Studio Ghibli - Totoro Collection

Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli will always be an important part of my being a kid-at-heart. I bet a lot of people, especially anime/animation/cartoon fans know what I'm talking about. And although I'm not that addicted to all of Miyazaki's animation movies *winks*, I just can't stop digging into what Studio Ghibli can offer. Fortunately, such animation studio has a lot in store for their ardent fans who are always in the lookout for more.

I have been pensive about the thought of visiting the studio's museum in Japan (of course). I know it's never impossible. But someday, soon... maybe. Why not? hehe After all, Japan is a place I've always been dreaming to explore. If only I don't have to strive learning for a new/different language.

My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, Princess Mononoke and Ponyo are just some of my favorites from Miyazaki's studio. When I watched them again together with my siblings and niece, I just couldn't help but think of collecting plush toys and other collectibles of each movie's characters.

Imagine how my heart did some somersaults and cartwheels upon seeing this:

I'm not a Lego enthusiast; so somehow, I'm not 'that' captivated by this concept. But a lot of fascinating ideas came to mind when I stumbled upon this setup. *smugs*

This, on the other hand, just made me delirious and envious. To think it's only/mostly a Totoro collection... It could've been more begrudging if the owner also possess other SG collectibles. *swoons*

 When can I ever enjoy this kind of collection? I bet I'd really go broke if I just follow my instincts. But well, I'm a *coughs* responsible *coughs* kind of person. Hence, deal with the priorities before anything else. Nevertheless, I have practical ideas on how to come up with my own SG collection along with my fave anime and the like. I will surely share my works of art, if I could ever find the time and resources to do so.

When The Battosai Wandered Into The Big Screen...

... All hell breaks loose...

Indeed, everyone was so crazy about the live-action adaptation of Rurouni Kenshin. When news about its coming into the big screen started to spread, I just didn't know what to think or feel. But the moment the movie trailer came out, I couldn't stop myself from swooning and wishing that soon it will be the big day.

A lot of (aggravating) things happened before I managed to watch the film. It was postponed for 2 days due to some technical and other (stupid) reasons. We have been waiting for that movie for like forever! Hence, it was really frustrating how we had to wait any longer all because of incompetence. I even decided to just forget about watching it. But hey, it's Battosai the Slasher/Kenshin Himura we're talking about here. I could never let this chance pass by.

 Rurouni Kenshin or Samurai X is perhaps my all-time favorite anime. Until now, I simply cannot forget about its existence. This anime has the biggest and deepest influence in my life, and maybe one of the reasons why I love anime up to this day. I bet the same goes for other anime/Samurai X fans out there.

More importantly, its live-action adaptation is perhaps the most satisfying one ever since the film industry started to make live-action movies of famous anime series like Dragon Ball and Avatar the Last Airbender. It's actually among the concerns of many fans. Will it be able to live up to their expectations? Maybe the trailers are mere baits. But since it's in Japanese (Japanese actors, production and all), what else could go wrong? :)

Although the movie presented a different take on the manga/anime, it was all worth it. Many avid fans were quite disappointed as to how they twisted the details or story line (just as how most adaptations end up with); but for me, it was like a dream come true to be able to watch a live-action film of your favorite anime without having to feel so betrayed or dismayed.

The Rurouni Kenshin movie pursued the supposed-to-be Aoshi (one of my ultimate crushes haha) arc while giving glimpses of Kenshin's past. That annoying rich industrialist Takeda Kanryū (with his gatling gun that was supposed to kill Aoshi's gang) who had been forcing Megumi to make opium was there. But Aoshi wasn't included (yet), and they instead used a different main villain--Jin'e along with that guy who looked like Hanya and the one whom Sanosuke fight with. In addition, Saito also became a part of it though in manga/anime he first appeared on the Shishio arc. Hopefully, a sequel is coming; and Aoshi will then show up.

It was almost perfect if you were not to take the storyline seriously. I mean, the problem with most people (fans, especially of books/anime/etc) when they are faced with an adaptation of their favorites is that they expect it to be sort of like a verbatim. Can't they just watch the movie as it is? I know it's kinda hard not to associate what you already know, but there's nothing we can do about it, right? All in all, whether you're a fan of Kenshin or not, you will surely enjoy the movie because its fight scenes are so awesome you just can't get over it. And hey, Sanosuke was so funny and cool at the same time. Kudos to Rurouni Kenshin movie.

The New Beginning - OST

Eyes On You o_O

Just remember dear figures, I have set my sight upon you. Target, locked. Someday.. soon... :D

Claire from Claymore

Saber and Gilgamesh from Fate/Zero (prequel to Fate/Stay Night)

Anime Top Picks Of All Time

I have watched a lot of anime from the past until now. Some were able to capture my interest, while some remained to be a good watch but not something that I'd always remember and love. Let me share to you some of the anime series that I would always love to watch over and over again. These anime titles are perhaps some of the popular ones, if not the best. Just click the titles for more detailed information about each anime:

Rurouni Kenshin - Samurai X

Is it just me? Or there's really something magical and alluring about Kenshin? ehehe. Well, I doubt that this anime has never been heard of.  I feel in love with this anime the first time I saw it. Been watching it whenever I have the time and kept on repeating it whenever I feel bored. The storyline, the fighting scenes, the moves... everything about Samurai X have really touched my heart. There is also humor, and of course, instances of pain and sadness as well as  lessons one should always remember by heart.

One Piece

When it comes to the kind of anime that showcases both humor and action, nothing beats One Piece; well, for me, that is. And surely, One Piece has become a favorite of most anime fans, especially in Japan. It's full of adventures and humor that would always leave your jaws and tummy aching with pleasure. The characters are so fun and cool; and the storyline, man, it just keeps getting better and better.

Gensomaden Saiyuki

This anime is a goal for me. I was not able to fully watch all the episodes of Gensomaden since I only watched it on television. And I'm also quite busy now to stream it online. But if given the chance and time or the means to do so, I'd leisurely dig it even if it would take a day or two sitting in front of either the pc or a tv. I have learned a lot of realistic life lessons here and the lines are just so inspiring. I love all the characters in this anime! :D

Bleach

I have always loved katanas and characters who can gracefully and skillfully use them. That's mainly the reason why I got interested in watching Bleach. Aside from that, the characters are freakingly awesome and good-looking. lol. And hey, that's where I got my ultimate female anime character idol that is Yoruichi. :D But I cant deny that I love Renji and Aizen... wooot2!

Naruto

Well, who doesnt like ninjas? ehehe. Basically, this anime centers in the world of a gutsy ninja and so you can find lots of moves that only a ninja can do. though there are real ninjas in this world, most techniques displayed in naruto are of course, more far-fetched and way beyond the limits and skills of an ordinary ninja. I have always like Naruto, except that there are times that the story isnt very much interesting; sometimes, it's shallow and not really creative. But nevertheless, Naruto is one of the most watched anime and an anime that can be worth your time and appreciation.

I have listed 10 of my all-time faves; so, to be continued... ;)