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The Anime Quik Guide was created in an attempt to provide an overview of anime titles that could be consulted and browsed within a single web page. The following is a guide to the titles that I have watched and a short "review" on each. My preference toward subtitled versions of the films will probably be obvious so I thought I`d just tell you up front. If you prefer your anime dubbed into english I have no problem with that. I have found dubs that I feel have been very well done but by and large would rather hear the original soundtrack and voices, done by the people who actually created the work, not someone elses idea of what us americans want to hear. Ratings are on a 1-5 star system, 5 being a classic and 1 basically sucking. Anything with 3 or more stars I feel would be enjoyed by almost any anime fan and would definitely recommend. If you would like a little background music just click on any of the animated notes next to select titles. And if you would like some real background music and have a good MP2/MP3 player, check out our MP3 of the month. Enjoy and please email us with any agreements or disagreements! - Currently available on DVD Akira Akira played a big role in introducing current anime to US viewers. Premiering theatrically in 1988 to generally enthusiastic reviews it follows the story of a group of young bikers in post apocalyptic Tokyo who become involved in a mysterious government project code named "Akira". A beautifully animated but difficult to follow storyline (especially to those not familiar with the manga) that strains to condense the huge amount of Katsuhiro Otomo`s manga into a single film. Highly recommended but perhaps not the best film for an introduction to anime. Arcadia of My Youth1/2 The 1982 film bringing Matsumoto Leiji`s Captain Harlock to the big screen, battling the evil Illumidus Empire which has conquered earth and reduced its inhabitants to slavery. Although earth has resigned itself to its fate, Harlock refuses and battles on for his beliefs even against earth`s wishes. Long and at times slow, Arcadia contains little humor, but is nevertheless an interesting film exploring the themes of honor and loyalty at times of war. Barefoot Gen1/2 Taken from the story by Keiji Nakazawa (a survivor of Hiroshima) , Barefoot Gen follows the tragic tale of a young boy and his family in Hiroshima from just before to a few days after the atomic bombings that ended World War II. The engrossing story portrays the events following the bomb and its effects on the civilian population in a stark and unflinching, realistic manor. In spite of the powerful and at times horrific story, the film suffers greatly from poor animation and artwork and very simple character designs. Because of the historical events, this film is often compared to "Grave of the Fireflies" (which deals with the same time period although NOT the atomic bombings) but is no where near as powerful or as well made. Bastard!1/2 Sort of a stock sword and sorcery series about the infamous and immortal sorceror Dark Schneider who returns to life in the body of a young innocent boy. This 6 part OVA series is basically a series of battles with one enemy after another, each told in 25 minute episodes. It has its humerous side and lots of good action but doesn't really stand out above other titles. It DOES however have more than its share of "adopted" english words used totally without regard to their actual meaning, such as Dark Schneider's awesomely powerful "HALLOWEEEEN" spell :) My wife actually liked this quite a bit more than I, but both agree it doesn't compare with Lodoss Wars. Battle Angel The exciting and touching story of Gally, a female cyborg who is found in a garbage heap in the slums below the fantastic floating city of Zalem. Rescued by a caring cybernetics doctor Ido, she finds her abilities lead her into the violent profession of a bounty hunter just as her human side begins to fall in love for the first time. An absolute knockout of a show that apparently was much more popular here than in Japan (unfortunately leading to the production of only 2 half hour segments both of which are collected on the tape by AD Vision). Bubblegum Crisis1/2 An older 8 volume OVA series set in 2032 MegaTokyo, a violent, high tech megalopolis not unlike the Los Angeles of "Blade Runner". In this dark, "cyberpunk" background, a small group of female mercenaries, the Knight Sabers, battle the evil Genom corporation which has begun to terrorize the city with its android replicants. Fast paced and set to a great soundtrack, this series never seems to realize its potential and really falls aparts when it attempts to continue on as "Bubblegum Crash"(3 volumes). Castle of Cagliostro One of Miyazaki's earlier films based on the comics by "Monkey Punch" of a daring and charismatic international thief. This is a fantastic action/adventure film that doesn't slow down for even a moment as it jumps from one great animated scene to the next. Combined with memorable characters and the characteristically great animation one comes to expect from Miyazaki/Ghibli this is a must see film. The original U.S. release (dubbed from Streamline) has been out of print for some time but a new remastered version (dubbed AND subtitled for the first time) is soon to be released by Manga video! Cowboy Bebop A recent televison series from Bandai, Bebop ran in Japan from '98-'99 and follows the adventures of two bounty hunters, Spike and his partner Jet, as they track down criminals among the space colonies earth has spawned. In spite of the setting (space, 2071) this series has a very unique, almost retro style to it that reminds one of the beatnik/jazz era. The wonderful music by Yoko Kanno fits in perfectly, with the title cut sounding like something out of early '60's spy or private eye shows. Combine this fresh new style with simply outstanding animation and CG effects and we have a real winner here. Having seen only the first 5 episodes Im holding off on a rating till I see a few more but Im excited and looking forward to more! Dirty Pair1/2 Its easy to make fun of the half naked "girls with guns" storylines but the bottom line is that as pure comic book action/comedy it works. The Dirty Pair (or as they would prefer to be called Lovely Angels Investigative Agency) can always be counted on to solve the mystery they`re investigating but unfortunately in the process they tend to make a bigger disaster than they started with. As is typical of Orion Video, only a very poorly dubbed version has been released with some of the worst voice acting you`re likely to run into. Try to get the original fansubbed television show if possible. Firetripper Another good story in the "Rumic World" series involving mystery and time travel from current day to ancient feudal Japan. This series shows Takahashi`s more serious and dark side, quite a departure from her more famous comedy series (Ranma, Urusei Yatsura), but is very well done and absorbing to watch. Fushigi Yuugi1/2 A recent Japanese televison series telling the story of Miaka and Yui, two high school girls who are transported back to ancient China after reading a magical book they find in the rare book room of the national library. Quickly separated and taken in by rival kingdoms, the story follows them through a variety of adventures, romances and rivalries that ensue over 54 half hour episodes. Similar in concept to "The Neverending Story", F.Y. is very enjoyable, occasionally very funny "Shoujo" anime. A long time fansub favorite, Fushigi was licensed and is now being released both dubbed and subtitled from Pioneer! Genesis Survivor Gaiarth In a far future post apocalyptic world, mankind has lost control and understanding of his own technology becoming both dominated and terrorized by it. Ital, a young warrior raised by a benevolent robot is thrust into this conflict after the destruction of his caretaker. Joining a beautiful young mercenary, Sahari and a the mysterious robot Zaxon, who is somehow linked with the great war from the past but has lost almost all of his memory, the trio set out on a journey through this violent world. Lots of action and good mecha design combine with an appealing storyline that unfolds and draws you in over 3 episodes. A better than the average action/mecha series. Ghost in the Shell The first (and so far only) anime film I`ve been able to catch on theatrical release. Terrific animation and a great story based on the manga by Shiro Masamune combine to make a great movie set in a gritty cyberpunk future where the line between artificial intelligence and humanity is beginning to blur. Highly recommended although I prefer the subtitled version that I have since seen on video to the dubbed theatrical version. Grave of the Fireflies A timeless and beautiful film following the lives of two young children and their attempts to survive in the harsh closing months of WWII Japan. The fact that this film is as sad and depressing as you may have heard should not keep you from watching it. Its condemnation of war and inhumanity is in the end very life affirming and touching. Gunbuster A science fiction(a la "Ender`s Game")/mecha adventure following Noriko, a young girl trying to follow in her legendary father`s footsteps, battling a monstrous alien invasion of earth. In it, she must learn to master the control of earth`s ultimate fighting mecha, the "Gunbuster" if earth is to be saved. An excellent, older OVA series by studio Gainax that evolves from comedy to action/drama over 6 episodes, the last letterboxed in black and white for effect. Originally put out by US Renditions, the series has been rereleased by Manga Video at a reduced price. Here is Greenwood An odd but very enjoyable OVA series following college freshman Kazuya and his experiences with dormitory life and its unusual inhabitants. At first it sounded a bit like Maison Ikkoku but even with the heavy romantic turn it takes in the last tape, its quite a different feel from MI. Greenwood doesn`t take itself too seriously and often pokes fun of anime (Lupin, Lodoss Wars) as well as itself (the between episode "previews" are hilarious). My only complaint is that I wish there was more of it. I Can Hear the Sea1/2 Released in 1993 as a television special, this was Studio Ghibli's first television outing and its first release without the hand of Miyazaki or Takahata. A supposedly accurate depiction of comtemporary Japanese life, it tells the story of Taku, a high school student who becomes captivated with a beautiful young transfer student from Tokyo who is not completely honest with him. Very real and believable characters combine with an interesting storyline and terrific animation to show a lot of talent beyond the "old masters" at Studio Ghilbli. I'll Make a Habit of It A cute shoujo series about Nagisa, a young idol singer who, wanting to attend a "regular" school but realizing it would be too disruptive, decides to cut off her hair and pose as a schoolboy. This leads to some obvious problems when she develops a crush on one of her schoolmates. A fun premise that does have its moments but nothing really stands out (including the animation and character designs) and listening to Nagisa sing eventually gets tiresome. I realize her questionable singing talent is a point the show is trying to make but do we really need to hear her singing the same damned song over and over throughout the series? Iria: Zeiram the Animation Iria is a young apprentice bounty hunter, who sets out to find the mystery behind a deadly and seemingly invulnerable creature that is somehow tied to both the disappearance of her older brother Gren, and the fortunes of a major corporatation, the Tedan Tippedai. As she follows it from world to world, she becomes involved with a group of streetwise kids whose world is being destroyed by the monster and one of whom has a secret of his own. Their is nothing particularly unique or new about this series but it is fun and action packed with some striking character designs, especially Iria herself that I found quite appealing. And if you have a DVD player, getting it is a no brainer as the whole 6 episode series is available on 1 disc for under $30! Kiki`s Delivery Service Hiyao Miyazaki`s wonderful tale of a young witch who sets out on her own to make a go of it in the city. An incomparible tale of humor, warmth and adventure. Only equaled by Miyazaki`s other masterpieces, Nausicaa and Laputa. This was the first release in the long anticipated deal with Disney to bring Miyazaki's work to North American fans and it was worth the wait. The dub is very well done and they even went on to release a letterboxed subtitled version!! Now if they would just put it out on DVD :) Kimigure Orange Road1/2 Kyosuke, who belongs to a family possessing powerful psychic abilities, is torn between the love of 2 girls, Hikaru and Madoka, neither of which are aware of his powers. The series carries the love triangle through stories that range from romantic comedy to drama, all very well done and enjoyable. The OVA series and movie are available from Animeigo which is also now at work on the entire television series as well! Kodomo no Omocha (Child's Toy) A terrifically funny and fast paced shoujo series about Sana-chan, one incredibly hyperactive young girl and her love/hate relationship with Hayama, an emotionally distressed young boy in her class. Full of great music, manic action and pacing, but interspersed with some very serious and touching moments (as one would expect in any good shoujo), this series is a must see. Has been described as Marmalade Boy on acid :) Now if we could just get some fansubs out past episode 20... La Blue Girl The graphic sex and nudity is not the problem here. The pathetic attitude toward women in scene after scene of rape and molestation, played for comedy(!) is. I`m not sure what it says about our culture that this is consistantly one of the highest selling anime titles here in america, but its not anything good. Laputa Castle in the Sky What can I say? The incredible film of Sheeta, a young girl in search of the mystery behind the magical amulet given to her by her mother. Pursued by both bandits and the government, both of whom are after the amulet, she is aided by Pazu, a young boy whose father was lost while searching for the fabled city in the sky, Laputa. Their adventures eventually lead them to the fabled city itself and to the discovery of the mystery behind the amulet. A gorgeous film filled with wonder and excitement as well as Miyazaki`s incredible flying creations. For years Miyazaki's films were available to U.S. fans only through the efforts of "fansubbing" but beginning with the release of "Kiki" are finally being translated completely intact and released here by Disney. Laputa will be the next of Miyazaki's films released on video under the title "Castle in the Sky". Look for it soon and dont miss it! Laughing Target1/2 Life for high school student Yuzura and his girlfriend Satomi is perfectly happy and normal until one day Azuka, whose marriage to Yuzura was arranged by their parents, arrives expecting the promise to be kept. Azuka, however, is not quite what she appears to be and soon the tale takes a sinister turn into the realm of horror. A decent entry in Takahashi`s Rumic World series. Macross Plus (The Movie) The terrific animation and action in this film by Shoji Kawamori alone is worth the price of purchase, but Macross Plus includes a terrific storyline as well. Two competing Mecha pilots battle against an alien invasion of the colonial planet Eden as well as over the love of Myung, the mysterious woman somehow connected to both of their pasts. The film was put together from the previously released Macross Plus OVA series but includes new footage as well. As I never saw the original series I can't compare the two but I can heartily recommend this film to anyone, even if they`re not normally that big on "Mecha" films. Maison Ikkoku The wonderful romantic comedy involving Godai, a young student attempting to pass his college entry exams who moves into the boarding house, Maison Ikkoku, inhabited by a hilarious group of misfits and partiers (which make studying exceedingly difficult). The single storyline running through the entire series and excellent characters quickly get you hooked and caring about what happens to them. The second big hit by Rumiko Takahashi (after Urusei Yatsura). Outstanding series! Maho Tsukai Tai A cute and very funny series about a high school magic club with real magic powers who are tossed into a battle with unknown alien/robotic invaders. Particularly hilarious is Takakura, the club leader, who is endlessly engaging in fantasies involving the cute female members of the club (Sae, Nanako, and Akane) while at the same time fending off the advances of Aburatsubo, his gay friend and fellow member. A 6 OVA series. Maris the Shojo One of the more forgetable in the Rumic World series. Rumiko Takahashi`s story of Maris, a "supergirl" type character whose strength is actually her worst enemy as she tends to accidentally destroy most of what she touches. As a result she has to wear restraints and is not particularly admired by us earthlings. Not particularly funny or very well animated. Marmalade Boy Well I finally finished the entire 76 episode run of this series and just had to come back and update my old review/rating. This series affected me like no other that I have seen and its hard to put my finger on just why. Calling it a romantic comedy or "teenage soap opera" while true doesnt begin to convey the heart of this series. With virtually no violence and kissing the closest it comes to sex, this series grips you with its characters, portrayed honestly and openly with very real and believable feelings. Only a short way into the series you begin to really care what is happening to them. Its sweet, its romantic, its shoujo (^_^)..call me what you will, I LOVED it. The fansubtitled version by Tomodachi was a labor of love and it shows. The quality of the subtitling is better than 90% of what I have seen accomplished by the major commercial releases. Search the web for it as it will probably never be licensed in the U.S. (then again, Pioneer DID just pick up Fushigi so who knows?) Mermaid Forest/Mermaid Scar The legend says that one who eats the flesh of a mermaid will be granted eternal life. Unfortunately, most who seek this immortality instead die horrible deaths or are turned into hideous monsters. A much darker and violent story from Rumiko Takahashi (of Ranma and UY fame) which follows Yuta and Mana, two immortals apparently spared the horrible effects and their difficulties with those not so lucky. Mononoke Hime (Princess Mononoke) The newest and possibly last film by Hayao Miyazaki is an instant classic. Mononoke is a breathtakingly beautiful film which examines the endless battle of man against nature. As his technology and environmental destruction encroaches more and more upon the virgin lands of the Great Forest Spirit, the gods are drawn into a battle for survival with man. A young warrior, Ashitaka, endeavors to convince both the people of the encroaching "iron town" as well as the gods of nature led by San, a young orphaned girl (The Princess Mononoke), that it is possible for man and nature to live in harmony. But is it?.... A film which finds beauty and a reason for living amidst great tragedy and violent conflict, Mononoke is full of realistic characters who are no simple characatures of good or evil and delivers no easy answers to its questions. Containing a significant amount of violence with serious themes, this film is not intended for young children but for anyone over 12, I couldnt recommend it highly enough. Nadia Secret of Blue Water One of the most popular television series of all time in Japan, Nadia is about a young orphaned circus girl who is being pursued for her magical amulet, the "Blue Water" by a variety of interesting and often humorous villans. A cross between Miyazaki`s "Laputa" and Verne`s "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea" ,the story and characters are very appealing. However the english dubbing by Orion left a lot to be desired. Even more unfortunate, Orion saw fit to release only the first 8 episodes (out of the total 36) and quality fansubs are difficult to come by. Recently the rights were purchased by ADV films so hopefully the whole series will finally make it to video (at some point). Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind My all time favorite anime and one of my favorite films of any genre, Nausicaa is the story of a young girl on a far future earth which has been almost destroyed as a result of man`s disconcern for the environment and his passion for war. Both antiwar and proenvironment, Nausicaa never becomes preachy but instead tells a beautiful and haunting story that you will never forget. Miyazaki`s masterpiece. Neon Genesis Evangelion At first a series that more than a little reminded me of "Gunbuster", this series took on more and more a style and identity of its own with each passing episode. The show combines excellent character design with distinct, unique personalities and very appealing animation and technical design work on top of an exciting, ongoing storyline which plays itself out over 26 episodes. This is an action packed but also challenging and philosophical series who's ending(s) led to endless debating and confusion. If you felt confused as well, check out an excellent FAQ on the series. Ninja Cadets1/2 Sakura is a cute young ninja cadet on her final mission to become a full ninja warrior. She is however, also the lost princess of Byakuro who was whisked away as an infant when her clan was attacked and destroyed by the evil Kabusu clan. This is a series that had definite potential. Cute character designs and nice action sequences intermixed with humor. Unfortunately it never went anywhere beyond these initial 2 episodes due to lack of popularity in Japan. The characters are introduced, have a couple adventures and disappear forever before anything really interesting can develop. Ninja Scroll1/2 A classic and extremely violent tale of feudal Japan following the lives of Jubei the ninja and Kagero, a female assasin he rescues whose mere touch is fatal. The action rarely slows for more than a moment with one interesting and unique character after another helping to tell the well conceived and engrossing story. Also nice (for a change) is a pretty decent job of dubbing by Manga Video. Nurse Angel Ririka Ririka is an average 10 year old girl who's biggest concern is school until she develops a crush on a mysterious new upperclassman, Kanou. When Ririka finds out that Kanou is actually from an alternate earth which has been nearly destroyed by the evil force, "Dark Joker", she also discovers that she is the reincarnation of the legendary "Nurse Angel", who is the only person able to protect earth from this evil. A sweet and enjoyable Shoujo series that ends with a bang in an intense and emotional final episode. Oh My Goddess The story of Keichi who while trying to phone out for Chinese food accidentally hires a true life goddess, Belldandy, and their romantic adventures. My first exposure to anime (outside of Speed Racer) and still one of my all time favorites. Only Yesterday Taeko, a young office worker at an unfulfilling job in Tokyo looks back on her life as a child in 5th grade as she sets out to vacation in the countryside. Told in a series of flashbacks she explores the pivotal events of that year as she falls in love with the lifestyle of a young farmer she meets, Toshiro. A bittersweet nostalgic look back at youth in 1960's Japan as well as a tribute to the rapidly disappearing Japanese countryside (stunningly drawn and animated), the realistic and believable characters will grab your interest and your heart. A beautiful, peaceful film without a trace of violence or the supernatural that is nevertheless "magical". Patlabor 1 A straighforward and effective action/adventure film chronicalling the efforts of the Tokyo mobile police force to discover the mystery behind a suicide on a massive construction project. As robot "laborers" begin to rampage across the city, officers Isumi and Shinohara discover a plot that could destroy all of Tokyo if not stopped. Tense, exciting action film set in the popular Patlabor universe of 1999 Tokyo. Followed by a second film, "Patlabor 2" and preceded by a multi episode OVA series. Plastic Little1/2 Captain Tita is a bit of an airhead to believe she could be the captain of a large ship, but this OVA isn`t all that bad as Tita rescues Elysse, a young girl pursued by the military for a secret she possesses that could foil their attempts to take control of the planet. Although at times it seems an excuse to show off nude anime characters, the artwork and action is well done. Porco Rosso Another wonderful film by Miyazaki-san which follows the adventures of a cursed post WWI aviator, the infamous "Crimson Pig" who aided by a young girl, battles pirates and comes to terms with with his past. The film perfectly captures the romantic era of flight in the pre WWII Mediterranean. Rail of the Star1/2 An historical drama set in late WWII Korea following an innocent young girl and her family as they go from an occupying "ruling class" to hunted refugees and their eventual escape attempt from the people they had once dominated. An interesting story that does not attempt to hide the poor treatment of Korea by the occupying Japanese during that period but instead show it through the eyes of a child. Worth watching but no where near as powerful (or devastating) as "Grave of the Fireflies". Ranma 1/2 While on a martial arts training excursion in China, Ranma Saotome has the unfortunate luck to fall into a cursed well where a young woman tragically drowned. Now whenever he is dowsed with cold water he transforms into a female version of himself (generally at the least opportune of times). It could be worse, though, his father fell into the well of the Panda and tends to transform into, you guessed it. A hilarious and wildly popular series of anime (and manga) by Rumiko Takahashi not to be missed. Record of the Lodoss War1/2 The ultimate sword and sorcery series in the classic dungeons and dragons mode! Parn, a young warrior, undertakes an epic struggle to prevent an evil sorceror from releasing the ancient God of Destruction upon the earth. In his battle he is aided by Deedlit the elf as well as Etoh (cleric), Slayn (sorceror), Ghim (dwarf) and Woodchuck (bandit). Terrific animation and unforgetable characters designed by Battle Angel`s Noberutu Yuki. Forget Bakshi`s pitiful Lord of the Rings adaptation, this is the series for all fans of fantasy. Revolutionary Girl Utena A fun series for fans of Shoujo anime. Utena's earliest and strongest memory is when she was given a rose signet ring by a mysterious prince who told her it would one day lead her back to him. The ring eventually leads her into conflict with the Student Council of Ohtori Academy who all seem to have an identical ring and all of whom are battling for control of the Rose Bride which will let the victor revolutionize the world. From the director of "Sailor Moon" (but dont hold that against it ^_^ ) Robot Carnival1/2 A series of short films all with the unifying theme of "robots", directed by variety of well known anime directors including Akira`s Katsuhiro Otomo. The segments range from very good to fairly dismissable but overall is worth watching for anime fans. Roujin Z The 1995 film by Katsuhiro Otomo (of Akira fame) about an elderly invalid, Takazawa, who is relegated by the state to an experimental device designed to fill all his biological needs. However the device, which is created to allow the elderly to be more easily cared for automatically, also has a secret agenda conceived by the military. A humorous film that also manages to deal seriously with the struggle to maintain dignity and humanity in the face of advancing age. Sailor Moon "Fighting evil by moonlight, winning love by daylight, she is the one named Sailor Moon." Okay, I realize a lot of people hate SM and a lot love it. When I first started watching it (the US import version) I admit to being in the first camp. However after seeing a few episodes unedited and in Japanese as well as a very well done uncut movie version (Sailor Moon R) I have to admit it is growing on me somewhat like a fungus. Undeniably a show made for young girls, the Sailor Scouts have battled the evil negaverse through 200 episodes and several movies. It practically defines the "Magical Girl" Shoujo style and its cute, good natured characters each with their own distinct personality eventually worked their charms on me. Serial Experiments Lain Lain, a quiet, alienated young girl one day receives a disturbing e-mail from a classmate who had committed suicide just days before. "I still live here...in the wired". So begins one of the best and most original anime series to come along in quite a while. Full of striking images and sound, it blends both computer and traditional animation seemlessly to create an extraordinarily atmospheric and involving story. This is not your typical mindless action or comedy anime. It is challenging and serious and requires you to think about what is happening and just who IS Lain? Great stuff, perhaps confusing at times but intentionally so and Pioneer's DVD version is simply gorgeous. Slayers A wonderful sword and sorcery tale played for comedy and released by Software Sculptors. The self described beautiful genious Lina Inverse and her not so bright but well intentioned companion Gourry battle their way through hordes of monsters, magicians and others intent on taking a powerful magic item Lina stole, er "recovered", from a group of bandits. The terrific voice work of Megumi Hayashibara as Lina alone is worth the price of admission and the fact that a company is finally charging the same price for both dubbed and subtitled versions (both very reasonable) caps it off. The first two seasons, Slayers and Slayers Next, are available and Software Sculptors has licensed the third, Slayers Try, as well which should begin to show up later this year. Get it! Speed Racer Known as Mach Go Go in Japan, many may fondly remember this 1967 television series from their youth, or even caught it recently on its MTV or Cartoon Network showings. But lets face it, Speed was wretchedly animated with dubbing that can literally be called laughable. As nostalgia or camp it does have its appeal as long as you don`t think its representative of anime in general. Tenchi Muyo Tenchi, a young high school student on summer leave at his grandfather`s country estate, accidentally releases an angry (but cute) "demon" from an ancient shrine. As it turns out she`s actually an alien pirate and before long more aliens turn up in pursuit of her. Excellent character design and very attractive, colorful animation combine to produce a terrific and very funny series. Pioneer repackaged and original OVA's in a more affordable 2 episodes per tape and have even released the entire set in one very affordable DVD package! They are also currently releasing the new "Tenchi in Tokyo" series and have to date released 3 excellent movies, "Tenchi Muyo In Love", "Daughter of Darkness" and "Tenchi Forever". Totoro of the Neighborhood Another classic work by Miyazaki, Totoro is a beautiful and gentle film for the entire family (and by that I don`t mean just for children). Two young children move to the Japanese countryside with their father and begin to discover a magical and fantastic world visible only to them outside their house. A film that captures the magical innocence of childhood and is as heartwarming as it is beautiful. Available dubbed (fairly well too!) by Fox Video. Urusei Yatsura1/2 Rumiko Takahashi`s first big hit about Ataru, possibly the stupidest (yet most lecherous) person on the planet, and Lum, the alien girl who loves him yet wants him all to herself. The series contains many puns and jokes on Japanese and Japanese culture( the name itself is a pun) which can be difficult to translate or pick up on for westerners. Nevertheless the majority of the almost frantic humor translates just fine and is undoubtedly one of the funniest anime series available. Animeigo recently regained the rights to this series and has resumed production. They have even announced that the entire series will be re-released on DVD! Vampire Princess Miyu The story of Himiko, a spiritualist who encounters a mysterious young girl, Miyu, who she believes to be a vampire. A very atmospheric and haunting tale that slowly unfolds over 4 episodes. Not you`re typical predictable vampire tale. Available from Animego. A must buy! Video Girl Ai1/2 The classic comedy love triangle: Yuta loves Moemi, who is in love with Yuta`s best friend (who in turn seems to love mostly himself). Enter Ai, a Japanese "video girl" (a videotaped simulated girlfriend) who comes to life and into Yuta`s living room as he plays the tape. Unfortunately the VCR was malfunctioning leading to unexpected changes to Ai, like a mischievious mind of her own and (of course) shrinking breasts. And best of all, Ai is voiced by my favorite seiyuu, Megumi Hayashibara, who really outdoes herself here. This series rolls along wonderfully until the last episode where it takes a strange and jarring turn towards an extremely violent and serious finale that is a complete change from fun leading up to it. Whisper of the Heart Produced and scripted by Miyazaki and directed by Yoshifumi Kondo, Whisper tells the story of Shizuku, a young girl nearing high school age who instead of the traditional hectic cramming usually involved with competing for entry into a good school, is drawn toward her creative and artistic side after she meets Yuki, a young boy with similar tendencies. A gentle and beautiful story full of the magic of discovering the wonders of life and love for the first time and beginning to make decisions on your own instead of following the crowd. As usual for a Studio Ghibli film, the animation is gorgeous (particularly the background art). Action fans may not appreciate this film, but its depth of characterization and beauty make it a joy to watch. Wings of Honneamise An intelligent, involving and effective science fiction story that doesn`t talk down to its audience unlike so much live action sci-fi. In a parallel universe, we follow man`s first steps into space and the political intrigue behind the events. Some people feel the film is too slow and if your preference is mindless action and violence, skip it. But for fans of serious science fiction or top notch animation, its a treat. Highly recommended. You`re Under Arrest A short but funny OVA series( 4 half hour episodes) by the people who brought us the classic "Oh My Goddess" series. It follows the adventures of Tokyo police officers Miyuki and Natsumi. The series is primarily comedy in spite of the police setting and just as in OMG, the characters are the series strong point. Upcoming titles I try to add new titles as I come across them but as I acquire most new titles by purchase I dont get to see new anime as often as I'd like but I plan to get back to posting new reviews here very regularly so keep checking back and send me your suggestions for what to check out next! Please let us know your opinion on these and other anime titles. email us with your comments! Anime Ring site is owned by jtowery1@nycap.rr.com. Want to join the ring? Click here for info. home Last modified: April 22, 2000