The Guard Review

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Don Cheadle and Brendan Gleeson star in a fish out of water tale, where trust, cultures and millions of dollars are on the line. How does it hold up?

Story - Sergeant Gerry Boyle is a small-town Irish cop with a confrontational personality, a subversive sense of humor, a dying mother, a fondness for prostitutes, and absolutely no interest whatsoever in the international cocaine-smuggling ring that has brought straight-laced FBI agent Wendell Everett to his door. That is the story synopsis.

The story is funny and is one of the better cop fish out of water stories. We have seen tons of fish out of water stories involving cops. However this one does things a little different. One thing is the location of the story doesn't take place in the USA. It takes place in Ireland, and the FBI agent Wendell played by Don Cheadle is the fish out of water in this story. He is in Ireland investigating a cocaine smuggling ring, he is partner up with a SGT. Gerry Boyle played by Brendan Gleeson. Boyle is a cop you're not used to seeing, he doesn't at times seem to take his job seriously. He is the type of cop who would rather sleep with hookers, than get to work. This causes conflict with these two guys as Wendell is serious about his job, and at times it seems Boyle doesn't care at all. However when you peel the layers back on Boyle, you'll get a very interesting character study on why he is the way he is. You'll start to understand where the antics are coming from, and how he likes to mess with people. The only flaw of the story is the pacing in certain scenes. It feels a little dry when you get to the more emotional sections. Otherwise this fish out water story is funny, and will have you asking the same question Wendell asked "Is Boyle stupid or really smart?"

Acting - The acting is spot on. Cheadle and Gleeson have wonderful chemistry together. Cheadle reaction to certain comments that Gleeson makes about culture difference, will have you laughing. Gleeson holds the film strong, his character is lazy and doesn't give a damn. When it comes to the serious tone of the film, Gleeson transforms into a vulnerable character that you can emphasize with, you'll forget that he acts like a crazy man sometimes. Mark Strong also brings his charm into the film, as a drug trafficker who is tired of being in the business. Strong brings a sarcastic tone to the role as he grows tried of the life he leaves. The acting is believable and spot on, you will be wrapped up into this world crazy world of Boyle.

Music & Filmmaking - The music brings element of a Western. You'll get a OST with composition that you will see in a Western film. The score works and brings the theme of a Western out in full effect. The location are gritty, dark and captures parts of the real Ireland. Director John Michael McDonagh wanted a Western feel to the film and he delivers. Although there isn't much gun play, you get the Western feel as Boyle investigates, interrogates and when it finally gets to the gun play things will explode.

Final Grade B+/8.5 - The Guard is witty, different and combines different genres into one. The pacing might not be perfect, the story can hit the cliche road from time to time, however don't let that stop you. The movie brings humor and heart, plus brings a nice commentary on assumptions. It's a fish out of water that will make you smile and question whether, the main character is smart or foolish.


Chrono Crusade Review

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Here is the review for the amazing 24 episode anime Chrono Crusade. Enjoy. ^-^


Story
Sister Rosette and the devil Chrono are part of The Order of Magdalene Order, a place where exorcists reside to get ride of demons. Rosette and Chrono joined the Order for one reason; saving Joshua, Rosettes brother. He was taken away by a devil named Aion who's goal is to rule over everything. I will only introduce Rosette and Chrono because they are the first characters you'll see.


Sister Rosette is a very loud 16 year old girl. Her heart is in the right place however she manages to cause destruction to property. The point is she can get carried away. She has a kind heart and very brave. She is determined to get Joshua back no matter what even if it kills her.




Chrono is a devil and has been with Rosette since she was little. Chrono has two forms thanks to a neclace Chrono has. Since he is a devil he is allowed to make a contract with a person. The neclace holds that person's lifespan. When the neclace opens, Chrono changes into his devil form. Snce Rosette is his contractor, her life force is taken away by how much time Chrono is in his true form. Chrono is very loving and even though some people at the order are afraid of him, it doesn't matter as long as Rosette is with him. He is so cute in his normal form but sooo hot in his devil form *swoon*




Voice Acting
At some points of the anime it didn't register right to me but overall the voice acting was pretty good. Everyone had the right emotion and it doesn't sound rebotic. Although there is one girl in the series who's voice (for me) wasn't quite right but I'll say Bravo.


Animation/Sound
Of course the animation is top notch and the sound is pretty good. The opening theme is my favorite.


Rating: A

Overall this anime you should not overlook and should be on your shelves soon. Don't take my word for it? Watch the first episode on youtube. You'll see what I mean. Until next time. Anime Rules!!!!!!!!!!!

Ouran High School Host Club Fanfic Ch. 3

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Its been awhile since I wrote the last fanfic so I hope this one is to your liking. Lol yes I used Koga's name from Inuyasha and Seta from Persona 4. You try and make up fake names. Its hard. Anime Rules!!!!!!!!!!!



Being a host is hard work. I'm surprised that everyone is still smiling and having great manners day in and day out. If it was me, I'll would be napping on a big comfy couch. After that incident with Rengi, some guys do request me and I start the routine that I've been taught. I still work at the door when no clients are available and look at my friends hard at work pleasing the girls.
One day, as the afternoon rush of girls was slowing down, Tamaki came over and told me I had a client. He led me to the balcony (which is now the place I meet the clients), and announced I was here. Tamaki turned and left and I curtsied and said "Good afternoon sir." He turned and I think I saw a god stand right before my eyes.

"Game Over! I Seemed to Lost the Game Of Love."

Seta: And a good afternoon to you too Angel.

Angel: (heart beating fast) Seta-senpai. I'm sorry I'm just taken back. If you don't mind me asking, why are you here?
(background check: Seta Koga is a 2nd year student in Tamaki and Kyoya senpai's homeroom. He's gorgous and can get any girl he wants. I'm surprised he snuck in here without being noticed with those beautiful light brown eyes, his raven black hair and his muscular body..... Ah!!!!! snap out of it. He is way out of my league).

Seta: Well, I've heard that a fallen angel has come into our school and has smittend our boys into coming here. You have become quite famous. So I wanted to see if it was true.

Angel: If what was true Senpai?

Seta: (walks closer to Angel) If the rumors of a beautiful young lady with a great sense of humor and has a brave but kind heart is true. (he is now towering over her) I guess they were right.

Angel: (blushes; heart is beating faster than before) Well Senpai I'm the angel to make your day heavenly. Please follow me so we can have some tea (Wow did I really say that. It seems like I'm flirting).

Seta: Of course

Upon entering the room, once again the whole club was looking at us with curious and wary eyes.

Tamaki: Do you think she will be okay?

Haruhi: I'm not so sure but he seems to be not a stalker type. It looks like Angel may have found someone though. I haven't seen him in our class.

Hikaru: That's because he is not in our class.

Haruhi: Hm?

Karou: He is actually our Senpai, in Tamaki's and Kyoya's senpai's class.

Haruhi: (anime reaction shot) Whaaaaaaaaa?

Kyoya: Yes its true. Seta Koga is in our class and currently in line to be head of the family business. His family are all lawyers.

Hikaru and Karou: What a boring profession.

Tamaki:Lets just wait this one out. I hope Angel doesn't have to go through what she did last time.


A Month Later

So a month passed and Seta came back when he could have the time. I enjoy his company and we talk more and more about ourselves as time went on. I have fallen for him but I have a feeling that he doesn't have the same feelings. It was one of those days at the Host Club that cosplay is a must. This particular days theme is dress as one of your favorite characters. I chose Aqua from Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep. It was a nice change of pace considering all the other cosplays we've done. (Trust me you don't want to know). As I was doing my door duties, Seta came by.

Seta: Let me guess one of those cosplay days huh?

Angel: (laughs) Yeah but this time we had a choice.

Seta: Um Angel I have something to ask you. Can we talk?

Angel: Of course Senpai. (I wonder what he wants. Maybe he wants to be my boyfriend!)

Meanwhile back to our Hosts....

Tamaki: Well Seta looks nervous. I wonder why? (dressed as Prince charming)

Hikaru and Karou: Don't know and don't care. (dressed as the chestier cat)

Honey; Maybe he wants some cake. (dressed as Usa-chan)

Mori: I don't think so. (dressed as Honey holding Honey. Lol it was Honey's idea).

Kyoya: No there is something else that is going on with him. (dressed as a doctor)

Haruhi: Still I think Angel is really in love with this guy. I hope she doesn't get any bad news. (dressed as herself)

Tamaki: Yeah (looks at Haruhi) Hey why aren't you cosplaying?

Haruhi: I don't have anything I could cosplay that I would wear anyway. It's not a big deal.

Hikaru: (pulls up cat ears and a tail) Aww come on Haruhi try these on.

Karou: (pulls up maid's outfit and choker) Yeah you will look extra cute with these.

Tamaki: (Tamaki punches the twins) Don't make my daughter wear something like that you double-gangers!!!!!! (pulls out princess dress) Haruhi wants to be my princess, right Haruhi?

Haruhi: No chance in hell Senpai.

(Tamaki sulks in corner)

Hikaru and Karou: Here we go again.


As that is taking place, Angel notices some uneasiness from Seta.

Angel: You said you have something to ask me. Go ahead and say it, Senpai. You are usually not that quiet.

Seta: Well the truth is I need help asking someone out. She is the perfect one but I don't know how to approach her.

Angel: Just tell her your true feelings and everything will be fine. Just be yourself and be patient.

Seta: (lightning up) Yes you are right Angel. Thank you so much.

Angel: May I ask who this lucky person is?

Seta: Her name is Lucia. She's in my class and she is perfect in every way.

Angel: (Disappointed) Oh I see. Well good luck. So will this be the last time I see you.

Seta: Yes it is but I really did enjoy your company and I thank you for the advice. I have to admit I only came here to hear the rumors about you. Then when I saw Lucia I had to come back when she did so I can get a glimps of her.

Angel: (Becoming more angrier and hurt) Really well I hope you two find happiness.

Seta: Yes thank you (oblivious to what happened) Oh she is about to leave. Thanks again.

Seta left me there sitting at the table, feeling like a fool for being hopeful and in love. I guess it was too good to be true.

I was in a slump for the rest of the day. Honey tried to cheer me up with cake, candy, and stuffed animals. All failed and I was left alone to think about why he did this.
The next day i didn't come to school altogether. I was too ashamed of myself but also I caused myself to get sick. It's a real bad cold and the doctor told me I have to stay in until my temperature goes from 106 back to normal. At this point, I don;t know what to do.

I'm still sick and I got a phone call from Tamaki-senpai saying the club is coming to visit. I'm not in the mood for his erratic nature nor the club's hyper tendencies but maybe happiness and laughter is what I need.

On the next Ouran "Despair Be Gone! Laughter is the Best Medicine"

Tamaki: he Ouran Host Club will be waiting for you.

Everyone: We'll see you then!

Sonic Needs To Be Evicted From Green Hill Zone

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After playing the E3 "Sonic Generations" demo I wanted to throw up. I wasnt impressed by the same gameplay and im sooooo sick of green hill zone. That zone is so plain and safe its sad.Its like making pasta with no sauce or making a sandwich with no spread. Sega thinks the nostalgia will grab us old school gamers but instead it shows me they're trying to cash in on nostalgia instead of focusing on the gameplay. Yes we know the Sonic series is dead, I believe Green Hill is one of the reason why. If that's his home then you know what, its time to move...also Sonic when you move dont move into a land filled with blue skies and green grass(like Green Hill Zone).

Look at all these versions of Green Hill Zone.



Emerald Zone is pretty much the same damn thing!







Seaside Hill the same damn thing

Splash hill zone...Love how sega just takes the Green out the title

Green Grove Act sega? Really Looks like Green Hill Zone with a name twist

Interview With Don Cheadle & Brendan Gleeson

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We were invited to "The Guard" press day event. We were able to to be featured in a roundtable interview with actors Don Cheadle (Iron Man 2, Hotel Rwanda, Traitor) and Brendan Gleeson (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, Beowulf, 28 Days Later). We discuss with them their new film "The Guard" opening in selected theaters on July 29th 2011.

OtakusandGeeks.com: Did you guys know each other at all before filming this movie?

Don Cheadle: No, I only knew about his work. Wait... I think it was The Emmy's.

Brendan Gleeson: (laughs) that's it, now you got it.

Don Cheadle: Now I got it, I keep thinking Golden Globes,we met when Brendan was up for Churchill. It was at a suite in the Beverly Hills hotel or someplace.

Brendan Gleeson: It was kind of lucky actually, because it just happen that we were all in the city at the same time. Then we read the script and meet up and we knew it was something special.

OtakusandGeeks.com: What was your reaction to the script?

Don Cheadle: I just love it from the beginning. Often you get scripts and your like okay page 15, then go to page 30 and all these things you usually can tell where the story is going. I couldn't get ahead of this script. I didn't know where it was going. The script made me laugh from beginning to end. The opportunity to shoot in the place where the film was set doesn't always happen, not to mention to work with an actor of this caliber was a no brainier. It didn't matter the cost, the size of it. I just knew I wanted to be a part of it.

The Guard Trailer


OtakusandGeeks.com: Don this is a fish out of water story. Did you feel like a fish out of water filming in Ireland?

Don Cheadle: Yes! I've never been to Ireland at all, to be in that specific area in Ireland with the landscapes and those hand built rock walls was really special. You know every moment I wasn't on set I was on the golf course (laughs). Taking advantage of all that.

Brendan Gleeson: (laughs) yeah getting drenched.

Don Cheadle: Yeah getting drenched. *It rained a lot during the filming.*

OtakusandGeeks.com: Brendan was it fun playing a cop who didn't give a damn about anything?

Brendan Gleeson: Totally yeah, it's usually the criminal that doesn't give a damn about anything (laughs). When you get to the point where you have to say those lines, there is kind of a giddiness that happens. Even when your reading the script it hits you, you start saying to yourself okay I have to say it (laughs). If there was an intent to the words, it wouldn't be funny to say. The fact that this guy is winding people up at every possible moment, it was fun. Problem was when it was over I would still be in character saying these things.

Don Cheadle: (laughs) Brendan you're not on the set.

OtakusandGeeks.com: What was like working together, you both have different acting styles?

Brendan Gleeson: Well kind of had to discussion we first met. The topic of rehearsing came up and I notice he didn't really fancy rehearsal. He said "Yeah because I'm afraid I might know the answers to all the questions." I didn't have a problem at all.

Don Cheadle: I wanted to be as surprise, shocked and a have my head spinning around, from the experience and everyone I was meeting. I wanted everything to come new as it possibility come that way I wouldn't act shock. If it was a play I would love to rehearse.

OtakusandGeeks.com: These characters seem to always try to best each other, with wits. Your thoughts?

Don Cheadle: The great thing if you look at the lines. Jerry never really went at Wendell, like Wendell went at him. Like the scene in the pub, and Jerry says I came third in the Olympics, and my character says bullshit. Jerry is like bullshit, why is it bullshit? So he comes with a witty comeback like "So you grew up in the projects?" I love how he gets Wendell to react to him. However when it comes to the job, the jokes are gone, all the games and jokes are over.

OtakusandGeeks.com: Final question, Don any update on the Miles Davis project?

Don Cheadle: We're trying to get it moving.

The Guard opens up in selected theaters on July 29th 2011. Check your listings.

Captain America: The First Avenger Review

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With the summer already giving us three superhero movies, we wonder can we take another one. The final superhero movie of the summer has arrived. Captain America finally gets his big budget debut. Does this film pack the punch, or should we not take the Captain's orders?

Story - After being deemed unfit for military service, Steve Rogers volunteers for a top secret research project that turns him into Captain America, a superhero dedicated to defending America's ideals. That's the film synopsis.

The story is wonderful. Out of all the superhero movies this summer, this is the one that nailed the mythos accurately. Captain America tells the story of Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), a kind hearted man who just wants to serve his country. Problem is physically Rogers is not strong enough for the army. He's skinny, has tons of medical problems, but beneath all that he has a heart of a champion. Rogers is recognized by Dr.Abraham Erskine (Stanley Tucci), he takes interest in Rogers and gives him the push for him, to be the new test subject for the super solider formula. The story is written very well. It contains enough backstory on Rogers for the audience to really relate to him. One of the themes I love in the movie is how the weak value power with more humility than someone who already has it. This theme is shown through the characters of Rogers and his foe Red Skull. Red Skull (Hugo Weaving) a man blessed with a fantastic mind, wants to rule the world with an iron fist. He views others as lower than he is. While Rogers views all as equals, he has honor, humility and when he gets the power he doesn't let him consume it. Captain America story packs enough balance of action and storytelling that you will stay interested. The only real complaint about the story is some of Captain's friends are not explored to much. Characters like Dum Dum (Neal McDonough) don't get enough screen time to know who he is. Other than that picky complaint, the story is a great ride of honor, fate and a call for justice.

Acting - Chris Evans say goodbye to Johnny Storm (Fantastic Four) and say hello to Captain America. Evans is purely amazing in this movie. He brings so much life and humility to Rogers. Every time he's on screen you can't help but cheer for the guy. Hayley Atwell as Peggy Carter has wonderful chemistry with Evans. Her character is tough military woman who doesn't take any mess, however pull back the layers and you see a soft gentle woman, like Rogers just looking for the right partner. Tommy Lee Jones as Colonel Chester Phillips plays a typical military boss, however Jones brings his usual witty charm that will remind you a little of Agent K from Men In Black. Finally Hugo Weaving nails a home run as Red Skull. I couldn't think of a better actor to play the iconic villian. Red Skull is a vicious, but you see that he is a man driven by a goal, no matter how psychotic he is. Weaving delivery on the dialogue is almost flawless. Overall the acting is one of the best out of the superhero movies this year.

Music & Filmmaking - The music is well done. The soundtrack packs some lighthearted compositions and compositions that are very patriotic. One song that will get stuck in your head is called "Star Spangled Man." This song has the feel of the classic 1940's music and it's a nice addition to the film. The film is shot very well. Director Joe Johnson knows how to capture the early years of America. The locations capture the spirit of the forties, but still have the comic book twist to it. It works bringing a realistic and stylish world. The pacing is smooth, but there are times where the film can feel a little dry and dead. The action scenes are average unfortunately, Capt doesn't do much but punch, dodge and throw his shield a couple of times. This is not a bad thing, because its more realistic for a solider to fight like that. However if you're expecting huge set pieces, after set pieces than your watching the wrong film. Captain America focuses more story than action. The action is there, but it's refreshing that the story was more important.

Final Grade B+/8.5 - Captain America is a great film filled with great characters, great acting, great themes and a villain who is enjoyable to watch. The movie can feel a little dry at the times, and the action is not the best out of the summer. However this film has heart, substance and you can't help but cheer for the film. Final Grade B+/8.5.




The Dark Knight Rises Teaser Trailer & Thoughts

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This week the world finally gets it's first look at the upcoming sequel to The Dark Knight. The Dark Knight Rises will be the final entry in the Christopher Nolan Batman series. Check out the teaser trailer below and I will give my thoughts below.



Thoughts: I think this teaser trailer did exactly what it was suppose to do. The trailer teases the hell out of you and raises so many questions. First question is why is Commissioner Gordan in the hospital? Does Gordan know Bruce is Batman? "We were in this together, then you were gone. Now this evil rises. The Batman must come back." Bruce: What if he doesn't exist anymore?" Gordan: He must...he must. I feel like Gordan is encouraging Bruce to go back to being Batman. He's trying to tell Bruce that Batman is necessary. Then we see the symbolism of Gotham crumbling. I this not only symbolizes that Gotham is going through a dark time, but also the end of the series. Finally we see Bane walking up the steps to an exhausted Batman. Batman looks like he's just got through fighting a ton of guys. Also if you look closely you'll see someone is a hostage in the background. Who can this hostage be? Also Ra's Al Ghul narrative from the first movie, makes me wonder if a Batman will die in this film. Usually people die in order to become legends in the eyes of the people. How will Selina Kyle play in this movie?What about Ra's Al Ghul? Finally I would love to know what was being chanted in the background of this trailer? Needless to say the trailer did it's job by raising many questions. I can't wait to see what will happen in the upcoming months.

Will Sony & Microsoft Team Up For Their New Console??

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For those who havent heard, someone at Microsoft registered the domain name Microsoft-Sony.com. Yes I know anyone can register a domain name and nothing may come of this, but here is why I think this would be good for the overall health of the gaming industry.


1.PSN outtage & 3 red lights: Both PS3 and Xbox360 users experienced gaming hardships. While we were at home crying and complaining these 2 companies lost billions because of these unique events.

Sony is great at making hardware, besides a little D.R.E. on the PS2 all 3 Playstations are like tanks. They keep ticking.

Microsoft is a software 1st company. They create great OS and UI...but most importantly a secure network.

If this dream console happens let Sony focus on the hardware while Microsoft does the software(Dash,System updates etc etc)


2.Too many consoles: Do we really need 3? Lets look at videos games golden years NES vs Master System then SNES vs Genesis. Now that Nintendos new console is for the "hardcore audience" let make a 2 man race again.


3.Iphone/Andriod & Facebook: Believe it or not Mobile and Social games are taking over gaming. While Sony fanboys & Xbots fight the Social & Mobile markets are making more and more $. Why should you care???Investors and Developers are leaving traditional console gaming to work in those fields. Yu Suzuki is a perfect example,he created Shenmue and Virtua Fighter among many others. Now he will be focused on Social games for Japan....sucks I know.




Regardless if this happens or not Sony and Microsoft fans need to come together.Hardcore gamers represent a very small percentage of the world.Instead of fighting about Halo vs Uncharted lets enjoy games as one....as brothers.Lets use our all hate on garbage like Farmville and Angry Birds lol joking joking!















Image Anime Store

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One thing a lot of Otakus wanted to know is, where is a store that they can find Otaku things in New York? Today Sean (The Comic Guy on the site) and myself took a trip to Image Anime. For those who live in New York City. The store is located on 242 West 30th Street New York, NY 10001. This is a great store with tons of Gundam Kits, Dvd's/ Blu-Ray, Figures & Plushies. If you're an Otaku in New York or just want to shop for Otaku stuff, check out the store. They also have import stuff as well. Great staff as well, these guys know they Anime and Asian Films. Here is what I brought from them today. What are you New York Otakus or Otakus in general waiting for. Go check out Image Anime.

Goku SSJ Figure


Image Anime Info
Location: 242 West 30th Street New York, NY 10001.
Phone:(212) 631-0966
Website:
Visit Image Anime Website

Vegeta & Hiei: Two Very Similar Characters

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In the world of Anime we usually see characters that are sometimes very similar. In this case I have found two characters that are very similar, however very different. Vegeta from Dragonball Z and Hiei from Yu Yu Hakusho. You're probably wondering, what makes these two so similar and different? Let's examine these two great warriors purely based on their personal life, characterization and honor.

The Similarities: When we first meet Vegeta and Hiei, they are on the wrong side of the tracks. Vegeta is out to collect the seven Dragonballs and destroy Earth. Hiei is planning to kill Kayko and use his new weapon to build a demon army. Both characters are defeated by guys (Goku and Yusuke)who would later become they rivals. Both Vegeta and Hiei are used as aids to help they sworn rivals win their battles. Whether it was by giving some words of encouragement, or forcing them to unlock they full potential. Eventually these characters greatest rivals, became they greatest friends. Hiei and Vegeta personalities are very alike. Both of these guys are arrogant, driven, but if you look deeper into them both guys are hurt. Vegeta & Hiei backstories are a little similar. Both characters felt the pain of losing a family member. Vegeta losing his Father to Frieza. Hiei being abandoned by the Ice Apparitions and losing his Mother. The pain of this at a young age, leaves these characters no choice but to be strong as a defense mechanism. Both characters throughout the series appear cold and distant. It's only when they face death, despair and desperation, that their true self emerge. Vegeta revelations comes when he dies at Frieza's hands. He reveals to Goku, that Frieza killed his Father and force him to work for him. Hiei revelation is revealed during the Demon World Tournament saga. Here we see the demons Hiei must overcome in order to find solace within himself.

Many love Yusuke and Goku the most, however the transformation that Vegeta and Hiei go through to find themselves is more interesting. Vegeta and Hiei also live by a set of rules and code. These rules and code are sometimes compromise by their selfish ambitions. However make no mistake that Hiei and Vegeta live by a set of rules, that only they understand. Fighting styles these two are ruthless. Hiei and Vegeta show no mercy, and only respect fighters that best them or come close to it. Both characters had suffered major defeats to their egos, leaving them to train not only to reclaim their pride, but to make a statement. Hiei and Vegeta are two sides of the same coin. Both fight for pride, honor and have something hidden inside them driving them. It's the complex rules, passion, pain that makes these guys so much interesting. Whether it's the Dragon Flame, or the Final Flash these two characters are cut from the same cloth. Both started out as evil, but as the layers pulled off you see the humble side to them, the reason for why they are that way. Hiei and Vegeta are almost each other in their universes. Thank goodness they have never met.



The Godfather Of Manga: Osamu Tezuka

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With the upcoming premiere of "Buddha" coming to this year's New York Asian Film Festival. Today we will give you guys a little history lesson, and glimpse at the wonderful work of Osamu Tezuka.

Who Is Osamu Tezuka? Osamu Tezuka is one of the most beloved, writers, illustrator and creators of many Manga and Animes. Some of his work includes Astro Boy, Buddha, Black Jack, Metropolis, Apollo Song and many more. Osamu is also the one responsible for the famous large eyes Anime style of drawing. Osamu storytelling have been captivating, inspiring and usually is related to social events taking place. His work has talked about the effects of War, Love, Relationships and many more. He has inspired other greats in the Anime world such as, Akira Toriyama (Dragonball, Dragonball Z and Hayao Miyazaki (Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro).

Some Works Of Osamu Tezuka with a Presentation

Mermaid
A boy sees a mermaid, everyone calls him crazy and forces him into an institute to rid him of his delusions. But are they really delusions?!


Bagi The Monster Of Mighty Nature


Astro Boy


God Of Manga Presentation






Ar tonelico Qoga Knell of Ar Ciel Impressions

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I just got this game yesterday on my b-day and I love it. Ar (for short since its such a long name) is a great rpg game (for me at least). Here is the review. (P.S No spoilers so you have to get the game to find out what I'm talking about. Synopsis from Amazon).

Story

"Ar Ciel, a planet that was once lush with many prosperous inhabitants.

The humans of this planet created a new species with the power to convert songs into various energies, Reyvateils, and boasted about their highly advanced civilation.

However, a foolish release of immense energy triggered a global catastrophe that changed the world. The planet was shrouded by deadly clouds, called the Sea of Death. With the loss of the land, only three artificial Towers were left for the people to reside on.

The world of the Third Tower, Sol Clister, is practically controlled by Reyvateils.
The State of Reyvateils who reside in the upper part of the Tower, Clustania, exert their authority over most other nations from the top of the world.

Clustania aims to establish a society that consists only of Reyvateils and "Purified" human slaves.
To acheive that goal, they carry out genocidal campaigns, called Cleansing, upon the human communities that dare to defy them. They literally annihilate cities and towns, turning them to ruins. It is in this sort of world that a young boy meets a maiden who sing songs."

In the last installment of the Ar series you are in control of a 17 year old Aoto who is a steeplejack. His life gets turned upside down when he saves Saki a cute girl with enormous power and secrets. There are also many other characters during the journey and each have their own agendas and personalities especially Saki and a girl named Finnel.


Gameplay

Gameplay is pretty simple in this game. When you go into battle mode, you press the square button to attack and the joy stick to run. You will always have Saki or Finnel on your team and they can use Song Magic. To activate it, the heart at the bottom of the screen will grow until it says Purge Ready. That's when you click R1 etc to activate. Other wise its straight forward. Also to climb ladders walk in front and press x. The rest you figure out yourseelf. (By the way the game is full of fan service but after a while, I got immune to it. Its rated M for a reason). Also there are a few secrets waiting to be discovered....

Graphics

Graphics are pretty good except the fact that at some stairs you walk on the camera shakes. The backgrounds look like they are painted but the characters are in 3D so its like a scenery in 2D while your characters are 3D. I have no problem with it. I think its really cool.

Sound

The Ost is beautiful with full of lighthearted music and some somber sounds at the appropriate time. The voice actors are all awesome so far and I wouldn't change a thing.

Replay Value

I;ll just say a few words about this. You can play this on easy, normal or hard any time during the game or play it on the difficulty level you want. So yes you can replay and replay it. Still a really good game either way.


Final Impressions

I am really enjoying this game so far. I didn't add any other information because I want you to experience it. I'm not being mean. I'm doing this because I care. Well that's my review. RPGs Rule!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Death Of Spider-Man Review

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Title: The Death Of Spider-Man
Author: Brian Michael Bendis
Illustrator: Mark Bagley
Number Of Volumes: 5
Pages: 120

Story - It has finally happened. The time has come to bid farewell to one of the greatest heroes of them all Spider-Man. To give a little overview of the story, Peter Parker and Mary Jane have settle their differences and got back together. Norman Osborn who was thought to be dead is alive and well in Shield Custody. Not to mention Spider-Man is going through training with Captain America for the dispute going on with the New Ultimates and the Avengers. Meanwhile Goblin breaks lose and frees Doctor Octopus, Electro, Sandman, Kraven the Hunter, and Vulture. He dubs them "Men Of God" and their goal is to finally kill Spider-Man. I won't go into any more detail, because it will contain major spoilers.

The story is a fun ride and emotional down to it's final battle. The story really shines with the Green Goblin. His hatred for Peter Parker is rooted so deep, that he even had some villains rethinking their lives. The addition of the conflict between the New Ultimates and The Avengers is a nice add on. It's actually one of the reasons Spider-Man is in a certain situation. The emotional part comes as you turn page by page and you see Spider-Man slolwy reaching his last breath. Of course he wouldn't be Spider-Man without his witty remarks and punchlines. As he slowly goes to death their is severe irony in this. How can the one who saves so much people? Couldn't find someone to help or save him? His death was a cruel fate and it's only fitting for Peter Parker. The story is well written and has enough balance of drama, humor and love that only Spider-Man can bring.

Art

There are tons of detail in this series. I really love the facial expression of Parker and Goblin in this. The hatred on Goblin face is almost scary, they really capture his rage in this one. What really will grip you the most, besides the action is the expressions of the supporting cast. The faces of Aunt May, Gwen Stacy and Mary Jane are heartbreaking. The environments and detail on pages with the sun are amazing. There is this one panel that has the Goblin looking at the helicopter and the way the sun is capture is outstanding. The art is worthy enough to give Spider-Man a just cause death.

Final Grade A-/9.0 - Death Of Spider-Man is a fun read, each volume will have you wanting to see the end. His death isn't as epic as other Superheroes but it's pretty good for Spider-Man. The story is solid, the characters bring emotional depth and I love the irony. The theme of great power comes great responsibility is really tested here. Sometimes you have to do things you don't even want to do, this time Spider-Man had no choice in the matter. R.I.P Spider-Man.