Animanga Nation

Written by: Ai Kano

I always knew I was a robot of some kind.

I mean, how can you explain the sensory overload I experienced today when I got a look at the upcoming manga releases by VIZ Media? Their announcements in today’s panel was overwhelming (but in a good way) and all the upcoming titles including continued favorites had my head spinning (again, in a good way).

Here’s a list of upcoming releases. Mama likes. Mama likes very much.

NEW MANGA RELEASES

* One Piece  – VIZ will release the One Piece series a lot more quickly now much like the recent outpouring of Naruto volumes. That’s very good news, indeed.

* BLEACH, Vol. 28 is scheduled to be released on September 1 while Volume 29 will arrive sometime this December.

* Waqwaq, Vol. 1  – This manga comes from the mind of Ryo Fujsaki and will be released on August 4, 2009.

* Tegami Bachi, Vol. 1  – Expect this one to come out on Sept. 1, 2009.

* Yu-Gi-Oh! R, Vol. 1  – With an October 6, 2009 release date and the first print will include a special card as well.

* Rosario + Vampire: Season Two, Vol. 1  – We love Rosario + Vampire here at the office so we’re looking forward to this one April, 6, 2010.

*InuYasha, Vol. 1 (VIZBIG)  – Oh yeah, the VIZBIG edition of InuYasha is headed our way on November, 10, 2009 with a retail price tag of $17.99. We cannot wait!

* Nana, Vol. 17  – The 17th volume will land on July 7, 2009. Yes!

SHOJO BEAT RELEASES

* Beast Master, Vol. 1  – This one has us excited ever since we heard of it. Clive thinks it’s based on the campy 1980s movie and even more embarrasing television series but it’s not … sorry Clive. We can expect the first volume of this unusual and interesting love story this November 3, 2009.

* The Gentleman’s Alliance + the Illustrated Book   -  It’s an art book based on a really great manga favorite. Fans can buy it on November 17, 2009.

* Butterflies, Flowers, Vol. 1  – Rated Mature, we can expect this mature manga December 12, 2009.

* Natsume’s Book of Friends, Vol. 1  -  Please put us on your friend’s list, Natsume. This one comes out January 5, 2010.

* Crown of Love, Vol. 1  – This one has a release date of Feb. 2, 2010.

* Cactus’s Secret, Vol. 1 – The first volume is headed our way March 2, 2010.

* Stepping on Roses, Vol. 1 -  Release Date: April 6, 2010.

* Flower in the Storm, Vol. 1  – This is one flower we will be happy to pick on May 4, 2010.

VIZ SIGNATURE

* Pluto  – Sci-fi goodness coming May 4, 2010.

* 20th Century Boys  – Our kind of boys, if you ask me. Expect this one in August of this year.

*Real, Vol. 5  – Keeping it real this July 21, 2009.

* Detriot Metal City, Vol. 1  – Available in stores right now.

* Ooku: The Inner Chambers, Vol. 1  – Coming this August 18, 2009 with a rating of M for Mature.

*What A Wonderful World, Vol. 1 and Vol. 2  – Both on sale on October 20, 2009 and we will definitely check it out for you guys.

* GoGo Monster, Vol. 1  – This one comes out November 17, 2009.

*Jormungand, Vol. 1 – Release Date: November 10, 2009.

* All My Darlings, Vol. 1 – Headed our way on November 10, 2009.

* not simple  – This one had us at “not” so we will definitely check it out this  Jan. 19, 2010.

* Biomega, Vol. 1  – This sci-fi manga is coming on Feb. 9, 2010.

*Children of the Sea, Vol. 1  – We saw the trailer and we want it badly. This one is scheduled to be released on July 21 of this year. We will definitely have a review of this one.

So there you have it, manga fans. VIZ Media has us covered and we’re loving it. Check with us for more news and info as well as reviews of these great titles headed our way.

Written by: Edward Zacharias

While Bandai showcased a number of amazing anime releases complete with their trailers, they also made plenty of announcements in terms of their manga line. A lot of the new releases are inspired by familiar anime series and that’s not a bad thing considering the Gurren Lagaan manga translated surprisingly well.

Anyway, here’s the scoop of the latest upcoming releases headed our way:

MANGA RELEASES

* Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion = Expect more volumes of the manga but also expect some light novels including spin-offs such as books centered on Suzaku and a few about Lelouch’s sister (a what if she wasn’t blind and possessed the Geass power).

* Gurren Lagann, Vol. 2 = Will be released this month!

* Lucky Star, Vol. 1 = On sale now!

* Mobile Suit Gundam 00, Vol. 1  = Will be released this August with another related volume featuring a side story with some familiar faces headed this October.

* The Girl Who Leapt Through Time  = A manga based on one of my personal favorite anime films. There was no official release date but it will be worth the wait, we’re told.

* Eureka Seven (Omnibus) = This is the re-release of Eureka Seven the manga since it was a such a big hit and the first editions went quickly out of print. The Omnibus will feature Volumes 1-3. There’s no official release date given but it is expect to be released this summer.

* Witchblade Takero, Vol. 1 and Vol. 2  = Both volume 1 and volume 2 will be released at the same time so you won’t have to wait very long for the second volume of this popular Top Cow series.

That’s about it in the manga front but we’re already salivating at getting our hands on these titles.

Written by: Ai Kano

Among the special guests of honor that came to AX 2009 is Yun Kouga, the brilliant manga artist behind such manga titles like Earthian, Yousei Jiken and current fan favorite Loveless. She’s also the character designer for Mobile Suit Gundam 00.

During her panel, Kouga-sensei encouraged all her fans in attendance to ask her any question and it’s not surprising that an overwhelming number of questions were about Loveless. Our small Q&A with Kouga-sensei went as following:

Ai: What was your thought process when you came up with Loveless?

Kouga: I came up with it because it was a long time since I written a story about a boy.

Ai: Will the series stay more a shoujo title or will it eventually become yaoi?

Kouga: I would like to take the series in a more “hardcore” yaoi direction than in the past. It all depends on a number of factors, though, but this is what I would like.

Ai: Are you happy with the way Loveless is printed here in the States? (a panel guest also asked this question and mentioned the translated sound effects versus the original sound effects).

Kouga: I would like for the series to stay as close to my vision as possible.

Kouga-sensei was astonished how many yaoi fans were in attendance and asked if they would like an original yaoi title penned by her. Judging by the overwhelming positive response, she felt encouraged enough to announce that she might just think about creating another title. That’s something to look forward to, yaoi fans.

April 2009 Issue Covers Visual Arts And Techniques Taught By Leading Manga Creators Well As Fashion, Crafts And More

 

San Francisco, CA, March 11, 2009

 

The special April 2009 Art Issue of SHOJO BEAT, a continual favorite with readers takes a broad approach to art, focusing not only on visual arts but also fashion, crafts, and cooking. “The Fine Art of Kawaii” spotlights five key Japanese artists who have captured the often elusive cutting-edge of cute. “Manga Art Schooled” analyzes the varied and distinctive art styles of five master shojo manga creators including Matsuri Hino (VAMPIRE KNIGHT), Arina Tanemura (The Gentlemen’s Alliance †, FULL MOON), and the talented female artists who compose CLAMP (X/1999). Readers and budding artists can gain tremendous insight into each of these artists’ styles and understand and apply these unique techniques to their own work. Finally, “Cooking: Feast for Your Eyes” will offer up 10 easy and creative tips for artistic food plating.

 

“We are excited to present SHOJO BEAT’s annual Art Issue knowing the tremendous interest it generates among our very creative readers,” says Narasu Rebbapragada, Senior Editor, Shojo Beat Magazine. “Research has shown that SHOJO BEAT readers draw regularly or are similarly creatively inclined, so we‘re confident that this year’s issue combining fun and savvy articles will again be a huge success!”

 

The issue also contains an exclusive preview of Rinko Ueda’s TAIL OF THE MOON PREQUEL: THE OTHER HANZO(U), whose story is a prelude to the popular romantic ninja comedy TAIL OF THE MOON.

 

For more information on Shojo Beat magazine, which is rated T+ for older teens, please visit www.ShojoBeat.com.

 

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-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Africa and is a global ex-Asia licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, and DVDs, and develops, markets, licenses, and distributes animated entertainment 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.

Unique Edition Features 11 Full-Cover Posters Inspired By Smash Hit Animated And Manga Series And Features 2 Original Creations Made Exclusively For This Release.

San Francisco, California, November 10, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced the upcoming release of a special BLEACH Posterzine, which features 11 massive full-color posters inspired by the smash hit manga and animated series (rated ‘T’ for Teens) created by Tite Kubo.

Available exclusively through participating newstands nationwide beginning December 2nd, the Posterzine carries an MSRP of $9.99 and includes two original creations made especially for this unique release. Each poster in the collection folds out to 16″ X 22″ and depicts the heroic Soul Reaper Ichigo and his friends as well as villains rendered in beautiful detail. This special publication will also include 2 free BLEACH sticker sheets and an iTunes gift card valid for a free download of episode 59 of the popular BLEACH animated series and access to an interview with the creator of BLEACH Tite Kubo (iTunes gift card valid in the United States only).

BLEACH follows the story of Ichigo Kurosaki, a fifteen-year old student with the ability 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, join together to face the challenges that lie ahead.

Christopher Boily, VIZ Media Sr. Director, Magazines Sales, Brand & Production Marketing, says the release, “Building upon the incredible momentum and excitment which surrounded the first ever North American appearance of creator Tite Kubo at San Diego Comic-Con, we’re ecstatic to release this special collectable BLEACH Posterzine, which features two amazing images created exclusively for this publication by Studio Pierrot, which animates and produces the massively popular animated series. We look forward to fans visiting their local newstand to pick up this special release!”

BLEACH is a tremendously successful multimedia property internationally. The manga has been liscensed to more than a dozen countries, and over 50 million copies have been printed in Japan alone. In North America it is among the most popular titles in SHONEN JUMP Magazine reaching close to 2 million fans each month, the manga graphic novels have been a sales hit and the popular animated series 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.

More information on BLEACH is available at www.bleach.viz.com.

 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 liscensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan, Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Production, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, South Africa and is a global ex-Asia licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, and DVDs, and develops, markets, licenses, and distributed animated entertainment 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 website at www.viz.com.

NEPHYLYM, MAMORU THE SHADOW PROTECTOR & THE FOUR CONSTABLES AVAILABLE NOW!

SAN JOSE, CA – September 2008 – DrMaster Publications has announced the release of the new fantasy-action manga Nephylym vol. 1 by Rei Kusakabe, Mamoru the Shadow Protector vol. 2, the comedy manga series by Sai Madara, and The Four Constables-Secret of the Delirium Dagger vol. 2, the kung fu action-packed, brilliantly colored manhua series by Andy Seto and Tony Wong.

 

Nephylym vol. 1

Shun has a unique power to electrically charge metal materials. A mysterious winged angel-like being named Air picks up on his powers and chooses him to become her partner, thus enhancing Shun’s powers. Shun soon finds out that his classmate Sanari (the class hottie), also has a winged angel partner of her own, named Blissful. She explains to Shun that these beings are called Nephylym, and they choose suitable humans to be their “Answerers” to help them purify evil elements (Noirs). Together with Sanari and Tsukasa (Shun’s rival in love and an Answerer as well), they battle alongside their Nephylym against Noir that possess human beings.

 

Mamoru the Shadow Protector vol. 2

Mamoru Kagemori is a dull high school boy who’s not handsome, athletic, or intelligent. But he is actually the eldest son of the 400-year-old Ninja clan specializing in protecting their neighbors, the Konnyakus. And the object of Mamoru’s protection is none other than their only daughter, Yuna Konnyaku, a natural born accident-prone troublemaker. When Yuna enters an idol contest and makes it to the finals, despite her hilariously bizarre performance, Mamoru has to go all out with his ninja skills in order to fend off perverted judges and crazed fans! But if Yuna becomes an idol will Mamoru still be able to protect her?

 

The Four Constables-Secret of the Delirium Dagger vol. 2

Emotionless and Yuan-Shan Lan are engulfed in an intense battle, when they discover a spy with evil intentions… While Iron Fist and Cold Blooded fight for their lives as they get closer to finding the evil mastermind behind all the vicious killings. Who is he? And what machinations does he have planned? The plot thickens as more secrets are revealed… You don’t want miss out on all the kung fu fighting action!

 

Availability

Nephylym vol. 1, Mamoru the Shadow Protector vol. 2, and The Four Constables-Secret of the Delirium Dagger vol. 2 are ALL AVAILABLE NOW. Nephylym vol. 1 and Mamoru the Shadow Protector vol. 2 are each priced at $9.95. The Four Constables-Secret of the Delirium Dagger vol. 2 is fully-colored and will be priced at $13.95.

       

About DrMaster Publications Inc.:

DrMaster Publications Inc. is a uniquely quirky publishing company that was started in 2004. Specializing in bringing interesting graphic novels from Japan and China, across the Pacific for American audiences, DrMaster Publications offers a myriad of titles to cater to its various niche readers. The company is what some may call a boutique publisher, which tailors each its titles to suit every reader’s unique desires. Ranging from side-splitting comedies and heart-wrenching dramas to explosive action adventures and enchanting fantasies, DrMaster books provide a glimpse into a new realm as seen through the eyes of the authors and artists. You don’t just read a DrMaster book-it jolts you to life, as you are propelled through the pages.

 

Please visit www.drmasterbooks.com for information on our current and upcoming titles. And feel free to tour the site. Regular updates will follow as our line of “masterful” comic series expands.

 

About DGN Productions International:

DGN Productions (Digital Graphic Novel Productions) is a newly-formed production company and studio made up of industry veterans within the comics and video game industries. Through strategic licensing of key comic book titles and the use of recognized industry professionals within the fields of animation and video game development, DGN Pro. Intl. is dedicated to producing cutting-edge video games, comics and animated features adapted from some the biggest and brightest in Hong Kong, Japanese and Korean comic book properties. DGN Productions Intl. was founded June 2004 and is based in Fremont, California.

Nephylym volume 1

ISBN: 978-1-59796-181-3

Price: $9.95

Availabilty: 09/28/2008

Mamoru the Shadow Protector volume 2

ISBN: 978-1-59796-184-4

Price: $9.95

Availabilty: 09/28/2008

 

The Four Constables: Secret of the Delirium Dagger volume 2

ISBN: 978-1-59796-129-5

Price: $13.95

Availabilty: 09/28/2008

 

 

Five Highly Anticipated New Titles Announced Including

TIME STRANGER KYOKO, SHORT-TEMPERED MELANCHOLIC, SUGAR PRINCESS, MIXED VEGETABLES And WANTED  

 

San Francisco, CA, August 21, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced five new shojo manga (graphic novel for girls) titles set to debut throughout the Third Quarter.

 

Published under the company’s popular Shojo Beat imprint, the new series include TIME STRANGER KYOKO, SHORT-TEMPERED MELANCHOLIC AND OTHER STORIES, SUGAR PRINCES: SKATING TO WIN, MIXED VEGETABLES and WANTED.

 

“The debut of these latest shojo manga series features a variety of romantic stories set against an array of interesting backdrops that range from time travel to ice skating to cooking to pirates!” says Gonzalo Ferreyra, Vice President, Sales & Product Marketing, VIZ Media. “Fans will be excited to explore these intriguing new stories from renowned manga artists such as Arina Tanemura, who created The Gentlemen’s Alliance † and FULL MOON, Hisaya Nakajo, the creator of HANA KIMI, and Matsuri Hino, who created the popular gothic drama VAMPIRE KNIGHT. As the popularity of shojo manga continues, readers won’t want to miss these exciting new series by some of the genre’s most acclaimed and innovative artists and creators.”

 

TIME STRANGER KYOKO · Rated “T+” for Older Teens ·

MSRP: $8.99 US / $10.50 CAN · Available Now!

Kyoko Suomi is the Princess of Earth in the 30^th century but she lives among the commoners, unwilling to reveal her true identity and ascend to the throne. Her father the King will only allow Kyoko to live as she pleases if she can revive her twin sister Ui, who has been trapped in time since birth. To do this Kyoko must find 12 holy stones and 12 telepaths to move the clock that has stopped time for her sister. TIME STRANGER KYOKO was created by Arina Tanemura, who began her manga career in 1996 when her short stories debuted in Japan’s Ribon magazine. She first gained fame with the 1997 publication of I•O•N, a high school romance with a supernatural twist that is also published domestically by VIZ Media. Tanemura worked on the popular series Kamikaze Kaito Jeanne, about a young girl who is the reincarnation of Joan of Arc, followed by Time Stranger Kyoko, The Gentlemen’s Alliance †, and FULL MOON (all published domestically by VIZ Media). TIME STRANGER KYOKO has also been previewed in SHOJO BEAT magazine.

 

SHORT-TEMPERED MELANCHOLIC AND OTHER STORIES · Rated “T” for Teens · MSRP: $8.99 US / $10.50 CAN · Available Now!

A new collection of four unique short stories from famed mangaka Arina Tanemura! Kajika Yamano is a female ninja whose job is to protect her family’s legendary weapon. But when a boy she has a crush on tells her she should be more ladylike, she vows to give up all her ninja activities. In “This Love is Nonfiction” Yuri sends her pen pal Ryo a picture of herself – but it’s really of her best friend Karin, who she feels is much prettier. Now Ryo wants to meet, so she has no choice but to send Karin instead! In “Rainy Afternoons Are for Romantic Heroines” Minori falls in love with Takato, a boy who shared his umbrella with her one rainy afternoon. Now she “forgets” her umbrella every time it rains in hopes of catching the boy’s attention. The final story, “The Style of the Second Love” presents a girl named Mana who secretly likes her friend’s boyfriend, but Nakamura, a younger boy, is determined to win Mana’s heart.

 

SUGAR PRINCESS: SKATING TO WIN · Rated “A” for ALL AGES ·

MSRP: $8.99 US / $10.50 CAN · Available Now!

Maya Kurinoki is an 8^th grader who has no experience ice-skating but seems to have natural talent. She performs a double axel and impresses a scout named Eishi Todo, who tells her that he can make her a skating “princess.” But Todo also tells Maya that she’ll have to convince the famous skater Shun Kano to coach her and become her skating partner. But unfortunately for Maya, Shun only wants to skate singles. Will she be able to change his mind? SUGAR PRINCESS: SKATING TO WIN was created by Hisaya Nakajo’s who also created the hit manga series HANA KIMI (published domestically by VIZ Media). SUGAR PRINCESS: SKATING TO WIN was recently previewed in the July 2008 issue of Shojo Beat magazine.

 

MIXED VEGETABLES · Rated “T” for TEENS · MSRP: $8.99 US / $10.50 CAN · Available September 2, 2008

A new culinary manga series by Ayumi Komura, MIXED VEGETABLES introduces readers to Hanayu Ashitaba, daughter of the family that runs the celebrated Patisserie Ashitaba. Despite her famous lineage all she wants to be is a top-notch sushi chef. Meanwhile, Hayato Hyuga is the son of the prestigious Sushi Hyuga, and all he wants to do is be a pastry chef! It’s love and leftovers at the Oikawa High School Cooking Department as these star-crossed gourmets do their best to reach their cuisine dreams! Hanayu knows that it will break her parents’ hearts if she defects from the bakery to become a sushi chef. But if she marries into a sushi family, they’ll have to understand her decision. Now she just has to get Hayato Hyuga interested, and what better way than to wow him with her cooking skills! MIXED VEGTABLES will captivate fans of dramatic cooking shows like Iron Chef and Hell’s Kitchen and follows a notable legacy of culinary manga series such as YAKITATE JAPAN! (also published by VIZ Media). The series features clean and energetic artwork and strongly developed characters as well as a comprehensive glossary of interesting cultural and cooking terms and detailed notes by the author. MIXED VEGETABLES was edited for domestic release by noted food writer Stephanie Lucianovic.

 

WANTED · Rated “T+” for TEENS · MSRP: $8.99 US / $10.50 CAN · Available September 2, 2008

WANTED is the latest series by Matsuri Hino (creator of VAMPIRE KNIGHT and MERU PURI, both published domestically by VIZ Media). In the Mediterranean at end of the 17^th century, former songstress Armeria disguises herself as a boy and boards a ship belonging to the pirate Skulls – the evil man who kidnapped Luce, her first love. Captain Skulls is arrogant, violent, and a skirt chaser! And unfortunately for Armeria, he discovers she’s really a woman. Now she must fend off his advances while trying to find her beloved. WANTED is previewed in the new August issue of SHOJO BEAT magazine. Artist and creator Matsuri Hino first captured attention with her debut manga, WHEN THIS DREAM IS OVER, which was published in Japan in LaLa DX magazine. With the success of that, and her other popular series CAPTIVE HEARTS (to be published by VIZ Media November 2008), and MERU PURI, Hino has established herself as a major creative force in the world of shojo manga. Her gothic series VAMPIRE KNIGHT is also currently serialized in SHOJO BEAT magazine and published by VIZ Media.

 

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-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Africa and is a global ex-Asia licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, and DVDs, and develops, markets, licenses, and distributes animated entertainment 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.

Rounding Out the Takehiko Inoue Releases -

 The Critically Acclaimed VAGABOND Published Under The VIZBIG Imprint

 

San Francisco, CA, August 19, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced the publication of a diverse new collection of manga (graphic novel) and art books by famed artist/creator Takehiko Inoue.

 

The new titles include the manga series REAL (rated T+ for Older Teens) and SLAM DUNK (rated T for Teens), which depict the sport of basketball in two vastly different but equally exciting ways, as well as the publication of SUMI and WATER, a pair of lavishly illustrated art books that capture the essence of Inoue’s techniques in black and white and color.

 

Takehiko Inoue is a skilled artist whose intricately detailed and lifelike visual style has raised the manga genre to a new level. He has been the recipient of numerous awards including the prestigious Tezuka Osamu Culture Award and the Media Arts Festival Award. Inoue’s highly acclaimed series VAGABOND (Rated M for Mature audiences and published domestically by VIZ Media) is a fictional account based on the life of legendary 17^th century samurai Miyamoto Musashi. Without question, his most successful work to date is SLAM DUNK, which has sold more than 100 million copies worldwide. VIZ Media complements this release of SLAM DUNK with the debut of REAL, a riveting manga series about the sport of wheelchair basketball. Inoue is a self-professed fan of basketball and also worked on the character designs for the PlayStation video game One On One among others. SLAM DUNK has been credited with introducing basketball to millions of Japanese readers.  Legions have taken up the sport after becoming captivated by Inoue’s series.

 

REAL · Rated “T+” for Older Teens · MSRP: $12.99 US / $15.99 CAN ·

Available Now!

REAL is a gritty drama that offers a unique twist on the sports manga genre as it focuses on wheelchair basketball. A motorcycle accident, bone cancer, and a speeding truck crashing into a boy on a stolen bicycle all present tragic, life-changing events that turn the worlds of three young men upside down in this gripping new series. These three characters with very different personalities have only one thing in common – their passion for basketball.

SLAM DUNK · Rated “T” for Teens · MSRP: $7.99 US / $9.50 CAN ·

Available September 2, 2008

SLAM DUNK is the highly anticipated 31-volume basketball drama that has been a smash hit in Japan. Sakuragi Hanamichi’s got no game with girls – none at all! It doesn’t help that he’s known for throwing down at a moment’s notice. A hopeless bruiser, he’s been rejected by 50 girls in a row! All that changes when he meets the girl of his dreams, Haruko, and she’s actually not afraid of him! When she introduces him to the game of basketball, his life is changed forever. Selected volumes of SLAM DUNK features a profile of a specific NBA player, their stats, and their signature on-court move. The profiles begin with Volume 1, which features the Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James and his signature move, the Slam Dunk as a bonus excerpt. 

 

VAGABOND VIZBIG Volume 1 · Rated “M” for Mature Audiences ·

MSRP: $19.99 US / $23.50 CAN · Available September 16, 2008

VIZ Media is re-releasing VAGABOND in the VIZBIG format featuring three volumes in one oversized edition with bonus content and new cover art. Bonus features in Volume 1 include character concept sketches, interview with Takehiko Inoue and special author comments not previously included in previously published manga from VIZ Media. Graphic novel aficionados who are just discovering Takehiko Inoue’s work will be able to enjoy his art in the larger trim size (5.75” X 8.25”) while existing fans will appreciate the added bonuses included in this particular volume. The schedule for the single volume editions of VAGABOND will continue with the publication of Volume 28 in October 2008.

 

SUMI: VAGABOND ILLUSTRATION COLLECTION · MSRP: $34.99 US / $39.99 CAN ·

Available September 16, 2008

This gorgeous oversized (8.86″ X 11.42″) art book captures Inoue’s magnificent pen and brush work in black and white. It will include a behind-the-scenes look at VAGABOND with rough sketches and photos of Inoue’s studio.

 

WATER: VAGABOND ILLUSTRATION COLLECTION · MSRP: $34.99 US / $39.99 CAN · Available September 16, 2008

WATER captures Inoue’s masterful work in color and contains artwork only published in this volume. Oversized (8.86″ X 11.42″) contains dozens of lush watercolor depictions of samurai Miyamoto Musashi in various garments and settings.

 

“Takehiko Inoue’s skill as both an artist and dramatic storyteller have catapulted him to the uppermost echelon of Japan’s manga artists,” says Alvin Lu, Vice President Publishing, VIZ Media. “His samurai action series, VAGABOND, first introduced his flair for historically-based sagas to domestic readers and his dynamic and realistic style shines in a completely different arena with the debuts of REAL and SLAM DUNK. Readers will delight in Inoue’s comprehensive knowledge of the sport of basketball and tributes to many great NBA players. The further release of THE ART OF VAGABOND: SUMI and WATER showcase Inoue’s pure skill as an artist and will be a must-have for serious fans of this celebrated series.”

 

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-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Africa and is a global ex-Asia licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, and DVDs, and develops, markets, licenses, and distributes animated entertainment 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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Los Angeles, August 12, 2008) – Digital Manga Inc, one of the industry’s most unconventional and innovative companies, is pleased to announce the launch of emanga.com Beta – the industry’s first publisher sponsored manga rental site. “We are pretty excited,” explains marketing manager Rachel Livingston. “Everyone asks if we do digital comics since our name is

 

 

Digital

Manga. I can finally say yes!”

At emanga.com, customers can view sample pages for free or view the entire book by paying for a time-based rental. “All content available through eManga is streamed to your computer through Adobe Flash player,” explains Director of Operations Miguel

 

 

Balauag, “You can trade eManga points to

rent titles for a limited amount of time. If you later decide to rent the same title again, it will be automatically upgraded to an “unlimited” rental, which does not have time restrictions.”

The emanga.com site features a unique manga viewer that allows readers to view single pages, double page spreads, or each individual panel. In some cases, readers will be able to press play and have the panels scroll automatically for a hands free experience. “We are trying to get some of the people in the office to do voiceovers for a few of the titles,” teases Production Manager Wendy Lee. “With the player, the possibilities are endless!”

The site will be in beta testing for the next month. Readers are invited to take a look at the free samples currently available on the site – including L’ Étoile Solitaire by Yuno Ogami – and email us at

 

 

support@emanga.com with any comments or feedback. The first 100 readers to register will receive 400 free points with which to purchase additional content.

About Digital Manga, Inc.

Digital Manga, Inc. (DMI) specializes in building corporate and cultural bridges from Japan to the Western Hemisphere – specifically through the licensing, importation and preparation of anime (Japanese animation), manga (Japanese comic books) and related merchandise for the North American mainstream and subculture markets. In this capacity, DMI serves as a catalyst for the expansion of Japanese pop-culture institutions into global arenas.

Historic Collaboration Bridges

 Western And Eastern Popular Comic And Graphic Novel Traditions

 

San Francisco, CA, August 5, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, in conjunction with Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment (PK:POWN) has announced the North American debut of the exciting Prologue Chapter of ULTIMO in the September 2008 issue of SHONEN JUMP magazine, which hits retail outlets nationwide on August 5 for $4.99. ULTIMO is the result of a historic collaboration between comics legend Stan Lee, creator of many iconic superheroes including Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, and the X-Men, and Hiroyuki Takei, the creator of the popular SHAMAN KING manga (graphic novel) series.

 

The ULTIMO story: High above Farmless City, citizens are stunned by the sudden appearance of two floating figures. Are they human boys, monolithic robots, or something much more strange? As the battle ensues between them, destruction and devastation falls on the hapless city. One figure is Vice, and seems to be as evil as his name implies. The other is Ultimo, intent on trying to stop Vice from wreaking more havoc. But who are Vice and Ultimo really? Where did they come from? A new mystery begins with the fate of the world possibly hanging in the balance! The ULTIMO Prologue Chapter recently debuted in a special standalone issue Jump SQ. published by the Japanese manga magazine Jump SQ., the sibling publication of Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump, which is historically the best-selling manga magazine in Japan.

 

“Wow!  This is just what I’ve been waiting for!” says an excited Stan Lee.  “For the very first time I’m able to create superheroes in the fantastic Japanese manga style thanks to my lucky partnership with the great Hiroyuki Takei.  What a kick it’ll be to join Hiroyuki-san in offering brand new, action packed stories to an army of readers in both the Eastern and Western worlds!”

 

“Word of ULTIMO’s development and subsequent debut in Japan led many domestic fans to wonder when they would get a chance to read it so we’re very excited to offer the North American debut in the upcoming September issue of SHONEN JUMP,” says SHONEN JUMP Editor-in-Chief Marc Weidenbaum. “ULTIMO was developed as a true collaboration with Stan Lee sending his initial story idea to Takei-san, who developed artwork and characters and reworked the plot to fit into the Japanese manga storytelling style. The result is something extremely compelling and we invite everyone to check out this historic release in our upcoming issue!”

 

For over half a century, Stan Lee has been synonymous with superhero comics. In addition to creating countless memorable series and characters, including Spider-Man, the Incredible Hulk, the Fantastic Four, the X-Men and Daredevil, he served as the former president and chairman of Marvel Comics. Lee remains a hugely respected and dynamic figure in the entertainment industry and continues to develop a variety of film, television and video game properties.

 

Unconventional author/artist Hiroyuki Takei began his career by winning the coveted Hop Step Award (for new manga artists) and the Osamu Tezuka Award. After working as an assistant to famed artist Nobuhiro Watsuki (RUROUNI KENSHIN), Takei debuted in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1997 with Butsu Zone, an action series based on Buddhist mythology. His multicultural adventure manga SHAMAN KING debuted in Japan in 1998 and has been adapted into a popular animated television series. The SHAMAN KING manga series is also published in North America by VIZ Media; for many years it was serialized in English in SHONEN JUMP magazine.

For more information on ULTIMO, SHONEN JUMP and VIZ Media please visit www.shonenjump.com or www.viz.com.

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-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Africa and is a global ex-Asia licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, and DVDs, and develops, markets, licenses, and distributes animated entertainment 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.

 

About POW! (Purveyors of Wonder) Entertainment, Inc. (Pinksheets:POWN)

An advanced media and entertainment company with a first-look deal with Disney, was founded by world-famous comic book and motion picture icon Stan Lee, together with award-winning producer Gill Champion and intellectual property specialist Arthur Lieberman, Esq. POW!’s principals have extensive backgrounds in the entertainment industry encompassing the creation, production and licensing of original intellectual properties, including some of the most successful entertainment franchises of all time. POW!, capitalizing on this combined expertise, specializes in franchises for the entertainment industry, including animation and live-action feature films, plus television, DVDs, video games, merchandising and related ancillary markets, all of which contribute to global expansion. POW! partners with other individuals and entities of entertainment’s top echelon, including studios and networks, in the creation, licensing and distribution of new POW! character franchises. www.powentertainment.com. Press Contact for Stan Lee/POW! Entertainment, Please contact Dawn Miller, dmiller@lcoonline.com, 310.300.0950 x231.

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