Xam‘d: Lost Memories, Complete Collection – Blu-ray Review May 14, 2012
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Review by: Eduardo Zacarias
Publisher: Sentai Filmworks
MSRP: $89.98 US
Running Time: 325 minutes
Genre: Action/Sci-fi
Rating: TV 14
Release Date: Available Now
What would you do to regain the precious memories that are important to you?
Xam’d: Lost Memories is the type of anime series that is not easy to watch yet it’s the kind of series that you can’t help but be so wrapped up in its complex story that you stick around to see how it all ends because you know it will not fail to surprise. Finally released on Blu-ray, the Complete Collection set of Xam’d: Lost Memories is a new classic that you will not forget anytime soon and that, my friends, makes this well worth the purchase price.
Spanning 26-episodes, the series introduces us to a futuristic world with floating mail ships like the Zanbani, a Native-American-like race of people and a government experimenting with specialized armor and a mysterious organic bio-weapon. In the middle of all of this is a high school student named Akiyuki Takehara who lives in beautiful Sentan Island with his mother who just so happens to be – at the moment – separated from Akiyuki’s physician father, Doctor Ryuzo Takehara. His two best friends are Furuichi who has his eye on their mutual friend Haru who is not only beautiful but also amazing at martial arts.
One morning, after helping a white-haired girl get on their bus to school, this mysterious girl ignites a very unusual explosive that unleashes an organic spore that infects Akiyuki. In fact, thanks to two jewel-like protrusions on his arm and forehead called a hiruko, he transforms into an armored being called a Xam’d. On top of the explosion on the bus, the terrorist attack also includes the unleashing of monstrous humanform weapons that are controlled by those able to manipulate hiruko.
Luckily, Akiyuki is saved by a beautiful young girl named Nakiami the Cloud Rider whose Tessik race is all too familiar with the hiruko and the Xam’d. She is able to get Akiyuki back to his human form and she whisks him away aboard the Zanbani … a mail carrier ship captained by a busty and scantily clad beauty named Ishu Benikawa. With no other choice but to live with the colorful crew of the floating mail ship, Akiyuki finds himself working as a mail carrier as well as learning more about being a Xam’d from a Tessik elder named Madam Tenshin living aboard the ship.
Meanwhile, Akiyuki’s friends, Haru and Furuichi, join the military in hopes of helping Akiyuki in some manner and end up training to operate advanced mobile armor. It is here that we meet Commander Kakisu who is in charge of a secret project involving the Xam’d thanks to a Tessik scientist named Doctor Kanba. Haru finds herself doing her best as a military cadet as Furuichi quickly climbs the military ladder to the point that he becomes obsessed with succeeding in the military. There’s a big reason for this but I’ll get to that in a minute.
Back on the Zanbani, Akiyuki discovers another Xam’d by the name of Raigyo who was also saved by Nakiami. It is through Raigyo that Akiyuki learns that he can learn to live with this new power although there’s the threat that he might be consumed by a condition that could kill him by turning him to stone. Akiyuki also wants to see his friends and his parents who – while having been on the verge of a divorce before the terrorist attack – are seeing more of each another in an effort to comfort each another for the absence of their son.
At one point, Akiyuki is reunited with his friends who are on a mission under the orders of Commander Kakisu. Unfortunately, it’s not a happy reunion between Akiyuki and Furuichi who not only sees his best friend as an enemy but also a rival. In fact, there’s a dramatic confrontation later in the series as Furuichi makes a big revelation that we do not see coming.
The first half of the series has Akiyuki working aboard the mail carrier ship and the other half has Akiyuki and Nakiami traveling together to Nakiami’s home village where we discover that somebody close to her had become village chief. However, they are separated as Akiyuki travels with Haru to the fabled Quickening Chamber and Nakiami travels with a Tessik boy named Yango to meet Lady Sannova who is heading for the Chamber as well and head for a final battle involving the mysterious Emperor Hiruken.
Xam’d: Lost Memories is filled with twists that we don’t see coming, which is what makes for scenes that stand out. A main character ripping his head clean off and another character being sold into slavery and falling into the hands of a kindly old woman connected to another character is but a few examples of what makes this series so enticing. On top of that, there are moments that are profoundly beautiful like a brief and heartbreaking “reunion” between Akiyuki and his mother who is desperate to see her son again. I don’t even mind that the series is clearly inspired by two classic anime series (think Eureka Seven meets Guyver: The Bioboosted Armor and you get the picture).
Oh, and the animation is simply breath taking to the point that you will be thanking Sentai Filmworks for bringing it to us on Blu-ray.
On the other hand, there are scenes that will have you scratching your head wondering what just happened and why, such as the time Nakiami is “violated” by a black entity on board the Zanbani. Why does a floating eye who speaks like the Emperor follow Akiyuki around when he lost his memory in another scene? These are moments without explanation. The series also has moments where nothing really happens that moves the plot forward, although some of these moments do give us a chance to flesh out the secondary characters like the crew of the Zanbani. Then there’s the ending that was something of a major disappointment in my eyes.
Still, the Complete Collection of Xam’d: Lost Memories is nothing short of unforgettable and oftentimes even profoundly beautiful despite its various flaws that are too hard to ignore. Yes, there are complex and almost nonsensical moments in this series that will wear a viewer down bet there are also moments both compelling and deep enough to really appreciate. Either way, I cannot recommend this series enough especially for those who enjoy an anime series that does not fail to show you something unexpected or keep you watching to the very end.
BLU-RAY REVIEW BREAKDOWN
MOVIE/EPISODES: B+
On his way to school with his best friends Haru and Furuichi, a white-haired child ignites an explosive that unleashes an organic spore that changes Akiyuki’s life has he transforms into an armored being called Xam’d. Rescued by a girl named Nakiami, Akiyuki comes to live and work on a mail ship as his friends join a military force that will put them on a collision course with their destiny and Akiyuki discovers the mystery behind his new power.
VIDEO QUALITY: A+
Definitely a series that deserves the Blu-ray treatment, Xam’d is a visual treat with animation that brings to mind Studio Ghibli’s best productions. Everything from the backgrounds, visual effects and character design comes together beautifully. Then again, it’s exactly what we would come to expect from Studio BONES?
AUDIO QUALITY: A
The original Japanese language track is the best way to watch this series but the English dub performances have their shining moments thanks to talented voice actors like Monica Rial (refreshing as Haru), Blake Sheppard (decent as Akiyuki) and Shelley Calene-Black (wonderful as Ishu). The score by Michiru Oshima is as beautiful as the animation and the opening and closing theme songs (all in English) aren’t bad at all.
EXTRAS: C+
I know it’s not an extra but just the fact that this a Blu-ray edition is an awesome extra in itself but other than that all you will find are a few Sentai Filmworks trailers and as well as the clean opening and closing animations that include the original On-Air versions of both.
OVERALL: B+
An impressive, gorgeous and occasionally profound anime series, Xam’d: Lost Memories often gets lost in its own complex narrative but still manages to be an experience anime fans should not miss. Sure, there are scenes that don’t often make sense but these are overshadowed by the things that make it stand out like the gorgeous animation, great character development and scenes with enough emotion depth that they make this series worth watching from beginning to end. Xam’d should be considered a flawed yet impressive anime classic.
Review copy provided by Sentai Filmworks
SECTION23 FILMS ANNOUNCES MAY SLATE February 17, 2012
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PLANZET Available on May 22nd
HOUSTON, February 16, 2012 – Home video distributor Section23 Films today announced its May slate of releases; including PLANZET, a science fiction tale of invasion, human struggle and survival. PLANZET will be released on both DVD & Blu-Ray by Section23 client, Sentai Filmworks.
Product details follow, in order of release
Coming May 2012
Title: PSYCHIC SQUAD COLLECTION 1
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 325 min.
Street Date: 5/1/2012
Format: DVD
Language: Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $49.98
SYNOPSIS: They’re cute, adorable and three of the most powerful Espers the world has ever seen: Kaoru, the brash psychokinetic who can move objects with her mind; Shiho, the sarcastic and dark natured psychometric able to pick thoughts from people’s minds and read the pasts of inanimate objects like a book; and Aoi, the most collected and rational of the three, who has the ability to teleport herself and the others at will. So what to do with these potential psychic monsters in the making? Enter B.A.B.E.L., the Base of Backing ESP Laboratory, where hopefully “The Children” and others like them can become part of the answer to an increasing wave of psychic evolution. It’s a win-win solution… Unless you’re Koichi Minamoto, the overworked young man stuck with the unenviable task of field commanding a team of three pre-teen girls! Will Koichi survive the experience? Will the PLANET survive the experience? Find out as the girls get meta-physical in the first totally mental collection of PSYCHIC SQUAD!
Title: GUIN SAGA COMPLETE COLLECTION
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 650 min.
Street Date: 5/8/2012
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $79.98
SYNOPSIS: On the run from an army that destroyed their kingdom, the twin heirs to the Parros throne must avoid a magical land filled with incredible dangers. They are surrounded on all sides-by warring armies, an apelike tribe of desert creatures called the Sem, and the ruthless Langon clan. Giant sandworms, glowing, malevolent creatures, and powerful wizards mastering in the dark arts threaten them at every turn. If they were alone, they would surely perish. But in a dark forest, they are discovered by a mysterious stranger, a powerful warrior wearing a cursed leopard mask he cannot remove. His name…is Guin. He becomes their protector and companion, though he remembers nothing of his life before meeting these young runaways. Together, they begin a treacherous quest to find safety for the royal twins-and the answers to Guin’s secret origins. Based on the bestselling novels, this magical, animated epic is now available in one complete, sweeping set!
Title: GUIN SAGA COMPLETE COLLECTION BLU-RAY
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 650 min.
Street Date: 5/8/2012
Format: BD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $89.98
SYNOPSIS: On the run from an army that destroyed their kingdom, the twin heirs to the Parros throne must avoid a magical land filled with incredible dangers. They are surrounded on all sides-by warring armies, an apelike tribe of desert creatures called the Sem, and the ruthless Langon clan. Giant sandworms, glowing, malevolent creatures, and powerful wizards mastering in the dark arts threaten them at every turn. If they were alone, they would surely perish. But in a dark forest, they are discovered by a mysterious stranger, a powerful warrior wearing a cursed leopard mask he cannot remove. His name…is Guin. He becomes their protector and companion, though he remembers nothing of his life before meeting these young runaways. Together, they begin a treacherous quest to find safety for the royal twins-and the answers to Guin’s secret origins. Based on the bestselling novels, this magical, animated epic is now available in one complete, sweeping set!
Title GET BACKERS COMPLETE COLLECTION
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 1225 min.
Street Date: 5/8/2012
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $59.98
SYNOPSIS: Whether it’s a favorite stuffed animal, a priceless painting or even your last shred of hope, if someone’s taken it from you, Ban and Ginji will get it back. They’re the Get Backers, an expert “recovery” service. And they’ll retrieve what’s been stolen, no matter what it is or who took it. Of course, with Ban’s special “Evil Eye” and Ginji’s lightning strike capability, they’ve got a head start on the crooks. No job is too big, no job is too small. At least not until they pay off their tab at the local coffee shop. Its 49 episodes of non-stop action. It’s the Get Backers Complete Collection – don’t let anyone take yours!
Title: THE BOOK OF BANTORRA COLLECTION 1
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 325 min.
Street Date: 5/15/2012
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $59.98
SYNOPSIS: In another time and place, on a world of pain and sorrow, when someone dies, their soul doesn’t go to Heaven or Hell – it becomes a book. A book that reveals the deceased’s innermost secrets… and can be read by anyone. Protecting these priceless treasures is the elite organization known as the Armed Librarians. It’s their job to keep the books and the knowledge within them safe from those who would misuse or destroy them. It’s a tough, dangerous job, so Chief Librarian Hamyuts Maseta recruits only the best and the brightest psychics to join her team of expert fighters. But will they be good enough to stop the fanatics of the Shindeki Church from wrecking vengeance on the entire world? Only time will tell, but that book hasn’t been written yet. Don’t miss the non-stop action of The Book of Bantorra Collection 1!
Title: PLANZET
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 53 min.
Street Date: 5/22/2012
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $29.98
SYNOPSIS: In 2047, an unknown, alien life-form descends upon the Earth, destroying all the major cities in one fell swoop. The survivors unite and build a Diffusor to stop the Februus, the invaders the military would later codename the FOS, and a temporary peace is achieved. Jump forward to 2053, the present. A last, desperate counterattack is being mounted against the enemy. Hiroshi Akishima, soldier in the Planetary Defense Forces Alliance, would like nothing better than a shot at the aliens responsible for his father’s death six years ago. However, the new offensive requires the Diffusor to be dropped, leaving the entire planet terribly vulnerable once more. Will humanity regain the stars or lose everything in the final, ultimate gamble?
Title: PLANZET BLU-RAY
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 53 min.
Street Date: 5/22/2012
Format: BD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $39.98
SYNOPSIS: In 2047, an unknown, alien life-form descends upon the Earth, destroying all the major cities in one fell swoop. The survivors unite and build a Diffusor to stop the Februus, the invaders the military would later codename the FOS, and a temporary peace is achieved. Jump forward to 2053, the present. A last, desperate counterattack is being mounted against the enemy. Hiroshi Akishima, soldier in the Planetary Defense Forces Alliance, would like nothing better than a shot at the aliens responsible for his father’s death six years ago. However, the new offensive requires the Diffusor to be dropped, leaving the entire planet terribly vulnerable once more. Will humanity regain the stars or lose everything in the final, ultimate gamble?
Title: GINTAMA THE MOTION PICTURE
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 95 min.
Street Date: 5/29/2012
Format: DVD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $29.98
SYNOPSIS: Odd Jobs Gin has taken on a lot of odd work in the past, and when you’re a Jack of All Trades agency based in a feudal Japan that’s been conquered and colonized by aliens, the term “Odd Jobs” means REALLY ODD jobs. But when some more than slightly suspicious secrets from the shadows of Gintoki Sakata’s somewhat shady former samurai past and a new pair of odd jobs collide, the action is bound to get so wild and demented that only a feature film will do it justice! So, if you’ve had the good fortune to see Gintama, Japan’s most popular science fiction samurai series before, get ready for more of the same on an epic scale! And if you haven’t seen Gintama before, well, this is your quick and easy introduction to why Gintama (the series) is the hottest thing to hit the Land of the Rising Sun since a certain large, green reptile whose name we can’t use due to certain litigious lawyers! So sit down, strap yourself in and make sure you’re not wearing anything too tight or constricting as the junior half of OJG takes on the task of tracking down a tenacious terrorist while their silver-haired slickster of a partner seeks out a certain sword in the stunningly side-splitting screwy GINTAMA!
Title: GINTAMA THE MOTION PICTURE BLU-RAY
Published by: Sentai Filmworks
Distributed by: Section23 Films
Run Time: 95 min.
Street Date: 5/29/2012
Format: BD
Language: English & Japanese with English Subtitles
SRP: $39.98
SYNOPSIS: Odd Jobs Gin has taken on a lot of odd work in the past, and when you’re a Jack of All Trades agency based in a feudal Japan that’s been conquered and colonized by aliens, the term “Odd Jobs” means REALLY ODD jobs. But when some more than slightly suspicious secrets from the shadows of Gintoki Sakata’s somewhat shady former samurai past and a new pair of odd jobs collide, the action is bound to get so wild and demented that only a feature film will do it justice! So, if you’ve had the good fortune to see Gintama, Japan’s most popular science fiction samurai series before, get ready for more of the same on an epic scale! And if you haven’t seen Gintama before, well, this is your quick and easy introduction to why Gintama (the series) is the hottest thing to hit the Land of the Rising Sun since a certain large, green reptile whose name we can’t use due to certain litigious lawyers! So sit down, strap yourself in and make sure you’re not wearing anything too tight or constricting as the junior half of OJG takes on the task of tracking down a tenacious terrorist while their silver-haired slickster of a partner seeks out a certain sword in the stunningly side-splitting screwy GINTAMA!
About Section23 Films:
Section23 Films provides home video marketing and distribution services for a variety of companies, including Sentai Filmworks, Switchblade Pictures, Maiden Japan and AEsir Holdings. With its special focus on genre entertainment, Section23 Films distributes some of the very best anime, martial arts, and horror titles on the market today.
Claymore, Chapter 6 – DVD Review August 21, 2009
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Review by: Sophie Stevens
Publisher: FUNimation Entertainment
MSRP: $29.98 US
Running Time: 95 minutes
Genre: Action/Fantasy
Rating: TV MA
Release Date: Available Now
Clare on the razor’s edge.
What began as a story about an emotionless member of an organization filled with sword-wielding warrior women searching for a monster that killed the only woman that cared for her like a mother has turned into a deep love story and a newly awakened emotion that has this sister of the sword finally realizing that there are things really worth fighting for in this world. Clare has come a long way since the first episode of this series as the final chapter closes on the saga that is Claymore.
In Chapter 5, having joined by an impressive army of fellow Claymores in the village of Pieta, Clare finds herself struggling to survive the onslaught of savagely powerful Awakened Beings that are unlike anything either one of these Claymores have faced before. To top it all off, the legendary Silver-eyed Lion King, more appropriately known as Rigaldo, has dropped into the fight to slaughter the remaining Claymores only to find a challenge in Clare.
As Chapter 6 opens, Clare attempts to keep up with Rigaldo’s mighty blows and eerie swiftness. For an Awakened Being as big and lion-like as Rigaldo, the monster can certainly move and it becomes clear to Clare that in order to defeat the beast she must call upon the Yoma power within her. As her injured friends watch from afar, they witness Clare Awakening just a little right before their eyes … yet it still isn’t enough.
“I need more,” Clare says to herself as she manages to keep up with Rigaldo. “More strength and more speed!”
When she does, it becomes clear to the other sisters that Clare has pushed herself closer to the point of no return. Somewhere in the nearby forest, the frail young girl named Priscilla and her ward stop worrying about Raki’s wellbeing and concentrate on the raw Yoma power that is flowing as Clare comes to Awaken parts of her body to continue fighting her dangerous foe. Priscilla freaks out to the point that she runs off to the very source of the power flow.
Meanwhile, Raki finally reaches Pieta only to find the streets littered with dead or badly injured Claymores and the damage their battle had caused the village. He is recognized by Clare’s friends such as Jean and Deneve but when Raki sees Clare in her nearly Awakened form it frightens him to the point that the kid isn’t able to move. When Clare does push herself once again, it is only then that the battle does finally end.
Unfortunately, even with the enemy no longer a threat, Clare cannot hold back the power that threatens to turn her into an Awakened Being. Afraid of turning on her own friends, she begs Helen to end her life before its too late and she finally changes. Unable to revert back, Clare begins her slow transformation but she senses something nearby that is far too familiar to ignore. As Clare takes off to find this person, a badly injured Jean sets off with Raki to help save Clare as do the last remaining three Claymores. What they find is Clare battling against the Awakened Being that had beheaded Teresa so long ago. We also come to discover a secret about Clare in these final moments during one of the more intense battles in this series.
I won’t go into the details about the outcome of the fight or what is discovered during this fight but it is surprising. It’s also endearing to see Clare, even in her monstrous nearly-Awakened state that she recognizes Raki who pours his heart out to her in the end during a crucial moment in the battle. What I will say is that Claymore as a whole has managed to remain just as intense as these last episodes of this chapter and that’s saying a lot right there.
The final four episodes that make up Chapter 6 of Claymore is nothing short of brilliant and highly energetic just like the source material. The two massive battles will not easily be shaken from your memory as Clare not only comes to the end of her journey but also discovers something about her that’s more important than the mission or the organization and that is humanity. Now this is a great ending.
DVD REVIEW BREAKDOWN
MOVIE/EPISODES: A
In the village of Pieta, the other Claymores fall at the feet of Rigaldo so it is up to Clare to go up against the powerful Awakened Being. As she calls upon more power and pushing herself to her very limits, Clare finds herself in a dangerous situation she may recover from and even more so when the person she was looking for finally shows up.
VIDEO QUALITY: A
This final chapter features even more stunning visual effects such as the scene where Clare and Priscilla display their full power that literally lights up the night sky. The series has always been visually pleasing and filled with unforgettable visceral moments throughout.
AUDIO QUALITY: A+
The strength of the original Japanese as well as the English dub has always been the emotional impact of each performance as far as the Claymores are concerned. Personally, I think Raki sounded better in Japanese but then again I can’t imagine anyone else doing the voice in English than Todd Haberkorn. There’s good music in this series (and better opening and closing theme songs) but sometimes it’s the silence of a key scene that makes it more memorable.
EXTRAS: B+
There’s an audio commentary track for Episode 26 with Brina Palencia and Stephanie Young that’s fun to listen to and there’s the original Japanese TV commercials on the DVD as well. Aside from the collection of trailers and the textless songs, the 24-page book with art and production notes is the real treat.
OVERALL: A
Chapter 6 of Claymore reaches its climax as Clare battles the Silver-Eyed Lion King and she isn’t able to contain the Awakening power that begins to eat away at her soul. In these final moments of the series, a lot is revealed to us and thus makes this a chapter that will not fail to shock and surprise.
COMPLETE SERIES GRADE: A
True to the source material, the anime version of Claymore is dark, bloody and downright haunting. It’s one of those stories that feels epic in scope thanks to its bigger-than-life characters and story that goes beyond a typical revenge story. Beautifully directed and featuring amazing animation, Claymore is one of those anime series that is truly unique and amazing.
AX 2009 News – VIZ Media Panel: Anime July 4, 2009
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Written by: Edward Zacharias
Our good friends at VIZ Media have certainly been very busy and that’s a very good thing in our book, albeit exhausting on their front. Still, this all adds up to good news for anime fans seeing as the announcement they made today will surprise, delight and will have you begging for more.
Yeah, that’s how good the news is in the VIZ Media panel. Here’s why …
ANIME RELEASES
* BLEACH The Movie 2: The Diamond Dust Rebellion = The second movie is headed our way on September 8 of this year and will be screen in movie theaters on August 19 and 20. We will give you more info on where and when as we get closer to the date.
Speaking of BLEACH news, you can win a BLEACH themed guitar autographed by BLEACH creator Tite Kubo. Just go to http://www.bleach.viz.com/rockstar for more details.
* Death Note Relight 2 = The second DVD will be released on October 27, 2009 while the first one is available right now.
* L: Change the World = Ok, it’s not anime. This is the live-action movie and it rocks. Expect the DVD to be released on August 18, 2009.
* Hunter x Hunter: Box Set 4 = It will be released on December 1, 2009. I can’t think of a better Christmas present … in my book, anyway.
* Naruto Shippudden, Vol. 1 = At last, we finally get the first volume of the Naruto Shippudden series on August 29, 2009. This is the only way we can see it – well, aside from logging on to http://www.naruto.com – so this news has us very excited.
* Naruto Shippudden The Movie = The first of the Naruto Shippudden movies will be available on November 1, 2009.
While we’re on the subject of Naruto, it was announced that http://www.naruto-viz.com hinted at the “Kakashi Chronicles,” a side story about Kakashi-sensei’s early days as a student. This sounded way too good to be true when we first heard it and now it is confirmed. Look for more news about it right here.
* Nana, Box Set 1 = All you Nana fans will be happy this September 8, 2009 when the anime finally comes to our shores. I can already hear Faith begging me to review it when it comes out.
* Honey and Clover, Box Set 1 = Ok, this is one even I am excited about. The anime of Chica Umino’s manga will be released on September 22, 2009.
* Boys Over Flowers, Jewelry Box = I can already hear Ai begging me for this one. Expect it to come out on October 13, 2009.
With so many exciting titles headed our way, we can safely say that VIZ Media has us covered on the anime front. This is really starting to look like a great year for anime fans.
Naruto, Vol. 33 – Manga Review April 9, 2009
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Review by: Edward Zacharias
Publisher: VIZ Media
Author: Masashi Kishimoto
Genre: Graphic Novel (Shonen Jump Manga)
MSRP: $7.95 US
Rating: T (Teen)
Release Date: Now Available
The other side of Naruto we have not seen.
With one teammate short, Naruto and Sakura know very little of their commanding officer named Yamato and even less of the odd young man that calls himself Sai. What they do know is that Commander Yamato really knows how to spring a trap and dressed as Sasori – one of the Akatsuki the others defeated after Gaara’s kidnapping – the trap seems to be a success. In the end of Volume 32, we learn the true identity of the Akatsuki spy and boy was it a huge surprise. Oh, but surprises have a way of blowing up in your face as we can see from the beginning of Volume 33 of Naruto.
I won’t be spoiling things now by revealing that the spy was actually the medical ninja named Kabuto and Yamato’s trap seemed to be going great until another surprise is revealed to us. It seems that Orochimaru has been following Kabuto and, in an instant, Commander Yamato’s disguise is torn the shreds. It’s clear that the confrontation will be an ugly one without back up and Naruto and Sakura spring out to come to the Commander’s aid.
While Naruto and Sakura have grown up and become more powerful now, Orochimaru hasn’t changed at all. In fact, he’s the same manipulative, power-hungry and dangerous enemy that he always was and – despite the fact that he recognized Naruto’s new strength – he certainly knows how to get under his skin. Just the mere mention of Sasuke’s name sends Naruto into a rage that manifests itself in a most hazardous manner. We all know that Naruto, as a Jinchuriki, holds the Nine-Tailed Fox spirit but what we don’t know is that the unleashing of the Fox spirit’s power is nearly uncontrollable. In fact, Lord Jiraiya knows this first-hand during their two-year absence.
Surprised by Naruto’s transformation, this is the first time we see Orochimaru really put up an effort to fight back against Naruto. Equally surprised is Sakura who sees the physical effects of the manifestation as frightening. I’d describe the transformation but it’s really something you should see instead. What I will tell, however, is that Naruto’s attacks are not only impressive but also extremely destructive without giving much of a thought as to who might get hurt in the process.
Meanwhile, Sai sees this as an opportunity to carry out his real mission. Having been under direct orders of Danzo, a member of the Hawk faction whose past is linked not only to the Leaf Village but also to the Third Hokage, Sai approaches Orochimaru. So committed to his mission, Sai doesn’t even lift a hand to save Sakura when she is flung back by one of Naruto’s attacks. Words are exchanged between Sai and Orochimaru and the trio runs off together. Who is Sai really? What is his true mission and Danzo’s intentions?
While most of the volume concentrates on Naruto’s battle with Orochimaru, a big secret is finally revealed about Commander Yamato as well as the reason he has been chosen to take over Kaskashi’s position. Besides that, the real surprise comes with Sakura’s reaction when Naruto is restored to normal. For years, we have come to know that Sakura and Naruto’s relationship was mainly composed of Naruto pissing her off and being clobbered by Sakura. Yet in a surprisingly tender moment, Sakura sheds tears for Naruto. What this means is yet to be revealed but it’s intriguing nonetheless.
Naruto, Volume 33, shows us another side of Naruto that had yet been revealed since his two-year absence and it’s quite shocking. This also marks the return of Orochimaru but, most importantly, we learn a bit more about Commander Yamato and come to question Sai’s intentions. Oh yeah, it’s just one of those volumes that is sure to be truly memorable.
MANGA REVIEW BREAKDOWN
STORY: A
The trap Commander Yamato, Naruto and Sakura have set for the spy blows up in their faces as Orochimaru springs his own trap successfully. Unleashing the hidden power of the Nine-Tailed Fox, Naruto becomes an uncontainable force to be reckoned with that shocks even his teammates. In the wake of Naruto’s destructive power, revelations are made.
ART: A
Kishimoto-sensei’s expressive artwork is simply leaps off the pages in this volume and you can definitely feel the helplessness Sakura feels when she sees the uncontrollable power Naruto unleashes.
OVERALL: A
Volume 33 of Naruto is nothing short of surprising and even more so now that some of the missing parts of Naruto’s training is finally revealed. The villainous snake, Orochimaru, is back and the confrontation is yet another unforgettable moment in the Naruto saga. The good news is that we don’t have to wait too long for the next chapters.
Hideyuki-Kikuchi- Two Great New Horror Titles Licensed By Digital Manga Publishing April 3, 2009
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Gardena, CA (April 2, 2009) – Digital Manga Publishing, one of the industry’s most innovative and creative publishing companies, is thrilled to announce the acquisition of two great Hideyuki Kikuchi titles: Yashakiden: The Demon Princess and Taimashin: The Red Spider Exorcist.
From acclaimed Japanese horror writer, Hideyuki Kikuchi (Vampire Hunter D & Wicked City novel series), comes his next big hit novel series: Yashakiden: The Demon Princess. Taking place in the city of Shinjuku-the novel is based in the same universe as the popular Wicked City animated series, and is spun out of the Demon City Shinjuku world. Of all the novels Kikuchi has ever written, Yashakiden is the one series he has wanted to have published stateside, and he considers it to be in his own words, “…the best novel series I’ve ever written, this is my vampire masterpiece. In my personal opinion, this novel transcends Vampire Hunter D.” The novel is peppered with beautiful illustrations by Jun Suemi, who also illustrated a number of “The Guin Saga” novels in Japan. Beginning with volume one in December, Yashakiden: The Demon Princess will span four vampire-filled volumes of horror. Read the first chapter preview in the May 2009 release of Hideyuki Kikuchi’s Vampire Hunter D vol. 3 (
pre-order available now) and on the newly revamped DMP books website www.dmpbooks.com
is based upon a novel series also by Kikuchi, and is illustrated by manwha artist Shin Yong-Gwan. An ongoing series in Japan, with over 20,000 units sold, Taimashin: The Red Spider Exorcist is a crafty story about a demon-hunter who traverses between the worlds of the living and the dead, all to save lost souls being preyed upon by evil spirits of the underworld. With amazingly detailed art by Shin Yong-Gwan, this manga will appeal to horror lovers everywhere! Catch preview pages of this title in the November 2009 release of Hideyuki Kikuchi’s Vampire Hunter D vol. 4 and on the newly revamped DMP books website www.dmpbooks.com.
Look for these two great titles to slither their ways into your hands this dark December, all part of “D”emon month from Digital Manga Publishing.
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5 1/8″x 7 3/16″,
Factory manager by day and moonlighting P.I. by night, Setsura Aki is no stranger to danger. Specializing in missing-persons cases and considered the best “man hunter” in the business, he allies himself with friend and rival, Doctor Mephisto—a wizard of physical and spiritual surgery. Together in battle, there is none that can compete with their combined wit and power—until now.
Coming from the deepest and darkest parts of China, four immortal vampires, lead by one of unmatched beauty and calling herself nothing more than “Princess,” mystically sail into landlocked Shinjuku aboard an ancient ghost ship one roiling hot night. She and her ancient undead entourage with powers never before seen of vampires, have surmounted four thousand years of space and time to seize control of Shinjuku and to make it their own.
It is up to Setsura and Mephisto to uncover their new formidable foes’ true origins and to reveal the truth to the Princess’s dark plans for the city. Can the duo stop them before they plunge the living populace into a new level of fear and slavery none can escape?
Set in Hideyuki Kikuchi’s popular demonic ward of Shinjuku—favorite locale for his other recognized works, the Demon City Shinjuku and Wicked City novel series—this new epic tale touches the conscious fear of the unknown and dips deep into the soul of one’s own heart of darkness.
TAIMASHIN: THE RED SPIDER EXORCIST VOL. 1- Rated 18+ (for ages 18+), MSRP: $9.95, Available: December 16, 2009, DMP Manga,
5 1/8″x 7 3/16″,
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HIDEYUKI KIKUCHI was born on September 25, 1949, and is one of Japan’s top horror/sci-fi writers. Over the past two decades, several of his works have been adapted into animated movies including VAMPIRE HUNTER D and his first novel, DEMON CITY SHINJUKU. He is the writer of the best-selling VAMPIRE HUNTER D novel and manga series also available through Digital Manga Publishing.
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For more information about Digital Manga Publishing, visit
VIZ MEDIA CELEBRATES THE EVOLUTION OF DRAGON BALL WITH NEW DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION TITLES March 9, 2009
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DRAGONBALL © 2009 Fox, Based on DRAGONBALL series by Akira Toriyama.
DRAGONBALL TM & © Bird Studio/Shueisha, Inc.
Three-Part Chapter Book Series, A Junior Novel And A Collectible Sticker Book Offer Unique Ways To Enjoy Books Based On The New Feature Film DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION
San Francisco, CA, March 6, 2009 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced a fun array of DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION books, including a Junior Novel, a Sticker Book and a trio of Chapter Books in support of the debut of the action-packed 20th Century Fox film, opening nationwide on April 8th.
The new DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION books are based on the upcoming live action adventure film. Directed by James Wong, the movie and the books center on a team of warriors, each of whom possess special abilities. Together, they protect Earth from a force bent on dominating the universe by controlling the mystical objects from which the film takes its name. DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION features Justin Chatwin as Goku, Emmy Rossum as Bulma, and Chow Yun-Fat as Master Roshi. Each of the books include glossy color pages with photos from the movie. DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION the movie is based on the popular Japanese manga series created by Akira Toriyama (also published in North America by VIZ Media).
”VIZ Media is very excited to celebrate the upcoming release of the live-action feature film DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION with a variety of fun, kid-friendly books,” says Gonzalo Ferreyra, Vice President, Sales & Product Marketing, VIZ Media. “The DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION Junior Novel and Chapter Books are published under our popular VIZKIDS imprint, and are an ideal way to introduce the mystical world of DRAGON BALL to younger fans and help them develop a lifelong love of reading.”
DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION JUNIOR NOVEL • Recommended for Ages 9-12
MSRP: $5.99 US / $6.99 CAN • Available Now!
Goku thought he was just a normal high school kid until his whole world turned upside down and he found out he’s actually a martial-arts whiz with all kinds of special powers. It was bad enough that his grandpa just died. But now he must save the whole world from a madman named Piccolo who is looking for the seven fabled Dragon Balls. Whoever finds them all will have any wish come true instantly! Can a regular guy like Goku become the strongest fighter in time to stop the end of the world? The Junior Novel is aimed at readers ages 9 through 12 and also features 8-pages of full-color glossy photos from the live-action film.
MSRP: $4.99 US / $5.99 CAN • Available Now!
The DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION Chapter Books is a series composed of 3 volumes designed for younger readers, ages 7 through 10. Based on the upcoming feature film, the Chapter Books depict the adventures of Goku as he tries to save the world from a madman that is looking for the seven Dragon Balls. Whoever finds them all can have any wish come true! Can a regular guy like Goku become the strongest fighter of all in time to stop the end of the world? Find out in these fun new Chapter Books from VIZ Media.
DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION STICKER BOOK • Rated “A” for All Ages •
MSRP: $6.99 US / $7.99 CAN • March 24, 2009
All the excitement of the DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION movie is featured in over 100 stickers. The book collects 8 pages of stickers and 8 pages of full-color backgrounds to bring the fun of DRAGONBALL: EVOLUTION to fans of all ages. The stickers are reusable and adhere to just about anything to give a fun DRAGON BALL flair to any item.
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.
Rosario + Vampire, Vol. 3 – Manga Review October 13, 2008
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Review by: Clive Owen
Publisher: VIZ Media (Shonen Jump Advanced)
Author: Akihisa Ikeda
Genre: Graphic Novel
MSRP: $7.99 US
Rating: T+ (Older Teen)
Release Date: Now available
Change is definitely a good thing.
You have to hand it to Tsukune … for an average boy he certainly puts up with and deals with things that would have made any other student want to run for the hills. Of course, it helps to be close with the cutest girl on campus who also happens to be a very powerful vampire. Yet after Volume 2 of Rosario + Vampire, it’s clear that Tsukune and his friends in the Newspaper Club will be in for some trouble and some changes. So you better believe that Rosario + Vampire fans are in for some interesting changes in Volume 3.
After having confronted the Enforcement Committee when the Newspaper Club ran its first issue of the Yokai Times that also – incidentally – ran a piece on the evil deeds of the now fired art teacher/medusa, Moka took down the leader of the Committee as she always does at the end of a chapter. However, Kuyo, the leader of said Committee isn’t going to let it slide. To make matters worst, the same art teacher is aiding Kuyo and reveals to him the possibility that Tsukune is actually a human. Armed with this knowledge, Kuyo and his followers confront the Newspaper Club and take Moka and Tsukune with them to face their punishment.
After Kuyo tells the Newspaper Club that Tsukune is accused of being a human living among the monsters in the school, it’s the perky Kurumu who decides that she doesn’t care what Tsukune is because monster or no he is still a friend. It’s no surprise that Kurumu, their new witch friend Yukari and Gin come to Tsukune and Moka’s aid. To their surprise, however, Kuyo turns out to be more than any of them can handle and the fact that he’s a species of monster that is known throughout Japan makes matters worse. In the end, the battle takes a turn for the worst when Tsukune jumps in the way of a blast meant for Moka.
Ok, at this point I would be doing Rosario + Vampire readers a great disservice if I told you what happened at the end of the battle but know that the result of this fight changes Tsukune. His, let’s just call it a temporary transformation, drained him completely to the point that in the following chapter he has no idea of what happened during the battle. Moka, who is behind said temporary transformation, doesn’t want to tell him what exactly happened until Gin tells him. Meanwhile, the star of the school’s wrestling team, a troll of a man named Chopper Rikishi, heard the rumors that Tsukune beat the monster out of Kuyo and wants to challenge him to a match.
Tsukune is resentful towards Moka for what went on but in the end he comes to the conclusion that he could never stay mad at Moka. His feelings for her are still strong despite the events that occurred and even looks forward towards spending his summer break with her. Of course, that is if he could wrap his head around complex equations in math class. The lovely math teacher, Miss Ririko, suddenly shows interest in Tsukune and promises to tutor him after class. Yet Moka senses something not right about the way she’s tutoring Tsukune and her hunch is correct. Man, it seems that the faculty is even more dangerous than the student body in Yokai Academy.
Unfortunately, the problem with the math teacher is resolved the way problems like this popped up in the first and second volume … Tsukune pulls out Moka’s Rosario and her stronger half kicks the hell out of whatever monster that threatens the pair. It seems out of place now that Tsukune and Moka are connected but then again it’s fun watching the stronger Moka take down monsters … especially monsters as diverse and somewhat obscure as Miss Ririko who happens to be a Lamia. Does anyone know what a Lamia is and what it can do? If you don’t you will in Rosario + Vampire.
Change is certainly in the air for the main character and this series in general and it’s certainly making this series better. What was starting to feel repetitive is now fleshing out to be a fun story that continues its appealing humor, fan service (again, for those who care about that sort of stuff) and fun monster mayhem while going for something new. The next volume even has Tsukune and his friends going out of the school setting. If you were a Rosario + Vampire fan from the very first volume then this third one will not fail to please.
MANGA REVIEW BREAKDOWN
STORY: A-
Tsukune is going through some changes in this one and I don’t mean hormonal changes either. A returning threat is behind these changes and Tsukune also discovers that his friends – even Gin – are behind him even knowing his secret.
ART: B+
Ikeda’s art remains relatively the same in this volume and that’s good/bad depending on how much you like the art. Personally, his style works well for the story and theme.
OVERALL: A-
Finally, Rosario + Vampire breaks out of the familiar formula for a continuing story that adds something uniquely different from the past two volumes. Volume 2 ended with the promise of a continuing threat and Volume 3 follows up on it nicely and – by the end of its first chapter – changes things dramatically without losing the light humor or fan service. The next volume promises to bring more changes and I can’t hardly wait.
THE MANGA WRITER: SHOJO HEARTBEAT September 23, 2008
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Written by: Brenda Greggson
HEART SKIP BEBOP
I’m not a mangaka, nor will I pretend to be one for the purposes of this short and hopefully insightful little guide on manga writing in the shojo genre. What I am is a lover of manga, particularly the ones that feature love blossoming eternal and people finding romance during the most awkward phase. I also want to write my own series one day and perhaps create even more of them when I’m done. I think what I’m trying to say is that I absolutely, positively and wishfully hope to be a mangaka.
Of course, wishing to be something doesn’t necessarily make you what you want to be, right? So the only thing you can to make your dreams come true is to go out there and do it. If you want to be a star quarterback then go out there and practice and practice until somebody notices you determination and ball-handling skills. If you want to be an famous ice skater, girl, hit the ice and skate until you’re shivering from the cold and somebody notices your technique. If you always wanted to be tall … well, there’s not much you can do, really, unless you’re comfortable wearing high heels or platform shoes all the time.
What I’m saying is go out and do it. A little green fellow who has an intimate knowledge of the Force once said that there is no try … you do or you do not. So I wrote my first draft for a one-shot shojo manga I called “Tango Kiss.” Of course, the nearly 200 pages I wrote were easy because the manga script was autobiographical rather than fictional but it was my way of getting to know to tell a romance story, get to know the format and then the joy of having to work out the visuals with an artist.
Writing, of course, comes first so I followed a simple and clichéd rule fiction writing instructors always say: write what you know. So thinking back to all my favorite shojo manga titles that I collected over the years (believe me, all of them take up a whole wall space alone) and a number of favorites I’m reading now (from “Love Attack” to “High School Debut”) I began writing what I know. I know myself and my life and one part of that life consisted of a romance that blossomed between myself and the Editor-in-Chief of this very site. Of course, back then we were freshmen in our High school in Southern California. Back then I was a sort-of-shy-sort-of-awkward girl that was great at dancing and he was a friendly-and-outspoken cute boy who just didn’t know how to approach the girl he wanted the most.
FIRST DATE
Writing was, surprisingly enough, not the hard part. The hard part to me was the format that would be easy for an artist to follow. I tried my hand at drawing and thought it was horrible so I knew I couldn’t be a mangaka who could pull double duty. So I knew I had to be as descriptive as I can possibly yet still give my artist enough creative freedom to inject his or her own unique artistic style to the project. I’m not a very demanding person so in “Tango Kiss” I gave my artist – Tokiko Sanada – the freedom to be as creative as she want to be with her style and flair for detail just as long as the characters and our school look the way I need it to look.
I read somewhere that manga and graphic novel writers must learn the Hollywood art of screenwriting because they almost go hand-in-hand with comic book writing. The truth is that there’s no ONE way to write a manga script just as long as it follows a consistent format all the way through. I voted for a more screenplay look to my scripts but left note for my artist within the descriptions of the actions.
Every story, of course, has a beginning, a middle and an ending. “Tango Kiss“, in a nut shell, is about a shy girl who falls for an outspoken cute boy who has a crush on a somewhat popular girl in school. This boy goes to great lengths to try to pursue the girl and comes to the conclusion that if he can become the popular girl’s dance partner he could get close enough to her to tell her how he feels about her. Of course, the boy has two-left feet and turns to the shy girl who is taking dance arts on campus. Soon the shy girls befriends the boy and comes to realize that she is falling in love with him despite the fact that said boy only has eyes for the popular girl. A conflict arises when the popular girl starts noticing the boy more and the shy girl just goes for it by kissing the boy. Will the boy put aside his quest to win the popular girl and stay with the girl that loves him more or will he break her heart and turn to the popular girl? Let’s just say that happy endings are nice but they’re not necessarily what happen in real life.
Of course, along the way other things occur outside the Beginning-Middle-End and you can inject those into your story as long as you keep the central story and main characters intact. Once you have that down you can write the story whether you plan it as a one-shot deal or a whole series. So it’s story and characters first, then work on the format and finally plan things out with an artist. Personally speaking, I found it useful (but not necessary) to buy a program called Manga Studio. It’s essentially a program for manga artists but I use to make thumbnails of how a scene will break down. Don’t worry if you can’t draw. Anyone can make stick figures, right? It’s just something to help your artist realize how the scene should look. It’s the artist that will take your thumbnails and bring their own style and creativity to it.
LOVE THE ONE YOU’RE WITH
Tango Kiss followed a consistent and screenplay-like format that I didn’t necessarily came up with but it seemed to work when I took my script to Japan several months ago. You don’t have to go to Japan to get a manga done (I’m half Japanese so I was there because I love visiting relatives there). You can find an artist on your own and collaborate with them and have it printed here via publishing services you can hire.
Oh yeah, we were talking about format. Well, as I said, keep it looking consistent in order not to confuse your artist. Here’s a sample from “Tango Kiss” to give you the idea of my style.
PANEL 1
The quad again only this time it’s bustling with the lunch crowd that uses it as a hangout. To the right are three Goth kids … the girl working the Gothic Lolita look for all its worth. To the left are the hip-hop kids that, while multiracial, look like Hollywood’s version of urban kids. One of them bares a striking resemblance to rapper Eminem.
Sitting in the center is BRENDA and EDDIE who are sipping their Big Gulps and checking out the scene in front of them.
PANEL 2
CLOSE UP on EDDIE noticing something we don’t see just yet.
PANEL 3
It’s TIA in a cheerleading outfit. She has her pom poms and is cheerfully walking and talking with a group of other perky cheerleaders. All around them there are guys practically with their eyes glued to the group of curvy girls.
PANEL 4
BRENDA has her eyebrow raised as she eyes EDDIE watching the object of his affection walk past them. EDDIE is sporting a rather goofy grin on his face.
BRENDA: You know, I didn’t think she would get any more air-headed but -
EDDIE: She’s NOT an airhead.
PANEL 5
BOXOUT – BRENDA is eyeing EDDIE more curiously now.
PANEL 6
EDDIE, slightly annoyed by her glance, is practically glaring at his friend.
EDDIE: What!?!
BRENDA: Nothing. I just can’t see you dating a cheerleader.
BRENDA 2: It doesn’t suit you.
There it is, friends, my format. You can develop your own but bare in mind that some publishers have their own format in mind so if you are sending a script to, say, TOKYOPOP, just make sure you check with the format they are comfortable with or if they require you to have an artist with working with you.
Other than that all I can say is good luck. May you make your dreams of becoming a mangaka come true and hopefully one day your work will inspire other writers to do the same. Do it for yourself or do it for the love of manga but just do it.
Oh, just a side note here. “Tango Kiss” is not on sale. I wrote it for myself but also to have something to show publishers when I do have a project to sell. Consider it a business card of sorts to get your in the door. And, for those curious, “Tango Kiss” does not have a happy ending but the epilogue has a meeting of the two characters again in their college years when they do become sweethearts.
Their meeting, in a banquet hall during a friend’s wedding, reveals how much these two people actually did love each another. A band is playing an old Argentinean tango as the two, realizing they love each another, hold hands as they look into each another’s eyes.
BRENDA: May I have this dance?
EDDIE: That one and any other dance as long as it’s with you.
Now that’s a happy ending.
BRENDA GREGGSON lives in Southern California with her tea cup-sized puppy Chihuahua named Chibi and hopes to be a mangaka soon. Her hobbies include reading manga, playing tennis, traveling to Japan and hopes to write reviews for Animanga Nation.
THE MANGA WRITER: RISE OF THE STORYTELLER PART ONE September 14, 2008
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Written by: Hiro Takashi
Student, Manga Lover and Writer, Hiro Takashi has some tips for future manga writers. He’s not an accomplished writer as of yet but Hiro has learned from the best. Here are some of his tips for those who one day wish to become a manga-ka.
INTRODUCTION
Growing up in Fort Lauderdale, Florida as quite possibly the only Japanese-American kid on the block (and maybe even all of Fort Lauderdale), I grew up with American comics. I read everything from Spider-Man to Iron Man but my biggest crush has always been those works where the writer and artist were the same person. I was 7-years old when I discovered the works of one Frank Miller and I become an instant fan.
Then one day, when I was 8 or maybe 9, my mother’s cousin passed away and a rather huge and bulky box arrived in the mail from Tokyo. It was a box with my name on it and inside was a massive library of manga titles. I was enthralled by the artwork and skimming through the 100 or so volumes I was determined to know how to read in Japanese. I took courses right away and used the volumes of manga I inherited from my mother’s cousin, Toshi, as a learning tool.
You see, my wish was to one day be a writer of graphic novels and as I started reading everything from Dominion to Akira, I became an huge admirer of manga. I want to be a manga-ka. I want to create manga and tell stories as a writer. I admired those works from manga-ka that wrote and drew their own books much like Frank Miller and headed out to college with writing in mind.
CHARACTERS COME FIRST
I’m 19 and I’m sharing an elevator with Frank Miller.
I stuttered out some words that were incoherent and suddenly blurted out that I was a huge fan. Mister Miller smiled faintly, as if smiling hurt his face, and said thank you. Then I mustered enough courage to ask him a question. I asked, “How do you do it? How do you write a graphic novel script?”
Frank Miller gave me a look and smiled again. “Know your story and know your characters. Know them like you know your mother, your friend or your lover. Take all that you know and just write. Forget the format and just write.”
I did as Frank Miller – my hero – said and concentrated on characters first then the story. Why the characters first? An English Lit professor sited that authors like Michael Crichton were hacks who put story first before characterization and the result is a fascinating story with cardboard cutouts as characters. He used “Jurassic Park” the novel as an example. Who didn’t love a story about dinosaurs that were genetically brought back from extinction only to run amok in a theme park? What we didn’t care about -until the movie was released – where the emotionless and uninteresting characters. Who was Alan Grant? What was his dreams, what are his weaknesses and why does he love dinosaurs? We don’t know because Crichton never told us … and thus we don’t care if he got eaten by a T-Rex or a mutant Golden Retriever.
Once a character pops into your head, pick up a piece of paper (I carry a notebook with me) and write down a description of said character. Take a good look at what you wrote. Why did you make him or her a blonde? Why did you include a scar on said character? These little details can serve to flesh out your character. It’s all in the details. Here’s a trick a fellow writer once revealed to me when characters became hard to create. He would walk into a spot where there are many people and one-by-one note everything about one individual. Examining people, he noted interesting features about them. Then, in his mind, created a personality. That man with the cane … maybe he was injured in Iraq during a special operation. That woman with the darting eyes … maybe she was an assassin on the run.
Manga-ka know characterization better than many accomplished writers (I’m looking at you Crichton and Grisham) and put it first because when you know your characters the story begins to unfold because of it. Let’s take a well-known character by the name of Naruto Uzumaki. We know that Naruto has a fondness for ramen, has a crush on fellow teammate Sakura and is determined to become the next Hokage. Naruto author, Masashi Kishimoto, fleshed out his character and as a result we care about him and his friends because we know their personalities, their desires and their backgrounds. It is no surprise that Naruto is such a popular manga title.
STORYTELLING
Once we know who the characters are and what they want and what makes them tick, we think about their situation. Shojo usually deals with a girl meeting a boy and vice versa and a drama unfolds surrounding a romance. The subject matter is very relatable and close to an author’s heart because we all fall in love. If you already had a story in mind, that’s OK, either way, you have a cast of characters readers will care about.
I have a fondness for action and a fondness for sci-fi. Both of these genres are favorites of mine and I keep them in mind when I write. If you suddenly have an idea for, say, a horror comic when you’ve never read a horror comic in your life then write your ideas down. I then suggest you pick up a horror title and read it. How does it compare to your idea? Did the story you have in mind follow a similar pattern befitting of the genre? I’m not saying copying other people’s style. I’m saying, look at the work and follow the format but make your comic your own. You put your own twist that format and tell the story the way you want to tell it.
Sci-fi manga doesn’t always have to be about giant mechs like Robotec. It can be something else entirely. Look at Desert Punk … the hero of that story doesn’t even come near a mech. Action titles can be fresh and original too like Black Lagoon. You can even mix and match different genres to suit your story so you have elements of magic and gunplay (Fullmetal Alchemist comes to mind) or take historical matter add elements of fantasy.
Remember, like a snowflake, the characters in your mind or in your life are never the same. If a story is born because of your characters’ personalities then you’re on your way to the next step and that is fleshing out the story. If story comes first, then know your subject matter and know your genre (or genres). The story is your own and how you interpret it is up to you.
Oh, and just write. Keep a notebook with you and write anything that pops into your mind. Write down everything from a line of conversation you might have heard, an interesting person you met or a situation that comes up. Write and never let go of the dream of one day seeing your name in print on your own manga or graphic novel.
NEXT WEEK – PART II
Brenda Greggson offers some insight on shojo manga and short guide to the graphic novel format.
