In an unique but cute fusion of beloved franchises, the iconic Japanese trading card game franchise Yu-Gi-Oh! has teamed up with Sanrio, the lifestyle brand famous for Hello Kitty, to launch a special Happy Meal promotion with McDonald’s. This collaboration will feature collectible toys and themed packaging, cutely blending characters from both universes.
Each Happy Meal toy will feature a cute mash-up design, with Sanrio characters donning the costumes of famous Yu-Gi-Oh! monsters. The exclusive collectibles include:
Hello Kitty x Dark Magician
Cinnamoroll x Blue-Eyes White Dragon
Badtz-maru x Red-Eyes Black Dragon
Pompompurin x Exodia the Forbidden One
My Melody x Dark Magician Girl
Keroppi x Kuriboh
Pochacco x Time Wizard
Kuromi x Slifer the Sky Dragon
Tuxedosam x Obelisk the Tormentor
Chococat x The Winged Dragon of Ra
“Yu-Gi-Oh! and Hello Kitty and Friends are each global cultural phenomena with fans spanning every corner of the globe across generations,”
– Jennifer Coleman, Vice President of Licensing and Marketing at Konami Cross Media NY.
Jill Koch, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Brand Management at Sanrio adds,
“We hope to surprise and delight our fans around the world with these limited-edition collectibles,”
The cute collaboration kicks off this spring in Europe, starting with Belgium, Hungary, Netherlands, Spain, and Greece, and will be available in 55 countries worldwide. It will expand to Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Mexico, the Caribbean, and several Asian markets. The nearly year-long promotion will make its way to the United States, including Puerto Rico, this summer.
Stay tuned for more updates on this collaboration and be sure to collect all the exclusive toys from McDonald’s Happy Meals this summer!
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After months of anticipation, Spy x Family CODE: White debuts in theaters worldwide! Preceding its release, Crunchyroll hosted a red-carpet event to commemorate the English dub premiere of the series’ first film. On April 11, fans and celebrities gathered at the DGA Theater in Los Angeles to witness the beloved Forger family on the big screen, joined by voice talent: Alex Organ (Loid), Megan Shipman (Anya), Natalie Van Sistine (Yor), Tyler Walker (Bond), Anthony Bowling (Franky), Tyson Rinehart (Luca), Phil Parson (Domitri), and Lindsay Seidel (Nightfall), with additional attendance by actors Dara Reneé, Emery Kelly, Max Ehrich and Zeno Robinson; rapper 24kGoldn; musician Kim Dracula; model, singer, actor and producer Skye Aurelia; and content creators Billy Yue, Jacki Jing, Nicewigg, Neekolul, Izzy Kento, Magdaline Janet and Stella Chu.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 11: (L-R) Tyson Rinehart, Anthony Bowling, Tyler Walker, Phil Parsons, Megan Shipman, Alex Organ, Natalie Van Sistine, Cris George, and Lindsay Seidel attend World Premiere Of The English Dub Version Of “SPY x FAMILY CODE: White” at DGA Theater Complex on April 11, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Crunchyroll)
We had the thrilling opportunity to attend and view the film firsthand, and we are eager to share the excitement surrounding it!
Spy x Family CODE: White
When Loid faces a critical directive: his role in Operation Strix is slated for replacement and with it entire Forger family. Determined to maintain his position, he embarks on a mission to assist Anya in winning a cooking competition at her school to win a Stella Star and earn him one step closer to his objective; Donovan Desmond. Under the guise of a family vacation, the Forgers embark on a journey to seek the principal’s favorite dessert. However, their seemingly harmless quest sets off a series of events that threatens to disrupt the delicate balance of peace and ignite a full-blown conflict between the two nations.
The Forgers In Action On The Big Screen
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 11: A general view of atmosphere at World Premiere Of The English Dub Version Of “SPY x FAMILY CODE: White” at DGA Theater Complex on April 11, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Crunchyroll)
Spy x Family is a series I enjoy a lot with its unique concept, storytelling, and loveable characters. Watching the film on the big screen in theaters felt different. The animation is what I would expect from the likes of Wit Studio and Cloverworks; clean and detailed. Its production showcases the high-quality animation that WitStudios and Cloverworks are known for. Fans can look forward to the film knowing it got the seal of approval by having Tatsuya Endo serve as the production supervisor, ensuring the film stayed true to the Spy x Family series.
The action scenes for Loid and especially for Yor’s fighting scenes, were animated with high attention to detail, allowing the audience to enjoy the thrill of the fight. In contrast, there were a lots of heartwarming moments between the Forgers as they enjoyed their little family “vacation”.
While the series balanced action, comedy, and heartfelt moments, the movie felt like it leaned towards the comedic aspect of the Spy x Family series. There wasn’t a time within the movie when the audience was not bursting with laughter. The family’s secrecy about each other’s identity and intentions often led to hilarious misunderstandings between Loid and Yorn. We also can’t forget about the mischievous Anya, who basically launched the film’s storyline through her innocent but troublesome methods.
Family Stays Together
I’ve always been excited to see how the Forgers grow not just as individuals but also as a family with every season. It’s one of the things I enjoy watching in Spy x Family. The movie also focuses on that theme and emphasizes it a lot throughout. It was quite prominent compared to what I saw during the series. Each character played a certain role that led to them being one step closer to learning what a family is.
Loid, who never had a family and created the Forgers specifically for the mission, is still learning what family is and what it means to be one. We could see Loid express his confusion about the meaning of family and why he desires to protect the family even though it’s fake. Yor, who has her little brother, Yuri, became sort of like a guide for Loid, guiding him on what a family means based on her experience. Anya, who wanted a family of her own, kept the family together in her Anya-like way and was the reason that Loid was acting more like a father of the family and learning what it means to be one.
First Time Watching In English Dub
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 11: (L-R) Megan Shipman (Anya), Natalie Van Sistine (Yor) and Alex Organ (Loid) | (Photo by Krystal Kitsune/TKN)
This was my first time watching Spy x Family in English, and it was an interesting experience. I am more of a Japanese dub fan and watch most of my anime series in English sub, including Spy x Family. Listening to the English dub cast was different from watching the English sub, perhaps because I can understand the Japanese version and am already used to their voice actors.
Although there were a couple of times when I cringed at some of the lines they said in the English dub, the English voice cast did a fantastic job voicing their characters, very fitting. Being able to understand them even made the whole movie much funnier than I anticipated.
Conclusion
Packed with action, thrills, and comedy, Spy x Family CODE: White is what you would expect to see in a Spy x Family movie. I love seeing how the Forgers grow as a family as they navigate their way on what it means to be one. The movie might have even given us a glimpse or even an idea that we might see in the series in the future. We won’t know this for sure since the series only has two seasons so far. If you’re a manga reader, then you might have already gotten some foresight into how the Forgers act as a family. As for those of us who only watch anime, it will be a while before you get to see some family development in possible future seasons. Until then, the movie is great for anyone who wants to see more of the Forgers and scratch that itch until a new season is announced.
Spy x Family CODE: White is now in theaters, get your tickets now!Can’t get enough? Check out our YouTube Channel, and watch my interviews with the English dub cast of Spy x Family at the red-carpet premiere!
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Crunchyroll rolled out the red carpet for the much-anticipated English dubbed premiere of SPY x FAMILY CODE: White on April 11, 2024, at the prestigious DGA Theatre Complex in Los Angeles.
(L-R) Tyson Rinehart, Anthony Bowling, Tyler Walker, Phil Parsons, Megan Shipman, Alex Organ, Natalie Van Sistine, Cris George, and Lindsay Seidel attend World Premiere Of The English Dub Version Of “SPY x FAMILY CODE: White” at DGA Theater Complex on April 11, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Crunchyroll)
The English dub voice talents such as Alex Organ (Loid), Megan Shipman (Anya), Natalie Van Sistine (Yor), Tyler Walker (Bond), Anthony Bowling (Franky), Tyson Rinehart (Luca), Phil Parson (Domitri), and Lindsay Seidel (Nightfall), were in attendance.
(L-R) Tyler Walker, Alex Organ, Natalie Van Sistine, and Megan Shipman attend World Premiere Of The English Dub Version Of “SPY x FAMILY CODE: White” at DGA Theater Complex on April 11, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Crunchyroll)
SPY x FAMILY CODE: White marks the debut film installment of the beloved television series, presenting an original storyline that revolves around secret agent <Twilight>, his lethal assassin wife Yor, and their telepathic adopted daughter Anya as they embark on a fresh new mission. Inspired by the critically acclaimed manga by Tatsuya Endo, which has earned nominations for Harvey and Eisner Awards, the television series SPY x FAMILY premiered on April 9, 2022, captivating audiences worldwide. The series’ first two seasons are currently available to stream on Crunchyroll.
RED CARPET INTERVIEWS
SPY x FAMILY, the anime series, is brought to life by TOHO Animation and adapted from the highly acclaimed manga of the same name, penned and illustrated by Tatsuya Endo. Originally serialized in Shueisha’s Shonen Jump Plus, the manga currently has over 31 million copies in circulation and has garnered nominations for prestigious awards such as the Harvey and Eisner Awards. Notably, SPY x FAMILY has secured a place on the New York Times Graphic Books and Manga bestseller list, with all ten volumes consistently ranking in the Circana Bookscan Top 20 Adult Graphic Novels.
The animation production is a collaborative effort between two renowned anime studios: WIT STUDIO, known for their work on titles like Attack on Titan and VINLAND SAGA, and CloverWorks, recognized for projects such as The Elusive Samurai and Black Butler: Public School Arc.
Watch SPY x FAMILY CODE: White in theaters on April 19th, and start streaming Spy X Family on Crunchyroll.
Film Synopsis
He’s a spy. She’s an assassin. Together, Loid and Yor keep their double lives to themselves while pretending to be the perfect family. However, their adopted daughter, Anya, a telepath, knows both of their exciting secrets unbeknownst to them. Under the guise of taking his family on a weekend winter getaway, Loid’s attempt to make progress on his current mission, Operation Strix, proves difficult when Anya mistakenly gets involved and triggers events that threaten world peace!
For years, fans have incorporated McDonald ‘s-inspired “WcDonald’s” eateries into iconic movies and shows. Now, in partnership with some of the biggest names in anime, WcDonald’s is transitioning from fiction to reality. Starting February 26th in over 30 international markets, McDonald’s is bringing the creative otaku vision to life, expanding the WcDonald’s universe into the restaurants and beyond. Here’s what you need to know!
“Anime is a huge part of today’s culture, and we love that our fans have been inviting us into the conversation for years,” said Tariq Hassan, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer at McDonald’s USA. “The WcDonald’s universe is a reflection of what fans have created. It honors their vision and celebrates their creativity, while authentically bringing it to life in our restaurants for the first time ever.”
Tariq Hassan, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer at McDonald’s USA
A Sauce That Packs a Punch
Experience a culinary adventure with WcDonald’s limited-time, Savory Chili WcDonald’s Sauce. Bursting with a fusion of ginger, garlic, soy, and a touch of chili flakes, this sauce will ignites your taste buds with its vibrant flavor. Mirroring the bold, dynamic spirit of your favorite anime protagonists, the sauce pairs perfectly with an order of 10-piece “WcNuggets” (Chicken McNuggets) or on the side of any of your go-to menu items.
Manga Packaging & More from Acky Bright
McDonald’s has team up with iconic Japanese manga artist/illustrator Acky Bright to design custom WcDonald’s packaging that takes you deeper into the world of WcDonald’s with every meal. For a limited time, fans receive manga-inspired packaging featuring WcDonald’s Crew characters, sketched by Acky himself.
“I had a great time partnering with McDonald’s to help make WcDonald’s a reality for manga fans who have a genuine love for the brand,” said Acky Bright. “From the details of the diverse Crew characters to the manga plot itself, I loved being able to use my artwork to bring to life the dynamic, vibrant world of WcDonald’s for people around the world.”
Acky Bright via press release
Fans also have the opportunity to scan the QR code on the packaging, granting access to weekly digital manga releases featuring a diverse cast of WcDonald’s Customers and Crew.
Meet Hashirune, a loyal WcDonald’s patron, Mr. Bev, the Crew’s resident joker, WcDizer 3000, WcDonald’s own mecha, and an array of other intriguing characters.
The First-Ever Official WcDonald’s Anime
YES. you read that right! Partnering with the renowned animation studio Pierrot, McDonald’s presents WcDonald’s the anime series. Consisting of four captivating episodic shorts, the series invites anime fans into the long awaited world of WcDonald’s, where each week unfolds a tale centered around the iconic WcDonald’s Sauce and WcNuggets.
Here’s how to watch, beginning February 26th until March 18th, a brand new short will premiere every Monday, synchronized with new manga releases on WcDonalds.com or by scanning the QR code on the WcDonald’s bag. These shorts pay homage to four major anime subgenres: Action, Romance, Mecha, and Fantasy. Episode titles and description are as follow,
The Race to WcDonald’s (drops Feb. 26): A rivalry strong enough to withstand the test of time as our two heroes embark on an epic race to WcDonald’s.
Love from Across the Booth (drops March 4): Our two protagonists discover the WcDonald’s Sauce and WcNuggets aren’t the only perfect pairing.
WcNuggets Space Frontier 3000 (drops March 11): A team of WcDonald’s pilots must protect the last WcNugget against an ominous force.
The Wisdom of the Sauce (drops March 18): Three women are transported to a distant land to unravel the mystery surrounding the elusive sauce before it’s gone forever.
Visit WcDonald’s In Person | An Immersive Dining Experience
Otaku can finally live out a long awaited dream, visiting a WcDonalds! Join the fun on March 9-10 for the first-ever WcDonald’s Immersive Dining Experience in Los Angeles, CA! This unique event, inspired by isekai anime, blends entertainment and food into an unforgettable adventure. Guests will be transported into the WcDonald’s universe through 360 projection mapping and immersive tabletop projections inspired by the four WcDonald’s anime episodic shorts – all while enjoying a set menu of WcDonald’s items. Fans can reserve their spot exclusively on OpenTable starting Feb. 28 by searching “WcDonald’s Immersive Dining Experience” on the OpenTable app or website.
A Celebration of Anime Fan Art
WcDonald’s recognizes the vital role anime fan play in shaping its identity. As a gesture of appreciation, the company is honoring three up-and-coming anime artists who’ve created WcDonald’s-themed artwork. Each artist will receive grants to fuel their future projects and will be celebrated at their local McDonald’s. Furthermore, they’ll have the chance to receive personal mentoring from the renowned manga artist/illustrator, Acky Bright.
Mark Your Calendars
On Feb. 26, get ready for an anime-fueled adventure that starts with, “Welcome to WcDonald’s, may I take your order?“
From savoring the delectable Savory Chili WcDonald’s Sauce to exploring manga-inspired packaging and exclusive episodic shorts, every aspect of this adventure promises excitement. Moreover, with collaborations between McDonald’s and esteemed anime creators, the boundary between fiction and reality blurs, bringing beloved characters and stories to life. So mark your calendars and prepare to embark on a thrilling escapade into the vibrant world of WcDonald’s, your ticket to a real life Isekai.
Screenshot from Elf Otaku (2024)
WcDonald’s in Anime
Here are some example of WcDonald’s in anime. Know of more? Send it to us at Contact@thekitsunetwork.net.
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Get ready to unleash your inner demon slayer as the long-awaited anime film Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – To the Hashira Training –, finally hits the big screen today! For all die-hard Demon Slayer enthusiasts, this is an event you simply cannot miss!
Directed by Haruo Sotozaki and brought to life by the renowned Japanese animation studio Ufotable, “To the Hashira Training” isn’t your typical movie. Instead, it combines two episodes from the beloved anime series into a feature-length presentation, staying true to the original story while giving it a cinematic boost.
Following in the footsteps of last year’s successful “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba — To the Swordsmith Village,” which bridged seasons two and three, “To the Hashira Training” continues the trend by blending the epic finale of season three with the highly anticipated premiere of season four.
With a runtime of 103 minutes, the film offers a tantalizing sneak peek into what’s in store for the fourth season. While combining two episodes into a cinematic format has its perks, it also presents some challenges. The most noticeable one comes during the transition from the intense, action-packed season three finale to the start of the new season, which might feel choppy and disconnected.
After the thrilling conclusion of the Swordsmith Village arc, where Tanjiro (Natsuki Hanae/Zach Aguilar) emerges victorious against the formidable Upper Four demon Hantengu (Toshio Furukawa/Christopher Corey Smith), the pace slows down as the storyline transitions into the early episode of season four. While this shift is typical for the beginning of a new season, some viewers might crave a smoother transition.
Nevertheless, “To the Hashira Training” still delivers the signature blend of vivid, stunning visuals and compelling storytelling that fans have come to expect from the Demon Slayer franchise. Even though Tanjiro spends much of the time recovering in bed during the introduction to season four, the anticipation surrounding the teased Hashira training and Kibutsuji Muzan (Toshihiko Seki/Greg Chun)’s sights on Nezuko (Akari Kito/Abby Trott) keeps the excitement levels soaring for what’s to come in the upcoming episodes.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba -To the Hashira Training- will feature “A Connected Bond: Daybreak and First Light” (Episode 11) from the Swordsmith Village Arc, featuring the conclusion of the fierce battle between Tanjiro and Upper Four demon Hantengu, as well as Nezuko’s triumph over the sun. Followed by Episode 1 of the highly anticipated Hashira Training Arc, featuring the start of training conducted by the Hashira in preparation for the forthcoming final battle against Muzan Kibutsuji, an episode never before seen by audiences.
Hazbin Hotel, the eagerly awaited series by Vivienne Medrano (VivziePop), has finally arrived, bringing joy to long-time fans. Collaborating with colleagues from the School of Visual Arts in NYC, Vivienne dedicated almost two years (2017-2019) to bringing the Hazbin Hotel Pilot Episode to life. Prior to the Hazbin Hotel Pilot Episode, Vivienne gained recognition through the animated music video “Die Young – Fan Animated Music Video,” featuring Ke$ha’s song. This newfound recognition helped Vivienne with her early career and later assisted in the success of Hazbin Hotel.
Screenshot of Die Young – Fan Animated Music Video
Released on October 13, 2019, the pilot episode received acclaim for its originality in story and artistic direction, quickly going viral. This success led to the spin-off series “Helluva Boss,” premiering on November 25, 2019.
In 2020, film production companies A24, SpindleHorse Toons, and Bento Box Entertainment took over the production of Hazbin Hotel. However, some changes occurred, including a new cast and redesigned main characters. The series was initially set for a summer 2023 release but faced a delay due to the 2023 strike. A new release date was announced in late September 2023, revealing an Amazon Prime Video premiere, and it was revealed that the now 4-year-old pilot episode would be canon to the series.
The highly anticipated series had its Los Angeles premiere in Culver City on Wednesday, January 17th. Cast members, including Vivienne Medrano, Stephanie Beatriz, Erika Henningsen, and Amir Talai, attended the event, marking a significant moment for the Hazbin Hotel fandom. A Q&A, moderated by Joseph Deckelmeier, was held after screening the first three episodes with the aforementioned cast members and series creator Vivienne Medrano.
Given the success of both “Helluva Boss” and “Hazbin Hotel,” what lies ahead for Vivienne? Could an animated theatrical film be in the works? While that remains uncertain, one thing is clear – we’re all in for one HELL of a ride!
The following are highlights from the Q&A
Joseph Deckelmeier: How does it feel coming into a show that already has such a fan base that’s so strong and hardcore? Is that a little intimidating to step into?
Admir (Alastor VA): It’s funny. I had absolutely no idea until I was well into recording it. [. . .] I auditioned, thinking it would be fun. When I saw the scripts, I thought, “Yes, this is great.” It wasn’t until later, with the new voice actors announcement, that I realized it might be a big deal. Like being the new Batman, it’s definitely intimidating but exciting.
Joseph Deckelmeier: What were your first thoughts when you saw your characters rendered?
Stephanie Beatriz (Vaggie VA): We haven’t discussed this, but I love the throwback-y sailor Moon-y coquette bow, the skirt, and the stockings- I mean, some of my earliest queer awakenings were watching Sailor Moon at, like, 05:00 a.m. I remember watching it being like, some of these girls are gay, so I just love that it’s there, that’s like a little touchstone of it. I just absolutely adore it.
Joseph Deckelmeier: One thing that really stuck out to me was the chemistry that everybody had. It is incredible the way it seems like they play off each other, but they didn’t record together, so what was it that you found in the post-production process to kind of cultivate and create that chemistry amongst the cast?
Vivienne Medrano (series creator): I know what it was, the voice director. Richard Horvitz, and I have been working together for a while. He understands my taste and knows what I want, almost reading my mind for an amazing direction. During the pandemic recordings, he would read with everybody, retaining the essence of each performance. This makes a significant difference, and I’ve witnessed many actors express how much it helps them emotionally connect with the scenes.
Joseph Deckelmeier: The heart of this show is really Charlie and Maggie’s relationship. Can you guys talk about how we see that relationship explored throughout the course of season one? ‘
Stephanie Beatriz (Vaggie VA): One beautiful aspect of this series is its exploration of redemption, questioning if it’s possible to redeem a soul from hell to heaven and whether change is achievable. Sometimes, when you fall in love, you don’t really understand that you’re deserving of that love. You don’t really believe that you are the kind of person that somebody else could be in love with. When considering their (Charlie & Vaggie) relationship, they reflect the uncertainty of feeling deserving of love. Falling in love can reveal one’s true self, and in their case, they don’t seek to change each other, embracing each other’s baggage. Vaggie’s goal is to support her partner’s dreams, raising questions about love, redemption, and self-worth.
Before releasing the Hazbin Hotel pilot episode, we had the opportunity to interview Vivenne during Anime Expo 2019, before we knew what the future held for The Hazbin Hotel!
More recently, we had the opportunity to interview Edward Bosco, the original voice of The Radio Demon, Alastor. Discover what has happened since the pilot episode, why Edward is not returning for the series, and more in our exclusive audio interview! (Giveaway opportunity towards the end!)
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A new year, a brand new Anime Los Angeles! Held for the third time at the Long Beach Convention Center, Anime Los Angeles made a triumphant return, featuring special guests Mark Allen, Jr., Edward Bosco, Lizzie Freeman, and Caitlin Glass to name a few. The event also showcased Japan based illustrator and designer, Hidetaka Tenjin and Japanese musical talent, Broken by the Scream and Sana Takizawa.
Friday’s concert featured Sana Takizawaas the opening act in his 7th American performance!
Japan-based musician SANA gained international recognition with his solo guitar performances accompanied by backing tracks, creating an unforgettable atmosphere at his shows around Europe. Formerly a member of the Japanese rock band MASK, SANA embarked on a solo career after leaving the band in 2006. He has successfully reached a global audience, including in Ukraine. During his solo European tour “SUNESTETHIA EU TOUR” in 2014, SANA visited several Ukrainian cities such as Donetsk, Odesa, Kharkiv, Luhansk, Dnipro, and Kyiv. More recently, SANA returned to Ukraine with his new tour, “Wish upon a Star hope future tour,” as part of a summer festival, where a portion of the proceeds were donated to charity.
The concert night ended with girl a powered performance by, BROKEN BY THE SCREAM!
BROKEN BY THE SCREAM is a metal idol group hailing from Japan. The band was established in October 2016 and made their debut in January 2017. They are known for their unique blend of low growls, high screams, and clean vocals, which are combined with cute idol elements. This distinctive fusion sets them apart in both the idol and metal scenes. Drawing inspiration from Metalcore and Djent, the group’s sound has continuously evolved, carving out a distinctive musical niche in the realm of Kawaii Metal.
Recently, the band released their newest mini album, Whitewater Park and are getting ready for their upcoming American tour in April 2024.
INTERVIEWS
Revisiting The Hazbin Hotel – Edward Bosco
Five years have passed since the original release of The Hazbin Hotel pilot episode. The highly anticipated series will debut on Prime Video on January 19th with an entirely different cast. Vivienne Medrano, also known as vivziepop, has built a dedicated following over the past five years due to her captivating character designs on each project. One of the most beloved characters is The Radio Demon, Alastor, voiced by Edward Bosco. Join us as we catch up with Edward Bosco and revisit his time voicing Alastor in The Hazbin Hotel pilot episode. Discover what has happened since then, why he is not returning, and more in our exclusive audio interview below!
KAHO SHIBUYA Talks “The Japanese P*rn Industry Unmasked: An Insider’s Guide”
Born on June 25, 1991, in Tokyo, Japan, Kaho Shibuya is a Japanese actress, cosplayer, and former adult film star. Since 2021, she has transitioned into mainstream media, appearing in television programs, magazines, and events. Shibuya is known for her unique appearance, cosplays, and large fan base. She collaborates with companies like Gamer Supps and Twitch, and often participates as a special guest in community productions. She has been open about her experiences in the adult industry and addresses topics related to sexuality and adult entertainment. In 2020, she published “Everything girls need to know about AV” in Japan, and its English version, “The Japanese Porn Industry Unmasked: An Insider’s Guide,” in March 2023.
Listen to our exclusive interview as we catch up with Kaho Shibuya at Anime Los Angeles 2024. What challenges did Kaho encounter when releasing her book? How do the Japanese and English versions differ? What’s next for her? Find out below!
Although it was challenging to cover the convention alone, I was determined to highlight the following cosplays I encountered during my experience at this year’s Anime Los Angeles!
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Okamoto Kitchen is excited to share that they will be releasing the Okamoto Kitchen original video animation (OVA) on Thanksgiving 2023 (November 23, 2023). To mark this special occasion, they have released a new trailer that introduces the English voice cast: Haru Umesaki, voiced by Cristina Vee, Chef Chizuru, voiced by Allegra Clark, Mickey, voiced by Patrick Seymour, Ling, voiced by Faye Mata, and Honey, voiced by Kimlinh Tran. Get ready to enjoy this exciting new OVA based on the real life food truck business of the same name.
The anime project was brought to life thanks to the support of 625 fans who backed the project on Kickstarter in 2019 with a total of $65,614 funds raised of its initial US$48,000. Japanese animation studio Magic Bus is responsible for the OVA’s layout and keyframes, while Studio Nine Lives handled the Paint & IB, and Industry Visual Effects took charge of Previz, CGI, and compositing with music by Layla Lane (Hidehito Ikumo & Valerie Stern).
What is Okamoto Kitchen?
Okamoto Kitchen At Anime Los Angeles 2019.
Okamoto Kitchen is a food truck business which was established by Chizuru and Gerald Abraham with the intention of introducing individuals with lesser-known, genuine Japanese delicacies such as Chicken Nanban, Cheese Mochi, and Classic Style Japanese Curry. The eatery’s lively Akiba-style atmosphere and outstanding customer service combine to create a memorable experience that you’ll be eager to share with your friends.
Hungry con-goers ordering at Anime Expo 2018
You can find Okamoto Kitchen, and their wonderful staff, catering to cosplayers and con attendees at various California conventions and local cities! To get detailed information about their schedule and appearances, please visit their website at https://okamotokitchen.com/#.
The food truck industry is a brutal world! Savage races for parking spots, epic shonen food battles, and lots and lots of VIDEO GAMES! The naive Okamoto Kitchen food truck team of Haru, Chizuru, Mickey and Honey try their best to navigate their way around the unforgiving landscape of the Los Angeles food truck scene. Our heroes will have to push through the growing pains not only to figure out how to thrive in the food truck business, but to also discover who really has their best interests at heart. The culinary arts can sometimes be hard to digest.
The anime stars Cristina Vee as Haru Umesaki, Allegra Clark as Chef Chizuru, Patrick Seymour as Mickey, Faye Mata as Ling, and Kimlinh Tran as Honey
Blue Eye Samurai, created by Micheal Green & Amber Nozumi, is a captivating story set in Edo-period Japan. The series revolves around Mizu, a skilled swordmaster of mixed race, as she navigates a life shrouded in disguise and driven by the pursuit of revenge. Voiced by Maya Erskine, Mizu’s character combines determination, grace, and a deep understanding of the art of the sword. As the plot unfolds, viewers are transported to a world filled with animated intrigue, complex relationships, and epic battles. Blue Eye Samurai offers a unique blend of historical fiction, action, and personal growth, making it a thrilling and immersive watch.
Micheal Green, known for his exceptional storytelling, has previously worked on acclaimed projects such as Logan, Blade Runner 2049, Murder on the Orient Express, and, most recently, A Haunting in Venice. With his unique ability to craft compelling narratives, Green, along with Nozumi, brings their expertise to Blue Eye Samurai, creating a world that will captivate viewers.
Photo Credit, John Salangsang for AIF
Jane Wu, the visionary director behind the series, is renowned for her work as a storyboard artist. Her impressive portfolio includes notable projects such as Mulan (2020), Star Trek Beyond (2016), and Guardians of the Galaxy (2014). In addition, Wu has also contributed her talents to beloved animated series such as The Men In Black, Jackie Chan Adventures, and Godzilla. With Blue Eye Samurai, Wu marks her return to animation, allowing her to showcase her exceptional skills and breathe life into this thrilling series. Together, this series is set to transport audiences to a world of adventure, mystery, intrigue, and a bloody good time.
Photo Credit, John Salangsang for AIF
The first episode of the series premiered at this year’s Animation Is Film Festival at the TLC Chinese Theater in Hollywood. Despite the grandeur of the red carpet, the absence of acting talent served as a constant reminder of the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. However, the series director, Jane Wu, and the series creators, Michael Green and Amber Nozmi, were present at the event. Their presence signified their commitment to the project, even amid industry challenges.
In recent years, we have witnessed the emergence of a new wave of iconic adult animation that ventures beyond the confines of the typical comedy genre. These adult animated series delve into dramatic stories and explore complex themes. While there have been many notable examples from the East, such as Satoshi Ton’s groundbreaking 1997 film Perfect Blue, let’s focus on Western adult animation.
When we think of adult animation in the Western context, the first shows that come to mind are often comedies such as Family Guy or even irreverent black comedies like Sausage Party. However, there is a growing movement within the industry to redefine and push the boundaries of what we understand as “Western adult animation”.
Enter Blue Eye Samurai, a captivating series that aims to challenge the conventions of adult animation in the West. Both the series director and creators are dedicated to redefining the genre, striving to provide a unique and thought-provoking viewing experience. By combining elements of action, drama, and nuanced storytelling, Blue Eye Samurai offers a fresh perspective on the potential of adult animation.
As adult animation continues to evolve, it is exciting to witness the birth of groundbreaking shows like Blue Eye Samurai, which challenge the traditional boundaries of the genre and push the art form to new heights. If you enjoy films such as Kill Bill and episodic storytelling such as Arcane, you’ll love Blue Eye Samurai!
Don’t miss our exclusive interview with director Jane Wu and series creators Michael Green & Amber Noizumi, discussing their work on Blue Eye Samurai. Join us on the red carpet as director Jane Wu shares her insights into the series, followed by creators Michael Green & Amber Noizumi revealing the inspiration behind BLUE EYE SAMURAI.
Add BLUE EYE SAMURAI to your queue & remember to watch on November 3rd!
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GKIDS, the producer and distributor of award-winning animated films from across the globe, has revealed the voice cast for acclaimed filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki’s latest masterpiece, “THE BOY AND THE HERON.”
The English dubbed version of this film will feature an impressive lineup of talented actors, including Christian Bale (known for his roles in “Ford v Ferrari” and “The Pale Blue Eye”), Dave Bautista (recognizable from “Dune” and “Guardians of the Galaxy”), Gemma Chan (famous for her performances in “Eternals” and “Crazy Rich Asians”), Willem Dafoe (seen in “At Eternity’s Gate” and “The Florida Project”), Karen Fukuhara (known for her work in “The Boys” and “Suicide Squad”), Mark Hamill (renowned for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker and his voice work), Robert Pattinson (upcoming star of “The Batman” and “Tenet”), and Florence Pugh (notable for her roles in “Black Widow” and “Little Women”).
Additionally, Luca Padovan joins the cast as the character Mahito Maki, while Mamoudou Athie, Tony Revolori, and Dan Stevens lend their voices to the Parakeets in the film.
GKIDS handled casting and produced the English version in close consultation with Studio Ghibli, to produce the English version, collaborating with ADR director Michael Sinterniklaas at NYAV Post and English script adapter Stephanie Sheh. The English dubbed version adheres to the SAG-AFTRA Foreign Dubbing Agreement, ensuring quality and authenticity.
GKIDS is set to release THE BOY AND THE HERON in theaters nationwide on December 8, 2023. This eagerly awaited animated film from Studio Ghibli, the renowned Japanese animation studio, will be available in both the original Japanese version and an English-language version.
Photo by Nicolas Guérin
The movie is an original story written and directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli. This is Miyazaki’s first feature film in 10 years, with the previous film being The Wind Rises in 2013. Toshio Suzuki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, will be the producer, while long-time musical collaborator Joe Hisaishi will provide the mesmerizing musical score.
Photo by Kazuhei Kimura
The theme song titled “Spinning Globe” will performed by the internationally acclaimed J-pop sensation, Kenshi Yonezu. This film marks Miyazaki’s highly-anticipated return to feature filmmaking after a 10-year hiatus.
Opening to rave reviews at the 48th Toronto International Film Festival, THE BOY AND THE HERON made an impressive international debut. With sold-out screenings and a top three spot in the TIFF People’s Choice Awards, the film captivated audiences. It also received acclaim at the New York Film Festival, San Sebastian International Film Festival, and the BFI London Film Festival.
The film is set to be exclusively in theaters on December 8th. The film will also be presented in IMAX at LA’s Chinese Theater on October 18 as the Opening Night of the Animation is Film Festival, an event we will cover.
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