Showing posts with label anime. Show all posts
Showing posts with label anime. Show all posts

7 February 2014

Hayao Miyazaki's The Wind Rises Gets A UK Cinema Release Date

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 After months of speculation on when Hayao Miyazaki's The Wind Rises will finally arrive in the UK.Today via their Twitter account StudioCanal put British anime fans minds at rest , the anime maestro's Swansong will arrive in UK cinemas on 9th May.

Here's the  the tweet which also gives you a chance to win a steelbook edition of one of the many classic Studio Ghibli blurays they have on offer...



It's been a long frustrating year for fans even critics here in UK since it's release in Japan Summer 2013 it's made it's  way slowly around the world's film festival circuit surprisingly not London Film Festival. Now the date has been set for the arrival of the film  we can finally look forward to some vintage Studio Ghibli most of all

The Wind Rises is inspired by Miyazaki's own personal dreams, the film centres around Jiro a young man inspired to become a aeronautical engineer. The Wind Rises is  the epic tale of love, perseverance, and the challenges of living and making choices in a turbulent world.The film is set in the first half of the 20th Century and will chronicle major events of his life from falling in love right upto Japan entering World War 2 a pivotal event in Jiro's career.

If you missed the  trailer here's another chance to watch it...



The Wind Rises will more likely be released in UK dubbed with Joseph Gordon-Levitt lending his voice to play adult Jiro along with Emily Blunt, Elijah Wood, Many Patinkin, Stanley Tucci, Martin Short, William H Macy even Werner Herzog all lend their voices to the film. Anime fans mark 9th May in your diaries however if you can't wait that long, This Sunday 9th February you can catch the UK premier at Glasgow Youth Film Festival (click on link to book/more info).
source: Yahoo UK

29 December 2013

Watch New Promo Trailer For School Anime Seitokai Yakuindomo Season 2

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One anime which is so popular even this side of the world is school anime or slice of life and Seitokai Yakuindomo will go down well, this afternoon we get a look a the TV shows new season 2 promo trailer.

Based on Tozen Ujiie's manga Seitokai Yakuindomo centres around Ōsai Academy, a former all girls private high school which has recently been integrated with the local boys school. The student council body is split between 524 girls and 28 boys,Takatoshi Tsuda is pushed into becoming the vice president of the student council, a council made up of only girls.



Seitokai Yakuindomo will premier on Tokyo MX TV on 4th January.

source: Animenewsnetwork

26 December 2013

Watch First Trailer For Live Action Patlabor TV Series And Film

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1990's was a great time to be an anime fan in UK, with no internet, you could buy anime any shop that sold video even better mainstream TV (BBC, Channel 4) screened anime more regularly.Mamoru Oshii's Patlabor was one of the anime's we cherished during the decade and now we have a teaser trailer for Patlabor Next Generation TV Series.

It may only be 32 seconds long but when we have a mecha film the first thing we want to see is the MECHA! and we do! The glimpse we get is of the 8 metre tall robotic mecha AV-98 Ingram with the main cast of the series around the foot of the metallic giant. The series is not going to be a remake of the anime movies or series, set in Tokyo 2013 with the third generation of Patlabor due to the recession The Tokyo Metropolitan Police has been disbanded.

The series  will be shown in 7 parts with the first episode coming April 2014 with a feature film arriving in Summer 2015.



source: Animenewsnetwork

22 December 2013

Win Beautifully Moving Anime Wolf Children on DVD

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Part slice-of-life drama about the joys and tribulations of single mother Hana raising her half-wolf kids, part rite-of-passage movie about finding your place in the world, Wolf Children is a funny, moving and accessible film directed by a true anime great.

After receiving an abundance of praise from its theatrical release, we are pleased to say that we have a DVD copy to give away to celebrate Wolf Children coming to DVD and Collector's Edition on 23rd December.

19-year-old Hana is studying at university when she falls in love with a mysterious classmate with a highly unusual secret - he is the last descendant of Japan's now-extinct grey wolves, and possesses the ability to transform into a wolf. Not daunted by this, Hana and her wolf man lover start a family, with energetic daughter Yuki ('Snow') soon followed by her more timid little brother Ame ('Rain').

But when tragedy strikes and her wolf man suddenly dies, Hana is left to cope with the two young children on her own - and both Yuki and Ame have inherited their dad's power to shift between human and wolf form. Moving to the countryside and the seclusion of an abandoned old house in the mountains, Hana hopes to raise her family away from prying eyes …but life's not that simple.

To Win Wolf Children on DVD please answer the following question:

Q.In March this year what prestigious Japanese award did Wolf Children scoop?




Deadline is 12th January 2014 (23:59pm),If you haven’t done already Like us and stay with us at our Facebook page (if you are already liking us just share this post on twitter and facebook). Must be 12 or older to enter.

Terms&Conditions:
1.The competition is not opened to employees, family, friends of The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse, Manga Entertainment  employees who have the right to alter, change or offer alternative prize without any notice.2.All The Peoples Movies entries must be done via contact form. deadline Sunday 12th January 2014 (23:59pm) 12 years or older to enter 3.Failure to include any information required to enter could result in your entry been void.  4.automated entries are not allowed and will be disqualified, which could result you been banned, DO NOT INCLUDE telephone numbers as for security reason your entry will be deleted.5.If you are friend or like us at facebook for every competition you enter you get double entry, but you must stay friend/like us all the time,or future entries maybe considered one entry if you are liking us share the post on facebook and re-tweet the post.6.The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse takes no responsibility for delayed, lost, stolen prizes 7.Prizes may take from days to a few months for delivery which is out of our control so please do not complain 8.The winning entries will be picked at random and contacted by email for postal details and will be announced via facebook, sometimes we are unable to confirm winners. Uk & Irish entries only.

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21 December 2013

Interstellar 'Boobies' In The English Dubbed Anime Trailer For Space Dandy

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He loves his bouncing breasts but we love the surreal weirdness of the interstellar hijinks and the wackiness of Anime's craziest alien space hunter Space Dandy is coming back to Toonami, check out New Trailer.

Sadly at the moment toonami aka Adult Swim is in U.S but there is hope a channel may pick up the rights for directed by the Cowboy Bebop director Shinichiro Watanabe. Whilst this may not be the most politically correct animation in the world  it highlights the industry male dominated is or they don't give a hoot-er what you think. It's action packed, it's funny but in today's climate this is heavy on ad placement (space hooters) but on gender issues this will annoy , judge for yourselves.

Space Dandy will be aired in USA on Adult Swim's Toonami 4th January.


Synopsis

Space Dandy is a dandy in space! This dreamy adventurer with a to-die-for pompadour travels across the galaxy in search of aliens no one has ever laid eyes on. Each new species he discovers earns him a hefty reward, but this dandy has to be quick on his feet because it’s first come – first served! Accompanied by his sidekicks, a rundown robot named QT and Meow the cat-looking space alien, Dandy bravely explores unknown worlds inhabited by a variety aliens. Join the best dressed alien hunter in all of space and time as he embarks on an adventure that ends at the edge of the universe!

Source: Bleeding Cool

20 November 2013

Studio Ghibli's The Wind Rises U.S Trailer Flies Online, Is it Miyazaki's Swan Song?

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When a new trailer for the latest Studio Ghibli film lands online it's always a ray of excitement brings a smile to anyone's face but it seems this one has extra reason to enjoy. The Wind Rises is been tipped as the farewell movie for Hayao Miyazaki who will retire but the question is will it be? Enjoy the American trailer...

The Wind Rises is inspired by Miyazaki's own personal dreams, the film centres around Jiro a young man inspired to become a aeronautical engineer. The Wind Rises is  the epic tale of love, perseverance, and the challenges of living and making choices in a turbulent world.The film is set in the first half of the 20th Century and will chronicle major events of his life from falling in love right upto Japan entering World War 2 a pivotal event in Jiro's career.

Despite been the U.S trailer there is no dialogue possibly that the American voice cast has not been chosen or the dub is finish.Visually you don't voice cast to release the trailer, visuals are nothing less but beautiful shame we don't get a sample tease of the sound design as early reviews praise it to the rafters. Will it get Studio Ghibli it's second Oscar? The talk is The Wind Rises will be in the nominations but id this film is the last Hayao Miyazaki film what better way to go out with a little gold statue!

No word on the UK release date we expect Studiocanal UK to do the honours releasing the film probably sometime in summer 2014, for USA release is 21st February 2014.


Synopsis

In “The Wind Rises,” Jiro—inspired by the famous Italian aeronautical designer Caproni—dreams of flying and designing beautiful airplanes. Nearsighted from a young age and thus unable to become a pilot, Jiro joins the aircraft division of a major Japanese engineering company in 1927. His genius is soon recognized, and he grows to become one of the world’s most accomplished airplane designers. The film chronicles much of his life, and depicts key historical events that deeply affected the course of Jiro’s life, including the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, the Great Depression, the tuberculosis epidemic and Japan’s plunge into war. He meets and falls in love with Nahoko, and grows and cherishes his friendship with his colleague Honjo. A tremendous innovator, Jiro leads the aviation world into the future. Miyazaki pays tribute to engineer Jiro Horikoshi and author Tatsuo Hori in his creation of the fictional character Jiro—the center of the epic tale of love, perseverance, and the challenges of living and making choices in a turbulent world.

source:TheHollywoodNews

10 November 2013

Wolf Children Will 'Howl' Onto Home Release This Christmas

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Genre:
Anime, Japanese Animation
Distributor:
Manga UK
Rating:
PG
Format:
DVD & Blu-Ray
Release Date:
23rd December 2013 (UK)
Buy Wolf Children:
DVD / Collector's Edition Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack

When your kids get sick, do you take them to the doctor or the vet? That's the sort of dilemma faced by Hana, the young mother of boisterous Yuki and her timid little brother Ame. But then Yuki and Ame are no ordinary children: thanks to their wolf man dad, the two can transform into wolves at will! A charming modern folktale from internationally acclaimed director Mamoru Hosoda (Summer Wars, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time), Wolf Children is a beautiful, touching movie that will appeal to all ages, whether they're anime fans or not.

In March, Wolf Children scooped the prestigious Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year - an award that director Mamoru Hosoda also won with his previous film Summer Wars back in 2010.

Co-produced by Hosoda's own Studio Chizu and anime veterans Madhouse, Wolf Children earned over $50 million in Japanese cinemas, making it Japan's fifth highest grossing movie of 2012. Wolf Children has won multiple awards, not only in Japan but also in the US and Europe. Now the film after a very limited UK cinema & festival release now in December you will get a chance to own this film on DVD or Blu-Ray.

19-year-old Hana is studying at university when she falls in love with a mysterious classmate with a highly unusual secret - he is the last descendant of Japan's now-extinct grey wolves, and possesses the ability to transform into a wolf. Not daunted by this, Hana and her wolf man lover start a family, with energetic daughter Yuki ('Snow') soon followed by her more timid little brother Ame ('Rain').

But when tragedy strikes and her wolf man suddenly dies, Hana is left to cope with the two young children on her own - and both Yuki and Ame have inherited their dad's power to shift between human and wolf form. Moving to the countryside and the seclusion of an abandoned old house in the mountains, Hana hopes to raise her family away from prying eyes …but life's not that simple.

Part slice-of-life drama about the joys and tribulations of single mother Hana raising her half-wolf kids, part rite-of-passage movie about finding your place in the world, Wolf Children is a funny, moving and accessible film directed by a true anime great. With their mixed heritage, Yuki and Ame feel the pull of both sides of their nature …but which world will win out, the human or the wolf?


The Collector's Edition Bonus Disc Contents will include U.S. Actor & Staff Commentary,English Language Trailer,Stage Greetings
,PR Video Director’s Version 01 and 02,Promotional Video,Original Trailer and Original Teaser.
Wolf Children will be released by Manga UK on DVD and Blu-Ray 23rd December 2013.

28 September 2013

Anime Competition - Win Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works Double Play

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Fate/Stay Night:Unlimited Blade Works is coming to Double Play and DVD on 30th September. Courtesy of Manga Entertainment UK, we have Double Play copies to give away.

Spells and swords clash in deadly combat in Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works, a feature-length adaptation of the hit television series that amps up the action and gives the popular tale plenty of new twists. Join teen mage Shirou and his companions, beautiful spirit knight Saber and powerful magic-wielding schoolgirl Rin, as they are plunged into an epic battle for the Holy Grail.

The Fifth Holy Grail War is upon us. Mighty magi contending for the wish-granting Grail summon the seven classes of Heroic Spirit - Saber, Archer, Lancer, Rider, Berserker, Caster and Assassin - to do battle on their behalf. However, a wand is thrown into the works when good-natured but untalented teenage mage Shirou Emiya stumbles upon Archer and Lancer fighting, and is himself attacked.

Saved from death by the beautiful, blonde-haired Heroic Spirit Saber, who adopts him as her Master, Shirou finds himself dragged into an all-out magical war for the Holy Grail. He also gains a human ally in the shape of his popular schoolmate - and heir to the powerful Tohsaka magus family - Rin, whose own Servant is the sarcastic Archer. Drawn into a web of shifting alliances, spell-slinging sorcerers and deadly spirits, Shirou is going to need all the friends he can get…

To Win Fate/Stay Night:Unlimited Blade Works please answer the following question:

Q.What classic UK comedy team (which included Terry Gilliam) went on the search for the Holy Grail in a 1975 film?




You must be 18 years or older to enter.
Deadline for this competition is Sunday 20th October 2013 (23:59pm)

If you haven’t done already Like us and stay with us at our Facebook page (if you are already liking us just share this post)

Terms&Conditions: You Must be a UK or Irish resident aged 18 or older to enter. If your successful and win the competition then you will be asked for Postal address to arrange deliver of the prize.The competition is not opened to employees, family, friends of The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse,Network Releasing  who have the right to alter, change or offer alternative prize without any notice. The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse takes no responsibility for delayed, lost, stolen prizes.Prizes may take from days to a few months for delivery which is out of our control so please do not complain, we will tell you when prizes are sent to us, mostly all cops prizes come directly from the PR company representing the film distributor. Deadline Sunday 13th October 2013(23:59pm)..

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20 September 2013

From Up on Poppy Hill Double Play Review

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Distributor:
Studiocanal UK
Rating:
U
DVD/BD Release Date:
23rd September 2013 (UK)
Director:
Goro Miyazaki
Cast:
Jun'ichi Okada,Masami Nagasawa,Keiko Takeshita, Sarah Bolger, Chris Noth, Anton Yelchin
Buy From Upon Poppy Hill:
[Blu-ray]


Teenagers in love Post World War Japan is the setting for the latest  Studio Ghibli home release. With Hayao Miyazaki-San ready to handover the reigns of Japan's greatest ever to younger hands is Goro Miyazaki's From Upon Poppy Hill a worthy application for his fathers crown?

Set in 1963 Yokohama, From Upon Poppy Hill is an coming of age story that centre's around Umi and Shun a friendship that's blossoming into young love. As Tokyo starts to prepare for Olympics the young lovebirds are brought together to save their schools old ramshackle clubhouse from demolition to make way for the upcoming games.

From Upon Poppy Hill is a far superior film from Miyazaki Jnr's  debut Tales From The Earthsea which I'll be honest wasn't as bad as some critics made it out to be. Poppy Hill is evidence he has made progress but enough to call it a vintage Studio Ghibli.This film is not set in the fantasy realms of such Ghibli greats as Spirited Away but more at home with Whisper of The Heart grounded in reality. The film captures the post World War 2 era perfectly capturing a nation rebuilding as old traditions clash with the young. You get glimpses into the clashes from the village Umi & Shun live in from the quaint traditional houses to the small dirty roads and vibrant, colourful but simple lifestyles. Compared to Tokyo's sprawling crowed metropolis, with its new skyscraper buildings and a lifestyle that gives you no time to saviour anything. If there was ever going to be an animated version of Ozu film, Poppy Hill could give some indication what it may look like . Tonally as well as the narrative is rich in homage to one of Japan's true masters of cinema.

At times the film lets itself down by descending into melodramatics even suggesting the film even delves into some dark provocative sub text you wouldn't expect from the studio, convulsing into a  tragic  romance of incest. Thankfully at the last minute things are saved but it could have been helped by a back story that hasn't been constructed with great thought.

From Upon Poppy Hill may not be in the mould of the studios classic but there's enough in the film for Ghibli purists to enjoy immensely, so if your looking for great creatures or mythical spirit you'll a tad bored of this.The craftmanship, the visual storytelling is essential Ghibli but what this film does do is remind us all that the traditional hand drawn methods of animation are still alive and well been used in one of the world's greatest animation studios. The attention to detail is sublime rendered masterfully  which you can see in the scenes in the school clubhouse (which deliver some of the best scenes as well as keep a balance in the plot too) to preparing a mealat Umi's house. Even the smallest of details are given the respect they deserve.

From Upon Poppy Hill maybe lightweight for some folks but life is one big fantasy, an adventure of discovery we all must take. A slice of life delivered in a warm, charming and intimate way that only Ghibli know how to do with great precision.

★★★★

Paul Devine

4 August 2013

Berserk Movie 2: Battle For Doldrey Blu-Ray Review

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Rating: 15
BD Release Date: 12th August 2013 (UK)
Director:Toshiyuki Kubooka
Cast: Hiroaki Iwanaga, Toa Yukinari, Takahiro Sakurai
Buy:Berserk: Movie 2 - The Battle For Doldrey [Blu-ray]

Griffith's words about true friends still resound in Guts' head. They haunt him on the battlefield and in his downtime, making him question his moves and motivation. This doesn't stop him from fighting for Griffith as the Band of the Hawk joins the other forces of the king to take down Doldrey, a nigh impregnable fortress that has never been successfully besieged. In between battles, Guts continues to ponder where his life is headed if he sticks with the Band of the Hawk, strengthens his bond with woman warrior Casca, and ultimately makes a decision that will have a great impact not only on his future, but on the rest of the Hawks' as well.

I first encountered Berserk when I picked up a copy of it in my library and I remember how different it was to other manga’s. It was more violent and graphic than other manga’s I had encountered (I had still to discover things like Ninja Scroll and Fist of the North Star) and I went to great lengths to acquire the other volumes. I then discovered that there was an anime of Berserk and since these were the dark ages before internet shopping became so easy to use (yes I am that old now shush) I had to scour DVD shops, HMV’s, charity shops and Forbidden Planet’s to find a boxset. But eventually I acquired it and myself and some other anime obsessed mates sat down to watch it. Wow were we disappointed! It was just a bit pathetic compared to the excellent manga we had all been reading.

Years later in 2012 I would go to the Scotland Loves Anime festival in Edinburgh where they were showing the new Berserk OVA’s and I will admit I was not that excited about these films. However I was blown away by not only the quality of the animation but the skill and time taken to properly translate Kentaro Miura’s manga to anime. Studio 4˚C brought their unique animation style that had been used to great success on their previous film Steamboy and from what I heard in the interviews after the films they went to great lengths to honour the original manga, including visiting Edinburgh to get a feel of medieval cities (shameless flattery to the Edinburgh fanbase I think though). The animation style is a mixture of CGI and hand drawn styles. Now this works for most of the film with the bodies and action being mostly CGI but the faces and emotions all being hand drawn but occasionally you will see the two styles clash with one another but this rarely happens and so the action scenes and battles look amazing and you get amazing characterisation and emotion from the animation. However many of the battle scenes do seem to be fought by armies of clones and so there is often very little variety in some of the larger battles and since this film focuses on a major battle it is slightly disappointing.

This film focuses on the interaction between two of the main characters Guts and Casca and the development of their friendship while fighting in the Band of the Hawk. These two characters form the basis of the Berserk series and it is their interactions and what happens to them that progresses the story. Casca is a great character and moves away from the standard warrior woman in manga and anime by having actual motives to fight alongside men rather than just being the regular chain mail bikini clad warrior. Saying this though her design does slightly drop her into this trope as she rides into battle with thigh high boots and armour that has its own cleavage.

Guts is a rather simple character but this is what drives him. He spends the film questioning what he is doing and if it is what he wants in life. He is left with a choice that means either staying with Band of the Hawk or trying to make his own life by himself. His growing friendship with Casca makes him want to stay but his desire to make his own life away from Griffith conflicts with this and the ending is suitably tragic for them all.

The voice acting of the Japanese actors is brilliant with Hiroaki Iwanaga, Toa Yukinari and Takahiro Sakurai as voices of Guts, Casca and Griffith. The English voice work is good but doesn’t sound as good as the Japanese. It’s not because they are bad but mainly because the Japanese language suites the melodrama of the series over the English.

Now the film is very good but what lets it down is the editing. Every so often there are scenes that seem to be missing. You will be watching it then suddenly the characters will have changed location or something would have been said that makes little sense. Overall this doesn’t affect the plot but affects the viewing experience and makes it look rather sloppy.

Overall though it is a great film for fans of the manga or any other anime fans.

★★★☆☆

Adam Cook


26 July 2013

Anime Competition - Win Horizon On The Middle Of Nowhere On Blu-Ray

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Set in the distant future, Horizon On The Middle Of Nowhere opens with the nations of the world squabbling over the Earth's last inhabitable land, Japan. Above them floats the ship city of Musashi, home to our hero, pervy class president Aoi Tori, and his fellow students at the Ariadust Academy. Fast-paced action, political skulduggery and classroom antics combine with a stunningly imaginative setting to make Horizon On The Middle Of Nowhere an intriguing addition to the sci-fi anime ranks.

Horizon on the Middle of Nowhere comes to DVD and Blu-ray on 29th July, and to celebrate, we have a copy on Blu-ray up for grabs!

In the far future, the world has been devastated with the sole exception of the Divine States - the islands of modern Japan. A parallel world was created to help house humanity's teeming billions, but now Earth's nations have returned to claim their own slice of the one surviving land.

Above them float the islands' original inhabitants in the mighty ship city of Musashi, where the students of the Ariadust Academy prepare to go to war to reclaim their lost homeland. Right now, though, pervy student council president Aoi Tori is more concerned with P-01s, a snack store android who looks suspiciously similar to his former - and supposedly long dead - girlfriend…

Horizon On The Middle Of Nowhere sees pocket dimensions, alternate timelines and humungous mecha sharing screen time with big boobed schoolgirls, sizzling swordplay and historical shout-outs in a genre-defying sci-fi romp that will leave you breathless.

To Win Horizon On The Middle Of Nowhere on BluRay please answer the following Question:

Q.What is name of the mighty city ship the islands' original inhabitants live on in  Horizon On The Middle Of Nowhere?


Powered byEMF Free Form Builder

Deadline to enter this competition is Sunday 18th August 2013 (11;59pm) and you must be 12 or older to enter

If you haven’t done already Like us and stay with us at our Facebook page (if you are already liking us just share this post)

Terms&Conditions:
1.The competition is not opened to employees, family, friends of The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse, Manga Entertainment employees who have the right to alter, change or offer alternative prize without any notice.2.All The Peoples Movies entries must be done via contact form. deadline Sunday 18th August 2013 (23:59pm) 12 years or older to enter 3.Failure to include any information required to enter could result in your entry been void.  4.automated entries are not allowed and will be disqualified, which could result you been banned, DO NOT INCLUDE telephone numbers as for security reason your entry will be deleted.5.If you are friend or like us at facebook for every competition you enter you get double entry, but you must stay friend/like us all the time,or future entries maybe considered one entry if you are liking us share the post on facebook and re-tweet the post.6.The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse takes no responsibility for delayed, lost, stolen prizes 7.Prizes may take from days to a few months for delivery which is out of our control so please do not complain 8.The winning entries will be picked at random and contacted by email for postal details and will be announced via facebook, sometimes we are unable to confirm winners. Uk & Irish entries only.

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2 July 2013

Kiki's Delivery Service (1989) Blu-Ray Review

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Rating: U
BD Release Date:
1st July 2013 (UK)
Director:

CastKirsten DunstPhil HartmanMatthew LawrenceJaneane Garofalo
Buy Kiki's Deliver Service:
Double Play (Blu-ray + DVD)
Win Kiki's Deliver Service/Grave Of The FirefliesEnter Here

Whilst many have attempted and failed to deliver a coming of age story with sincerity as well as charm it seems the masters of animation Studio Ghibli seem to have found that winning formula. Once again they show the world how it's done with broomsticks, talking cats, deliveries, growing pains and been independent, step forward Kiki's Delivery Service (1989) the latest Studio Ghibli animation to be adapted to Blu Ray (in a double play with The Grave Of The Fireflies).Proving Hayao Miyzaki's animation is an timeless classic in animation legacy that would make the so called big boys of animation jealous with envy.

Based on Eiko Kadano's 1985 novel we meet Kiki a 13 year old teen witch determined to make it own her own despite been second rate at spells and poor at making potions. She moves to a new town with the aide of her broom she sets herself up as a courier service delivery, delivering everything from bread to pets.At first her only company is her sarcastic talking cat Jiji se soon discovers she has more friends than she ever thought on her long road of self discovery.

Whilst Kiki's Delivery Service may not have the array of mythical creatures or kindred spirits like in Spirited Away in the studio's film nor is there an villainous character, if anything life itself is Kiki's only enemy. With magic and everyday life living in unison this make's Kiki a more grounded realistic animation (1950's Sweden) that is vibrant, electric and it's probably the only Ghibli animation that resembles a Disney animationminus the over indulgent songs. If you are looking for fantasy elements Kiki herself been a witch, her potions, her talking cat provide that substance without forgetting this film is purely a coming of age tale.

Whilst the premise maybe light hearted giving the animation a nicely pace episodic feel breaking down each part of Kiki's tribulations into nice equally entertaining parts. Miyazaki does continue his use of  strong positive Female protagonists however with  Kiki we do learn she is not picture perfect which opens the door for older, wiser stronger character , strong female role model such as Ursula (voice by Janine Garofalo) to guide Kiki. Some critics say Ursula brings an feminist element to the story and it's probably why Kiki's Delivery Service finds itself paired with The Grave Of The Fireflies both roughly similar targeted age groups both with an message that may not appeal to younger pre-teen audience but never looses the magic we associate with Studio Ghibli. As for Kiki been a feminist film, every child boy or girl needs a good strong positive role model and what Kiki does addresses some of that imbalance of lack of female role models in film.

It's taken myself over a year to finally appreciate the power of bluray, the colour, the crisp detail are second to none. You really getting a real true feel of the film's detail when we see Kiki flying her broomstick in and around the her town, all thanks to Miyazaki's passion for flying bringing more depth to the feature. I always say watch the film as it was meant to be watched in its original language but I know not everyone likes subtitles so this release comes with a dubbed version too. Kiki is voiced by then a unknown young Kirsten Dunst, the late Phil Hartmann (Troy McClure of The Simpsons fame) voicing the sardonic Jiji, Debbie Reynolds, Jeanine Garofalo, Matthew Lawrence too.

Kiki's Delivery Service might provide and unique take on the coming of age tale but at no time does it lose track of what makes it essential Studio Ghibli. It's a warm, sweet entertaining tale that still holds well against today's modern Kids films which is credit to the films as it's amazing 24 years old!

★★★★

Paul Devine


3 June 2013

Watch UK Trailer For Kenji Kamiyama's 009 Re:Cyborg Anime

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Rarely these days in British cinema does any new anime film get any form of cinematic release in the UK however this Friday Kenji Kamiyama's 009 Re:Cyborg will get that unique opportunity and we have the film's UK Trailer. 009 RE:CYBORG, is a mature and thought-provoking approach to Shotaro Ishinomori’s classic manga, Cyborg 009 from the director of Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex

The animation in 009 RE:CYBORG is fully computer-generated but treated with cel-shader, a program designed to keep the look of traditional Japanese 2D animation.Music by Kenji Kawai (Apocalypse, Avalon, Ghost in the Shell, The Sky Crawlers). Sound design by Tom Myers at Skywalker Sound (WALL-E, Toy Story 3).

009 RE:CYBORG will launch on Distrify on 7th June. A 2D version of the film will be available for £2.99 per stream. Streaming will be available via www.alltheanime.com/cyborg. The animation may not be getting a full distribution but its still an unique opportunity to watch a film outside the usual festival parameters and you can catch the film from June 7th at one of the following cinemas:

Edinburgh Filmhouse from 7 June 2013
Hackney Picturehouse from 7 June 2013
Ritzy Picturehouse from 7 June 2013
Stratford East Picturehouse from 15 June 2013
FACT Liverpool from 22 June 2013
Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre from TBC
Glasgow Film Theatre from July
009 RE:CYBORG will be available on FilmFlex Movies and iTunes from 7th July

009 RE:CYBORG UK Trailer from paull devine on Vimeo.


Synopsis

1964: Nine regular humans from different parts of the world are abducted and transformed into cyborgs with astounding powers for the purpose of being used as weapons. The nine cyborgs rebel and start to fight against their creators in the name of justice. But as their struggle finally restored world peace, they eventually disappeared from the pages of history and from people's memory.
2013: Skyscrapers across the world are hit by suicide bombers with no apparent connection. The nine heroes gather once again after 27 years to fight against this faceless menace. They appear untouched by time, but society around them has changed dramatically, as it has the very idea of "justice": they used to believe in... What is their role in the world now?

29 May 2013

Anime Writers Wanted, Join Us At Cinehouse & The People’s Movies

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Kwonicha ! We’re recruiting again and we want you and that’s the Anime Writers! We’re looking for lovers who have a passion for all things Japanese, are you that person?

Do you want to review the latest reviews from Manga Entertainment and MVM but it’s not all about the reviews. Post the latest news from the world of anime, the latest trailers, create fresh original but most of all entertaining articles and features help create The People’s Movies & Cinehouse into a hub for Anime fans? If you your passion also lies in Asian cinema in general we can help you out there too and we’ll do our best to give you a platform to share your passion?

We’re looking for a couple of writers who have written for sites before or someone really eager to get first steps, so do you have what it takes? Remember this isn’t just for reviews they are probably most important part of working with us. So can you work on your own initiative know where to look for the latest Anime news, trailers to create your posts?

Unfortunately we can’t offer any money however you will be able to keep those MVM and Manga Entertainment releases you will review, we can provide you with the Anime films to review, maybe occasionally the odd cinema screening, passes for festivals. What are you waiting for then? Get in touch now, Freelancers are welcomed

So how do you sign up?


  1. Your Name &Age
  2. Location (what is your home town name)
  3. 2 sample links to previous posts
  4. Reasons on why we should pick you (500 words maximum)
  5. If your freelancer let us know


Where do I send the above too? label your email 'Anime Writer' and email the info we need to cinehouseuk@gmail.com

Please Note The Peoples Movies And Cinehouse are UK based websites so if you live outside UK we cannot provide anime to review, however if you are keen to help using your own sources please do get in touch.



Manga UK Releasing Bakuman Season 1 On DVD This June

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It's good to aspire to something, believe in something and in Bakuman the best students want to be great writers. On 17th June Manga Entertainment will release volume one of the popular anime series Bakuman based on a manga by Ooba Tsugumi and Obata Takeshi

Synopsis

Top student Akito is willing to do anything to become a hit writer in the Japanese comics industry, including manipulating his unsure classmate Mashiro into becoming his illustrator. Before long, the pair have their backs up against the wall, fighting for a chance to get noticed in the intense world of manga publishing. But then, an unlikely series of events puts them face-to-face with what real comic artists have to give up: love, health, and maybe even their futures. Get ready for a compelling race through the world of publishing not limited to glimpses into the industry, but all-out panoramic views packed with insider details!


Bakuman Volume one will be released on DVD  on 17th June 2013 in UK&Ireland by Manga Entertainment. Pre-order/Buy Bakuman Season 1 [DVD] now!


25 May 2013

Win One Piece Collection 1 Anime On DVD

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Shiver me timbers, if it isn’t the UK’s most requested anime series! Featuring the first 26 episodes of the smash hit anime, One Piece: Collection 1 follows rubber-limbed Monkey D. Luffy and his crew of Straw Hat Pirates as he searches for the fabled One Piece treasure in a bid to become the next King of the Pirates. Super-powered action, barrels of laughs and occasional tear-jerking moments await Luffy and friends as they set sail on the ultimate of sea adventures. A true anime classic!

To celebrate the release of One Piece (out on DVD from 27th May 2013) and courtesy of Manga Entertainment, we have a DVD of Collection 1 to give away!

Monkey D. Luffy is a boy with big dreams. This daring rubber-man refuses to let anyone or anything stand in the way of his quest to become king of all pirates. With a course charted for the treacherous waters of the Grand Line, Luffy strikes out in search of a crew – and a boat. Along the way he’ll do battle with scallywag clowns, fishy foes, and an entire fleet of marines eager to see him walk the plank. The stakes are high, but with each adventure, Luffy adds a new friend to his crew of Straw Hat Pirates! Like his hero Shanks, this is one captain who’ll never drop anchor until he’s claimed the greatest treasure in the world – the Legendary One Piece!

To Win One Piece Collection 1 on DVD please answer the following question:


Q.What is the name of One Piece's lead character?

A.Monkey D.Puffy
B.Monkey C.Luffy
C.Monkey D Luffy

Send your name, address, and answer to winatcinehouseuk@gmail.com  label email 'one piece'
Deadline is Sunday 16th June (2359) You Must be 12 or older to enter.

Double your chances by liking us at our Facebook Page  (if you already like us thank you all we ask is you re-tweet this)


Term&Conditions:
1.The competition is not opened to employees, family, friends of The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse, Manga Entertainment employees who have the right to alter, change or offer alternative prize without any notice.2.All entries must include full name, address, answer including any other instructions emailed to winatcinehouseuk@gmail.com  (label 'one piece')dealine Sunday 16th June (23:59pm) 12 years or older to enter 3.Failure to include any information required to enter could result in your entry been void. 4.automated entries are not allowed and will be disqualified, which could result you been banned, DO NOT INCLUDE telephone numbers as for security reason your entry will be deleted.5.If you are friend or like us at facebook for every competition you enter you get double entry, but you must stay stay friend/like us all the time,or future entries maybe considered one entry if you are liking us share the post on facebook and re-tweet the post.6.The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse takes no responsibility for delayed, lost, stolen prizes 7.Prizes may take from days to a few months for delivery which is out of our control so please do not complain 8.The winning entries will be picked at random and contacted by email or announced via facebook, sometimes we are unable to confirm winners.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
UK Competitions and Prize Draws at UKwins
Loquax Competitions
Free Competitions
ThePrizeFinder – UK Competitions

24 May 2013

Studio Ghibli's Kiki's Delivery Service / Grave Of Fireflies To be Released on Doubleplay July

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Studiocanal have announced this July will see them release Studio Ghibli's latest Double Play on Blu Ray, Kiki's Delivery Service and Grave Of The Fireflies

The re-releases of the classic animes is to coincide with upgrading the great films to blu ray and you can add this upcoming release from 1st July.

KIKI'S DELIVERY SERVICE out on Double Play on July 1st
It’s witch meets world, as teenage Kiki chooses to live on her own in a new town, using her magical powers to get by. But Kiki is poor with potions and second-rate at spells- instead, she sets up a courier service, using her broomstick to deliver everything from pies to pets. At first with only her sarcastic cat Jiji for company, she soon discovers that she has more friends than she ever thought possible.

Adapted by Hayao Miyazaki from the children’s book by Eiko Kadono, KIKI’S DELIVERY SERVICE is one of the best-loved animated features in Japan and elsewhere.

Featuring the voices of Kirsten Dunst, Janeane Garofalo and Debbie Reynolds, Kiki’s Delivery Service is superb entertainment from start to finish.

Extras: Complete Feature Length Storyboards / Ursula’s Painting / Creating Kiki’s Delivery Service (new!) / Kiki & Jiji (new!) / Flying with Kiki & Beyond (new!) / Producer’s Perspective: Collaborating with Miyazaki (new!) / The Locations of Kiki (new!) / Beyond the Microphone (new!) / Original Japanese Theatrical Trailers / Studio Ghibli Trailer Reel



GRAVE OF THE FIREFLIES out on Double Play on July 1st
Set in Japan during World War II, the film focuses on Seita and his little sister Setsuko. After their mother is killed in an air raid and with their father serving in the navy, they are forced to fight for survival in the devastated Japanese countryside. Food and shelter are scarce, and even their own relatives are too concerned with their own survival. Allthey have is each other and their belief that life must carry on.
Takahata and his team, including character animator Yoshifumi Kondo (who has subsequently worked on other acclaimed Ghibli films from director Hayao Miyazaki) have created a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film and that meditates on the devastating consequences of war and has rightly earned a reputation as an anime classic.

Featuring the voices of J Robert Spencer, Rhoda Chrosite, Veronica Taylor and Amy Jones.

Extras: Interview with Director Isao Takahata / Japanese Release Promo Featuring Interview with Director Isao Takahata and Writer Akiyuki Nosaka / Deleted Scenes Storyboards (some new!) / Interview with Film Critic Roger Ebert / Historical Perspective Documentary / Trailers



We will be reviewing the films closer to the time, stay tuned for that review