I just saw this for the first time, 20+ years after production and I am seriously impressed with this reinterpretation. I was/am a Minmay hater. She was the main reason why I couldn't get into the Macross tv series. But, she's actually likeable in this version. You almost can't hate her.
What I really enjoyed about this version is Misa Hayase's softer/vulnerable side. I think her sensitivity wasn't as obvious in the Robotech Macross series (or maybe my memory is just fuzzy because it was a long time ago). Here, while only a two hour film, her personality is quite likeable and you really
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Jul 26, 2008
Tenshi ja Nai!!
(Manga)
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This is a cute gender-bending manga set in the idol/entertainment world. Both of the main characters are very likable and supporting characters are abundant but easy to follow and keep track of.
I found that each volume moved well but always concluded on a good note so that you're not left with too much of a suspenseful cliff-hanger. The overall story follows Hikaru and Izumi's relationship as antagonists. They do eventually tolerate each other as well as become friends and ultimately realize their love for each other. Izumi's boy/girl looks were very distinguishable. Reminded me of Yellow Belmont in Genesis Mospeada. Very convincing and very well ... 
Jul 17, 2008
Nabari no Ou
(Anime)
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For those looking for action-packed, let-me-give-you-a-history-lesson-on-my-special-move-before-I-execute-it, will be disappointed. This is not that kind of anime.
The characters and story are the main focus of this anime. I generally do not watch shounen-type animes, this one is very well done. While the backdrop theme is the ninja world, it really is a story of relationships and personal struggles. The animation is very nice. Great use of colors and somewhat of a nostalgic feel to it. The action sequences flow well from scene-to-scene. The real gem of this anime is the relationship between Miharu/Yoite. All of the supporting characters and their relationships are also well-developed and is ... 
Jul 4, 2008
This is historical manhwa set in medieval times. The story spans across two generations of a royal family. There are many political twists in the plot. All of the characters are very well developed and each has their own intriguing story. If you like historical, long-winded titles, this one is pretty enjoyable.
Jun 30, 2008
Itazura na Kiss
(Manga)
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This beloved classic title has endured the test of time. With two live-action dramas and now an anime, it is definitely a must read shoujo title.
While the artwork is not incredibly good, the story more than makes up for it. It's a farily long series which was never completed due to the sudden death of the mangaka. The anime series hopes to conclude with the original intended ending. Kotoko and Irie's challenges with each other are always fun and even suspenseful as the reader tries to anticipate what new behavior Irie's going to show Kotoko as their relationship blossoms. Hilarious supporting characters make this title ... 
Jun 29, 2008
MeruPuri: Märchen☆Prince
(Manga)
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Great boy-meets-girl shoujo manga. What I loved about the heroine of this series is that she wasn't your typical boring, helpless dame. Airi is actually quite headstrong and has great determination. All the characters are fun and quirky. The artwork is beautiful, as to be expected of all of Matsuri Hino's work. 4 volumes long which is just right. I highly recommend this title if you like fantasy-themed shoujo mangas.
Jun 29, 2008
I was introduced to this title by a friend when I was in high school (eons ago before English translations were widely availability in the U.S.). This title was very popular in Taiwan.
The story centers around twin brothers and we follow their personal identity struggles. It's a coming-of-age story and quite honestly, it was anti-climatic for me. I was expecting some kind of epiphany or some great revelation for the brothers but, that didn't happen. :( The artwork was very consistent throughout the whole series. From the time publishing began in the early-mid 80's to when it ended in the early 90's, the characters' always looked ... 
Jun 29, 2008
I revere you, oh founding mother of shoujo & shounen-ai. Everyone should read at least one of her stories. If I am not mistaken, this is one of two bodies of work licensed in America. What I find interesting about this particular volume is that she incorporates so much scientific details in the dialogue. Her story telling always contains a lot of emotion. These three short stories really draw you in and tug at your heart strings. I highly recommend this to those who are interested to see how shounen-ai evolved into a genre.
Jun 28, 2008
Vampire Knight
(Anime)
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Most love the manga and not the anime and I totally concur! I noticed some of the movement/fight sequences are really choppy, like they're missing frames or something. Has anyone else noticed that Zero appears to be moon-walking? Ugh. If you're curious, check it out but honestly, I'm done watching the first season and don't intend to watch the 2nd season. I'll be focusing on the manga only.
Jun 27, 2008
Itazura na Kiss
(Anime)
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Not in recent memory has an anime piqued my need to write a review. This one is a great adaptation of the manga. The setting has been updated to reflect current times. The flavor of the original story has stayed true with extra filler material cut out which paces the anime well. Keep in mind this manga began publishing in 1990. While the art may seem weird to some, this anime really does stay true to the original manga.
This version of Aihara Kotoko is prettier and while still not the sharpest tool in the shed is more tolerable than the manga version. Irie Naoki looks ... |
