Original video animation is a phrase that evokes nostalgia from the bygone era of the 80s and 90s, when direct-to-video original anime ruled the industry. One of the rising stars of that era was Yasuomi Umetsu, who found his niche directing OVAs in the early 90s. Now, with studio Shaft, he’s back to bring us… Read More Film Review: Virgin Punk, Clockwork Girl
Niwa is just your average boy. As his crush, Risa, says before she turns his love confession down, he’s “just sooo average” and is “not exactly boyfriend material.” But things are about to change in a big way! On his 14th birthday, a mysterious magic—maybe better understood as a curse—is passed down to him. You… Read More Team Review: D.N.Angel New Edition, Manga Vol. 1
Abigail may be falling more and more for Sabrian these days (and trying desperately to keep it to herself), but that doesn’t mean that she doesn’t also have a packed social calendar! First off, there’s that oddly persistent half-brother-in-law, Raven, to navigate, as Abigail pushes down her suspicions and seeks to treat him with compassion.… Read More Manhwa Review: Not-Sew-Wicked-Stepmom, vol. 6
A long time ago, in a galaxy not so far away, season one of Star Wars: Visions—a series of animated shorts produced by anime studios—debuted on Disney+ to strong reviews (including our own). Following a second season of international shorts, season three of Star Wars: Visions debuts tomorrow (!) with nine more films from famed… Read More Review: Star Wars: Visions, Season 3
Chinese animation has exploded onto the Western screen in recent years. Along with The Girl Who Stole Time from this summer, we now have The Legend of Hei 2, releasing in America months before the rest of Asia! Now, don’t be afraid of that tiny little 2 at the end of the title—the film was… Read More Film Review: The Legend of Hei 2
Tenka and Sato only have a couple more days left in their trip to Seoul, but it’s clear their paths have already diverged: While Sato is riding high on plans for another audition before take off, Tenka has given up and just wants to enjoy the Korean BBQ. She’s satisfied with having tried…right? Sato convinces… Read More Team Review: Girl Crush, Vol. 2
A solo artist in the heavy makeup and luxurious costuming of Peking opera steps into the frame and begins her performance in the bowels of a dimly lit warehouse. All of Taipei is watching the livestream when suddenly, the uncanny becomes horrific as the performer pulls out a gun and executes a man tied to… Read More Manhua Review: Yan, Vol. 1
Interested in watching thoughtful, human-centered conversations with people connected to anime?
Watch Something Genuine, our interview series that cuts through the noise and focuses on the people behind the costumes, in front of the mics, and watching anime, just like you and me. Season two premieres on May 27th.