Merry Christmas Message

Last year, I've posted a Naruto Christmas picture. This year, it's Lucky Star's turn to show this Christmas pic. All together now!

Merry Christmas to you all!

P.S: According to Wikipedia, Is it true that Lucky Star will air on TV 5?

Lucky Star © 2009 Kagami Yoshimizu and Kyoto Animation

Nodame Cantabile

Nodame Cantabile #01 Japanese manga cover

I've already finished my final college exams in this semester (whew!). By the way, what I'm currently reading since around three weeks ago is Nodame Cantabile. Nodame Cantabile is a manga created by Tomoko Ninomiya. It was first appeared in the magazine Kiss from 2001 and currently ongoing. The manga tells about two aspiring musicians who went both into same music university.

Shinichi Chiaki, born into a musical clan is a well-organized, popular and a top student at Momogaoka College Music. He learns how to play music using piano or violin and he can be a good cook too. He dreams is to go to Europe and be a conductor ever since he was young and met Sebastiano Viera in Europe. Unfortunately, Chiaki is stuck to Japan because of his childhood trauma. On the other hand, Megumi Noda or known as Nodame is the opposite of Chiaki. She is an eccentric and a-not-so-ordinary girl who is a slob, has a messy room, and disorganized. But Nodame is a pianist and rather play in ear (or in other words, she plays music based on what kind of music she hears or inventing her own composition depending on her mood.). She doesn't have a goal at first until she met Chiaki in the apartment. Later on, Nodame always follow Chiaki then claiming him as her husband.

It all started out when Chiaki is pressured to move to conducting class from his piano class thanks to his adviser especially the mean teacher who hit Chiaki whenever there's a mistake. Another problem is, he has a phobia on flying which he wouldn't be able to go to Europe. Until he met Nodame, the two both into piano class and starts their wacky relationship.

Anyone who appreciate classical music like Beethoven or Mozart could really have an advantage for liking this manga. If not, at least you'll later trying to like classical music by seeing Nodame's quirks to Chiaki and her few weird words she says like "Mukyaa!" or "Gyabooo!". And in reality, it's a heartwarming to see Chiaki and Nodame struggle hard to accomplish their own goal and later having a good relationship. Also, we have to mention other characters who some of them have a hilarious motivation or expression like the violinist, fellow student Ryutarou Mine, silent oboe-player Yasunori Kuroki and the infamous pervert-conductor Franz von Stressemann.

Anyway, the manga version has twenty three volumes and inside contains 136 chapters, plus two additional one-shot chapters featuring Nodame and Chiaki's childhood. The art style is clean but what is disappointing is that you can't imagine what can you hear music mentioned in the manga (unless if you actually listen to them by searching in Youtube or buy music CD's containing classical orchestras). The plot isn't complicated and actually pretty awesome. This is also a worth reading because there is also anime and live action version of it. The live action of Nodame Cantabile was featured in GMA 7 around almost half a year ago but they didn't finish it which is too sad for Filipino viewers who like to follow the next episodes. Animax Asia once aired the anime version but it's unknown when it will be air in local TV and what channel will be on air (on TV 5? GMA? C'mon it's a short episode!).

Overall, Nodame Cantabile is a great manga, anime and live-action. I like Nodame's humor especially when she tries to hang out with Chiaki like sneaking to his apartment. Plus, I also began to like classical music. It doesn't matter whether you're good at any musical instrument or not.The important thing is to listen what kind of music every character plays.

Oh yeah, I forgot. Merry Christmas to all!

Anak TV Seal Awards 2009

Here are the winners of the Anak TV Seal Awards 2009 held at the Soka Gakkai Auditorium in Quezon City:

Most Admired Male TV Personalities

Zaijan Jaranilla
Ryan Agoncillo
Gerald Anderson
Kim Atienza
Julius Babao

John Lloyd Cruz
Mike Enriquez
Ted Failon
Edu Manzano
Cesar Montano
Piolo Pascual
Vic Sotto
Gary Valenciano

Most Admired Female TV Personalities

Kris Aquino
Kim Chiu
Sharon Cuneta
Anne Curtis
Karen Davila
Sarah Geronimo
Toni Gonzaga
Angel Locsin
Maja Salvador
Korina Sanchez
Jessica Soho
Mel Tiangco
Vilma Santos

Most Well-Liked TV Programs

ABS-CBN 2
Kabuhayang Swak na Swak
Matanglawin
May Bukas Pa
Pilipinas, GKNB?
Rated K
Salamat Dok!
Sineskwela
Wonder Mom

STUDIO 23
Gourmet Everyday
Y Speak

GMA-7
Art Angel
Batang Bibbo
Happy Land
Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho
Kay Susan Tayo
Lovely Day
Wish Ko Lang

QTV 11
Ang Pinaka
Balitanghali
Day-Off
Kids on Q

NBN
Abante Pilipinas
Biz News
Code Red
Damayan
Equilibrium
Heart to Heart
Komentaryo
Money Matters
Negosyo, Atbp.
Neighbors
Oras ng Himala
Power To Unite
Republic Service
The Young Once

IBC
Asin at Ilaw
Buhay Pinoy
Gabay at Aksyon

NET 25
Convergence
Homepage
In Good Shape
I-News
Landmarks
Moments
Spoon
Tomorrow Today

UNTV
Bread n’ Butter
Doc on TV
Good Morning Kuya
Istorya
Kaagapay
Munting Pangarap
Serbisyo Publiko
Sports 37

source: Mukamo Philippines

Super Inggo at ang Super Tropa (2009)

After Tutubi Patrol then BIDA, there goes Super Inggo at ang Super Tropa (Super Inggo and the Super Troop) which it airs this 2009 in ABS-CBN. Apparently, this show is the first-animated series in ABS-CBN and at the same time the station developed it's animation studio called ABS-CBN Animation Department lead by the business unit Guia Jose. But is this show can be received well to the viewers?

Story:
Super Inggo at ang Super Tropa is loosely based on 2006's live-action series Super Inggo. I admit I never seen the live-action series because I had much time watching on GMA 7 or to school studies (but I'm not a Kapuso, neither a Kapamilya) but it doesn't matter anyway. The show features a young 10-year old boy named Budong (voiced and acted by Makisig Morales) who lives with his adopted mother named Pacita in a poor yet happy home. Budong dreams that he wanted to become a superhero, until he realize that he already has superpowers and becomes Super Inggo. As he grew up in the streets, he has also a best friend and sidekick named Jomar (voiced and acted by Jairus Aquino). Together, they run in adventures, meet other allies, discover evil plans from the Prince of Darkness and his company, and the truth about themselves. But would you believe that Super Inggo at ang Super Tropa adds new characters that isn't present in the live-action series?

Music:
Well, the show's music used it's opening theme from the live-action series itself which sung by Rocksteddy. But then again, it wasn't bad although I was thinking that the staff cheapened it's music for a bit.

Animation:
Animation in the Philippines rise in a smooth phase because of the improvement of computer technology and animation program tools. Many talented animators in the Philippines have worked in other countries and some of them are present for the collaborated project. Super Inggo at ang Super Tropa used 2D flash animation like what Studio 23's Barkada Trip did. Somehow, the animation style is based on the characters from the original series (in fact, the Super Inggo in the animated series made well-done from the live-action) plus the Pinoy anime-style. What's Pinoy anime? Pinoy anime is a term where the animation in the Philippines is mixed with Japanese animation techniques (e.g. puppy dog eyes and wacky expressions). Not only in the Philippines got that style but also in other countries like Korea, China and even United States in a similar way. The show made Pinoy elements friendly for young and adult viewers for enjoyment. And hey, there's even few cameo appearances from ABS-CBN like Angel Locsin, Vhong Navarro, Sam Milby, and even host in Matanglawin Kuya Kim as caricatures. Now how's that?

Overall:
Super Inggo at Ang Super Tropa will be one of the important contributions in Philippine animation. As of now, the staff and ABS-CBN are planning to air the series in two seasons and every season has 13-episodes each. If the show was well-received by many viewers there's a possibility will produce another few episodes.The animation is very fine and it's really good to watch for every Pinoy kids and kids-at-heart. You can watch Super Inggo at Ang Super Tropa every Sundays 10:30 A.M in ABS-CBN.

Tadhana (1970's)

Undercover history

Filipino cartoonist Nonoy Marcelo's Tadhana (Destiny) is possibly the first-ever full-length animated feature made in the Philippines. Based on a series of volumes on Philippine history officially written by Ferdinand Marcos (unofficially written by a whole team of historians), and produced by his eldest daughter, Imee, the film was broadcast on September 21, 1978--the sixth anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law. It was supposed to be replayed and even have a commercial theater release, but for reasons never made clear that broadcast was it; it was never seen again. Today, no known print or negative is left, only a video copy recorded off that broadcast by Mr. Teddy Co, who lent his copy to Mowelfund for their French-Filipino Animation Festival.

Some sixty artists worked for three months on the project--not many and not long compared to what goes into a standard Disney feature animation (hundreds of artists working for years), but almost unheard of in the Philippines, where animation is a cottage industry--literally a one-man, part-time job. The animation is crude, though compared to what's been done previously and even recently--Geirry Garrcia's Adarna comes to mind--the film stands up surprisingly well. Garrcia's film may have smoother motion (just barely) but Tadhana has a distinct, even unique, sensibility (Adarna's is of the simpering Disney kind).

Marcelo conceived of the film as a series of vignettes, often experimental, sometimes surreal. It has to be--a consistently realist style would have been too expensive. Marcelo turns this idiosyncrasy into an advantage: this is probably the funniest, least stuffy lesson on Philippine history ever given. When Magellan's galleons sail across the Pacific they sway right and left like fat-bellied matrons (to the tune of the Star Wars theme); when Lapu-Lapu lops off Magellan's head it drops to the sands and sings (in Yoyoy Villame's voice): "Mother, mother I am sick; call da doctor very quick." Marcelo's film is less an account of history than it is a gleefully, unashamedly jaundiced interpretation of it--sixty minutes of editorial cartoons, improvising brilliantly.

Imee insists that while it's not a literally faithful adaptation of her father's books, it's faithful to their themes. I've dipped into the books enough to remember that Marcos recognizes (or rather, his historians recognize) the centuries of repression inflicted by the Catholic Church and Spain. But if Tadhana takes its cue from the books in targeting church and state, its humor is uniquely Marcelo's. His near-Swiftian wit turns microcosmos into macrocosmos (as in his comic strip Ikabod, where a mouse and friends represent Philippine society), and compels him to bite the hand that feeds him (Marcos, as skewered in Ikabod, Tisoy, and others).

One highlight is the Blood Pact, traditionally depicted by Filipino artists as a solemn, historically momentous ment. In Tadhana the pact is signed during the opening cocktails of the Sandugo (One Blood) Art Exhibit; boiling blood is served as punch while a manananggal (a woman's severed upper half, flapping about on a pair of batwings) and a tikbalang (a half-man, half-horse--drawn, I think, by cartoonist Edd Aragon) get down to some funky disco music. Rajah Soliman, riding a water buffalo that roars like a Harley Davidson, crashes the party and demands to know why he wasn't invited; when he peers at the exhibited paintings--examples of Western abstract and postmodern art--his brain reels and undergoes a hallucinogenic head trip.

Probably the best part of the film--my favorite, anyway--is the relationship sketched between parish priest and native, animated to the tune of Freddie Aguilar's mournful Anak (Child). The choice is hilariously ironic; Aguilar sings of an ungrateful child and his sacrificing parents while onscreen it's the priest--the native child's spiritual and biological father--who is boorish, abusive, greedy, ungrateful. The child confronts his mother, a veiled babaylan (sorceress) and the priest's mistress; she has wept so much from grief that she has to wring her veil dry. Cut to a close-up of the child's face--now that of a young man--as tears stream down his own cheeks. Aguilar's melody wails on, but suddenly satire is transmuted into something potent and unsaid, something not so very different from genuine tragedy...

The final twenty minutes chronicles an epic war between native and conquistador, an overambitious, overextended sequence stuffed to brimming with all kinds of animation techniques, to the tune of Procol Harum's violent Conquistador. Panoramic drawings of native warriors and Spanish soldiers poised to attack; godlike overhead shots of armies surging like tides; images scratched into the film print itself, depicting elemental chaos...

Marcelo tempers his anti-Western stance with a remarkably clear-eyed view of the pre-Hispanic Filipino; he knows not all blame can be laid at the feet of foreign devils. The datu (chieftain) is an incoherent drunk who considers everything useless and shares his counsel with a jar of rice liquor; his manservant is a craven backbiter constantly aware of the fact that if the datu dies, he will be buried with him. Both are hardly the heroic warriors of Filipino history books; rather, they're the same funny characters that spill out the margins of Marcelo's newspaper strips: as flawed, vainglorious, deluded--as recognizably human, in short--as you or me.

As mentioned before, Tadhana was broadcast once, then apparently never shown again. Why? Did the Church, on seeing the anti-clerical bias, move to have all prints and video copies destroyed? Did Marcos, watching as the natives cried Makialam!" (roughly, "Join us!") against their oppressors, feel uncomfortable enough to want to suppress it? We may never know...

Another intriguing question: if the series had continued, how would Marcelo have handled recent history--particularly the Marcos years, up to his declaration of martial law? Would he have tried smuggling anti-Marcos criticism under the censors' noses, as in his later cartoons? Again we may never know, and perhaps Marcelo himself intended it that way, stopping far enough in the past while it's still safe.

Anyway--what we have, here and now, is a video copy of the remote past, brought to glorious, comic life by one of our greatest satirist. Is the film still relevant? More then ever, I think, what with parish priests still molesting parishioners, wealthy patriarchs still abusing laborers, and the all-mighty West still oppressing us all ("War on Terrorism" anyone?). The film ends with the glowing circular logo of Marcos' Bagong Lipunan (New Society)--symbol of Marcelo's patron without whom the film would never have been made, the same time it's a symbol of the twenty-year dictatorship he would end up fighting through his comics. The irony, I hope, isn't lost on us.


from: http://criticafterdark.blogspot.com/2009/08/nonoy-marcelo-for-national-artist.html

excerpt from: http://www.bigozine2.com/theshop/books/NVcritic.html

Two Reasons Why I'm Checking Out

Ever since we encounter few previous typhoons, I become busy in college work and almost have no time to do any blog posts here (in fact, I still never finish my Ranma 1/2 post). I apologize. But there are few things why I'm looking out these days:

1.) Combatron Lost Scans
That's right, one of the most popular Funny Komik's character Combatron returns thanks to this website at http://projectcombatron.blogspot.com/ . Whoever made that blog site must be really cool trying old fans and even new generations like me to remember Combatron. Right now, they're still trying to find and collect other missing issues. Not to worry, the staff posts comic scans weekly so you can still be updated.

2.) Super Inggo at ang Super Tropa
I've already seen the "Coming Soon" trailer of Super Inggo at ang Super Tropa. In fact the staff of this cartoon prepared many years for this exciting show. They might be air this month or December on weekday mornings. Check out more in http://superinggo-animation.blogspot.com/

I still finding fresh news about Philippine comics and animations while I keep busy with other personal things. :)

Typhoon Ondoy: A Dreadful, Stormy Weekend Experience

Sorry for delaying for not finishing my previous post everyone but I have to express something matter. Last Saturday, a typhoon Ondoy had just arrived in the Philippines with terrible non-stop rain fall and strong winds. Many people including me were stranded because of the flash flood came (I went to college in that day). I didn't expect that would be happen especially I forgot to bring cellphone and jacket in case it's raining. I'm not alone because I have also classmates who were stranded and then we stayed in the shopping mall in Cainta along with other people we don't know but have the same situation. We ate only bread with little water and waited for many hours to let rain stopped. I also experience homesickness and anxiety especially about my parents and my brothers, but I had no choice but to pray to God, wait for the rain and the news.

The next day, heavy traffic is a problem because flood is still heavy. We have no choice but to cross flood as soon as possible. Cainta is affected in flood but worse is in NCR especially Marikina. That city was close to river itself and many villages and subdivisions are really affected. I can't describe how Marikina was devastated with flood and mud. Thousands of houses there reached flood from first up to second floor, appliances and vehicles are washed with mud-water, and the worse part is many areas are almost impossible to cross. Even many people are trying to go on their homes to see their relatives and their things all right.

The next day, news already arrived and reported how much damage that typhoon Ondoy made. Also in the same day, I reached home in case the flood will increase it's level. My parents are very worried about my condition. In every news, seen a huge flood that swallowed many houses and streets especially near in rivers. Thousands of families - rich or poor lost their homes and hundreds of people killed because of the onslaught. At first, I can't believe that we expected that kind of typhoon. I heard the news that the Philippines expected a strongest typhoon again in the last four decades especially if you mention about "climate change". In the end, we realized it's a part of Mother Nature's doing. Many organizations and governments still helping people who are victims of the typhoon, while many residents cleaning and picking up things that can be use.

In this day, typhoon Ondoy left the Philippines and now moved up to Vietnam. In the meantime, we cannot celebrate ourselves because of the trauma and stress we experience. On the other hand, PAG-ASA announced that there's going to be a new typhoon that will hit in our country and still observing that whether it will hit again especially if it crosses to NCR. Be safe everyone and don't forget to pray to God.

Ranma 1/2

Ranma 1/2 Volume 1 © Viz Media

One of the most popular anime in the early 90's and it's still love by many fans. I mean to say it's Ranma 1/2. It was created by Rumiko Takahashi, who is also known for her InuYasha series and currently one of the richest mangaka in Japan . The manga was published in Shokagukan's Shonen Sunday from year 1987 to 1996 in 38 volumes (although in US published 36 volumes). According to Rumiko in an interview, she wanted to make a story that aimed for younger children but as a twist her creation was targeted by many teenage boys and girls.

The story revolves a teenage boy named Ranma Saotome who was trained martial arts since childhood under his father, Genma. Until one day (in early few chapters and episodes, that is), while in the middle of training Ranma and Genma fall into cursed springs in Jusenkyo which located in Qinghai, China. When splashed in cold water, Ranma turns into a girl while his father turns into a panda. The only way to reverse their form is to douse hot water on them, but unfortunately it lasts temporarily. Post soon.

Mojacko (Chu-Chu-Chu!)

The orange, fluffy alien was another popular anime character in the Philippines. Mojacko was manga back in 90's in Bokura magazine then followed as an anime in year 1995 to 1997. Created by Doraemon manga-ka Fujiko Fujio, Mojacko is an alien from planet Moja-Moja who along with his robot assistant Donmo went to planet Earth due to spaceship crash. The Japanese title is called Chu-Chu-Chu! and also based on it's opening song.

In early episodes,Mojacko met an elementary student named Sorao Amana and stayed to his place until their spaceship is fixed. The anime series was perhaps divided by two seasons with additional characters. In almost half of the season (that is from episode 1 to 30) Mojacko and his friends met Sorao's friend Miki who later involve the secret that there are aliens in earth and Wutan, Surao's enemy and a bully (I think Wutan is very similar to Takeshi/Damulag from Doraemon). They also met Mojacko's siblings who followed them in search of their brother. Mojari, is a pink alien ball with pigtails while Mojaro a small, green and youngest sibling who has an ability to manipulate supersonic waves when crying or being disturbed from his sleep. In another season, Momonja - a ninja-like alien ball follows them in order to get the "greatest treasure in the universe" and then later stays at Wutan's place. As a sci-fi genre, Mojacko and his friends travel different planets up to another universe for their adventures and excitement plus their friendship.

I'd say Mojacko was one of the high-rated anime series in the Philippines since it started aired locally around 1998 or 1999 every weekday afternoons. The show was featured in GMA commercial with Doraemon as anime-crossover lineup entitled "We Are Family". Mojacko merhandises were popular back then like plushies (as seen on this picture here). In Youtube, you can also see the opening song here in Japanese plus few old episodes dubbed in Tagalog. For now, Mojacko seems to be on the old cabinet in GMA ever since they wouldn't decided not to air it anymore until further notice.

Yawara! A Fashionable Judo Girl

Yawara! A Fashonable Judo Girl is Naoki Urasawa's first manga series back in 1986 to 1993 before other of his famous manga series in America like Monsters and 20th-Century Boys. It became a success franchise because Yawara! was somewhat related to real-life judo sports. Real life sports? Back in year 1992, which I tell you about the Barcelona Olympics where female players in judo are honored to participate in that flourish event. One of the female competitors of Japan, 16-year old Ryoko Tamura took the place being the world champion in Women's Judo. Since that time, Ryoko was given a nickname "Yawara-chan" to many people in Japan and still as popular as ever.

In the other hand, Yawara! was of course Naoki Urasawa's manga series which ran in 29 volumes in manga and 124-episodes (including special episodes) in anime version. Yawara! tells about a protagonist high-school girl named Yawara Inokuma who dreams to go with friends, shopping and getting her dream boyfriend. Unfortunately for her, she forced to train judo since childhood under her grandfather Jigorou Inokuma. Jigorou's dream was to make her granddaughter become a champion in Barcelona Olympics. Because of Yawara's less interest in judo, Jigorou found a perfect rival for her - a spoiled, rich lady named Sayaka Honami. When Yawara defeat Sayaka in few sweats, Sayaka decided to train judo so she could beat Yawara in a championship. Meanwhile, a sports reporter named Kosaku Matsuda found Yawara's talent in judo and convince her to be a champion.

It doesn't matter if you're not into judo but in fact there are heartwarming sensation coming through in many episodes - from comedy to romance. There are funny moments (especially when it comes to Jigorou's being over-protective to Yawara) that present. At first, we may think Jigorou is a pain a butt but no. We see him as a challenge for Yawara. His love in judo and food are always on his mind...of course his care of his granddaughter is the most. He always believe that Yawara will embrace her talent and will work hard for honor in Japan. At every end of episodes, who would love his appearances in countdown for Barcelona Olympics? Aside from Jigorou, we could see Sayaka Honami as another obstacle. Sayaka was defeated by Yawara eventhough she was trained for few weeks. In few episodes, we can tell that Sayaka's weakness for her, is an embarrassment for getting a false tooth. Later, she hired a handsome coach named Shinosuke Kazamatsuri. For Mr. Kazamatsuri, he uses his handsome looks to attract many girls around but when it comes to Yawara he skip his heart and turning to be his love interest. Sayaka already found Kazamatsuri's behavior to Yawara and decided to become rivals in love also. On the other hand, Kosaku is not only just interested in Yawara's dream, he also protects her even though he's a clumsy and goofy reporter. I can't tell much about spoilers...better watch what's next, thou.

The anime series was featured in 1989, which the same year Ranma 1/2 ran it's animated series. Not only it's anime version, Yawara! was also adapted into live-action as evidence in this Amazon.com.jp here. Both of the franchises also became a popular culture like, I said before Ryoko Tani as "Yawara-chan". With it's hip beat and lovely music, judo action, and a good premise Yawara is sure really enjoying to watch.

If you're in the Philippines, you can watch Yawara! on QTV channel 11 weekdays at 3:00 PM.

Up

I've seen the international trailer of Pixar's latest collaboration move, Up in TV5 earlier. It will soon appear in theaters. For more info about the movie visit the website at http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/up/

Update: Up will be feature in theaters in August 19.

Up © 2009 Disney/Pixar. Poster image from Google, Disney and Pixar

Anime and Cartoons on ABS-CBN

Check out the ABS-CBN's new cartoon and anime shows. Note: Their line-up schedules may change.

Anime

Ang Pangarap ni Cosette: Les Miserables / Les Miserables: Shojo Cosette

Blue Dragon

Naruto (season 4)
- rewind after season 3

Cartoon

Wolverine and the X-Men

Teenage Shows Before Adik Sa'Yo

Image borrowed form gmaseven.blogspot.com

I'm not sure if I'm mistaken that Adik Sa'Yo is a teenage show despite that the main characters are adults now. Okay, okay I admit I never focus on this show because it airs every weeknights on GMA as a part of Telebabad. It reminds me that Adik Sa'Yo can be somehow considered a teenage show because there is romance, conflicts and soulmates. Before that show, there are many shows for youth were aired in (mostly) in GMA or ABS-CBN and scheduled during afternoon of a certain day. For now, it seems that youth-oriented shows will still be recognized although not much as strong as before.

Anyway, here are some list of youth-oriented shows which aired in GMA and ABS-CBN start from 90's. Lists referenced from Wikipedia.

GMA Network

Growing Up (Produced by Viva Television, 1997-1998, re-aired 2000-2001)
- it was re-aired during the 50th anniversary of GMA.

T.G.I.S and T.G.I.F. (Produced by Viva Television, 1995-1999, re-aired 2000-2001)
- after the popularity of Grown Up, T.G.I.S (Thank God It's Saturday) might be considered as a spin-off. It was aired every Saturday afternoons. The show turned into T.G.I.F. because it moved to Fridays. T.G.I.S was re-aired on GMA as a part of 50th anniversary of GMA.

Campus Romance (1997-1999)

Click (2001-2005)
-replaced T.G.I.F.

Joyride (2004-2005)
- aired every weekday afternoons before Anime Swak Pack.

Love to Love (2002-2006)

Boys Next Door (2007-2008)

StarStruck (2003-2007, returns in 2009)
- sometime around this year, StarStruck will return this year for new 5th season.


ABS-CBN

Ang TV (1992-1996; reaired 2007)
- can be considered one of the most popular youth-oriented show during early 90's. The show made recognized some popular artists like Jolina Magdangal and Paolo Contis, and spawn their own movie sitcom. Ang TV 2 was aired around 2001 after the success of first season. Ang TV was also the inspiration for airing Goin' Bulilit.

Berks (2001-2004)

Tabing Ilog (1999-2003)

F.L.A.M.E.S. (early 90's?)
- it was based on a game and debut into a teenage show. It was aired in the afternoons.

Gimik (1996-1999)
- it made into a movie entitled Gimik: the Reunion. Not to be mistaken in G-mik which was another show aired in year 1999 to 2002.

K2BU (2002)
-probably one of the shows where Bea Alonzo started in showbiz career.

Buttercup (2003-2004)

Let's Go (2006-2007)

Gokada Go! (2007)
- sequel of Let's Go

Star Magic Presents series (2006-2008)

Astro Boy is Back!

Astroboy is one of the most recognized anime and manga characters in Japanese entertainment history. It was created by the "God of Manga and Anime" Ozamu Tezuka and the franchise will finally turn into 3D movie this year. Check out the image below.

Image from Imagi Animation Studios

According to Wikipedia, the 3D movie will be release in US in October this year. Not really sure when will come out in the Philippines, thou. If you aren't familiar with Astro Boy, he is a robot who was created by the head of Ministry of Science, who however became the villain Doctor Tenma in the image of his departed son, Tobio. When Doctor Tenma realize that he could not care Astro Boy because of inability to grow up and express emotions, he sold the robot. Few years later, Doctor Elephant is the one who took care Astro Boy and became his legal guardian. To his surprise, the doctor find out Astroboy can fight evil robots and save humanity with his cyber weapons.

Well, can't say much more about the series but Astro Boy successfully spawn (aside from many volumes of manga) three anime series - one in 1960's, 1980's and the latest 2003 series which commemorate Astro Boy's birthday in Japan in the same year. I'm glad when QTV 11 finally air Astro Boy 2003 series since last week and in addition, finally dubbed in English. It airs every weekday mornings but I forgot what time. I somehow curious about the English dub version of some anime shows air on local TV. It's been long years that I watch the show again and I know it was aired in ABS-CBN few years ago in Tagalog-dub.

Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya

Believe it or not, it finally happened! The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya officially air in the Philippines on TV 5 this week. Many teens especially the anime fans are waiting this moment just to see the show air locally. Starting this week, Haruhi and the rest of her SOS Brigade members let us watch them every 6:00 P.M. weekdays, replacing Code Geass R2.

Before Haruhu Suzumiya air on TV 5, it was known to be one of the most-popular anime shows since it released in 2006 because of it's unique storyline about a (weird) high school girl who believes in espers and extraterrestrial life. The show also popular because of their own official dancing song and video "Hare, Hare Yukai!". The song was performed from anime conventions up to prisoners in Cebu, Philippines.

I think TV 5 really give a chance to their viewers a request for airing this anime. I really agree to it's station despite they succesfully gain high ratings mostly from anime shows. What a good timing I mean! TV 5 originally intended to air Haruhi Suzumiya last year, and then last month but according to this anime blog here, the Filipino-dubbers of Haruhi Suzumiya work hard just progress the translating and dubbing the show. Currently, they finished 3 episodes but still we need to expect it might go back to episode one like what happened to Toradora! and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (another anime aired in TV 5).

I would like to say "Kudos to TV 5!" for granting many anime viewer's request for airing Haruhi Suzumiya! Catch Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya weeknights at 6:00 PM and Saturdays as replay at 1:00 PM on TV 5.

Watch Old Tagalog-Dubbed Anime

Cyborg Kuro-Chan Tagalog

Preview from Episode 1

Crayon Shin-Chan Episodes Titles

Magpapa-deliver Kami ng Pizza Pie

Manonood Kami ng Sine

Ang Hamster ni Boyet

Ang regalo Kay Ma'am Pilar sa Birthday Niya

you can watch out other Tagalog-dubbed Crayon Shin-Chan episodes and Sailormoon episodes on this Youtube user here.

Mojacko Episodes

Palos sa Mangkok Part 1

Palos sa Mangkok Part 2

Batong Cosmo Part 1

Batong Cosmo Part 2

Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs!

The third installment of Dreamwork's Ice Age series came out in theaters since last week. In Dawn of the Dinosaurs, our main characters journey to the new land where dinosaurs rule. Sid, Manny and Diego and the rest of their fellow pals are trying to discover their comfy life while in the middle of raging, huge dinosaurs. And what's this I heard, Scrat - the lovable saber-toothed squirrel met his female counterpart...and they both got a short film together!

Catch Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs in theaters now!

Flash Animation

Image from http://images.karlaredor.multiply.com/

Nowadays, computer has becoming one of the useful technology in human society and Internet has becoming popular. There are many stuff that were invented using computer like software and websites. Speaking of computer, I somehow dream of trying to make an animation using computer aside from drawing using Photoshop. You know what I mean? Yep, it's Flash animation. They are also called computer animation 'cause well it was created on the computer using animation software. They're also called digital animation but most of people commonly called those cartoons as Flash. As of now, there are many animation software that released and some of them are offered as downloads for free. If you're a programmer who knows alien, er, programming codes there are also too. But what's behind on those computer animation?

Like any animation techniques, flash animation is a new technique that will exchange to 2D traditional animation for less time and money. Their predecessor perhaps the 3D animation is another reason why they're invented. As time goes by, many computers are consumed by customers as a part of personal work or even business also the factor. Flash animation started on the websites for adding design effects for market and business websites. As improves, Flash became influenced with animation and can be watch in computers especially on television. Have you notice there are lot of western animation that are made using Flash. Some of the examples are Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, HiHi Puffy AmiYumi, The X's and a lot more. Flash animation is a pretty useful tool for animators who are using computers.

Not only from the West, some Asian countries like in the Philippines also made animation using Flash or digital. Examples of our Philippine animation like Urduja and Dayo can be evident why we got our animation in a digital way. Before they're appeared in cinemas, Filipinos hardly unable to make a long series of animation because of the budget and expenses of the materials (a.k.a money) which is one of the biggest factors why Philippines has a short decade start of the animation industry. I admit I've never seen animation series like Darna and Ang Panday which some people talking about in the local forums. Well, thanks to computer and Internet, Philippines have strive into animation. I know it's kinda weird but I understand why. With the use of Flash animation, many cartoons were created under that technique and more viewers are enjoyed watching them. It doesn't mean that traditional animation will be dying but still exist today. If you wanna be an computer animator, the first thing I know where to download was to purchase some animation software programs like Macromedia Flash. and Toon Boom. Still, if you want to download without cost there are many websites that offers free animation software but I advise to download programs that you know how to use them without haste.

Since were in digital age, we don't need a reason for not to create your own animation show and there are animation software available. All you need to do is to dream, think and create an animation that will be entertaining to everyone.

Some Eduactional Shows from The Philippines

Some random updates from our local TV's and it's about education.

Jollitown Returns for Season Two!


The friends from Jollitown are back for a brand new season. Jollibee and the rest of his friends are return to teach kids good values and education for young children. The second season of Jollitown are back since last month by popular demand. After a successful airing during the Jollibee's 30th anniversary, we'll expect a lot of fun, places and of course friends.

ETV Celebrates 15-th Anniversary!

Happy birthday, E-TV. For 15 years for serving children for teaching lessons through TV serve more. Actually, since this month E-TV celebrate a commemoration for staff behind E-TV including the composer of Sineskwela theme Ryan Cayabyab. You can check him out sometime in his appearance on Studio 23 every 7:30 AM for the anniversary message.

The Nutshack

I'm used to watch few episodes of cartoons which have physical and mature humor like The Simpsons and Family Guy, but what about this one? If you didn't know, The Nutshack is right in front of you. The show is much different because it contains some Filipino themes. Back in 2007, Monster MYX (aka MYX channel from United States) had decided to make an animated series made by Filipinos and made stories that has stuff influenced from their beloved country. Then at the same year, the pilot episode was sucessfully aired on MYX and for those people who wanted to see the show, in Youtube.

It's really amazing to see much of it's characters that are Filipino and of course life being from urban U.S. The show tells about two cousin teenagers who met in United States and share their similar wackiest scrapes in a city of San Francisco - the Tenderloin. Jack, a fat yet humble boy was raised in Manila, while Jack the tough punk raised in the streets in San Francisco. When the two cousins met together, they meet other characters and make craziest doings as the Nutshacks.

The flash animation of the Nutshack series really would feel a cool to watch especially when you hear the dubbings by Filipinos. One of the voice actors I recognized was Rex Navarette, who made the voice of Tito Dick ( Jack and Phil's cool uncle from San Francisco). I seen kuya Rex on his TV performances like MTV's Rex in the City and he's really a good comedian. The storyline seems to be fine but there are some themes that are purely mature. The most memorable storyline they got was the skit cameo appearance of some popular stars in the Philippines like Willie Revillame and Manny Pacquiao. The show also got box-sets of DVD's which are uncut and uncnesored in 2008 and featured in a ComicCon in US as promotion. But since the Nutshack was aired in United States, there is no chance for Filipinos to watch them locally even getting a MYX Philippines cable. I think it's because of MTRCB that some people talking about. Like any other shows in Adult Swim, Nutshack airs weekly at 10:00 PM and only adults can watch. If you're in the Philippines and want to watch the show like I did, there are few episodes (including "behind the scenes") were uploaded to Youtube. Just search the words "the nutshack" and you'll get them. Just make sure you're not below 16 to watch The Nutshack.

For more info, merchandises and updates visit The Nutshack's official website here.

Back to School!

Vacay's over and start of school again this year. It's sad to say that your happy moments while school is closed is not permanent. You'll never have to worry feeling blue 'cause when you're in school you'll gonna meet your old classmates, friends and teachers to knack funny conversations. Is your school materials and pack lunch ready? How are you feeling when you're back into school again...or even being a transfer student who's in new school? Do bullies changed their hearts after they realize they did something bad to you? How about your teachers? There are lot of questions I am suppose to ask and wait, this day is the start of school!

In the other side of the story, well sad to say I'm going to take a break on making entries in this blog and do the college work. Actually, I returned on a school for this year since two weeks ago and not this day. The good news is I'm going to return next few weeks after I finish the first exam. While this month, in it's remaining days I still keep up to watch few cartoons and make research about animation especially in the Philippines whenever I have time.

P.S: Don't forget to bring your own umbrella or raincoat cause June is the start of rainy season.

What is the First Philippine Animated Cartoon?

Read the bold sentence....


It is recalled that the first Filipino animation series shown on TV was Carlo J. Caparas’ "Ang Panday," for which Fernando Poe, Jr. was the model. The first telecast for "Ang Panday" was on RPN 9 on Nov. 21, 1986. Although it was a consistent toprater, "Ang Panday" lasted only for six months due to the high cost of producing an animated feature.

Coming on the heels of "Ang Panday" were "Darna" and then "Captain Barbell." The trilogy — which was a brainchild of world-class Filipino animator Gerry Garcia — was based on popular comics novels which later became movie hits; while multimedia journalist Fundador Soriano scripted it for TV. In 1997, "Ibong Adarna" was produced by FLT Films and Guiding Light Productions. The full–length animated movie was also the brainchild of Garcia, a l995 Star Awards winner for Best Visual Effects.

But the very first Pinoy animated cartoon was made in l953 when cartoonist Larry Alcala did a black–and–white exercise in movement on regular 8mm film of a girl jumping rope and a boy playing yoyo.


Source:
http://web.archive.org/web/20070714215821/http://www.mb.com.ph/issues/2006/08/31/ENTR2006083173087.html

Danaw nin Kaogmahan (2008)

We saw the heroic animated Urduja back in theaters last year, and here is another Philippine animation that promotes a historical culture....or perhaps I'm not the only one who seen that cartoon before. Danaw nin Kaogmahan or Lake Happiness in English tells of two lovers who seek love and cure to their sadness. Set in the ancient Ibalon, Shariya hopes to find a cure of her deep sadness by attempting to near the waters of mystical lake, and Olimnor must go on the quest by defeating the nemesis in order to win Shariya's love. In other words, the cartoon is based on a legendary folklore in Bicol province.

Danaw nin Kaogmahan was created in Bicol province rather in Manila back in 2008 then launched it's cartoon last May 9 in the same year. Sponsored by Animation Council of the Philippines Inc., Ateneo de Naga University and Avenue Square, and the City Government of Naga through the Naga City Investment Board (NCIB) Naga City made a chance to make a cartoon from their culture. The producer of the cartoon Maogmang Cartoons invested the mix of traditional and digital animation for the project. The producers are mostly students at the Ateneo de Naga University and a veteran animator director Raul Mimay participated. At the end, Danaw nin Kaogmahan was able to succeed showing to many viewers thanks to many supporters especially many students and teachers from Naga City. If you want to find out, someone in Youtube posted a trailer here for preview. Just like Tuldok Animation's Libingan, Danaw ni Kaogmahan is a short cartoon.

More related-articles and news at these sites:
- http://planet.naga.ph/2008/05/06/naga-animation-fest-reels-off-may-9/
- http://oragonrepublic.net/modules/xcgal/thumbnails.php?album=2
- http://nagaanim8.blogspot.com/

Image poster from http://nagaanim8.blogspot.com/2008/05/about-danaw-nin-kaogmahan.html

Midori no Makibao

Unlike cartoons we've seen on TV's, this anime show is quite unusual and attempted to show a sport that should never seen by children at early age - horse racing. An example of horse racing-theme anime was Midori no Makibao. The show is called Green Makibao, the Incredible Race Horse in English title. In the Philippines, the show is called Makibaoh with "h" as pronounce. It's manga version was created by Tsunomaru back in 1996 until 1997 in Shonen Jump magazine and made into anime by Studio Pierrot at the same year. Probably based on Tsunomaru's childhood or teenage experiences in the world of horse racing.

That doesn't mean that Makibao is a bad-influence like any anime shows (or manga) but instead it tells the tale of a young horse who dreams to become a champion. A young white horse named Makibao has an unusual appearance compare to young horses at his age - huge nostrils, big bucked teeth and the size of a large dog. I was thinking Makibao's stereotype was meant to be a joke but somehow to be cute. In early episodes, Makibao is the son of Midori who was one of the greatest race horses in Japan (Midori is a female horse, by the way). Because of his apperance, many other horses he met including his mother underestimated him but that doesn't stop him to be a champion. Makibao has an incredible skill and determination in order to payback his mother's debts and being a race horse champion. With every tests and hardships, Makibao must overcome his fears and challenges in order to pursue his dream.

Makes sense right? First of all, anime shows with horse racing like Midori no Makibao is not really intend for children to be amuse to that kind of sport much, but instead it shows of a character who was born ugly and overcome obstacles along the way. It was really meant to illustrate children about the characters of the show including the moral values about determination and hardwork. When I first saw this show, at first I really doubt I must watch the rest of the episodes because of the character' s appearances. Judging from the picture you see above, the human characters have sort of caricaturisation faces like small eyes, huge nose and thick lips because of the creator's own style. The only thing I really impress about the character design is the race horses in the show especially we really question if Makibao looks like a horse (or a donkey, or dog, or baby hippopotamus?). Another thing I notice was their physical gag which you can even tell what they're meant. An example of the show's physical gag is Makibao releases poo in every episode because of his reaction like crying or excitement. The animation is fine because it was created in mid-1990's and there are few of it's anime's cel animation pictures scattered around the 'net in the present. Too bad it's too late to buy because somebody bought those a time long ago. In this website here, tons of Makibao-related pictures including manga covers are available to see.

I really like their opening theme song here because it express about a certain main protagonist like Makibao never give up to his dream thanks to his dedication of his friends and family. I recently found out that the ending theme song called "Tottemo Umanami" was sung by MEN'S 5. At the end, Midori no Makibao is an enjoyable anime to watch especially to cheer up if you want to see Makibao. And hey, even Japanese people today know Makibao.

Articles About Philippine Animation

Nowadays, there are bunch of cartoons especially full-length appeared in the Philippines thanks to the modern medium used and attention to the audience. If you're interested to find out more about Philippine animation from humble beginnings to current development, there are lot of articles scattered around the 'net and I chose articles that are recommend to read. I still edit this entry if I find out others. Click the links and enjoy to read.

AN INTRODUCTION TO PINOY ANIMATION - Barbero style

A GLIMPSE ON PHILIPPINE ANIMATION INDUSTRY

BEGINNINGS OF PHILIPPINE ANIMATION

COMMON CONCERNS AND FINDINGS IN PHILIPPINE DIGITAL ANIMATION

FILIPINO ANIMATOR FIGHTS FOR HISTORY

THE PHILIPPINE ANIMATION INDUSTRY LANDSCAPE (Available in Google)

FROM COMICS TO CARTOONS TO ANIME

ANIMATED FILMS AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Chinese Animation

Screenshot from 1964 film of Havoc in Heaven

Aside having the most population in the world, China showed their artistic entertainment through animation. Few weeks ago, I've seen few cartoons which have Chinese languages and it's theme songs. I never thought those cartoons are anime but instead as Chinese animation. Like in United States and Japan, China soars high in animation industry.

We know exactly that they're made in China but also influenced in other Mandarin-spoken countries such as Taiwan and Hong Kong. Their history of their animation is close to history of Japanese animation (anime). Back in 20th century, China was influenced in cartoons from United States like Out of the Inkwell. Then, the famous Wan brothers innovate the idea by producing their own Chinese animations like Princess Iron Fan (1941) and Havoc in Heaven (1964) released in theaters which their themes about their culture and freedom of speech. Just like in animation terms like US cartoons and Japan's anime, Chinese animation is called Manhua Anime and still enjoyed today by many Chinese people.

Chinese animation especially their full-length films were exported to the other countries where they share their culture impact. Thanks to the technology, you can see a lot of cartoons made from China but only few have sub-titles. I recommend to watch Havoc in Heaven here for who want to find out more about classical Chinese animation. If you want some action, you can watch Fireball (a.k.a. the alternative "Journey to the West") here. I've also seen few Chinese animation on local TV which locally dubbed in Tagalog languages before like The Adventures of Bubble Carp (or "The Adventures of Little Carp" in Chinese translation) and The Wanderings in Sanmao.... lucky we, that is. Like any countries when it comes to animation, China is still active in creating art and stories through entertainment just to manage everyone to express their creativity. There's even an excerpt in this site here to tell about the China made a "Made in China" mark in animation.

References:
- http://www.muramasaindustries.com/punditry/animation/chineseanimation/chineseanimation.html
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_animation

Moomin

At first, I wonder myself why I hooked this series. Right, the show is called Moomin. I found out by reading the article about that show long before. The Moomin anime is the 1969 adaptation of Finnish comic strip and books with the same name created by Tove Jansson. It is also one of the anime series under World Masterpiece Theater.

Moomins are the family of trolls, who are white and furry and resembles as small hippopotamus. They're live in a magical place called Moomin Valley and they have a house called Moominhouse, where they spent their adventures together with their neighborhood friends. I have no any full ideas from it's original series but they also made into various merchandises like music CD's, mugs, stuff toys, an amusement park from Finland and even commemorative coin. They had also TV and theatrical adaptations like it's anime version. There are bunch of comic strip and illustrations of Moomin I found in the internet so click the link below (courtesy of Google):

Moomin

The 1969 anime series is available through Youtube though mostly they're in Japanese. The good thing about the show, aside from charming characters and stories is the opening theme song here. As I have read further about the show's article, fans were pleased and the staff decided to create another season of Moomin called New Moomin which was produced in 1972.
In the Philippines, Moomin still on air on channel 11 which air weekdays at 9:00 A.M.

Philippine Animation Magazine - From Anima Dreams Inc.

From Anima Dreams Inc. website:
http://www.animadreams-online.com/

AnimaDreams, Inc. believes in the creativity of the Filipino artists. The vision is for the Philippine animation industry to be recognized as content providers for local, Asia Pacific and European markets. The company seeks to use its resources to showcase locally produced animated original content to illustrate Philippine animation capability. It shall be a vehicle for opportunities to make public the quality of Philippine animators and demonstrate their full potential. It believes that to maintain and sustain the quality of Philippine animation, there should be a continuous supply of world class artists and animators.

The Philippine Animation Magazine produced and published by AnimaDreams is a pet project. This is a quarterly magazine with stories about Filipino animators, game developers and animation training. Every issue shall feature a local content or a local talent and an animation studio or an animation school. It will tackle both trends in the markets and events/happening in Asia and the world on animation. It will also talk about the latest technology. It will be an avenue for artists/animators to showcase their ideas, character designs and their thoughts on Philippine animation.

Its goal is to inspire, motivate and encourage local artists to create something of their own while showing the world the full potential of Filipino animators.

This Philippine Animation Magazine shall be an advertisement of Filipino creativity to be brought in Asia and in Europe.

We believe and would like to pursue a dream: to let it be known that Filipinos are capable of creating and developing animation content from script to screen.


Good news for everyone who wants to tackle more about Philippine animation. The Philippine Animation Magazine was launch last March 26 this year at Central Plaza Eastwood City (Whoa, almost two or three weeks passed I think.). The magazine features about Philippine animation as well as the staff behind the animation. It also features news and programs about the latest animation trends for everyone.

Check out the official website of Anima Dreams Inc. (the publisher who created the Philippine Animation Magazine) located at the top of this entry especially their magazine cover. According to their site, the magazine release four issues every year. The entries contain the first issue is available to check out for those who never went to the event last March 26th. I never grab a copy because I got final exams to loomed but that's another story. I even asked a question to their site where will buy next issues. Philippine Animation Magazine surely spread the information to many Filipino people as well as from other countries.

Wonder Pets

Before I get through this entry, I would like to apologize for being absent for previous few weeks because I'm finishing my final exam in college I studied. Our final exam seemed to be hard but oh well, starting next week I'm going to take a break from school studies for a while.

I couldn't help watching this show from Nick Jr. Wonder Pets is another television show which premiered in 2006 in Nickelodeon cable network then premiered last year on TV5 in the Philippines. The show features three (cute) pets from a small elementary school who saves different animals every episode. Linny the Guinea Pig, the leader of Wonder Pets and she's also the most intelligent of the group, Tuck the Turtle, a sweet male turtle fellow and also emphatetic of the group (he loves to put their saved animals for company), and Ming-Ming the Duckling who is overconfident and she speaks stutterly.

The animation Wonder Pets used "photo-puppetry" which contained photographed animals and manipulate them to be animated. Scenes also show drawn objects which the program may be considered having mixed media format. The best of that show aside from being educational, is their musical and orchestral theme. Dialogues and storylines are actually followed with mix of musical. It is goes something like this:

-Children says goodbye to Linny, Tuck and Ming-Ming before they go home
- Then a tin can telephone ring and the pets answer it.
-The three heroes dress their capes and hats to be Wonder Pets then they assemble their vehicle called "Flyboat".
- Usually there is an obstacle where Wonder Pets need to solve before they leave the school.
-They rush of to school while they sing then goes to a place where they will rescue an animal.
-At that location, the Wonder Pets tried few attempts on how to rescue until they remembered the solution like they did before leaving school.
-When an animal is saved, a relative (usually a parent) pops up somewhere to thank Wonder Pets for rescuing his/her baby.
-As a reward, the Wonder Pets celebrate by eating celery sticks (sometimes adds it with flavor). In some episodes, the Wonder Pets are rewarded from the animals they met.
- They returned to the school. The Flyboat disassembled itself while the Wonder Pets returned to their cages. Then, before an episode ends, Linny takes a bite of celery and winks in front of the camera.

What I like the show are their songs especially when TV5 decided to dub it into Tagalog. It is very somewhat similar for singing opening theme songs from Bananas and Pajamas or Batibot. Here are the catchy lyrics from Tagalog-dubbed Wonder Pets:

Si Linny, Tuck, at si Ming Ming
Ang Wonder Pets tutulong sa inyo
Anong kailangan? Magtulungan!
Anong kailangan? MAGTULUNGAN!

Wonder Pets, Wonder Pets
Ngayon ay masaya
Hindi malalaki at hindi malalakas
Pero pag nagtulungan lahat nalulutas
GO WONDER PETS! Yehey!

Catch Wonder Pets on TV5 Mondays to Wednesdays every early mornings.

Tweenage Dora the Explorer (aka Dora the Streetwalker)

The original Dora

She speaks both Spanish and English, has a best friend monkey, a bag and a map on her side and also loves adventures. Yup, she's Dora from Dora the Explorer one of the current Nick Jr.'s show. But what if the creators of the show and Nickelodeon decided to make Dora as a teenager? We bet we're gonna be surprised if we found out the image you see below:

Dora in her tweenage makeover

If you have a Nickelodeon network on your cables or free-TV's out there and watched many episodes of Dora the Explorer, you'll get mixed reactions about that picture. According to the Wikipedia article about the show especially to the article from Google here, Mattel and Nickelodeon announced that Dora will have a tweenage makeover and also attends middle school. The new look will reveal sometime around fall this year but the image (like you see above) revealed to the public last March 16th. After revealing the image, many parents made mixed complaints about the plans that both Mattel and Nickelodeon made but soothes down for a moment. The reason why Dora turned into grown-up because Dora suppose to be a "role model" for young girls not being a "fashionista". The issue is still misunderstood by complaining parents and they demanded as a request that Dora should be the same 6-year-old girl like on TV.

It is unknown whether tweenage Dora will be appear in a TV sequel after Dora the Explorer (not the spin-off like Go! Diego! Go! which featured her cousin Diego). In the meantime, merchandises will sell first but unknown it will be ever reach in the Philippines. To me, the new look of Dora seems not a bad idea because of her Latina look but I prefer she should wear pants and T-shirt for more adventurous look. Honestly, aside from T-shirts and pants I would rather feel discourage to Nickelodeon who pushes some of their popular cartoon characters beyond far for just of their business - not the viewer's demand. We don't have to worry because tweenage Dora is still Dora we knew before who teach bilingual languages, encounter many friends and gets many adventures. I'm not sure what Boots looks like when he grows-up too *shrugs*.

Matanglawin TV Series

It was Sunday morning while I took a break from reviewing for upcoming exam, I changed the channel on our TV and later seen a show that looks interesting. Matanglawin the show's title aired every Sunday mornings at 11:00 on ABS-CBN. The show hosted by the trivia king of Umagang Kay Ganda Kim Atienza and features about the facts about nature, traveling and their mysteries in the Philippines at the same time. As the title suggest, Kuya Kim's take on the vantage point of a Philippine eagle (Mapanuri, Mapagmatyag, Mapangahas) and he also faces breathtaking challenges such as entering deep caves or climbing mountain rocks.

I'm not much a Kapamilya fan but I really interested that show because it's really educational for everyone even for children. The stunts of every challenges Kuya Kim take doesn't have any stuntmen and instead personally done by himself. Besides, ABS-CBN did fit the schedule for airing Matanglawin as every viewer's routine. Matanglawin is a recommended show for everyone especially who wants to relax in Sundays. One Youtube user uploaded the opening billboard of Matanglawin here.

Don't forget to check out their official website in Multiply here. Also, check them out in ABS-CBN's official website here.

Gokusen 3 Soon Air This Month

GMA Network's title card of Gokusen season 1 and 2.

Kozueko Morimoto's Gokusen made finally into live-action series since 2002. Gokusen tells about Kumiko Yamaguchi (nicknamed "Yakumi"), the granddaughter of a Yakuza boss and teacher of all-boys private high school. At first, Yakumi's students are mischievous but thanks to Yakumi's hard-work in academics and life lessons they both hang-up together when it comes to solving school and life problems.

A much awaited new season of Gokusen will finally air again on GMA this month. The season 3 of Gokusen which originally aired last year on Japan is finally picked up by GMA and decided to air it soon. A teaser commercial of Gokusen 3 was shown from GMA last March 1, 2009. According to the teaser, the new season will air on March 23rd this year and we in the Philippines is the first country will watch that show. Let's hope GMA Network never bails this plan for airing the show.

Oh wait, this is not actually the first time I post about J-Dorama or teen program.

Handheld Games, Anyone?

Handheld games that I bought in stores or downloaded over few years. For Game Boy Advanced and DS only.














More coming soon....