Press Release 9/30/16 Press Release 9/30/16

DAISUKI.net Announces Fall 2016 Streaming Lineup

Japan’s premier streaming service DAISUKI.net has announced its lineup for the fall 2016 anime season! This season’s slate is filled with some of the newest and most-anticipated shows.

Long Riders! (Exclusive)

Summary: A female college student named Ami falls in love with bicycles after a fateful encounter with one. After buying one of her own and naming it "Ponta-kun," she realizes just how good it feels to ride a bike. However, she soon learns that cycling is not as easy of a sport as she initially thought...

Streaming Start Date: October 8, 2016 11:30 p.m. JST for United States of America, Canada and Europe excluding France and Belgium, October 15, 2016 11:30 p.m. JST for France and Belgium

DAISUKI Exclusive and available One- week early for DAISUKI premium member in United States of America and Canada

Regions: United States of America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Ireland, South Africa, Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Monaco, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, Ukraine, Vatican City, Yugoslavia, Scandinavian Peninsula (Denmark, Finland, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Ireland)

Languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Russian

©TAISHI MIYAKE・ICHIJINSHA/LONG RIDERS COMMITTEE

MAGIC OF STELLA (Exclusive)

Summary: Wanting to find something she can be passionate about, high school girl Tamaki finds herself joining her school’s dojin (self-published) game club. There, she spends her days with fellow female club members having fun and making chaos.

Streaming Start Date: October 10, 2016 11:30 p.m. JST for the territories excluding France and Belgium

October 17, October 11:30 p.m. JST for France and Belgium

DAISUKI Exclusive

Languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Russian

©Cloba.U,HOUBUNSHA/Magic of Stella Project

TOUKEN RANBU HANAMARU (Exclusive in limited territories)

Summary: In the year 2205, spirits born from the greatest blades are awakened to stop a threat from altering history. Amongst the chaos, a new recruit named Yasusada Yamatonokami trains alongside Kiyomitsu Kashuu

Streaming Start Date: October 10, 2016 1:00 a.m. JST for Europe excluding French and Belgium, October 17, 2016 1:00 a.m. JST for France and Belgium

DAISUKI Exclusive in Europe excluding German, English -speaking countries

Regions: France, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxenberg, Monaco, Andorra, Spain, Italy, San Marino, Vatican City, Malta, Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan

Languages: French, Spanish, Italian, Russian

MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM IRON-BLOODED ORPHANS

Summary: The second season of the MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM IRON-BLOODED ORPHANS anime, this show follows child soldiers Mikazuki, Orga, and the rest of their team. Though they originally start out as mercenaries escorting a female aristocrat named Kudelia, they soon find themselves in a tense political conflict between Earth and Mars. This new series takes place after the ending of the first season, and Mikazuki and his comrades find themselves having to face off against a new enemy.

Streaming Start Date: October 2, 2016 7:30 p.m. JST

Regions: Worldwide (except Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and Mainland China)

Languages: English, Korean, Chinese (simplified), French, German, Italian, Russian, European Spanish, South American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, Indonesian, Malaysian, Tagalog

©SOTSU・SUNRISE・MBS

March comes in like a lion

Summary: A 17-year old professional shogi player who lost his parents at a young age, Rei is a quiet young man who has great loneliness in his heart. However, he finds himself beginning to change after meeting three sisters in downtown Tokyo.

Streaming Start Date: October 9, 2016 0:00 a.m. JST for Europe October 16, 2016 0:00 a.m. JST for North and Central America,

Regions: North America, Central America, Europe (except German, French, and Italian-speaking countries)

Languages: English, Russian (Europe only), Spanish (Europe only)

©Chica Umino,HAKUSENSHA/March comes in like a lion Animation Committee

Occultic;Nine

Summary: A 17-year old boy named Yūta Gamon runs an occult blog called "Chōjō Kagaku Kirikiri Basara." After meeting some maniacal kindred spirits through his blog, an unimaginable incident begins to occur.

Streaming Start Date: October 9, 2016 1:00 a.m. JST for Europe, October 16, 2016 1:00 a.m. JST for North and Central America

Regions: North America, Central America, Europe (excluding German, French, and Italian-speaking countries)

Languages: English, French, Spanish, Russian

WWW.WAGNARIA!! (WWW.WORKING!!)

Summary: A high school student named Daisuke ends up working part-time at a family restaurant due to his family's financial troubles. However, he finds that his co-workers are all kind of nuts, leading to all kinds of crazy happenings in the establishment.

Streaming Start Date: October 9, 2016 0:30 a.m. JST

Regions: North America, Central America, Europe (except German, French-speaking countries)

Languages: English, Spanish (Europe only), Russian (Europe only), Italian (Europe only)

©Karino Takatsu/SQUARE ENIX, “WWW.WAGNARIA!!” Project (for North America)

©Karino Takatsu/SQUARE ENIX, “WWW.WORKING!!” Project (for other territories)

Cardfight!!Vanguard G NEXT

Summary: The sequel to the Cardfight!! Vanguard G GIRS Crisis / STRIDE GATE anime.

Streaming Start Date: October 2, 2016 10:30 a.m. JST (tentative)

Regions: Worldwide (except Japan and China)

Languages: English

©Project Vanguard G2016/TV Tokyo

Press Release 9/15/16 Press Release 9/15/16

Trailer Time: Batman - The Telltale Series, Episode Two: Children of Arkham

Today we can unveil the gripping new trailer for BATMAN - The Telltale Series - Episode 2: Children of Arkham. With Gotham City's first family mired in corruption, and an old friend now a dangerous adversary, the life of the Dark Knight is turned upside down. What was Thomas Wayne entangled in, and why was he killed? Determined to learn the truth about his father, Bruce sets out to question those involved in Gotham's criminal past. But which mask will he wear - The billionaire, or the bat? Huge decisions will forever change the Batman and the lives of those around him, as he meets the Children of Arkham.

The second of five episodes in the season, Episode 2: 'Children of Arkham' will be available digitally worldwide starting Tuesday September 20th on PC from the Telltale Online Store, Steam, and other digital distribution services, on the PlayStation®Network for PlayStation 4, and on the Xbox Games Store for Xbox One®. Release dates for additional platforms will be announced later in September.The series is also available to purchase at retailers in North America now as a special Season Pass Disc, which includes the first of five episodes in the season, and will grant access to the subsequent four episodes as they become available for download via online updates. The series will also be available to purchase at retailers across Europe on September 16th.

The series is also available to purchase at retailers in North America now as a special Season Pass Disc, which includes the first of five episodes in the season, and will grant access to the subsequent four episodes as they become available for download via online updates. The series will also be available to purchase at retailers across Europe on September 16th.Rendered to look like a living, breathing comic book, Telltale's vision of Batman features an award-winning cast of talent, including Troy Baker in the role of Bruce Wayne, Travis Willingham as Harvey Dent, Erin Yvette as Vicki Vale, Enn Reitel as Alfred Pennyworth, Murphy Guyer as Lieutenant James Gordon, Richard McGonagle as Carmine Falcone, Jason Spisak as Oswald Cobblepot, and Laura Bailey as Selina Kyle. Additional cast and characters will be revealed as the season progresses.

Rendered to look like a living, breathing comic book, Telltale's vision of Batman features an award-winning cast of talent, including Troy Baker in the role of Bruce Wayne, Travis Willingham as Harvey Dent, Erin Yvette as Vicki Vale, Enn Reitel as Alfred Pennyworth, Murphy Guyer as Lieutenant James Gordon, Richard McGonagle as Carmine Falcone, Jason Spisak as Oswald Cobblepot, and Laura Bailey as Selina Kyle. Additional cast and characters will be revealed as the season progresses.BATMAN - The Telltale Series Episode 2: Children of Arkham is rated M (Mature) for Violence, Blood, and Drug References by the ESRB. Future content in the season is yet to be rated by the ESRB. The series is published by Telltale Games in partnership with Warner Bros.

BATMAN - The Telltale Series Episode 2: Children of Arkham is rated M (Mature) for Violence, Blood, and Drug References by the ESRB. Future content in the season is yet to be rated by the ESRB. The series is published by Telltale Games in partnership with Warner Bros.

Press Release 9/15/16 Press Release 9/15/16

Constantine: The Complete Series Arrives on October 4th

Darkness is rising, demons are everywhere … and one man stands between humanity and its worst nightmares: John Constantine. Warner Archive Collection (WAC) and DC Entertainment bring the live-action television series, Constantine: The Complete Series, to Blu-ray™ and DVD on October 4, 2016 via WBshop.com, Amazon and popular online retailers. Based on the wildly popular DC character, seasoned demon hunter and master of the occult John Constantine (Matt Ryan) is armed with a ferocious knowledge of the dark arts and a wickedly naughty wit. He fights the good fight – or at least he did. With his soul already damned to Hell, he’s decided to abandon his campaign against evil … until a series of events thrusts him back into the fray, and he’ll do whatever it takes to protect the innocent. With the balance of good and evil on the line, Constantine will use his skills to travel the country, find the supernatural terrors that threaten our world and send them back to where they belong. After that, who knows ... maybe there’s hope for him and his soul after all.

Matt Ryan (The Halcyon, Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior) stars as Constantine, a role he has since reprised for Arrow and as the voice of the animated character in the upcoming Justice League Dark.

“Actors don’t generally like to revisit their own filmed performances, but I really enjoyed watching the episodes myself because Constantine is such a bold, outright character – both to play and to watch,” says Ryan. “He’s this brilliant ball of wise-cracking, chain-smoking street magic – and it’s so much fun exploring his fascinating, dark world of torment and mystery. I’m happy the fans will now have the opportunity to experience the series on Blu-ray, plus all the bonus features.”

The cast features Angélica Celaya (Dallas) as Zed, Charles Halford (True Detective, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) as Chas and Harold Perrineau (Lost, Blade: The Series) as Manny. Guest appearances include Jeremy Davies (Justified), Lucy Griffiths (True Blood, Preacher), David A. Gregory (One Life To Live), Michael James Shaw (Roots, Limitless), Claire van der Boom (Game of Silence, Hawaii Five-0), Skyler Day (Parenthood), Mark Margolis (Better Call Saul, Breaking Bad, Oz), Charles Parnell (The Last Ship), Michael McGrady (Ray Donovan, Southland), Joelle Carter (Justified) and Max Charles (The Strain, The Neighbors).

Writer Daniel Cerone (“The Mentalist,” “Dexter”) serves as executive producer with David S. Goyer (“Man of Steel,” “The Dark Knight Rises”). “Constantine” is produced from Bonanza Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television. The show is based on the wildly popular comic book character from DC.

Configurations

Audio: English DTS MA 5.1 for BD, 5.1 Dolby Digital for DVD

Subtitle: English

Content

Disc 1

Non Est Asylum
The Darkness Beneath
The Devil's Vinyl
Feast of Friends

Disc 2

Danse Vaudou
The Rage of Caliban
Blessed Are the Damned
The Saint of Last Resorts: Part One
The Saint of Last Resorts: Part Two

Disc 3

Quid Pro Quo
A Whole World Out There
Angels and Ministers of Grace
Waiting for the Man

EXTRAS

Constantine: Trailer
Constantine: On the Set
2014 Comic-Con Panel Q & A with Cast and Creators
DC Comics Night at Comic-Con 2014 Presenting Gotham, The Flash, Constantine and Arrow

Press Release 8/12/16 Press Release 8/12/16

Shout! Factory Announces North American Release of "Long Way North"

Shout! Factory Films announced today that acclaimed animated feature LONG WAY NORTH, a film by Rémi Chayé, will open theatrically on September 30, 2016 in Los Angeles, New York and select major markets, to be followed by openings in additional cities. Directed by celebrated animator and filmmaker Rémi Chayé and produced by Sacrebleu Productions (Oscar®-Nominated Madagascar, Carnet de Voyage), Maybe Movies (Oscar®-Nominated Ernest & Celestine) and Norlum Studios (Oscar®-Nominated Song of the Sea), France 3 Cinéma and 2 Minutes, LONG WAY NORTH won the coveted Audience Award at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival and the winner of Grand Prize and the Governor of Tokyo Award at Tokyo Animation Festival 2016. This captivating animated adventure, bolstered by emotionally resonant storytelling and visually exquisite hand-drawn animation, has continued to attract universal acclaim as it enchants movie audiences around the world.

A spirited and inspiring tale of hope and courage, LONG WAY NORTH is the feature directorial debut of lauded animator Rémi Chayé (first AD and head of storyboard for Oscar®-Nominated The Secret of Kells,The Painting) and tells the story of a young heroine, persevering through a physical and emotional journey to find her explorer grandfather and his lost ship, the Davai.

LONG WAY NORTH is set in the late 19th century Saint Petersburg. Sacha, a young girl from the Russian aristocracy, dreams of the Great North and anguishes over the fate of her grandfather, Oloukine, a renowned scientist and Arctic explorer who has yet to return from his latest expedition to conquer the North Pole.

Sacha has always been fascinated by the adventurous life of her grandfather and has the same calling as Oloukine to be an explorer. But Sacha’s parents, who already made arrangements for her marriage, strongly disapprove the idea to say the least. Defying her destiny, Sacha flees her home and launches an adventure-filled quest toward the Great North in search of Oloukine and his ship.

LONG WAY NORTH features an exceptional English voice cast of Chloé Dunn, Vivienne Vermes, Peter Hudson, Antony Hickling, Tom Perkins, Geoffrey Greenhill, Claire Harrison-Bullett, Bibi Jacob, Martin Lewis, Tom Morton, Leslie Clack, Kester Lovelace and Damian Corcoran. *French voice cast include Christa Théret, Feodor Atkine, Thomas Sagols, Rémi Caillebot, Audrey Sablé, Fabirn Briche, Gabriel Le Doze and Boris Rehlinger.

Sacrebleu Productions and Maybe Movies present LONG WAY NORTH

Directed by Rémi Chayé; written by Claire Paoletti and Patricia Valeix; produced by Ron Dyens and Henri Magalon in co-production with Jean-Michel Spiner, Claus Toksvig Kjaer and Frederik Villumsen. A co-production of Sacrebleu Productions, Maybe Movies, France 3 Cinéma, 2 Minutes and Norlum.

Animated feature LONG WAY NORTH opens in U.S. cinemas on September 30, 2016

The film is rated PG and has a run time of 81 minutes. For more information about LONG WAY NORTH, please visit LongWayNorththeMovie.com

Press Release 7/30/16 Press Release 7/30/16

VIZ Media Partners With Rooster Teeth For RWBY Global Publishing Development

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), a premier company in the fields of publishing, animation distribution, and global entertainment licensing, has announced a partnership with Rooster Teeth, the Austin, TX-based entertainment and media company behind the globally acclaimed animated series RWBY, the first western anime series to be distributed to Japan. VIZ Media and Rooster Teeth will focus on a variety of publishing formats based on RWBY, starting in 2017.

RWBY is Rooster Teeth’s award-winning anime series that tells the story of four different girls brought together for one legendary purpose. Ruby, Weiss, Blake, and Yang are students at Beacon Academy, an ancient school designed to train the monster-slayers knows as Hunters and Huntresses. Unfortunately, monsters aren’t the only threat in the world of Remnant, and if these girls want to graduate, they’ll have to learn to work together – both on the battlefield and in the classroom.

“The Rooster Teeth-VIZ Media partnership will showcase the strong creative vision and production expertise between our two entertainment companies to expand the vivid and exciting world of RWBY globally in bold new ways that fans will love,” says Beth Kawasaki, Senior Editorial Director for VIZ Media.

“Through the new RWBY titles, readers will discover more about the RWBY universe and delve deeper into the characters and storylines they love, as well as go on all new adventures,” said Rooster Teeth Head of Animation Gray G. Haddock. “We are thrilled to be working with VIZ Media to bring such beautiful books to RWBY’s audience.”

Rooster Teeth has one of the most active and engaged fan bases in the world and possesses a massive global footprint of more than 25 million subscribers to its YouTube network, and more than 3 million unique monthly visitors to RoosterTeeth.com and 1.8 million registered community members. Rooster Teeth is a subsidiary of Fullscreen, Inc., a global youth media company that develops online creators and produces multi-platform entertainment experiences.

For additional information manga titles distributed and published by VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.

Press Release 7/29/16 Press Release 7/29/16

BLEACH Anime Series Available On Blu-Ray For The First Time From VIZ Media

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), a premier company in the field of publishing, animation distribution, and global entertainment licensing, unleashes the tense anime action drama of BLEACH on Blu-ray for the first time with the home media release of Set 1. Now available, BLEACH Set 1 presents the complete, uncut first 27 episodes of the popular series on 4 Blu-ray discs, and carries an MSRP of $54.97 U.S. / $63.99 CAN. Episodes are available with dialogue selections for dubbed English as well as subtitled, Japanese 2.0 audio, with episodes presented in their original 4:3 format.

In the BLEACH anime series, for as long as he can remember, Ichigo Kurosaki has been able to see ghosts. But when he meets Rukia, a Soul Reaper who battles evil spirits known as Hollows, his life is changed forever. Now, with a newfound wealth of spiritual energy, Ichigo discovers his true calling – to protect the world of the living and the dead as a Substitute Soul Reaper. When Rukia is taken away to face the ruthless justice of the Soul Society, Ichigo and his friends must cross over and do battle in the spirit world...

“Fans have eagerly anticipated the release of BLEACH on Blu-ray, and this summer we invite them to expand their personal anime collections with the release of the first set of this riveting series,” says Charlene Ingram, Senior Marketing Manager, Animation.

For more information on BLEACH manga and anime titles published by VIZ Media, please visit www.viz.com.

Press Release 7/25/16 Press Release 7/25/16

Viz Media Partners With Tubi TV

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), a premier company in the fields of publishing, animation distribution, and global entertainment licensing, has announced a partnership with Tubi TV, a leading provider of free movies and TV shows, to stream some of VIZ Media’s most popular anime titles to audiences across North America, including to legions of viewers based in Canada. Based in San Francisco, CA, Tubi TV is the largest North American ad-supported provider of free streamed movies and TV shows. In addition to its own website (Tubitv.com), the Tubi TV app is accessible from platforms including Apple TV, Xbox One & Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, and Samsung televisions – in addition to iOS and Android mobile devices.

All VIZ Media content on Tubi TV is presented with original Japanese dialogue and features English subtitles. DEATH NOTE (37 episodes) as well as the full original NARUTO series (220 episodes) are now available for streaming in the U.S. and Canada on Tubi TV. In addition, fans in Canada may now catch the entire classic SAILOR MOON series (200 episodes) and Seasons 1 and 2 of SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL (26 episodes). Additional VIZ Media anime series and episodes will be added regularly. Please visit Tubitv.com or download the app for more details and to access the free episodes.

“VIZ Media has incredibly popular anime series and we are thrilled to stream these blockbusters for free to our passionate anime fans,” said Farhad Massoudi, CEO, Tubi TV.

“Tubi TV has built an extremely robust and interoperable platform that offers audiences a compelling alternative to traditional, paid content streaming services and we are very happy to partner with the service to give anime fans a whole new way to access some of the genre’s most legendary titles,” says Brian Ige, VIZ Media Vice President of Animation.

For additional information on these as well as other anime and manga titles distributed and published by VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.

Press Release 2/10/16 Press Release 2/10/16

BLUEFIN TO SHOWCASE A COLORFUL VARIETY OF UNIQUE NEW COLLECTIBLES AT 2016 TOY FAIR

Bluefin, the leading North American distributor of toys, collectibles, and hobby merchandise from Japan, Hong Kong and more, returns to New York City this month for the 2016 American International Toy Fair, taking place February 13^th – 16^th at the Jacob Javitz Convention Center in Manhattan. Bluefin will be located in Booth #4834.

Toy Fair is an annual industry event that is produced by the Toy Industry Association™, Inc. (TIA), a not-for-profit trade association representing all businesses involved in manufacturing and distributing toys and youth entertainment products to consumers. TIA’s more than 900 members account for approximately 90% of the annual U.S. domestic toy market of $22B. More details are available at: http://www.toyfairny.com.

During this year’s Toy Fair, Bluefin will showcase a variety of new and upcoming products set for release later this Spring and Summer. Many of these items will be available for pre-order during the show.

Bluefin is proud to expand its popular line of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle products with a preview of the forthcoming new Tamashii Nations S.H. Figuarts Ninja Turtles Leonardo and Donatello figures. Set for release later this Summer, the new figures will be debuted specifically for the North American market.

Also on display will be the new Beast Kingdom Star Wars Egg Attack Star Wars Episode V: Millennium Falcon Floating Version and the Kids Logic Back to the Future II Floating DeLorean Car. These innovative products feature the iconic machines from Star Wars and Back to the Future II floating in mid-air atop a customized electromagnetic base.

Booth visitors also can catch the sixth installment of the Terada Mokei’s Architectural Model Series – a beautifully crafted and ingeniously designed construction set featuring a highly detailed 1:100 scale paper model of New York City.

Bluefin Products To Be Showcased At 2016 Toy Fair Include:

Tamashii Nations S.H. Figuarts Ninja Turtles - Leonardo and Donatello Figures ·

MSRP: $62.99ea · Available Summer 2016

Collectors will not want to miss what’s in store from S.H.Figuarts! The first-ever S.H.Figuarts versions of everyone’s favorite Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are coming in classic animation colors! These new Tamashii Nations figures are being made specifically for the North American market and will be available for a limited time.

First to join the line-up is the leader and most pragmatic of the brothers - Leonardo. Strategic use of die-cast material is integrated for realism in the belt buckle and weight in the legs. The Leonardo set includes his iconic katana (x2), interchangeable head, interchangeable hands (x6), weapon holding parts, and manhole covers (x2).

Second to join the line-up is the brains and inventor of the brothers - Donatello. Strategic use of die-cast material is integrated for realism in the belt buckle and weight in the legs. The Donatello set includes his formidable staff, interchangeable head, interchangeable hands (x6), weapon holding parts, and a pizza.

Get your cowabunga on S.H.Figuarts style (and grab some pizza while you’re at it)!

Beast Kingdom Star Wars Egg Attack EA-020 STAR WARS Episode V: Millennium Falcon Floating Version · MSRP: $184.99 · Available May 2016

Beast Kingdom delivers the Egg Attack Star Wars Millennium Falcon Floating Version -- the world’s first floating Millennium Falcon! The innovative product uses electromagnetic attraction and repulsion to make the Millennium Falcon float on air! Pre-orders for this product, which ships in May 2016, will be available during Toy Fair.

To reproduce the iconic Corellian YT-1300 light space freighter, every detail of the Millennium Falcon was meticulously crafted, including the armor plating, AG-2G quad laser cannon, and sensor dish. The Millennium Falcon floating version is painted with high-quality metal coating, showcasing steel-like armor and battle damage. Each Egg Attack - EA-020 Star Wars Episode V Millennium Falcon Floating comes with a magnetic levitation Echo Base. A perfect item for the avid Star Wars collector or pop culture fan.

Kids Logic “Back to the Future” Floating DeLorean · MSRP: $224.99 ·

Available Spring 2016 (Estimated)

The famous DeLorean time machine as featured in Back to the Future Part II is offered in a high detail floating version officially licensed by Universal Studios. The 1/20 scale recreation of the car is about 8.6 inches in length and features 10 light-up LEDs, opening doors and removable, swappable wheels (two sets) for normal driving and flying scenes. Flame effect parts are also included along with 2 different bases – a magnetic floating base and a standard display base. A truly unique item!

Terada Mokei’s Architectural Model Series: No. 6 New York · MSRP: $14.95 ·

Available Now!

The sixth installment of the Architectural Model series features famous landmarks from the street corners of one of the world's most exciting cities. Created by Japanese architect Naoki Terada, these amazing 1:100 scaled paper models offer simple, charming snapshot of commonplace scenarios including children playing in a park, a cherry blossom viewing, patrons enjoying coffee at an outdoor café, the hubbub of activity in front of a New York subway and much more. Each model is packaged in single-colored sheets equipped with individually laser-cut parts, reminiscent of model die-cuts. This is a perfect compact items that also makes a thoughtful gift and can be included in greeting card envelope.

Press Release 2/9/16 Press Release 2/9/16

Riverdale's Jughead and Betty Revealed

Ugh... a Disney kid... blah. I don't know what I expected from this casting announcement... not this... definitely not this. From Archie Comics:

Following up on the news that The CW officially picked up the pilot episode for the live-action “Riverdale” TV series comes word that two of the most beloved characters in comics have been cast: Jughead Jones and Betty Cooper. Former Disney Channel star Cole Sprouse (The Sweet Life of Zack and Cody) will play Jughead Jones in the pilot, with Lili Reinhart (Surviving Jack) playing Betty Cooper. In the exclusive announcement, Deadline described Reinhart’s Betty as “sweet, studious, eager-to-please and wholesome, with a huge crush on her longtime best friend, Archie.”

Sprouse’s Jughead is described as “a heartthrob with a philosophical bent and former best friend of Archie Andrews.”

Expect more “Riverdale” casting news in the coming weeks.

The one-hour drama will be written by Archie Comics Chief Creative Officer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and produced by Warner Brothers Studios and Berlanti Productions and has been described as a subversive take on the classic Archie mythos. Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schecter, Jon Goldwater, and Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa serve as executive producers.

The live-action series offers a bold, subversive take on Archie, Betty, Veronica, and their friends, exploring small-town life and the darkness and weirdness bubbling beneath Riverdale’s wholesome facade. The show will focus on the eternal love triangle of Archie Andrews, girl-next-door Betty Cooper, and rich socialite Veronica Lodge, and will include the entire cast of characters from the comic books—including Archie’s rival, Reggie Mantle, and his slacker best friend, Jughead Jones.

Popular gay character Kevin Keller will also play a pivotal role. In addition to the core cast, “Riverdale” will introduce other characters from Archie Comics’ expansive library, including Josie and the Pussycats.

For more information about "Riverdale", visit the official Archie Comics website.

Press Release 2/9/16 Press Release 2/9/16

New BLEACH ANIME DOUBLE-FEATURE Home Media Set Debuts From VIZ Media

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest distributor, publisher and licensor of anime and manga in North America, offers a special treat to anime aficionados and BLEACH fans as it announces the release of the BLEACH MOVIES: THE UNFORGIVEN DOUBLE FEATURE, a special home media edition. Set for retail release on February 16^th, this new DVD set contain BLEACH THE MOVIE: FADE TO BLACK as well as BLEACH THE MOVIE: HELL VERSE. The 2-disc set will carry an MSRP of $14.98 U.S. / $21.99 CAN and will feature dubbed English as well as subtitled audio tracks for both movies. Bonus features will include a production art gallery and movie trailers.

In BLEACH THE MOVIE: FADE TO BLACK, a strange disturbance in the World of the Living sends Ichigo and Kon to the Soul Society, where the Seireitei has been devastated by an explosion of reishi and Rukia is missing. Stranger still, none of the Soul Reapers remember Ichigo, and they think he's the one responsible for the destruction. Now on the run, Ichigo is forced into a lonely battle in order to find Rukia and stop the real culprits!

Hell – a place where beings that have committed mortal sins during their lifetime are sent. It is a realm where even Soul Reapers are forbidden to interfere. In BLEACH THE MOVIE: HELL VERSE, a group of vicious Sinners plots to escape from this eternal prison, they discover that Substitute Soul Reaper Ichigo Kurosaki is the key to their freedom. The Sinners launch an attack and in the process kidnap Ichigo’s younger sister Yuzu and take her to Hell. With the help of a mysterious man named Kokuto, Ichigo and his friends must now travel into the depths of Hell to stop the Sinners and save Yuzu, unaware that their actions could bring Hell to the World of the Living.

The BLEACH animated films and TV series (distributed in North America by VIZ Media, rated ‘TV-14’) are based on a smash hit manga series created by Tite Kubo (also published in North America by VIZ Media, rated ‘T’ for Teens) that follows the adventures of Ichigo, a 15-year old student with the ability to see ghosts. When his family is attacked by a Hollow – a malevolent lost soul – Ichigo encounters Rukia, a Soul Reaper, and inadvertently absorbs her powers. Now, he’s dedicating his life to protecting the innocent and helping tortured souls find peace.

For more information on BLEACH manga and anime titles published by VIZ Media, please visit www.viz.com.

Press Release 2/5/16 Press Release 2/5/16

Film Tekkonkinkreet by STUDIO4℃ 10th anniversary from the theatrical release!

As a celebration of 10th anniversary since the theatrical release of the film “Tekkonkinkreet,” exciting events are coming up in Japan. Also a new artbook focusing on characters will be released WORLDWIDE on April 6^th!

tekkon_poster

<ABOUT EVENTS>

Event title: Tekkonkinkreet 10^th Anniversary Genga/ Key animation Exhibition (working title) Start date: April 6^th (For 2 months) Details: Exhibitions of key animations, image boards, character designs, background arts, and more Venue: Fukushima Sakura Yugakusha Coming-up events will be informed on the 10^th Anniversary Special Campaign page! (http://www.fun-and.studio4c.jp/index.php?page=project&mode=tekkon)

tekkon_artbook_sample

<ABOUT ARTBOOK: Characters>

The new artbook includes never-been-published materials, such as character designs, image boards, and key animations. Following the former two books, Tekkonkinkreet Film ARTBOOK Kuro (Black) side and Shiro (White) side, which included background arts and met with an enthusiastic reception, it is the third bullet for all animation fans! More sample images will be introduced here soon

■ Release date: April 6^th (Shiro’s day)

■ Tekkonkinkreet Film ARTBOOK: Characters

B5 size, hardcover, 192 pages, 2,980 yen Contents: Character designs, image boards, key animations, and more. (Captions and texts are in Japanese.) ※ Details and contents are subject to change.

<10th Anniversary Special Campaign>

The ARTBOOK will be available prior to the release date on “STUDIO4℃FUN&” (www.fun-and.studio4c.jp) from TODAY (February 6^th) at 7:00 pm (JST) until April 5^th!

There are special advantages such as autographs of the director Michael Arias and the character designer & the supervising animation director Shojiro Nishimi (Limited 100), and hand-drawn key animations used in the movie!! Don’t miss the chance!

<ABOUT “Tekkonkinkreet”>

Based on the legendary comic by Taiyo Matusmoto, Tekkonkinkreet is the directorial debut of THE ANIMATRIX producer Michael Arias. Cutting-edge 3D-CG blends with old-fashioned hand drawn animation to create a movie of tremendous energy and momentum.

With harmony of STUDIO4°C’s skilled creators such as Hiroaki Ando (co-director), Shinji Kimura (art director), and Shojiro Nishimi (character designer and animation director), Tekkonkinkreet is a shining example of a high quality, no-compromise animation production of STUDIO4°C.

UK Techno masters Plaid's soundtrack helps bring Taiyo Matsumoto's profound, poetic work to vivid life. The main characters WHITE and BLACK were voiced by Kazuya Ninomiya from the Japanese popular singer group ARASHI and young performing actress Yu Aoi.

MAIN STAFF Director: Michael Arias Co-director: Hiroaki Ando Character Designer • Supervising Animation Director: Shojiro Nishimi Art Director: Shinji Kimura CGI Director: Takuma Sakamoto Animation Director: Chie Uratani Animation Director • Vehicle Designer: Masahiko Kubo Original Comic：Taiyo Matsumoto

CAST Black (Kuro) • Itachi: Kazunari Ninomiya White (Shiro): Yu Aoi Suzuki: Min Tanaka Kimura: Yusuke Iseya Chocola: Nao Omori Vanilla: Yoshinori Okada Sawada: Kankuro Kudo Hebi: Masahiro Motoki

Press Release 2/1/16 Press Release 2/1/16

OMAKASE ANNOUNCES LIMITED EDITION HATSUNE MIKU SUBSCRIPTION BOX WITH EXCLUSIVE PIAPRO CHARACTER ITEMS

OMAKASE, the subscription service that offers bimonthly boxes of curated merchandise, ad-free anime streaming and original digital comics and music, announces Hatsune Miku as the March 2016 OMAKASE theme. All of the Piapro Characters are being featured in a collection of 100% exclusive merchandise. OMAKASE and Crypton Future Media worked closely together to craft a mystery box of entirely original and exclusive items just for Hatsune Miku fans. In continuing with the critically-praised curation of its previous mystery boxes, OMAKASE designed merchandise from a fan perspective, crafting a box that itself becomes a journey and experience for fans. Merchandise will feature Hatsune Miku, the most popular of the Piapro Characters, and Kagamine Rin & Len, Megurine Luka, MEIKO and KAITO, ensuring something for everyone.

“Hatsune Miku represents a new movement in media and culture — both Japanese and global — that captures the imagination of people from all walks of life,” said Rob Pereyda, CEO of Viewster Inc. “We’re honored to be able to work with Crypton Future Media to bring about this very special offering of original items never before available anywhere else.”

Miku will hit the stage at concert halls across North America with Miku Expo 2016, and OMAKASE joins the celebration with Hatsune Miku gear including a new color version of the sought-after HappyMappy Hatsune Miku t-shirt, a unique multi-artist collaboration, and other exclusive collectibles and wearables.

Get more information and join OMAKASE at http://omakase.moe

Omakase-Hatsune-Miku-2016

Press Release 2/1/16 Press Release 2/1/16

VIZ Media Details New February Digital Anime Update

VIZ Media moves into February and continues to heat up the winter season for fans with the latest monthly digital anime content update. This month, audiences will be treated to the latest NARUTO SHIPPUDEN episodes straight from Japan in (subtitled) weekly simulcasts every Thursday. Also dive into the exclusive U.S. premiere of SAILOR MOON SAILOR STARS (Season 5). This is the first time this final climactic season of the original SAILOR MOON anime series has been officially available in the U.S. Enjoy 2 exciting subtitled episodes every week!

The interstellar SAILOR MOON action continues throughout February with all-new, English dubbed streamed episodes of SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL every week. New dubbed content for the month is complemented by not-to-be-missed episodes for additional hit VIZ Media anime series such as HUNTER X HUNTER and RANMA ½.

New anime content for February includes:

HUNTER X HUNTER

The supernatural action adventure of HUNTER X HUNTER Season 1 continues in February with Episodes 27-39 available to stream in their entirety featuring brand new subtitles that are true to VIZ Media’s original translations of the manga series by Yoshihiro Togashi.

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN

The pulse-racing ninja action of NARUTO SHIPPUDEN continues all month with simulcasts every Thursday of the latest episodes straight from Japan.
Don’t miss the simulcasts of Episode 447 on February 4^th, Episode 448 on February 11^th, followed by Episode 449 on February 18^th, and Episode 450 on February 25^th.

RANMA ½

The hilarious hijinks of the classic anime martial arts adventure, RANMA ½, continues during February with the addition of Season 6, Episodes 116-138, available to stream now in their entirety with dubbed English dialogue!

21379

SAILOR MOON

Catch the streaming premiere of SAILOR MOON SAILOR STARS (Season 5) with 2 subtitled episodes every Monday.
Episodes 175 & 176 are available now, followed by Episodes 177 & 178 on February 8^th, Episodes 179 & 180 on February 15^th and Episodes 181 & 182 on February 22^nd.

SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL

Enjoy the all-new English dubbed streams of SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL throughout February with a brand new episode every Friday.
SAILOR MOON CRYSTAL Season 1 action continues with Episode 13 FINAL BATTLE - REINCARNATION available to stream beginning February 5^th, followed by the beginning of the Black Moon Arc on February 12^th!

VIZ Media’s consolidated online destination for FREE streaming anime content in the U.S. has over 4,200 subtitled and English dubbed episodes and movies from more than 37 series! VIZ Media’s streaming content also reaches an expansive on-demand U.S.-based audience on Hulu, which enables viewers to watch shows anytime, anywhere across devices including Xbox One, PlayStation^®4,Roku, Roku TV, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, and mobile devices. A full list of Hulu -enabled devices can be found at http://www.hulu.com/plus/devices.

Additional information on VIZ Media’s streaming anime is available at: http://www.viz.com/anime/streaming/.

Press Release 1/29/16 Press Release 1/29/16

DEMONIC FORCES PIT HEROES AGAINST HEROES IN JUSTICE LEAGUE vs. TEEN TITANS

The demonic forces of Trigon infiltrate the minds and bodies of the Justice League, turning the veteran super heroes against their youthful counterparts in the all-new DC Universe Original Movie, Justice League vs. Teen Titans. Produced by Warner Bros. Animation and DC Entertainment, the film will be available from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment on April 12, 2016 on Blu-Ray™ Deluxe Edition, Blu-Ray™ Combo Pack and DVD. Order due date is March 8, 2016. Justice League vs. Teen Titans will be available on Blu-ray^TM Deluxe Edition for $29.96 SRP, Blu-ray^TM Combo Pack for $24.98 SRP, and DVD for $19.98 SRP. The Blu-ray^TM Combo Pack includes a digital version of the movie on Digital HD with UltraViolet. The Blu-ray™ Deluxe Edition will include all components of the Blu-Ray™ Combo Pack, along with an exclusive Robin figurine in a numbered, limited edition gift set. Fans can also own Justice League vs. Teen Titans in Digital HD on March 29, 2016 via purchase from digital retailers.

Justice League vs. Teen Titans welcomes the Teen Titans to the ever-expanding canon of classic DC Comics characters within the DC Universe Original Movies. When Damian’s over-aggressive tendencies almost destroy a Justice League mission, he is sent to learn teamwork by training alongside the Teen Titans. However, adjusting Damian’s attitude turns out to be the least of the Teen Titans’ troubles as Raven’s satanic, world-conquering father Trigon begins an escape from his inter-dimensional prison. To complete his return, Trigon must have Raven’s assistance – and to accomplish his goal, he spreads his demonic forces across the globe, infiltrating the minds and bodies of the Justice League to do his bidding. To save the universe and prevent a literal hell on Earth, the Teen Titans must rescue – or defeat – the Justice League, and intern Trigon for all eternity.

The voice cast for Justice League vs. Teen Titans includes several actors reprising their recent Justice League roles – Jason O’Mara (Complications, Terra Nova) as Batman, Jerry O’Connell (Crossing Jordan, Stand By Me) as Superman, Rosario Dawson (Sin City, Rent) as Wonder Woman, Shemar Moore (Criminal Minds) as Cyborg and Christopher Gorham (Covert Affairs, Ugly Betty) as Flash. Sean Maher (Firefly/Serenity, Batman: Bad Blood) also returns as Nightwing, as does Stuart Allan (Batman vs. Robin) as Robin/Damian. Making their Teen Titans voiceover debuts are Taissa Farmiga (American Horror Story, Wicked City) as Raven, Jake T. Austin (Wizards of Waverly Place, The Fosters) as Blue Beetle, Brandon Soo Hoo (Tropic Thunder, From Dusk Til Dawn: The Series) as Beast Boy and Kari Wahlgren (Phineas and Ferb, Legion of Superheroes) as Starfire. Jon Bernthal (The Walking Dead, Daredevil) takes the villainous center stage as Trigon.

Produced by Warner Bros. Animation and DC Entertainment, Justice League vs. Teen Titans is directed by Sam Liu from a screenplay by Bryan Q. Miller and Alan Burnett based on a story by Miller. James Tucker is Supervising Producer. Burnett is also co-Producer. Sam Register is Executive Producer.

“Warner Bros. Home Entertainment is thrilled to bring the Teen Titans into the fold of amazing characters within the DC Universe Original Movies,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, WBHE Vice President, TV Family, Animation Marketing. “This all-new film provides the Teen Titans with the perfect stage – alongside and against the Justice League – for a thrilling adventure that fans will truly enjoy.”

Justice League vs. Teen Titans – Enhanced Content

DVD

An exclusive sneak peek at the next DC Universe Original Movie.

Blu-ray™ Combo Pack

An exclusive sneak peek at the next DC Universe Original Movie.
Featurette – “Growing Up Titan” – The Teen Titans have fascinated readers for over 50 years due in part to their stories of valor, as well as earning empathy with comic book readers during their own trials growing up into adulthood. This documentary spotlights the importance of young voices in the DC Comics mythology, giving generations of readers a team of heroes that mirror their own life experiences.
Featurette – “Heroes and Villains - Raven” – She is the daughter of one of DC Comics’ greatest villains, the demon Trigon. Raven is a powerful telepath who uses her soul-self as a means for astral projection. She is integral to the Teen Titans. This documentary is her story.
Featurette – “Heroes and Villains – Trigon – The most fearsome and evil opponent the Teen Titans have encountered is this inter-dimensional demon. Trigon uses his immortality to shape worlds and exact his control. This documentary introduces the character and how he raises the stakes for the Teen Titans.
From the DC Comics Vault– Two Classic Episodes of DC Comics cartoons

Press Release 1/27/16 Press Release 1/27/16

New Bruce Lee Action Figure Debuts From Bluefin

Bluefin, the leading North American distributor of toys, collectibles, and hobby merchandise from Japan, Hong Kong and more, is proud to introduce the world’s most posableBruce Lee action figure! Renowned Japanese collectibles label, Tamashii Nations, integrates its advanced S.H. Figuarts articulation technology to reproduce all of Bruce Lee's powerful martial arts moves! For this latest release, Tamashii Nations also utilized cutting edge digital facial coloring technology to achieve a stunning level of realism and collectors will be impressed by the incredible level of overall quality.

The Bruce Lee figure debuts in February with an MSRP of $49.99 from authorized Bluefin retailers nationwide and also from a variety of leading online outlets. Pre-orders continue to be available.

The S.H. Figuarts Bruce Lee figure stands 5 inches tall and includes several trademark martial arts weapons including a nunchaku (nunchuck) and two bo staffs (short and long. Other accessories include interchangeable hands (x9) and interchangeable face parts (x2).

Bruce Lee was a pioneering Chinese American action film star, martial arts instructor, philosopher, and filmmaker. He starred in several highly influential martial arts movies such as Fist of Fury and Enter the Dragon and is widely regarded as one of the most iconic martial artists of all time.

Bluefin is the official North American distributor for Tamashii Nations, an umbrella label that encompasses Japan’s top collectible brands and features products from popular giant robot shows like Mazinger Z andGundam, anime series like Dragon Ball and Sailor Moon, and live action series like Kamen Rider. The mission of Tamashii Nations is to bring “tamashii,” the Japanese word for soul or spirit, into everything they create. For a complete listing of Tamashii Nations products available from Bluefin, please visit: www.bluefincorp.com/catalog/tamashii-nations.html.

Tamashii Nations Bruce Lee Gamour Pic Tamashii Nations Bruce Lee Nunchuks

Press Release 1/26/16 Press Release 1/26/16

“MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM THE ORIGIN Ⅲ Dawn of Rebellion” Worldwide on-demand streaming starts!

Anime Consortium Japan will stream on-demand the newest “Gundam” series “MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM THE ORIGIN Ⅲ Dawn of Rebellion” starting May 21st, 2016 at DAISUKI.net as well as at Google Play and at Amazon Instant Video and PlayStation Network. “MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM THE ORIGIN” is produced by the Bandai Namco Group Company, SUNRISE Inc. and Bandai Visual Co., Ltd is distributing its Blu-ray Disc. Anime Consortium Japan will deliver “MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM THE ORIGIN” immediately to anime fans worldwide. Title: MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM THE ORIGIN Ⅲ Dawn of Rebellion Available from: May 21st, 2016

*Except for Japan, area and language will be gradually added on each site.

Available sites & Territory: DAISUKI.net

Worldwide excluding Japan and China

Google Play, Amazon Instant Video, PlayStation Network.

*Service may not be available in some territories. For available territories, please visit http://www.daisuki.net/

Rental Price: DAISUKI.net (Anime Consortium Japan) US$6.99/72 hours

*Prices vary at Google Play and Amazon Instant Video and PlayStation Network depending on the territory.

MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM THE ORIGIN Ⅲ Blu-ray Disc Collector's Edition ON SALE FROM MAY 28, 2016 ON DAISUKI.net!

【Extra features/bonuses】

1. Storage box illustrated by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko (32.8cm x 32.8cm)

2. Storyboards & setting art book (290 pages planned)

3. Illustration sheet of the storage box illustration by Yasuhiko (planned to be box-sized)

4. Cell & Line art illustrations book (10 pages planned)

5. Sleeve (O-card) illustrated by Yasuhiko

6. Booklet featuring comic text by Yasuhiko (32 pages planned)

7. Special booklet (12 pages planned)

8. Staff & cast audio commentary

9. Trailers, PV, TV-Commercial, Video of the salutations on stage at the screening of Episode 2

【BONUS ON PRE-ORDERS!】

Whom who pre-orders“MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM THE ORIGIN Ⅲ Blu-ray Disc Collector's Edition”

from DASIUKI.net will receive an additional bonus item: a piece of film courtesy of BandaiVisual Club.

*Pre-orders start date will be announced later.

Press Release 1/25/16 Press Release 1/25/16

Sequart's Image Comics Documentary Released Through Shout! Factory

Sequart Organization and Respect Films are proud to announce that Shout! Factory has picked up their documentary, The Image Revolution, for distribution! The Image Revolution examines one of the most important and daring moves in comic book history. In 1992, a group of top-tier artists left Marvel Comics to create their own company… a company that continues to influence mainstream comics and culture to this day. Image Comics was more than just a publisher, it was a response to years of creator mistreatment, and it changed comics forever.

The Image Revolution tells the story of Image Comics, from its founders’ work at Marvel, through Image’s early days, the ups and downs of the ’90s, and the publisher’s new generation of properties like The Walking Dead. It’s the amazing account of a dynamic group of upstart comics entrepreneurs battling against not only major companies, but sometimes each other.

Click HERE to order the DVD from Amazon.

Also available from Sequart’s film division:

Grant Morrison: Talking with Gods – This master of comics psychedelia is one of the medium’s most popular writers, and one of the most controversial. Equal parts philosopher, rock star, and chaos magician, Grant Morrison has used his comics to change both himself and his audience. He is a man living on the border between fiction and reality, and this is his story.

Warren Ellis: Captured Ghosts – This documentary focuses on the career and worldview of comics’ very own Internet Jesus, Warren Ellis. The film also features interviews with many of Ellis’s artistic collaborators. (If you’re interested in digging deeper into Ellis’s life/work than an 80-minute documentary can go, check out this book Sequart published that is transcribed from nearly ten hours of interviews with the man!)

Diagram for Delinquents – In 1954, psychiatrist Dr. Fredric Wertham wrote a scathing indictment of comics called Seduction of the Innocent. His book’s central premise is that comic books were the leading contributing factor to juvenile delinquency. That same year, Wertham testified at special hearings on comic books at the Senate Subcommittee to Investigate Juvenile Delinquency in the United States. Comics were on trial! Diagram for Delinquents captures the zeitgeist of late 1940s and early 1950s America and investigates how the funny books found themselves on the fire.

Comics in Focus: Chris Claremont’s X-Men – During his 17-year run with the X-Men, Chris Claremont took the title from the brink of cancellation to it being the best-selling comic of all time. He co-created more iconic characters than any comic book writer since Stan Lee. Today, the “X-books” remain a massive franchise that spans comics, movies, video games, and TV. But unlike most properties, the X-Men we know and love is mostly one man’s vision. Using high-profile interviews, Comics in Focus: Chris Claremont’s X-Men explores the behind-the-scenes development of notable characters like Wolverine, Storm, and Phoenix, as well as the challenges of creating art within a corporate system.

Press Release 1/20/16 Press Release 1/20/16

New POKÉMON Home Media Releases Announced By VIZ Media

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest publisher, distributor and licensor of manga and anime in North America, expands its POKÉMON catalog for anime fans as it announces a pair of new home media releases. Inspired by the latest generation of Pokémon X and Pokémon Y video games, POKÉMON THE SERIES: XY Set 2 is available now on DVD. POKÉMON: THE MOVIES 1-3 STEELBOOK BLU-RAY COLLECTION contains a trio of full-length POKÉMON feature films and will be available February 9^th. Both are rated ‘TV-Y7’ for viewers ages 7 and older.

PokemonXY-Set02-3D

POKÉMON THE SERIES: XY DVD SET 2 · MSRP: $26.95 U.S. / $31.98 CAN · Available Now

In the latest home media set inspired by the new generation of Pokémon X and Pokémon Y video games, Ash Ketchum and his friends venture ever deeper into the Kalos region! Ash takes to the skies in a wing suit in his first aerial battle, and the group explores exciting new areas like the majestic Kalos Canyon, the mysterious Cave of Mirrors, and Professor Sycamore’s Pokémon summer camp. Meanwhile, Miette and Serena’s rivalry over Ash heats up, and Team Rocket flummoxes everyone with clever disguises and Pokémon-nabbing schemes! And of course, everyone’s after the secrets of Mega Evolution—but will anyone get a handle on its consequences? The new set contains 3 discs featuring 24 episodes (25-48), presented with dubbed English dialogue.

Pokemon-Movies1Thru3-Steelbook

POKÉMON: THE MOVIES 1-3 STEELBOOK BLU-RAY COLLECTION · MSRP: $39.99 U.S. / $46.99 CAN · Available February 9^th

A special 3-disc Steelbook set featuring three complete POKÉMON feature films— POKÉMON: THE FIRST MOVIE, POKÉMON THE MOVIE 2000, and POKÉMON 3: THE MOVIE. Films are each presented with dubbed English dialogue.

In POKÉMON: THE FIRST MOVIE, the adventure explodes into action with the debut of Mewtwo, a bio-engineered Pokémon created from the DNA of Mew, the rarest of all Pokémon. After escaping from the lab where it was created, Mewtwo is determined to prove its own superiority. It lures a number of talented Trainers into a Pokémon battle like never before—and of course, Ash and his friends are happy to accept the challenge!

In POKÉMON THE MOVIE 2000, just one person can make a difference… In the Orange Islands far south of Kanto, a Trainer named Lawrence is on a sinister quest: catching the Legendary Pokémon Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres in an attempt to awaken Lugia, guardian of the sea! When Ash and friends arrive, the islanders ask him to gather three elemental orbs from different islands. As the weather across the world goes out of control, it becomes clear that the capture of the legendary trio has thrown the environment out of balance! With Lugia’s help, can Ash find the orbs, restore the balance, and be the “chosen one” that everyone turns to?

In POKÉMON 3: THE MOVIE, a crystal catastrophe is unleashed upon Greenfield, and Ash, Pikachu, and friends must figure out how to undo the damage to the once-beautiful town. But the unthinkable happens when Ash’s mother is kidnapped by the powerful Entei, a Pokémon thought to have existed only in legend. Now Ash must go to her rescue, uncertain of what he’ll uncover when he unlocks the real secret power behind the unbelievable turn of events: a young girl whose dream world is being turned into a nightmarish reality by the mysterious and unstoppable Unown!

POKÉMON is one of the most successful international entertainment franchises of all time. More than 275 million POKÉMON video game titles and over 21.5 billion Pokémon Trading Cards have been sold in more than 74 countries in addition to substantial publishing and merchandise sales. VIZ Media is the official North American distributor for a wide variety of POKÉMON home media releases including animated series and films and also publishes a variety of POKÉMON manga graphic novel series including POKÉMON ADVENTURES X•Y, POKÉMON ADVENTURES, POKÉMON ADVENTURES: DIAMOND AND PEARL, POKÉMON ADVENTURES: HEART/GOLD & SOUL/SILVER, POKÉMON ADVENTURES: BLACK & WHITE.

For more information on other POKÉMON manga and anime titles from VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.

Press Release 1/19/16 Press Release 1/19/16

BLUEFIN Releases New STAR WARS Samurai "DAISHO" DARTH VADER Figure

Bluefin, the leading North American distributor of toys, collectibles, and hobby merchandise from Japan, Hong Kong and more, moves to the Dark Side for its latest Star Wars collectibles product with the release this month of the Samurai General “Daisho” Darth Vader. The high-detail, 7 inch poseable figure is newest addition of the Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars figure line by Tamashii Nations. The Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars line pays homage to the Samurai aesthetic and artfully reimagines iconic Empire characters from the legendary films with feudal-style Japanese armor and weaponry.

The new “Daisho” Darth Vader figure depicts the Dark Sith Lord as a Samurai General, clad in sinister black “Death Star” armor, and debuts with an MSRP of $92.99 from authorized Bluefin retailers nationwide and also from a variety of leading online outlets. The figure is constructed with hybrid materials and features 15 points of articulation to create endless posing possibilities

Meisho Movie Realization Samurai General “Daisho” Darth Vader

Height: Approx. 7 inches; MSRP: $92.99

The greatly popular Samurai General Darth Vader makes a comeback in an all new Death Star motif. Another stunningly unique artistic interpretation master crafted by acclaimed artist Takeya Takayuki, Darth Vader - Death Star Armor - has a revamped armor design. Most notable is the fearsome Death Star-style crest on the helmet and highly detailed chest plate pattern. Set includes interchangeable hands, gun (large, small), and katana sword (light saber and regular).

Fans can also enjoy other figures from the Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars product line – available now – that include the “Ronin” Boba Fett, “Ashigaru” Stormtrooper, and the Samurai General “Taisho” Darth Vader. Each is clad in a unique set of armor and comes with an array of weapons and other accessories. Additional new figures will be announced in coming months.

For more information on Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars figures distributed by Bluefin, please visit: www.bluefincorp.com/catalog/tamashii-nations/meisho-movie-realization.html.

Press Release 1/13/16 Press Release 1/13/16

DREDD on Netflix? Fan campaign calls on TV firms to pick up franchise

The fans behind the ‘Make A DREDD Sequel’ campaign for a follow-up to the 2012 movie starring Karl Urban are calling on TV producers to pick up the franchise. Superfans Frank Palmer and Brian Ritchie are calling their campaign ‘Bring Back DREDD’, and are hoping to apply pressure to Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO, and other TV producers.

They’re calling on fans to sign the petition – which already stands at 136,000 names – calling for more media based on the Pete Travis and Alex Garland movie, whose dedicated fanbase has continued to grow online as more people discover the hard-edged sci-fi thriller starring Karl Urban, Olivia Thirlby, and Lena Headey through DVD, Blu-Ray, and streaming services.

They believe that the success of series such as Daredevil and Jessica Jones proves the market for adult-orientated sci-fi, which Dredd provided in spades.

The petition can be signed at www.2000ADonline.com/dreddsequel

The campaign’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bringbackdredd now has more than 100,000 supporters while Karl Urban and Olivia Thirlby have both sent the campaign messages of support.

Frank Palmer said: “When Brian and I first began the ‘Make A DREDD Sequel’ page on Facebook we never dreamt we’d get this level of support from fellow fans. And when 2000 AD got in touch to say they’d like to support us, it was a dream come true and the petition we started has gone on to number 136,000 names.

Last year’s annual Day of Dredd event was our biggest ever, with the campaign going viral on Twitter and Facebook, and thousands upon thousands of people buying the DVD and Blu-Ray to show there’s a market for more from the world of the 2012 movie!

“For a while now we’ve thought about broadening the campaign out – so with things having gone quiet on the possibility of a movie sequel, we’ve decided to take the fight to the TV producers who have done such good jobs with other comic book properties such as Daredevil and Jessica Jones.

“We’ve discussed this with 2000 AD and they’re happy for us to shift our focus to campaigning for a Judge Dredd TV series in the style of the movie. We’re relaunching the petition and we call on all fans of DREDD to join 136,000 other people in calling for people with the vision and the finance to make it happen to step up and give us what we want.

“In the next few days we’ll be organising activities so that people can lobby companies such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and HBO, and show their support as we all say – “Bring Back DREDD!”!”

Jason Kingsley, co-owner of Rebellion and 2000 AD, said: “What Frank and Brian have achieved over the last three years has been incredible – they’ve kept the fires burning and their decision to open out the campaign to include TV AND films is a sensible one. Who amongst us wouldn’t want to see a DREDD series from Netflix or Amazon? I wish them all the best and thank them for keeping the faith. In the meantime, we’ve been doing – and will continue to do - all we can to give the fans what they want, which is more from the incredibly rich world of Judge Dredd.”