie requires nothing more than an appreciation for science fiction and action.

This film comes along at a rather good time in America. Over the past few years comic book based movies like Spiderman, animated films like Spirited Away, and Sci-Fi flicks like the Matrix have started to pave the way for more motion pictures like Appleseed to find a mainstream audience here. Appleseed and other animated features like it force Americans, who are stubborn in their narrow views of animation, to let go of the massively outdated stereotype that animation is only for children, or at least I hope it will.

Appleseed the Movie opens in theaters across America on January 14th. 2005; I would recommend going to see it as soon as you can.


Alpha:
This Appleseed with revamped animation and music is certainly one cool customer. But as it goes for all shows, animation is not the judge of its character. While the action and character/mechanical designs are superb, the story just does not float my boat. The cel-shading reminds me of the game “Fear Effect,” but a hundred times better. I am astounded by the quality of action that was displayed on the screen. It was truly a heart pumping, gut wrenching experience. I might need to re-watch Appleseed, in order to fully appreciate it. As, as of this instance I am at a stage of uncertainty. The music was very very nice. Although I am not a lover of techno, I did like the way they meshed together. It was just a delight.

After all, this release of Appleseed seems more like a “check out my animation” title, rather than a movie with a plot that attracts the casual fans other than the zealous Appleseed fan base. Does that mean it is a disappointment? No, I would not say that. What I will say is that a title like Appleseed the Movie, creates the flooring to support the next movie release. I am anxious to see what comes after Appleseed, as the animation department will absolutely be a difficult task to top.

Appleseed the Movie Screen Caps:


Edition 09: Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2006


http://www.gofishpictures.com/GITS2/ - U.S. Official Site
http://www.innocence-movie.jp - Japanese Official Site

‘Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence,’ which became the first anime film ever to screen in competition at the Cannes Film Festival this year, is the story of a solitary cyborg who desperately wants to hold on to what’s left of his humanity in a world where the worth of the human soul is fading almost into obscurity. ‘Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence,’ which was once again written and directed by Mamoru Oshii, will be released in U.S. theaters on September 17, 2004 under the Go Fish Pictures banner, a division of DreamWorks Pictures. Produced by Production I.G, the team behind the anime segments in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Kill Bill: Volume 1,’ this is the second anime film to be distributed by Go Fish Pictures, following the September 2003 release of Satoshi Kon’s ‘Millennium Actress.’

DreamWorks
Production I.G in association with Studio Ghibli
Credits:
Screenwriter-director: Mamoru Oshii
Original story: Shirow Masamune
Producers: Mitsuhisa Ishikawa
Director of photography: Masamune Shirow
Production designer: Tanada Yohei
Music: Kawai Kenji
Animation directors: Toshihiko Nishikubo, Naoko Kusumi
Running time — 100 minutes
Preview:
First eight minutes of Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence

Thoughts:
Stikz: “Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence” looks to be more of what made the first movie (Gits) popular in the first place. This can only mean good news to us. The CG graphics and digital cels are blended seamlessly to create the new benchmark of quality animation. The music sounds very much like it did part one. It wouldn’t surprise me if it was composed by the same people. The scenes shown in the trailer were mostly action, which hopefully hints at more upbeat storytelling than the first Gits. There seems to be no limits to the amount special effects thrown on screen! Also the animation is fluid not just on the characters, but on everything around them as well. I can see why Production I.G. is held in such high regards. Gits2 doesn’t feature beloved, Motoko “Major” Kusanagi as the star this time. Her right hand man, Batou takes the spotlight. So for all you fans clamoring for a male lead, here you go. I, personally, can’t wait for the theatrical U.S. release on 9/17/04. Just how widespread of a release it will receive is yet to be determined. But regardless, I’m a New Yorker and I know it will be shown here. ;)

:Dark Wind Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence (known simply as GitS 2 from here on in) is the sequel to the extremely popular anime film Ghost in the Shell (1995), which is in turn based on a manga series by Masamune Shirow, though both GitS and GitS 2 are written and directed by the very talented Mamoru Oshii (Jin-Roh). From what I know of the film so far, almost no knowledge of the manga is required to watch this film, but GitS must be seen before you see GitS 2. GitS 2 is very much a sequel to GitS, so make sure to watch that before this one. Trust me, you won’t regret it anyway, since GitS is a beautiful film. GitS 2 focuses on two characters from the first film, Batou and my favorite character from the first one, Togusa. These two are investigating a series of hacks across the city which involves Batou’s past. I can’t give away much more, because honestly, I don’t know much more than that. But telling from the art, animation, and music from the trailer, it looks like those who loved the first film will love this one. I’m even told from early reviews of the film that those who disliked the first film may actually like this one. Improvements from the first one have been made, with a more sensible plot with a much tighter focus and narrative. I’m extremely excited for it, as I absolutely loved GitS. And for those wondering, the TV show GitS: Stand Alone Complex (coomprised of 52 episodes) has nothing to do with the films. I’m not even sure how the TV show fits into the whole continuity, so I’ll say to just not worry about it for those who need the whole story. This is one film to watch out for.


Alpha:

Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence is an anime that has the ability to jump start the anime industry once again. For fans like me, whom came out when the first movie was the shiznit, there is a certain extra hype towards Innocence. The animation quality is top notch. Just look at the trailer and you will be blown away by it. In Innocence you got robotic prostitutes revolting against their creators. (Hint: Do not make robotic prostitutes in the future please.) The action sequences are awesome. Damn I have never seen anything move like this before. This sure is going to be an eye candy; a treat so sweet that it will leave you crying to your dentist about cavity. Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence has such an immense amount of pressure for it to be great and the crew is looking very strong to deliver it that way. You must see it, even if you are not a Ghost in the Shell fan!

Innocence Screen Caps:

Edition 14: Maburaho

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2006

http://www.advfilms.com/titles/maburaho/ - U.S. Official Site
http://www.maburaho.com - Japanese Official Site

Kazuki Shikimori comes from a line of world famous magicians. Because of his stunning pedigree, he is enrolled at the elite Aoi Academy, a school where student learn the intricacies of their vastly powerful magic. Unfortunately, his powers are not up to snuff, and frankly, he’s a bit of a loser. He can only use his magic eight times before he turns into dust… literally. When three magical hotties enter the game, things start to get out of hand. There’s the sweet and caring Yuna, the sexy blond bombshell Kuriko, and the violent, bad tempered Rin. Each of these girls has her own agenda where Kazuki is concerned, and poor Kazuki doesn’t know what to think!! Are the girls after his love or merely his genes?

U.S. Release: April 2005
Distributed by ADV Films
Rating: TV14
Running Time: N/A

Director: Shinichiro Kimura
Music: Four Piece
Original creator: Toshihiko Tsukiji
Character Design: Yasunari Nitta
Art director:
Shichiro Kobayashi
Yoshiaki Honma
Character Conceptual Design: Eeji Komatsu
Director of Photography: Youhei Suzuki
Assistant director: Tatsuyuki Nagai
Color Coordination: Miyuki Ishida
Editing: Shigeru Nishiyama
Music Director: Harushi Tsukada
Planning:
Hiroshi Ogawa
Nobuhiko Sakawa
Seihiro Toriyama
Takeshi Yasuda
Tomohisa Abe
Tsuneo Suzuki
Producer:
Masato Matsubayashi
Shigeaki Tomioka
Takashi Tachizaki
Tsuneo Takechi
Yuji Matsukura
Series Story Editor: Koichi Taki
Sound director:
Toru Nakano
Tsuyoshi Takadera

Credit to ANN for the staff list.

Thoughts:
Dark Wind: Let me put it this way; the genres that describe Maburaho are: comedy, magical girl, and romance. I already don’t want to see it; but first let’s find out what it’s about: keep an open mind, right? It’s apparently about a magician in school who, while he sucks at being a magician, has three hot girls fall into his life who want his genes. Since he’s a nice guy, he keeps doing magic to please them, constantly getting in trouble at school. Stupid, stilted Japanese romantic comedy ensues (I assume). The character designs are stock harem anime schlock (big breats, big doe eyes, they look like kids) and the plot sounds like standard romance comedy fare. I’ll pass.


Kythlyn:
Maburaho looks to be the exact kind of anime that I enjoy. Something silly and fun with likable characters and a magical setting. It’s got a bit of the Love Hina thing going for it (i.e. mildly ecchi harem without ever getting too naughty) and I’ve also heard it described as a girl anime, but that won’t stop me from watching it! …half my collection is girl anime… :/ But, never mind that. This one has a lot of potential for people who like anime such as Onegai Teacher, Happy Lesson or even something like Tenchi Muyo.


Piro^kun:
The concept behind Maburaho is simple: Maburaho is about a rather boring, untalented, and loser-is guy that only has one thing going for him. He’s lucky enough to have some of the best genes in the world and a bunch of girls want to have sex with him just so they can bear his well-endowed child. Now, compared to just about every other harem anime in existence this premise is pretty deep, as well as rather interesting. This is one show I’m more than a little curious about. Definitely one to watch for.


Alpha:
MABURAHO!!! Holy cow (in Scooter’s voice), this is a great fun series to be watching. I love everything about it! If you have not noticed, I am a fanatic for genres such as these. Yuna, Kuriko and Rin… only if that ever happened to me (that would be cool) ;). Anyways, ADV Films has really picked up a title that can rival that of Ai Yori Aoshi and Love Hina combined. That is how great Maburaho is. Kazuki Shikimori is a normal high school loser who just happens to have his life changed because of his genes. The animation is superb, the sound department is great, and damn it I will recommend this to everyone who is not like Dark Wind (that hater :P). Anyways, look for a review up for this title from me soon… if not already. I will go more in-depth about it then. For now, get ready to shell out all your pennies from you piggybanks on this amazing show.

Maburaho Screen Caps:

1/35 Gasaraki Ishtar Mk-II

Friday, February 17th, 2006

ISHTAR Mk-II
Designer/Modeler: Ray

Finished: 02/17/2006
Scale: 1/35
Status: Finished

  

  

Review:
Skill Level: 7/10
Quality: 8/10
Design: 9/10

  

Background Information:
Appeared in the anime Gasaraki. Piloted by Miharu.
  

Specs:

Model: Metal Fake Experimental Model 02
Height: 4.6m
Weight: 3.0 tons

Total Weight: 5.6 tons

Max Speed: 68km/h

Max Operative Limit: 45min

Armament:

65mm Automatic Cannon

Guillotine

  

Colors:
Light Sand, Smoke Grey

  

Production Notes:

       I’m finished with my Ishtar MK-II! I personally like this model, it looks cool and unique, while I was building the model it made me feel like I was building my tank model, maybe it was because of the color or maybe because it has tank like features. The rear of the model looks like a tank’s rear and the head even looks like a tank turret, which is very cool. The design also has realism in it, which is another plus! It’s something that’s different from the usual model I build. The front of the model also reminds me of the LEVs in Zone of the Enders. I just wish it came with fist hands too, I don’t really like the open palms, but I still recommend getting this model!

       But even in all the coolness of this model, there were some flaws… I found problems in the design of the arms. Other then having limited mobility on the arms, the forearms of the models didn’t snap together well, so it left a gap. I easily  solved the problem with putty. Another issue I had was with the biceps, because of the way the elbow join and shoulder joints were designed, the biceps would pop off all the time. So if you’re getting this model just use some glue on the forearms and biceps of the model.

  

- Me fixing up the model.

  

- Spray Painting.

  

- The cockpit

  

- I cut the control sticks off the figure’s hands and glue it on to the seat.

  

- Damn you Ray! I want my hands back!!!

  

- While I was waiting for other parts to dry, I started detailing the finished parts.

  

- Parts all dried and test fitting them.

  

- Model all finished and complete!

  

Time for the Studio Photos!

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Edition 01: Samurai Deeper Kyo

Thursday, February 16th, 2006

Samurai Deeper Kyo Box
http://www.samuraideeperkyo.us - U.S. Official Site

http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/ kyo/main_index.html - Japanese Official Site

You heard it too, didn’t you?

The voice of the wind.

During Tokugawa Ieyasu’s epic battle of Sekigahara, two samurai face off outside of history. In the heat of the duel between Kyoshiro and Demon Eyes Kyo, a shooting star slams into the plains, shattering the ground and engulfing both of them.

Four years later, the bounty hunter Yuya finds the good natured Kyoshiro, now a traveling medicine man. Hidden deep inside Kyoshiro is the soul of his old opponent, the merciless samurai Kyo. When Yuya and Kyoshiro are thrown into battle, the medicine man’s friendly personality will recede, and the whole world will learn why Kyo is called a demon!

Date Available - June 24, 2003
Running time - 125 Minutes contains episodes 1-5
Rating - 15+
Format - Hybrid
Media - DVD
Product Availability - Preorder - Not Yet Shipping
Publisher - MEDIA BLASTERS

Thoughts
Alpha: Let me start off this new Animesou feature, by explaining what it is. The watcher is a group discussion of what’s to come during the year if possible we will have a guest speaker from their respective companies to add their comments. This idea was sparked by something like this on IGN. Stikz just brought up this idea and it’s pretty cool. So without further ado my thoughts on this upcoming title from Media Blasters.

Rurouni Kenshin’s success in the states was probably a reason why Media Blasters acquired this new samurai hit. Samurai Deeper Kyo was created by Akimine Kamijo, aired in Japan on TV Tokyo starting from July 1, 2002 to December 23, 2002, consisting of twenty six episodes and animation done by Studio DEEN. What I like about this title is how it looks of course :P. The story is also pretty cool. Demon Eyes Kyo is hidden within Mibu Kyoshiro as a result of the meteor that hit the Earth and caused a mutation to those who were near the impact. Some people were given powers to transform into monsters known as “ken-you” or Sword Demon. At times we are given a character with two personalities. Kyoshiro who is kind and Kyo who became a legend after killing a thousand soldiers by himself. There is comedy to some extent and what about the ladies? Yuya Shiina is the main female character who is a bounty hunter and she isn’t afraid to use her body to get her victims to fall for her trap. According to my September 2002 issue of Newtype Japan Samurai Deeper Kyo received a rating of 1.8 on debut. Considering that it was broadcasted at 1:55AM and the rating was based solely on its debut, it is an average feedback from the Japanese viewers.

:Stikz
This kind of reminds me of Rurouni Kenshin, only cooler. Much like the Kenshin OVA’s (Samurai X). I rated the Samurai X OVA a perfect 10. So you can see how this title would interest me. Get ready for a real samurai showdown.

 

 
Sean Molyneaux (Media Blasters): Kyo is a series extremely wrapped up in Japanese history, even more so than Kenshin. In fact, the basic premise is that an unexpected event concerning the title character, Kyo, has caused history to diverge from its predestined course. Megeria, who knows the true future, is attempting to solve the problem. In the resulting chaos, major historical figures are killed off before their time, and the Sanada clan uses this as an opportunity to gain more power than they have historically. For those having taken basic Japanese history, it’s a lot of fun to try and stay one step ahead of the plot.

:Hornet
Heard some good things about it. I wonder how it will compare to Kenshin.

 

 

 

 

 

 
Alpha: So, Samurai Deeper Kyo is certainly going to be a surprise for the American anime fans. I’ve listened to both of the opening (Ao no Requiem - Blue Requiem) and ending theme (Love Deeper) sung by Tsubokura Yuiko, both of these themes are upbeat and simply awesome. I have to thank Sean of Media Blasters for taking time to reply to my email. Be prepared for another samurai adventure coming to you this summer! In the mean time drool over some of the screen caps.

 
Samura Deeper Kyo Screen Caps:

Model Building - Lesson 1: Basics

Thursday, February 16th, 2006

Welcome to model building 101!
Today we will learn the basics of model building.
Before we even start to learn how to build a model, we must have the proper
tools and work area.

Here is an example of a proper work area.

- I recommend working on a desk to prevent back pains and slouching back.
- But working on the floor is just as fine.


- It is not required to get a self-healing cutting mat, but it is required to have a neat desk.
- Building a model may look like a messy job, but it requires a clean work area and good organization.

- Now that we have a good work area, we need the tools.


- These are the most basic tools of model building.
- As long as you have these tools you can build any model.

Tool #1: A Nail Clipper
The Nail Clipper is an optional tool if you’re on the advance level, but if you don’t have a modeling knife around, using a Nail Clipper is just as great. They’re also very cheap compared to the model knife.

- With a nail clipper, you can use it to cut off parts that are left by the model tree.

Tool #2: Pliers
The Pliers are one of the must have tools, they’re good for holding tiny parts that require gluing and much more.

Tool #3: Modeler’s Cutter/Nippers

- The Modeler’s cutter looks like a special narrow wire cutter. It is very important to have this, you will need this to cut the
models off the tree. Never bend or twist the model parts off the tree! Doing so will risk damaging
the part! This is a highly recommended tool for all modelers!


- The comparison between a normal wire cutter and a modeler’s cutter. Because of the Modeler’s cutter design, it allows us to cut
off tiny and delicate model parts off the tree.

Tool #4: Box cutter
The box cutter is also a useful tool to have for various purposes. such as, stabbing someone messing with your models!

Tool #5: Modeler’s Knife
With this knife it makes you an official model builder! This is a highly recommended tool for all modelers! The modeling knife is not easy to use and takes time to master it. Using it improperly will result in cutting yourself. *ouch*


- A modeling knife can fit different types of blades for different purposes but it’s not required to have optional blades.
- Even a dull modeling blade still have it’s uses.

Tool #6: Model Glue, Super Glue
As models get more and more advanced the need to use model glue is required sometimes, but it’s always something good to have around.

- If you’re going to get model glue, I recommend getting the glue that comes with brushes.

- Now that we have all our tools, it’s time to move onto the Model!

- This is the box art of the model.
- And sometimes I just hate how the box art always glorify the model kit, at the end, the model looks nothing like the box art…
- But, that’s why I’m here! I’m going to teach how to make your models look just like the box art! unless it’s one of those really really old model kits…


- Like this model for example, it’s molded in one color! All white! That means… We’ll need to paint this model.
- But, today’s lesson is about building a model and not painting it. We’re still not at the stage to paint the model yet.
- This is called a model tree, everyone calls it differently, but I call it a tree.


- Before we even start building and cutting off parts from the model tree, we must look at the instructions!

- If you can’t follow instructions, then take the model and throw it in the trash can, because your chances of messing up are 90%.
- But Ray, the instructions are in Japanese! I can’t read Japanese, and I’ll say SHUT THE ^-^ UP! Can’t you see the pictures!? Everything is nicely illustrated for you like a picture book!

- Anyway, onto the model!


- Each part on the tree is labeled, if it asks for part 8, look for part 8.
- On advance models, sometimes the trees are labeled with letters, so if they ask for C8. look for the tree labeled C and find part 8.


- This is the proper way to remove the parts from the tree, bending them and twisting them off is the improper way!
- Use the modeler’s cutter!


- After cutting the part off the tree you will mostly be left with a little excess plastic. I call these stubs.


- Another example of a Stub, there are a few ways you can remove these.


- One way of doing this is with the model knife, but if you haven’t mastered it yet, you can try the alternative.


- Using the nail clipper is a good alternative.


- The Results with the model knife are perfect!


- And the results with a nail clipper. There’s still a bit of a stub left over, but it’s good enough for beginners.


- I also recommend cutting your stubs over a model box, this way the stub shavings won’t be all over the floor or table. It makes cleaning up a lot easier.


- With all your parts cut out, you can now follow the instructions to build the model!

- You are now one step closer to building a model like a pro!

Great Teacher Onizuka V.1

Wednesday, February 8th, 2006

[GTO] Great Teacher Onizuka V.1 Manga Review ————————

By: Alpha

Synopsis:
      Meet Eikichi Onizuka, a 22-year old college karate champ and ex-biker. He’s crude, foul-mouthed, and has a hair-trigger temper. Just the sort of guy you’d expect to see going back to school … to become a teacher!

Review:  
      GTO is one of the best manga / anime series that ever appeared on the face of the Earth.   The creator, Tohru Fujisawa, surprises the readers, with every page turned, using the technique called ‘Hiraki‘.   Hiraki is a technique that is known to manga writers, where a surprising scene appears after the readers turn the page.   This technique makes GTO; without knowing what happens next… and then something outrageous appears, that’s one of the best experiences I have with the GTO manga series.  

  

  

      Surprising and funny isn’t it?   Those pictures are provided by TokyoPOP.   Now that we know what GTO is made up of, let’s get to the real review ^_^.   In volume one, we are introduced to Onizuka, a former member of a biker gang.   Fujisawa-san gives an in depth introduction to Onizuka’s life, which sets the difference between the manga and the anime.   Also as the story progresses, you’ll notice some elements that didn’t make the cut to the anime.   Anyways, the main story in volume one summarizes Onizuka’s life and explains why he wants to be a teacher, although the story really begins in volume two, we get a glimpse of what is about to happen, then TokyoPOP leaves us hanging at the climax and the end of volume one :P.                

  

Recommend Value -

A+, as I’ve said earlier, GTO is one of the best manga / anime series that ever appeared on the face of the Earth.   With comedy, ecchi humor, and life values this piece of work contains.   It’s no wonder why Tohru Fujisawa named this work GREAT Teacher Onizuka and I’m sure a lot of readers and viewers agree too.

  

Closing Statement(s) -

To tell you the truth, manga reviews do not help much.   You must read through the panels and pages in order to be fully absorbed to the atmosphere in the world of GTO.   Sure, you can get some information from a review, but experiencing the “OUUs and AHHs,” of GTO is what really makes it such an enjoyable read.  

Woman Powdering Her Neck (poem)

Sunday, January 29th, 2006

By hinatasou

Woman Powdering Her Neck
By Kitagawa Utamaro (1753-1806)

Girl Powdering Her Neck
By Cathy Song (1983)

The light is the inside
sheen of an oyster shell,
sponged with talc and vapor,
moisture from a bath.

A pair of slippers
are placed outside
the rice-paper doors.
She kneels at a low table
in the room,
her legs folded beneath her
as she sits on a buckwheat pillow.

Her hair is black
with hints of red,
the color of seaweed
spread over rocks.

Morning begins the ritual
wheel of the body,
the application of translucent skins.
She practices pleasure:
the pressure of three fingertips
applying powder.
Fingerprints of pollen
some other hand will trace.

The peach-dyed kimono
patterned with maple leaves
drifting across the silk,
falls from right to left
in a diagonal, revealing
the nape of her neck
and the curve of a shoulder
like the slope of a hill
set deep in snow in a country
of huge white solemn birds.
Her face appears in the mirror,
a reflection in a winter pond,
rising to meet itself.

She dips a corner of her sleeve
like a brush into water
to wipe the mirror;
she is about to paint herself.
The eyes narrow
in a moment of self-scrutiny.
The mouth parts
as if desiring to disturb
the placid plum face;
break the symmetry of silence.
But the berry-stained lips,
stenciled into the mask of beauty,
do not speak.

Two chrysanthemums
touch in the middle of the lake
and drift apart.

A Samurai Instructs His Son

Sunday, January 29th, 2006

A Samurai Instructs His Son

By hinatasou


The following selection is by Hojo Shigetoki who is addressing his 18-year-old son in 1247 AD. Shigetoki had just been appointed to a key post in the shogunal administration:

The men under your command…must be carefully chosen for your service. Do not take ‘difficult’ fellows. If men under your orders, however loyal, are wanting in intelligence, you must not trust them with important duties, but rely upon experienced older men. If you are in doubt refer to me, Shigetoki.

In dealing with subordinates do not make an obvious distinction between good and bad. Use the same kind of language; give the same kind of treatment to all, and thus you will get the best out of the worst. But you yourself must not lose sight of the distinction between good character and bad character, between capable and incapable. You must be fair, but in practice you must not forget the difference between men who are useful and men who are not. Remember that the key to discipline is fair treatment in rewards and in punishments. But make allowance for minor misdeeds in young soldiers and others, if their conduct is usually good.

Do not be careless or negligent in the presence of subordinates, especially of older men. Thus do not spit or snuffle or lounge about on a chest with your legs dangling. This only gives the impression that you do not care for their good opinion. Preserve your dignity. If you behave rudely, they will tell their families and gossip will spread. You must treat all servants with proper consideration and generosity, not only your own people but also those of your parents and other superiors. If you don’t, they will scorn you and say to one another: ‘He thinks he is very important, but he doesn’t amount to much.’

Remember, however, that there are times when a commander must exercise his power of deciding questions of life or death. In those circumstances since human life is at stake you must give most careful thought to your action. Never kill or wound a man in anger, however great the provocation. Better get somebody else to administer the proper punishment. Decisions made in haste before your feelings are calm can only lead to remorse. Close your eyes and reflect carefully when you have a difficult decision to make.

When accusations are brought to you, always remember that there must be another side to the question. Do not merely indulge in anger. To give fair decision is the most important thing not only in commanding soldiers but also in governing a country.

History of Japan (prehistoric to modern)

Sunday, January 29th, 2006

History of Japan

By hinatasouJapan’s past can be divided into seven parts: prehistoric, protohistoric, ancient, medieval, early modern, modern, and contemporary. All but contemporary Japan will be discussed.

Prehistoric (senshi)

Most of Japan’s earliest history is obtained from archaeological findings and from references in Chinese and Korean literature. Archaeologists divide prehistoric Japan into four major periods: Paleolithic preceramic period prior to 10,000BC; the Jomon period (10,000-300BC); with the introduction of ceramics the Yayoi period (300BC-300AD); and the Kofun period (300-710AD), the age of burial mounds and beginning political centralization.

The first inhabitants were Paleolithic hunter-gatherers who relied upon stone blades. About 13,000 years ago, sea levels began to rise. As Japan’s climate changed a new culture persisted called the Jomon (’cord marked’) named for their magnificent pottery. (The pottery also carried the cord mark, hence the name). Commonly thought of as hunter-gatherers, by 1000BC they were also cultivating the green-leaf shiso and rice, introduced by southern China.

By 300BC the Jomon culture was replaced by the Yayoi characterized by less lurid ceramics, bronze and iron tools and weapons, and the systematic development of wet-field rice agriculture. These contributed to increased stratification and the emergence of a hierarchy.

Near the end of the Yayoi period, clans were building mounded stone tombs for the burial of their chieftains.

Between 200BC and 500AD, waves of immigrants, including metal workers and artisans, from Korea and China arrived in Japan. In 405AD, a Korean scribe named Wani began to teach the Chinese script and becoming Japan’s earliest written language. However, all was not peaceful as invasions and raids broke out between Korea and Japan.

Protohistoric (genshi)

By the end of the 7th century, Japan society was restructured inspired by the Chinese centralized imperial administration. The Asuka period (593-710BC) marks the final phase of this transition. During this time the court of Empress Suiko was established with Prince Shotoku serving as her reagent. Shotoku labored extensively to elevate the power and prestige of the imperial linage. He developed a seventeen-article constitution. The Japanese court sponsored Buddhism; built temples, palaces, and capitals after Korean and Chinese models; began to write histories in Chinese characters; and laid out a Chinese style imperial state structure called the Ritsuryo system.

Ancient Period (kodai)

In 710 a new capital was established at Nara modeled after the Chinese Tang dynasty capital. During the Nara period (710-794AD), Buddhism and Confucianism were used to support political authority. In fact, the Japanese ruler claimed to rule by divine right. Centralized systems for taxation, census, and landholding were instituted as well as a road system. However, the imperial administration and the ‘equal field’ land holding system were showing signs of strain. In 784AD, Emperor Kammu tried to revive the Ritsuryo system moving the capital in 794AD to Heiankyo (Kyoto).

From 794-1185AD, the Heian Period, the imperial court became dominated by nobles of the Fujiwara family. The court had difficulty controlling private estates and maintaining control of the provinces. Warrior bands began to assume more power, first in the provinces, and then within the court when the Taira family seized power.

Medieval Period (chusei)

The Taira were overthrown in 1185 by warriors lead by Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first shogun of Japan, who established a military government called the Kamakura Shogunate (Bakufu). The shogunate assumed control of the administration of justice, imperial succession, and defense of the country against the Mongols. In 1333 a coalition by Emperor Go-Daigo overthrew the regime. After several decades of civil war, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu became the third shogun. Although Yoshimitsu won the support of provincial warriors, his successors did not. Beginning with the Onin War (1467-1477AD), the country slipped into a sporadic civil war known as the Warring States period in which local feudal lords ignored the shogunate and struggled with each other for control.

Early modern (kinsei)

[Anime reference: Samurai Deeper Kyo]

In the 16th century there was a gradual national reunification movement. In the Azuchi-Monoyama Period (1568-1600), Toyotomi Hideyoshi established military control over the country seeking to pacify Japan by confiscating swords and separating samurai from peasants. His death in 1598 left his heir vulnerable to the rival daimyo (feudal lord). Tokugawa Ieyasu after the battle of Sekigahara in 1600 assumed the title of shogun and established a powerful and enduring shogunate in Edo (Tokyo). This became known as the Edo Period (1600-1868). The Tokugawa Shogunate directly controlled Edo while the daimyo governed 250 subdomains. During this time Christianity was eradicated.

Modern (kindai)

The Tokugawa gave the country more than two centuries of peace and relative seclusion from the outside world. In 1853 Perry’s visit drew potential allies in Japan. Nobles were heavily in debt, unable to draw more income from agriculture, and were willing to embark upon foreign trade. Scholars were eager of learning Western science and medicine. There were patriots who were fearful that Japan was becoming defenseless against Western guns. Under these pressures, the shogunate in 1854 signed a commercial treaty with the United States and Europe.

The following years sowed the seeds of later resentment between Japan and the West. The first treaties provided that Japan maintain a low tariff that could not be changed without the foreign powers’ consent. Second was the idea of extraterritoriality. This meant that Europeans and Americans residing in Japan were not subject to Japanese law but remained under the jurisdiction of their homelands.

After 1854 a strong antiforeign reaction developed. Lords Satsuma, Choshu, and Tosa overthrew the shogunate in the Meiji Restoration of 1868, named after emperor Mutsuhito. They wanted to preserve, revitalize, and strengthen the country. The only way to save Japan would be to learn the secrets of Western power. Social, political, and economic institutions were reformed along Western lines. Feudalism was abolished. A national currency with decimal units was adopted as well as a national postal service and school system. Buddhism was discouraged, and monasteries were confiscated. In 1889 Japan adopted a constitution creating a two-chambered parliament.

[Anime reference: Rurouni Kenshin]

Industrial and financial modernization proceeded. In 1869 the first telegraph system connected Yokohama and Tokyo, and in 1872 the first railroad connected those two cities. Population rose to 46 million in 1902. The Taisho period (1912-1926AD) marked Japan’s acceptance as a major world power.

[Anime reference: Sakura Wars]