SciFi Japan
    Source: Toei Co., Ltd. Official Site: kikaider.jp (Japan) Toei Co., Ltd. has provided information and new high-res photos from their upcoming theatrical feature KIKAIDER REBOOT (????? ??????, Kikaidaa Ribuuto). The movie will open in Japanese cinemas on Saturday, May 24th. In 1971, Toei kicked off the "Henshin Hero" era with the start of Shotaro Ishinomori`s MASKED RIDER (??????, Kamen Raidaa) television series. The following year, Toei and Ishinomori took the concept to another level with the android hero show ROBOTMAN KIKAIDER (?????????, Jinzo Ningen Kikaidaa, 1972 – 1973). Created by robotics expert Dr. Nobuhiko Komyoji (Hajime Izu), the android Jiro (Ban Daisuke) was installed with an incomplete "conscience circuit" with a sense of both evil and justice. As the hero Kikaider, Jiro struggled with these competing feelings as he learned what it meant to be human... all while dealing with the villainous organization

    Sample Pages from the Full Color Reference Guide to Japanese Science Fiction Film Posters and Lobby Cards Source: Sean Linkenback A SCIFI JAPAN EXCLUSIVE Author Sean Linkenback has given SciFi Japan an advance look at pages from his upcoming hardcover book, The Art of Japanese Monsters. A complete reference guide to Japanese science fiction film posters from 1954 to present, the book will contain artwork from over 60 different films, including the Godzilla, Gamera, and Mothra series; RODAN, GAPPA, the Majin films, WAR OF THE GARGANTUAS, THE H-MAN, and many more. Over 1,000 posters and lobby cards from 20 different countries will be featured in full color. Two editions of The Art of Japanese Monsters will be released. The standard edition will be available through Diamond Comic Distributors and select bookstores on May 14th, and pre-orders will start shipping May 1st. Signed copies will also

    Bandai Figures to be Sold in Japan and America Source: Bluefin Corp. Bandai Tamashii Nations Official Site: tamashii.jp (Japan) Special Thanks to Xavier Lim Distributor Bluefin Corp. has provided product specs and high-res photos for figures and collectibles coming from Bandai`s Tamashii Nations in July and August 2014. Fans and collectors can purchase Bandai Tamashii Nations products from authorized Bluefin dealers, including SciFi Japan`s sponsor Anime Jungle. S.H.Figuarts: Naruto/ S.H.Figuarts ??????? At last, one of the most requested characters in Tamashii Nations` surveys finally takes his rightful place in the S.H.Figuarts series. Naruto, as he appears in the NARUTO SHIPPUDEN (??? ???) animated series, will finally be portrayed as an action figure with intricate articulation to recreate the most extreme ninja action sequences. This advanced action figure also features a full-array of optional accessories, including a total of

    Silver Ranger Appears on Orange Carpet Alongside the Main Cast Source: Saban Brands Official Site: powerrangers.com Special Thanks to Shannon Kelly On Saturday, March 29th, the stars of Saban’s POWER RANGERS SUPER MEGAFORCE were joined by the never-before-seen Silver Ranger at NICKELODEON’S 27TH ANNUAL KIDS’ CHOICE AWARDS. The latest edition of the ceremony featuring the biggest television, movie and music acts was held at USC’s Galen Center, 3400 S. Figueroa Street Los Angeles, CA. Played by actor Cameron Jebo, the Silver Ranger debuted on the Orange Carpet before appearing for the first time in the POWER RANGERS series on Saturday, April 5, 2014. The Megaforce Ranger team includes Andrew Gray as Troy the Red Ranger, John Mark Loudermilk as Noah the Blue Ranger, Ciara Hanna as Gia the Yellow Ranger, Christina Masterson as Emma the Pink Ranger and Azim Rizk as Jake the

    Source: Nippon TV Official Movie Site: gatchaman-movie.jp (Japan) Nippon TV has provided SciFi Japan with production notes and high-res images from GATCHAMAN (??????, 2013), the live-action feature film based on the classic Tatsunoko Production anime series. With the exception of international film festival screenings, the GATCHAMAN movie is currently unavailable outside of Asia. Introduction They were chosen...to become the ultimate weapons. The chosen five...Man`s last defense against evil. At the beginning of the 21st Century mankind was under attack by invaders. Within 17 days half of the civilization was annihilated. On the verge of extinction humankind`s only hope against the invaders was the mysterious crystals called the Stones. These Stones empowered certain humans who were born Receptors. Statistically there`s only one Receptor in 8 million. After combing the land for Receptors, the chosen few gathered to train as special agents. They would be

    The Curse that Froze the World with Fear Returns Source: Showgate Official Site: juon-movie.jp (Japan) Five years after the release of the JU-ON: WHITE GHOST/JU-ON: BLACK GHOST double-feature in Japan and THE GRUDGE 3 in America, the long-running J-Horror franchise returns with JU-ON: THE BEGINNING OF THE END (?? -???????-, Juon: Owari no Hajimari), opening at the Shinjuku Wald 9 and other Japanese cinemas on June 28th. The 10th film in the JU-ON/THE GRUDGE series* is written and directed by Masayuki Ochiai. No stranger to the J-Horror genre, Ochiai had previously directed PARASITE EVE (????????, Parasaito Ivu, 1997), HYPNOSIS (??, Saimin, 1999), INFECTION (??, Kansen, 2004) and SHUTTER (?????, Shattaa, 2008). JU-ON: THE BEGINNING OF THE END brings the story back to the cursed house where the Saeki family came to their gruesome end and unleashed a terrifying curse that kills all who

    Limited Signed and Numbered Edition of Japanese Science Fiction Film Poster and Lobby Card Reference Guide Source: Sean Linkenback Anticipation for Sean Linkenback’s new poster-art book, The Art of Japanese Monsters had already been building in advance of its scheduled May 14th arrival date and now Linkenback has announced a deluxe version that is sure to whet the appetite of collectors: The Art of Japanese Monsters Leatherbound Deluxe Edition • Limited to 100 numbered copies • Each copy will be hand-bound in heirloom-quality leather • 20 Additional pages of posters (a whopping 250 pages total!) • Exclusive print from Hugo-Award winning artist Bob Eggleton • Each print will be autographed by Akira Takarada and Haruo Nakajima "This is something I had wanted to put together for a long-time," Linkenback told SciFi Japan. "I had been working for a while trying to get the logistics figured out,

    Images from Upcoming Live-Action Theatrical Series Source: Shochiku Co., Ltd. Official Site: patlabor-nextgeneration.com Shochiku has released new high-res photos from THE NEXT GENERATION -PATLABOR- (? ???? ???????? -??????-, Za Nekusuto Jenereeshon - Patoreibaa -, 2014). Supervised by director Mamoru Oshii (GHOST IN THE SHELL, THE SKY CRAWLERS), the live-action adaptation of the MOBILE POLICE PATLABOR (??????????, Kidoo Keisatsu Patlabor) manga and anime will run in 7 theatrical chapters starting April 5th. A feature film will follow in 2015. For more information on THE NEXT GENERATION -PATLABOR-, please see the previous coverage here on SciFi Japan: THE NEXT GENERATION -PATLABOR-

    Source: Toei Co., Ltd. Official Site: superhero-movie.com (Japan) Toei has provided press notes and photos for their latest "Super Hero Taisen" movie: HEISEI RIDER VS SHOWA RIDER: KAMEN RIDER TAISEN FEATURING SUPER SENTAI (????????????? ???????? feat.??????, Heisei Raidaa Tai Showa Raidaa Kamen Raidaa Taisen feat. Suupaa Sentai). The film opens in theaters across Japan on March 29, 2014. The soul of Kamen Rider has been handed down over generations, from the Showa franchise that started with MASKED RIDER (?????? Kamen Raidaa, 1971-1973) to the Heisei relaunch with MASKED RIDER KUUGA (????????? Kamen Raidaa Kuuga, 2000-2001). The latest Kamen Rider series, KAMEN RIDER GAIM (?????????????, Kamen Raidaa Gaimu, 2014), is the 15th entry in the second cycle... and now the culmination of that miraculous history begins! Entering a new era of innovation, the heroic image has been explored and redefined for a new generation. 30 heroes from both

    Disguise, Rubie’s and Morphsuits to Produce Power Rangers Costumes for Fans of All Ages through 2017 Source: Saban Brands, Burson-Marsteller press release Official Site: powerrangers.com Special Thanks to Gretchen Toy Saban Brands strengthens its POWER RANGERS costume business through licensing renewals with Disguise Inc., Rubie’s Costume Company and Morphsuits. Each partner will continue producing character-inspired costumes through 2017. As superheroes remain a top performing Halloween costumes for kids and adults, Power Ranger fans can suit up as their favorite Ranger year after year. Disguise Inc., the Halloween costume division of JAKKS Pacific, Inc., and Rubie’s Costume Company will continue to produce classic MIGHTY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS costumes as well as all-new styles from the current and upcoming POWER RANGERS seasons for both children and adults. Power Rangers costumes from Disguise will be available throughout North America, while Rubie’s will be available in Europe, the Middle East,

    Author: Edward L. Holland Source: Monster Attack Team Official Site: toei-heroworld.jp Special Thanks to Ishimori Productions and MAT Sgt. First Class Noriyuki Kawabata Families and adult fans can now visit an indoor park dedicated solely to Toei Company`s vast history of tokusatsu hero characters. Toei Hero World Namco Action Museum (??????????, Toei Hiiroowaarudo), located sixty plus minutes east of Tokyo in Makuhari New City Mihama ward Chiba at the massive Aeon Mall, is the first and only place on earth celebrating Toei’s hero shows and films. The park opened December 20, 2013 and features interactive heroes, Kamen Rider motorbikes, Super Sentai robots, five attractions and rides, a café, and Heroes Shop stocked with the latest collectibles. Hero World focuses on Toei’s heroes from 1971 like Shotaro Ishinomori’s Kamen Rider Ichigo and Nigo (Kamen Riders 1 and 2) and other non-related Ishinomori characters from

    Deal to Include Licensing and Broadcasting of Latest POWER RANGERS Seasons and DIGIMON FUSION Source: Saban Brands, Burson-Marsteller press release Official Site: powerrangers.com Special Thanks to Gretchen Toy Saban Brands and Cartoon Network have announced that POWER RANGERS MEGAFORCE, POWER RANGERS SUPER MEGAFORCE and DIGIMON FUSION have been licensed to Cartoon Network Latin America for broadcast beginning in 2014. Additionally, Cartoon Network Latin America will serve as licensing and merchandising agents for both the POWER RANGERS franchise and DIGIMON FUSION. MarVista Entertainment, the series’ exclusive international distributor, negotiated the agreement in partnership with Saban Brands. “POWER RANGERS and DIGIMON are popular global franchises, making them a natural fit for Cartoon Network’s programming slate,” said Kirk Bloomgarden, SVP of Saban Brands Global Consumer Products. “With this new partnership, we’re excited to deliver fans in Latin America the newest seasons and products for these iconic brands.” “We are thrilled

    Bandai Figures to be Sold in Japan and America Source: Bluefin Corp. Bandai Tamashii Nations Official Site: tamashii.jp (Japan) Special Thanks to Xavier Lim Distributor Bluefin Corp. has provided product specs and high-res photos for figures and collectibles coming from Bandai`s Tamashii Nations in May and June 2014. Fans and collectors can purchase Bandai Tamashii Nations products from authorized Bluefin dealers, including SciFi Japan`s sponsor Anime Jungle. Chogokin Hello Kitty/ ??? ?????? In what promises to be the ultimate Hello Kitty commemorative masterpiece, Tamashii Nations is proud to announce the release of Chogokin Hello Kitty. Celebrating the double 40 year anniversaries of the adorable Hello Kitty and awesome diecast robot line -- Chogokin (means "super alloy"in Japanese), this is the ultimate combination of Japan cute and cool! Chogokin Hello Kitty portrays this beloved character as a robot that

    New POWER RANGERS Season to Air Next Year on Nickelodeon Source: Saban Brands, Burson-Marsteller press release Official Site: powerrangers.com Special Thanks to Gretchen Toy Saban’s POWER RANGERS get charged in the next season of the iconic franchise, POWER RANGERS DINO CHARGE. Debuting on Nickelodeon in February 2015, this new season will deliver all-new dino-fueled action and adventure to fans of all ages. The series will roll out globally in more than 150 markets later that year. In addition, Bandai America Incorporated will continue to act as the global master toy licensee for the franchise, creating an all-new dinosaur themed product line. Now entering its 21st season, the POWER RANGERS franchise remains one of the top-rated and longest running boys live-action series on television. The new season POWER RANGERS DINO CHARGE will deliver thrilling action, adventure, humor and excitement in addition to core themes

    Launching the Most Super-Charged Season with Special Keys to Unlock the Power of Every Ranger EVER Source: Saban Brands, Burson-Marsteller Official Site: powerrangers.com Special Thanks to Gretchen Toy, Becky Coulter and Kelsey Lynch Saban Brands and Nickelodeon have announced that the all-new season of POWER RANGERS, Saban’s POWER RANGERS SUPER MEGAFORCE, will premiere on Saturday, Feb. 15, at 12:00 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon. Following its debut, the show will air regularly Saturdays at 12:00 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon, with encores airing Saturdays from 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. ET beginning Feb. 22 on Nicktoons. Now entering its 21st season, the POWER RANGERS franchise remains one of the top-rated and longest running boys live-action series on television. The new series will deliver super mega action, humor, excitement and entertainment, in addition to the core themes of friendship, teamwork, fitness and helping others. In the

    Articulated Bandai Figure to be Sold in Japan and America Source: Bluefin Corp. S.H.Figuarts Official Site: tamashii.jp/shfiguarts (Japan) Special Thanks to Xavier Lim Angel Grove`s resident brainiac joins the S.H.Figuarts line in the form of the highly anticipated Blue Ranger from the original MIGHTY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS (aka Tricera Ranger from ZYURANGER)! As with the previous Black Ranger figure, the Blue Ranger will feature the second special piece needed to construct the legendary Power Blaster. The upcoming S.H.Figuarts Yellow Ranger release will then feature the final part needed to complete this ultimate weapon! The S.H.Figuarts Mighty Morphin Blue Ranger also features the character`s signature Power Lance weapon in both separated (two parts) and connected variations. To top it off, the genial genius then includes the Thunder Slinger and Blade Blaster; as well as 3 sets of interchangeable hands to take signature combat poses. Preorder yours today;

    Additional High-Res Photos from the Upcoming Movie Source: Toei Co., Ltd. Official Site: majotaku.jp (Japan) Toei has provide additional high-res photos from their upcoming live action film, KIKI`S DELIVERY SERVICE (??????, Majo no Takkyuubin, 2014). Directed by Takashi Shimizu (JU-ON/THE GRUDGE J-Horror franchise), the movie will be released nationwide in Japan on March 1, 2014. For more information on KIKI`S DELIVERY SERVICE, please see the previous coverage here on SciFi Japan: Live Action KIKI`S DELIVERY SERVICE Preview

    Festival Tomorrow in Torrance, CA Author: Mark Jaramillo Official Site: fujiyamaichiban.com Japan has a rich history of colorful live action heroes gracing television and theater screens to the delight of fans of all ages. Some of the more popular franchises have spawned live events at various venues and festivals. Up until its closing in September 2014, the Ultramanland amusement park in Japan had daily stage shows featuring costumed actors in elaborately choreographed battle scenes complete with light and sound effects. Unfortunately, American fans have only had the opportunity to read about or view videos of the Japanese shows on the internet. Now, an authentic Japanese hero has been created in America to defend the Earth and act as an ambassador of Japanese culture. This original hero is known as FUJIYAMA ICHIBAN! Fujiyama Ichiban is a new character from Samurai Action Studio, a Japanese

    A Look at the Latest "Super Sentai VS Series" Movie Source: Toei Co., Ltd. Official Site: kyoryu-gobus.jp (Japan) Toei Co., Ltd. has provided photos and credits for KYORYUGER VS GO-BUSTERS (??????????????????????????????????????, Juuden Sentai Kyooryuujaa tai Goobasutaazu: Kyooryuu Daikessen! Saraba Eien no Tomo yo), aka ZYUDEN SENTAI KYORYUGER VS TOKUMEI SENTAI GO-BUSTERS. The new "Super Sentai VS Series" movie opens in Japanese cinemas on January 18, 2014. Sayonara Kyoryuger... Zyuden Sentai Kyoryuger and Tokumei Sentai G-Busters -- two great teams co-star in the latest chapter of the "Super Sentai VS Series"! They are joined by former dinosaur squadrons for the challenge of the ultimate "Great Dinosaur War"!! --Toei publicity materials for KYORYUGER VS GO-BUSTERS CREDITS Japanese Release Date: January 18, 2014 (nationwide) Cast Daigo Kiryu/ Kyoryu Red: Ryo Ryusei Ian Yorkland/ Kyoryu Black: Syuusuke Saito Nobuharu Udo/ Kyoryu Blue: Yamato Kinjo

    New Photos from Upcoming Kamen Rider Movie Source: Toei Co., Ltd. Official Site: movie-taisen.com (Japan) Toei has released additional high-res images from their latest Kamen Rider "Movie Wars" film, KAMEN RIDER GAIM & WIZARD (??????×?????? ???????? ????????MOVIE???, Kamen Raidaa × Kamen Raidaa Gaimu & Uizaado Tenkawakeme Sengoku Muubi Daigassen). The movie opens in Japan on December 14th. For more information on KAMEN RIDER GAIM & WIZARD, please see the previous coverage here on SciFi Japan: KAMEN RIDER GAIM & WIZARD Press Notes

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