“Kamen Rider Zo” (1993) was a remarkable addition to Keita Amemiya's expanding filmography. Despite a condensed runtime, the overall direction and execution were incredibly strong, which made up for that; hence, it remains one of the most favored pieces of media in the beloved superhero's extensive franchise and one of the director's finest films. It balanced fun sci-fi while respectfully honoring the thought-provoking themes the franchise is known for with a gritty edge, not to mention great creature designs. For Amemiya's second rendition of the cyber-enhanced grasshopper protagonist, he would switch gears with “Kamen Rider J,” a decent, if somewhat underwhelming, follow-up.
on Amazon by clicking on the image below
It's worth noting that this film marked the last production to involve series creator Shotaro Ishinomori, who passed away four years later. Like its predecessor, it premiered at the Toei Super Hero Fair, and while not...
on Amazon by clicking on the image below
It's worth noting that this film marked the last production to involve series creator Shotaro Ishinomori, who passed away four years later. Like its predecessor, it premiered at the Toei Super Hero Fair, and while not...
- 4/8/2024
- by Sean Barry
- AsianMoviePulse
Sasuke, the deuteragonist of Naruto, had a steep descent into vengeance. The once cool and collected character, who everyone had a minor crush on, became a cold and heartless man after the Uchiha clan massacre.
By choosing the path of revenge, Sasuke served as the perfect foil for Naruto, who decided to pursue peace instead. It was because of Sasuke that Naruto realized why revenge should not be chosen.
Many fans might have a love-hate relationship with Masashi Kishimoto due to Sasuke’s dark era, but the mangaka has declared once and for all that he will never regret his decisions and why they were important.
Why was Sasuke’s evil arc necessary in Naruto?
In an interview with Kana, Masashi Kishimoto discussed the differences between Naruto and Sasuke, and why it was necessary. According to Kishimoto, he deliberately made the two characters oppose each other in their thinking.
Sasuke and Itachi
Naruto,...
By choosing the path of revenge, Sasuke served as the perfect foil for Naruto, who decided to pursue peace instead. It was because of Sasuke that Naruto realized why revenge should not be chosen.
Many fans might have a love-hate relationship with Masashi Kishimoto due to Sasuke’s dark era, but the mangaka has declared once and for all that he will never regret his decisions and why they were important.
Why was Sasuke’s evil arc necessary in Naruto?
In an interview with Kana, Masashi Kishimoto discussed the differences between Naruto and Sasuke, and why it was necessary. According to Kishimoto, he deliberately made the two characters oppose each other in their thinking.
Sasuke and Itachi
Naruto,...
- 3/29/2024
- by Aaheli Pradhan
- FandomWire
Humanity, cleanliness, memories, and self-worth are explored in Ikunosuke Okazaki's latest drama, “Wash Away,” a film with good intentions but rather average execution. In the movie, Okazaki focuses on the business operations of soaplands, bathhouse services where women wash men's bodies. The practice, while common in Japan, is controversial due to many merely viewing the operation as a front for prostitution. Alongside this story component are plot elements of caring for the older generation. Much was based on the director's experiences caring for his grandmother, who has dementia.
Wash Away is screening at Osaka Asian Film Festival
Kana lives a glamorous lifestyle and works at a Tokyo soapland where she washes men's bodies. Despite the consistent income, she feels uncertain about her future due to the negative perception of her work profession, and suffers from loneliness. One day, she is asked by her family to help care for her long-forgotten grandmother,...
Wash Away is screening at Osaka Asian Film Festival
Kana lives a glamorous lifestyle and works at a Tokyo soapland where she washes men's bodies. Despite the consistent income, she feels uncertain about her future due to the negative perception of her work profession, and suffers from loneliness. One day, she is asked by her family to help care for her long-forgotten grandmother,...
- 3/1/2024
- by Sean Barry
- AsianMoviePulse
“Kanae (Yoko Maki) struggles to manage her family's bathhouse after her husband, Satoru (Eita Nagayama), suddenly vanishes. She is often possessed by his memories, as well as memories from her childhood that she cannot recall. One day, Takayuki (Arata Iura), a boiler man, comes seeking work and shelter, which Kanae agrees to offer.” (Official)
Undercurrent is Screening as Part of The 2024 Japan Foundation Touring Program
Offering a synopsis only provides a starting point to the work of Rikiya Imaizumi, who, as the press material for the lead-up to the film touring as part of Japan Foundation states, “skilfully portrays the emotions that have long been locked away in people's hearts.” Extending on this concept, “Undercurrents” lingers in that moment of release, making the expression of one's inner emotions not as crucial as stating them. Much of the movie is left open as major questions brought up by characters to others...
Undercurrent is Screening as Part of The 2024 Japan Foundation Touring Program
Offering a synopsis only provides a starting point to the work of Rikiya Imaizumi, who, as the press material for the lead-up to the film touring as part of Japan Foundation states, “skilfully portrays the emotions that have long been locked away in people's hearts.” Extending on this concept, “Undercurrents” lingers in that moment of release, making the expression of one's inner emotions not as crucial as stating them. Much of the movie is left open as major questions brought up by characters to others...
- 2/18/2024
- by Adam Symchuk
- AsianMoviePulse
In 2021, manga artist Kana Hoshino passed away, leaving behind a body of stunning sci-fi and fantasy work. Of note among her many creations over the years was the Ryokunohara series, which inspired the 1990 Ova Ryokunohara Labyrinth - Sparkling Phantom . A new book was recently published to celebrate Hoshino's work—and a new art exhibition will be opening this weekend to bring attention both to Hoshino's career and this new collection. Kana Hoshino Original Art Exhibition -"Kana Hoshino: Eternal Ryokunohara" Publication Commemoration Exhibition- will take place at Tokyo's Span Art Gallery. Visitors will be able to view 41 original color pieces and 32 black-and-white manga manuscripts by Hoshino. Merchandise will also be available for sale including bookmarks, clear files and art prints. The exhibition will run February 10-20. Admission is free. Related: Kaiji Manga Hosts Biggest-Ever Exhibition, Plus a Crowdfunding Campaign to Make It Even Better Kana Hoshino: Eternal Ryokunohara came out...
- 2/6/2024
- by Kara Dennison
- Crunchyroll
Exclusive: Cameras have started rolling in Tokyo on Akashi, the debut feature from Japanese and Canadian writer-director Mayumi Yoshida.
Yoshida, best known as an actor for her role in The Man in The High Castle, will also star in the film alongside veteran performers Hana Kino, Chieko Matsubara, Kunio Murai, and rising performer Ryo Tajima.
Described as a “coming-of-age love story,” Akashi follows Kana (Yoshida), an artist who is at a crossroads in her career. After finding out her Grandmother (Kino) has passed, she returns home to Tokyo for the funeral, where she rekindles a romance with childhood love Hiro (Tajima) and uncovers a family secret about her Grandpa (Murai).
Akashi is written and directed by Yoshida, who developed the script through the TIFF Writer’s Studio. The pic produced by Nach Dudsdeemaytha,...
Yoshida, best known as an actor for her role in The Man in The High Castle, will also star in the film alongside veteran performers Hana Kino, Chieko Matsubara, Kunio Murai, and rising performer Ryo Tajima.
Described as a “coming-of-age love story,” Akashi follows Kana (Yoshida), an artist who is at a crossroads in her career. After finding out her Grandmother (Kino) has passed, she returns home to Tokyo for the funeral, where she rekindles a romance with childhood love Hiro (Tajima) and uncovers a family secret about her Grandpa (Murai).
Akashi is written and directed by Yoshida, who developed the script through the TIFF Writer’s Studio. The pic produced by Nach Dudsdeemaytha,...
- 12/11/2023
- by Zac Ntim and Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
One Vespa-riding maniacal girl can change the world— or at least the humdrum world of one boy. After the the mysterious Haruko comes into Naota’s life and causes strange things to grow out of his forehead, their choice of close encounter draws him into conflict with a mysterious, otherworldly organization and completely alters the course of his life. The cult hit anime series “Flcl” returns this Saturday, Sept. 30 on Cartoon Network and Adult Swim for its fifth installment, “Flcl: Shoegaze.” New episodes will premiere at 12 midnight Et on the popular Toonami anime block and will also be available to watch on Max the next day. You can watch Cartoon Network with a 5-Day Free Trial of Directv Stream. You can also watch with Sling TV, Hulu Live TV, or YouTube TV.
How to Watch 'Flcl: Shoegaze' Premiere When: Saturday, September 30, 2023 at 11:59 Pm Edt TV: Cartoon Network...
How to Watch 'Flcl: Shoegaze' Premiere When: Saturday, September 30, 2023 at 11:59 Pm Edt TV: Cartoon Network...
- 10/1/2023
- by Ashley Steves
- The Streamable
On Monday, September 18, 2023, at 8:15 Am, Cartoon Network will air Season 2, Episode 42 of “Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go” titled “It All Adds Up.” In this episode, the engines are excited about a special adventure. They are looking forward to seeing the Northern Lights, and Harold the Helicopter will be there to help them on this journey.
“It All Adds Up” promises an engaging and cheerful episode where Thomas and his friends embark on a new and exciting adventure. The Northern Lights are a beautiful natural phenomenon, and the engines are in for a treat as they set out to witness this wonder with the help of their trusty friend, Harold.
For young fans of “Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go,” this episode is sure to be a delightful and educational experience. Tune in to Cartoon Network on September 18th at 8:15 Am to join Thomas and his friends on...
“It All Adds Up” promises an engaging and cheerful episode where Thomas and his friends embark on a new and exciting adventure. The Northern Lights are a beautiful natural phenomenon, and the engines are in for a treat as they set out to witness this wonder with the help of their trusty friend, Harold.
For young fans of “Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go,” this episode is sure to be a delightful and educational experience. Tune in to Cartoon Network on September 18th at 8:15 Am to join Thomas and his friends on...
- 9/16/2023
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Oshi No Ko tricked us with the appearance of a slice-of-life anime only to turn into a full-blown thriller. The best part is that fans of either genre will enjoy it, and if you like them both, you have an even better advantage. In Oshi No Ko episode 2, we saw the return of a grown-up, Kana Arima, ready to befriend Aqua and learn all his acting ways. Will she be able to break Aqua’s hard shell? We may find out slowly. Ruby finally has the chance to become an idol, thanks to Miyako’s presence of mind and Aqua’s concern for his sister. Now, both kids are signed under Ichigo Production, maybe en route to becoming superstars like their mother.
Spoilers Ahead
What Happens In Episode 3?
Kana shows her interest in Aqua immediately, without a hint of hesitation. After meeting at the school, Kana wants to know everything...
Spoilers Ahead
What Happens In Episode 3?
Kana shows her interest in Aqua immediately, without a hint of hesitation. After meeting at the school, Kana wants to know everything...
- 4/28/2023
- by Ruchika Bhat
- Film Fugitives
Third feature by Anshul Chauhan, “December” is easy to say that is his most accomplished work yet.
“December” is screening at Udine Far East Film Festival
Seven years ago, a high school student was killed by a classmate, with the perpetrator, Kana, ending up in prison after a trial that convicted her as an adult and not as a juvenile, despite her age. The parents of the deceased were devastated, ending up divorcing, with the husband, Katsu, abandoning his work as an author and becoming an alcoholic, and the wife, Sumiko, eventually ending up marrying a man she met in a support group about people who have lost their children. As the story begins, an ambitious lawyer who is even planning on suing the state for the unfairness of the trial, convinces Kana to appeal for a reduced sentence. An aggravated Katsu revisits Sumiko after years, and convinces her to attend the trial,...
“December” is screening at Udine Far East Film Festival
Seven years ago, a high school student was killed by a classmate, with the perpetrator, Kana, ending up in prison after a trial that convicted her as an adult and not as a juvenile, despite her age. The parents of the deceased were devastated, ending up divorcing, with the husband, Katsu, abandoning his work as an author and becoming an alcoholic, and the wife, Sumiko, eventually ending up marrying a man she met in a support group about people who have lost their children. As the story begins, an ambitious lawyer who is even planning on suing the state for the unfairness of the trial, convinces Kana to appeal for a reduced sentence. An aggravated Katsu revisits Sumiko after years, and convinces her to attend the trial,...
- 4/23/2023
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
"Healer Girl" is the new anime TV series, directed by Yasuhiro Irie, featuring character designs by Yukie Akiya and music composed by Ryo Takahashi and the 'Healer Girls', now streaming on Crunchyroll:
"...'Karasuma Ria' is a skilled and renowned healer who runs her own clinic as 'The Witch of Kmu'. She has a medical license but left the practice of Western medicine to become a music healer. She also conducts research on music healing, hoping to advance the field.
"As a healer apprentice of Ria, 'Kana' decided to become a healer after she had an asthma attack on a plane and a healer helped her recover. Kana has innate talent but sometimes struggles with technical skills and knowledge.
"'Hibiki Morishima' is an apprentice healer, related to her teacher Ria, who comes to stay with Hibiki's large family in the country in the summer.
"Reimi is an apprentice of Karasuma,...
"...'Karasuma Ria' is a skilled and renowned healer who runs her own clinic as 'The Witch of Kmu'. She has a medical license but left the practice of Western medicine to become a music healer. She also conducts research on music healing, hoping to advance the field.
"As a healer apprentice of Ria, 'Kana' decided to become a healer after she had an asthma attack on a plane and a healer helped her recover. Kana has innate talent but sometimes struggles with technical skills and knowledge.
"'Hibiki Morishima' is an apprentice healer, related to her teacher Ria, who comes to stay with Hibiki's large family in the country in the summer.
"Reimi is an apprentice of Karasuma,...
- 1/3/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Masashi Kishimoto's "Naruto" is one of the most popular manga series in the world, with 250 million copies sold worldwide as of 2019. Between 2002 to 2017, the successful manga was adapted into two equally popular anime, "Naruto" and "Naruto: Shippuden," which collectively include a whopping 720 episodes. Team 7 has captured manga and anime fans' attention for decades with revolutionary fight sequences and compelling storylines, but the personality of Naruto Uzumaki has played a key role in the series' success.
The protagonist possesses a few irritating habits early in the series, like unwarranted cockiness and incessant shouting, but it's hard not to admire his ambitious spirit and undying loyalty to friends. Despite being an orphan who is shackled with a demon fox and shunned by The Hidden Leaf Village, Naruto eventually proves his skill as a ninja, wins the respect of the village, and achieves his dream of becoming Hokage, despite the odds. Like many stories before it,...
The protagonist possesses a few irritating habits early in the series, like unwarranted cockiness and incessant shouting, but it's hard not to admire his ambitious spirit and undying loyalty to friends. Despite being an orphan who is shackled with a demon fox and shunned by The Hidden Leaf Village, Naruto eventually proves his skill as a ninja, wins the respect of the village, and achieves his dream of becoming Hokage, despite the odds. Like many stories before it,...
- 11/15/2022
- by Christian Gainey
- Slash Film
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