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This Week in Anime - The Rise and Fall of Rooster Teeth

Lucas and Nick reflect on Rooster Teeth's legacy, from RWBY to gen:LOCK to Red vs. Blue following Warner Bros. Discovery's decision to dissolve the production company. ― Lucas and Nick reflect on Rooster Teeth's legacy, from RWBY to gen:LOCK to Red vs. Blue following Warner Bros. Discovery's decision to dissolve the production company. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants...
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This Week in Anime - AI Is Here, But Who Is It Helping?

If this tech is making things worse for the people who work on this material and those who want to enjoy it, then who exactly is it for? ― Following Crunchyroll president Rahul Purini's confirmation that the company is already testing generative A.I. uses on subtitling and closed captioning, Chris and Lucas discuss where the technology could benefit more broadly and management's misjudgment on how t...
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This Week in Anime - Are the Anime Awards Broken?

What were the biggest snubs of the Anime Awards, and did what earned their rightful place as one of the best? Or is the whole thing a cover for marketing and business relationships? ― Nick and Steve are here with your after-awards banter. What were the biggest snubs of the Anime Awards, and did they earn their rightful place as one of the best? Or is the whole thing a cover for marketing and busines...
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This Week in Anime - Previously On Final Fantasy VII

Before you boot up Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, let's remember Squaresoft's foray into feature films, including Spirits Within and the divisive Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children. ― Before you boot up Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, let's remember Squaresoft's foray into feature films, including Spirits Within and the divisive Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed...
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This Week in Anime - Off-Brands In My Anime

With the new, official WcDonald's campaign, Nick and Nicky revisit some of the off-brand appearances of real products in anime and other official campaigns that seem too weird to be true. ― With the new, official WcDonald's campaign, Nick and Nicky revisit some of the off-brand appearances of real products in anime and other official campaigns that seem too weird to be true. Disclaimer: The views an...
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This Week in Anime - A Look Back at Tatsuki Fujimoto Of The Prophecy

Director Kiyotaka Oshiyama will adapt Tatsuki Fujimoto's Look Back manga into an anime film this year, so there's no better time for review the inimitable creators' other one-shots. ― Director Kiyotaka Oshiyama will adapt Tatsuki Fujimoto's Look Back manga into an anime film this year, so there's no better time for TWIA to look back at the inimitable creators' other one-shots. Disclaimer: The views ...
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This Week in Anime - A New Age of Anime Delinquents

Bucchigiri is reintroducing the anime world to delinquent culture, but is this homage to old-school bad boys refreshing or lost on modern audiences? ― Bucchigiri is reintroducing the anime world to delinquent culture, but is this homage to old-school bad boys refreshing or lost on modern audiences? Bucchigiri?!, Tokyo Revengers (first season), Kenka Banchō Otome: Girl Beats Boys, Yu Yu Hakusho, Haji...
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This Week in Anime - The Amazing Action Anime of Director Sunghoo Park

Director Sunghoo Park's latest anime is a blood-soaked action spectacle that builds off years of stellar choreography and gripping fight sequences. ― Director Sunghoo Park's latest anime is a blood-soaked action spectacle that builds off years of stellar choreography and gripping fight sequences. Find out more about his work below. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in ...
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This Week in Anime - When Your Fav Anime Couple is Problematic

Chris and Nicky take on fandom shipping discourse and coming to grips with your problematic favorite couple. ― Chris and Nicky take on fandom shipping discourse and coming to grips with your problematic favorite couple. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Stardust Crusaders, BanG Dream! It'...
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This Week in Anime - Metallic Rouge and 25 Years of BONES

Nicky and Steve renumerate on the history of BONES' various original anime and take a look at its 25th year anniversary project Metallic Rouge. (There may also be an excessive amount of bone-related puns.) ― Nicky and Steve renumerate on the history of BONES' various original anime and take a look at its 25th-year anniversary project Metallic Rouge. (There may also be an excessive amount of bone-rel...
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This Week in Anime - Getting into Gundam (and Other Long-Running Anime)

Nick and Chris tackle the issue of getting into long-running anime series—and why it's not really the intimidating prospect it might appear to be at first glance. ― Nick and Chris tackle the issue of getting into long-running anime series—and why it's not really the intimidating prospect it might appear to be at first glance. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this c...
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This Week in Anime - Why Do We Love Animated Food?

Nick and Steve dive into some of the most delicious-looking anime around while talking about why they have been (and continue to be) so popular. ― Nick and Steve dive into some of the most delicious-looking anime around while talking about why they have been (and continue to be) so popular. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime Ne...
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This Week in Anime - Do Game Mechanics Make or Break Anime?

Chris and Nicky discuss the gamification of anime narratives from Solo Leveling to BOFURI. What's the best way to integrate familiar game elements into a story (hint: it's not stat screens). ― Chris and Nicky discuss the gamification of anime narratives (and life in general) from Solo Leveling to BOFURI. What's the best way to integrate familiar game elements into a story (hint: it's not stat screen...
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This Week in Anime - Is Cygames a Mark of Anime Quality?

Known primarily for their involvement in mobile games, Cygames has quietly been producing some of the best, most farcical anime of the last decade. ― Known primarily for their involvement in mobile games, Cygames has quietly been producing some of the best, most farcical anime of the last decade. Steve and Chris look back on Zombie Land Saga, Uma Musume, and this season's Brave Bang Bravern! Brave B...
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This Week in Anime - Mari Okada's Rise: From Anohana to Maboroshi

Nick and Nicky look back on how Mari Okada's voice as a writer and director lead up to her strangest anime entry yet, maboroshi. ― Nick and Nicky look back on how Mari Okada's voice as a writer and director lead up to her strangest anime entry yet, maboroshi. Maquia - When the Promised Flower Blooms, anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day, Kiznaiver, and Lupin III: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine are avai...
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This Week in Anime - What is the Anime Localization Controversy?

Nick and Chris weigh in on the vitriol and misinformation swirling around AI usage and localization in anime and manga translation. ― Nick and Chris weigh in on the vitriol and misinformation swirling around AI usage and localization in anime and manga translation. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning...
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This Week in Anime - What's the Recipe for a Good Isekai?

Nicky and Nick return to this season's isekai mines and manage to excavate one (1) actually good anime. ― Nicky and Nick return to this season's isekai mines and manage to excavate one (1) actually good anime. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @Lossthief @BeeDubs...
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This Week in Anime - When Does an Anime Need a Reboot?

Steve and Chris consider the necessity of rebooting popular anime like One Piece and Hunter x Hunter in the larger anime media landscape. Strap in, they talk about Fullmetal Alchemist in this one. ― Steve and Chris consider the necessity of rebooting popular anime like One Piece and Hunter x Hunter in the larger anime media landscape. Strap in, they talk about Fullmetal Alchemist in this one. Discla...
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This Week in Anime - What Happens When Magical Girls Grow Up?

Nicky and Chris, inspired by the recent raunchy Gushing Over Magical Girls, look at other more mature iterations of the magical girl genre. ― Nicky and Chris, inspired by the recent raunchy Gushing Over Magical Girls, look at other more mature iterations of the magical girl genre. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network...
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This Week in Anime - On the Last Day of Anime Christmas...

Discover the stranger side of anime with Tatami Time Machine Blues, Lupin the 3rd: The Mystery of Mamo, and whatever the heck Flying Phantom Ship is. ― For the second half of TWIA's Secret Santa, Nicky and Chris get retro with their anime surprises. Discover the stranger side of anime with Tatami Time Machine Blues, Lupin the 3rd: The Mystery of Mamo, and whatever the heck Flying Phantom Ship is. Ma...
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This Week in Anime - On The First Day of Anime Christmas...

Nick and Steve secretly decide what anime the other will watch from their backlogs. These stocking stuffers include classic (and infamous) anime series like BECK, Guilty Crown, Key the Metal Idol, and more. ― Nick and Steve secretly decide what anime the other will watch from their backlogs. These stocking stuffers include classic (and infamous) anime series like BECK, Guilty Crown, Key the Metal Id...
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This Week in Anime - Fast Cars, Anime, and Eurobeat

Steve and Nicky put on their helmets for a high-octane discussion of Initial D, its successor MF Ghost, and the dark horse of the season, Ei Aoki's Overtake! ― Steve and Nicky put on their helmets for a high-octane discussion of Initial D, its successor MF Ghost, and the dark horse of the season, Ei Aoki's Overtake! The anime discussed in this column are streaming via Crunchyroll and HIDIVE. Disclai...
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This Week in Anime - An Anime Night at the Movies

Chris and Nick head to the cinema to see Hayao Miyazaki's The Boy and the Heron and discuss why seeing an anime film in theaters is the preferred viewing experience. ― Chris and Nick head to the cinema to see Hayao Miyazaki's The Boy and The Heron and discuss why seeing an anime film in theaters is the preferred viewing experience (if you can find a showing, that is). The films discussed in this col...
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This Week in Anime - How Do You Manage Your Anime Backlog?

Nicky and Chris wax about the anime they keep meaning to get to and what methods help them just sit down and watch. ― Nicky and Chris wax about the anime they keep meaning to get to and what methods help them just sit down and watch. This series is streaming on Netflix, Crunchyroll, and HIDIVE Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime...
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This Week in Anime - Frieren's Demon Problem

Steve and Nick tune back in to Frieren: Beyond Journey's End to discuss the series' primary antagonists: demons and how fantasy often handles "evil races." ― Steve and Nick tune back in to Frieren: Beyond Journey's End to discuss the series' primary antagonists: demons and how fantasy often handles "evil races." Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not...
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This Week in Anime - Made in Abyss Ignites Firestorm in K-Pop Fandom

Chris and Steve revisit the dark fantasy series' controversy after several K-Pop idols come under criticism for watching or reading the series. ― Chris and Steve revisit the dark fantasy series' controversy after several K-Pop idols come under criticism for watching or reading the series. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News...
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This Week in Anime - What the Hell is Going on at MAPPA?

Nicky and Nick look at the production issues at Jujutsu Kaisen studio MAPPA following several social media posts from animators working there. ― Nicky and Nick look at the production issues at Jujutsu Kaisen studio MAPPA following several social media posts from animators working there. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News N...
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This Week in Anime - Scott Pilgrim Takes Off in a New Direction

Nick and Chris dive into the brand-new adaptation of the fan-favorite comic, although something is missing...where's Scott? ― Nick and Chris dive into the brand-new adaptation of the fan-favorite comic, although something is missing...where's Scott? Scott Pilgrim Takes Off is streaming on Netflix Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of An...
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This Week in Anime - Shigeru Mizuki

Halloween may have passed but that won't stop Nicky and Steve from taking a deep dive into the OG of horror manga, Shigeru Mizuki. ― Halloween may have passed but that won't stop Nicky and Steve from taking a deep dive into the OG of horror manga, Shigeru Mizuki. Akuma Kun (2023) is available through Netflix, GeGeGe no Kitarō (2018) is available through Crunchyroll, NONONBA and Onwards Towards Our N...
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This Week in Anime - 100 Girlfriends Is The Endgame Of Harem Anime

Chris and Nick find the true meaning of a harem anime: choosing all the girls instead of one. ― Chris and Nick find the true meaning of a harem anime: choosing all the girls instead of one. All the series mentioned in this column are streaming on Crunchyroll Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for di...
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This Week in Anime - Key, The Landmark Visual Novel Studio

The visual novel studio Key created some of the most heartwrenching stories adapted to anime. Christopher and Steve look back on CLANNAD, Kanon, Planetarian, and more to see if the emotional beats are still devastating. ― The visual novel studio Key created some of the most heartwrenching stories adapted to anime. Christopher and Steve look back on CLANNAD, Kanon, Planetarian, and more to see if the...
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This Week in Anime - It's the Anime Rap Battle of the Century!!

Do rap sequences in anime hold a sincere appreciation for the art form? Nick and Nicky look at two rap-focused anime and the musical genre in series over the years. ― Do rap sequences in anime hold a sincere appreciation for the art form? Nick and Nicky look at two rap-focused anime and the musical genre in series over the years. HYPNOSIS MIC, Paradox Live The Animation, Kaguya-sama: Love is War -Ul...
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This Week in Anime - PLUTO is a Masterclass in Anime Reimaginings

Chris and Steve dive into Naoki Urasawa and Studio M2's Pluto anime and discuss why "aging up" a property intended for children can be a perfect sandbox for broader commentary. ― Chris and Steve dive into Naoki Urasawa and Studio M2's Pluto anime and discuss why "aging up" a property intended for children can be a perfect sandbox for broader commentary. The anime discussed in this column are streami...
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This Week in Anime - Halloween Anime Spooktacular

Happy Halloween, anime fans! We have a special TWIA on this extra spooky Tuesday. Nick and Nicky discuss their favorite horror series and compare notes on which anime monsters are perfect for the season. ― Happy Halloween, anime fans! We have a special TWIA on this extra spooky Tuesday. Nick and Nicky discuss their favorite horror series and compare notes on which anime monsters are perfect for the ...
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This Week in Anime - Director Masaomi Andō, from School-Live! to SHY

Director Masaomi Andō (SHY) has quietly created some of the best series in the last decade. Steve and Nicky look back at his past work to see how he utilizes different tricks to create engaging entertainment. ― Director Masaomi Andō has quietly created some of the best series in the last decade. His latest outing is SHY, a superhero action series starring a hero with overwhelming anxiety. Steve and ...
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This Week in Anime - Mecha Anime You May Have Missed

It's always Gundam this and Macross that, but what about those ready to enter a new mecha-verse? There's more to giant robots than decades-spanning franchises. Nick and Chris uncover some mecha anime you may have missed. ― It's always Gundam this and Macross that, but what about those ready to enter a new mecha-verse? There's more to giant robots than decades-spanning franchises. Nick and Chris unco...
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This Week in Anime -Narou-ing Down Your Anime Watchlist

This season is bigger than ever, but surprisingly, there isn't much isekai to sift through. Instead, Nick and Steve look at web novel adaptations and which are worth your time. ― During the last few anime seasons, TWIA alums have taken up the mantle to wade through the seasonal isekai to find the cream of the crop. This season is bigger than ever, but surprisingly, there isn't much isekai to sift th...
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This Week in Anime - What's the Deal with Extra-Long Anime Premieres?

Chris and Nicky examine the recent spat of feature-length anime premieres, whether the story calls for it, or if it's all in pursuit of the elusive "prestige" designation. ― Chris and Nicky examine the recent spat of feature-length anime premieres, whether the story calls for it, or if it's all in pursuit of the elusive "prestige" designation. This series is streaming on Netflix, Crunchyroll, and ot...
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This Week in Anime - We Love Boys' Love

In celebration of the Sasaki and Miyano film, Chris and Nicky share their favorite BL series and why the genre is for everyone. ― In celebration of the Sasaki and Miyano film, Chris and Nicky share their favorite BL series and why the genre is for everyone. You can watch the series and movies mentioned here on Crunchyroll (Sasaki and Miyano, Junjo Romantica, Classmates, The Stranger by the Shore, Gi...
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This Week in Anime - What Crunchyroll Purchasing RightStuf Means To Us

The changeover is finally happening. One of the community's long-standing favorite online shops will become "The Crunchyroll Store" next month. Nick and Steve reflect on the change and what it might herald for the anime community at large. ― The changeover is finally happening. One of the community's long-standing favorite online shops will become "The Crunchyroll Store" next month. Nick and Steve r...
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This Week in Anime - Osamu Tezuka Anime Through Time

Nick and Nicky check out the newest take on legendary manga creator Osamu Tezuka's Phoenix and take time to reflect the many iterations of his work through the years. ― Nick and Nicky check out the newest take on legendary manga creator Osamu Tezuka's Phoenix and take time to reflect the many iterations of his work through the years. You can watch the Tezuka series mentioned here on Hulu/Disney+ (Ph...
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This Week in Anime - The Legacy of Buichi Terasawa

Join Chris and Steve as they dive into Space Adventure Cobra, Goku Midnight Eye, and other Terasawa's works that made him one of the legends in the industry. ― The anime and manga world lost yet another legend with the recent passing of Buichi Terasawa, the author behind the iconic 1978 manga series Space Adventure Cobra. Join Chris and Steve this week as they dive into Terasawa's works that made hi...
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This Week in Anime - The Dynamic Direction of Mamoru Hatakeyama

Mamoru Hatakeyama, the director of Undead Murder Farce has a career as colorful as the anime. Steve and Chris invite us to take a look at his other amazing and stylish works. ― Mamoru Hatakeyama, the director of Undead Murder Farce has a career as colorful as the anime. Steve and Chris invite us to take a look at his other amazing and stylish works. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by th...
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This Week in Anime - Do You Have Pokémon Nostalgia?

Ready to bid farewell to Ash Ketchum and his timeless adventures? Not quite? We get you. Join Nick and Nicky this week as they explore the 25-year legacy of Pokémon before the start of a new era. ― Ready to bid farewell to Ash Ketchum and his timeless adventures? Not quite? We get you. Join Nick and Nicky this week as they explore the 25-year legacy of Pokémon before the start of a new era. Disclaim...
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This Week in Anime - Why Is It So Hard to Make Anime Into Live-Action?

With live-action One Piece receiving favorable reviews from critics and fans alike, Nick and Steve look back and previous attempts to bridge the gap between anime and live-action in Hollywood...and why they didn't work. ― With live-action One Piece receiving favorable reviews from critics and fans alike, Nick and Steve look back and previous attempts to bridge the gap between anime and live-action i...
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This Week in Anime - What is the Future of Anime and AI?

The AI wave reached anime shores a long time ago - will anime ever be the same again? Join Chris and Nicky this week in their discourse about anime and AI. ― The AI wave reached anime shores a long time ago - will anime ever be the same again? Join Chris and Nicky this week in their discourse about anime and AI. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not...
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This Week in Anime - Why You Should Just Buy the Anime Blu-rays

It's become increasingly common for anime and other media to disappear from streaming services, be it contractual reasons or a tax write-off. Steve and Nicky go over some of the pros for buying physical releases of your favorite anime series. ― It's become increasingly common for anime and other media to disappear from streaming services, be it contractual reasons or a tax write-off. Steve and Nicky...
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This Week in Anime - Remember Magic High School Anime?

If the influx of isekai series every season has you fed up, take a deep breath and remember: it used to be magic high school anime instead. ― If the influx of isekai series every season has you fed up, take a deep breath and remember: it used to be magic high school anime instead. Chivalry of a Failed Knight is streaming on HIDIVE; all other series mentioned are streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer:...
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This Week in Anime - When Your Fav Anime Protagonist is Problematic

Heroes who do bad things aren't new to anime, but when is a protagonist flawed and complex and when are they an irredeemable scumbag? ― Heroes who do bad things aren't new to anime, but when is a protagonist flawed and complex and when are they an irredeemable scumbag? These series are streaming on Netflix (Evangelion), HiDive (Girlish Number), and Crunchyroll (everything else). Macross is available...
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This Week in Anime - When East Meets West: Can We Call This 'Anime'?

The age-old debate over whether certain animation is "anime" continues. Join Chris and Nicky this week as they navigate this ongoing discourse, exploring the evolving world of animation with series like Scott Pilgrim and Suicide Squad ISEKAI. ― The age-old debate over whether certain animations can be labeled "anime" continues. Join Chris and Nicky this week as they navigate this ongoing discourse, ...
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This Week in Anime - Is There a Double-Standard for Same-Sex Relationships in Anime?

Following the obfuscation of Miorine and Suletta's marriage in Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury, Nick and Nicky discuss canon vs. non-canon and why the barrier to acceptance seems higher for same-sex pairings. ― Following the obfuscation of Miorine and Suletta's marriage in Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury, Nick and Nicky discuss canon vs non-canon relationships and why the barri...
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This Week in Anime - Idol Anime Spin-Offs and Crossovers

It's traversing the multiverse, but the anime idol version. Join Chris and Steve this week as they explore some of our beloved idol anime favorites, including spin-offs and crossovers. ― It's traversing the multiverse, but the anime idol version. Join Chris and Steve this week as they explore some of our beloved idol anime favorites, including spin-offs and crossovers. BanG Dream! It's MyGO!!!!!, Lo...
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This Week in Anime - Are Anime Production Delays the New Normal?

With the recent delays to Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead and the Nier anime's final episodes dropped unceremoniously late, Steve and Nicky look at production delays in the anime industry. ― With the recent delays to Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead and the Nier anime's final episodes dropped unceremoniously late, Steve and Nicky look at production delays in the anime industry. Disclaimer: The view...
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This Week in Anime - The Rise and Evolution of Old Classic Dubs

The release of new dubs and adaptations has breathed new life into old classics like Digimon. Join Chris and Nick this week as they explore these classics and their recent makeover. ― The release of new dubs and adaptations has breathed new life into old classics like Digimon. Join Chris and Nick this week as they explore these classics and their recent makeover. These series are streaming on Hulu a...
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This Week in Anime - The Head-Spinning Mysteries in Undead Murder Farce

Kaguya-sama alum Mamoru Hatakeyama spins supernatural tales of intrigue, but the biggest boon of the series is the lead characters' chemistry. Kaguya-sama alum Mamoru Hatakeyama spins supernatural tales of intrigue, but the biggest boon of the series is the lead characters' chemistry. Undead Murder Farce is streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants ...
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This Week in Anime - Hideaki Anno's Reimagined Shin Japan Heroes Universe

After an illustrious career in animation, Hideaki Anno takes on tokusatsu with the Shin Japan Heroes Universe. Join Chris and Steve this week as they explore some of the franchise's work. ― After an illustrious career in animation, Hideaki Anno takes on tokusatsu with the Shin Japan Heroes Universe. Join Chris and Steve this week as they explore some of the franchise's work. Shin Ultraman, Shin Godz...
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This Week in Anime - Slam Dunk: Scoring Big on Basketball and Comedy

This week, we take another trip down memory lane to explore one of the 90's cult classics: Slam Dunk. Join Nick and Steve this week as they dive into some of the anime's iconic moments. ― This week, we take another trip down memory lane to explore one of the 90's cult classics: Slam Dunk. Join Nick and Steve this week as they dive into some of the anime's iconic moments of comedy, teamwork—and one m...
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This Week in Anime - Navigating Anime Conventions

Anime conventions like Anime Expo and FanimeCon are the perfect place for anime enthusiasts from all walks of life to mingle and gather. Join Chris and Nicky this week as they share their adventures and experiences at these conventions. ― Anime conventions like Anime Expo and FanimeCon are the perfect place for anime enthusiasts from all walks of life to mingle and gather. Join Chris and Nicky this ...
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This Week in Anime - Throw Hands with GoHands

Nick and Chris take a deeper look at studio GoHands' anime output and try to figure out why all of their shows look like that. ― Nick and Chris take a deeper look at studio GoHands' anime output and try to figure out why all of their shows look like that. These series are streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of A...
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This Week in Anime - An Alternate History in Ōoku: The Inner Chambers

Join Steve and Nicky this week as they explore Ōoku's alternate take on history where a female-led Shogun rules over Feudal Japan, accompanied by a harem of men that makes up the Ōoku. ― Fumi Yoshinaga's multi-award-winning manga, Ōoku: The Inner Chambers, officially makes its anime debut this summer. Join Steve and Nicky this week as they explore Ōoku's alternate take on history where a female-led ...
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This Week in Anime - What's So Great About Fate/strange Fake?

Even if you don't know anything about Fate, these are just interesting ideas in their own right. ― Nick and Nicky double down on the hype surrounding the newest anime entry of the Fate franchise, Fate/strange Fake - Whispers of Dawn. These series are streaming on Crunchyroll and HIDIVE. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News N...
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This Week in Anime - What New Isekai Anime Should You Watch?

Chris and Steve work their way through all the summer isekai anime to date to see if there's one shining light among the reincarnated heroes. ― Chris and Steve work their way through all the summer isekai anime to date to see if there's one shining light among the reincarnated heroes. These series are streaming on Crunchyroll and HIDIVE. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participan...
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This Week in Anime - A Trip Down Memory Lane with Dragon Ball Z

Step aside, seasonal premieres! This week, we're turning the spotlight on an anime powerhouse that needs no introduction: Dragon Ball Z. ― Step aside, seasonal premieres! This week, we're turning the spotlight on an anime powerhouse that needs no introduction: Dragon Ball Z. Buckle up as we make a trip down memory lane to revisit moments from the iconic franchise. This series is streaming on Crunchy...
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This Week in Anime - Unraveling the Eccentric Chaos of Dead Mount Death Play

After Baccano! and Durarara!!, this season marked the return of Narita's works to the screens with the adaptation of Dead Mount Death Play. Read on as we dissect the intricate magic woven into Narita's latest work. ― If anyone can combine mismatched ingredients into something entertaining, it's Ryōgo Narita. After Baccano! and Durarara!!, this season marked the return of Narita's works to the screen...
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This Week in Anime - Why It's Difficult To Separate Rurouni Kenshin from Nobuhiro Watsuki

The dilemma surrounding Rurouni Kenshin continues as the premiere of the series' reboot looms with Anime Expo right around the corner. ― When does the line "separating the art from the artist" no longer apply? When the artist has crossed a line by committing crimes of great severity? The dilemma surrounding Rurouni Kenshin continues as the premiere of the series' reboot looms with Anime Expo right a...
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This Week in Anime - Why Demon Slayer May Not Have 'Slayed' This Season

Has the series' recent successes and prolonged battles exhausted its pacing this season? Maybe. ― Has the series' recent successes exhausted its pacing this season? Maybe. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu, Netflix, and Viu. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion o...
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This Week in Anime - Yuri Is My Job! Is the Best Gayfabe We Could Ask For

What starts as a silly comedy about role-playing in a yuri-themed café turns into a rollercoaster of real emotions. ― What starts as a silly comedy about role-playing in a yuri-themed café turns into a rollercoaster of real emotions. Our columnists peel back the layers of performance in this gleefully metatextual rom-com. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer: The views and opinions ex...
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This Week in Anime - Top Reasons to Watch Skip and Loafer

Nick and Steve discuss the myriad of reasons why Skip and Loafer is a top-tier rom-com, from fully-realized characters and expertly-timed comedy to positive trans representation. ― Nick and Steve discuss the myriad of reasons why Skip and Loafer is a top-tier rom-com, from fully-realized characters and expertly-timed comedy to positive trans representation. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll. D...
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This Week in Anime - Birdie Wing Takes the Swing

It's the height of the sports season, and championships are in full swing. While sports tournaments play out this season, Birdie Wing's got different ideas for its golf tournaments. ― It's the height of the sports season, and championships are in full swing. While sports tournaments play out this season, Birdie Wing's got different ideas for its golf tournaments. This series is streaming on Crunchyr...
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This Week in Anime - Redefining the Gundam Legacy in The Witch from Mercury

Gundam's latest installment, The Witch From Mercury, redefines the legacy of the franchise while on the track to becoming one of the season's best sitcoms. ― Whoever said one has to follow the path laid by others? Gundam's latest installment, The Witch From Mercury, is the perfect example, as the series redefines the legacy of the franchise while on the track to becoming one of the season's best sit...
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This Week in Anime - What Makes Hell's Paradise So Unique?

Hell's Paradise asks the important question: Will your typical shōnen anime immediately become better if your protagonist is a wife guy? Hell's Paradise asks the important question: Will your typical shōnen anime immediately become better if your protagonist is a wife guy? (The answer is yes.) This series is streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants...
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This Week in Anime - A Digital Safe Haven in My Love Story with Yamada-kun

Join us this week as we dive into how the show reflects the transformative nature of the digital world in forging virtual and real-life relationships. My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999 encapsulates the modern conundrum of dealing with social interaction and human relationships, both online and offline. Join us this week as we dive into how the show reflects the transformative nature of the di...
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This Week in Anime - Does It Pay to Read Manga on Manga Apps?

Can manga apps find the golden means to cater to all audiences in a world where manga piracy persists? ― Official manga apps like Kodansha's K Manga and Square Enix's Manga UP! are plagued with issues such as in-app purchases and currencies that could deter manga fans and readers alike from accessing their favorite series. Can these apps find the golden means to cater to all audiences in a world whe...
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This Week in Anime - “So Bad it's Good”? Why KamiKatsu Doesn't Cut Close to That

KamiKatsu had a promising premise. But its bizarre, lackluster execution has only butchered the show to the point where it can barely pass off as another “so-bad-it's-good” production. KamiKatsu had a lot of potential as a manga-based isekai anime with a promising premise. But its bizarre, lackluster execution has only butchered the show to a point it can barely pass off as another “so-bad-it's-go...
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This Week in Anime - Donghua Keeps Getting Better

Anime industry insiders predict that Chinese animation will overtake Japan in the future, but does it have to be a competition? Let's take this opportunity to simply appreciate some cool donghua. ― Anime industry insiders predict that Chinese animation will overtake Japan in the future, but does it have to be a competition? Let's take this opportunity to simply appreciate some cool donghua. These se...
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This Week in Anime - Breaking the Mold with Soaring Sky! Pretty Cure

Soaring Sky! Pretty Cure breaks the mold by officially introducing its first ever boy Precure in the franchise's 20-year history. How will it hold up against conventional wisdom that boys should stay away from "girly" things? ― The idea of having Magical Boys aboard the Magical Girl franchise has only ever been considered a running gag or joke in the series. But Soaring Sky! Pretty Cure breaks the m...
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This Week in Anime - The YAS-ification of Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan's Island

The recent Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan's Island film gave Mobile Suit Gundam animation director Yasuhiko "YAS" Yoshikazu the opportunity to redo an infamous chapter in the anime's history. How does the episode hold up with a modern coat of paint? ― The recent Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan's Island film gave Mobile Suit Gundam animation director Yasuhiko "YAS" Yoshikazu the opportunity to red...
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This Week in Anime - The Corp-orification of Kizuna Ai

Kizuna Ai broke ground for the VTuber space when she debuted in 2016, earning worldwide recognition. As the VTuber-sphere expanded beyond her, the idol's virtual footprint shrank. The Kizuna no Allele anime looks to bring her to the forefront of the conversation again, but its approval-by-committee approach runs antithesis to the freedom that VTubing can bring creators. ― Kizuna Ai broke ground for ...
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This Week in Anime - Oshi no Ko and the Idol Industry's Dirty Secret

The hit anime presents the audience with "Ai," a girl whose name means "love" but whose form of love is lying. The center of the series' mystery peels back the layers of an industry that seems sugary-sweet but spits girls out like chewed bubblegum. ― The hit anime presents the audience with "Ai," a girl whose name means "love" but whose form of love is lying. The center of the series' mystery peels ...
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This Week in Anime - What the Hell is Going on in Heavenly Delusion?

Production I.G's amazing adaptation has to fight an uphill battle for eyeballs thanks to Hulu's lackluster promotion. If you manage to find the series, prepare yourself for a ride unlike any other this season. ― Production I.G's amazing adaptation has to fight an uphill battle for eyeballs thanks to Hulu's lackluster promotion. If you manage to find the series, prepare yourself for a ride unlike any...
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This Week in Anime - The Best OPs and EDs This Season

Our columnists share their favorite new OPs and EDs this season, from Magical Destroyers to G-Witch season 2. Which themes tickled your fancy? ― Our columnists share their favorite new OPs and EDs this season, from Magical Destroyers to G-Witch season 2. Which themes tickled your fancy? Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News N...
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This Week in Anime - Has the Isekai Genre Given Up?

Nick and Steve wade through the latest season of isekai, reverse-isekai, and reverse-reverse-isekai and come to a startling revelation: we've truly reached the bottom of the barrel. ― Nick and Steve wade through the latest season of isekai, reverse-isekai, and reverse-reverse-isekai and come to a startling revelation: we've truly reached the bottom of the barrel. Disclaimer: The views and opinions e...
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This Week in Anime - Why You Should Watch the Kaguya-sama Movie

Steve and Chris tune in to The First Kiss That Never Ends and discuss the painfully relatable moments of teen love and the masks we all wear in our lives. ― Sure, maybe it's just a glorified mini-episode arc and not really a "film," but we'll take more Kaguya-sama however we can get it. Steve and Chris tune in to The First Kiss That Never Ends and discuss the painfully relatable moments of teen love...
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This Week in Anime - Gacha Money Now

Don't you hate it when your favorite mobile game goes kaput? Chris and Steve look at the current gacha game landscape, its questionable game mechanics, and the bitter feelings left in their wake. ― These movies are available to purchase on Blu-ray and are streaming on digital platforms, including Crunchyroll, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants ...
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This Week in Anime - Can Makoto Shinkai Only Make One Movie?

Director Makoto Shinkai reached worldwide recognition with his film your name., one of the biggest box office successes in Japan's history. With his new movie Suzume on the horizon, Nick and Nicky discuss the director's thematic fixations. ― Director Makoto Shinkai reached worldwide recognition with his film your name., one of the biggest box office successes in Japan's history. With his new movie S...
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This Week in Anime - How Inu-Oh Perfectly Captures Masaaki Yuasa's Work

Masaaki Yuasa's latest anime film is the beautiful culmination of his artistic career. Steve and Chris discuss the film's approach to art (and art criticism) and what it means to a transgressive creator. ― Masaaki Yuasa's latest (and possibly last) anime film is a culmination of his artistic career. Steve and Chris discuss the film's approach to art (and art criticism) and what it means to a transgr...
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This Week in Anime - Is There More to Onimai Than Fanservice?

Onimai might have had a controversial first episode, but it's a surprisingly sweet and nuanced story at heart. Steve and Chris give the series a second look. Onimai might have had a controversial first episode, but it's a surprisingly sweet and nuanced story at heart. Steve and Chris give the series a second look. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed...
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This Week in Anime - Which Recent Anime Announcements Are Most Hype-Worthy?

What's the most exciting new anime announcement? And what's the guarantee that your favorite series will get a good adaptation—or any adaptation at all? ― What's the most exciting new anime announcement? And what's the guarantee that your favorite series will get a good adaptation—or any adaptation at all? Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the v...
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This Week in Anime - Does Gen Urobuchi's Name Mean Anything Anymore?

Madoka Magica and Psycho-Pass creator Gen Urobuchi's name was synonymous with a certain quality of anime, bu fan expectations became diluted and his name is no longer synonymous with mature, pathos-driven, subversions. What happened? ― Once upon a time, Gen Urobuchi's name was synonymous with a certain quality of anime. He penned series like Madoka Magica and Psycho-Pass to great acclaim. In the fol...
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This Week in Anime - Hey, Yoko Taro, What's With All the Puppets?

Steve and Nicky take on the impossible task of trying to decipher what exactly is going on in the NieR creator's moon-sized head and his fascination with puppets. ― Steve and Nicky take on the impossible task of trying to decipher what exactly is going on in the NieR creator's moon-sized head and his fascination with puppets. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this c...
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This Week in Anime - And the Award for Best Anime Awards Goes To...

Beyond arguing about whether your fave made it in, what's the point of anime awards? Chris and Nicky discuss the pros of the various fan and industry awards ceremonies. ― Beyond arguing about whether your fave made it in, what's the point of anime awards? Chris and Nicky discuss the pros of the various fan and industry awards ceremonies. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participan...
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This Week in Anime - The Cutthroat World of Shonen Jump Manga

Steve and Nick try to parse what makes for a winning formula in the highly competitive manga magazine, if such a thing even exists. ― If you're an avid Shonen Jump reader, you've likely experienced the heartache of your favorite series getting tossed in the bin. Steve and Nick try to parse what makes for a winning formula in the highly competitive magazine, if such a thing even exists. These manga a...
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This Week in Anime - What is the Heart of Trigun Stampede?

This streamlined retelling of Yasuhiro Nightow's manga and the '98 anime series veers into uncharted territory. One thing remains the same though: Vash is the emotional core. ― This streamlined retelling of Yasuhiro Nightow's manga and the '98 anime series veers into uncharted territory. One thing remains the same though: Vash is the emotional core. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll and Netfli...
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This Week in Anime - Does Buddy Daddies Live Up To Its Zany Title?

More than just a SPY x FAMILY lookalike. Nicky and Steve break down the appeal of this anime about the challenges of parenting while being a mobster. ― More than just a Spy x Family lookalike. Nicky and Steve break down the appeal of this anime about the challenges of parenting while being a mobster. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the particip...
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This Week in Anime - Aggretsuko Goes Full Politics in Its Final Season

Aggretsuko has always been about the anxieties of our generation, but it's never articulated these frustrations as clearly as it does here. It's focused on Japan, but these issues and arguments hit home here in bootstraps-poisoned America too. ― Who thought a streaming series about a Sanrio mascot would use its last hurrah to stick it to Japan's aging political party? This series is streaming on Net...
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This Week in Anime - Does BOFURI Season 2 Keep Up the Charm?

The first season of BOFURI was an unexpected, charming surprise among VRMMORPG anime. Does the second season keep up the quality? ― The first season of BOFURI was an unexpected, charming surprise among VRMMORPG anime. Does the second season keep up the quality? This series is streaming on Crunchyroll Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views o...

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