Afro Samurai: Resurrection - Director's Cut Review

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(More customer reviews)Afro Samurai has found vengeance, and has sworn off fighting. You didn't think that would last, did you?
Nope, it didn't. And the past catches up to the silent afroed warrior in a big way in "Afro Samurai: Resurrection" -- a wildly stylized, bloodsoaked, wildly anachronistic tale of what will happen after you get your gory revenge. And Samuel L. Jackson fits into the quiet, butt-kicking titular character like a hand in a fine leather glove.
Afro now lives in a temple where he meditates, carves little statues of Buddha, and thinks on his bloodsoaked past (cue wild flashback scene involving crazy ninjas and a river of blood).
That would make for a boring movie, so suddenly Kumo and the sexy, sadistic Sio appear, and steal both Afro's No. 1 headband and his father's remains. With his sword reforged, Afro sets out to reclaim the No. 2 headband so he can challenge Sio, and stop her from resurrecting his father (just so she can torture him).
But regaining the headband leads to a terrible cost -- a kindly man with a little son, haunted by the headband's bloody legacy. And the path to Sio's lair is riddled with grotesque henchmen who are very interested in seeing Afro dead -- and Sio herself plans to use a terrible weapon to destroy the man she hates above all else.
Like "Samurai Champloo," "Afro Samurai" is a stylized story that wears its hip-hop trappings and period Japanese flavour like badges of honor. Or headbands. Whichever. The actual story is rather thin, but it carries a heavy message about revenge -- one you get it, it will haunt you like a bloody ghost forever and corrupt others along the way. Ninja Ninja provides a little humor ("I'm gonna die, man! Or at least have a stroke... I HATE HEIGHTS!") but it can't lighten the storyline.
"Afro Samurai: Resurrection" doesn't hold itself back on the fights -- neatly sliced bodies, fountains and rivers of blood, savage beatings and some really creepy cybernetic/masked baddies who are unafraid to get dirty. The highlight is a balletic nighttime duel between Afro and Shichigoro, surrounded by deadly chains and glowing lanterns, and framed by fireworks reflected in the water.
And it leaves the way paved for a third "Afro Samurai" story. I'm waiting.
Most regular actors are terrible at voice-acting, but Samuel L Jackson could easily make a living at it if he wanted to -- both the deep, gravelly voice ("Watch... your damn... MOUTH") and the annoying jabber of Ninja Ninja. And Afro serves as an excellent anti-hero, who does some truly terrible things but is willing to pay for them.
Lucy Liu does a solid job as well, giving Sio both sensual viciousness and tenderness, and even a sort of moral core ("History will mourn the atrocities you now commit"), while Yuri Lowenthal and Mark Hamill have good small roles. And Liam O'Brian's gravelly/soft voice gives poignancy to his small but memorable role as Shichigoro.
The two-disc edition has a cluster of extras, mostly in featurette form -- a two-part making-of documentary, an interview with the creator, music composition, video game, commentary, and assorted other stuff. Mainly interesting if you really love the movie.
"Afro Samurai: Resurrection" is a solid sequel that shows what happens when revenge is swung back at you. A good, bloodsoaked anime that opens the way for more.

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Afro Samurai (Academy Award ® nominee Samuel L. Jackson) avenged his father and found a life of peace. But the legendary master is forced back into the game by a beautiful and deadly woman from his past. The sparks of violence dropped along Afro’s bloody path now burn out of control – and nowhere are the flames of hatred more intense than in the eyes of Sio (Lucy Liu: Kill Bill). She won’t quit until Afro is schooled in the brutal lessons he dealt those who stood in his way. There’s no such thing as final vengeance. The cycle of bloodshed spinning around the Number One Headband must roll on. Featuring the voice of Mark Hamill (Star Wars) and fresh production from The RZA (Wu-Tang Clan), the saga that began in the best-selling anime DVD of 2007 continues in Afro Samurai: Resurrection.
The Director's Cut features:

A limited edition art book featuring forwards from the RZA, Bob Okazaki (creator) and Fuminori Kizaki (director) as well as never before seen images from the anime and the original manga.
Over an hour of exclusive behind the scene featurettes including the making of the anime, the making of the video game, interviews with the cast and crew, RZA in the studio, commentary from the creators and much more! Stills from Afro Samurai: Resurrection (Click for larger image)

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Case Closed The Movie - The Time Bombed Skyscraper (2004) Review

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(More customer reviews)Case Closed: The Time Bombed Skyscraper is a great introduction to the entire series. It is the first of the Case Closed movies and it does a terrific job of offering a movie experience to fans of the TV program as well as standing up as a independent movie experience. The film and the series use the same terrific cast of English voice actors and feature great writing throughout.
One of the most interesting aspects of Case Closed "Detective Conan" is the duality of the central character. The "MacGuffin" within Case Closed transforms our protagonist into a child, who then must assume a new identify and find unique ways to express his detective talents. This plot device essentially allows Case Closed to explore one of the central issues of being young, of being a teenager with much higher than average intelligence. What a incredible conceit for an anime property! Especially when you consider that this same dynamic applies to the sterotypical anime fan. Every teenager comes up against the struggle of being viewed and judged as a kid while internally they have the motivations and drives which are much more adult than the world is usually willing to acknowlege.
Case Closed explores these dyanmics and surrounds them with unique mysteries involving esoteric motives and plots. Case Closed is a serious mystery drama that just happens to be a surpirsingly funny. The Case Closed movie: The Time Bombed Skyscraper, is a wonderful place to start your exploration of the world of Case Closed.

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The city is in the grip of a crazed bomber and nobody is safe as a crushing wave of terror washes over the innocent citizens. Planes, trains, and massive towers all threaten to light up the night sky; the sick whims of a brutal lunatic played out in sudden balls of fire. Conan Edogawa finds himself in a desperate race against the clock, an explosive game of cat and mouse with a deviant madman… and every second counts. Can he unravel the maniacal malcontent’s scheme before the next timer reaches zero? You never know when your time might come.

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Naruto Uncut Box Set 14 (2009) Review

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(More customer reviews)Right off the bat Naruto's next mission(After bribing Grandma Tsunade) teams him up with Tenten and Neji to help protect a small ninja village called the star village and their special treasure. The star village has a special meteor that gives increased chakra and even unusual chakra abilities to people who drain the chakra from the meteor, but it also comes with a very heavy price using the meteor's chakra energies eventually leads to the users death, which has caused a division in the star village between those who wish to stop using the meteors energies and those who feel there's no other choice. After this saga we have Naruto battling another personal problem as he unwittingly becomes the adopted mother to a formerly legendary creature known as the Unba(At least that's how it sounds like). Than we have Naruto teaming up with Shino of all people to go to a funeral where Shino will as act as the substitute mourner of the person that's hired them, the reason is that if the chief mourner laughs at the funeral he will loose all the lands that his father will bequeath to him but the will allows a substitute mourner to be in his place, thus Shino is giving the job but like most missions with Naruto somethings bound to happen to mess with the plan. The last few episodes deal with the missing feudal lords daughter from the lands of greens which has been taking over by a band of rogue ninja trying to become feudal lords themselves, the feudal lords daughter flees and tries to regroup and find volunteers to reclaim her lands. This mission saga-arc I felt were the only ones in the series that Naruto just should have let the spoiled lords daughter just die she's so unlikable I just had no sympathy for her and her attitude, but like Naruto usually does with his usual determination and his sense of ninja way and own morality that won't let him abandon her. The video is of course clear and sharp and as always the voice cast both Japanese/English did a great job for their character roles. So for hardcore fans rejoice as we come closer to the Shippuden series and for all fans here comes another great box set at a great price for your anime library....

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The ninja of the Hidden Leaf Village are summoned on a mission to the Land of Stars, where a meteorite with incredible powers has been stolen! Naruto and the others begin to suspect it was an inside job when they learn that the ninja who stole the star used a special ninjutsu known only to the Star Village. Then, Choji, Hinata and Naruto set out for the Land of Greens to protect a group of merchants, one of whom turns out to be a princess! When Hinata is threatened by an evil ninja to reveal the princess's whereabouts or Naruto will be hurt, will she choose to save a princess or the boy she loves?!

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Fullmetal Alchemist: Season Two, Part 2 Review

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(More customer reviews)SOME SPOILERS ARE CONTAINED IN THIS REVIEWFullmetal Alchemist is an amazing series, but one of its greatest achievements, in my mind, is that it managed to not only maintain its stellar quality over time, it consistently got better and better until it actually hurt to see the series come to an end. Seeing all of the plot threads that have been building throughout the whole series coming to fruition is a great payoff, sure, but it's made all the better by the fact that nothing feels like a cop-out; there wasn't a single moment where I thought "Oh, these guys were running out of time and so they just threw that up there." No, everything flows to a logical, incredibly satisfying and poignantly melancholy conclusion. It certainly isn't a Hollywood-style happy ending, but that was never what the series was about in the first place. And even more gratifying than the ending was being able to look back on how all of these characters had grown and changed throughout the series: Lust springs to mind first and foremost, having gone from being your stereotypical femme-fatale to a multi-layered, incredibly sympathetic and tragic heroine. And I never, ever thought I'd be able to empathize with a psychopathic monster like Envy, but the final scenes of episode 50 made me come really close to doing so, even as he... well, I won't spoil it for you here.
In short, Fullmetal Alchemist is an incredibly well done, superbly animated and acted show. The Japanese and English voice tracks are both equally impressive (one of the RARE few animes in which this has happened, the only other to my knowledge being Samurai Champloo). And sure, if you're reading this product description you're probably going to buy this anyway and you've seen the series before, but in case you haven't, just know that you're about to see some of the finest episodes of one of the best anime series ever. This world definitely goes out with a bang, and not a whimper.

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As the chaos surrounding the quest for the Philosopher’s Stone boils over, Edward Elric is left to face his destiny and bear the burdens of his actions alone. Scar, determined to reenact the horrors of the past, must be stopped at all cost. But when those who sought to save lives are instead sought as fugitives of the State, the Elric brothers will be forced to flee…Alliances shift and factions fracture as undeniable truths glare in the light of day and the rumor of civil war drives unrest. And yet all seek the Philosopher’s Stone. Al has been changed into something impossible to comprehend and as the brothers are separated, his suit of armor begins to disintegrate. Ed has precious little time left to find his sibling. These weary young men have traveled a long and difficult path, seeking to regain what was lost. Enemies have been toppled, friends have been buried and the State will be remade. Even the one inevitable truth will be called into question – The Law of Equivalent Exchange.

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Neon Genesis Evangelion: Complete Platinum Collection (Limited Edition Holiday Special) Review

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(More customer reviews)Despite what one of the other reviewers said, this DOES NOT COME WITH THE MOVIE. It comes with the director's cut episodes and the DVD extras, but no more.
I wouldn't spend over $55 dolars on this though, if you don't want the extras, the Platinum collection can be had relatively cheaply, and the Platinum Perfect is still around if you have the cash.
Another thing is that one of the disc holders inside had some molding issues and made a hairline scratch around one of my discs. Everything played OK, but this is something to watch out for.

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NEON GENESIS EVANGELION (PLATINUM HOL - DVD Movie

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Initial D: First Stage - The Complete First Season Review

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(More customer reviews)Wow, I have not seen this one for more than ten years ago. Time sure flies. When I see this product in stores, I was a bit hesitating because I have seen the trailer in english dubbed and music changed. Once I have heard from friends who rented or owned it, they said the japanese versions were kept in tact. You know, they were right!. That made me happy. I tried to give english version a chance, but I cannot surpass the music, the new given names, and the new special effects during the race. It just not the same! Just to be fair, I will only review only the original japanese version. The picture and the sound are really clean for a first season TV series. The contents are kept intact. I do not recall any scenes have been edited out. I recommend who enjoys classic sport cars do battle and remind how good the cars in their time.

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When Keisuke Takahashi of the infamous RedSuns racing team accidentally witnesses normal, everyday tofu delivery boy Takumi Fujiwara's, expert drift technique, Takumi's life shifts into high gear. Keisuke challenges him to a racing battle and the race results in Takumi plunging headlights first into the white-knuckle, adrenaline rushing world of underground mountain-pass street racing. With his incredible techniques and top notch AE Eight-Six, Takumi blows the competition away battle after battle. As the word rapidly spreads about a new racer beating out the best drivers and cars that drift racing has to offer, one by one, new challengers quickly step out to battle him. Yet, time and time again, Takumi proves himself to be a force to be reckoned with. Can Takumi be the best? This 9 disc set contains the complete first season of heart stopping Initial D action!DVD extras include:
Exclusie footage from Mount Akagi
Bonus episode from Season 2
16-pg Owners Manual
Outtakes and much more!

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Samurai X - The Motion Picture (Rurouni Kenshin) Review

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(More customer reviews)To get it out of the way first, I thoroughly enjoyed this movie--I am huge fan of the Rurouni Kenshin series, and the movie, while not quite as good as the series' best parts, succeeded in giving me more of the same stuff I love so much (as long as you don't watch the horrific English dub--even compared to the series' English dub it's horrible).
Now on to the important part--the confusion that has been steeped upon this release. Here's what everyone should know, but seems to ignore (at least in reviews): "Samurai X" is the American title used to replace the Japanese title, "Rurouni Kenshin," when this movie and the OVA's were released by ADV. The original series (it came first, only after the comic) is being released under its original title by Anime Works. The Kenshin OVA's (under the American titles "Samurai X: Trust" and "Samurai X: Betrayal") were made later as a prequel to the series, chronicling the early days of Battousai the Manslayer/Hitokiri. By the time the series begins, 10 years later, the main character Kenshin has given up his past role of Battousai in order to somehow make up for his evils, so he lives as a wandering swordsman (note: not a samurai by any means, ever!) who refuses to kill. The Rurouni Kenshin movie takes place around the time of the series--as in, the same supporting cast appears, and Kenshin is currently a wanderer. Not only does the movie's story occur within the context of the series, but stylistically it fits as well.
Comparing the RK movie to the OVA series, in terms of story or style, is useless. They are two completely different works based on the same series, one made to portray the dark and violent aspects of Kenshin's early life, and the other meant to act as a direct companion to the material in the series. One reviewer relates the series and OVA's as being two seperate universes, and the movie an amalgamation of the two. Well, that is just flat-out wrong. All three works have been created along a timeline in terms of story, and in the case of style, have been created to reflect the period of Kenshin's that is being chronicled. The only reason the name "Samurai X" was given to the OVA's and movie was to make them look "cooler" for an American audience by Sony & ADV after they acquired the rights. The American name says nothing about the contents.

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The war against the Tokugawa Shogunate ended years ago. But there are some who are not happy with the outcome. Shigure Takimi watched his friends and family get slashed down in the name of freedom and prosperity. Now he and a band of desparate rebels have sworn to settle one final score. Only one man stands in their way: Rurouni Kenshin. Will the former assassin take up his sword to fight again? When Shigure discovers Kenshin's true identity and his fight becomes a personal vendetta, the young hero will have no choice.

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Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion, Part 1 (Limited Edition) Review

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(More customer reviews)This is one of the better Anime's to come out in the states and get air time on TV. The show appears on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim due to it's graphic violence. I am sure though that if you are looking at getting this set you probably are already watching it. This is probably the best buy for getting the episodes. This set includes volumes 1 and 2 or episodes 1-9. The set also includes volume one of the Manga, OST 1, and what is best described as a radio show containing the characters on a cd. It also includes 3 booklets over the shows main characters with interviews from the creators. The case itself is sturdy with artwork on all sides and on the interior. If you live in a major city I would suggest picking this up from Best Buy as it is a little bit cheaper, not much though. If you are going to have it shipped than amazon would be the best bet.

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On August 10th of the year 2010 the Holy Empire of Britannia began a campaign of conquest, its sights set on Japan. Operations were completed in one month thanks to Britannias deployment of new mobile humanoid armor vehicles dubbed Knightmare Frames. Japans rights and identity were stripped away, the once proud nation now referred to as Area 11. Its citizens, Elevens, are forced to scratch out a living while the Britannian aristocracy lives comfortably within their settlements. Pockets of resistance appear throughout Area 11, working towards independence for Japan. Lelouch, an exiled Imperial Prince of Britannia posing as a student, finds himself in the heart of the ongoing conflict for the island nation. Through a chance meeting with a mysterious girl named C.C., Lelouch gains his Geass, the power of the king. Now endowed with absolute dominance over any person, Lelouch may finally realize his goal of bringing down Britannia from within! Ltd Edition contains Collectors Artbox, Gode Geass OST 1, Code Geass Sound Drama 1, and Manga.

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Ouran High School Host Club: Season 1, Part 1 Review

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(More customer reviews)To try and explain Ouran with a basic synopsis does this anime little justice. There's always so much going on, and with a diverse cast of character's including the princely, yet sometimes idiotic, drama-king, Tamaki, or the mischievous, trouble-making Hitachiin twins, there's no end to the variety of often strange activities the club members get into at Ouran Academy, a high school for the rich and prestigious. Add to this, Haruhi, a scholarship student and "commoner" who was drafted into the Host Club after she accidentally broke an $80,000 vase. The twist is, Haruhi is actually a girl and only the club members know it. Being very plain spoken, Haruhi nicely complements the strange behaviors of her rich counterparts and is often the inspiration for many of their adventures, much to her annoyance.
Probably the biggest concern of Ouran fans about this dvd collection is the transition over from Japanese to English. As many fans will argue (myself included), the Japanese voice acting is flawless, making an English dub no easy task. But after getting a recent peek at episode one, I feel Funimation has met the challenge with great success. While I'm not as hard core of a critic as some, I did carry some doubts as to how well they could pull off a decent dub. Let me just say, I'm sorry I ever doubted them. Usually it takes me a little while to adjust when I switch from the sub to the dub, but that wasn't the case for me here. While there is the occasional rough patch, I think each voice actor did an excellent job matching his or her character's personality. I found nothing distracting or out of place about any of them.
My biggest beef, if any, is with the English opening and ending songs. They aren't horrible, but they are a bit weak compared to the originals. Not a big deal, though, as I'm sure you can still listen to the originals on the dvd.
Overall, I'd say this is a must buy, whether you're already a fan or a newcomer. The acting in both versions each have their own charm and you're bound to enjoy a few laughs every step of the way. This anime also has the ability to keep you coming back again and again. I never get tired of watching it, and the ability to have it in two languages just makes for double the fun. Subtract a star from my rating if absolute randomness bothers you. The Host Club members thrive on the out of the ordinary. They are a bunch of rich kids looking for entertainment after all (well, except poor Haruhi).

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Ouran High School. An institution of extravagance and prestige where learning is secondary to luxury.
Bookish Haruhi can't afford to slack, being on a scholarship and out of place among the moneyed. No matter… The Host Club is now open! A group of handsome boys dedicated to selling their charms to their bored female classmates, Haruhi is suddenly in debt to the club after breakingan expensive vase in their lair. The only way to pay for the damage? Haruhi will work as a Host! The only problem? Haruhi is a she! Between the wildly inflated ego of the expert escorts and the potential calamities of constant cross dressing, Haruhi's freshman year looks like it will be one to remember.Wallpaper forOuran High School Host Club (Click to download and save)

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Kaze No Stigma, Vol. 2: Fire Review

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(More customer reviews)This second box set will finally give us a few answers on the questions of what happened with Kazuma during those years after he was banished by the Kannagi clan and his personal war against the mysterious shadow group called Pandemonium. There are going to also be a few more light-hearted episodes with this set as well, one has Ayano, Ren, and Kazuma going to an amusement park on a seemingly important job but there's a little more to it than that especially with the mischievous plots of Ayano's father. There will also be new questions opened up about Kazuma's past as well in this set and hopefully the makers of this great show will release another season later on. The voice cast for the Japanese actors/actresses were of course superb and the cast for the English voice overs that Funimation got were also very incredible for their character roles, if there's any complaint about this series that I can think of than it's probably that it seemed to short you truly wish that there were more than just 24 episodes for this series..

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The only person with a chance to melt Kazuma’s chilly exterior is the same red hot firebrand who incinerated his chances of a happy home life. Ayano is the smoldering redhead that issued a royal beat down to her cousin and staked her claim to the Kannagi Clan’s sacred sword. This stubborn flame thrower is a prodigy when it comes to making things explode, but she fights with an enraged, reckless abandon that could get her burned. Put her in the same room as Kazuma, and there’s bound to be fireworks. Trouble looms on the horizon, and a pairing of Wind and Fire is Tokyo’s best bet to survive the night and see the light of day – provided it can take the heat.

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Fullmetal Alchemist, Volume 13: Brotherhood (Episodes 49-51) (2004) Review

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(More customer reviews)The trials of the Elric brothers have all been leading up to the events of this volume, which deals with the final, all-out culmination of the struggle between the story's forces of good and evil.
As Hawkeye deals with the madman Archer and Mustang tries to redeem himself by taking personal responsibility for stopping Bradley's reign of terror, the time of Dante's triumph draws nigh. As Ed races to save Al, he finally faces his greatest challenge - an inevitable, to-the-death battle with the psychotic, androgynous shapeshifter Envy - that even his love for Al might not help him win this time.
Although loose ends are left for the movie which follows, alot is wrapped up, particularly Mustang's storyline and the shocking revealation of exactly why the mere mention of any of the Elrics, especially the boys' father, throws Envy (who has some of the volume's most memorable moments) into an unspeakable rage. In a way it almost seems sad that a movie follows, because the ending of the series proper just seems so right.
As a whole, this was an intelligently written and extremely moving series that transcended it's genre.

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At the end of destiny, where will peace be found? The brothers Elric will consider the answers that are left once the Philosopher’s Stone has guided their saga to its end. True sacrifice, the deep love of family, the cruel truths of life and death… these are the realities that will bring the Fullmetal Alchemist’s tale to a close.Episodes: The Other Side of the Gate Death Laws and Promises DVD Features: Character profiles Production art Image gallery Textless songs

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Naruto Shippuden, Vol. 1 (2009) Review

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(More customer reviews)Naruto Shippuden is a little different from the early Naruto years. But it is high octane adrenaline! Gaara totally steals the show. The action and story line arc takes up to 30 episodes before Sai comes into the picture. The only dissappointment I feel is in Viz Media, why are they bothering to release Shippuden 1 disc (4 episodes) at a time? They should go directly to box sets! And by box sets I mean, they should carry at least 20 episodes or more per set. Shipuden season 1 is like 50 or more episodes, each season is huge! Viz Media, why must you milk us of our hard earned money and give us so little in return?! Anyone who buys this disc or the next disc in this series, I suggest you hold off watching them until you have them all up to disc 10 in hand, these episodes catch you and never let you go, you will writhe in agony until the next release!

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NARUTO SHIPPUDEN V1 - DVD Movie

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One Piece: Season Two, Sixth Voyage (2010) Review

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(More customer reviews)"ONE PIECE" is a popular anime series based on the popular manga series serialized in Shonen Jump by Eiichiro Oda. Suffice to say, "ONE PIECE" is the highest selling manga for Weekly Shonen Jump and its popularity has extended to various anime (via the TV series, OVA and films) and video games in America and also worldwide. The series is so popular, the episode count currently in Japan is over 400 episodes and despite receiving a heavily edited version in North America via 4Kids Entertainment earlier on, FUNimation Entertainment began releasing the original, uncut versions since the May of 2008 with a total of 13 episodes per volume.
"ONE PIECE" is an adventure anime about a 17-year-old boy named Monkey D. Luffy who gained enormous strength (and stretching abilities) after eating a magical demon fruit. He eventually teams up with a group of pirates and have the name "The Straw Hats". Luffy's driven to one day obtain the most sought out treasure known as "One Piece" and eventually become the King of the Pirates.
In "One Piece - Season Two: Sixth Voyage", the group are in the country of Alibasta as each member of the Straw Hat Pirates takes on a member of Crocodile's group while Luffy goes against Mr. Crocodile, Zoro vs. Mr. One and Nami vs. Miss Doublefinger. Meanwhile, Smoker's second-in-command leads the marines to capture Crocodile and Baroque works and also the Straw Hat Pirates.
The "ONE PIECE - Season Two: Sixth Voyage" comes with episodes 117-130 on two DVD discs (note: In Japan, this volume is actually the conclusion of season 4). Here are the spoiler-less summaries of each episode:
DISC 1:
* EPISODE 117 - Nai's Cyclone Advisory! Clima Tart Burst - Vivi uses her new weapon in battle and takes on Miss Doublefinger.
* EPISODE 118 - Secret Passed Down In the Royal Family! The Ancient Weapon Pluton! - Crocodile intends to use the ancient weapon of Pluto to destroy the city.
* EPISODE 119 - The Secret of Powerful Swordplay! Ability to Cut Steel and the Rhythm Things Have! - Zoro vs. Mr. One.
* EPISODE 120 - The Battle is Over! Koza Raises the White Flag! - Koza raises the white flag in order to end the war but Baroque Works have something else in mind.
* EPISODE 121 - Where Vivi's Voice Gets Heart! The Hero Descends! - With a war in Alabasta, the Straw Pirates try to help Vivi get to the center of the city.
* EPISODE 122 - Sand Croc and Water Luffy! - Luffy takes on Crocodile in their second duel!
* EPISODE 123 - That Looks Croc-ish! Luffy, Run to the Royal Tomb! - The battle between Luffy and Crocodile goes underground.
DISC 2:
* EPISODE 124 - The Nightmare Draws Near! This is the Sand-Sand Clan's Secret Base! - The continuation of Luffy vs. Crocodile!
* EPISODE 125 - Magnificent! Wings! My Name is Pell, Guardian Deity of the Country! - Vivi and the Straw Hats work hard to stop a bomb from destroying the city and they receive unexpected help from Vivi's guardian.
* EPISODE 126 - I Will Surpass You! Rain Falls in Alabasta! - As Vivi tries to stop her countrymen from killing each other, the rains fall on Alabasta.
* EPISODE 127 - A Farewell to Arms! Pirates and Different Ideas of Justice - The aftermath of Alabasta and how Tashigi, Smoker and the Marines must deal with what has happened in Alabasta.
* EPISODE 128 - The Pirates' Banquet and Operation Escape from Alabasta! - After the Straw Hat Pirates recuperate, it's time to eat and celebrate and leave Alabasta before the marines catch up with them.
* EPISODE 129 - It All Started On that Day! Vivia Tells the Story of Her Adventure! - Vivi must make a decision...to stay in Alabasta as princess or to fight among the Straw Hat pirates.
* EPISODE 130 - Scent of Danger! The Seventh Member is Nico Robin - Nico Robin chooses to join the Straw Hat Pirates.
VIDEO :
For most television series, because they are created nearly before they are aired on television, unlike film and OVA's, there typically is not much detail involved in a Japanese animated television series. "ONE PIECE" is probably one of those rare exceptions in that it has really cool character designs and very detailed artistic backgrounds. Of course, since it is on DVD, you will see some artifacting and edge enhancement but it's not so noticeable unless you are really looking for it.
The anime series is presented in standard 4:3 definition but for a television series, "ONE PIECE" sports cool and unique character designs and beautifully painted artistic backgrounds. Definitely one of the better looking anime series that has remained consistent and has not downgraded since it first aired on television. Character designer Kazuya Hisada (who worked on the "Dragon Ball" and "Dragon Ball GT" series) and Noboru Koizumi (who worked on "Giant Robo", "Dragon Ball GT" and "Tenchi Universe") have been very good of capturing "One Piece" creator Eiichiro Oda's unique style.
AUDIO & SUBTITLES:
As for the audio, the series is presented in English 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound, English Stereo and Japanese Stereo. Of course, the English 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound is the better audio choice to listen to, although one who has a receiver that can set their audio to all channels can definitely enjoy the Japanese stereo track as well. But both audio tracks are done very well and I have to admit that "ONE PIECE" has one of the most solid English dub tracks for an anime TV series. Very well done on both audio tracks but again, have been very impressed by the voice talent for the series thus far.
Subtitles are in English.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
"ONE PIECE - Season Two: Sixth Voyage" comes with the following special features:
DISC 1:
* Audio commentary for EPISODE 119 - The Secret of Powerful Swordplay! Ability to Cut Steel and the Rhythm Things Have! - Director Scott Sager joins voice talents Christopher Sabat (Zoro) and (Brett Weaver) Mr. One.
DISC 2:
* Textless Songs - Textless Songs for the opening and ending theme.
* Trailers - FUNimation Entertainment trailers
JUDGMENT CALL:
I absolutely love "ONE PIECE". The characters, the action, the involving and well-written storylines and of course, the wonderful voice work via Japanese and also the English dub tracks and the refreshing and unique artwork. But what I enjoyed the most about "One Piece - Season Two: Sixth Voyage" is that it has literally been a long stretch between the introduction of Vivi, the trip to Alabasta and now this volume finally gets to the final battle between Luffy and Crocodile, while Nami takes on Miss Doublefinger and Zoro takes on Mr. One, and also the Straw Hats have a new member of the group.
Although nearly every volume has its share of action, this time around the opponents are deadlier than ever before. Before it was a team taking on various opponents but now we have one-on-one battles especially an exciting first battle between Luffy and Crocodile. With the events that are featured in "One Piece - Season Two: Sixth Voyage", for those who have seen the movie "ONE PIECE MOVIE 8: THE DESERT PRINCESS AND THE PIRATES - Adventures in Alabasta" will be familiar between two of the battles that take place in this volume. But of course, the television series features more of the actual battle.
So, for those who have kept up with the adventure to Alabasta will be happy with this volume as the war in Alabasta and the battle between Crocodile and his henchman versus the Straw Hat Pirates reaches its final conclusion. No doubt that Luffy, Nami and Zoro fans will dig this latest volume. Actually, with all the action that takes place in this volume, any "One Piece" fan will dig this latest volume!
Overall, "ONE PIECE" continues to be a fantastic anime series that has a great combination of humor, action, artwork, great voice acting and cool animation. Another thrilling, action-packed volume that is highly recommended!

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Monkey D. Luffy emerges from a death-defying dirt nap to rejoin his mates on their mission to save Alabasta from the clutches of a sinister sandman. Crocodile is on the prowl for the world’s deadliest weapon, and his Baroque Works bombers are about to blast Vivi’s kingdom into oblivion! Only the Straw Hats can protect her people from their reptilian oppressor, but no one survives this battle without getting a little blood on their hands. Be on the lookout as Nami unleashes the power of thunder and lightning, Zoro tests his swords against a man made of steel, and Luffy goes underground to settle the score with Crocodile – once and for all!

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Shonen Jump Naruto The Movie: Legend of the Stone of Gelel Review

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(More customer reviews)When I watched this movie a year or so ago I thought it was a pretty decent addition to the Naruto movies. Now, its finally available in America to buy. Its great that still keep the original Japanese audio for fans (like me) who prefer to listen to it in its intended language. The only thing that bothers me (which I'm sure hasn't been fixed for this release) is when you play the English subtitles for the Japanese audio. the names are still written "Naruto Uzumaki" or "Sasuke Uchiha" yet your ears just cleary heard "Uzumaki Naruto" and "Uchiha Sasuke". It gets extremely confusing, and I wish the subs had the names written in there original format.

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Naruto, Shikamaru and Sakura are in the middle of returning a lost ferret to its owner--the easiest mission ever. Or so they think! When a young knight, Temujin, attacks them out of nowhere, they are drawn into a fierce struggle over a treasure harboring legendary power--the Stone of Gelel. Temujin's master wants to use the stone's power to create a utopia, while the last of the clan who once controlled the stone wants to keep it sealed away forever. Naruto and the others, along with help from Gaara and Kankuro, must protect the stone from those who want to misuse its power. When the dream of utopia becomes a nightmare, it'll take a ninja to set things right!SPECIAL FEATURES:* Signature 2 Disc Set with over 60 minutes of extra content!* Japanese movie booklet (translated version)* Director s audio commentary* On-screen Naruto Guide* Bilingual (English and Japanese with optional subtitles)

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D. Gray-Man: Season One, Part One Review

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(More customer reviews)If Tim Burton were ever to attempt a steampunk horror story, then I imagine the results would be something like "D.Gray-man."
And the first thirteen episodes of this gothic, deeply quirky anime attempts just that kind of atmosphere. "D.Grayman: Season 1 Part 1" starts off relatively slowly as it introduces the main storyline, the akuma and the sweet-natured Allan Walker. But the story really blossoms as our likable, haunted hero begins his new life among other exorcists.
Two cops are investigating an abandoned church when Officer Moore encounters a strange boy with a deformed hand, Allen Walker. After her partner is killed, Allen manages to save Moore from an akuma -- an enslaved human soul under the control of the evil Millennium Earl. When Allen is placed under house arrest in Moore's home, he reveals that the akuma is nearby... and its origins lie in a horrific tragedy from Moore's own past. Only Allen can stop it.
Later Allen arrives at the clifftop Exorcist Headquarters to introduce himself as an official exorcist. But things don't go very smoothly -- he's mistaken for a spy, the exorcists are weirdos, and the place is governed by mad genius Komui and eerie Hevlaska. But Allen finds out just what "Innocence" is, and why the exorcists are racing to find it.
His first missions are no less stressful: first Allen is called to accompany antisocial swordsman Kanda to an abandoned city haunted by a "ghost"... and a shapeshifting akuma. And he encounters a young boy determined to fight the akuma, but unaware that someone close to him is one -- and a face-to-face encounter with the Earl reveals the horrifying reason Allen became an exorcist.
Then Komui's sister Lenalee is sent with Allen to a town that is repeating the same day over and over -- and only the pitiful Miranda Lotto notices. But their mission is complicated by a mysterious human girl who has come to locate the hidden Innocence... and take it for the Earl.
Cyborg demons, cross-embedded magic arms, virus-filled biobullets, giant glowing worms with collagen lips, and a mountain fortress filled with eccentric exorcists out to save the world from a grinning, rotund demon who looks like a Blue Meanie and may (or may not) have rabbit ears. Yup, "D.Gray-man" is not your typical manga series, even as quirky horror goes.
And "D.Grayman: Season 1 Part 1" does an excellent job sticking to Hoshino Katsura's manga series, introducing a gothic Victorian world and introducing the akuma, the Earl, and the exorcists. It also lays the groundwork for what the Earl's plans are, and what the exorcists are doing. It's a pretty standard "get the artifacts before the bad guys do" goal, but with a couple interesting twists.
And along the way, we're given plenty of explosive, horrific action with macabre creatures, graveyards, little shadowy towns, and the tragic, horrific origins of the akuma. But lest the series become too grim, we get plenty of funny stuff as well -- including an entire episode devoted to Komui's deranged robot rampaging through Headquarters, trying to operate on the exorcists.
Allen is a pretty endearing hero from the start -- polite, apologetic, selfless and courageous, even when people are nasty to him. But he becomes truly striking character it's shown how got his cursed eye, white hair, and ability to kill akuma. He's backed by a solid supporting cast -- the snotty Kanda, sweet-natured Lenalee, eccentric Komui and frenetically depressed Miranda. And the Earl is a very creepy villain -- not just because he wants to kill God, but because he smiles cheerfully even as he destroys people.
"D.Grayman: Season 1 Part 1" has a few episodes that don't quite reach "superb," but it's an excellent start to an outstanding anime series. Absolutely brilliant -- and promises to get even better.

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A Hero is only as good as His Enemies
Darkness is moving in, and young exorcist Allen Walker is humanity’s greatest hope against the wicked forces conspiring to bring civilization to its knees. Akuma – cruel spirits born of tragedy and lost souls – lurk in every shadow, willing and eager to do the bidding of their leader, the dread Millennium Earl. With an eye cursed to see evil in its truest form and blessed with an arm to slay soul-devouring demons, Allen stands ready to confront the gathering storm. Should he fail, Innocence will be lost forever.
Stills from D. Gray-Man (Click for larger image)

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Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple - Season One, Part One Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Kenichi the Mightiest Disciple is a simple action comedy that is very entertaining. The character himself is the nice guy underdog who is completely isolated at the beginning. Since his strength is lacking and he has no friends he is often mocked at the very least and beat on the very worst. I don't want to talk about key points in the plot but its engaging to see Kenichi evolve to become both physically and emotionally stronger. His training and the various interactions between characters are quite humorous and the fights are well done.
When he fights a tough opponent it is plausible he is able to be a contender because his training is not only sadistically harsh and long but also he learns counter moves. They go into great detail about the fighting styles in this anime. What they are used for, their strengths and weaknesses, and how they are learned (performed). I hope my review was helpful and I hope enough people enjoy (purchase) Kenichi that funimation will license the rest of the show (they licensed 26 out of 50 episodes to test the product.)
This DVD Contains 13 Episodes and B will have 13 Since Funi only licensed the first 26. Trailers and clean opening/ending are the only special features included here... standard/generic special features only. Total Run time for the 13 episodes is 312 Minutes.
Edit: Part Two is Available Now.

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Yeah, Kenichi’s a total wimp. He’s always getting picked on and doesn’t have a lot of friends to stick up for him. The guy needs motivation if he hopes to graduate in one piece.
Well, Miu’s the perfect motivation. She’s hot, she accepts him, and she just so happens to live at a dojo with six martial arts masters. You could say fate has led Kenichi to their door, or you could say he was just following the hottie. Either way, he’s about to get whipped into serious shape. If he can survive some hard-core training, he might survive another day at school. He might even score with Miu. Yeah, you could call Kenichi a wimp. But let’s go with underdog instead.
Stills from Kenichi (Click for larger image)

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The Familiar of Zero: Box Set Review

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(More customer reviews)Chances are, if you know anime and are looking at this, The Familiar of Zero, you probably already going to get it. And for good reason too, as you are going to find a welcome amount of what I call "good stuff" and a pretty good plot behind it all. My opinion is really,"You're not gonna go wrong with Zero", but I have to give you an idea of what the Familiar of Zero is about.
Our heroine, the cute and proud Louise, Louise de la Valliere, is absolutely incapable of performing even the most basic spells of magic elements. To her classmates, she is "Louise the Zero" for an unprecedented perfect failure rate with regards to successful magic. She messes everything up, and by "mess" up, I usually mean "blows" it up! You can't help but laugh at her failures and feel sorry for the proud Louise. That is how she presented.
When her class begins to summon all their respective familiars, she summons something completely different--a boy. And, of course, things really go downhill for her after that. She has him do everything for her--And I mean EVERYTHING. I hope you know what I mean. Her temper is fiery, but she is so bossy-cute, you wouldn't mind being her slave. Unfortunate for the boy, as he wants to get away from her. But then again, he has secret powers...
If you don't get this, you ruin the chances that the other seasons of 'ZERO' will get published here in the States. A sad thing, since it is a really good series. There are two more 13-episode seasons after this, just as funny. You really are not going to go wrong when you watch this, trust me. :D

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In a magical land where two moons shine in the night sky, one young student in the magic school, Louise, has acquired the nickname of"Zero". Why?Her "zero" talent!With a near perfect failure rate for her spells, the shock that Louise's summoning spell works equals the surprise of her new familiar, a human boy from Japan!When the boy begins exhibiting some unexpected abilities, why do the teachers get so nervous?

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