V/H/S 2 Review

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In 2012 VHS was released and it was pretty good. It had a nice concept of a bunch of robbers watching a collection of tapes that have they own horror series. The movie was well received and naturally due its success a sequel was rushed into production. Is the sequel just as good as the first one? Or rushing the production did more damage than good?

 Story – If you’re not familiar with V/H/S story format I will explain it for you. The film starts off with the central story and characters who will be watching the tapes. In the first film we followed a bunch of robbers who were hired by an unknown source to retrieve some tapes that will be brought at top dollar. In the sequel we follow a pair of private investigators investigating a case of a disappearance of a young student. Once they enter the home of the student, they discover a pile of various videotapes which they hope will have some clues to the boy’s whereabouts. In pure V/H/S form these tapes are anything but normal. Each tape is a tale of horror written and produce by a different writer and director. Since this movie has a different storytelling format. I will review each tape one by one and then give an overall score of the movie.

 Tape 1: Clinical Trials Phase 1

 “Clinical Trials” follows a man who recently got eye surgery to repair the eye that he lost in a car accident. However the surgery he has undergone is one of the first ever. The eye replace has a camera place inside it for researching purposes. Everything the man does and I mean everything will be monitored by the doctor and his research team. As the man gets accustomed with his new eye, he is told by the doctor that it will contain some glitches but he shouldn’t worry. However the glitch in the new eye turns out to be having more harm than good, as he starts to see the paranormal in his home and around him. The story is a nice kick off to the concept of V/H/S, unfortunately “Clinical Trials” is very cliché and will remind horror fans of the horror movie “The Eye” the same concept, but executed poorly if we were to compare the two. Clinical Trials doesn’t really explain anything story-wise. Why are the paranormal after this guy? Why haven’t these souls move on? They introduce a girl who had a similar surgery as the protagonist, but she is not explained or flushed out enough for you to care. While the story is lacking it does succeed in a couple of jump scares. Clinical Trials provides some fairly intense scenes but it doesn't last as the ending will leave you with an this is it moment. Believe it or not this is one of the better shorts in this film.

 Tape 2: A Ride in the Park

 "A Ride in the Park" follows the story of a biker who encounters the beginning of the zombie apocalypse while on his regular routine ride. The story is told through the perspective of a zombie, which left it the story to appear boring, flat and something you won't get invested in. While it's nice to see the zombie apocalypse from the zombies eyes or a person that turned, it leaves you really not caring because you have no emotional connection with the character. Zombies don't feel anything, don't say anything so you can't really connect with them. This tape was the weakest out of the four and the least entertaining one.

 Tape 3: Safe Haven

 "Safe Haven" follows a news team documenting a cult group and their activity. This is the most disturbing, creepy, entertaining story in this entire movie. Safe Haven has it all, great performances, a creepy setting and enough backstory on characters for you to care about the fate of them. Personally there is nothing more scarier to me than a cult that is run by one man who claims he take his followers to the promise land. That is what you see in "Safe Haven." However while this might be the best and creepiest story in the entire movie, it does have one big problem that will take all reality it was going. The ending of this tape kind of ruins all the build up, the set up of that it was going for. It's one of those endings and twist that was executed so poorly that if it had a bigger budget it would've been forgiving, however it comes off as cheap and ridiculous and a better ending should have been written. 

 Tape 4: Slumber Party Alien Abduction

 "Slumber Party Alien Abduction" follows a group of teenage boys having a sleep over being watched by a sister and boyfriend. The teenage boys are prankster playing pranks, joking around on the sister and her boyfriend until they get unexpected visitors knocking on the door. This one is a pretty generic alien abduction   short, but it is done pretty well. The use of lights, sound and first person perspective turns generic to flat out good. There is a some creepy jump scares, especially involving in the water that will have you really intense. The characters are not developed enough, but however it's done well for you to hope that these kids will survive the night, this was the second best tape in the film.

 Acting - The acting is range from good to medicore. However with no real story or chance to develop characters it's hard for an actor to give they best performances. The acting is nothing memorable, and you can't expect Oscar caliber acting in a horror movie. The actors do what they can and for the most part they are convincing in their performances. 

 Music and Film-Making - Most of the films shorts are short from the first person perspective. You see everything through the character's eyes. For the most part it works very well and makes the jump scares more intense because it comes unexpectedly. The flaw of the first person perspective is sometimes the camera gets shaky in some shorts, which will make the film appear to be amateurish. It's not a bad thing but sometimes it takes away from the intensity of the moment.

 Final Thoughts - "V/H/S 2" could have been just as good as the first one if it wasn't rushed. Some of the endings of the shorts are totally going left wing from the original pace it started from, there are way too much use of zombies that are just thrown in there for the sake of having zombies. On the other side of the coin it provides a few scares, the "Safe Haven" story is a must watch and it is entertaining and doesn't over stay it's welcome.




Square Enix E3 2013 Lineup

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The announced E3 lineup for Square Enix was announced today. Check out below what Square Enix have in store for you this year.

Consoles and PC

FINAL FANTASY XIV: A Realm Reborn

FINAL FANTASY XIV: A Realm Reborn is the first massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) to have been completely rebuilt from the ground up with a focus on all systems, gameplay and player experience. FINAL FANTASY XIV: A Realm Reborn invites players to explore the realm of Eorzea with friends from around the world.

Platforms: PlayStation®3 system, Windows® PC
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
ESRB Rating: RP (Rating Pending)
Available: August 27

THIEF

THIEF is the reinvention of the classic franchise that allows players to take on the role of Garrett, the Master Thief. As the tide is about to turn in the City, Garrett, takes cover amidst the growing uprising and sneaks into the Baron’s manor to steal his most prized possession.

Platforms: PlayStation®4 system, Xbox One®, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, Windows PC
Developer: Eidos-Montréal (A Square Enix Company)
ESRB Rating: RP (Rating Pending)
Available: 2014

MURDERED: SOUL SUSPECT

The hardest case to solve is one’s own murder. Murdered: Soul Suspect takes players into a whole new realm of mystery where the case is personal and the clues just out of reach. When Ronan O’Connor, a detective with a checkered past, gets caught up in a violent burglary, his life is brought to an untimely end by a brutal and relentless killer. Shocked to find himself in the afterlife, his only escape from the limbo world of ‘Dusk’ is to uncover the truth behind his killer, track him down and bring him to justice using his detective instinct and newfound supernatural abilities.

Platforms: Xbox 360® games and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 system, Windows PC
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd. and Airtight Games
ESRB Rating: RP (Rating Pending)
Available: Early 2014

LIGHTNING RETURNS: FINAL FANTASY XIII

As Lightning, it is your mission to save souls so they may be brought to a new world. However, with only thirteen days remaining, not everyone can be saved.  Armed with all-new weapons, player customization and battle abilities, you are in a race against time to fully understand your destiny.  It all ends here.

Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation®3 system
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
ESRB Rating: RP (Rating Pending)
Available: February 11, 2014

KINGDOM HEARTS HD 1.5 ReMIX

Fully remastered in high-def, KINGDOM HEARTS HD 1.5 ReMIX is a compilation of the critically acclaimed KINGDOM HEARTS FINAL MIX and KINGDOM HEARTS Re:Chain of Memories titles. Players can now relive the origins of the celebrated franchise with Sora, Riku and the colorful cast of Disney characters, including Mickey, Donald and Goofy.

Platform: PlayStation®3 system
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
ESRB Rating: RP (Rating Pending)
Available: September 10

DEUS EX: HUMAN REVOLUTION® - DIRECTOR’S CUT

DEUS EX: HUMAN REVOLUTION - DIRECTOR’S CUT is the enhanced return to one of the most critically acclaimed video game franchises of all time. By offering players the chance to advance through the game in multiple and vastly different ways, DEUS EX: HUMAN REVOLUTION - DIRECTOR’S CUT provides an experience where every choice has a lasting consequence. Director’s Cut features include visual improvements, overhauled boss fights, reinforced combat mechanics and much more making it the ultimate HUMAN REVOLUTIONexperience.

Platform: Nintendo Wii U™
Developer: Eidos-Montréal (A Square Enix Company)
ESRB Rating: M (Mature)
Available: 2013

FINAL FANTASY X/X-2 HD Remaster

FINAL FANTASY X/X-2 HD Remaster takes players into the adventures of Tidus and Yuna in beautifully remastered high definition.

Platforms: PlayStation®3 system, PlayStation®Vita handheld entertainment system
ESRB Rating: RP (Rating Pending)
Available: 2013

 Mobile and Tablet

DEUS EX: THE FALL

DEUS EX: THE FALL is the next chapter of the award winning DEUS EX series. Developed by Square Enix Ltd. in collaboration with the original DEUS EX: HUMAN REVOLUTION team at Eidos-Montréal and N-Fusion, DEUS EX: THE FALL is a story driven action-RPG and the first DEUS EX in the series to be released on mobile and tablet devices.

Platform: iOS
Developer: Square Enix Ltd./ Eidos-Montréal/ N-Fusion
Available: Summer

MINI NINJAS®
Mini Ninjas is the first mobile and tablet game in the action adventure franchise.  Based on authentic ninja values, this beautiful, fast-paced game takes players on an epic journey, free from gruesome violence and high on Ninja fun. Hiro and his Mini Ninja friends run, jump and slash their way through spellbound lands to retrieve the stolen artefact from the dragon.

Platform: iOS, Android
Developer: Magic Pockets SAS
Available: Now


Top 10 Anime Couples

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Hey Otakus and Geeks readers, today we are going to look at a top 10 ranking formulated by fans and romantically themed, featuring their favorite lovey-dovey couples, who are either much loved or else loathed by those who challenge their claim…

 1. Shinichi Kudo and Ran Mouri (Detective Conan)
 

2. Kirito and Asuna (Sword Art Online)

3. Touma Kamijou and Mikoto Misaka ( A Certain Magical Index)

4. Koyomi Araragi and Hitagi Senjougahara (Bakemonogatari)

5. Syaoran Li and Sakura Kinomoto (Cardcaptor Sakura)

6. Ryuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka (Toradora) 

7. Kyosuke Kosaka and Kuroneko (Ore no Imouto) 
 
 8. Haru Yoshida and Shizuku Mizutani (Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun)
 
 9. Tomoya Okazaki and Nagisa Furukawa (Clannad)

10. Haruhi Suzumiya and Kyon  (The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya) 

So Guys and Girls, let us know if you agree or disagree or Who you think should have been in the ranking.


source: sankakucomplex.com 

aFRILLiations

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This past weekend, life got real ruffly, as we packed our bags of ruffles & bows and art wares to head to Atlanta, GA for FRILL, a rather newly created gathering convention for lolitas across the states. Scheduled to tattoo, I was able to fully serve my clients even into the start of the convention. After which, there was a major shift in my cute attitude as I got ready to register and set up for Artist Alley.


Here's a bit of my first Lolita convention MISS-Adventure, of the FRILL sorts.
About FRILL
Affrilliation INC. is an Atlanta based corporation dedicated to promoting the American lolita scene both locally in Atlanta, as well as in the United States at large. We are the parent organization behind Frill- A Lolita Convention, and the Anime Weekend Atlanta Pop-Up Lolita Boutique, in addition to our other local events. As we continue to grow, we hope to be able to share our events with other lolita communities around the country, and work to showcase American lolita culture.

The staff as whole was very pleasant, though I only got a chance to speak with Andrea Baker, Afrilliations's CFO, in detail. who is just a doll! Immediately and without hesitation, she takes me to her "office" for thoughts, feedback, and possible ideas for future growth of both the convention and Lolita communities. After exchanging information, we were sure to part ways with frilly warm feelings of wanting to get some things done. 

FRILL, in its second year, was held at the quaint Courtyard Marriott in downtown Decatur. It seemed to be a few under 300 attendees drifting through the halls, during the con's main days. However, that is an eye-balled guess-timate on my part. On the flip side, it was confirmed that at least 15 states were represented tis time around. GO FRILL!


Friday was the "unofficial" start to Frill. A bit late (UGH!) from tattooing and running errands early in the day, I arrived to the fashion walk right at picture time. All fashions welcomed, a great deal of various J-fashions were represented. The stroll continued through downtown Decatur to end less than a block away from the con's host venue. At the stroll's end, refreshments were waiting where we could hang around, eat sweets (almost ANY lolita's favorite past time), snap pics, and commune with locals in the neighborhood.
After which, the pool party happened. And much like Vegas, what happened at the pool party and thereafter, stays at the pool party. *a kee kee lee* Just kidding! All the ladies had a wonderful time splashing around in mermaid tails and kawaii swimsuits in a 4 ft. swimming pool. 

The Programming
Very simple, clean, and straight forward, offered a well-rounded program for varying interests in Lolita. From natural hair care, to beer tastings, genderbending in lolita, J-fashion influences, Taobao, to men's etiquette and cake decorating. There were even panels on how to assist a lolita and how to be a nerd. Unfortunately, I did not get the opportunity to do much in the realm of panels ... with the exception of the beer tasting. Now that was a treat!

The People
Frill attracted a mixed crowd in lolita experience and lifestyle. Hopefully in the coming years, we will see more lolitas with other J-style mash-ups there. Overall, however, most people were extremely kind. As we passed in hallways there would be a smile and nod or a simple greeting as we passed by each other on the streets. Unfortunately, I am pretty shy in person so I found it, personally, hard and awkward to meet other lolitas. So I do suppose I have something to work on. However, I'm quite positive that had I gone to the silly games workshop, I would have been able to break the ice a bit better. >.<
  

My Experience. My Last-word
FRILL, though small, but like most cons, can be very overwhelming and tickle the senses. It is just enough to keep you wanting to experience more. So by the time it is over I don't think a sad "I'll miss you" kinda feeling is unnatural. I attribute some of my being reserved to having traveled and worked a long week so I have no complaints. However, as a learning experience, I would definitely make a note to leave some breathing room between the two, since they are equally as intense in my life.

I, personally, strive to have better experiences in lolita, both in and outside of my communities. So I have taken a lot of notes on what I can do to improve my personal and inner lolita for such occasions. For the little things like that, I would not trade my experiences at FRILL for the world. I would highly encourage more lolitas, like me- shy and reserved in person, tending to stick to their own- to go and experience. Maybe next year we can all go together ;-D

More to come so please stay tuned!
Be sure to paint your days bright!
~je t'adore! =^.^=



Humble Bundle 8

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The Humble Bundle 8 has just been announced and for under $10 USD. You can get seven awesome indie games plus soundtracks.
The games include Dear Esther,  Thomas Was Alon,  Capsized,  Awesomenauts, Little Inferno, Proteus and the award winning  Hotline Miami. This is not the only time they have done this and will not be the last so remember to sign up for their email updates by going to there site https://www.humblebundle.com .

AKB48 plus HTN39 Now They Are Just Trolling Miku Fans

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AKB48 idol Haruka Shimazaki‘s efforts to emulate the virtual beauty of holographic princess Hatsune Miku with some rather unflattering makeup and cosplay have been less than well received by Miku fans, so much so that some have been given to wonder if it is not a deliberate ploy…

 Video:







source: Sankakucomplex.com

Sword Art Online DVD/Blu-Ray Release Dates Announced

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Recently at their panel at Anime Boston, Aniplex of America Inc. announced their release plans for the hit anime series Sword Art Online in North America: 4 volumes per format, Limited Edition Blu-ray Box Set and Standard Edition DVD. Release dates are as follows: 
Volume 1 – Aincrad Part 1 - August 13th 
Volume 2 – Aincrad Part 2 - September 17th 
Volume 3 – Fairy Dance Part 1 - October 15th 
Volume 4 – Fairy Dance Part 2 - November 19th 

 All SKUs will be available for pre-order and purchase through rightstuf.com and Aniplex’s official retailers (Aniplexusa.com/retailers) from May 28th . Each of the Limited Edition Blu-ray Box Sets will come with tons of bonus materials including Original Soundtrack CD (Vol.1 & 3) or Bonus DVD of English cast interviews (Vol.2 & 4), a deluxe 16 page booklet, illustration pin-ups as well as exclusive collectible card from Bushiroad. In addition, bonus contents on each Blu-ray discs will include audio commentary by creators and Japanese cast, Special Animation “Sword Art OFFline”, and more.


Pre-orders for all volumes begin today and can be ordered through Rightstuf and Official Retailers

Right Stuf:           Limited Edition Blu-ray Set Vol. 1: http://bit.ly/12gzPJS
DVD Set Vol. 1: http://bit.ly/12gzPJS

Official Retailers: http://www.AniplexUSA.com/retailers

Microsoft XBOX Next Gen Conference

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Hey Otakus and Geeks fans, Today Microsoft revealed their next gen console to the world. The XBOX ONE. The new console looks good, but is it going to be the the best Next Gen console out?
Lets look at the Xbox One's Specs:


A sleek, glossy black machine that appears to be close to the same size as the Xbox 360. The Kinect camera is a separate peripheral with a form factor similar to the new console’s and the same glossy black exterior. The console features voice controls for various functions via Kinect and integrated support for live TV switching.


 
Specs:



Microsoft has confirmed that the Xbox One has a beefed up set of specs to the tune of 5 billion transistors and 8GB of RAM, compared to the 360′s 500 million and 512MB. The console comes equipped with a Blu-ray drive, multiple USB 3.0 ports, and an 802.11n spec Wi-Fi receiver. The Kinect is significantly improved as well, with a 1080p camera that captures a wider field of view and more accurate sensors, to the point that they’ll be able to detect your heartbeat as you exercise.  



The new console has integrated support for Tv and Cable services, complete with Kinect-powered voice and motion controls. Switching from game to movie to live TV to a guide was shown to be a quick and seamless process during the presentation. Motion controls give users the ability to swipe between channels and back out from full screen mode.



Skype comes with the XBox One with group chat as an added feature. Microsoft has also partnered with the NFL and ESPN to give fans a more immersed sports experience. Daily updates and up to the minute stat changes for your fantasy League. As always Xbox will have exclusive and downloadable content first. The new console will have a Live Halo series directed by Steven Spielberg.



  


Interview With Jim Dirschberger (Co-Creator Of Sanjay & Craig)

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We had a chat with Jim Dirschberger one of the co creators of Nickelodeon's new show "Sanjay and Craig." We talk about how the show came about and many more. Sanjay and Craig premieres tomorrow May 25th at 10:30 A.M. Eastern/Pacific

OtakusandGeeks.com: How did the idea of Sanjay and Craig begin?

Jim Dirschberger: It all started with Jay Howell  in 2004. I met him in San Francisco and we were doing animation together in 2006 to 2009, we did a web series called "The Forest City Rockers" about a motorcycle gang. Then we got a email from Nickelodeon who saw our animation and we were really excited cause Jay and I are massive fans of Nickelodeon. However we had to think of what were going to pitch them, we couldn't pitch this motorcycle gang series, because it's not really for kids. So we went back to Jay's "Sanjay and Craig" and we realize this was  the one. At first we were searching for who is Sanjay, you look at other shows and the kids usually have occupations, or a title we just wanted him to be a kid. 

OtakusandGeeks.com: What are some the challenges of putting the show together storylines since it's a comedy?

Jim Dirschberger: I think at first is trying to find your voice. Will be dialogue based, gag based or goofy slapstick based, the challenge was trying to find the balance between them all. We didn't want to close any doors so we can still have creative dialogue and we can turn to Craig who can bend, stretch and bring that physical comedy element. 

Trailer

OtakusandGeeks.com: Based on the clip show there seems to be a little competition from the main characters for the affection of a pretty girl. Can you tell us a little more about that?

Jim Dirschberger: Belle Pepper works at the arcade where Sanjay and Craig hangs out. Craig is a little smoother when it comes to Belle and Sanjay comes off a little awkward. 

OtakusandGeeks.com: Any characters that are a reflections of yourself?

Jim Dirschberger: Everyone says Jay is more Craig and I' am more Sanjay. We based a lot of characters on our lives. Sanjay mother is a nurse, and my mother is a nurse. One thing we use to bond over is she will get home from night shift and will tell me some of the most grotesque stories like, "You'll never believe what happen to day a guy had an infected eyeball." Sanjay mother is similar in some ways. I think it's another way of keeping it grounded and unique.

OtakusandGeeks.com: Do you have a character that you personally love?

Jim Dirschberger: We have a character that is a wash up actor. All the kids look up to him. It's something to see.







Con Survival

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Since the team is planning on going to so many con-adventures, Nerdist on Youtube, run by Chris Hardwick, have a segment on their channel called Jus Cos. Its about cosplayers at conventions and people talk about experiences and other stuff. Well this segment is about surviving conventions which is important especially in the summer. Justin and I did a list before but its nice to hear it from other people as well. Here you go and enjoy going to conventions. Be safe and have fun. Cons Rule!!!!!!!!!!!!!!




Japan Film Festival Of San Francisco

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The 2013 J-POP Summit Festival, the popular yearly San Francisco summertime Japanese Pop Culture celebration, has announced the launch of the Japan Film Festival of San Francisco, the first fully-dedicated annual Japanese film event for Northern California and the S.F. Bay Area. 
The week-long Japan Film Festival of San Francisco will take place at the NEW PEOPLE Cinema beginning Saturday, July 27th through Sunday August 4th. The festival will also be a prominent feature of the 2013 J-POP Summit Festival, taking place across Japantown on Saturday and Sunday, July 27th and 28th. A complete schedule and advance ticket information is available on www.jffsf.org. 

 Tickets are $13.00 per film unless otherwise indicated. NEW PEOPLE Cinema is located at 1746 Post St. (cross street is Webster St.) in the heart of San Francisco’s Japantown. 

 Nine live-action films representing a vivid cross-section of the best in recent Japanese cinema will have their exclusive U.S. and/or San Francisco premiere at NEW PEOPLE. The Japan Film Festival of San Francisco will complement this press release in coming days with a subsequent announcement detailing an exciting slate of anime feature films also set to receive their U.S. and/or San Francisco premieres.
Live-action films include director Miwa Nishikawa’s Dreams for Sale, Sakuran director Mika Ninagawa's Helter Skelter, Sion Sono's award-winning masterpiece, Himizu, architect/author Kyohei Sakaguchi’s documentary, How To Build a Mobile House, director Takashi Miike’s Lesson of The Evil, director Shinsuke Sato’s Library Wars, actor Kazunari Ninomiya’s Platinum Data, the samurai adventure of Rurouni Kenshin, and Space Battleship Yamato, based on one of Japan’s greatest anime properties (known in the U.S. as Star Blazers) and a must-see for any sci-fi aficionado. Films will be presented with their original Japanese dialogue with English subtitles.

 The Japan Film Festival of San Francisco is also honored to welcome Director Shinsuke Sato, who is also known for his 2011 blockbuster, GANTZ, for a special in-person appearance for the exclusive U.S. premiere of his newest film, Library Wars. Sato will participate in a special Q&A session with the NEW PEOPLE Cinema audience and also appear as a Guest of Honor during the 2013 J-POP Summit Festival.  

The Japan Film Festival of San Francisco is presented in conjunction with the 2013 J-POP Summit, taking place Saturday July 27th and Sunday July 28th across the city’s historic Japantown district to celebrate the phenomenon of Japanese pop culture with a colorful array of live bands and artists, panel discussions, film premieres, edgy fashion shows and DJ dance events, celebrity appearances and more. The J-POP Summit Festival is hosted and organized by NEW PEOPLE in cooperation with the Japantown Merchants Association. In 2012, the two-day event attracted nearly 65,000 attendees. More information is available at www.J-POP.com.

 Japan Film Festival of San Francisco Live-Action Program:

 DREAMS FOR SALE - S.F. PREMIERE!!!
Saturday, July 27th, 7:00pm
Written and directed by Miwa Nishikawa, who’s SWAY and Dear Doctor were screened at numerous film festivals around the world, Dreams for Sale is a richly evocative drama about a couple that lose everything in a fire and attempt to make a fresh start by swindling others. Wife Satoko (Takako Matsu) and her husband Kanya (Sadawo Abe) run a small eatery in a corner of Tokyo, but on the 5th anniversary of its opening, a fire erupts in the kitchen and burns the place to a cinder. In desperate need of cash, Satoko and Kanya embark on a hilarious and heartwarming marriage scam in an attempt to put their lives back on track.



HELTER SKELTER - S.F. PREMIERE!!!
Saturday, August 3rd, 4:20pm 
Sakuran director Mika Ninagawa's live-action adaptation of the eponymous shojo manga by Kyoko Okazaki utilizes brilliantly colored visuals to depict the descent of an outwardly perfect but inwardly unstable star that reigns over the entertainment world. Top model Liliko (Erika Sawajiri) captivates the public with her beauty that is the envy of all who look upon her. However, her appearance has been entirely engineered through plastic surgery. Complications arise from the numerous operations and begin to eat away at Liliko both physically and psychologically, sending her into a downward spiral.

HIMIZU - S.F. PREMIERE!!!
Sunday, August 4th, 1:10pm
Sion Sono's award-winning masterpiece is based on Minoru Furuya's manga "Himizu,” named for a species of a Japanese mole. Set after the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, all 14-year-old Yuichi Sumida (Shota Sometani) wants is to live a decent life. But his environment keeps dragging him into the mud. Keiko Chazawa (Fumi Nikaido), a classmate of Yuichi, harbors a severe crush on him and sticks around despite being berated by him. One day, the yakuza comes by Yuichi's home and tells him to pay off his father's debt. Yuichi already heartbroken by his mother's abandonment and abuse from his father nears a tipping point. A string of incidents occurs that brings Yuichi's world to a screeching halt. Is there light at the end of the tunnel?
HOW TO BUILD A MOBILE HOUSE - U.S. PREMIERE!!!
Saturday, July 27th, 1:30pm 
With the appearance of the famous "Zero Yen" architect, Kyohei Sakaguchi, the documentary, How to Build a Mobile House, makes its U.S. premiere in his favorite city, San Francisco!  Screening attendees will also be invited to his free workshop to build a Mobile Green House with him during the J-POP Summit Festival. Kyohei's numerous books include "Tokyo Zero Yen House, Zero Yen Life,” inspired by the exuberant creativity of street dwellers. This documentary delves into the roots of dwelling, and living, through the unique activities of this architect who "does not build." Sakaguchi, who devised a nest-like abode that fits the size of the human body, apprentices himself to a Tama River Robinson Crusoe who actually lives on a riverbed. The film depicts the completion of a mobile house for only $260.00 in materials.

LESSON OF THE EVIL – S.F. PREMIERE!!!
Saturday, July 27th, 4:20pm & Tuesday, July 30th, 7:00pm 
Directed by Takashi Miike, Lesson of the Evil is a twisted psycho thriller based on a bestseller novel by Yusuke Kishi. Hasumi is a popular teacher among students at Shinko Academy, a private high school, and well respected by the faculty and the PTA. However, a student named Reika feels something menacing lurking beneath his shining reputation. While Hasumi brilliantly solves one problem after another, from a teacher-student sexual harassment to group cheating to bulling, he starts to take control of the school. As the problems go away, Reika becomes uneasy about the way they are solved. Tsurii, an unpopular teacher in the school, despises the popular Hasumi and starts investigating Hasumi's past and discovers that Hasumi is a real psycho.
LIBRARY WARS - U.S. PREMIERE!!!
Friday, August 2nd, 7:00pm & Saturday, August 3rd, 1:10pm 
** Featuring special in-person appearance by Director Shinsuke Sato
Library Wars is based on the bestselling novel and manga series by Hiro Arikawa. Set in the year 2019 in Japan, a new law is passed to crack down on free expression, which allows for the government to create an armed force to find and destroy objectionable printed material. Meanwhile, to oppose this oppressive crackdown, the Library Force is created. The Library Force includes instructor Atsushi Dojo (Junichi Okada) and Iku Kasahara (Nana Eikura), who work to protect the libraries. A fierce battle soon ensues between these two groups.

 PLATNUM DATA - U.S. PREMIERE!!!
Thursday, August 1st, 7:00pm & Saturday, August 3rd, 7:00pm
J-Pop artist Kazunari Ninomiya (Gantz, Oscar –nominated for Letters from Iwo Jima), stars in Platinum Data, the biggest film to be released n Japan in 2013 and directed by Keishi Ohtomo (Rurouni Kenshin). Ryuheo Kagura (Kazunari Ninomiya) is an exceptional scientist working at the National Police Agency's Special Analysis Research Institute. After solving series of complex criminal cases, he is assigned to investigate the murders of several people connected to the newly developed DNA forensics. Yet, when the faint trace of evidence left at the scene is analyzed through the DNA forensic system, it identifies himself as the offender. With no such memory, he decides to flee and the pursuer becomes the pursued. Is Kagura guilty or innocent? Should he trust in science, or in himself? Does he represent hope for humanity or despair? Platinum Data holds the key…

 RUROUNI KENSHIN - S.F. PREMIERE!!!
Sunday, July 28th, 6:30pm & Thursday, August 1st, 4:00pm
A new live-action film adaptation of creator Nobuhiro Watsuki 's samurai manga that has sold over 57 million copies, been translated in 23 countries, and also inspired a popular animated series. Rurouni Kenshin follows the adventures of a slight and mild-mannered young man who was once an assassin working for anti-Shogunate forces but vows to abandon killing following Meiji revolution in Japan, and devotes his sword-wielding talents to helping others. 

 SPACE BATTLESHIP YAMATO – WEST COAST PREMIERE!!!
Sunday, August 4th, 3:20pm
A stunning live-action adaptation of the famed space opera originally created by Leiji Matsumoto that laid the foundation for the entire Japanese science fiction anime genre. A brave young crew journeys into space on a fateful trip to save the human race as it teeters on the brink of extinction. Five years have passed since the alien Gamilas first began assaulting Earth with radiation bombs in 2194. Most of the human race is now gone. Susumu Kodai (Takuya Kimura) joins other survivors of the Earth Defense Force in the mighty Space Battleship Yamato in search of a device that can restore the devastated planet. Although director Takashi Yamazaki first gained prominence with his heartwarming film, Always: Sunset on Third Street, his background is in science fiction and his talents for VFX shine in this acclaimed film based on one of Japan’s greatest sci-fi properties. 

 NEW PEOPLE Cinema is a 143-seat cinema located in the underground floor of NEW PEOPLE in San Francisco. Equipped with a cutting-edge HD digital projection and THX®-certified sound system, NEW PEOPLE Cinema is home for local film festivals and entertaining events. www.newpeoplecinema.com

VIZ Media Delivers Latest Novel In Vampire Hunter D Sage With Noble V: Greylancer

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VIZ Media’s Haikasoru literary imprint delivers a bloodthirsty new chapter of the legendary Vampire Hunter D saga with the North American release of NOBLE V: GREYLANCER, now available in stores. The new fantasy novel by Hideyuki Kikuchi, carries an MSRP of $14.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN. The release also includes a bonus novelette titled, "An Irreplaceable Existence.” An eBook edition is also available for the Amazon Kindle, Apple’s iBooks Store, and the Barnes & Noble’s Nook Books Store.

 Haikasoru publishes some of the most compelling contemporary Japanese science fiction and fantasy stories for English-speaking audiences, and is the first imprint based in the U.S. dedicated to Japanese science fiction and fantasy in translation.

 Internationally acclaimed writer, Hideyuki Kikuchi, author and creator of the famed novel series, Vampire Hunter D, delves into the past with his latest addition, NOBLE V: GREYLANCER, It is the year 7000 by Noble reckoning, and the vampire rulers of the world have grown complacent. When the Outer Space Beings (OSBs) invade, the Noble warrior Greylancer must pit his skills and magic against the technology of the OSBs, quash an anti-Noble rebellion, and, when he is critically injured, turn to mere humans for help. The Three Thousand Year War of Vampire Hunter D begins here!

 “Hideyuki Kikuchi is one of Japan's top horror and science fiction authors in the proud tradition of Robert Bloch, Fritz Leiber, H.P. Lovecraft, and Stephen King. His Vampire Hunter D setting has been attracting fans in the U.S. for more than twenty years,” says Nick Mamatas, Haikasoru’s editor. “NOBLE V: GREYLANCER reveals the mysterious history of the Nobility and follows the exploits of the powerful Noble warrior Greylancer as pushes his own immortality to the limit. Kikuchi is an ardent fan of many classic horror tropes, and his new novel exquisitely combines the danger and violence of traditional literary vampires with the nobility and dark attraction of modern vampire iconography.”

 Hideyuki Kikuchi was born in 1949 in Chiba, Japan and, inspired by the work of writers such as H. P. Lovecraft, began writing supernatural fiction in the early 1980s. His first novel, Demon City Shinjuku, debuted in 1982. Horror films, most notably 1958’s The Horror of Dracula, had a tremendous impact on Kikuchi and inspired him to create the legendary Vampire Hunter D series, which has spawned more than 17 novels and a host of novellas and related short stories. One of the world’s most prolific authors, Kikuchi has published over three hundred books and still produces multiple novels per year. He has enjoyed tremendous international success as a novelist and much of his work has been also been adapted into manga and anime, including Vampire Hunter D. Wicked City, A Wind Named Amnesia, and Dark Wars: The Tale of Meiji Dracula.

Minecraft Grieferman (PSY "Gentleman"Parody) Mashup

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PSY meets Minecraft in this music video parody by Stage 5 TV. Set to their version of PSY’s massive viral hit “Gentlemen” and using Minecraft “machinima” style graphics check out the pardoy below. Minecraft PSY even does a little Gangnam style. The parody was written by Andrew Volpe, former lead singer of the band Ludo with game capture, editing and post provided by members of the Stage 5 team. For more parody from Stage 5 TV visit http://www.youtube.com/user/stagefivetv.



HOW TO ... Afford LOLITA

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But I have limited income. 
I can't afford my dream dress. 
I don't know how to shop. 
But I'm in college and trying to lolita on a budget.

You guys are so pretty. I wish I could afford ...

LOLITA.

This list goes on and on. I am sure we have all been in this boat about something and Lolita, being a luxury fashion, is no different. So here are some tips and how-to's for letting go of excuses and getting into Lolita.

Brand vs. Off-Brand

Everyone wants to look like a doll baby and sometimes you just don't have doll baby prices. Personally, I just don't commit to shopping that often and enjoy quick fixes in bulk. Whatever your reason, off brand is a great way to get started. Just because it's generally labeled off-brand doesn't always mean cheap quality. However, it can mean kinder prices.

A great go-to for some off-brand experimentation is Bodyline. I am proud to say, as an in real life (IRL) Lolita, about 85% of my closet is Bodyline and I absolutely love it. It affords me time and money to experiment with my Lolita, become more expressive, and find what styles I would enjoy investing in, further, brand-wise.

In the years that I have been shopping Bodyline, I must say that there quality is on a come up to compete with brand. However, a fair warning is that their panniers and petticoats aren't great at all. They just aren't fluffy enough and die within minutes of wearing them. So if you're looking for that inexpensive perfect poof, they are NOT the way to go. In sizing, sometimes, Bodyline can be trial and error. You'll probably find that mostly in shoes but no fear! All Lolis need shoes, so they are generally easy to resell within communities (pending style and size, of course) so that you can re-up and get what you need.

For petticoats, I would suggest Fan Plus Friend. While you're there, you may find some nifty replica styles and other do-dads for Lolita styles. They are especially great if you are into Gothic and old-school Lolita. But if you're sweet you may be in for a hunt to find some items. A fair warning about their items, hwoever, would be that some of there items do look costume-y and can become very ita very fast. So, easy doest it and take time planning coords with Fan Plus Friend.

Buying Replicas and Second-hand

Eventually, brand is inevitable. It's not a bad thing. In fact, in all of my years, I am recently opening up to acquire a bit of burando myself. Some prints are simply pleasing to my eye so I have to suck it up and join the masses. To be kinder to my pockets, though, the Live Journal EGL Sales Community has become my friend.

With overseas shopping always on my mind, I am starting to become more familiar with shopping services to navigate places like Taobao and Closet Child. Then there's Oo Jia for some replica customizing goodness.

Unfortunately, I have yet to shop these suggestions. So I don't have much input ... YET! But give me time and I'll be sure to share my experience. However, these suggestions come highly recommended so I'm positive I'm not steering you wrong.

No matter which way you rock in Lolita, though, hands down, you HAVE TO SAVE! I really cannot stress that enough. Pennies and other change count, too. So grab a jar, start a Lolita fund, and hit up your nearest Coinstar to change your change into bills before shopping. But there's absolutely no way around that fact.

The Dollar vs. The Yen

The dollar is stronger now. Why is that great you ask? Easy! Easier conversions and less dollars spent. No matter where you shop, if there is an option to pay in JPY over USD, you'd better choose JPY. If you don't believe me, do the math! You may not be saving a great deal on orders, but if you 'bout dat life, every little bit counts!

Until next time
~je t'adore!

BlazBlue Gets TV Anime

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Even as GG introduces UE, BB is heading in the opposite direction with TV in the form of a full TV anime adaptation, to the general relief of fans – most of whom seem prepared to overlook the generally abysmal fate of fighting game to anime adaptations.

Boasting staff involved in the production of such classics as To Aru Majutsu no Index and FMA, and the studio behind such classics as Seiken no Qwaser, Manyuu and Nazo no Kanojo X, the series certainly looks to enjoy a mixed pedigree and is scheduled for an autumn 2013 broadcast.

source: Sankakucomplex.com


One Piece Cancelled Again as Eiichiro Oda Hospitalized

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One Piece mangaka Eiichiro Oda hospitalisation with a tonsil infection has caused the cancellation of at least two One Piece instalments, alarming many fans yet again.
According to Shonen Jump’s editorial announcement, volume 26 and 27 of Weekly Jump will be missing One Piece due to his hospitalisation.
Jump also clarified that he is suffering from a peritonsillar abscess, not simple tonsillitis as their print announcement stated.
Amongst Shonen Jump readers, in addition to worry for “workaholic” Oda himself, there has been the usual concern at both the fate of One Piece and the reliance of the magazine on its colossal success – and the effect any extended One Piece hiatus could have on the magazine.

source: Sankaku complex.com