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A regular discussion of recent anime headlines from a Canadian perspective.
Hosted by Mike Nicolas.

Anime Roundtable Blog
"The Official Podcast of Anime North" iTunes Newsfeed
Anime Roundtable #50    (May 24, 2008)
Mike and James apologize and look back on the headache that was the Saturday night (early Sunday) taping of the historic episode 50 at Anime North. Despite all of the off topic talk (which was edited out and will be made available on a later date), we did manage to talk for a very long time about the Jojo's controversy. Then our annual visit from Norm as he chimes in on the controversy and how the convention had gone to that point. Then Mike and James apologize again. Sho Ga Nai (It canŐt be helped)
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Neil Sinclair, Adam Grant, with appearance by Norm McEvoy (1:00:23)

MP3 Version 33.5MB
iPod Version 28.2MB
 

Anime Roundtable #49    (May 23, 2008)
In our first episode this year from Anime North, we once again come back to Makoto Shinkai. Then talk about the themes in the Animania documentary taped at AN in 2006. Finally three bullets, Japanese takes on manga with heart, Takeshi Murakami's 15 million dollar sale, and Jojo's tension with Islam. And at the end of it all, we say goodbye to Angela who will be heading for Japan to teach english beginning in August.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan, Mohamed Sharmarke (1:05:35)

MP3 Version 36.9MB
iPod Version 30.7MB
 

Anime Roundtable #48    (May 7, 2008)
In our first episode in more than a month, and the final one before Anime North, we talk about the licenses that happened around another convention, and the questions that have arisen from them. Then our attention turns to Japan. First what they feel are the best anime features of all time, and then bad behavior in Akihabara. And we do it with two Austins. Trust me, when you hear them, you'll know they're related.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Enrico Bianco, Matt Austin. (1:05:45)

MP3 Version 36.5MB
iPod Version 32.7MB
Links of Interest
Pictures of the Limited Edition Lucky Star t-shirts (you know you want to see this)
Increased patrols in Akihabara
Asuka Sawamoto's arrest in Akihabara

Promo
Anime Genesis

Anime Roundtable #47    (April 3, 2008)
The regular season finale. First some thoughts on reading manga in digital forms. Then after seeing IGN's elaborate April Fools joke, we talk about a few good ones. Then a listener e-mail prompts a discussion on the merits of North American cartoons over the last 20 years. In an extended bullets segment, we talk about Joe Hisashi, X Japan, Gonzo and open pricing, the used book market in Japan, and a kicker you'd have to hear to believe. Note: And once again, we tried to video tape the show, and technical difficulties prevented it from be available again. Thank god again too, we said waaaay too much during the breaks. Someone up there must like me.
Mike Nicolas, Adam Grant, Mohamed Sharmarke, Geoff Greig. (1:06)

MP3 Version 36.0MB
iPod Version 31.6MB
Links of Interest
DS Vision: A DS flash card with the Nintendo Seal of Approval (Japanese site)
IGN's April Fools Joke along with a behind the scenes video
IGN's interview with the director for their April Fools joke
Rainfall Films (IGN's accomplice)
Bookoff: Japanese used bookstore chain (English Website)
An article on the kicker in the bullets segment
Yawara on Animeigo site along with pre order form

Promo
Dave and Joel's Fast Karate for the Gentleman

Anime Roundtable #46    (March 27, 2008)
This week, we begin with some thoughts from a fan translator and James' attempt to see Kite Liberator on the big screen. Then we talk at length about Crunchyroll. Anime Boston's registration issues, more Someday's Dreamers anime, and the first Geneon rescue are loaded and shot in the bullets segment. And finally, Mike responds to being called out on the blog... then Adam finishes the job. Note: We mentioned that we were video taping the episode but due to technical difficulties, we don't have it available. We apologize... although I am glad, otherwise you would have caught me singing an Easter Carol.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Adam Grant, Enrico Bianco. (1:05:55)

MP3 Version 36.6MB
iPod Version 31.6MB
 

Anime Roundtable #45    (March 20, 2008)
This week, some thoughts on St. Patrick's Day and Easter, the fallout from a quick and painful Artist Alley registration, Tekkon Kinkreet as a 'bookend' to the Japanese anime industry (and goes somewhere else), and a lash out on life sized anime dolls.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, Angela Jordan, Dean Colak. (1:06:20)

MP3 Version 37.4MB
iPod Version 32.8MB
Links of Interest
Anime Academy Blog on Anime Drinking Buddies
One Pound Gospel Live Action on Drama Wiki
Anime Boston Website
Haruhi on Paper Moon Doll Company page

Promo
Up A Paddle

Anime Roundtable #44a    (March 13, 2008)
The second All Girls/White Day episode. Presented in two parts.
In part one, Clarissa returns from her year in Japan and starts to recount some of her favourite moments from her year there, from travelling Japan and other parts of Asia, to food, and to life as a university student at Meiji U in Tokyo.
Angela Jordan, Clarissa Jewel, Carol Saad. (53:00)

MP3 Version 30.7MB
iPod Version 27.5MB
Links of Interest
Meiji University Website in English
Himeji Castle Official Website in English
Tokyo Big Sight Official Website in English
Comic Market Official Website in English
Kit Kat Official Japanese Website
The <3 Yen Blog on Strange Japanese Food (Clarissa's culinary experiences have nothing on this)

Promos
Anime Pacific
Anime World Order

Anime Roundtable #44b    (March 13, 2008)
The second All Girls/White Day episode. Presented in two parts.
In part two, Clarissa's memories of Japan continue with some of her anime adventures, from clubs to the biggest adventure of them all...Comiket. And yes, Genshiken isn't that far fetched. Also some thoughts on Japanese Kit Kat and Crunchyroll.
Angela Jordan, Clarissa Jewel, Carol Saad. (24:24)

MP3 Version 14.1MB
iPod Version 13.0MB
Links of Interest
Meiji University Website in English
Himeji Castle Official Website in English
Tokyo Big Sight Official Website in English
Comic Market Official Website in English
Kit Kat Official Japanese Website
The <3 Yen Blog on Strange Japanese Food (Clarissa's culinary experiences have nothing on this)

Promos
Anime Pacific
Anime World Order

Anime Roundtable #43    (March 6, 2008)
With Neil and Adam again at the same time, you can only do so much, just ask the idle talk. But somewhere in the mess we talk about the mix between Death Note, Naruto, Bully, and school violence (and a tasty mix at that), ADV deciding to finally blame downloads, Disney teaming up with Japan, Right Stuf's first acquisition of 2008, and a successful busty defense (one Adam would certainly use). Plus perhaps the most memorable moment yet in the show's history. See if you can pick all of that out, maybe there will be a prize... maybe.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin, Adam Grant. (1:05:10)

MP3 Version 36.0MB
iPod Version 30.8MB
A Special Treat
Video of the podcast #43 recording session 209.9MB

Links of Interest
AC3 Website
CTV on Bully video game controversy
CTV on Disney in Japan
Serena Kozakura story w/video

Promo
Eeeper's Choice

Anime Roundtable #42    (February 28, 2008)
We start off with Apple and Oscar talk, then come back to Canada Border Services' increasing library of banned material (of course hentai anime and manga stuff). In short the return of some recent classics, the return of ADV, and Butler Cafes looking to hire (Adam and James may have a chance).
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan, Adam Grant (1:06:30)

MP3 Version 36.9MB
iPod Version 32.4MB
A Special Treat
Video of the podcast #42 recording session 208.3MB

Links of Interest
'Once' Official US Website
Canada Border Services Agency list of prohibited materials in PDF
Icarus Blog on both Canada Border Services and Butler Cafes
Theage.com article on Butler Cafes
AFP article on Butler Cafe with foreign servers
Employment application for Butler Cafe (in English, looking for foreign help)
Right Stuf's updated ADV release list

Promo
R5 Central

Anime Roundtable #41    (February 21, 2008)
This week, we start with Dean's thoughts on the TV season thus far in Japan. Then we offer a our thoughts on the end of the Blu-ray, HD-DVD war. In the second half we read a somewhat interesting e-mail and respond in kind, then we express our shock and awe over the latest live action adaptation announcement.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Adam Grant, Dean Colak, with cameo by Neil Sinclair. (1:06:10)

MP3 Version 36.9MB
iPod Version 32.3MB
Links of Interest
Anime Academy Blog
CityNews coverage of the Queen St. fire
Suspect Video website
Interview with owner of Suspect Video

Anime Roundtable #40    (February 14, 2008)
This week, after the Gospel according to Neil and Adam, and Mike's chocolate odyssey, some thoughts on Funimation and Geneon, the closing of the Sakura Wars cafe, some EVA hot coffee, and the latest attempt at lonely otaku money in Akihabara. Then the obligatory Valentines and anime talk. With your predictable spins. Lordy, lordy, look who's forty... and this episode is likely to leave more than a few grey hairs.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin, Adam Grant. (1:06:35)

MP3 Version 36.9MB
iPod Version 31.8MB
Links of Interest
Info on the Girls Bedroom service in Akihabara
The Sakura Wars Romando Cafe
Techinsight Japan on the EVA Coffee cans
The Podcast of a friend that Neil referred to in the episode
Please accept these chocolates as an apology for being late this week

Anime Roundtable #39    (February 7, 2008)
We start with Mike helping Adam and Angela complete their Geneon libraries, and look back on Angela's art exhibit at York University. Then in earnest we wonder about Tekkon Kinkreet's Oscar worthiness. In the bullets, our first news from Anime North, throwing away Japanese porn being illegal, the "House Where Totoro Lives" being saved, and Tommy Lee Jones in Akihabara. Somewhere in all of this is Adam's most outrageous comment said (yet). A prize for the first person who can find it.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan, Adam Grant. (1:06:22)

MP3 Version 36.7MB
iPod Version 32.4MB
Links of Interest
Angela Jordan's Website on devianART
iPod Enhanced/AAC version of episode #16 (Angela's trip to Japan with slide show in file) on Comic Den's archive
Anime North Website
Man arrested for dumping porn collection
"House where Totoro Lives" being preserved
Tommy Lee Jones commercial in Akihabara

Promo
Ninja Consultant

Anime Roundtable #38    (January 31, 2008)
We start this week by welcoming Neil back and talking about political discourse in cartoons over the last 30 years. Then a trip to the political and legal pages concerning the death of a 10 year old in Indonesia (with a politician linking Naruto to it), and the latest in the Odex saga in Singapore. And finally the obligatory ADV talk. That's assuming you can get past the fact that both Neil and Adam are around the table unleashed... you've been warned.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, Adam Grant, James Austin. (1:03:30)

MP3 Version 35.3MB
iPod Version 30.2MB
Links of Interest
An Ethereal Shard Blog on the Indonesian story
The Straits Times on the Odex case

Promos
Dave and Joel's Fast Karate for the Gentleman
Up a Paddle

Anime Roundtable #37    (January 24, 2008)
This week, more on dead and burried anime ventures, and grave digging. First thoughts on Geneon's library, then the end of Hirameki, Viz and single discs on some titles, and ADV's latest moves (Newtype USA, Anime Channel linear, UK operations).
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Adam Grant, Mohamed Sharmarke (1:05:55)

MP3 Version 36.8MB
iPod Version 32.6MB
Promo
Anime Genesis

Anime Roundtable #36    (January 17, 2008)
We start off the New Year by talking about the Genshiken creator's impressions of fandom today. Then some words about the changes at Seven Seas and art exhibitions, with a plug for an exhibit by one of our own... assuming you can get through the first 20 minutes of holiday talk. Remind me to keep the idle chat short next week.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan, Adam Grant. (1:06:20)

MP3 Version 37.1MB
iPod Version 32.6MB
Links of Interest
Kio Shimoku interview in Publishers Weekly
Angela Jordan's are exhibit, "Seeking Dialogue" on Facebook (requires Facebook membership)

Anime Roundtable #35    (December 20, 2007)
We'll warm up with manga talk about Kodocha, Genshiken and Translucent, and anime talk concerning the Haruhi Dub. Then we'll talk about Arthur Smith's response to the open letter to the industry. In the bullets, Marvel manga, Gundam Bars, Busou Renkin on DVD, Futari Ecchi's limited manga release, and the voluntary pull on My Santa (which really should be permanent). The real last episode of 2007.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Terry Visser, Anthony Visser (1:06:05)

MP3 Version 36.4MB
iPod Version 32.9MB
Links of Interest
Arthur Smith's Open Letter
Azumi Movie Trailer on Apple Website
Prelim images from X-Men and Wolverine manga on The Publisher's Weekly Beat Blog
Pictures of Gundam theme Bar on Akibablog

Promo
Anime World Order

Anime Roundtable #34    (November 29, 2007)
Our view of Justin Sevakis' open letter to the anime industry. In the bullets, the closing of the Toronto maid cafe, celebrity divorces, CSI DeathNote, and an American adaptation of Train Man to come. And finally Adam requests a guest spot on the Happy House of Hentai. Tell me what doesn't belong?
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Adam Grant. (1:05:33)

MP3 Version 36.6MB
iPod Version 31.2MB
Links of Interest
Justin Sevakis' Letter on ANN
Blog entry on iMaid Cafe closing
Tokyo Anime Center
Danny Choo blog on Japanese men prefering 2D girls over 3

Promo
Anime Round Table and Review
Eeeper's Choice

Anime Roundtable #33    (November 22, 2007)
The reputation of foreigners in Japan, ADV's latest moves online, the latest in anime merchandising, and Death Note trully coming to North America.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Adam Grant, Angela Jordan (1:06:10)

MP3 Version 36.2MB
iPod Version 31.2MB
Links of Interest
@Wiki blog on Halloween subway incident
Best Haruhi Tissue Box Joke (better than what Adam and Mike said)

Promo
Ninja Consultant

Anime Roundtable #32    (November 15, 2007)
This week, School Days and its prospects in North America. We'll also remember Steve Pearl and a bygone era in North American fandom. Don't worry, most of this is still not as serious as it sounds.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Adam Grant, Mohamed Sharmarke (1:06:20)

MP3 Version 36.1MB
iPod Version 31.2MB
Links of Interest
The School Days question on Anime Nation's Ask John
Gothamist Blog on the NY Subway Couple
Justin Sevakis tribute to Steve Pearle on ANN
Waterloo Festival for Animated Cinema
Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival

Promo
Dave and Joel's Fast Karate for the Gentleman

Anime Roundtable #31    (November 8, 2007)
The Baskin Robins episode. In it we'll have a serious discussion about anime's depiction of war on the eve of Remeberance Day in Canada. On the lighter side we'll talk about Halko Momoi, One Pound Gospel, cultural figures in Japan, and the Perry Bible Fellowship. mmmmm... ice cream...
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan, Adam Grant (1:06:24)

MP3 Version 36.3MB
iPod Version 31.6MB
Links of Interest
Perry Bible Fellowship Comics
Halko Momoi's Official Site
Macross F Preview Video

Anime Roundtable Digest #6    (November 8, 2007)
Dean's return episode where he gives his thoughts on recent anime news, and then his impressions of the current fall season... about a quarter of a way through.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Adam Grant, Dean Colak (39:40)

MP3 Version 22.3MB
iPod Version 19.0MB
Links of Interest
Random Curiosity Anime Blog
Anime Nano Blog Directory
Waterloo Festival for Animated Cinema

Anime Roundtable #30    (November 1, 2007)
Talk about the Japanese Government survey on regulating "Harmful Material", and a brief conversation on "Realizing Gundam". Sprinkled with how Mike screwed up giving away candy during Halloween, and the ups and downs of Canadian Dollar parity (especially when Canada Customs gets involved) at the beginning; and an interesting request by Adam at the very end... one that will not surprise you one bit.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Adam Grant (1:06:18)

MP3 Version 34.1MB
iPod Version 32.1MB
Links of Interest
iMaid Cafe new website
Icarus Publishing Blog (Read October 17 Entry)

Promo
Up A Paddle

Anime Roundtable #29    (October 25, 2007)
First we start talking about anime titles with multiple series and seasons and why they're animated in the first place. Second, more on Canadian TV. Then getting more serious, animators and cosplayers forming associations for improved conditions. Finally in the bullets, the Japanese government asking their American counterparts for help in the downloading issue, soldiers who are anime fans, and reactions to more live action announcements. First foursome in almost a month. And Adam couldn't be happier.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan, Adam Grant (1:06:30)

MP3 Version 34.2MB
iPod Version 31.9MB
Promo
Anime Pacific

Anime Roundtable #28    (October 18, 2007)
After a week off, a follow up on downloading and opinions on the iPod.... oh and in anime stuff, more on pre-emptings on Japanese TV, and what's coming on Canadian TV. Also a conversation on the "big volume more pages" trend in manga. If I use the word "omnibus" I may get hurt. And finally, to fulfill our official obligation, some Anime North news... not necessarily in that order.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Adam Grant (1:06:00)

MP3 Version 33.7MB
iPod Version 31.5MB
Links of interest
Anime North Website
Omni TV Ontario (the station showing the Nana Live Actions)
Mike's Original Column on ANN on J-Dramas on Canadian TV

Anime Roundtable #27    (October 4, 2007)
This week, our prospects for the Manganovel download service. Then bullets talking about the Negima Live action, CBC and Spirited Away, Mokona Apapa's (CLAMP) Kimono book, and the Romeo x Juliet C&D.
And since we forgot to say it on the show, Happy Canadian Thanksgiving!!!
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan (1:05:40)

MP3 Version 34.0MB
iPod Version 32.0MB
Links of interest
Manganovel Website

Promo
Anime and Television in Toronto

Anime Roundtable #26    (September 27, 2007)
The other thing taped this week. A defence of Kodomo no Jikan and then some brief talk about the change in the Japanese government and it's relationship to anime and manga. And somehow we managed to get through this episode without talking about School Days...
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, Adam Grant, Courteney St. John (1:02:38)

MP3 Version 32.0MB
iPod Version 30.0MB
Promo
Ninja Consultant
Eeeper's Choice

Anime Roundtable Digest #5    (September 27, 2007)
The big talk of the week is of course Geneon's pull out of DVD sales in North America. We'll give our thoughts on it, and naturally don't think of this as definitive, or even needed. But it was worth talking about.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Adam Grant. (52:21)

MP3 Version 26.8MB
iPod Version 24.9MB
 

Anime Roundtable #25    (September 20, 2007)
After a one week hiatus, we welcome a newcomer and get a legal opinion on fansubs in Canada and around the world. And then we briefly talk about broadcast preempting in Japan. Peppered with pr0n talk... check that... burried by...
Most outrageous episode yet. You've been warned.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin, Adam Grant. (1:06:25)

MP3 Version 33.6MB
iPod Version 31.8MB
Links of Interest
Details of Kyoto Prefecture Murder

Promo
Dave and Joel's Fast Karate For the Gentleman
Anime World Order

Anime Roundtable #24a    (September 6, 2007)
Part one of the season premier. We'll start off with what's been on the crew's watching and reading lists and then reminisce about the recent FanExpo Canada (aka CNAnime). But before all that, Mike let's off a little steam with a first insult... don't expect this too often.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan (1:06:05)

MP3 Version 34.9MB
iPod Version 32.8MB
Links of Interest
Hobbystar Marketing (Host of CNAnime/FanExpo Canada)

Promo
Anime and Television in Toronto

Anime Roundtable #24b    (September 6, 2007)
The season premier continues with talk about the Wall Street Journal editorial critical of the Japanese government's use of anime and manga in their self promotion. And then in the bullets we'll talk about New Generation's latest moves, and how the anime industry in Japan does versus the Love Hotel industry. We know who won, but we'll talk about it anyway.
Our longest and most shocking episode yet.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan (48:20)

MP3 Version 25.2MB
iPod Version 23.4MB
Links of Interest
Wall Street Journal Editorial by Bianca Bosker
New Generation Press Release
Pictures from Negima Live Action presentation

Promo
Anime Round Table and Review
Up a Paddle Podcast

Anime Roundtable Digest #4    (August 31, 2007)
One final digest to end off the summer. In this one, we talk at length about the ADV/Geneon deal announced earlier this week. We give our own speculations on the deal, as well as give a brief history of Geneon/Pioneer distribution, and distribution in Canada.
We call it a digest, but... it's still almost an hour long. Yeah, I guess we can't shut up.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Terry Visser, Anthony Visser. (57:35)

MP3 Version 29.6MB
iPod Version 27.5MB
 

Anime Roundtable #23a    (June 11, 2007)
Part one of our special episode with the owners of The Comic Den Mississauga. First up we'll reminisce over the last 28 years in business. Then we'll talk about the Nymphet controversy... you expect us not to talk about it?
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Terry Visser, Anthony Visser. (0:57:25)

MP3 Version 29.9MB
iPod Version 29.3MB
Links of interest
Translation Blog Entry by the Nymphet creator Kaworu Watashiya on the North American Cancellation
Blog Entry by Seven Seas President Jason DeAngelis on the Nymphet cancellation

Promo
Fast Karate For the Gentleman

Anime Roundtable #23b    (June 11, 2007)
Our special with the owners of The Comic Den Mississauga continues. We'll start with giving some respect for Seven Seas over the Nymphet controversy, and some memories of Canada Customs. Then, a bullets segment where we talk about Death Note in China, and crime in Akihabara. Also, more phone calls and knocks at the door. And ramune now joins the ranks of pop rocks and rock candy as stuff that make themselves heard on the mics.
This topping off the longest episode yet. And it was as good as it was long.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Terry Visser, Anthony Visser. (0:41:25)

MP3 Version 21.5MB
iPod Version 21.8MB
Links of Interest
Article on banning of Death Note in China, and the student backlash
Second article on banning of Death Note in China, and the student backlash
Details on Daily Yomiuri report on increasing crime in Akihabara
Charcot Marie Tooth Association. Information on the disorder that Terry Visser has

Promo
Anime Pacific

Anime Roundtable #22    (May 26, 2007)
The rebound episode. More on live actions in relation to Viz, Maison Ikkoku, and Negima. Then Dean fires off a sniper shot of a bullet. Our second and final night from Anime North.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin, Dean Colak. (1:04:45)

MP3 Version 33.4MB
iPod Version 31.0MB
 

Anime Roundtable #21    (May 25, 2007)
21 is Anime Roundtable's 13 or 4. So here's what we decided to put up from the ill fated episode. First, a brief re-hash of our conversation on the controversy surrounding manga cafes and rental shops in Asia and North America. Then we will have a word from Anime North as one of the organizers come on the show. Also we will talk about what happened to ep. 21, version 1. Hopefully putting the ghosts of 21 finally to rest.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Mohamed Sharmarke, Angela Jordan.
With Special Guest Norm McEvoy. (0:38:14)

MP3 Version 19.9MB
iPod Version 18.5MB
 

Anime Roundtable #20    (May 10, 2007)
Finally our 20th episode!! This time, we'll talk about legal downloads, Mothers and anime, and more Anime North talk (yeah we're still kissing up). The last episode before the big convention.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Mohamed Sharmarke. (1:06:20)

MP3 Version 34.5MB
iPod Version 34.3MB
Links of Interest
Anime and Television in Toronto Podcast
Mike's Original Column on Mother's Day on ANN
Anime World Order Podcast
ZZ's MySpace Page

Anime Roundtable Digest #3    (April 24, 2007)
The vacation is over. This time around we'll talk about developments and licenses coming from Anime Boston, then we'll try to predict the future in terms of licenses for the rest of the summer. All this in a big bite size of a digest.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Dean Colak. (0:59:30)

MP3 Version 31.0MB
iPod Version 28.3MB
 

Anime Roundtable Digest #2    (April 3, 2007)
A preview of the Spring/Summer '07 anime season in Japan. All in under 30 minutes.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Dean Colak. (0:28:45)

MP3 Version 15.1MB
iPod Version 14.6MB
Links of Interest
Dean's Spring/Summer anime preview
Random Curiosity Anime Blog

Anime Roundtable #19    (March 29, 2007)
The regular season finale. Listen to Mike get his ass kicked talking about simultaneous releases, manga edit back-pedalling, lessons on Otakuology, and Pokemon. Then listen to him return the favour talking about Anime North, with an important announcement in tow, one that you will see coming right down Dixon Rd.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, Courteney St. John, Angela Jordan. (1:03:40)

MP3 Version 33.3MB
iPod Version 31.1MB
Links of Interest
Akiko Wada and Shoko Nakagawa in Private Lesson: Otakuology - Part 1
Akiko Wada and Shoko Nakagawa in Private Lesson: Otakuology - Part 2
Akiko Wada and Shoko Nakagawa in Private Lesson: Otakuology - Part 3
Interview with Rika Matsumoto on Pokemon Anime Tenth Anniversary

Promo
Anime North Website

Anime Roundtable #18    (March 22, 2007)
Libre publishing in Japan issues a C&D, Bandai Visual announces simultaneous anime DVD release, and the declining Japanese Market. As the guys - and last names - return.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Dean Colak, Clarissa Jewell. (1:05:50)

MP3 Version 34.7MB
iPod Version 31.5MB
Links of Interest
Libre statement on CPM on their website
Bandai Visual Press Release on Freedom
Icv2 on the declining Japanese market for anime and manga

Anime Roundtable #17    (March 15, 2007)
The first Girls Only/White Day episode. Tonight we'll talk about allure of Boys Love, food in anime, revisit Superflat, and mention our favourite shoujo titles.
Courteney, Clarissa, Angela, Mel, and Carol... we're not putting in our last names. (1:01:10)

MP3 Version 31.7MB
iPod Version 33.0MB
Links of Interest
Optional reading on Yaoi
Optional reading on Yaoi
Cooking Cute, a website on Bento
Cooking Cute blog
An overlook on Superflat on Wikipedia
Takashi Murakami's (Superflat Pioneer) Little Boy as mentioned on Yale Press
Essay on Superflat by Julie Rauer
Essay on Superflat by Hiroki Azuma

Anime Roundtable #16    (March 8, 2007)
Angela's week in Japan and some bullets (a fancy way to say headlines in brief), in the episode we were supposed to do last week if we weren't snowed in. Note: If you're using an iPod, iTunes, Quicktime, or a player compatible with Apple version MP4 (.m4a), the Enhanced version will have plenty of pictures.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, Angela Jordan, Clairissa Jewell. (1:03:32)

MP3 Version 33.4MB
iPod Version 64.2MB
Links of Interest
Angela Jordan's Website on deviantART
Evangelion Stamps as mentioned on Japan Post Homepage

Anime Roundtable Digest #1    (March 8, 2007)
A summery of licenses from the New York City Comic Con and a look back at the American Anime Awards. A new feature on the Roundtable, a short form episode... if you want to call 35 minutes short.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Dean Colak. (0:35:25)

MP3 Version 18.6MB
iPod Version 16.9MB
 

Anime Roundtable #15    (February 22, 2007)
This week, anime and manga will see an increased profile in Japanese government cultural exchange, and more on the new EVA movies. Plus some public denials.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, Courteney St. John, James Austin. (1:06:25)

MP3 Version 35.1MB
iPod Version 31.7MB
Links of Interest
ANN article on changes in Japanese cultural promotion towards anime and manga
CNN article on Japan using manga as propaganda
Picture of Gaza girl holding picture of Haruhi Suzumiya during a protest. Sign reads, "Stop killing the children"
Hideki Anno statement on the new Evangelion movies
Coverage of the Anime Tour for the Cure convention controversy as told by theOtaku.com

Anime Roundtable #14    (February 8, 2007)
Tonight we'll talk about the pickup of Tekkon Kinkreet and the possible implications it may have(nothing bad actually), and then talk about anime pinup girls and guys over the decades. Gotta do something for Valentines Day.
Mike Nicolas, Courteney St. John, James Austin, Angela Jordan. (1:04:58)

MP3 Version 34.1MB
iPod Version 33.4MB
Links of Interest
LA Times Article on the pick up of Tekkon Kinkreet
Anime World Order Podcast

Sample of animated sequences done by Studio 4C
Lebron James "Chamber of Fear Commercial"
Utada Hikaru Music Video "Passion" (Opening theme to Kingdom Hearts II)
Glay Music Video "Survival"
Noiseman Sound Insect (short film with Spanish Subs)
Sweat Punch 3: Comedy (short film with English Subs)

Anime Roundtable #13    (February 1, 2007)
The Anime Channel coming soon to Canada. And the need for anime clubs in the future. With the ultimate question, is any of this worth it? A Murphy's Law episode where if anything can go wrong...
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Clarissa Jewell, Angela Jordan. (0:58:16)

MP3 Version 30.4MB
iPod Version 28.0MB
Links of Interest
CRTC documents on approval of Anime Channel
Press Release concerning Geneon titles on G4TechTV Canada
Roundtable Podcast thread on Anime North Forums

Anime Roundtable #12    (January 25, 2007)
This week, the Japanese National Police Agency on children in adult manga, and nominations for both the Oscar and American Anime Awards.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin, Clarissa Jewell. (1:06:03)

MP3 Version 34.2MB
iPod Version 31.5MB
Links of interest
Translation of Daily Yomiuri article on Japanese National Police Agency survey on Adult Manga
American Anime Awards
Roundtable Podcast thread on Anime North Forums

Anime Roundtable #11    (January 18, 2007)
The first episode of 2007. Aside from some mature talk, we'll talk about the holiday licenses and the early convention announcements. Also we'll make a pitch to one of the conventions.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan, Dean Colak. (1:05:00)

MP3 Version 34.2MB
iPod Version 31.0MB
Links of interest
Bandai's The Meloncholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
Anime North Website
Animazement Website

Anime Roundtable #10    (November 30, 2006)
In our final episode of 2006, we'll look back on it, and look forward to 2007. Also we'll talk about Christmas themed episodes and airing on late night Japanese TV. Table for five sir?
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan, Courtney St. John, Neil Sinclair. (1:03:53)

MP3 Version 33.2MB
iPod Version 30.8MB
Links of interest
Suzuka Manga on Del Rey Website

Anime Roundtable #9    (November 23, 2006)
After assessing PS3, Wii, and EVA bodycounts, we'll talk about Makoto Shinkai and his current place in the anime scene, as a trailer for his latest work comes online. And then a discussion on the concept of the "alternate universe" in anime and manga. Second last show of 2006.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin, Dean Colak. (1:04:01)

MP3 Version 33.3MB
iPod Version 30.5MB
Links of interest
Byousoko 5cm Official Website (Japanese)

Anime Roundtable #8    (November 16, 2006)
Tonight we'll wonder if CMX is still feeling the past concerning Tenjho Tenge and then talk about our favourite obscure manga out there. This on the eve of the latest salvo in the video game wars, and the return of a roundtable regular... honest.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin, Angela Jordan. (1:05:17)

MP3 Version 33.8MB
iPod Version 31.4MB
Links of interest
Story about the the dark side of lining up for a PS3 in Japan
Coverage of CMX's panel at the 2006 San Deigo Comic Con
and statements in relation to Tenjho Tenge
Coverage of CMX's panel at the 2005 San Deigo Comic Con

Anime Roundtable #7    (November 9, 2006)
Revisiting the "manga" question, G4's demise (or restructuring) in the US and the overall affect on anime on North American TV, and Rumiko Takahashi's legacy as the Ranma manga ends its North American run. Highlighted by a long awaited return to the table this week...not Neil's though.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Angela Jordan, Courtney St. John. (58:22)

MP3 Version 30.3MB
iPod Version 27.9MB
Links of interest
G4s demise as mentioned on Gamespot
G4s Official Statement on the Changes
The Rise and Fall of AZN, the Asian-American channel

Anime Roundtable #6    (November 2, 2006)
Fine Arts and it's relationship with Anime and Manga, the Artist Alley experience, Gedo Senki's delayed release in North America, and the bigger picture in comparing the sales of the Naruto and Bleach mangas. First four person table of the season.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Dean Colak, Angela Jordan. (1:02:10)

MP3 Version 32.7MB
iPod Version 29.6MB
Links of interest
Angela Jordan's Website on deviantART
TV Asahi's Official Maison Ikkoku Drama Page
Josh's Anime Sheet Music Collection

Anime Roundtable #5    (October 12, 2006)
This time around, YTV's license to start The Anime Channel in Canada, Funimation and the C&D letters, and our thoughts on the new fall shows in Japan.
Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Dean Colak. (1:05:02)

MP3 Version 34.2MB
iPod Version 30.8MB
 

Anime Roundtable #4    (September 28, 2006)
In our first episode in six months, we talk about our summers anime wise, the relationship between publishers and the doujin scene in Japan, and Del Rey and their new mature line. Going three around the table to settle back in. Season Premier. Now available in both audio and Apple iPod enhanced versions.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin. (54:37)

MP3 Version 28.9MB
iPod Version 25.9MB
 

Anime Roundtable #3    (March 30, 2006)
On this episode, Horn and Koike, and the increasing misdefining of the word "Manga". Something to listen to while multitasking.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin, Courtney St. John. (44:18)

MP3 Version 10.8MB
 

Anime Roundtable #2    (March 9, 2006)
Discussion on the comments made by Al Khan, Howl's Moving Castle at the Oscars, CLAMP to visit North America in July, our favourite anime and manga couples. Download and listen to it as you go to sleep...
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin, Courtney St. John. (52:12)

MP3 Version 12.7MB
 

Anime Roundtable #1    (March 2, 2006)
We'll talk about the Canadian National Police Services' website definition of Anime and Hentai, recent anime and manga licenses, and live action works based on anime and manga on the debut episode.
Mike Nicolas, Neil Sinclair, James Austin. (51:27)

MP3 Version 12.4MB
 

For comments or feedback on any of the Anime Roundtable podcasts email roundtable@thecomicden.com
Disclaimer: The comments and opinions expressed in these podcasts are of the participants only and not of the Comic Den itself.
Okinablue Production. Copyright 2008 -- Last updated June 15, 2008