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ローゼンメイデン 
December 30, 2005 | 
54 Comments
Well, everyone else has done it so I may as well jump into the bandwagon. I think 2005 has been a surprisingly good year despite my rather low expectation of it at the beginning. In fact, some of the series that I list here actually end up as my all-time favourites. I don't think I'll be talking much about the state of the industry since I didn't actually follow many series this year. Having said that, I recommend that you read through Bluwacky's thorough analysis of this year's releases. I think he made a lot of interesting point about the industry. What I'm going to do here is simply list my top 3 of this year's series/games/songs and then talk about them. I am also interested to know what other people's favourite series/games/movies this year so feel free to indicate your choices in the comment area. Before I do this, however, please be aware that some of the paragraphs contain light spoilers.
December 29, 2005 | 61 Comments
I think this is a rather disappointing ending for the series. Not only they cut out so many important side stories, the climax of the series also does not feel as powerful as the manga. Although by cutting some of the plot points, they do manage to make Arashi far more likeable in comparison to the manga version. I think most of the blame goes towards the fact that the series has to be condensed into 12 episodes. Having said that, I also think that part of the blame goes to Kobayashi's directing style, which I think does not suit this series very well. I really hate the overuse of screen transition images and the fact that he chose to eliminate the majority of the comedic moments that made the original manga a pleasant series. This is actually my first exposure towards his work and I have to say that I'm rather disappointed by it.
December 28, 2005 | 11 Comments
This turns out to be another excellent installment for the series. If the series had been this good right from the start, I think this would have easily been one of my favourite series of the season. As it is now though, I am a bit ambivalent about it. I think the series has the potential to be really interesting. However, in order for this to happen, the writers need to stop featuring too many vengeance-wisher of the week because I notice that the writing seems to be stronger when the storyline veers away from this typical scenario. I also have to say that I'm surprised to see the high quality animation in this episode. It really feels as if I'm watching a different series from the one that I usually see. There are a lot of artistic shots, clever use of red colors, and the sceneries are much better directed and animated in comparison to the other episodes.
December 26, 2005 | 44 Comments
Well, here is the first of the two special episodes included in the DVD. This episode ended up being included in Disc Vol.5 while the other will actually be included in Disc Vol.7. This episode itself is hilarious. I couldn't stop laughing from start to finish when I was watching this. Having said that, I understand now why the animators decided to exclude this episode from the original broadcast. The storyline is mostly comedic and has little to no relevance to the on-going plot. But if you're a fan of the series, this is a must see. The plot itself is about Lohmeyer/Romaiya sempai, a masculine but kind guy who lives in the same apartment building as Takemoto, Morita, and Mayama. As you can see from the pictures, everyone can't help but falling in love with him because he always brings a lot of meat. ^_^
December 25, 2005 | 30 Comments
Merry Christmas, everyone!! I'm sorry I haven't been able to scan a Christmas-related image like last year but I've been using the time to upgrade the site. Last November was actually Memento 2nd year anniversary but since I was too busy with JLPT, I couldn't do any kind of upgrade. At the moment, the site is not completely integrated to the new look so I'm sorry for the odd bits of inconsistencies you may find here and there. The thing is, unless I force myself to update the site now, I am not going to update it at all since I will always find an excuse to postpone the act of doing it. But now it's out in the open, I have no choice but to actually fix all of the problems that the new look produced. I did, however, manage to ensure that at least the main index and the individual entry pages work the way they meant to be.
December 23, 2005 | 6 Comments
Another fine episode for the series from animation perspective. The part where Yukari gets to model the dress to the audience was definitely a highlight of the episode. The scene looks as if it sucked whatever budget needed to properly animate the first few episodes. Music-wise, this episode is also quite impressive. For some reason the song that was used to accompany Yukari's fashion show sounds familiar. But unfortunately I can't seem to identify that song. Oh well, next week will be the last episode and with 9 chapters left to animate and a couple of minor subplot yet to reveal, I have to wonder how the animators are going to do this. To me as long as they keep the end, I would't mind if they cut down some of the minor subplots. Others, however, probably beg to differ about this.
December 23, 2005 | 17 Comments
Well, this is the so called 'present' that I mentioned last week. I actually hesitated to put this out since the chapter has been out last week so it's not exactly new. As everyone already knows, episode 10 of Rozen Maiden Traumend will most likely deal with HinaIchigo's fate. However, judging from the preview, the story will most likely be different from the manga version. Please be aware that this is the first time I obtained BIRZ and and therefore, I have no idea what happened in the previous chapters. So there will be time in this entry where I have to guess what happened in the past. Anyway, this particular issue of BIRZ also comes with a nice-looking Shitajiki (pencil board) featuring Shinku. So if you're interested, here are the pictures of the cover and the Shitajiki (Do not direct-link or reproduce these images elsewhere):
BIRZ Cover: Rozen Maiden's Barasuishou and Shinku
BIRZ Shitajiki: Rozen Maiden's Shinku
December 22, 2005 | 5 Comments
First thing first, is it Winner or Wiener? I actually like Wiener better because it describes the character perfectly. But unfortunately the animators seem hell-bent on referring him as Winner. They even make a point of showing his badge several times to emphasise this very fact in this episode. Come to think of it, I don't really mind Winner either because it also has that double meaning of him always losing despite his name. But Wiener sounds funnier and the way his name is pronounced actually sounds like Wiener. Oh well, I guess in the end, it's up to how one wishes to pronounced it. But just to be on the safe side, I'll refer him as Winner since that's how it's shown in the badge.
December 22, 2005 | 54 Comments
Minimum coverage this time, since I need to get some anime done before christmas. What we have here was a very nice character development episode for Nina - making me very happy, because she's one of the most intriguing characters in Mai Otome. Her father complex is a very limiting factor, so I'm happy to see her personality extended some more. Nevertheless, it's almost painful to see how she is set up for the mother of all heartbreaks.
The second one gaining alot is Arika, whose fateful relationship with Nina is put on a new basis. Even though the "dokidoki" late in the episode really REALLY freaks me out. They wouldn't, would they? Please no!
What remains is a very very solid and balanced episode, better than +, but not quite a full ++ yet. So (++) it is.
Episode Rating: (++)
December 21, 2005 | 12 Comments
I never thought I'll say something like this about Jigoku Shoujo but I think this is the best episode that has been aired so far. The animation is actually not as good in comparison to last week's episode but the storyline is interesting, unusual, and is actually quite easy to relate to in that twisted kind of sense. This episode also suggests that there is more to the way Enma operates than what has appeared thus far. Because of this, what happens in this episode is quite shocking but also quite sad at the same time since for the first time, neither the victim nor the revenge wisher actually deserve to go to hell. On top of this, the preview for next week's episode suggests that the series will start to unravel the connection between Hajime and Enma Ai so here's hoping that this will be the start of an exciting arc for the series.
December 18, 2005 | 3 Comments
I get the impression that one of the reasons this particular story was selected was because it allowed the animators to save some money since the majority of the storyline takes place inside a house. On top of this, little to no animation is required in those scenes because they mostly involves Ginko talking about various things to the character of the week, which is a head priest with no name. Despite this, the creep effect is still present in this episode and in my opinion, is actually more noticeable in comparison to the last few episodes. Anyway, according to various Japanese magazines like Newtype and Animedia, there won't be a screening of Mushishi next week. At least not on Fuji TV since the listing for Newtype and Animedia only use Fuji TV schedule.
December 16, 2005 | 6 Comments
This episode continues to be as good as last week. In fact, there are several scenes, which I think look a bit better than the manga counterpart. The one that comes at the top of my head is the one where Yukari comes out to show her dress to the others in the group. I always think that she looks a bit strange in the manga but in this version, I think she looks good. I think the addition of colors really improve the character design in this instance. Having said that, I always think that Yukari's normal look is still her best look. Anyway, with 2 more episodes to go, I hope the animators can do the series a justice because I think one of the main strengths of this series is actually tne ending itself.
December 16, 2005 | 28 Comments
Once again this series continues to impress me. In this episode, we get to see some character development, a light comedy, some interesting fight scenes, and an unfortunate tragedy. I always feel that I don't waste my time watching each episode because there is always something interesting within the episode itself. Having said that, I can't help but wonder if the writers will be able to end the series with only 3 episodes left to go. Speaking of episodes, the next episode, Tomoe, won't actually be screened until the 12th of January next year. I think TBS has other program running during the Christmas period. Having said that, if all goes well, I will have a nice present for Rozen Maiden fans next week. If that doesn't work, I'll just post an alternate present but either way, I'll try to come up with something.
December 16, 2005 | 9 Comments
Okay, I only have one hour before the party so unfortunately this will be really short. I think this episode demonstrates that the animators have done a good job in the visual style of the series. Karin's flower-shaped nosebleed looks especially good in this episode when contrasted against the green grass. I am also starting to get used to the story, which I think is lighter and less serious in comparison to the manga. I think this is one of those series where I just have to switch off the brain. Having said that, there are a couple of things about this episode that annoys me and unfortunately, one of them has to do with the addition of the new vampire hunter character. I simply think his character is a wasted opportunity for the series.
December 15, 2005 | 30 Comments
After quite some plot and character development episode, this time we get our share of action - still with interesting new revelations, like some Arika/Sergey skinship paired with flaring Nina jealousy, but primarily fancy action. In a hi-budget show like this, that means that we get treated to alot of nice eye candy.
I won't pull a rating better than "+" though, because the action wasn't really paired with much drama. If the battle begins by showing a hilarious scene with Haruka slamming into the ground because she forgot to activate the contract, we immediately learn that the mood is too light for casualties. Which is fine, but means that the emotional involvement is lessened, at least for me. On the positive side, being conservative with casualties can very well mean that this time, there won't be a reset button at the end (my biggest worry), and thus they have to stay balanced.
So, what remains was a very entertaining episode without strings attached.
Episode Rating: +
December 14, 2005 | 4 Comments
I'm sorry that this comes rather late but I've been kind of busy with work this week. Thursday will be especially bad since there will be end of the year office party. So, some reviews are going to come late this week. Anyway, this episode is a good news for those who want to see more appearance from Hajime and Tsugumi. In fact, the main focus of this episode is actually Hajime and his background/motivation. I think this is part of the reason why I enjoy the episode a bit more than usual. It's a shame that the grudge-wisher of the week is a bit lame though. The same thing can be said about the punishment that is given to the villain of the week. Oh well, as long as the writers keep advancing the main plot involving Hajime and Tsugumi, I think this series will remain interesting and better.
December 12, 2005 | 20 Comments
Catsuka and Chibi Yuuto are now hosting the famous Clover music video that CLAMP fans have been wanting to see for ages. The quality of the video is serviceable but don't expect it to match today's digisub quality. I wish CLAMP will just released this as a special DVD or something because I'm sure people will snap it up right away. But beggar can't be chooser and I'm quite happy just to be able to see this one animated. I am actually amazed to see how the video managed to sum up the main plot of Clover in a 6 minutes 38 seconds music clip. Basically you get to see Kazuhiko and Suu getting to know each other before embarking on their adventure to fairy park.
December 11, 2005 | 17 Comments
I think this episode is far more exciting than the one that goes before it purely because it feels more science-fiction like. I also prefer the mist animation in this episode instead of the rainbow from last week's episode. I just think that in general, the appearance of a mist creates that forebodding effect that I like in horror series. Anyway, I'm not sure if this is correct or not but I just found out from this site that Mushishi will only run for 13 episodes. I am quite disappointed to know about this because I was hoping that the series will run for at least 24 episodes. Now I know why the anime has been skipping some of the manga chapters because the animators probably attempt to include different stories from the manga. I do hope that they will at least include Ginko's background story which is included in the last chapter of the third volume.
I think I finally understand the purpose of the random live-action sequence at the start of each episode. I get the impression that the scenes supposed to represent Yukari's black and white world that is slowly but surely becomes colourful due to George and the rest Parakiss members' influence. This becomes rather clear in this episode when the black and white photograph morphs into a color version of the scene. I am also pleased to see the improvement in the quality of the animation in this episode. Some of the objects depicted in this episode, especially those in Mikako's house, is simply too amusing to see. This is the first time I've seen a toaster that creates a bear-shaped toast mark on the sides. I hope next week's animation will be equally as good because I think that's the episode that will feature the fashion show.
December 9, 2005 | 31 Comments
I've been re-watching the opening scene so many times lately because the animation sequences simply fascinate me. However, in doing so I got strange ideas about the ending. At one point I thought maybe it'll end with Shinku waking up in a rose-covered bed and realising that she is now a human just like the opening. However, as she gets out of her room and goes down the stairs, she finds a bunch of discarded and lifeless doll of Suiseiseki, Souseiseki, and the others. In other words, she becomes Alice and her sisters have been turned into junk just like in the opening. I have to say that the thought really disturbed me and I wondered if people would object violently should such ending actually happens in this show. Anyway, this is an awesome episode that I think explore such possibility. If the show keeps up its quality right to the end, I think this may become one of the top three series that have been released this season.
I really have no idea why but for some reason this episode is far more enjoyable than the one before it. I think I'll assume that this has to do with the bright colour scheme that this episode uses as opposed to the dull grey-ish colours that were used in the previous episode. I also think that comedy-wise, this is a lot funnier. Although the storyline-wise, I really have no idea how close it is to the manga because everything seems to be all mixed up. As a side note, the special edition DVD is now up for pre-order at Amazon Japan. The extra includes a reversible cover, a DVD box, and a special CD featuring radio program. In addition to these, 3 special 'Dragon magazine' all stars cards, 32 page booklet, and an undecided special present for first-pressed buyers will be included in the DVD as well.
December 8, 2005 | 45 Comments
I know, I know, it's late. Thankfully, this episode will allow me to breeze through most of the parts, simply because most of the content is fairly straightforward and doesn't need to be put into perspective. I'll try to compensate for the lack of text with some more screenshots than usual ;)
What we get is primarily a character development episode, with especially Arika, Erstin and Tomoe getting priority treatment. Relatively light on action, we get a setup for what I expect to be an explosive episode 10.
Episode Rating: (+)
December 7, 2005 | 13 Comments
First of all, our sponsor Jigoku Inc. wants us to say a few words about their new product: Ai's Jigoku Beach Ball. It's exactly what you need to accompany your lonely existence in hell. Because let's face it, who needs friends when you have Ai's Jigoku Beach Ball? You can blow, throw around, and even squeeze the ball. Tell me which friend will allow you to do those using their body? They'd probably think that you're crazy and put a restraining order against you. Speaking of which, hell is kind of quiet these days so if you have ungrateful friends you want to send there, always remember that Jigoku Tsuushin is your true best friend! And oh, every time you send someone to hell, Ai gets frequent flyer point. You want to make Ai happy, don't you? So what are you waiting for? Start sending those ingrates to hell!!
December 6, 2005 | 20 Comments
I finally get the chance to see this after it's been in cinema for quite a while. I have to admit that I wasn't that excited to see it at first because I was too busy with JLPT and also because I was disappointed with the third one. Yes, I'm one of those few ones who were unhappy with the third film. While I agree that the third film's visual and atmosphere went up a notch, the storyline itself was poorly adapted. Because of this, when I first saw the trailer for the fourth film, I didn't expect much from it. It was therefore a rather nice surprise when I went to see the film today and found myself having a great time at the cinema. I think the majority part of the film was quite well done. Sure there were a couple of sub-plots that were not included in the film but they are generally minor plot points and not a major one like the one in the third film.
I feel that animation-wise, this episode is not as attractive as the ones that came before it. Some static shots, for example, are notably used in this episode in longer exposure than is necessary. In general, however, the quality of the animation is still quite high in comparison to other series aired this season. This episode, just like the others before it, also demonstrates a proper use of CGI that actually blends seamlessly with the 2D drawings instead of standing out like a sore thumb. Theme-wise, this episode places a focus on rainbow. This means there area lot of rainbow-related references from that little treasure you can find at the end of its tip, down to the correct color sequences, which I can't seem to remember anymore, featured within this episode.
If the episode count is correct, then it means there are only four more episodes to cover 2 volumes worth of stories. I hope the writers won't botch these last four because the last two volumes of the story is actually the part that makes this series memorable. I also wish that there are a good amount of budget reserved for these four episodes so that the animators can give them proper treatment. Anyway, I know that I've been harsh with this adaptation so far but I can't really pretend that I like something unless I really do like what I see/read/hear. And while I don't think this adaptation is bad by any means of the word, I think there are many ways in which it could be improved. Oh well, let's just hope that the last four episodes will be the best that this adaptation has to offer.
December 2, 2005 | 23 Comments
It's hard to believe that there are only 5 more episodes before this series reach its end. I wonder if it's enough to resolve everything? In fact, I was a bit afraid when I first saw the preview for this episode. I thought the series was going to waste another episode on a filler. Much to my relief, however, this turns out to be more than just a comedic filler. There is actually a heavy plot thread running throughout this episode. This episode is also interesting because we finally get to see what other dolls such as Souseiseki and Canaria think about the Alice Game itself. All in all, I think this is another solid episode for the series even if it is slightly outclassed by the previous episode. But then again, it's probably quite difficult to come up with an episode that is better than last week's.
Okay, I'll have to be a bit shorter with the summary today because I only have a couple more days before JLPT. This week's Mushishi summary will also come a bit late because that's the day when I have to take the exam. Anyway, this episode feels rather short for some reasons and unfortunately the animation is also not as good as the previous episodes. The majority of the scenes take place inside a darkened room and unfortunately the animators use mostly duochrome color scheme here. As a result, the majority of the episode look rather dull. I supposed it's inevitable that sooner or later the animation quality will go down a bit so that the animators will have enough budget to animate the rest of the series.
December 1, 2005 | 23 Comments
Before Mai Hime came up with the idea of MIP, there was X, CLAMP's dark opus about the battle between Dragon of Heaven (Ten no Ryuu) and Dragon of Earth (Chi no Ryuu) to decide the fate of humanity. People who haven't read/watch the series are probably unaware of the part where this battle is complicated by the fact that all members of each faction have their own MIP that they want to protect. But because of this very point, it doesn't take long before twist of fate, violent death, treachery, and of course, the destruction of Tokyo, take place within the series. By 'series' I meant the TV series and the manga because the movie just throws all of that story-building out of the window. Anyway, while the TV series was completed, the manga is still not completed because CLAMP apparently refused to tone down the ending.
