Encyclopedia

Companies - W

SOS! Tokyo Metro Explorers: The Next Sub.DVD
It may be so grossly overpriced that it only warrants a rental, but this short movie tells a worthy story in classic kid-adventure tradition while also throwing in plenty of bones for adults, and it looks fantastic in doing so.

Yotsuba&! GN 5
Despite revolving around a young girl, the people most likely to enjoy Yotsuba&! are adults, those who need a little reminder, one that the manga itself puts best when it ends with the simple words "enjoy everything."

School Rumble DVD 3
Four more episodes of romantic misunderstandings, really stupid behavior and embarrassing situations. From the moment the words "School Rumble" come spinning onto the screen, you know you're in for undiluted good times. And really, it'd be churlish to demand anything more.

Pet Shop of Horrors: Tokyo GN 1
More than just a collection of freaky-monster horror tales, it's really more about human drama, and revealing the follies of the most advanced species on the planet.

Angel Sanctuary DVD
Incest and angels acting bad highlight this sharp-looking rerelease of the 2000 OVA series, which mixes shojo elements with intensely graphic violence. It is more an introduction for the manga version than a stand-alone production, however.

Kiddy Grade DVD
This newest boxed set is the best offering yet for Gonzo's sharp-looking sci fi anime take on the cop buddy genre. Likable central characters, pretty designs, and more depth than may initially be apparent help make this a highly entertaining series.

School Rumble DVD 2
Shows the first signs of the shaggy underdog panache with which the series can balance big laughs and understated emotions, and of course is still a big ol' goofy good time.

Step Up Love Story Sub.DVD 2
The series would be nothing without its sex content, but mature viewers may appreciate these episodes of the series also known as Futari Ecchi for more than just that. They display a slight overall improvement compared to the first volume.

Oh My Goddess! First End
The franchise's first novel may not be a technical masterpiece but tells an interesting story and remains completely faithful to the characters and universe Kosuke Fujishima created. More for long-time fans than newcomers.

Galaxy Angel Rune Sub.DVD 4
Think of Rune as the original Galaxy Angel's annoying, hyperactive little sister; definitely spawned from the same gene pool, but lacking all the charm and humor of its elder sibling.

Arc the Lad DVD 1 - Hunters and Monsters