Exciting new releases as well as upcoming products from Kotobukiya!

SENGOKU RANCE SILL PLAIN (RANCE VI VER.) ANI*STATUE

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! The beautiful heroine and fan favorite of the Sengoku Rance series returns in the new 4-Leaves “Legends Girls” series, recognizing and celebrating classic Japanese manga and anime heroines in definitive versions. That’s right, SILL PLAIN is back, this time appearing as she did in Sengoku Rance VI!

The former slave and magician’s assistant to the hero Rance, Sill Plain is herself a mage proficient in both healing and fighting magic. In this new version, Sill wears her classic white cape over a skin-tight shirt, while her waist is circled by a mini skirt being gently blown by the wind emphasizing her beautiful long and silky legs. Sill’s voluminous pink hair was carefully sculpted in waves to match the original character illustration, and her pretty bishoujo-styled face is wide-eyed and smiling. Standing approximately 7 1/3 inches tall (1/8th scale) atop her included base, Sill Plain was sculpted by Munetoshi Makio and is constructed of pvc plastic.

srp $69.99

Available in MARCH

© ALICESOFT

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SISTER PRINCESS ~ SAKUYA SWIMSUIT VER. ANI*STATUE

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! The 4-Leaves “Legends Girls” lineup from Kotobukiya focusing on the “eternal heroines” of Japanese manga and anime continues with another pretty girl from Sister Princess, the long-running bishoujo series consisting of light novels, manga, video games, and anime. After Kaho the “sister type” comes SAKUYA SWIMSUIT VER., the emotionally fragile and easily flustered modern teenager. Originally released as a garage kit in 2002, the classic Sister Princess swimsuit-clad beauty is back, fully painted and ready for you to display!

Based on an original character illustration, Sakuya is ready for an exciting day at the beach wearing a tiny bikini with a huge revolver strapped to her hip. Her confident manner is apparent in her pose, flipping back her long hair and balancing on the toes of one foot, which also serves to emphasize her pretty legs. Updated for this new release, Sakuya’s sculpt is top notch, with intricate detailing on the young lady’s necklace and weapon. The most difficult thing about the original garage kit was getting the paint just right, but Kotobukiya’s master painters have made that a thing of the past. Sakuya’s creamy skin tone is perfectly offset by her peach and orange bikini, brown belt and hair, and bright blue eyes. Standing 7 inches tall (in 1/8th scale), Sakuya was sculpted by Takahiro Ayase and comes fully assembled.

srp $54.99

Available in MARCH

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HAPPINESS! ~ JUN WATARASE ANI*STATUE

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Continuing the new series of 4-Leaves “Legend Girls,” bishoujo figures that celebrate the classic character types in Japanese manga and anime, is a beloved character from Windmill’s famous Happiness! game series, the gender bending JUN WATARASE. Though male, Jun cross dresses in a girl’s high school uniform to accent his feminine looks and make him more popular with other boys.

The pretty Jun Watarase wears not just any old school uniform, but the most frequently requested and sought after Mizuhosaka Academy version. His soft peach and white shirt gracefully matches the darker brown of his very short skirt and shoes, while his legs are encased in dark stockings. Jun’s long purple hair, framing his feminine bishoujo face, fans out around his back in thick tendrils as the schoolboy leans forward with one foot in front of the other. You can display Jun in two distinct ways with included extra pieces, either with the normal cute face or a second one with mouth open and alternate left arm touching his lips! Sculpted by Takahiro Obata and standing 7 inches tall (1/8th scale), Jun is constructed of high-quality pvc plastic and comes with an acrylic display base.

srp $59.99

Available in MARCH

© 2005 - 2008 Windmill

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GREAT KING AZUMANGA ~ SAKAKI-SAN SWIMSUIT VER. ANI*STATUE

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Earlier this year, the classic comedic manga series Great King Azumanga (Azumanga Daioh) celebrated its 10th anniversary. With a highly popular spinoff anime series, the story of six unique girls experiencing high school has been enjoyed by fans all around the world, which makes it perfect for inclusion in Kotobukiya’s new series of 4*Leaves “Legends Girls.” Celebrating traditional character types with definitive sculpts, the new series also includes updates of out of print garage kits. The first schoolgirl is none other than SAKAKI-SAN (SWIMSUIT VER.), the tall (and busty) girl who is soft-spoken and sensitive. Originally released as a limited edition event exclusive garage kit in 2002, Miss Sakaki is back in a fully assembled and painted Ani*Statue!

The beautiful Sakaki-san is dressed in her tight yellow swimsuit that highlights all of her sexy curves, especially her ample bust line. Completely relaxed, the schoolgirl reclines with her arms behind her and legs stretched out. The look on Sakaki’s face is serene, dominated by her huge blue eyes. While the original kit required assembly and painting, this new version comes fully assembled and painted to Kotobukiya’s high standards. Reclining on a specially designed base, Sakaki is 4 ¾ inches tall and 7 ¾ inches long (1/7th scale). Sculpted by Gen Ishizuka, the high school beauty is constructed of high-quality pvc plastic.

srp $59.99

Available in MARCH

© KIYOHIKO AZUMA/YOTUBA SUTAZIO

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GREAT KING AZUMANGA ~ OSAKA SWIMSUIT VER. ANI*STATUE

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Just in time for the celebration of the 10th anniversary of classic comedic manga series Great King Azumanga (Azumanga Daioh) and subsequent anime, comes the next Ani*Statue in the 4-Leaves “Legends Girls” lineup. With iconic female character types, great sculpts, and fantastic paint work, the series gets its second Great King Azumanga character in OSAKA (SWIMSUIT VERSION). A unique female character who would resonate with fans, Osaka may be plain in looks but she more than makes up for it with her incredible imagination and sense of humor! The schoolgirl, originally released as a limited event exclusive garage kit in 2002, is back in a beautiful Ani*Statue that requires no assembly or painting!

Serene and composed, the day dreaming Osaka sits curled up with an inflatable pink floatation tube on a specially designed base. Dressed in a nondescript red swimsuit, the innocently cute girl looks upward with her huge brown eyes as though she were looking straight into yours. Great care has been placed on making Osaka’s pose look natural, and so the young schoolgirl rests one hand on the other and sits with one leg forward and the other turned to the side. Sculpted by Tsukuru Shirahige, Osaka is 4 inches tall (1/7th scale) and is constructed of high-quality pvc plastic.

Srp $49.99

Available in MARCH

© KIYOHIKO AZUMA/YOTUBA SUTAZIO

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SISTER PRINCESS ~ KAHO SCHOOL UNIFORM VER. ANI*STATUE

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Sister Princess is a long-running bishoujo series consisting of light novels, manga, video games, and anime. One of the most popular characters from that series is now the first in Kotobukiya’s new series of bishoujo figures that celebrate the classic character types in Japanese manga and anime, the “Legend Girls.” KAHO is the definition of the “imouto-kei” or sister type, an archetype seen in many Japanese stories. Clumsy and cheerful, the pretty cheerleader is known for addressing her brother as “Onii-chama.” Originally released as a garage kit in 2003, the legendary character is back and better than ever with coloring true to the anime series.

Kaho wears her brightly colored school uniform, standing poised on the toes of her right foot. Blown by soft wind, the pretty girl’s patterned skirt and brown silky hair flow naturally. The checkered skirt was the biggest hassle for painters of the garage kit, but no more! The detail work on Kaho is excellent, from her pretty face down to the laces on her tennis shoes and the intricate paint work on her skirt. “Moe” lovers will especially appreciate the space between her body and school uniform. Standing 7 inches tall (in 1/7th scale), Kaho was sculpted by Hide and is constructed of high-quality pvc plastic.

srp $54.99

Available in FEBRUARY

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SHAKUGAN NO SHANA SECOND: CANDY BIKINI SHANA PVC STATE

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! From the brand new sequel series just launched on Japanese television, Shakugan No Shana “Second” is a manga & anime series about a perpetual war between forces of balance and imbalance in the universe, featuring a soldier from the side of balance who comes to be known simply as SHANA.

This gorgeous pvc statue of Shana features the Flame Haze Warrior in a lovely swimsuit – with a very special feature…the bikini color is made lighter when the temperature increases! Shana also includes “Nietono no Shana”, her samurai sword, and a bonus hermit crab figure to perfectly compliment the beach display base. This 1/8th scale figure measures approximately 4 3/4 inches tall in her kneeling position. Sculpted by Munetoshi Kajio this toy comes in its original Japanese language window box package.

srp $34.99

Available in Now!

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NEON GENESIS EVANGELION: REI & ASUKA PLUG-SUIT VERSION PVC STATUES

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Beloved anime heroines Rei Ayanami and Asuka Langley Soryu have been captured as statues and action figures in the past, but never like this! The sultry Rei & Asuka Plug-Suit Version PVC statue captures these Evangelion pilots in a quiet moment, outfitted in their plug-suits, Asuka in Rei's arms. Measuring approximately 8" tall, this piece (sculpted for Kotobukiya by Naoki Nishimura) expertly captures these Neon Genesis Evangelion characters beautifully.

Srp　＄69.99

Available in MARCH

© GAINAX khara/Project Eva.

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NEON GENESIS EVANGELION ~ SHINJI & KAWORU ANI*STATUE

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Over a decade and counting... and the EVA phenomenon shows no signs of slowing down. Hideaki Anno and Gainax’s post-apocalyptic deconstruction of the giant robot genre has spawned a legion of fans, as well as a great series of collectibles! Released as a companion piece to the best selling Rei & Asuka Plug Suit Ani*Statues, this set features the main men of the series: SHINJI IKARI and KAWORU NAGISA! The duo are seated in their school uniforms on a giant logo base, and finely detailed by sculptor Saki Asada. This high-quality pvc statue comes ready for display right out of its window box package.

Srp　＄59.99

Available in MARCH

© GAINAX khara/Project Eva.

San Francisco, CA, November 16, 2009 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, will delight younger fans (as well as their parents) this holiday season with a fun variety of age-appropriate titles based on popular anime and manga (graphic novel) properties.

The releases include a trio of books capturing the unique art and tender story of PONYO, the new animated film from the legendary Hayao Miyazaki. Fans of POKÉMON won’t be disappointed with a variety of the latest manga editions along with puzzle books and a new posterzine, and THE LEGEND OF ZELDA fans can also look forward to a brand new manga adventure.

“These are all titles that parents can select with confidence for younger readers,” says Gonzalo Ferreyra Vice President, Sales & Marketing, VIZ Media “From the gorgeously illustrated PONYO FILM COMIC and PICTURE BOOK, to the fun puzzles of LET’S FIND POKÉMON and the magical fantasy of THE LEGEND OF ZELDA, there are plenty of thoughtful selections to delight anyone on your holiday gift lists this year!”

PONYO, POKÉMON AND ZELDA DELIGHT YOUNGER READERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON IN NEW BOOKS AND MANGA RELEASES FROM VIZ MEDIA

San Francisco, CA, November 16, 2009 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, will delight younger fans (as well as their parents) this holiday season with a fun variety of age-appropriate titles based on popular anime and manga (graphic novel) properties.

The releases include a trio of books capturing the unique art and tender story of PONYO, the new animated film from the legendary Hayao Miyazaki. Fans of POKÉMON won’t be disappointed with a variety of the latest manga editions along with puzzle books and a new posterzine, and THE LEGEND OF ZELDA fans can also look forward to a brand new manga adventure.

“These are all titles that parents can select with confidence for younger readers,” says Gonzalo Ferreyra Vice President, Sales & Marketing, VIZ Media “From the gorgeously illustrated PONYO FILM COMIC and PICTURE BOOK, to the fun puzzles of LET’S FIND POKÉMON and the magical fantasy of THE LEGEND OF ZELDA, there are plenty of thoughtful selections to delight anyone on your holiday gift lists this year!”

PONYO FILM COMICs, Volumes 1-4 · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages ·

MSRP: $9.99 US / $11.50 CAN each

From the Academy Award®-winning director and world-renowned Japanese animation legend Hayao Miyazaki comes PONYO, a story inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale “The Little Mermaid.” A box-office success when it was released by Walt Disney Studios earlier this year, the film tells the story of a young and overeager goldfish named Ponyo and her quest to become human. The official 4-volume film comic of PONYO re-tells the film’s story with vivid full-color frames.

PONYO PICTURE BOOK · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages ·

MSRP: $19.99 US / $23.50 CAN

The colorful and easy-to-read PONYO Picture Book is a fabulous hardcover edition that will appeal especially to younger readers. The book uses the vividly colored animation cel art from the feature film combined with simplified text to retell the story of Ponyo and her adventures in the human world.

THE ART OF PONYO • Rated ‘A’ for All Ages • MSRP: $34.99 U.S. / $39.99 CAN

A comprehensive soft cover edition that features striking watercolor and pastel concept sketches and layout pages from the film, as well as interviews with production principals and the complete screenplay to give an inside look at the entire creative process behind PONYO.

THE LEGEND OF ZELDA, Volume 8 · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages ·

MSRP: $7.99 US / $9.99 CAN

Enjoy the newest adventure in the official manga series based on the popular Nintendo video game.

POKÉMON POSTERZINE · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages ·

MSRP: $9.99 US / $9.99 CAN

Packed with 11 full color fold-out posters, this large (16” x 22”) edition is a must-have for any fan of Pikachu and his friends. A variety of favorite POKÉMON Platinum characters, from Pikachu and Piplup to Chimchar and Turtwig, are all featured.

LET’S FIND POKÉMON! RUBY & SAPPHIRE · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages ·

MSRP: $11.99 US / $13.99 CAN

Look for Pikachu hiding among a variety of colorful puzzles and other games. Fun for adults too!

POKÉMON ADVENTURES, Vol. 3 · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages ·

MSRP: $7.99 US / $9.99 CAN

This is the latest volume in the exciting POKÉMON manga series.

POKÉMON DIAMOND & PEARL ADVENTURE!, Vol. 5 · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages ·

MSRP: $7.99 US / $9.99 CAN

Check out the latest volume in the exciting POKÉMON DIAMOND & PEARL manga series.

For information on VIZ Media titles, please visit www.VIZ.com.
About VIZ Media, LLC

San Francisco, CA, November 16, 2009– VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, rings in the start of this year’s holiday shopping season with a variety of hot new anime titles that will top many wish lists this year.

New releases include box set debuts of two of the most anticipated new series to hit North America – NANA, HONEY AND CLOVER and NAOKI URASAWA’s MONSTER. BLEACH and NARUTO fans can both look forward to the release of new feature films as well as episodic box sets. Finally, fans and shoppers alike can round out their holiday gift lists with a fun variety of new POKÉMON releases to delight young and older audiences!

“We have lots of buzz-worthy titles coming out in time for the holidays,” says Brian Ige, VIZ Media Director of Sales, Home Entertainment. “There’s something here for everyone this year, ranging from kids to teens and adults, and makes a fun way to animate the holidays!”

VIZ MEDIA ANIMATES THE HOLIDAYS WITH

NEW DVD RELEASES TO BE AMONG

MUST-HAVES ON WISH LISTS THIS SEASON

Punk Rock Romance, Psychological Crime Dramas, Soul Reapers, Ninja, College Life And Pokémon Among New Box Set Releases

San Francisco, CA, November 16, 2009– VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, rings in the start of this year’s holiday shopping season with a variety of hot new anime titles that will top many wish lists this year.

New releases include box set debuts of two of the most anticipated new series to hit North America – NANA, HONEY AND CLOVER and NAOKI URASAWA’s MONSTER. BLEACH and NARUTO fans can both look forward to the release of new feature films as well as episodic box sets. Finally, fans and shoppers alike can round out their holiday gift lists with a fun variety of new POKÉMON releases to delight young and older audiences!

“We have lots of buzz-worthy titles coming out in time for the holidays,” says Brian Ige, VIZ Media Director of Sales, Home Entertainment. “There’s something here for everyone this year, ranging from kids to teens and adults, and makes a fun way to animate the holidays!”

NAOKI URASAWa’s monster Box Set 1 ·

Rated ‘M’ For Mature Audiences · MSRP: $59.90 U.S. / $85.99 CAN · Available December 8th

MONSTER is based on a critically acclaimed manga (graphic novel) series by Naoki Urasawa that is also published in North America by VIZ Media (rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens). What would you do if a child you saved grew up to be a Monster? An ice-cold killer is on the loose, and Dr. Kenzo Tenma is the only one who can stop him! Tenma, a brilliant neurosurgeon with a promising future, risks his career to save the life of a critically wounded young boy named Johan. When the boy, now a coldhearted and charismatic young man, reappears nine years later in the midst of a string of unusual serial murders, Tenma must go on the run to uncover the story of Johan and stop the Monster he set loose upon the world. Conspiracies, serial murders, and secret government experiments set against the grim backdrop of the former East Germany are masterfully woven together in this compelling psychological drama. The anime is being broadcasted on the Syfy channel.

For more information on the MONSTER anime please visit monster.viz.com.

NANA Box Set Vol. 2 · Rated ‘M’ For Mature Audiences ·

MSRP: $59.90 U.S. / $85.99 CAN · Available November 24th

NANA is the animated counterpart to the smash hit manga series by Ai Yazawa that has sold more than 43 million copies in Japan. Careers, friendship, love--can two bright young women named Nana manage to have it all? Nana K.'s Tokyo experiment is in jeopardy when she finds herself strapped for cash and her relationship with Shoji on uncertain ground. Nana O.'s love life takes an unexpected turn when she's reunited with her old flame, Ren from Trapnest. With such a close connection to her favorite band, will Nana K. get to meet the man of her dreams--Takumi? Sometimes dreams do come true...Includes Episodes 12-22.

Don’t miss the manga series, also published by VIZ Media!

HONEY AND CLOVER BOX SET 2 · Rated ‘T+’ For Older Teens ·
MSRP: $59.90 U.S. / $85.99 CAN · Available December 15th

Can life's answers be found where the road ends?

Shinobu has disappeared to America, leaving both Yuta and Hagumi with very mixed feelings. But talk about mixed up! If Takumi's feelings are so tied up with Rika, why is he tied up in knots over his coworker Nomiya's romantic pursuit of Ayumi? Plus, senior projects are getting everyone down, but none more than Yuta, who in a sudden burst of reckless abandon takes off on his bicycle on an epic journey of self-discovery...Ah, the enthusiasm of youth! Includes episodes 13-24. For more information on HONEY AND CLOVER please visit honeyandclover.viz.com.

New BLEACH Releases Include:

BLEACH THE MOVIE 2: THE DIAMONDDUST REBELLION ·

Rated ‘T’ For Teens · MSRP: $29.92 U.S. / $42.99 CAN · Available Now!

Adapted from the wildly popular animated series and best-selling BLEACH manga series by acclaimed Japanese creator, Tite Kubo (both distributed and published in North America by VIZ Media), the animated feature film BLEACH THE MOVIE 2: The DiamondDust Rebellion continues the action-packed adventures of Ichigo Kurosaki. After the treasured Ouin is stolen, Toshiro Hitsugaya disappears and becomes suspected of treason. When the Soul Society calls for his capture and execution, Substitute Soul Reaper Ichigo Kurosaki vows to prove Hitsugaya's innocence. Will the secret of the Ouin and Captain Hitsugaya's motives be revealed before his honor, his life, and the Soul Society are destroyed? For fans of the popular manga and anime series, this is definitely an adventure not to be missed!

BLEACH UNCUT BOX SET 4, Part 1 · Rated ‘T’ For Teens ·

MSRP: $49.95 U.S. / $71.99 CAN · Available Now!

Ichigo and his friends return from the Soul Society to the World of the Living and try to resume their normal lives. But when strange abductions start happening, it's up to them to solve the riddle. More Soul Reapers arrive to help uncover the truth behind a mysterious clan known as Bounts. Will these allies be strong enough to stop the Bount leader from stealing human souls and feeding his dangerous ambition? Contains episodes: 64-79 (Original and Uncut.)

For more information on the BLEACH anime please visit Bleach.viz.com.

New NARUTO SHIPPUDEN Releases Include:

The NARUTO SHIPPUDEN animated series picks up two years after Naruto left to train with his teacher and mentor Jiraiya. Now a teenager, the stories in the new series take a more mature and sometimes darker approach as Naruto returns to the Hidden Leaf Village to reunite with his old friends and discover that they are stronger than before – and maybe even stronger than he is! Catch the adventures of the world’s most popular ninja in three new episodic DVD box sets!

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN Vol. 1 · Rated ‘T+’ For Older Teens ·

MSRP: $24.92 U.S. / $35.99 CAN · Available Now!

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN Vol. 2 · Rated ‘T+’ For Older Teens · MSRP: $24.92 U.S. / $35.99 CAN · Available Now!

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN Vol. 3 · Rated ‘T+’ For Older Teens · MSRP: $24.92 U.S. / $35.99 CAN · Available November 24th

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: THE MOVIE · Rated ‘T+’ For Older Teens · MSRP: $24.92 U.S. / $35.99 CAN · Available Now!

In the newest animated adventure, which is the first NARUTO SHIPPUDEN movie series, a powerful spirit that once threatened to destroy the world is back! Naruto’s mission is to protect a priestess named Shion, who is the only one with the power to seal away the monster. She also has the uncanny ability to predict someone’s fate, and her latest prophecy is that Naruto will die. His only hope is to abandon Shion, but that’s not Naruto’s style. He decides to challenge her prediction head on, but it may very well cost the young ninja’s life!

For more information on NARUTO SHIPPUDEN please visit Naruto.com.

New POKÉMON Releases Include:

POKÉMON DIAMOND and PEARL BATTLE DIMENSION Vol. 5/Vol. 6 ·

Rated ‘A’ For All Ages · MSRP: $14.98ea U.S. / $21.99ea CAN ·

Available Now!

The episodes of POKÉMON: Diamond and Pearl Battle Dimension Box Set 3 split into two standard disc editions.

POKÉMON DIAMOND and PEARL BATTLE DIMENSION BOX 3 ·

Rated ‘A’ For All Ages · MSRP: $24.92 U.S. / $35.99 CAN ·

Available Now!

Villainy is afoot as Ash and friends continue their journey through the Sinnoh region. But first they'll have to graduate from the Pokémon Summer Academy! Will they learn to handle Team Rocket's newfound moxie, or Pokémon Hunter J's latest poaching scheme? Ash also gets to take on the Hawthorne City Gym Leader, but first he's going to have to deal with a new rival, Barry! And if Dawn thought the Celestic Town Pokémon Contest was a challenge, things really heat up when Team Galactic rolls into town!

POKÉMON ELEMENTS: DARK · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages ·

MSRP: $9.98 U.S. / $14.99 CAN · Available November 24th

POKÉMON ELEMENTS: ICE · Rated ‘A’ For All Ages ·

MSRP: $9.98 U.S. / $14.99 CAN · Available November 24th

Following the POKÉMON All Star series set, the POKÉMON: ELEMENTS collection consists of the most important episodes commemorating the different types of Pokémon characters. Each disc showcases a Pokémon type with three all-time favorite episodes.
For more information on POKÉMON and other VIZ KIDS titles please visit www.vizkids.com.

To purchase please visit our store at Store.viz.com.

VIZ MEDIA MAKES IT A HOLIDAY SEASON OF SHOJO WITH FUN NEW RELEASES

Selections Make Thoughtful Gift Ideas

To Delight Even The Most Discerning Fan

San Francisco, CA, November 11, 2009– VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, presents several new shojo manga (graphic novel) titles that fans and gift givers of all types might consider for wish list priority this holiday season.

The releases include THE ART OF GENTLEMEN’S ALLIANCE †, a collection of lavish drawings and designs from the hit series by famed shojo artist, Arina Tanemura. New manga title, BEAST MASTER, as well as the latest volume of the popular gothic high school drama VAMPIRE KNIGHT, and the VIZBIG omnibus editions of FUSHIGI YUGI and HOT GIMMICK.

“Shojo manga fans have much to look forward to during this year’s holiday season, with a variety of selections that make wonderful gift ideas to suit any budget,” says Gonzalo Ferreyra, Vice President Sales & Marketing, VIZ Media. “Many of these series have dramatically expanded the core Shojo audience, receiving universal renown and acclaim. From VAMPIRE KNIGHT, which has become a national bestseller, to the launch of the wild new manga, BEAST MASTER, and gorgeous new omnibus editions of other shojo favorites, bookstore shelves have never been stocked with so much must-read Shojo manga!!

The VIZBIG editions each compile three volumes from the original graphic novel series, presented in a in a larger 5-3/4 x 8-5/8 size (larger than the standard 5 x 7-1/2 manga) with special features including new cover art, bonus color pages and added content such as author interviews, updated text and character art. The new editions serve as comprehensive introductions for new readers to some most-loved shojo manga titles, or a great way for seasoned fans to revisit favorite titles from a new perspective.

BEAST Master Vol. 1 · Rated ‘T+’ For Older Teens ·

MSRP: $9.99 US / $12.99 CAN · Available November 3rd

Leo Aoi looks like a crazy animal with wild eyes – and no one at his new high school will go near him! He does seem to have a special connection with animals, which intrigues overzealous animal lover, Yuiko Kubozuka. In reality, Leo isn’t nearly as frightening as he appears, but Yuiko finds out that he goes berserk whenever he sees blood! Will Yuiko be able to get through to Leo during one of these violent fits? Or will his ferocious side eventually devour her? The debut volume also includes a special bonus short story called FLY.

Manga artist Kyousuke Motomi debuted in 2002 in Japan’s popular shojo manga magazine Betsucomi with No Good Cupid, and she was also the creator of Handsome! Beads Club. Her latest work, Electric Daisy, is also currently serialized in Betsucomi.

VAMPIRE KNIGHT Vol. 8 · Rated ‘T+’ For Older Teens ·

MSRP: $9.99 US / $12.99 CAN · Available Now!

Cross Academy is attended by two groups of students: the Day Class and the Night Class. At twilight, when the students of the Day Class return to their dorms, they cross paths with the Night Class on their way to school. Yuki Cross and Zero Kiryu are the Guardians of the school, protecting the Day Class from the Academy’s dark secret – the Night Class is composed of vampires!

In Volume 8 of this best-selling series by Matsuri Hino, after trying to recall her past, Yuki’s hallucinations become more vivid and she tries to strangle Zero during a fit of temporary madness. Locked in her room, all she can see is a world dyed in blood, but things will become really dangerous when the vampire Kaname comes for her and tells her it’s time to wake up and sinks his fangs into her neck!

THE ART OF GENTLEMEN’S ALLIANCE † · MSRP: $19.99 US / $27.00 CAN · Available November 17th

Renowned manga artist Arina Tanemura exemplifies the shojo style with this collection of highly stylized artwork presented with a swirl of billowing ribbons, romance and heartbreak. The glossy illustrated edition features designs for all the major characters from THE GENTLEMEN’S ALLIANCE † and includes exclusive art for the North American edition and a full color double-sided, fold-out poster. Tanemura is a prolific manga artist and the creator of several popular shojo series such as I-O-N, TIME STRANGER KYOKO and FULL MOON (all of which are published in North America by VIZ Media).

HOT GIMMICK VIZBIG Edition, Vol. 3 · Rated ‘T+’ For Older Teens ·

MSRP: $17.99 US / $24.00 CAN · Available December 15th

Miki Aihara turned the manga world upside down with her salacious, outrageous, and funny hit series which concludes in this final VIZBIG omnibus edition. If you think being a teenager in America is hard, wait until you read HOT GIMMICK These Tokyo boys and girls are really messed up!

FUSHIGI YUGI VIZBIG Edition, Vol. 4 · Rated ‘T+’ For Older Teens ·

MSRP: $17.99 US / $24.00 CAN · Available December 15th

Read the manga by creator Yuu Watase that helped to define the shojo genre! Fifteen-year-old Miaka Yuki is transported back to an ancient Chinese kingdom by an old library book called The Universe of the Four Gods. Following the legend of the book, Miaka becomes the Priestess of Suzaku and must find her seven Celestial Warriors before she can save the kingdom and return home. In the latest VIZBIG volume, with one of the Celestial Warriors lost forever, Miaka and her men are more desperate than ever to obtain the two Shentso-Paos in order to summon Suzaku. But once Miaka has one in her grasp, it’s stolen away by the Seiryu Warrior Nakago. Miaka goes to Nakago to get it back, but he assaults her. Believing she is no longer worthy of becoming Tamahome's bride, Miaka flees on her own, only to be saved by a man whom she initially thought was her enemy. Meanwhile, Tamahome falls under the Seiryu Warrior Tomo's power of illusions.

For more information on VIZ Media titles please visit www.Viz.com.
About VIZ Media, LLC

Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Africa and is a global ex-Asia licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including the popular monthly manga anthology SHONEN JUMP magazine, graphic novels, and DVDs, and develops, markets, licenses, and distributes animated entertainment for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.

Special Theatrical Screening Also Planned For Live Action Sci-Fi Film –

The First In A Trilogy Based On Popular Manga Series By Naoki Urasawa

San Francisco, CA- November 9, 2009 – VIZ Pictures, an affiliate of VIZ Media, LLC that focuses on Japanese live-action film distribution, will release the science fiction feature 20th CENTURY BOYS 1: BEGINNING OF THE END on DVD on December 15th in the United States through its distributor, VIZ Media. 20th CENTURY BOYS will carry an MSRP of $24.92 US / $35.99 CAN.

The 20th CENTURY BOYS saga was directed by Yukihiko Tsutsumi (who also directed the live-action film, HAPPILY EVER AFTER which is also available from VIZ Pictures) and is based on a popular manga series by Naoki Urasawa. It all begins in 1969 when a young boy named Kenji and his friends write "The Book of Prophecy" in which they write about a future where they fight against an evil organization trying to takeover the world and bring about doomsday. Years later in 1997, a mysterious cult being lead by a man only known as "Friend" emerges and begins to gain strong influence over society. A series of catastrophic events begin to occur mirroring the prophecies made up by the young Kenji and the greatest fear is the climax of "The Book" becoming a reality; December 31st, 2000, a terrifying giant virus-spreading robot will attack the entire city of Tokyo leading to the end of mankind. The only people who know about "The Book" are Kenji and his childhood friends. Who is "Friend"? Will Kenji and his friends be able to save mankind and live to see the 21st Century?

“20th CENTURY BOYS mesmerized audiences at its U.S. theatrical premiere in San Francisco this past summer and we’re very proud to announce its North American debut on DVD,” says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “Naoki Urasawa’s multi-layered story of childhood mystical prophecy, government conspiracies and alien invasion is given a lavish production treatment and the film’s ending is a real cliffhanger that’s also very different from the original manga series. We look forward to introducing audiences to this exciting 3-part science fiction saga!”

VIZ Pictures has scheduled theatrical screenings of 20th Century Boys 1 in December at VIZ Cinema, the nation’s first theatre venue devoted exclusively to Japanese film operated by VIZ Pictures, Inc. On December 10th, starting at 7:30pm, VIZ Pictures has a special event to celebrate the DVD release of the first chapter of the trilogy. Tickets are $25.00, which includes a pass to the film screening, the brand new DVD, a poster, and more! VIZ Cinema is located inside NEW PEOPLE, a newly opened entertainment destination in the heart of San Francisco’s Japantown offering the latest examples of Japanese popular culture. Tickets are available at www.vizcinema.com or can be purchased at the theatre box-office. For more information about this event, please visit www.vizcinema.com or www.viz-pictures.com.

New Manga Release Blends Bold Art And A Clever Story Of A Young Boy Who Tries To Balance His Own Lonely World With a Fantastic Supernatural Realm Only He Can See

San Francisco, CA, November 10, 2009 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced the upcoming release of Taiyo Matsumoto’s celebrated manga GOGO MONSTER on November 17th. GOGO MONSTER will be published by the company’s VIZ Signature imprint, rated ‘T’ for Teens, and will carry an MSRP of $27.99 U.S. / $36.00 CAN.

Third grader Yuki Tachibana lives in two worlds. In one world, he is a loner ridiculed by his classmates and reprimanded by his teachers for telling stories of supernatural beings that only he can see. In the other world, the supernatural beings vie for power with malevolent spirits who bring chaos into the school, the students' lives, and even nature itself.

“Taiyo Matsumoto’s clever stories and striking art have placed him among the best of a new generation of influential manga artists and we are privileged to present GOGO MONSTER to U.S. audiences,” says Gonzalo Ferreyra, Vice President Sales & Marketing, VIZ Media. “This story continues to show Matsumoto’s fascination with youth as he seamlessly blends themes of alienation with the paranormal. For anyone with an overactive imagination or has even just daydreamed during class, GOGO MONSTER offers an emotional tale that shows how what we see and imagine, whether real or imaginary, shapes our personality in profound ways.”

Taiyo Matsumoto made his manga debut in the Japanese magazine Comic Afternoon with the short story STRAIGHT. He went on to travel throughout France and became heavily influenced by the French comics he studied there including those created by pioneering European artists like Moebius and Enki Bilal. Matsumoto has become internationally acclaimed for stories that capture the essence of disaffected youth and adolescent alienation. His other notable works include BLUE SPRING, NO. 5 and TEKKONKINKREET: BLACK & WHITE, which are all published in North America by VIZ Media. TEKKONKINKREET won a prestigious Will Eisner Award in 2008 and was also adapted for an animated feature film. Another Matsumoto manga story, PING PONG, was turned into an award-winning live action film that is available from VIZ Pictures.

VIZ MEDIA BRINGS THE DRAMA AND SUSPENSE OF

Naoki Urasawa’s MONSTER TO THE

SONY PLAYSTATION® NETWORK’S VIDEO DELIVERY SERVICE

Animated Drama Based On Critically Acclaimed Manga Series Weaves A Tale of Conspiracy, Political Intrigue and Serial Murder

San Francisco, CA, November 5, 2009 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has launched Naoki Urasawa’s MONSTER on the PlayStation®Network video delivery service, available exclusively for PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) and PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) entertainment systems. Episodes 1-6 (dubbed) of the animated series are now available for download for $1.99 each via the Network’s VIZ Media Channel page.

What would you do if a child you saved grew up to be a monster? An ice-cold killer is on the loose, and Dr. Kenzo Tenma is the only one who can stop him! Tenma, a brilliant neurosurgeon with a promising future, risks his career to save the life of a critically wounded young boy named Johan. When the boy, now a coldhearted and charismatic young man, reappears nine years later in the midst of a string of unusual serial murders, Tenma must go on the run from the police, who suspect him to be the killer, to find Johan and stop the monster he set loose upon the world. Conspiracies, serial murders, and secret government experiments set against the grim backdrop of the formerly communist Eastern Europe are masterfully woven together in this compelling work of suspense. MONSTER is based on the critically acclaimed manga series, rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens, created by Naoki Urasawa that is also published in North America by VIZ Media.

“We’re very happy to debut this exciting and thought-provoking series to a whole new audience with the launch of Naoki Urasawa’s MONSTER anime on Sony’s PlayStation Network,” says Brian Ige, VIZ Media Director of Sales, Home Entertainment. “MONSTER has become a hit among fans of anime and manga, and we look forward to the gaming audience discovering one of Naoki Urasawa’s most gripping and critically acclaimed works.”

Naoki Urasawa’s MONSTER joins three of the most popular and successful anime series in North America – BLEACH, DEATH NOTE and NARUTO – on PlayStation Network in the United States.

PlayStation Network is an entertainment network that unites people and innovative entertainment to deliver captivating experiences. Through the PlayStation Network video delivery service, consumers can download their favorite movie and television programs, many in high-definition. The video delivery service currently features over 2,250 movies and more than 13,800 television episodes. PlayStation Network has more than 29 million registered accounts

Worldwide.

Naoki Urasawa’s MONSTER also airs on SyFy channel’s Ani-Monday block (2 new episodes every Monday at 11:00 PM).

For more information on Naoki Urasawa’s MONSTER anime series (rated ‘M’ for Mature) please visit Monster.viz.com. For more information on Naoki Urasawa’s MONSTER manga series (rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens) please visit www.vizsignature.com/monster.

San Francisco, CA, November 6, 2009 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, continues the momentum behind its hit INUYASHA brand with the announcement of the release of Rumiko Takahashi’s original manga series in new VIZBIG omnibus editions. Published by the company’s SHONEN SUNDAY imprint, INUYASHA VIZBIG Volume 1 debuts November 10th, is rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens, and carries an MSRP of $17.99 U.S. / $24.00 CAN.

Each omnibus edition features three volumes of the original graphic novel series presented in a larger 5-3/4 x 8-5/8 size (larger than the standard 5 x 7-1/2 manga). The new editions serve as comprehensive introductions for new readers to some best-known titles, and a great way for seasoned fans to revisit favorite manga series from a new perspective. The VIZBIG INUYASHA series is also presented in a right-to-left reading format, just like the original manga counterpart.

After falling into an old well and into ancient Japan, Kagome discovers that her destiny is linked to the dog-like half demon called Inuyasha! As Kagome learns more about her connection to the past and to Inuyasha, she comes into conflict with the terrible demons that are drawn to the Shikon Jewel, including Inuyasha's own half brother, Sesshomaru. Finding the shards of the Shikon Jewel is going to require powerful magic, strange allies, and a strong heart. Kagome's got plenty of heart, but she's going to need Inuyasha's help for the rest of it, and he may not be so willing to lend a hand!

“INUYASHA brought creator Rumiko Takahashi renowned fame throughout the world and the series has been enjoyed by millions of readers in Japan and North America,” says Elizabeth Kawasaki, Senior Editorial Director, VIZ Media. “Our new VIZBIG release is a comprehensive way for new and old fans alike to catch up on the adventures of Inuyasha and Kagome in a whole new way and also makes a wonderful gift for that extra special fan this holiday season.”

INUYASHA brought creator Rumiko Takahashi tremendous international acclaim and won the prestigious Shogakukan Manga Award in 2002. The story was also adapted into a long running animated series (distributed domestically by VIZ Media). Episodes from the action-packed series conclusion – INUYASHA THE FINAL ACT – currently stream on ShonenSunday.com/anime and Hulu.com mere hours after they air in Japan. For more information on the INUYASHA animated series please visit www.ShonenSunday.com.

Many of Rumiko Takahashi’s titles have been adapted into other media such as anime, live-action TV series, and film. Takahashi’s manga, as well as the other formats of her work, has continued to delight generations of fans around the world. Distinguished by her wonderfully endearing characters, Takahashi’s work adeptly incorporates a wide variety of elements such as comedy, romance, fantasy, and martial arts. Rumiko Takahashi is an artist who truly represents the very best from the world of manga. Please visit the official North American web site for all Rumiko Takahashi related news and information located at www.TheRumicWorld.com.

his mature title will have readers on the edge of their seats with the crack shot team of mercenaries, shady characters, heavy weaponry and bullet ridden adventures. Death Is A Business And Business Is Good!

VIZ MEDIA LETS THE BULLETS AND ACTION FLY IN NEW MANGA SERIES JORMUNGAND

Death Is A Business And Business Is Good For A Crack Team Of Mercenaries; Staying Alive Becomes Even More Dangerous When A New Young Recruit Joins The Team

San Francisco, CA, October 29, 2009– VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, will premiere the exciting new manga series JORMUNGAND to readers across North America next month. The new action adventure by Keitaro Takahashi will be published by VIZ Media’s Signature imprint and will release on November 10th. JORMUNGAND is rated ‘M’ for Mature Readers and will carry an MSRP of $12.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN.

Jonah is a child soldier, born amidst the chaotic conflicts that rage across West Asia. His family was lost to a war fueled by weapons supplied by the so-called Merchants of Death – international arms dealers. Despite Jonah's hatred of weapons and violence, he employs them extremely well in the service of high-flying arms dealer named Koko Hekmatyar and her band of mercenaries. Their journey through the dark underbelly of the world's arms markets may lead to damnation, but will Jonah somehow make his way back to the light? Only one thing is certain: it's going to be a long, hard road out of hell... Death is their business, and business is good!

In Volume 1, Koko Hekmatyar, the head of H&C Logistic Incorporated, introduces new recruit Jonah to her expert team of troubleshooters, and it isn't long before they find some trouble to shoot. An Eastern European government official holds up a shipment of aircraft parts that would shift the balance of power in the region. But the real trouble is that shipment belongs to Koko, and she's not about to miss an opportunity to make a profit, even if it means two nations go to war!

“JORMUNGAND takes its name from the fabled ferocious sea serpent in Norse mythology, and readers will be at the edge of their seats with this fierce band of mercenaries that live up to the name with an insatiable taste for trouble and gunplay,” says Gonzalo Ferrerya, Vice President, Sales & Marketing. “JORMUNGAND is a must-read for any action fan, and Keitaro Takahashi’s manga delivers plenty of bullet-riddled adventures as he fills each chapter with plenty of shady characters, double deals, and enough heavy metal weaponry to make any modern paramilitary jealous! Just remember to keep your head down and eyes glued to the page!”

Keitaro Takahashi’s debut manga, Ordinary±, won the Four Seasons Prize in 1999 and was subsequently serialized in Gekkan Afternoon magazine in Japan. Prior to creating JORMUNGAND in 2006, Takahashi worked as an illustrator for several books and he has drawn considerable acclaim for his striking, realistic and angular style.

For information on VIZ Media titles, please visit www.VIZ.com.
About VIZ Media, LLC

Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Africa and is a global ex-Asia licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including the popular monthly manga anthology SHONEN JUMP magazine, graphic novels, and DVDs, and develops, markets, licenses, and distributes animated entertainment for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.

Yamato USA is exceptionally pleased to unveil the next installation in its Fantasy Figure Gallery -- The Touch of Ice by Luis Royo as interpreted by sculptor Shunjii Hagii.

Yamato USA is exceptionally pleased to unveil the next installation in its Fantasy Figure Gallery -- The Touch of Ice by Luis Royo as interpreted by sculptor Shunjii Hagii. Take note, the first edition of this extraordinary piece will be limited to just 2,500 pieces worldwide, and will come complete with numbered display base and certificate of authenticity. Sure to be a smash, sold-out success, we are making this piece available to our loyal retail partners first in this special advance offer. Don’t pass it up.

MSRP: $89.95 / piece

Due December 2009