Japanese WagakkiBand Coming To The U.S. for SXSW, Playing Irving Plaza NYC March 14

Japanese WagakkiBand Coming To The U.S. for SXSW, Playing Irving Plaza NYC March 14

WagakkiBand is poised for an encore visit to the United States as guests of Austin's SXSW festival, and will be stopping in New York City to perform at Irving Plaza March 14, 2016 as a headliner for the evening titled “WagakkiBand Live in N.Y. – AKATSUKI –“. Akatsuki is the lead track from their newest album and means “Dawn”, or “New Beginning”. Tickets for Irving Plaza will be available for general public via Ticketmaster on January 29th.

Read More

KA-POW!! New Bruce Lee Action Figure Debuts From Bluefin

Renowned Japanese collectibles label, Tamashii Nations, integrates its advanced S.H. Figuartsarticulation technology to reproduce all of Bruce Lee's powerful martial arts moves! For this latest release, Tamashii Nations also utilized cutting edge digital facial coloring technology to achieve a stunning level of realism and collectors will be impressed by the incredible level of overall quality.

The Bruce Lee figure debuts in February with an MSRP of $49.99 from authorized Bluefin retailers nationwide and also from a variety of leading online outlets. Pre-orders continue to be available.

The S.H. Figuarts Bruce Lee figure stands 5 inches tall and includes several trademark martial arts weapons including a nunchaku (nunchuck) and two bo staffs (short and long. Other accessories include interchangeable hands (x9) and interchangeable face parts (x2).

Bruce Lee was a pioneering Chinese American action film star, martial arts instructor, philosopher, and filmmaker. He starred in several highly influential martial arts movies such as Fist of Fury and Enter the Dragon and is widely regarded as one of the most iconic martial artists of all time.

 

Activision, Nickelodeon and PlatinumGames Announce 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants in Manhattan'

Activision Publishing, Inc., Nickelodeon and PlatinumGames Inc. have joined forces to create Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles™: Mutants in Manhattan, a third-person action game featuring New York City’s crime-fighting Heroes in a Half-Shell. Players will protect The Big Apple from aliens, mutants and the Foot Clan in a single-player campaign or partner with up to three friends in four-player online co-op. But be prepared – defeating Bebop, Rocksteady, Shredder and other iconic bosses won’t be easy.

PlatinumGames’ flair for stylish visuals and fluid combat are on full display in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants in Manhattan. Fast-paced, team-based brawling will challenge gamers of all skill levels. Each Turtle has a distinctive combat play style and can be customized with a unique set of Ninjutsu moves, combat items and special bonuses.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants in Manhattanalso features gorgeous, cel-shaded art design, with an original story from prolific author of IDW Publishing’s acclaimed ongoing Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series, Tom Waltz.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants in Manhattan is expected to arrive this summer as a retail and digital release on the PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment systems, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and Windows PC via Steam.

 

Star Trek Gets NYC Convention for 50th Anniversary

Star Trek Gets NYC Convention for 50th Anniversary

Just in time for the 50th anniversary milestone of the Star Trek franchise, CBS Consumer Products and ReedPOP are announcing the launch of a brand new, ultimate fan event-- Star Trek: Mission New York.

 

This three-day event (September 2-4, 2016 at the Javits Center in New York) will be THE destination for Star Trek fans, filled with interactive exhibits, exclusive merchandise, celebrity guests, panels, screenings and much more. Fueled by a new movie in July and an upcoming television series in 2017,

Read More

Please Tell Me! Galko-chan Episodes 1 & 2 Review

Synopsis by Crunchyroll: "Galko, Otako and Ojou are a trio of unlikely friends in high school with three very different perspectives. Each episode embarks on a day in the life of a trendy girl, an otaku, and a lady, as they discuss their “girl problems".

What can I say about Please Tell Me! Galko-chan? 7:50 minutes of essentially Chicken Noodle Soup but in anime form. The first two episodes I believe explain the whole premise of the show. Each episode so far, starts with a panel asking a question that are myths or innocent questions about girls. After that, the scenes are comprised of the girls and sometimes guys interpretation of the question. Warning: the questions can get weird as the show goes on.

Story: Personally I am not a big fan of this show on a story level. Its not as interesting as other slice of life shows that I have seen. The storyline is based on the panels before the scenes and it doesn't really deviate from there. I know that the show is about 8 minutes long and there is not a lot of time for development, however, I'm not as invested in the story or characters. Also the subject matter of the show didn't give me interest, mostly because I was embarrassed by the questions they asked. They remind me of girls in middle school and high school that I used to see. I am out of those teenage years now so the show escapes me and maybe my age demographic.

The  artwork is pretty. It has a lot of pastels and girly by nature. The characters are all cutesy, even the guys, and it does add to the subject matter of the show as a whole.

Overall I give this show a 2 out of 5. I think its a nice little show to get people who are new to anime to gradually experience the chaos and weirdness some shows can portray. I think the show's intent is to laugh at some common myths or facts about girls and what they go through puberty, while also showing the boys' reactions and answers to some of the myths and facts. This show wasn't for me but I can say it was interesting to watch.

Marvel's Thunderboltz gets ongoing series with New Leader


After a series of teaser images, Marvel have announced a new Thunderbolts series coming this summer from writer Jim Zub and Jon Malin. Spinning out of the upcoming "Avengers: Standoff!" event, the Thunderbolts team will feature several founding members like Moonstone, the Fixer, Atlas and Mach-V, but with one startling new leader: the Winter Soldier.

“We’ve assembled a potent mix of characters to explore that theme with big drama, big action, and unexpected twists along the way," said Zub. "The new team is stacked with powerful personalities and a mission that’s going to tear them up and get right to their core. I’m excited about putting them in tough spots and letting the sparks fly.”

  Calling it a story of "redemption," Jon Malin says Thunderbolts will also be a lesson in being "careful who you trust because when you need them the most they might not be the person you thought they were. They may, in fact, be the one putting the knife in your back, willingly and without hesitation."

 

 

“Super villains looking for redemption I think is the ultimate strength and heart of Thunderbolts and sets it apart from everything out there,” said Malin. “These characters have done very bad things—willingly. No one mind controlled them, they made choices of their own free will and that can never be fully taken back. That motivates me beyond belief to tell this story.”

There's no firm date as of yet of when the Thunderbolts series will launch, but Marvel's "Avengers Standoff!" publishes in March and April.

 

 

source: Newsarama
 

Dead No More is Revealed as Steve Rodger Capt. America

Steve Rogers is coming back as Captain America, but there's still more coming back from the dead -- and they're coming May 7. Marvel Comics has announced that its second 2016 Free Comic Book Day title will be a double-feature of Rogers' Cap and the mysterious 'Dead No More' story that's been teased. Titled FCBD Captain America #1, Captain America: Steve Rogers' team of Nick Spencer and Jesus Saiz will craft the namesake story but the creators of the 'Dead No More' remain undisclosed.

In the announcement, Marvel confirms that Rogers will first take back up the mantle of Cap in the Avengers Standoff! crossover event, and that his recently announced solo series will debut later in the month of May.

As for the "Dead No More" story, Marvel is keeping their cards close to their vest but do reveal that there's more than one person returning from the dead. Here's how they describe the story: "If you got a chance to bring back someone who died, would you? And how will CLASSIFIED deal when ones they thought long dead once again walk the earth? Find out on Free Comic Book Day!"

 

source newsarama

Dirty Grandpa Review

Hey O&G fans, Last week we got a chance to see a screening DIRTY GRANDPA starring Robert De Niro and Zac Efron. Now before I get into the review of the movie, here is a quick synopsis of this feature:

Dirty Grandpa

Right before his wedding, an uptight guy is tricked into driving his grandfather, a perverted former Army general, to Florida for spring break. Feat. Robert De Niro (Dick Kelly), Zac Efron (Jason Kelly), Zoey Deutch (Shadia), and Aubrey Plaza (Lenore) film directed by Dan Mazer and written by John Philips.

REVIEW

Ok first let me say I enjoyed this move!! Most people who will watch this, may not like the raunchy behavior or over exaggerated dick and fart jokes, but that's what makes this movie good. Funny one-liners like (“This entire state is licensed as a gun range!” Mantzoukas’ character says of Florida during a memorable introduction). This movie reminds me of the first American Pie (before it got sequel ed to death) You really had no Idea what it was about, but once it started it was fun till the end.

ACTING

The acting was ok. Everyone played their roles well so if you're expecting so Oscar worthy performance from De Niro, this is not the movie for you. That is not to say he didn't play his role well. This movie says it all in the title and that's what Robert De Niro was. Zac Efron was pretty funny in this role, even when he was trying to be serious (but he still can't top the character he played in Neighbors).

Over all the movie is entertaining with decent jokes. This is a good matinee or a night with friends and you just wanna watch a mind-less comedy. If you are easily offended this won't be the movie for you. I give Dirty Grandpa 2 1/2 stars.

 

 

Interview with Victoria Chan of Blush

Interview with Victoria Chan of Blush

We kicked off 2016 with some serious girl power. We sat with Victoria Chan of the hit band "Blush." Victoria aka Queen V talks about Blush origins, musical influences and what it's like recording the theme song for the Netflix anime show "Glitter Force." You can catch "Glitter Force" streaming now on Netflix. For more on Blush and their music visit their official website BlushBand.com

Read More

Lenni Reviews: 'Angelus: The Books of Raziel Book Three' by Sabrina Benulis

                                                (Image Source)

                                                (Image Source)

Well, Lenni did it again; reviewing a cool sounding book that's not the first in the series. Heck, this is the conclusion of a trilogy! Ah, well...

Angela Mathers is the current Archon who sits on the throne of Hell. By being there, she is fulfilling a prophesy that means she has the power to end the universe by opening the Book of Raziel. But the book isn't a 'book,' it's her best friend Sophia and the only way to 'open' the book is to kill her. But Lucifel sits on the throne of Heaven, the realms are set to collide and destroy one another, leaving Angela with a terrible choice to face.

Although the premise of this dark fantasy novel is cool, the overall story left me kinda flat. While the characters are well rounded and engaging, the plot is carefully woven together, and the creatures are interesting to read about; it hits all the usual beats; thus ends up a bit predictable. According to her author bio, Sabrina Benulis likes anime and you can tell from how the book is structured on its way to the ultimately satisfying yet bittersweet conclusion. Even without having read the first two, 'Angelus' would obviously be the climactic final season of an anime in one book. This also means - for my fellow anime watchers out there - there are points that are pure filler. You can take them or leave them but you want to get back to the main story. However, 'Angelus' does take an original and creative view on the whole mythos of angels, demons, Heaven, Hell, and how humanity fits in with all of them.

On the whole, it's an ok book. I can easily see this being classified as 'older teen' if not for some bloody fights. If you like dark fantasy and would like to take a break from watching an anime and read one, 'Angelus' isn't a bad pick.

Angelus will be released from Harper Voyager on February 9, 2016.

Retro Animated X-Men series Debuts Today

Hey O&G Fans, Today the first retro animated X-men series by animator Joel Furtado premiered  the first episode, featuring Wolverine and Jean Grey vs a Sentinel. The series is inspired by the 90's X-men comic book and cartoon. Here is a look at the episode:
 

X-men: Danger Room Protocols - "Episode1: Part1" Disclaimer X-men: Danger Room Protocols and the following presentation is in no way affiliated with Marvel or Fox Studios. Characters remain the property and copyright of their respective owners.This is a fan series intended for private use only and not a commercial product.

Graphic Novel, ComiXPlay, Coming to PC Feb 24

Graphic Novel, ComiXPlay, Coming to PC Feb 24

ComixPlay #1: The Endless Incident, a playable 124 page digital graphic novel, will release for Windows and Mac via Steam on Feb. 24, 2016. Combining the story telling of comic books with the gameplay of videogames, The Endless Incident sends players on a sci-fi adventure where they can control superheroes in battle. 

Read More

Mamoru Hosoda's "The Boy and The Beast" Opens in U.S. Theaters Nationwide March 4

Mamoru Hosoda's "The Boy and The Beast" Opens in U.S. Theaters Nationwide March 4

Funimation® Entertainment announced today the theatrical date for the eagerly anticipated release of “The Boy and The Beast.”  The latest masterpiece from acclaimed director Mamoru Hosoda, “The Boy and The Beast” will open on March 4

Read More

Arslan: The Warriors of Legend Demo Impression

Arslan: The Warriors of Legend is a tactical action title based on the epic novel, manga, and anime IP The Heroic Legend of Arslan. Originally written as a novella in the late 1980's, The Heroic Legend of Arslan has been adapted to manga and anime numerous times, with the most prominent being the 2013 release of a manga series by famed illustrator, Hiromu Arakawa (the creator of Fullmetal Alchemist). It tells the story of the young crown prince of Pars, Arslan, as he is forced out of his kingdom when his father, the King, is betrayed and defeated and his domain conquered. Arslan and his few companions must re-assemble an army and fight against overwhelming odds to regain his throne and liberate his kingdom.

KONOSUBA -God's blessing on this wonderful world! Episode 1 Review

Gamer Kazuma dies in a freak accident, and is met in the afterlife by a crass goddess, Aqua. 

Konosuba - God's blessing on this wonderful world is an anime that might seem familiar to some based on  the influences from shows like Sword Art Online. However don't let the comparisons this show will get turn you off. This show is its own identity and pretty damn entertaining.

The main protagonists Satoru is a gamer who never really leaves the house. He just stays in the house and plays his favorite rpg games. When I was first introduced to Satoru I immediately asked myself. How many times are we're going get the no life otaku/gamer stereotype in these shows? Satoru seems to have no ambition, pretty much a loner and only lives for games. This type of character is simply becoming the normal in anime. Anyway Satoru decides to finally go outside but only to buy a limit edition copy of his next game. While on the way home he sees a girl is about to get hit by a car and pushes her out the way. As stated in the synopsis Satoru dies. He then is offered the chance to choose his afterlife. He can go to heaven,  go back to Earth or something else. That something else is fighting the Devil King in a parallel universe and having special powers. Satoru chooses the last choice and the story really begins. 

Konosuba really picks up once Satoru and his companion Aqua enter the new world. If you're a fan of RPG games you will like the nods of the format the anime has layed out. The show is viewed like playing an RPG. The characters enter the town, they talk to the people for information and go the Guild to register for a class or quest. This aspect made me ignore Satoru one note character and just allow myself to immerse with the story. The world is beautiful with different type of classes from mages, adventurers and more. Satoru gaming experience makes him a natural how to survive. However he learns he's not such a hotshot as he believes. This knowledge kind of dampens his ego a bit and forces him to train hard to level up.  I would say that his companion Aqua is a show stealer. Aqua is the goddess that met Satoru in the afterlife and offer him his afterlife choices. She is sarcastic, let's her status of goddess go to her head but really cares for people. Out of the two protagonists I will think the audience will be drawn to Aqua more. She's better written, has witty dialogue and has more charisma.  The animation looks great, the music is will make you feel like you're in a RPG and the voice acting delivers. The show is nothing new under the sun but it's still entertaining.

Final Grade 8.0/10