New Guide Offers Fans Essential NARUTO Character Info As Well As Never-Before-Revealed Data And Secrets

VIZ Media opens the new year with the latest addition to its extensive library of NARUTO titles. NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK is available now, offers essential information on key characters from the smash-hit action series, and includes 8 full-color pages. NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER BOOK is rated ‘T’ for Teens and will carry an MSRP of $14.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN.

A ninja knows all! And now you can too! Here’s all the intel you need on who’s who in NARUTO!.THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK gives you all you need stay the expert on all things NARUTO. Whether you’re catching up, brushing up, or just getting started with the goings-on in ninja world, this handy, huge guide covers the whole story all the way to Volume 43 of the best-selling manga (graphic novel) series!

“NARUTO: THE OFFICIAL CHARACTER DATA BOOK is a treasure-trove of essential information that will be a must-read for both casual and die-hard NARUTO fans,” says Joel Enos, Editor. “Inside these pages, you’ll find never-before revealed data, secrets, and even a few scandals involving your favorite, as well as most-hated, shinobi. And fans won’t want to miss a new manga tale from NARUTO creator Masashi Kishimoto that you can’t find in English anywhere else!”

Created by Masashi Kishimoto, NARUTO was first introduced in Weekly Shonen Jump magazine in Japan in 1999 and quickly became that country’s most popular ninja manga targeting tweens and teens. The manga series (rated ‘T’ for Teens) and animated counterpart (NARUTO rated ‘T’ for teens, and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN rated ‘T+’ for older teens), depicting the adventures of ninja-in-training Uzumaki Naruto, is one of VIZ Media’s most successful properties and has captivated millions of fans across North America, Europe and South America. The NARUTO and NARUTO SHIPPUDEN animated series are co-productions of TV TOKYO, VIZ Media parent company Shueisha Inc., and Pierrot Co., Ltd.

More information on NARUTO is available at www.Naruto.com.

VIZ Media Releasing Kids Manga, “Fluffy, Fluffy Cinnamoroll”

Cute Flying Long-Eared Pup With A Penchant For Cinnamon Rolls Takes Off For Colorful Adventures In New VIZ Kids Manga Release

Meet the puppy with a tail like a cinnamon roll!

Cinnamoroll is no ordinary pup. He loves freshly baked cinnamon rolls and uses his long ears to fly high into the sky! With his friends Chiffon, Mocha, Espresso, Cappuccino and little Milk, he’s always on the lookout for a new adventure. In their first journey, Milk has disappeared through a mysterious door and only Cinnamoroll can save him! Will he find the courage to help his friend and still make it back to Café Cinnamon in time for tea?

“FLUFFY, FLUFFY Cinnamoroll is a whimsical all-ages manga adventure based on an adorable Sanrio character created by Chisato Seki,” says Traci Todd, Senior Editor, Childrens Publishing. “The cute floppy-eared pup is the latest character to join the VIZ Kids family, which also features MAMESHIBA, POKÉMON, and MR. MEN AND LITTLE MISS. Cinnamoroll is very popular in Japan, where he was the star of a 2007 anime feature film called Cinnamon The Movie. We hope this flying canine and his loveable friends will soon find a way into the hearts of readers everywhere with this fun manga story.”

Author and manga creator Yumi Tsukirino debuted in the Japanese magazine Ciao in 1996 with “Crystal Change!!” Her other works include PiPiPi ☆ Adventure, Piyo Piyo ☆ Clinic, Chamo Chamo ☆ Pretty♪, and several Pokémon manga, in addition to creating numerous manga short stories.

FLUFFY, FLUFFY Cinnamoroll was conceived by Chisato Seki who began her independent career after having worked for a publishing company. Seki is the author of the Cinnamoroll picture book titled Cinnamoroll and the Lost Puppy, which was published in Japan by Shogakukan.

For more information on FLUFFY, FLUFFY Cinnamoroll and other VIZ Kids titles, please visit www.VIZKids.com.

Sentai Filmworks Licenses Listen To Me Girls. I Am Your Father!

Sentai Filmworks has announced the licensing of LISTEN TO ME, GIRLS. I AM YOUR FATHER!, the wild new anime series that takes the classic sit-com premise of ‘a bachelor being forced to adopt three young children and discovering a whole new outlook on life’ and turns it completely on its head! Based on the series of novels by Tomohiro Matsu and the subsequent manga series illustrated by Yuka Nakajima, the 12 episode series is directed by Itsuro Kawasaki (LICENSED BY ROYALTY, RENTAL MAGICA, ARC THE LAD,) while series composition is handled by veteran Naruhisa Arakawa (STEEL ANGEL KURUMI, DNANGEL, BLUE SEED) while key animator Takashi Mamezuka (INFINITE STRATOS, EDEN OF THE EAST,) takes up the task of adapting Nakajima’s original designs.

Whoever said little girls grow up in the most delightful ways wasn’t Yuta Segawa! He wasn’t happy when his sister married a man who already had two children. But given that Yuri raised Yuta by herself after their own parents’ deaths, what kind of brother would Yuta be if he didn’t take in their THREE children when Yuri and her husband Shingo’s plane disappears? Of course, the fact that Yuta’s only a nineteen year old college student, living in a tiny apartment, and the fact that he’s now living with three GIRLS, two of whom aren’t related by blood and one of whom is only five years younger than he is, is bound to cause some issues. Especially when the eldest girl, Sora, is harboring a secret crush on him and would be quite happy if Yuta’s social life revolved around the ‘family,’ while middle sister Miu is starting to make noises about ‘older men’ as well. And did we mention that it’s a really, REALLY small apartment? Add the girl Yuta actually likes, Raika, as a smoldering fuse and the question isn’t IF Yuta’s home sweet home is a powderkeg, but rather one of when and how often! Some family ties bind, others may need restraining orders in LISTEN TO ME, GIRLS. I AM YOUR FATHER!

LISTEN TO ME, GIRLS. I AM YOUR FATHER! will be available digitally through multiple outlets, with a home video release on subtitled DVD scheduled for later this year.

VIZ Delivers Japanese Monster Sci-Fi Novel MM9: Monster Magnitude

Special Team Of Scientists Must Save Japan In A Gripping New Novel From The Author Of THE STORIES OF IBIS

VIZ Media’s Haikasoru imprint brings a fantastic new tale of science fiction and giant monsters to North American readers with the release of Hiroshi Yamamoto’s novel MM9, available now. The release will carry an MSRP of $14.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN. An eBook edition is also available on the Amazon Kindle, Apple’s iBooks Store, the Barnes & Noble’s Nook Books Store, and the Sony Reader™ Store for $8.99.

Haikasoru publishes some of the most compelling contemporary Japanese science fiction and fantasy stories for English-speaking audiences, and is the first imprint based in the U.S. dedicated to Japanese science fiction and fantasy in translation.

The Japan of MM9 is beset by natural disasters all the time: typhoons, earthquakes…and giant monster attacks. A special anti-monster unit called the Meteorological Agency Monsterological Measures Department (MMD) has been formed to deal with natural disasters of high “monster magnitude.” The work is challenging, the public is hostile, and the monsters are hungry, but the MMD crew has science, teamwork…and a legendary secret weapon on their side. Together, will try and save Japan, and the universe!

“Hiroshi Yamamoto takes on the perennial Japanese science fiction theme—the giant monsters known as kaiju,” says Nick Mamatas, Haikasoru Editor. “The B-movie monsters we know and love are basically treated like meteorological disasters along the lines of hurricanes or earthquakes by the MMD, who measures the “monster magnitude” of the various threats and uses both science and folkloric knowledge to try to save Japan from constant repeated attack. Yamamoto knows his science as well as pop culture—MM9 is both a loving parody of Japanese icons like Ultraman and Godzilla, but gives an intriguing and wild answer to the question of how such enormous creatures could exist without the laws of physics kicking it. The book was very popular in Japan, and the cinematic nature of Yamamoto’s storytelling made it easy for Japanese television to adapt into an action-adventure- science fiction TV show.”

Hiroshi Yamamoto was born in 1956 in Kyoto, Japan. He began his career as a writer and game designer with the game development company Group SNE in 1987. He gained initial popularity with titles such as February at the Edge of Time and the Ghost Hunter series. His first hardcover science fiction release, God Never Keeps Silent, became a sensation among readers and was nominated for the Japan SF Award. Other novels include Day of Judgment and The Unseen Sorrow of Winter and THE STORIES OF IBIS (which is published in North America by VIZ Media’s Haikasoru). Aside from his work as a writer, Yamamoto is also active in various literary organizations as an editor of classic science fiction anthologies and as president of To-Gakkai, a group of tongue-in-cheek “experts” on the occult.

For more information on MM9 and the Haikasoru imprint, please visit the dedicated website at www.haikasoru.com.

L’ARC~EN~CIEL Make New York City Debut with Headlining Show at Madison Square Garden

BAND MAKES HISTORY BEING THE FIRST JAPANESE ARTIST TO HEADLINE THE LEGENDARY VENUE

“The biggest band you’ve never heard of.” – Kerrang!
­
L’Arc-en-Ciel, one of Japan’s most celebrated rock bands, will make their long overdue U.S. return on March 25th with a performance at New York’s legendary Madison Square Garden. Originally scheduled for March 23rd at The Theater at Madison Square Garden, the show has been moved to the world famous arena due to the overwhelming demand of fans. This will mark the first time a Japanese band headlines MSG. Tickets will go on sale this Saturday, January 28th. Visit www.larc-en-ciel.com for details.

In support of their 20th Anniversary, L’Arc-en-Ciel will bring their epic pop rock – a sound that has sold over 40 million records, scored the band back to back #1 albums and broken numerous concert records ­ to their most passionate US supporters for only the second time in 20 years, creating an authentic J Rock pilgrimage for fans of the genre hungry to see the real thing.

Check out this live performance of “HONEY,” one of the band’s most popular songs: http://vimeo.com/34135893

Formed in 1991 in Osaka, Japan, L’Arc-en-Ciel has mesmerized crowds since the very beginning. No matter the year, with their unique melodies and edgy sounds, the band, responding to the zeitgeist, has had a hit song to match the times. Like all great musicians, the band’s music has evolved over the years and has had a lasting influence. From their early work to their most recent offerings, which ranges from Goth rock to jangly guitar pop reminiscent of The Cure’s lighter moments and U2-esque stadium anthems, L’Arc-en-Ciel has continually captured audiences worldwide.

In 2004 the band made their first and only performance in the USA (Baltimore) to an audience of 10,000 people; and has since performed in China (Shanghai and Hong Kong), Korea (Seoul), Taiwan (Taipei), and France (Paris), playing to millions of fans and proving that L’Arc~en~Ciel’s sound extends across borders.

Returning in May 2011 from a three-year hiatus, the band came together for two sell-out shows in aid of Japanese Tsunami relief at Tokyo’s Ajinomoto Stadium. The performances in front of 100,000 fans reestablished the band’s position at the center of the Japanese Music scene.

L’Arc~en~Ciel will embark on their “L’Arc~en~Ciel WORLD TOUR 2012” this March visiting Hong Kong, Bangkok, Shanghai, Taipei, New York, London, and Paris, before concluding back in Japan. Tour dates below.

L’Arc-en-Ciel recently released a spectacular box set called “TWENITY” which runs the full gamut of their music. Visit www.larc-en-ciel.comfor more details.

L’Arc-en-Ciel will release a new album “BUTTERFLY” on February 8, 2012 via iTunes. Stay tuned for more information!

www.larc-en-ciel.com
www.facebook.com/pages/LArc-en-Ciel
/139185632806476

https://twitter.com/LArc_official

www.myspace.com/larcenciel

L’Arc-en-Ciel WORLD TOUR 2012 dates:

March 3rd Asia World Expo Arena Hong Kong, China
March 7th Impact Arena Bangkok, Thailand
March 10th Mercedes-Benz Arena Shanghai, China
March 17th TWTC Nangang Exhibition Hall Taipei, Taiwan
March 25th Madison Square Garden New York, New York
April 11th indigO2 London, UK
April 14th Le Zenith Paris, France
May 5th Jamsil Gymnasium Seoul, Korea
May 12th Nissan Stadium Yokohama, Japan
May 13th Nissan Stadium Yokohama, Japan
May 19th Universal Studios Japan
Open Air Special Stage Osaka, Japan
May 20th Universal Studios Japan
Open Air Special Stage Osaka, Japan

THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY: Beloved Story Reimangined Studio Ghibli Style!

Releases Based On The New The Film By Hayao Miyazaki’s Famed Animation Studio Include Film Comics, Art And Picture Books

brings the miniaturized adventure of famed Studio Ghibli’s newest animated creation – THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY – to readers everywhere with a collection of ARRIETTY film comics, art and picture books set to debut on February 7th, 2012. THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY is scheduled for North American theatrical release on February 17th, 2012.

THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY is based on the celebrated novel, The Borrowers, by Mary Norton and was produced by Studio Ghibli, the famed animation company founded by Hayao Miyazaki, which also created SPIRITED AWAY, PRINCESS MONONOKE, HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE and PONYO. The new film, with planning/screenplay by Hayao Miyazaki and directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, will feature the voice talents of Bridget Mendler, Amy Poehler, Carol Burnett and Will Arnett for its English language release.

Arrietty isn’t your ordinary fourteen-year-old girl – she is small enough to make her home under the floorboards of a typical house, “borrowing” what she and her family need from the giants in whose shadows they live. A young boy named Shawn befriends Arrietty, but when adults discover the Borrowers, Arrietty and Shawn must work together to save her family.

THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY PICTURE BOOK • Rated “A” for All Ages • MSRP: $19.99 U.S. / $22.99 CAN • Available February 7th, 2012
The colorful and easy-to-read THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY Picture Book is a full-color hardcover edition that will appeal to younger readers especially. The book uses the vividly colored animation cel art from the feature film combined with simplified text to retell the story of Arrietty and her adventures.

THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY FILM COMICS • Rated “A” for All Ages • MSRP: $16.99 U.S. each / $19.99 CAN each • Available February 7th, 2012
The official 2-volume film comic of THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY re-tells the film’s story with vivid full-color frames.

THE ART OF THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY • Rated “A” for All Ages • MSRP: $34.99 U.S. / $39.99 CAN • Available February 7th, 2012
Co-founded by the legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki, Studio Ghibli films enthrall and enchant audiences across the world. The Art of series gives fans the opportunity to follow their favorite film from initial concept to the silver screen, thanks to hundreds of sketches, concept drawings, and animation cels, plus in-depth interviews with the creators.

“Fans and readers of all ages won’t want to miss these new additions to VIZ Media’s Studio Ghibli Library of titles,” says Masumi Washington, Senior Director, Editorial. “Studio Ghibli has mastered the ability to tell poignant and engaging stories that captivate both children and adults, and their latest film, THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY, continues this tradition. Our forthcoming picture book and film comics are fun ways for young readers to visit the world of ARRIETTY while the gorgeous art book will be a must-have for the ardent Studio Ghibli fan or those who want to know more about the evolution of the film. Discover the adventures in-store for this band of ‘borrowers’ in these new releases scheduled for February!”

More information on VIZ Media’s Studio Ghibli titles is available at www.VIZ.com.

Kinetic Action Comedy Series Created By Production I.G. Features An Arsenal Of Robots Designed By Nissan; First Episode Available To Stream Now!

VIZ Media excites anime fans with the announcement of the U.S. online simulcast premiere of the brand new series, LAGRANGE – THE FLOWER OF RIN-NE, on VIZAnime.com, the company’s own website for free anime, as well as on the free, ad-supported Hulu service and in high-definition on the Hulu Plus subscription service (www.Hulu.com). The first episode (subtitled) is available now with new installments scheduled to debut each Sunday!

In addition, Kazé SAS will be the official partner in the United Kingdom for the simulcast of LAGRANGE – THE FLOWER OF RIN-NE. Episode 1 is now available on www.anime-on-demand.com, with new episodes debuting every Sunday.

LAGRANGE – THE FLOWER OF RIN-NE just launched on Japanese television on January 8th, and is produced by Studio XEBEC (Broken Blade, Martian Successor Nadesico, Fafner), created by the famed animation studio, Production I.G. (Ghost in the Shell S.A.C Sengoku Basara: Samurai Kings), and directed by Tatsuo Sato (Martian Successor Nadesico, Ninja Scroll: The Series, Stellvia). The robots are designed in collaboration with Nissan Motor Co., LTD’s creative team, chosen from more than 60 designs from an internal Nissan design competition.

LAGRANGE – THE FLOWER OF RIN-NE (Rated TV-MA) depicts the adventures of a 17 year-old girl whose mission becomes to defend her city from invading space aliens. Madoka Kyono is an energetic girl who is full of passion. As the proud, and only, member of the Kamogawa Girls’ High School Jersey Club, she goes around helping people in need. But Madoka’s life is turned upside down when she is suddenly asked by a mysterious girl named Lan to pilot a robot. Motivated by her desire to protect the people and city of Kamogawa, Madoka agrees to pilot the resurrected Vox robot to fight against extraterrestrials that have come to attack Earth.

“LAGRANGE – THE FLOWER OF RIN-NE is a hilarious, action-packed story about a determined teenager that devotes herself to protecting Kamagawa City and its peaceful inhabitants against mysterious alien invaders,” says Brian Ige, Vice President, Animation. “The story features a stylish cast of lead characters, as well as an arsenal of sleek, battle ready robots conceived by a team of top car designers from Nissan Motors. The series plays an important part of our 2012 roster which will deliver near-simultaneous release of many top anime properties throughout the year.”

VIZAnime.com is a free-to-use web destination that is now the permanent home to some of the company’s best-loved animated series. Over 1,800 episodes are currently available, and new content is added on a weekly basis. Series currently simulcast on VIZAnime.com include TIGER & BUNNY, BLUE EXORCIST, NARUTO SHIPPUDEN and BLEACH. Other fan-favorite series available include CROSS GAME, DEATH NOTE, FULL MOON, INUYASHA: THE FINAL ACT, KEKKAISHI, NAOKI URASAWA’S MONSTER, NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN, ONE PIECE, VAMPIRE KNIGHT, and more!

For more information on LAGRANGE – THE FLOWER OF RIN-NE and other VIZ Media anime titles, please visit www.VIZAnime.com.

Sentai Filmworks Licenses “Familiar of Zero F”

Sentai Filmworks waves its magic wand and announces the acquisition of yet another eagerly awaited new anime series: FAMILIAR OF ZERO F. Continuing the story introduced in the previous hit anime and manga series created by Noboru Yamaguchi, Yamaguchi himself handles the series composition, with director Yoshiaki Iwasaki (Best Student Council, Love Hina, Hayate the Combat Butler) taking charge of the new 13 episode series, while Eiji Usatsuka’s original character designs are adapted once again by Masahiro Fujii (DREAM EATER MERRY, HAYATE THE COMBAT BUTLER.)

Get ready to join spell challenged Louise Françoise le Blanc de la Vallière, whose luck with magic is so poor that she’s earned the nickname “Zero,” and Saito Chevalier de Hiraga, the unfortunate human Louise accidentally summoned while attempting to conjure up a familiar, in a set of mystifyingly mystical misadventures so mind-boggling mayhem prone that even the experienced staff of the Tristain Academy of Magic will end up wondering if they could possibly be real! Will a girl as non-enchanting as Louise and a normal human male be up to the challenges ahead of them? Let’s just say that sometimes even a Zero can be a hero and hope that the F in the title doesn’t refer to Louise’s grade point average! Prepare to be mesmerized by spectacularly supernatural silliness and spellbinding adventure and romance as the girl who can’t do anything right invokes the FAMILIAR OF ZERO F

FAMILIAR OF ZERO F will soon be available digitally through many outlets. A home video release on subtitled DVD will be scheduled for later this year.

VIZ Manga: Preview Digital WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA in Free “Issue Zero”!

Excited for the launch of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA at the end of January? We are too! And to kick off the new year, we have some awesome VIZ Manga updates (VIZManga.com, and the VIZ Manga app for iPad, iPod touch and iPhone) to tide you over till the debut!

Free “Issue Zero”, featuring the recently released-in-Japan chapters of the WEEKLY SJ ALPHA debut titles: BAKUMAN, BLEACH, NARUTO, NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN, ONE PIECE and TORIKO!

Free “Issue Origins”, featuring the origin stories of all the WEEKLY SJ ALPHA titles

Preorder WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA at sj.viz.com/preorder, and be entered into a drawing for an 16GB WiFi iPad 2! Current subscribers can ‘activate’ their entry by visiting

VIZManga.com or their VIZ Manga app.

Getting you closer to Japan -> digital first debuts of BLEACH Vol. 52 and ONE PIECE Vol. 63!
And more!

Maiden Japan Licenses Polyphonica Crimson S

Entertainment label Maiden Japan has announced the license of the action comedy series POLYPHONICA CRIMSON S. Although based on the same light novel series as a previous POLYPHONICA series created by Ichiro Sakaki, (released in North America by Sentai Filmworks,) CRIMSON S is a newer and completely different series, set at a much earlier timeframe in the franchise chronology. Director Toshimasa Suzuki (HEROIC AGE) heads the all new creative team, while composition of the series is in the capable hands of Kenichi Kanemaki (PRETEAR, HELL GIRL.)

To bring law and order you need police, to make music you need musicians, and to make the former using the latter, you need a Dantist! Ever since he was visited by a mysterious spirit as a boy, Phoron’s wanted to become one of the elite battle bards who watch over the continent of Polyphonica. Yet even though he’s mastered the basic skills for singing the Commandia spells and operating a One-Man Orchestra, he’s been unable to summon the required spirit companion because of a promise he made to that first spirit: to sing only for her. But that silence is shattered and Phoron’s musical meanderings are over when his supernatural partner suddenly returns, intent on finalizing the ’contract’ they made twelve years ago! Which would be great except for one thing: she’s not just any spirit, but the dreaded Corticarte, the Crimson Annihilator! But what the heck, sometimes you just have to grit your teeth and duet! Get ready for a musical partnership with more than its share of discord and a distinctly martial beat in POLYPHONICA CRIMSON S!

POLYPHONICA CRIMSON S will soon be available through many digital outlets, with a home video release on subtitled DVD in spring 2012.

Weekly Shonen Jump Digital Manga Launch Event Takes Place in L.A. on January 28th

Free Event In Los Angeles Gives Fans A Sneak Peek Of Upcoming Debut Of North America’s First Digital Weekly Manga Anthology

VIZ Media invites Southern California manga/anime fans and pop culture enthusiasts to a very special launch event for the new WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA (WEEKLY SJ ALPHA) on Saturday, January 28th at the West Hollywood Library in Los Angeles, CA.

The event is FREE to attend and takes place between 2:00pm-5:00pm in the library’s Community Room. The West Hollywood Library is located at 625 N. San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069. Additional library details are available at:

http://www.colapublib.org/libs/whollywood/index.php

Each new digital issue of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA will treat manga (comics) fans in North America to the latest chapters of some of the world’s most popular manga series only two weeks after they debut in Japan’s massively popular WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP magazine. The first issue of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA goes on sale January 30, 2012, and will be available through VIZManga.com and the VIZ Manga apps for iPhone®, iPod® touch and iPad®. Debut series will include BAKUMAN｡, BLEACH, NARUTO, NURA: RISE OF THE YOKAI CLAN, ONE PIECE, and TORIKO.

During the event, attendees will be able to preview the first issue of WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA content on several iPads that will be available, meet VIZ Media staff, and take advantage of fun photo opportunities with the world’s most popular ninja, Naruto, and BLEACH’s Kon. Gift bags will be given away (while supplies last) and attendees can enter to win other fun prizes in a special raffle contest. Japanese snacks such as Pocky provided by Ezaki Glico USA and other refreshments will also be served while supplies last.

“This launch event for WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP ALPHA will give fans an exclusive advance look at our new manga magazine while offering a fun afternoon to celebrate its debut,” says Alvin Lu, Senior Vice President & General Manager. “Our new digital anthology will set an important new benchmark by offering the latest editions of some of the world’s most successful manga titles just a couple of weeks after their Japanese debut. We invite fans to join us on Saturday January 28th in West Hollywood for this exciting launch event!”

WEEKLY SJ ALPHA will be made available through an annual membership that provides 52 weeks of access to 48 weekly issues for just $25.99. Single issues of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA can be read for four weeks for only $0.99. Each issue, once received on one device, can be read on all other enabled devices through the easy-to-use integrated VIZ Manga platform which includes the VIZ Manga Apps for iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch as well as VIZManga.com.

To prepare fans for the debut of WEEKLY SJ ALPHA, VIZ Media is also offering the SHONEN JUMP DIGITAL WARP, a limited collection of digital graphic novel speed-ups that will bring North American readers up-to-date with Japanese releases, in some cases jumping ahead of the print releases in North America. The SHONEN JUMP DIGITAL WARP is ongoing on VIZ Manga with NARUTO Volume 55-57, BLEACH Volumes 49-52 and ONE PIECE Vols. 61-63 available now (print editions forthcoming).

For more information on WEEKLY SJ ALPHA and exclusive subscriber offers, please visit SJAlpha.com or VIZManga.com.

Section 23 Films Announces April Slate

Home video distributor Section23 Films today announced its April slate of releases; including INFINITE STRATOS. Loaded with special features and a bonus soundtrack CD, the series will be released on both DVD & Blu-Ray by Section23 client, Sentai Filmworks.

Coming April 2012

Title: MOTTO TO LOVERU COMPLETE COLLECTION
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 300 min.
Street Date: 4/3/2012
Format: DVD
Language: Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $49.98

The insanity that began when a very naked (and very female) alien teleported into Rito Yuki’s bathtub (while he was in it) continues. And even though Princess Lala has finally started to admit her true feelings for the young man she’s inexplicably engaged to marry (as a result of what happened in said bathtub and Develuke customs,) her sometimes erratic technology and the snags and snarls of intergalactic politics and intrigue are still causing major problems. That transporter? Yeah, it still has the nasty habit of leaving the clothes behind. Alien bounty hunters? Yep, even more of them and they’re even more devious. Add body switches, alien skunks, a bathroom that changes size and shape, the inevitable sleepover that you just know it’s going to go horribly, horribly wrong (spoiler: it does.) Worst of all, there’s Valentine’s Day, and even in space you’ll be able to hear Rito scream! Love takes a quantum shift into the wrong gear and the star brakes are broken in the extra-special, extra-crazy extraterrestrial romance to end them all, MOTTO TO LOVE RU – The Complete Collection!!!

Title: POLYPHONICA CRIMSON S COMPLETE COLLECTION
Published by: Maiden Japan
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 300 min.
Street Date: 4/3/2012
Format: DVD
Language: Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $49.98

To bring law and order you need police, to make music you need musicians, and to make the former using the latter, you need a Dantist! Ever since he was visited by a mysterious spirit as a boy, Phoron’s wanted to become one of the elite battle bards who watch over the continent of Polyphonica. Yet even though he’s mastered the basic skills for singing the Commandia spells and operating a One-Man Orchestra, he’s been unable to summon the required spirit companion because of a promise he made to that first spirit: to sing only for her. But that silence is shattered and Phoron’s musical meanderings are over when his supernatural partner suddenly returns, intent on finalizing the ‘contract’ they made twelve years ago! Which would be great except for one thing: she’s not just any spirit, but the dreaded Corticarte, the Crimson Annihilator! But what the heck, sometimes you just you just have to grit your teeth and duet! Get ready for a musical partnership with more than its share of discord and a distinctly martial beat in Polyphonica Crimson S!

Title: INFINITE STRATOS COMPLETE COLLECTION
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 325 min.
Street Date: 4/10/2012
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $59.98

Ten years ago, the development of the revolutionary Infinite Stratos powered exoskeleton changed the world’s balance of power overnight. Unfortunately, while the distribution of IS systems to every nation on Earth HAS ushered in a new era of peace, the fact that only women have thus far been able to pilot the Stratos systems has sent the relationship between the XX and XY-chromosomed halves of the human race into a spiraling tailspin! So when fifteen-year-old Ichika Orimura is suddenly discovered to be the first male with the ability to control an IS, whatever plans he might have had for his own future are tossed out the window even as he’s thrown to the wolves and enrolled at the otherwise entirely female Infinite Stratos Academy by order of the Japanese government! It’s One Boy Vs. All the Girls as Ichika get taken for a ride on some serious heavy metal in INFINITE STRATOS – The Complete Collection!

Title: INFINITE STRATOS COMPLETE COLLECTION BLU-RAY
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 325 min.
Street Date: 4/10/2012
Format: BD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $69.98

Ten years ago, the development of the revolutionary Infinite Stratos powered exoskeleton changed the world’s balance of power overnight. Unfortunately, while the distribution of IS systems to every nation on Earth HAS ushered in a new era of peace, the fact that only women have thus far been able to pilot the Stratos systems has sent the relationship between the XX and XY-chromosomed halves of the human race into a spiraling tailspin! So when fifteen-year-old Ichika Orimura is suddenly discovered to be the first male with the ability to control an IS, whatever plans he might have had for his own future are tossed out the window even as he’s thrown to the wolves and enrolled at the otherwise entirely female Infinite Stratos Academy by order of the Japanese government! It’s One Boy Vs. All the Girls as Ichika get taken for a ride on some serious heavy metal in INFINITE STRATOS – The Complete Collection!

Title: SOMEDAY’S DREAMERS COMPLETE COLLECTION
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 300 min.
Street Date: 4/17/2012
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $49.98

When can flunking a spelling test cause major problems? When you’re learning how to use magic, of course! And that’s exactly the situation fifteen-year-old Yume Kikuchi finds herself in when she travels to Tokyo to begin her apprenticeship as a licensed magic user. Unfortunately, Yume’s a country girl in the big city for the first time and there are a lot of new-fangled ideas to get used to. Like her new mentor, Oyamada, turning out to be a man instead of the expected woman! Add to that the fact that Yume’s not really very confident about her abilities to achieve her goal of a magic license and she might just jinx herself into failing! It will take a lot of helping hands from her equally challenged fellow students and even more aid from her teachers if she’s going to succeed, but in the end, the most important lesson she’ll learn may not even be about spellcasting. The process of growing up and discovering what lies inside your own heart is the most wonderful magic of all in SOMEDAY’S DREAMERS – THE COMPLETE COLLECTION!

Title: GOLGO 13 COLLECTION 3
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 300 min.
Street Date: 4/24/2012
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $59.98

He never misses his target. No one has ever seen him kill and lived to speak of it. Any witnesses-beautiful woman or stray cat-become just collateral damage, part of the job. And now Golgo 13 is back with some of his most heartless cases ever. The targets this time? Accident survivors turned mindless terrorists. A disgraced politician’s mistress. A Trump-like CEO. Ocean pirates with a sniper of their own. And in the strangest assignment of all time, Golgo is hired to take out an 1800 Romanée-Monts Luisants. (Yes, he’s going to kill a bottle of wine.) Solve the puzzles-if you can-in the most mysterious, action-packed shoot-’em-up ever!

NEW PEOPLE Entertainment has announced the highly anticipated release GANTZ II: Perfect Answer on DVD and Blu-ray/DVD combo-pack on January 17th, 2012

Exciting Concluding Chapter Of Kinetic Japanese Action Film Epic Based On Popular Manga Series Debuts In January; Theatrical Release Event At NEW PEOPLE In San Francisco Also Announced

NEW PEOPLE Entertainment, a film division of NEW PEOPLE, Inc. that focuses on the licensing and distribution of Japanese films and media, has announced the highly anticipated release of the live-action film sequel to GANTZ. GANTZ II: Perfect Answer will debut on DVD (SRP $24.92) and Blu-ray/DVD combo-pack (SRP $29.99) on January 17th, 2012. The film, which is unrated, features both English and Japanese dialogue options and includes a bonus disc with an exclusive director’s interview, cast profiles, and theatrical film trailers.

To celebrate the film’s North American release, NEW PEOPLE Entertainment will hold three special theatrical screenings of GANTZ and GANTZ II: Perfect Answer on Saturday, January 14th at the S.F. Film Society | NEW PEOPLE Cinema located in San Francisco’s Japantown. Tickets are $10. Additional ticket and film info is available at: www.newpeopleworld.com/films.

GANTZ (Dubbed) 1:00pm

GANTZ II: Perfect Answer (Dubbed) 4:00pm

GANTZ II: Perfect Answer (Subtitled) 7:00pm

All those attending the screenings of GANTZ II: Perfect Answer will receive a free full-color GANTZ poster. A special ticket bundle is also available for $25 (DVD) or $30 (Blu-ray) that includes a movie pass, poster, and either the DVD or Blu-ray release.

GANTZ and GANTZ II: Perfect Answer are based on a popular manga series created by Hiroya Oku. The ongoing 31-volume sci-fi action epic is a bestseller in Japan with sales exceeding 16 million copies and is published in North America by Dark Horse Comics. Both films star leading Japanese actors Kazunari Ninomiya (Letters from Iwo Jima) and Kenichi Matsuyama (Death Note, Detroit Metal City).

“GANTZ is one of the most popular live-action film franchises based on a manga series to come from Japan and we are very happy to announce the North American release of the saga’s tense concluding chapter on DVD and Blu-Ray,” says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of NEW PEOPLE, Inc. “GANTZ II: Perfect Answer brings the kinetic action to its riveting climax and fans won’t want to miss this exciting new release!”

In the first GANTZ film (available on Blu-ray/DVD combo-pack from NEW PEOPLE Entertainment), Kei Kurono and his childhood friend, Masaru Kato, attempted to save a man who has fallen onto the train tracks but were run down by an oncoming train. However, rather than finding themselves dead, they were transported to a strange apartment in which they found a mysterious black orb known as ‘GANTZ’. Along with others there, they were given weaponry sent on missions to battle alien beings and gain “points.”

How will we face the end? The GANTZ saga meets its ultimate conclusion in GANTZ II: Perfect Answer, which offers an intensely gripping story-line yet to be known to even readers of the original manga series. Determined to resurrect his friends who have died on previous missions, Kei and other members trapped in the world of GANTZ aim to score the 100 points needed to break through and regain their freedom. But with the emergence of a mysterious man investigating the Gantz members, Gantz begins to act up and the next target shocks the members. Some fight for love, some for justice but what will each member sacrifice?

Kazunari Ninomiya, best known in America for his role in Clint Eastwood’s 2006 blockbuster, Letters from Iwo Jima, is both an actor and a singer. He is also world-renowned as a member of the Japanese boy band “Arashi,” which topped Japan’s music charts in 2009 with the three best-selling singles.

Kenichi Matsuyama is currently one of the most sought-after actors in Japanese film and he has won several awards including Japanese Academy Awards Best New Actor (2007) and Most Popular Actor (2009). Matsuyama is widely recognized for his part as L in Death Note (2006), Death Note II: the Last Name (2006) and Death Note: L, change the WorLd (2008) and also for his portrayal of Johannes Krauser II in the outlandish rock and roll comedy, Detroit Metal City (2009).

For more information on GANTZ and other NEW PEOPLE Entertainment films, please visit: www.newpeopleent.com.

TWO ALL-NEW TRANSFORMERS SERIES DEBUTING IN JANUARY

“Two Titles, One Universe”

Two Series to follow shattering TRANSFORMERS: THE DEATH OF OPTIMUS PRIME issue in December

Launching in January, IDW Publishing is proud to offer TRANSFORMERS and comics fans everywhere two new ongoing TRANSFORMERS comics series– TRANSFORMERS: MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE and TRANSFORMERS: ROBOTS IN DISGUISE. Under license from Hasbro, the two interrelated series are a direct continuation of IDW’s CHAOS event and spring directly out of the special TRANSFORMERS: THE DEATH OF OPTIMUS PRIME issue releasing in comic stores and online on December 21st. Both series will appeal to existing TRANSFORMERS fans and new readers. Featuring two great stories under one TRANSFORMERS comic universe, each series offers never-before-seen action, new threats and new villains that both current readers and those new to the series will enjoy.

“The response to the TRANSFORMERS ongoing series has been phenomenal,” says IDW senior editor John Barber. “This relaunch is a chance to jump onboard for anybody who might have been missing out. We’ve got big stories planned, and there’s never been a better time to read TRANSFORMERS.”

Created as a stepping on point for both fans of super-heroic and science fiction comics, as well as fans of the TRANSFORMERS characters, TRANSFORMERS: ROBOTS IN DISGUISE and TRANSFORMERS: MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE each explore the new status quo coming out of IDW’s CHAOS event including BUMBLEBEE’s new leadership position for all TRANSFORMERS. The war between AUTOBOT and DECEPTICON is over, and now the hard part begins. In the new world of CYBERTRON, there are only two choices: stay or go.

Helmed by writer James Roberts with art and covers by Nick Roche, RODIMUS calls on his fellow AUTOBOTS to leave CYBERTRON in search of the KNIGHTS OF CYBERTRON in TRANSFORMERS: MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE. This lost tribe of TRANSFORMERS characters is, according to legend, the guardian of the original Cybertronian culture and RODIMUS and his followers begin a quest that will stretch to the farthest reaches of the galaxy to find the KNIGHTS and restore CYBERTRON to its past glory.

TRANSFORMERS: ROBOTS IN DISGUISE, written by John Barber, with art and covers by Andrew Griffith, follows BUMBLEBEE and the AUTOBOTS remaining on CYBERTRON. Without OPTIMUS PRIME, BUMBLEBEE finds himself in command of a world gone mad. TRANSFORMERS: ROBOTS IN DIGUISE brings readers through the struggle to rebuild CYBERTRON as the AUTOBOTS, DECEPTICONS and civilian TRANSFORMERS, who don’t distinguish between the other two groups, all vie for control.

Each series will feature four interconnecting covers for issue #1. Marcele Matere creates the Cybertronian mosaic for TRANSFORMERS: ROBOTS IN DIGUISE, with Alex Milne bringing the explorers to life for TRANSFORMERS: MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE.

These two new, action-packed series are the direct result of IDW’s CHAOS event, culminating in December’s TRANSFORMERS: THE DEATH OF OPTIMUS PRIME and TRANSFORMERS #31.

In addition to the print editions, IDW’S TRANSFORMERS comics are available digitally through Apple’s App Store in the free TRANSFORMERS app, which features every TRANSFORMERS comic in one place. Many TRANSFORMERS comics are available in the Sony Digital Comics store.

Sentai Filmworks Licenses Someday’s Dreamers & “Waiting for Summer”

Sentai Filmworks is pleased to announce the recent acquisition of the anime classic SOMEDAY’S DREAMERS. Based on the hit manga by Kumichi Yoshizuki and Norie Yamada (originally released in North America by Tokyo Pop,) and with script supervision by co-creator Yamada, the twelve episode series was directed by Masami Shimoda (Boys Be, 11 Eyes, Polyphonica) with character design adaptations by Michinori Chiba and Nobue Yoshinaga.

When can flunking a spelling test cause major problems? When you’re learning how to use magic, of course! And that’s exactly the situation fifteen-year-old Yume Kikuchi finds herself in when she travels to Tokyo to begin her apprenticeship as a licensed magic user. Unfortunately, Yume’s a country girl in the big city for the first time and there are a lot of new-fangled ideas to get used to. Like her new mentor, Oyamada, turning out to be a man instead of the expected woman! Add to that the fact that Yume’s not really very confident about her abilities to achieve her goal of a magic license and she might just jinx herself into failing! It will take a lot of helping hands from her equally challenged fellow students and even more aid from her teachers if she’s going to succeed, but in the end, the most important lesson she’ll learn may not even be about spellcasting. The process of growing up and discovering what lies inside your own heart is the most wonderful magic of all in SOMEDAY’S DREAMERS – THE COMPLETE COLLECTION!

SOMEDAY’S DREAMERS will soon be available digitally through many outlets, with a home video release this spring on DVD.

Sentai Filmworks is very proud to announce the acquisition of the eagerly awaited new anime WAITING IN THE SUMMER (ANO NATSU DE MATTERU), which is already drawing considerable buzz due to its re-pairing of several already highly successful creative partnerships. Legendary anime writer Yōsuke Kuroda (Excel Saga, High School of the Dead, Puni Puni Poemy,) reteams with his PLEASE TEACHER!/PLEASE TWINS collaborator, original character designer Taraku Uon (READ OR DIE, TV and OVA,) while director Tatsuyuki Nagai (Toradora, Honey & Clover II,) reunites with his TORADORA/ANO HI MITA HANA collaborator, character designer Masayoshi Tanaka (also HIGH SCHOOL OF THE DEAD,) to produce a unique 12 episode anime series that takes a rather different view of the classic teen romance genre.

Lights! Camera! Teen Angst! When a group of friends decide to make a movie over a long summer holiday, they end up learning a little about filmmaking and a lot more about each other and themselves. What begins as a simple way to avoid the summer doldrums quickly turns into something much more complex, intimate and revealing, as the maturing relationships between the members of the young cast take on new, and sometimes very unexpected, turns. Get ready for a whole new take on summer romance as hidden emotions get captured and secrets meant to be kept hidden inside young hearts instead spill off of the screen for your viewing pleasure in WAITING IN THE SUMMER!

Waiting in the Summer will debut on digital platforms starting this month with a subtitled DVD to follow later in the year.

AM2 Announces Screening of “FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST: THE SACRED STAR OF MILOS”

2012′s most anticipated animation, music and manga convention in Southern California, AM2 (June 15-17, 2012 at the Anaheim Convention Center and Hotels) continues to bring more fun to fans with the screening of the long-awaited “FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST: THE SACRED STAR OF MILOS” to this year’s event! Passport purchasers will also have a chance to attend the official premiere event in Los Angeles on January 20, 2012. More information and online registration at www.am2con.org

Passport purchasers will be automatically entered into the AM2 Pre-Registration contest to potentially win two (2) tickets to the “FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST: THE SACRED STAR OF MILOS” Red Carpet Premiere Event. Information for the event is as follows:

Date: January 20, 2012
Location: Downtown Independent (251 S. Main St.; Los Angeles, CA
90012); www.downtownindependent.com
Time: 8:00 pm; Screeing at 9:00 pm followed by Q&A with
production & cast members

It will be a night of entertainment for fans of the popular Fullmetal Alchemist franchise featuring an opportunity to walk the carpet, movie presentation, and a Q & A with both the Japanese director Kazuya Murata and the US Director Mike McFarland as well as members of the US voice cast including Vic Mignogna and BONES president, Masahiko Minami.

“We are working hard to bring you (the fans) the best in anime, manga and music entertainment from Asia”, states Chase Wang AM2 representative, “Whether you are a casual or hard-core fan, we hope you will joins us for this truly amazing and fun fan event filled with anime, manga, j-rock, j-pop, cosplay and more!”

Film Synopsis:
Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos, a new feature-length adventure into the world of an international anime sensation.

A fugitive alchemist with mysterious abilities leads the Elric brothers to a distant valley of slums inhabited by the Milos, a proud people struggling against bureaucratic exploitation. Ed and Al quickly find themselves in the middle of a rising rebellion, as the exiled Milos lash out against their oppressors. At the heart of the conflict is Julia, a young alchemist befriended by Alphonse. She¹ll stop at nothing to restore the Milos to their former glory ­ even if that means harnessing the awful power of the mythical Philosopher¹s Stone.

Passport pricing (U.S. $) is as follows:

> * One (1) Day
> * Thru March 31st: $25.00
> * Thru June 14th: $30.00
> * At-con Sales: $35.00
> * Two (2) Day
> * Thru March 31st: $35.00
> * Thru June 14th: $40.00
> * At-con Sales: $45.00
> * Three (3) Day
> * Thru March 31st: $45.00
> * Thru June 14th: $50.00
> * At-con Sales: $55.00

Entrance to the event is free, but attendees can avoid the huge lines by obtaining a ³priority entrance² Passport fast pass for the event. The Passport fast pass will also provide holders with premier seating options at Main Events and at Concert events as well as major discounts with theme parks, retailers and local restaurants. Concert events are only accessible via a purchased Passport or concert ticket. Bypass the lines and get your Passport today and experience the difference!

Potential exhibitors and artists interested in exhibiting at this event can also email info@am2con.org for additional information and rates.

FINAL FANTASY Mascots Accessory Case
Square Enix Official Online Shop
$24.99

This tokidoki inspired accessory bag would be perfect for the nerd chic gamer in your life. It features the four iconic Final Fantasy mascots; Chocobo, Moogle, Cactuar and PuPu. Would be ideal as a makeup bag, or for school or art supplies.

https://ssl.square-enix-shop.com/SqEx/us/ShowDetail.action?productId=1173

FINAL FANTASY VII ADVENT CHILDREN Folding Fan (Sephiroth)
Square Enix Official Online Shop
$29.99

This lovely fan features the colors and symbol of Final Fantasy VII’s villain, Sephiroth. It would be a lovely piece of wall decor, and a welcome, yet subtle alternative to the wall scrolls most anime and gaming fans find their decor confined to.

https://ssl.square-enix-shop.com/SqEx/us/ShowDetail.action?productId=1127&sid=1323120348946r2cJ6sClcf

FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST Trading Arts vol.2
Square Enix Official Online Shop
$39.99

This lovely, blister boxed set of figures features some of my personal favorite character from the series; Olivier and Alphonse, in addition to fan favorites, Roy Mustang and Envy. Square has gone above and beyond in both their Play Arts and Trading Arts, and this set of figures is no exception.

https://ssl.square-enix-shop.com/SqEx/us/ShowDetail.action?productId=693&sid=1323120886123ScvJB8sYJB

FINAL FANTASY XIV Stuffed Moogle -Kuplu Kopo-
Square Enix Official Online Shop
$24.99

Although Final Fantasy XIV as a game might not be where it should, it does little to diminish the adorableness of this plush Moogle. Little Kuplu Kopo would be a wonderful present to find under the tree for Final Fantasy fans of any age.

https://ssl.square-enix-shop.com/SqEx/us/ShowDetail.action?productId=1041&sid=1323120886123ScvJB8sYJB

Spice and Wolf: Season One [Blu-ray]
Amazon.com
$17.49

Lawrence, a traveling merchant searching for profit, finds girl with the ears and tail of a wolf asleep in his cart. Her name is Holo – a harvest goddess with an untamed beast lurking inside who longs to return to her beloved northern home. These two very different traveling companions begin a journey through the wild countryside. Along their path, the riches of happiness shall be reaped, even as the bankruptcy which dwells in the human heart is exposed.

http://www.amazon.com/Spice-Wolf-Season-One-Blu-ray/dp/B0050UEVNC/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1323122381&sr=8-13

Game Characters Collection Mini Princess Crown & Odin Sphere Trading Figure
Play-Asia.com
$7.00

These miniature figures feature characters from a little known favorite PS2 game of mine, Odin Sphere. (Which is also available on Playstation Network.) Characters are chosen randomly, and one would certainly hope to get one of the three heroines of Odin Sphere; Gwendolyn, Velvet or Mercedes.

http://www.play-asia.com/Game_Characters_Collection_Mini_Princess_Crown_Odin_Sphere_PrePa/paOS-13-71-92-49-en-70-48oq.html

Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia, Shanoa Messenger Bag
EKnightMedia.com
$27.39

This awesome messenger bag is something I personally own, and would make a fantastic gift for any Castlevania fan. It’s quite large and would be great for a laptop carrying case as well. It features a monochrome of Ecclesia’s bad ass heroine, Shanoa.

http://www.eknightmedia.com/bag-castlevania-order-of-ecclesia-shanoa-messenger.html

Code Geass Wallet – LeLouch
EKnightMedia.com
$15.92

A more practical gift for the anime fan in your life. This dark brown anime wallet features compartments for credit card, cash, etc, with a metal Geass logo insignia, and a chain for your belt as well.

http://www.eknightmedia.com/catalogsearch/result/index/?p=4&q=code+geass

Here at Gaming Angels, we all wish you a happy and healthy Holiday season. And most of all, a frugal yet generous shopping experience for the rest of the month! Try to retain your sanity!

Last week I received an invite to watch a free concert. Live Viewing Japan is a distribution group that is bringing Japanese Entertainment to theaters near you. The events seem to be worldwide showings but for only one day. I didn’t know what to expect on this adventure. Would there be an audience? A further niche is that this wasn’t your average band we would be watching. It was a concert put on by virtual pop star, Hatsune Miku.

Hatsune Miku was developed by Cyrpton Future Media as the world’s first synthesized star. The voice samples are taken from voice actress Saki Fujita and then put through a digital synthesizer. Even though she was an animation with a synthesized voice, she became incredibly popular in Japan. Crypton started playing with some alterations creating different personas for Miku: Soft (gentle, delicate voice), Sweet (young, chibi voice), Dark (mature, heartbroken-like voice), Vivid (bright, cheerful voice), Solid (loud, clear voice), and Light (innocent, heavenly voice). At this point she has at least 10,000 songs recorded.

When I read that Hatsune Miku has actually performed in many concerts I was extremely curious as to how. Do concert goer’s just watch a theater screen? Basically watching an anime for an hour? Well I can assure you that the creators of Hatsune Miku in concert do a MIND BLOWING job of making a semi-realistic performance for concert goers to enjoy.

First, the concert we watched was Hatsune Miku Live Party 2011 39′s LIVE in SAPPORO which took place in August 2011. A live band played to a packed house of fans with glow sticks. In between the live band were a couple of tall but thin screens. These screens would be where Miku would perform.

I have to say that I was astonished at how good it looked! They kept Miku at a realistic height and when the camera pulled back, you could have thought that was a real pop star. Miku’s dance moves were fluid, and her long pigtails flowing with her moves. She was incredibly expressive too.

The night started with a line to get in. Didn’t help that I wasn’t on the guest list, although they added me because of the email I had. It actually seemed like many people were having problems with being not on a list. Then the screen showed an error and after a few unsuccessful tries, the show got started. About thirty minutes late. I was starting to consider leaving at the point it started. I’m not sure if this is the first event for Live Viewing Japan at the theater in LA, but it sure felt like it. It was a disorganized mess.

So what is a crowd like that comes to watch a film of a virtual pop star performing in a concert? It turns out a WIDE array of people. First, I didn’t feel like the oldest one in the room. There were many older adults there. A couple next to me were playing on their DS before the show (about my age). The two rows in front of me were freshmen in high school. The kids came in costume, giggled the whole time and brought their own glow sticks. They were ready to party. In fact, through most of the show these kids danced, sang and twirled their glow sticks just like the audience at the real concert.

Overall it was entertaining. I’m definitely now a fan of Hatsume Miku. I feel like Live Viewing Japan has some work to do to make it a better organized event. I was also very surprised that there were no subtitles. So expect to actually know Japanese if you attend an event. You can check Liveviewing.jp (but select English) for information about their future shows. I believe L’Arc～en～Ciel is their next show.

Here’s some video I found on Youtube from the original concert:

Love L’arc~en~Ciel’? Want to celebrate their 20 year anniversary but can’t afford a ticket to Japan? No worries! Live viewing Japan is bringing The Best of L’Arc~en~Ciel 2 Days Live at Tokyo Ajinomoto Stadium to nine cities across the United States so that fans can celebrate.

On November 29th the cities that will host the Best of L’Arc~en~Ciel event include:

Baltimore, MD
Boston (Manchester), MA
Chicago, IL
Houston, TX
Los Angeles, CA
Orange, CA
New York, NY – Two locations
San Francisco/Bay Area, CA
Seattle, WA

You can only pre-purchase tickets online here. No tickets will be sold at the theater.

L’Arc~en~Ciel was founded in Osaka in 1991. They are going on a World Tour and will be coming to Madison Square Garden March 23rd 2012. Think of this show as your way to get acquainted with their music.

“L’Arc~en~Ciel is one of the biggest rock groups to ever come out of Japan and they enjoy a major global following,” says Live Viewing Japan Executive Director Hiroki Kotani. “This is a very special opportunity to witness the energy of their live concert performance on the big screen and hear the on-stage power of this band with digital theatrical sound. We look forward to helping celebrate L’Arc~en~Ciel’s 20th anniversary and their new world tour and delighting fans with this special event!”

On November 10th one virtual pop star will have a concert shown in nine cities across the US. Hatsune Miku will be shown in theaters in her special Hatsune Miku Live Party 2011 39′s LIVE in SAPPORO.

Fans can purchase tickets to see the performance in the following cities:
Baltimore, MD
Boston (Manchester), MA
Chicago, IL
Houston, TX
Los Angeles, CA
Orange, CA
New York, NY – Two locations
San Francisco/Bay Area, CA
Seattle, WA

Hatsune Miku is a Vocaloid female avatar and probably the most well known of the Vocaloids. Her voice is made with machines, but that isn’t too far fetched from some recent pop stars.

“We’re very excited to present this unique Hatsune Miku experience for her U.S. fans,” says Live Viewing Japan Exective Director Hiroki Kotani. “Miku has captivated a global audience with a mix of catchy pop music and captivating technology-inspired visuals. Her popularity has opened an entirely new range of possibilities to blend a cute pop idol persona with technology and computer-created graphics. We invite fans to visit the Live Viewing Japan web link for more information and for specific movie theater event locations. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see Hatsune Miku perform!”

Fans can purchase tickets for the event here. International fans don’t fret because she will be going on an international tour soon!

VIZ Media has announced the release of the newest novel to be published under its popular Haikasoru imprint. THE CAGE OF ZEUS, by author Sayuri Ueda, will debut on September 20th and will carry an MSRP of $14.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN. The eBook edition will also debut the same day on the Amazon Kindle, the Apple’s iBooks Store and the Sony Reader Store for $8.99.

Haikasoru publishes some of the most compelling contemporary Japanese science fiction and fantasy stories for English-speaking audiences, and is the first imprint based in the U.S. dedicated to Japanese science fiction and fantasy in translation.

THE CAGE OF ZEUS introduces readers to the Rounds, humans with the sex organs of both genders. Artificially created to test the limits of the human body in space, the Rounds are a minority, despised and hunted by the terrorist group, Vessel of Life. Aboard Jupiter-I, a space station orbiting the gas giant that shares its name, the Rounds have created their own society with a radically different view of gender and of life itself. Security chief Shirosaki keeps the peace between the Rounds and the typically gendered “Monaurals,” but when a terrorist strike hits the station, the balance of power and tolerance is at risk…and an entire people is targeted for genocide.

“Sayuri Ueda is one of Japan’s most interesting new science fiction authors, and her work has won or been nominated for a number of awards,” says Haikasoru Editor Nick Mamatas. “THE CAGE OF ZEUS delivers an optimum mix of hard science fiction and thriller, combined with a distinctly Japanese view of gender politics, and the future of humanity itself.”

Born in Hyogo Prefecture, Sayuri Ueda is one of the most innovative science fiction authors in Japan. She won the 2003 Komatsu Sakyo Award with her debut novel, Mars Dark Ballade. Her second novel, The Cage of Zeus, was originally published in 2004. Her recent short fiction collection, Fish Boat, Animal Boat, was highly acclaimed in the sci-fi community and was nominated for the 2009 prestigious Japan SF Award. Ueda has also been nominated for the Seiun Award in the short story category for The Grave of the Bird. Her latest novel, The Ocean Chronicles, won the first prize of Best Science Fiction 2010 in SF Magazine and was one of the most noteworthy books of the year in any genre.

For more information on CAGE OF ZEUS and the Haikasoru imprint, please visit the dedicated website at www.haikasoru.com.

VIZ Media Releases Pokemon – Zoroark: Master of Illusions DVD

VIZ Media will excite POKÉMON™ fans everywhere with the DVD release of the full-length feature film from the venerable kids franchise, POKÉMON—ZOROARK: MASTER OF ILLUSIONS. The DVD, rated ‘A’ for All Ages, will be released on September 20th under the company’s VIZ KIDS imprint and will carry an MSRP of $19.97 U.S. / $19.98 CAN.

As Ash and his friends journey to Crown City to join the crowds watching the Pokémon Baccer World Cup, mysterious forces are in motion that could bring untold misfortune to them all! What secrets does Zorua, a Pokémon they befriend along the way, hide? Why is the powerful Zoroark rampaging through the city, and what does the appearance of the Legendary Pokémon Raikou, Entei, and Suicune mean? All these questions and more will be answered in POKÉMON—ZOROARK: MASTER OF ILLUSIONS!

“We are thrilled to bring the POKÉMON—ZOROARK: MASTER OF ILLUSIONS DVD to Pokémon fans across the country,” says Brian Ige, Vice President, Animation. “The Pokémon community is incredibly passionate and they will be excited to add this movie to their home DVD library.”

For more information on VIZ Media’s POKÉMON manga and anime titles, please visit www.VIZ.com/Pokemon/.

SECTION23 FILMS ANNOUNCES DECEMBER SLATE

Home video distributor Section23 Films today announced its December slate of releases; including ROZEN MAIDEN, a package that includes the original 12 episode series and the 12 episode sequel series TRÄUMEND. Releasing separately will be the two made for video episodes known as ROZEN MAIDEN: OUVERTÜRE, which have never been released in North America. The popular series will be released on DVD by Section23 client, Sentai Filmworks.

Coming December 2011

Title: ROZEN MAIDEN COMPLETE COLLECTION
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 650 min.
Street Date: 12/6/2011
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $49.98

Remember those nightmares you had as a child, where your toys came to life? That’s the reality that Jun Sakurada suddenly finds himself living in when Shinku arrives in a box. She’s the first of several magical Rozen Maidens to invade the secluded life he has made for himself since refusing to attend school anymore and living the life of a hermit. Worse, he finds himself magically bound to Shinku, his life force powering hers, and she’s not too crazy about the way he’s been living his life. Unfortunately, fixing everything that’s wrong with Jun is going to have to take a back seat to making sure that Shinku survives the Alice Game, a competition that pits Rozen Maiden against Rozen Maiden for the prize of becoming a real girl, while the losers’ life essence is drained and they become lifeless toys again. Now, in order to win this deadly game, Jun and Shinku will have to find a way to work together. But to do that they’ll have to start trusting each other first! Get ready for a whole new kind of ‘guys and dolls’ as ‘action figure’ takes on a new meaning in ROZEN MAIDEN – THE COMPLETE COLLECTION!

Title: ROZEN MAIDEN OUVERTURE
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 50 min.
Street Date: 12/6/2011
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $29.98

Shinku may be the foremost of Rozen’s creations, but was she the first? Prepare to hear the OTHER side of the story for the first time in an all new set of Rozen Maiden chronicles! Journey back to 19th century London and the birth of the Rozen Maidens to witness the cruel and tragic origin of Rozen’s first doll, and how, even when left abandoned and unfinished , she still fought her own way to the Rosa Mystica and the Alice Game! But leave what you think you know behind, for this is Souseiseki’s story, and what she has to say may surprise you! Prepare for an all new tale of Rozen Genesis in ROZEN MAIDEN: OUVERTÜRE!

Title: KINO’S JOURNEY COMPLETE COLLECTION
Published by: ADV Films
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 325 min.
Street Date: 12/13/2011
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $34.98

Destination is a state of mind. Travelers not only find themselves in a variety of locations and geographic phenomena, but they also bear witness to the whims of culture and the skewed effects of subtle circumstance. Kino is such a traveler. Sitting astride Hermes, an internal combustion companion, Kino searches for life’s answers, life’s questions, and the myriad of interpretations connected to them. A wielder of cutlery, firepower and a piercing tongue, Kino is ready to embark on a journey unlike any other. Drift along for the ride.

Title: ELFEN LIED COMPLETE COLLECTION
Published by: ADV Films
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 325 min.
Street Date: 12/20/2011
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $34.98

Critics have described Elfen Lied as “weird,” (Anime Planet), “surprisingly sadistic,” (Gamers Edge), and “addictive”(Animesou). No wonder, when you consider what makes this series hum! Lucy, a beautiful young mutant, is bred by the military to be the ultimate weapon. Now, with government killers on her trail, the disposition of a five year old and a hair trigger for ultra violence, Lucy and her young friends must unravel the dark secret of her legacy before it’s too late.

Title: MORDERN MAGIC MADE SIMPLE COMPLETE COLLECTION
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 300 min.
Street Date: 12/20/2011
Format: DVD
Language: Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $49.98

Life hasn’t been fair to Koyomi Morishita. Even though she’s in high school, she’s so short that everyone assumes she’s still in grade school. The boys and girls in her school tease her mercilessly, and she’s not exactly graceful either. On the other hand, she’s still better off than Yumiko, who has a magician trying to kill her. Or at least Koyomi WAS until their paths crossed! Fortunately, salvation arrives in the form of master mage and graduate student Misa Anehara, who agrees to take Koyomi under her wing in learning the new style of magic, which breaks enchantment down into sequences of code. That’ll be quite a task, given that so far Koyomi’s talent seems to consist of making washbasins randomly fall out of the sky. But if it was easy, it wouldn’t be magic, would it? Get ready for a whole new kind of ‘spell’ing lesson as Koyomi takes a desperately needed crash course in charm school in MODERN MAGIC MADE SIMPLE – The Complete Collection!

Title: HIMAWARI, TOO! SEASON 2 COLLECTION
Published by: Maiden Japan
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 325 min.
Street Date: 12/27/2011
Format: DVD
Language: Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $49.98

Get ready for another wild and very untraditional trip down the Way of the Ninja as student kunoichi (female ninja) Himawari and her fellow ninjettes return for another set of insane lessons. (Are they painful and embarrassing? Have you ever seen a ninja ‘lesson’ that wasn’t?) Of course, Himawari’s a little older now, a little more experienced, so she’ll be doing some ‘teaching’ of her own this time around. But she STILL doesn’t know what the connection between her teacher Hayato and the ninja who saved her life is! Are they the same person or are things even more convoluted? Himawari won’t have much time to think on it, unfortunately, in between fighting alien menaces, bubblegum maniacs and some very, very bad broccoli! Did we really say broccoli? With plots as insane as this, will Himawari ever achieve her goal? Unfortunately for her, the jury is still out in the complete collection of HIMAWARI TOO!!

VIZ Media Sweeps NY Times Manga Bestseller List 2nd Time in Month!

VIZ Media titles take the top 10 spots on the NY Times manga bestseller lists… the 2nd time in a month! The list, for week ending September 10th (to appear in print 9/25 edition of the Book Review), includes:

1. NARUTO Vol. 52
2. BLEACH Vol. 36
3. BLACK BIRD Vol. 10
4. DENGEKI DAISY Vol. 6
5. KIMI NI TODOKE: FROM ME TO YOU Vol. 10
6. LIBRARY WARS: LOVE & WAR Vol. 6
7. BLUE EXORCIST Vol. 1
8. BUTTERFLIES, FLOWERS Vol. 8
9. ULTIMO Vol. 6
10. DEATH NOTE Black Edition Vol. 5

VIZ MEDIA DEBUTS RIVETING ACTION MANGA SERIES PSYREN

A Teenager And His Friends Embark On A Dangerous Adventure To Alter The Future And Save The World

VIZ Media has announced the debut of the riveting action manga (graphic novel) series – PSYREN – on October 4th. The new series, by Toshiaki Iwashiro, will be published under the company’s SHONEN JUMP imprint, is rated ‘T’ for Teens, and will carry an MSRP of $9.99 U.S. / $12.99 CAN. PSYREN is also currently featured in VIZ Media’s monthly SHONEN JUMP magazine.

“Save me!” Those were Sakurako Amamiya’s last words to her friend Ageha Yoshina before she mysteriously went missing. Now Ageha’s on a quest to find her. He’s convinced that the mythical Psyren Secret Society has something to do with the recent rash of disappearances. And now he seems to be caught up as a player in their very deadly game…

“Ageha Yoshina embarks on a dangerous adventure in this action-packed new series where he attempts to alter the future and save the world,” says Joel Enos, Editor. “Readers will be transported to Psyren, a stark wasteland inhabited by insect-like monsters, where Yoshina and his friends must complete missions assigned by the mysterious Nemesis Q if they ever hope to return home. PSYREN is a bestseller in Japan, where it also spawned a pair of popular novels. Don’t miss the new manga release coming in October!”

Manga creator Toshiaki Iwashiro was born in 1977, in Tokyo, and his debut manga series was the popular Mieru Hito (Divine Eye), which ran from 2005 to 2007 in Japan in Weekly Shonen Jump, where PSYREN was also currently serialized.

For more information on PSYREN, or others titles from VIZ Media, please visit ShonenJump.com.

Sentai Filmworks Licenses Majikoi – Oh! Samurai Girls

Sentai Filmworks fulfills the fantasies of fans of feudal fighting females with the company’s newest announcement, MAJIKOI ~ OH! SAMURAI GIRLS! Based on the mega-hit PC game Maji de Watashi ni Koi Shinasai!! from MinatoSoft, the 12 episode series focuses on a city where almost everyone has a Samurai obsession. Direction is by Keitaro Motonaga (Getbackers, Yumeria,) using character designs by Mayumi Watanabe (Fandora, Fairy Tail, Freezing) and story supervision by Katsuhiko Takayama (And yet The Town Moves, e.f. A Tale of Memories.)

It’s one thing to honor your ancestors and keep old traditions alive, but there IS such a thing as taking it to a ridiculous extreme. In Kawakami City, having a samurai ancestor and enormous ‘fighting spirit’ isn’t just an interesting fact, it’s a huge part of how you end up being ranked on the social totem pole. That, in turn, rolls over into the school curriculum. Fortunately, that’s something the local kids like Yamato Naoe have learned to deal with by forming into small ‘bands,’ (that’s the samurai type, NOT music.) However, while the delicate sexual balance of Yamato’s group seemed fine when there were three girls and four boys, the sudden addition of two MORE girls starts to send everything spinning out of control! Seven’s a band of samurai and nine is a riot as boys, girls and naked blades all come together in MAJIKOI ~ OH! SAMURAI GIRLS!

Digital distribution of MAJIKOI ~ OH! SAMURAI GIRLS will begin next month through many outlets. The series will see a home video release next year.

VIZ MEDIA RELEASES LATEST NARUTO SHIPPUDEN FEATURE FILM ON DVD & BLU-RAY

The World’s Most Popular Ninja Returns In A Brand New Anime Feature Film And Faces Down A Dangerous Airborne Menace!

VIZ Media is proud to announce the DVD and Blu-ray release of the latest NARUTO feature film on October 25th. NARUTO SHIPPUDEN THE MOVIE: BONDS will be the first Blu-ray release from the international anime franchise to hit North American shores, and is rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens and priced at $24.98 (Blu-ray) and $19.98 (DVD) in both the U.S. and Canada.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN THE MOVIE: BONDS is packed with dynamic action and visually stunning fight scenes, giving devoted fans and newcomers alike a chance to experience NARUTO SHIPPUDEN like never before! In the movie, a group of mysterious flying ninja have arrived from overseas to launch a sudden attack against the Hidden Leaf Village, leaving behind a wake of destruction. The group is revealed to be the “Sky Ninja” from the Land of Sky, a nation thought to have been destroyed by the Hidden Leaf Village long ago. To save their village, Naruto and his friends set out to stop this new threat. During the course of the mission, Naruto crosses paths with Sasuke, his friend who has parted ways from the Leaf Village.

“This is the second feature film in the NARUTO SHIPPUDEN story arc and fans won’t want to miss even a second of the high flying ninja action in this latest anime adventure!” says Brian Ige, Vice President, Animation. “October will be a month full of NARUTO fun as VIZ Media plans a special U.S. theatrical premiere of NARUTO SHIPPUDEN THE MOVIE: BONDS during New York Comic Con and also celebrates the birthday of the world’s most popular ninja the same month. Look for this latest release coming soon to retailers nationwide!”

In the NARUTO manga and animated series, Naruto Uzumaki wants to be the best ninja in the land. He’s done well so far, but Naruto knows he must train harder than ever and leaves his village for intense exercises that will push him to his limits. NARUTO SHIPPUDEN begins two and a half years later, when Naruto returns to find that everyone has been promoted up the ninja ranks – except him. Sakura’s a medic ninja, Gaara’s advanced to Kazekage, and Kakashi…well he remains the same. But pride isn’t necessarily becoming of a ninja, especially when Naruto realizes that Sasuke never returned from his search for Orochimaru. Plus, the mysterious Akatsuki organization is still an ever-present danger. As Naruto finds out more about the Akatsuki’s goals, he realizes that nothing in his universe is as it seems. Naruto is finding that he’s older, but will he also prove wiser and stronger?

More information on NARUTO is available at www.Naruto.com.

Sentai Filmworks Announces License of Towanoquon

Sentai Filmworks has rewarded fans of dark heroic action everywhere with the eagerly awaited announcement of the company’s acquisition of TOWANOQUON, the spectacular new series of animated features from anime powerhouse BONES. Produced by a literal all-star lineup of creators, the first film in the series is directed by Umanosuke Iida (Hellsing, Mobile Suit Gundam MS 08 Team, Mighty Space Miners,) with script supervision by Saizo Nemoto (Kikaider, Tokyo Majin 2) and character designs by Toshihiro Kawamoto (Cowboy Bebop, Wolf’s Rain, Golden Boy,) while music is in the legendary hands of Kenji Kawai (The Ring, Dark Water, Skycrawlers, Pat Labor, Ranma ½, Blue Seed & Sorcerer Hunters.)

No man, not even a superhuman man can stand alone if the adversary he faces is powerful enough; and as a new breed of human called Attractors slowly begin to awaken in a Tokyo of the future, they find themselves the prey of a sinister and faceless secret organization called Custos. But there is strength and safety in numbers and a leader is emerging among the Attractors, a young man with healing powers named Quon, who knows that the only way for the Attractors to survive is to join together and hit the cyborgs of Custos back. Hard. And with allies like the super-speeded Yuri, psi-voiced Kiri, telepath Tei and teleporter Takao, he’s beginning to form the army to do it! Anime, superhero and epic sci-fi come together as a who’s who team of Japan’s greatest animators join forces to produce an all new legend: TOWANOQUON!

Digital distribution of the first TOWANOQUON feature will begin on the Anime Network this month, with DVD and BD releases to follow next year.

Following up the release of its first full-length record in the U.S., the Japanese pop artist/group, Ryo (Supercell) has released a brand new EP. The new release, SEKIRANUN GRAFFITI, is available now exclusively on iTunes and Amazon and features vocals from Hatsune Miku, the world’s first virtual pop diva. The EP’s title track, “SEKIRANUN GRAFFITI” (SEKIRANUN means Thundercloud), is also the theme music to the latest Hatsune Miku PROJECT DIVA arcade console game and video game for the PSP, which will be released in Japan this fall.

Japanese Pop Group Ryo(Supercell) Releases Brand New EP SEKIRANUN GRAFFITI Featuring Vocals By Hatsune Miku And Available Now From Sony Music Direct On iTunes And Amazon

Innovative Multimedia Group Follows Up Chart Toping Full-Length Album With New U.S. Release Featuring Vocals By World’s First Virtual Pop Star

Following up the release of its first full-length record in the U.S., Sony Music Direct (Japan), Inc has announced the U.S. release of a brand new EP by the Japanese pop artist/group, Ryo (Supercell). The new release, SEKIRANUN GRAFFITI, is available now exclusively on iTunes and Amazon and features vocals from Hatsune Miku, the world’s first virtual pop diva.. The EP’s title track, “SEKIRANUN GRAFFITI” (SEKIRANUN means Thundercloud), is also the theme music to the latest Hatsune Miku PROJECT DIVA arcade console game and video game for the PSP, which will be released in Japan this fall. The release also contains the new single, “Fallin’ Fallin’ Fallin’,” which was composed by Ryo and the celebrated Japanese Vocaloid producer known as Dixie Flatline. The SEKIRANUN GRAFFITI EP also contains instrumental and remixes of the two tracks. Cover art for the new release was created by Atsuya Uki. Ryo and his pop group Supercell are a group of Japanese multimedia creators and artists. Singer Hatsune Miku, whose name means, “first sound of the future,” is a Vocaloid (meaning machine-made vocals) digital female avatar and the most popular of the Vocaloid Character Series software originally created by Crypton Future Media using Yamaha’s Vocaloid 2 engine to create organic-sounding synthesized vocal tracks. The group’s first full length U.S. release, Supercell Featuring Hatsune Miku, topped the iTunes World Music Charts in May 2011 and has continued to bring the virtual pop star greater exposure to enthusiastic fans in North America. In Japan, Hatsune Miku is a major national phenomenon appearing in many popular video games and music videos. She’s also played several sellout “concerts,” where she performed on stage as a 3D hologram backed by a live band. Miku recently played her first live show in the U.S. called, “MIKUNOPOLIS in LOS ANGELES,” at the 2011 Anime Expo held in July in Los Angeles, CA. More information on Supercell is available at:

http://www.facebook.com/supercell.JPN.

VIZ Manga Debuts 7 Volumes of NARUTO in 7 Days, w/ V. 52 Day-and-Da​te With Print!

Release Promotion Culminates in NARUTO Volume 52 Debuting Same Day As Print Counterpart on September 6th

VIZ Media starts off September with a special NARUTO release promotion through VIZManga.com and the VIZ Manga App for the Apple iPad™, iPhone™ and iPod™ touch. NARUTO Vol. 46 is available now, Vol. 47 launches today, and a new volume of NARUTO (volumes 48-51) will be available each day thereafter. On Tuesday, September 6th, NARUTO Volume 52 will debut DAY-AND-DATE with its print counterpart!

Created by Masashi Kishimoto in 1999, NARUTO (rated ‘T’ for Teens) quickly became Japan’s most popular ninja manga targeting tweens and teens and has sold more than 85 million copies to-date. NARUTO is also one of the most popular anime/manga properties in North America. The NARUTO manga and animated series depict the adventures of a young boy named Uzumaki Naruto who trains to become a ninja. Naruto, cursed with the spirit of the nine-tailed fox demon sealed within his body, is forced to live a bullied life discriminated against by his fellow villagers. But Naruto is resilient and undaunted and his determination often inspires those around him. Through the adventures, the young ninja learns the importance of friendship, teamwork, loyalty, hard work, creativity, ingenuity and right vs. wrong. More information on NARUTO is available at www.NARUTO.com.

NARUTO Vol. 52 sees a Cell Seven reunion as Sasuke, Sakura and Naruto finally meet and the former classmates’ complicated past gives way to a violent and unsure future. Naruto realizes he must eventually battle Sasuke one-on-one…to the death! But with Sasuke and his dark allies bent on complete destruction, and political intrigue in the villages, will the powerful Allied Shinobi Forces allow the two “friends” to meet in battle?!

September 5th also sees new additions to 11 other VIZ Media manga series, including:

BLACK BIRD Vol. 10 – available a day earlier than the print counterpart!
DENGEKI DIASY Vol. 4
DRAGON BALL Z Vol. 25
GRAND GUIGNOL ORCHESTRA Vol. 3
I’LL GIVE MY ALL TOMORROW Vol. 3
KEKKAISHI Vol. 12
OISHINBO Vol. 2
ONE PIECE Vol. 42
OURON HIGH SCHOOL HOST CLUB Vol. 10
ROSARIO + VAMPIRE II Vol. 4
RUROUNI KENSHIN Vol. 21

VIZ Media’s digital manga platform continues to expand access for fans in North America to the world’s best manga. Starting with the VIZ Manga app (the #1 app for reading manga on the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch) in 2010, the recently launched VIZManga.com is now a leading online destination for reading manga on desktop/laptop computers and on Android-powered devices with built-in web browsers. With one account, registered users can select from nearly 400 volumes across 40+ series and then enjoy their purchases through even more devices than ever.

For more information, please visit VIZManga.com or www.VIZ.com/apps.

VIZ Media Offers Fans A Chance To Attend The U.S Premiere Of Naruto Shippuden The Movie: Bonds

Only A Short Time Left To Enter The Special Contest To Attend The NARUTO SHIPPUDEN Movie Event In New York City

There’s only a short time until VIZ Media’s Heroes of Anime summer sweepstakes ends on September 15th, and fans are encouraged to enter for a chance to win passes to attend the exclusive U.S theatrical premiere of the latest NARUTO feature film – NARUTO SHIPPUDEN THE MOVIE: BONDS – set to take place in New York City in October during the 2011 New York Comic Con. Entry details and complete information are available at: www.viz.com/25years. The Heroes of Anime contest, which also celebrates VIZ Media’s 25th Anniversary, will award one lucky Grand Prize winner with 2 passes to the premiere of NARUTO SHIPPUDEN THE MOVIE: BONDS as well as free airfare and hotel accommodations in New York City for themselves and a guest. Runner-up Heroes of Anime prizes include an Apple iPad™, awarded to one lucky contestant, as well as several prize packages that will include fun tchotchkes and collectibles from a variety of top VIZ Media anime properties. In NARUTO SHIPPUDEN THE MOVIE: BONDS, a group of mysterious flying ninja have arrived from overseas to launch a sudden attack against the Hidden Leaf Village, leaving behind a wake of destruction. The group is revealed to be the “Sky Ninja” from the Land of Sky, a nation thought to have been destroyed by the Hidden Leaf Village long ago. To save their village, Naruto and his friends set out to stop this new threat. During the course of the mission, Naruto crosses paths with Sasuke, his friend who has parted ways from the Leaf Village. More information on NARUTO is available at www.Naruto.com.

VIZ Media Announces Manga “Speed Up” For Bleach and One Piece Digital Releases

New Digital Volumes To Be Released Weekly And Complement Latest Additions To 19 Other Popular Manga Series

VIZ Media continues to offer manga (graphic novel) fans a vast library of newly added digital titles for September through VIZManga.com and the VIZ Manga App for the Apple iPad™, iPhone™ and iPod™ touch. The latest update includes a just-announced manga “speed up” for BLEACH and ONE PIECE that will bring both series up to date with their North American print counterparts by December.

Beginning today and continuing each Monday thereafter, new digital volumes of manga creator Tite Kubo’s supernatural action saga, BLEACH, as well as the high seas pirate adventures of Eiichiro Oda’s ONE PIECE, will for be available online on VIZManga.com and also for download on the VIZ Manga App.

The latest manga speed up complements a similar accelerated release schedule announced earlier this month for NARUTO, which just saw the release of 7 manga volumes in 7 days on VIZManga.com and the VIZ Manga App, and established digital parity with the bestselling series’ print counterpart.

Other notable September digital manga releases for both platforms will include the concluding volume to Inio Asano’s WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD!, which will launch on September 12th, as well as final volume to Akira Toriyama’s DRAGON BALL Z, available the same day. The newest edition of Natsume Ono’s acclaimed samurai drama, HOUSE OF FIVE LEAVES Volume 4, is scheduled for September 19th, a day before the print counterpart’s national release.

Additional new VIZ Media manga volumes launching include:

September 12th:

BAKUMAN。 Vol. 6
BLEACH Vol. 23
CLAYMORE Vol. 18
D GRAY-MAN Vol. 19
DRAGON BALL Z Vol. 26 – Final Volume!
FUSHIGI YUGI: GENBU KAIDEN Vol. 6
HYDE & CLOSER Vol. 5
NEON GENESIS EVANGELION Chapter 6
ONE PIECE Vol. 43
OTOMEN Vol. 10
SATURN APARTMENTS Vol. 2
WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD! Vol. 2 – Series Conclusion!

September 19th:

BLEACH Vol. 24
HOUSE OF FIVE LEAVES Vol. 4 – Debuts a day before the print counterpart!
KEKKAISHI Vol. 13
NATSUME’S BOOK OF FRIENDS Vol. 8
NEON GENESIS EVANGELION Chapter 7
ONE PIECE Vol. 44
ROSARIO + VAMPIRE II Vol. 5
RUROUNI KENSHIN Vol. 22

September 26th:

ARATA: THE LEGEND Vol. 6
BLEACH Vol. 25
CHILDREN OF THE SEA Vol. 4
D. GRAY-MAN Vol. 20
INUYASHA (VIZBIG) Vol. 4 – Exclusive to the VIZ Manga App for iPad
MAOH: JUVENILE REMIX Vol. 6
NEON GENESIS EVANGELION Chapter 8
ONE PIECE Vol. 45
VAMPIRE KNIGHT Vol. 11

VIZ Media’s digital manga application allows for universal access for fans for reading manga from their iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, and now, VIZManga.com for desktop/laptop computers and Android-powered devices with built-in web browsers. With one account, registered users are able to view their purchases across even more devices than ever.

The free VIZ Manga App is the top application for reading manga on iOS devices and features a rapidly growing library of the most popular manga series in the world, currently offering 40 series and over 400 volumes, with new additions and free Chapter 1 previews added weekly.

For more information, please visit VIZManga.com or www.VIZ.com/apps.

The main character is a guy who is looking for a job at Fuji TV headquarters in Odaiba. Known as a resort and tourist attraction the island of Odaiba is home to an Aquacity an enormous shopping mall, a high tech multi-plex cinema and a gourmet zone which is the largest in Japan. The major attractions of Odaiba are mentioned in the manga as the characters make their way to the Rainbow Bridge. In real life a large fire broke out near the port of Odaiba in Japan after this years massive earthquake as it did in the manga too.

While at the famous TV station the college senior attended a recruitment orientation. By chance he becomes thrown together by the earth quake with Nanako Okano. The girl who dresses as a gothic lolita was about to attend a concert. The two find each other and discover that they were junior high classmates. It is their efforts to survive, face the horrors they witness and make it out out of the ruins which forms the plot.

It has a stark outlook that draws the reader into the character’s perspective. The visceral fears, panic and anxiety radiate off the pages of Kanojo wo Mamoru 51 no Houhou. You’ll find yourself wondering if the romance will blossom. It has drama, violence and suspense. It was a skeptical look at the future where the worst was brought out by fear and greed. It’s a cautionary tale that we hope is far from the reality that is taking place now around the world as many communities are dealing with the disasters from global warming.