Confusion Under the Maples

Thursday, April 30, 2009

"Ouran High School Host Club" at Funimation

This fun anime is now available subbed or dubbed at the Funimation website. It's a show that makes fun of all the "types" of male anime characters and throws in school life, gender bending, romance and comedy.

Sunday, April 26, 2009

"Glass Mask" (2005)

Addicted to this anime. Melodramatic life of 15 year old actress in constant battle with another 15 year old actress for plum parts. She is unusually naturally gifted at acting and is groomed by reclusive ex-superstar actress to become worthy to play the part of a lifetime, the lead in "The Crimson Angel." "Skip Beat!" to the n-th degree.

"State of Play"

I watched "State of Play" without knowing much about it except Russell Crowe and Ben Affleck were in it. I was pleasantly surprised. At first, seeing Russell Crowe as a scraggly, slightly pudgy seasoned reporter was difficult. But, he soon disappeared into his part. It was a little hard to believe Affleck and Crowe were supposed to be about the same age, but the story and suspense wiped that away. Who was responsible for the death of a beautiful, young congressional aide? becomes the focus instead of ooh, that star is in this movie. Rachel McAdams was appealing as hungry cub reporter. Helen Mirren shines in her small role as the ball-breaking editor. Jason Bateman steals his scenes as the smarmy PR insider. I was surprised that this movie was based on some BBC production as stated in the credits. Then again, I guess it's not too surprising that an entertaining, suspenseful drama was borne out of a BBC production.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

"Absolute Boyfriend" back with a special!

Just watched the special on mysoju. If you've watched the series, you kinda know what's going to happen. But it's amazing how everyone in the series looks exactly the same. Hiro looks great as Soshi too. I wonder how long it was between the making of the series and the special?

"Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom" streamed

This new spring anime is available for free streaming at the funimation website!

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

"Natsume Yujin-cho" (夏目友人帳)

I loved this anime all the way through both seasons. Each episode was touching and Natsume is a character you really get to like. Nyanko-sensei is also adorable as the youkai bodyguard/cute lucky cat. The whole anime is about becoming less isolated and more connected with other people (or youkai!). I hope more of this will be made!

Thursday, April 16, 2009

"Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion"

"Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion" is something I have always wanted to see. And to my surprise it's now available on crunchyroll both subbed and dubbed. I tried both but I still don't know which I prefer. After watching the first 2 episodes I really like it, especially the twist endings so far.