princess tutu discussion

A couple of people have expressed interest in discussing Princess Tutu. I have watched the first 5 episodes and have really enjoyed the anime so far. It certainly has a story-book feel to it and reminds me at times of Kodocha (both the animation and the cute, yet silly, heroines). While the ballet theme is somewhat central to the story, it's not overwhelming. I think what I've enjoyed the most about Princess Tutu thus far is how light-hearted and innocent it is. While I also enjoy the darker, heavier anime, it's fun to change it up with something so light and airey (maybe it's the ballet that makes it feel that way).

As for a discussion, if anyone else would be interested in starting this anime up, let us know in the comment section. We can pace our discussion on who is closest to the beginning. I know this series is available via netflix (that is how I am watching it), and while I've never seen it in stores, I have seen it online at amazon.

Ranma 1/2

I recently got a chance to check out this long runner at my anime club's Valentine's Day party last week, and I liked it enough to check out more of it myself since it's available in relatively cheap thinpak box sets. Chances are, even if you haven't seen an episode of Ranma yourself, you've probably at least heard of it as an anime fan. It was Rumiko Takahashi's big thing before she created Inuyasha and also one of the first series to establish those initial waves of popularity in the US in the mid 90's alongside stuff like DBZ and Sailor Moon. Sure, it still features some of that will they or won't they romantic drama that Inuyasha seems to enjoy so much, but the thing I like about this series as opposed to IY is that it definitely doesn't take itself nearly so seriously. Yeah, you've got the male lead Ranma and the female lead Akane acting like they hate each other most of the time even though it's obvious they'll end up together in the end, but then you've got all these crazy martial art rivalries and love triangles, which become even crazier when Ranma transforms into a girl thanks to the weird curse that's the whole point of the series. Admittedly, it seems like the whole formula has the potential to get somewhat stale in later seasons, but hey, it's enjoyable to me for now, if a bit dated.

A Respite From Dead Blogs

Not that I really have much to say, but the fact that not much has gone on in here for a while is frustrating.

I did acquire some new stuff, and am in the process of watching them as I can. I got the Shin Chan season 2 first box, One Piece's third voyage, and the first disc of Baccano! which I'd been looking forward to in particular. Also in the middle of watching Princess Tutu, and finally getting started on the One Piece manga (I have the first two volumes) while I wait for the next Fruits Basket.

Also, other good news, my friend watched Spirited Away and is now looking for more anime and asking for recommendations to suit her tastes. She likes horror movies, so I suggested something like Hellsing, which is about as horror as I go, to start. Any other recommendations would be appreciated so I can pass them along to her.