[merylsilverburg]

Hey everyone...this may be a pointless, but this thread is just an addition to the thread I created in August ("Bring Me Everything"). It's just updates and more news, so I hope it helps everyone.

Rumor: The HeatGuy-J series may be shown on MTV. This series already has 2 DVDs out and it's considered as the "Anime of 2003". Very great storyline, setting is similar to Cowboy Bebop.
Comments: This is one of my favorites and I still have to get the others (left off on episode 11). I'm pretty annoyed about it being shown on MTV (if that's the case) since it probably won't do well.

Witch Hunter Robin is confirmed to air on Adult Swim in this upcoming year (either late 2003 or early 2004). Series involves the supernatural and the main character, Robin, is the only one who possesses special powers to detect/destroy them.
Comments: A nice anime, but I couldn't really get into it (only saw about 6 episodes). I'm sure many will enjoy it, it's a pretty dark series.

L/R (Licensed by Royal) has been confirmed to air on Adult Swim starting in January 2004. Involves secret spies/agents called Cloud 7 appointed by the Queen to get rid of crime in London. Very 007 James Bond...
Comments: I think it's a great series, but it's really short (13 episodes), so I have no idea why they would air it.

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Scheduled to air in April 2004 on Adult Swim, but the time may change. Bad news: many parts will be edited because of the disturbing/mature content that is so extreme it can't even be aired on live action TV (supposedly).

Saikano (Saishuu Heiki Kanojo): English title: "She, the Ultimate Weapon" has been licensed by Viz Entertainment and will be released sometime in April 2004. An incredibly, incredibly popular anime by Studio Gonzo, there is about 13 episodes (I think). The setting is in the beginning of war and the two main characters, Chiise and Shuuji, are caught in it. They've just begun a new relationship, but tragically, Chiise is considered the ultimate weapon of the army. Sorry if my summary is crappy...it's a good series!
Comments: This series is pretty tragic and the ending song will make you cry. While I think this anime is done well, I didn't want to watch anymore because the main character kinda annoyed me. But, I'm sure many of you will like it a lot (especially those who enjoy a dramatic, tragic series).

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Director's Cut: ADV has licensed the director's cut of the popular mech series, "Evangelion". It will be released in January 2004. Remastered and includes special scenes/footage unavailable outside of Japan.

Tokyo Godfathers: This new movie from director Satoshi Kon (Millenium Actress) will be released simultaneously in US and Japan theaters on December 29. The reason for the early US release it for the film to be included in the 2004 Academy Awards. The film is about 3 homeless people who find a newborn baby in a garbage dump. They begin to find meaning in their lives as they began taking care of the child. The storyline is similar to a silent film called "Three Godfathers".
Comments: I've been looking forward to this ever since August. I absolutely loved Millenium Actress and I'm sure this film will do well. Theatrical release in the US might be in independent theaters.

2004 Academy Awards "Best Animated Film" Nominees: Besides Disney/Pixar's "Finding Nemo", 3 anime films have been included in the nominees: Pokemon Heroes, Millenium Actress, and Tokyo Godfathers.
Comments: Hmm...pretty tough. I enjoyed "Finding Nemo", but I would prefer Millenium Actress to win. My heart was filled with joy when Spirited Away won last year.

Whew! That's about all the news I have. If anyone else has anything to add or share, please do so!