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Animavericks' editor reminds us anime is bigger than Ben Hur
by Australian Ninja
Recently I took the time to do a Q&A with Handy, the editor of Animavericks, an independent Australian magazine that covers Anime, Manga and J-pop. His answers proved insightful and revealing on topics from the production of the magazine to cultural misconceptions about anime.
Q1. Handy, tell us a bit about yourself, what your role is and how you first got involved in the production of Animavericks magazine?
I am basically the founder of Animavericks Magazine together with some other internal team members of Animavericks. We put forth the idea of making an Australian based commercial anime magazine two years ago, when we were still at Monash University. Ever since then there wasn't (and still isn't) any professional and official anime magazine being produced in a large scale l... Read On | | | | Tales from Earthsea. Anime DVD Review
Stay tuned for more.... Tales of Interest!
by Australian Ninja
Tales from Earthsea is another fine anime feature film from Studio Ghibli. [link to two part article] Past films such as Grave of the Fireflies and Only Yesterday [link]have been directed by Isao Takahata and films such as Spirited Away and Nausicaa haven been directed by Hayao Miyazaki. However this film was directed by Miyazaki's son Goro Miyazaki (formerly the curator of the Studio Ghibli museum).
Where previous Ghibli films were compelling journeys of excitement and discovery, comparable to works of great literary fiction, Tales from Earthsea is merely entertaining. Moving at a leisurely pace, it proves overall not to be as immersing as other features, which is understandable and still impressive considering it was the work of a first time director.
Borrowing a little synopsis action from the back cover:
In search of the cause of an enroaching catastrophe, the Archmage Sparrowhawk meets Arren, exiled Prince of Enland, in flight from a nameless Shadow. Comi... Read On | | Armageddon Expo '07 Report
The end has come and gone
by Borgieman
Fun was definitely had at this 2-day event. Unfortunately I only attended one of the two days at Armageddon Expo '07. But either way, it was still mind-blowing. It was an event for every kind of nerd to enjoy. Whether it's gaming, sci-fi, animation or even wrestling that you're into, this type of expo was made with you in mind.
Typically the day would begin by me standing in a line for a period of time. It gave me a moment to see what was in the free goodie bag they had handed out. Inside contained a free issue of the comic Azerath, a booster pack of the Naruto TCG, a promo card from the upcoming PS3 game The Eye of Judgment (will be explained shortly), various coupons from Civic Video and Madman and finally the thing most people probably don't care much for, the fliers. Afterwards the long wait, I was finally entered Armageddon Expo 2007. Seeing as how I had sometime until something of interest came up, I explored around for things that would spark my interest.... Read On | |  | | Le Chevalier D'Eon V1. Anime DVD Review
Cross dresser or victim of ghostly possession?
by Jason
Le Chevalier D'Eon makes for something different after so many anime series about samurai's, robots, vampires and high school girls. For a completely different change of pace we have a series set in pre revolutionary France. Based on a novel of the same name and also based on an actual historical figure the series combines history and intrigue with that essential WTF! feeling we seem to need in our anime these days.
The more observant among you will have worked out that the series is about a guy named D'Eon. Now D'Eon de Beaumont for all intents and purposes appears to be a fine upstanding regular young man, recently knighted and a member of the court of Versailles. Now all of that is well and good but D'Eon is also a member of the secret police who answer to the king and are investigating a series of disa... Read On | | Manifest '07 Report
Borgieman Strikes Back!
by Borgieman
Ninja's note: Once again, it's time for another Buttonhole report on the Melbourne Anime Festival, otherwise known as Manifest 2007. If you missed Ichibod's feature on a previous Manifest, check it out here. This Manifest coverage comes to you courtesy of forum regular and newest Buttonhole contributor Borgieman, a cool guy who knows his Anime and has been known to play a video game or two. So read on true believers!
A Day at Manifest 2007
... Read On | | | | Only Yesterday. Anime Review
Yesteday, Aussie Ninja's troubles seemed so far away
by Australian Ninja
The problem with having favourite films is that every time I watch another Studio Ghibli film it becomes my new favourite. It kind of renders the word 'favourite' meaningless when every Studio Ghibli film takes my breath away.
Still, I can't complain about being thoroughly entertained by this whimsical and insightful film, "Only Yesterday". This gem was directed by Isao Takahata, well known for his anime film Grave of the Fireflies.
Although Only Yesterday is a light hearted film that ambles along at a leisurely pace, it still manages to explore themes such as love, work, family relationship struggles, following your dreams and country versus city living.
In the film, the main character Taeko decides to take a working vacation in the country, getting away from her office bound job and unexpectedly starts t... Read On | | Sense Shattering Comic Book Contest
Graphic fiction just like momma used to make
by Australian Ninja
For those of you who think you have the mad skills good enough to pencil or write a comic book, here's you're chance to prove it.
The Armageddon Expo and Top Cow Comics have some sweet competitions, so read on to find out what it's all about.
You can download applications for the comp right here dear reader.
GET PAID TO GET YOUR COMIC PUBLISHED!
'Top Cow' Comics and Armageddon Expo are pleased to announce a unique talent search for the best graphic novel and comic artists in Australia!
There are two awesome competitions to win….
Draw a 'Top Cow' comic - Two contest winners will be paid a page rate of $50 per page (US Dollars) each to illustrate, a 22 page minimum comic, to be pr... Read On | | | | Armageddon Expo 2007
Aussie Ninja just can't wait for the end times
by Australian Ninja
As if Melbourne doesn't already have enough entertainment to bleed your wallet dry, now we have the Armageddon popular culture expo on its way. The events and guests happening at this years two day show in Melbourne are something for geeks of all ages and backgrounds to get excited about.
I know I'm excited about going and it's looking likely that Anime fiend Ichibod and forum regular Borgieman will be attending. Editor in chief and heavyweight champion of the Buttonhole world Hillelman may even make a guest appearance.
Heck, Captain Buttonhole himself is rumoured to appear (but you won't see him on any guest list!)
But no matter how excited you get about the upcoming geekfest don't go biting the head off of a chicken, but do read on for the full details (courtesy of the people from Armageddon) and be sure to... Read On | | ACMI Day Tripper
Aussie Ninja's got a ticket to ride
by Australian Ninja
Welcome Buttonhole readers to another feature that is so choc-full of goodness that I've divided it into several sections. The top half is about the Indy video games showcased at ACMI. The bottom half is about the Pixar exhibit. It's ridiculously long and all terribly interesting to read, so you may as well read it in two halves, or just the parts that interest you.
After reading about the ACMI exhibits on their website and getting more than a little excited, I decided to make the perilous trek to inner Melbourne. With time on my side and money stuffed in my pocket I ventured forth to the train station. Once on board I passed the time by staring out the window, reading a volume of Dark Horse's Concrete and snacking on tasty fruit. Arriving at Flinders St, I wandered around until inevitably finding my way out of the rat-maze like station.... Read On | | | | Fate Stay Night V1. Anime DVD Review
Jason's fate is to make sense of it all
by Jason
Fate Stay Night. Three simple words that in no way resemble a complete sentence or even part of one for that matter. Anyway we're not here to discuss the finer points of the English language; we're here to review another Anime so here we go.
I have noticed a theme in some Animes lately. Nobody knows just what in the name of Sweet Zombie Jesus is going on - this applies to both the viewer and the characters. They just get dropped straight in the middle of everything, strategy in full swing. Although it does have the desired effect of drawing you into the show, making you watch it on off chance someone will explain everything. Well enough of the theorizing and on with the review.
Our story follows the adventures of Shiro Emiya, a relatively normal young man if you discount the fact that Shiro has a bit of a knack with electrical ... Read On | | Eminence - Destiny Reunion
Music to soothe your rageaholic tendencies
by Australian Ninja
Another performance by the Eminence orchestra is on its way. Concerts will be held in both Sydney and Melbourne. The tickets to see this popular orchestra won't last long so do the smart thing and snatch them up while you can.
For those who don't already know, Eminence is an orchestra that is well known for playing music from popular video-games, Anime and whatever else they feel like playing.
"Classical music must not be left to languish in dusty corners or to be appreciated only by an older demographic. It needs to find a new face and be aggressively showcased into expanded genres and permutations in order to capture a larger audience. This said we do not want to limit our audience to young people, only to encourage them to join in as well as to expand the audience."
Previous concerts have included musical pieces from games such as Super Mario Brothers, Metal... Read On | | | | Speed Grapher V1. Anime Review
Go Speed Grapher Go!
by Jason
Well, "I don't like it" was my initial feeling when viewing this Anime for the first time. Subsequent viewings haven't changed my views a great deal. Nothing really stands out as being absolute shit but it seems that this series tries too hard. It's almost like they were more interested in creating something 'edgy' and confronting but sadly forgot to include an even remotely palatable story.
The hero of this particular piece is a bloke called Tatsumi Saiga. Tatsumi is a photographer and a veteran war journalist for whom taking photos has become somewhat of a fetish. Although he seems to have become jaded - nothing is worth wasting his film on - that is, at least until he stumbles across an exclusive club for the mega rich ... Read On | | Spotlight on Studio Ghibli - Part 2
All of da news, dats good for youse
by Australian Ninja
Welcome back dear readers, the story of Studio Ghibli continues here in part two of Buttonhole's "Spotlight on Studio Ghibli." If you missed part one, read it here now.
Last time I talked about the formation of the animation studio, and in this part we'll take a brief look at the some other highlights before delving into in-depth reviews of the films in future articles. So read on Anime lovers.
Studio Ghibli has a rich and creative history. But none of it would have been possible without two very talented men. Directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata are well known as ... Read On | | | | Classic Comic-book Review. Kraven's Last Hunt
Ninja does whatever a Ninja can
by Australian Ninja
"Here lies Spider-Man - Slain by the Hunter"
So reads the grave of one of histories greatest superheros.
"But he's not dead, is he? What happened to everyone's favourite web-slinger? Spidey seems to be alive and well now, what with his three movie deal and a string of monthly Marvel comic-book titles to his name, so why was he buried six feet under?
The year is 1987. The company is Marvel. The character is Sergei Kravinov also known as 'Kraven the Hunter.'
Back in the 60's Stan and Steve (Lee and Ditko, respectively) churned out a heap of cool villains for the title "Amazing Spider-Man."
Doctor Octopus, The Cham... Read On | | Full Metal Panic - The Second Raid V01. Anime DVD Review
Ichibod presses your Panic Button
by ichibod
Full Metal Panic (FMP) is a series with everything. Guns, Girls (in those oh so short school uniforms), Psycho lesbian sisters, and Giant robot suits with big guns.
Hell, I'm in heaven. Why call it Panic? It's more like a joyous sexual experience sent from up high. Sent from Madman to our glorious Buttonhole leader who bestowed the great honour of Full Metal Panic upon me.
Ok I admit before I saw Full Metal Panic - The Second Raid I was very much a Panic virgin. This series has had a lot of hype surrounding it and as such (me being me) I have avoided it all costs! I always seem to equate excessive hype for a product
Excessive hype for a product can put our expectations too high, and often that product doesn't live up to ... Read On | | | | New Cutey Honey Collection. Anime DVD Review
Underneath the mask Jason is even cuter
by Jason
One thing I should probably make very clear right from the start of this review; if you are the type of person that is easily offended by great big gravity defying cartoon boobies and copious female nudity then I have a small suggestion;
WALK AWAY NOW, DO NOT READ ANY MORE OF THIS REVIEW AND MOST DEFINITELY DO NOT WATCH THE ANIME!
Having said that if there's anyone left (I know you're still there) then take a walk with me into the world of Cosplay city.
Cutey Honey or (to give it its full title) Go Nagai's New Cutey Honey Collection is most likely the first experience that us Westerners have had with the character that is Honey Kisaragi. Unless of course you happened to be in Ja... Read On | | Cyber City Oedo 808. Anime DVD Review
Criminals, Punks and Metrosexuals - Oh My!
by Jason
Ahh yes the cyberpunk genre, not one of my favorites but still worth a look. Back in the far reaches of time (i.e. the late 90's) this title was available on VHS Video. Probably relegated to a dark forgotten corner of your video shop (somewhere close to the porn section) along with the highly influential Akira and Ninja scroll among others. Now some years later we have it available on DVD but is it worth looking at? Well read on and find out.
In Cyber City Oedo 808 we have three hardened and extremely dangerous criminals serving ridiculously long sentences in the pokey (300 years plus). The cops give them a choice; either spend the rest of their lives slowly rotting ... Read On | | | | Ergo Proxy V1. Anime DVD Review
And now for something completely different...
by Australian Ninja
Women dressed all in black - who know how to handle guns - are so sexy.
Not that I've met any, but I'm sure they are out there in society, having secret monthly meetings in bingo halls and gun clubs with their delicious cheese sandwiches luncheons.
But when these dangerous gun-toting female vigilantes get busted, I for one will be there to stand up. Because hey - free sandwiches.
Ergo Proxy is another fine Anime that left me perplexed and bewildered as to what doings were a transpiring. "Why did they kill that guy, wasn't he with them? He wasn't with them? Then it's a good thing they killed him."
So I watched Ergo Proxy Volume One / V1a second time. The first time I didn't get it. But then I did kind of fall asleep while watching it [from extra tiredness, not boredom] the first time around.
Fortunately the second viewing in my urban... Read On | | Karas. Anime Movie DVD Review
And now for something completely the same...
by Australian Ninja
I sure do seem to be watching a lot of Anime lately. The sheer number of titles being released these days is just phenomenal. Most of them are pretty darn good too. Joining the masses of 'pretty good' Anime movies is Karas.
This film is full of your typical demon super battles, with humans caught up in the middle. Although this genre of Anime has been done to death, Karas is a fresh take on it and entertains from start to finish. The most notable thing about the film is the visually spectacular animation and lovingly rendered backgrounds and characters. The work put into the visual design for the characters and the ci... Read On | | | | She: The Ultimate Weapon. Anime DVD Review
Wha, er, ah, huh, Why am I on a Japanese Box?
by ichibod
Welcome back everyone to Uncle Ichibod's world of Anime.
Today's taste from our friends at Madman is [i] She: the Ultimate Weapon - Another Love Song.
Now I Know this is kind of lazy (actually it's very lazy but I just ate lunch and you know you are supposed to wait 30 mins before operating a keyboard) but I think the best way to give you a quick overview of STUW is to just regurgitate the blurb on the DVD jacket....
"Chise is a cute and delicate teenage girl who was transformed into the Ultimate Weapon, eve... Read On | | |
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 Toons Quote of the Month
"And so we say goodbye to our beloved pet Nibbler who has gone to a place I too
hope one day to go. The toilet."
Professor Farnsworth
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