Project Presented Unique Proposition For Post Facility To Take On Commercial Production For A Spot To Be Included In 800,000 Promotional DVDs

 

Burbank, CA, November 20, 2007 – Bang Zoom! Entertainment, a leading full-service audio post production company and producer of original entertainment content, recently produced a 60-second commercial spot for the forthcoming Trauma Center: New Blood video game for the Nintendo Wii from Atlus, U.S.A., Inc., a leading publisher of interactive entertainment. Trauma Center: New Blood is scheduled to ship to retailers nationwide on November 20.

 

The spot is to be featured on 800,000 promotional DVDs produced by Nintendo and will be sent to a variety of leading national retailers highlighting the latest Wii games. The spot is also viewable at http://www.atlus.com/tcnb/

 

Atlus U.S.A. Senior Project Manager Sammy Matsushima turned to Bang Zoom! after hearing accolades on the company’s extensive track record of post work in the anime arena and the production of several episodes of original content for a televised program about anime called AnimeTV™. “We felt they were an ideal choice for this project because of their technical knowledge and familiarity with the anime and gaming arenas, to which Trauma Center has a huge appeal.”

 

The project also presented an interesting proposition for a post facility to undertake a commercial production, and was made critical with only a week to develop, cast, shoot and edit the spot.

 

“Nintendo had requirements for what they wanted in the spots for this DVD and we knew we would have to shoot new content, but there wouldn’t be much time until the deadline,” recalls Jeremy Cail, Atlus U.S.A. Creative Designer. “The segment was going to require action shots with real actors playing the game combined with a witty premise to hold people’s attention.”

Trauma Center: New Blood is the third volume of the Trauma Center series of surgery simulation video games which have been widely acclaimed for their realism and drama. Trauma Center: New Blood is a self-contained installment with an entirely new plot, and is also the first game of the series to offer two-player cooperative play, where one person assists another in a variety of surgical procedures. Other new features not available in the previous versions include online leader-boards, full voice-over dialogue and a 16:9 widescreen mode.

 

Matsushima, Cail and Atlus QA Specialist/Media Assistant Hans Christian Peña conceived a storyline but production time was short. Before production commenced, Bang Zoom! Entertainment had tapped director Alex Von David to make the storyboards a reality. Von David is a Cleo-winning director who shot commercials for several PlayStation^®2 games, as well as Verizon, McDonalds, and Penzoil. Camera work was handled by Director of Photography Jeremy Oliver, who also shot all of Bang Zoom’s AnimeTV episodes. A Panasonic DVX-100 camera was selected as it provided 24p acquisition that closely mimics the aesthetic qualities of film and gave the best resolution.

 

The new spot was shot and edited in a scant two days but highlights all of Trauma Center: New Blood’s operating room action, which was partially recreated at Bang Zoom! Entertainment’s spacious Burbank East sound stage. It opens as a realistic heartbeat pulses and the audience sees a surgeon wash his hands and prep for surgery. As the glare of an operating room light momentarily blinds the camera, it cuts to a new shot of the doctor repeatedly motioning for a surgical instrument from a pretty young girl. The words “Maybe you’re not a doctor” flash across the screen and the young surgeon is instead handed a Wii controller. The spot then pulses to the techno soundtrack from the game and integrates real screen shots of Trauma Center: New Blood action as the surgeon and the girl demonstrate the two-player features. The spot concludes as the “surgeon” smirks and throws his mask to his “assistant” as she looks back, perturbed. The words “Play doctor” flash across the screen and cuts to a quick shot of the doctor leaning over for a kiss, but instead merely gets the surgical mask thrown back in his face.

 

Bang Zoom! chief engineer Patrick Rodman did final mixing, added some ambient Foley, and also spent time tweaking the sound of a lone heartbeat that opens the spot. “That pulsing heartbeat is designed to grab the viewer’s attention and it had to sound dramatic but be realistic.” 

 

“We were very excited to produce this spot for Atlus U.S.A.,” says Bang Zoom! Entertainment  President Eric P. Sherman. “We have a strong audio post production infrastructure, with a very talented and enthusiastic team, and we are now excited to also explore opportunities to be involved in actual production. As we continue to widen our services we look to become a preeminent provider of audio post, ADR and now production services to the gaming arena.”

 

ABOUT ATLUS U.S.A., Inc.

Located in Irvine, California and founded in 1991, Atlus U.S.A., Inc. is a publisher of compelling video games for a variety of platforms, including the Nintendo DS, PSP (PlayStation Portable) system, Wii, Xbox 360, and PlayStation2 computer entertainment system. Atlus U.S.A, Inc.’s library of critically acclaimed video games includes Odin Sphere, Trauma Center: Second Opinion, Magna Carta: Tears of Blood, and the award-winning Shin Megami Tensei series. For more information, visit http://www.atlus.com

 

ABOUT BANG ZOOM! ENTERTAINMENT

Headquartered in Burbank, California, Bang Zoom! Entertainment, Inc. is a leading full-service audio post production studio for feature films, television, interactive gaming, anime and direct to home entertainment content. Founded in 1993, the company offers a range of specialized services including a critically acclaimed staff of recognized voice talent, ADR,/Foley recording, sound design, and 2.0, 5.1 and 7.1 Dolby Digital and Pro Logic II mixing and encoding. Bang Zoom! Entertainment is also committed to developing a range of independent projects that contribute to the promotion of innovative cultural awareness internationally. For more information, visit www.bangzoomentertainment.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES NARUTO MANGA SHADOW BOX LIMITED COLLECTOR SET

Most Elaborate Manga Box Set Ever Published In North America

Bundles Host Of Extras With 27 Volumes Of Smash Hit Ninja Series

San Francisco, CA, November 13, 2007 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced the ultimate NARUTO manga collection - a special NARUTO Shadow Box Limited Collector Set which bundles all 27 volumes of the hit series’ first story arc. With the 2007 holiday season fast approaching, this set, which is the most extensive and elaborate manga box set the company has published to date, will be a highly desired item among many fans. The NARUTO Shadow Box Limited Collector Set is expected *to be released today* and has a limited production run of 5,000.The NARUTO Shadow Box Limited Collector Set, availbale in the U.S. and Canada, contains 27 volumes housed in a special wooden display box that is individually numbered and emblazoned with the NARUTO logo. Included are the final three volumes of the first story arc – available in advance of their December 4 general release date. A special mini-manga of the “proto-chapter” of the first NARUTO story ever published is also included, along with a sneak peek of Vol. 28, an exclusive two-sided color poster, collectible graphic novel cover stickers, and a NARUTO trading card exclusive to VIZ Media. The NARUTO Shadow Box Limited Collector Set, with a suggested retail price of $189.95, will be available at select major book retailers and also thru the VIZ Media online store at store.viz.com. Pre-orders on the VIZ Media website are being accepted now. A limited production run of 5,000 makes this a serious collectible for any NARUTO or manga fan.NARUTO has emerged as one of the best selling and most popular manga series throughout North America, regularly placing in both Graphic Novel and Overall General Fiction categories on noted literary sales rosters including BookScan and the USA Today Top 150. It was also the first manga to ever win a noted literary Quill Award in 2006. NARUTO has become one of VIZ Media’s most successful manga properties in terms of sales. The series, by creator Masashi Kishimoto, depicts the adventures of a young boy who trains to become a ninja, and has sold more than 80 million copies in Japan since Shueisha Inc. began publishing the manga in 1999.

“The NARUTO Shadow Box Limited Collector Set is probably the most elaborate and comprehensive single manga box set ever published in North America and we are extremely excited to release it in plenty of time for the holidays,” says Liza Coppola, Sr. Vice President, Marketing, VIZ Media. “The massive popularity of the manga shows no signs of slowing and this is the ultimate collection for any serious fan. The set is an ideal way to display the entire run of NARUTO and we’ve also included a host of extras that make this a real must-have this holiday season. We expect it to be a feature on many die-hard fans’ wish lists this year.”

The release of the box set is the culmination of NARUTO NATION, a broad campaign launched by VIZ Media earlier this year that began by bringing an unprecedented increase in the frequency of publication of the 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 has offered three new volumes of the NARUTO manga per-month since September – a first for any U.S. manga publisher. The company has also released a variety of other related NARUTO products including the DVD release of NARUTO THE MOVIE: NINJA CLASH IN THE LAND OF SNOW, a gorgeous hardcover UZUMAKI: ART OF NARUTO edition, the NARUTO ANIME PROFILES: HIDEN SHIPPU EMAKI, and NARUTO MISSION: PROTECT THE WATERFALL VILLAGE!, the latest addition to the collection of NARUTO novels under the VIZ Fiction imprint. VIZ Media also plans to launch the manga with the new NARUTO story arc in March 2008, which depicts the next stage of the saga about a boy training to become a ninja with the main character now three years older. Fans can also get a peek at the new NARUTO story in the January 2008 issue of SHONEN JUMP Magazine, on sale December 4, 2007.

Abut 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 and 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 LAUNCHES KANON JANUARY 1

Also Jinki: Extend and Martian Successor Nadesico Collections

HOUSTON, November 13, 2007 – ADV Films, the number one producer-distributor of anime outside of Japan, is pleased to announce the launch of Kanon, the highly-anticipated six-part series from the creators of Air TV, as well as the Jinki: Extend Complete Collection and the Martian Successor Nadesico Perfect Collection.  All three titles will be available on store shelves New Year’s Day 2008.

KANON VOLUME ONE

“A Beautiful Romance Everyone Can Enjoy.” – Anime World

ADV Films is pleased to bring you the first volume in Kanon, the highly-anticipated new series from the creators of Air TV.  Kanon Volume 1 goes on sale January 1, 2008.

Fans have been looking forward to Kanon since it first aired on Japanese television in 2006.  Some describe it as a romantic comedy with a lot of drama; others call it a romance with plenty of comedy.  Animated by Kyoto Animation (Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya), just goes to show that the five overlapping narratives that come together in Kanon offer something for everyone.

Synopsis: Yuichi Aizawa used to visit his cousin Nayuki all the time when he was younger, but now he can hardly remember a thing about those visits. And upon his return to finish his senior year in high school while living with his Aunt Akiko and his cousin, the blank spots in his memory have become more and more worrisome.  After a seven year absence, Yuichi makes a valiant effort to adjust to his vaguely familiar surroundings. Bits and pieces of his past come back to him, but his memories elude him still. Why canÕt he remember? What is he blocking out?  From the same animation studio that brought you AIR TV, a poignant concerto of tears, laughter and pinky promises make up a mystical world in Kanon.

Kanon Volume One (SRP $29.98 DVD) is a DVD-only anamorphic release including the first four episodes, presented in both English and Japanese with English subtitles.  Video extras include an inside look at the making of Kanon, plus clean opening animation, clean closing animation and previews of upcoming ADV Films releases. 

DVD Product Details

Volume:                              1 (of 6)

Running Time:     100 minutes

Age Rating:          TV PG

CAT:                     DKN/001

UPC:                     702727185229

Pre-Book Date:   12/4/2007

Street Date:          1/1/2008

Format:                 DVD

SRP:                     $29.98

Product specifications and content configuration subject to change.

JINKI: EXTEND COMPLETE COLLECTION

“A Serious Story About Cute Girl Mecha Pilots” – Anime News Network

ADV Films is pleased to present an attractive, highly affordable new thin-pack collection of the mecha masterpiece Jinki: Extend.   The Jinki: Extend Complete Collection hits store shelves January 1.

From Director Mazahiko Murata (Gilgamesh, Mazinkaiser), Jinki: Extend revitalized the mecha genre with a gripping blend of giant robot action and soap opera intrigue. The elite organization Angel pilots the mighty Jinki, giant robots employed to fight the evil Kyomu.  But Angel needs new recruits, and it just so happens that a set of beautiful girls were born with the innate ability to be the best Jinki pilots ever!  What happens when these cuties become Earth’s last line of defense?

Synopsis: In 13-year-old Aoba Tsuzaki’s world, everything seems normal. An over-the-top modeling fanatic, she spends her days locked in her room, happily building plastic robots.  But rumbling beneath the surface, an evil enemy of mankind (the Ancient Jinki) threatens to destroy the Earth. And when a cross-dressing kidnapper brings Aoba face-to-face with a real fighting machine, her robot dreams give way to frightening nightmares. She is unwittingly recruited into Angel, an elite fighting force who not only pits its giant robots against the Ancient Jinki, but against an unseen evil that is working behind the scenes. Jinki:Extend is a world of explosive action, arresting intrigue, and battle-trained babes who are bent on revenge! Nothing is what it seems, and no one can be trusted. But one thing is for sure – you’re in for a seriously wild ride!

Jinki: Extend Complete Collection (SRP $59.98 DVD) is an anamorphic DVD release including all 13 episodes of the original series, presented in both English 5.1 and Japanese 2.0 with English subtitles, plus all the video extras from the original releases.

DVD Product Details

Running Time:     325 minutes

Age Rating:          TV PG (V)

CAT:                     DJK/BX1

UPC:                     702727156229

Pre-Book Date:   12/4/2007

Street Date:          1/1/2008

Format:                 DVD

SRP:                     $59.98

Product specifications and content configuration subject to change.

MARTIAN SUCCESSOR NADESICO

PERFECT COLLECTION

“Tremendous Fun” – TheOtaku.com

ADV Films is pleased to celebrate one of Japan’s top anime series with a beautiful and affordable new thin-packed collection.  The Martian Successor Nadesico Perfect Collection hits store shelves January 1.

From acclaimed studio Xebec (Negima!) comes the beloved anime series that combines comedy, romance, space opera, and inside jokes aplenty in one classic package.  “Martian Successor Nadesico was initially criticized in Japan for making fun of both anime and fan culture, but its unbridled and ultimately good-natured silliness won over critics – and large audiences on both sides of the Pacific. … In America, only Rocky and Bullwinkle and The Simpsons have dared such outrageous self-parody” (Charles Solomon, Amazon.com).

Synopsis: The Earth, the Moon, and our Martian Colonies are under alien attack and our space fleets are powerless to stop the invasion.  Disgusted by the incompentence of the Terran military, the independent arms manufacturer Nergal builds its own space battle cruiser and launches a new offensive in a desperate attempt to save the Earth.  Unfortunately, due to a shortage of trained military personnel, the crew is a little unorthodox… With a reluctant assistant cook as a pilot, a ditsy General’s daughter in command, and the largest contingent of geeks, misfits and anime fans ever sent into orbit, the poor enemy Jovians won’t stand a chance!  There’s love, war and giant robots galore in the award-winning anime masterpiece Martian Successor Nadesico!

Martian Successor Nadesico Perfect Collection (SRP $49.98 DVD) is a DVD-only release including all 26 episodes, presented in both English and Japanese with English subtitles, plus all the video extras from the original serialized releases, including three commentary tracks, character profiles, and clean opening and ending sequences.

DVD Product Details

Running Time:     650 minutes

Age Rating:          TV 14 (V, D)

CAT:                     DND/BX1

UPC:                     702727186523

Pre-Book Date:   12/4/2007

Street Date:          1/1/2008

Format:                 DVD

SRP:                     $49.98

Product specifications and content configuration subject to change.

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 and ASTRO BOY Director Fred Ladd Talk Early Anime and Live-Action Adaptations Second part of in-depth interview, contests and more in episode 53.

GRIMES, IA, November 9, 2007 - Anime producer and mega-online anime retailer Right Stuf, Inc. is pleased to welcome Mr. Fred Ladd - the pioneering TV producer responsible for the English adaptations of early U.S. anime hits, including Astro Boy, Gigantor and Kimba the White Lion

- to episode 53 of ANIME TODAY for the second installment of a new, in-depth interview.

This time around, Mr. Ladd discusses his favorite projects through the years, his involvement in bringing Sailor Moon and Tobor the 8th Man to North American audiences, his thoughts on Hollywood’s planned, live-action adaptations of classic anime properties and his own current projects.

Also in episode 53 of ANIME TODAY:

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

- Shawne shares details about the “Book It to RightStuf.com” sale on manga and more from TOKYOPOP.

- Rich and Nick announce the winners of The Taste of Tea and Hula Girls contests, announce a new contest celebrating Viz Pictures’ DVD releases of the two Gackt: Greatest Filmography video collections and the film Ping Pong, remind listeners about the ongoing contest for weekend passes to the New York Anime Festival, and unveil a new contest to launch the new MySpace pages for Anime Today and Nozomi Entertainment.

- Marie takes on Yoshiki Nakamura’s comedic shoujo manga Skip Beat.

- Rich and Nick provide a rundown of upcoming conventions, courtesy of AnimeCons.com.

- And finally, ANIME TODAY highlights some of the newest fan reviews from RightStuf.com visitors.

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/).Visit ANIME TODAY on MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/animetoday. 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 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 ANNOUNCES BIGGEST ISSUE EVER OF SHONEN JUMP Expansive December 2007 Issue Features Conclusion of YU-GI-OH! And Full Color Preview of Long Awaited SLAM DUNK SeriesAnd the True Origin of NARUTO! San Francisco, CA, November 2, 2007 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced the most expansive issue to-date of its hit monthly manga anthology SHONEN JUMP™. The December 2007 issue will run a hefty 416 pages and is expected to hit retails shelves nationally on November 6. Among other the notable content, the issue will offer the conclusion of the epic Yu-Gi-Oh! saga, which raised generations of Duelists and has dominated the trading card world. SHONEN JUMP also interviews YU-GI-OH!  creator Kazuki Takahashi and gives a retrospective on the impact and history of the internationally loved manga. However, fans needn’t despair because YU-GI-OH! GX will continue its popular ongoing run in the magazine. Also included will be a sneak preview of Takehiko Inoue’s influential and long-awaited basketball manga series, SLAM DUNK. The critically acclaimed series has sold over 100 million copies in Japan and is a winner of the prestigious Shogakukan Manga Award. Catch all the on- and off-court action of the entire first chapter, which is featured in full color in this issue. For NARUTO fans, SHONEN JUMP offers a manga short story that creator Masashi Kishimoto drew before he dreamed up the hyperactive and unpredictable ninja that  millions of North American fans have come to know and love. They will be interested, and perhaps a bit surprised, to get a fascinating glimpse of a Naruto that might have been.- more - Rounding out the issue is an expanded Games We Love section — lengthened this month into a 10-page blowout covering the magazine’s picks for the best video games of 2007. The issue also includes some extras such as  Nintendo DS cards for the latest NARUTO and BLEACH games that let readers unlock special features. “This is a special issue for SHONEN JUMP as it’s not every day that a long-running series like YU-GI-OH! reaches its conclusion,” says Marc Weidenbaum, the magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, “But that’s exactly what happens in this issue, and creator Kazuki Takahashi closes things off in a very satisfying way that fans will definitely not want to miss. We’ve also got the early NARUTO short story that offers an intriguing look at Masashi Kishimoto’s initial idea for the beloved series, and we publish the first chapter of the highly anticipated basketball series SLAM DUNK, one of the most popular manga of all time, in color!” This impressive issue is estimated to reach over 1.9 million readers as reported by the recently released Spring 2007 Simmons Youth study in which SHONEN JUMP is measured. 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 and 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

VIZ PICTURES LICENSES FOUR LIVE ACTION FILMS BASED ON POPULAR SHOJO BEAT MANGA TITLES

HONEY AND CLOVER, LOVE*COM THE MOVIE, NANA And NANA 2 To Be Released Domestically

San Francisco, CA, November 1, 2007 – VIZ Pictures, an affiliate of VIZ Media LLC that focuses on Japanese live-action film distribution, has licensed the live action versions of four films based on popular shôjo manga titles released under VIZ Media’s SHOJO BEAT imprint. These include HONEY AND CLOVER, LOVE*COM THE MOVIE, NANA and NANA 2.HONEY AND CLOVER will be released theatrically in select cities beginning in December. LOVE*COM THE MOVIE will be released straight to DVD in February 2008 and distributed by VIZ Media. NANA will be released theatrically in early 2008 and NANA 2 will have a theatrical release in the spring of 2008. HONEY AND CLOVER, LOVE*COM THE MOVIE and NANA will have special premiere screenings at the upcoming New York Anime Festival December 7-9, 2007.

HONEY AND CLOVER

Based on the bestselling shôjo manga by Chica Umino, HONEY AND CLOVER is a romantic comedy that focuses on five college students and the art school they attend. When talented painter Hagumi Hanamoto enrolls in the program, her presence and unique approach to art affects the entire school and her new friends. The plot thickens as Hagumi becomes embroiled in a complicated love triangle as she struggles to find her artistic voice. HONEY AND CLOVER showcases the journey that everyone must take to transform from adolescence into adulthood and the long and challenging road these five young people must navigate to balance the demands of school, work, and love. The English version of the HONEY AND CLOVER manga is currently serialized in VIZ Media’s SHOJO BEAT magazine. VIZ Media is set to publish the title as a self-contained manga in March 2008.

LOVE*COM THE MOVIE

Based on the bestselling comic by Aya Nakahara, LOVE*COM THE MOVIE is a high-school romantic comedy centering on two students. Risa Koizumi is the tallest girl in class, and the last thing she wants is the humiliation of standing next to Atsushi Ôtoni, the shortest guy. Fate and the whole school have other ideas, and the two find themselves cast as the unwilling stars of a bizarre romantic comedy duo. But as their friendship develops, so do Risa’s feelings toward Otani. The English version of the manga series is currently available under VIZ Media’s SHOJO BEAT imprint.

NANA, NANA 2

Based on the popular manga by Ai Yazawa, NANA and NANA 2 follow the adventures of two girls both named Nana. While they share the same name, they couldn’t be more different. Nana “Hachi” Komatsu hopes that moving to Tokyo will help her make a clean start and leave her capricious love life behind, while Nana Osaki, who arrives in the city at the same time, is a punk rock beauty who has plans to score big in the world of rock and roll. Although these two young women come from different backgrounds, they quickly become best friends. NANA performed well at the Japanese box office upon its release in 2006, grossing more than 4 billion yen and stayed in the Top 10 for several weeks. The English version of the manga is published under VIZ Media’s SHOJO BEAT imprint.

“We are very pleased to announced the forthcoming North American debuts of these four new films inspired by popular shôjo manga series,” says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “These films demonstrate how unique stories can successfully make the leap from manga to animation to live action while each depiction remains true to the original story, the live action versions of these titles provide a whole new dimension that fans of all stripes will enjoy. We look forward to audiences discovering HONEY AND CLOVER, LOVE*COM, NANA and NANA 2.”

About VIZ Pictures, Inc.

Based in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Pictures, Inc. distributes Japanese live-action films and DVDs, with particular focus on Japanese “kawaii (cute) and cool” pop culture. VIZ Pictures approaches each release from a J-pop fan’s point of view to serve manga and anime generation in North America. VIZ Pictures titles include TRAIN MAN: DENSHA OTOKO, LINDA LINDA LINDA, THE TASTE OF TEA, and PING PONG. The company will continue to offer the hottest visual entertainment straight from the “Kingdom of Pop” for audiences of all ages in North America. VIZ Pictures, Inc. is an affiliate of VIZ Media, LLC, the San Francisco-based leading U.S. publisher of Japanese manga (comics) and merchandise licensor of Japanese animation such as the popular “NARUTO” animated TV series.

© 2006 VIZ Pictures, Inc

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 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.

NARUTO: RISE OF A NINJA™ BRINGS THE ADVENTURE TO NORTH AMERICAN STORES Ubisoft’s Video Game, Based on the Popular U.S. Animation Series Arrives in North American Retailers This Week SAN FRANCISCO — October 30, 2007 — Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced that NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja™, exclusive to the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, has released and will be arriving on North American store shelves this week.  The NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja video game is based on VIZ Media’s hugely popular NARUTO™ animation series which airs on Cartoon Network.  “Not only is NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja the first original NARUTO video game developed for North America, it melds an open-world action-adventure with a cutting-edge fight game,” said Tony Key, vice president of marketing at Ubisoft. “It remains true to the NARUTO universe that will make fans proud, as well as provides a full and action-packed experience to new recruits.” In NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja, players will experience NARUTO starting from the series’ beginning, and will be able to relive the hit animation and manga and experience Naruto’s transformation from noisy ninja-academy failure to respected ninja.     Key features of NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja include:·   Experience Growing Up As Naruto:  The only game that allows you to step into Naruto’s shoes from the series’ beginning. Complete authentic missions and relive the NARUTO manga and animation experience. ·   Immerse Yourself in the NARUTO Universe: Roam freely and discover authentic environments.  Explore the Leaf Village and its surroundings.  Interact with Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi and members from the NARUTO cast.   ·   Unparalleled Depth and Variety of Gameplay:  The first NARUTO game to combine action adventure gameplay, classic platforming battles, head-to-head fighting and in-depth character development.  ·   Build Your Fighting Techniques to Defeat Deadly Enemies in Fast-Paced Combat: Define your own way of the ninja as you learn to better control your chakra, improve your techniques, master new taijutsus and ninjutsus, and command more powerful ninja weapons. Train with Kakashi-Sensei and learn to execute hand signs with your controller’s sticks.   ·   Play With Friends: Select your favorite NARUTO character and challenge a friend.  Customize your character and pick your own battle field. Or challenge the world’s best on the Xbox LIVE® online gaming system. NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja ships with an ESRB rating of “T” (Teen), and a manufacturer suggested retail price of $59.99. For more information on NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja and NARUTO, please visit the game’s official website at: www.NarutoXbox360Game.com and www.naruto.viz.com. Naruto:™ Rise of a Ninja™ software © 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All Rights Reserved. Ubisoft, Ubi.com, and the Ubisoft logo are trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in the U.S. and/or other countries. NARUTO artwork and elements © 2002 MASASHI KISHIMOTO. All Rights Reserved. SHONEN JUMP™, NARUTO™ and RISE OF A NINJA™ are trademarks of Shueisha, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. This product is manufactured, distributed and sold in North, South and Central American territories under license from VIZ Media, LLC. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and the Xbox logos are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies. About Ubisoft: Ubisoft is a leading producer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment products worldwide and has grown considerably through a strong and diversified lineup of products and partnerships. Ubisoft has offices in 21 countries and sales in more than 50 countries around the globe. It is committed to delivering high-quality, cutting-edge video game titles to consumers. Ubisoft generated sales of 680 million Euros for the 2006-07 fiscal year. To learn more, please visit www.ubisoftgroup.com.

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 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 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 at www.VIZ.com.  

MEDIA ALERT VOICES BY OFFICIAL NARUTO™ JAPANESE CAST CONFIRMED FOR NARUTO: RISE OF A NINJA™ DOWNLOADABLE CONTENT  SAN FRANCISCO — October 30, 2007 — Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced that NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja™, based on VIZ Media’s NARUTO™ animation series and exclusive to the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, will have the voices by the official NARUTO Japanese cast available post-launch as free downloadable content on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace. Voices will include: ·         Junko Takeuchi - Uzumaki Naruto ·         Kazuhiko Inoue - Hatake Kakashi ·         Chie Nakamura - Haruno Sakura ·         Noriaki Sugiyama - Uchiha Sasuke·         Kujira - Orochimaru ·         Akira Ishida - Sabaku no Gaara  NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja is scheduled for release on October 30, and will ship with an ESRB rating of “T” (Teen). For more information on NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja, please visit the game’s official website at: www.NarutoXbox360Game.com and www.naruto.viz.com.  Naruto™ Rise of a Ninja software © 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All Rights Reserved. Ubisoft, Ubi.com, and the Ubisoft logo are trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in the U.S. and/or other countries. NARUTO artwork and elements © 2002 MASASHI KISHIMOTO. All Rights Reserved. SHONEN JUMP™, NARUTO™ and RISE OF A NINJA™ are trademarks of Shueisha, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. This product is manufactured, distributed and sold in North, South and Central American territories under license from VIZ Media, LLC. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and the Xbox logos are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Newtype USA celebrates 5th anniversary!

Special collectors’ edition with incredible free extras!!

HOUSTON, October 30, 2007—Newtype USA, the leading anime magazine in North America, celebrates its 5th anniversary with a special collectors’ edition packed with astounding extras! Along with all the content that an anime fan could ever desire, the November issue includes a FREE DVD with FIVE full anime episodes, including Venus Versus Virus, Rozen Maiden Träumend, Hell Girl, Flag and Tokyo Majin. The issue also includes a bonus 2008 calendar featuring artwork from next year’s hottest shows: Code Geass, Devil May Cry, Sergeant Frog, Strait Jacket and more! And the party continues with a very special look back at 60 months of Newtype USA, with illuminating commentary from the staff behind each issue.

November also has the latest scoops on the newest anime both here and in Japan, including a cover story on Gundam 00, the bold new take on the classic franchise. Also inside: features on Death Note, Super Robot Wars and Honey and Clover; the official art of The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya; and a sneak-peek at over a dozen new shows out only in Japan!

Five years in the making, November’s Newtype USA is sure to sell out at newsstands everywhere. Don’t miss this very special issue!

Also inside the November issue:

• 14 features, including Welcome to the N-H-K and Tsubasa – Reservoir Chronicle
• 45 reviews of all the latest anime, manga, video games, music and more
• Pullout poster featuring the cast of The Wallflower
• Exclusive columns from industry insiders
• The latest installment of CLAMP’s manga KOBATO
• Con reports, cosplay photos, fan art and more!

Availability

Newtype USA Vol. 6, Issue 11 is available November 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

RIGHT STUF LAUNCHES THE “NEW” RIGHTSTUF.COM New look for 20th Anniversary, plus expanded sections for anime superstore, Nozomi Entertainment & Anime Today podcast.

GRIMES, IA, October 30, 2007 - Anime producer and distributor Right Stuf, Inc. continues its 20th anniversary celebration with the Web site launch of the “new” RightStuf.com, featuring expanded sections for its online anime superstore, Nozomi Entertainment production division and Anime Today podcast.

In addition to the new “look,” creating an even more positive visitor experience was a driving force for the project, said Right Stuf Chief Technology Officer Richard Harms. “We wanted to better showcase the things that make Right Stuf special. From RSS feeds that allow you to subscribe to news and new product additions in the store, updates from Nozomi Entertainment and podcast episodes to making the answers to those ‘frequently asked questions’ more readily available.”

RightStuf.com - Home

The RightStuf.com homepage gives visitors one-click access to the online superstore, the Nozomi Entertainment site, the Anime Today site and RightStuf.com customer service.

- While clicking on these “tabs” will take visitors to each area’s section, passing one’s cursor over the exclamation point (!) on each tab will reveal a drop-down menu that allows the visitor to view a list of what that specific section contains, as well as instant access to those contents.

- The “What’s Hot” menu includes direct links to weekly specials, pre-orders, new/changed items and contests, plus the ability to search the store from the front page.

- The “Get Informed” area, on the left-hand side of the page, includes quick access to the Got Anime? Savings Club, the Right Stuf mailing list subscription page, company history, affiliate program, anime fan support (anime clubs, conventions and screening permissions), the Right Stuf print catalog and more.

- And the homepage continues to feature the latest news (also now available as an RSS/subscription feed), current best-sellers from the RightStuf.com superstore and what’s new from Nozomi Entertainment.

RightStuf.com Anime Superstore

The store’s new table of contents page serves as map to the more than 22,000 items - from all North American anime and manga industry vendors

- that are available to customers through RightStuf.com.

Nozomi Entertainment

The new Nozomi Entertainment section allows visitors instant access to information specific to Right Stuf’s production division and its releases.

- Its above-the-fold section highlights current and upcoming Nozomi Entertainment properties and includes direct links to press releases, an ongoing production news section (with RSS feed) and a release calendar.

- The “Series Sites” area, just below, includes a link to a page where one can access, subscribe to and download series trailers for all Nozomi and Right Stuf properties, plus it features links to the series sites, as well as a “key” allowing visitors to tell, at a glance, what “extra features” are available on each, individual series site.

- The left-hand column offers links to the official Nozomi Entertainment MySpace page and forum on AnimeOnDVD.com.

- And finally, it includes a visual listing of new and best-selling DVDs and merchandise produced by the Nozomi Entertainment division of Right Stuf.

Anime Today Podcast

The Anime Today section serves as first-stop for Right Stuf, Inc.’s official podcast.

- Visitors can find an episode index, as well as detailed episode summaries and direct downloads for two years of Anime Today podcasts, plus podcast FAQs.

- Listeners can “talk back” to the Anime Today crew via links to the podcast’s MySpace page and the Anime Today forum at AnimeOnDVD.com.

- And those interested in subscribing to the podcast can do so via links to iTunes, as well as Anime Today-specific RSS feeds.

Customer Service

Have a question about Right Stuf, Inc. that isn’t answered anywhere else on the site? Find information on contact and buying procedures, shipping and gift certificates here, as well as forms and a mailbag with notes from Right Stuf customers.

To view the new site, visit http://www.rightstuf.com. ABOUT 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 REDESIGNS AND EXPANDS INTERACTIVE NARUTO WEBSITE Website For Popular Ninja Series Features Comprehensive Episode Guide, New Artwork, Character Details And Online Games San Francisco, CA, October 30, 2007 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has redesigned the look and expanded the content of its popular NARUTO website at http://naruto.viz.com. The site, which went live on October 12, features 109 comprehensive episode summaries, illustrated character bios, new e-cards, new art, and a map of the world of NARUTO. An extras page features downloadable NARUTO wallpapers and an interactive Ninja Academy online game. The VIZ Media NARUTO online store (http://narutostore.viz.com) also offers a vast collection of manga, DVDs, apparel, collectable figurines and other items. News and new episode and product information will be added regularly, along with other web games and online-only content. The story of NARUTO takes place in another world where ninja are the ultimate power. In the Hidden Leaf Village live some of the stealthiest and most respected ninja in the land. But 12 years prior, they faced a fearsome threat - a nine-tailed fox spirit which terrorized the village and caused massive destruction before it was finally defeated. The Fourth Hokage, the village leader and most powerful ninja, was able to subdue the fox by sealing its soul inside the body of a baby boy. Now that boy, Naruto Uzumaki, has grown up to become a ninja-in-training, learning ninjutsu with his classmates Sakura and Sasuke. The trio of student ninja study under the instruction of their teacher, Kakashi. The group faces a series of dangerous and daunting tests and challenges, but through their adventures, the young ninja learn the importance of friendship, teamwork, loyalty, hard work, creativity, ingenuity, and right vs. wrong. “The newly expanded and upgraded NARUTO website will give fans a one-stop location to get all the official news and information about everyone’s favorite band of ninja,” says Liza Coppola, Senior Vice President, Marketing, VIZ Media. “As NARUTO continues to capture the attention and imagination of millions of fans, the new redesigned website is an ideal way to obtain updated information, check out summaries of missed or much-loved episodes and even shop for special NARUTO items. We invite everyone to check it out and revel in the exciting world of NARUTO!” 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 and 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

Right Stuf’s ANIME TODAY Interviews

Anime Industry Veteran Fred Ladd

In-depth interview with Astro Boy director and more in episode 52.

GRIMES, IA, October 26, 2007 - Anime producer and mega-online anime retailer Right Stuf, Inc. kicks off its third year of podcasting by welcoming Mr. Fred Ladd - the pioneering TV producer responsible for the English adaptations of early U.S. anime hits, including Astro Boy, Gigantor and Kimba the White Lion - to episode 52 of ANIME TODAY.

In the first half of this new, in-depth interview, Mr. Ladd discusses his start in the radio and television industry, how Japanese animation was discovered by the West, the challenges of bringing Astro Boy to U.S.

audiences and how the success of Astro Boy influenced the animation that followed it on both sides of the Pacific.

Also in episode 52 of ANIME TODAY:

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

- Shawne shares details about the “Spooky and Spectacular Savings” to be found on DVDs from FUNimation and AN Entertainment.

- Morgan Kollin, chairperson of Detroit, Michigan’s YoumaCon, previews the games, guests and events planned for the convention’s third year, during the weekend of November 1-4, 2007.

- Marie reviews the manic anime comedy of School Rumble.

- Rich and Nick remind listeners about the ongoing contest celebrating Viz Pictures’ live-action releases of The Taste of Tea and Hula Girls and unveil a new contest in conjunction with the New York Anime Festival for weekend passes to the event.

- And finally, ANIME TODAY highlights some of the newest fan reviews from RightStuf.com visitors.

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 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

ADV ANNOUNCES DECEMBER 18 TITLES

Includes Launch of The Wallflower

HOUSTON, October 21, 2007—ADV Films, the number one producer-distributor of anime outside of Japan, is pleased to bring you four great titles, including volume three of Innocent Venus, the sixth and final volume of Le Chevalier D’Eon, and the fat new Sorcerer Hunters Perfect Collection – plus the first volume in the highly-anticipated new series The Wallflower.  All these great new titles will be available on store shelves December 18, just in time for last-minute holiday shopping!

THE WALLFLOWER

LESSON 1: MY FAIR BISHONEN

The Hit Manga Gets Mugged By the Director of Excel Saga