Interview With Christine Marie Cabanos (Voice Of Madoka Kaname)

We had a chat with Christine Marie Caboanos the voice of Madoka Kaname from the Anime show Puella Magi Madoka. We talk about the show, Madoka and many more check it out. Anime Rules!!! 

OtakusandGeeks.com: What attracted you to the character, and what do you like best about playing her?


Christine Marie: I love how true and genuine she is. She wears her heart on her sleeve and I find that to be very endearing. My favorite part about playing Madoka is her emotional journey throughout the series. She goes through a full range of emotions and it was very enjoyable to portray.

OtakusandGeeks.com: How do you prepare doing the voice of your character? Do you have a special routine or is it just as easy as taking an "actors breath"?

Christine Marie: Once we set the voice and I hear my vocal reference for the character, I just go through a few of the lines in the voice to get it warmed up. Then we go for it!
OtakusandGeeks.com: Without spoiling too much, what can fans expect from the series?

Christine Marie: Expect the unexpected.

OtakusandGeeks.com: Here at Otakus & Geeks we watch a lot of anime and play a lot of videogames. Is everyone into anime and manga? If so what are some of your favorite anime and manga?

Christine Marie: I’ve been a longtime fan of Anime and videogames. Some of my favorite anime series include Cardcaptor Sakura, Battle Atheletess, K-ON!, Eureka Seven, Gurren Lagann and lots more. As for video games, I really love the Final Fantasy series and Fighting games like Street Fighter and Marvel vs. Capcom.

OtakusandGeeks.com: Also if you game what games are you playing at the moment?

Christine Marie: Zelda Skyward Sword! And I’m trying to get started on Final Fantasy XIII-2. I’m also really excited for Skullgirls to be released!

OtakusandGeeks.com: When it comes to choosing a role, do you have a particular genre you prefer? Or is it all about the character and what you can bring to the table?

Christine Marie: I don’t usuallly get to choose the roles I play, but I’m up for all types of genres. I do particularly enjoy “Slice of Life” and Comedy.

OtakusandGeeks.com: If given the chance to switch roles with each other, which character would you like to play and why?

Christine Marie: I think I would enjoy playing Kyoko Sakura. She has bite to her and I don’t get to play feisty girls as often as I do nice ones. She would be really fun to voice.

OtakusandGeeks.com: Time to answer some of the fans questions. Maki asked: Which character in the series 
do you think has the best fashion sense based on their style of clothing?

Christine Marie: I personally love Homura’s clothing . Her magical girl costume is so sleek and pretty. I love the black stockings with heels. Very classy.

OtakusandGeeks.com: Would you ever cosplay as your character?

Christine Marie: Definitely! Her costume is so cute and girly. Plus I’ve always wanted a bubblegum pink wig!

OtakusandGeeks.com: Finally we always end our interview with some words of wisdom for our readers and your fans?

Christine Marie: Time waits for no one. Also, put chips in your sandwich.

Puella Magi Madoka Magica is availabe  on DVD/ Blu Ray http://aniplexusa.com/

African American Lolitas

Great Day Otakus, Geeks, Fashionistas, Loli's ... EVERYBODY! I hope all has been fashionably well in my absence. Of which, I sincerely apologize and I missed you all bunches, but I've been busy launching my Kick Starter for a solo exhibit, iPukeKAWAiI! I'm back though and have a treat! As an African American everyday Lolita, it was a breath of fresh air to meet another at this year's Katsucon 18.

As it happened, I was dashing off to an afternoon tea party when I ran into and her style instantly hit home. Her style, simple, sweet, and of all things comfortable, was enough to make me stop and ask to photograph her. We exchanged photos of each other's Lolita looks, talked a bit, and hugged. Seemingly to part ways ... and then I mentioned the tea party. As we scurried there we started talking about being local to the DMV (DC, MD, VA) area and finding other Lolitas, we exchanged fashion tips and such and then it hit me ... This was waaayyyyy cooler than the tea party. So we had our own - minus the tea, but we scored comfy seats and had good Lolita conversation. So it still equals such a tea party in my head.

Caitlin, an art teacher by profession and 2nd year Katsucon attendee, admitted to being a "very bad Loli" when she started dressing. She expressed that she used to be bent on boycotting large & expensive brands until she started doing research the more she dressed and getting into the Lolita lifestyle. As such, she's since turned that boycott frown upside down and gave props to brands such as Angelic Pretty and Fan Plus Friend, to name a few. Taking note from these brands and reading publications such as the Goth Lolita Bible, she's taken to making her own Lolita garments with her bits of personal touches such as beaded trim around a skirts lining or bows to some fresh Adidas

Of course, being an African American Lolita, you could probably imagine my excitement to sit and talk with her. As we started talking of some of the more "ethnic" parts of life, we both shared that while we're both great fans of the Japanese culture we are also greatly proud of our ethnic looks aside from being Lolita. Of those things, the biggest being the hair. Sure we can add cute blush to our cheeks and attach some of the BEST eyelashes, ruffles, bows, deco, and otherwise to add to an extravagant Lolita look, but what happens when it comes to the hair! With both of us noticing the same trend, that when we do see African American Lolita's, there hair is usually straight or they have a wig on to get closer to the Japanese style Lolita look. However, it's always a great day when you can create your own lane. Which is, agreeably, what African American Lolitas should take advantage of. Not to take anything away from Japanese-style Lolita or cause any divide, but to add to the fashion and culture as a whole. As such, we posed the question,


'Where are our Lolitas with the locks, twists, afros or afro puffs, braids, etc.? We want to meet YOU!"

So ending there, that question is not a rhetorical one. We WANT to know that you're there and we want you to share your Lolita experiences as you've come into this lifestyle.

If you want to see more of the great looks at Katsucon 18, feel free to check out the Katsucon blog!
Until next time!
~je t'adore!
>^.^<

Pet Shop Of Horrors Review

Count D is the mysterious caretaker of a pet shop in Los Angeles' Chinatown. Each of D's rare pets, which all have strangely humanoid appearances, comes with a contract with three major points. These points differ for each animal sold (although each animal's contract includes not showing it to anyone), and breaking this contract usually results in dire (and sometimes disturbing) consequences for the buyer, for which the pet shop claims no liability. Check out the review.

Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark Review

"And we can rise above, open your eyes up, and you shall rise above." A lyric from the song "Rise Above 2" in the Broadway musical "Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark." Little did this once troubled musical know how true those lyrics will be. With re-casting, a script that changed, is "Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark" a marvelous experience, or is it lights out for the web head?

Story - "Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark" follows the story of high school geek Peter Parker, as he deals with his new found powers, battles villains, and learns his greatest lesson with great power comes great responsibility. That's just the overview of the story. "Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark" story for the most part captures the spirit of the Spider-Man mythos. Key characters like Mary Jane Watson, Norman Osborn, Aunt May, Flash Thompson, Uncle Ben make an appearance.  ACT 1 follows Peter Parker during his high school years and how he gets his powers, it also includes the story of Arachne. For those who don't know the comics Arachne later becomes the 2nd Madame Web. She guides Spider-Man through his trials and tribulations, she's his voice of reason of why he should keep being Spider-Man. At first I didn't think Madame Web was needed, but as the story progresses and Parker has the black cloud over him, a voice of reason is needed. ACT 1 is very entertaining, the pacing and introduction of the characters are well done for the most the part. Peter gets bullied by Flash, has awkwardness moments with Mary Jane and even fights Bonesaw. Fans who have seen Sam Raimi's Spider-Man will see some similarities that are in the Broadway play.  The only complaint I had is how they handle the death of Uncle Ben. Uncle Ben really didn't give the "With great power comes great responsibility speech." However somehow Peter mentions that speech, that was a little complaint. Other than that little geeky complaint ACT 1 is amazing with good development on key characters and the birth of a certain Goblin, but I won't give spoilers there. ACT 2 for the sake of spoilers I won't mention. ACT 2 is action pack with Spider-Man battling certain villains beside Goblin, Peter dealing with Jonah Jameson, trying to balance his friendship with Mary Jane. ACT 2 is finishes off strong, but at times I felt that it got a little kiddie. Especially in certain Green Goblin scenes, I felt like I was watching Adam's West Batman, which strangely it made a reference too with Boy Wonder. 


Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark story will be a hit or miss for some comic fans, with no inclusion of Harry Osborn (Norman's son), and a misinformation of a certain sinister of villains (there is your hint). Also calling Goblin a mutant will make a comic geek cringe, however with those small complaints, the story does very well capturing the spirit, the theme and the trials and tribulations of Peter Parker. The story is not perfect, but it's not bad, it's a good story of one geeks rise and fall from grace, only to rise above and accept his destiny. If you call yourself a Spider-Man fan this is worth checking out.


Acting - The acting is great! Reeve Carney is Peter Parker, he nailed him. He balanced that geeky, emotional and the witty side of Spider-Man very well, and his performances were amazing especially in the song "Rise Above." Rebecca Faulkenberry plays Mary Jane Watson, and I thought she did great as MJ. The MJ in this play is similar to Dunst MJ in Raimi's Spider-Man, she's not really the party girl that we know, but she is the girl next door and I thought Faulkenberry capture that, very well and also her voice was great! Finally Patrick Page as the menacing Norman Osborn/Green Goblin, was another great performance. He balances that craziness, and drive to succeed with such grace, he is also the comedy relief in certain scenes which was pretty cute for the younger audiences.


Music - What is a Broadway Musical without music, and Bono and The Edge have written songs that not only capture Spider-Man, but also inspire you. With the combination of different styles of rock, orchestra and even a little techno the styles fit the world of Peter Parker very well. "Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark" music is one of my favorites. Stand out tracks like "Rise Above", "If The World Should End", "I Just Can't Walk Away (Say It Now)" are reasons alone to see these songs performed lived. The music is touching, moving and fun and it's one of those plays that bring you in with songs, webs you up, and doesn't let go. The choreography was great too, especially the fight sequence with Goblin, and Spider-Man swinging around the theater.


Final Grade B-/***out of 4 - "Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark" is entertaining, moving at times, but sometimes can get a little kiddie in certain scenes, but that's nitpicking. However it has done what it was suppose to do and that's capture the spirit, the world of Spider-Man. The theme of great power comes great responsibility is shown throughout the show. The story can be confusing to some who don't know the meaning of Arachne or Madame Web, but it's develop and integrated very well for the purpose of Peter Parker.  The performances are solid all around, the choreography is good and the music you will feel inspired. This musical once rocky start, with injuries, cast changes, and constant critic bashing, has risen above it all and is now a musical you should check out. It's unlike any play you will see in a while, it's unique choreography, it's music and it's story. Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark is a marvel experience for the whole family. 

AM2 Announces 1st Official Guest of Honor

AM2 PROUDLY ANNOUNCES CELEBRATED STUDIO BONES CHARACTER DESIGNER AND



DIRECTOR TOSHIHIRO KAWAMOTO AS THE FIRST OFFICIAL GUEST OF HONOR FOR HIGHLY


ANTICIPATED 2012 CONVENTION


A Founding Member of the World Famous Bones Anime Studio Comes to this summer¹s Most Anticipated Anime, Manga and Music Convention this June 15-17, 2012 at the Anaheim Convention Center and Anaheim Hilton! Get your Passports Today and Experience the Difference!


LOS ANGELES, Calif. (February 17, 2012) ­ Celebrated character designer and


director, TOSHIHIRO KAWAMOTO, of such famed animes as COWBOY BEBOP, MOBILE


SUITE GUNDAM ZZ, MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM 0080, MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM 0083, TEKKAMAN


BLADE, BLOOD THE LAST VAMPIRE, ESCAFLOWNE, MOBILE ANGEL ANGELIC LAYER, WITCH


HUNTER ROBIN, FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST, SCRAPPED PRINCESS, EUREKA SEVEN, OURAN


HIGH SCHOOL HOST CLUB, GHOST IN THE SHELL and outside of Japan as the


character designer and animation director for the beloved many more will


attend this summer¹s most aniticipated anime, manga and music convention AM2


(June 15-17, 2012; Anaheim Convention Center and Anaheim Hilton). More info


and attendee registration can be found at www.am2con.org





Kawamoto founded the world famous anime studio Studio BONES in 1998 with


Masahiko Minami (former Sunrise producer) and Hiroshi Ousaka (animator


colleague who passed away in 2007. He has an animation career that spans


over 25 years and has a long list of high profile works but is best known


for his work as the character designer and animation director for the ever


popular anime, COWBOY BEBOP.

Avatar: The Last Airbender Tops Bookscan at #1!

AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER—THE PROMISE PART 1 TOPS BOOKSCAN AT #1!

February 16, MILWAUKIE, OR—In an amazing show of demand for Dark Horse’s newest graphic novel, Avatar: The Last Airbender—The Promise Part 1 soared to the top of the Bookscan charts last week!

Written by Gene Luen Yang, author of the National Book Award-nominated American Born Chinese, Avatar: The Last Airbender: The Promise Part 1 marks the continuation of Airbender and the link to its upcoming sequel, Legend of Korra!

Ever since the conclusion of Avatar: The Last Airbender, its millions of fans have been hungry for more--and it's finally here! This series rejoins Aang and friends for exciting new adventures, beginning with a faceoff against the Fire Nation that threatens to throw the world into another war, testing all of Aang's powers and ingenuity!

Avatar: The Last Airbender—The Promise Part 1 is a must-have for any Airbender fan! This is the latest release in an ongoing partnership between Nickelodeon and Dark Horse to bring you the very best in Airbender books.

Avatar: The Last Airbender—The Promise Part 1 is on sale now!

Avatar: The Last Airbender—The Promise Part 2 is on sale May 30^th

Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney Film U.S. Premiere At AM2 Con

One of Many U.S. Film Premieres Happening this June 15-17, 2012 at the
Anaheim Convention Center and Anaheim Hilton! Get your Passports Today and
Experience the Difference!


LOS ANGELES, Calif. (February 15, 2012) ­ The ever popular ACE ATTORNEY
(Gyakuten Saiban-2012/Mystery, Drama/Approx. 130 min) manga and video game
comes alive in this live action feature film to be screened EXCLUSIVELY at
this summer¹s most anticipated Anime, Manga and Music event AM2. Two
screenings will be available-one EXCLUSIVELY for Passport holders ONLY and
the second for Passport holders preferred (with general attendees as seating
permits).  More info and attendee registration can be found at
www.am2con.org <http://www.am2con.org>


First released in 2001 for the Nintendo ³GAME BOY², ACE ATTORNEY was ported
for the DS, PC, Wii. With four games in the series, Ace Attorney has sold
over 4.2 million copies worldwide. The series has been further popularized
and continues to build a new fan base via the advent of spinoff series Ace
Prosecutor (gyakuten-kenji in Japanese) to the game appearing on GREE,
Japan¹s leading social networking service and in comic book form. In 2008,
the Tokyo Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra performed a concert based on the
game, and the following year, the Takarazuka Revue Company started their
live musical performance of the series.


Set in a futuristic, fictional Japan courtroom where ³bench trials² have
been implemented to fight rising crime, the appealing amusement of Ace
Attorney has to be its leading character, hot-blooded, sometimes
4th-down-and-long-Hail-Mary rookie defense lawyer, Phoenix Wright. The
speedy storyline, filled with twists and turns of sheer enjoyment, unfolds
as Phoenix finds the truth and wins his case. Rising from the ashes when the
chips are down, he challenges the court with ³evidence² collected through
his own investigations and exposes the actual criminals and their pack of
lies.


The story structure of the film is based on the characters and amusing story
twists from the first work in the series. Penning the screenplay are none
other than the cop and courtroom drama master Takeshi Iida (writer for
SHINZANMONO and PARTNERS) as well as Sachiko Oguchi (KAIJI 2) who is popular
for her fast paced scripts. The director is hit-maker Takashi Miike,
world-renowned for his talent and the pride of the Japan filmmaking world
whose latest works always attract attention. In this film, Miike depicts a
heated courtroom battle by evoking his novel visual sense with VFX and CG
and his unique ³Miike magic² directing of actors from films like YATTERMAN,
the CROWS ­ Episod 0, CROWS and Thirteens Assassins. While most films set in
courtrooms tend to offer low-key, pedestrian visuals, the courtroom scenes
in this film are amazingly attractive for audiences.


Hiroki Narimiya, the talented young actor whose performances in Drop and the
TV series Bad Boy & Good Girl resonated with a new generation of young
people, plays the hot-blooded, rookie lawyer Phoenix Wright. His childhood
friend and ultimate rival Prosecutor Miles Edgeworth is played by Takumi
Saitoh (medical TV series Saijo no Meii), a younger actor in the limelight.
Extremely popular, teenage actress Mirei Kiritani plays the damsel in
distress Maya Fey, a spirit medium in training. Veteran actors from the
Japanese film world and regular Miike Takashi film actors including Ryo
Ishibashi (Audition, Ju-On The Grudge), Rei Dan (Kabei: Our Mother), Fumiyo
Kohinata, Kimiko Yo (Departures), Akira Emoto, round out the cast. Court is
in session for this ³courtroom battle² entertainment film at theatres
nationwide on February 11, 2012. Don¹t miss it!


SYNOPSIS
In 20XX, to prevent the rise of vicious crimes the government introduces
"bench trials" a new justice system where the defense and prosecutor go
head-to-head in open court. Within just three days, a guilty or not guilty
verdict is decided.


Talented attorney Mia Fey, who shows understanding for her junior lawyer,
Phoenix Wright (Hiroki Narimiya), is murdered. Arrested for the murder is
her spirit medium in training sister Maya Fey (Mirei Kiritani). Phoenix
believes in Maya¹s innocence and takes the case where he meets Prosecutor
Miles Edgeworth (Takumi Saito), a level-headed, prodigy attorney and
childhood friend. An intense courtroom battle unfolds as testimony and
evidence are presented.


After the trial, Phoenix receives word that Miles has been arrested for
murder! Phoenix steps forward to defend Miles. Opposing council is none
other than Miles¹s master, legendary prosecutor von Karma (Ryo Ishibashi)
who has been undefeated in court for 40 years. As the trial goes on, the 15
year old DL-6 case, where Miles¹s father Gregory Edgeworth was shot and
killed in the evidence room, is examined closely.


What will become of Phoenix, Miles and Maya? What dangerous truth lies
behind this mysterious case?




Staff and the Cast


Directed by Takashi Miike


Screenplya by Takeshi Iida, Sachiko Oguchi


Music by Koji Endo


Theme Song by pronograffitti (SME Records)






CHARACTERS (Japanese name follows the English name)


-       Hiroki Narimiya as Phoenix Wright (Ryuichi Naruhodo) A hot-blooded,
rookie lawyer.


-       Takumi Saitoh as Prosecutor Miles Edgeworth (Reiji Mitsurugi) A
calm, cool genius prosecutor. Phoenix¹s childhood friend and fateful rival.


-       Mirei Kiritani as Maya Fey (Mayoi Ayasato) Phoenix¹s client. A
spirit medium in training. Mia¹s younger sister.


-       Akiyoshi Nakao as Larry Butz (Masashi Yahari) Phoenix¹s childhood
friend. A good-for-nothing loveable guy.


-       Shunsuke Daito as Detective Dick Gumshoe (Keisuke Itonokogiri) A
shoot-from-the-hip cop who places his trust in Miles¹s ability to convict
felons.


-       Akira Emoto as The Judge aka Your Honor (Saibancho) A veteran judge
who calls, ³Order in the court.²


-       Rei Dan as Mia Fey (Chihiro Ayasato) A talented lawyer. Phoenix¹s
boss and sister to Maya.


-       Mitsuki Tanimura as Lotta Hart (Natsumi Osawagi) A would-be
cameraman and witness to the alleged shooting. She speaks in an Osaka
dialect which is translated as a Southern dialect.


-       Takehiro Hira as Attorney Gregory Edgeworth (Shin Mitsurugi) Miles¹s
father and role-model reason for becoming a lawyer. He was a victim in the
DL-6 case.


-       Esuke Sasai as Robert Hammond (Yukio Namakura) The defendant lawyer
in the DL-6 case who represented Yanni Yogi.


-       Makoto Ayukawa as Redd White (Masaru Konaka) Freelance magazine
writer, wiretapper, witness to Mia¹s murder and possibly more.


-       Kimiko Yo as Misty Fey (Maiko Ayasato) A spirit medium. Mother to
Mia and Maya.


-       Ryo Ishibashi as Prosecutor von Karma (Gou Karuma) Miles¹s master, a
legendary prosecutor who has not lost a case in 40 years. He turns out to be
the true criminal behind the DL-6 case.


-       Fumiyo Kohitani as Yanni Yogi (Koutarou Haine) Former court agent. A
defendant in the DL-6 case. His wife Polly later committed suicide. He also
has a pet parrot named after his wife.




Attendees can avoid the anticipated huge lines at autographs, premiere
screenings, workshops, main events, concerts and panels by purchasing a
Passport fast pass for the event.  The Passport fast pass will also provide
holders with premier seating options at Main Events and at Concert events as
well as major discounts with theme parks, retailers and local restaurants.
Bypass the lines and get your Passport today and experience the difference!


AM2 current activities include Exhibit Hall, AMV¹s, Arcade, Summer Festival,
Behind the Voice Actors Studio, Masquerade, Dances, Fashion Shows, Table
Top, Console Gaming, Workshops, Panels, Concerts and more!


Follow us on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/AM2Con


Follow us on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/AM2Con

Indie Free Game Review: Stealth Bastard

Hey people Jeff here and am hitting you up on this sweet free game from Curve studios called Stealth Bastard: Tactical Espionage Arsehole.


The game is a mix between Super Meat Boy and Metal Gear Solid but you can't attack or have weapons. You are sneaking in or out (I am not sure) of a place with the whole point of you trying not to be killed. I would say not to be seen but I will get into that.


Gameplay - Well the shadows are your best and only friend and your enemies are light and robots. I say light because the puzzles that are in the game really are all about you staying in the shadows as much as possible, however as the stage changes so do the shadows. Now the robots come in 3 forms which you will see and learn to hate all at once. Mainly because you're done from one hit and they never miss when your in range also some of them have head lights that make it even harder to stay in the safety of the shadows. This is also a very hard game much like "Super Meat Boy" you will have to be smart and plan ahead the art style helps with this a lot, giving you plenty of indicators to what you can grab on and hang off to the range of the sight of the enemies. There is also a level creator that is pretty easy to use and then upload to a server from there it can be downloaded by other players and then people can rank them and favorite them.


Art style is amazing, the way the shadows blends with everything and being clearly able to get see when your  inside the shadow and more importantly when light changes where the shadows are. It is also very detailed in your character, stages and enemies.


Overall I say Curved created a great game, a little on the short side but still very good fun to be had also there are the player created levels that will take up a lot of your time, so in the end I say download it the only downside is that its only on Windows so all your windows owners go to the site and check it out.


Final Grade B+/8.5

Links: Stealth Bastard

AM2 ANNOUNCES THE 2012 T-SHIRT DESIGN CONTEST

AM2 ANNOUNCES THE 2012 T-SHIRT DESIGN CONTEST

1st, 2nd and 3rd Place Winners for Each Contest Awared Amazing Prizes This
June 15-17, 2012 at the Anaheim Convention Center! Get your Passports Today
and Experience the Difference!

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (February 10, 2012) ­ Attention fans!  Make this
convention truly yours!  Attendees can get more involved with this Summer¹s
most anticipated animation, music and manga event, AM2 (June 15-17, 2012;
Anaheim Convention Center and Anaheim Hilton), by entering the official 2012
T-Shirt Design Contest!  Not only will the winner have their winning design
utilized on a shirt that will be available to attendees, they (as well as
2nd and 3rd place winners) will also win some amazing prizes. More info,
contest rules and attendee registration can be found at www.am2con.org


Designs should incorporate the themes of AM2 (i.e. Passport, Passport
Benefits, Summer Festival, etc.). Items that need to be incorporated into
the t-shirt (white) include:
€               AM2 Logo (available for download online)
€               Fan Art
Image of
AM2 Mascot (Nyan-chan)
€               AM2 Website Address: www.am2con.org
€               Phrase: "Experience the Difference!"
€               File specification: 2100 x 1800 px PNG at 150 dpi
€               White will be considered transparent

All entries should be sent to registration@am2con.org.  Images should be in
low resolution format for judging and will be required to be in high
resolution for printing.

Official contest start date is today and deadline for all entries for the
2012 T-Shirt Design Contest is March 12, 2012 at 500 pm PST.  Winning
designs will be chosen via votes consisting of 50% general public voting and
50% AM2 staff votes.

Winners will receive:

1st Place
- Two (2) 3 Day Passes
- Front of the line at two autograph sessions/or GoH Meet and Greets
- Free T-shirt with your design
- Free Manga Design Program

2nd Place
- One (1) 3 Day Pass
- Front of the line at one autograph sessions/or GoH Meet and Greet
- Free T-shirt with your design

3rd Place
- One (1) 2 Day Pass (Or rebate toward your 3 Day pass purchase)
- Free T-Shirt with your design

Attendees can avoid the anticipated huge lines at autographs, premiere
screenings, workshops, main events, concerts and panels by purchasing a
Passport fast pass for the event.  The Passport fast pass will also provide
holders with premier seating options at Main Events and at Concert events as
well as major discounts with theme parks, retailers and local restaurants.
Bypass the lines and get your Passport today and experience the difference!

AM2 current activities include Exhibit Hall, AMV¹s, Arcade, Summer Festival,
Behind the Voice Actors Studio, Masquerade, Dances, Fashion Shows, Table
Top, Console Gaming, Workshops, Panels, Concerts and more!

Follow us on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/AM2Con

Follow us on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/AM2Con

Cyber City OEDO 808 Review

To combat computerised crime more effectively, the Cyber Police unit of the future Japanese city of Oedo has restarted the feudal practice of hōmen (放免), employing hardened criminals with a history of hi-tech offences and other crimes such as murder as officers themselves. Three such criminals are Sengoku, Gogol and Benten who are serving their 300-or-more year sentences in an orbital penitentiary. For duty served, each criminal will receive a reduction in their prison time. Desperate to get away from the boredom and monotony of jail life, they half-heartedly agree to the deal. They answer to police chief Hasegawa who keeps them in check thanks to an explosive collar that each criminal wears around his neck. Hasegawa can blow this collar from a distance and it will also explode if they fail to complete their missions within an allocated time period. Check out the review.

AM2 ANNOUNCES ONLINE APPLICATIONS FOR PANELS AND WORKSHOPS NOW OPEN

AM2 ANNOUNCES ONLINE APPLICATIONS FOR PANELS AND WORKSHOPS NOW OPEN

Industry and Fan Panel/Workshop Application Available Online Now


LOS ANGELES, Calif. (February 9, 2012) ­ Attention fans!  Make this
convention truly yours!  This summer¹s most anticipated FREE convention,
AM2, welcomes industry and fans to apply for panels and workshops online
now. More info, application and attendee registration can be found at
www.am2con.org <http://www.am2con.org>

 ³Workshops and panels are integral parts of the convention circuit², states
AM2 representative Chase Wang, ³We are looking for interesting fan topics,
cool gatherings and much more!  Join us and have the time of your life this
Summer!²

Attendees can avoid the anticipated huge lines at autographs, premiere
screenings, workshops, main events, concerts and panels by purchasing a
Passport fast pass for the event.  The Passport fast pass will also provide
holders with premier seating options at Main Events and at Concert events as
well as major discounts with theme parks, retailers and local restaurants.
Bypass the lines and get your Passport today and experience the difference!

AM2 current activities include Exhibit Hall, AMV¹s, Arcade, Summer Festival,
Behind the Voice Actors Studio, Masquerade, Dances, Fashion Shows, Table
Top, Console Gaming, Workshops, Panels, Concerts and more!

Follow us on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/AM2Con

Follow us on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/AM2Con

AM2 ANNOUNCES THE FAN¹S OFFICIAL PASSPORT BENEFITS FOR 2012

AM2 ANNOUNCES THE FAN¹S OFFICIAL PASSPORT BENEFITS FOR 2012

Official Hotel Room Blocks Open and Special Passport and Hotel Room Block
Only Benefits and Discounts for this Summer¹s Most Anticipated Fan Event


LOS ANGELES, Calif. (February 8, 2012) ­AM2 (pronounced: ³A², ³M² ³Squared²;
June 15-17, 2012; Anaheim, CA at the Anaheim Convention Center and Anaheim
Hilton), is proud to announce the Official AM2 Passport benefits for 2012.
More info to come at www.am2con.org <http://www.am2con.org>

With prices starting at $20.00 (US), the AM2 Passport will have features
including an autograph section and an area in which Passport Holders can
obtain ³visiting² stamps (from participating exhibitors, events, activities,
panels, workshops, etc.) to win some amazing prizes.  In addition, Passport
holders will be able to obtain some fantastic benefits and unbelievable
discounts onsite and offsite including advanced entry to the AM2 Exhibit
Hall for all three (3) days, Premiere entrance/seating in all main events
(first come first serve basis), 40% off of Disneyland admission and other
theme parks including Knott's Berry Farm® Theme Park
<http://microsite.anaheimoc.org/partners/1368/knotts-berry-farm-theme-park>
, discounts at local restaurants and retailers including Buca di Beppo
Anaheim, Downtown Disney® District, House of Blues
<http://microsite.anaheimoc.org/partners/4239/downtown-disney-district-house
-of-blues> , Tony Roma¹s, stores in Downtown Disney and much more.  Also,
special events for Passport holders and AM2 Guests of Honors will be created
to bring the fans closer to our domestic and international attending guests.

AM2 representative Chase Wang states, ³We are so excited to be bringing the
AM2 Passport to our attendees and partnering up with so many Southern
California partners to bring more fun and value to our AM2 family!  There is
definitely more fun and more value with AM2!  Come join us and get your
Passport today!²

Onsite Benefits Include:
€               One hour advanced entry into the AM2 Exhibit Hall for all 3
days
€               Special discounts with participating Exhibit Hall exhibitors
€               15 game tokens for the Summer Festival
€               Premiere entrance/seating in all main events (first come
first serve basis)
€               Premiere/fast-line for autograph lines, panels and workshops
€               Special entry to private parties with select GoH's
€               Discount admission to the Animaid Café


A FULL list of all discounts can be found at
http://www.am2con.org/registration/am2passport/benefits

Attendees can avoid the anticipated huge lines at autographs, premiere
screenings, workshops, main events, concerts and panels by purchasing a
Passport fast pass for the event.  The Passport fast pass will also provide
holders with premier seating options at Main Events and at Concert events as
well as major discounts with theme parks, retailers and local restaurants.
Bypass the lines and get your Passport today and experience the difference!

AM2 current activities include Exhibit Hall, AMV¹s, Arcade, Summer Festival,
Behind the Voice Actors Studio, Masquerade, Dances, Fashion Shows, Table
Top, Console Gaming, Workshops, Panels, Concerts and more!

Follow us on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/AM2Con

Follow us on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/AM2Con

Screenwriter Tony Puryear Creates "Concrete Park for Dark Horse Presents

Screenwriter Tony Puryear Creates Concrete Park, Edgy Graphic Novel, for Dark Horse Comics

New sci-fi epic, written and drawn by Hollywood multitasker, appears in legendary anthology magazine Dark Horse Presents

Los Angeles, CA, February 8, 2012—Tony Puryear wrote the 1996 Arnold Schwarzenegger smash Eraser, becoming the first African American screenwriter to pen a $100 million summer blockbuster. He has written action and sci-fi scripts for a who’s who of Hollywood A listers, from Will Smith to Mel Gibson to Jerry Bruckheimer, and adapted storied sci-fi properties like Fahrenheit 451 and Buck Rogers for the big screen. Now he brings that Hollywood horsepower to the world of graphic novels.

Concrete Park, Tony Puryear’s first comics project, appears in Dark Horse Presents #8 from Dark Horse Comics, the premier independent comics publisher. “Concrete Park is a sprawling epic,” Puryear says. “It’s the sci-fi story I’ve been waiting to tell. It’s a perfect fit with Dark Horse Presents, the legendary anthology comic that served as a launch pad for innovative work by the biggest names in comics, including Frank Miller (Sin City, 300) and Mike Mignola (Hellboy). I’m honored to be in the company of these amazing world builders, and happy Mike Richardson of Dark Horse believes Concrete Park belongs with them.”

Richardson says, simply, “I love this strip.”

Concrete Park is a dark and provocative near-future story. It takes place in a turbulent mega-city on a distant desert planet (think Cairo or Rio in space). Young human exiles from Earth must fight to make a new world there. They are “young, violent and ten billion miles from home.” In its ambitious scope, it resembles nothing so much as George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series, but with favelas and aliens, cops and cyborgs, ghettos and gangs, instead of castles and armies.

Concrete Park was cocreated by Puryear and his wife, actress Erika Alexander (Living Single, Déjà Vu), and her brother, writer Robert Alexander. Puryear handles the writing and art chores on the book, and in a refreshing twist for someone known as a writer, it’s his art that has drawn the most initial acclaim. Read About Comics said, “[Puryear’s] art . . . instantly grabbed my attention. His thick, heavy inks are striking, forming his characters with a great deal of confidence and force. Through his art, you instantly get a feel for this near-future [city]; the swagger of his characters and their surroundings just bursts off of the page” (http://www.readaboutcomics.com/2012/01/02/dark-horse-presents-7/).

About Tony Puryear

Tony Puryear is the first African American screenwriter to write a $100 million summer movie blockbuster. His 1996 hit Eraser catapulted him into a career writing pictures for A listers Jerry Bruckheimer (Buck Rogers), Will Smith, and Oliver Stone. Puryear’s adaptation of the Ray Bradbury classic Fahrenheit 451 for Oscar-winning director Mel Gibson has circulated in Hollywood for years as a legendary unproduced script. His latest script is Lady Scarface for the new RKO Pictures.

A talented artist and designer, Puryear was recently honored when his official campaign poster for Hillary Clinton’s historic 2008 presidential run was added to the permanent collection of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Portrait Gallery.

He lives in Los Angeles with his wife, actress and Concrete Park cocreator Erika Alexander.

Your First Look At AVENGERS VS. X-MEN #1!

Your First Look At AVENGERS VS. X-MEN #1!

This April, prepare for the biggest super hero war in comics history as Marvel is pleased to present your first look at Avengers Vs. X-Men #1! From the powerhouse creative team of Brian Michael Bendis, Jason Aaron, Matt Fraction, Jonathan Hickman, Ed Brubaker, John Romita Jr., Adam Kubert and Olivier Copiel comes a groundbreaking event pitting Earth’s Mightiest against the X-Men with the entire Marvel Universe at stake. Cyclops and his team believe the arrival of the Phoenix Force will save mutantkind, but Captain America is convinced it will destroy the world! But who is right? Don’t miss out on all the action in Avengers Vs. X-Men #1 in comic shops worldwide and on the Marvel Comics app this April!

Which team will reign supreme? Join the conversation on Twitter with #AvX!

For more on Avengers VS X-Men, please visit http://avx.marvel.com

AVENGERS VS. X-MEN #1 (JAN120625)

Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS, JASON AARON, MATT FRACTION, JONATHAN HICKMAN, ED BRUBAKER

Art by JOHN ROMITA JR.

Colors by LAURA MARTIN

Cover by JIM CHEUNG

FOC – 2/27/12, ON SALE – 4/3/12

FANTASTIC FOUR: SEASON ONE - ON SALE NOW!

FANTASTIC FOUR: SEASON ONE - ON SALE NOW!

Today, witness the first adventure of the Fantastic Four in Fantastic Four: Season One, on sale now at comic shops across the country and in the Marvel Comics app! From the red-hot creative team of Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and David Marquez, fans can experience an all-new story modernizing the journey of Reed Richards, Susan Storm, Johnny Storm and Ben Grimm as they travel to the stars and return with fantastic, devastating results! Aimed at new and old readers alike; no fan can miss the must have graphic novel of 2012, complete with a free code for the digital copy in the Marvel Comics app, that will have everyone talking!

Whether you’re picking up a comic for the first time, or looking to add more to your comics reading experience, it’s time to discover the world’s greatest super hero team all over again in Fantastic Four: Season One, now available in comic shops everywhere and the Marvel Comics app!

FANTASTIC FOUR: SEASON ONE PREMIERE HC

Written by ROBERTO AGUIRRE-SACASA

Penciled by DAVID MARQUEZ

Cover by JULIAN TOTINO TEDESCO

136 PGS./Rated T+ …$24.99

ISBN: 978-0-7851-5641-3

ON SALE NOW!

L'ARC~EN~CIEL, to Release 12th Studio Album, "BUTTERFLY" on 2/8/12 Via iTunes

BUTTERFLY,² the long-awaited new album from one of the most celebrated Japanese rock bands, L¹Arc~en~Ciel, will be released in North America (U.S.), Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Mexico on Wednesday; February 8, 2012 via iTunes.  Described by Kerrang! as ³The biggest band you¹ve never heard of², L¹Arc~en~Ciel has sold over 40 million records and will also return to the U.S. in 2012, for the 2nd time in 20
years, on March 25th with a historic performance at New York¹s legendary
Madison Square Garden.

³BUTTERFLY² will include the band¹s 20th L¹Anniversary single ³X X X²
(ŒKiss, Kiss, Kiss¹) and ³CHASE², all six singles since 2008¹s including
³DRINK IT DOWN² as well as three new songs.

The album also includes hit song ³GOOD LUCK MY WAY² as featured in the movie
version of the iconic and highly popular anime full-length feature film,
FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST: THE STAR OF MILOS. This band¹s hit single ³READY STEADY
GO² was utilized in the soundtrack of original hit FULLMETAL ALCHEMIST
television series featured on Cartoon Network¹s Adult Swim.

L¹Arc-en-Ciel¹s lead singer, and occasional guitarist, hyde, has called this
³a monumental album, it¹s great that we can release the album just at the
right time.²

L¹Arc~en~Ciel Members
* hyde-vocals
* ken-guitar
* tetsuya-bass
* yukihiro-drums

L¹Arc~en~Ciel  BUTTERFLY Track list
1. CHASE
2. X X X
3. Bye Bye
4. GOOD LUCK MY WAY -BUTTERFLY Ver.-
5. BLESS
6. shade of season
7. DRINK IT DOWN
8. wild flower
9. SHINE
10. NEXUS 4
11. Mirai sekai

L¹Arc~en~Ciel will embark on their ³L¹Arc~en~Ciel WORLD TOUR 2012² this
March visiting Hong Kong, Bangkok, Shanghai, Taipei, New York, London,
Paris, Singapore, Jakarta and Seoul before concluding back in Japan. Tour
dates below.

L¹Arc~en~Ciel WORLD TOUR 2012 dates:
March 3rd               Asia World Expo Arena
Hong Kong, China
March 7th               Impact Arena
Bangkok, Thailand
March 10th               Mercedes-Benz Arena
Shanghai, China
March 17th               TWTC Nangang Exhibition Hall
Taipei, Taiwan
March 25th            Madison Square Garden
New York, New York
April 11th               indigO2
London, UK
April 14th               Le Zenith
Paris, France
April 28th       Singapore Indoor Stadium
Singapore, Singapore
May 2nd           Lapangan D Senayan
Jakarta, Indonesia
May 5th           Jamsil Gymnasium
Seoul, Korea
May 12th            Nissan Stadium
Yokohama, Japan
May 13th             Nissan Stadium
Yokohama, Japan
May 19th            Universal Studios Japan Open Air Special Stage
Osaka, Japan
May 20th            Universal Studios Japan Open Air Special Stage
Osaka, Japan

Final Fantasy XIII-2 OST Review

If there is one thing Final Fantasy is known for besides  it's unique story, memorable characters and cheesy moments is the music. With the new release Final Fantasy XIII-2 occupying the hearts of RPG fans around the world, we sat back and listen to the four disc OST for the game. Is the OST worthy of joining the ranks of Final Fantasy classics, or is this OST a flop.


One thing to say about Final Fantasy XIII-2 original soundtrack that it's very different from any Final Fantasy OST. Unlike other Final Fantasy original soundtracks, this one has three separate composers that contribute their own styles of music into the project. We have the return of Masashi Hamauzu who composed Final Fantasy XIII. New composers to the series is Naoshi Mizuta and Mitsuto Suzuki. With three different composers we get three different styles and apporaches to the soundtrack. Masashi Hamauzu mainly focuses on themes from the original series and characters from the original game, while Naoshi Mizuta focused mainly on the new characters. Finally Mitsuto Suzuki provided the techno, vocal songs and pop tracks. 


For the most part the soundtrack is good. The soundtracks is four discs in total and it strays away from the Final Fantasy sound that we're use too. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but not a good one for Final Fantasy purist. We get our classical tracks which I think stands out the most. Tracks like "Noel Theme" and "Recollection Of The Future" are nice piano tracks that will bring you into the world. The problem with some of the classical tracks is that it sounds uninspired, generic and didn't leave me with an epic feel. Some tracks sound so basic or boring that you really don't feel the music, it's not memorable and its easily forgotten. However where the soundtrack shines is the addition of vocal and techno tracks. The vocal tracks provided by Mitsuto Suzuki guidance really add a more lighter, sometimes darker tone to the soundtrack. The vocals songs are relaxing and shine best when the string solos come in. The techno tracks however not always a perfect fit in the Final Fantasy universe, makes sense in the futuristic world of Final Fantasy XIII-2. It captures the world, the people and the scenes fairly well.


Final Grade C+/7.5 - Final Fantasy XIII-2 OST has some outstanding tracks, but for the most part it's forgettable and sometimes boring. This is a decent departure from the style of music we're use too in Final Fantasy games, however sometimes going to left field can hurt. It's not bad, but it's not epic either. It's just okay. 

Ghostbusters Fanfiction: Chapter 2- The Trials

Ghostbusters FanFiction Chapter #2 – The Trials

After three days of highly anticipation, my day for the Ghostbusters Trials had begun. What did the heroes of New York have planned for me I wonder? I arrived at HQ about 12 PM to be debriefed on what my trials was going to be.

“Okay kid today is the day you prove to us if you have what it takes to be a Ghostbuster.” Ray said.

“The trial is very simple we have gather information on a haunting in Central Park. Residents in the area claimed to see a woman in a wedding dress, searching for her husband.  Reports have stated that she has a thing for younger men. This is where you come in junior.” Egon said.

“Wait so you want me to seduce a ghost?” I asked.

“No your job is take actual evidence of the ghost sighting and see if the ghost is hostile.  The ghost appears at Central Park at 3 AM.” Winston explained.

“Great just my luck the ghost will show at the time of the highest activity for demons, spirits and ghosts. So I assume you guys want me to capture the ghost, cool I would love some Proton Pack training.” I said.

“Not so fast junior, you will only be taking this with you.” Venkman said.

Venkman handed me what look like an ordinary HD camera.  He gives me that sarcastic smirk that I’m really starting to hate. I look at the camera, and examine it to see if there is anything special about it. However I couldn’t find anything really unique about this camera at all. What the hell did they want me to do, play Pokemon Snap with this ghost?

“What you have in your hand is our new PKE Camera. It’s has a built in radar similar to find ghost similar to PKE Meter, only you can take pictures of the ghost for full documentation. All we want you to do is get proof that the ghost is present. If possible engaged the subject and get more information.” Ray explained.

“What happens if the ghost is hostile? I have no protection?” I asked.

“You’ll be fine junior, now go get some rest and report back to us in the morning when you have the documentation.” Venkman said.

I went home and relax for the rest of the day.  The hours went by fast and I found myself at Central Park around 2:45 AM. How the hell was I supposed to find a ghost in Central Park? Do these guys even know how big Central Park is? If you know anything about New York City then you know, Central Park is not a  place you want to be at this late. Screw the ghost, the freaks running around is scary enough. I decided to walk around using my PKE Camera. The PKE Camera was actually a pretty good invention, all I have to do is scan the area and it points me into the direction of any paranormal activity. However as big as Central Park is, finding one particular ghost would be difficult. 

I decided that it will best to wait till 3 AM precisely to find this ghost.  I start walking around the park humming. It was strangely empty hardly any people were out here. Then again who in the hell would be in Central Park at this time except the exhibitionist and people coming home from a party. I walk around for 15 minutes and didn’t find anything. Then exactly at 3 AM my PKE Camera starts acting the up. The scanner radar pointed somewhere close. In fact the location was too close to me. I took out a flashlight from my backpack and follow the radar. I couldn’t really pinpoint the exact the location on the PKE Camera. It the radar kept beeping, closer and close until I heard a question in my ear.

"Have you seen my husband?"

The story continues in Chapter 3 - The Lonely Widow