Lately we’ve been telling you about Naoki Urasawa and his creation “MONSTER” that you can find on SyFy’s Ani-Monday, but did you know that Naoki was also behind the 20^th Century Boys series? Well, if you didn’t know before I’m sorry I ruined it for you!

When we sent Renochan to see the 3^rd installment of the 20^th Century Boys films, she became a fan in a big way – evident by her recommendation in the Turning Japanese Holiday Guide this year! Renochan (and fellow 20^th Century Boys otaku), your Christmas wishlist just expanded! The 1^st film will be here on the 15^th of December – just 10 days before Christmas!

The films are based on the manga by Naoki Urasawa, and are directed by Yukihiko Tsutsumi (who also directed the live-action movie HAPPILY EVER AFTER – also available from VIZ Pictures).

So what’s the story?:

It all begins in 1969 when a young boy named Kenji and his friends write “The Book of Prophecy” in which they write about a future where they fight against an evil organization trying to takeover the world and bring about doomsday. Years later in 1997, a mysterious cult being lead by a man only known as “Friend” emerges and begins to gain strong influence over society. A series of catastrophic events begin to occur mirroring the prophecies made up by the young Kenji and the greatest fear is the climax of “The Book” becoming a reality; December 31st, 2000, a terrifying giant virus-spreading robot will attack the entire city of Tokyo leading to the end of mankind. The only people who know about “The Book” are Kenji and his childhood friends. Who is “Friend”? Will Kenji and his friends be able to save mankind and live to see the 21st Century?

Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures:

“20th CENTURY BOYS mesmerized audiences at its U.S. theatrical premiere in San Francisco this past summer and we’re very proud to announce its North American debut on DVD,” says Seiji. “Naoki Urasawa’s multi-layered story of childhood mystical prophecy, government conspiracies and alien invasion is given a lavish production treatment and the film’s ending is a real cliffhanger that’s also very different from the original manga series. We look forward to introducing audiences to this exciting 3-part science fiction saga!”

As if that weren’t enough, VIZ Cinema in San Francisco are holding screenings of the new release through December. On the 10^th specifically, there will be a special event that starts at 7:30pm to mark the DVD release. The tickets cost $25, and it includes an entry pass to the screening, the brand new DVD, a poster, and more! If you’re not sure where to find VIZ Cinema, head for the heart of Japantown. Ticket purchases can be made online or at the theatre’s box-office, and any information on the event can be found at either www.vizcinema.com or www.viz-pictures.com.