Star Wars Rebels: Meet Hera

Hera is voiced by Vanessa Marshall, and is an especially gifted pilot. “I think she really makes flying the Ghost look easy,” says Joel Aron, CG supervisor. And while she’s strong-willed, Hera also keeps the group together, and can be warm and nurturing. “She knows how to talk to them to get the best out of themselves and to be part of that team,” Aron says. “That to me is the commander of a ship.” 

Hera wears “utilitarian flight gear,” orange in color, with her Twi’lek head-tails hanging down her back. She’s not particularly glamorous, and is just focused on getting the job done. Like every member of the Ghost team, she has her reasons for rebelling against the Empire. Uncovering those reasons will be part of the Star Wars Rebels story, says executive producer Dave Filoni. 

“Every time we get a script,” says Marshall, “I am breathless with anticipation. I cannot wait to read what’s next because I want to see where we’re going, too.” Star Wars Rebels is scheduled to premiere in fall 2014 as a one-hour special telecast on Disney Channel and will be followed by a series on Disney XD channels around the world.


SCI-FI ANIME SERIES "K" AS FIRST-EVER DVD/BLU-RAY COMBO PACK

K the 13-episode series is rated ‘TV-14’ and will debut as a 4-Disc Limited Edition Blu-ray/DVD combo pack with an MSRP of $69.99 US/CAN. The standard edition 2-disc DVD edition will be offered at an MSRP of $44.82 US/CAN. An extensive collection of bonus material also makes this release a must-see for anime fans.
 
K introduces viewers to Shiro, an easygoing teenager content with just being a student – until his seemingly perfect life is suddenly halted when a bloodthirsty clan, glowing red with fire, attempts to kill him in the streets. Unbeknownst to Shiro, he is suspected of murdering a member of their clan and will need a miracle to escape their vengeance. Miraculously, a young man named Kuroh Yatogami swings in and aids Shiro in his getaway, only to reveal afterward he's also after Shiro's life. Now a hunted man, Shiro will have to evade the clans of seven powerful kings and desperately try to prove his innocence – before it’s too late!
 
The K Blu-ray/DVD combo pack comes packaged in a luxurious collectible specialty print chipboard box containing a full-color 80 page premium art booklet containing individual episode synopses, character profiles, poster art, translated song lyrics. Additional Limited Edition combo pack extras include: VIZ Presents an Interview with KANAME☆, an insightful segment with one of Japan’s most popular professional cosplayers during his first-ever U.S. guest appearance to celebrate the debut of K at Anime Expo in Los Angeles in 2013; a KANAME☆ as Fushimi Photo Gallery; special K Day Events and convention highlights from Anime Expo including the VIZ Media K panel with cast, staff and special guests; exclusive English cast and crew interviews; the series’ original Japanese and English trailers; and clean opening and ending segments (with English translated and subtitled options), next episode previews and more. A special bonus gift of exclusive full-color K stickers is also available with purchase from select anime retailers including Robert’s Anime Corner and the Right Stuf.
 
“K debuts as VIZ Media’s first-ever Limited Edition Blu-ray/DVD combo pack title, and with its multilayered story, engaging characters, and beautifully rendered animation, this series is guaranteed to delight anime fans across North America,” says Charlene Ingram, VIZ Media Senior Manager, Animation Marketing. “We’ve also packed this release with an array of fun extras that will give viewers the chance to dive into the amazing world of K even more. Don’t miss the release of this kinetic action-filled drama debuting this month!”


Gangsta Vol 1 (Manga Review)

Title - Gangsta: Volume 1
Author - Kohske
Illustrator - Kohske
Pages - 181


Story - In the city of Ergastulum, a shady ville filled with made men and petty thieves, whores on the make and cops on the take, there are some deeds too dirty for even its jaded inhabitants to touch. Enter the “Handymen,” Nic and Worrick, who take care of the jobs no one else will handle. Until the day when a cop they know on the force requests their help in taking down a new gang muscling in on the territory of a top Mafia family. It seems like business (and mayhem) as usual, but the Handymen are about to find that this job is a lot more than they bargained for.

The first volume of "Gangsta" is one hell of an introduction into the city of Ergastulum. The two main characters Nic and Worrick are great for the main protagonist. The mystery between the characters backstories is what kept me reading. Nic is the quiet one out of the two. He doesn't speak unless he has too or has something important to say. Add another interesting fact about Nic is the fact that he is deaf. How did Nic became deaf? How he became so skilled with the sword? What happen to in his childhood? These questions are not yet explained, but it really makes you want to read the next volume. Nic's partner in crime Worrick is the exact opposite of him. Worrick is not only the brains of the operation but I found him to be more intriquing. Worrick life decisions of being a giglo made me question what lead him to that path? How did he get caught up in that line of work? There is no mistake that the revealing of the characters origins will be the focal point of this manga.

The manga exceeds in developing the characters. It also does a great job on the story. The story starts off like any typical crime story, however this one has a little twist to it. Not everything is what it seems in Ergastulum and for the sake of spoilers I won't say anything else. I will say that Kohske leaves the realm of realism and enters a little of fantasy that is refreshing in a crime story. Great plot, great characterization and the support cast is just as entertaining as the main cast.

Art - Gangsta looks spectacular from the first page to the last. There is a lot of close up shots on the characters. The close up's really bring the emotion of the characters on the page. The action is well thought out and adds more heart to the story. The highlight of the art work is the fight between Nic and one of the gang members they encounter. 



Final Grade - 9.0/ A-: Gangsta is a manga that you should check out. It has a fresh plot, great characters with a back stories you want to know about. The support characters are just as great as the main characters, and it has some great action. 

Star Wars Rebels: Meet Sabine

Another day and another character reveal for "Star Wars Rebels."Sabine is a key member of the Ghost crew in Star Wars Rebels. As seen in this special video, featuring early design concepts, animation tests, and final art, Sabine is unlike any Star Warscharacter – especially in her love for blowing things up and tagging her work with graffiti. Dave Filoni, executive producer of the animated series, discloses that Sabine is a Mandalorian. She has a great understanding of weapons and combat like few others, and has turned against the Empire. “She is spunky, she’s feisty, she’s got a little bit of attitude,” says actress Tiya Sircar, who is voicing the character. Additionally, Sabine is an artist, which is reflected in her hair, personalized armor, and graffiti calling cards. After the Ghost crew hits the Empire, Sabine makes sure the Empire knows who did it. Concept artist Amy Beth Christenson says that the Star Wars Rebels animation team has created a library of graffiti tags for Sabine, and is constantly adding to it. In the end, Sabine is a strong, no-nonsense heroine. As Sircar says, “I think she’s kind of an inspiration.” Star Wars Rebels is scheduled to premiere in fall 2014 as a one-hour special telecast on Disney Channel and will be followed by a series on Disney XD channels around the world.


Star Wars Rebels: Meet Zeb

Disney and Lucasfilm has release another character look at the upcoming show "Star Wars: Rebels." This time is the muscle of the group Zeb. Zeb is a well-trained honor guard and is highly educated, according to executive producer Dave Filoni, which juxtaposes his brutish, alien appearance. He’s voiced by Steve Blum, who says, “He’s got a bit of a chip on his shoulder, hates Chopper and is starting to build a relationship with Ezra, begrudgingly.” Zeb’s favorite pastime: beating up Stormtroopers, or bucket heads, as he’s heard calling them. He’s an agile fighter, using his hands, feet, and acrobatics. But there is more to Zeb than pounding Imperials. “It’s just going to be exciting to develop him and his bizarre new species,” says Filoni, “and to explain to the audience where he came from.”





Breadwinners Series Premiere Review

Nickelodeon latest addition to it's already impressive catalog of cartoons made it's debut last night. The new addition to the Nickelodeon family is "Breadwinners." The story follows two best friends SwaySway and Buhdeuce who fly a rocket van and deliver bread to customers. The series premiere was pretty cool. SwaySway and Buhdeuce are on a work route to clear out the inventory in their van. While on route they get a call for a delivery in the worst part of Ducktown. This is were the series premiere shine. SwaySway and Buhdeuce are stuck in the worst part of town when their van breaks down. They encounter a gang of biker ducks and must find a way to escape. Without giving any more details on the plot, SwaySway and Buhdeuce find a unique way to escape.

The show overall is something for everyone. Children both boys and girls will gravitate towards the main characters and musical numbers. Adults will enjoy some of the jokes that is cleverly place in there. Breadwinners is a winner and it's going to be interesting to see where SwaySway and Buhdeuce head to next. The show has something for everyone from comedy, musical numbers, characters putting themselves in sticky situations it's a fun show. The animation is good and it reminds you of the old school style of Nickelodeon cartoons. A mix of animation and real life elements make this cartoon unique. The first episode was entertaining and I will definately check in on the next installment. Cool story, great characters and the voice acting is really top notch. This is a show you might want to check out.


COLOR CABLEST: The Glow in the Dark Charger and Sync Cables.

COLOR CABLES™ are designed with the user in mind. COLOR CABLES™’ unique concept makes them incredibly resistant to wear and tear and prevents them from tangling. And they Glow in the Dark.
More than half-a-billion devices using the 30-Pin Dock have been sold worldwide. Now 1 in every 5 people owns a smart phone. We believe a better charge & sync cable can connect those devices with style and unparalleled simplicity. COLOR CABLES™ is the last cable your device will ever need.
Features
·Glow in the Dark: Infused with photo-luminescence that gives them a renewable glow and keeps them easy to find and identify which cable is connected to what.
·Easy Connection: A thumb groove indicates the correct position of the cable making it easy to plug in
·Extra Strong and Tough: Reinforced from tip to tail and created with a soft gummy texture that makes the cables extra rugged. It will be the last cable you will ever need to buy.
·Multiple Colors: Our cables are offered in seven different colors: blue, red, orange, green, purple, grey and pink. All colors glow in the Dark!

Heartbreaking Breakups In Anime

It's Valentines Day the day of love and affection and a lot of money spending. I wanted to do something different this year. Instead highlighting the moments that make you go aww that's so sweet. I wanted share some of the heartbreaking breakups in Anime. Let's check out a few couples that didn't make it, or broke up and got back together. Spoiler warning this contains spoilers of moments in the shows.

Krillin & Maron (Dragonball Z)

Krillin hasn't been lucky in the love department in DBZ until the end of the Android Saga. One of Krillin's most notable girlfriends Krillin has had is Maron. Maron was ditzy, simple minded and she was a golddigger. However Krillin had strong feelings for her and even went to great lengths to see that she was happy. He went on a underwater quest to get a pearl to propose to her. However on that quest he realize that Maron wasn't the one and he had to break up with her. While the break up was a sigh of relief from the Z warriors who didn't like Maron. Krillin's pain can be seen in the final scene of the episode of "Krillin's Proposal" where he hides his pain through laughter. That last scene is still one of the most heartbreaking moments in DBZ for me. Check out the video below. Don't feel bad for Krillin because he ends up with Android 18.


Kyoichi & Chiharu (Boys Be...)

For many people the biggest cause of break up is cheating. Cheating is what happen with Chiharu and Kyoichi on the show "Boys Be...". Chiharu was feeling insecure about herself and really needed someone there for her. Unfortunately Kyoichi wasn't around or didn't really express his concern for Chiharu's worries. Chiharu meets a guy who help her through her tough time while on a trip and ends up kissing him good night. After the kiss it's reveal Kyoichi witness the whole thing and the rest was history. This was one of the most shocking moments in the show.

Allen & Marie (Windaria)
Sometimes a breakup can happen and it's no one to fault. In "Windaria" Allen & Marie would be describe as a perfect match.The two characters have great chemistry, married and truly love each other. However Allen did something unforgivable when he released a value drowing people in his homeland killing everyone. He later finds out that Marie was also killed causing him to live in despair, but reflect on his life. A side note

Hachi & Shoji (NANA)

Cheating strikes again in the world of Anime. This time from the show "NANA." When Hachi finds out that Shoji cheated on her with a waitress it's not an easy thing to watch. Probably one of the most heartbreaking moments on this show.



Nanami & Yano (Bokura Ga Ita)

Nothing is more of a killer in any relationship than insecurity and scars from the past. Yano never really recovered from his dead girlfriend. This becomes a struggle for Nanami to get him to open up. Add into the mix that Yano has severe trust issue and this relationship will spell disaster.

What are some of your favorite heartbreaking breakups in Anime? Let us know in the comment section.

Star Wars Rebels: Meet Jedi Kanan

Not every guardian of peace and justice was lost to the tragedy of Order 66. Introducing Kanan, a survivor of the Emperor’s Jedi purge and one of the main characters of Star Wars Rebels. (http://starwars.com/) Kanan, voiced by Freddie Prinze, Jr., is a less traditional Force-wielder than fans are used to seeing. He carries a blaster, is a little sarcastic, and keeps his past a secret. “I like to call Kanan ‘the cowboy Jedi,’” says executive producer Dave Filoni. As shown in this video, his Jedi robes are long gone, replaced with armor and a holster, though a samurai-like ponytail hints at his Jedi Knight origins. 

In Star Wars Rebels, set between Episode III and IV, Kanan has been underground for years, evading the Empire. If the Imperials become aware of his existence “he’s going to get killed,” says art director Kilian Plunkett. He still has his lightsaber, but no longer uses it for fear of revealing his true identity -- and has ultimately forsaken the ways of the Jedi Order. Star Wars Rebels will show Kanan’s journey as he rediscovers himself, just as a rebellion begins to form against the Empire. According to Filoni, “He’s a gunslinger that needs to put the gun away and pick up the sword again, and fight for noble causes and selfless causes.” But what will happen when he chooses to reignite his Jedi weapon, fighting once again for a greater purpose?

Concept Art































First Look At Secret Avengers #1

This March, run the mission, don’t get seen, save the world. The covert branch of Earth’s Mightiest is back with a new mission, new enemies, and even deadlier threats. Today, Marvel is pleased to present your first look at SECRET AVENGERS #1 from the critically acclaimed creative team of Ales Kot and Michael Walsh! The Earth is in danger. And only the world’s most effective secret squad can save it. Too bad that’s NOT the Secret Avengers! Three missions kick off at the same time: one in the air, one on the ground, and one in…space?! And no one is ready for what comes next – except the attackers! Now, Fury, Coulson, Hawkeye, Black Widow, Spider-Woman, Maria Hill, and even the villainous M.O.D.O.K. must work together if they hope to achieve the impossible. But first, they’ll have to survive!





Quantum Mechanix and WBCP team for DC Comics Q-Pop Figures

Quantum Mechanix Inc. (QMx) announced today that it has signed a deal with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, on behalf ofDC Entertainment, to bring the heroes and villains of the DC Comics universe to its roster of Q-Pop® figures. The newly minted deal lets QMx take the decidedly lighthearted style of Q-Pops and apply them to such beloved DC Comics Super Heroes as Batman, Superman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman and other members of the DC Comics universe. Q-Pops are a line of high-quality PVC figures that put a whimsical spin on pop culture’s favorite characters.

The Q-Pop® style is reminiscent of Japanese chibi characters, but injected with a distinctly American flair. Each figure is approx. 3.5” tall and will include a themed base and word balloon with a whiteboard surface that will allow collectors to write in quotes or verbalize sound effects with an included dry-erase marker. The DC ComicsQ-Pop® line will be priced between $19.95 and $29.95, providing fans with an accessible line of figures to collect without breaking the bank. “Q-Pops® are each character's inner child come to life,” said Mohammad Haque, Design Director for QMx. “Part of their unique fun comes from filling in a silly phrase or quip in the word bubbles. It's fun to have them do the talking for you!” “Each DC Comics Q-Pop® should evoke the pure joy of cracking open a comic book for the first time,” adds QMx CEO Andy Gore. "QMx hopes to capture the glee from our childhoods spent pretending to be Super Heroes and box it up with each Q-Pop®.” “We’re excited to partner with QMx to add the fan-favorite DC Comics Super Heroes to their roster of Warner Bros. properties and beloved characters,” said Karen McTier, Executive Vice President of Domestic Licensing and Worldwide Marketing for Warner Bros. Consumer Products. QMx plans to release the first DC Comics Q-Pops® summer 2014 at QMx-authorized comic, collector and specialty retail outlets around the country. They’ll also be available for purchase directly through the QMx website at www.qmxonline.com.

Ghost In The Shell Arise: Ghost Whispers Review

Freed of her responsibilities with the 501 Organization, Motoko Kusanagi must now learn how to take orders from Aramaki. Someone hacks the Logicomas, and Batou enlists the help of former army intelligence officer Ishikawa and former air artillery expert Borma. Kusanagi also seeks to enlist ace sniper Saito and undercover cop Paz into the new Public Security Section 9. The two groups rival each other in a case involving a man who receives false memories of a refugee transport operation.



Accel World Review

In 2046, people can access a virtual network known as the Neurolinker via their cellphone terminals. A perpetual victim of bullying, middle school student Haruyuki spends his time absorbed in games in a corner of his local network. One day he is approached by the most famous girl in his school, Kuroyukihime (Black Snow Princess). She gives him a strange program called Brain Burst that has the power to "accelerate the world."

DVD & BLU-RAY RELEASE OF NARUTO BLOOD PRISON ANIME FEATURE ON FEB. 18th

The Blu-ray/DVD release of NARUTO SHIPPUDEN THE MOVIE: BLOOD PRISON on February 18th. The new release is rated ‘TV-14’ and will carry a DVD MSRP of $19.98 U.S. / $24.98 CAN and Blu-ray MSRP of $24.98 U.S. / $27.50 CAN. Each version also features a special full-color variant O-card that will have different artwork than what is featured on the actual Amaray cases. A host of special bonus material for the DVD and Blu-ray editions includes an animated short film, Chunin Exam on Fire! Naruto vs. Konohamaru!, as well as a production art gallery and the original Japanese theatrical trailers.

The Blu-ray edition additionally contains a personal message from NARUTO creator Masashi Kishimoto and an interview with Junko Takeuchi, the Japanese voice of Naruto Uzumaki. In the film, Naruto is convicted of a serious crime he didn’t commit and is sent to the inescapable prison, Hozuki Castle. The warden, Mui, quickly seals away Naruto’s chakra to prevent him from rebelling. Refusing to give up, Naruto plans his escape while also befriending his fellow inmates Ryuzetsu and Maroi. But he can't help but wonder what their ulterior motives are... “In BLOOD PRISON, Naruto is behind bars in a shinobi Alcatraz, accused of murder and attempted assassination, and the storyline and action that ensue makes this the most exciting NARUTO SHIPPUDEN feature film yet,” says Charlene Ingram, Senior Manager, Animation Marketing. “Audiences are in for a wild ride as Naruto tries to prove his innocence and also help his new friends uncover the secrets surrounding the mysterious Box of Paradise, and their ties to what it contains. Catch all the action on DVD and Blu-ray!”

Ted Mobsy's Most Romantic Moments

Since it is Valentine's Day week here at Otakus & Geeks and most of us are in the spirit of commericalized love. I can't think of no better way to celebrate this week than with one man's epic journey to find the one. A man who has had his up's and downs in the relationship world. A man who journey has taken nine seasons (nine years) to find the love his life. That man is no other then "How I Met Your Mother" Ted Mosby. Here is some Ted's most memorable romantic moments.

1. Stealing The Blue Horn For Robin


Nothing will make a girl say aww than taking an item she had her eye on at a restuarant. To prove how serious he felt about Robin, Ted did just that for Robin. The classic gesture was not only romantic but made Ted stand out above the rest of the pack.


2. Roses and Violin Quartet In Robin's Apartment
Red Roses symbolizes love for many people and Ted was no different. In the final episode of season 1. Ted surprises Robin with a violin classical band that he promises pizza too which they never recieved. He places tons of roses all the living room to showcase his affection and gives a nice speech. However this only made Robin push back from Ted due to her fear of relationship.

3. Ted's First Meeting With Victoria
Recently in the 9th season of "How I Met Your Mother" Robin named Victoria as Ted's best girlfriend. Go back and watch season 1 and you will why Victoria is number 1. Ted's first encounter with Victoria was magic. The first date they agreed to not know each other's names, no kissing and don't get attach. However it prove to be very hard for Ted and Victoria because they had so much chemisty. The date consists of slow dancing, Ted playing the piano and great conversation. This was not only Ted's best dates but one of his most romantic moments.

4. Ted Speed Date With Stella



What do you do when the object of your affection is constantly on the clock? You adjust the clock and speed it up a little to match the schedule. Ted did just that with Stella. Since Ted couldn't get a date with Stella in standard dating time. He decide to do something clever and pack a full date into less than two minutes. This was not only romantic but very slick of Ted to pull this off.




5. Make It Rain For You

Regardless of how ridiculous Ted looked or whether he believes he actually made it rain that night. You can't deny that Ted love for Robin was deep. Ted went to a rooftop and did a rain dance in hopes that the weather will stop Robin from going on a business trip. This showed that Ted will go to any length to make the woman he loves smile.

Honorable Mention: 45 Days

Probably the most heartfelt moment in the series and one of Josh Radnor (Ted) favorite moments. The epic speeech Ted gave to the mother in his time travel episode was powerful.

Ted has had many romantic moments but there is not enough time to list them all. Tell us your favorite romantic Ted moment in the comment section.

 

Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster Valentine's Day Trailer

Square Enix today released a new Valentine’s Day-themed trailer for its upcoming remastered compilation, FINAL FANTASY® X/X-2 HD Remaster. As two of the most prominent characters in the FINAL FANTASY franchises, Tidus and Yuna come to life once again to live out their dynamic and romantic relationship. In addition to the trailer, Square Enix also announced its pre-order incentive for the PlayStation®Vita system version of the game. Fans who pre-order the title on the handheld system will receive three limited edition colorfully illustrated art cards.





Transformers Universe

2014 is the launch year for Transformers Universe and the start of an epic journey as you #testyourmetal. A Massively Online Tactical Action game (MOTA), Transformers Universe offers fast-paced, battle-centric, tactical action with game modes for core gamers, casual gamers and Transformers enthusiasts alike. As Commander of a new squad of bots, you will recruit, maintain and battle others with a unique collection of Transformers warriors created in collaboration with Hasbro. Check out the trailer and screenshots below. Transformers Universe is set to launch this summer, you can sign-up for the BETA now at www.transformersuniverse.com





Lenni Reviews: Another by Yukito Ayatsuki


I picked up this manga from the bookstore randomly and in yet another sweet twist of fate, it was a freaking awesome idea. Another is a creepy, beautiful read.

The story is set in 1998, when Koichi Sakakibara transfers to a new school and as all we manga fans know, is cause for shenanigans. The legend of this class is there was once a student named Misaki who died in an accident. The class was so devastated, they pretended she was still there. A nice coping mechanism if you can keep it up but at the end of the year, the dead student appeared in the class photo. From then on, there always seemed to be an "extra" in the class a student who didn't exist before and cease to exist after. Horrible tragedies would befall the class til this "extra was found." If they don't know who the extra is, the students and the teacher create one, selecting one student in the class to completely ignore as if he or she was not there. This year's selection is Mei Misaki.

Not properly warned, Koichi is determined to make friends with Mei despite the vague mentions from his classmates. When accidents start happening, Koichi is determined to find whoever may be the "extra" causing the deaths around him before he falls victim himself.

At first I was a little annoyed the kids around Koichi didn't just flat out tell him what the deal was but when you think about it, you really just can out and out tell the new kid "Hey there! Nice to meet you! By the way, our class is cursed." so we can let that slide. The manga has a slow, creepy build I can appreciate rather than the in-your-face sort of scares from more gory horror. It is genuinely sad and scary to watch the kids and adults crack and break under the stress of finding the "extra" person and ending the disasters. 

The art may seem initially like standard manga fair but Kiyohara does a masterful job of integrating both cuteness, drama, and fear into what you're seeing on the page. The story is just complex enough to keep you interested with very few side tracks to distract you. By the end, you are left with a very satisfying ending and a wonderful example of how complete Japanese horror manga can be. Now, I picked up the omnibus edition from Yen Press for $29.99, which was a bit of an ouchie for my wallet but I can see myself reading this more than once. I enjoyed this manga and I recommend it to any fan of a good slice of creepy/cute goodness from Japan. If you give this one a chance, friends, you won't be disappointed.