Masahiko Nakahira wrote and illustrated several Street Fighter related manga titles (SF Zero, Sakura Ganbaru! , SFIII: Ryu Final) at the height of the game’s first rise in popularity. Cammy Gaiden was picked up and published chapter-by-chapter in English in the Viz-owned Game On! magazine to the delight of many hardcore Street Fighter fans. Second only to Chun-Li in popularity, Cammy stands as one of the most popular additions to the Street Fighter series since Street Fighter II was originally released. The British intelligence agent’s unknown past also leaves writers with a fairly open chance to explain in detail how Cammy ended up working under Shadowloo, why she has only scattered memories of her past, and what drove her to become the powerhouse fighter she is today. Nakahira fills in some of the gaps in Cammy’s MI6/Shadowloo background and training through four stories in Super Street Fighter II: Cammy from Viz. (more…)

Based on the Sega Saturn game trilogy Mobile Suit Gundam Side Story: The Blue Destiny, Yu Kajima and his unit of experimental Federation corps pilot mobile suit test units in battle to find out how effective the new equipment is. A thankless job, Yu Kajima’s group has a high turnover rate and gets little respect from the regular unit corps. While clearing out a Zeon base, a blue mobile suit appears and takes on Kajima’s unit. In a flash the men are almost destroyed before the mysterious blue unit retreats from recieving heavy damage itself during the fight. But before the unit is gone, the haunting image of a woman with angelic wings calls out to Yu to stop her. Written and illustrated by Mizuho Takayama, Mobile Suit Gundam: Blue Destiny from Mixx Manga explores a new side-story adventure in Universal Century 0079. (more…)

Newtype USA features the hit show Code Geass

Plus! Exclusive summer special featuring the latest anime!!

HOUSTON, July 30, 2007—Newtype USA, the leading anime magazine in North America, wraps up the hot season with an amazing summer special! The August issue is overflowing with coverage on Code Geass, arguably the biggest anime currently in Japan. Let all this insider info—including interviews with director Goro Taniguchi and series organizer Ichiro Okouchi—tide you over until the show heads stateside. And no Newtype USA would be complete without updates on the beloved Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya and the highly anticipated Evangelion movies!

Newtype USA is also finishing the summer off with a video game exclusive! This month’s feature on Blue Dragon, the year’s biggest, baddest RPG, offers plenty of reasons to stay inside until school starts! And the summer special continues with 38 pages of the best that anime has to offer on US shores!

August is also a month of extras! Find the latest installment of CLAMP’s newest manga, KOBATO., available only in the pages of NTUSA! Plus, a free DVD comes packed with three full episodes of brand-new shows: AIR, Innocent Venus and Mushi-Shi. And the pull-out poster of Innocent Venus is the perfect viewing accessory!

Also inside the August issue:

• 13 features, including Mushi-Shi, The Story of Saiunkoku and Eureka Seven
• The official art of My-Otome
• Read before you buy! Pages and pages of manga, DVD and game reviews!
• More feature! Red Garden, The Wings of Honnêamise and Gunbuster 2
• Info and pics on the latest Gundam and Evangelion gear!
• Denno Coil sneak-peek!
• More convention and cosplay coverage than any other anime magazine
• Art instruction from world-famous illustrator okama!

Availability

Newtype USA Vol. 6, Issue 8 is available August 1, 2007

About Newtype USA:

Newtype USA is the official English-language version of Newtype, Japan’s #1 source for information about anime and manga.  Newtype USA includes all the best Japanese content translated, plus loads of original U.S. material: anime, manga, music, game, and toy reviews, feature articles, director interviews, artist profiles, and regular columns by industry experts, tastemakers and deep-cover insiders. Newtype USA also includes awesome bonus gear, such as a centerfold poster, a manga (comic) insert and an exclusive bonus DVD. For more information, visit http://www.newtype-usa.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CRITICAL MASS VIDEO ANNOUNCES OCTOBER 30 RELEASE OF IMMA YOUJO: THE EROTIC TEMPTRESS, VOL. 3: VENOMOUS BEAUTY

GRIMES, IA, July 25, 2007 - Leading adult anime label Critical Mass Video is pleased to announce the release of IMMA YOUJO: THE EROTIC TEMPTRESS, VOL. 3: VENOMOUS BEAUTY on October 30, 2007.

From leading hentai studio Pink Pineapple (Countdown Conjoined, Countdown Akira), Imma Youjo: The Erotic Temptress is an anime in the tradition of Cool Devices and Urotsukidoji.

Maya…Unspeakably beautiful, her body drives men insane with desire.

To touch her sensuous curves is to experience true ecstasy…

Two mercenaries, Jyurota and Shinbei, set out over the mountains in search of a new employer, but instead, they end up rescuing a gorgeous damsel in distress named Maya. Lured by the promise of good food and better company, they follow her to an enormous palace where they meet Maya’s master: the beautiful, raven-haired princess Akina. Lacking male companionship for so long, Maya and Akina both seem hungry for the men, but something doesn’t seem right. How are these two women managing to survive all by themselves in a harsh world?

IMMA YOUJO: THE EROTIC TEMPTRESS, VOL. 3: VENOMOUS BEAUTY Vol. 3 of 5

Pre-Book: 9/25/2007

Street Date: 10/30/2007

Runtime: Approximately 45 minutes, Dolby Digital Stereo, Color

Genre: Erotic Drama

Suggested Rating: 18+

Format: DVD (English, Japanese, English Subtitles, English On-Screen

Translations)

Catalog #: CMDVD0724

UPC: 7-42617-0724-2-0

SRP: $29.99

DVD Features:

English outtakes, scene access, original U.S. Vol. 3 trailer, Imma Youjo Vol. 4 trailer and Critical Mass Video trailers. English and Japanese Dolby Digital audio with English subtitles, plus English on-screen translations.

Cover image is located at

http://outgoing.rightstuf.com/sleeves/cmdvd0724.jpg * IMMA YOUJO: THE EROTIC TEMPTRESS: VENOMOUS BEAUTY (c)1996 Pink Pineapple* To view this image, cut and paste the URL into your Web browser.

ABOUT CRITICAL MASS VIDEO

Critical Mass Video Ltd. is one of the top adult Japanese animation

(”anime”) labels in the United States, with a catalog including well-known titles such as Cool Devices, Anyone You Can Do… I Can Do Better, Dragon Pink and favorites from the Vanilla Series, such as Love Doll, Naughty Nurses and Sex Ward. For more information, visit www.criticalmassvideo.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

 

VIZ MEDIA BRINGS NARUTO NATION™ TO 2007 COMIC-CON INTERNATIONAL

 

 Special Sweepstakes, Daily Giveaways And Previews Of New Video Games Highlight Some Of What’s To Come 

SAN DIEGO, CA - JULY 25, 2007 -  VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, brings NARUTO NATION™ to the 2007 Comic-Con International as the wildly successful property expands to include new video games, DVDs, manga, and more. To celebrate the launch at the show, VIZ Media and its show partners will hold a variety of special sweepstakes and daily giveaways.  

Throughout the show in VIZ Media’s booth #4113, show-goers are encouraged to complete and return an entry form for a chance to win a PS2 courtesy of Namco Bandai on Thursday July 26 at 4pm, an Xbox 360 courtesy of Ubisoft on Friday, July 27 at 4pm, and a Nintendo Wii courtesy of TOMY Saturday, July 27 at 2:30pm. See VIZ Media booth for Official Rules and more details.  Beginning August 2, fans may go online to www.naruto.com/missiontojoin to enter to win a trip to next year’s Comic- Con International and other fantastic prizes. 

VIZ Media has partnered with several leading game manufacturers to present a variety of NARUTO-inspired interactive video games in its booth during the convention. Namco/Bandai Games America will demo NARUTO: Uzumaki Chronicles 2 for the Sony PlayStation 2, while Ubisoft will feature a playable demo of NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja for the Xbox 360 as a world debut exclusive. Attendees will also have a chance to play the ultimate NARUTO party game for the Nintendo Wii as NARUTO: Clash of Ninja Revolution makes its debut from TOMY Corporation and D3Publisher of America, Inc. (D3PA). 

VIZ Media will further focus on NARUTO with a dedicated discussion about the buzz surrounding the hit anime and manga series, set for Saturday, July 28 at 11:30 a.m. in Room #2 and a special free screening of NARUTO THE MOVIE: NINJA CLASH IN THE LAND OF SNOW is set for 4:30pm on Saturday, July 28 at the United Artists Horton Plaza Theatre, located walking distance from the San Diego Convention Center.  NARUTO is rated T for teen. 

VIZ Media has launched NARUTO NATION™ as a broad campaign to bring an unprecedented increase in the frequency of publication of its popular NARUTO™ manga series. In order to catch up to the present Japanese release schedule and to prepare readers for upcoming notable changes in the main character and story arc, VIZ Media will offer three new volumes of NARUTO per-month from September through December 2007 – a first for any U.S. manga publisher. 

About VIZ Media, LLC Headquartered in

San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, DVDs, audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages.
Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MORE MELANCHOLY OF HARUHI SUZUMIYA

T-SHIRTS AVAILABLE FALL 2007

GRIMES, IA, July 25, 2007 - Right Stuf, Inc. and Nozomi Entertainment are pleased to announce the Fall 2007 release of two official T-shirts featuring artwork from the hit anime series The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.

The first T-shirt depicts Haruhi, herself, in full-color against a white background, while the second displays the “Haruhi-ism” logo against a gray background.

Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya T-Shirt - Haruhi - White

Available: 11/01/2007

MSRP: $17.99 (XXL $19.99)

Available in sizes S-XXL

- XXL: Catalog #: 5521XX

- XL: Catalog #: 5521X

- Large: Catalog #: 5521L

- Medium: Catalog #: 5521M

- Small: Catalog #: 5521S

Product image is located at

http://outgoing.rightstuf.com/sleeves/5521.jpg * The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (c) 2006-2007 Nagaru Tanigawa / Noizi Ito / member of SOS* To view this image, cut and paste the URL into your Web browser.

Official Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya T-Shirt - Logo - Grey

Available: 11/01/2007

MSRP: $17.99 (XXL $19.99)

Available in sizes S-XXL

- XXL: Catalog #: 5520XX

- XL: Catalog #: 5520X

- Large: Catalog #: 5520L

- Medium: Catalog #: 5520M

- Small: Catalog #: 5520S

Product image is located at

http://outgoing.rightstuf.com/sleeves/5520.jpg * The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (c) 2006-2007 Nagaru Tanigawa / Noizi Ito / member of SOS* To view this image, cut and paste the URL into your Web browser.

ABOUT THE RIGHT STUF, INC.

Founded in 1987, Right Stuf, Inc. was one of the first players in the U.S. Japanese Animation (”anime”) industry, as both an anime producer/distributor and a retailer. Right Stuf works to promote knowledge of its own products, as well as the anime and manga industry, in general, through its online storefront at RightStuf.com and a variety of media including podcasts and special publications.

Nozomi Entertainment, Right Stuf’s production division, is dedicated to the highest quality releases. True to the Japanese word that inspired its name, Nozomi’s focus is on “what fans want.” By focusing on a limited number of anime properties each year, the Nozomi production team ensures each release receives the care and attention to detail it deserves.

From anime classics like Astro Boy, Kimba and Gigantor to modern comedies, dramas and favorites such as The Irresponsible Captain Tylor, His and Her Circumstances, Gravitation, Comic Party, Shingu: Secret of the Stellar Wars, Ninja Nonsense, To Heart and The Third: The Girl With the Blue Eye, Right Stuf and Nozomi Entertainment produce quality programming for fans of all ages and interests. For more information, visit www.rightstuf.com and www.nozomient.com. ABOUT KADOKAWA PICTURES USA

Kadokawa Pictures USA is the Los Angeles-based arm of international multimedia empire Kadokawa Holdings, Inc., which includes: Kadokawa Shoten Publishing, one of the largest publishers in Japan; distributor and production company Kadokawa Herald Pictures; and Kadokawa Daiei Film Studios.

Remakes from the Kadokawa library include the successful “THE RING”

franchise and smash hit “THE GRUDGE,” as well as “SHALL WE DANCE?,”

“DARK WATER” and the upcoming “ONE MISSED CALL.”

Kadokawa publishes over 100 fiction titles a month, is one of the largest publishers of manga (comics) in Japan, and produces and finances up to seven new films a year, as well as creating video games for distribution throughout Pan Asia.

In addition, Kadokawa produces many animated projects each year, including TV series, OVAs and animated films such as Full Metal Panic!

The Second Raid and The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.

ANIME NETWORK PLANTED IN SUNFLOWER STATE

24/7 Linear Channel Launches with Kansas MSOs, Sunflower Broadband and Eagle Communications

CTAM, Washington, DC – July 24, 2007 – Houston-based Anime Network has secured linear carriage in the state of Kansas with Sunflower Broadband and Eagle Communications, deals that continue to solidify the network’s position as the leading 24/7 linear anime service for cable operators. Anime Network will soon be available in Lawrence, Hays, and Minneapolis, Kansas, just in time for the new semester to begin at universities across the state.

Today’s news—which adds three new markets to Anime Network’s linear distribution— illustrates another successful transition for the channel from VOD-only carriage into a growing 24/7 linear offering. Anime Network is already the most widely distributed SVOD service available today—with over 95% penetration to all VOD-enabled households. The company has prided itself in offering MSOs an array of content packages that speak to the needs of the consumer.

“Anime Network is extremely popular among the 16-to-34-year-old demographic, and we are thrilled to launch our 24/7 linear service to both loyal fans and new audiences served by Sunflower Broadband and Eagle Communications,” said Kevin McFeeley, the Network’s Vice President of Affiliate Sales and New Media

About Anime Network

Anime Network, a subsidiary of A.D. Vision Inc. (parent company to ADV Films and Newtype USA), is America’s #1 Anime Channel, reaching more than 41 million households with thousands of hours of exciting, eye-catching serialized programming. Launched in North America in late 2002, Anime Network is the nation’s top video-on-demand (VOD) offering, and is also available as a 24/7 linear channel in several U.S. markets. The network continues to broaden its national roster of multi-system operator (MSO) agreements, bringing the elusive 18–34, tech-savvy male demographic back to television and driving demand for additional digital services offered by MSOs. For more information, visit www.theanimenetwork.com.

Director Takashi Miike (Dead or Alive series, Ichi the Killer) doesn’t make nice films. Any movie that bears the mere mention of the director is a clear message to the viewer that graphic violence is going to be found quickly under the surface of even the tamest-looking feature films. Seven years ago, Shigeharu Aoyama (Ryo Ishibashi; Suicide Club, The Grudge) lost his wife and found himself raising his son, Shigehiko (Tetsu Sawaki; Boogiepop and Others), on his own. With his son and a film-producer friend, Yasuhisa Yoshikawa (Jun Kunimura; Tomie: Forbidden Fruit, Kill Bill: Vol. 1), nagging him to find a woman and remarry, Shigeharu gives in to the pair and humors their search. Using a fake movie audition to lure in women to be interviewed, a quiet ballerina named Asami Yamazaki (Eihi Shiina; Sky High, Eureka) catches Shigeharu’s attention. A courtship soon begins, but this delicate flower has thorns hidden beneath the surface. Lions Gate Entertainment brings the femme fatale story Audition: Uncut Special Edition to DVD to scare a new audience in America. (more…)

Venus Versus Virus is a manga created by Atsushi Suzumi that has been adapted into an anime series. Not released in America yet, I’m watching the R2 DVDs. I’ve been interested in Venus Versus Virus since I first saw the manga, and the animated series does not disappoint. The story focuses on Lucia and Sumire, two girls who work together at the shop Venus Vangard, exterminating the evil spirits called Viruses. Lucia and Sumire each have their own unique powers, but these abilities come at a cost. (more…)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES EXCITING AND DIVERSE ARRAY OF NEW MANGA SERIES FOR THIRD QUARTER OF 2007

Six New Series Deliver Unique Mix Of Historical Drama, Science Fiction, Award-Winning Comedic Romance and Supernatural Action

San Francisco, CA, July 19, 2007 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced the North American debut of six new manga titles for the Third Quarter of 2007. The new releases are aimed at Teen and Older Teen readers and include TOGARI, GIN TAMA, LOVE*COM, PRETTY FACE, KUROHIME and the full-color Ani-Manga™ for NARUTO™ THE MOVIE: NINJA CLASH IN THE LAND OF SNOW.These latest releases deliver a unique and intriguing mix of action and swordplay dramas, mixed with supernatural characters and historical settings that will captivate core fans. New comedic and heartwarming romantic shojo stories will also delight the growing number of female manga readers and shojo manga fans.

“Our latest titles for the summer are quite diverse and offer something for almost every interest,” states Wes Harris, Director, Marketing, VIZ Media. “Summer is the ideal time to relax and manga provides a compact and engrossing activity for all ages. Samurai and action fans will love TOGARI and GIN TAMA, while shojo fans can delight in the quirky gender bending PRETTY FACE and LOVE*COM, which won the 2003 Shogakukan Manga Award. Fall will also see the release of the long awaited KUROHIME, which has caused a sensation in Japan with its blend of black comedy and supernatural action. We look forward to everyone checking out the latest offerings beginning this July!”

TOGARI • Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $9.99 • Available Now!A unique 8-volume action series from award-winning manga artist Yoshinori Natsume, TOGARI is the latest addition to the VIZ Media imprint and tells the adventures of Tobei, a ruthless samurai from feudal Japan who was executed and damned to hell for the past 300 years for his heinous deeds. But Tobei is given a chance for redemption when he is sent to the modern world to vanquish 108 malevolent spirits called Toga in only 108 days. Armed with a mysterious wooden sword named Togari (which feeds off of the malice and evil of the user to become more powerful), Tobei struggles to make sense of the modern world and its often baffling customs while searching relentlessly for the evil demons he must defeat. He must also obey two cardinal rules – he cannot commit any new sins or crimes in the modern world, or he risks being beheaded again, and secondly, he cannot harm and mortal human, no matter how evil, for if he does, he shall receive similar damage. Originally serialized in Japan’s manga anthology Shukan Shonen Sunday, TOGARI enjoys an international audience, having been translated into Spanish, Korean, Chinese and French. GIN TAMA

• Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $7.99 • Available Now!GIN TAMA is an irreverant comedic samurai meets sci-fi manga series created by Hideaki Sorachi that has become a smash hit in Japan. GIN TAMA is set in feudal Japan in the ancient capital city of Edo, now modern Tokyo. The country has been taken over by aliens called Amanto who have banned carrying swords in public, much to the consternation of the now vanquished class of samurai. The story focuses on an eccentric samurai with a natural perm named Sakata Gintoki, his (partial) apprentice Shimura Shinpachi, and a superstrong teenage alien girl named Kagura. All three are “freelancers” who search for work and perform odd jobs in order to pay the monthly rent, which ultimately usually goes unpaid. GIN TAMA premiered in Japan’s Weekly Shonen Jump in 2004 and a popular animated series followed, premiering on Japanese TV in April 2006. The manga series has become one of the top ten best sellers in Japan, with the first four volumes selling more than 2.7 million copies. Laughs and action ensue in this unique manga series, from SHONEN JUMP ADVANCED, which blends out-of-this-world characters (literally) with historical drama.

LOVE*COM • Rated “T” for Teens • MSRP: $8.99 • Available Now!Risa Koizumi is the tallest girl in class, and the last thing she wants is the humiliation of standing next to Atsushi Ôtani, the shortest guy. But fate and the whole school have other ideas, and the two find themselves cast as the reluctant stars of a bizarre romantic comedy duo. Rather than bow to the inevitable, Risa and Atsushi join forces to help each other and pursue their true objects of affection. But in the quest for love, will their budding friendship become something more complex? Creator Aya Nakahara won the 2003 Shogakukan Manga Award for this unique romantic breakthrough hit, which was also made into a major motion picture and a PS2 game in 2006. VIZ Media will release LOVE*COM through its SHOJO BEAT imprint.

PRETTY FACE • Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $7.99 • Available August 2007 He wanted to be her boyfriend, but he’ll settle for being her twin sister! PRETTY FACE is an intriguing series by Yasuhiro Kano revolving around a high school boy who impersonates a girl as a result of an operation gone terribly, but comically awry. When his school bus crashes, teenage karate star Rando is sent into a coma. A year later he wakes up to find that his disfigured face has been reconstructed in the image of his secret crush, Rina! Not knowing what Rando originally looked like, the mad plastic surgeon Dr. Manabe used a photo in Rando’s pocket as the model for his reconstructive surgery. Abandoned by his friends and parents, the all-new Rando is mistaken for his would-be girlfriend’s long-lost twin sister and adopted into her family. Can he put aside his feelings and be a good “big sister” to Rina, even when he’s still a teenage boy from the waist down? Find out in this new series from SHONEN JUMP ADVANCED.KUROHIME • Rated “T+” for Older Teens • MSRP: $7.99 • Available September 2007 Kurohime is a big busty witch with the command of magical guns. She was once foolish enough to challenge the Gods and in doing so was punished. A curse was put on her that turned her into a little girl. The only way she can break this curse and turn back in to her old big bad buxom self is to fall in love! This premise leads Kurohime on all kinds of crazy adventures in a magical land full of dangerous surprises in this new series from SHONEN JUMP ADVANCED. Creator Masanori Ookamigumi Katakura made his debut as the artist for GENOCIDER MAMI, a three-volume manga collaboration with writer Takeshi Narumi. Katakura wrote and illustrated his next work, GO DA GUN, which was serialized in Japan’s Monthly Shonen Jump and concluded after 16 volumes. Katakura’s most recent series, KUROHIME, first appeared in Monthly Shonen Jump Extra in 2000, and has been running in Monthly Shonen Jump since 2003. The enormous popularity of the series spawned the creation of a KUROHIME game for the PS2, released in Japan in March 2006. NARUTO™ THE MOVIE: NINJA CLASH IN THE LAND OF SNOW ANI-MANGA™ • Rated “T” for Teens • MSRP: $14.99 • Available September 2007 All the action from the smash hit first NARUTO feature film is depicted frame-by-frame in this full-color Ani-Manga! NARUTO is now one of the most popular and successful manga and anime properties in North America. NARUTO THE MOVIE: NINJA CLASH IN THE LAND OF SNOW is a theatrical side story based on the continuity of the animated TV series and was a box office hit upon its initial release in Japan. VIZ Media screened the movie to thousands of enthusiastic fans nationwide earlier this summer. New and existing fans of the hit title will not want to miss this exciting latest addition to the NARUTO collection. The general storyline of both the NARUTO manga and animated series depict the adventures of a young boy named Naruto Uzumaki who is training to become a ninja. Naruto, cursed with the spirit of the nine-tailed fox demon sealed within his body, was forced to live a bullied life discriminated against by his fellow villagers. But Naruto was resilient and undaunted, and his determination often inspires those around him. Naruto is thrilled when he is sent on a mission to protect his favorite actress, Yukie Fujikaze, on the set of her new movie, The Adventures of Princess Gale. But when the crew ventures out to film in the icy, foreboding Land of Snow, Yukie mysteriously flees! Naruto and his squad set off to find her…unaware that three Snow Ninja lie in wait, with a sinister purpose that will force Yukie to face her hidden past!About VIZ Media, LLC

Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, DVDs, audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages.

Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ADV ANNOUNCES THREE NEW ACQUISITIONS

AT OTAKON

Venus Versus Virus, Moonlight Mile and

Jing, King of Bandits: Seventh Heaven

OTAKON (Baltimore), July 20, 2007 — ADV Films, the number one producer-distributor of anime outside of Japan, today announced it has acquired the exclusive home video and broadcast rights in North America for three new anime properties, including the brand new supernatural action series Venus Versus Virus, the sci-fi series Moonlight Mile, and the stand-alone feature Jing, King of Bandits: Seventh Heaven.

The announcement was made by ADV executives Matt Greenfield and David Williams at Otakon, the East Coast’s largest anime convention and the second largest in North America. 

These three new properties are in addition to the fourteen other acquisitions announced over the past three months, including new series Devil May Cry, Gurren Lagann, The Wallflower and Welcome to the NHK and the feature film 5 Centimeters Per Second.

Details on the newly announced anime are given below.

Venus Versus Virus

From veteran director Shinichiro Kimura (Maburaho, Burn Up Excess) and the production team at Studio Hibari (Nerima Daikon Brothers) comes an exciting new adventure title rife with monsters, mayhem, and Gothic Lolita heroines with plenty of ‘tude!  Venus Versus Virus first aired on Japanese television in January of 2007.  Based on the hit manga series, this hot new series is an action-packed treat for fans of Underworld, Chrono Crusade, and other high-energy supernatural actioners. 

Synopsis: Demons exist in our world.  Known as “Viruses,” they are shells of men and women, sad yet fearsome beings cursed with an insatiable hunger for human souls.  The only thing keeping the innocent alive are the Venus Vanguard, an elite group of hunters tasked with the extermination of Viruses.  Lucia is their top killer, cold, calculating, and a deadly shot.  Fate shines on Lucia when her path crosses Sumire Takahana, a young student with the ability to become a living anti-Virus.  There’s just one problem with the Vanguard’s newest recruit – when she enters into a rage, there’s no stopping her!   

This 12 episode series will be released over three DVDs, the first of which is tentatively scheduled for a November release.

Moonlight Mile

From the production teams at Studio Hibari (Nerima Daikon Brothers, Venus Versus Virus) and Imagica (Azumanga Daioh, Peacemaker) comes a new series chronicling the exploits of two young adventurers on their journey to conquer the stars.  Moonlight Mile first aired on Japan’s WOWWOW television network in February of this year.  The series quickly gained notoriety for its sophisticated plot and nuanced characters.  Most of all, Moonlight Mile separates itself from other space operas by grounding itself in a believable environment with realistic situations.

Synopsis: In the near future, the world’s energy supplies are depleting, and Earth must look to the skies for a solution.  When Helium 3 is discovered beneath the surface of the moon, the International Space Agency is formed in an effort to exploit it.   Joining the Agency are Saruwatari Gorou and “Lostman” Jack F. Woodbridge, two of Earth’s greatest adventurers.  Challenges lie along the way and secrets have yet to come to light for Gorou and Lostman as they begin their journey to harness the world’s next energy resource. 

Release plans for this series have not yet been set.

Jing, King of Bandits: Seventh Heaven

The standalone feature King of Bandit Jing in Seventh Heaven is the latest installment in the fan-favorite franchise.  Directed by Hiroshi Watanabe (Mythical Detective Loki Ragnarok, Slayers) and animated by the production team at Aniplex (Rurouni Kenshin, Gurren Lagann), this feature brings the King back in a new action-packed adventure along with a cast of familiar friends and faces – and one fierce new foe.      

Synopsis: Jing is the infamous King of Bandits.  There is nothing he can’t get his hands on once he sets his mind to it, except this time he may be in for more then he bargained for!  Along with his feathered friend Kir, Jing finds himself in Seventh Heaven, the most dangerous and notorious prison complex in the world.  Within its walls sits the Dream Orbs, treasures of extraordinary power and value, and Jing wants nothing more than to get his hands on them.  There is just one problem – the orbs are in the possession of the villainous convict Campari.  Now, Jing must work his finesse to escape both the Seventh Heaven, as well as the dream prison that Campari has begun to create around him.  It’s his greatest challenge yet, so come join Jing as he secures his title as the King of Bandits once and for all!    

The DVD for Jing, King of Bandits will release in November 2007.

About ADV Films:

In the 15 years since its inception, ADV Films has become the #1 producer-distributor of Japanese animation (“anime”) outside of Japan and has the largest English-language anime library in the world.  With best-selling titles such as Neon Genesis Evangelion, RahXephon, Robotech, Full Metal Panic, Hello Kitty and Azumanga Daioh, ADV Films’ extensive catalog is fueling the popularity of anime around the globe. Always on the forefront, ADV is introducing North America to bold new anime franchises such as the new Guyver, Le Chevalier D’Eon, Gantz, and Elfen Lied.  ADV Films’ library also includes popular live-action science fiction programs such as The Jim Henson Company’s Farscape, the nationally syndicated Gene Roddenberry’s Andromeda and the Saturn Award-nominated Mutant X.   In 2005 ADV Films was voted “Best Anime Company” in the SPJA awards, presented at Anime Expo, North America’s largest anime convention.  The readers of Anime News Network designated ADV Films “Overall Favorite Anime Company” in both 2004 and 2005.

Parent company A.D. Vision, Inc. encompasses a variety of complementary media divisions, spanning publishing, television, licensing and merchandising and continues to expand into new areas. Its Anime Network™ is “America’s #1 Anime Channel,” reaching more than 40 million households.  Anime Network is the nation’s top video-on-demand (VOD) offering as well as a 24/7 linear cable channel and is the first television network dedicated to bringing anime and anime-related programming to consumers nationwide.  The company has two publishing arms: Newtype USA, North America’s top-selling anime and manga monthly magazine, and ADV Manga™, dedicated to publishing graphic novels.  Headquartered in Houston, the company has offices in Europe and Japan. For more information, visit www.advfilms.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Right Stuf’s ANIME TODAY Talks ASTRO BOY & Tezuka
With Writer & Manga Historian Frederik L. Schodt
Interview, reviews and more in Episode 45!

GRIMES, IA, July 20, 2007 – Anime producer and mega-online anime retailer Right Stuf, Inc. is pleased to welcome writer, interpreter and translator Frederik L. Schodt to episode 45 of ANIME TODAY to discuss his soon-to-be released book, The Astro Boy Essays: Osamu Tezuka, Mighty Atom and the Manga/Anime Revolution.

In this new interview, Mr. Schodt discusses the significance of Dr. Tezuka’s works worldwide, his place in popular Japanese culture, the differences between the Astro Boy manga and its anime adaptations, Tezuka’s tendency to continually revise his work after its initial release, and Tezuka’s love-hate relationship with his best-known creation.

Recognized with the Osamu Tezuka Culture Special Prize for his contributions to the appreciation of manga worldwide, Schodt wrote one of the first, definitive books about manga for Western audiences – Manga! Manga! The World of Japanese Comics – as well as Dreamland Japan: Writings on Modern Manga. He also translated and adapted the official North American releases of two Tezuka classics: the Astro Boy manga (from Dark Horse) and Phoenix (from Viz Media). In addition to his manga-related writings, Schodt is the author of acclaimed works on Japan and Japanese culture including America and the Four Japans: Friend, Foe, Model, Mirror and Native American in the Land of the Shogun: Ranald MacDonald and the Opening of Japan. 

Also in Episode 45 of ANIME TODAY:

-       Chad tells listeners “What’s Hot” in the world of anime and manga.

-       Shawne lets listeners know about “Savings With a Vengeance” on Manga Entertainment titles.

-       Marie reviews the shounen manga Kekkaishi by Yellow Tanabe.

-       Judy-sensei returns with a new mini-Japanese 101 lesson.

-       And Rich and Nick announce the winner of the recent contest for the Full Metal Panic! figure set, kick off a contest for Gunbuster 2 DVDs and remind listeners about the current contest leading up to Right Stuf / Nozomi Entertainment’s release of The Third at the end of this month!

** Also, courtesy of Anime News Network, the ANIME TODAY podcast feed now includes a bonus episode featuring video footage from the Right Stuf / Nozomi Entertainment panel at Anime Expo 2007. (This video bonus can also be accessed via the Anime Today episode index.)

Visit www.rightstuf.com for this episode, as well as an archive of all ANIME TODAY episodes and extended liner notes. Listeners can also download and subscribe to ANIME TODAY via the Apple iTunes Music Store.

Meet other ANIME TODAY listeners, submit your suggestions for future episodes and more at the official ANIME TODAY forums at AnimeOnDVD.com: (http://www.animeondvd.com/forum/showforum.php?fid/57/).

ABOUT ANIME TODAY
Released every other week, ANIME TODAY is the first commercially-produced podcast aimed at enthusiasts of Japanese animation and comics (“anime” and “manga”). Each episode features fresh content and gives listeners a glimpse into what’s new and what’s hot in the world of anime and manga. Segments include reviews of titles from all major anime studios, insights into the industry from anime producers, tips on traveling to and around Japan, interaction with listeners, contests, prizes and more.

“If you’re into anime and what’s happening in the anime market then this is the podcast for you!”
- User review on iTunes

ABOUT THE RIGHT STUF, INC.
Founded in 1987, Right Stuf, Inc. was one of the first players in the U.S. Japanese Animation (”anime”) industry, as both an anime producer/distributor and a retailer. Right Stuf works to promote knowledge of its own products, as well as the anime and manga industry, in general, through its online storefront at RightStuf.com and a variety of media including podcasts and special publications.

Nozomi Entertainment, Right Stuf’s production division, is dedicated to the highest quality releases. True to the Japanese word that inspired its name, Nozomi’s focus is on “what fans want.” By focusing on a limited number of anime properties each year, the Nozomi production team ensures each release receives the care and attention to detail it deserves.

From anime classics like Astro Boy, Kimba and Gigantor to modern comedies, dramas and favorites such as The Irresponsible Captain Tylor, His and Her Circumstances, Gravitation, Comic Party, Shingu: Secret of the Stellar Wars, Ninja Nonsense, To Heart and The Third: The Girl With the Blue Eye, Right Stuf and Nozomi Entertainment produce quality programming for fans of all ages and interests. For more information, visit www.rightstuf.com and www.nozomient.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VIZ MEDIA WELCOMES RENOWNED SHOJO MANGA CREATOR AND OFFERS EXCITING

GAMING ACTIVITIES, PANELS AND SCREENINGS FOR 2007 COMIC-CON INTERNATIONAL

Demos of Latest Anime Action Video Games in Booth 4113, Screening of

NARUTO™ the Movie, and Two Eisner Award Nominations for NAOKI URASAWA’S

MONSTER Highlight This Year’s Show

San Francisco, July 18, 2007 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing,

animation and licensing companies, has announced a bevy of special

events, interactive games, artist appearances, a special theatrical

screening, and speaker panels for the 2007 Comic-Con International.

Comic-Con is renowned as the nation’s largest comic book and science

fiction event and takes place July 26-29 at the Convention Center in San

Diego, CA. VIZ Media will be located in Booth 4113.

Personal appearances by notable manga artists and creators are always a

highlight of VIZ Media’s presence at Comic-Con and this year the company

is pleased to welcome Arina Tanemura, the renowned creator of the

popular shojo manga series FULL MOON and THE GENTLEMEN’S ALLIANCE †.VIZ Media will be featured across several panels throughout the

convention, kicking off with a general anime and manga discussion on

Thursday, July 26 at 1:30 p.m. in Room #2. Arina Tanemura will

participate in a special SHOJO BEAT™ magazine panel discussion set for

Saturday, July 28 at 1:30 p.m. in Room #2. She will provide insights

into her work and experiences as a manga artist, and answer questions

from fans and press. A SHONEN JUMP™ panel is scheduled for Friday, July

27 at 11:30 a.m. also in Room #2. Other scheduled VIZ Media panel

discussions include a dedicated discussion about NARUTO NATION™ and the

buzz surrounding the hit NARUTO™ anime and manga series, set for

Saturday, July 28 at 11:30 p.m. also in Room #2 and “You Outta Know

About These Manga” to take place Sunday, July 29th at 12:30 p.m.

VIZ Media will have a commanding presence on the main show floor in

Booth #4113 showcasing some of the company’s latest and most popular

manga and anime titles which also will be made available for purchase in

a vividly arrayed retail area. There will be a special “green-screen”

activity that will allow visitors to pose for pictures with a variety of

characters and backdrops from popular series including NARUTO, DEATH

NOTE, MÄR, INUYASHA, FULL MOON and BLEACH.

The company has further partnered with several leading game

manufacturers to present a variety of anime-related interactive video

games throughout the convention. Attendees will have a chance to play

the ultimate NARUTO party game on the hottest gaming system, as NARUTO:

Clash of Ninja Revolution for the Nintendo Wii will be among those

featured in the VIZ Media booth. The next generation in NARUTO games

from TOMY Corporation and D3Publisher of America, Inc. (D3PA) will

include all new game-play designed specifically for the Wii controllers,

new character animations, new interactive environments and characters

that have never been featured in the Clash of Ninja game series. The

game also features special mini-games created exclusively for the Wii

Remote in fast-paced ninja action for up to four players in nine

different game-play modes.

Namco/Bandai Games America will demo NARUTO: Uzumaki Chronicles 2 for

the Sony PlayStation 2. It’s up to Naruto Uzumaki and his powerful ninja

allies to stop a dangerous and mysterious rival ninja clan long believed

to have disappeared. They have sworn to resurrect an unstoppable army of

ancient horror that will threaten the very survival of the Hidden Leaf

Village. NARUTO: Uzumaki Chronicles 2 delivers the epic action adventure

with an original storyline, multiplayer cooperative/versus action and

over 10 playable/customizable characters.

Ubisoft will also feature a playable demo of NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja for

the Xbox 360 as a world debut exclusive to the VIZ Media booth. It will

be the first time the public will be able to play the game, which

contains a fully-featured Konoha Village, realistic chakra training with

Kakashi-Sensei, fast-action game-play sequences, head-to-head battles

and more.

Capcom will offer Mega Man Star Force™ for the Nintendo DS™ – the first game in a new Mega Man® series making its debut in three versions – Pegasus, Leo and Dragon, a first for any Mega Man title. VIZ Media is

the publisher of the popular MEGAMAN NT WARRIOR™ manga series. In Mega

Man Star Force, players explore towns and interact with people in the

real world while the action-packed battles take place in the virtual

“Wave World.” Enemy encounters take place on a three by five grid in a

3D perspective, where players use a portfolio of Battle Cards that each

have distinct attributes and attack powers. Developed by the team behind

the popular Mega Man Battle Network® series, the game marks the start of

a new era for Mega Man, who celebrates his 20th anniversary this year.

Finally, Microsoft will present famed game producer Hironobu Sakaguchi

of Mistwalker game studio and developer Artoons highly anticipated Xbox

360-exclusive BLUE DRAGON™ as an exclusive in VIZ Media’s booth.

Featuring the character design of Akira Toriyama, who designed Dragon

Ball Z, Blue Dragon is an epic role-playing game (RPG) centered on a

young boy named Shu and his friends. These unlikely heroes possess

miraculous strength and the magical power to control phantom shadows

that mirror the actions of their masters. Shu and friends must wield

their skills to save their world from impending doom. Encountering

various people on a planet with numerous ancient ruins, the characters

and their shadows travel through a world full of mysteries and

illusions, where the slightest touch can cause reactions of unparalleled

magnitude.

Following the Japanese tradition of previewing the newest Trading Card

Game (TCG) additions at Jump Festa, the sprawling annual convention for

SHONEN JUMP in Japan, for the very first time, VIZ Media will offer for

sale at Comic-Con a special new collection of YU-GI-OH! game cards for

$3.99 per 5-card pack. Fans have been clamoring for the release of these

Premium Packs, which will be released domestically by Upper Deck in

September. Some of the cards to look for include the Magician of Black

Chaos, Black Magic Ritual, Gemini Imps, Return Zombie, Dark Magic

Curtain, Legacy of Yata-Garasul, Javelin Beetle and Javelin Beetle Pact.

These are a must-have for any YU-GI-OH! fan.

A variety of special convention giveaways are also planned, including

the coveted VIZ Media convention tote bag for 2007, newly designed in

purple, featuring DEATH NOTE and MÄR. Other giveaways include SHOJO BEAT

bookmarks featuring BACKSTAGE PRINCE, SKIP BEAT, BEAUTY POP, THE

GENTLEMEN’S ALLIANCE † and PUNCH, full-color posters for BLEACH, POKéMON The Movie 9, SPIRITED AWAY, CASTLE IN THE SKY and more. The VIZ Media

Prize Patrol is a regular facet of Comic-Con and attendees spotted

wearing VIZ Media prize beads (available at the booth) can win special

premiums including POKéMON accessory straps, SONIC THE HEDGEHOG and

INUYASHA trading card game packs, BOYS OVER FLOWERS purses and more.

Also on hand for giveaway will be manga samplers, including the brand

new TEKKONKINKREET manga sampler, anime samplers, SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO

BEAT magazine samplers and more.

VIZ Media will screen the first NARUTO feature film — NARUTO THE MOVIE: NINJA CLASH IN THE LAND OF SNOW – at 4:30pm on Saturday, July 27 at the United Artists Horton Plaza Theatre, located walking distance from the

Convention Center. Tickets are available for free on a first come, first

served basis. NARUTO is rated T for teen.

Finally, the 2007 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards, considered the

Oscars of the comic book industry, are scheduled for Friday, July 27 and

VIZ Media is pleased to have NAOKI URASAWA’S MONSTER manga nominated in

two categories for Best Continuing Series and Best US Edition of

International Material-Japan

“This year’s agenda for Comic-Con promises to be the most action-packed

one yet and we are very excited to stage a variety of fun gaming events,

screenings and special giveaways that are sure to delight the thousands

of anime and manga fans who attend,” states Liza Coppola, Sr. Vice

President of Marketing. “There is absolutely something for everyone in

VIZ Media’s offerings this year and meetings our fans and offering some

sneak peaks of what’s to come will make Comic-Con the must-attend event

of the summer!”

About VIZ Media

Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one

of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga

publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content.

Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and

animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production

Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and

distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North

America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The

company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as

SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, DVDs, audio

soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial

production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise

licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages.

Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone

(415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.

ImaginAsian TV Adds Three New Series to Popular Anime Block “Anime EnerG” Paradise Kiss, Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales, and Kamichu to premiere July 31, 2007 

NEW YORK, NY July 18, 2007 – ImaginAsian TV announced today that it added three new  Japanese animated series from Geneon Entertainment to its hit Tuesday evening animation block “Anime EnerG: Powered by Geneon.” PARADISE KISS, AYAKASHI: SAMURAI HORROR TALES, and KAMICHU will premiere on July 31, 2007 at 8:00pm PST/EST and will kick off the block’s second season. 

“We’re thrilled about the second cycle of ‘Anime EnerG’,” says David Chu, SVP of programming and production at ImaginAsian TV.  “The success of our first season speaks to the lasting appeal of anime in

America.  With our second season, we will continue catering to an ever-growing market of anime enthusiasts.  Our highly anticipated new programs are audience favorites in

Japan, with great crossover potential.”     

PARADISE KISS, AYAKASHI: SAMURAI HORROR TALES, and KAMICHU join returning series LAW OF UEKI and KYO KARA MAOH! in the “Anime EnerG” lineup.  

Paradise KissA group of designers tries to convince Yukari, a beautiful high-school student, to model for their fashion show.  Reluctant at first, she is eventually wooed by the charming George Koizumi to join their group.  Paradise Kiss features innovative costumes, art direction, and music, including a theme song by rock band Franz Ferdinand. 

Ayakashi: Samurai Horror TalesThree horror stories come alive in the period piece Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales.  In the classic “Yotsuya Ghost Story”, the vengeful spirit of a murdered wife haunts her enemies.  “Goddess of the

Dark Tower”, based on a classic Japanese play, tells of the forbidden romance between a goddess and a human.  “Goblin Cat” is the original story of a “cat monster” that preys on each member of a mysterious family.  All three stories feature different art and animation styles.    

KamichuYurie Hitotsubashi has turned into a god, and she needs her classmates to help her figure out what kind.  But before she can even figure out her powers, a typhoon and other calamities require her help.  A sweet coming-of-age story akin to Spirited Away, Kamichu has won numerous Japanese prizes for animation.   

iaTV^® is the first

U.S. network to broadcast the shows in both English subtitled and dubbed versions. All five shows in the “Anime EnerG” lineup are distributed by Geneon Entertainment.

 

About Geneon Entertainment

A   leading  supplier  of  Japanese  animation  in  North  America,  GENEON ENTERTAINMENT   (USA)  INC.  (www.geneonanimation.com)  is  a  full-service producer  and  distributor  of entertainment content including film, music, animation  and television  shows on DVD, UMD, CD, and new media, including the  Internet  and  mobile devices. Continually introducing new and classic anime  and  live-action programming,  as well as anime CD soundtracks, the company  also  serves  as  a  creative partner to many of

Japan’s top anime production   companies.   Additionally,  Geneon  Entertainment  distributes critically  acclaimed  musical  performances  on  DVD  and CD from renowned artists.  Headquartered  in 

Long  Beach,  California, Geneon Entertainment (USA)  is  a  subsidiary  and joint venture between Tokyo-based advertising giant   Dentsu,  Inc.  and  d-rights,  Inc.,  a  subsidiary  of  MitsubishiCorporation. 

Dentsu  Inc.,  founded in 1901, is the largest advertising agency brand and the  fifth  largest marketing and communications organization in the world. Based  in 

Tokyo,  Dentsu offers national, multinational and global clients the  most comprehensive range of advertising and marketing services through its  unique  “Total Communications Services” approach. Dentsu has pioneered and  set  global  standards  for integrated communications, which in latter years  have  been  adopted  by  a  number  of major international networks. Dentsu’s consolidated revenues for fiscal term 03/06 were recorded at $17.1 billion.  Dentsu is publicly traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. 

d-rights, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi Corporation (Japan’s largest general trading company), established in 1988, is an integrated production company handling entertainment content for a variety of media; terrestrial TV, Internet, DVD, etc.  Based in

Tokyo, d-rights offers the services as a content producer, a rights manager, and an advertising agency, and d-rights can provide clients with the support necessary to work more efficiently and effectively in the content business. 

About ImaginAsian TV and ImaginAsian EntertainmentImaginAsian Television^® (iaTV^®) is the television destination for For All Things Asian^®, offering audiences a diverse selection of top-notch movies, anime, dramas, documentaries, music and original programming from Asia and the U.S. Fully advertiser-supported, ImaginAsian TV is currently carried on cable systems in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, Dallas, Hawaii and parts of New Jersey, as well as via broadcast in Edison, NJ.  ImaginAsian TV (www.iatv.tv) is an integral division of ImaginAsian Entertainment, Inc.ImaginAsian^TM Entertainment, Inc. (www.iaei.tv) is a multimedia company that promotes Asian Pacific American culture to mainstream

America. Headquartered in New York City, ImaginAsian Entertainment uses a fully integrated marketing strategy through multiple platforms: ImaginAsian TV^® (America’s First 24/7 Asian American Network), The ImaginAsian Theater^® (New York’s Premier Asian American Theater), ImaginAsian Pictures^TM (distribution of cutting-edge and critically acclaimed Asian films), ImaginAsian Home Entertainment^TM (video/DVD unit dedicated to quality Asian home entertainment), ImaginAsian Radio^® (the sound of Asian America), and iaLink^® (ImaginAsian’s community-based e-zine).

Based on the manga characer by Tohru Shinohara (Female Prisoner #701: Scorpion) comes the fourth installment to the Zero Woman franchise. Rei (Mai Tachihara; Ringu: Kanzen-ban) follows Mutoh’s orders from the Zero Department, but the working relationship between the two is becoming strained as the nomadic life of an assassin takes its toll on Rei both physically and emotionally. While gathering intelligence on a new target, Rei meets a young man willing to whore himself out for money to any man willing to pay. Taking Mitsuru (Yuujin Kitagawa; Eko Eko Azarak 2) under her care, Rei slowly begins to change now that she has a companion in her life. However, when a string of murders pop up in the area and carry the style only a professional assassin like a Zero Woman can do, Rei tries to switch back to business to clear her name. Directed by Daisuke Gotoh (Scorpion’s Revenge, Zero Woman 2) comes Zero Woman: Namae no Nai onna as Zero Woman: The Accused from Central Park Media’s Asia Pulp Cinema. (more…)

Aquaplus’s popular PC-dating-sim-turned-slice-of-life-anime-series is back for another round of the tough daily troubles facing Hiroyuki Fujita, Akari Kamigishi, and the rest of the To Heart gang. Hiroyuki and Akari accidently end up getting to study alone. Class rep Tomoko has the the Cultural Festival to plan for and the class brats are making trouble. And the school ends up being the testing grounds for a new prototype robot maid who is more alive than some of the real people. From RightStuf comes To Heart: Volume 3 - Bonds of Friendship to set up the final act as friends grow closer and troubles don’t rise above a simmer. (more…)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEVIZ MEDIA WELCOMES SHOJO MANGA ARTIST ARINA TANEMURA AT 2007 COMIC-CON AND CELEBRATES HER WORK IN SHOJO BEAT™ MAGAZINE

Creator Of FULL MOON To Meet Fans In VIZ Media Booth# 4113 And Participate In SHOJO BEAT Panel Discussion While Magazine Plans Interview And Rare Manga Short Story For August Issue

San Francisco, JULY 13, 2007 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, will celebrate the work of famed manga artist Arina Tanemura throughout the month of July with a rare personal appearance at the 2007 Comic-Con International, plus a bonus short story and special cover (both by Tanemura) for the August issue of SHOJO BEAT magazine, which goes on sale nationwi