Distributed by Viz Media
Running time: 87 minutes

Bleach fans gathered in New York City on Wednesday night and again on Thursday (June 11th and 12th, 2008) for a screening of Bleach: Memories of Nobody. Producer Ken Hagino and character designer Masashi Kudo attended and introduced the sold out show. (This reporter was 15 minutes late and missed it.) Cosplay was encouraged, as TV Tokyo cameras were on hand to record fans’ reactions after the film. However, the Wednesday night crowd was less rambunctious than it could have been in the 80 degree heat. Very few attendees wore costumes beyond the free armbands given away to the first 100 guests.

The arm bands were really cool, but the movie was a little disappointing. Preceding the film was a long behind-the-scenes video of the Viz offices in San Francisco with a little too much Johnny Yong Bosch prancing and not enough footage of the Japanese talent. The video also featured Bleach creator Tite Kubo drawing a sketch of Ichigo in a long continuous shot before giving a short announcement about his upcoming appearance at San Diego Comic Con.

Film adaptations of existing long running anime series can be a bit of a let down. They never further the continuity of the TV show. Exceptions include the shockingly good Urusei Yatsura: Beautiful Dreamer and a Doraemon film about Aztecs which I have only seen dubbed in Cantonese (Nobita and the Legend of the Sun King). That aside, compared to Naruto The Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow, Bleach: Memories of Nobody is like Masterpiece Theater. I really hated Clash in the Land of Snow, because the Naruto characters seemed to be inserted into an entirely unrelated film about non-Naruto ninjas - a film with it’s own color palette, characters, ninja tribes, and ninja magic power rules.

Memories of Nobody creates a pocket dimension to contain the insanely complex plot, coins a half-dozen new terms to help explain the plot, and introduces a Mary Sue-like soul reaper to guide us through. But it does successfully incorporate characters from the TV series, as well as familiar music cues. Bleach has a huge cast, and nearly all of the soul reapers get at least one speaking part in the movie, plus you get to see nearly everyone’s bankai. In short the film fulfills the minimum requirements of what one would hope to see in a Bleach movie.

The animation is very nice during the fight scenes, but falters a little during the less important conversational scenes. I noticed both Korean and Chinese names in the end credits, as well as Japanese names. I assume the more off-model scenes were done overseas.

The highlight of the film in terms of money-saving animation techniques is a long explanation of the plot by Urahara (Mr. Hat-and-Clogs) involving a flip-chart held by the muscular and silent Tsukabishi. The chart/analog-PowerPoint presentation got a great reaction from the audience. It’s a talented director who can both please the crowd and save money at the same time! It so happens Noriyuki Abe is a seasoned director of long running shows like Flame of Recca, Yu Yu Hakusho, Tokyo Mew Mew, Banner of the Stars, and GTO.

Unfortunately, the film suffers from a nauseating number of flashbacks to earlier in the film. The film is only 87 minutes long, and scenes from the first 15 minutes are used over and over again. Consider; there are only 87 minutes to establish Senna (the Mary Sue character), and have Ichigo grow to care about her enough to fight for her. Unfortunately 87 minutes is not enough time to make the audience care about Senna.

I’ve only seen Bleach through episode 40 or so, and I really feel like Rukia is a continually short-changed. In the TV show she’s put in prison for several seasons, and she is largely absent from the film. One audience member complained openly about the horrible skirt Rukia wears in the finally scenes of the film. Although it’s rude to talk in the theater, I agreed - that was a horrible skirt. I suspect that Rukia is every American fan’s favorite character, but not Kubo-sensei’s favorite.

Chances are good that your favorite character is in this movie and they do their bankai move. If your favorite character happens to be Toshiro Hitsugaya, and you’re not a film connoisseur, you might really enjoy this movie.

Bleach the Movie: Memories of Nobody will be available on DVD in October of 2008.

Rosario + Vampire, Vol. 1

By Akihisa Ikeda
Viz, 192 pp.
Rating: Older Teen (16+)

Remember Rick Moranis in Gravedale High? From my rather vague recollections of Saturday morning cartoons growing up, I remember it being about a lone human in an all-monster high school. When I first looked at the cover to Rosario + Vampire, which, thanks to the magic of the Internet, you can see above and to the right, I groaned. A cover featuring a ridiculously short schoolgirl skirt hiked up far beyond the line of decency on a young woman of sexually superior proportions makes every warning siren in my head sound off all at once. The back cover doesn’t help any, with even more fanboy-bait imagery and a synopses that made me hope that Rick Moranis was the hapless lone human.

And, you know what? I was surprised. Not because Rosario + Vampire is good; it isn’t, by any stretch of the imagination. I was surprised because Rosario is not unforgivably horrible as I had anticipated. Yes, sexy vampire-girl Moka and nerdy-but-courageous-around-vampire-girl Tsukune aren’t the most likable characters I’ve ever met, and the whole premise of a secret high school for monsters, vampires, werewolves, and other mythological beasties to learn how to live alongside humans whilst somehow never being discovered by said humans is, at best, sketchy. But most of the comic did not grate at my nerves, and some of it even made me smile. Moka’s cute affection for Tsukune (and, by extension, Tsukune’s supposedly tasty blood) is actually amusing, as is the student body’s reaction to seeing the two together. Tsukune’s interactions with Moka’s “other” self–accessed when the vampire’s rosario, a cross-shaped pendant, is removed–are suitably tense. Characterization isn’t particularly deep but it’s still present, and both Moka and Tsukune show signs of believable growth, albeit small ones.

That said, Rosario + Vampire still falls into many of the same traps that others of its ilk do. The fanservice is blatant and wholly unnecessary (though I’d argue that fanservice is never necessary except when being parodied); I’ll trade all the panty shots in the world for three panels of thoughtful storytelling. The misunderstandings that arise between the two leads often should have been diffused before they ever got out of hand; even the most understandable one (involving a vampire’s weakness to water) could have been resolved with three simple words (”water hurts me”) followed by four simple words (”sorry, I didn’t know”). And, for a comic about youngsters with powers that occasionally do battle with other superpowered types, none of the villains have proven themselves memorable or likeable. All of the Bad Guys™ have questionable motives, and none have proven a match for Moka’s powerful dark side.

Rosario + Vampire isn’t as shallow as its cover and synopsis leads you to believe, but it does come close. Formulaic and wholly unoriginal, Rosario + Vampire doesn’t satisfy my ravenous narrative appetite. But don’t let that stop you from giving it at least a glance-through. You can do worse.

Volume one of Rosario + Vampire will be available on June 10th.

San Francisco, CA, March 24, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced that it has secured the license from TV Tokyo Corporation, Shueisha Inc. and Dentsu Inc. for BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY in the Americas, Europe and Oceania. The feature film, which will be aimed primarily at teens and older teens, will have a limited theatrical release in major cities throughout North America this summer with the DVD release to follow winter 2008. Subsequent details will be released in coming weeks.

BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY is inspired by the successful animated television series BLEACH airing on Adult Swim, which is based on the best-selling manga series (rated ‘T’ for Teens) by Tite Kubo, also published in North America by VIZ Media.

“We are extremely excited to announce the domestic license for BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY,” says Liza Coppola, Sr. Vice President, VIZ Media. “BLEACH has emerged as one of the most popular animated, manga and video game properties in North America and the release of this film will no doubt captivate millions of avid fans. Filled with riveting animation and spectacular battle scenes featuring all the major characters, BLEACH THE MOVIE is ideally suited for a theatrical presentation and we look forward to making it a summer filled with epic action as this film makes its way to theatres in major markets throughout North America.”

BLEACH is a tremendously successful multimedia property internationally. The manga has been licensed to more than a dozen countries, and has sold over 50 million copies in Japan alone. In North America the manga has been a sales hit and the popular animated series (both rated ‘T’ for Teens) is viewed weekly by millions in the United States and Canada. This success has further spawned an array of related video games, apparel, action figures, trading cards and other merchandise. For more information on BLEACH and BLEACH THE MOVIE: MEMORIES OF NOBODY please visit the official BLEACH website at bleach.viz.com or www.viz.com.

I’m glad to see that manga publishers will be making a stronger showing at this year’s Free Comic Book Day; as I noted in my report on FCBD 2007, Tokyopop was the only manga publisher to actively court comic book fans with its Choose Your Weapon sampler. This year, Gold Sponsor VIZ Media is offering a special 32-page edition of Shonen Jump highlighting Bleach, Naruto, and Slam Dunk. Not to be outdone, other manga publishers will be wooing readers with their own offerings, including:

• Antarctic Press, which will give away copies of Rod Espinosa’s Neotopia;
• Del Rey, which will distribute a sampler featuring In Odd We Trust, the highly anticipated Dean Koontz/Queenie Chan project;
• Drawn & Quarterly, which will circulate a 24-page sampler highlighting their big 2008 manga releases, Yoshihiro Tatsumi’s Good-Bye and Seiichi Hayashi’s Red Colored Elegy; and
• Yen Press, which will be unveiling a short excerpt from James Patterson’s Maxium Ride.

For more information about VIZ’s offering, read on.

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced its participation as a Gold Level Sponsor in the 2008 Free Comic Book Day, taking place May 3rd. VIZ Media is producing a special edition (rated “A” for All Ages) of SHONEN JUMP Magazine (rated ‘T’ for Teens) to be distributed for free at participating stores nationwide.

The annual occasion, developed by Diamond Comic Distributors, Inc., the world’s largest distributor of English-language comic books, is designed for comic book retailers across North America and around the world to offer a range of select titles for free to further spread awareness of new and upcoming series and highlight the diversity of the comics and manga (graphic novel) genres.

SHONEN JUMP will publish a special, free condensed issue of the magazine to appeal to new comic book fans as well as established manga readers. The SHONEN JUMP Free Comic Book Day issue will contain 32 action-packed pages including special previews of three of VIZ Media’s most exciting serialized manga: NARUTO, BLEACH and the newly serialized SLAM DUNK as well as coverage of many of the magazine’s other popular series such as ONE PIECE and YU YU HAKUSHO, and introduce new readers to the diverse array of content the magazine offers. Longtime SHONEN JUMP fans will also love the BLEACH poster included in this special edition.

SHONEN JUMP joins a select group of ten other preeminent publishers participating in Free Comic Book Day including Archie, Bongo, Dark Horse, DC, Dynamite, IDW, Image, Marvel and Virgin. For more information on Free Comic Book Day please visit www.freecomicbookday.com.

“Despite the massive popularity of manga in the United States, there is still a huge audience waiting to experience the range of unique art and compelling stories featured in these excellent Japanese comics,” says Marc Weidenbaum, Editor-In- Chief of SHONEN JUMP. “By supporting Free Comic Book Day, we hope to get manga into as many hands as possible, and let American comic readers discover the pleasures of the ninja epic that is Masashi Kishimoto’s NARUTO, the soul-reaper action of Tite Kubo’s BLEACH, and the high-school hijinks of Takehiko Inoue’s SLAM DUNK.”

SHONEN JUMP, which celebrated its 5th anniversary earlier this year, appeals to over 1.9 million readers monthly aged 12-17 - with an average monthly circulation of over 241,000. SHONEN JUMP is the first place fans can read new chapters of the latest hit manga from Japan as titles such as NARUTO, BLEACH and ONE PIECE have two or more chapters regularly serialized each month in addition to product articles on a vast array of related video games, trading cards, animation and toys. Ardent fans appreciate the easy to read and affordable presentations of a notable array of different genres, stories and art styles, yet the magazine still offers new readers the opportunity to test several manga at once. For more information on SHONEN JUMP Magazine please visit www.shonenjump.com.

Here’s the scoop on VIZ Media’s big spring releases, including an example of comeuppance theater, a new series from Kaori “Godchild” Yuki, an old-school classic from Kazuo “Drifting Classroom” Umezu, and two series starring vampires. Yes folks, this spring… THERE WILL BE BLOOD! (Hah! Take that, Daniel Day-Lewis!)

From the VIZ Press Release:
The new releases are aimed primarily at Teen and Older Teen readers, which form the core of the manga market, and encompass a unique selection of genres ranging from action/adventure and shojo romance stories to darker, more twisted tales that exemplify the gothic and horror genres that have become extremely popular. The new series will include GUN BLAZE WEST, HARUKA: BEYOND THE STEAM OF TIME, NIGHTMARE INSPECTOR: YUMEKUI KENBUN, B.O.D.Y, FAIRY CUBE, THE RECORD OF A FALLEN VAMPIRE, ROSARIO+VAMPIRE, GIMMICK! and CAT EYED BOY…

GUN BLAZE WEST
Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $7.99 • Available April 1, 2008
A brand new addition to the SHONEN JUMP imprint from Nobuhiro Watsuki, the creator of the successful samurai manga series RUROUNI KENSHIN and BUSO RENKIN (both published domestically by VIZ Media), GUN BLAZE WEST puts a new twist on the genre as it is set in 19th century America. Legend has it that in the far West lies a sacred land called Gun Blaze West, where only the strong can set foot. Viu Bannes, a cheerful and persistent boy, aspires to become a great gunslinger and yearns to travel to the West and test his strength. He befriends a vagabond, Marcus Homer, and they both decide to set off on a journey to find Gun Blaze West. The new title is VIZ Media’s first Western/Wild West series and will also be previewed in SHONEN JUMP magazine. Nobuhiro Watsuki’s critically acclaimed previous series RUROUNI KENSHIN is a fan favorite that has sold more than 1.1 million copies in North America and his BUSO RENKIN series likewise enjoys a wide and growing following.

HARUKA: BEYOND THE STREAM OF TIME
Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $8.99 • Available April 1, 2008
HARUKA: BEYOND THE STREAM OF TIME is a highly anticipated new series based on a popular PS2 and Nintendo DS video game that is hugely popular in Japan. Akane is your typical teenage girl, until she swallows eight Dragon Jewels and is transported to the Heian period of ancient Japan! There in the Capital City, Akane learns that she has been preordained to lead the people as the Priestess of the Dragon God. But all is not well: Akram, the head of the Demon Clan, has sworn death and destruction on the Capital. So Akane is appointed Eight Guardians to stand by her side as she faces the danger that waits. HARUKA: BEYOND THE STREAM OF TIME is a new addition to VIZ Media’s SHOJO BEAT imprint and is currently being serialized in SHOJO BEAT magazine. The original Haruka video game was created by Ruby Party (aka Ruby Patty), the same group that designed the wildly popular Neoromance video game Angelique, and helped to define the modern Neoromance dating RPG format. Bandai Visual USA is also releasing the anime in April 2008.

NIGHTMARE INSPECTOR: YUMEKUI KENBUN
Rated “T” for Teens • MSRP: $9.99 • Available April 8, 2008
For those who suffer nightmares, help awaits at the Silver Star Tea House, where patrons can order much more than just Darjeeling. Hiruko is a special kind of private investigator, he’s a dream eater, and he’ll rid you of your darkest vision – for a price. Each chapter of NIGHMARE INSPECTOR is a self-contained story that offers a glimpse of mankind’s folly and gradually reveals a little more about Hiruko and his dark past. A highly anticipated new series with a gothic edge, NIGHTMARE INSPECTOR was published in Japan by Square Enix, the publisher of the first manga series from Shin Mashiba. Fan-buzz has abounded on this series and comparisons have been made to Neil Gaiman’s Sandman and DC’s classic House of Mystery/House of Secrets.

B.O.D.Y.
Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $9.99 • Available April 8, 2008
Everyone thinks 16-year-old Sakura has weird taste in guys because she can’t stop drooling over Ryunosuke, the strong silent type who sits next to her in class. When she discovers he works for a host club, where women actually pay men to date them, will she finally wise up? Will he leave his job to be with her? Or will she take a job at the club so he can quit so she can be with him so…? Only one thing’s for sure in B.O.D.Y. - you can’t put a price on love! B.O.D.Y. originally appeared in the Japanese shojo monthly Bessatsu Margaret was created by Ao Mimori. It is her third shojo manga series and is also currently serialized in SHOJO BEAT magazine.

FAIRY CUBE
Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $8.99 • Available May 6, 2008
Ian and Rin used to just see spirits. Now Ian is one. Using the Fairy Cube, Ian must figure out how to stop the lizard spirit Tokage from taking over his life and destroying any chance he has of resurrection. FAIRY CUBE is the long-awaited new series from gothic manga mastermind Kaori Yuki, who created ANGEL SANCTUARY, GODCHILD, and THE CAIN SAGA (all published by VIZ Media). A new addition to VIZ Media’s SHOJO BEAT imprint, FAIRY CUBE will be previewed in the April 2008 issue of SHOJO BEAT magazine.

THE RECORD OF A FALLEN VAMPIRE
Rated “T” for Teens • MSRP: $9.99 • Available May 13, 2008
Thousands of years ago, Vampire King Akabara Rosered Strauss lost both his kingdom and his queen. Since humans were unable to kill the queen, they sealed her away, erecting thousands of fake seals so that the king would never find her true location. Despite being pursued by relentless humans and half-vampires alike, Akabara continues to search for his queen to this day. Akabara’s quest takes a sinister turn when an entity called the Black Swan appears. The Black Swan inhabits the body of a young human girl every 50 years, giving her the power to destroy the Vampire King and his queen. With each incarnation the Black Swan grows stronger –will the 49th Black Swan mean the end of Akabara? THE RECORD OF A FALLEN VAMIRE is illustrated by Yuri Kimura and written by Kyo Shirodaira, the award-winning writer behind the popular mystery manga and animated series SPIRAL – BONDS OF REASONING.

ROSARIO + VAMPIRE
Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $9.99 • Available May 13, 2008
All-around average teenager Tsukune can’t get accepted to any high school save one, but on his first day, he finds the rest of the student body doesn’t appear average in the least. Best of all, the cutest girl on campus can’t wait to fling her arms around his neck! Wait a sec’, are those her teeth around his neck too? Tsukune’s going to have one heck of a hickey when he gets home from Monster High! But does he have a chance in hell of raising his grades at a school where the turf war isn’t between the jocks and the nerds but between vampires and the werewolves? Find out in the new series from Akihisa Ikeda.

GIMMICK!
Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $9.99 • Available June 10, 2008
Gimmick! is an interesting new series by Youzaburou Kanari and focuses on Kohei Nagase, a genius in the realm of movie make-up and special effects. With his stuntman buddy Kannazuki, Kohei helps various people in need get out of tough situations through the use of his brilliant make-up skills. This series has action, mystery, and lots of insights about the technical aspects that go into doing really cool movie make-up.

CAT EYED BOY
Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $24.99 • Available June 17, 2008
Cat Eyed Boy is a half-human, half-monster child whose mostly human appearance bans him from the demon world. He lives hidden in the shadows of the human world, hated by humans and demons alike. Wherever he goes, awful events occur as the humans and demons interact. In 11 stories of revenge and retribution full of disturbing images, Cat Eyed Boy acts as a trickster, saving the innocent and helping the wicked receive the punishment that fate metes out. The first volume contains four stories and the first part of a fifth and longer story. CAT EYED BOY was created by Kazuo Umezu, the undisputed master of Japanese horror manga and creator of the critically acclaimed DRIFTING CLASSROOM (also published by VIZ Media). Cat Eyed Boy offers up a concoction of dark vignettes dripping with the macabre and the absurd.

Anime Review: Death Note, Vol. 3

Distributed by VIZ Media
100 minutes (4 episodes)

For those of you just joining us, here’s the recap: Light Yagami, a Japanese teenager troubled by the grief and suffering in the world, finds, completely by chance, a mysterious notebook. Dubbed the Death Note, Light soon learns that the book has the power to kill anybody whose name is written within. It isn’t long before Light starts using the book to mete out divine justice in the hopes of creating a utopia, and it isn’t much longer after that when people start to realize that there’s someone behind the deaths. Dubbed “Kira” by the general populace, Light continues his mad crusade in secret, confident that he is doing the right thing.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg, really; it’s the best I can do to compress the premise of the story into a few simple sentences. But there’s far more to this story than just a smart, somewhat immature kid finding a magical killing book. In fact, if you haven’t been watching since the beginning, you probably will be completely lost. Actually, let me rephrase that: you WILL be completely lost, period. Death Note is not the sort of show that you can just jump into, which is a bad thing in this day and age of waning attention spans and increasingly one-shot storytelling. However, in Death Note’s defense, it probably would not have worked any other way.

Death Note has been a series defined by thoughtful interaction and well-written, if not sometimes corny, dialog. Action is rare, making way for drama and mystery, as Light Yagami and his pursuer L seek to stop one another, without even knowing who the other truly is. One would think that having the two meet face-to-face would ruin some of the suspense, but that is not the case at all. The excellent “cold war” between the two characters only intensifies as Light finds himself in an unlikely position; a member of the task force created for the sole purpose of stopping Kira. Plans within plans aplenty as the uncertain but crafty L attempts to force Light to reveal his hand. Death Note also stands as a great example of a story where the antagonists are actually the heroes of the story while the protagonist is the villain.

Speaking of the protagonist, Brad Swaile is one hell of a voice actor. He manages to encapsulate everything about Light, this clearly disturbed and disturbing character, from the veil of faux sincerity he puts up in front of his father, L, and other investigators, to his very chilling megalomaniacal cackle whenever he renews his murderous resolve. VIZ Media’s voice actors are pretty good overall, but Brad’s interpretation of Light stands out. And while we’re on the topic of presentation, that’s something Death Note does very well, from a delightfully mythical introduction filled with religious imagery and engaging music, to the general ambiance of the environments, to the facial expressions of the main players, Light and L. I wouldn’t call the animation the best quality stuff I’ve seen on television, but it is very well done nonetheless.

Death Note still has some hurdles to overcome, though. With the character L, it is as if the writers created a character that is “too smart” for them. I won’t go into specifics, but some careful listening and application of critical thinking will make apparent the holes in L’s supposedly superhuman logic, holes that simply, given L’s character, should not be there. Another questionable element is the introduction of another character with a Death Note. This “second Kira” may have been inevitable given the underlying supernatural element present in the show, but it feels like an attempt to inject depth into a plot that should, by all rights, have enough depth of its own merits. And why is it that we see very little of Kira’s impact outside of Japan, anyway? Governments the world over are sending agents to Japan to stop Kira… yet there are no glimpses into how the world outside of Japan has changed due to Light’s influence. It’s a puzzling omission, one that I would have preferred to see included over a “second Kira.”

Death Note remains an enticing series, though I truly hope it doesn’t become weighed down by its own complexity. That would be a real shame. However, it remains a solid show. I just hope it stays that way for its remainder.

Volume three of Death Note is available now.

San Francisco, CA, February 29, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced the U.S. debut of the highly anticipated BLUE DRAGON animated series on Cartoon Network this spring.

The BLUE DRAGON series is based on the exclusive Xbox 360 videogame “BLUE DRAGON,” developed by Hironobu Sakaguchi, the creator of “Final Fantasy,” and features character designs by Akira Toriyama, the creator of the best-selling DRAGON BALL series of manga (which is published in North America by VIZ Media and featured in SHONEN JUMP Magazine). The animated series debuted in Japan on TV Tokyo on April 7, 2007 and is produced by Studio Pierrot, which is well known for its work on NARUTO and BLEACH, also licensed by VIZ Media.

“We are pleased to announce the U.S. launch of BLUE DRAGON on Cartoon Network,” says William Germain, Director, Animation Production, VIZ Media. “This fun-filled action adventure story of good vs. evil, magical powers, courage and friendship is set to join the ranks of other popular VIZ Media series such as NARUTO, DEATH NOTE and BLEACH on the premier cable animation network in the United States.”

The BLUE DRAGON animated series, with an anticipated TV rating of TV Y7FV, is a classic adventure story of magical Shadow powers, flying air fortresses, and unbounded heroism! Brought together by fate, Seven Soldiers of Light must awaken the Shadow within themselves in time to overcome a despotic power and bring peace to their land. Their ensuing journey through a rich fantasy world is also an internal journey to awaken the great power within each of them. Journey with them into the world of BLUE DRAGON!

About Cartoon Network
Cartoon Network (CartoonNetwork.com), currently seen in more than 91 million U.S. homes and 160 countries around the world, is Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.’s ad-supported cable service offering the best in original, acquired and classic animated entertainment for kids and families. Overnight from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday (ET, PT), Cartoon Network shares its channel space with Adult Swim, a late-night destination showcasing original and acquired animation for young adults 18-34.
Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, creates and programs branded news, entertainment, animation and young adult media environments on television and other platforms for consumers around the world.

About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, DVDs and audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.

I fell a little behind with my news postings, so here’s a round-up of Viz’s most recent anime announcements. You’ll find more information about all of these properties at www.viz.com.

NARUTO, BLEACH, AND DEATH NOTE AVAILABLE FROM AMAZON UNBOX

San Francisco, CA, January 25, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media) has announced the availability of three of its most popular and successful animated action series – NARUTO Uncut, DEATH NOTE and BLEACH – for digital download from Amazon Unbox, Amazon’s digital video download service. Amazon Unbox offers customers thousands of television shows, movies and other innovative video content from numerous studio and network partners from Hollywood and around the world. This service can be found at www.amazon.com/unbox.

NARUTO Uncut, DEATH NOTE and BLEACH are available now with episodes costing $1.99 each. NARUTO Uncut initially features episodes 1-25 dubbed, DEATH NOTE features the full series dubbed, and BLEACH features episodes 1-25 dubbed.

SECOND SEASON OF BLEACH TO DEBUT ON ADULT SWIM

San Francisco, CA, January 28, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media) has announced that the 52-episode second season of the hit supernatural action animated series BLEACH is expected to begin airing on Saturday, March 1st on Adult Swim…

BLEACH is based on a best-selling manga graphic novel of the same name by Tite Kubo which is published domestically by VIZ Media and rated TV 14. The manga has been translated into more than seven languages and has sold over 33.5 million copies in Japan. Both the manga and the animated series have become extremely popular in North America and have spawned an array of related video games, apparel, action figures, trading cards and other merchandise. The first season of BLEACH is also currently available in a 3-disc DVD box set from VIZ Media, which is rated ‘T’ for Teens and has a suggested retail price of $89.98. For more information on BLEACH go to www.bleach.viz.com.

“BLEACH is a riveting story and the debut of the second season on Adult Swim has been highly anticipated by millions of fans,” says William Germain, VIZ Media Director of Animation Production. “The plot thickens in Season 2 as Ichigo and his friends battle soul reapers. With 52 episodes there will be plenty of surprises in store for viewers. BLEACH possesses a story and style that has transcended the graphic novel genre to become a very successful animated and video game property and we are committed to continuing its development.”

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES NEW ANIMATED RELEASES FOR FIRST QUARTER 2008

San Francisco, CA, January 31, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media has announced an exciting array of new DVD releases for the First Quarter of 2008 that expand some of the most popular animated series in North America.

The new releases include DVD box bets, special editions containing collectible figurines, and the latest single disc editions for series including BLEACH, NARUTO, DEATH NOTE and PRINCE OF TENNIS, as well as much-loved classics like RANMA ½ and POKéMON.

BLEACH

BLEACH Volume 8: THE ENTRY
Rated “T” for Teens · 4 Episodes · MSRP: $24.98 · Available Now!
Ichigo and his comrades are chased from one end of the Seireitei to the other while fending off furious attacks of the Soul Reapers that guard the city from intruders. When he and Ganju capture a meek member of Squad 4, they are shown a secret way into the White Tower where Ruika is being held prisoner. But at the steps of the fortress, an old nemesis named Renji Abarai appears, and a rematch pits Ichigo against the spirit energy of a powerful lieutenant.

BLEACH Volume 9: THE ENTRY
Rated “T” for Teens · 4 Episodes · MSRP: $24.98 · Available March 18, 2008
In the world of the living, Ichigo’s sisters find themselves in the spotlight as “Karakura Superheroes,” while in the Soul Society, an all-out war is declared against Ichigo and his comrades. But unrest stirs in all corners of the Seireitei, including among the ranks of the Soul Reapers themselves, when a prominent captain meets an untimely fate. Ichigo and the others attempt to ride the waves of chaos straight to the White Tower to rescue Ruika, but they’ll have to face a massive outpouring of spiritual energy to get there.

NARUTO

NARUTO Volume 19: PUSHED TO THE EDGE!
Rated “T” for Teens · 4 Episodes · MSRP: $19.98 · Available Now!
The Third Hokage summons his last ounce of strength in an attempt to seal away Orochimaru’s soul forever, while the shinobi of the Hidden Leaf bravely defend all they hold dear. And far from the village, Sasuke finally catches up with Gaara! But the Sand Ninja has begun an eerie transformation that may be more than Sasuke’s newly mastered Chidori jutsu can match. But there’s a certain scrappy ninja on his way that might just have what it takes – Naruto!

NARUTO Volume 20: LIGHT VS. DARK
Rated “T” for Teens · 4 Episodes · MSRP: $19.98 · Available Now!
With Sasuke’s strength wasted and Sakura slowing being crushed to death, Naruto must battle Gaara alone to defend what is precious to him. Can he prove that the path of friendship is stronger than the path of hate? In the battle-torn Hidden Leaf Village, the Third Hokage and the Leaf Ninja make their final stand against Orochimaru and his minions.

NARUTO Volume 21: EYE TO EYE
Rated “T” for Teens · 4 Episodes · MSRP: $19.98 · Available March 4, 2008
In the aftermath of Orochimaru’s attack, the Hidden Leaf Village mourns, but the life of a shinobi goes on! An eager Naruto departs on a training mission with Jiraiya to find a legendary kunoichi, while a troubled Sasuke reflects on the past. But who are the mysterious strangers that have slipped into town? And why are they looking for Naruto?

NARUTO Volume 22: THE LAST OF THE CLAN
Rated “T” for Teens· 4 Episodes · MSRP: $19.98 · Available March 25, 2008
Sasuke faces the brother he has longed vowed vengeance against, but finds that he is still no match for Itachi. Jiraiya steps in, but Sasuke has fallen into a deep coma, and the only one who can save him is the woman Jiraiya and Naruto seek – the legendary medical ninja, Tsunade. Their search takes them to a town festival, where after a little rest and relaxation, Jiraiya teaches Naruto a new, powerful jutsu – using water balloons and rubber balls!

NARUTO UNCUT BOX SET SPECIAL EDITION Volume 6
Rated “T+” for Older Teens · 3 DVDs, 14 Episodes · MSRP: $69.98 · Available February 12, 2008
This special set includes a limited edition; hand sculpted and painted collectible figure of Pakkun as well as an illustrated storyboard booklet.

NARUTO UNCUT BOX SET STANDARD EDITION Volume 6
Rated “T+” for Older Teens · 3 DVDs, 14 Episodes · MSRP: $49.98 · Available February 12, 2008
Sasuke returns at last to face Gaara in the final round of the Chunin Exam with his powerful new jutsu, Chidori. But the match is interrupted when Orochimaru’s scheme to bring down the Hidden Leaf Village is put into motion. While the Third Hokage faces his former protégé Orochimaru and his dreadful forbidden jutsu, Sasuke takes off after Gaara and the Sand Ninja, and Naruto, Sakura and Shikamaru take off after Sasuke. Will the ninja of Hidden Leaf survive the evil that has befallen them? (DVD-only collection of episodes from the hit series.)

DEATH NOTE

DEATH NOTE Volume 3 With Limited Edition Collector’s Figure
Rated “T+” for Older Teens · 4 Episodes · MSRP: $39.98 · Available February 19, 2008
For genius detective L, Light’s behavior is too perfect to be true, and to get closer to him, he enrolls at the same university and even invites Light into the investigation. The murders continue, but with a new twist – there appears to be a second Kira at work! L has Light pose as the original Kira in order to lure out the copycat, and Light agrees, hoping to divert suspicion from him. But he’s surprised to discover that this new Kira has an ability that even Light lacks. This set is available both as a standard, single disc edition, and also as a limited edition with a collectible figurine of L.

DEATH NOTE Volume 3 Standard Edition
Rated “T+” for Older Teens · 4 Episodes · MSRP: $24.98 · Available February 19, 2008
DVD-only collection of episodes from the hit series, no figure included.

PRINCE OF TENNIS

PRINCE OF TENNIS DVD BOX SET Volume 4
Rated “A” for All Ages · 3 DVDs, 13 Episodes · MSRP: $39.98 · Available Now!
The second half of the Metropolitan Matches begins! Kikumaru and Oishi start their doubles match against Yamabuki Junior High’s Higashikata and Minami. Oishi confronts the same pair that he was unable to beat in last year’s match. Sengoku counters Momoshiro’s signature dunk smash and the match slowly shift in his favor. Finally, Ryoma’s match with Akutsu from Yamabuki Junior High begins. With all the trouble Ryoma encountered with Akutsu a few days ago, everyone is worried for his safety.

RANMA ½

RANMA ½ SEASON 5: MARTIAL MAYHEM
Rated “T+” for Older Teens · 5 DVDs · MSRP: $49.98 · Available Now!

RANMA ½ SEASON 6: RANDOM RHAPSODY
Rated “T+” for Older Teens · 5 DVDs · MSRP: $49.98 · Available March 25, 2008
It’s not easy being teenage martial artist Ranma Saotome, but it’s even worse when your martial artist father takes you from home at an early age to go on a decade-long training mission. He doesn’t speak a word if Chinese, and yet he insists upon bringing you to a cursed training ground known as Jusenkyo, where falling into one of the many springs there instantly turns you into whoever, or whatever, drowned there last. And then, the two of you have this little accident… From now on a splash of cold water turns Ranma’s father into a giant panda, while the son turns into a red-haired (and problematically well-built) female version. Hot water reverses the effects, but only until the next time. What’s a half-guy, half-girl to do? Find out in the exciting fifth season of the timeless anime classic.

POKéMON

POKéMON SEASON ONE BOX SET, Volume 3
Rated “A” for All Ages · 3 DVDs · MSRP: $39.98 · Available February 12, 2008
Join Ash, Brock and Misty on their continuing quest to collect Pokémon, make friends, and battle their way to the Indigo League!

Death Note, Vol. 2

Distributed by Viz Media
100 minutes (4 episodes)

Synopsis
A shinigami (God of Death) by the name of Ryuk, bored of his humdrum existence, travels to earth, dropping his Death Note for someone to find. Someone does find it, namely a brilliant young boy named Light Yagami. After discovering he can use the Note to kill anyone by writing the time and means of their death in the book, Light sets out on a quest to purify the world of evil.

Not everyone views the random killings of people, criminals or not, as a good thing, and his activities quickly come under the investigation of the world’s greatest detective, a man known only as L. Now the two are engaged in a deadly game of cat and mouse as each attempts to ferret out the other’s identity. The four episodes on disc two cover Light’s attempts to evade detection as L narrows down the list of suspects until only two remain.

Storytelling/Characters
There’s a small group of regular characters that includes Light, L, the detectives in L’s group, and the shinigami Ryuk. Most of the series follows Light and L’s elaborate plots and counterplots, revealing their inner thoughts through lengthy monologues. Some minor characters get a surprisingly large amount of fleshing out as well, including Naomi Misora, a former FBI agent and fiancée to Raye Penber (a member of L’s investigative unit). Naomi especially comes across as an interesting and complex character in her brief time on screen.

But overall, it’s the intellectual dual between L and Light that dominates the story, and missing a single episode could result in you being quite lost and confused.

Animation/Visuals
Death Note is a dark and moody piece, with toned down colors, some simple but appealing character designs, and a visual style that creates an urban atmosphere tinged with the supernatural. The animators do some nifty tricks with the coloring as well, the most notable being the occasional switch over to brighter colors for hair and eyes. This technique is often used as a signal to help set internal monologue apart from the standard dialogue. For example, Light’s usually brown hair turns dark red when he’s contemplating a course of action or otherwise deep in thought planning his next move.

The animation is good enough and I didn’t notice any major problems with it. Then again, this series isn’t exactly a fast-paced action story; most of it consists of talking heads or walking scenes.

Voices/Music
While the English voice acting isn’t a dead match for the Japanese, it’s definitely one of the better dubs. No major complaints here, and highlights for me included Ryuk’s smokers cough laugh being nicely replicated in the English dub and Brad Swaile’s sadistic glee as he spits out Light’s dialogue.

The opening theme is a damn catchy tune that’s been stuck in my head for the last few days and shows no sign of leaving. Thankfully it’s a pretty decent metal-y song that does a good job at setting the tone for the series and even for Light’s ultimate goal. The rest of the music varies, but it always serves to enhance the mood, ranging from slightly odd and creepy to bombastic orchestra pieces that really gets you into… well… into watching Light write in a note book. Who knew that watching someone writing down names could be so gripping or dramatic?

Overall
Death Note is a nice break from the fight-oriented shonen series that currently dominate both the airwaves and the bookshelves. Folks used to dramatic battles that stretch out over episodes will probably be a bit disappointed at first, but given a chance I’d imagine that many will be sucked into the mental cat and mouse games characteristic of the series.

San Francisco, CA, January 22, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has provided details on an array of hot animated properties it plans to showcase at the 2008 National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE) Conference and Exhibition, taking place January 28-31 in Las Vegas, NV. VIZ Media will operate from Suites 7904 and 7906 at the Mandalay Bay Hotel, where the conference will be held.

The company will offer several new properties available for license, including NANA, BUSO RENKIN, HUNTER X HUNTER, NAOKI URUSAWA’s MONSTER, HONEY AND CLOVER, BLUE DRAGON as well as series such as DEATH NOTE, NARUTO, BLEACH, and DEKO BOKO FRIENDS, which have already established strong domestic followings.

NATPE is a global, non-profit organization dedicated to the creation, development and distribution of televised programming in all forms across all mature as well as emerging media platforms. The NATPE conference develops and nurtures opportunities, both commercial and educational, for the buying, selling and sharing of content and ideas.

“Japanese animation fulfills a variety of critical programming needs and VIZ Media continues to be a major force in licensing compelling content designed for every viewer demographic,” says William Germain, Director, Animation Production, VIZ Media. “This year’s NATPE Conference will present the opportunity to showcase new action properties aimed at tweens, adolescents and young adults with properties such as BUSO RENKIN, HUNTER X HUNTER, BLUE DRAGON, and NAOKI URUSAWA’s MONSTER, and will also feature also more romantically-themed titles like NANA and HONEY AND CLOVER, which will extend the popularity of shojo manga, or comics for girls, to the broadcast arena. The interest in Japanese animation continues to be strong from broadcasters both domestically and abroad, as witnessed by the popularity of shows like NARUTO, DEATH NOTE and BLEACH, and we look forward to welcoming a global audience of key buyers and executives at this year’s conference.”

NANA
Author: Ai Yazawa
Broadcast runtime: 30min - 50 Episodes
Rating: TV 14 (Anticipated)

Twenty-year-old Nana Komatsu has endured an unending string of boyfriend problems. Moving to Tokyo, she’s hoping to take control of her life and put her capricious love life behind her. Singer Nana Osaki arrives in Tokyo at the same time, with plans to kick down the doors to Tokyo’s rock ’n’ roll scene. Though from completely different backgrounds, the two Nanas meet and become best friends in a whirlwind world of love, music, fashion, gossip, and all-night parties!
(Not available in Europe)

BUSO RENKIN
Author: Nobuhiro Watsuki
Broadcast runtime: 30 min - 26 Episodes
Rating: TV 14 (Anticipated)

Alchemist Warrior Tokiko Tsumura comes to Ginsei City and uses herself as bait for the homunculi, artificial life forms that lurk in the darkness to devour unsuspecting humans. Unaware of Tokiko’s intentions, high school student Kazuki Muto tries to save her and is killed in the process. Tokiko restores Kazuki’s life with an alchemic talisman called a “kakugane,” and now he fights at Tokiko’s side to save his friends.

HUNTER X HUNTER
Author: Yoshihiro Togashi
Broadcast runtime: 30 min - 62 Episodes
Rating: TV 14 (Anticipated)

Being a “Hunter” is a profession. A person who tracks down people, searches for treasure and explores lands of mystery. A person that protects the order of mankind and nature is called a “hunter.” HUNTER X HUNTER depicts the fantastic adventures of Gon, the son of a famous Hunter. Wanting to follow in his father’s footsteps, young Gon works hard to learn how to seek treasure and master Nen, a mysterious power. But in order to truly become like his father and a licensed Hunter, Gon must pass the arduous and dangerous Hunter Exam. It is said that only one in hundreds of thousands can pass the test. Now Gon sets out on a dangerous and exciting adventure to become a great Hunter like his father. HUNTER X HUNTER is based on a popular manga comic, (rated T+ for Older Teens) by Yoshihiro Togashi, which is also published domestically by VIZ Media. The HUNTER X HUNTER series has developed a fanatical following in Japan, selling more than 44 million copies, and spawned several original video features and an array of video games and trading cards in addition to the animated series.

NAOKI URUSAWA’S MONSTER
Author: Naoki Urasawa
Broadcast runtime: 30 min - 75 episodes
Rating: TV 14 (Anticipated)

Brilliant doctor Kenzo Tenma risks his reputation and promising career to save the life of a critically wounded young boy instead of a politician’s. Nine years later, the child has grown into a serial killer… Can Kenzo stop him? Or will he make another fatal decision?

Conspiracies, serial murders, and a scathing depiction of the underbelly of hospital politics are all masterfully woven together in this compelling thriller!

HONEY AND CLOVER
Author: Chica Umino
Broadcast runtime: 30 min - 38 episodes
Rating: TV 14 (Anticipated)

Based on the bestselling shôjo manga comic by Chica Umino, HONEY AND CLOVER is a romantic comedy that focuses on five college students and the art school they attend. When talented painter Hagumi Hanamoto enrolls in the program, her presence and unique approach to art affects the entire school and her new friends.

The plot thickens as Hagumi becomes embroiled in a complicated love triangle as she struggles to find her artistic voice. HONEY AND CLOVER showcases the journey that everyone must take to transform from adolescence into adulthood and the long and challenging road these five young people must navigate to balance the demands of school, work, and love. The English version of the HONEY AND CLOVER manga graphic novel is currently serialized in VIZ Media’s SHOJO BEAT magazine. VIZ Media is also set to publish the title as a self-contained comic in March 2008.

BLUE DRAGON
Concept based on the Xbox 360 game “BLUE DRAGON”, Character Design by Akira Toriyama
Broadcast runtime: 30 min - 51 episodes
Rating: TV Y7FV (Anticipated)

BLUE DRAGON features characters designed by Akira Toriyama, the creator of the best-selling DRAGON BALL series of manga (which is published in North America by VIZ Media and featured in SHONEN JUMP Magazine). The anime series is produced by Studio Pierrot, which is well known for its work on NARUTO and BLEACH, also licensed by VIZ Media. The Xbox 360 video game “BLUE DRAGON” was developed by Hironobu Sakaguchi (the creator of Final Fantasy) has already established itself in Japan as one of Microsoft’s hottest releases in the RPG category. The BLUE DRAGON animated series is a classic adventure story of magical Shadow powers, flying air fortresses, and unbounded heroism. Brought together by fate, Seven Soldiers of Light must awaken the Shadow within themselves in time to overcome a despotic power and bring peace to their land. Their ensuing journey through a rich fantasy world is also an internal journey to awaken the great power within each of them. Journey with them into the world of BLUE DRAGON!

DEATH NOTE
Story by Tsugumi Ohba, Art by Takeshi Obata
Broadcast runtime: 30 min - 37 Episodes
Rating: TV 14

DEATH NOTE is based on the Shueisha graphic novel series of the same name (rated T+ for Older Teens and published in North America by VIZ Media) and is currently one of the hottest animated titles in Japan. The series follows the adventures of Light Yagami, an ace student with great prospects but who is bored out of his mind. All of that changes when he finds the Death Note, a strange notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god named Ryuk. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil. But when criminals mysteriously begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to track down the killer. With L hot on his heels, will Light lose sight of his noble goal - or his life?

NARUTO
Author: Masashi Kishimoto
Broadcast runtime: 30 min - 220 Episodes
Rating: TV PG

The NARUTO series depicts the adventures of a young boy named Naruto Uzumaki who trains to become a ninja. Naruto, cursed with the spirit of The Nine-Tailed Fox 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. Today, NARUTO is considered one of the most popular animated series in Japan and has also drawn millions of fans in North America. It continues to achieve immense international success not only as a graphic novel and TV title, but also in the realm of licensed categories such as toys, trading cards and video games.

BLEACH
Author: Tite Kubo
Broadcast runtime: 30 min – 104 Episodes
Rating: TV 14

Ichigo Kurosaki is an ordinary 15-year-old boy who happens to be able to see ghosts. His fate takes an extraordinary turn when he meets Rukia Kuchiki, a Soul Reaper who shows up at Ichigo’s house on the trail of a Hollow, a malevolent lost soul. Drawn to Ichigo’s high level of spiritual energy, the Hollow attacks Ichigo and his family, and Rukia steps in to help but is injured and unable to fight. As a last resort, Rukia decides to transfer part of her Soul Reaper powers to Ichigo. Ichigo, now a full-fledged Soul Reaper, and Rukia, minus her powers, join together to face the challenges that lie ahead. BLEACH is based on a popular graphic novel comic (rated T+ for Older Teens) by Tite Kubo which is also published domestically by VIZ Media.

DEKO BOKO FRIENDS
Author: Momoko Maruyama & Ryotaro Kuwamoto
Broadcast runtime: 30 sec - 234 Episodes
Rating: TV Y

DEKO BOKO FRIENDS is positioned as an educational and fun animated series for preschoolers and consists of 30-second animated shorts that feature 12 unique characters that help teach children about diversity and tolerance. The characters and messages are heartwarming and positive and have been embraced by parents and children alike.

About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, DVDs and audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com .