Anime Craze

Review: Prince of Tennis

2012-01-02T09:09:00.007+08:00

Review: Prince of Tennis (aka Tenipuri, PoT, TPoT)
GENERAL INFORMATION
Genre: School Life, Sports, Comedy, Drama, Shounen
Author: Konomi Takeshi
Manga: 42 volumes
The Prince of After School (1 volume)
New Prince of Tennis (ongoing)
Anime: 178 episodes
The New Prince of Tennis (ongoing)
OVAs: Prince of Tennis: A Day on Survival Mountain
Prince of Tennis: The National Tournament (13 episodes)
Prince of Tennis: The National Tournament Semifinal (6 episodes)
Prince of Tennis: The National Tournament Final (7 episodes)
Musicals: Tenimyu
Short Film: Tennis no Oujisama: Atobe Kara no Okurimono
Animated Film: Tennis no Ojisama - Futari no Samurai
Live Action Movie: The Prince of Tennis (2006)

PLOT
(Original from AnimeNews)
Echizen Ryoma is a young tennis prodigy who has won 4 consecutive tennis championships but who constantly lies in the shadow of his father, a former pro tennis player. He joins the Seishun Gakuen junior highschool, one of the best tennis schools in Japan, and there along with his teamates he learns to find his own type of tennis in an attempt to defeat his biggest obstacle of all: his father as well as himself.

REACTIONS/COMMENTS
Story: The story is good. Not unique, but definitely good. It is well portrayed in the series and I love the smooth flow of events. Despite a quite common plot in the sports genre, it does not become a bore. Rather, the story becomes interesting because of many twists that make this title stand out.

Revolving mainly on the characters' growth, especially Echizen's as the protagonist, the story does not force their development and you can actually see the improvement little by little. I love the story. You can relate to the events quite well and you might even grow to love tennis.

There is a good mix of action and comedy. The best part is because despite the fun, there is an underlying truth of life behind. A lot of lessons can be learned and I believe it helped make this series one of the most outstanding there is today.

Characters: No one will probably argue with me if I say that the characters are one of the strongest points of Prince of Tennis. The characters are easily likable and each of them have unique personalities that will make sure you find the character you will be drawn to. What's also good is the fact that the bad guys are also very likable - in the bad guy way. Each has his/her own charm. It won't be surprising, though, if there are some that will annoy you to no end. Just as you are sure to find the character that you will be drawn to like magnet, you will also find the one that repels you.

The designs are beautiful. I love Konomi Takeshi's art. I like how the appearances of some characters may or may not coincide with their personalities. It never fails to remind me that we shouldn't judge by appearances.

Abilities: Since this is a sports series, of course the characters must have skills. At first, the abilities are normal - for a prodigy anyway. But soon enough, exaggerated abilities show up one after another. These abilities may be based on real-life skills and tricks on the court, but it does make you laugh or twitch (depends on how you take it) when you see over-the-top moves. It is very cool to see that each character has his own specialty and you just can't wait to see that being used and how it can be overcome.

New Prince of Tennis: The New Prince of Tennis is a manga that serves as a sequel to the original Prince of Tennis. It is being adapted into an anime and the first episode will release this January 2012.

The story of the New Prince of Tennis is a continuation of where the Prince of Tennis stops. Ryoma returns to Japan after his stay in America. Seigaku, along with the other middle school teams, are invited to a selection camp where previously, only high school students have joined and been chosen.

Drawing/Animation: The drawing of Konomi Takeshi is excellent. I love how he can display action, motion, and movement so well. Even if I'm just reading the manga, I can feel the action. I also love his attention to detail on his art. The animation of the series was good. But I can't say any more than that. It wasn't poor, but it wasn't anything exceptional, either.

Junko Minagawa, voice actress of Echizen Ryoma

Voice Acting: I'm a fan of the voice actors and actresses in the series. The seiyu for the main characters were very good. I love their interpretation of the characters. And I think they suit their characters well. But, I don't think it was that good a job done by the seiyu of the secondary characters. Of course, there are exceptions, such as the lively voice of Yu Sugimoto as Kintaro, the voice of Toshiyuki Kusuda as Ryo Shishido, and some others.

Soundtrack: The soundtrack is a very fun bunch! I enjoy the music in Prince of Tennis so much, especially when you consider that the singers are the characters' very own voice actors! Some of my favorites are White Line by Aozu, Flower ~Saki Midareshi Hana~ by GIGS

Well, in the end, this is my personal review. My opinions here won't always be what you might think after you read/watch Hunter x Hunter. You may like it so much that you are so addicted to it, or you may hate it so much that you wonder why I even like it, or you may be just like me and like the series a WHOLE LOT! :D

Review: Touch

2011-03-13T16:41:00.001+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Genre: Comedy, Romance, Sports
Author: Mitsuru Adachi
Manga: 26 volumes
Anime: 101 episodes
Anime Films: Touch: Sebangō no Nai Ace
Touch 2: Sayonara no Okurimono
Touch 3: Kimi ga Tōri Sugita Ato ni
TV Film Anime: Touch: Miss Lonely Yesterday
Touch: Cross Road
Live-action Movie: Touch
Live-action Drama: Touch

PLOT
(Some Information from Wikipedia)
Touch follows the lives of three people: the identical twin brothers, Uesugi Kazuya and Tatsuya, and Minami Asakura. They've lived next to each other since they were babies, and their parents even built a playhouse in the yard between their houses. As they grew into their teens, they suddenly noticed that one of them was a girl.

Kazuya, the younger twin, was an excellent student, as was Minami. Tatsuya is really talented but also a bit of a slacker. Since middle school, Kazuya has received awards and recognition for excellence as a pitcher and baseball player. Tatsuya, however, is more inclined to let his brother take the limelight, as he is unwilling to directly compete with Kazuya. This includes competing for Minami's love as well. While most people, including their parents, suggest that Minami and Kazuya will make a perfect couple, Minami tends to prefer Tatsuya.

During the first year in high school, however, Kazuya is hit and killed by a truck while saving a child on his way to the final match of the local qualifying baseball tournament. Because of Kazuya's death, Tatsuya is eventually convinced by Minami to take over where his brother left off and help lead the team to Kōshien, the stadium where the national high school baseball championships are held. At the same time, Minami dedicates herself to making it to the All Japan Gymnastics Tournament. This is a story of how Kazuya's memory brings them together.

REACTIONS/COMMENTS

Story: Touch is definitely one of the best stories ever to be found in manga. The story is actually quite simple, yet deep. The beauty in the story is its simplicity and realistic portrayal. There are so many real-life encounters that you will find in the story. There is sibling rivalry, death of a beloved, the memory of that beloved, achieving your dreams, working for a goal, teamwork and friendship, and then there's love. Touch is a heartwarming and very funny story that touches each and everyone of us for what message it delivers. Two thumbs up and 5 shining stars for this wonderful story.

Characters: As with a realistic plot, there are realistic characters. Each with his/her own strengths and weaknesses. Not a single feature out of place, not a single part out of personality, coupled with superb portrayal from the amazing Mitsuru Adachi. The characters change, and you see their growth. You see the development to maturity in each one of them. At the same time, we see a uniqueness in each of them as there is in each of us.

Art: The art in Touch is simple. Yet it does not forget to attend to details. Mitsuru Adachi has a way for bringing out life in his drawings. There is good background with clear emotions. The features of each character, each clothing, each scene, are always with accurate detail and that is something to appreciate.

Animation: **I cannot give a rating on this part as I have not seen the anime.

Voice Acting: **I cannot give a rating on this part as I have not seen the anime.

Soundtrack/Themes: **I cannot give a rating on this part as I have not seen the anime.

So I guess I only reviewed the manga part of Touch. This is truly a masterpiece! However, I hope that to all you manga readers out there, this may have helped you. I will be giving ratings for the anime part the moment I watch the anime. For now, I can only give this. For those of you who have seen the anime and would like to give their ratings, please do! That will be great help!

Mangaka Profile: Hiro Mashima

2011-01-31T20:28:00.000+08:00

真島ヒロ (Mashima Hiro)
Gender: Male
Age: 33
Birth date: May 3, 1977
Birth place: Nagano, Japan
Notable Work/s: Rave Master, Fairy Tail
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Comedy, Action

BACKGROUND
As a young boy, his grandfather would find discarded manga for him to read, and Mashima would always trace the pictures. Two manga series in particular were the main inspiration for him to become a professional manga artist: Dragon Ball, a well known manga produced by Akira Toriyama, and Ultimate Muscle, which is created by Yudetamago. Hiro Mashima especially enjoyed parts featuring the main characters getting into trouble, but somehow always managing to win in the end. After High School, he decided to go to an art school because he believed that going to school would help him in learning how to improve his manga drawing ability. However, he ended up detesting the approach and taught himself. He was a notable guest at the 2008 San Diego Comic-Con.

WORKING
He currently has five assistants. They are Ueda I, Sho Nakamura, Bobby Osawa, Kobayashi Kina, and Kain. Formerly, Miki Yoshikawa and Shin Mikuni were also his assistants. According to Fairy Tail Wikia, Mashima has never worked as an artist's assistant. However, it is said in his Wikipedia Article that he has worked under Oda Eichiro in the past. Mashima is well known also for his speed in drawing and production of manga. His record is 65 completed pages within one week, 3 of which were colored.

WORKS
Groove Adventure Rave (Rave Master) (1998–2005)
Plue's Dog Diaries (2002–2007)
Mashima-en Vol.1 & 2 (2003)
Monster Soul (2006–2007)
Fairy Tail (2006-ongoing)
Monster Hunter Orage (2008–2009)
Nishikaze to Taiyou (2010)
Sangokushi Taisen card illustration
Respect Gundam contribution
Cocona (2003)

TRIVIA
The main characters in his magazine serializations are named after seasons:

Rave (Haru=Spring)
Fairy Tail (Natsu=Summer)
Monster Soul (Aki=Autumn)
Monster Hunter Orage (Shiki=Four Seasons)

PERSONAL COMMENTS
I've read Rave Master and watched its anime. I'm also reading Fairy Tail and watching its anime. I just love Hiro Mashima's works! I usually go for romance manga and anime. If not, I go for sports. But, both of Mashima's works that I have read are neither romance nor sports yet I loved them more than most of the manga I've read. Well, there is some romance in Rave Master. :D I love his characters, too. Reading Fairy Tail is bringing back lots of Rave Master memories!

Character Information: Mystogan

2011-01-30T19:11:00.003+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Anime/Manga: Fairy Tail
Real Name: Jellal
Gender: Male
Age: 19-20
Occupation: King of Edolas
Former Guild: Fairy Tail
Magic: Anima, Mirror Water, Sacred Song, Skyscraper, Air, Sleep
Race: Edolas Human
Earthland Counterpart: Jellal Fernandes

NOTE: some things below may not be understood by those who do not watch/read the anime/manga. Since this is a Character Information, I have no duties to summarize the story. I will however, one day set up a review for the series.

APPEARANCE
When he was first seen, Mystogan's face was not shown. He wore a black coat with most of his body covered in bandages. He has a black hat with a silver forehead protector. The bottom half of his face is usually covered with a green mask that changes design during the series. When his face was reveaed, he has dark eyes, blue hair, and a tattoo on his right eye, exactly like his Earthland counterpart, Jellal Fernandes.

PERSONALITY
Mystogan is a very mysterious person. He is quiet by nature and rarely socializes. Despite being a reclusive person, he is very loyal and kind to his friends and comrades. He usually does things on his own, and doesn't say much about the things he does. He is very helpful to others, often with the other person not knowing about his help.

BACKGROUND
Mystogan was the prince of Edolas. He was saved by Pantherlily when he was young and came to Earthland seven years prior to the series. While still not used to the way of life in Earthland, he found a young girl, Wendy Marvell, the Sky Dragon Slayer. He took her in, despite being lost himself, and protected her as they travelled. When he sensed the presence of Anima, he thought it would be dangerous to take Wendy with him any longer. He left her in the care of a guild, Cait Shelter, which turned out to be a guild made out of illusions.

Mystogan supressed Anima and soon joined the Fairy Tail guild. He takes on jobs from the guild, remaining loyal to Fairy Tail despite his distancing himself from its members.

PERSONAL COMMENTS
Okay, so I don't really quite understand why I love Mystogan. Maybe I love the part of him where he doesn't interact much with Fairy Tail members but still remains completely loyal to the guild and helps them in their times of need. I like how he doesn't tell people he's helping them but has already done a lot. He's very kind and I love his relationship with Wendy! Aw, now I want to have an older brother like Mystogan... :D

Character Information: Loki

2011-01-29T20:51:00.001+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Anime/Manga: Fairy Tail
Nickname: Leo, Loke, The Lion, Grown Up Cat
Gender: Male
Key Type: Gold Key
Summoner: Lucy Heartfilia
Former Owner: Karen Lilica
Way of Fighting: Regulus
Contract: Anytime
Race: Celestial Spirit

NOTE: some things below may not be understood by those who do not watch/read the anime/manga. Since this is a Character Information, I have no duties to summarize the story. I will however, one day set up a review for the series.

APPEARANCE

When first introduced, Loki had short dark orange hair. He wore a green jacket with fluffy white collar, a light red t-shirt, and black trousers. He also wears lightly-tinted sunglasses and the ring which he uses for magic. After he returns to the Celestial Spirit World, he now wears more formal attire. He wears a black suit and tie. However, he retains the sunglasses and the ring. Among the known celestial spirits, Loki has the most human-like appearance. His Fairy Tail member stamp is on his back.

PERSONALITY

Generally, Loki is very flirtatious with women. He, however, does not take lightly to those who mistreat, abuse, or take advantage of them. He is a very loyal and caring friend. He does not hesitate to sacrifice himself for others. He is very dedicated to Lucy, although he tends to be capricious a

BACKGROUND
Leo was contracted to the Celestial Spirit mage Karen Lilica in the past, along with another Zodiac Spirit, Aries. He saw how Karen abused, mistreated, and hurted Aries. When she was about to sentence Aries to seven days imprisonment in the human world, he appeared in her place. Leo demanded that the contracts with him and Aries be severed or else he would stay in the humans' world until she did so, easily resisting Karen's attempts at forced closure of his gate. By staying the human world, he prevented Karen from summoning any other spirits, thus being unable to do any other jobs.

Although the pain was torturous, Leo was able to endure the pain and became used to the human world in three months. One day, the master came to visit Leo. He said that Karen died during a mission, thus making Leo the indirect cause of her death. For violating his contract with Karen and causing her death, he was refused permission to return to the Celestial Plane. Soon after, Leo disguised himself as a human named Loki and joined the Fairy Tail Guild as a mage.

PERSONAL COMMENTS
What I really love about Loki is that he's just so cute, funny, and very kind! I mean, if he just doesn't put up all those glittering light love proclamations, then he'd be the perfect boyfriend! But anyway, I like how he's so loyal to Lucy and the other celestial spirits. He's one of my favorite characters on Fairy Tail, not just among the celestial spirits. If you haven't read Fairy Tail, I'm sure you'll enjoy your cup of comedy and action when you do. :D

Mangaka Profile: Yoshizumi Wataru

2010-10-02T09:01:00.000+08:00

吉住渉 (Yoshizumi Wataru)
Real Name: 中井真里 (Nakai Mari)
Gender: Female
Age: 47
Birth date: June 18, 1963
Birth place: Tokyo, Japan
Notable Work/s: Marmalade Boy, Handsome na Kanojo, Ultra Maniac
Genre: Romance, Comedy

BACKGROUND:
Yoshizumi Wataru's real name is Nakai Mari. She graduated with a degree in economics from Hitotsubashi University. Yoshizumi started her career as a mangaka while working as an office lady in a computer company. Her debut manga was a yomikiri (short story) called "Radical Romance" that was published in the year 1984, in the summer issue of Ribon Original. She is good friends with fellow mangakas Naoko Takeuchi, Ai Yazawa, Miho Obana, and Megumi Mizusawa. Her works are published in both Ribon and Chorus.
She likes the movie, "Practical Magic".

WORKS:
Chitose etc.
Cappuccino
P×P
Spicy Pink
Cherish
Datte Suki Nandamon
Ultra Maniac
Random Walk
Mint na Bokura
Kimi Shika Iranai
Marmalade Boy
Handsome na Kanojo [Includes "Radical Romance"]
Quartet Game [Another Day/Heart Beat]
Happiness
Baby It's You

PERSONAL COMMENTS:
When it comes to Yoshizumi Wataru, I immediately think of a wonderful story and very lovable characters! Though not all, I have read a lot of her works. Marmalade Boy is one of my well-loved series. Well, no more to say but read her works! :D

Download Anime Music Sheets

2010-06-30T20:45:00.001+08:00

Here is a list of websites that I usually go to in order to download .pdf files of music sheets for anime songs (themes and soundtracks). Some of these websites also offer sheet music for video games. Sites are written in no specific order.

note: I only play the piano and violin. That is why, some of these sites are specifically for violin and/or piano. If you play other instruments such as guitar, cello, flute, etc., these websites also offer links to other wonderful sites to get music sheets for other instruments and guitar tabs.

bishieXotaku

Violin only • Free Download • Accepts Requests

Ichigo's Sheet Music

Various individual instruments and orchestra • Free download • Accepts Requests

ANIMEKEYS

Various individual and group instruments • Free download • Accepts Requests

josh's

Various individual and group instruments and orchestra • Free download • Accepts Requests for a fee

Anime on Strings~

Violin and other string instruments • Free download

(I'm not quite sure if Anime on Strings~ accepts requests! xD)

To all those musically-talented anime fans out there, I hope you enjoy playing your favorite anime, video games, and j-pop songs! :D

Download Manga Scanlations

2010-06-05T08:33:00.000+08:00

Here's a list of the usual places I go to when I want to download manga scanlations. Please take note that these are places for downloading. Not places for online reading. I am writing them in order from my most used site to the least used.

Aerandria

Scanlation Group • Free Download

Manga Temple

Free Download

Manga Download

Unfortunately, the site has shut down. Only the forums remain. It is very unfortunate since it had been a big part of me. But, oh well.

Manga Helpers

Free Download

Well, that's all for manga downloads! I hope I helped! Enjoy your manga reading!

~ coa-chan

Mangaka Profile: Kubo Tite

2010-06-04T13:18:00.000+08:00

久保帯人 (Kubo Tite)
Real Name: 久保宣章 (Kubo Noriaki)
Gender: Male
Age: 32
Birth date: June 26, 1977
Birth place: Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
Notable Work/s: Bleach, Zombie-Powder
Genre: Shounen, Supernatural, Adventure, Action, Fantasy

BACKGROUND
The son of a town council member in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima, Kubo graduated from the local high school. In an interview, Kubo has stated that he entered a magazine's manga contest, and that although he did not win, one of the magazine's editors noticed his talent. They subsequently worked together on joint projects. Not long afterward, his first manga short, "Ultra Unholy Hearted Machine", was published in Shueisha's Weekly Shōnen Jump Special in 1996. This was followed by two more shorts, and in 1999 his first serial, Zombie-powder, began in Weekly Shōnen Jump and ran for four volumes until 2000, when it was cancelled. According to the author's commentary in the cover leaf of the third tankōbon, Kubo was in a state of severe emotional trauma when he wrote it.

His next series, Bleach, began running in the same magazine in 2001. As of 2004, an anime adaptation of Bleach began running in Japan. The manga was named a winner of the Shogakukan Manga Award for its category in 2005. Kubo and Makoto Matsubara have co-authored two novelizations of the Bleach series, which were published by Shueisha under their Jump Books label. A Bleach movie was released in Japan on December 16, 2006, followed by a second movie on December 22, 2007. Kubo also appeared in the episode 112 of the Japanese radio program of Bleach B-Station. In that program, Kubo was interviewed by Masakazu Morita, voice actor of Ichigo Kurosaki, the main character of Bleach, and answered several questions from fans. On July 26, 2008, Kubo went to the United States for the first time and made an appearance at the San Diego Comic-Con International.

WORKS
One-Shots:

Fire in the Sky (1995, Shueisha's Hop Step Award finalist.)
Ultra Unholy Hearted Machine (1996, Weekly Shōnen Jump Special. Appears in volume 2 of Zombiepowder..)
Rune Master Urara (1996, Weekly Shōnen Jump. Appears in volume 3 of Zombiepowder..)
Bad Shield United (1997, Weekly Shōnen Jump. Appears in volume 4 of Zombiepowder.. Also makes a cameo in Bleach as the fictitious movie Bad Shield United 2.)

Serials:

Zombie Powder (1999–2000, Weekly Shonen Jump, Shueisha. Collected in four volumes in 2000 and discontinued.)
Bleach (2001-Ongoing, Weekly Shonen Jump, Shueisha. Collected in 43+ volumes.)

Artbooks:

Bleach All Colour But The Black
Bleach Official Bootleg

Other works:

Bleach Official Character Book SOULs
Bleach Official Anime Guide Book VIBEs

Influences:
Note: listed are his sources of influences. inside parentheses is what was influenced.

desire to draw shinigami in kimono (basis for the design of the shinigami in the series, Bleach)
GeGeGe no Kitaro by Mizuki Shigeru (his interest in drawing the supernatural and monsters, also in becoming a mangaka)
Saint Seiya by Kurumada Masami (interesting weaponry and battle scenes, also in becoming a mangaka)
cinema (action style and storytelling in Bleach)
rock music (making of battle scenes)
foreign languages (terms used in Bleach, particularly German for Quincy and Spanish for Hollows and Arrancar)
famous Spanish architects and designers (names of the arrancar in Bleach)

PERSONAL COMMENTS
What can I say? Thank you Kubo for giving us Bleach! Well, anyway, there were more information about Kubo Tite that I read in a magazine before. I tried to look for it so I can add it here but when I went looking, I couldn't seem to get the right issue! lol! But I'll definitely continue searching for it! I'll update this post once I do so look forward to it!

Watch Subbed Anime Online

2010-06-04T12:33:00.000+08:00

So, to at least give you guys some of my personal opinion on good websites for watching subbed anime, I made this post! Here is a list of my most-used anime-streaming websites. Also, I've provided screenshots of the homepage of these sites.

(note: websites are in order from my most used down to not-so-often used. Sites I've used only once are not found here.)

Anilinkz
Free • No Registration Required

Watch Anime On
Free • No Registration Required

Crunchyroll
Free • Registration is Required

Umai Anime
Free • No Registration Required

Anime Crunch
Free • No Registration Required

Veoh
Free • No Registration Required • Requires Veoh Web Player

YouTube
Free • No Registration Required

Anime Crazy
Free • No Registration Required

Animepile
Free • No Registration Required

That's it, folks! Hope it helped! By the way, the ranking is my personal preference. It may be that you turn out to prefer the ones at the bottom than the top. :D

Character Information: Hitsugaya Toushiro

2010-05-16T20:53:00.008+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Anime/Manga: Bleach
Seiyuu: Romi Paku
Nickname: Shiro-chan
Gender: Male
Height: 133 cm
Weight: 28 kg
Birthday: December 20
Division: 10th Division
Rank: Captain
Zanpakuto: Hyourinmaru
Bankai: Daiguren Hyourinmaru

NOTE: some things below may not be understood by those who do not watch/read the anime/manga. Since this is a Character Information, I have no duties to summarize the story. I will however, one day set up a review for the series.

APPEARANCE
Hitsugaya is short, standing at 133 cm. He has teal-colored eyes and short, spiked, white/silver hair. He wears a standard sleeveless captain's haori with a green sash around his shoulders, held together by a round clip. The sash holds his Zanpakutō's sheath in place on his back and is tied to it at either end. He sometimes walks around in his tabi. He is relatively young by Shinigami standards. In the Human world, he wears a black, short-sleeved, golf shirt and gray pants.

PERSONALITY
As a young child, Hitsugaya was a bit of a brat who likes to eat watermelons and poke fun at Hinamori Momo. She calls him "Shiro-chan" and he retorts by calling her "Bed-wetter Momo." The two are close friends and Hitsugaya, despite being younger and much shorter than his friend, always feels that he needs to protect her.

Hitsugaya is a generally mature and serious individual. He has been shown to be easily annoyed by others goofing off or drawing unneeded attention to themselves. He hates anything that he deems childish as well as being described as something close to a child, such as an elementary school child, though he is often mistaken as one.

Hitsugaya has developed a cold attitude toward most people; he tolerates jokes and goes on with his duties. Although he has shown anger toward these jokes, he doesn't take action against whomever insulted him unless they are his enemies, but has never overreacted because of them.

The only thing he can't tolerate is not being addressed as "Captain Hitsugaya," or an inappropriate use of his name, as he worked very hard for the title so he gets angry when not addressed as such. Coincidentally, though, he does not address any other officer with their title, only their last names. The only people that actually call him by his given name are Ichigo, who is constantly reminded to address him properly, and Hinamori, who is the only person allowed to get away with it.

Hitsugaya dislikes summer and warm weather in general. It is also known that Tōshirō's favorite foods are watermelon and amanattō. His grandmother even occasionally sends amanattō to him into the division quarters. He does not like dried persimmons.

He is a hard worker. He believes in the saying "children who sleep well, grow well," and hopes to grow quickly, a wish shared by his subordinates. But even by regularly practicing this adage for so long, he didn't really grow in height.

BACKGROUND
Hitsugaya comes from the province of Junrinan in the 1st District of West Rukongai. There, he lived with his grandmother and Hinamori. Also, while living there, he was so skilled with spinning tops that he became the local undefeated champion.

Even at a young untrained age, Hitsugaya could hear the calling of his Zanpakutō spirit, Hyōrinmaru. Despite this he never told anyone and couldn't accurately determine what was happening other than to assume it was an ever recurring dream.

It was at this time that Hinamori left to become a Shinigami. He acted as though he was happy to see her go though it was no where near his true feelings. Their neighbors were all scared of him. The only people not scared of him were Hinamori and his grandmother. When Momo had been in the Shinigami Academy for 5 years, he began to notice how he hadn't grown an inch. He noticed that Hinamori's hair grew longer and she visited less often, seemingly having a goal in her life now. He also noticed that "Granny" was getting skinnier.

While out at the market one day, he meets Matsumoto Rangiku for the first time when a shopkeeper was treating him disdainfully. Matsumoto yells at the shopkeeper for being rude and at Hitsugaya for supposedly 'lying there and crying about it and not standing up like a man'. They argue and Hitsugaya shakes her off and runs away.

Later that night, he has a vivid dream of a gigantic, icy blue, serpentine dragon with large wings and an echoing voice. This dream is markedly different from the previous ones, where he had only experienced sensations but nothing substantial to what the meaning might be. This time, however, the reason behind the dreams not only materializes but tries to tell him its name. Hitsugaya cannot hear him, however, as his voice is muffled by strong winds. He then wakes up in a cold sweat. Upon waking up, he sees Matsumoto and is surprised to see her in his home. She immediately tells him to stop leaking his reiatsu everywhere and to get some sleep. She further explains that his grandmother looks pretty cold, which causes Hitsugaya to notice for the first time that the room is exceedingly cold and affecting his grandmother. Rangiku then tells him he should become a Shinigami, stating that kids with power as strong as his need to learn how to bring their power under control. She explains that if he stays the way he is, his power will end up killing his grandmother.

At first, Hitsugaya isn't sure what she is talking about but she calmly places her hand on his chest and asks him if he hears a voice calling out to him. She explains to him that once he has found that voice, he'll understand how to control his power. She then notes that for that to happen he must become a Shinigami.

Soon after, he tells his grandmother of his intentions of becoming a Shinigami. Much to Hitsugaya's surprise, she is happy for him. She tells him that she had always felt that he holds everything in because he didn't want to leave her, but doing so was only hurting him and in turn seeing him that way, hurt her. Hitsugaya then leaves to follow his own path with his grandmother's blessing.

With Hitsugaya's natural talent, he quickly entered the Shinigami Academy and graduated early despite his age. Because of a promise she had made, Hinamori only began to call him "Hitsugaya-kun" after he had achieved his Zanpakutō's Shikai and was recognized as a Shinigami. Highly capable and knowledgeable, he quickly became the youngest ever to achieve the rank of the captain within the Gotei 13 in the entire history of Soul Society.

POWERS and ZANPAKUTO
Hitsugaya's zanpakuto or soul slayer is Hyourinmaru. Hyourinmaru is considered the strongest of all Water/Ice-type zanpakuto. Because of its strength, Hitsugaya doesn't ned any present water to control and use Hyourinmaru's abilities. In its sealed state, Hyourinamru is a normal katana with the exception of the guard, which is in the shape of a four-pointed bronze-colored star. Its hilt is light blue and sheath dark blue. The sheath completely dissolves when he draws his sword which is at about 1.4 meters long.

Hyourinmaru's shikai command is 'souten ni zase'. It roughly translates to 'Sit Upon the Frozen Heavens'. In shikai, it gains a crescent-shaped blade attached to its hilt by a long metal chain, which can extend greatly if necessary by force of will. The chain itself can be used as an attack or to entangle a target. Tenso Jurin is Hyourinmaru's most basic powers. It allows Hitsugaya to control the weather and all surroundings waters. It may also be used in bankai but Hitsugaya claims that he doesn't want to as he still cannot perfectly control it and may accidentally kill anyone in the vicinity.

Hyourinmaru's bankai is Daiguren Hyourinamru. When in bankai, Daiguren Hyourinmaru causes ice to flow onto Hitsugaya, starting at his right arm which ice forms onto in the shape of a dragon's head around his sword hand, encasing the sword up to the hilt; which also changes from the shape of a four-pointed star to that of eight-pointed star. The ice continues forming up over his shoulders with two large wings sprouting from his back and a long tail. The ice forms down his left arm encasing his hand which ends in a claw. Hitsugaya's feet are encased in ice in a similar manner to his left hand which as they to end in claws.

In bankai, Hitsugaya is able to do more techniques. Ryusenka is used when the opponent is stabbed and ice bursts from the blade to encase and freeze them as well as shatter it thereafter. Sennen Hyoro creates ice pillars that attack the opponent by crushing them. Shield of Ice Wings is used when Hitsuagya uses his wings around him to protect himself. Hyoten Hyakkaso is an extension of the Tenso Jurin. It creates a hole from which snow fall. Ice flowers sprout from whoever the snow falls onto, trapping them in a pillar of ice. Bankai Regeneration is when Hitsugaya is able to regenerate his bankai using the waters in the vicinity. Ice Clone creates a clone of Hitsugaya from ice. Guncho Tsurara tranforms water into ice and fires ice daggers at the target. Hyoryu Senbi creates ice in the form of a crescent. Zekku controls the where Hyoryu Senbi is fired at.

Because of Hitsugaya's control over Hyourinmaru's power, he may unleash ice even in its sealed state and can use some of his bankai techniques in shikai. Aside from his zanpakuto's powers, Hitsugaya is a master swordsman, resulting in him rarely relying on his released zanpakuto. He also has immense spiritual powers that others describe as very large and cold. Even before becoming a shinigami, his spiritual power was so powerful and immense that it caused people around him to freeze. Also, despite his lean figure, he is a very resilient fighter. He is also an Kido expert, able to use high-level spells without incantation. As well, he is very proficient in the use of flash steps. Hitsugaya has also been shown to be a good hand-to-hand combatant but his proficiency has yet to be seen thoroughly.

Even in his young age, Hitsugaya is a good tactician and strategist. He is able to keep his cool in battle and analyze his opponents very well. He is observant and can see through most deception. In addition, he is very cautious of his actions and does not waste energy on random attacks. On many occassions, Hitsugaya is said to be a child genius. He has great brains and natural talent and became the youngest ever captain in soul society. Ichimaru Gin has called him the embodiment of the "heavenly white angel that blesses Soul Society once a century". Even Shunshui Kyouraku has stated that in 100 years time, Hitsugaya may just surpass him already.

PERSONAL COMMENTS
The reason I love Hitsugaya is with two things. First of all, isn't he such a cutie? Of course he is! Second, who wouldn't admire such a genius? The youngest ever to become captain, my dear people! But anyway, all the things I write in this part are my personal comments so I wouldn't be surprised if someone doesn't think like I do. Well, you've read most of the good about him. But if you haven't watched Bleach, I suggest you start now as you have a lot to catch up on! If you turn out to like Hitsugaya, OMG! Don't you dare forget to watch the second bleach movie, Bleach: The DiamondDust Rebellion! I so hate the copier there (you wouldn't understand if you haven't watched the movie! xD)! But that was just in the movie anyway, so let's forget about him and concentrate on our dear Shiro-chan! Also, please join the Hitsugaya Toushiro fanlisting listed in TAFL.org. LOL!

Update No. 249 (May 16, 2010)

2010-05-16T20:43:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 158
Bleach - Episode 268
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5
Hetalia: Axis Powers - EPisode 11

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 131
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 29
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 99
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 64
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 48
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
The King's Pawnshop - *completed*
Koko in Iru Yo! - *completed*
Lovely Banchou - *completed*
Mind Game - *completed*
Nadeshiko Club - *completed*
Beauty Pop - *completed*
Shugo Chara Encore! - Chapter 4

BACKTRACK

(Reading/Watching Again)

Akuma - Chapter 18 pg. 17
School Days - Chapter 2 pg. 14
Tokyo CP - Chapter 13 pg. 12
Hoshigari Love Dollar - Chapter 8

Review: Gate Keepers

2010-05-11T10:48:00.007+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Genre: Comedy, Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy
Manga: 3 Volumes
Author: Hiroshi Yamaguchi
Artwork: Keiji Gotoh
Original Run: November 29, 1999 – October 29, 2001
Anime: 24 Episodes
Studio: GONZO
Original Run: April 3, 2000 – September 18, 2000
Gate Keepers 21: 6 Episodes
Original Run: April 24, 2002 – January 8, 2003
Novel: Gate Keepers 1985
Published: January 30, 2003

PLOT
In 1969 Japan, aliens, known as "Invaders", are attacking Earth. However, this truth is not known by the general public. The elite secret organization, A.E.G.I.S., was set up by the government with its special goal of confronting these Invaders. AEGIS relies on their special members called "Gate Keepers", the only ones who have any real chance in battling the invaders. One day on his route to high school, Ukiya Shun observes a battle between a young girl and a group of Invaders. He ends up helping her and discovers that, much like the girl, he is also a Gate Keeeper. As a result, Ukiya then joins A.E.G.I.S in an effort to recruit other Gate Keepers and protect the city, all while doing his best not to imitate his late father, whom he dispises.

REACTIONS/COMMENTS
Story: The first part of the series primarily revolves around the recruitment of Gate Keepers to AEGIS. There are also random attacks from the invaders that reveal information that lead up to the next episode. However, the main point is actually the attack of the top invaders, Akuma Hakushaku and Kikai Shogun, and the evil Gate Keeper Kageyama Reiji. For the story, there's only excitement, lots of comedy, and some action in the first part. But, it turns into a considerably moving plot in the second part, though it retains its share of comedy and light-hearted scenes.

Characters: Considering that this series was created based from a game, the characters have remarkly good unique individual traits and attitudes. They have a solid identity and well-portrayed character. Their backgrounds and history were well thought of and fit how they turned out in present day. The designs are very good and fitting.

Relationships: Of course, romantic relationships are also found here. But, it is not the main focus of the story and mostly, these relationships are shown in comedic fashion, with few exemptions. There is only one main romance focused and that is between Ikusawa Ruriko and Ukiya Shun. However, there are also some sideline relationships that have been given their own spotlights during the series such as Banchou and Konoe kaoru, as well as The Commander and Ochiai Keiko. Aside from romantic relationships, family, friendship, teamwork, and even superior-junior relationships have had big parts in the series.

Gate Abilities: Gate Abilities are the special powers that the main characters in the series possesses. There are only few people who have these abilities and they are called Gate Keepers. Gate Keepers have the ability to call power from a different dimension and open a "Gate". This gate varies from one Gate Keeper to another. Respective gates have specified abilities such as the Gate of Fire, which allows the Gate Keeper to summon flames and control them. Or even the Gate of Supersonic, which gives the Gate Keeper superhuman speed. A Gate Keeper must open his/her gate in order to use their respective gate abilities. Each Gate has its own color though some of them might have the same.

AEGIS: AEGIS or A.E.G.I.S. is short for Alien Exterminating Global Intercept System. It is a highly secret elite organization that was set up with special funding from the government. This was formed in order to counter the attacks of Invaders. They rely on the ability of Gate Keepers, who have the power to open dimensional "gates" of a paranormal energy that give them their superpowers. These gate abilities are the only weapons that have any effect on Invaders.
A.E.G.I.S., being an international organization, has branches around the world all over the world. Each of these branches have their own Headquarters headed by a commander. Often, the commanders gather together to convene in the Main Headquarters of AEGIS. The series focuses in the Far East AEGIS branch in Japan whose headquarters lies beneath Tategami High School, a facade created by the organization to mask the active recruitment of new Gate Keepers. Since many of the candidates were High School students, the location allowed the agents to be enrolled in school and be available for a mission at a moment's notice. Other AEGIS branches that have been mentioned are the German Branch in Germany, Shanghai Branch in China, American Branch in the United States of America, French Branch in France, AEGIS England in England.

Animation: The animation is very good. It is high-quality, detailed and accurate. It has bright, cute, and colorful atmosphere that fits the events, situation, and places during the series. I must say, this is another of GONZO's many wonderfully created series.

Voice Acting: The voice acting is good. The seiyuus did very well in protraying their characters. However, personally, I really like the portrayal did by Koyasu Takehito for Banchou and Suzuki Masami for Hojo Yukino. Banchou's personality was really shown not only in the animation of his actions but through the very well-done voicing of Koyasu Takehito. He is also the voice of Excalibur in Soul Eater, Keiki in Twelve Kingdoms, Pesche in Bleach, and Hotohori in Fushigi Yugi for some examples. As for Suzuki Masami, she did well in voicing her silent character while making her seem alive. The cast is also full of other well-known seiyuu. Sakurai Takahiro voices Ukiya Shun. He is also the voice behind Santa in Kaikan Phrase, Sasame in Pretear, Fakir in Princess Tutu, Suzaku in Code Geass, and Tachibana Shito in Zombie-Loan among many others. Kawasumi Ayako voices Ikusawa Ruriko. She was also the voice of Kaede in Angelic Layer, Chikage in Sister Princess, Tazusa in Ginban Kaleidoscope, and Saber in Fate/Stay Night to name a few. Many of the cast have roles in the anime Bleach and Kaleido Star.

Soundtrack/Themes: The Soundtrack is very commendable. The music is always fitting and well-timed. The themes are no less, of course. They catch attention and really tells a lot about the series. I love the tune and beat of the songs. I like how the opening is very upbeat and the ending is mellow and heartwarming. The opening theme is Asu no Egao no Tame ni, while the ending theme is Kyou Kara Ashita E both by Matsuzawa Yumi.

Animation Studio: GONZO

2010-05-10T11:17:00.011+08:00

Name: GONZO (株式会社ゴンゾ)
Established: September 11, 1992
Corporate Parent: GDH Group
Business: Production, Animation, Planning, Licensing
Website: www.gonzo.co.jp/

MORE INFORMATION
GONZO is a Japanese anime studio owned by the company's corporate parent, the GDH group. Shouji Murahama, one of the founding members of GONZO and its former head, imagined the company as a group of ruffians; therefore, he chose the name "GONZO" as it means "ruffian" in the Italian language. In June 2006, it signed a long-term output deal with the anime television network, Animax, which will see Animax broadcasting all of Gonzo's anime titles across all of its networks around the world, including Japan, Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Latin America and recently in Southern Africa. As of 2008 they have decided to stream some of their airing anime on video sites such as YouTube, Crunchyroll, and BOST.

In 1999, GONZO merged with Digimation to form Gonzo Digimation Holdings, one of Japan's premier digital animation production companies. The new merged company's name was Gonzo Digimation. This name was changed back to Gonzo in July 2004.

Because of a financial problem in the studio's closing account in the 2008-2009 term, the Tokyo Stock Exchange announced that on July 30, 2009 Gonzo would be delisted from the exchange. This delisting is the conclusion of a notification made to investors in March of 2008 that the studio's financial liabilities exceeded its total financial assets. The deficit was estimated at over 30 million dollars. Since Gonzo was unable to reverse this, paperwork for delisting was filed at the end of June.

The studio is still able to operate, and its parent company GDH has absorbed it in an effort to consolidate management. The combined company now simply refers to itself as Gonzo. By April 2009, the merge was complete. As part of the restructuring, GDH also sold the Gonzo Rosso game development subsidiary, GDH Capital financing subsidiary, and remaining shares of Tablier Communications initially acquired in March 2006.

ANIME TV SERIES
(listed in alphabetical order)
Afro Samurai : Animation Production, Key Animation, Production
Alive - Saishū Shinka teki Shōnen : Animation Production
B Gata H Kei : In-Between Animation
Baccano! : In-Between Animation
Basilisk : Animation, Production
Black Cat : Animation Production
Blassreiter : 3DCGI, Animation Production, Original Creator
Blood+ : In-Between Animation
Blue Drop: Tenshi-tachi no Gikyoku : 3D Modeling
Bokurano : Animation Production
Burst Angel : Animation Production, Original Creator, Planning, Production
Chrono Crusade : Animation Production
Chu-Bra!! : In-Between Animation
Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion : In-Between Animation
Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion R2 : 2nd Key Animation
Darker Than Black: Ryūsei no Gemini : 2nd Key Animation
Desert Punk : Animation Production
Dokkoida?! : Cinematography
Dragonaut - The Resonance : Animation Production
Eden of The East : In-Between Animation
Final Fantasy: Unlimited : Animation
Full Metal Panic! : Animation Production
G.I. Joe Sigma Six (U.S. TV) : Animation Production
Gad Guard : Original Concept, Production Studio
Galaxy Angel A : 3D Photography
Gankutsuou: The Count of Monte Cristo : Animation, Production
Gantz : Animation Production
Gate Keepers : Animation, Original story, Planning, Production
Getsumen To Heiki Mina : Animation Production
Gintama : Key Animation
Glass Fleet : Animation Production
Gravion : Animation, Production
Gravion Zwei : Animation, Original Creator, Production
Gurren Lagann : Animation Assistance, In-Between Animation
Hanamaru Kindergarten : In-Between Animation Cooperation
Hellsing : Animation, Production
Inuyasha: The Final Act : 2nd Key Animation
Jigoku Shoujo Futakomori : In-Between Animation
Kaleido Star : Animation
Kämpfer : 2nd Key Animation, Key Animation
Kannagi: Crazy Shrine Maidens : In-Between Animation
Kaze no Stigma : Animation Production
Kiddy Grade : Original Creator, Production
Kimi ni Todoke : In-Between Animation
La Corda D'Oro ~primo passo~ : In-Between Animation
Last Exile : Planning, Producer, Production Studio
Linebarrels of Iron : 3D Graphics, Animation Production, In-Between Animation, Photography
Master of Epic: The Animation Age : Animation Production
My Bride is a Mermaid : Animation Production
Ouran High School Host Club : In-Between Animation
Peacemaker : Animation Production, Planning
Pumpkin Scissors : Animation Production, Planning, Production

Real Drive : In-Between Animation
Red Garden : Animation Production
Romeo × Juliet : Animation Production, Production
Rosario + Vampire : Animation Production, In-Between Animation
Rosario + Vampire Capu2 : Animation Production
S.A : Animation Production
SaiKano : Animation Production, Photography
Saki : Animation Production, Production Collaboration
Samurai 7 : Animation Production, Production
Samurai Girl Real Bout High School : Production
Sands of Destruction : In-Between Animation
Seikon no Qwaser : Production Cooperation
Shangri-La : Animation Production
Shikabane Hime: Aka : In-Between Assistance
Slap Up Party -Arad Senki- : Animation Production
Solty Rei : Animation Production, Production
Sora no Manimani : In-Between Animation
Speed Grapher : 2D VFX, Animation Production, Original Work, Production
Strike Witches : Animation Production
Tales of the Abyss : In-Between Animation
Toradora! : In-Between Assistance
Tower of Druaga: the Aegis of Uruk : Animation Production
Tower of Druaga: the Sword of Uruk : Animation Production
Transformers: Cybertron : Animation
Trinity Blood : Animation Production
Vandread : Original Idea, Planning, Production Studio
Vandread: The Second Stage : Planning, Production Studio
Welcome to the NHK : Animation Production, In-Between Animation
When They Cry - Higurashi : In-Between Animation
Witchblade : Animation Production, Production
World of Narue : CG Production
XxxHOLiC: Kei : In-Between Animation
Yoshimune : Production
Zaion: I Wish You Were Here : Animation Production, Production

ANIME OAV and ONA
(listed in alphabetical order)

Blue Submarine No.6 : Production Studio
Burst Angel: Infinity : Animation Production, Original Creator, Planning, Production
Dead Girls : Animation Production
Fighting Fantasy Girl Rescue Me: Mave-chan : Production
First Squad : In-Between Animation
Gate Keepers 21 : Animation Production, Copyright, Production
Hennako-chan : Animation Production
Kaleido Star: Good dayo! Goood!! : Animation, Production
Kaleido Star: New Wings Extra Stage : Animation
Key the Metal Idol : In-Between Animation
Lupin III vs. Detective Conan : In-Between Animation
Macross Dynamite 7 : Opening Animation
Macross XX (OAV Promo) : Animation
Magic User's Club : CG Production, Final Line
Mardock Scramble (OAV Cancelled) : Animation Production
Melty Lancer : Animation Production, Production
Pinky:st : Animation Production
Saint Seiya: The Lost Canvas - Meiō Shinwa : In-Between Animation
Sakura Taisen: New York NY. : CG Production
Seto no Hanayome : Animation Production
Street Fighter IV: The Ties That Bind : In-Between Animation
Strike Witches : Animation Production
Tsubasa: Shunraiki : Animation
Vandread Integral : Animation
Vandread Turbulence : Production

Xam'd: Lost Memories : In-Between Animation
Yukikaze : Animation Production

ANIME MOVIES
(listed in alphabetical order)
Afro Samurai: Resurrection : 2nd Key Animation, Animation Production, In-Between Animation, Key Animation, Production
Batman: Gotham Knight : In-Between Animation
Brave Story : Animation, Animation Production, Production
Gedo Senki : Animation Cooperation
Howl's Moving Castle : Digital Animation
Kiddy Grade -Ignition- : Animation Production, Original Creator
Kiddy Grade -Maelstrom- : Animation Production
Kiddy Grade -Truth Dawn- : Animation Production

One Piece: The Desert Princess and The Pirates: Adventure in Alabasta : Production Assistance
Origin ~Spirits of the Past~ : Production
Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea : Animation Cooperation
RahXephon: Pluralitas Concentio : Background Scan, Photography
Shin Kyūseishu Densetsu Hokuto no Ken: Raoh-den Gekitō no Shō : In-Between Animation
Sky Crawlers : In-Between Animation
Tekkonkinkreet : In-Between Animation

LIVE-ACTION
(listed in alphabetical order)
Densha Otoko

MANGA
(listed in alphabetical order)
Blassreiter - Genetic
Burst Angel
Full Metal Panic! The Anime Mission (Resource Book manga)

Gankutsuou
Getsumen to Heiki Miina
Kiddy Grade Reverse
Kiddy Grade Versus
Red Garden
Romeo x Juliet
Speed Grapher
Vandread
Vandread Special Stage

NOVELS
(listed in alphabetical order)
Gate Keepers 1985
Vandread Special Stage

GAMES (contributions)
(listed in alphabetical order)
BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger
Genso Suikogaiden Volume 1: Swordsman of Harmonia
Genso Suikogaiden Volume 2: Duel at Crystal Valley
Lunar: Silver Star Story (Saturn remake)
Lunar 2: Eternal Blue (Saturn remake)
Radiant Silvergun
Silhouette Mirage
Suikoden III

MUSIC VIDEOS
(listed in alphabetical order)
"Forsaken" by Dream Theater
"Freedom" by Blood Stain Child

Topmost image is the GONZO studio Logo. Other images above are from the following anime: (from top to bottom) Basilisk, Chrono Crusade, Gate Keepers, Hellsing, Romeo X Juliet, Witchblade, Kaleido Star, Vandread, Rosario + Vampire, and Trinity Blood. The last picture is a scene from the music video, Forsaken by Dream Theater.

Seiyuu: Kenichi Suzumura

2010-05-05T11:04:00.002+08:00

鈴村健一 (Suzumura Kenichi)
Birth name: 鈴村健一 (Suzumura Kenichi)
Nickname/s: Suzu, Muraken, Suzuken
Gender: Male
Age: 35
Birth date: September 12, 1974
Birth place: Niigata, Osaka Prefecture, Japan
Other occupation/s: singer
Years active: 1994 - present

NOTE: This is a profile for a seiyuu. In this case, even if the seiyuu is a singer, dancer, actor/actress, model, etc., only information about him/her related to voice acting will be included. If information about his/her songs or movies are included, they are anime-related.

BACKGROUND:
Suzumrua Kenichi is currently affiliated with Arts Vision. His debut role was on Macross 7 in 1994. He is called Suzu, Muraken, or Suzuken by Soichiro Hoshi, other voice actors, and his fans. He is currently part of the group STA MEN alongside Junichi Suwabe, Daisuke Kishio, Hiroki Takahashi, Hiroyuki Yoshino, Makoto Yasumura, and Kosuke Toriumi. He has worked with Takahiro Sakurai in animations and BL Drama CDs. Currently, they host a radio show together with Miyu Matsuki called Cherry Bell. He is also a friend of seiyū Hiroki Takahashi. In works where he appears with fellow seiyuu Maaya Sakamoto, his character is romantically interested in her character. A national survey on the popularity of seiyū conducted in March 2010 has revealed Suzumura and Miyano Mamoru as the most famous male seiyū.

He has a younger brother, Masaki Suzumura, who works in film production and has featured with Kenichi Suzumura several times on seiyu radio shows. Many fans were surprised as his voice was very similar to Kenichi's but a little higher in pitch. Kenichi is also excellent at cooking. He was going to get a license to become a chef before he went along to a seiyu audition, for which he unexpectedly got picked. He has been brought up moving constantly to different areas of Japan. During his childhood years he has lived in Niigata, Osaka, Okayama, Fukuoka and other areas. He speaks Kansai-ben. However, he himself admits his Kansai-ben is not perfect, but still uses it heavily in normal speech. He practiced Aikido for five years in order to control his breathing. As a signer, he gave his first Solo Concert Tour last January 2010 in Osaka (January 10th), Nagoya (January 11th), Yokohama (January 23th) and Tokyo (January 30th).

VOICE ACTING ROLES:
(includes anime roles only)
Ginshu (Amatsuki)
Himemiko (Amatsuki)
Leonardo Cardinale (Ashita no Nadja)
Teo (Avenger)
Koichi Kamiya/Babel II (Babel II - Beyond Infinity)
Sakyou Majima (Bakusou Kyoudai Lets & Go Max)
Ial (Beast Player Erin)
Bartholome (Beyblade)
Fuji (Beyblade)
Steve (Beyblade)
Satyajit Shyamalan (Birdy the Mighty Decode)
Hatagai (Bokurano)
Kyoichi Kanzaki (Boys Be...)
Toki Mishiba (Bus Gamer)
Wakabayashi Genzo (Captain Tsubasa: Road to 2002)
Black Prince: 'A' Side (Cosmopolitan Prayers)
Masao Tanaka (Cromartie High School)
Lavi (D.Gray-man)
Pegashion (Dennou Boukenki Webdiver)
Phoenikuon (Dennou Boukenki Webdiver)
Yamashita (Descendants of Darkness)
Duskmon (Digimon Frontie)
Kouichi Kimura (Digimon Frontie)
Lieutenant Azevedo (Divergence Eve)
Nodera (Divergence Eve)
Operator (Divergence Eve)
Hikaru Himuro (Dragon Drive)

Sauraa (Fresh Pretty Cure)
Hajiki Sanada (Gad Guard)
Reo Mouri (Gakuen Alice)
Shunsuke Taki (Gakuen Heaven)
Secretary Kato (Galaxy Angel Z)
Subaru (Gear Fighter Dendoh)
Consul (Gin-iro no Olynssis)
Father (Gintama)
Okita Sougo (Gintama)
Slippery Dragon (Gintama)
Shin Sawada (Gokusen)
Eiji Shigure (Gravion)(Gravion Zwei)
Yuichi Ezaki (Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora)
Ozu Hideo (Hand Maid May)
Mobile Butler (Hayate the Combat Butler)
Lune (Hello Kitty's Animation Theater)
Shinichirou Isumi (Hikaru no Go)
Cousin B (His and Her Circumstances)
Yuuya Kiba (Hungry Heart - Wild Striker)
Junpei Manaka (Ichigo 100%)
Taito (Jyūshin Enbu - Hero Tale)
Tora Igarashi (Kaichō wa Maid-sama!)
Atsuro Kiryuu (Kaikan Phrase)
Dio (Kaleido Star)
Aigame/Kameyan (Kokoro Library)
Morley (Macross 7)
New Bank Teller (Magical Shopping Arcade Abenobashi)
Hayato Yaginuma (Major)
Ijuuin Takeshi (Massugu ni Ikou)
Shinn Asuka (Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Destiny)
Nenji Nagihara (Nanaka 6/17)
Utakata (Naruto: Shippūden)
Kyoji Miura/Bilka (Nazca)
Atori (Noein - to your other self)
Jean (Offside)
Sentry C (Orphen)
Hikaru Hitachiin (Ouran High School Host Club)
Cheshire Cat A (Ouran High School Host Club)
martial arts student (Ouran High School Host Club)
Matt (Parappa the Rapper)
Kairi Okayasu (Peach Girl)
Kousei Shimazaki (Please Twins!)
Chiko (Pokémon)
Hisashi (Pokémon)
Saiga (Pokémon)
Kachinuki Ryouhei (Pokemon Advance)
Adult Daichi (Popotan)
Schoolboy (Revolutionary Girl Utena)
Fuge no Maya (Saint Beast)
Fuge no Maya (Saint Beast: Kouin Jojishi Tenshi Tan)
TV (Sgt. Frog)
Suzaku (Shonen Onmyouji)
Capensis (Slap Up Party -Arad Senki-)
Kabenshisu (Slap Up Party -Arad Senki-)
Kilik Lunge (Soul Eater)
Ayumu Narumi (Spiral)
Yuya Asou (Super GALS)
Jinnai Takuma (Tantei Gakuen Q)
Policeman (Tantei Gakuen Q)
Ranmaru Shindou (Tokko)
Dietrich von Lohengrin (Trinity Blood)
Shiki Tohno (Tsukihime, Lunar Legend)
Rakushun (Twelve Kingdoms)
Kazuto Tokino (UFO Ultramaiden Valkyrie)
Kazuto Tokino (UFO Ultramaiden Valkyrie 2: December Nocturne)
George Ushiromiya (Umineko no Naku Koro ni)
Keiichiro Aizawa (Wangan Midnight)
Hiroki Segawa (Witchblade)
Kamui Shirou (X)
Researcher 2 (X)
Chika Akatsuki (Zombie-Loan)

SINGER:
Train [Ending Theme for Bus Gamer]
Kitty [6th Ending Theme for Saint Beast]
Sore Kara [Ending theme for UFO Ultramaiden Valkyrie 4: Banquet of Time, Dreams, and Galaxies]
MObile Suit Gundam Seed Destiny Image Song Performance

AWARDS:
First Seiyuu Awards Nomination: Best Actor in Supporting Role (Hitachiin Hikaru from Ouran High School Host Club)
First Seiyuu Awards Nomination: Best Radio Personality (Mitsuo Iwata & Kenichi Suzumura Sweet Ignition in OBC)
Second Seiyuu Awards: Best Radio Personality (Cherry Bell in JOQR)
Second Seiyuu Awards: Synergy Award (Kamen Rider Den-O together with Toshihiko Seki, Koji Yusa, and Masaki Terasoma)

Seiyuu: Yuki Kaida

2010-05-04T11:31:00.004+08:00

甲斐田ゆき (Kaida Yuki)

Birth name: 甲斐田ゆき (Kaida Yuki)
Gender: Female
Birth date: November 30
Birth place: Tokyo, Japan
Other occupation/s: radio personality, actress
Years active: 1998 - present
Other Traits: Multilingual (Japanese, English, French, Chinese)
Height of 154 cm
Weight of 47 kg

NOTE: This is a profile for a seiyuu. In this case, even if the seiyuu is a singer, dancer, actor/actress, model, etc., only information about him/her related to voice acting will be included. If information about his/her songs or movies are included, they are anime-related.

BACKGROUND:
Yuki Kaida was born and currently working in Tokyo, Japan. She was raise in the Shinjuku ward of the city and finished her high school education in Shinjuku High School. She is distinct for being one of only a number of Japanese voice actors and actresses that completed formal education in the United States. She enrolled in the International University of Art and Music in San Diego, California majoring in musical theater. She returned to Japan to focus one her career as a seiyuu. She made her debut in 1998 in the OVA Southern Wind. Formerly, Yuki Kaida was affiliated with Toritori Office but is currently freelance.

She is known for having extensive vocal range. This enables her to voice a large variety of characters such as adult women, young teenage girls, gag characters, and even male characters. Her most famous roles thus far have been of teenage boys like Fuji Syusuke from Prince of Tennis and Kurapika from Hunter x Hunter. She is affectionately nicknamed Yukki by her fans.

In addition to voice acting, she is also a prominent radio personality, and is the current announcer for Sadao Watanabe's radio show, Nightly Yours. She is also a member of the seiyū unit AZU and Takada Hiroyuki. She is notably multilingual, competent in French and Chinese, as well as being a fluent English speaker; the latter being evident in her Western education, her interest in Queen and the Chronicles of Narnia. Her other hobbies include watching rakugo and she has a pet dog named Vivian.

VOICE ACTING ROLES:
(includes anime roles only)

1999
Yuri Arisato (Case Closed)
Yuriko Tomosato (Case Closed)
Yong (Hoshin Engi)
Kurapika (Hunter × Hunter)
Kagawa Yuki (Karakurizōshi Ayatsuri Sakon)
Lulu Sanjo (Seraphim Call)

2001
Cynthia (Ask Dr. Rin!)
Feena (Corrector Yui)
Karon (Dennō Bōkenki Webdiver)
Shō Kurachi (Dennō Bōkenki Webdiver)
Midori Asaba (Dennō Bōkenki Webdiver)
Hanaukyo Taro (Hanaukyo Maid Team)
Fuji Syusuke (The Prince of Tennis)
Fuji Yumiko (The Prince of Tennis)
Young Fuji Yuuta (The Prince of Tennis)

2002
Ozma (Beyblade)
Ryugu (Daigunder)
Gomamon (Digimon Frontier)

2003
Cream (Ashita no Nadja)
Mireille Morrow (Ashita no Nadja)
T.J. Livingston (Ashita no Nadja)
Ouka (.hack//Legend of the Twilight)
Chris (Popotan)
Young Daichi (Popotan)
Suzuki Shu (Twin Spica)
Eshros (Zatch Bell)

2004
Gherta Hawksbee (Fantastic Children)
Taro Hanaukyo (Hanaukyo Maid Team: La Verite)
Ukeru Nishimura (Kamichu!)
Yuki-hime (Shura no Toki: Age of Chaos)
Tokiko Okuda (Soreike! Zukkoke Sanningumi)
Mariko (Yugo the Negotiator)

2005
Masaki Makabe (Absolute Boy)
Ukeru Nishimura (Kamichu!)
Dark Kirisaki (MegaMan NT Warrior)
Son Goku/Patalliro (Patalliro Saiyuki!)
Ayano Fujikawa (Suzuka)

2006
Billy (009-1)
Mitsuki Asano (Ballad of a Shinigami)
Marie (Le Chevalier d'Eon)
Shizue Hoshino (Futari wa Pretty Cure Splash Star)
Kaoru Kawahira (Inukami!)
Tsukasa Futaba (Mega Man Star Force)
Abe no Masahiro (Shōnen Onmyōji)

2007
Angela Burton (Genshiken)
Kirika Karasuma (Kamichama Karin)
Michael Schmidt (Kishin Taisen Gigantic Formula)
Cassandra (Saint Beast: Kōin Jojishi Tenshi Tan)
Jamille Kaela (Sisters of Wellber)
Riō Jr. (The Story of Saiunkoku)

2008
Drinda (Kyōran Kazoku Nikki)
Porphyras Patagos (Porphy no Nagai Tabi)
Homura/Kagari (Sekirei)
Jamille Kaela (Sisters of Wellber Zwei)

2009
China (Hetalia: Axis Powers)
Zashiki-Warashi (Hetalia: Axis Powers)
Narrator (Hetalia: Axis Powers)
Akira Nanase (Jewelpet)
Sayuri Kōgyoku (Jewelpet)
Ai Majō (Jewelpet)
Peridot (Jewelpet)
Yuan (Kemono no Souja)
Echidna (Queen's Blade -Rurō no Senshi-)
Echidna (Queen's Blade -Gyokuza no Tsugumono-)
Gaap (Umineko no Naku Koro ni)
Theresia (Viper's Creed)

2010
Peridot (Jewelpet Tinkle)
Aoi Hyodo (Maid Sama!)
Homura/Kagari (Sekirei ～Pure Engagement～)

OTHER:
Seiyuu Unit/s: AZU (Together with Junko Takeuchi and Junko Minagawa)
Takada Hiroyuki (Together with Hiroki Takahashi)
Singing: She has also sung, most notably as Fuji Syusuke in the Prince of Tennis theme song performances.

Update No. 248 (May 4, 2010)

2010-05-04T11:20:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 158
Bleach - Episode 268
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5
Hetalia: Axis Powers - EPisode 11

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 130
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 29
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 99
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 64
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 48
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Hana ni Arashi - *completed*
Fly High - *completed*
Girl Koi - *completed*
Gaba Kawa - *completed*
Shinshi Doumei Cross - *completed*
Hoshigari Love Dollar - *completed*

BACKTRACK

(Reading/Watching Again)

Akuma - Chapter 18 pg. 17
School Days - Chapter 2 pg. 14
Tokyo CP - Chapter 13 pg. 12

Seiyuu: Romi Paku

2010-05-03T08:56:00.004+08:00

朴璐美 (Paku Romi)
Japanese Name: 朴璐美 (kanji)
ぱくろみ (hiragana)
パク・ロミ (katakana)
Korean Name: Park Romi
박로미 (hangul)
朴璐美 (hanja)
Bak Romi
Pak Romi
Gender: Female
Age: 38
Birth date: January 22, 1972
Birth place: Edogawa, Tokyo, Japan
Other occupation/s: --
Years active: ?? - present

NOTE: This is a profile for a seiyuu. In this case, even if the seiyuu is a singer, dancer, actor/actress, model, etc., only information about him/her related to voice acting will be included. If information about his/her songs or movies are included, they are anime-related.

BACKGROUND:
Romi Paku graduated in Toho Gakuen College of Drama and Music in Japan. She has also studied in Yonsei University in South Korea. She was a theatre actress and was spotted by animation creator Tomino Yoshiyuki. Most of her well-known roles are calm and cool teenage child prodigies for boys. As for her girl roles, the characters are usually tough and strong-willed girls.

VOICE ACTING ROLES:
(includes anime roles only)
Ouida (07-ghost)
Aikawa Maki (Air Master)
Aikawa Tomo (Air Master)
Kuchiha (Amatsuki)
Tsuneko (Aoi Bungaku Series)
Deunan Knute (Appleseed: Genesis)
Alan (Ashita no Nadja)
Tōshirō Hitsugaya (Bleach)
Kurara (Blood +)
Zola (Blue Dragon)
Kana (Brain Powerd)
Miyazaki Chinatsu (Case Closed)
Sayori Kaihara (Case Closed)
Shima Katsuki (Clannad After Story)
Teresa (Claymore)
Mii (Cyborg 009 The Cyborg Soldier)
Ichijouji Ken (Digimon Adventure 02)
Haraken (Denno Coil)
Elena (Devil May Cry)
Mole the Trailmon (Digimon Frontier)
Dark Claw (Doraemon: Zeusdesu Naida)
Oozora Reiji (Dragon Drive)
Kobayakawa Sena (Eyeshield 21 movie)
Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Armstrong's mother (Fullmetal Alchemist episode 37)
A/Tsuru (Galaxy Angel)
Hyuuga Natsume (Gakuen Alice)
Hotaru's mother (Gakuen Alice)
Chloe and Kurt Klick (Genesis of Aquarion)
Young Kakei Jubei (Get Backers)
Madoka Azusa (Gilgamesh)
Cleo (Glass Fleet)
Alex MacKenzie (GR -GIANT ROBO-)
Young Yorihisa (Harukanaru Toki no Naka de Hachiyou Shou)
Nakabayashi Seiichirou (He Is My Master)
Switzerland (Hetalia: Axis Powers)
Higepiyo (Higepiyo)
Hijin (Innocent Venus)
Irie Yuki (Itazura Na Kiss)
Karim (Jyu Oh Sei)
Popo (Kaiba)
Madame Red (Kuroshitsuji)
Kuromitsu (Kurozuka)

young Irabu Ichirou (Kūchū Buranko)
Elenor (Lupin III Episode 0: First Contact)
Maya (Lupin III: the Last Job)
X (Majin Tantei Nougami Neuro)
Shimizu Taiga (Major)
Giru (MapleStory)
Nicol Amarfi (Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Special Edition)
Regene Regetta (Mobile Suit Gundam 00)
Raritomu (Monkey Typhoon)
Helene (Monster)
Falis/Alita (Murder Princess)
Heimdall/Higashiyama Kazumi (Mythical Detective Loki Ragnarok)
Osaki Nana (NANA)
Temari (Naruto) (Naruto: Shippuden)
Adam Blade (Needless)
Bista/Doha (New Fist of the North Star)
Tsubute (Ninja Scroll: The Series)
O-ise (Oh! Edo Rocket)
Kawanishi Sentaro (Oh My Goddess!)
Majoran (Ojamajo Doremi Sharp) (Ojamjo Doremi Dokkan)
Baba (Ojamajo Doremi Dokkān)
Harry (One Piece)
Cool (Pandalian)
Rabisan (Pecola)
Forest/Jiro (Pokémon)
Tsurio (Pokémon)
Shihoudani Yuujirou (Princess Princess)
Wili Maiden (Princess Tutu)

Young Makoto Isshiki (RahXephon)
Maeda Noboru (Rainbow: Nisha Rokubou no Shichinin)
Kataoka Tamayo (RideBack)
Okamoto Katsushiro (Samurai 7)
Shute (SD Gundam Force)
Karasuba (Sekirei)
Kenshin Uesugi (Sengoku Basara)
Tao Ren (Shaman King)
Nayuta Moriyama (Shingu: Secret of the Stellar Wars)
Saitou Ayumi (Shion no Ou)
Abe (Spice and Wolf II)
Shute (Superior Defender Gundam Force)
Najima Gebour (Stellvia of the Universe)
Masato Katase (Stellvia of the Universe)
Koga Kota (Suteki Tantei Labyrinth)
Hamyuts Meseta (Tatakau Shisho - The Book of Bantorra)
Komachi Kyo (Tenchi Muyo! GXP)
Kosuke Ueki (The Law of Ueki)
Ryuuou (Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicles)
Loran Cehack/Laura Rolla (Turn A Gundam)
044 (Ultraviolet: Code 044)
Yayoi Shinozuka (White Album)
Child Gargantua (Yami to Bōshi to Hon no Tabibito)
Syrup (Yes! Precure 5)

Tao (Zaion: I Wish You Were Here)
Mao Lu-Shen (Zegapain)

AWARDS:
First Seiyuu Awards: Best Actress in Leading Role (Osaki Nana in NANA)
26th Annual Animage Reader's Poll: No. 1 Favorite Seiyuu

Character Gallery: Temari

2010-05-01T15:20:00.000+08:00

MANGA

ANIME

Cosplay Gallery: Naruto

2010-05-01T14:43:00.001+08:00

includes Naruto: Shippuden costumes

My personal favorites in this batch are the one who cosplayed Shino, the cutie kids who cosplayed Naruto and Hinata, and the last picture of Sasuke, so dramatic! The last two pictures, both a cosplay of Konan is my sister. These were photographed by me, coa-chan!

Group Information: Akatsuki

2010-04-30T20:47:00.000+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Anime/Manga: Naruto / Naruto: Shippuden
Group: Criminal Organization
Members: Nagato/Pain
Hoshigaki Kisame
Uchihata Itachi
Deidara
Sasori
Kakuzu
Hidan
Konan
Uchiha Madara
Zetsu
Orochimaru

NOTE: some things below may not be understood by those who do not watch/read the anime/manga. Since this is a Group Information, I have no duties to summarize the story. I will however, one day set up a review for the series.

BACKGROUND / HISTORY
Uchiha Madara and Nagato have both claimed to be the founders of Akatsuki. Regardless of whoever created the organization, however, it is rumored that the group was first formed in Kirigakura, thus leading many villages to blame Kirigakure for Akatsuki's actions.

Uchiha Itachi joined the Akatsuki before carrying out the Uchiha Clan Massacre for which he was defected from his village. Orochimaru, having already his lust for power at this time, sought to take over Itachi's body. Upon failing, Orochimaru immediately left the organization. To replace him, Akatsuki recruited Deidara with Itachi doing most of the work for Deidara to agree on doing so.

At first, Akatsuki was a mercenary group for hire. Many villages hired Akatsuki to fight in wars, spy on enemies, or carry out assassinations. To this regard, Fourth Raikage claims that only Kumogakure has never used Akatsuki's services.

Soon, the group eventually began capturing the tailed beasts, in the process antagonizing many of its former clients. During the attempts at capturing the jinchuriki of the tailed beasts, many Akatsuki members died or were incapacitated. Sasori, who fought with his grandmother, the Suna elder Chiyo, and Haruno Sakura, died during their fight. Uchiha Madara, as Tobi, replaces him. Hidan is fully incapacitated by Nara Shikamaru during their fight while Kakuzu is killed with the finishing blow by Hatake Kakashi. Both Deidara and Uchiha Itachi die at the hands of Uchiha Sasuke.

After learning the truth of his brother, Sasuke and his team, Taka, joins the Akatsuki as well. Then, Nagato and Konan are sent to attack Konoha and capture Uzumaki Naruto. However, Naruto was able to change their views on peace. Nagato ended up sacrificing his life to resurrect all that he has killed. Konan, on the other hand, offered a token of friendship to Naruto and left for Amegakure. She has voiced out her alliance with Naruto, saying that she believes in Nagato's choice of trusting him so she will trust him too along with the rest of Amegakure with her.

At the same time, Sasuke is tasked with capturing the Eight-Tails, but he fails too. Akatsuki's actions finally provoke a response from the ninja villages, who hold a Kage Summit to discuss Akatsuki. Madara, wishing to accelerate his plans, infiltrates the meeting and declares war against the great nations, promising to use the seven tailed beasts Akatsuki has already captured in battle. The villages and their associated countries form a Shinobi Alliance to combat Akatsuki, beginning the Fourth Great Shinobi World War.

CLOTHING
All Akatsuki members wear long, dark cloaks with red clouds, a red interior, and a chin-high collar. In the case of Taka, they have hoods instead of a high collar. All members wear nail polish of varying colors on their fingers and toenails, and may or may notwear a conical straw hat with small spike-like balls hanging down to cover their faces. Some members wear their village forehead protector with a slash across to symbolize the broken ties with their former villages, while others cease wearing them entirely. Everyone also wears a ring, each member with varying kanji.

GOAL
Akatsuki's main general goal is to achieve World Domination. In accordance to this goal, they also aim to capture all of the nine tailed beasts. Their plan is to move out in pairs of two and each pair will capture an assigned jinchuriki. These tailed beasts would be their help in their goal of world domination. However, as proved by Hidan's case, not all members learn of the organization's goals immediately upon joining.

ASSOCIATES
Amegakure (Village run by Pain, association ended following Pain's death and Konan's defection)
Kabuto Yakushi (Sasori's underling, defected to Orochimaru, allied with Akatsuki)
Yūra (Sasori's underling, deceased)
Mukade (Sasori's underling, deceased)
Ginji (Kakuzu's banker, status unknown)
Zangei (Bounty collector, captured)
Taka (Affiliated group, disbanded)
Uchiha Sasuke (Only member of Taka left who is still associating with Akatsuki)

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS

Nagato/Pain
Partner: Konan
Village of Origin: Ame
Ring: Rei (zero)
Ring Placement: Right thumb
Reason for joining: "Peace"
Status: deceased

Konan
Partner: Nagato
Village of Origin: Ame
Ring: Bya (white)
Ring Placement: Right middle finger
Reason for joining: Love
Status: defected

Zetsu
Partner: none (functions as spy)
Village of Origin: unknown
Ring: Gai (boar)
Ring Placement: Right pinky
Reason for joining: Land
Status: active

Uchiha Madara/Tobi
Partner: none (previously Deidara, as Tobi)
Village of Origin: Konoha/Kiri
Ring: Gyoku (jewel)
Ring Placement: Left thumb
Reason for joining: Power
Status: active

Deidara
Partner: Sasori (first), Tobi (after Sasori's death)
Village of Origin: Iwa
Ring: Sei (blue)
Ring Placement: Right index
Reason for joining: Whim
Status: deceased

Sasori
Partner: Orochimaru (first), Deidara (after Orochimaru's defection)
Village of Origin: Suna
Ring: Gyoku (jewel)
Ring Placement: Left thumb
Reason for joining: unknown
Status: deceased

Hidan
Partner: Kakuzu
Village of Origin: Yu
Ring: San (three)
Ring Placement: Left index
Reason for joining: religion
Status: incapacitated

Kakuzu
Partner: Hidan
Village of Origin: Taki
Ring: Hoku (north)
Ring Placement: Left middle
Reason for joining: money
Status: deceased

Uchiha Itachi
Partner: Hoshigaki Kisame
Village of Origin: Konoha
Ring: Shu (vermillion)
Ring Placement: Right ring
Reason for joining: ideology
Status: deceased

Orochimaru
Partner: Sasori
Village of Origin: Konoha/Oto
Ring: Ku (sky)
Ring Placement: Left little
Reason for joining: Uchiha Itachi
Status: defected, deceased (defected the group before dying)

Hoshigaki Kisame
Partner: Uchiha Itachi
Village of Origin: Kiri
Ring: Nan (south)
Ring Placement: Left ring
Reason for joining: spite
Status: active

Animation Studio: Studio Pierrot

2010-04-28T09:51:00.000+08:00

Name: Pierrot Co.,Ltd.
Headquarters: 2-29-13, Shimorenjaku, Mitaka-city,
Tokyo 181-0013 JAPAN
Established: May, 1979
Capital: 353,270,000 yen
President: Yuji Nunokawa
Business: Planning and Production of Animation, Licensing, Merchandising, Graphic Design, Event Planning and Management
Website: pierrot.jp
pierrot.co.jp
pierrot.jp/english/

MORE INFORMATION
Studio Pierrot is an Animation Film Studio founded in 1979 by former employees of Tatsunoko Production. They are considered specialists in the magical-girl genre. However, they also have many prominent titles outside their specialty, including two of the leading shounen titles today, Naruto and Bleach. The company logo consists of the face of a clown. Pierrot is a Japanese loanword for clown, adopted from the classical character of Pierrot.

ANIME TV SERIES
(listed in alphabetical order)
Akachan to Boku : Production
Anmitsu Hime : Production
Barbapapa Sekai wo Mawaru : Animation
BECK: Mongolian Chop Squad : In-Between Animation
Bleach : Animation, Animation Production, Production
Blood+ : In-Between Animation
Blue Dragon : Animation Production
Blue Dragon: Tenkai no Shichi Ryū : Animation Production
Ceres, Celestial Legend : Production
(Le) Chevalier D'Eon : In-Between Animation
Chiisana Kyojin Microman : Production
Chikkun Takkun : Production
Clamp School : Production
Cooking Master Boy : Production Assistance
Dokkiri Doctor : Production
E's Otherwise : Animation, Production
Edokko Boy: Gatten Taro : Animation, Production
Elemental Gelade : In-Between Animation
Emma: A Victorian Romance : Animation Production, Production
Fancy Lala : Animation Production
Fight! Kickers : Animation Production, Production
Flame of Recca : Animation Production, Production

Fushigi Yûgi - The Mysterious Play : Production
Gantz : In-Between Animation
Ghost Stories : Production
Great Teacher Onizuka : Animation Production, Copyright, Production
Guru Guru Town Hanamaru-kun : Animation, Production
Hajime Ningen Gon : Photography, Production
Hanasakeru Seishōnen : Animation Production
Heisei Tensai Bakabon : Production
Heroman : In-Between Animation
Hikaru no Go : Animation Production, Production
Hyper Police : Production
I'm Gonna Be An Angel : Animation Production
Immortal Grand Prix : In-Between Animation
Karakuri Kengo Den Musashi Lord : Animation Production, Production
Kaze no Yojimbo : Animation
Kimagure Orange Road : Production
Kogepan : Animation
Letter Bee : Animation Production

Magical Angel Creamy Mami : Production
Magical Fairy Persia : Animation, Production
Magical Hat : Animation, Production
Magical Idol Pastel Yumi : Production
Magical Star Magical Emi : Production
Maicching Machiko-sensei : Production
Marude Dameo : Production
Midori Days : Animation Production, Production
Midori no Makibao : Production
Moeru! Oniisan : Animation Production, Production
(The) Mysterious Cities of Gold : Production
Naruto : Animation Production
Naruto : Production
Naruto Shippūden : Animation Production
Naruto Shippūden : Production
Neo Ranga : Production
Ninja Robots : Production
Ninku : Animation Production, Production
Norakuro-kun : Production
Ore wa Chokkaku : Production
Osomatsu-kun : Animation Production, Production
Osomatsu-kun : Production
Paradise Kiss : Production Assistance
Power Stone : Production
Rerere no Tensai Bakabon : Animation Production, Production
Rurouni Kenshin : In-Between Animation
Saber Rider and the Star Sheriffs : Production
Saiyuki : Production
Saiyuki Gunlock : Production
Saiyuki Reload : Production
Spoon Oba-san : Animation Production, Production
Strawberry Marshmallow : In-Between Animation
Sugar Sugar Rune : Animation Production
Super GALS : Animation Production, Production
(The) Super Milk-chan Show : Production
Takoyaki Mant-Man : Production
Tantei Gakuen Q : Production
Three Little Ghosts : Animation, Production
Tokyo Mew Mew : Animation
Tokyo Underground : Animation Production, Production
Tottemo! Luckyman : Animation Production, In-Between Animation
(The) Twelve Kingdoms : Animation Production
Urusei Yatsura : Animation
(The) Wonderful Adventures of Nils : Animation Production, Production
Yoiko : Production
Yumeiro Pâtissière : Animation Production

ANIME OAV
(listed in alphabetical order)
Abashiri Family : Production
Adesugata Mahou no Sannin Musume : Production
Area 88 : Production
BAOH : Animation
Baribari Densetsu : Production
Bleach: Memories in the Rain : Animation Production, Production
Bleach: The Sealed Sword Frenzy : Production
Dallos : Animation Production
Dallos Special : Animation
Eguchi Hisashi no Kotobuki Goro Show : Animation Production
Eight Clouds Rising : Animation Production, Production
Fire Tripper : Animation Production
Fushigi Yuugi : Producer
Fushigi Yuugi (OAV 2) : Producer
Gensomaden Saiyuki: Kibou no zaika : Production
Go Go Toraemon : Production
Gosenzo-sama Banbanzai! : Production
Harbor Light Monogatari - Fashion Lala Yori : Production
Here is Greenwood : Animation, Production
Hi-Speed Jecy : Animation Production
I''s : Animation
Justy : Production
Key the Metal Idol : Animation Production, Production
Kimagure Orange Road : Production
Kimagure Orange Road: Shonen Jump Special : Production
Kyofu Shinbun : Animation Production
Kyou Kara Ore Wa!! : Animation Production
(The) Laughing Target : Animation Production, Planning
Like the Clouds, Like the Wind (special) : Production
Lily C.A.T. : Animation Production
Mahou no Tenshi Creamy Mami: Eien no Once More : Production
Mahou no Tenshi Creamy Mami: Long Goodbye : Production
Majokko Club Yoningumi - A Kuukan Kara no Alien X : Production
Mermaid Forest : Production
Michitekuru Toki no Mukō ni (special) : Animation Production
My Dear Marie : Animation
Naruto : Animation Production
Naruto : Production
Naruto Special: Akaki Yotsuba no Clover wo Sagase : Animation Production
Naruto Special: Battle at Hidden Falls. I am the Hero! : Animation Production
Plastic Little : Production
Ruri-iro Princess : Animation Production
Saiyuki Reload: Burial : Production
Salamander : Production
Tenamonya Voyagers : Animation Production, Producer

Yu Yu Hakusho: Eizou Hakusho : Animation
Yu Yu Hakusho: Eizou Hakusho II : Animation
Yumemakura Baku Twilight Gekijou : Animation Production

ANIME MOVIES
(listed in alphabetical order)
Aitsu to Lullaby: Suiyobi no Cinderella : Animation Production
Baribari Densetsu : Animation Production
Bleach the Movie: Memories of Nobody : Production
Bleach: The DiamondDust Rebellion - Mō Hitotsu no Hyōrinmaru : Animation Production, Production
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society : In-Between Animation
Kimagure Orange Road: Summer's Beginning : Production
Kimagure Orange Road: The Movie : Production
Maroko : Animation Production
Naruto Shippūden Movie : In-Between Animation
Naruto Shippūden: Hi no Ishi o Tsugumono : Animation Production
Naruto Shippūden: The Lost Tower : Animation Production, Production
Naruto the Movie: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom : Production
Naruto the Movie: Legend of the Stone of Gelel : Production
Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow : Production
Naruto: Konoha Sports Festival : Production

Ninja Scroll : In-Between Animation
Ninku the Movie : Production
On Your Mark : Finish Animation
Onigamiden : Animation Production
Porco Rosso : Animation Production
(The) Prince of Tennis: Two Samurais, The First Game : Digital Paint, In-Between Animation
Saiyuki: Requiem : Animation Production, Production
Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie : Animation Production
Urusei Yatsura: Always My Darling : Animation Assistance
Urusei Yatsura: Only You : Production Assistance
Yu Yu Hakusho The Movie: Poltergeist Report : Production
Yu Yu Hakusho: The Movie : Production

Topmost image is the Studio Pierrot Logo. Other images above are from the following anime: (from top to bottom) Naruto, Elemental Gelade, Fushigi Yugi, Tokyo Mew Mew, Emma: A Victorian Romance, Bleach, Twelve Kingdoms, Yu Yu Hakusho, I'm Gonna Be An Angel

Seiyuu: Chie Nakamura

2010-04-28T08:47:00.000+08:00

中村千絵 (Nakamura Chie)
Birth name: 中村千絵 (Nakamura Chie)
Gender: Female
Age: 30
Birth date: May 14, 1979
Birth place: Tokyo, Japan
Other occupation/s: --
Years active: ?? - present

NOTE: This is a profile for a seiyuu. In this case, even if the seiyuu is a singer, dancer, actor/actress, model, etc., only information about him/her related to voice acting will be included. If information about his/her songs or movies are included, they are anime-related.

MORE INFORMANTION
Chie Nakamura is a Japanese seiyuu (voice actress) who works for Office Kaoru. Aside from her anime roles, she also takes up dubbing roles and provides her voice for movies and video games. She has had sung some songs, particularly in the anime Naruto. However, she has yet to focus or pursue that career. Her bloodtype is B and her favorite food is Yakitori. Aside from Japanese, she is also capable of speaking English and Korean.

VOICE ACTING ROLES:
(includes anime roles only)

Anime Series
Satoko Yamano (Ah! Megami-sama: Sorezore no Tsubasa)
-various- (ATASHIn'CHI)
Claire Marie Eugenie de Danglars (Gankutsuou: (The Count of Monte Cristo))
Madoka Kiyoko (Gilgamesh)
Sweet (Zoids: Fuzors)
Eris (DT Eitron)
Shouhi (Legend of Himiko)
Yumehime (Musashi)
Yayoi Schwael (Dual! Parallel Trouble Adventure)
Haruno Sakura (Naruto) (Naruto: Shippuden)
Lyticia (Nishi no Yoki Majo - Astraea Testament)
Shanka (Rockman.EXE Stream)
Eleanor's Mother (Star Ocean EX)
Reina (Weiß Kreuz)
Child Integra (Hellsing)
Nanami (xxxHolic) [episode 8]
Brita (Darker than BLACK)
-girl- (Case Closed) [episode 460]
Nakajima Chika (Ghost Hound)
Masayuki's mother (Ghost Hound) [episode 22]
Kawakami-san (K-ON!)

Anime OVAs
Haruno Sakura (Naruto: Battle at Hidden Falls. I am the Hero!)
Haruno Sakura (Naruto: Find the Crimson Four-Leaf Clover!)
Haruno Sakura (Finally a clash! Jōnin VS Genin!! Indiscriminate grand melee tournament meeting!!)
Integra as child (Hellsing)

Anime Movies
Haruno Sakura (Snow Princess' Book of Ninja Arts)
Haruno Sakura (Great Clash! The Illusionary Ruins at the Depths of the Earth)
Haruno Sakura (Naruto the Movie 3: The Animal Riot of Crescent Moon Island)
Haruno Sakura (Naruto: Shippūden the Movie)
Yasuda Minae (You're Under Arrest the Movie)
-hostage- (Crayon Shin-chan: Densetsu wo Yobu Buriburi Sanpun Pokkiri Daishingeki)

Review: Naruto

2010-04-26T18:47:00.000+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Author: Masashi Kishimoto
Manga: ongoing
Anime: 220 episodes
OVAs: Naruto: Find the Four-leaf Red Clover
Naruto: Mission: Protect the Waterfall Village!
Naruto: Hidden Leaf Village Grand Sports Festival
Naruto: The Cross Roads CGI OVA
Movies: Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow
Naruto the Movie 2: Legend of the Stone of Gelel
Naruto the Movie 3: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom
Sequel: Naruto: Shippuden

PLOT
(Some Information from Narutopedia | Some Information from Wikipedia)
Twelve years ago, the Nine-Tailed Demon Fox attacked the Hidden Village of the Leaf. It was a being feared by many, as a single swing of one of its nine tails would raise tsunamis and flatten mountains. It caused the death of many ninjas and the birth of many heroes. Finally, the leader of the village, the Fourth Hokage, defeated it by using a forbidden technique that sealed the demon fox inside a newborn child in exchange for his life. That child was Uzumaki Naruto.

The Fourth Hokage was celebrated as a hero for sealing the Nine-Tails away. And, he wanted Naruto to be respected in a similar light by being the vessel for the Nine-Tails. However, most of the village regarded him as if he were the Nine-Tails itself and mistreated him throughout most of his childhood. The Third Hokage made it so that the villages were forbidden to mention the event to anyone, thus the children of Naruto's generation and even Naruto himself, do not know about the demon fox inside him. But, despite not knowing why their parents shunned him out, they followed their example and treated him coldly as well.

Because of growing up in a lonely childhood without family nor friends, Naruto grew up craving for acknowledgement and attention. He found a way to get attention by pulling pranks and doing all kinds of mischief around him. However, that soon changed after Naruto graduated from the Ninja Academy by using his newly-mastered Shadow Clone Technique and its greater version, Multiple Shadow Clone Technique, to save his teacher, Iruka Umino, from the renegade ninja Mizuki. That encounter gave Naruto two insights: that he was the container of the Nine-Tails, and that there was someone besides the Third Hokage who actually cared about him.

Upon graduation, Naruto meets new people, makes new friends, creates bonds and memories that would soon change his view of the world. Naruto befriends two comrades, Uchiha Sasuke and Haruno Sakura, who are assigned with him to form a three-person team named Team 7 under an experienced teacher, Hatake Kakashi. Like all the ninja teams from every village, Team 7 charged with completing missions requested by villagers, such as doing chores or being bodyguards. During the course of their missions, Naruto befriends other characters that he meets throughout the series. Team 7 learn new abilities, get to know each other, and experience a coming-of-age journey as Naruto dreams of becoming the Hokage of Konohagakure.

After several missions, Kakashi allows Team 7 to participate into a ninja exam in which they can improve their ranks, and thus, take part in more difficult missions. During the exams, Orochimaru, a criminal at the top of Konohagakure's most wanted list, attacks Konoha and kills the Third Hokage in an act of revenge. This forces one of the three legendary ninja, Jiraiya to search for his former teammate Tsunade, who has been nominated to become the Fifth Hokage.

During the search, it is revealed that Orochimaru desires to acquire Sasuke Uchiha in order to get a hold of the powers of the Uchiha Clan which runs in him as a Bloodline Limit ability. Believing Orochimaru will be able to give him the strength needed to kill his brother Itachi, who destroyed his clan, Sasuke goes to him in search of power. Tsunade sends a group of ninja including Naruto to make Sasuke return to Konoha, but the mission is a failure. Naruto does not give up on Sasuke, however, and he leaves Konoha to train for two-and-a-half years under Jiraiya's tutelage in order to prepare himself for the next time he encounters Sasuke and to protect himself from people who are after him to take advantage of the Demon Fox inside him, including the high-ranking criminal organization, Akatsuki.

By this time, Naruto's wish to become a Hokage no longer derives from his craving to be acknowledged, but rather in order to protect his friends, his loved ones, and his village. He continues to fight alongside friends as he defines his way of the ninja and live by it for the rest of his life. The Naruto anime ends here. However, the manga continues on. The continuation is also adapted into anime in the sequel, Naruto: Shippuden.

Akatsuki has started to move in order to collect all the Nine Tailed Beasts. This includes the nine-tailed demon fox inside Naruto. Several ninjas from Konohagakure, including Team 7, fight against the Akatsuki members and search for their teammate Sasuke. Although they manage to save Gaara the host of the One-Tailed beast, Akatsuki is successful in capturing seven of the creatures.

In the meantime, Sasuke betrays Orochimaru and faces Itachi to take revenge. Although Itachi dies in battle, Sasuke is later told by the Akatsuki founder Madara Uchiha that Itachi was ordered by Konohagakure's leadership to destroy his clan. Saddened with this revelation, Sasuke joins forces with Akatsuki to destroy Konohagakure. Meanwhile, as several Akatsuki members are defeated by the Konohagakure ninja, their leader, Pain, invades the village to capture Naruto. However, Naruto defeats Pain's multiple bodies and convinces the real one to leave Akatsuki.

With Pain having left, Madara announces that he wants to obtain the nine tailed beasts in order to perform an illusion powerful enough to control humanity. All of the leaders of the five ninja villages refuse to aid him, and instead, join forces to confront him.

REACTIONS/COMMENTS
Story: The story of Naruto is both common and unique. It is unique because it has its own original concepts on Ninjas, and the abilities they have. There are many twists to the plot and there is always more than enough thrill to keep you glued to your seat. However, it is common because sometimes the outcome is very obvious. If you are used to reading shounen and adventure manga or stories, you would be able to predict the next events. Although, that is not always the case. The run of the story may be very slow to some. This slow pace can be attributed to the length of the fight scenes which contribute only bits to the progress of the story. However, some people may not notice this because of the excitement that the fighting leaves for the viewers. Overall, I give the story 4 stars and a thumb-up!

Characters: Naruto consists of varying characters. This fact may be the cause why the characters in Naruto are very likable and endearing to fans. With the many different characters, backgrounds, and personalities, each one is bound to find someone to whom he/she can related to. This makes the story very lively and at times, also make the story less predictable. I like the concept of Clans here. It's very fun to know that this family knows this, and that family knows that. It adds all the more to the enjoyment. The design of the characters are also good. Although the drawings are quite simple, they are very well identified. Easily differentiated, each character has his/her own unique individuality that stands out for him/her alone.

Abilities: My first reaction in seeing the abilities, power, and "chakra" in Naruto was, "Wow! Cool!" The chakra system was very well thought-out. Also, integrating the five elements, hand seals, techniques, and ninja weapons to the fighting style was very creative. The powers of each character is defined and not one of them is so powerful that their is no weakness. Each character's unique prowess and weak point has been though about beforehand. With the combination or hand-to-hand combat, ninja techniques, and illusions, there is definitely a lot to see.

Shippuden: Naruto: Shippuden or sometimes just simply called, Shippuden, is the sequel to the Naruto anime series. The events in Naruto: Shippuden take place after the time skip from Naruto or 2 1/2 years. The story is all in one manga, Naruto. However, the anime was separated into two parts, Naruto for the first series, and Naruto: Shippuden for after the time skip which was Naruto's training with Jiraiya. This anime series is currently ongoing.

Animation: The animation is somewhat average. There is nothing specially attractive about the animation. However, it's not too dull to be completely ignored as well. The story of the anime follows closely with the manga's storyline. However, there are times when filler arcs are made in order to give time for the manga to release more volumes for the anime to adapt.

Voice Acting: There is amazing voice acting in Naruto. Definitely, it is almost an all-star cast. Junko Takeuchi gives her voice to the main protagonist, Uzumaki Naruto. She is also the voice of Gon Freeces in Hunter x Hunter; Metabee in Medabots; and Kanbara Takuya in Digimon Frontier among others. Noriaki Sugiyama is the voice behind Uchiha Sasuke. He is also the voice actor of Ishida Uryuu in Bleach; Emiya Shirou in Fate/Stay Night; and England in Hetalia: Axis Powers among others. Veteran seiyuu(voice actor) Inoue Kazuhiko is also part of the cast as Hatake Kakashi. He is also the voice of Sohma Hatori in Fruits Basket; Aion in Chrono Crusade; Tachibana no Tomomasa in Harukanaru Toki no Naka de Hachiyou Sho; William in Romeo x Juliet; and Suoh Yuzuru in Ouran High School Host Club among many others. There are more but too much to enumerate. Aside from the power cast, the casting was also done very well. Each voice actor was able to successfully and properly portray his/her character.

Soundtrack/Themes: All Naruto soundtracks have been composed by Toshiro Masuda. I must praise the soundtrack for its varying mood and tone. The music is very good and the timing in which they are inserted is great. In fighting scenes, you feel the thrill; in funny scenes, you feel the comedy and laughter; in dramatic scenes, you feel the sadness and feelings of the characters. All opening themes of Naruto are, for me, well-done. However it is not all of them that I feel very hyped up to watch the series. My favorites are Haruka Kanata by Asian Kung-Fu Generation, Kanashimi wo Yasashisa ni by little by little, and GO!!! by FLOW. They are the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th opening themes, respectively. As for ending themes, Wind by Akeboshi, and Speed by Analog Fish are the best and for me, the only ending themes I actually listen through to the end, since I don't mind about the others. They are the 1st and 10th ending songs, respectively.

I know not all of us have the same opinion. However, I hope you guys will give Naruto a chance and try it out. You might turn out to have the same opinions as me. Or, you may even like it more than I do. But it's also possible that you may not like it at all. But anyway, I hope this review helped!

Character Information: Hyuuga Natsume

2010-04-25T21:06:00.001+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Anime/Manga: Gakuen Alice (Alice Academy)
Nickname: Guren no Kimi (within the Hana Hime)
Gender: Male
Height: 146 cm
Weight: 34.5 kg
Bloodtype: B
Birthday: November 27
Age: 10 (at the start of the series)
School: Alice Academy, Elementary Division, Class B
Alice: Fire Alice
Alice Type: Dangerous Ability
Alice Shape: Limitless
Star Ranking: Special Star

NOTE: some things below may not be understood by those who do not watch/read the anime/manga. Since this is a Character Information, I have no duties to summarize the story. I will however, one day set up a review for the series.

APPEARANCE
Natsume is your average elementary boy student. He has raven-colored hair and flaming crimson eyes. He usually wears the standard elementary uniform which consists of A black top with white collars and black boots. This is together with red plaid shorts, the color of the elementary department. He doesn't wear his uniform correctly: not wearing his star, not wearing his tie, opening the coat during winter, and so on. He also wears alice restraining items on each ear. On his left ear it is in the form of a gold plate with dragon carvings, and on the right ear it is in the form of an earring made of blood crystals. Sometimes, during missions or for punishment, he wears a black cat mask as an additional restraint device.

PERSONALITY
Natsume usually portrays a cool and aloof outward appearance. However, in truth, this is only because he does not want people to get involved with him and cause them trouble. He is actually very kind, caring, and in a most unnoticeable way, helpful to others. In the past, he was more outgoing and often smiled. Only Nogi Ruka knew of this side of him. He only began to be more sociable again, with the influence of Sakura Mikan. He may be quite perverted and loves teasing people.

BACKGROUND/FAMILY
Natsume's family is composed of 4 alices, including himself. His father is a former student of the school with the Fire Alice, which he and his sister inherited. He still remains unnamed up to this point. His sister, Hyuuga Aoi, also had the Fire Alice before. But, her alice shape was Intermittent and it disappeared when her alice went berserk in the past. Natsume and Aoi have a very close relationship and they care for each other very much. His mother, Igarashi (Hyuuga) Kaoru, had the memory manipulation alice. Her alice was also a dangerous ability type and in the limitless form just like her son, Natsume.

To escape being captured by the government and forced into the academy, Natsume and his family have been moving from place to place all the time. They moved to a village where he met Ruka and saved him from a kidnapper. Both of them were surprised to find out they each had Alices. They easily became friends, together with his sister, Aoi. One time, Ruka stayed over at the Hyuuga's house. The day right after, Aoi became ill with high fever. Natsume desperately searched for a red stone, something Aoi had been mumbling about, with hopes to calm her down if he did find one as a replacement. As he was searching, Aoi's alice went out of control and burnt the whole village. In order to save Aoi, he took the blame for the fire even though it wasn't his fault. This resulted in him having to go to Alice Academy. Ruka went along with him and together, they were enrolled in the academy.

ALICE
Natsume's fire alice has been categorized in the dangerous ability type due to it's high threat. His alice is also found in the limitless form. This means, that he is able to use his alice endlessly at full power, but in return, his lifespan is shortened. The limitless form is also known as the lifespan-shortening form. Use of his alice damages his health and he is often seen coughing up blood after use of the alice. Using Mikan's Insertion alice, he is also able to obtain the Wish Alice of Sakurano Shuichi, which is compatible to his own. The use of the Wish Alice allows his own Fire Alice to become stronger and take on different variations.

RELATIONSHIPS
Sakura Mikan - Though they start out with a handful of problems and dislike for each other, it soon becomes more evident that they are falling for each other. Natsume often teases Mikan and loves calling her names. However, he is also very protective of her. He is easily jealous when Mikan gets close to another guy, whether or not Mikan, or the guy in question for that matter, has any romantic feeling for the other. Natsume is not ashamed nor secretive about his feelings for Mikan. He kissed her on the tree during the Christmas Party, after the dance. And, he has hugged her and comforted her in many occasions, with or without company. Though sometimes, he might not show his feelings directly, another evidence in his feelings for Mikan is the fact that Mikan is the only girl, besides his sister, that he calls by her first name.
Nogi Ruka - Natsume and Ruka have been best of friends ever since they first met. Each have seen the other at his best and at his worst. They understand each other very well and share each other's burdens. Ruka has stated on more than one occasion that if Natsume doesn't smile, he will not smile as well and will share his sadness/loneliness. Bringing into consideration the lengths that Natsume will go to help Ruka, it is not impossible that he also is willing to do the same for Ruka. Natsume knows of Ruka's feelings for Mikan, and Ruka knwos of Natsume's feelings for her, too. They are on a friendly competition to win her over. However, there have been instances where it is shown that both boys are willing to give Mikan to the other if it means her happiness. (Natsume is shown willing to give her to Ruka during the time when he and Mikan were stuck together and he tells her, "I'll give you back to Ruka tomorrow."; Ruka is shown willing to give her to Natsume when he says, "I know that Natsume is the person Sakura needs the most, and Sakura is also the person Natsume needs the most.")
Hyuuga Aoi - As siblings, they have a very close relationship. They love and care for each other very much. Natsume's care for Aoi is even more shown clear when he goes as far as to become the dangerous ability type's puppet for the sake of Aoi's safety.

Hijiri Yoichi - Although not emphasized so much, Natsume and Yoichi have undoubtedly a close relationship. Sometimes, Natsume carries him or he sits on Natsume's lap. They are both from the dangerous ability type so they also understand each other well. Yoichi even geos as far as to lead Mikan and the group to help Natsume when he senses that Natsume is in danger.

PERSONAL COMMENTS
What I really love about Natsume is, he is so COOL! :D I know, it's not much of a description. The fact that Natsume is so protective and possessive of Mikan is so adorable. It makes me giggle and laugh with delight! He is also my ideal older brother.. if only I had one. :( I like how he helps others without them noticing and how he stands out so much without even trying. I hope you also like him, too! He's handsome, cool, very kind yet outwardly aloof, talented, smart, and has the Fire Alice! (just my favorite element! xD)

Review: Taiyou no Uta

2010-04-21T17:12:00.002+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
English Title: A Song to the Sun
Genre: Drama, Romance, Slice of Life
Author: Minatsuki Tsunami
Manga: 1 volume
Movie: Midnight Sun (Song to the Sun)
Book: by Bandou Kenji

PLOT
Amane Kaoru is a teenage girl who only experiences life at night because of her rare skin condition, xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) that does not allow her to be exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Every night, she sings in the train station. A chance encounter with a boy whom she had secretly been admiring from her window everyday marks the start of romance between them.

REACTIONS/COMMENTS

Story: Since this manga is an adaption from a book by Bandou Kenji, I believe it is proper that I give the credits to him. The story is very fascinating. Yes, the plot is very common, however the circumstances, the events, and the selfless love and care of the guy in the story really gives it its own unique solid identity. As for how it was turned to manga, I give two thumbs-up for Minatsuki Tsunami for a job well-done in the adaption.

Art: Drawing and artwork in the manga is satisfactory. You can clearly see the character's emotions and has good setting, sometimes I'm amazed how the place is really like the real thing in Japan! It is quite simple and very clean. Some might say it lacks some life into it, shadowing and more movement. However, for me, the mood that the style of art gives off is fitting for the story of the manga.

Characters: The characters in the story stand out in one thing, they prove to readers that despite some handicaps and a few hindrances, it must not keep you from doing your best in pursuing your dreams. Some tragic love stories that tell of the death of one of the protagonists because of an illness, ends up with the lovers living together, or meeting up often, and just plain trying to make use of the time they have left. However, Taiyou no Uta, focuses more on helping each other to achieve their dreams with the little time they have to spare.

Romance/ Romantic Relationships: The relationship between Kaoru and Kouji experiences difficulties due to Kaoru's skin disease. However, the story shows how they soon cope with their circumstances and how they learn to live to the fullest with the little options they have. Both of them change in the story into more mature individuals that makes their relationship firm while always loving, and caring for each other.

Personal Comments: I really cried while reading this! I don't usually cry when it's only manga since I'm mostly touched only when it's anime or a movie. However, it really made me cry. It is a very common plot, I admit. But Taiyou no Uta has it's own uniqueness. Personally, I would recommend this for those who love romance stories, dramas, and tear-jerkers. It's one of my favorite in the tear-jerker category for manga since so far, only three manga have made me cry out of around 10 that touched me and it is one of the three, together with Fruits Basket and Renri no Eda.

Update No. 247 (April 21, 2010)

2010-04-21T16:35:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 260
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 29
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 99
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 64
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 48
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Taiyou no Uta - *completed*
Kuraku Naru Made Matenai - *completed*
Blue Ramun - *completed*
Boyfriend - *completed*
Boku ni Natta Watashi - *completed*
Barairo My Honey - *completed*
Deep Love Virus - *completed*

BACKTRACK

(Reading/Watching Again)

Akuma - Chapter 18 pg. 17
School Days - Chapter 2 pg. 14
Tokyo CP - Chapter 13 pg. 12
La Corda d'Oro - *completed*

Update No. 246 (April 13, 2010)

2010-04-13T16:29:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 260
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 29
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 99
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 48
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Eyeshield 21 - *completed*
Dr. Rabbit - *completed*
Flying Bunny - *completed*
Ikenai Candy Love - *completed*
Seitoshidoushitsu no Ouji-sama - *completed*

BACKTRACK

(Reading/Watching Again)

Akuma - Chapter 18 pg. 17
School Days - Chapter 2 pg. 14
Tokyo CP - Chapter 13 pg. 12

Mangaka Profile: Yazawa Ai

2010-04-12T18:33:00.003+08:00

矢沢あい (Yazawa Ai)
Gender: Female
Age: 43
Birth date: March 7, 1967
Birth place: Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
Notable Work/s: Gokinjo Monogatari, Paradise Kiss
Genre: Young Adult, Romance, Fashion, Shoujo

BACKGROUND:
Yazawa has studied in a fashion school but later dropped out. She made her debut with "Ano Natsu" in 1985 carried in Ribon Original early spring issue.
Her pen name comes from Japanese singer Eikichi Yazawa, of whom she is a fan. She has written over 10 series in Ribon. While most of her manga continues to be published in Japan by Shueisha, series like Paradise Kiss now appear in other magazines such as Zipper. Yazawa is a fan of Rumi Shishido and routinely promotes her works in her stories. Yazawa is also close friends with fellow authors Mizusawa Megumi, Obana Miho, and Yoshizumi Wataru.

WORKS:
15-nenme (1986)
Love Letter (1987)
Kaze ni Nare! (1988)
Escape (1988)
Ballad Made Soba ni Ite (1989, 2 volumes)
Marine Blue no Kaze ni Dakarete (1990–1991, 4 volumes)
Usubeni no Arashi (1992)
Tenshi Nanka Ja Nai (1992–1995, 8 volumes)
Gokinjo Monogatari (1995–1998, 7 volumes)
Kagen no Tsuki (Last Quarter) (1998–1999, 3 volumes)
Paradise Kiss (2000–2004, 5 volumes)
Nana (2000–ongoing)
Princess Ai (2004–2006, 3 volumes) (character designs only)

PERSONAL COMMENTS:
I particularly like the fact that Ai Yazawa's works are very artistic and detailed in art. Besides the good storyline and plot, it has a lot of unique and solid characters, which are brought our with life in their portrayal. But what's another good point is the fashionable clothes of the characters, seeing that her works are mostly fashion-oriented.

Cosplay Gallery: Bleach

2010-04-08T21:45:00.003+08:00

Seiyuu: Nana Mizuki

2010-04-08T16:13:00.010+08:00

水樹奈々 (Mizuki Nana)
Birth name: 近藤奈々 (Kondo Nana)
Gender: Female
Age: 30
Birth date: January 21, 1980
Birth place: Niihama, Ehime, Japan
Other occupation/s: singer, songwriter
Years active: 1998 - present

NOTE: This is a profile for a seiyuu. In this case, even if the seiyuu is a singer, dancer, actor/actress, model, etc., only information about him/her related to voice acting will be included. If information about his/her songs or movies are included, they are anime-related.

BACKGROUND:
Nana Mizuki was born Nana Kondo on January 21, 1980 in Niihama, Ehime Prefecture. She is a popular Japanese singer–songwriter and voice actress. She was trained as an enka singer since she was five years old. She made her debut as a voice actress in 1998.
Mizuki has released an image song single titled "Girl's Age" under the name Chisato Kadokura in 1998. When she performed a concert at the age of 20, she was scouted by the Japanese record label King Records. Her debut single was released on December 6, 2000 and a year later, she released her debut album on December 5, 2001. She was part of the seiyu quartet "Prits", alongside Yumiko Kobayashi, Natsuko Kuwatani and Hisayo Mochizuki (all four voiced characters in the anime Sister Princess). Recently, Nana Mizuki became her hometown (Niihama, Ehime)'s First Tourism Ambassador.

VOICE ACTING ROLES:
(includes anime roles only)

1998-2001
Sora Yamato (Flint the Time Detective) 1998
Saya (Shin Hakkenden) 1999
Namo Nyamo (Love Hina) 2000
Aria (Sister Princess) 2001

Tamamura Tamao and Kororo (Shaman King) 2001

Mako-chan (Mamimume Mogacho) 2001

Bones shopkeeper (Detective Conan) 2001

2002
Aria (Sister Princess: Re Pure)
Suzuki Nana (Seven of Seven)
Marinia (Gravion)
Hyuuga Hinata (Naruto)
Rokumatsuri Minazuki (Happy Lesson)
Kuroha Rue/Princess Kraehe (Princess Tutu)
Neju Na Melmas (Tenchi Muyo! GXP)
Mika (Samurai Deeper Kyo)

2003
Lucy Liberty (F-Zero GP Legend)
Marinia (Gravion Zwei)
Wrath (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Rokumatsuri Minazuki (Happy Lesson Advance)
Kururu (Bottle Fairy)

Ayaka Sanders (Beast Fighter the Apocalypse)

2004
Fate Testarossa (Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha)
Edogawa Suzu (Tactics)
Shinobu (2x2=Shinobuden)
Minamito Yui (Ichigo 100% Special)
Yufa (Ragnarok The Animation)
Powarun (Pokemon: Advanced Generation)
Hirukawa Taeko (Paranoia Agent)

2005
Fate Testarossa/Alicia Testarossa (Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's)
Tsugumi Shibata (Jigoku Shojo)
Minamito Yui (Ichigo 100%)
Oboro (Basilisk)
Mizushiro Sayaka (Magical Canan)
Cisqua (Elemental Gelade)
Segawa Mizuki (Guyver: The Bioboosted Armor)
Asuka Yayoi (Koi Koi Seven)
Misono Ruriko (Canvas 2: Niji Iro no Sketch)
Sophie Balzac Kirisaki (Yakitate!! Japan)

2006
Konoe Sunao (Tsuyokiss CoolxSweet)
Maria (Witchblade)
Morinas (Simoun)
Roya (Kiba)
Tiz (Jyu Oh Sei)
Lili (Yoshinaga-san Chi no Gargoyle)
Shindou Kei (Inukami!)
Akatsuki Akane (Kagihime Monogatari Eikyu Alice Rondo)
Maruchiinu (Majime ni Fumajime: Kaiketsu Zorori)

2007
Fate T. Harlaown (Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Strikers)
Hibara Mizuki (Mokke)
Minami Toma (Minami-ke)
Kirihara Misaki (Darker than Black)
Krone (MapleStory)
Yoake Eimu (Ayakashi)
Hoshina Utau (Shugo Chara!)
Seena Kanon (Shining Tears X Wind)
Yugiri Perserte (Shinkyoku Sokai Polyphonica)
Hyuuga Hinata (Naruto: Shippuden)
Sieglinde Baumgard (Dragonaut - The Resonance)
Rukina Yuno (Engage Planet Kiss Dum)
Riful (Claymore)
Shibata Tsugumi (Jigoku Shogo Futakomori)

2008
Akashiya Moka (Rosario + Vampire)
Minami Toma (Minami-ke: Okawari)
Allison Whittington/Lillia Whittington-Schultz (Allison & Lillia)
Aihara Kotoko (Itazura na Kiss)
Lydia Carlton (Hakushaku to Yosei)
Hoshina Utua (Shugo Chara!! Doki)
Akashiya Moka (Rosario + Vampire Capu2)
Oasis (Kyoran Kazoku Nikki)
Shibata Tsugumi (Jigoku Shojo Mitsuganae)
Usami Kaoruko (Junjo Romantica: Pure Romance)

2009
Ogata Rina (White Album)
Minami Toma (Minami-ke: Okaeri)
Ogata Rin (Rideback)
Yugiri Perserte (Shinkyoku Sokai Polyphonica Crimson S)
Lan Fan (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
Sylvette Suede (Tegami Bachi)
Kirihara Misaki (Darker Than Black: Ryusei no Gemini)
Yamaneko Kanden (Kampfer)
Hoshina Utau (Shugo Chara!!! Dokki Doki)
Akiko (Aoi Bungaku Series)

2010
Hanasaki Tsubomi/Cure Blossom (HeartCatch PreCure!)
Alois Trancy (Kuroshitsuji II)

SINGER:
Omoi (debut single) [Opening Theme for Mamimume☆Mogacho]
Heaven Knows [Ending Theme for RUN=DIM]
Innocent Starter [Opening Theme for Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha]
Peak Oricon Rank: #9
Wild Eyes [Ending Theme for Basilisk; 76th Star (Opening Theme for Itazura na Kiss); Suki! (Ending Theme for Itazura na Kiss)]
Peak Oricon Rank: #13
Eternal Blaze [Opening Theme for Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's]
Peak Oricon Rank: #2
Super Generation [Brave Phoenix (Insert song for Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's)]
Peak Oricon Rank: #6
Secret Ambition [Opening Theme for Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS]
Peak Oricon Rank: #2
Massive Wonders [Opening Theme for Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS]
Peak Oricon Rank: #4
Starcamp EP [Cosmic Love (Opening Theme for Rosario to Vampire); Dancing in the velvet moon (Ending Theme for Rosario to Vampire)]
Peak Oricon Rank: #5
Trickster [DISCOTHEQUE (Opening Theme for Rosario + Vampire Capu2); Trinity Cross (Ending Theme for Rosario + Vampire Capu2)]
Peak Oricon Rank: #2

Shin'ai [Opening Theme for White Album]
Peak Oricon Rank: #2
Mugen [Opening Theme for White Album; Tenku no Canary (Opening Theme for Tales of Symphonia the Animation Tethe'allahen)]
Peak Oricon Rank: #3
Phantom Minds [Opening Theme for Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha The Movie 1st]
Peak Oricon Rank: #1
Black Diamond [Insert Song for Shugo Chara!]

AWARDS:
First Seiyuu Awards: Best Musical Performance (Justice to Believe; opening theme of Wild Arms V)
First Seiyuu Awards Nomination: Best Radio Personality (Mizuki Nana no Smile Gang; JOQR)
Fourth Seiyuu Awards: Tomiyama Kei Memorial Award (Tropical Award)

Character Gallery: Hiruma Yoichi

2010-04-08T11:29:00.004+08:00

MANGA

ANIME

Character Gallery: Kurita Ryokan

2010-04-07T10:50:00.000+08:00

MANGA

ANIME

Update No. 245 (April 6, 2010)

2010-04-06T21:14:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 260
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 27
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 99
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 48
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Eyeshield 21 - Chapter 138

BACKTRACK

(Reading/Watching Again)

Akuma - Chapter 18 pg. 17
School Days - Chapter 2 pg. 14
Tokyo CP - Chapter 13 pg. 12

Update No. 244 (April 5, 2010)

2010-04-05T16:05:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 260
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 27
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 99
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 48
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Eyeshield 21 - Chapter 53

BACKTRACK

(Reading/Watching Again)

Akuma - Chapter 18 pg. 17
School Days - Chapter 2 pg. 14
Tokyo CP - Chapter 13 pg. 12

Character Information: Suoh Tamaki

2010-04-01T14:43:00.001+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Anime/Manga: Ouran High School Host Club
Complete Name: René Tamaki Richard de Grandtaine
Nickname: Tono (King)
Gender: Male
Height: 183 cm
Birthday: April 8
Age: 17
Bloodtype: A
Horoscope: Aries
School: Ouran High School Second year Class A
Host Club: President
Host Type: Princely

NOTE: some things below may not be understood by those who do not watch/read the anime/manga. Since this is a Character Information, I have no obligation to summarize the story. I will however, one day set up a review for the series.

APPEARANCE
Tamaki is a purple-eyed, blonde bishounen. He is mostly seen(especially in the anime) wearing his school uniform which consist of light violet coat with the school emblem on the upper left side over a white collared shirt with a necktie and black pants. When not in his uniform he usually wears typical rich people's clothing.

PERSONALITY
Tamaki is extremely narcissistic, comical, and emotional. At times, he can be egoistic, annoying, idiotic, stupid, and ignorant. He is easily depressed by little rejections and immediately crouches in a dark corner were mushrooms comically grow around him. He can read and understand other people's feelings very well although this ability does not include himself. He is helpful, especially to women and believes that all women must be happy(which is his purpose for creating the host club). Despite being wealthy, he doesn't waste money and is very interested in learning and understanding a 'commoner's lifestyle'. This results to him being willing to try commoner's food and clothing.

BACKGROUND
(Original from Wikipedia, Absolute Anime, OHSHC Multiply Group | This is an edited version)
Tamaki is half-Japanese and half-French. His father is Suoh Yuzuru, the wealthy chairman of Ouran Academy. He is the child of his father's mistress, Anne-Sophie Grantaine. Because of this, he is looked down upon especially by his paternal grandmother. Tamaki was raised by his mother in France until he was fourteen. At this time, his grandmother had worried that the Suoh Family would be left without an heir. Since Anne-Sophie is very sickly and her family business had failed, leaving her with a lot of debt, his grandmother offered her wealth in exchange for allowing Tamaki to live in Japan, cutting all ties with her. His mother accepted, and Tamaki willingly went to Japan to help his mother recover, and he came to live with his father. He lives in Suoh Mansion #2 as his grandmother does not see him fit enough to stay at the main mansion. Despite his grandmother being the reason he can't see his mother, he is very gentle to her, and is constantly trying to get her to accept him as a part of the Suoh family.

Tamaki established the Host Club when he entered the Ouran. He is the self-proclaimed "king" of the club a.k.a. president. He hand-picked most of the club members, with the only exception being Haruhi, who came to join to pay off her debt when she accidentally broke an expensive vase. His goal in mind was to create a club to help girls for he believes that every 'woman must be happy' and in his eyes, all girls are beautiful. He has a teddy bear named 'Kuma-chan' and a dog named 'Antoinette'. He is also a good pianist and one of his favorite pieces is Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

RELATIONSHIPS
Fujioka Haruhi - Tamaki initially treats Haruhi as his 'daughter' and always wishes the best for her. He tries to dress-up Haruhi and let her act as a girl. He views himself as an overly protective and obsessive father-figure to Haruhi. However, he is actually in love with her. He shows signs of jealousy whenever Haruhi is close to other guys. But he himself is unaware of the depth of his feelings. One of his first signs of jealousy is when he became troubled upon realizing that Haruhi is very close and spends more time together with the Hitachiin twins compared to him.
Ootori Kyoya - Kyoya is Tamaki's closest and best friend. Although it seems very unlikely, given their clashing personalities, they understand each other very well. Tamaki shows his care openly, while Kyoya doesn't seem to mind but actually works in the shadows to help his friend in any way he can.
Hitachiin Twins(Hikaru and Kaoru) - The twins are the ones who call Tamaki as 'Tono' or translated as King or Lord. They have high respect for him, partly because he was the one who brought them to join the host club and open their minds to a wider world, and because it was through this club that they met Haruhi. Though they may be teasing to Tamaki, the twins genuinely care for him. Also, both twins can be considered his rivals since both harbor romantic feelings for Haruhi. Although, this is more evident with Hikaru since Kaoru has already withdrawn from his pursuance of Haruhi.
Suoh Yuzuru - Unexpectedly, Tamaki is serious when confronting his father, in contrast to his usual loud and energetic self. But, Yuzuru takes every opportunity to tease and make fun of his son. He cares a lot for Tamaki but he has his own way of showing he cares.
Anne-Sophie Grantaine - Tamaki is shown is be very caring and fond of his mother especially during his time of stay with her in France. However, since their ties had been cut off due to their agreement with his grandmother, he has not heard from her until just recently.
his Grandmother - His grandmother is the reason why he is not allowed to see his mother. However, despite her cold actions and bitter treatment of Tamaki, he still treats her gently and works hard to be accepted. Recently, their bond is strengthened and they find they have a lot in common.

PERSONAL COMMENTS
Truly the main point of comic relief. You will find no less comical scenes from Tamaki. However, he may be sometimes so annoying you'd come to hate him. However, for me, despite the many times I came to hate him, just as many times, I came to love and enjoy him too! You'll truly find yourself looking for a friend like him when you see a lot of sides of his personality. Though he's not my favorite character in Ouran, I enjoy his presence in the series a lot!

Character Information: Tsukiyomi Ikuto

2010-03-31T14:47:00.002+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Anime/Manga: Shugo Chara!
Nickname: Onii-tan
Gender: Male
Height: 180 cm
Weight: 64 kg
Age: 17
School: Senior High School

NOTE: some things below may not be understood by those who do not watch/read the anime/manga. Since this is a Character Information, I have no obligation to summarize the story. Shugo Chara! has already been reviewed. READ HERE

APPEARANCE
Ikuto appears as a tall and good-looking guy. He usually wears his school uniform. However, in the cases when he is wearing casual clothing, it is most often black, dark blue, or indigo. During character change, he grows a pair of cat ears and tail. In his Black Lynx character transformation, he still has his ears and tail. But, his clothing is changed into navy-colored short top and pants. As Death Rebel, he wears a black suit. As Seven Seas Treasure, he wears a blue pirate outfit complete with the black eyepatch.

PERSONALITY
Ikuto is generally silent, stoic, cool, and aloof. However, he may also sometimes be naughty and teasing especially to Amu and Tadase. Despite his cold demeanor, he is actually very kind-hearted and selfless. He would go to lengths to protect the people important to him. He is willing to be distanced, misunderstood, and hated as long as he can protect the people he values. Most of all, he wishes to be a free soul.

BACKGROUND
(Original from Shugo Chara Wiki | This is an edited version)
His mother, upon marrying someone else after they found her husband's violin in a foreign country and believing that he would not come back, bound her children into working for Easter. Even though he works for the Easter Company, Ikuto actually despises Easter and tries to wrench himself free from them by trying to find the Embryo to grant his own wish. He is in possession of the Dumpty Key. Like his father, he is a skilled violinist.

GUARDIAN CHARACTER: Yoru
Yoru is the playful, free-spirited, cat-like guardian character of Ikuto. He was born from Ikuto's desire to be as free as a stray cat. Though he may be a trouble-maker, he is Ikuto's loyal and always helpful friend and companion.

POWER: Character Change
During character change with Yoru, Ikuto gains cat-like reflexes, speed, agility, movement, and even appearance. He is also able to perform the attack Phantom Claw by creating virtual claws.

POWER: Character Transformation
Black Lynx - Ikuto's character transformation with Yoru. His abilities during character change are increased. He is also able to perform the attack Slash Claw.
Death Rebel - Ikuto's character transformation as a result of being under the influence of an X Egg. This represents the darkness in his heart. In this form, he can play violin to take hearts' eggs. His violin can also become a scythe he can use for the attack Dark Night Storm.
Seven Seas Treasure - Ikuto's characters transformation with Yoru and the purified black egg. This represents his freedom. He can use his sword for the attack Emerald Line.

RELATIONSHIP with Amu
Amu and Ikuto's relationship starts out as enemies because Ikuto works for Easter. However, due to Ikuto secretly wishing to be free from Easter, he often helps Amu out, leading to them becoming closer. They become close friends and they often hang out together. Though teasing most of the time, Ikuto truly loves and cares for Amu. Because of his frequent teasing, Amu initially doesn't believe him when he first confesses to her. However, before he left in search for his father, he once again confesses to Amu and kisses her close to the lips.

PERSONAL COMMENTS
Aside from being so handsome and gorgeous, Ikuto is one funny yet at the same time cool character. His mixture of personality while maintaining his general stoic attitude is totally above-average. I have to praise Peach-Pit for a job well-done on this character. Definitely, for me, Ikuto is one of the pluses and major factor in the story-line. I love him so much. If you haven't' read or watched Shugo Chara!, then I suggest you start now. Who knows, you might be the next Ikuto fangirl or Amu-Ikuto supporters! :D

Update No. 243 (March 31, 2010)

2010-03-31T11:30:00.001+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 260
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 27
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 99
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 48
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Girl Got Game - *completed*

BACKTRACK

(Reading/Watching Again)

Akuma - Chapter 18 pg. 17
School Days - Chapter 2 pg. 14
Tokyo CP - Chapter 13 pg. 12

Character Information: Hino Kahoko

2010-03-30T14:45:00.002+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Anime/Manga: Kin'iro no Corda (manga/novel)
La Corda d'Oro ~primo passo~ (anime)
La Corda d'Oro ~secondo passo~ (anime)
Nickname: Kaho, Kaho-chan, Hino-chan
Gender: Female
Height: 162 cm
Birthday: February 27
Age: 15-17
Horoscope: Pisces
Instrument: Violin
School: Seiso Academy, General Department, Second year Class 2-2

NOTE: some things below may not be understood by those who do not watch/read the anime/manga. Since this is a Character Information, I have no obligation to summarize the story. I will however, one day set up a review for the series.

APPEARANCE
Kahoko is shown as an average girl with red hair. Usually, since the setting is at Seiso Academy, she is seen wearing her school uniform. This consists of a gray double-breasted top with a short scarf and gray skirt to show she is from the general department. Her short scarf is red since she is a second year student. Her clothes when outside the school are fairly fashionable but not too much as well.

PERSONALITY
Kahoko is generally cheerful, friendly, and helpful. She is optimistic, but not without downfalls, however. She values her friends very much and would always be troubled if they are not on good terms. She doesn't feel well when she lies and would always do anything to make up for whatever her mistake. She is hard working and loves music and playing the violin. She doesn't usually concern herself with romance but she reacts when asked about who she likes among her fellow concours participants.

BACKGROUND
There is little to none at all that has been revealed of Kahoko's past. Aside from the fact that she lives with her mother and has one sister and one brother, her father and other family matters are not touched upon. It seems she has no introduction and experience with music, much less playing an instrument, prior to meeting with Lili.

THE VIOLIN
When he meets Lili, the music fairy, she is bestowed with a magic violin. This violin can be played by anyone, anytime. With this, Kahoko joins the concours. However, the music that the violin produces depends upon Kahoko's feelings and mood. All you need to play it is know the tune of the music and it will move the user on its own. However, during the 3rd round of the concours, the strings of the magic violin snap due to Kahoko's intense emotions. When the strings are repaired, it has already lost its magic and Kahoko learns to play the violin from the start again.

RELATIONSHIPS
Lili - He is the one who introduced music to Kahoko by giving her the magic violin.

Tsukimori Len - This quiet and stoic musical prodigy is a master violinist. Though initially very serious, Kahoko teaches him that music is to be enjoyed and not treated as an obligation or job. He soon realizes his feelings for Kahoko with the help of Tsuchiura.

Tsuchiura Ryotarou - Tsuchiura is probably the closest to Kahoko among the participants. This is due to the fact that they are both from the general department and they met first before Kahoko met the other participants. Tsuchiura acts as Kahoko's confidante. He has feelings of Kahoko but she has yet to realize it. Tsuchiura is probably Len's biggest rival.

Hihara Kazuki - Outgoing, cheerful, and jolly, Kazuki is the most comfortable companion for Kahoko. He likes Kahoko but she continues to treat him like an older brother figure. He is the first one to tell Kahoko to enjoy music.

Yunoki Azuma - He is kind on the outside but has an inner personality that only Kahoko knows about. It has yet to be known if he really likes Kahoko but it has been widely accepted that he does and only covers up his feelings by teasing her.

Shimizu Keichi - Very silent and always sleepy, Keichi is Kahoko's kohai (underclassman). He is the one who teaches Kahoko a lot about music. According to Kahoko, his life revolves around music.

Fuyumi Shouko - This girl is Kahoko's kohai as well. She respects Kahoko a lot and wishes to become like her. They are like sisters who care about each other very much.

PERSONAL COMMENTS
For me, Kahoko is a good lead. I do not find her annoying or anything as I usually do with other main female characters. I actually find it amusing to watch who she ends up with and make up my own stories that she ends up with Kazuki or Tsuchiura (my preferred pairing). It's funny how she is so normal and her reactions to her companion's unique lifestyles are very comical. If you haven't watched La Corda d'Oro, I suggest you start now. You'll find yourself wanting to be Kahoko's shoes in the end! I mean, who wouldn't want to be surrounded by those bishounen (pretty boys)?

Update No. 242 (March 26, 2010)

2010-03-26T11:22:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 260
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 25
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 48
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Gold Rush 21 - *completed*
Desire Climax - *completed*

BACKTRACK

(Reading/Watching Again)

Akuma - Chapter 18 pg. 17
School Days - Chapter 2 pg. 14
Tokyo CP - Chapter 13 pg. 12

Update No. 241 (March 24, 2010)

2010-03-24T14:29:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 260
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5
Romeo x Juliet - *completed*

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 25
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 48
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50

Update No. 240 (March 23, 2010)

2010-03-23T09:20:00.001+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 260
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5
Romeo x Juliet - Episode 9

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 25
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 48
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50

Update No. 239 (March 3, 2010)

2010-03-03T21:37:00.002+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 260
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 25
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Kaze no Yubiwa to Hikari no Udewa - *completed*
Ryuujin-sama to Oyome-sama - *completed*

Update No. 238 (February 28, 2010)

2010-02-28T16:37:00.001+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 260
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 25
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Koi no Uta - *completed*

Update No. 237 (February 27, 2010)

2010-02-27T20:58:00.002+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 25
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Another Kingdom - *completed*

Update No. 236 (February 20, 2010)

2010-02-20T14:10:00.000+08:00

Update No. 235 (February 19, 2010)

2010-02-19T19:04:00.002+08:00

Update No. 234 (February 18, 2010)

2010-02-18T20:36:00.000+08:00

Update No. 233 (February 13, 2010)

2010-02-13T13:21:00.003+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 25
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - *completed*
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 11 pg. 19 (23)
Sensual Phrase - *complete*
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50
Lovesick - *complete*

Update No. 232 (January 20, 2010)

2010-01-20T14:48:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 23
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 49
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Tokyo Crazy Paradise - Chapter 50

Update No. 231 (January 19, 2010)

2010-01-19T11:58:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 23
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 49
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Meru Puri - *completed*

Update No. 230 (January 18, 2010)

2010-01-18T14:41:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 23
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 49
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Shiro no Keiyaku - *completed*
Otogibanashi no Fude - *completed*
Dokusen Happiness - *completed*
Ama Iro Omoi - *completed*

Update No. 229 (January 17, 2010)

2010-01-17T15:57:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 23
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 49
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Moujyuu wa Ori no Naka - *completed*
Bituona Koi - *completed*
Bitter Trap - *completed*
Non-chan to Watashi - *completed*
Hana Sakasu Te - *completed*
Genius House - *completed*
Hoshiyomi no Togensha - *completed*
Blanc Marie - *completed*

Update No. 228 (January 16, 2010)

2010-01-16T09:07:00.001+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 23
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 49
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
1/3 no Kareshi - *completed*
Kiss/Hug - *completed*
He's Dedicated to Roses - *completed*

Update No. 227 (January 15, 2010)

2010-01-15T18:23:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 23
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 49
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3
Andarshan no Hanayome - *complete*

Review: Ai Hime ~ Ai to Himegoto

2010-01-14T19:54:00.004+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Genre: Romance, Drama, Shoujo
Author: Mitsuki Kako
Manga: 3 volumes
Original Run: 2006

PLOT
(Original from OneManga and AnimeNewsNetwork | This is an edited version)
On a day of blossoming sakura, Mao, a 16-year-old high school student, by chance encounters a handsome sleeping man. Once awakened, he unexpectedly gives Mao a kiss. Yet, as fate would have it, it turns out that the mysterious stranger is actually her uncle - though not by blood.

He is the chosen caretaker that Mao will be living with during the school year. But how will Mao handle her blossoming feelings for her "uncle" while living with him? Will either one of them be able to cast aside social conventions to be together?

REACTIONS/COMMENTS

Story: I give the story of Ai Hime two thumbs up and five shining stars! The story is actually very simple. Many stories with simple plots are often complicated by authors in order to make it thrilling. However, Mitsuki didn't follow the crowd and made her own way of making her story very interesting. The story is not only full of twists and surprises, you'd be shocked if you realize that it is so enjoyable yet the plot is still kept simple. The story is brief and complete. It's not too fast nor too dragging. The end was acceptable. I can't think of a better end myself. The story is definitely one of the pluses of the manga. It is a good and very relaxing fun read.

Art: The artwork is pretty average. The characters can be individually identified and the background is clearly shown. Action and movement is also clearly depicted. But, what is probably the good thing about the art is that it has a perfect usage of designs. There are many detailed designs in the art. But it is mildly used and it isn't too much to the point where the page is cramped. Space is very well-divided. Though there isn't much shadowing and lighting, the depiction of movement in each character makes them seem alive.

Characters: The characters are very well introduced and defined. They have very lovable personalities. But, the author did not fail to put in flaws for every character, such as in real life. It would be too impossible and very unlikely if the characters are too good to be true. However, she presented their flaws in a comical fashion that you wouldn't mind laughing it off as you read. The characters certainly show improvement throughout the series and being more open to others and true to themselves. Mao is the normal high school girl who looks for love, having problems, going to school, and having a loving family who is not always together. Meanwhile, Jin is the representation of a selfless person who puts others' best interest before himself.

Romance/ Romantic Relationships: Of course, the central part of the story is the romance between Mao and Jin. The story shows how their love blooms and how it is strengthened by the jealousy and trust they build in times of tests and obstacles. The third parties in the story help in the realization of these changes. As they grow not only physically but also stronger emotionally, the story focuses on how they face their love for each other. As uncle and niece and as a man and lady, they are caught between these relationships. It shows how to they fight on against the views of society on their supposedly scandalous relationship.

I don't remember this being an option during the poll. I thought you were reviewing the top three winners. Where is the third one?
Well, the third place of the poll was 'other romance anime/manga'. I looked through comments and my profile to see if any comment was left behind but there was none. I had no choice but to choose for myself what to review. I had weighed my options already. I had thought about reviewing Marmalade Boy and Kaichou wa Maid-sama!. The former having been a well-known title with an anime counterpart and the latter having an upcoming anime. But, I decided on manga-only titles to let others read some not-so-well-known but very good mangas. I have considered reviewing 7th Period is a secret, Cherry Juice, Orange Planet, Peppermint, Cutie Boy, and Miyuki. However, compared to the ones aforementioned, Ai Hime ~ Ai to Himegoto struck my mind. As I did my comparison, I found Ai Hime to be a better candidate as it was one of the well-made mangas I have read. And, as it is short, it is a good choice for light reading. Furthermore, it is personally one of my favorites. I really felt Ai Hime deserved this chance. For suggestions of what I can review next, please comment on any post!

Hope you enjoyed!

Update No. 226 (January 14, 2010)

2010-01-14T16:32:00.004+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 23
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 63
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 49
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
Peppermint - Volume 3

Review: Vampire Knight

2010-01-13T20:32:00.001+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Genre: Romance, Supernatural, Action
Author: Matsuri Hino
Manga: ongoing
Anime: 13 Episodes
Original Run: April 2008-July 2008
Vampire Knight Guilty 13 Episodes
Original Run: October 2008-December 2008

PLOT
(Original from Wikipedia | This is an edited version)
Yuuki Cross's earliest memory is of a snowy night in winter, when she was attacked by an evil Level E vampire and was saved by a kind vampire, Kaname Kuran. Yuuki is the adopted daughter of the Headmaster of Cross Academy, Kaien Cross, who is an ex-vampire hunter that now wishes for vampires and humans to live alongside peacefully. She has grown up and become a prefect for the school which has one main purpose: for vampires to coexist peacefully with humans. Her fellow guardian and childhood companion, Zero Kiryu, whose parents were killed by a pure-blood vampire, is now determined to kill them all and refuses to trust them. Zero himself is now manifesting vampire traits, having been turned into a vampire after he was bitten by the Pureblood vampire who attacked his family, Shizuka Hio, four years earlier.

Yuuki tries to help him fight his bloodlust while also seeking to recover the memories she lost. As the series progresses, Zero's thirst for blood leads to his drinking from Yuuki, by her consent, to avoid becoming a level E vampire and losing himself to his monstrous instincts. To stop this, Kaname gives Zero his own "pure" blood, even though the only way for an ex-human to become a truly "stabilized" vampire is to drink the blood of the one who bit them in the first place. However, since Kaname is a Pureblood, his own blood helps keep Zero from going insane and from needing to feed from Yuuki.

Eventually, it is revealed that Yuuki is a Pureblood vampire herself, the Pureblood Princess of the Kurans and the fiancee of Kaname. It is also revealed that Kaname is Yuuki's elder brother and they spent their childhood together. Although, despite this being what Yuuki grew up believing, Kaname is not Yuuki's blood brother, but the ancient ancestor of the Kuran family resurrected by Rido Kuran. To save Yuki from being killed by Rido Kuran, their uncle, her mother had sealed her memories shortly before her own death and put Yuuki under a spell so she could live as a human and avoid being found. After Yuuki reawakens to her vampire nature, Rido again tries to kill her. As Kaname kills the corrupt vampire senate, Yuuki fights Rido. During a fierce battle, Zero aids her in killing him, but later on tells her he will have to kill her when he sees her once again. She tells him that she will keep running, so that he will have a reason to live. Although this is where the anime ends, the manga continues the story.

A year later, Zero is still determined to kill all purebloods, but has decided to hold off on killing Kaname Kuran because it would jeopardize the peace. He appears to be indifferent towards Yuuki now, but his body still seems to lust for her blood. Yuuki has received Artemis back and she vows to take any pureblood out of their misery if they wish, this being a way for sacrifice of her loved ones to be abolished. Kaname continues to strive for peace and continues to support Yuuki in any way he can. Kaname quickly has come to realize that Yuuki is also in love with Zero, but does not hold that against her.

REACTIONS/COMMENTS

Story: The story will be somehow complicated if you're not one to remember details and names. However, if you understand the story, you will find it interesting and very eye-catching. Although the concept of vampires, supernatural powers, and forbidden love are common elements of a manga, or even a simple story, The author has a different way of bringing out these factors and combining them together. If you are in for stories and unfolding hidden pasts, you may appreciate the manga more. It has more information and the complete background and history of every character. The story centers on Zero, a human-turned-vampire, Kaname, a pureblood vampire, and Yuki, a pureblood vampire who lived normally as human before her memories were recovered. The three, their conflicting romances, their different status and kind, and their contrasting goals of eliminating all vampires and having humans and vampires coexist peacefully are the central core of the series.

Day/Night Class: Cross Academy is divided into the Day Class and Night Class. The day class usually purposely leave the school on late hours to get to see and get near the handsoem and beautiful members of the night class. However, they are prevented from doing so by the school prefects, Yuki and Zero. Unbeknownst to them, the night class are actually all vampires lead by their leader and president, Kuran Kaname and vice-president Takuma Ichijo.

Characters: The characters are individually defined and each with his/her own design and matching personality. The fact that each character is being refined and their pasts are being revealed makes Vampire Knight a detailed series. However, it is one of the pluses of this series. Each character has their own distinguishing features that makes you see them all for themselves and not confusing them with each other.

Romance/ Romantic Relationships: The most notable romantic relationship in the story is the love triangle of Yuki, Kaname, and Zero. Fans are mostly divided between Zero/Yuki fans and Kaname/Yuki fans. However, it doesn't stop fans from being interested in the relationships of other characters such as that of Ruka and Akatsuki. Many fans also consider romance in the relationship of Rima and Shiki.

Animation: The animation for vampire knight anime is simply above-average. Although it's not to the highest level, you would appreciate that it's very detailed. Details have a big part in the story and the animators did a good job on not letting fans down on that. The style, specifically lightning, really works well especially since this anime is more on dark. It's impressive they can still show details in dark settings. In light ones, they also use the time to bring out brightness and life.

Voice Acting: The voice acting quality in Vampire Knight is very good! I must say that the seiyus did a very good job on giving life to their respective characters. I must also specifically note here that Mamoru Miyano did an exceptional work as Kiryu Zero and also with Kiryu Ichiru. Besides his act as Zero, his other notable roles were as Suoh Tamaki in Ouran High School Host Club, Yagami Light in Death Note, Nodacchi in Gakuen Alice, and Kiba in Wolf's Rain among many others. Aside from Miyano, many famous seiyus have featured their talents in Vampire Knight. This includes Yui Horie as Cross/Kuran Yuki who has also voiced Sawachika Eri in School Rumble, Sakuya in Sister Princess, Narusegawa Naru in Love Hina, and Honda Tohru in Fruits Basket among others; Junko Minagawa as Souen Ruka who also voices Cornelia Li Britannia in Code Geass and Echizen Ryoma in Prince of Tennis; and Kana Ueda as Wakaba Sayori who also voices Yoimachi Koyomi in Zombie-Loan, Tosaka Rin in Fate/Stay Night, Fukuzawa Yumi in Maria-sama ga Miteru, and Sakura Mikan in Gakuen Alice.

Themes/Soundtrack: For the opening themes of both seasons of the anime [Futatsu no Kodou to Akai Tsumi for VK; Rinne: Rondo for VK guilty], I applaud On/Off for a job well done! I really love their music and it totally fits the feeling of the anime. It's a bit bouncy and energetic yet it also gives out a feeling of sadness which serves as a sort of warm-up for the viewers for the coming of mixed emotions. As for the ending themes [Still Doll for VK; Suna no Oshiro for VK guilty], this really introduces you to a wonderful musician, Kanon Wakeshima. I must say, I was scared by her songs at first but it's a good song to listen to, actually. Her voice blends so well with her cello playing. The soundtrack by Haketa Takefumi is also note-worthy.

Again, I am very much hoping you'll love Vampire Knight as much as I did! Personally, I would prefer reading the manga than watching the anime. But, either way, it's still very good. Well, like it or not, it's up to you, anyway.

Review: Shugo Chara!

2010-01-12T19:47:00.001+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Genre: Action, Adventure, Supernatural, Drama, Fantasy
Author: Peach-Pit
Manga: 10 Volumes
Original Run: February 2006-January 2010
Shugo Chara! Encore! scheduled to start April 2010
Anime: 51 Episodes
Original Run: October 2007-September 2008
Shugo Chara!! Doki- 51 Episodes
Original Run: October 2008-September 2009
Shugo Chara!!! Dokki Doki ongoing

PLOT
(Original from Wikipedia | This is an edited version)
Amu Hinamori, is a student at Seiyo Elementary. At first glance, her classmates refer to her as "cool and spicy" and rumors speculate about her personal life. However, her real personality is that of a very shy girl who has trouble showing her true personality.

One night, Amu wishes for the courage to show her "would-be" self, and the next morning finds three brightly colored eggs—red, blue, and green—in her bed. At first, she is alarmed, but realizes she must have really wished to change. These eggs hatch into three Guardian Characters: Ran, Miki, and Su. Amu's Guardian Characters—Ran, Miki, Su, and Diamond—aid her in her quest of self-discovery. Each Guardian Character represents an aspect of Amu's true self. Ran represents Amu's desire to be more honest and athletic, Miki represents Amu's desire to be more level headed and artistic, Su represents Amu's desire to be more caring and improve her domestic skills.

However, Amu is not the only one with Guardian Characters. Each of the Guardians—Tadase Hotori, Nadeshiko (Nagihiko) Fujisaki, Kukai Souma, and Yaya Yuiki—have their own Guardian Characters. Finding that she has guardian characters, the Seiyo Elementary's Guardians recruit Amu as the Joker and trained and helped her to search for X Eggs and X Characters, the corrupted forms of peoples' dreams, and purify them.

Amu also encounters Ikuto Tsukiyomi and Utau Hoshina (Tsukiyomi), two siblings who also have Guardian Characters and are employed by the Easter Company to search for the Embryo. The Embryo is believed to grant any wish to the one who possesses it. However, the process creates X Eggs and X Characters. It is described as a white egg with a heart and yellow wings.

Later on in the series, Amu obtains a fourth (yellow) egg. This egg contains the Guardian Character Diamond. Diamond represents Amu's desire to shine in front of others and be a good speaker and singer.

Amu becomes close friends of Ikuto and Utau as she learns more about them and the reason why they work for Easter. She also begins to interact more with the guardians and get to know and accept their real selves.

Eventually, Nadeshiko Fujisaki and Kukai Souma leave the Guardians and are replaced by Rima Mashiro and Kairi Sanjo respectively. Kairi later leaves and is replaced by Nagihiko Fujisaki, Nadeshiko's real identity, as the third Jack's chair, with his new Guardian Character, Rhythm.

REACTIONS/COMMENTS
Story: The story of Shugo Chara! is very simple. However, contrary to what you might think, its simplicity makes it intriguing and appealing. The very core of the plot is the path to the discovery of one's true self. One can relate very well to the series especially since most people have gone through situations that put to test one's knowledge of one's self. This may happen more frequently for one person than for the other but in one time or the other, we are brought into the challenge of being ourselves. It is a plus for this series that the concept of the plot is unique. The story might sometimes seem too slow-paced but it is definitely well-developed.

Characters: The character designs are very wonderful and fitting for a shoujo series. It is also note-worthy that the personalities of each character is unique not only to that character but for the series itself. While most magical girl series showcase klutzy and sweet romantic heroines, Amu, as the series' heroine is in contrast very stubborn, short-tempered, and sometimes even rude. The guardians also have their own unique characteristics. Tadase appears as a soft-spoken and kind young boy. However, with his guardian character, Kiseki, he can change into a completely different egoistical king who wants world domination. Kukai is the energetic and sports-minded senpai (upperclassman) of the group who tends to act as the carefree big brother of his underclassmen. Yaya is the childish baby of the group while Rima is the petite yet confident and strong-willed queen. Kairi is the calculating type of person who goes from ordering around people to hiding in the corner when Amu is around. Nagihiko, on the other hand, is very troubled with keeping secrets from Amu while as Nadeshiko, he was the perfect example of a lady. The background of each character is individually detailed out while making sure that the family history doesn't take away the main plot of the story.

Romance/Romantic Relationships: The romance in the story is absolutely one of the most audience-grabbing factor of the series. The most notable relationships are those of Amu and Tadase; and Amu and Ikuto. Aside from the romantic moments of the pairs, their love triangle appeals to a lot of viewers, particularly those in for suspense. Some series start out as one genre and because of a romance side story, it turns into a romance series all the way. But not Shugo Chara! Peach-Pit definitely did a good job on maintaining equal amounts of romance while keeping the real core of the plot, which is self-discovery.

Guardian Characters: Although the story is unique in itself, what makes it truly unique is the way it brings the message to its readers that everyone sometimes act as someone they are not. That is, the concept of the Guardian Characters. The Guardian Characters in the series are the representatives of the real selves of each character to whom they belong to. They are born out of the character's wish to be him/herself. It is not unusual for one to have more than one Guardian Characters, as many characters have 2. Although, only Amu has more than that, which is 4. Just as Amu's guardian characters represent aspects of her real self that she wants to show, the guardian characters of the rest of the cast also represent their real selves.

Animation: In terms of animation, Shugo Chara! is fairly average. It has good quality images and motion, however, compared to the new and other graphic-excelling anime titles, Shugo Chara! doesn't stand out very much. Despite this, you are not left unsatisfied because it isn't so poorly made or flat. The quality is enough to bring out the atmosphere of the series. Timing is also very good.

Voice Acting: The seiyus and voice actors/actresses of each character in the series did a good job on the acting. You will really feel like they are the real voices of the characters. Aside from the well planned out casting, the series boasts of a star cast. This includes Nana Mizuki as Utau Hoshina(Tsukiyomi) who is the famous seiyu also behind the voices of Hyuuga Hinata from Naruto, Tamao Tamamura from Shaman King, Aria from Sister Princess, and Cisqua from Elemental Gelade among many others; Hiroyuki Yoshino as Daichi who is also the vocie of Kai Miyagusuku from Blood+, Pete Pumps from Ginban Kaleidoscope, Zed from KIBA, and Hibiki Tokai from Vandread among others; Ryoka Yuzuki as Temari who also voices Ruby Moon from Cardcaptor Sakura, Ino Yamanaka from Naruto, and Marie from Sister Princess, with many others; Miyuki Sawashiro as Yoru/Yu Nikaido/young Ikuto whose other notable roles were Shinku from Rozen Maiden, Puchiko from Winter Garden, and Mint Blancmanche from Galaxy Angel among many others; Yuichi Nakamura as Ikuto Tsukiyomi who also voices Tomoya Okazaki from Clannad, and Tesla and Muramasa from Bleach; and also Riko Takagi as Tadase Hotori who also voices Kahoko Hino from La Corda d'Oro and Sarugaki Hiyori from Bleach.

Soundtrack: For the soundtrack, I give a rating of 7/10. While the songs are pretty catchy and somehow lively, the styles of each opening and ending themes are very much the same with each other that sometimes it almost feels the same when they're not. However the singing voices receive my praise, especially Buono!. They did a job well done. The lyrics also fit in very well. As for inserts, Nana Mizuki once again displayed her talent for us to enjoy.

Like my previous review and all other reviews, this is nothing more than a general overview from one point of view and that is mine. There may be aspects about this series that I like but you don't or things you like but I don't. That's all up to you.

Update No. 225 (January 9, 2009)

2010-01-09T20:08:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 35
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 49
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BURBUR AND MARIFEL!

Update No. 224 (January 8, 2009)

2010-01-08T19:36:00.000+08:00

--NEWS FLASH!--
As you all probably know, I have already announced in my last update that I would be cutting down the deadline of the poll to Saturday. That is, tomorrow! To all of you excited otakus out there, I'm happy to announce that I will start writing the reviews immediately after the poll ends. The review will probably be posted by tomorrow afternoon/evening or Sunday morning.

I said that the top three would be getting the review they deserve and so they will. If I am able to post tomorrow, the other two will be posted on Sunday and Monday. However, if I am only able to post by Sunday, the other two will come by MOnday and Tuesday. I have conflicting schedules for tomorrow so I'm not sure how it will turn out. Hopefully, for the better!

Of course, I can't possibly miss thanking you guys for all the support. I must say that I thought I would be the only one to answer the poll. Fortunately, not. As of now, there are 20 respondents and it's more than I hoped for!

Lastly, I want to say that since some people have been stating that I keep posting updates and you can only barely notice the difference of the first post to the next. So, starting now, I am entering all updated series in boldface. Thanks!

--UPDATE--

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 49
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Update No. 223 (January 6, 2010)

2010-01-06T19:36:00.000+08:00

IMPORTANT NOTE:
I have decided to end my poll by this Saturday. I am itching to make my review and I hope you guys are excited too! So, please cast those votes now so we can have our review! :D I'll be reviewing the top three results of the poll. Then, I will also put up a next poll on the characters you would love to see profiles of. Hope you also participate in this!

Thanks you for you cooperation and support!

-- on with the update --

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 48
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 46
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Update No. 222 (January 2, 2010)

2010-01-02T19:03:00.002+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [125]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 48
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

HAPPY NEW YEAR, everyone!
1st post of the year!

Update No. 221 (December 26, 2009)

2009-12-26T09:05:00.002+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 142
Bleach - Episode 252
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 48
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Update No. 220 (December 25, 2009)

2009-12-25T16:13:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 137
Bleach - Episode 251
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 48
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Merry Christmas!!!

Update No. 219 (December 24, 2009)

2009-12-24T11:02:00.003+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 135
Bleach - Episode 251
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 48
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Happy Birthday Jemjem!
Happy Christmas eve!

Update No. 218 (December 23, 2009)

2009-12-23T12:08:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 131
Bleach - Episode 251
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 48
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Update No. 217 (December 22, 2009)

2009-12-22T22:21:00.002+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 124
Bleach - Episode 251
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 48
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Happy Birthday Manel!!

Update No. 216 (December 21, 2009)

2009-12-21T14:22:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 118
Bleach - Episode 251
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39
K-On! - Episode 5

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 48
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Character Information: Sohma Hatsuharu

2009-12-19T08:16:00.002+08:00

GENERAL INFORMATION
Anime/Manga: Fruits Basket
Nickname: Haru
Gender: Male
Height: 170.2 cm
Weight: 57.5 kg
Bloodtype: O
Age: 15-17
Zodiac: Ox (cow)
Horoscope: Cancer
School: Year I in High School

NOTE: some things below may not be understood by those who do not watch/read the anime/manga. Since this is a Character Information, I have no duties to summarize the story. I will however, one day set up a review for the series.

APPEARANCE
Hatsuharu appears as a tall young man and is the ox of the Sohma's cursed zodiacs. He has white hair with black roots, an effect of the curse, and this is his natural hair color. He usually sports a punk-like appearance. Most of the time, he likes to wear jewelries and leather accessories which he makes himself. In his zodiac form, he is a black-and-white spotted cow.

PERSONALITY
Like the two colors of his hair, Haru has two personalities which are dubbed by the Sohma's and Tohru as 'White Haru' and 'Black Haru'. His usual self is his white side. During this time, he is a calm, helpful and placid individual and an all-around nice guy. However, when he is angry, provoked, distressed, or upset, he can turn into his black personality. In this time, he is edgy, rude, mean, and egoistic. He has poor sense of direction even with two personalities. He is protective of those he cares about, especially Rin, Yuki, and Kisa, and once confronts and almost punches Akito for confining Rin, and looked for Kisa when she ran away from home.

BACKGROUND
As a child, Hatsuharu has been criticized in the Sohma Family for being somewhat stupid, and during that time, he blamed Yuki Sohma, the current rat, for it because of the story of how the rat tricked the ox to become first in the zodiac. When he finally meets Yuki, he immediately blames him for all his suffering. But, Yuki replies to this by asking Haru whether or not he believes he is stupid. This made him realize that this is all a mental trap and has since cared very much for Yuki. He says that Yuki opened his eyes and his remark made him a lot more relaxed. Hatsuharu is in love with Rin Sohma and has an on-again/off-again secret relationship with her. Haru is admired by Hiro as a brother figure and is called Haru-nii ("big brother Haru"). His name is derived from the first month, hatsuharu meaning "new year" or "early spring," which is the month of the ox, of the traditional Japanese calendar, though his name is written with different kanji than the month.

PERSONAL COMMENTS
Personally, I like Hatsuharu the best among all the characters in Fruits Basket. Aside from being so handsome, cute, adorably likable, and funny, I find his two personalities cool. It sets him aside from other characters. I do prefer the calm, kind, and stupid White Haru from the rude, aggressive, and edgy Black Haru. But nevertheless, I still like him in his Black state. I also love the way he dresses and his approach on things. He is generally helpful and he wants his friends to be friends too. He's like the coolest big brother you'll ever have, the most amazing boyfriend, and the funniest friend. He's too kind for his own good! :D

Update No. 215 (December 19, 2009)

2009-12-19T06:59:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 118
Bleach - Episode 251
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 48
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 62
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Update No. 214 (December 11, 2009)

2009-12-11T21:47:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 118
Bleach - Episode 246
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 21
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 48
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 60
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Update No. 213 (November 29, 2009)

2009-11-29T09:30:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 118
Bleach - Episode 246
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 19
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 47
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 60
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5
School Days - *completed*

Update No. 211 (November 24, 2009)

2009-11-24T20:55:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 118
Bleach - Episode 246
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 19
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 47
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 60
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17
Le Portrait de Petite Cossette - Chapter 5

Update No. 210 (November 18, 2009)

2009-11-18T19:02:00.000+08:00

ANIME

Currently Watching... (including the next episode I'm going to watch)

Naruto Shippuden - Episode 118
Bleach - Episode 246
Sister Princess - Episode 15/26
Rozen Maiden - Episode 9/12 [NEXT: Rozen Maiden Trauma]
Saiunkoku Monogatari 2 - Episode 21/39

MANGA

Currently Reading... (Including the next chapter I'm going to read)

Gakuen Alice - Chapter 63 [123]
Oura Koukou Host Club - Chapter 62
Vampire Knight - Chapter 50
New Prince of Tennis - Chapter 19
Millennium Snow - Chapter 10
Get Backers - Volume 20
Zombie-Loan - Chapter 24
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge - Chapter 92
Shugo Chara - Chapter 46
La Corda d'Oro - Chapter 60
Kyou Koi wo Hajimemasu - Chapter 18
Hana Yori Dango - Chapter 24
Cutie Boy - Chapter 9
Miyuki - Chapter 25
Yamada Taro Monogatari - Chapter 12
I'm at End of your Sight - Chapter 6
Kare First Love - Chapter 20 (11 pg. 19)
Sensual Phrase - Chapter 70 (ch. 70 pg. 22)
Oniichan to Issho - Chapter 13 (vol. 3 ch. 13 pg. 2)
Shinobi Life - Chapter 4
Kaichou wa Maid-Sama - Chapter 36 pg. 19
Sailor Moon - Chapter 17

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO PAULA!!