They used to show some anime late nights on the sci-fi channel, but apparently teleshopping is far more important at 5am <!--emo&:angry:--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/mad-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='mad-fix.gif' /><!--endemo-->
I live in Englandland, and it is virtually impossible to get your hands on anime of any kind. I saw Cowboy Beebop in a Blockbuster's once (which suprised me), but it was already rented out. Naturally enough I never saw it again after that...
I think your best bet isn't to get into the hugely weird community anime has. Like shows for what they are, the worst thing you can do is enjoy anime strictly beacuse its anime.
Samurai X: Trust & Betrayl(The 4-episode Ruroni Kenshin OAV that Athena mentioned) - Feels a lot different from the rest of Ruroni Kenshin. I don't really like Ruroni Kenshin all that much but I thought Samurai X was great.
Samurai Champloo - Lots of well animated action, hip-hop background (hardly any vocals in the hip-hop music, though)
Cowboy Bebop - Also lots of well animated action, space sci-fi setting, and lots of different kinds of music (but a lot of people associate it with jazz)
Akira - It's like, THE anime. Anyone who considers themselves an anime fan should've watched this, and if they hadn't they're desprately trying to. Semi-futuristic gritty sci-fi movie.
FLCL - 6 episode long series with some good animation and funny dialogue. I'd tell you what it's about, but figuring it out is half the fun <!--emo&:D--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/biggrin-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='biggrin-fix.gif' /><!--endemo-->
Love Hina - Sorta like a romance comedy series I guess. Don't really know what to throw it in. Contemporary setting, not much action, not sci-fi/fantasy, but I like it EDIT: <span style='color:red'><b>STAY AWAY FROM LOVE HINA AGAIN</b></span> but the Spring special/Christmas special are apparentley also very good
Outlaw Star - Sci-fi space action series. The action's not as well animated, but it's watchable. It has more of a constant story where Champloo/Bebop have a lot of random episodes that occasionally reveal bits of the story, then resolve in the last couple of episodes.
Last Exile - Series that takes place in a fantasy setting somewhat akin to movies that feature 1930s/40s airplanes. Takes place in airships and whatnot. The story develops very very quickly in pretty much every episode so you need to see them all sequentially.
All of the series I mentioned aside from FLCL are basically around 24-26 episodes. I don't know how the dubs are on any of the series other than Cowboy Bebop (The main character Spike's voice actor is excellent (I actually like him more than the Japanese), but the secondary characters are generally standard dub fare).
I tried to put these in order, easiest to hardest, that they are to watch based on how much crap you'd have to get in order to get the story. If you want more just ask o:
Love Hina - romance/comedy - I absolutely love this series. It was one of my first ones so that could partly be it but the story is really good. Almost no action but it is very good anyway. The OAVs cant be missed either and the movies are good also, especially the christmas one. One season - 25 episodes + 3 OAVs + 3 Movies
Cowboy Bebop - action - As has been said by everyone else, this anime is almost mandatory. The movie and series are amazing. One season - 26 Episodes + movie
Outlaw Star - action/adventure - Another one of my favorites, I loved the story line and final episodes. It is about a journey to find a giant lost treasure and to find out who one of the shipmates really is. One season - 26 episodes
.hack//sign - VR mmorpg - This series broke my head for a good halfway through the series then it all came together. It throws you right into the thick of things and explains later. If you can stick it out, this is an awesome story. The story basically follows one boy and the phenomenon of his being in the "game" but not really existing outside of it. Dusk and dawn are good too but much harder to find. I think that is what they are called anyway. One season - 28 episodes
Full Metal Alchemist - adventure - FMA is about the journey of brother alchemists who tried a human transmutation, failed, and are trying to gain back what they lost. FMA is a very good series but more of a disappointment towards the end of the series. I personally prefer the first 25 episodes of this. After that, while there are some interesting twists, it started to bore me. The first half is very enjoyable though. Two Seasons - 52 episodes
Great Teacher Onizuka - Action/adventure/wierd/hybrid - It is a little hard to describe this series as it is a bit peculiar. The story follows a guy just trying to make it in the world who gets into teaching. The story is basically his quest to have the 5 or so students that dont accept him, accept him. The story flows marvelously and Onizuka is a funny character. Two Seasons - 52 Episodes (not really sure, someone has borrowed my dvd)
Gunparade March - gundamish but more romance - Not actually a gundam, this world is in a war between aliens and humans. Humans do have weapons and this anime shows the story of two co-pilots who are forced to work together because of their skills. The romance of the two is the main focus of the anime. Great watch but short. One Season - 12 episodes
<!--QuoteBegin-Steel Troll+Jul 6 2005, 02:53 AM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Steel Troll @ Jul 6 2005, 02:53 AM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> Wow! this thread grew so much, thanks for all the recomendations! Keep em coming.
Ok so i think im going to start with Ghost in the shell as it sounds the most mainstream, then go for some Cowboy Bebop. Hows that sound?
Is C B dubbed or with subtitles? How bout GiS? What good Sci-Fi Anime is there apart from GiS? How about the Animatrix? Any good? Can anyone describe this Naruto and tell me if its good/bad? Can anyone explain licensing or background workings of anime?
<3 Steel <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> To answer your question about subtitles, any recent North American DVD will have both the original japanese and english language voices, as well as english subs. Some really old DVD's will be english dub only, but they always list the languages and subs availble on the back of the case so you can check. If you pick up some second hand, you may run across VHS tapes, and those are a mix so be sure to check the case.
And I do recommend both Cowboy Bebop and Ghost in the Shell as shows to make sure you watch.
Just a note about GitS, the TV series and the movies are not linked in any fashion. So don't watch the movies and expect the TV series to continue it, or vice versa. The main characters are the same, but they take place in alternate universes.
And for animatrix, it's a special case. It is very good and worth watching, but it is a North American product, not made in Japan, so it's original language is english and should be watched in english.
And Naruto is well, rather meh. It is a decent show with decent storyline and animation, but it'll never be anything more then that. It's not a bad show by any means, but it's far from the first anime I'd recommend to you to watch.
To add my personal recommendation to the list, I'd have to say Gunslinger Girls. Despite the title (and the first episode if anyone's seen it), this is NOT an action anime. It is an excellent drama that is one of my personal favorites. I only wish it was longer then 13 episodes.
As for the licensing, I don't know it in depth. What I do know is as follows: Let's say show X is released in japan. At this point, only the japanease version exists, no english voice dubs or subtitles. Also the DVD is only availible in japan. If it's a good show, a North American company will license the rights to distribute the series in North America. They will add the english dubs and subtitles to the DVD, then release it for sale in North America. Depending on the company, the series can be available in North America anywhere from a couple months to a year or two after the series was originally released in Japan.
And I'm not sure what you mean by "background workings" so I can't give you an answer on that.
Oh, and whatever you do, DON'T watch the Akira anime. It completely butchers the comics. It is a travesty that should be shot, burned, shredded, shot and burned again, be immersed in hydrochloric acid, shot a few more times, buried in the Sahara desert and forgotten. And even then it would probably be discovered again a thousand years from now, its nameless horrors rising to torment mankind once again.
Just... don't. Anyone who tells you different clearly has not read the comics and is therefore not qualified to speak on the matter.
Read the comics instead.
<span style='font-size:7pt;line-height:100%'>Wow. Watch me offend just about everyone. At least, watch me offend everyone who hasn't read the comics. In other words, watch me offend everyone who doesn't matter. :D</span>
<!--QuoteBegin-lolfighter+Jul 6 2005, 02:49 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (lolfighter @ Jul 6 2005, 02:49 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> Oh, and whatever you do, DON'T watch the Akira anime. It completely butchers the comics. It is a travesty that should be shot, burned, shredded, shot and burned again, be immersed in hydrochloric acid, shot a few more times, buried in the Sahara desert and forgotten. And even then it would probably be discovered again a thousand years from now, its nameless horrors rising to torment mankind once again.
Just... don't. Anyone who tells you different clearly has not read the comics and is therefore not qualified to speak on the matter.
Read the comics instead.
<span style='font-size:7pt;line-height:100%'>Wow. Watch me offend just about everyone. At least, watch me offend everyone who hasn't read the comics. In other words, watch me offend everyone who doesn't matter. <!--emo&:D--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/biggrin-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='biggrin-fix.gif' /><!--endemo--></span> <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> Just like any manga to anime translation, there's plot loss in the Akira anime, even moreso in this case because they had to try to condense well over 1,000 pages into an hour and a half long movie. And just because there's a better manga form, it doesn't mean the anime's bad :o
<!--QuoteBegin-Crono5+Jul 6 2005, 10:00 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Crono5 @ Jul 6 2005, 10:00 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> [...]And just because there's a better manga form, it doesn't mean the anime's bad :o <!--QuoteEnd--> </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> <!--QuoteEEnd--> In principle, no. In this case, yes.
Cowboy Bebop is amazing. The story/screenplay/charachters/action are teh pwn! It is realy a well polished and enjoyable series, i love it!! Im only on the 7th episode but im hooked, and as many suggested i got the english subed version, and i must agree you get a more involved sense hearing the original voice acting. The songs are awsome too, and its just sooo stilish *glee*
LikuI, am the Somberlain.Join Date: 2003-01-10Member: 12128Members
<!--QuoteBegin-JesusFreak+Jul 6 2005, 01:02 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (JesusFreak @ Jul 6 2005, 01:02 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> I am highly offended, and i do not take to kind to your kind around these parts.
What is Akira? <!--QuoteEnd--> </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> <!--QuoteEEnd--> An Anime about biker gang rivaling against another, the "Clowns." The leader's best friend, Tetsuo, is in the wrong place at the wrong time and is expiremented on by the Military. Soon after, he recieves telekenetic powers he uses to gain revenge on people that have done him wrong. Basicly, it's pure awesome.
Steel, after Cowboy Bebop, I suggest Samurai Champloo. It's by the same director, but instead of Bounty Hunters with Jazz, it's Samurai's with Hip-Hop. I like it more than Bebop myself.
<!--QuoteBegin-Liku+Jul 25 2005, 08:55 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Liku @ Jul 25 2005, 08:55 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> <!--QuoteBegin-JesusFreak+Jul 6 2005, 01:02 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (JesusFreak @ Jul 6 2005, 01:02 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> I am highly offended, and i do not take to kind to your kind around these parts.
What is Akira? <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> An Anime about biker gang rivaling against another, the "Clowns." The leader's best friend, Tetsuo, is in the wrong place at the wrong time and is expiremented on by the Military. Soon after, he recieves telekenetic powers he uses to gain revenge on people that have done him wrong. Basicly, it's pure awesome.
Steel, after Cowboy Bebop, I suggest Samurai Champloo. It's by the same director, but instead of Bounty Hunters with Jazz, it's Samurai's with Hip-Hop. I like it more than Bebop myself. <!--QuoteEnd--> </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> <!--QuoteEEnd--> I'm waiting on Barnes and Noble to release the second manga volume in hard cover... the first only cost 7 bucks.
Ya'll will forgive me for not being an Anime lover, right? <!--emo&???--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/confused-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='confused-fix.gif' /><!--endemo-->
Omega_DeathSith apprentice to a box of CerealJoin Date: 2003-08-06Member: 19042Members
I'm not an anime fan but Full Metal Panic: Fumafu (sorry about the spelling, settle down anime fan boys), is just too damned good to ignore.
Here's the rundown.
A boy who was raised fighting a guerilla war is now brought to Japan to go to high school. The first minute of the series starts out with him blowing away a whole hallway because he found a hair on the outside of his shoebox.
NarfwakJoin Date: 2002-11-02Member: 5258Members, Super Administrators, Forum Admins, NS1 Playtester, Playtest Lead, Forum Moderators, Constellation, NS2 Playtester, Squad Five Blue, Reinforced - Supporter, Reinforced - Silver, Reinforced - Gold, Reinforced - Diamond, Reinforced - Shadow, Subnautica PT Lead, NS2 Community Developer
<!--QuoteBegin-Depot+Jul 25 2005, 10:18 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Depot @ Jul 25 2005, 10:18 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> Ya'll will forgive me for not being an Anime lover, right? <!--emo&???--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/confused-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='confused-fix.gif' /><!--endemo--> <!--QuoteEnd--> </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> <!--QuoteEEnd--> No.
Like everyone else in this thread, I highly recommend FLCL, Ghost in the Shell (both movies and both seasons of the series), Cowboy Bebop, and Samurai Champloo.
<!--QuoteBegin-Narfwak+Jul 25 2005, 10:38 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Narfwak @ Jul 25 2005, 10:38 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> <!--QuoteBegin-Depot+Jul 25 2005, 10:18 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Depot @ Jul 25 2005, 10:18 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> Ya'll will forgive me for not being an Anime lover, right? <!--emo&???--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/confused-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='confused-fix.gif' /><!--endemo--> <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> No.
Like everyone else in this thread, I highly recommend FLCL, Ghost in the Shell (both movies and both seasons of the series), Cowboy Bebop, and Samurai Champloo. <!--QuoteEnd--> </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> <!--QuoteEEnd--> Fortunately your opinion isn't worth the time it took you to type it. <!--emo&:p--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/tounge.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='tounge.gif' /><!--endemo-->
<!--QuoteBegin-Crono5+Jul 25 2005, 10:57 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Crono5 @ Jul 25 2005, 10:57 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin-->Just wondering, why pop into an anime thread to say you don't like anime?<!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> I said I was not an Anime lover, I never stated I disliked it. The fact that you have in your company another prospective fan should cause you to welcome them with open arms and show them what is good and well about Anime, not question why they are here. <!--emo&;)--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/wink-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='wink-fix.gif' /><!--endemo-->
<!--QuoteBegin-Depot+Jul 25 2005, 09:06 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Depot @ Jul 25 2005, 09:06 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> <!--QuoteBegin-Crono5+Jul 25 2005, 10:57 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Crono5 @ Jul 25 2005, 10:57 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin-->Just wondering, why pop into an anime thread to say you don't like anime?<!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> I said I was not an Anime lover, I never stated I disliked it. The fact that you have in your company another prospective fan should cause you to welcome them with open arms and show them what is good and well about Anime, not question why they are here. <!--emo&;)--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/wink-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='wink-fix.gif' /><!--endemo-->
Suffice it to say I am curious, and interested. <!--QuoteEnd--> </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> <!--QuoteEEnd--> Well what genre of movies do you like?
Cowboy Bebop and it's Movie, English Dub for movie is okay by me (They only changed like a few adjectives, the voices sound the same too, and yes, I can check it again, it's sitting at my fingertips... inside my mac... >:3)
FLCL is good, don't recommend watching before bed though, if you start thinking about the plot, or the lack thereof (it's there, but it doesn't rear until the end!) you will be awake for hours...
ANYTHING of Miyazaki's, this includes, Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, Princess Mononoke, etc. This man is the vertible GOD of animation.
I highly recommend Gundam: MS 08th Team, while it is in the universe of an overhyped/commercialised series, this one is gold. As is Endless Waltz and the one with the Kampfergundam (Blue something, I forget, long time since I've seen it.)
The first Love Hina and it's movies are good for a laugh (you will laugh. Trust me.)
OUTLAW STAR. I remember this show being on Toonami (R.I.P.) and I grasped onto it with the ferocity of an eagle on dead-man-souflet. Good anime, good storyline (If you've seen Firefly, it should seem kind of familiar, even though it was produced much earlier then Firefly.)
Hrm, trying to think of mooooore.
Inuyasha can, surprisingly, have it's moments, I wouldn't expect much from it though, it's pretty cookie-cutter, but Inuyasha <i>is</i> cute. ^_^
Hrm, Oh, there's Boogiepop Phantom, which is decidedly creepy and unsettling. (Has a kick arse theme song, too.) Highly recommend.
The Naruto MANGA is a fun read, don't bother with the Anime.
The Japanese version of Samurai Champloo is good, as is Samurai X (Sequel/Prequel to Ruroni Kenshin, which is also good in it's Japanese version.)
I highly recommend most of the Macross/Robotech series, they just kick arse all the way through, and the way the explosions are drawn will stick with you your entire life, believe me.
Well, nerd mode deactivating.
Edit: GOD I'm a fool. How could I forget Akira!? AND Metropolis! Both are GREAT movies. (Metropolis has a godly soundtrack to boot... and after a quick search, is available on iTunes!) Ghost in the Shell is pretty good, watch the Japanese version, for God's sake.)
Trigun is another good anime in it's Japanese version.
Diazo : Thanks a lot for the answers given in the previous page, cleared up a lot.
What exactly is FLCL?
I think i will watch a movie next...
Options: Akira, Spirited away, Gohst in the Shell, Trigun or the Cowboy Bebop movie to round up the series are all on the list of could-get movies to watch. What should i pick? Should i try souce something else?
Ok so im staying away from naruto for a bit... Getting myself spoiled and well addicted to Anime by watching all the good things first.. hehe
Im already thinking of the next series to watch... Has anyone heard of Bleach? Any good? I was going to watch the Samurai Champloo series.... although i am having second thoughts, i might just wantt to get a different director/artist... what do you Anime buffs think?
LikuI, am the Somberlain.Join Date: 2003-01-10Member: 12128Members
I'd suggest the Bebop Movie to wrap it up.
I wouldn't bother with Naruto, there's way too many episodes to look for. And now that it's licensed, you can't really get it unless you wait for it on Toonami.
I don't watch Bleach, but my friend described a really stupid anime to me as he's a fan, but right after he said: "The only problem is I'm making it sound really stupid."
So I'm not sure if it's something to check out.
FLCL is a 6 episode, totally out of whack anime. It's hard to explain.
Man, where's Infinitum? He'd help so much in this thread.
<!--QuoteBegin-Vahn Paktu+Jul 26 2005, 12:12 AM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Vahn Paktu @ Jul 26 2005, 12:12 AM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--><!--QuoteBegin-Depot+Jul 25 2005, 09:06 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Depot @ Jul 25 2005, 09:06 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> <!--QuoteBegin-Crono5+Jul 25 2005, 10:57 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Crono5 @ Jul 25 2005, 10:57 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin-->Just wondering, why pop into an anime thread to say you don't like anime?<!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> I said I was not an Anime lover, I never stated I disliked it. The fact that you have in your company another prospective fan should cause you to welcome them with open arms and show them what is good and well about Anime, not question why they are here. <!--emo&;)--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/wink-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='wink-fix.gif' /><!--endemo-->
Suffice it to say I am curious, and interested. <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> Well what genre of movies do you like?<!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> Anything with Nicholas Cage or John Trivolta in it .... j/k
Gosh, my tastes are diverse. Sci Fi is probably at the bottom of my list (here comes the boos ... /me ducks). I like drama, good comedy, and horror, probably in that order.
<!--QuoteBegin-Steel Troll+Jul 26 2005, 06:22 AM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Steel Troll @ Jul 26 2005, 06:22 AM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin--> Diazo : Thanks a lot for the answers given in the previous page, cleared up a lot.
What exactly is FLCL?
I think i will watch a movie next...
Options: Akira, Spirited away, Gohst in the Shell, Trigun or the Cowboy Bebop movie to round up the series are all on the list of could-get movies to watch. What should i pick? Should i try souce something else?
Ok so im staying away from naruto for a bit... Getting myself spoiled and well addicted to Anime by watching all the good things first.. hehe
Im already thinking of the next series to watch... Has anyone heard of Bleach? Any good? I was going to watch the Samurai Champloo series.... although i am having second thoughts, i might just wantt to get a different director/artist... what do you Anime buffs think?
<3 all Steel <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> FLCL is great. Just hard to describe <a href='http://[URL=http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,166,ksjpcy,furi_kuri.html' target='_blank'>Basic Description</a> You should watch <b>all</b> <a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animestudio,64,crsacf,studio_ghibli.html' target='_blank'>Studio Ghibli</a> films. I've seen Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, Porco Rosso, Laputa: Castle in the Sky and recommend them all. Others are on my NetFlix queue(I Love! NetFlix)
Bleach is awesome. Watch it! Sadly I'm a few episodes behind.
I am enjoying Samurai Champloo. I'm half way through the series and it's great.
<!--QuoteBegin-Depot+Jul 26 2005, 06:58 AM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> (Depot @ Jul 26 2005, 06:58 AM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin-->Anything with Nicholas Cage or John Trivolta in it .... j/k
Gosh, my tastes are diverse. Sci Fi is probably at the bottom of my list (here comes the boos ... /me ducks). I like drama, good comedy, and horror, probably in that order.<!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> Comedy: <a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1461,tlvwgv,2x2___shinobude.html' target='_blank'>2x2 = Shinobuden</a> is slapstick comedy. I enjoyed it.
<a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1486,wohzmg,school_rumble.html' target='_blank'>School Rumble</a> is pretty funny.
Drama: <a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1243,ohjgii,kimi_ga_nozomu_.html' target='_blank'>Kimi Ga Nozomu Eien</a> made me cry. Really, it did. Must watch.
Also again, <a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animestudio,64,crsacf,studio_ghibli.html' target='_blank'>Studio Ghibli</a> is good for everyone.
Those are a few off the top of my head.
Another good one I would recommend for all would be: Kamichu <!--QuoteBegin--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> </td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin-->It is a town in the Inland Sea of Japan. There remain naturals and people live easy lives. Hitotsubashi Yurie is a normal junior high school girl living in the town. However, one day, she happens to become a god.<!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> <a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1733,vblyab,kamichu____kami.html' target='_blank'>Source</a>
Very Cute show and only the first 3 ep have been subbed so far. <a href='http://www.animesuki.com/series.php/637.html' target='_blank'>Downloads</a>
Comments
I live in Englandland, and it is virtually impossible to get your hands on anime of any kind. I saw Cowboy Beebop in a Blockbuster's once (which suprised me), but it was already rented out. Naturally enough I never saw it again after that...
Samurai Champloo - Lots of well animated action, hip-hop background (hardly any vocals in the hip-hop music, though)
Cowboy Bebop - Also lots of well animated action, space sci-fi setting, and lots of different kinds of music (but a lot of people associate it with jazz)
Akira - It's like, THE anime. Anyone who considers themselves an anime fan should've watched this, and if they hadn't they're desprately trying to. Semi-futuristic gritty sci-fi movie.
FLCL - 6 episode long series with some good animation and funny dialogue. I'd tell you what it's about, but figuring it out is half the fun <!--emo&:D--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/biggrin-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='biggrin-fix.gif' /><!--endemo-->
Love Hina - Sorta like a romance comedy series I guess. Don't really know what to throw it in. Contemporary setting, not much action, not sci-fi/fantasy, but I like it
EDIT: <span style='color:red'><b>STAY AWAY FROM LOVE HINA AGAIN</b></span> but the Spring special/Christmas special are apparentley also very good
Outlaw Star - Sci-fi space action series. The action's not as well animated, but it's watchable. It has more of a constant story where Champloo/Bebop have a lot of random episodes that occasionally reveal bits of the story, then resolve in the last couple of episodes.
Last Exile - Series that takes place in a fantasy setting somewhat akin to movies that feature 1930s/40s airplanes. Takes place in airships and whatnot. The story develops very very quickly in pretty much every episode so you need to see them all sequentially.
All of the series I mentioned aside from FLCL are basically around 24-26 episodes. I don't know how the dubs are on any of the series other than Cowboy Bebop (The main character Spike's voice actor is excellent (I actually like him more than the Japanese), but the secondary characters are generally standard dub fare).
I tried to put these in order, easiest to hardest, that they are to watch based on how much crap you'd have to get in order to get the story. If you want more just ask o:
One season - 25 episodes + 3 OAVs + 3 Movies
Cowboy Bebop - action - As has been said by everyone else, this anime is almost mandatory. The movie and series are amazing.
One season - 26 Episodes + movie
Outlaw Star - action/adventure - Another one of my favorites, I loved the story line and final episodes. It is about a journey to find a giant lost treasure and to find out who one of the shipmates really is.
One season - 26 episodes
.hack//sign - VR mmorpg - This series broke my head for a good halfway through the series then it all came together. It throws you right into the thick of things and explains later. If you can stick it out, this is an awesome story. The story basically follows one boy and the phenomenon of his being in the "game" but not really existing outside of it. Dusk and dawn are good too but much harder to find. I think that is what they are called anyway.
One season - 28 episodes
Full Metal Alchemist - adventure - FMA is about the journey of brother alchemists who tried a human transmutation, failed, and are trying to gain back what they lost. FMA is a very good series but more of a disappointment towards the end of the series. I personally prefer the first 25 episodes of this. After that, while there are some interesting twists, it started to bore me. The first half is very enjoyable though.
Two Seasons - 52 episodes
Great Teacher Onizuka - Action/adventure/wierd/hybrid - It is a little hard to describe this series as it is a bit peculiar. The story follows a guy just trying to make it in the world who gets into teaching. The story is basically his quest to have the 5 or so students that dont accept him, accept him. The story flows marvelously and Onizuka is a funny character.
Two Seasons - 52 Episodes (not really sure, someone has borrowed my dvd)
Gunparade March - gundamish but more romance - Not actually a gundam, this world is in a war between aliens and humans. Humans do have weapons and this anime shows the story of two co-pilots who are forced to work together because of their skills. The romance of the two is the main focus of the anime. Great watch but short.
One Season - 12 episodes
that was anime wasn't it?
Naruto
Elfen Lied - Only one comment, best anime ever!
Bleach
Gankutsuou
Chobits
FullMetal Alchemist
School Rumble
2x2-shinobuden
Ok so i think im going to start with Ghost in the shell as it sounds the most mainstream, then go for some Cowboy Bebop. Hows that sound?
Is C B dubbed or with subtitles? How bout GiS?
What good Sci-Fi Anime is there apart from GiS?
How about the Animatrix? Any good?
Can anyone describe this Naruto and tell me if its good/bad?
Can anyone explain licensing or background workings of anime?
<3
Steel <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd-->
To answer your question about subtitles, any recent North American DVD will have both the original japanese and english language voices, as well as english subs. Some really old DVD's will be english dub only, but they always list the languages and subs availble on the back of the case so you can check. If you pick up some second hand, you may run across VHS tapes, and those are a mix so be sure to check the case.
And I do recommend both Cowboy Bebop and Ghost in the Shell as shows to make sure you watch.
Just a note about GitS, the TV series and the movies are not linked in any fashion. So don't watch the movies and expect the TV series to continue it, or vice versa. The main characters are the same, but they take place in alternate universes.
And for animatrix, it's a special case. It is very good and worth watching, but it is a North American product, not made in Japan, so it's original language is english and should be watched in english.
And Naruto is well, rather meh. It is a decent show with decent storyline and animation, but it'll never be anything more then that. It's not a bad show by any means, but it's far from the first anime I'd recommend to you to watch.
To add my personal recommendation to the list, I'd have to say Gunslinger Girls. Despite the title (and the first episode if anyone's seen it), this is NOT an action anime. It is an excellent drama that is one of my personal favorites. I only wish it was longer then 13 episodes.
As for the licensing, I don't know it in depth. What I do know is as follows:
Let's say show X is released in japan. At this point, only the japanease version exists, no english voice dubs or subtitles. Also the DVD is only availible in japan. If it's a good show, a North American company will license the rights to distribute the series in North America. They will add the english dubs and subtitles to the DVD, then release it for sale in North America. Depending on the company, the series can be available in North America anywhere from a couple months to a year or two after the series was originally released in Japan.
And I'm not sure what you mean by "background workings" so I can't give you an answer on that.
Diazo
edit: Some typos and minor corrections
Just... don't. Anyone who tells you different clearly has not read the comics and is therefore not qualified to speak on the matter.
Read the comics instead.
<span style='font-size:7pt;line-height:100%'>Wow. Watch me offend just about everyone. At least, watch me offend everyone who hasn't read the comics. In other words, watch me offend everyone who doesn't matter. :D</span>
Just... don't. Anyone who tells you different clearly has not read the comics and is therefore not qualified to speak on the matter.
Read the comics instead.
<span style='font-size:7pt;line-height:100%'>Wow. Watch me offend just about everyone. At least, watch me offend everyone who hasn't read the comics. In other words, watch me offend everyone who doesn't matter. <!--emo&:D--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/biggrin-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='biggrin-fix.gif' /><!--endemo--></span> <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd-->
Just like any manga to anime translation, there's plot loss in the Akira anime, even moreso in this case because they had to try to condense well over 1,000 pages into an hour and a half long movie. And just because there's a better manga form, it doesn't mean the anime's bad :o
What is Akira?
In principle, no. In this case, yes.
The Animeducation of Steel has begun.....
Cowboy Bebop is amazing. The story/screenplay/charachters/action are teh pwn! It is realy a well polished and enjoyable series, i love it!! Im only on the 7th episode but im hooked, and as many suggested i got the english subed version, and i must agree you get a more involved sense hearing the original voice acting. The songs are awsome too, and its just sooo stilish *glee*
<3 all
Steel
What is Akira? <!--QuoteEnd--> </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> <!--QuoteEEnd-->
An Anime about biker gang rivaling against another, the "Clowns." The leader's best friend, Tetsuo, is in the wrong place at the wrong time and is expiremented on by the Military. Soon after, he recieves telekenetic powers he uses to gain revenge on people that have done him wrong. Basicly, it's pure awesome.
Steel, after Cowboy Bebop, I suggest Samurai Champloo. It's by the same director, but instead of Bounty Hunters with Jazz, it's Samurai's with Hip-Hop. I like it more than Bebop myself.
What is Akira? <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd-->
An Anime about biker gang rivaling against another, the "Clowns." The leader's best friend, Tetsuo, is in the wrong place at the wrong time and is expiremented on by the Military. Soon after, he recieves telekenetic powers he uses to gain revenge on people that have done him wrong. Basicly, it's pure awesome.
Steel, after Cowboy Bebop, I suggest Samurai Champloo. It's by the same director, but instead of Bounty Hunters with Jazz, it's Samurai's with Hip-Hop. I like it more than Bebop myself. <!--QuoteEnd--> </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> <!--QuoteEEnd-->
I'm waiting on Barnes and Noble to release the second manga volume in hard cover... the first only cost 7 bucks.
Here's the rundown.
A boy who was raised fighting a guerilla war is now brought to Japan to go to high school. The first minute of the series starts out with him blowing away a whole hallway because he found a hair on the outside of his shoebox.
No.
Like everyone else in this thread, I highly recommend FLCL, Ghost in the Shell (both movies and both seasons of the series), Cowboy Bebop, and Samurai Champloo.
No.
Like everyone else in this thread, I highly recommend FLCL, Ghost in the Shell (both movies and both seasons of the series), Cowboy Bebop, and Samurai Champloo. <!--QuoteEnd--> </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> <!--QuoteEEnd-->
Fortunately your opinion isn't worth the time it took you to type it. <!--emo&:p--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/tounge.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='tounge.gif' /><!--endemo-->
I said I was not an Anime lover, I never stated I disliked it. The fact that you have in your company another prospective fan should cause you to welcome them with open arms and show them what is good and well about Anime, not question why they are here. <!--emo&;)--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/wink-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='wink-fix.gif' /><!--endemo-->
Suffice it to say I am curious, and interested.
I said I was not an Anime lover, I never stated I disliked it. The fact that you have in your company another prospective fan should cause you to welcome them with open arms and show them what is good and well about Anime, not question why they are here. <!--emo&;)--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/wink-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='wink-fix.gif' /><!--endemo-->
Suffice it to say I am curious, and interested. <!--QuoteEnd--> </td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'> <!--QuoteEEnd-->
Well what genre of movies do you like?
FLCL is good, don't recommend watching before bed though, if you start thinking about the plot, or the lack thereof (it's there, but it doesn't rear until the end!) you will be awake for hours...
ANYTHING of Miyazaki's, this includes, Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, Princess Mononoke, etc. This man is the vertible GOD of animation.
I highly recommend Gundam: MS 08th Team, while it is in the universe of an overhyped/commercialised series, this one is gold. As is Endless Waltz and the one with the Kampfergundam (Blue something, I forget, long time since I've seen it.)
The first Love Hina and it's movies are good for a laugh (you will laugh. Trust me.)
OUTLAW STAR. I remember this show being on Toonami (R.I.P.) and I grasped onto it with the ferocity of an eagle on dead-man-souflet. Good anime, good storyline (If you've seen Firefly, it should seem kind of familiar, even though it was produced much earlier then Firefly.)
Hrm, trying to think of mooooore.
Inuyasha can, surprisingly, have it's moments, I wouldn't expect much from it though, it's pretty cookie-cutter, but Inuyasha <i>is</i> cute. ^_^
Hrm, Oh, there's Boogiepop Phantom, which is decidedly creepy and unsettling. (Has a kick arse theme song, too.) Highly recommend.
The Naruto MANGA is a fun read, don't bother with the Anime.
The Japanese version of Samurai Champloo is good, as is Samurai X (Sequel/Prequel to Ruroni Kenshin, which is also good in it's Japanese version.)
I highly recommend most of the Macross/Robotech series, they just kick arse all the way through, and the way the explosions are drawn will stick with you your entire life, believe me.
Well, nerd mode deactivating.
Edit: GOD I'm a fool. How could I forget Akira!? AND Metropolis! Both are GREAT movies. (Metropolis has a godly soundtrack to boot... and after a quick search, is available on iTunes!)
Ghost in the Shell is pretty good, watch the Japanese version, for God's sake.)
Trigun is another good anime in it's Japanese version.
What exactly is FLCL?
I think i will watch a movie next...
Options: Akira, Spirited away, Gohst in the Shell, Trigun or the Cowboy Bebop movie to round up the series are all on the list of could-get movies to watch. What should i pick?
Should i try souce something else?
Ok so im staying away from naruto for a bit... Getting myself spoiled and well addicted to Anime by watching all the good things first.. hehe
Im already thinking of the next series to watch... Has anyone heard of Bleach? Any good? I was going to watch the Samurai Champloo series.... although i am having second thoughts, i might just wantt to get a different director/artist... what do you Anime buffs think?
<3 all
Steel
I wouldn't bother with Naruto, there's way too many episodes to look for. And now that it's licensed, you can't really get it unless you wait for it on Toonami.
I don't watch Bleach, but my friend described a really stupid anime to me as he's a fan, but right after he said:
"The only problem is I'm making it sound really stupid."
So I'm not sure if it's something to check out.
FLCL is a 6 episode, totally out of whack anime. It's hard to explain.
Man, where's Infinitum? He'd help so much in this thread.
I said I was not an Anime lover, I never stated I disliked it. The fact that you have in your company another prospective fan should cause you to welcome them with open arms and show them what is good and well about Anime, not question why they are here. <!--emo&;)--><img src='http://www.unknownworlds.com/forums/html/emoticons/wink-fix.gif' border='0' style='vertical-align:middle' alt='wink-fix.gif' /><!--endemo-->
Suffice it to say I am curious, and interested. <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd-->
Well what genre of movies do you like?<!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd-->
Anything with Nicholas Cage or John Trivolta in it .... j/k
Gosh, my tastes are diverse. Sci Fi is probably at the bottom of my list (here comes the boos ... /me ducks). I like drama, good comedy, and horror, probably in that order.
What exactly is FLCL?
I think i will watch a movie next...
Options: Akira, Spirited away, Gohst in the Shell, Trigun or the Cowboy Bebop movie to round up the series are all on the list of could-get movies to watch. What should i pick?
Should i try souce something else?
Ok so im staying away from naruto for a bit... Getting myself spoiled and well addicted to Anime by watching all the good things first.. hehe
Im already thinking of the next series to watch... Has anyone heard of Bleach? Any good? I was going to watch the Samurai Champloo series.... although i am having second thoughts, i might just wantt to get a different director/artist... what do you Anime buffs think?
<3 all
Steel <!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd-->
FLCL is great. Just hard to describe <a href='http://[URL=http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,166,ksjpcy,furi_kuri.html' target='_blank'>Basic Description</a>
You should watch <b>all</b> <a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animestudio,64,crsacf,studio_ghibli.html' target='_blank'>Studio Ghibli</a> films. I've seen Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, Porco Rosso, Laputa: Castle in the Sky and recommend them all. Others are on my NetFlix queue(I Love! NetFlix)
Bleach is awesome. Watch it! Sadly I'm a few episodes behind.
I am enjoying Samurai Champloo. I'm half way through the series and it's great.
Gosh, my tastes are diverse. Sci Fi is probably at the bottom of my list (here comes the boos ... /me ducks). I like drama, good comedy, and horror, probably in that order.<!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd-->
Comedy:
<a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1461,tlvwgv,2x2___shinobude.html' target='_blank'>2x2 = Shinobuden</a> is slapstick comedy. I enjoyed it.
<a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1486,wohzmg,school_rumble.html' target='_blank'>School Rumble</a> is pretty funny.
Drama:
<a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1243,ohjgii,kimi_ga_nozomu_.html' target='_blank'>Kimi Ga Nozomu Eien</a> made me cry. Really, it did. Must watch.
Also again, <a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animestudio,64,crsacf,studio_ghibli.html' target='_blank'>Studio Ghibli</a> is good for everyone.
Those are a few off the top of my head.
Another good one I would recommend for all would be:
Kamichu
<!--QuoteBegin--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td><b>QUOTE</b> </td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin-->It is a town in the Inland Sea of Japan. There remain naturals and people live easy lives.
Hitotsubashi Yurie is a normal junior high school girl living in the town. However, one day, she happens to become a god.<!--QuoteEnd--></td></tr></table><div class='postcolor'><!--QuoteEEnd--> <a href='http://www.animenfo.com/animetitle,1733,vblyab,kamichu____kami.html' target='_blank'>Source</a>
Very Cute show and only the first 3 ep have been subbed so far.
<a href='http://www.animesuki.com/series.php/637.html' target='_blank'>Downloads</a>