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Synopsis
When it comes to martial arts, Kiichi Miyazawa has always been the best. But when his father is hospitalized, it’s time for the teen super-star to become a man and take on the big time. Kiichi must take his father’s place in the ring against the champion of World Pro-Wrestling, the legendary Iron Kiba! Will he survive and triumph in his father’s name? Or will his family’s arch-nemesis terminate his martial arts career… and his life!

Review
Shootfighter Tekken gets better by volume and in volume three the potential of this short series is reached. After Kiichi finished his fight from earlier, his father is scheduled to battle Iron Kiba. That is, until something unpleasant happens to his father, that Kiichi decides to take his father’s place in the battle. With time short at hands, Kiichi trains himself immensely to prepare for a fight of life and death.

The thing I find interesting about Shootfighter Tekken is that it is not a piece of anime work where there are anything extraordinary. It is a piece that works within the boundaries, and excels at it with an unbelievable success rate. I remember in the first volume, I assumed that the rest of the show was just going to be a kid fighting senselessly, but I cannot be anymore wrong as this anime is beyond just the fighting. The messages within the dialogue are meaningful if you can break it down enough and it is not that difficult to acknowledge what is going on in Shootfighter.

All in all, this show demonstrates a lesson, a lesson where fighting is not always the answer to a question as fighting can lead to even more fighting – which is just pointless. Although if there is a legit and logical reason to a fight, such as, for a belief or something, stand up and represent!

The Breakdown
It was sure fun to have experienced such an anime. Shootfighter Tekken improved by volume and in just three volumes, you can get a ton of ass kicking and some joy from the whoopings.

Synopsis
A sinister tree lurks over a village, sheltering the inhabitants for a terrible price. Victims are plagued by voices, then driven to madness and death. When renegade surgeon Black Jack operates on the latest casualty, he discovers a horrifying parasitic plant. Does the tree’s spirit seek to possess a human host? Now the doctor who plays at being god must defy the ancient fury of nature!

Review
Is there anything, anything at all that Black Jack cannot display? Just when you think you have seen basically everything Black Jack could offer and toss at you, there are other weird procedures happening. This time around we are dealing with a “Chia Pet.” A boy suddenly falls ill and plants begin to sprout from his skin. As this phenomenon occurs, his brother calls Black Jack and requests a visit from the doctor. When Black Jack arrives he is stunned by this illness as he has never seen such a thing before and begins the diagnoses.

Now up to volume five, the drama is still as constant as ever. With various plot twists, adds more intensity, which creates even more excitement that benefits the viewers’ experience. I mean, sometimes I get goose bumps just seeing what unfolds on the screen. It is that impressive. The dialogue brings the characters out of the television set and into your room. As the story progresses to the medical treatment scenes, you feel as if you are there watching every move that Black Jack does. Not only that, in every scene you feel that you are a witness. The show is so amazing that it is mind boggling.

I really cannot predict what else there is for this series, but I know it will be a hell of an opportunity to observe the great mind of Osamu Tezuka at work. I know for sure that if you are up to volume five, you will most definitely continue on this masterpiece, if you are just on the borderline, your mind will impulsively act on its own to make Black Jack a part of your collection.

The Breakdown
This title we call Black Jack, is really something! I cannot imagine where I would be without it! ^_^;;

Synopsis
In the 24th century, intergalactic space travel has become a reality. One of the first outposts in the far reaches of space is Watcher’s Nest – an inflation hole drive portal – which has recently come under attack by a mysterious force known simply as Ghoul… A group of young female cadets assigned to the portal are unexpectedly thrown into a hornet’s nest of trouble as they finalize their training to become elite pilots in the Seraphim Squadron. What more could you ask for than a bevy of beauties forced to put their lives on the line to answer the call of duty. Divergence Eve is a bold and imaginative voyage leading directly into the heart of evil. A dark tale enlivened by a shocking mystery which will have you guessing until the final fade out.

Review
Divergence Eve has a strange plot, a plot in that the movement of the story is put in reverse. Indeed it is strange, but that is what makes a show like Divergence Eve unique. You begin confused as hell, as scenes are just passing by and you have no idea what the story is or how the characters arrived at the destination they are at. Slowly, but surely though, everything becomes clear to the viewer as the show runs from episode to episode.

This ploy that the crew behind Divergence Eve plotted out is not only smart, but can be quite an enjoyment as well. Why? Because not everything is shown to you. One thing I cannot stand in my years of experiencing anime is when an anime treats me like a person without a mind or without any form of imagination prowess, and this anime here does not do any of that. It works your mind into predicting what may happen next, as fun and excitement swarms within your head.

The thing that picks my mind about Divergence Eve is that the opening theme is serious, whereas, the closing theme is a fun filled piece. Not that it is a bad thing though, because it is showing Masaki Kureha in a cosplay marathon :). Nope, there is nothing to complain about that.

Now how can I review Divergence Eve without mentioning the babes :P. Although not much is revealed to the audience in the first volume, but what is revealed is that there is going to be something rather interesting about Ensign Masaki Kureha. Her past is the main focus so far in the show, as hints of it is shown to the viewer. Her power is hehe… I will let you discover that when you pick this title off the shelves.

The Breakdown
Let us face the facts, Divergence Eve is not going to be loved by everyone due to the way it runs, but for those who see through the preceding issues, Divergence Eve is an anime worth every cent you paid for.

Synopsis
Everyone’s favorite feline, Hello Kitty, is here with her friends in some of the best stories of all time! Come along and join Hello Kitty, Mimmy, Badtz-Maru, Pochacco, My Melody and Dear Daniel as they bring new versions of old favorites to life. In this exciting all new volume of Hello Kitty’s Animation Theater, you get eight fun-filled episodes with Sanrio’s most loved characters.

Review
Hello Kitty’s Animation Theater 1: Once Upon A Time consists of eight episodes of fun filled childhood stories that most, if not everyone have heard at least once or twice in their life. The stories that are reenacted into a motion picture are: “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “The Boy Who Cried Wolf,” “King Midas’ Donkey Ears,” “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “Hansel and Gretel,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” “The Bamboo Princess,” and “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” Now, the more mature fans would not give this title the slightest of peeks, but those who have children should most definitely seek out this piece of work. Even I liked Hello Kitty’s Animation Theater for the great compilations of stories and cute characters and I am not much of a Sanrio fan.

There really is not much to say about Animation Theater other than how worthwhile it is for children. You already know how each story will turn out. Just watching the Sanrio characters talking and acting is a delight. Who knows, maybe those who are macho will like this title too. One thing I am certain about is that Animation Theater’s replay value is off the chart high. It will be a difficult task to accomplish for any parent to pull their kids from the television set as their bed time passes by.

The Breakdown
Any child would be exhilarated watching this DVD. While reading the stories provide a better education experience, but watching it play out on screen is not a bad thing at all. It will definitely put a big smile on any kids’ face. This DVD is a must buy for any parent.

Synopsis
Sandman and his ragtag crew of misfits and loners are back at it again, saving the Earth from the deadly Zeravire invasion… only this time, they won’t be the only ones on duty! Enter the elite G-Soldier Squadron, the first unit in the government’s attempt to mass-produce Gravion technology. Led by ace pilot Faye, will the G-Soldiers push the Earthgertz gang out of a job? Meanwhile, facing a series of stepped up Zeravire attacks, Sandman decides his team needs some time off at hot springs resort!? What better way to form a cohesive fighting unit than to see everyone in their skivvies? Towels fly and karaoke maids abound as the Gravion team battles a hidden danger deep within a nearby volcano.

Review
High tech robots, maids, and ecchi humor, it cannot possibility get better than that right? Although I have not completely finish viewing the first season, this title is very attractive. It surpasses my expectations and goes on to an even higher level. So far there is not as much fan service as the first season, but it still gets it done. It is more playful than the original. Why do I say that? Well for one, the Gravion gang is having more fun and is dishing out an equally amount of it too. I am liking the direction that it is heading, except when the guys dress up as maids :/.

The animation from GONZO is outstanding; hence they have been my favorite studio of all. For an odd reason, it seems to me that every title they get involved with, it turns out that that particular title will be successful. Strange :/. Now there is all that you can expect from, from a Gravion title. Breasts, girls, ecchi, and along with it, robotic action! While the characters are mainly the same from the first season, there are new characters introduced in Zwei; the G-Soldier Squardon being a few of them. Thus far, nothing is revealed about these characters, other than that they will be competing with the Earthgertz gang. It sure will be interesting the way that the story will form, as sparks will sure be flying all over the place.

In volume one, be prepared to watch a hot springs episode. Too bad I did not have a chance to see it as the screener only has three episodes, whereas, the to be released edition will have four episodes. Gravion is an anime that keeps a constant pace throughout the run time. I appreciate that as there are no nonsense breaks within the show. You perverts have got to see it!

The Breakdown
Gravion Zwei is beyond just ecchi humor. The characters are unique, the story has the potential to be great and the mechas are just amazing. While it failed in its attempt to leech onto me, I still had fun watching it. Do your research, then make your decision whether to invest in this title.

Synopsis
A tale from the day of Valentine…

Every day in the life of Mizuhara Ryo and his younger sister Akane ended normally. They would wake up, go to school together, work tables at the Plavi resturant, come home and eat dinner. That was until one day a complete stranger in a pink jump suit literally crash lands through their glass screen door. Beneath the attire is the dazzling super flower of Japanese womanhood, the warrior of love, Masuda Shizuka! To their surprise, Shizuka announces that she is Ryo’s fiancĆ©e. Let the days of love and trials begin!

Review
Final Approach is the anime adaptation to the Playstation 2 dating simulation game of the same name released recently in Japan on October 7, 2004. This is Princess Soft’s third game turned anime, the first being Natsuiro no Sunadokei. Final Approach was aired concurrently with Princess Soft’s second game anime title W-Wish. The anime spans 13 episodes, and each episode is roughly 12 minutes long.

The official japanese anime website can be found on the left side of http://www.trinet-ent.com/princess_hour/index.html. There you will find character sketches, episode summaries accompanied by screenshots, a staff list, and DVD release dates. The game site is located at http://www.oaks-soft.co.jp/princess-soft/final/index.html. At the bottom of the index page is a mpg file of the opening trailer. The left bar navigates you through story information, individual character profiles, and back to the main Princess Soft website.

The Breakdown
Welcome to Pia Carrot…I mean Plavi!

Synopsis
In the near future, the planet is run by a federation of twelve powerful corporations. Amid the general populous are psychics — metahumans capable of converting thought into energy. Known as “E’s”, these outcasts wield the power to control the world… or to save it! Kai awakens in Ashurum, a military contractor that has put together an elite special forces team of E’s called AESES to bring about law and order. But when Kai is sent to wipe out an anti-corporate guerilla outfit from the slum town Gald, he discovers not all is as it seems.

Review
Is it me or are some anime just created to be predictable? Once I got through half of the first episode, I already know the direction the show will go. I do not want to ruin it for you so I will keep my mouth shut about it. E’s Otherwise is a great title. Even though I say that it was predictable, it was only predictable to an extent. After the third episode my predictions were true and so from then on, I have no idea :P. We begin the story with Kai, who has been in the care of Ashurum since he was a little boy. His mother was involved with Ashurum, and since his sister has a health condition she needed their medical facilities. After Kai’s mother passes away, both he and his sister go into the guardianship of Ashurum. Due to the fact that he was basically raised by Ashurum and the help that they have provided to his sister for free. He joins and trains with AESES, the group of elite psychics that were compiled across the world of E’s Otherwise.

As you watch this show, you will ponder whether Ashurum is of the good or evil. There really is not a true statement of the side they are on. But one thing is for sure, E’s Otherwise is highly entertaining. The way psychic powers are displayed on the screen is astonishing. I like everything that this piece has shown me so far. The plot is not too complicated to comprehend; pretty straight forward if you ask me. The characters are not fully developed yet; hence, they are still mysterious. The sounds are amazing. The opening theme sounds like something Ayumi Hamasaki would sing, but it is by someone else.

E’s Otherwise is certainly an anime series that will leave a bang in the anime industry. This show is well planned out. There is no way you can get enough of it. This piece is certainly going into my DVD collection when it becomes available in stores. Make sure you jot this down in your to do list!

The Breakdown
E’s Otherwise is impressive all over. So far it is one of the titles that I can see having tremendous success. Watch for it!

Synopsis
Mild mannered student Takashi Koyaman finds himself enrolled at Cromartie High, where everybody is a delinquent! Logically, therefore, he must be the toughest in his class - by the rather twisted logic that only a really tough rabbit would lie down with lions. Thus begins a story that parodies every cliché of tough-guy anime that you’ve ever heard of… and some you haven’t!

Review
There are titles that make you laugh by being stupid. There are titles that make you laugh by going crazy; something beyond stupid, in which I call trying too hard. And then come titles like Cromartie High School, where the comedy is just normal. Sure you probably would not see Mechazawa, a Gorilla or a horse riding Freddie in a school… or maybe you have already… Anyways with approximately fifteen minutes of each episode, the anime gets straight to the point by the main character Takashi Koyaman doing an introduction and then takes off from there.

You have probably heard about titles that are comedy, but when I watch a so called comedy, I separate them into the categories that I have stated above: Stupid, Crazy, and Normal. For stupid comedy, it is a comedy where like the name suggests, stupid things occur to induce laughter. Comedy like “stupid” gets lame quick and probably would not induce the equal amount of laughter after the second or third view. For crazy comedy, it is a comedy that just tries way too hard to make the viewers laugh. Doing crazy stunts and absurd activities will only induce a chuckle from me at most. After viewing a crazy comedy once, you will be sick of it, hence, the replay value is just nonexistent. Now finally, we get to the normal comedy, comedy that just exists and you will not even notice until it occurs. Normal comedy usually deserves a lot of play back value and Cromartie High School is in this category, because the dialogue hits you like a ninety seven mile per hour fast ball by Randy Johnson. Most of the dialogues are quick hitters that build up to a bigger laughter. And if by any chance you do not comprehend the simple delinquent dialogue, the fact that some of the characters may resemble you or some of your buddies at school might amuse you quite a bit.

The version I am reviewing is in English dub and I have to say I am amazed at the quality of it. I rarely say good things about dubs, but this one actually hits the spot like White Castle in Harold and Kumar. The “thug” jargon is nicely portrayed here. The way ADV Films fitted the words that you do not want your grandmother to hear in Cromartie is just absolutely great. You will most definitely have a blast hearing some of the stuff that gets said. The characters are whacky. The main character is a nerd, without being a nerd, a guy with hair that keeps flopping, Mechazawa, a character with a real identity crisis, Freddie the guy who looks like he belongs in a circus. The list just piles on and on. With so many unique characters, and an undeniable sense of great humor, Cromartie High School has a definite bright future.

The Breakdown
Cromartie High School manages to make me crack up almost every time something occurs on screen. Its way of making people happy is truly amazing.

Synopsis
To the unsuspecting eye Maki, Reimi and Yuka may not look like ace crime fighters, which might explain why they’re stuck on traffic patrol instead of more “exciting” police duties. All that changes when Yuka gets herself kidnapped by a white slave organization run by a politically connected businessman who’s got the rest of the police cowed. Now it’s up to Maki and Reimi to don skin-tight battle armor, liberate a tank, and make sure that a certain slaver learns that when you play with fire, you’re going to get your ass burned!

Review
I have always been a fan of the Burn Up series ever since Burn Up W. But now we are going back to where it all started, Burn Up! The show commences right off the bat with a car chase scene. The chase was pretty cool, it was a good introduction to the three main characters, Maki, Reimi and Yuka. This show is constantly on a quick pace as the main focus is revealed to the audience as soon the characters were finished being introduced. A crime organization is kidnapping young females and selling them as slave dolls, where they are forced into being a perfect woman. For those who listen, will get the training and ultimately be sold to a buyer and for those who rebel… we all know what happens when you deny the Yakuzas. Our trio of heroines cannot possibly allow this to happen and decides to go investigate the case. That is when Yuka becomes a kidnapped victim. With the criminals holding her as hostage, Maki and Reimi set out to rescue their friend in need!

Burn Up is the best out of the Burn Up series due to the fact that it is the original and that ecchi humor is not as rampant as the successors. With the less emphasis in ecchi humor comes a more entertaining show overall. Sure some of the perverts will miss the panty shots, the jiggly boobs counter and enticing scenes, but they do not go in vain. The way it plays out is all the entertainment that is needed. The old school animation brings back memories and refreshes them to make Burn Up seem as if it was a regular new title. This is definitely a title that you would say the old is better than the new, this coming from a Burn Up freak who owns most of the Burn Up saga.

What sticks out of this show is the quick pace that it is on. One scene you are at a conversation about a plan, the next scene you are where they act the plan out. You are just never left out in La-La Land wondering when the action comes, because usually it arrives sooner than expected. The bits of comedy provided throughout the show are cute. It is nothing rolling the floor about, but certainly gets your attention. Overall, Burn Up, is a quick hitter whose jabs are effective, but does not offer anything that will knock someone out.

The Breakdown
Burn Up’s action and quick moving storyline, keeps the viewers’ attention for the fifty minutes of run time, which seems like thirty minutes from how the things play out.

Synopsis
This is one thankless job that won’t even pay the bills! Kondou Yuuko, Hijikata Toshie and Okita Kaoru are the daughters of Shinsengumi heroes trying to follow in their father’s footsteps as loyal guardian warriors, but times sure have changed. If their enemies don’t do the Mobile Shinsengumi in, this bumbling trio might just do the job themselves! Can they rescue their reputation along with the city? Find out as the Japan of the past goes to war with the present and these battling beauties take on the ghosts, goblins, and gods of yesteryear!

Review
Rumiko Takahashi. You know you have heard of that name somewhere before. The person behind works, such as, Ranma ½ and Inuyasha is now the character designer of this little fun title Moeyo Ken. At first, I was not interesting in Moeyo Ken; I just wanted to get it over with as soon as possible. But after taking a breather from anime for about two days, I went back and said that if I just skim through an anime, I would not do its justice. Hence, I went back from the beginning and watch it again. To my surprise, it was not bad going through it for a second time. You certainly begin to feel an appreciation for it. Moeyo Ken is by no means a smash hit, but it is not crap either. It will attract fans, because of the heroines, after that the show does boast an interesting concept, in that there is a bit of a futuristic theme to it within the Meiji Restoration era… I believe it is one of those old time periods :) (Alpha is not good with history :P).

So what kind of futuristic theme? Well the trio does drive around with these crazy rides; rides that look like were from another dimension. They also wear armor like Samurai Pizza Cats does when they cannot handle an opponent with just their plain swords. I did not like the cars and stuff, but hey, that is what makes it different from just another title about samurai women right? The character design by Rumiko Takahashi is as expected; wonderful. No wonder why her credentials are where it is at right now and no wonder why Stikz is absolutely obsessed about her. I swear, if she ever decides to show up in a New York anime convention, they better have elite security, because Stikz will plow right over them, just to get a hand shake or autograph. (Sorry brother man, I had to take a shot at you ^_^).

Moeyo Ken is not the type of anime title where you say to yourself that, “Dang, I have to own it!” It is more like a title where you watch it when you are bored or have nothing else better to watch. Those Rumiko Takahashi fans will run to buy this, but if you are a casual fan, renting it will most likely be your option. It does not mean that Moeyo Ken sucks; it just means that it is not on a level where a luxury becomes a necessity.

The Breakdown
Moeyo Ken probably would have been better off as a longer series, rather than a short one, as maybe then, things can be explained deeper and viewers will be able to hang onto it for a while.