Release Promotion Culminates in Naruto Volume 52 Debuting Same Day As Print Counterpart on September 6th
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZManga.com
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

Cover art for Naruto Volume 52. Photo courtesy
of VIZ Media. © 1999 Masashi Kishimoto/Shueisha Inc.

VIZ Media starts off September with a special Naruto release promotion through VIZManga.com and the VIZ Manga App for the Apple iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. Naruto Volumes 46-47 are available now, Vol. 48 launches today, and a new volume of NARUTO (volumes 49-51) will be available each day thereafter. On Tuesday, September 6th, Naruto Volume 52 will debut DAY-AND-DATE with its print counterpart!

Naruto Vol. 52 sees a Cell Seven reunion as Sasuke, Sakura and Naruto finally meet and the former classmates’ complicated past gives way to a violent and unsure future. Naruto realizes he must eventually battle Sasuke one-on-one… to the death! But with Sasuke and his dark allies bent on complete destruction, and political intrigue in the villages, will the powerful Allied Shinobi Forces allow the two “friends” to meet in battle?!

September 5th also sees new additions to 11 other VIZ Media manga series.
Continued…

Covers for Monster Attack Team issues M8 (illustration by Kevin Grays) and M9 (art by Matt Frank).
Photos courtesy of MAT. © 2011 Monster Attack Team

Japanese SF Movie Zine to be Distributed by Diamond
Source: Monster Attack Team
Special Thanks to Michael G Keller and Edward Holland

In the 1990s, Monster Attack Team, a fanzine devoted to Japanese live action sci-fi and fantasy productions, ran for seven issues. After a fifteen year break, editors Edward Holland and Michael Keller revived MAT in 2010 with a massive, full-color 132 page eighth issue packed with informative articles covering a wide range of tokusatsu film and television programs.

And now Monster Attack Team is back in a big way. Holland and Keller are currently working with a team of top writers on MAT #9, another 100+ page, full-color special. Monster Attack Team has also been picked up for distribution by Diamond Comic Distributors, Inc., North America’s largest comic book distributor, making upcoming issues available to comic shops, book stores, and specialty shops across the country.
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Classic Sci-Fi Action Saga Will Debut New Weekly Digital Chapters For Only $0.99!
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZManga.com
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

The Neon Genesis Evangelion manga is now available on VIZManga.com and the
VIZ Manga App. © 1995 Gainax. © 2011 VIZ Media, LLC

VIZ Media has announced the digital launch of the acclaimed sci-fi manga masterpiece, Neon Genesis Evangelion, on VIZManga.com and the VIZ Manga App for the Apple iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. Neon Genesis Evangelion will be available chapter-by-chapter for only $0.99 each, with a new chapter launching each week. To celebrate the series’ debut, VIZ Media will offer a free Chapter 1 preview; Chapter 2 is also now available for download for $0.99.

Neon Genesis Evangelion (rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens), is series co-creator Yoshiyuki Sadamoto’s personal interpretation of the Evangelion characters and story is sure to intrigue new and old fans alike.
Continued…

New Novel Based on the Popular Japanese Video Game from the Acclaimed Author of Brave Story
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: haikasoru.com
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

High fantasy and true love come to life in Ico: Castle in
the Mist. Photo courtesy of VIZ Media. © Miyuki Miyabe.
© 2011 Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

VIZ Media, LLC, the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, with publish author Miyuki Miyabe’s imaginative fantasy novel Ico: Castle in the Mist on August 16th. The new book will be published by the company’s Haikasoru imprint and will carry an MSRP of $15.99 U.S. / $18.99 CAN.

A boy with horns, marked for death; A girl who sleeps in a cage of iron.

The Castle of the Mist calls for its sacrifice: a horned child, born once a generation. When, on a single night in his thirteenth year, Ico’s horns grow long and curved, he knows his time has come. But why does the Castle of the Mist demand this offering, and can the castle keep Ico’s destiny from intertwining with that of the girl imprisoned within its walls?

“Ico: Castle in the Mist first appeared as a popular video game for the PlayStation 2 and will soon to be re-mastered in high-definition for the PlayStation 3,” says Nick Mamatas, Haikasoru’s Editor. “Award winning author Miyuki Miyabe was inspired by the game’s atmosphere and expands the story in her novel, creating a whole world for readers to explore. Delve into the mysteries of this talented author’s grand achievement of imagination in this new release from Haikasoru!”
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Extension of VIZ Media’s Digital Platform Expands Manga Audience to All Web Users in U.S. and Canada
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZManga.com
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

Manga fans in America and Canada can now access VIZ Media titles
at the new digital manga website VIZManga.com. Photo courtesy of
VIZ Media. © 2011 VIZ Media, LLC

VIZ Media, the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in the North America, announced the launch of VIZManga.com at their 25th Anniversary Party last week in San Diego during the annual Comic-Con International convention. The website joins VIZ Media’s existing digital manga platform and launched with 40 series currently available on the VIZ MANGA App for iOS devices, including the wildly popular titles Naruto, Bleach, Blue Exorcist, Ouran High School Host Club and Vampire Knight.

With this expansion of the platform, fans can browse and access their digital manga from VIZManga.com and through the VIZ Manga Apps for the iPad and iPhone/iPod touch. With one account, registered users will be able to view their purchases across even more devices than ever.
Continued…

The shoulder to shoulder crowds of Wonderfest. Photo courtesy of Clawmark Toys.

Clawmark Does Wonderfest
Author: Tom Dougherty, Clawmark Toys

WONDERFEST! The name says it all! I have had the good fortune to experience many Japanese Toy and Model shows in both Osaka and Tokyo over the years, but nothing quite compares to Wonderfest. An enormous event like Wonderfest is of course held in the enormous complex called Makhuhari Messe. I only had to ride a train for about two and a half hours through Tokyo and past Disneyland to arrive at the station and begin the walk.
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Curated Digital Artwork Created with Autodesk SketchBook Apps will be Unveiled at VIZ Media 25th Anniversary Event at Comic-Con
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

ART FOR HOPE illustration by Sirron Norris. Photo courtesy
of VIZ Media.

VIZ Media, the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in the North America, has announced a collaboration with Autodesk, Inc. to create a limited edition digital art book anthology that will be sold through VIZ Media’s Manga App, with 100% of VIZ Media’s net proceeds going to support disaster relief efforts in Japan. All of the artwork in the collection, titled ART FOR HOPE, will be created using Autodesk SketchBook digital paint and drawing software applications.

VIZ Media and Autodesk have already started working with artists to create works that deliver a message of hope to victims of the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Artists interested in submitting work to be considered for the collection can email artforhope@viz.com. The VIZ Media editorial team, together with Autodesk’s team, will select and curate the selections for the digital anthology, which will be released later this fall exclusively through the VIZ Manga App, available on iPad, iPod touch and iPhone. VIZ Media will donate 100% of its net proceeds to the disaster relief and rebuilding efforts in Japan.
Continued…

Get Strong or Get Schooled in New Action Manga from VIZ Media
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

Cover for Tenjo Tenge Volume 1. Photo courtesy of VIZ
Media. © 1997 Oh!great/Shueisha Inc.

VIZ Media, LLC, the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, brings gnarly, knuckle-busting action to readers with the release of the manga series, Tenjo Tenge, on June 21st. Created by Oh!great, the debut volume features 16 full-color pages and a selection of alternate color cover images. Tenjo Tenge will be published by the VIZ Signature imprint, is rated ‘M’ for Mature Audiences, and will carry an MSRP of $17.99 U.S. / $21.00 CAN.

Welcome to Todo High, home of the toughest student brawlers and sexiest badass babes in high school history. The only rule is: get strong or get schooled.

Soichiro Nagi and Bob Makihara have always been the meanest street brawlers around. When they enter Todo High they plan on carving out a reputation as the strongest fighters in their new school – easier said than done in a place that’s dedicated to training its students in the art of combat! After realizing they’re the new fish swimming in a tank full of sharks, Soichiro and Bob enter the Juken fight club as rookie members. However, the Executive Council – the archrival of the Juken Club – soon launches a surprise attack. Soichiro and Bob have a chance to show their stuff, as long as they don’t get curb-kicked in the process!
Continued…

VIZ Media has been named the exclusive U.S. product licensor for the new animated superhero series TIGER & BUNNY. © 2011 Sunrise/ T&B Partners, MBS

Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: tigerandbunny.net (Japanese)
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

TIGER & BUNNY has already become a merchandising
success in Japan. © 2011 Sunrise/ T&B Partners, MBS,
Bandai

VIZ Media, LLC, the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, has announced it has been named the exclusive U.S. product licensor for the new animated crime-fighting action series TIGER & BUNNY (タイガー＆バニー, Taigaa & Banii). The company will showcase the property to a variety of potential merchandise partners during the 2011 Licensing International Expo, held in Las Vegas, June 14th-16th, 2011. VIZ Media will be located in Booth #2481.

The Licensing International Expo is held at Mandalay Bay Convention Center and is the preeminent marketplace for the hottest international brands and properties. The vent features a show floor of more than 7,000 properties from all of Hollywood’s major film studios, global entertainment companies, Fortune 500 consumer brands, sporting teams, interactive properties, fashion labels, and cutting-edge artists and designers. The annual event celebrated its 30th Anniversary in 2010.

TIGER & BUNNY currently simulcasts the same day it debuts in Japan the SAME DAY it debuts in Japan (currently up to Eepisode 10) on HULU and VIZAnime, the company’s own exclusive web destination for anime. TIGER & BUNNY Blu-ray currently rank Number 1 on Amazon Japan, and a wide variety of toys, collectables, and other products are already licensed for the Japanese market.
Continued…

The boy detective Conan Edogawa has entertained readers and audiences for 17 years. © Gosho Aoyama/ Shogakukan, Yomiuri-TV, TMS

Boy Detective Franchise Still Going Strong
Author: Andrew Nguyen
Source: FUNimation Entertainment, VIZ Media
Official Manga Site: websunday.net/conan (Japan), shonensunday.com/series/caseclosed (US)
Official Anime Site: ytv.co.jp/conan, conan-movie.jp (Japan), funimation.com/caseclosed (US)
Special Thanks to Jackie Smith

The boy detective Conan Edogawa and his true identity, teenager
Shinichi Kudo. Photo courtesy of FUNimation Entertainment.
© Gosho Aoyama/ Shogakukan, Yomiuri-TV, TMS

Shinichi Kudo is one of Japan’s most famous tantei (detective) due to his ability to solve even the most baffling cases. The press referred to him as the “Detective of the East” even though he is only a teenager. After finishing a date with his childhood friend Ran Mouri at a Tokyo amusement park, he inadvertently witnesses a shady deal between a Japanese businessperson and a mysterious man in black. But before Kudo can investigate further, he is ambushed and knocked out by another man in black. To eliminate Kudo while leaving no trace of their presence, the two men in black force-feed him APTX-4869, an untraceable experimental poison. Instead of killing him, the poison physically de-ages the teenager back to a 7-year-old child.

Acting on the advice of his neighbor, Dr. Hiroshi Agasa, Kudo goes to live at Ran’s house under the pseudonym “Conan Edogawa” (inspired by the writer Edogawa Rampo, who in turn based his pen name on Edgar Allen Poe). There Conan uses Ran’s father, Kogoro Mouri— a mostly incompetent detective— to solve the numerous cases that cross his path. To catch those responsible for his predicament, Conan works behind the scenes in the hopes of making Kogoro famous enough to receive a case dealing with the aptly-named Black Organization.
Continued…

Two volumes of Smile: Pray for Japan— each a collection of illustrations by manga creator Takehiko Inoue— can now be purchased from VIZ Media,
with proceeds going to aid victims of the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. Photo courtesy of VIZ Media. © 2011 Takehiko Inoue. © 2011 VIZ Media, LLC

Portraits by Legendary Manga Creator Following the Earthquake and Tsunami Now Available on iPhone, iPod Touch And iPad
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZ.com/apps
Special Thanks to Jane Jane Lui, Candice Uyloan, and Erik Jansen

VIZ Media, LLC, one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, continues to assist international fundraising efforts for Japanese disaster relief. The company has announced that it will make legendary manga creator Takehiko Inoue’s newest Smile series of illustrations available to North American iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad users via the VIZ Manga App. All VIZ Media proceeds from these purchases will be donated directly to the Japanese Red Cross Society to aid victims in the areas ravaged by the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami.

“Takehiko Inoue’s lifelike portraits of everyday Japanese people smiling have inspired hope in the wake of the terrible events that struck the country on March 11th, and we’re honored to help with ongoing fundraising efforts by making them available to fans in North America,” says Hyoe Narita, Executive Vice President of VIZ Media. “We encourage iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad users to contribute to the Japanese Red Cross Society and enjoy these moving images as a testament to the resilience and indomitable spirit of the Japanese people.”
Continued…

Season 1 Available Starting on May 18th
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: tenipuri.com (Japan), VIZAnime.com/the-prince-of-tennis (US)
Special Thanks to Jane Lui, Candice Uyloan, and Irena Boostani

Key artwork for the hit sports anime THE PRINCE OF TENNIS, available this week
on Amazon Instant Video. Photo courtesy of VIZ Media. © 1999 Takeshi Konomi,
© 2001 NAS, TV Tokyo

VIZ Media has announced the release of THE PRINCE OF TENNIS (テニスの王子様, Tenisu no Oojisama, 2001) on Amazon Instant Video. The first season episodes of the sports anime (1-13) will be available for purchase starting Wednesday, May 18th for $1.99 each.

THE PRINCE OF TENNIS is based on the smash hit manga series created by Takeshi Konomi that has sold more than 30 million copies in Japan, and is also published exclusively in North America by VIZ Media (Rated ‘A’ for All Ages).

THE PRINCE OF TENNIS anime series (dubbed, TV-G) follows the on and off court adventures of Ryoma Echizen, the 12-year-old son of a famous tennis player and a prodigy in his own right. Looking to make a mark, he joins his junior high school tennis team, known as one of the most competitive in Japan. Now he has to overcome the older players on his high school team who are dead set against letting him surpass them.
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Kids’ Favorite Hamsters Leap Into A Fun Interactive Mobile Universe
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZ.com/apps
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Irena Boostani

The video game HAMTARO: LITTLE HAMSTERS,
BIG ADVENTURES is now available for iPhone
and iPad. Photo courtesy of VIZ Media. © R.
Kawai/ 2000, 2007 Shogakukan, SMDE, TV
Tokyo. © 2011 VIZ Media, LLC

VIZ Media, LLC has licensed the rights for a HAMTARO: LITTLE HAMSTERS, BIG ADVENTURES video game for the Apple iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad to Egg Ball Games. VIZ Media is the official North American distributor of the iApp game, which is available now; the game is available also in Latin America and Europe. To learn more about HAMTARO: LITTLE HAMSTERS, BIG ADVENTURES, please visit VIZ.com/apps.

HAMTARO: LITTLE HAMSTERS, BIG ADVENTURES features 3 colorful and original game environments and dozens of levels. The game is Facebook enabled and offers an interactive Game Center for posting personal and worldwide high scores. Players can also unlock 9 exclusive HAMTARO wallpapers to further customize their iPhone.

“We’re very excited to bring HAMTARO: LITTLE HAMSTERS, BIG ADVENTURES to North American iPhone and iPad users,” says Aadil Tayouga, Licensing Analyst. “This game launches the much-loved hamster character into the interactive mobile digital realm, and we look forward to introducing him and his friends to a whole new generation of players.”

Based on the popular 1997 manga, TV series (more than 350 episodes) which has been broadcast in 40 countries, and theatrical shorts (released in Japan as co-features to Godzilla films), the HAMTARO application will captivate both children and adults as they help Hamtaro and his friends collect items they need to rack up big scores and unlock new levels.
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The POKÉMON TRAVEL ACTIVITY KIT comes in a handy travel ‘suitcase’, perfect for on-the-go recreation for kids aged 5 and up. Photo courtesy of VIZ Media.
© 2011 Pokémon. © 1995-2011 Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK inc. TM, ®, and character names are trademarks of Nintendo.

Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZ.com/Pokemon
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Irena Boostani

Just in time for summer, VIZ Media delivers hours of Pokémon fun with the POKÉMON TRAVEL ACTIVITY KIT! Featuring Snivy, Tepig, Oshawott and other new Pokémon from the Unova region, the POKÉMON TRAVEL ACTIVITY KIT includes an activity pad, poster, stickers and six chunky crayons, all packaged in a suitcase-style case! Recommended for ages 5 and up, the POKÉMON TRAVEL ACTIVITY KIT also makes a wonderful gift.
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VIZ Media Imprint Releases Second Magatama Trilogy Novel on May 17th
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: haikasoru.com
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

Noriko Ogiwara continues in her award-winning
Magatama Trilogy with Mirror Sword and Shadow
Prince. Photo courtesy of VIZ Media. © 1991, 1996,
2005 Noriko Ogiwara. Illustrations © 2010 Miho Satake

VIZ Media, LLC has announced the release of author Noriko Ogiwara’s fantasy adventure novel, Mirror Sword and Shadow Prince, on May 17th. The hardcover book will be published by the company’s Haikasoru literary imprint and will carry an MSRP of $21.99 U.S. / $25.99 CAN.

Haikasoru publishes some of the most compelling contemporary Japanese science fiction and fantasy stories for English-speaking audiences and is first imprint based in the U.S. dedicated to Japanese science fiction and fantasy in translation.

“Author Noriko Ogiwara garnered well-deserved praise from North American readers for Dragon Sword and Wind Child, the first book in her award-winning Magatama Trilogy,” says Nick Mamatas, Haikasoru’s Editor. “Mirror Sword and Shadow Prince continues the saga— centuries after the events of Dragon Sword and Wind Child the magical magatama have to be found once again by a young girl named Toko. Only she can stop her best friend, the orphan prince Oguna, from destroying their nation, and himself. It’s a wonderful retelling of one of Japan’s foundational myths, and I’m excited to present a new flavor of epic fantasy to English-speaking audiences.”
Continued…

The new Toho SFX Actress Encyclopedia is a treasure trove of photos and information about the leading ladies of Toho’s fantasy films.
© 2011 Yosensha Co. Ltd./ Toho Co., Ltd.

Author: Loren Portillo
Official Site: Toho SFX Actress Encyclopedia

Released in Japan barely a month ago, the incredible softcover book Toho SFX Actress Encyclopedia (別冊映画秘宝　東宝特撮女優大全集, Toho tokusatsu jouyuu taizenshuu) covers 50 years of Toho special effects film actresses, from 1954 to 2004. Published by Yosensha Co. Ltd., this 158 page marvel includes a stunning amount of rare color and B&W photographs of some of the most beautiful women ever to grace the screens at Toho Studios.
Continued…

Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZ.com/apps
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

The VIZ MANGA APP is now available for the
iPhone and iPod Touch. Photo courtesy of VIZ
Media. © 2011 VIZ Media, LLC

Media, LLC, one of the entertainment industry’s most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, continues the digital integration of its vast library of manga properties with the latest announcement of the availability of the VIZ MANGA APP for the Apple iPhone and iPod Touch mobile devices. The expansion will be compatible with the VIZ MANGA APP on the iPad, and adds cross-platform features.

To support the launch, the publisher has also kicked off a special digital promotion that offers select Volume 1 titles for only $2.99 – 40% off the regular price! This is for a limited time only and runs until midnight PST May 9th.

Manga titles for the iPhone and iPod Touch are available via the VIZ MANGA APP, which is free through the iTunes Store. Volumes are generally available for purchase and download in the U.S. and Canada for only $4.99 (U.S. / CAN) each. Twenty-eight series and almost 200 volumes are available now, including popular series such as Bleach, Blue Excorcist, Death Note, Naruto and One Piece and dozens more from VIZ Media’s Shonen Jump, Shojo Beat, and VIZ Signature imprints. Readers should check the app regularly, as new additions (including House of Five Leaves and not simple) and free Chapter 1 previews of forthcoming manga series are also featured.
Continued…

Photo courtesy of BAM! Marketing, Publicity & Promotions. © 2011 AM².

3-Day Event in Anaheim this 4th of July Weekend
Source: BAM! Marketing, Publicity & Promotions press releases
Official Site: am2con.org
Special Thanks to Chase Wang

Located in Anaheim, California, ­ AM² is a 3-day, 24 hour event with no general attendance/badge purchase requirement and is aspiring to be a key meeting place for fans that share a common interest in Asian music, Animation/Anime, and Comics/Manga. Established in 2010, AM² will be held on July 1-3, 2011 at the Anaheim Convention Center in sunny Anaheim, California. AM² current activities include Exhibit Hall, AMV’s, Arcade, Summer Festival, World Cosplay Summit, Rum Party Pirates, Cosplay Chess, Dances, Fashion Shows, Table Top, Console Gaming, AniMaid Café, Workshops, Panels, Concerts and more! Entrance to the event is free, but attendees can avoid the huge lines by obtaining a Passport fast pass for the event. The Passport fast pass will also provide holders with premier seating options at Main Events and at Concert events as well as major discounts with theme parks, retailers and local restaurants.
Continued…

Fushigi Yugi: Genbu Kaiden and Arata: The Legend Join the Newest Additions to 15 Other Popular VIZ Manga Series
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZ.com/apps
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

27 different manga series and more than 125 manga
volumes will be available this month from the VIZ Manga App
for iPad. Photo courtesy of VIZ Media. © 2011 VIZ Media, LLC

VIZ Media will round out April with a second block of monthly manga updates available exclusively for the VIZ Manga App for the Apple iPad mobile device. These latest updates will include the digital premiere of 5 new manga titles and updates to 15 other series that are also currently available. Fushigi Yugi: Genbu Kaiden is set to debut on April 18th, and Arata: The Legend will launch for the iPad on April 25th.

The VIZ Manga App is available for free through the iTunes Store and all manga volumes are generally available for purchase and download in the U.S. and Canada within the application for $4.99 (U.S. / CAN) per volume. More than 125 manga volumes are now available for download.

The second round of April updates also includes new additions to 17 other popular VIZ Media series currently available. Readers should check the app regularly, as new additions and free Chapter 1 previews of forthcoming manga series for the iPad are also featured.
Continued…

Who has Won Sets of Three Different Cover Editions for the Sold-Out Comic Book?
Source: IDW Publishing
Special Thanks to Chris Ryall, Carlos Guzman, Dirk Wood and Alonzo Simon

Alex Ross artwork for Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters
Cover A. Photo courtesy of IDW Publishing. © 2011
IDW Publishing/ Toho Co., Ltd.

A SciFi JAPAN EXCLUSIVE

Thank you to everyone who entered IDW Publishing and SciFi Japan’s Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters comic book contest. The response from readers was fantastic with hundreds of entries submitted. The three randomly drawn winners are:

Marc Southerland
Veronica Weissman
Dillon Fisher

Congratulations to the winners! Each of you will receive a set of three Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters issue #1 cover variant editions featuring the artwork of Alex Ross and Eric Powell. The prizes will be shipped soon so keep an eye on your mailboxes.

In related news, IDW Publishing has announced that Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters #1 sold out on the first day of release at comic book retail stores throughout North America. To meet the continued demand, a second printing of the issue will be released on May 11, 2011. The second printing of Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters#1 will feature the Alex Ross illustrated cover from the first printing with a new foil logo.
Continued…

New Paranormal Anime Adventure in the U.S. Only Days After Japanese Debut
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZAnime
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

Key art for the new paranormal anime BLUE EXORCIST.
Photo courtesy of VIZ Media. © Kazue Kato/ Shueisha,
Blue Exorcist Committee, MBS

VIZ Media has announced that it will serve as an official distribution partner for Aniplex of America’s domestic debut of the BLUE EXORCIST anime series. VIZ Media will carry the new action series (subtitled) on its VIZAnime website beginning Wednesday, April 20th, just days after its eagerly anticipated debut on Japanese TV on April 17th. New episodes will stream on the site every Wednesday.

In the animated series, Rin, along with his twin brother Yukio Okumura are raised by an eminent priest, Shiro Fujimoto, but one day Rin discovers that their biological father is actually Satan! As the border between “Assiah” (the human world) and “Gehenna” (demon’s world) is intruded upon by evils, Rin vows to become the ultimate exorcist to defeat his own father, Satan. To hone his raw skills, Rin enters True Cross Academy to train with other exorcist candidates. Can Rin fight the demons and keep his infernal bloodline a secret? It won’t be easy, especially when drawing his father’s sword releases the demonic power within him!

VIZ Media is also the official North American publisher of the Blue Exorcist manga series, created Kazue Kato. Volume 1 is on sale now and is published under the company’s Shonen Jump Advanced imprint. Blue Exorcist is rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens and carries an MSRP of $9.99 U.S. / $12.99 CAN.
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VIZ Media Expands iPad Digital Library with Absolute Boyfriend, Black Bird, Blue Exorcist, Kekkashi and More
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZ.com/apps
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

24 different manga series and more than 100 manga
volumes will be available this month from the VIZ Manga App
for iPad. Photo courtesy of VIZ Media. © 2011 VIZ Media, LLC

VIZ Media continues the expansion of its digital manga manga library available exclusively for the VIZ Manga App for the Apple iPad mobile device with several new series that will premiere during the first half of April.

The latest update features the launch of the shojo series Absolute Boyfriend and the fantasy-action of Kekkashi on April 4th. Another popular shojo manga series, Black Bird, and the supernatural adventure BLUE EXORCIST will premiere on April 11th. The VIZ Manga App is available for free through the iTunes Store and all manga volumes are generally available for purchase and download in the U.S. and Canada within the application for $4.99 (U.S. / CAN) per volume. More than 100 manga volumes are now available for download.

April updates also include new additions to 12 other popular VIZ Media series currently available. Readers should check the app regularly, as new additions and free Chapter 1 previews of forthcoming manga series for the iPad are also featured.
Continued…

SciFi Japan readers can win a set of three different variant editions of IDW Publishing’s Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters comic book.
Photo courtesy of IDW Publishing. © 2011 IDW Publishing/ Toho Co., Ltd.

Win a Set of Three Different Cover Editions, Courtesy of IDW Publishing and SciFi Japan
Source: IDW Publishing
Special Thanks to Chris Ryall, Carlos Guzman, Dirk Wood and Alonzo Simon

A SciFi JAPAN EXCLUSIVE

Today, IDW Publishing premieres the first issue of their new comic books series Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters. Based on the long-running Toho film series and characters, the ongoing comic stars the King of the Monsters and other fan favorites such as Mothra, Rodan, Anguirus, and King Ghidorah in stories by writers Eric Powell (The Goon) and Tracy Marsh and artists Phil Hester (Green Arrow, Firebreather) and Bruce McCorkindale (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, The Falling Man).

To celebrate Godzilla’s return to American comics, IDW is offering SciFi Japan readers a chance to win prize packs containing three different cover variant editions of Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters issue #1. The covers feature the artwork of Alex Ross (Marvels, Kingdom Come) and Godzilla comic writer Eric Powell.
Continued…

Issue #1 of IDW Publishing’s Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters comic book comes with multiple variant covers, including this tri-fold illustration by
Eric Powell for Cover B. Photo courtesy of IDW Publishing. © 2011 IDW Publishing/ Toho Co., Ltd.

Source: IDW Publishing
Special Thanks to Chris Ryall and Carlos Guzman

Cover A by Alex Ross. Photo courtesy of IDW Publishing.
© 2011 IDW Publishing/ Toho Co., Ltd.

The first issue of IDW Publishing’s Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters, comic book series will arrive on stores shelves Wednesday, March 30th. The ongoing series is being written by Eisner Award-winner Eric Powell (The Goon) and Tracy Marsh. Artwork is provided by penciller Phil Hester (Green Arrow, Firebreather), inker Bruce McCorkindale (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, The Falling Man) and Eisner-nominated colorist Ronda Pattison. The cover price is $3.99.

Godzilla: Kingdom of Monsters begins as Godzilla emerges from the ocean off the coast of Japan and makes his way towards Tokyo. Military countermeasures seem powerless against the gargantuan beast, and the Japanese government may have to resort to some desperate measures to prevent further calamity. The destructive saga also features a host of beloved Toho monsters such as Rodan, Mothra, and King Ghidorah, making their long-awaited debut to American comics.
Continued…

Titles Include Kids Favorites, Sci-Fi Action, Shojo Fantasy Drama, and Works by Natsume Ono and CLAMP
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

Cover art for Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D’s Vol. 1. Photo courtesy
of VIZ Media. © 2009 by Masahiro Hikokubo, Masashi
Sato/ Shueisha Inc. © K. Takahashi © NAS・TV Tokyo

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media) has detailed a variety of notable new manga acquisitions for the second half of 2011.

Scheduled for release in coming months, perfect for kids’ summertime fun, are a pair of new Pokemon titles including a Travel Activity Kit and the debut of the Pokemon Black & White manga series. The highly anticipated cute and quirky bean dogs of Mameshiba will also debut in their own manga and in a character guide.

Other titles aimed at Teen and Older Teen readers will feature the high-speed action of Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D’s in an innovative new original story, the tense mystery drama Psyren, a remastered 3-in-1 collection of the classic apocalyptic saga X by the celebrated manga creative team CLAMP, an anthology of 14 never-before-released stories by Natsume Ono in Tesoro, and the dramatic fantasy of Dawn of the Arcana.
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T-’s Facto presents the prototype Godzilla 54 sculpture, one of the the incredible kits sold at Winter WonderFest 2011.
Photo by Ed Godziszewski. © 1954 Toho Co., Ltd.

Godzilla, Ultraman, and More at Tokyo Model and Toy Collectors Show
Author: Ed Godziszewski
Official Site: Wonder Festival

Once again, it’s that time of year for the winter season orgy of model kits, toys, and cosplay otherwise known as Wonder Festival. Hosted once again by toy and kit maker Kaiyodo, this year’s event again took place February 6, 2011 at the Makuhari Messe, just a few train stops down the Keio Line from Tokyo Disneyland. And as usual, this year’s show had its share of surprises as well as the weird, wacky, and wonderful.
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North America’s Most Popular Manga Monthly Delivers Commemorative Special
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

Cover for the 100th issue of Shonen Jump, now on sale.
Photo courtesy of VIZ Media. © 2011 VIZ Media, LLC

VIZ Media, LLC celebrates the 100th issue of Shonen Jump magazine, which hit newsstands nationwide on March 1st. The cover price is $4.99.

The commemorative April 2011 issue features special content including a pictorial retrospective of all the manga heroes that have graced the magazine’s pages since the very first issue. This includes original Shonen Jump heroes such as Goku from Dragon Ball, Yugi from Yu-Gi-Oh! and popular mainstays like Naruto, Ichigo from Bleach, as well as more recent additions to the Shonen Jump Super Team including Ageha from the new manga series Psyren, and Yusei from Yu-Gi-Oh 5D’s. The issue also contains the Dragon Ball X One Piece Cross Epoch, a collaborative one-shot story by the creators of each series where characters from both popular manga meet, and includes a free YU-GI-OH! trading card, Dark Magician.
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A Reformed Teenage Delinquent Tries to Lead a Peaceful High School Life in New Shojo Beat Series
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

Cover art for Volume 1 of Oresama Teacher. Photo
courtesy of VIZ Media. © Izumi Tsubaki 2008/
Hakusensha, Inc.

VIZ Media, LLC brings the hilarious high-school hijinks of Izumi Tsubaki’s manga series, Oresama Teacher (I’m The Teacher), to North American audiences on March 1st. The new title will be published under the Shojo Beat imprint, is rated ‘T’ for Teens, and will carry an MSRP of $9.99 U.S. / $12.99 CAN.

Mafuyu is the no-nonsense, take-charge and hard-hitting leader of her high school gang. But when she gets expelled for being a delinquent, her mother, fed up with her daughter’s wayward ways, sends Mafuyu to an isolated school far off in the country. Determined to make the best of the situation and make her mother proud, Mafuyu decides to turn over a new, feminine, well-behaved leaf. But her fighting spirit can’t be kept down, and the night before school starts she finds herself defending some guy who’s getting beaten up. One slip wouldn’t have been a problem, except the guy is… her teacher?! How can Mafuyu learn to be a good girl if her teacher won’t let her forget her wicked past?

“Mafuyu is going to have to try very hard to be the well-behaved, ultra-shiny, super-feminine high school student she longs to become,” says Pancha Diaz, Editor. “But along the way, she will have to contend with a homeroom teacher who blackmails her, an unruly classmate who likes to fight, and her own tendency to still find trouble. We invite readers to jump into her latest story and follow Mafayu as she strives to live like a normal high school girl.”
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Interview with IDW Cover Artist Matt Frank
Author: Bob Johnson
Special thanks to IDW Comics

As fans eagerly await the debut of IDW’s Godzilla Kingdom of Monsters comic, SciFi Japan caught up with cover artist Matt Frank and discussed the comic and what to expect in the months (years?) ahead. We also have an exclusive look at the Rodan cover for issue #2! So read on and enjoy!
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SciFi Japan mock cover by Matt Frank! ©2011 IDW Publishing and Toho Co., ltd. (note: this is not an official cover)

Two popular VIZ Media anime series are now available as rental or own downloads. Photos courtesy of VIZ Media. HIKARU NO GO © Yumi Hotta, HMC,
Takeshi Obata, Noel/ Shueisha, TV Tokyo, Dentsu, Pierrot. MÄR © 2005 Noboyuki Anzai/ Shogakukan, ShoPro, TV Tokyo

iTunes, PlayStation Network, And Amazon Video On Demand Begin Offering Both Hit Adventure Series To Rent Or Own
Source: VIZ Media, MediaLab press releases
Official Site: VIZAnime.com
Special Thanks to Jane Lui and Erik Jansen

VIZ Media has announced the availability of hit anime series HIKARU NO GO and MÄR for Download-To-Rent / Download-To-Own (DTR/DTO) from leading online content providers iTunes, PlayStation Network, and Amazon Video on Demand.

All episodes are $0.99 each for Download-To-Rent and $1.99 for Download-To-Own across all platforms.
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