ACF 654: Death Note collection on Blu-ray coming August 24th, 2010

SHINIGAMI DEATH GODS AND THE HUNT FOR A SERIAL KILLER CONSPIRE IN NEW BLUE-RAY DEATH NOTE COLLECTION

Highly Anticipated Double-Feature Release Based On Popular
Manga & Anime Series Includes Death Note, Death Note II: The Last Name
Feature Films And Bonus Disc

VIZ Pictures, an affiliate of VIZ Media that focuses on Japanese live-action film distribution, will debut the Blu-ray Death Note Collection on August 24th, 2010. The 3-disc set includes 2 feature films – Death Note and Death Note II: the Last name – as well as a bonus disc containing more than two hours of all new behind-the-scenes footage. Both films feature Japanese audio with English subtitles as well as an English dubbed dialogue track. MSRP for the Death Note Collection is $39.98 U.S. / $57.99 CAN.

To celebrate the new release, VIZ Pictures will hold a special screening of both films at VIZ Cinema, located inside NEW PEOPLE in San Francisco’s Japantown, 1746 Post St., San Francisco, CA 94115, on Saturday, September 4th. Death Note plays at 12:00 noon and Death Note II screens at 2:30pm. Special combo tickets are available for $35.00 and include passes for the screenings, the Blu-ray release and a poster. Regular combo tickets are $15.00 for tickets for both shows (no Blu-ray or poster), while general admission for one screening is $10.00. Tickets and information are available at www.vizcinema.com.

As a special offer to U.S. and Canadian Death Note fans, VIZ Pictures will award three lucky winners posters for Death Note and Death Note II along with an autograph from one of the three lead actors – Tatsuya Fujiwara (who played Light), Erika Toda (Misa) and actor Kenichi Matusyama (L/Ryuzaki), one of the most promising actors in Japan, who can also be seen in films such as NANA (2006), Linda Linda Linda (2005) and Detroit Metal City (2008). The campaign runs until September 24th. For more details about the campaign, visit www.viz-pictures.com.

“Death Note is an intense psychological crime thriller and we’re very proud to debut both films in a special new collection on Blu-ray,” says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “Death Note established a new benchmark for Japanese anime, manga, and film and we invite domestic fans to savor all the tension and imaginative supernatural drama of this exciting new release from VIZ Pictures!”

Death Note is a battle of wits based on the acclaimed manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata (published in North America by VIZ Media, rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens). Law student Light is upset with the justice system and when he finds the Death Note dropped by a Shinigami death god, he vows to rid the world of evil. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies. As criminals all over the world begin to perish mysteriously, a world-renowned detective known only as ‘L’ is put on the case to stop this serial killer that the public calls ‘Kira.” The battle between Light and L continues in Death Note II: the Last name as Light joins the investigation team. L suspects Light of being Kira while Light attempts to learn L’s real name. Time becomes even more crucial with the appearance of a second Kira. Whose name will be the last written in the Death Note?

For more information on Death Note or other VIZ Pictures titles, visit www.viz-pictures.com.

ACF 401: "Death Note: L, change the WorLd" novel available from VIZ

L CHANGE THE WORLD (C) 2007 M / 2008 "L" PLOT PRODUCE

PLUNGE INTO THE FATAL LAST CASE OF LEGENDARY
CRIME DETECTIVE IN NEW NOVEL

DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd

L Has Twenty-Three Days To Live, And Twenty-Two Days to Save The World

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media) expands the thrilling psychological suspense of DEATH NOTE with the release of DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd, a new novel featuring the master detective from the hit animated and manga series. DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd is available now from SHONEN JUMP Fiction and carries an MSRP of $17.99 U.S. / $24.00 CAN.

In an alternative continuity in the DEATH NOTE setting, ace detective L's name has been placed in a Death Note. He has twenty-three days to bring a terrorist group to justice, or they will use a deadly new virus to change the world...by killing off most of humanity.

“DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd offers a fitting finale to the DEATH NOTE saga and contains many events that did not take place in the film,” says Gonzalo Ferreyra, Vice President, Sales & marketing, VIZ Media. “The author, who adopts the nom de plume ‘M’ in tribute to the eccentric detective, creates an intriguing alternate continuity that will intrigue fans of the anime and manga series as well as new readers. Any thoughts of a quiet hospice vanish as L sacrifices his life to save humanity. Edge of your seat suspense awaits readers in this gripping new novel!”

DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd features the same format as the original Japanese printing with a hardcover and clear acetate jacket with metallic ink. The cover art is by Takeshi Obata, the artists fo the DEATH NOTE manga series. DEATH NOTE is one of VIZ Media’s top 5 bestselling properties, with over 1 million copies of the manga sold in the U.S. The character of L is extremely popular with fans and has inspired various products such as apparel and stationery as well as spinoff novels and three live action DEATH NOTE films (available from VIZ Pictures).
For more information on DEATH NOTE, please visit Deathnote.viz.com.

ACC 372: VIZ October 2009 DVD Releases

© 2002 MASASHI KISHIMOTO. SHONEN JUMP and NARUTO are
trademarks of Shueisha, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES
DVD RELEASES FOR OCTOBER 2009

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media) has announced their list of DVD titles scheduled for release in October 2009. This includes the first full season box set of NARUTO UNCUT and the next installment in the gripping DEATH NOTE: RE-LIGHT series, as well as the latest episodic releases of the popular BLEACH, NARUTO Shippuden and POKÉMON series. VIZ Media DVD titles are distributed (in English) in the U.S and Mexico by Warner Home Video and in Canada by Allegro.

New NARUTO releases include:

NARUTO Shippuden Volume 2 · Rated 'T+' for Older Teens

MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN · Available October 27

Naruto and Sakura have succeeded in bringing down Kakashi in the survival challenge using an unconventional technique! Tsunade then assigns them to a three-man squad led by Kakashi, who tells them that they are now his equals. Meanwhile, Gaara is facing his greatest challenge as Kazekage--to save the Sand Village from Deidara of the Akatsuki. Gaara has the power to protect his village, but will he have enough left over to save himself? With the Kazekage in danger, the Sand call upon their allies from the Leaf, and the reunited Team Kakashi get ready to spring into action!

NARUTO UNCUT Season 1, Volume 1 DVD Box Set · Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens

MSRP: $39.98 US / $57.99 CAN · Available October 6

Deep within the Hidden Leaf Village, young ninja Naruto Uzumaki carries sealed within him the spirit of the Nine-Tailed Fox, which once almost destroyed the village. Always an outcast because of his secret, now Naruto battles alongside his teammates Sasuke and Sakura to prove to himself and everyone else that he's the greatest ninja ever. But he's got a long list of challenges to face before he gets there!

Additional SHONEN JUMP releases include:

BLEACH Volume 21 · Rated ‘T’ for Teens

MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN · Available October 20

Rukia becomes possessed by a doll placed in her chest by one of the Bounts and attacks her friends! Orihime desperately tries to protect herself and the others without harming her dear friend. But when Rukia's full Soul Reaper powers are drawn out in the battle, Orihime must make a painful choice.

DEATH NOTE: RE-LIGHT 2: L’s Successors · Rated 'T+' for Older Teens

MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN · Available October 27

Four years have passed since Light claimed his victory at L’s grave. Light has joined the National Police Agency and taken on the identity of the “new L.” Kira’s judgments of the citizens of the world have intensified, and many nations have come to accept Kira, either from fear or adulation. Near, L’s successor, must ponder the question of how L was defeated if he is to succeed where his famed predecessor failed. At the headquarters of the anti-Kira organization the SPK, he proclaims that the new L is none other than Kira and calls upon the Japanese task force to declare war on Light.

New POKÉMON Releases Include:

POKÉMON: DIAMOND AND PEARL BATTLE DIMENSION Box Set 3

Rated 'A' for All Ages · MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN · Available October 27

Villainy is afoot as Ash and friends continue their journey through the Sinnoh region – but first, they’ll have to graduate from the Pokémon Summer Academy! Will they learn to handle Team Rocket’s newfound moxie, or Pokémon Hunter J’s latest poaching scheme? Ash gets to take on the Hearthome City Gym Leader, but first he’s going to have to deal with a new rival, Barry! And if Dawn thought the Celestic Town Pokémon Contest was a challenge, things really heat up when Team Galactic rolls into town!

POKÉMON: DIAMOND AND PEARL BATTLE DIMENSION Volumes 5 and 6

Rated 'A' for All Ages · MSRP: $14.98 each US / $21.99 each CAN

Available October 27

The episodes of POKÉMON: Diamond and Pearl Battle Dimension Box Set 3 split into two standard disc editions.

New VIZ Pictures Releases Include:

Yayoi Kusama: I Love ME · New People Artist Series Volume 2

MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN · Available October 27

Artist Yayoi Kusama is an avant-garde sculptor, painter, and novelist and her visual style is often characterized by a liberal use of polka dots and nets to achieve a so-called “infinity effect.” The film documents Kusama’s creative process over the course of a year-and-a-half as she completes a series of 50 large monochrome drawings. As her work comes to life, one witnesses the essence of her artistic voice as builds on themes about the conflicts between life, death, and love – sometimes quietly and sometimes not. Her self-confidence and dignified spirit is evident throughout the insightful film. (live action Feature Film)

ACF 357: DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd DVD out August 18th

VIZ PICTURES RELEASES LIVE-ACTION
DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd
Riveting Unwritten Concluding Chapter Of Edgy DEATH NOTE
Psychological Crime Drama Available on DVD on August 18, 2009

VIZ Pictures, an affiliate of VIZ Media, LLC that focuses on Japanese live-action film distribution, has announced the DVD release of DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd live-action film. The DVD will be distributed by VIZ Media, available on August 18th and will carry a MSRP of $24.92 US/$35.99 Canada.

To celebrate this release, VIZ Pictures will have a special event at their brand-new VIZ Cinema in San Francisco, a one-night-only screening of the film on Tuesday, August 25th at 8:00 PM. Enjoy the L movie screening and an exclusive L gift-box including the newly released DVD, poster and more. Visit www.vizcinema.com for ticket info and more details.

DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd is inspired by the immensely popular DEATH NOTE feature films, which are based on the best-selling supernatural action manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. This spin-off follows a new original storyline. DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd was directed by Hideo Nakata, who also directed the U.S. #1 hit horror movie The Ring 2, which was remade from his own smash hit Japanese horror trilogy, Ringu.

Inspired by the best-selling manga DEATH NOTE, DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd reveals how L spends the last 23 days of his life. For his final case he takes on a bio-terrorist group and must also save the lives of two children who have no one else to turn to.

“DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd stars Kenichi Matsuyama, an up-and-coming Japanese actor who has also appeared in acclaimed films such as DEATH NOTE, LINDA LINDA LINDA, NANA and DETROIT METAL CITY,” says Seiji Horibuchi, president and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “He reprises his role as the ace detective L and audiences will be riveted to their seats as his character once again works to save society from a monstrous new threat.”

The DEATH NOTE manga (rated ‘T+’ for older teens) and animated series (rated ‘T+’ for older teens) have become extremely popular domestically. The 37-episode animated series is seen by millions each week on cable broadcast and the series is also distributed on DVD by VIZ Media. On the print side, the DEATH NOTE manga series and DEATH NOTE 13: HOW TO READ, a companion volume to the successful manga series, is published domestically by VIZ Media and has been ranked in USA Today's Top 150 list of America's best-selling books.

For more information on the DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd live action films and other VIZ Pictures films, please visit www.viz-pictures.com or www.deathnotefilms.com. For more information on the DEATH NOTE manga and animation, please visit deathnote.viz.com.

ACF 294: VIZ announces Anime DVD releases for 2nd quarter 2009

VIZ Media has announced a diverse collection of new animated and live-action titles scheduled for release throughout the Second Quarter of 2009.

The new releases include DEATH NOTE RELIGHT: VISIONS OF A GOD, which retells the groundbreaking DEATH NOTE psychological crime drama from an entirely new perspective. Also set for release is the concluding DVD Box Set of the DEATH NOTE animated series. New BLEACH episodic and NARUTO box set editions are also scheduled for release, along with the next Box Set compilation of HUNTER X HUNTER. INUYASHA fans will delight in the debut of the final Season 7 Box Set edition containing the series’ cliffhanger finale, while younger fans can look forward to four new POKÉMON DVDS that highlight their favorite characters.

Many of these releases are also available as Special Editions featuring collectible figurines. In the Live Action realm, VIZ Pictures will debut the live-action comedy/drama HAPPILY EVER AFTER. VIZ Media DVD titles are distributed (in English) in U.S and Mexico by Warner Home Video and in Canada by Allegro.

New DEATH NOTE Releases Include:

DEATH NOTE RELIGHT: VISIONS OF A GOD • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens • MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN • Available June 23
Light and L have battled to the bitter end over the Death Note — but what does the DEATH NOTE saga look like from Ryuk’s point of view? When rogue shinigami Ryuk deliberately drops his Death Note in the human world out of boredom, he has no idea how far the human who picks it up will take his newfound power. With the Death Note in hand, brilliant high school student Light Yagami vows to rid the world of evil, and when criminals begin dropping dead one by one, genius detective L steps in to track down the elusive killer known as Kira. An epic battle of wits pitting one brilliant mind against another unfolds — with the very future of humanity at stake! Ryuk’s not bored anymore!

DEATH NOTE DVD Box Set Volume 2 • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens • MSRP: $69.97 US / $99.99 CAN • Available Now!
In the concluding DVD Box Set of this edgy crime thriller, Light Yagami is close to creating a world in which he holds ultimate authority over right and wrong through the power of the Death Note. But many obstacles remain, including a second Death Note user who has his own nefarious goals, and the two brilliant protégés of L, the genius detective who once vowed to expose the identity of the Death Note’s owner. Light is confident that he can prevail, but as the surviving players in the game converge for a final showdown, whose name will be the last one written in the Death Note? This is the final installment in the series, covering the last 17 episodes. A special bonus disc also includes 90 minutes of extra content.

New NARUTO Releases Include:

NARUTO UNCUT DVD Box Set Volume 13 Special Edition • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens • MSRP: $69.97 US / $99.99 CAN • Available Now!
Naruto summons a couple of old amphibious pals – Gamakichi and Gamatatsu – to help him solve a mystery surrounding a mysterious Cursed Warrior. Back at home, there's nothing more motivating for Choji and Naruto than a bowl of steaming hot Ichiraku ramen, and they're really going to have to sing for their supper when the owner's daughter is kidnapped! Can they get her back and save the restaurant's secret recipes in time for dinner? Then, Anko must face the darkness in her past when she's called to lead a mission to a place she once visited with her former sensei, Orochimaru! Will facing the truth save the mission – or break her forever? Special Edition Box Set features 14 episodes on 3 discs and includes a collectible Mininja figurine of Kakashi.

NARUTO UNCUT DVD Box Set Volume 13 Standard Edition • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens • MSRP: $49.95 US / $71.99 CAN • Available Now!
Standard Edition set features the same episodes as Special Edition but no collectible Kakashi Mininja is included.

NARUTO UNCUT DVD Box Set Volume 14 Special Edition • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens • MSRP: $69.97 US / $99.99 CAN • Available May 26
The ninja of the Hidden Leaf Village are summoned on a new mission to the Land of Stars, where a meteorite with incredible powers has been stolen! Naruto and the others begin to suspect it was an inside job when they learn that the ninja who stole the star used a special ninjutsu known only to the Star Village. Then, Choji, Hinata and Naruto set out for the Land of Greens to protect a group of merchants, one of whom turns out to be a princess! When Hinata is threatened by an evil ninja to reveal the princess's whereabouts or Naruto will be hurt, will she choose to save a princess or the boy she loves? Special Edition Box Set features 14 episodes on 3 discs and includes a collectible Mininja figurine of Neji.

NARUTO UNCUT DVD Box Set Volume 14 Standard Edition • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens • MSRP: $49.95 US / $71.99 CAN • Available May 26
Standard Edition set features the same episodes as Special Edition but no collectible Neji Mininja is included.

New BLEACH Releases Include:

BLEACH Volume 16 • Rated ‘T’ for Teens • MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN • Available May 12
The latest BLEACH edition sees Ichigo and friends finally resuming their regular lives at home and school after their adventures in the Soul Society. But strange disappearances keep occurring and no culprit is in sight. Something strange has followed them home and it will put their faith and trust in each other to the test. Single Disc Edition features 4 original uncut episodes.

BLEACH Volume 17 • Rated ‘T’ for Teens • MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN • Available June 16
A powerful new enemy has appeared in Karakura Town. Known as Bounts, these creatures literally suck the souls from humans. Rukia, Yoruichi and Soi Fon are sent from the Soul Society to investigate, and Urahara enlists the help of three mod souls to assist Ichigo and friends in preventing the deadly attacks. Single Disc Edition features 4 original and uncut episodes.

New HUNTER X HUNTER Releases Include:

HUNTER X HUNTER Box Set Volume 2 • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens • MSRP: $49.95 US / $71.99 CAN • Available Now!
The second of four DVD box sets of the HUNTER X HUNTER action/adventure fantasy series from Yoshihiro Togashi the creator of YUYU HAKUSHO. Gon and his friends have passed the first two stages of the Hunter Exam, but they still have three more grueling phases to complete. In the latest episodes, the hopeful candidates must escape the maze-like Trick Tower and survive a free-for-all on an isolated island before they can battle it out in the final tournament. As the wild adventures with treasure hunting, magical beasts, and bounty hunters continue, will Gon and his friends prove their worth and earn the right to call themselves Hunters? Find out in this new Box Set that features 15 episodes on 3 discs.

New INUYASHA Releases Include:

INUYASHA Season 7 DVD Box Set Special Edition • Rated ‘T’ for Teens • MSRP: $119.89 US / $169.99 CAN • Available Now!
This set is the final installment of the legendary INUYASHA series inspired by Rumiko Takahashi’s smash-hit manga series. The story of the priestess Kikyo and half-demon Inuyasha ended in tragedy. As the series reaches its exciting finale, will Inuyasha and Kagome's story have a happier ending? Each battle draws the group closer to their ultimate goal – the border of the afterlife and the final shard of the sacred Shikon Jewel. But the last stage of the journey is the most difficult of all. In their final battle with Naraku, will the bond between Kagome and Inuyasha prove strong enough to vanquish him at last? The Box Set features 21 episodes on 4 discs. Special Edition also includes a collectible figure of Inuyasha wielding his powerful Tetsusaiga sword.

INUYASHA Season 7 DVD Box Set Standard Edition • Rated ‘T’ for Teens • MSRP: $99.94 US / $142.99 CAN • Available Now!
Standard Edition set features the same episodes as Special Edition but no collectible Inuyasha figure is included.

New POKÉMON Releases Include:

POKÉMON ALL STARS Volume 19 Torchic • Rated ‘A’ for All Ages • MSRP: $9.98 US / $14.99 CAN • Available Now!

POKÉMON ALL STARS Volume 20 Onix • Rated ‘A’ for All Ages • MSRP: $9.98 US / $14.99 CAN • Available Now!
Following the Pokémon 10th Anniversary celebration set, the Pokémon All Stars series consist of DVD releases commemorating top Pokémon characters. Each disc showcases a single character with three all-time favorite episodes featuring their adventures. Collect them all!

Volume 19 Includes 3 Torchic episodes:
1. In The Knicker Of Time
2. Having A Wailord Of A Time
3. A Shroomish Skirmish

Volume 20 Includes 3 Onix episodes:
1. Showdown In Pewter City
2. To Master The Onixpected
3. Hooked On Onix

POKÉMON: DIAMOND AND PEARL BATTLE DIMENSION Box Set 1 • Rated ‘A’ for All Ages • MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN • Available June 23
Ash, Dawn, and Brock continue their journey through the Sinnoh region, with Ash working on his next two Gym badges and Dawn striving to break her recent string of defeats. Some new Pokémon have joined the team–including Paul’s traumatized Chimchar–challenging the depths of our heroes’ Pokémon knowledge. Luckily, they’ll be attending Professor Rowan’s Pokémon Summer Academy and meeting a lot of Pokémon experts! But will they learn enough to deal with the devious threats posed by Pokémon Hunter J and Team Galactic? Find out in this special 2-disc box set.

POKÉMON DIAMOND AND PEARL BATTLE DIMENSION Volume 1-2 • Rated ‘A’ for All Ages • MSRP: $14.98 US / $21.99 CAN • Available June 23
The episodes of POKÉMON: DIAMOND & PEARL BATTLE DIMENSION split into two standard single disc editions
New VIZ Pictures Releases Include:

ACF 285: Two-night special "L, change the worLd" event begins tomorrow 04.29.09

VIZ PICTURES AND NCM FATHOM PRESENT
LIVE-ACTION DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd
IN SPECIAL TWO-NIGHT EVENT

Riveting Unwritten Chapter Of Edgy DEATH NOTE Psychological Crime Drama on the Big Screen on April 29th and 30th in More Than 400 Theatres Nationwide

Just a quick reminder that VIZ Pictures and NCM FATHOM are presenting this live-action two-night, multi-city event on tomorrow, Wednesday, April 29th and again on Thursday, April 30th at 7:30 pm local time. By popular demand, a subtitled version will be presented on April 29th and an English-dubbed version on April 30th with L’s voice played by Alessandro Juliani from the anime series.

Tickets for this special event are available at the presenting theatre box offices and online. For a complete list of theatre locations and prices, please visit http://www.blogger.com/www.fathomevents.com/ (theatres are subject to change).

ACF 279: VIZ Media announces DVD releases for May and June 2009

Lots of interesting releases coming from VIZ in the next two months. Here's info on the animation releases.

VIZ Media has announced an array of new DVD titles scheduled for release throughout May and June 2009. These include the latest episodic releases of popular BLEACH and NARUTO series, as well as the eagerly awaited new DEATH NOTE RE-LIGHT, the animation that revisits the DEATH NOTE series through the eyes of Ryuk. Younger viewers will delight in the new POKÉMON DIAMOND AND PEARL: BATTLE DIMENSION Box Set. VIZ Media DVD titles are distributed (in English) in U.S and Mexico by Warner Home Video and in Canada by Allegro.

New BLEACH Releases Include:

BLEACH Volume 16 • Rated 'T' for Teens •
MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN • Available May 12

Returning to the world of the living after their adventures in the Soul Society, Ichigo and his friends resume their regular lives at home and school. But strange disappearances continue to occur, and no culprit is in sight. Something strange has followed them home and it will put their faith and trust in each other to the ultimate test.

BLEACH Volume 17 • Rated 'T' for Teens •
MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN • Available June 16

A powerful new enemy has appeared in Karakura Town. Known as Bounts, these menacing creatures suck the souls from humans. Rukia, Yoruichi and Soi Fon are sent from the Soul Society to investigate, and Urahara further enlists the help of three mod souls to assist Ichigo and friends in preventing these deadly attacks.

New DEATH NOTE Releases Include:

DEATH NOTE RE-LIGHT Volume 1 • Rated 'T+' for Older Teens •
MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN • Available June 16

This animation goes back to where it all began and revisits this critically acclaimed psychological crime thriller from a whole new perspective – through the eyes of Ryuk, the shinigami death god and the one who started it all! Light and L have battled to the bitter end over the Death Note – but what does the story look like from Ryuk’s point of view? When rogue shinigami Ryuk deliberately drops his Death Note in the human world out of boredom, he has no idea how far the human who picks it up will take his newfound power. With the Death Note in hand, brilliant high school student Light Yagami vows to rid the world of evil, and when criminals begin dropping dead one by one, genius detective L steps in to track down this elusive killer known only as Kira. An epic battle of wits pitting one brilliant mind against another unfolds – with the future of humanity at stake! Ryuk’s not bored anymore!

New NARUTO Releases Include:

NARUTO UNCUT SPECIAL EDITION DVD BOX SET Volume 14 • Rated 'T+' for Older Teens • MSRP: $69.97 US / $99.99 CAN • Available May 26

The ninjas of the Hidden Leaf Village are summoned on an important mission to the Land of Stars, where a meteorite with incredible powers has been stolen. Naruto and his cohorts begin to suspect it was an inside job when they learn that the ninja that stole the star used a special ninjutsu technique known only to the Star Village. Then, Choji, Hinata and Naruto set out for the Land of Greens to protect a group of merchants, one of whom turns out to be a princess! When Hinata is threatened by an evil ninja to reveal the princess's whereabouts or Naruto will be hurt, will she choose to save a princess or the boy she loves? The Special Edition Box Set features 14 episodes on 3 discs and also includes a collectible Neji mininja figure.

NARUTO UNCUT DVD Box Set Volume 14 Standard Edition• Rated 'T+' for Older Teens • MSRP: $49.95 US / $71.99 CAN • Available May 26

DVD-only collection featuring 14 episodes from the hit series on 3 discs; collectible figure is not included.

New POKÉMON Releases Include:

POKÉMON: DIAMOND AND PEARL BATTLE DIMENSION BOX SET 1 • Rated 'A' for All Ages • MSRP: $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN • Available June 23

Ash, Dawn, and Brock continue their journey through the Sinnoh region, with Ash working on his next two Gym badges and Dawn striving to break her recent string of Pokémon Contest defeats. Some new Pokémon also have joined the team – including Ash’s Chimchar, previously trained by Paul. Our heroes will also be attending Professor Rowan’s Pokémon Summer Academy and meeting a lot of new friends! But will they learn enough to deal with the devious threats posed by Pokémon Hunter J and Team Galactic? Find out in this special 2-disc box set.

POKÉMON: DIAMOND AND PEARL BATTLE DIMENSION Volumes 1-2 Standard Edition • Rated 'A' for All Ages •
MSRP: $14.98 each US / $21.99 CAN Each • Available June 23

The episodes of POKÉMON: DIAMOND & PEARL BATTLE DIMENSION split into two standard single disc editions.

ACF 269: New "Death Note: L change the WorLd" promotion starts today!!!!!

VIZ PICTURES TEAMS WITH TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT
TO PROMOTE THE LIVE ACTION FEATURE FILM
DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd
F.Y.E. And SUNCOAST Customers Who Purchase
Any DEATH NOTE Related Item Will Receive
A Free Ticket To Attend Screening On April 30th

Here's the latest promotional news from VIZ about the upcoming two night multi-city screening of Death Note: L change the WorLd:

VIZ Pictures, an affiliate of VIZ Media, LLC that focuses on Japanese live-action film distribution, has partnered with Trans World Entertainment (TWE) to sponsor a special retail ticket giveaway campaign at participating F.Y.E. and SUNCOAST stores nationwide in support of the U.S. theatrical premiere of DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd. VIZ Pictures and NCM Fathom will present this live-action film, in a two-night, multi-city event taking place on April 29th and 30th.

For a limited time, beginning April 13th, F.Y.E. and SUNCOAST customers who purchase any DEATH NOTE DVD or DEATH NOTE related merchandise (in-store only) will receive a free ticket to attend the English-dubbed screening on April 30th., while supplies last. Trans World Entertainment Corporation is one of the largest specialty music and video retailers in the United States and operates more than 700 F.Y.E. and Suncoast stores nationwide. For store locations please visit http://www.fye.com/ or Suncoast.com.

“DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd tells the story of how the legendary crime sleuth ‘L’ spends the final few days of his life on his last and perhaps most dangerous case,” says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “We’re very excited to team with Trans World Entertainment and F.Y.E. for this special ticket giveaway promotion. I invite fans to pick up the original DEATH NOTE live-action film and its sequel, DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME, both available now on DVD at their local F.Y.E. or Suncoast location and secure their free ticket for the special screening on April 30th.”

DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd introduces the unwritten chapter of DEATH NOTE and reveals how the legendary detective “L” (Kenichi Matsuyama) spends the final 23 days of his life. The story begins as L takes on the “Kira” case, in which countless criminals are dying under mysterious circumstances. L successfully solves the case and stops Kira, but only after sacrificing his life, leaving himself with only 23 days left to live. For his final case L faces down a bio-terrorist group trying to wipe out humanity with a deadly virus ten times more potent than Ebola. As L tries to formulate an antidote with a scientist, he must also save the lives of two children who have no one else to turn to.

DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd features what happened before and after the two earlier DEATH NOTE events and shows DEATH NOTE fans the more human side of L that could not be seen previously. The movie stars Kenichi Matsuyama (Linda Linda Linda, NANA and Detroit Metal City) as ‘L’, and for dubbed version, L’s voice is played by Alessandro Juliani from the anime series.

DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd was the #1 movie in Japan in 2008, grossing over $30 million and the #1 selling DVD in Japan for 2008. Inspired by the immensely popular DEATH NOTE features, which are based on the best-selling supernatural action manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata, this spin-off follows a new original storyline. DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd was directed by Hideo Nakata, who also directed the U.S. #1 hit horror movie The Ring 2, which was remade from his own smash hit Japanese horror trilogy, Ringu.

For a complete list of theatre locations and prices, please visit http://www.fathomevents.com/ (theatres are subject to change).

For more information on the DEATH NOTE live action films and other VIZ Pictures films please visit http://www.viz-pictures.com/ or http://www.deathnotefilms.com/. For more information on the DEATH NOTE manga and animation, rated ‘T+’ for older teens please visit deathnote.viz.com.

ACF 255: "L, change the WorLd" special 2-night event at 400+ Theatres!

VIZ PICTURES AND NCM FATHOM PRESENT
LIVE-ACTION DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd
IN SPECIAL TWO-NIGHT EVENT

Riveting Unwritten Chapter Of Edgy DEATH NOTE Psychological Crime Drama on the Big Screen on April 29th and 30th in More Than 400 Theatres Nationwide

Here's complete info on this exciting nation-wide two night event. Note especially that advance ticket sale begins today, March 20th, for e-subscribers to Shonen Jump and on Monday, March 23rd for the general public.

VIZ Pictures, an affiliate of VIZ Media, LLC that focuses on Japanese live-action film distribution, has announced that it will team with NCM FATHOM to present DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd, a live-action two-night, multi-city event on April 29th and 30th at 7:30 pm local time. By popular demand, a subtitled version will be presented on April 29th and an English-dubbed version on April 30th with L’s voice played by Alessandro Juliani from the anime series.

Tickets for this special event are available at presenting theatre box offices and online. For a complete list of theatre locations and prices, please visit http://www.blogger.com/www.fathomevents.com/ (theatres are subject to change). Advance tickets will be available to SHONEN JUMP e-subscribers beginning March 20 (sign-up is available at http://www.shonenjump.com/) and tickets to the general public go on sale on March 23.

DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd is inspired by the immensely popular DEATH NOTE features, which are based on the best-selling supernatural action manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata, but this spin-off follows a new original storyline. DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd was directed by Hideo Nakata, who also directed the U.S. #1 hit horror movie The Ring 2, which was remade from his own smash hit Japanese horror trilogy, Ringu.

DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd introduces the unwritten chapter of DEATH NOTE and reveals how the legendary detective “L” (Kenichi Matsuyama) spends the final 23 days of his life. The story begins as L takes on the “Kira” case, in which countless criminals are dying under mysterious circumstances. L successfully solves the case and stops Kira, but only after sacrificing his life, leaving himself with only 23 days left to live. For his final case L faces down a bio-terrorist group trying to wipe out humanity with a deadly virus ten times more potent than Ebola. As L tries to formulate an antidote with a scientist, he must also save the lives of two children who have no one else to turn to. DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd features what happened before and after the two earlier DEATH NOTE events and shows DEATH NOTE fans the more human side of L that could not be seen previously.

“Fathom’s ongoing relationship with VIZ Pictures has brought the best in live-action manga events to Fathom-networked theatres and will bring the anxiously awaited third event in the Death Note series to select theatres in April,” said Dan Diamond, vice president of Fathom.

“DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd stars Kenichi Matsuyama, an up-and-coming Japanese actor who has also appeared in acclaimed films such as DEATH NOTE, LINDA LINDA LINDA, NANA and DETROIT METAL CITY,” says Seiji Horibuchi, president and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “He reprises his role as the ace detective L and audiences will be riveted to their seats as his character once again works to save society from a monstrous new threat.”

The DEATH NOTE manga and animated series have become extremely popular domestically. The 37-episode animated series is seen by millions each week on cable broadcast and the series is also distributed on DVD by VIZ Media (rated T+ for Older Teens). On the print side, DEATH NOTE 13: HOW TO READ, a companion volume to the successful manga series, is also published domestically by VIZ Media and was ranked in USA Today's Top 150 list of America's best-selling books.

For more information on the DEATH NOTE live action events and other VIZ Pictures films please visit http://www.viz-pictures.com/ or http://www.deathnotefilms.com/. For more information on the DEATH NOTE manga and animation, please visit deathnote.viz.com.

ACF 231: "Death Note II: The Last Name" DVD from VIZ Pictures reviewed

"L", Light Yagami and TV star Misa Amane

Death Note: The Last Name / Desu noto: The last name
Directed by Shusuke Kaneko
Japan, 2006, approx 140 min.

As I'd previously announced, Death Note II: The Last Name, came out on a single disc DVD from VIZ Pictures last Tuesday. Sorry that my review is a little later than I'd hoped, but it's delay is no reflection on the movie or the DVD, both of which are top notch. Think of the two Death Note movies as the Godfather I and IIs of supernatural police procedural thrillers.

Death Note II, like the first film, is based on the hit manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. (Sales of 15 million copies!) It picks up right after the conclusion of the original Death Note movie, which you'll definitely want to watch first if you haven't already.

The story centers around young Light Yagami (Tatsuya Fujiwara), an extremely bright law student whose father, Soichiro Yagami (Takeshi Kaga), is a police chief. Light has found a book dropped by Ryuk, a God Of Death. Merely writing a person's name in it while thinking of their face (so as to avoid mistaken identity) results in that person's death. Disillusioned with the failures of the justice system, Light sets out to create a crime-free world by killing all the criminals he can.

While many approve of the vigilante justice meted out by "Kira" (the name Light uses), others do not. This is particularly true of the police, including Light's father. They call on the mysterious "L" (Kenichi Matsuyama), a young genius detective, to discover who Kira is.

Death God Ryuk and "L"

In the sequel, Light joins the investigation team in pursuit of the vigilante/serial killer. While super-detective "L" still strongly suspects (correctly) that Light is Kira, Yagami continues to seek out the real name of "L" so he can kill him with his Death Note.

Making things even more unpredictable is the emergence of a second “Kira” (Erika Toda). This new vigilante has the “Eyes of Death” which enables her to know the true identity and lifespan of any person. Light Yagami seeks to learn the identity of this other Kira so they can join forces to get rid of "L". Once this is accomplished, Light develops an intricate plot that involves empowering a third "Kira" who has no knowledge of Light's nefarious plans.

Misa undergoing extreme police "interrogation"

Part of the reason for the appeal and success of both Death Note films is the source material, although there are some minor changes in the live-action versions. Also contributing to the sequels success is the return of not only director Kaneki, but also all of the leads and many of the supporting cast from the original. I must point out the remarkable job done by the three young leads: Fujiwara as Light, Matsuyama as "L", and Toda as Misa Amane. They are fantastic considering their age and the fact that they carry the movie.

The video transfer on the VIZ DVD is first rate. The image is sharp and the colors are bright and crisp. The subtitles are in white letters outlined in black, so they stand out and are easy to read no matter what the background is. I watched some of the movie with the English-dubbed soundtrack (more on it in a moment) and with the English subtitles on. There are often minor differences between the words in the subtitles and what's being said by the voice actors. This is usually a sign that some time and thought has gone into honing the dialogue so that the dubbed words more closely match the movements of the character's mouth. Nicely done here.

You can chose from four audio options: original Japanese or English-dubbed soundtracks, both available in either Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround or 2.0 Stero. The only fault I found with the disc - and it's a very minor one - is that the English 2.0 soundtrack was mastered at a slightly lower level than the other three. But a small increase in volume will correct this without any distortion.

Aside from various trailers, the only significant extra is 23 minute "Making of Death Note II" featurette. In it director Kaneko offers some insights into the film, including differences between the manga and anime´versions on the one hand, and his live-action versions on the other. I found these comparisons interesting, even though I haven't read the mangas nor seen the anime´films.

Death Note II rates a 4 out of 4 star ACF rating. It's outstanding, and even though there aren't that many extras, the DVD will be a welcome acquisition to any collection.

Keep in mind that the original Death Note live-action film has been available for awhile now. I gave it a 3.5 out of four star rating in ACF 111. [For my review of the original, click here.] Also, L: Change the World, the live-action tale of a significant 23-day period in L's life, is scheduled to be released in the summer of 2009. Both are or, in the case of L: Change the World, will be from VIZ Pictures. This is the live-action division of VIZ Media, which also distributes the Death Note mangas and anime´films.

ACF 220: VIZ announces April 2009 animation DVD lineup

Here's the low down on VIZ Media's April 2009 DVD releases of animation films:

VIZ Media has announced their DVD lineup for April 2009, which include animated favorites such as HUNTER X HUNTER, DEATH NOTE, NARUTO, INUYASHA and POKÉMON. VIZ Media’s April releases include many hefty box set editions as well as some featuring special premium collectibles. VIZ Media DVD titles are distributed (in English) in U.S and Mexico by Warner Home Video and in Canada by Allegro.

HUNTER X HUNTER DVD Box Set Volume 2 · Rated “T+” for Older Teens · MSRP: $49.95 US / $64.99 CAN · Available April 7

Gon and his friends have passed the first two stages of the Hunter Exam, but they still have three more grueling phases to complete. The applicants must escape the maze-like Trick Tower and survive a free-for-all on an isolated island before they can battle it out in the final tournament. Will Gon and his friends prove their worth and earn the right to call themselves Hunters? Find out in this exciting new Box Set inspired by the popular HUNTER X HUNTER manga series created by Yoshihiro Togashi.

Artwork (c) 2002 Masashi Kishimoto
Shonen Jump and Naruto are trademarks of Shueisha, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries

NARUTO UNCUT DVD Box Set Volume 13 Special Edition · Rated “T+” for Older Teens · MSRP: $69.97 US / $89.99 CAN · Available April 7

Naruto summons a couple of old amphibious pals – Gamakichi and Gamatatsu – to help him solve a mystery surrounding a mysterious Cursed Warrior. But back at home, there's nothing more motivating for Choji and Naruto than a bowl of steaming hot Ichiraku ramen, and they're really going to have to sing for their supper when the owner's daughter is kidnapped! Can they get her back and save the restaurant's secret recipes in time for dinner? Then, Anko must face the darkness in her past when she's called to lead a mission to a place she once visited with her former sensei, Orochimaru! Will facing the truth save the mission – or break her forever? Special Edition Box Set includes Naruto playing cards plus a collectible Kakashi ninja figure.

NARUTO UNCUT DVD Box Set Volume 13 Standard Edition· Rated “T+” for Older Teens · MSRP: $49.95 US / $64.99 CAN · Available April 7
DVD-only collection featuring episodes from the hit series; no cards or collectible are figure is included.

Artwork (c) Tsugumi Ohba, Takeshi Obata/Shueisha
(c) DNDP, VAP, Shuisha, MAdhouse
Shonen Jump and Death Note are trademarks of Shueisha, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries

DEATH NOTE DVD Box Set Volume 2 · Rated “T+” for Older Teens · MSRP: $69.97 US / $89.99 CAN · Available April 14

Through the power of the Death Note, Light Yagami is close to creating a world in which he holds ultimate authority over right and wrong. But many obstacles remain, including a second Death Note user who has his own nefarious goals, and the two brilliant protégés of L., the genius detective who once vowed to expose the identity of the Death Note’s owner. Light is confident that he can prevail, but as the surviving players in the game converge for a final showdown, whose name will be the last one written in the Death Note? This new Box Set features the exciting conclusion to the supernatural mystery crime thriller based on the popular DEATH NOTE manga series.

All Pokemon artwork (c) 2008 Pokemon
(c) 1997-2008 Nintendo, Creatures, Game Freak, TV Tokyo, ShoPro, JR Kikaku. Pokemon properties are trademarks of Nintendo

POKÉMON: ALL STARS Volume 19: Torchic ·
MSRP: $9.98 US / $12.99 CAN Each · Available April 21

POKÉMON: ALL STARS Volume 20: ONIX ·
MSRP: $9.98 US / $12.99 CAN Each · Available April 21

Following up with POKÉMON’s 10th Anniversary celebration set, the POKÉMON ALL STARS will have a total of twenty DVD releases each commemorating some of the most popular Pokémon characters. Each disc showcases a single character with three classic TV episodes featuring their adventures. Gotta Catch ‘em All!

INUYASHA SEASON 7 DVD Box Set Deluxe Edition · Rated “T” for Teens · MSRP: 119.89 US / $149.99 CAN · Available April 28

The story of the priestess Kikyo and half-demon Inuyasha ended in tragedy. Will Inuyasha and Kagome's story have a happier ending? Each battle draws the group closer to their ultimate goal – the border of the afterlife and the final shard of the Shikon Jewel. But the last stage of their journey is the most difficult of all. In their final battle with Naraku, will the bond between Kagome and Inuyasha prove strong enough to vanquish him at last? Special Deluxe Box Set Edition comes with a Limited Edition collectible Inuyasha figure.

INUYASHA SEASON 7 DVD Box Set Standard Edition · Rated “T” for Teens · MSRP: $99.94 US / $129.99 CAN · Available April 28
DVD-only collection featuring episodes from the hit series; no collectible figure is included.

ACF 214: "Death Note II: The Last Name" DVD due Feb 10, 2009 from VIZ Pictures

Exciting news from VIZ for the many fans of the live action Death Note films, including yours truly. Depending on when my screener arrives, I'll have a full review of the upcoming release just before or soon after the planned street date of February 10th, 2009. Meanwhile, here's the press release info. I've put some of the more pertinent facts in bold.

VIZ Pictures, an affiliate of VIZ Media, LLC that focuses on Japanese live-action film distribution, has announced the highly anticipated DVD release of DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME, based on the hit supernatural action mystery manga (graphic novel) and animated series. The DVD will feature both the original Japanese dialogue with English subtitles and the English dubbed version by the outstanding voice cast of the animated series. The Red Hot Chili Peppers again contribute the theme song. Bonus features include a special segment, “Making of DEATH NOTE II” and the original Japanese theatrical trailer. The DVD will carry a suggested retail price of $24.92 and will be distributed in North America by VIZ Media. The estimated street date for DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME is February 10, 2009.

DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME is the sequel to the phenomenal hit live-action movie DEATH NOTE, based on the hit manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. The DEATH NOTE live-action DVD, released in September 2008, was ranked as #1 in Japanese Films in North America and #34 in the Live-Action category. As the sequel of DEATH NOTE and once again directed by the renowned monster filmmaker Shusuke Kaneko, DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME concludes the titanic battle between the two geniuses Light and L.

The story picks up with Light Yagami (Tatsuya Fujiwara) joining the investigation team in pursuit of the serial killer known as ‘Kira’. While L (Kenichi Matsuyama) still strongly suspects that Light is ‘Kira’, Light continues to seek out the real name of L so that he can kill him with his Death Note. Making things even more unpredictable is the 'Eyes of Death' that the second Kira possesses, enabling the owner to know the true identity and lifespan of any person. Light Yagami soon learns the identity of the other Kira and wants to join forces to get rid of L. Will L be able to catch "Kira" before he gets killed? Who will be the last name written in the Death Note?

“We’re very excited to announce the highly anticipated DVD release of DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME,” says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “Is Light Yagami a crazed serial killer or merely society’s self-appointed solution to crime? DEATH NOTE is the latest manga and anime series to gain widespread international popularity, and the success of the first live-action film has primed audiences for this edgy sequel. As interest in DEATH NOTE continues to grow, we invite fans to delve into the psychological drama of this newest release from VIZ Pictures.”

VIZ Pictures has also announced 2 special giveaway promotions to coincide with the DVD release. Fans are encouraged to go to www.viz-pictures.com and answer the quick survey before February 28. 10 random winners will be selected to receive a special DEATH NOTE II poster.

Readers of SHONEN JUMP magazine are encouraged to enter the exclusive DEATH NOTE II contest where 10 lucky fans will each win a copy of the DEATH NOTE II DVD, and 3 very lucky fans will each win a copy of the DVD and an autograph from one of the lead actors (Kenichi Matsuyama, Tatsuya Fujiwara and Erika Toda). Contest details will be in the March 2009 issue of Shonen Jump magazine, which will hit newsstands on February 3.

The DEATH NOTE manga and animated series have become extremely popular domestically. The 37-episode animated series is seen by millions each week on cable broadcast and the series is also distributed on DVD by VIZ Media (rated T+ for Older Teens). On the print side, DEATH NOTE 13: HOW TO READ, a companion volume to the successful manga series, also published domestically by VIZ Media, was recently ranked in USA Today's Top 150 list of America's best-selling books.

For more information on the DEATH NOTE live action films and other VIZ Pictures films please visit www.viz-pictures.com or www.deathnotefilms.com. For more information on the DEATH NOTE manga and animation, please visit deathnote.viz.com.

ACF 195: Canadians Get Anime´at the iTunes Store, including free 1st episodes!

News for Canadian fans of anime´!!!

VIZ Media's NARUTO (uncut), BLEACH and DEATH NOTE are now available on the iTunes store in Canada (www.iTunes.ca). English dubbed versions of NARUTO (Uncut Version) Season 1, 2 and 3 (Volumes 1 & 2), three story arcs of BLEACH (The Substitute, The Entry and The Rescue), and all 37 episodes of DEATH NOTE are now available for purchase and download.

In celebration of this launch - iTunes Users in Canada will be able to download the first episode of NARUTO, BLEACH and DEATH NOTE For FREE Until January 6,2009!

Here's further info from VIZ's press relase:

NARUTO, BLEACH and DEATH NOTE have emerged as three of the world's most popular Japanese animated series, each attracting millions of devoted viewers with a blend of stylish animation, multi-faceted characters and riveting story lines.

“We are excited to make NARUTO, BLEACH and DEATH NOTE available on iTunes in Canada," says David Rewalt, Senior Director, Retail Development, VIZ Media. "The flexibility and convenience of iTunes will allow Canadian fans to watch their favorite episodes whenever and wherever they want on their iPod or iPhone. It's very natural for a hip entertainment and pop culture phenomenon like anime to take full advantage of the latest in digital media delivery and we invite fans in Canada to become part of the growing audience enjoying these VIZ Media titles on iTunes.”

NARUTO (Uncut): Rated T+ for Older Teens
NARUTO has become the hottest animated series across North America and is one of VIZ Media’s most successful manga and animated properties in terms of sales. Created by Masashi Kishimoto, the series depicts the adventures of a young boy named Uzumaki Naruto who trains to become a ninja. The boy is cursed with the spirit of a nine-tailed fox demon and is forced to live a bullied life discriminated against by his fellow villagers. Naruto is resilient and undaunted in his quest to become a master ninja and his determination often inspires those around him. Through amazing adventures, the young ninja learns the importance of friendship, teamwork, loyalty, hard work, creativity, ingenuity, and right vs. wrong. Dedicated website at www.naruto.com.

BLEACH: Rated T for Teens
BLEACH, an animated, hyperkinetic, ghost-busting action series is the story of a 15 year-old named Ichigo Kurosaki who was born with the ability to see ghosts. When his family is attacked by a Hollow – a malevolent lost soul – Ichigo encounters a Soul Reaper and absorbs her powers. Now he has dedicates his life to protecting the innocent and helping the tortured souls find peace. Dedicated website at www.bleach.viz.com.

DEATH NOTE: Rated T+ for Older Teens
DEATH NOTE is based on the manga series of the same name and is currently one of the hottest animated titles in Japan. The series depicts the adventures of Light Yagami, an ace student with great prospects but who is bored out of his mind. All of that changes when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil. But when criminals mysteriously begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to investigate, and he is soon hot on the trail of Light, who must now reevaluate his one noble goal. Dedicated website at www.deathnote.viz.com.

Individual episodes on the iTunes Store in Canada are C$1.99 each. Full seasons also can be purchased. These titles are also available on the iTunes Store in the US.

ACF 182: "BLEACH" & "DEATH NOTE" Download-To-Own on Xbox LIVE

Here's some more anime news from VIZ specifically geared to owners, or future owners, of the Xbox 360 video game system:

VIZ Media has announced the availability of the hit animated action series BLEACH and DEATH NOTE (both Uncut and English dubbed) on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment console from Microsoft. Fans in the U.S. will now have the ability to watch these episodes on a Download-To-Own (DTO) basis through Xbox LIVE for 160 Microsoft Points per episode.



BLEACH features episodes 1-41 dubbed in English with more to be added, and DEATH NOTE features the full 37-episode series dubbed in English. The two series join NARUTO Uncut, which has been offered on Xbox LIVE since November 2007 and currently features episodes 1- 52 dubbed in English as well as episodes 1 – 24 subbed (with English subtitles), with more to be added. Episodes and more information are available at: www.xbox.com/live.

“The anime genre enjoys a huge following among millions of avid Xbox 360 owners and the addition of the BLEACH and DEATH NOTE series to the Xbox LIVE library will be a big attraction,” says Scott Nocas, group product manager for Xbox LIVE.

Xbox LIVE provides viewers with easy access to hundreds of full-length TV shows for Download-To-Own and the latest feature films for Download-To-Rent. Xbox 360 is also the first gaming console to offer Standard and High Definition TV shows and movies via digital distribution. Xbox LIVE currently includes a worldwide social entertainment network reaching more than 14 million members and offering 24/7 online access to gaming, movies, music, TV shows and more.

“We are very excited to team with Xbox LIVE to feature episodes of BLEACH and DEATH NOTE,” says Ken Sasaki, Vice President, Strategy & Business Development, VIZ Media. “The combination of the hottest television and movie programming, video gaming and social networking interaction makes Xbox LIVE a compelling platform to present these smash hit animated dramas. As the convergence of digital technology presents an innovative new way to access and download a wide array of content, we look forward to fans across the United States turning to Xbox LIVE for the latest in online animated programming from VIZ Media.”


DEATH NOTE (Uncut): Rated TV-14
DEATH NOTE is based on the manga series of the same name and is currently one of the hottest animated titles in Japan. The series depicts the adventures of Light Yagami, an ace student with great prospects but who is bored out of his mind. All of that changes when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil. But when criminals mysteriously begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to investigate, and he is soon hot on the trail of Light, who must now reevaluate his one noble goal. Dedicated website at www.deathnote.viz.com.

BLEACH (Uncut): Rated TV-14
BLEACH follows the story of Ichigo Kurosaki, a fifteen-year old student with the ability to see ghosts. His fate takes an extraordinary turn when he meets Rukia Kuchiki, a Soul Reaper who shows up at Ichigo's house on the trail of a Hollow, a malevolent lost soul. Drawn to Ichigo's high level of spiritual energy, the Hollow attacks Ichigo and his family, and Rukia steps in to help but is injured and unable to fight. As a last resort, Rukia decides to transfer part of her Soul Reaper powers to Ichigo. Ichigo, now a full-fledged Soul Reaper, and Rukia join together to face the challenges that lie ahead. Dedicated website at www.bleach.viz.com.

ACF 111: Death Note @ 300+ theaters!

Light (left) and the enigmatic detective known as L (right)

Death Note / Desu noto
Japan, 2006
Directed by Shusuke Kaneko

Death Note was a big hit at last year's New York Asian Film Festival. On Tuesday, May 20th and Wednesday, May 21st, VIZ Media and NCM Fathom will present the film at over 300 theaters across the United States! The film will be shown at 7:30 pm local time both nights at each theater.

When Ryuk, a Shinigami God of Death, drops his notebook, it's found by a young law student named Light, whose father just happens to be a cop. Light has become cynical about the normal legal system's ablity to mete out justice. When he discovers that he can kill criminals by remote control, as it were, simply by writing their names in the notebook, he embarks on a mission to rid the world of crime.

Ryuk hangs out with Light in his bedroom

Seeking to arrest this vigilante, the police enlist the aid of legendary detective L, a youth who likes to squat barefoot on furniture and who has perhaps the world's biggest jones for sweets. Soon Light and L are engaged in a battle of intellects, one to carry on his own brand of justice at all costs, the other to hasten his arrest.

This special two-night even will feature an English-dubbed version of the film, which was based on the manga written by Tsugumi Oba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. I've only seen the subtitled version, so I can't attest to the quality of the dub. However, VIZ is pretty conscientious about their product, so I'm optimistic that it'll be of good quality or better.

I rate Death Note at 3.5 out of 4 stars (highly recommended), and I hope that lots of you manga, anime, and Asian cult film fans out there will go see it in a theater. This special event, multi-city distribution marks a departure from VIZ's past practice of a limited release, usually three cities (New York, Seattle, and L.A.). So if you want to see a really fine film in a theater with like-minded fans, make plans to attend a screening.

To find a participating theater, click here for the NCM Fathom website.

P.S. I recently learned that select Hot Topic stores are doing a special promotion in connection with these screenings. While supplies last, customers who purchase a Death Note t-shirt or DVD (I think this refers to the anime DVDs that are already out) will receive a free ticket to attend the film event.