Category: Arts & Culture

Viz Media Debuts a Snapshot of Life in LA QUINTA CAMERA Manga Series

From Viz:

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, will delight fans and readers with the release of Natsume Ono’s single-volume manga (graphic novel), LA QUINTA CAMERA, on July 19th. The title is highly anticipated as accolades for Ono’s works continues to grow across North America. LA QUINTA CAMERA will be published under VIZ Media’s Signature imprint, is rated ‘T’ for Teens, and will carry an MSRP of $12.99 U.S. / $14.99 CAN.

LA QUINTA CAMERA revolves around the tenants of an apartment in Italy. In four of the rooms live four single men with singular personalities. Into this peculiar ménage steps an exchange student, the new tenant of the fifth room. Brought together by chance, friends by choice, they pursue their dreams together as the days drift gently by.

“Natsume Ono first drew acclaim in Japan in 2003 with LA QUINTA CAMERA, which marked her professional debut,” says Amy Yu, Editor. “Ono thrilled North American audiences with her recent live appearances in New York City and also at the 2011 Toronto Comics Art Festival, and her fame continues to grow among domestic readers. LA QUINTA CAMERA wonderfully exhibits Ono’s unconventional artistic style and skillful storytelling abilities, and we hope that her fan base will expand even more with the release of this inspiring manga.”

Natsume Ono’s work is characterized by a minimalist yet sensual art style and composed psychological portraits that explore the relationships and dramas of everyday life. Ono made her professional debut in 2003, and her subsequent works including not simple, RISTORANTE PARADISO, GENTE and HOUSE OF FIVE LEAVES (all published under VIZ Media’s Signature imprint) have pushed the manga genre in intriguing new directions. RISTORANTE PARADISO and HOUSE OF FIVE LEAVES have also been adapted into animated TV series.

Ono’s HOUSE OF FIVE LEAVES, a many-sided tale of drama and intrigue set in the world of old Edo, was also recently nominated for a 2011 Will Eisner Comic Industry Award for Best U.S. Edition of International Material – Asia.

For more information on Natsume Ono or to check out other VIZ Signature titles, please visitwww.SigIKKI.com.

 

Explore the Farthest Reaches of the Galaxy with Star Wars: The Clone Wars on DVD and Blue-Ray

From starwars.com:

Pull back the starry curtain and reveal the secrets of the galaxy – with Star Wars: The Clone Wars™ The Complete Season Three, coming to DVD and high-definition Blu-ray Disc on October 18th from Lucasfilm Ltd. and Warner Home Video. Featuring stunning high-definition animation as well as a host of behind-the-scenes bonus materials, the complete collection explores the untold stories of “a galaxy far, far away” and reveals the magic behind the making of the cutting edge series.

Relive all 22 Season Three episodes – featuring familiar faces including Jabba the Hutt, Greedo, Tarkin and Chewbacca the Wookiee, as well as assassins, bounty hunters, witches, monsters and mysteries surrounding the very essence of the Force itself – and then explore the Lucasfilm vaults with behind-the-scenes insights on the making of the remarkable series. Bonus materials include five behind-the-scenes featurettes, each with director and crew interviews. And exclusive to the Blu-ray disc, The Jedi Temple Archives provides in-depth access to an extensive database of creative materials – including early test animations, concept art, 3D turnarounds and more than 30 deleted/extended scenes.

“In our third season, we told stories we couldn’t have imagined when we first started making the show,” says Supervising Director Dave Filoni. “George expects the best, every week, so we keep raising the bar. Everything’s gotten better. This series is for everyone that’s ever wondered what went on during this period, and we’re exploring it all. Sorcery, the Force and even Darth Maul’s origins. We are doing things that just wouldn’t have been possible before, and the animation is up to the challenge of bringing the layered Star Wars galaxy to life. And it looks spectacular in high-definition.”

Created and executive produced by George Lucas, the first-ever TV production from Lucasfilm Animation explores the tumultuous time between Episodes II and III, expanding the scope of Star Wars beyond anything seen in the feature films. Featuring the voices of Matt Lanter (90210), Ashley Eckstein (Her Universeapparel line), Dee Bradley Baker (American Dad), James Arnold Taylor (Johnny Test), Catherine Taber (Just Like Heaven) and Tom Kane (Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes), the third season also features a formidable line-up of guest stars – including Emmy-winner Seth Green (Robot Chicken), Sam Witwer (Being Human), Clancy Brown (Superman: The Animated Series), Jaime King (Sin City) and Oscar-nominee Liam Neeson.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars The Complete Season Three will be available on October 18th for the suggested retail price of $44.98 for DVD and $59.99 for Blu-ray.

Special Features:

Star Wars: The Clone Wars The Complete Season Three is presented in widescreen with English, Spanish and French 5.1 DTS audio and English, French and Spanish subtitles.  Bonus features include:

·               Featurettes

o   Creating Kamino

o   Hutts and the Underworld

o   Witches and Monsters

o   Secrets of Mortis

o   Chewbacca Returns

·               Blu-ray Exclusive – The Jedi Temple Archives

o   An extensive database exploring special effects footage, early concept art, 3D character and object turnarounds, early animation and more than 30 deleted/extended scenes. The Archives is a rare look at the assets in various stages of creation for The Clone Wars, with a wealth of surprises and never-before seen moments sprinkled throughout

Synopsis:

Mystery and adventure await the heroes of the Republic in the transformative third season of Star Wars: The Clone Wars. As the dark side grows ever stronger and the Jedi Knights are pushed to their breaking point, alliances will be tested, truths will be questioned and galaxy-changing secrets will be uncovered to shake the very foundations of the Star Wars universe. From the nature of the Force itself to secrets about the destiny of “The Chosen One,” surprises wait at every turn – all while the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance.

Order your copy today at Amazon!

VIZ Media Launches a Special Summertime “Heroes of Anime” Sweepstakes Contest

from VIZ Media:

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, announced the kick-off of a special Heroes of Anime summer sweepstakes. The contest, which also celebrates VIZ Media’s 25th Anniversary, runs throughout the summer. Entry details and more information are available at: viz.com/25years.

The Heroes of Anime Grand Prize will award one lucky winner with 2 passes to attend the exclusive U.S theatrical premiere of the latest Naruto feature film — Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds — set to take place in New York City around New York Comic-Con. The winner will also receive airfare and hotel accommodations for themselves and a guest as part of the Grand Prize package.

Follow-up prizes will include an Apple iPad, awarded to one lucky contestant, as well as several prize packages that will go to other winners and will include fun tchotchkes and collectibles from a variety of top VIZ Media anime properties.

In Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds, a group of mysterious flying ninja have arrived from overseas to launch a sudden attack against the Hidden Leaf Village, leaving behind a wake of destruction. The group is revealed to be the “Sky Ninja” from the Land of Sky, a nation thought to have been destroyed by the Hidden Leaf Village long ago. To save their village, Naruto and his friends set out to stop this new threat. During the course of the mission, Naruto crosses paths with Sasuke, his friend who has parted ways from the Leaf Village.

“Fans won’t want to miss their chance to win a special trip to New York City to attend the U.S. theatrical premiere of the newest Naruto Shippuden feature film,” says Candice Uyloan, Director, Marketing. “It will be a truly memorable event that will feature some fun interactive activities, celebrity appearances, and plenty of photo opportunities. Come help us celebrate our 25th Anniversary and submit your entry for the Heroes of Anime sweepstakes today!”

More information on Naruto is available at Naruto.com.

DC Comics’ Green Lantern X MIMOBOT

from Mimoco:

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“The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D” Brings a New Dimension to a Timeless Classic on Nintendo 3DS

from Nintendo of Canada:

The 25th anniversary of The Legend of Zelda video game series goes into high gear with the June 19 launch of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D game. Available exclusively for the portable Nintendo 3DS system, the new game introduces a fully re-mastered version of one of the most acclaimed installments in Nintendo’s fan-favorite The Legend of Zelda game series. Combining adventurous game play and classic story elements with enhanced graphics and previously unavailable challenges, this new edition also highlights the deep, engaging experiences made possible by Nintendo 3DS with intuitive hand-held motion controls and the ability to play in 3D without the need for special glasses.

Experienced fans and newcomers alike will have plenty to discover in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D as they guide the heroic Link on an adventure through Hyrule, where they will encounter vividly enhanced characters and environments. The new touch-screen interface makes it simple to navigate menus and switch between items, while new motion controls allow players to swiftly and accurately aim their weapons when targeting in first-person view. After completing the main game, players will also have access to the additional Master Quest that provides even more challenges with redesigned dungeons, more challenging enemies and environments that are experienced in reverse.

“The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D is the definitive version of a game that is an indelible part of entertainment history,” said Ron Bertram, Nintendo of Canada’s vice-president and general manager. “This is a game for every fan of the series, from those who grew up on Link’s adventures to the new generation of players who are just starting to create their own magical memories in the mythical land of Hyrule.”

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D introduces new content that is exclusive to the Nintendo 3DS version of the game. After players have defeated a boss, they can replay the battle again in Boss Challenge mode and try to improve their completion time. When they have defeated all eight of the game’s bosses, they can face them all in succession under an action-packed timed run. At select access points in the game, players can also watch special hint movies that provide clues to help solve tricky puzzles and defeat challenging enemies.

The original The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time launched for the Nintendo 64 system in 1998. Earning widespread praise from fans and critics alike, it currently holds a Metacritic.com score of 99. Since 1986, The Legend of Zelda game series has sold more than 62 million units worldwide.

Remember that Nintendo 3DS features parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit nintendo.com/3ds.

For more information about The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, visit zelda.com/ocarina3d.

Shout! Factory: San Diego or Bust

from Shout! Factory:

The 2011 San Diego Comic-Con is next month! Seems like only yesterday that we were at the 2010 SDCC with Max Headroom and the 2009 event with Middleman. Time does fly… This year we’ll be in a new booth (4248, for those keeping early track) and hosting signings for Battle Beyond the Stars and Trailers from Hell! Vol. 2. Additionally, we’ll have daily Grand Prize giveaways, lots of product for sale and even a few exclusive gifts with purchase. We invite you to bring a spare suitcase for the trip home. More details to come — but know that it’s going to be tweetbookblog-worthy for sure.

VIZ Media Brings the Animated Animal Kids Adventure of “Hero: 108” to Multiple Leading Online Content Outlets

from VIZ Media:

VIZ Media has just announced the release of their newest action adventure animation, Hero: 108, on iTunes (iTunes.com), PlayStation Network, Amazon Instant Video, and the Zune Marketplace on Xbox Live. The first half of Season 1 (episodes 1-13) will be available for purchase starting today. To celebrate the launch of this popular series, which aired on Cartoon Network, fans can download the first full episode for FREE through July 4th on all platforms. Subsequent episodes are available for only $1.99 each.

Long ago in The Hidden Kingdom, animals and humans lived together in peace… until the evil HighRoller tricked the animals into believing that the humans were their enemies. HighRoller convinced his animal armies to attack the humans and drive them from their homes. Most humans were so downtrodden that they gave up all hope for better days.

That is until Commander ApeTrully created a base of strategic operations in a giant abandoned turtle shell, submerged in a seemingly quiet lake. He called upon rebel humans and animals to fight the villainous HighRoller and dubbed his rebel force “Big Green.” Their mission? Restore peace to the land. Big Green’s most elite team of warriors is called First Squad and consists of Lin Chung, Mighty Ray, Mystique Sonia and Jumpy GhostFace. Together they face off against all manner of fierce creatures, like fire-breathing Ligers and magic lantern-wielding Zebras.

For more information on Hero: 108 or other VIZ Kids properties, please visit VIZKids.com.

ThinkGeek Pwns Root (Beer)

from ThinkGeek:

Our dads are sad.

Know why our dads are sad? They’re sad because they are not eligible to win the ThinkGeek (Even More) Ultimate GeekDad Giveaway. We’re hoping to cheer them up with bacon-wrapped cheeseburgers and home-brewed root beer. The good news is that you and your dad could win.

The bad news? If you win, you’ll never be able to top that Father’s Day gift. Better start saving up for a Death Star retirement home.

Root Beer Brewing Kit
Brewing regular beer at work could get you into big trouble (unless you work at a brewery, of course). But there is one type of beer that’s safe for work: root beer! Now you can brew it yourself, and have deliciously creamy root beer in as little as 3 days. It’s easy and fun, and there’s nothing like drinking down all your hard (not really) work. While you’re at it, brew some at home, too. It’s a great way to get the whole family involved in making something you want to drink!

Take $5 off $30+ or $10 off $60+ orders — Pop is tops!
ThinkGeek’s GeekDads have selected their top picks for Father’s Day gifts. And whether your Dad is a sci-fi geek, a gadget geek, or an outdoors geek, we’ve got the gift that will make him declare you to be his favorite offspring. Of course, you can always pick out a few things for yourself… y’know, while you’re here. Use code DADNME for $5 off $30 or $10 off $60, good through 11:59 pm Eastern on 6/11/11.

(Even More) Ultimate GeekDad Giveaway — We really outdid ourselves
Sure, you could honor your father with a lightsaber duel, but you might need that hand one day. How about gifting him with our biggest prize pack ever? At stake is our iCade (complete with 16GB wifi iPad), a full-size arcade cabinet with custom ThinkGeek art, a $1,000 ThinkGeek shopping spree, a subscription to WIRED, a LEGO Mindstorms NXT 2.0, GeekDad shirts and books for the family, Munchkin goodies from John Kovalic, and a pair of GUNNAR gaming glasses. Don’t be a bad kid — enter by noon ET on June 17th!

Find more What’s New items at ThinkGeek!

VIZ Media Announces the U.S. License for Hatsune Miku

from VIZ Media:

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, has announced that it holds the U.S. product licensing rights for Hatsune Miku, the popular Vocaloid virtual pop singer that has become a massive pop culture phenomenon in Japan. VIZ Media will showcase Hatsune Miku among its other properties available for product license at the 2011 Licensing International Expo, held in Las Vegas, June 14th-16th, 2011. VIZ Media will be located in Booth #2481.

The Licensing International Expo is held at Mandalay Bay Convention Center and is the preeminent marketplace for the hottest international brands and properties. It features a show floor of more than 7,000 properties from all of Hollywood’s major film studios, global entertainment companies, Fortune 500 consumer brands, sporting teams, interactive properties, fashion labels, and cutting-edge artists and designers. The annual event celebrated its 30th Anniversary in 2010.

Hatsune Miku is a striking, blue-haired digital female avatar and the most popular of the Vocaloid Character Series software originally created by Crypton Future Media and using Yamaha’s Vocaloid 2 engine. The innovative software enables users to create synthesized vocal tracks using Hatsune Miku’s vocals by simply typing in lyrics or inputting a melody. Crypton’s Vocaloid program uses vocals that are derived from pre-programmed samples of the voices of many popular actors/singers.

In Japan, the popularity of Hatsune Miku has become a national phenomenon. She has appeared in several video games and music videos and has also performed several sellout “concerts,” where she appeared on stage as a 3D hologram, backed by a live band. Most recently she appears in a new commercial for the U.S. market for the 2011 Toyota Corolla. The spot is also available on YouTube, and since its debut on May 4th, the segment has received more than 950,000 hits. The Japanese pop group Supercell also features Hatsune Miku as its vocalist and released their first single in the U.S on May 10th. The track, “The World Is Mine,” from their forthcoming full-length album, placed as high as #4 on the iTunes World Music charts.

“Hatsune Miku is the world’s first true digital pop star and her notoriety is spreading fast across North America,” says Tracy Hanchett, Director, Consumer Products. “Her development explores a whole new hybrid of digital technology and organic creativity. The Hatsune Miku brand is richly developed in Japan, where she stars in several video games by Sega, as well as CDs, books, arcade games, collectible figures, apparel and other accessories. We’re very excited to showcase this new property at the 2011 Licensing International Expo and welcome the opportunity to work with innovative product partners to further cultivate the Hatsune Miku brand for a new U.S. market.”

For more information on Hatsune Miku and other titles from VIZ Media please visit VIZ.com.

Save 15% for Father’s Day! Plus, Announcing a SDCC ’11 MIMOBOT Exclusive!

from Mimoco:

Celebrate Father’s Day with MIMOBOT! 20% off all Star Wars & DC Comics MIMOBOTs now until Saturday June 18th! Shop Now!

Announcing a MIMOBOT SDCC ’11 exclusive! HARLEY QUINN! See Sneak Peek!

FREE Shipping on ALL Orders Over $50! (Excludes Hawaii, Alaska)