Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Gavan, Sharivan, and Bioman



















http://copix.free.fr/cb-manga/index2.html

Motosharian and Minya from Juspion



One of my favorite episodes from Uchuu Keiji Sharivan was when Sharivan's motorcycle saved Den from getting killed by the bad guys. As far as I know, this was the first and last time a metal heroes vehicle was considered to be "alive" like Knight Rider. I could be wrong, and just figured their vehicles were just activated similar to the Batmobile.







The Pokemon/ Teletubby aka Minya from Juspion, is one of my least favorite characters. He/ she is useless most of the time and used for a cute factor. However, on one episode, Minya did rescue Juspion when his powers were taken away temporarily. Either Minya is a good fighter and just hides it, or the female villains should just get fired and work at a cash register. I'll go with the latter.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Shonan Bakusozoku: Japanese Biker Gang




I vaguely remember seeing Bōsōzoku, or biker gangs when I lived in Japan. I didn't get my first taste until watching the movie; Kamikaze Girls. The Bosozoku started back in the 1950's when the Hell's Angels were becoming popular. They could be considered wannabe Yakuza, though unlike the Yakuza, they quit when they get older.



They are often stereotyped as being violent, but are more laid back than anything. I recently watched an 80's Anime, (the name of this title), and even though I don't know that much Japanese, thoroughly enjoyed it.


The main characters, though delinquents, have heart's made of gold, and have a strong alliance within their gang and fellow friends. You can still find part of the series that was put on VHS in the States, or even find the DVDs at CDJapan.













http://animeworld.com/readerreviews/shonanbakusozoku.html

Friday, September 11, 2009

Love Thy Monster of the Week

I picked up volume 2 and 3 of Changeman recently, and was happy to see some episodes where the Heroes helped their enemies instead of blowing them up into a million pieces.
In Runaway Gyodai, the Changeman disguise themselves to look like Gyodai to get a rocket that he ate, but also so he wouldn't feel lonely.

And in Gator's Dream of Parent and Child, the Changeman help Navigator Gator reunite with his wife, even though she had tricked them.



Overall, I thought it was a nice change of pace from the usual "shoot first, ask questions later". I'm not sure if the writers were trying to get a message across or not, but I felt like I did. I'm lousy at explaining myself at times, so excerpts from this blog can explain it better:

"Is there anyone in your life who you hate or just can’t stand? Maybe someone who just irritates you to no end, who you resent and feel bitterness towards? And if so, are you proud of that? Does it make you happy?"

"Who are these people? Maybe someone who has picked on you or called you names or disrespected you in some way, causing you anger … maybe you hold a grudge against them. Maybe a family member you’ve had a big fight with … maybe you’ve been angry at them for some time. "

"To “Love Your Enemy” is to find it in your heart to put aside any wrongs, and to love them as a fellow human being. You don’t have to love them like you love your parents or children or best friend. Just have loving feelings toward them … and if possible, express it through words, or by doing something nice, or with a smile."

Anyway, this is the message I got from a goofy kid's show. And no, I'm not here to preach to anyone either.

http://zenhabits.net/2008/02/10-tips-for-lifes-greatest-challenge-love-thy-enemy/