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	<title>The Scrumptious Anime Blog &#187; Previews</title>
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	<link>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net</link>
	<description>Delicious Anime Served on a Silver Platter</description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 22 Nov 2008 17:24:28 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>In Lieu of the Fall Preview #3: Skip Beat Seiyuu Cast (and Director) Interview</title>
		<link>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/09/30/in-lieu-of-the-fall-preview-3-skip-beat-seiyuu-cast-and-director-interview/</link>
		<comments>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/09/30/in-lieu-of-the-fall-preview-3-skip-beat-seiyuu-cast-and-director-interview/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Sep 2008 02:18:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>usagijen</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Previews]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[seiyuu stuff]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Skip Beat]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[translations]]></category>

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I somewhat had the motivation to translate this <a href="http://news.dengeki.com/elem/000/000/105/105300/">fun little interview</a> of the Seiyuu cast (and later on, director Sayama herself), though I got tired not long after and just summarized some of the parts orz. I even asked help from my sensei for this because I fail a lot, even he said this is complicated o.O I know this translation is not really accurate, but alas, I don’t think anyone else has bothered translating this, so you’ve got no choice haha. If anyone of you knows if there’s a Chinese translation available for this, do tell… that’ll help enlighten me.]]></description>
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<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/09/skip_beat_cast.jpg" alt="" title="skip_beat_cast" width="600" height="450" class="aligncenter" /><br />
<em>I really think Japanese guys should stop posing _that_ way &gt;_&gt;</em>
</p>
<p>I somewhat had the motivation to translate this <a href="http://news.dengeki.com/elem/000/000/105/105300/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/news.dengeki.com');">fun little interview</a> of the Seiyuu cast (and later on, director Sayama herself), though I got tired not long after and just summarized some of the parts orz. I asked help from my sensei for this because I fail a lot, and even he said this is complicated o.O I know this translation is not really accurate, but alas, I don’t think anyone else has bothered translating this, so you’ve got no choice haha. If anyone of you knows if there’s a Chinese translation available for this, do tell… that’ll help enlighten me more.</p>
<p>Update: It seems that there&#8217;s a <a href="http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/afreco/s-beat.html" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.tv-tokyo.co.jp');">concise and clearer version</a> of this interview posted in the official homepage orz. I&#8217;ll go update this post once I get back from my trip.</p>
<p>And onto the interview!</p>
<p><strong>Please tell us your first impression of the characters you’ll be portraying</strong></p>
<p><strong>Inoue</strong>: This is Marina Inoue from Sigma Seven.</p>
<p><strong>Konishi</strong>: Eh, do we even have to say that? *laughs* [Lt: Do we have to introduce ourselves / say things from that point?]</p>
<p><strong>Miyano</strong>: How polite. *laughs*</p>
<p><strong>Inoue</strong>: Yes, I am polite. *laughs* When I first read Skip Beat, I found Kyoko to be a character who’s difficult to empathize with. She’s someone who was driven by her grudge to enter the world of showbiz &#8212; a character that’s far different from the roles I’ve done so far. But that’s as far as first impression goes, because I was gradually able to see her charm as I read more of the manga.</p>
<p><strong>Konishi</strong>: This is Katsuyuki Konishi from Ken Production. Blood type is, as everyone would’ve already figured out by now, B.</p>
<p><strong>Inoue and Miyano</strong>: Ahh~</p>
<p><strong>Konishi</strong>: What the heck is up with that “Ahh~” *laughs* I’ll be portraying Ren Tsuruga, a role which I’m having quite a hard time with, given that this guy is supposed to be a cool guy by nature. Ren seems like a mature guy at first glance –- someone who’s perfect in everything he does, but turns out to have this ‘natural’ aspect (natural = realistic?). That, together with his childish side, makes him a guy who’s seemingly perfect, but that who actually has this human (and realistic?) side in him.</p>
<p><strong>Miyano</strong>: This is Miyano Mamoru from the theatrical troupe Himawari! I’ll be playing Shou-kun, a character who I also find difficult to empathize with.</p>
<p><strong>Inoue</strong>: Why so?</p>
<p><strong>Miyano</strong>: Well, ironically, playing a character with a rotten personality as Shou’s makes me feel good about myself *audience laughter* (since no one else would compare to how rotten he is <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_razz.gif' alt=':P' class='wp-smiley' /> ). He hurls nothing else but abusive remarks against Kyoko, but he actually feels sorry for her. Whenever Shou exclaims “Wah, I can’t believe I said that!”, I can really feel [his regret?], and I’m going to try my best to make people see him in the same way too. (I got lost in translation in this one, but from what I understood is that Mamo is referring to Shou’s “rotten but not really” personality. Shou just blurts out harsh words on impulse, but he doesn’t really mean it. At least not the way Kyoko perceives it).</p>
<p><strong>This should be your second recording, so please tell us about your experience so far.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Inoue</strong>: Kyoko has sooo many lines, I felt like fainting the moment I looked at the script! As a voice actor, I’m really thankful for having been entrusted this much lines to say, and I joined the dubbing session with that gratefulness. Anyways, since playing Kyoko is like riding an intense emotional roller coaster ride, I’m gonna have to get myself all hyped up early morning of the recording sessions.</p>
<p><strong>Konishi</strong>: Yes indeed. And well, this is someone else’s problem, but I just thought that Inoue-san really has it hard. I mean, she’ll be portraying the emotionally high-strung Kyoko, at times as an angel or as someone with a deep-seated grudge. She becomes an amalgam of emotions, and she even has to check her acting at home to see whether she was able to portray it well. In just one episode, there’s like 8 versions of Inoue-san! I can’t help but feel sorry for her… *laughs*</p>
<p>And to think that I have no more than 2 dialogues [in the episodes we’ve dubbed so far]… I just watch her by the sidelines and cheer for her.</p>
<p><strong>Inoue</strong>: You will get your chance [to say more dialogues/shine] someday!</p>
<p>(I had a difficult time translating the rest of the parts of this. Basically, Konishi talks about how enjoyable the rest of the dubbing will turn out to be considering that many of the interesting characters already made their appearance in episode 2. Miya on the other hand talks about Shou, how he finds him quite a bastard, but someone he can’t bring to hate. Those who’ve read the manga can totally feel this, ne? Miya also adds that he has to bring out Shou’s appeal, even in his SD devil form <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_biggrin.gif' alt='XD' class='wp-smiley' /> )</p>
<p><strong>To continue, here’s a question for Director Sayama. What do you think are the highlights of the anime adaptation?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Inoue</strong>: The original [manga] is quite fast paced and brimming with energy, so we see to it that the storyboard and the scenarios remain as faithful in that aspect as much as possible. And as Inoue-san has earlier said, Kyoko is a non-conventional heroine, and we had her drawn in a way that people will love for her hardworking attitude and her enthusiasm in the world of showbiz.</p>
<p><strong>What do you find most noteworthy about the manga (original work)?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Inoue</strong>: Lory Takada. *straightforward answer*</p>
<p><strong>Konishi and Miyano</strong>: Ah, though so.</p>
<p><em>(Again, translation laziness ensues!)</em></p>
<p>Inoue-san finds Lory Takada a great character, in more ways than one. “Just looking at him is enough to make you happy,” she says <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_biggrin.gif' alt='XD' class='wp-smiley' /> She then talks about how Lory is involved in much of the serious aspects of the story and is looking forward to seeing him in the anime.</p>
<p>Konishi on the other hand shares about the scene he’s most looking forward to seeing, and that is Kyoko and Moko’s CM audition.</p>
<p>Miyano Mamoru also finds Lory to be an amazing character, and comments on how each and every character are unique and splendid. But among this, what he finds most interesting is the relationship between Shou and Ren, and is looking forward to seeing the “ashtray kicking” scene (which was said to be the scene they acted out in the Skip Beat audition)</p>
<p>Sayama-san throws in her two-cents about this, and shares that she’s looking forward to seeing ‘Kyoko’s success story’. “More than a Cinderella story, I find this to be a story filled with a strong [sportslike] spirit”, says Sayama, and shares her desire to bring the passion-filled Kyoko-chan to life.</p>
<p><strong>It’s just the second episode, but any favorite lines so far?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Miyano</strong>: There are so many…</p>
<p><strong>Inoue</strong>: More like, you have to choose from among them…</p>
<p><strong>Konishi</strong>: Well I only have a few lines… *audience laughter*</p>
<p><em>(attacked by the translation laziness bug, my deepest apologies)</em></p>
<p>Inoue finds her lines directed at Shou to be real fun <em>(I’m looking forward to that too! Kyoko x Shou antics! XD)</em></p>
<p>As for Konishi, his favorite line is Kyoko’s <em>“Ren Tsuruga no ahou! (&#8221;Ren Tsuruga is an asshole!”</em>, which Kyoko blurts out with all tsuntsun might!). That left him with the biggest impression, he says. (and until I sink deep in thoughts understanding the rest of the lines he said, no translation or explanation for the rest of what he said).</p>
<p><strong>Shou</strong>: Well Shou-kun has a lot of dialogues.</p>
<p><strong>Konishi</strong>: Something like “I’m going to make your heart go swoon (*zukyun*)~!” (I can imagine Konishi matching this line with a wink and “shooting for your heart” pose xD)</p>
<p><strong>Miyano</strong>: I’m definitely not saying that!! *laughs* And well, there’s this scene with Shouko-san where I was instructed to say the line “But that’s coz Shouko-san is my type~” like a naughty kid, and after trying it out once, I was told to make it sound more erotic *laughs* So this time around (for the second recording), I’m going to do just that! And you, dear audience will be the judge. *laughs* </p>
<p>(I can’t quite understand what Sayama-san says here, but from what I understood she really liked the situation where Shou was “crushed”… when he was in the brink of despair perhaps… not so sure orz) </p>
<p>Then Miyano replies that he’s happy beyond words with what Sayama-said.</p>
<p><strong>And lastly, is there anything else you&#8217;d like to share to the fans?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Inoue</strong>: [Kyoko] might seem like an unlikely shoujo manga heroine, but you’ll see her live up to her role as the lead girl of the show as she overcomes the hurdles in showbiz. First-time viewers might be shocked at Kyoko at first, but I do hope you guys will get to see her charm and cheer her on [in her endeavors].</p>
<p><strong>Konishi</strong>: I think the original manga was adapted well (the beauty of the manga was adapted into the anime well), so fans of the manga can be rest assured. I found it really difficult portraying Ren Tsuruga’s natural coolness, but I did my best to portray it as close to the “dashingly cool” image of Ren Tsuruga, and I’ll be very glad if people will indeed think of him that way. I hope you stick with watching it till the end!</p>
<p><em>(and since I’m sooo running out of time I’ll just summarize the rest… again.)</em></p>
<p>Miyano said that Shou-kun could be considered a character who’s very much human, especially with the way he performs, and how various feelings are borne out of this passion of his. It is in Miya&#8217;s deepest hopes that he’ll be able to impart that “amusement factor” that Shou brings (or so that&#8217;s what I understood x__x). </p>
<p>Sayama-san mentions that all the characters of Skip Beat are unique and have their own charms, but the one that stands out among them is the super hardworker Kyoko. Sayama hopes that the audience will brim with the same energy upon seeing Kyoko, and be influenced by her dauntless spirit.</p>
<p>&#8230;and that&#8217;s it. 以上です！</p>
<p>Comments and translation corrections are more than welcome!<strong>Similar Posts:</strong>
<ul class="similar-posts">
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/08/11/the-skip-beat-seiyuu-cast-ultimate-solid-proof-to-finally-end-all-doubts/" rel="bookmark" title="August 11, 2008">The Skip Beat Seiyuu Cast Ultimate Solid Proof, To Finally End All Doubts</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/08/03/the-real-skip-beat-seiyuu-cast-yes-ann-you-got-it-oh-so-wrong/" rel="bookmark" title="August 3, 2008">The REAL Skip Beat Seiyuu Cast</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/10/06/skip-beat-anime-kitaaaa-pandoras-box-unlock/" rel="bookmark" title="October 6, 2008">Skip Beat Anime KITAAAA!!!! Pandora&#8217;s Box, UNLOCK!</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/10/19/life-lessons-from-skip-beat-01-this-calls-for-a-revolution/" rel="bookmark" title="October 19, 2008">Life Lessons from Skip Beat 01: This Calls For a Revolution!</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/10/18/would-you-wear-a-haiku/" rel="bookmark" title="October 18, 2007">Would You Wear a Haiku?</a></li>
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		<title>In Lieu of the Fall Preview #2: Hakushaku to Yousei</title>
		<link>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/09/28/in-lieu-of-the-fall-preview-2-hakushaku-to-yousei/</link>
		<comments>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/09/28/in-lieu-of-the-fall-preview-2-hakushaku-to-yousei/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 28 Sep 2008 03:08:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>usagijen</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Previews]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[fangurl rave]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Hakushaku to Yousei]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[novel]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[pimpings]]></category>

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I’ve been reading the Hakushaku to Yousei novel since last week (slowly, because I was preoccupied with other stuff), and I’m enjoying the read so far. The start seemed a little shaky, I had a hard time picturing the Victorian-esque Western setting due to lack of vivid details, though I’m not really sure if it’s got something to do with my lack of comprehension or the writing itself (I haven’t read enough fantasy books to be a ‘good’ critic). But that’s nothing compared to the priceless antics I’m seeing from the Fairy Doctor Lydia and the Count Edgar, and this is exactly why I actually said I’m enjoying this little adventure.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Unless something unexpected happens, I would’ve already arrived in Singapore by the time you read this post.</em></p>
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<p>I’ve been reading the Hakushaku to Yousei novel since last week (slowly, because I was preoccupied with other stuff), and I’m enjoying the read so far. The start seemed a little shaky, I had a hard time picturing the Victorian-esque Western setting due to lack of vivid details, though I’m not really sure if it’s got something to do with my lack of comprehension or the writing itself (I haven’t read enough fantasy books to be a ‘good’ critic). But that’s nothing compared to the priceless antics I’m seeing from the Fairy Doctor Lydia and the Count Edgar, and this is exactly why I actually said I’m enjoying this little adventure.</p>
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<p>Lydia could be likened to Natsume of Natsume Yuujinchou, as they possess the same oddity/ability to hear and see what ordinary people can’t. Lydia however, is like a full-grown Natsume &#8212; she already overcame fears of loneliness and solitude, and has come to delight in her special ability. She’s got fairy childhood friends too! One is the sassy cat Niko you see in the homepage and the PV, her <em>bodyguard of some sort</em> and the other <em>fairy</em> is one hawt bishie (I only read about this from the character profiles in the magazine I bought, I have yet to <em>encounter</em> him in the novel).</p>
<p>Lydia gets entangled into this treasure-hunting-like adventure because of people who are after the Star Sapphire, and Count Edward who also wanted to ask her help to regain this Holy Ancestral Sword of some sort. Yes, the plot is a whee bit cheesy, but I found the novel to be really engaging given the interactions between Lydia and Edward, as well as this whole mystery shrouding Edward’s character. I was kept hanging at the edge of my seat wondering whether or not Edward is indeed the Count of Blue, at least in the hundred pages I&#8217;ve read so far (this Blue clan is said to have a strong bond with fairies and the sword that&#8217;s supposed to be handed down to him by his family is protected by fairies), since he’s the type of guy who can keep a poker face and fool his way out of everything. So Lydia is stuck with Edward, because he hired her for the task of searching for that fairy-protected treasure, and also because she has no choice &#8212; her life is in danger because <em>villains</em> are after her, though she still maintains a distance from Edward because she&#8217;s not entirely sure whether she can really trust him.</p>
<p>I haven&#8217;t read past half of the first novel, so obviously, I’ve only seen the tip of the iceberg to the whole story. But since I won’t be around when the first episode airs, I thought this would be the best time to post about it!</p>
<p>Going back to the topic&#8230; I find Edward to be a smexy tease. He knows Lydia’s lack of experience with guys, and he takes advantage of that (in a wholesome way, still). He teases her a lot too, since her reactions are fun~ Their banter antics is fun because Lydia is the strong-headed type of girl who doesn’t easily back down from a fight. She also speaks her mind, unlike sissy heroines. So yeah, basically I’m fond of the lead guy and girl, and it’s one of the main reasons why I’m anticipating the anime adaptation.</p>
<p>And, as the character designer has said in one interview, viewers (especially fangirls) would be happy to know that there is a bit of smut stuff to see in this series. There are no shower scenes, according to the character designer (drats! XD), but smutty tease is more than enough. I can sense romance blossoming in this series, even with the first few pages~ But the character interactions is what I&#8217;m most looking forward to here, not just Lydia and Edgar&#8217;s, also Nico&#8217;s, the butler Raven, and the cool &#038; spicy Ermine(?) who reminds me so much of the rocker Nana, looks-wise.<strong>Similar Posts:</strong>
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<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/11/29/do-you-flaunt-your-anime-manga-fanaticism/" rel="bookmark" title="November 29, 2007">Do You Flaunt Your Anime / Manga Fanaticism?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/10/21/a-visual-study-of-traffic-lights-in-anime-pt-4/" rel="bookmark" title="October 21, 2008">A Visual Study of Traffic Lights in Anime Pt. 4</a></li>
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<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/03/26/spring-2007-animes-thoughts-and-impressions-part-4/" rel="bookmark" title="March 26, 2007">Spring 2007 Animes (Thoughts and Impressions) Part 4</a></li>
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		<title>In Lieu of the Fall Preview #1: Kuroshitsuji</title>
		<link>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/09/26/in-lieu-of-the-fall-preview-1-kuroshitsuji/</link>
		<comments>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/09/26/in-lieu-of-the-fall-preview-1-kuroshitsuji/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 26 Sep 2008 15:10:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>usagijen</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Previews]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Kuroshitsuji]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[random pimpings]]></category>

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It's almost time for the fall animes, and I've completely lost the will to finish our Fall Preview orz. So screw it, I'm just going to pimp the shows I want, hurrah! I'm also dragging my fellow chefs with this, because they have more insightful things to say than I do. *Seleria feels the cold metal gun muzzle on her neck*  8O<br />]]></description>
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<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/usagijen.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" />It&#8217;s almost time for the fall animes, and I&#8217;ve completely lost the will to finish our Fall Preview orz. So screw it, I&#8217;m just going to pimp the shows I want, hurrah! I&#8217;m also dragging my fellow chefs with this, because they have more insightful things to say than I do. *Seleria feels the cold metal gun muzzle on her neck*  <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_eek.gif' alt='8O' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Seleria.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" /><br />The bunny has held me captive. She holds me at gunpoint while demanding me to join in this post. So, here I go.</p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/usagijen.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" /><br />Don&#8217;t mess with the bunneh <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_pirate.gif' alt=':idea:' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/absolute0.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" />I first learned of Kuroshitsuji when usagijen and I were planning the fall preview (now, I wonder why it hasn&#8217;t been posted yet *glares at usagijen*). I told usagijen that it&#8217;s the kind of anime that she would definitely watch. I wouldn&#8217;t bother with it though. I didn&#8217;t even watch other butler anime like Hayate the Combat Butler or Suteki Tantei Labyrinth.</p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/usagijen.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" /><br />absolute0 is just no fun, tsk <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_question.gif' alt=':?:' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p align="center" class="borderimg">
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/09/kuroshitsuji_01_0041.jpg" alt="" title="" height="617" class="aligncenter" />
</p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/usagijen.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" />So I read volume 1 of Kuroshitsuji, and although I don’t know exactly what was happening (it went from ‘<a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/09/kuroshitsuji_01_034.jpg" rel="thumbnail" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/kuroshitsuji_01_034.jpg');">A Day</a> <a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/09/kuroshitsuji_01_035.jpg" rel="thumbnail" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/kuroshitsuji_01_035.jpg');">in a Butler&#8217;s</a> <a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/09/kuroshitsuji_01_034.jpg" rel="thumbnail" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/kuroshitsuji_01_034.jpg');">Life</a>&#8216;, to &#8216;<a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/09/kuroshitsuji_01_1361.jpg" rel="thumbnail" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/kuroshitsuji_01_1361.jpg');">Butler 007</a>&#8216; or &#8216;<a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/09/kuroshitsuji_01_168.jpg" rel="thumbnail" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/kuroshitsuji_01_168.jpg');">The Immortal Combat Butler</a>&#8216; whose <a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/09/kuroshitsuji_01_154.jpg" rel="thumbnail" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/kuroshitsuji_01_154.jpg');">weapons of destruction</a> include his bare hands, and a chunk-load of kitchen knives and forks!), I am totally hooked!</p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Seleria.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" />Saw posters and other merchandise of this when I was in Japan a few months back. I was tempted to buy because of the nice artwork, but didn&#8217;t know any of the characters.  Still on the fence on this one&#8230; *usagijen cocks her gun* Uh&#8230; yeah looks interesting. Woohoo!!!</p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/usagijen.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" /><br />Can&#8217;t you at least *pretend* to like it? At least in the blog&#8230; T__T You&#8217;re so not helping me pimp *sigh*</p>
<p align="center" class="borderimg">
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/09/kuroshitsuji_01_181.jpg" alt="" title="" width="401" height="600" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-3028" />
</p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/usagijen.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" />*Ahem* Anyways, I love the kickass (and not to mention, sizzling hawt) Sebastian, also his <del>trap</del> shota master Ciel. Total coolness +____+ I’m not really sure what direction this is going to take, but I’m willing to join in the bandwagon of random lulz, BL-ish shota moments, epic butler fights, and whatnot. Most importantly, I’m a sucker for gorgeous art, and I missed Daisuke Ono’s dark voice (remembers Kazuma from Kaze no Stigma)~ Love the Gothic theme too!</p>
<p>I’m looking forward to seeing vampires, Van Hellsing, or other Transylvanian Gothic characters that will appear later on. Yes, shallow reasons, but I&#8217;m fairly sure we&#8217;re in for quite some pleasant surprises on this one <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/absolute0.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" />The setting of Kuroshitsuji makes me wonder on the Japanese fascination towards England (Anglophilia). What&#8217;s with shows like, Victorian Romance Emma, or characters that are supposed to hail from England (Saber from Fate Stay Night) or those of English descent (Eri Sawachika from School Rumble). And this season, Kuroshitsuji isn&#8217;t the only &#8220;English&#8221; anime slotted. There&#8217;s Hakushaku to Yousei which is set in 18th century England. The Japanese Anglophilia seems to focus more on Victorian England. There is perhaps a longing for the nobility of which that period is characterized. A longing, perhaps, of those old-fashioned values that are disappearing hard and fast in such a modern place as Japan. Anime aside, Japanese Anglophilia also prevails in other ways, such as the adaptation of Victorian fashion in Lolita.</p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/usagijen.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" />*jaw drop at absolute0&#8217;s comment* Well the Victorian era is, after all, characterized by elegance, nobility, beauty and all that jazz~ It&#8217;s an aesthetically fascinating subject. Anyways, I&#8217;ll leave it up to the readers to give their insights. What I really want to say, is that Hakushaku to Yousei is wonderful~!, but I&#8217;ll mention more about that in another post.</p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Seleria.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" /><br />ALL HAILZ BRITANNIA!!! I pledge my allegiance to his royal hawtness, Lelouch vi Britiannia!</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/usagijen.png" align="left" width="50" hspace="10" height="60" /><br />Sorry folks, Seleria has been GEASSED! <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_eek.gif' alt='8O' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p><strong>Similar Posts:</strong>
<ul class="similar-posts">
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/06/13/kure-nai-10/" rel="bookmark" title="June 13, 2008">Kure-nai 10</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/10/22/the-taigaism-dialogues-1-2-the-humble-beginnings-of-a-taiga-worship/" rel="bookmark" title="October 22, 2008">The Taigaism Dialogues (1-2): The Humble Beginnings of a Taiga Worship</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/06/26/2008-super-late-summer-anime-menu/" rel="bookmark" title="June 26, 2008">2008 [Super Late] Summer Anime Menu (Updated 7/07)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/03/26/spring-2007-animes-thoughts-and-impressions-part-4/" rel="bookmark" title="March 26, 2007">Spring 2007 Animes (Thoughts and Impressions) Part 4</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/09/28/in-lieu-of-the-fall-preview-2-hakushaku-to-yousei/" rel="bookmark" title="September 28, 2008">In Lieu of the Fall Preview #2: Hakushaku to Yousei</a></li>
</ul>
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		<title>Antique Bakery: Buttsecks-Less BL?! USODAA!!!11!!</title>
		<link>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/07/01/antique-bakery-buttsecks-less-bl-usodaa11/</link>
		<comments>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/07/01/antique-bakery-buttsecks-less-bl-usodaa11/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jul 2008 11:05:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>usagijen</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Previews]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Antique Bakery]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[pimpings]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/?p=2259</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Unless you've been living under a rock (or that the only summer 2008 anime guide you bothered to check out is <a href="http://that.animeblogger.net/2008/06/14/thats-summer-2008-anime-preview/">THAT's</a> where the bloggers' comments about it are all homophobic and doesn't really do this series justice), you would know that Antique Bakery is not BL, or at least, not like your typical BL which is almost immediately associated with Buttsecks and Lustful panderings. It's Buttsecks-Less! If you don't trust me, then trust the great <a href="http://randomc.animeblogger.net/2008/06/29/summer-2008-preview/">Omni</a>. Or <a href="http://www.minaidehazukashii.com/?p=622">JP</a>. Or <a href="http://sethjohnson.wordpress.com/2008/06/21/scratch-and-sniff-baking-buttsex-manga-coming-to-noitamina/#comment-11947">other</a> <a href="http://giapet.net/2008/02/27/insert-fangirlish-squee-here/">ones</a> <a href="http://slightlybiasedmanga.com/2007/03/07/antique-bakery-1/">who</a> <a href="http://www.manganews.net/forums/showthread.php?p=16676">have</a> <a href="http://giapet.net/2008/06/30/summer-preview-the-cheat-sheet/">read</a> the manga and know what it's really about. (That <a href="http://www.manganews.net/forums/showthread.php?p=16676">Antique Bakery review</a> by Floating_Sakura of Manganews is by far the best I've seen)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p align="center" class="borderimg">
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/antique_03_0001_resize.jpg" alt="" title="antique_03_0001_resize" />
</p>
<p>Unless you&#8217;ve been living under a rock (or that the only summer 2008 anime guide you bothered to check out is <a href="http://that.animeblogger.net/2008/06/14/thats-summer-2008-anime-preview/">THAT&#8217;s</a> where the bloggers&#8217; comments about it are all homophobic and doesn&#8217;t really do this series justice), you would know that Antique Bakery is not BL, or at least, not like your typical BL which is almost immediately associated with Buttsecks and Lustful panderings. It&#8217;s Buttsecks-Less! If you don&#8217;t trust me, then trust the great <a href="http://randomc.animeblogger.net/2008/06/29/summer-2008-preview/">Omni</a>. Or <a href="http://www.minaidehazukashii.com/?p=622" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.minaidehazukashii.com');">JP</a>. Or <a href="http://sethjohnson.wordpress.com/2008/06/21/scratch-and-sniff-baking-buttsex-manga-coming-to-noitamina/#comment-11947" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/sethjohnson.wordpress.com');">other</a> <a href="http://giapet.net/2008/02/27/insert-fangirlish-squee-here/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/giapet.net');">ones</a> <a href="http://slightlybiasedmanga.com/2007/03/07/antique-bakery-1/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/slightlybiasedmanga.com');">who</a> <a href="http://www.manganews.net/forums/showthread.php?p=16676" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.manganews.net');">have</a> <a href="http://giapet.net/2008/06/30/summer-preview-the-cheat-sheet/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/giapet.net');">read</a> the manga and know what it&#8217;s really about. (That <a href="http://www.manganews.net/forums/showthread.php?p=16676" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.manganews.net');">Antique Bakery review</a> by Floating_Sakura of Manganews is by far the best I&#8217;ve seen)</p>
<p>To quote an excerpt from another wonderful review of Antique Bakery from <a href="http://slightlybiasedmanga.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/slightlybiasedmanga.com');">Slightly Biased Manga</a> (for those who are too lazy to click on the above links and read them):</p>
<blockquote><p>&#8230;But it’s not a Boy’s Love series! <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fumi_Yoshinaga" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/en.wikipedia.org');">Fumi</a> [the author] <strong>likes to tease cause she knows that’s what you think she does</strong>. Mostly it’s a lot like Flower of Life where random events and conversations carry the series. A lot of the stories deal with the customers at the bakery and random little events in their lives, some deal with the backstories and lives of the three that work at the bakery, and the conversations at the bakery itself are interspersed with copious descriptions of every kind of delicious cake imaginable.</p></blockquote>
<p>Emphasis on the first part to serve as a message to those who were turned off by this series simply because they thought it was BL: YOU&#8217;VE BEEN HAD. Fumi Yoshinaga must be going &#8220;JUST AS PLANNED&#8221; on you now.</p>
<p>As Sepherest from the <a href="http://www.gaiaonline.com/forum/anime-manga-comics/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.gaiaonline.com');">gaiaonline forum</a> aptfully puts it, &#8220;[Antique Bakery is a] fantastic dramedy with <strong>some</strong> BL elements&#8221;. Emphasis on <strong>some</strong>. Also notice that it comes after the drama comedy aspect of the show. As I&#8217;ve said in our <a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/06/26/2008-super-late-summer-anime-menu/">summer preview</a>, this show is slice-of-[cake]-life, more than anything. But I guess some of you never really believed me, did you =/ まあいいか~</p>
<p>Ok, so you probably read (or took a peek at) the manga, and saw these (spoiler tags, just in case):</p>
<p><a href="javascript:void(null);" onclick="s_toggleDisplay(document.getElementById('SID119785675'), this, 'Show &#9660;', 'Hide &#9650;');">Show &#9660;</a></p>
<div id='SID119785675' style='display:none;'>
<p align="center">
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/antique_01_149.jpg" alt="" title="antique_01_149" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2252" /> <img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/antique_02_046.jpg" alt="" title="antique_02_046" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2253" /><br />
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/antique_02_048.jpg" alt="" title="Ono falls in love" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2254" /> <img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/antique_02_051.jpg" alt="" title="dripping in the rain" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2255" /><br />
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/antique_02_054.jpg" alt="" title="antique_02_054" width="300" height="432" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2260" /> <img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/antique_02_080.jpg" alt="" title="antique_02_080" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2261" /><br />
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/antique_02_094.jpg" alt="" title="antique_02_094" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2262" />
</p>
</div>
<p>&#8220;OMFG. GAY LULZ&#8221; some of you might be saying right now. Taken out of context, no doubt it looks gay. Within context, well yeah it&#8217;s still gay. But the good news dear ladies and gentlemen is that the BL elements of the show doesn&#8217;t get any more worse than this, it&#8217;s not portrayed to be explicit like other BL craps out there because the scenes are not made for pandering in the first place *turns on her anti-FYG shield*</p>
<p>*SPOILERS ALERT*</p>
<p>There&#8217;s more to these pics than meets the eye. The first pic there with Ono and the uke, for example, basically proves his <a href="http://sethjohnson.wordpress.com/2008/06/21/scratch-and-sniff-baking-buttsex-manga-coming-to-noitamina/trackback/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/sethjohnson.wordpress.com');">demonic gay charms</a>, the reason why a renowned chef like him has been fired from so many bakeries he worked at. The next set of images show Ono getting smitten by the klutzy bishie Chikage whom he lures with his charms, and succeeds at it because Chikage is the type of guy who&#8217;s &#8220;plain too stupid to tell the gender of his crushes&#8221;, as <a href="http://sethjohnson.wordpress.com/2008/06/21/scratch-and-sniff-baking-buttsex-manga-coming-to-noitamina/#comment-11947" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/sethjohnson.wordpress.com');">Ara</a> describes him. But as you can see in the last image above, Ono didn&#8217;t want to take advantage of the innocent young lad so he decides to end Chikage&#8217;s agony and just make their relationship of the platonic friendship level. And with that, Chikage is able to work in the bakery without much fuss. Later on you see some Ono x Chikage antics like that of Ouran Koukou&#8217;s Hikaru x Kaoru, as extra service to the female customers, but it&#8217;s completely harmless (less harmless than Hikaru x Kaoru&#8217;s antics even) and all for the lulz.</p>
<p>I think I&#8217;ve said enough about Ono already. As much as I want to talk about the other characters, I&#8217;m afraid to make this post any lengthier than it already is, so I just want to say that the other chefs in this series are equally interesting, or even more interesting than Ono.</p>
<p align="center">
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/tachibana_post.jpg" alt="" title="boss Tachibana looks 10 years younger without his mustache" width="309" height="321" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2275" /> <img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/ono_post.jpg" alt="" title="The gay with demonic charm Ono" width="309" height="321" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2276" /><br />
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/kanda_post2.jpg" alt="" title="the street-punk-hottie-turned-boxer-turned-chef Eiji" width="309" height="321" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2273" /> <img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/07/kobayakawa_post.jpg" alt="" title="the klutzy Chikage" width="309" height="321" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2274" />
</p>
<p>We have the street-punk-hottie-turned-boxer-turned-chef in the person of Eiji, and the rich-kid bakery boss Tachibana who rejected Ono&#8217;s confession way back high school. These two are among the rare few guys who could resist Ono&#8217;s charms, and is the only reason why he can work so well with them without <em>troubles</em>. Tachibana&#8217;s past and how it affected his dealings with people also adds layers of depth to this series, and if the anime will follow the manga closely, we might just see the last few episodes dedicated to this plot. Sorry to burst your bubble but Tachibana&#8217;s past is not about a past love or such gay stuff. Click the following spoiler info if you want to know:</p>
<p><a href="javascript:void(null);" onclick="s_toggleDisplay(document.getElementById('SID1055937793'), this, 'Show &#9660;', 'Hide &#9650;');">Show &#9660;</a></p>
<div id='SID1055937793' style='display:none;'>
<p>Tachibana was kidnapped when he was a kid, and the vague memory he has of his abductor was that he loved cakes and fed him these everyday. I&#8217;m not sure about the rest of the details about this but from what I gather, he&#8217;s actually on the lookout for this kidnapper guy, and is probably the reason why he put-up this bakery in the first place. hmm~</p>
</div>
<p>It seems that I wasn&#8217;t able to resist babbling about the characters after all <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_rolleyes.gif' alt=':roll:' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>But as with most character-driven slice-of-life series, others might find this boring unless you get into the characters. That&#8217;s when you&#8217;ll feel the magic of this show, when they start to grow on you <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> I just wonder if <a href="http://subculture.animeblogger.net/">Totali</a> will take his love for slice-of-life to another level and take on the challenge of watching Antique Bakery. I mean, this could be considered less gay than Nabari no Oh. You won&#8217;t see any [unrealistically] gay flowery backgrounds here, that&#8217;s for sure.</p>
<p>I&#8217;m not sure if I&#8217;ll be blogging this, but for sure I&#8217;m gonna watch it from start to end. If we still had our old banner, this blog would&#8217;ve represented this show down to its core lol. I fail so much for not recognizing this affinity we have with Antique Bakery until <a href="http://www.seaslugteam.com/archives/2008/06/26/summer-2008/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.seaslugteam.com');">Kabitzin</a> pointed it out. On a random note, I love how the character designs are faithful to Fumi Yoshinaga&#8217;s artwork in the manga, and the SD faces are just hilarious <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_biggrin.gif' alt='xD' class='wp-smiley' /> It&#8217;s also great to see Miki Shinichirou as Ono, and Miyano Mamoru as Eiji :3<strong>Similar Posts:</strong>
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<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/06/21/kaze-no-stigma-manga-ends-with-the-misao-arc-short-and-sweet/" rel="bookmark" title="June 21, 2008">Kaze no Stigma Manga Ends with the Misao Arc. Short and Sweet.</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/12/29/countdown-to-christmas-9-the-underrated-gem-of-2007-emily-of-new-moon/" rel="bookmark" title="December 29, 2007">Countdown to Christmas #9: The Underrated Gem of 2007, Emily of New Moon</a></li>
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<p><!-- Similar Posts took 17.439 ms --></p>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>2008 [Super Late] Summer Anime Menu (Updated 7/07)</title>
		<link>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/06/26/2008-super-late-summer-anime-menu/</link>
		<comments>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/06/26/2008-super-late-summer-anime-menu/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:33:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>usagijen</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Previews]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Antique Bakery]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Birdy the Mighty]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Chocolate Underground]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Natsume Yuujinchou]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Neo Angelique]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Season Previews]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Telepathy Girl Ran]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/?p=2110</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p align="center" class="borderimg">
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/summer_animes-280x250.jpg" />
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<strong><em>Updates</em></strong>
<em>07/04 Antique Bakery official site changed, again. Hopefully now, for good.</em>
<em>07/01 Fixed Yakushiji Ryouko trailer link, added Slayers Revolution, Somedays Dreamers ~Natsu no Sora~, and Scarecrowman trailer link(s)</em>
<em>06/30 Antique Bakery site changed to FujiTV official site, Strike Witches trailer link changed to latest PV.</em>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><em>Updates</em></strong><br />
<em>07/07 Added Nogizaka Haruhi trailer link.</em><br />
<em>07/04 Antique Bakery official site changed, again. Hopefully now, for good.</em><br />
<em>07/01 Fixed Yakushiji Ryouko trailer link, added Slayers Revolution, Somedays Dreamers ~Natsu no Sora~, and Scarecrowman trailer link(s)</em><br />
<em>06/30 Antique Bakery site changed to FujiTV official site, Strike Witches trailer link changed to latest PV.</em></p>
<p>It&#8217;s been quite a while since we did this, after almost a year (the last one we did was for <a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/09/26/2007-fall-anime-menu/">Fall 2007</a>)! The chefs finally got their lazy ass to work on this summer preview <del>after some whipping from boss absolute0 (poor bunny <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_sad.gif' alt=':(' class='wp-smiley' /> )</del>, but still late as ever. On behalf of our MIA chefs Seleria and Bele, we present to you a very special guest commentator, *drumroll* <a href="http://cuteproxy.wordpress.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/cuteproxy.wordpress.com');">hayase / cuteproxy</a>! <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_biggrin.gif' alt=':D' class='wp-smiley' /> In case you didn&#8217;t know, hayase is an officemate of absolute0, so that explains why we personally invited her to this little preview :3</p>
<p>So once again, we bring to you this almost complete list of the sequel-filled summer season&#8217;s anime. And as per our tradition, we&#8217;ve included &#8220;Chef Chaff&#8221; in each of our preview, to give you an idea of what we think of the title.</p>
<p>Chaff means good-natured joking or banter. All puns are intended :p Animes are chronologically arranged according to air date.</p>
<p>Don&#8217;t forget to tell us what YOU will be watching. Bon appetit.</p>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/ikkitousen.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="ikkitousen" name="ikkitousen"></a><strong><u>Ikkitousen Great Guardians</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 一騎当千 Great Guardians</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.ikkitousen.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.ikkitousen.com');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9439" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> ARMS<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 6/11/2008 9:30 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=piOyrJlF2yA" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> The third season of the anime famously known as &#8220;The gender-bending of Romance of Three Kingdoms&#8221;, now with moar gratuitous fanservice, boobies, action (in more ways than one), and a batshit load of Sangokushi characters, reincarnataed and made fappable due to insistent public demand.</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>fappable??? o_ O</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>ugh good gawd NO. The Saiungokushi characters shall remain immortalized in my mind as respectable characters who made history without relying on moe pantsu fanservice crap.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Fanservice?  *runs away* Wait what am I doing here in this blog LOL</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/choco_underground.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="choco_underground" name="choco_underground"></a><strong><u>Chocolate Underground</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> チョコレート・アンダーグラウンド</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.choco-bar.jp/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.choco-bar.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9599" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Production I.G. / Trans Arts<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 6/12/2008</p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Adapted from the children&#8217;s novel Bootleg by the British author Alex Shearer, story centers on two 13-year-old boys who live in a country that has banned chocolate and mandated fruits and vegetables for daily consumption. The boys discover a stash of cocoa and sugar and decide to run a bootleg chocolate factory, in complete defiance of the government run by the oppressive Good for You Party. Their misadventures eventually sparks a revolution in the country. - ANN via MAL</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>I have always anticipated every season&#8217;s release from Production IG. I wonder how this one will fare though. The idea of banning chocolates seems strange (banning books, as in Toshokan Sensou, is imaginable… think  Ray Bradbury&#8217;s Fahrenheit 451). This leads me to wonder further if this has a serious plot (drama about chocolates??) or just a genki-genki one. We&#8217;ll see.</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>OMGz. Chocolate <3 is it just me or is Production I.G. into censorship/banning stuff animes… first Toshokan Sensou, now this. Not that I'm complaining.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>I&#8217;m on a diet, I&#8217;ll skip the chocolates thank you.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/telepathy_ran.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="telepathy_ran" name="telepathy_ran"></a><strong><u>Telepathy Shoujo Ran</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> テレパシー少女 蘭</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www3.nhk.or.jp/anime/ran/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www3.nhk.or.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9141" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Tom&#8217;s Entertainment<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 6/21/2008 6:25 PM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhLO0B7idM0" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Ran is a bright and energetic first-grader in junior high school who possesses supernatual abilities. Together with Midori (her friend who also has supernatural powers) and Rui, the threesome are constantly embroiled in mysterious circumstances. Ran is troubled by her powers because it seems to spark off the ill intentions of people in contact with her. However, with the support of her family and peers, Ran learns to deal with her &#8216;other&#8217; side and accepts who she is. The threesome also learn how to team up as a whole and solve these mysterious events. - ANN</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>the supernatural slice-of-lifey premise somehow reminds me of Mokke (and Mokke turned out dull in my opinion). It wouldn&#8217;t hurt to miss this one</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>the telekinetic high school girl concept reminded me of Miracle Girls, but it seems that this show is more exciting than that old school shoujo anime (more exciting than Mokke too, absolute0!). Fast-paced slice-of-life oozing with mystery~ I likey.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>*Yawn*…pass.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/ultraviolet.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="ultraviolet" name="ultraviolet"></a><strong><u>Ultraviolet: Code044</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> ウルトラヴァイオレット:Code044</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://uvcode044.jp/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/uvcode044.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9705" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Madhouse<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/1/2008 10:00 PM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTi2WvffRO4" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> The anime sequel to the stellar yet critic-bashed Hollywood movie starring Mila Jovovich. The anime somewhat diverts from the said movie, since the star here is 044, &#8220;a female warrior genetically engineered with high combat skills and ordered by the government to annihilate a vampire army&#8221; according to ANN and not &#8216;Violet&#8217; (not sure if they&#8217;re one and  the same)</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>I haven&#8217;t seen the live action movie (though Mila Jovovich would have been a reason for watching it). Can’t be bothered about watching this one I guess.</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>East meets West with this one, and with Madhouse, and director Osamu Dezaki (Astro Boy, Lupin 3rd, Ace wo Nerae, among other classics) in the works, this anime might just prove to be a worthy watch.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Somebody mentioned Mila Jovovich?  Interesting but after my disappointment with recent action shows I might check this one out only if there&#8217;s nothing else left to watch.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/sekirei.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="sekirei" name="sekirei"></a><strong><u>Sekirei</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> セキレイ</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.sekirei-tv.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.sekirei-tv.com');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9561" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Seven Arcs<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/2/2008 11:30 PM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifEZYJeSVQ0" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Sekirei are 108 beautiful girls of unknown origin, who together with their Ashikabi (human partners), must battle with one another in order to determine who will ascend and claim the &#8220;prize&#8221;. What is the larger purpose of this event? What are the plans of the event&#8217;s overseer, the same individual who found these Sekirei and introduced them into society? -MAL</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>>_< I wonder how they can walk around without falling. Those "things" must be quite heavy.</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>Hello sharp boobies~! Seikereww orz</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Is this harem?  Pass.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/slayers_revolution.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>Slayers Revolution</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> スレイヤーズREVOLUTION</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.starchild.co.jp/special/slayers_revolution/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.starchild.co.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9500" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> J.C.Staff<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/3/2008 1:20 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67wHhRhJ8wc" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> The much awaited (read: 11 years) new sequel to the long-running series Slayers. Say hello to more dragon slaying adventures with Lina, Gourry and friends, retaining more or less the original Slayers seiyuu cast. </td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>Ahh.. Slayers. After all these years, it&#8217;s making a comeback. I haven&#8217;t seen even a single episode of this series though. The sword and sorcery theme is interesting but the wackiness is a turn off for me.</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>If only I watched [at least] one entire season of Slayers, then I would&#8217;ve wanted to watch this to see Lina Inverse and Gourry in action. But if this new season can be a &#8217;stand-alone&#8217;, I might just watch it (wanting to hear Megumi Hayashibara again might also prompt me to watch this lol)</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Hmm, was not really enthralled by the original series so I&#8217;ll pass.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/somedays_dreamers.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="somedays_dreamers" name="somedays_dreamers"></a><strong><u>Mahou Tsukai ni Taisetsu na Koto ~Natsu no Sora~</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 魔法遣いに大切なこと ～夏のソラ～</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.sora-mahou.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.sora-mahou.com');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=1372" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> HAL Film Maker<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/3/2008 2:40 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qM8m4aX0Z_k" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Yume Kikuchi, a girl who can use magic, goes to Tokyo to be an apprentice mage to the handsome Masami Oyamada (a professional mage). In Tokyo, Yume learns about magic, helping people, and various other things on her way to being a mage. but she soon also finds out that even just magic alone isnt enough to make someone truly happy&#8230; - ANN</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>Haven&#8217;t seen the first series so pass!</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>I&#8217;ve only seen a few episodes of the first series, read a little of the manga too… and I loved it. The slice-of-life feel reminds me of Tokikake, now that I think about it. I feel like marathoning the first series now.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Slice of life!  But my real motive behind checking this is to hone my Japanese listening skills&#8211;I hope there&#8217;s gonna be lots of raws!</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/scarecrowman.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>Scarecrow Man</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> スケアクロウマン</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.vap.co.jp/scarecrowman/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.vap.co.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=10045" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Tokyo Movie<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/3/2008 11:00 PM<br />
<a href="http://www.crunchyroll.com/media-387314/Anime-Trailers-Scarecrowman-the-Animation-Trailer.html" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.crunchyroll.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> A regular old scarecrow has stood in a field for twenty years when one day, after a lightning storm, he comes to life. He becomes friends with the daughter of a scarecrow shop owner. - MAL</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>I wonder if this is &#8220;kiddie stuff&#8221; as usagijen mentioned. Looks whimsical. It kinda looks like Jack Skellington meets Freddy Krueger >_<;</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>Not sure who&#8217;s the intended audience for this. Kaiba made me think twice before labeling something as &#8220;kiddie stuff&#8221; now, looks can fool you.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>I don&#8217;t know what to think of this one but I&#8217;ll check out other bloggers&#8217; review on this.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/antique_bakery.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="antique_bakery" name="antique_bakery"></a><strong><u>Antique Bakery</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 西洋骨董洋菓子店 ～アンティーク～</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.antique-anime.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.antique-anime.com');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9501" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Nippon Animation<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/4/2008 12:45 AM</p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Ono has come a long way since the agonizing day in high school when he confessed his love to handsome Tachibana. Now, some 14 years later Ono, a world-class pastry chef and gay playboy has it all. No man can resist Ono&#8217;s charms (or his cooking skills!) but he has just found a new position under a man named Tachibana. Can this be the only man who resisted his charms, and if so, will the man who once snubbed the &#8220;magically gay&#8221; Ono get his just desserts? And how in the heck did a former middleweight boxing champion wind up as Ono&#8217;s cake boy?  - DMP via MAL</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>What the…? I&#8217;m sure usagijen would find this scrumptious though.</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>It&#8217;s a heartful shounen-ai-ish series like no BL series you&#8217;ve seen or read. It&#8217;s no way near Junjou Romantica, because (1) it&#8217;s a no-nonsense no buttsecks series, (2) among the 3 patissiers, 2 are straight guys, only 1 is gay, (3) the story focuses on the life of the chefs as well as their customers, they are real characters with depth. And if that&#8217;s not enough, this manga also garnered the Kodansha Manga Award for shoujo in 2002, and Eisner Award nomination for &#8220;Best U.S. Edition of International Material - Japan&#8221; in 2007. Oh, and it&#8217;s in the Noitamina block too.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>I couldn&#8217;t stomach Junjou Romantica so I&#8217;ll pass on this one.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/hidamari365.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>Hidamari Sketch x 365</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> ひだまりスケッチ×365</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.tbs.co.jp/anime/hidamari/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.tbs.co.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=8989" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Shaft<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/4/2008 1:25 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNIvSHB4Im8" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Continuation of the everyday lives of the resident of Hidamari Apartment.</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>Not interested</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>Have to marathon the first series to be able to watch this. I&#8217;ve been hearing great things about this, but I&#8217;m not really sure if it&#8217;s my cup of tea.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>I think I managed to watch less than 4 minutes of the first episode of the 1st season of this and after that I changed channels, er switched to watching another show.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/strike_witches.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>Strike Witches</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> ストライクウィッチーズ</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://s-witch.cute.or.jp/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/s-witch.cute.or.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9139" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> GONZO<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/4/2008 1:20 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fTuhT72tmg" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> The story takes place on an alternate Earth in a time period equivalent to our late 1930’s and 40’s. In order to repel an invasion by mysterious bent on conquering Earth, the various superpowers have combined forces to develop a weapon system consisting of a melding of technology and magic that allows the human body to merge with technological components. - MAL</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>Lolis seem to be making a comeback this season. Oh no!</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>It&#8217;s a bird, it&#8217;s a plane! No, it&#8217;s a LOL LOLI LOL. The OAV was said to be a <strong><a href=http://retsgip.animeblogger.net/archives/2007/01/22/strike-witches-prelude-already-anime-of-the-year/>waist of time</a></strong>, and that makes me all the more want to stay away from this.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Lolis?  Pass.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/birdy_mighty.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="birdy_mighty" name="birdy_mighty"></a><strong><u>Birdy the Mighty DECODE</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 鉄腕バーディー DECODE</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.birdy-tv.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.birdy-tv.com');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9287" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong>  A-1 Pictures<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/5/2008 1:00 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAxoH3GyMwo" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> An alternate retelling of the 1996 OAV, revolving around the life of a young boy named Tsutomu, who gets caught up in an interplanetary mess where the reckless police officer Birdy accidentally kills him. As retribution, Birdy shares her body with the young guy, allowing him to live as a Spirit in the Shell (of Birdy), a lifetime gattai which drags Tsutomu into a crime-busting [super] heroic ride.</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>I would say Birdy&#8217;s character design is weird. I guess I&#8217;d try to check a few episodes to see if this is worth following.</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>I was initially set on staying away from this, but my interest just went up the moment I found out this is by the same guy who did Patlabor. If the previously released OAV of this anime proved to be good, then this might just be as well. Ok, watching the PV made me hyped up for this series. MUST WATCH!! (with brothers too)</p>
<p>note to Hayase: there IZ mecha desu!</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>If a mecha appears I&#8217;ll watch.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/yakushiji.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="yakushiji" name="yakushiji"></a><strong><u>Yakushiji Ryouko</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 薬師寺涼子の怪奇事件簿</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.starchild.co.jp/special/yakushijiryouko/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.starchild.co.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9087" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Dogakobo<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/6/2008 12:30 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5tGHAECl6M" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Based on a series of light novels written by Tanaka Yoshiki and illustrated by Kakinouchi Narumi.</p>
<p>The story revolves around Ryouko Yakushiji, a 27-year-old multilingual investigator that graduated from Tokyo University&#8217;s elite Department of Law, and the bizarre cases she faces while working for the Tokyo Metropolitan Police. Yakushiji not only has to deal with supernatural beings in her line of work, but also her rival Yukiko Muromachi, another equally talented and beautiful police investigator.- AniDB</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>Ah. . . This one sounds interesting. </em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>By the same author behind the classics Legend of the Galactic Heroes and Arslan, there&#8217;s no way this series can go wrong, unless it falls into the wrong staff.</p>
<p>The manga adaptation caught my eye yearsss back (coz the artist was the Vampire Princess Miyu author), and I totally loved it for the KICKASS brainy sexy female detective. One of my most anticipated series of 2008. Even <a href=http://www.iwanihana.info/yakushiji_ryouko_no_kaiki_jikenbo/index.html>WabiSabi</a> of Iwa ni Hana thinks so <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_wink.gif' alt=';)' class='wp-smiley' /> </em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Multi-lingual&#8211;I wanna be multi-lingual!  I&#8217;m slowly working on it&#8211;but JLPT2 just makes me so stressed out lol.  Anyway, so as not to waste my time I&#8217;ll just check out other bloggers&#8217; impressions on this one.  But it does sound interesting.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/ZnT3.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>Zero no Tsukaima ~Princesses no Rondo~</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> ゼロの使い魔 ～三美姫の輪舞～</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.zero-tsukaima.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.zero-tsukaima.com');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9200" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> J.C.Staff<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/7/2008 12:30 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBzdVFsVZnA" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Zero no Tsukaima comes back with this 3rd sequel, to live up to the original series and make up for the butchered 2nd season? One can only hope.</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>…</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>…</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>I was very disappointed with the second season.  Pass.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/neo_angelique.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="angelique" name="angelique"></a><strong><u>Neo Angelique Abyss ~Second Age~</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> ネオアンジェリーク Abyss -Second Age-</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.gamecity.ne.jp/neoromance/tv/neo/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.gamecity.ne.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9068" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Yumeta Company<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/7/2008 2:00 AM</p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Arcadia is plagued with evil, life-draining demons called Thanatos and a vast lack of Purifiers to exterminate them all. While attending school, Angelique attracts the eye of a man who intends to turn the tides to the people&#8217;s favor. What lies within her is the key to Arcadia&#8217;s survival. - ANN</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>So there was a First Age?</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>omgz are you kidding me?! Neo Angelique is <333 fangurl me ish happy</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>I think I saw a pic of an earlier series of this and my reaction was not so good.  Pass.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/natsume.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><a title="natsume" name="natsume"></a><strong><u>Natsume Yuujinchou</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 夏目友人帳</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.natsume-anime.jp/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.natsume-anime.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9419" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Brain&#8217;s Base<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/8/2008 1:00 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egPstUsOG8E" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Natsume Takashi has the ability to see spirits, which he has long kept secret. However, once he inherits a strange book that belonged to his deceased grandmother, Reiko, he discovers the reason why spirits surround him. Containing the names of these spirits, a binding contract was formed between the spirits and the owner of the book. Now, Natsume is determined to free the spirits and dissolve the contracts. With the help of a spirit cat, his days are filled trying to return the names to these spirits. - ANN</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>Interesting. Kinda reminds me of Bleach for some reasons. I wonder if the spirits in Natsume Yuujinchou are those from Japanese folklore (I find that interesting) or would it be something like Bleach?</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>Finally, a GOOD and not-your-typical shoujo made into anime! Having saw a glimpse of the manga, I can say for sure that it&#8217;s not like Bleach at all, more like Mokke (and a bit of Mononoke, with the folklore stuff), but I found this to be more endearing. Great if you&#8217;re into slow-paced slice-of-life shows.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Hmm, a little interesting but not sure if I can spare the time.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/mission_e.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>Mission-E</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> Mission-E</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://avexmovie.jp/lineup/mission-e/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/avexmovie.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9686" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Studio Deen<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/8/2008 1:05 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIHweA_-888" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> The adventures of the [literally] electrifying Chinami Ebihara continues with this 2nd sequel. </td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>Yet another sequel.</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>The first series aired during an &#8220;anime slump&#8221; summer, totally missed out on this. Unless I get to watch that, no sequel for me T__T</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>I didn&#8217;t like the lead guy in the original Code-E.  Pass.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/world_destruction.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>World Destruction</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> ワールド・デストラクション ～世界撲滅の六人～</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://wd.sega.jp/anime/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/wd.sega.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=10012" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Production I.G.<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/8/2008 1:30 AM<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pZTvTjQWbI" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Based on a soon-to-be-released sword &#038; sorcery fantasy RPG game by Sega, which will also be having its manga spin-off by July. To be produced by Production I.G., with a star-studded cast (Maaya Sakamoto, Miyano Mamoru, Daisuke Ono), this series has really been hyped to the Nth level.</p>
<p>The game centers on a youth named Kirie Irunisu who secretly possesses the power to destroy the world. He is forced to join a party that aims not to save the world, but to eradicate it and start anew -ANN</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>Adaptations from game to anime tend to be problematic. But this looks a little interesting. It&#8217;s from Production IG so they might be able to redeem this one from the pitfalls that befall game adaptations. </em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>Wow, talk about one adaptation package, a game for the DS, and anime and manga sequel to boot!</p>
<p>Being one of the first Production I.G. game adaptation makes this a must watch for me. The character designs look pretty generic at first glance, but that mascot is certainly unique and cute :3 (it&#8217;s gonna be voiced by Tuxedo Mask&#8217;s seiyuu too! lolz).</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Another game adaptation.  The only game adaptation that seemed acceptable to me was Zegapain.  But it&#8217;s Production IG so I might check it out.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/koihime.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>Koihime Musou</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 恋姫†無双</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.mmv.co.jp/special/koihime/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.mmv.co.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9498" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Dogakobo<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/9/2008 2:00 AM</p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> The only eroge adaptation of the season, featuring the lolified Romance of the Three Kingdoms characters.</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>Ekh!</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>An erogender-bender Romance of Three Kingdoms adaptation, hmm. It <em>looks</em> better and cuter than Ikkitousen, but I wonder about the rest.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Not interested.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/nogizaka.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 乃木坂春香の秘密</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.nogizaka-haruka.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.nogizaka-haruka.com');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9012" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Diomedia<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/10/2008 2:00 AM<br />
<a href='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARl7EkEPc3w'>[Trailer]<br />
</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu centers around Yuuto Ayase and Haruka Nogizaka. Yuuto is seemingly ordinary, but Haruka is attractive, intelligent, and rich, which prompts other students to idolize her and even give her French nicknames like &#8220;Nuit Etoile&#8221; (The Silver Star of the Night) and &#8220;Lumiere du Clavier&#8221; (The Shining Princess on the Piano). One day, Yuuto wanders into the school library in order to return a book and accidentally stumbles upon Haruka&#8217;s deepest, darkest secret: she is a diehard fan of anime and manga, in other words, a regular otaku. Promising Haruka to keep this a secret, Yuuto becomes her advisor and confidente of some sort and hangs out with her more, though earning some viciously envious glares from his fellow schoolmates. - ANN</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>Hmm…</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>Haruka with her <a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/nogizaka_1_059a1.jpg" href=http://www.shamefulotakusecret.com/>shameful otaku secret</a> reminds me of Mayu from My Condolences, Ninomiya, but without doubt Nogizaka > Mayu. I read the manga, found Haruka x Yuuto real cute and sweet (especially <a rel="thumbnail" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/nogizaka_1_059a1.jpg');">here</a>), but the tons of boob and pantyshots and the slutty apartment mates of Yuuto make me want to stay away from this. I might just watch the anime to see whether they made the fanservice worse <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_rolleyes.gif' alt=':roll:' class='wp-smiley' /> </em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Somehow &#8216;Etoile&#8217; just conjures up images of an all-girls school dorm and other &#8216;panicky&#8217; images.  However, &#8216;otaku&#8217; also figures and considering how I loved Genshiken I&#8217;m gonna give this a try.  Somebody sub this please.  =p</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/bimmortal.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>Blade of the Immortal</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 無限の住人</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://mugen.kc.kodansha.co.jp/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/mugen.kc.kodansha.co.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=9691" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Diomedia<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/14/2008<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGbLhNF8PKU" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.youtube.com');">[Trailer]</a></p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Manji is a crass, violent samurai with a special ability: he cannot die. Cursed with immortality by the nun Yobikuni as punishment for his ruthless deeds, he has grown weary of his ageless life. The only way to lift the curse is to slay 1,000 evil men. So Manji wanders Japan, shedding the blood of the wicked on his quest to finally die. - ANN</td>
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<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>The Blade of Immortal manga is quite popular and a lot of fans might be looking forward to this one. Not into this particular genre though (but not because of the violence) </em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em><del>Quite an interesting looking samurai series, whose manga is already complete at 12 volumes!</del> I should have known not to trust my 2nd brother when it comes to these info, booboo. Thanks to Teru for correcting me. I can&#8217;t believe I didn&#8217;t check other sites for this info orz. Anyways, I still have to check out the manga and see if I can stomach the gruesomeness, gore and violence (especially against women)… I turned away from Basilisk and Shigurui because of these reasons.</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Violence.  Samurai.  I couldn&#8217;t stomach Shigurui, so I&#8217;ll pass again.</em></td>
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<td rowspan='2'><img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/akiba.jpg' border='2' width='225px' height='300px' /></td>
<td valign='top'><strong><u>Akiba-chan</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> アキバちゃん</p>
<p><strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.akibachan.jp/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.akibachan.jp');">Website</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Tsuburaya Entertainment<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 7/25/2008</p>
<p><strong>Synopsis:</strong> Yet another stop-motion (&#8221;figu-mation&#8221;) anime featuring the life of Akiba-chan and her fellow otakus in Maison de Akiba.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td text-align='justify' align='left' valign='top'><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<font color='Blue'><strong>absolute0:</strong></font> <em>doesn&#8217;t look as creepy as Kowai Jenny but creepy still</em><br />
<font color='Crimson'><strong>usagijen:</strong></font> <em>WTFudge, this is like the loli-moe counterpart of Kowai Jenny o.O</em><br />
<font color='Orange'><strong>hayase:</strong></font> <em>Stop-motion?  Creepy?  Pass.</em></td>
</tr>
</table>
<hr />
<div id="season_picks" style="margin-left: 1em;">
<table border='0' cellpadding='3'>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
   <strong>absolute0&#8217;s Summer Picks</strong></p>
<ul>
<a href="#choco_underground"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/choco_underground-48x48.jpg" alt="Chocolate Underground" title="choco_underground" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2114" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/choco_underground-48x48.jpg');"></a> <a href="#yakushiji"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/yakushiji-48x48.jpg" alt="" title="yakushiji" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2116" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/yakushiji-48x48.jpg');"></a> <a href="#natsume"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/natsume-48x48.jpg" alt="" title="natsume" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2117" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/natsume-48x48.jpg');"></a>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
   <strong>usagijen&#8217;s Summer Picks</strong></p>
<ul>
<a href="#choco_underground"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/choco_underground-48x48.jpg" alt="Chocolate Underground" title="chocolate underground" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2114" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/choco_underground-48x48.jpg');"></a> <a href="#telepathy_ran"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/telepathy_ran-48x48.jpg" alt="" title="telepathy shoujo ran" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2118" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/telepathy_ran-48x48.jpg');"></a> <a href="#somedays_dreamers"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/somedays_dreamers-48x48.jpg" alt="Somedays Dreamers Natsu" title="somedays dreamers" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2119" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/somedays_dreamers-48x48.jpg');"></a> <a href="#antique_bakery"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/antique_bakery-48x48.jpg" alt="" title="antique bakery" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2120" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/antique_bakery-48x48.jpg');"></a> <a href="#birdy_mighty"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/birdy_mighty-48x48.jpg" alt="" title="birdy the mighty" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2121" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/birdy_mighty-48x48.jpg');"></a> <a href="#angelique"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/neo_angelique-48x48.jpg" alt="" title="Neo Angelique ~Second Age~" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2122" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/neo_angelique-48x48.jpg');"></a> <a href="#yakushiji"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/yakushiji-48x48.jpg" alt="" title="yakushiji ryouko" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2116" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/yakushiji-48x48.jpg');"></a> <a href="#natsume"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/2008/06/natsume-48x48.jpg" alt="" title="natsume" width="48" height="48" class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2117" / onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/downloads/jpg/natsume-48x48.jpg');"></a>
   </td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<hr />
<strong>Credits</strong><br />
Most of the information were taken from <a href="http://d.hatena.ne.jp/moonphase/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/d.hatena.ne.jp');">Moonphase</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.com/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/en.wikipedia.com');">Wikipedia</a>, <a href="http://anidb.net" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/anidb.net');">AniDB.net</a>, and <a href="http://myanimelist.net" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/myanimelist.net');">MAL</a>.<strong>Similar Posts:</strong>
<ul class="similar-posts">
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/06/24/2007-summer-anime-menu/" rel="bookmark" title="June 24, 2007">2007 Summer Anime Menu</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/09/26/2007-fall-anime-menu/" rel="bookmark" title="September 26, 2007">2007 Fall Anime Menu</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/06/22/newtype-romance-and-greenwood/" rel="bookmark" title="June 22, 2008">Newtype Romance and Greenwood</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/11/30/hop-step-jump-for-jlpt-2007/" rel="bookmark" title="November 30, 2007">Hop Step Jump! for JLPT 2007</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/05/18/kyou-kara-maou-dvd-box-set-and-season-iii-dvd-update/" rel="bookmark" title="May 18, 2007">Kyou Kara Maou! DVD Box Set and Season III DVD Update</a></li>
</ul>
<p><!-- Similar Posts took 17.759 ms --></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>More Than Words&#8230; More Kurenai Pimping&#8230; Now I Am SOLD</title>
		<link>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/01/28/more-than-words-more-kurenai-pimping-now-i-am-sold/</link>
		<comments>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/01/28/more-than-words-more-kurenai-pimping-now-i-am-sold/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 27 Jan 2008 16:25:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>usagijen</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Anime News]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Kurenai]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Previews]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Kure-nai]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[novel]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/01/28/more-than-words-more-kurenai-pimping-now-i-am-sold/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p align="center" class="borderimg">
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/kurenai_top00.jpg" alt="" />
<em>I love the tagline of this series, "People become stronger when they find someone they ought to protect". rawr, so GAR xD</em>
</p>

<p>
Not too long ago, I pointed out Kurenai as one of the animes I'm looking forward to in the Spring Lineup. <em>Yes, I'm looking that far ahead.</em> Although I don't have the actual novel in my hands, I managed to find it *cough* <em>somewhere else</em> *cough* It took me weeks of perseverance, to keep me from buying the novels on impulse. I thought hard, wondering if it'll be worth my time and money, considering the pile of unread mangas and novels (*cough* <em>Saiunkoku</em> *cough*) I have. I browsed through the novels again, supposedly for dispelling my excitement (the want-to-buy-it kind of excitement) for it, only to end up failing to resist it more orz.
</p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p align="center" class="borderimg">
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/kurenai_top00.jpg" alt="" /><br />
<em>I love the tagline of this series, &#8220;People become stronger when they find someone they ought to protect&#8221;. rawr, so GAR <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_biggrin.gif' alt='xD' class='wp-smiley' /> </em>
</p>
<p>
Not too long ago, I pointed out Kurenai as one of the animes I&#8217;m looking forward to in the Spring Lineup. <em>Yes, I&#8217;m looking that far ahead.</em> Although I don&#8217;t have the actual novel in my hands, I managed to find it *cough* <em>somewhere else</em> *cough* It took me weeks of perseverance, to keep me from buying the novels on impulse. I thought hard, wondering if it&#8217;ll be worth my time and money, considering the pile of unread mangas and novels (*cough* <em>Saiunkoku</em> *cough*) I have. I browsed through the novels again, supposedly for dispelling my excitement (the want-to-buy-it kind of excitement) for it, only to end up failing to resist it more orz.
</p>
<p align="center">
<a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_032_post.jpg rel="thumbnail"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_032_thumb.jpg" alt="" /></a> <a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_176_post.jpg rel="thumbnail"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_176_thumb.jpg" alt="" /></a> <a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_200_post.jpg rel="thumbnail"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_200_thumb.jpg" alt="" /></a><br />
<a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_226_post.jpg rel="thumbnail"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_226_thumb.jpg" alt="" /></a> <a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_306_post.jpg rel="thumbnail"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_306_thumb.jpg" alt="" /></a> <a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/guillotine_241_post.jpg rel="thumbnail"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/guillotine_241_thumb.jpg" alt="" /></a>
</p>
<p>These pictures in particular caught my attention, enough to make me exclaim &#8220;I AM SOLD!&#8221;. Without reading the text of the novel, I think these images already give enough hints that there&#8217;s more to this show than meets the eye (like duh, these images already show some plot-clues in the first two volumes of the novel xD). I think you&#8217;ll even be more interested once you see the recent <a href=http://comic.mhtang.com/online/420/3104/3104_1.html target="_blank">manga adaptation</a>. What worries me is how they&#8217;re going to conclude the anime for this yet-to-be-finished novel. Aside from that, it&#8217;s all good~</p>
<p align="center" class="borderimg">
<img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/guillotine_291_post.jpg" alt="" />
</p>
<p>I get <a href=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aishiteruze_Baby>Aishiteruze Baby</a> vibes from the loli &#038; bodyguard relationship of Murasaki and Shinkurou, the two main characters of the show. I think the antics in Kurenai will be more fun, because we have a tsundere ojousama loli in Murasaki <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_biggrin.gif' alt='xD' class='wp-smiley' /> The possible love triangle angle with Shinkurou, Murasaki, and Shinkurou&#8217;s classmate Yuuno makes this all the more <a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/guillotine_149_post.jpg rel="thumbnail">interesting</a>. I&#8217;m in the loli-side for this one, though Yuuno is a cool <a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/manga//kure-nai002_05_resize.jpg rel="thumbnail">kickass female</a> herself, whose martial arts skills is even more superior than the <a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/Kure-nai_274_post.jpg rel="thumbnail">GAR-in-disguise</a> Shinkurou.</p>
<p>I decided to give this pimping my ALL (sort of), so here are some of the entertaining antics I was able to pick-up during my quick browsing:</p>
<table padding="6px" valign="middle">
<tr>
<td>
<a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/guillotine_004_post.jpg rel="thumbnail"><br />
<img style="vertical-align:middle;" src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/guillotine_004_thumb.jpg" align="left" /></a>
</td>
<td>
<p>
<em>Murasaki: Come Shinkurou! Let&#8217;s read this book together!<br />
Shinkurou: But I still have to take care of these documents&#8230;<br />
Murasaki: I&#8217;m reading it now!<br />
Shinkurou: Alright, alright. So, what book is it?<br />
Murasaki: It&#8217;s <a href=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Tale_of_Genji>The Tale of Genji</a> manga I borrowed from Tamaki! This story fits us to a tee, Shinkurou!<br />
Shinkurou: Orly&#8230;? o_O</em>
</p>
<p>
<em>(Note: In the Tale of Genji, Genji becomes fascinated with this little girl named Murasaki, who turns out to be the niece of his stepmother, his first love. Enamored by the young 10-yr old, he &#8220;kidnaps&#8221; her, and brings her up to become his ideal lady. Murasaki is 8 years younger than Genji, and came to be known as his <a href=http://gallery.sjsu.edu/heian/howgenji.html>&#8220;most loved one&#8221;</a>, among the MANY women in his life.)</em>
</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href=http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/guillotine_071_post.jpg rel="thumbnail"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/Kure-nai/novel/guillotine_071_thumb.jpg" align="right" /></a><em>
</td>
<td>
<p>
<em>before this, Shinkurou told Murasaki not to hesitate to ask him about anything that&#8217;s bother her, and soo&#8230;</p>
<p>Murasaki: Hey, Shinkurou. Which do you think is cuter between these two [panties]?<br />
Shinkurou: Whichever is fine, so just go and wear it!<br />
Murasaki: I said, which?!<br />
Shinkurou: well then.. the white one.<br />
Murasaki: Hrmm, so this is what Shinkurou likes. I&#8217;ll take note of that.<br />
Shinkurou: Umm, you really don&#8217;t have to&#8230;<br />
</em>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
Below is the PV from the official site. Found the subbed version in youtube, but I don&#8217;t know who graciously subbed it ?_?
</p>
<div class="wpv_videoc">
<div class="wpv_self"><a href="http://www.skarcha.com/wp-plugins/wpvideo/">WPvideo 1.10</a></div>
<div class="wpv_titleauthor"></div>
<div class="wpv_video"><object data="http://www.youtube.com/v/mpTgh6bGKmE" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%" height="100%"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mpTgh6bGKmE"></param></object></div>
</div>
<p align="center">
<em>Murasaki is <3 8D</em>
</p>
<p>
<em>&#8230;but of course, April is still a long wait, so I&#8217;m going back to the present and finish the rest of my planned posts.</em>
</p>
<p><strong>Similar Posts:</strong>
<ul class="similar-posts">
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/04/18/kure-nai-a-rurouni-kenshin-x-tale-of-genji-alternate-universe/" rel="bookmark" title="April 18, 2008">Kure-nai: A Rurouni Kenshin x Tale of Genji Alternate Universe</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/04/25/deep-frying-kure-nai-anime-original-adaptation-at-its-finest/" rel="bookmark" title="April 25, 2008">Deep Frying Kure-nai: Anime > Original; Adaptation At Its Finest</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/06/24/kurenai-11-notes-the-hina-doll-soujus-death-tales-of-genji-and-other-randomness/" rel="bookmark" title="June 24, 2008">Kurenai 11 Notes: The Hina Doll, Souju&#8217;s Death, Tales of Genji and Other Randomness</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/06/04/deep-frying-kure-nai-9-the-great-kuhouin-and-kurenai-revelations/" rel="bookmark" title="June 4, 2008">Deep Frying Kure-nai 9: The Great Kuhouin and Kurenai Revelations</a></li>
<li><a href="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2008/06/20/youth-is-made-of-sweat-tears-and-overflowing-juices-thoughts-on-kurenai-thus-far/" rel="bookmark" title="June 20, 2008">Youth is made of sweat, tears and overflowing juices: thoughts on Kurenai thus far</a></li>
</ul>
<p><!-- Similar Posts took 16.945 ms --></p>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>2007 Fall Anime Menu</title>
		<link>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/09/26/2007-fall-anime-menu/</link>
		<comments>http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/09/26/2007-fall-anime-menu/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 26 Sep 2007 09:20:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Seleria</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Anime]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Anime News]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Previews]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/2007/09/26/2007-fall-anime-menu/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<table cellspacing="0" vspace="0">
<tr>
<td><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/dc_ii.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/rental_magica.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/shugo_chara.jpg" border="2" /></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/ghost_hound.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/clannad.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/shion_no_oh.jpg" border="2" /></td>
</tr>
</table>
The winds of change are blowing, bringing with it quite a number of new titles, some sequels, a whole lot of moe school girls, some working hamsters, a pinch of magical girls, and, what anime season would be complete without the obligatory petri dish of super-deformed bacteria!  The Scrumptious Anime Chefs bring to you an almost complete list of this fall season's anime.

Don’t forget to tell us what YOU will be watching. Bon appétit.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The winds of change are blowing, bringing with it quite a number of new titles, some sequels, a whole lot of moe school girls, some working hamsters, a pinch of magical girls, and, what anime season would be complete without the obligatory petri dish of super-deformed bacteria! The Scrumptious Anime Chefs bring to you an almost complete list of this fall season&#8217;s anime.</p>
<p>With a rather large disparity in our tastes, we’ve included “Chef Chaff” in each of our preview, to give you an idea of what we think of the title. Chaff means good-natured joking or banter. All puns are intended :p Animes are chronologically arranged according to air date.</p>
<p>Don’t forget to tell us what YOU will be watching. Bon appétit.</p>
<p>Note: It takes a while to load all the pictures. Thank you for your patience.</p>
<hr />
<table border="0" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td rowspan="2"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/dc_ii.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td valign="top"><strong><u>D.C. II: Da Capo II</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> D.C.II ～ダ・カーポII～<br />
<strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.starchild.co.jp/special/dc2/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.starchild.co.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=8092" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Feel<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 10/01/2007<br />
<strong>Synopsis:</strong> In Hatsunejima resides a magical sakura tree which grants wishes absolutely. However, the situation goes out of hand and the decision of shutting off the tree is at hand. This would mean that all traces of every wish will be erased, including Yoshiyuki Sakurai&#8217;s existence.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td text-align="justify" align="left" valign="top"><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<strong>absolute0:</strong> <em>La la la la la la la</em><br />
<strong>BeLe:</strong> <em>A lot of hype for this show. I need to watch the first season and see for myself.</em><br />
<strong>Seleria: </strong><em>I didn’t see the first one. So, best to skip it.</em><br />
<strong>usagijen:</strong> <em>Didn&#8217;t like the first one&#8230;</em></td>
</tr>
</table>
<hr />
<table border="0" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td rowspan="2"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/bamboo_blade.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td valign="top"><strong><u>BAMBOO BLADE</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> BAMBOO BLADE<br />
<strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.bambooblade.jp/pc/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.bambooblade.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=8455" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> AIC A.S.T.A<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 10/01/2007<br />
<strong>Synopsis:</strong> Kojirou, a kendo instructor, had always been contented with his life of poverty, until a challenge was presented to him with a prize so great, that he cannot simply refuse&#8211;a year&#8217;s supply of food! The challenge? He must win against his sempai&#8217;s all-female kendo team with a team of his own.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td text-align="justify" align="left" valign="top"><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<strong>absolute0:</strong> <em>Not interested.</em><br />
<strong>BeLe:</strong> <em>Haven&#8217;t read the manga but I foresee a lot of cliché with the plot and the characters. Art seems to be good though. Just might watch it because of the cute sword wielding girls and see where it goes from there. <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_biggrin.gif' alt='XD' class='wp-smiley' /> </em><br />
<strong>Seleria: </strong><em>I am in it for the comedy and the kendo!</em><br />
<strong>usagijen:</strong> <em>The lead girl [once again] reminds me of Hotaru (Gakuen Alice). Seeing how this girl with l33t kendo skills had a sentai / mecha series as her inspiration was enough to catch my interest on this. Cool action + loads of fun.</em></td>
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<td rowspan="2"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/kawaii_jenny.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td valign="top"><strong><u>Kawaii! Jenny</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> Kawaii! ジェニー<br />
<strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.toho-a-park.com/character/jenny/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.toho-a-park.com');">Website</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong><br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 10/01/2007<br />
<strong>Synopsis:</strong> Super doll Kawaii Jenny stars in her very own still-motion sentai (task force) series. Watch out monsters&#8230; a creepier monster is coming to pound your ass.</td>
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<td text-align="justify" align="left" valign="top"><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<strong>absolute0:</strong> <em>This is seriously disturbing.</em><br />
<strong>BeLe:</strong> <em>WTF is this?!?</em><br />
<strong>Seleria: </strong><em>I think they should rename it to Kowai! Jenny (Scary! Jenny). I’d like to see her doll arse get kicked by Shinku (Rozen Maidens).</em><br />
<strong>usagijen:</strong> <em>Are they also trying to target people with barbie-doll-like fetishes now? o__O</em></td>
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<td rowspan="2"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/sketchbook.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td valign="top"><strong><u>Sketchbook ~full color&#8217;s~</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> スケッチブック ～full color&#8217;s～<br />
<strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.sketch-full.net/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.sketch-full.net');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=8031" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Hal Film Maker<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 10/01/2007<br />
<strong>Synopsis:</strong> Based on the 4-koma manga of the same title, about the life and journey of artsy girl Sora Kajiwara as she discovers the world with her sketchbook.</td>
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<td text-align="justify" align="left" valign="top"><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<strong>absolute0:</strong> <em>Why do moe schoolgirls dominate this season?</em><br />
<strong>BeLe:</strong> <em>A slice-of-life anime. Can&#8217;t really get anything else from the preview other than that.</em><br />
<strong>Seleria: </strong><em>Slice-of-life and comedy spells win for me.</em><br />
<strong>usagijen:</strong> <em>Hmm… it seems that I&#8217;ve changed my impression on this one. I enjoyed the comic strip featured on the site&#8230; but I didn&#8217;t seem to enjoy the actual 4-koma manga &gt;.&gt;</em></td>
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<td rowspan="2"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/blue_drop.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td valign="top"><strong><u>Blue Drop: Tenshi-tachi no Gikyoku</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> BLUE DROP ～天使達の戯曲～<br />
<strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://blue-drop.jp/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/blue-drop.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=8265" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Ashi Productions &amp; BeSTACK<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 10/01/2007<br />
<strong>Synopsis:</strong> In 1995, all inhabitants of an island mysteriously disappear in a single night, except for one girl named Mari, who lost all her memories. Four years later, Mari moves to a school dormitory and meets the school idol, Hagino. Hagino, however, has some dark secrets of her own.</td>
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<td text-align="justify" align="left" valign="top"><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<strong>absolute0:</strong> <em>Schoolgirls and a sci-fi background. It kinda got me interested because the art looks good until I heard there&#8217;s some yuri in it&#8230;</em><br />
<strong>BeLe:</strong> <em>Interesting to see how they&#8217;ll incorporate the manga into an anime.</em><br />
<strong>Seleria: </strong><em>Space spy meets earthling schoolgirl and they fall in love with each other. Anyone up for intergalactic yuri romance?</em><br />
<strong>usagijen:</strong> <em>I&#8217;m not much of a sci-fi fan… moreso a yuri one. And yet, despite how I thought it&#8217;s like Akira (from browsing the manga), the PV changed that impression I had and really caught my eye…</em></td>
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<td rowspan="2"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/kaiji.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td valign="top"><strong><u>Kaiji</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 逆境無頼カイジ<br />
<strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.ntv.co.jp/kaiji/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.ntv.co.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=8550" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Madhouse Studios<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 10/02/2007<br />
<strong>Synopsis:</strong> The sleazy and jobless Kaiji steps into the world of gambling after getting entangled with his friend’s dilemma of a huge debt. A moment of despair and hopelessness brings out his hidden prowess in gambling.</td>
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<td text-align="justify" align="left" valign="top"><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<strong>absolute0:</strong> <em>Hmm&#8230; an anime on gambling addicts? Something new but not the kind that interests me. And the characters look ugly, methinks.</em><br />
<strong>BeLe:</strong> <em>A gambling anime. Now this is something I could get into for a change. And with madhouse doing the production, it just might turn out great.</em><br />
<strong>Seleria: </strong><em>The character design is pushing me away. I&#8217;m superficial like that.</em><br />
<strong>usagijen:</strong> <em>Interesting premise, but the artwork is such a turn-off &gt;__&lt; If only the characters were bishies&#8230; I can already imagine some hawt gambling game <img src='http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/wp-content/plugins/smilies-themer/pau/icon_razz.gif' alt=':P' class='wp-smiley' /> </em></td>
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<td rowspan="2"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/neuro.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td valign="top"><strong><u>Majin Tantei Nougami Neuro</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 魔人探偵脳噛ネウロ<br />
<strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.ntv.co.jp/neuro/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.ntv.co.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=8371" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Madhouse Studios<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 10/02/2007<br />
<strong>Synopsis:</strong> Yako&#8217;s father was murdered in a locked room. She then meets a man named Neuro Nougami who is a demon from Hell who eats &#8220;riddles.&#8221; He forces Yako to act as a detective so he can solve mysteries. Neuro longs to eat the ultimate mystery. - ANN</td>
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<td text-align="justify" align="left" valign="top"><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<strong>absolute0:</strong> <em>A mystery anime with a supernatural twist. I wonder if this one&#8217;s good.</em><br />
<strong>BeLe:</strong> <em>There&#8217;s a lot of veteran seiyuus in this show and the excerpt does seem to spike an interest. Mystery and the supernatural genre almost always seem to be enjoyable..</em><br />
<strong>Seleria: </strong><em>A demon who has a fetish for mystery. Hey… that kinda sounded interesting. Also, Takehito Koyasu (Ilpalazzo of Excel Saga, Hotohori of Fushigi Yuugi, Sakano of Gravitation, Ryosuke Takahashi of Initial D) is voicing Neuro.</em><br />
<strong>usagijen:</strong> <em>Ongoing Jump series! Run away!!! D:</em></td>
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<td rowspan="2"><img src="http://scrumptious.animeblogger.net/images/season_preview/2007_fall/suteki_tantei_labyrinth.jpg" border="2" /></td>
<td valign="top"><strong><u>Suteki Tantei Labyrinth</u></strong><br />
<strong>Japanese Title:</strong> 素敵探偵ラビリンス<br />
<strong>Links:</strong> <a href="http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/labyrins/" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.tv-tokyo.co.jp');">Website</a>, <a href="http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=8481" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview ('/outbound/www.animenewsnetwork.com');">ANN Encyclopedia</a><br />
<strong>Studio:</strong> Studio DEEN<br />
<strong>Air date:</strong> 10/02/2007<br />
<strong>Synopsis:</strong> Mysterious events unfold in the now-devastated, old capital city of Tokyo where inhabitants still remain. Young boy detective, Mayuki Hyouga, sets out to uncover these mysteries in the city, now known as “Labyrinth”.</td>
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<td text-align="justify" align="left" valign="top"><strong><u>Chef Chaff</u></strong><br />
<strong>absolute0:</strong> <em>For a detective anime, this one looks a bit too cheerful. Perhaps the detective of this story solves cases on lost articles and missing cats.</em><br />
<strong>BeLe:</strong> <em>Another mystery anime this season. Nice! Kinda reminds me of Spiral for some reason.</em><br />
<strong>Seleria: </strong><em>Is that a dog or a yeti?</em><br />
<strong>usagijen:</strong> <em>Cute guy detective who solves mysteries with class! (or so from the way I see it… with the character designs). Mysteries and intrigue (+the cute shota male lead) are a win for me, so I&#8217;m sure to check this one out.</em></td>
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<td valign="top"><strong><u>Night Wizard The Animati