Viz Announces It's First Blu-Ray Release - DEATH NOTE COLLECTION

Source: MediaLab

VIZ Pictures will debut the Blu-ray Death Note Collection on August 24th, 2010. The 3-disc set includes 2 feature films – Death Note and Death Note II: the Last name – as well as a bonus disc containing more than two hours of all new behind-the-scenes footage. Both films feature Japanese audio with English subtitles as well as an English dubbed dialogue track. MSRP for the Death Note Collection is $39.98 U.S. / $57.99 CAN.

To celebrate the new release, VIZ Pictures will hold a special screening of both films at VIZ Cinema, located inside NEW PEOPLE in San Francisco’s Japantown (1746 Post St., San Francisco, CA 94115) on Saturday, September 4th. Death Note plays at 12:00 noon and Death Note II screens at 2:30pm. Special combo tickets are available for $35.00 and include passes for the screenings, the Blu-ray release and a poster. Regular combo tickets are $15.00 for tickets for both shows (no Blu-ray or poster), while general admission for one screening is $10.00. Tickets and information are available at http://www.vizcinema.com/.

As a special offer to U.S. and Canadian Death Note fans, VIZ Pictures will award three lucky winners posters for Death Note and Death Note II along with an autograph from one of the three lead actors – Tatsuya Fujiwara (who played Light), Erika Toda (Misa) and actor Kenichi Matusyama (L/Ryuzaki), one of the most promising actors in Japan, who can also be seen in films such as NANA (2006), Linda Linda Linda (2005) and Detroit Metal City (2008). The campaign runs until September 24th. For more details about the campaign, visit http://www.viz-pictures.com/.



“Death Note is an intense psychological crime thriller and we’re very proud to debut both films in a special new collection on Blu-ray,” says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “Death Note established a new benchmark for Japanese anime, manga, and film and we invite domestic fans to savor all the tension and imaginative supernatural drama of this exciting new release from VIZ Pictures!”

Death Note is a battle of wits based on the acclaimed manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata (published in North America by VIZ Media, rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens). Law student Light is upset with the justice system and when he finds the Death Note dropped by a Shinigami death god, he vows to rid the world of evil. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies. As criminals all over the world begin to perish mysteriously, a world-renowned detective known only as ‘L’ is put on the case to stop this serial killer that the public calls ‘Kira.” The battle between Light and L continues in Death Note II: the Last name as Light joins the investigation team. L suspects Light of being Kira while Light attempts to learn L’s real name. Time becomes even more crucial with the appearance of a second Kira. Whose name will be the last written in the Death Note?

For more information on Death Note or other VIZ Pictures titles, please visit http://www.viz-pictures.com/.

See Also: Viz Brings Death Note L Change The World To US Theaters / Viz Brings Death Note II The Last Name To DVD In The US / Viz And NCM Fathon Bring Death Note 2 To Theaters In The US This October / The Surprise Hit Detroit Metal City May Be Heading To The US / Viz And NCM Fathom Partner To Bring Death Note 2 The Last Name To US Theaters / Viz To Screen Death Note In Canadian Theaters Eh / Viz To Release New Death Note, Bleach, And Naruto DVDs This Fall / Viz Showcases New Anime At The Licensing International Expo / Viz Pictures Brings Death Note To US Theaters For A Special Two Night Event / Viz Brings Manga To Australia And New Zealand /

Viz Brings Death Note L Change The World To US Theaters

Source: MediaLab

Riveting Unwritten Chapter Of Edgy DEATH NOTE Psychological Crime Drama on the Big Screen on April 29th and 30th in More Than 400 Theatres Nationwide

VIZ Pictures has announced that it will team with NCM FATHOM to present DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd, a live-action two-night, multi-city event on April 29th and 30th at 7:30 pm local time. By popular demand, a subtitled version will be presented on April 29th and an English-dubbed version on April 30th with L’s voice played by Alessandro Juliani from the anime series.

Tickets for this special event are available at presenting theatre box offices and online. For a complete list of theatre locations and prices, please visit www.FathomEvents.com (theatres are subject to change). Advance tickets will be available to SHONEN JUMP e-subscribers beginning March 20 (sign-up is available at www.shonenjump.com) and tickets to the general public go on sale on March 23.

DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd is inspired by the immensely popular DEATH NOTE features, which are based on the best-selling supernatural action manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata, but this spin-off follows a new original storyline. DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd was directed by Hideo Nakata, who also directed the U.S. #1 hit horror movie The Ring 2, which was remade from his own smash hit Japanese horror trilogy, Ringu.

DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd introduces the unwritten chapter of DEATH NOTE and reveals how the legendary detective “L” (Kenichi Matsuyama) spends the final 23 days of his life. The story begins as L takes on the “Kira” case, in which countless criminals are dying under mysterious circumstances. L successfully solves the case and stops Kira, but only after sacrificing his life, leaving himself with only 23 days left to live. For his final case L faces down a bio-terrorist group trying to wipe out humanity with a deadly virus ten times more potent than Ebola. As L tries to formulate an antidote with a scientist, he must also save the lives of two children who have no one else to turn to. DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd features what happened before and after the two earlier DEATH NOTE events and shows DEATH NOTE fans the more human side of L that could not be seen previously.

“Fathom’s ongoing relationship with VIZ Pictures has brought the best in live-action manga events to Fathom-networked theatres and will bring the anxiously awaited third event in the Death Note series to select theatres in April,” said Dan Diamond, vice president of Fathom.

“DEATH NOTE: L, change the WorLd stars Kenichi Matsuyama, an up-and-coming Japanese actor who has also appeared in acclaimed films such as DEATH NOTE, LINDA LINDA LINDA, NANA and DETROIT METAL CITY,” says Seiji Horibuchi, president and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “He reprises his role as the ace detective L and audiences will be riveted to their seats as his character once again works to save society from a monstrous new threat.”

The DEATH NOTE manga and animated series have become extremely popular domestically. The 37-episode animated series is seen by millions each week on cable broadcast and the series is also distributed on DVD by VIZ Media (rated T+ for Older Teens). On the print side, DEATH NOTE 13: HOW TO READ, a companion volume to the successful manga series, is also published domestically by VIZ Media and was ranked in USA Today's Top 150 list of America's best-selling books.

For more information on the DEATH NOTE live action events and other VIZ Pictures films please visit www.viz-pictures.com or www.deathnotefilms.com. For more information on the DEATH NOTE manga and animation, please visit deathnote.viz.com.

See Also: Viz Brings Death Note II The Last Name To DVD In The US / Viz And NCM Fathon Bring Death Note 2 To Theaters In The US This October / The Surprise Hit Detroit Metal City May Be Heading To The US / Viz And NCM Fathom Partner To Bring Death Note 2 The Last Name To US Theaters / Viz To Screen Death Note In Canadian Theaters Eh / Viz To Release New Death Note, Bleach, And Naruto DVDs This Fall / Viz Showcases New Anime At The Licensing International Expo / Viz Pictures Brings Death Note To US Theaters For A Special Two Night Event / Viz Brings Manga To Australia And New Zealand /

Viz Dominates Top Graphic Novels Of 2008 List

Source: MediaLab

VIZ Media, has announced that hit manga (graphic novel) properties including NARUTO, DEATH NOTE, BLEACH and VAMPIRE KNIGHT dominated 15 of the Top 20 spots on the recently released list of Top 20 Graphic Novels for 2008. Nielsen BookScan, one of the publishing industry’s leading sales indicators, publishes the list annually.

NARUTO was the top VIZ Media manga title on the list, placing highest at Number 2 overall with nine volumes of the internationally popular series placing in the Top 20 at #’s 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 15, 16 and 18. This is the first time so many volumes of a single series have dominated this particular list. Three other VIZ Media manga titles made the top 20 as well: DEATH NOTE (with three spots at #9, 12 and 19), BLEACH (at #17), and the gothic melodrama VAMPIRE KNIGHT (securing two spots at #14 and 20) joined NARUTO in the Top 20.

“It’s very gratifying to see such continued strong sales of these top titles throughout 2008,” says Gonzalo Ferreyra, Vice President Sales & Product Marketing, VIZ Media. “Six of the Top 10 graphic novels featured on the 2007 list were also NARUTO volumes, and with the launch of the new NARUTO SHIPPUDEN story arc last year we’re very pleased to see the series continuing to dominate the list. Likewise, we are also very excited to see other unique manga titles like DEATH NOTE, BLEACH and VAMPIRE KNIGHT featured among the Top 20. Each of these series is critically acclaimed and holds a wide appeal that transcends multiple reader demographics. As we begin 2009, we look forward to a variety of VIZ Media manga continuing to find such a loyal and sizable domestic audience.”

Please visit http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/14161.html for the full list of Top 20 BookScan Graphic Novels.

Viz Brings Death Note II The Last Name To DVD In The US

Source: MediaLab

VIZ Pictures, an affiliate of VIZ Media, LLC that focuses on Japanese live-action film distribution, has announced the highly anticipated DVD release of DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME, based on the hit supernatural action mystery manga (graphic novel) and animated series. The DVD will feature both the original Japanese dialogue with English subtitles and the English dubbed version by the outstanding voice cast of the animated series. The Red Hot Chili Peppers again contribute the theme song. Bonus features include a special segment, “Making of DEATH NOTE II” and the original Japanese theatrical trailer. The DVD will carry a suggested retail price of $24.92 and will be distributed in North America by VIZ Media. The estimated street date for DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME is February 10, 2009.



DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME is the sequel to the phenomenal hit live-action movie DEATH NOTE, based on the hit manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. The DEATH NOTE live-action DVD, released in September 2008, was ranked as #1 in Japanese Films in North America and #34 in the Live-Action category. As the sequel of DEATH NOTE and once again directed by the renowned monster filmmaker Shusuke Kaneko, DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME concludes the titanic battle between the two geniuses Light and L.

The story picks up with Light Yagami (Tatsuya Fujiwara) joining the investigation team in pursuit of the serial killer known as ‘Kira’. While L (Kenichi Matsuyama) still strongly suspects that Light is ‘Kira’, Light continues to seek out the real name of L so that he can kill him with his Death Note. Making things even more unpredictable is the 'Eyes of Death' that the second Kira possesses, enabling the owner to know the true identity and lifespan of any person. Light Yagami soon learns the identity of the other Kira and wants to join forces to get rid of L. Will L be able to catch "Kira" before he gets killed? Who will be the last name written in the Death Note?

“We’re very excited to announce the highly anticipated DVD release of DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME,” says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “Is Light Yagami a crazed serial killer or merely society’s self-appointed solution to crime? DEATH NOTE is the latest manga and anime series to gain widespread international popularity, and the success of the first live-action film has primed audiences for this edgy sequel. As interest in DEATH NOTE continues to grow, we invite fans to delve into the psychological drama of this newest release from VIZ Pictures.”

VIZ Pictures has also announced 2 special giveaway promotions to coincide with the DVD release. Fans are encouraged to go to http://www.viz-pictures.com/ and answer the quick survey before February 28. 10 random winners will be selected to receive a special DEATH NOTE II poster.

Readers of SHONEN JUMP magazine are encouraged to enter the exclusive DEATH NOTE II contest where 10 lucky fans will each win a copy of the DEATH NOTE II DVD, and 3 very lucky fans will each win a copy of the DVD and an autograph from one of the lead actors (Kenichi Matsuyama, Tatsuya Fujiwara and Erika Toda). Contest details will be in the March 2009 issue of Shonen Jump magazine, which will hit newsstands on February 3.

The DEATH NOTE manga and animated series have become extremely popular domestically. The 37-episode animated series is seen by millions each week on cable broadcast and the series is also distributed on DVD by VIZ Media (rated T+ for Older Teens). On the print side, DEATH NOTE 13: HOW TO READ, a companion volume to the successful manga series, also published domestically by VIZ Media, was recently ranked in USA Today's Top 150 list of America's best-selling books.

For more information on the DEATH NOTE live action films and other VIZ Pictures films please visit http://www.viz-pictures.com/ or www.deathnotefilms.com. For more information on the DEATH NOTE manga and animation, please visit deathnote.viz.com.

See Also: Viz And NCM Fathon Bring Death Note 2 To Theaters In The US This October / The Surprise Hit Detroit Metal City May Be Heading To The US / Viz And NCM Fathom Partner To Bring Death Note 2 The Last Name To US Theaters / Viz To Screen Death Note In Canadian Theaters Eh / Viz To Release New Death Note, Bleach, And Naruto DVDs This Fall / Viz Showcases New Anime At The Licensing International Expo / Viz Pictures Brings Death Note To US Theaters For A Special Two Night Event / Viz Brings Manga To Australia And New Zealand /

Viz Media Scares Up Some Spooky Manga For Halloween

Source: MediaLab

VIZ Media has highlighted a diverse collection of horror and supernatural-themed manga (graphic novel) titles now available that make a perfect complement for Halloween. The series include an array of stories ranging from the creepy and paranormal to the humorous and include COWA!, ROSARIO + VAMPIRE, NIGHTMARE INSPECTOR: YUMEKUI KENBUN, CAT EYED BOY, VAMPIRE KNIGHT and the recently released DEATH NOTE live-action film on DVD.

“Halloween is a perfect occasion to explore a range of spooky manga titles from VIZ Media,” says Evelyn Dubocq, Sr. Director, Public Relations, VIZ Media. “The horror genre continues to be one of manga’s most unique and diversified categories. Acclaimed series like CAT EYED BOY, from horror manga mastermind Kazuo Umezu, offer a creepy and exotic tale guaranteed to deliver chills for the season while COWA!, by famed creator Akira Toriyama, delivers a more comedic and kid-friendly supernatural story with a main character that is a half-vampire half-werekoala. Fans of DEATH NOTE also shouldn’t miss the just-released live action DVD from VIZ Pictures that brought the popular supernatural crime thriller to the big screen in a whole new way. As the season of witches, vampires, costumes and candy approaches, we invite readers of all ages and interests to check out this exciting collection of appropriately-themed titles!”

CAT EYED BOY • Rated "T+" for Older Teens
Cat Eyed Boy is a half—human, half—monster child whose mostly human appearance bans him from the demon world. He lives hidden in the shadows of the human world, hated by humans and demons alike. Wherever he goes, awful events occur as the humans and demons interact. In 11 stories of revenge and retribution full of disturbing images, Cat Eyed Boy acts as a trickster, saving the innocent and helping the wicked receive the punishment that fate metes out. The first volume contains four stories and the first part of a fifth and longer story. CAT EYED BOY was created by Kazuo Umezu, the undisputed master of Japanese horror manga and creator of the critically acclaimed DRIFTING CLASSROOM (also published by VIZ Media). Cat Eyed Boy offers up a concoction of dark vignettes dripping with the macabre and the absurd.

COWA! • Rated “A" for All Ages
A spooktacular manga story famed creator Akira Toriyama (DRAGONBALL, BLUE DRAGON) that is suitable for all ages. COWA! introduces readers to Paifu, a half-vampire half-werekoala, who is always getting into trouble with his best buddy, José the ghost. But when the Monster Flu sweeps through town, the fun and games are over. If the monsters don't get the medicine soon, everyone will die! With all the adults sick, it's up to the kids to save the day!

NIGHTMARE INSPECTOR: YUMEKUI KENBUN • Rated "T" for Teens
For those who suffer nightmares, help awaits at the Silver Star Tea House, where patrons can order much more than just Darjeeling. Hiruko is a special kind of private investigator, he's a dream eater, and he'll rid you of your darkest vision – for a price. Each chapter of NIGHMARE INSPECTOR is a self—contained story that offers a glimpse of mankind's folly and gradually reveals a little more about Hiruko and his dark past. A popular new series with a gothic edge, NIGHTMARE INSPECTOR was published in Japan by Square Enix, the publisher of the first manga series from Shin Mashiba. Fan—buzz has abounded on this series and comparisons have been made to Neil Gaiman's Sandman and DC's classic House of Mystery/House of Secrets.

ROSARIO + VAMPIRE • Rated "T+" for Older Teens
All-around average teenager Tsukune can't get accepted to any high school save one, but on his first day, he finds the rest of the student body doesn't appear average in the least. Best of all, the cutest girl on campus can't wait to fling her arms around his neck! Wait a sec', are those her teeth around his neck too? Tsukune's going to have one heck of a hickey when he gets home from Monster High! But does he have a chance in hell of raising his grades at a school where the turf war isn't between the jocks and the nerds but between vampires and the werewolves? Find out in the new series from Akihisa Ikeda.

VAMPIRE KNIGHT • Rated "T+" for Older Teens
Cross Academy is attended by two groups of students: the Day Class and the Night Class. At twilight, when the students of the Day Class return to their dorm, they cross paths with the Night Class on their way to school. Yuki Cross and Zero Kiryu are the Guardians of the school, protecting the Day Class from the Academy's dark secret: the Night Class is full of vampires!

DEATH NOTE LIVE ACTION DVD •
Based on the hit supernatural action mystery manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata, the DEATH NOTE live action feature film was released in Japan in 2006 and mirrors the manga’s story of Light Yagami, an ace student with great prospects who is bored out of his mind. All of that changes when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god named Ryuk. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil. But when criminals mysteriously begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to investigate, and he is soon hot on the trail of Light, who must now reevaluate his one noble goal. Both Light and L believe themselves to be on the side of justice, and the two match wits trying to show exactly which of them is "good" and which of them is "evil."

And...
VIZ Media sponsors BLOOD MANOR in New York!

VIZ Media will again be a sponsor this year of Blood Manor, New York City's premier Halloween attraction. A special VIZ Media evening is scheduled for October 26th and the first 500 attendees to Blood Manor will receive special collectible canvas VIZ Media gift bags filled with premiums from SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT such as SHONEN JUMP magazine samplers, VAMPIRE KNIGHT pen cases, BLEACH key chains, DEATH NOTE key chains, special manga samplers and more. Blood Manor unveils a freaky facelift for 2008 with a complete makeover of eight newly themed horror experiences, dozens of cutting-edge animatronics and scores of state-of-the-art props. The Manor is a haunted labyrinth that combines over 19 horror-themed rooms with a pitch black maze and a new haunted 3-D maze where guests don 3-D glasses to view ghastly images as demons, monsters and ghouls stalk them. VIZ Media is also running a special online promotion for Blood Manor fans! We will give away three limited edition DEATH NOTE figures from Japan. Blood Manor will be located at 542 W. 27th Street, New York City, NY 10001. More information about this exciting haunted attraction that is open throughout the month of October is available at http://www.bloodmanor.com/. To enter the online sweepstakes, go to http://www.shonenjump.com/dnfiguresweeps/.

Viz And NCM Fathom Partner To Bring Death Note 2 The Last Name To US Theaters

Source: MediaLab

VIZ Pictures has announced that it will again team with NCM FATHOM, the entertainment division of National CineMedia, to present a special two-night, multi-city event — Death Note II: The Last Name at nearly 400 theatres across the United States on October 15 and 16 at 7:30pm local time. Advance ticket online purchase opens exclusively to SHONEN JUMP Newsletter Subscribers on August 29th and then to the general public on September 5th. Fans are encouraged to sign up for the SHONEN JUMP Newsletter at http://www.shonenjump.com/news/newsblast/options.php before August 29th to be among the first to secure seats.

VIZ Pictures previously teamed with NCM FATHOM to present the first DEATH NOTE live-action theatre event earlier this year. Based on the enthusiastic attendance and the continued success of the DEATH NOTE franchise, the companies will stage another unique event, this time with the live-action DEATH NOTE II: The Last Name (English dubbed) appearing in nearly every major U.S. city with this next chapter of the thrilling saga based on the popular Japanese manga (graphic novel) series.

The theatre event will also feature an exclusive behind-the-scenes look about the creation of this breakthrough live-action event, an in-depth interview with director Shusuke Kaneko, who also directed DEATH NOTE, and a unique profile of the cast. Tickets for these special theatre events are available at participating theatre box offices and online. For a complete list of theatre locations, prices and ticket information, please visit www.FathomEvents.com (theatres are subject to change). Additional information about DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME, trailers and background on the manga and animated series are available at www.DeathNoteFilms.com.

“The first DEATH NOTE event was a tremendous success, enjoyed by thousands who were given a glimpse into the making of this visually phenomenal series earlier this year,” said Dan Diamond, vice president of NCM Fathom. “Fathom is excited to again partner with VIZ Pictures to bring Death Note II: The Last Name to the big screen and invite fans nationwide to enjoy this wonderful event at their local movie theatre.”

Death Note II: The Last Name is based on the hit supernatural action mystery manga (graphic novel) series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. DEATH NOTE II: THE LAST NAME is a sequel to DEATH NOTE, which closely followed major plot elements from the original manga series, but also introduces several new key story elements. Taking place right after the conclusion of the DEATH NOTE, Light Yagami joins the investigation team in pursuit of the serial killer known as "Kira.” While L still strongly suspects that Light is "Kira,” Light Yagami continues to seek out the real name of L so he can kill him with his Death Note. Making things even more unpredictable are the 'Eyes of Death', given to the second Kira, enabling the owner to know the true identity and lifespan of any person. Adding further confusion for the authorities, a new rash of murders attributed to the Death Note occurs all over the world and is attributed to "the Second Kira.” Light Yagami learns the identity of the other Kira and wants to join forces to get rid of L. Will L be able to catch "Kira" before he gets killed? Who will be the last name written in the Death Note book?

“DEATH NOTE has captivated millions of fans with a truly original story that has found great success as a manga, an animated series and live-action feature,” says Seiji Horibuchi president and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “Death Note II: The Last Name continues the battle of wits between master sleuth L and his nemesis, Light Yagami, as the motives between good and evil and what is moral and what isn’t are explored and played upon. The success of the first DEATH NOTE live-action event in North America led us to again team with NCM FATHOM to add nearly 100 more theatres, which gives an even greater number of fans an opportunity to see the event. We invite everyone to check out this newest chapter in the DEATH NOTE saga.”

The DEATH NOTE manga and animated series have become extremely popular domestically. The 37-episode animated series is seen by millions each week on cable broadcast and the series is also distributed on DVD by VIZ Media (rated T+ for Older Teens). On the print side, DEATH NOTE 13: HOW TO READ, a companion volume to the successful manga series, also published domestically by VIZ Media, was recently (February 2008) ranked in USA Today's Top 150 list of America's best-selling books.

For more information on Death Note II: The Last Name and other VIZ Pictures films please also visit www.viz-pictures.com. For additional information on DEATH NOTE please visit deathnote.viz.com.

See Also: Viz To Screen Death Note In Canadian Theaters Eh / Viz To Release New Death Note, Bleach, And Naruto DVDs This Fall / Viz Showcases New Anime At The Licensing International Expo / Viz Pictures Brings Death Note To US Theaters For A Special Two Night Event / Viz Brings Manga To Australia And New Zealand /

Viz To Screen Death Note In Canadian Theaters Eh

Source: Media Lab

VIZ Pictures has announced the Canadian theatrical debut of the live-action DEATH NOTE feature film, based on the wildly successful manga and animated series. The DEATH NOTE feature film will screen as a special event in approximately 60 Cineplex Entertainment and Empire Theatres locations across Canada on Monday, September 15 at 9:00pm local time. A special DVD advance ticket bundle has also been announced that goes on-sale August 29th. The bundle will include a ticket to the theatrical screening as well as the DVD of the live action film (the DVD can also be purchased separately on-site immediately after the screening). The DEATH NOTE DVD advance ticket bundle has a suggested retail price of $29.99 Canadian plus tax. Interested viewers may go to www.DeathNoteFilms.com, www.cineplex.com or www.empiretheatres.com/deathnote for more information, advance tickets and a complete list of participating theatres.

This special theatrical event will also include an insightful 20-minute feature on how the manga translates to live action as well as a rare interview with director Shusuke Kaneko, who is also known as the director of popular monster film “Gamera.”

DEATH NOTE is based on the hit supernatural action mystery manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. The live-action film was released in Japan in 2006 and mirrors the manga’s story of Light Yagami, an ace student with great prospects who is bored out of his mind. All of that changes when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god named Ryuk. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil. But when criminals mysteriously begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to investigate, and he is soon hot on the trail of Light, who must now reevaluate his one noble goal. Both Light and L believe themselves to be on the side of justice, and the two match wits trying to show exactly which of them is "good" and which of them is "evil."

“The DEATH NOTE live action film wowed audiences when it screened theatrically in the United States earlier this year, and as the popularity of the manga and anime series have spread we are very pleased to debut the film to Canadian audiences,” says Seiji Horibuchi, President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “Inspired by its manga and animated counterparts, the live-action DEATH NOTE film combines the best aspects of suspenseful crime dramas like Heat, Seven and Sea Of Love with supernatural plot elements to make for a very unique story. We encourage fans will take advantage of the special DEATH NOTE advance ticket bundle to secure a seat at the screening and a copy of the DVD!”

“Cineplex Entertainment is very pleased to provide this one-night-only Canadian screening of the DEATH NOTE live action feature film to our guests across the country,” said Pat Marshall, Vice-President, Communications and Investor Relations for Cineplex Entertainment. “We are also excited to offer our guests the opportunity to experience this movie first on the big screen as well as offer them the added bonus of a DVD copy to take home with them.”

“Live action adaptations of popular graphic novels, animated series and comics are this year’s box office darlings. We expect this to continue with DEATH NOTE, which will definitely be a hit with those familiar with the franchise, but we also anticipate it will be enjoyed by a wider audience, much in the way that Hido Nakata’s films were.” said Dean Leland, Vice President of Media and Studio Relations for Empire Theatres.

The DEATH NOTE manga and animated series have become extremely popular domestically. The 37-episode animated series is seen by millions each week on cable broadcast and the series is also distributed on DVD by VIZ Media (rated T+ for Older Teens). On the print side, DEATH NOTE 13: HOW TO READ, a companion volume to the successful manga series, also published domestically by VIZ Media, was recently ranked in USA Today's Top 150 list of America's best-selling books.

For more information on DEATH NOTE and other VIZ Pictures films please also visit www.viz-pictures.com. For more information on DEATH NOTE please go to deathnote.viz.com.

See Also: Viz To Release New Death Note, Bleach, And Naruto DVDs This Fall / Viz Showcases New Anime At The Licensing International Expo / Viz Pictures Brings Death Note To US Theaters For A Special Two Night Event / Viz Brings Manga To Australia And New Zealand /

Viz To Release New Death Note, Bleach, And Naruto DVDs This Fall

Source: MediaLab

VIZ Media has announced an exciting array of new DVD releases for the 3rd Quarter of 2008 that expand some of the most popular animated series in North America.

The new releases include DVD Box Sets and Special Editions containing limited edition collectible figurines, as well as the latest single disc editions for popular series including BLEACH, NARUTO, and DEATH NOTE, as well as much-loved classics like INUYASHA, and RANMA ½.

DEATH NOTE Releases Include:

DEATH NOTE Volume 6 With Limited Edition Collector’s Figure · Rated “T+” for Older Teens · 4 Episodes · MSRP: $39.98 US / $49.99 CAN ·
Available August 26, 2008
The Yotsuba Group enlists an investigator to uncover L’s identity, while Misa, who’s been hired as their spokesperson, does some investigating of her own. When she discovers the identity of the owner of the Death Note, it’s a race between the killer and the task force — who will catch up to the other first? Time is of the essence, especially when the new Kira makes the trade for the Shinigami Eyes!

DEATH NOTE Volume 6 Standard Edition · Rated “T+” for Older Teens ·
4 Episodes · MSRP: $24.98 US / $34.99 CAN · Available August 26, 2008
DVD-only collection featuring episodes from the hit series, no figure included.

BLEACH Releases Include:

BLEACH Volume 11: THE RESCUE · Rated “T” for Teens · 4 Episodes ·
MSRP: $24.98 US / $34.99 CAN · Available Now!
While trying to evade the pursuing Soul Reapers and rescue Rukia, Orihime and Uryu are confronted by the captain of Squad 12, the despicable Mayuri Kurotsuchi, who plans on using them as guinea pigs for his experiments! Meanwhile, Yoruichi has revealed her true form to the astonishment of Ichigo and the others, and must use all her tricks and skills to keep her fellow intruders from losing everything for which they’ve fought so hard.

BLEACH Volume 12: THE RESCUE · Rated “T” for Teens · 4 Episodes MSRP· $24.98 US / $34.99 CAN · Available September 23, 2008
Lieutenant Momo Hinamori recalls her days in training at the Soul Reaper Academy, where she first met Captain Sosuke Aizen. In the present, the letter Aizen left for her at his death scene leads Momo to believe she has identified his killer... While Ichigo and Renji train with Yoruichi to achieve bankai, Rukia recalls a bit of her own past in a dream that she believes will prepare her to face her execution--which has been moved up to the next day!

NARUTO Releases Include:

NARUTO UNCUT, Vol. 9 SPECIAL EDITION BOX SET · Rated “T+” for Older Teens · 3 DVDs · MSRP: $69.98 US / $89.99 CAN · Available Now!
Naruto returns to the Hidden Leaf Village to find Sasuke, frustrated with Naruto's sudden growth, thirsting to fight to decide who the better ninja is once and for all. Kakashi stops the fight before the worst can happen, but soon Orochimaru's henchmen arrive in the village to lure Sasuke to Orochimaru with the promise of greater power, a promise Sasuke can't refuse. In order to retrieve Sasuke, newly appointed chunin Shikamaru forms a squad of genin, including Naruto, to pursue the terrifying Sound Ninja Four. Will they catch up before Orochimaru gets his hands on Sasuke? Let the chase begin. Special Edition Box Set comes with a Limited Edition Collectible: Summoning Creature – Manda.

NARUTO UNCUT, Vol. 9 STANDARD EDITION BOX SET · Rated “T+” for Older Teens · 3 DVDs · MSRP: $49.98 US / $64.99 CAN · Available Now!
DVD-only collection featuring episodes from the hit series, no collectible summoning creature included.

NARUTO Volume 25: THE BOND OF SHINOBI · Rated “T” for Teens ·
4 Episodes · MSRP: $19.98 US / $24.99 CAN · Available Now!
Naruto and Jiraiya head home with Tsunade and Shizune in tow, and the four stop at a hot spring resort for a little relaxation and an unexpected adventure. But at home again in Hidden Leaf Village, it's back to business. Tsunade's first task: heal the injured ninja. The others are successfully revived, but Tsunade has bad news for Rock Lee. While the village cheerfully prepares for Tsunade's inauguration as Fifth Hokage, Rock Lee must ponder the possibility that he will never fulfill his ninja dreams.

NARUTO Volume 26: THE RACE IS ON! · Rated “T” for Teens · 4 Episodes · MSRP: $19.98 US / $24.99 CAN · Available Now!
Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura are on the ultimate mission: discover what Kakashi looks like behind his mask! Then, Tsunade sends Squad Seven to the Land of Tea and the village of Degarashi, where every four years two rival families hold a race to decide who will rule the village for the next four years. Jirocho, who represents the Wasabi family, asks the teammates to protect their runner, Idate. But the task proves difficult when Idate, who has nothing but contempt for ninja, takes off running the wrong way!

NARUTO Volume 27: THE BATTLE BEGINS · Rated “T” for Teens ·
4 Episodes · MSRP: $19.98 US / $24.99 CAN · Available September 2, 2008
Naruto has always thought of Sasuke as a friend, but when Sasuke awakens in the hospital to discover that Naruto has grown stronger, Naruto finds himself on the receiving end of Sasuke's fury. It's Chidori vs. Rasengan! Kakashi steps in to stop the battle, while in the shadows Orochimaru's Sound Ninja Four steal their way into the village with an offer for Sasuke he may not be able to refuse! Will the promise of greater power lure Sasuke away from everything he's known and everyone who cares about him – forever?!

NARUTO Volume 28: SOUND vs. LEAF · Rated “T” for Teens · 4 Episodes · MSRP: $19.98 US / $24.99 CAN · Available September 30, 2008!
News of Sasuke’s departure reaches the Fifth Hokage, who immediately gives new chunin Shikamaru his first mission as leader—bring back Sasuke! Shikamaru recruits some of his best friends for the job: Naruto, Choji, Neji and Kiba. With a chunin and four top genin on their heels, the sound Ninja Four race to get Sasuke over the border and into Orochimaru’s hands. The Leaf ninja use all their wiles to ambush the Four, but find themselves trapped in a giant dome of earth that’s sucking up every last drop of their chakra!

INUYASHA Releases Include:

INUYASHA SEASON 5 DELUXE BOX SET · Rated “T” for Teens · 5 DVDs ·
MSRP: $119.98 US / $149.99 CAN · Available Now!
Half-demon Inuyasha, modern-day schoolgirl Kagome and their companions face their deepest fears and worst nightmares as their quest to find the Sacred Jewel shards continues in this exciting fifth season box set. The deadly Band of Seven, a group of mercenaries executed for their crimes, have returned from the dead to wreak havoc, and Inuyasha is determined to stop them. But the battle leads them all to the sacred and mysterious Mount Hakurei, where a barrier not only renders demons, including Inuyasha, powerless, but also hides a terrible secret about their worst enemy—Naraku! The Deluxe Box Set includes 5 DVDs and also features a special “Sesshomaru Wall Scroll” and bonus Inuyasha footage.

INUYASHA SEASON 5 STANDARD BOX SET · Rated “T” for Teens · 5 DVDs · MSRP: $99.98 US / $129.99 CAN · Available Now!
DVD-only collection of the fifth season episodes, no wall scroll included.

RANMA ½ Releases Include:

RANMA ½ SEASON 7: RANMA FOREVER · Rated “T+” for Older Teens ·
5 DVDs · MSRP: $49.98 US / $64.99 CAN · Available Now!
It's not easy being teenage martial artist Ranma Saotome, but it's even worse when your martial-artist father Genma takes you from home at an early age to go on a decade-long training mission. He doesn't speak a word of Chinese, and yet he insists upon bringing you to the cursed training ground known as Jusenkyo, where falling into one of the many springs there instantly turns you into whoever – or whatever – drowned there last. And then, the two of you have this little accident...

From now on, a splash of cold water will turn your father into a giant panda, while you... well, you turn into a red-haired (and problematically well-built) female version of yourself. Hot water will reverse the effect, but only until the next time. What's a half-guy, half-girl to do?

Viz Showcases New Anime At The Licensing International Expo

Source: Media Lab

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, brings some of the hottest anime properties to the Licensing International Expo, taking place June 10 through June 12 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City. VIZ Media will be located in Booth # 4505.

The Licensing International Expo is the largest and most important annual event for the more than $180 billion licensing industry. It features more than 500 leading licensors and agents, representing more than 6,000 properties and brands, with upwards of 25,000 attendees expected including key decision-making retailers, manufacturers, and marketing professionals across all consumer and product categories.

VIZ Media is a key licensor delivering manga and animated content to a fast growing international audience. The company offers a diverse selection of unique animated properties designed for diverse interests and viewers of all ages including children, teens and young adults and adults.

The properties VIZ Media will be highlighting at 2008 Licensing International Expo:

NARUTO
NARUTO has become the hottest animated series across North America and is one of VIZ Media’s most successful manga and animated properties in terms of sales. Created by Masashi Kishimoto, the series depicts the adventures of a young boy named Uzumaki Naruto who trains to become a ninja. But the boy is cursed with the spirit of a nine-tailed fox demon and is forced to live a bullied life discriminated against by his fellow villagers. But Naruto is resilient and undaunted in his quest to become a master ninja and his determination often inspires those around him. Through amazing adventures, the young ninja learns the importance of friendship, teamwork, loyalty, hard work, creativity, ingenuity, and right vs. wrong. Dedicated website at http://www.naruto.viz.com/. Rated T for Teens.

BLEACH
BLEACH is an animated, epic action series aimed at teens. Ichigo Kurosaki is an ordinary 15-year-old boy who happens to be able to see ghosts. His fate takes an extraordinary turn when he meets Rukia Kuchiki, a Soul Reaper who shows up at Ichigo's house on the trail of a Hollow, a malevolent lost soul. Drawn to Ichigo's high level of spiritual energy, the Hollow attacks Ichigo and his family, and Rukia steps in to help but is injured and unable to fight. As a last resort, Rukia decides to transfer part of her Soul Reaper powers to Ichigo. Ichigo, now a full-fledged Soul Reaper, and Rukia, minus her powers, join together to face the challenges that lie ahead. Dedicated website at http://www.bleach.viz.com/. Rated T for Teens.

DEATH NOTE
DEATH NOTE is currently one of the hottest animated titles in Japan. The series depicts the adventures of Light Yagami, an ace student with great prospects but who is bored out of his mind. All of that changes when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil. But when criminals mysteriously begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to investigate, and he is soon hot on the trail of Light, who must now reevaluate his one noble goal. Dedicated website at http://www.deathnote.viz.com/. Rated T+ for Older Teens.

BLUE DRAGON
Based on the popular Microsoft Xbox 360 video game developed by Hironobu Sakaguchi (the creator of Final Fantasy) and featuring character designs by Akira Toriyama (the creator of Dragon Ball), the BLUE DRAGON animation is a classic adventure story of magical Shadow powers, flying air fortresses, and unbounded heroism! Brought together by fate, Seven Soldiers of Light must awaken the Shadow within themselves in time to overcome a despotic power and bring peace to their land. Their ensuing journey through a rich fantasy world is also an internal journey to awaken the great power within each of them. Journey with them into the world of BLUE DRAGON! Dedicated website at http://www.bluedragon.viz.com/. Rated A for all ages.

KILARI
Kilari is a happy-go-lucky 14 year-old schoolgirl. Unlike her friends, she is more interested in food and shows no interest in good-looking boys. One day, however, she accidentally bumps into Seiji, a pop idol, and develops a crush on him at first sight. Realizing how difficult it would be for her to become friends with him, Kilari makes an extraordinary decision, to become a star herself to be close to him! Thus begins her pop star adventure! Rated A for all ages.

Other featured properties include:
BUSO RENKIN, DETECTIVE CONAN, DEKO BOKO FRIENDS, HONEY AND CLOVER, HUNTER X HUNTER, INUYASHA, NANA and more.

Viz Brings Manga To Australia And New Zealand

VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced its continued global expansion with a new distribution agreement with Madman Entertainment to offer a wide variety of Shueisha manga (graphic novel) series to the burgeoning market in Australia and New Zealand. Shueisha Inc., is one of Japan’s largest publishers and is a parent company of VIZ Media.

Some initial VIZ Media titles to be published will include smash hit properties like NARUTO, set to debut in March, BLEACH, scheduled to launch in April, and DEATH NOTE, which will be introduced in May. Several popular shojo series such as THE GENTLEMEN'S ALLIANCE †, FULL MOON, LOVE*COM and NANA are also set for publication this year along with action favorites that include ONE PIECE, D. GRAY MAN, BLACK CAT and CLAYMORE.

Madman is Australia’s number one distributor of manga (graphic novels), with a wide range of popular titles already available, including some of the industry’s biggest licenses. In late 2006-early 2007, Madman was a key sponsor of the Tezuka – The Marvel of Manga exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria and the Gallery of New South Wales, and also launched a dedicated manga section on its website, www.madman.com.au.

“Madman is honored to be working with VIZ Media and their incredible range of manga brands, and thrilled at the prospect of introducing these to a wide range of readers in our territories," says Tim Anderson, Managing Director of Madman Entertainment. "Australian and New Zealand readers have developed a real thirst for manga and based on similar agreements forged in other rising markets, Madman looks forward to combining efforts with VIZ Media to offer the most comprehensive catalogue to date in these countries."

“Madman Entertainment has become a dominant player in the emerging Australian and New Zealand manga scene and we are excited to partner with them to bring some of the hottest titles to readers there." says Hyoe Narita, Executive Vice President, VIZ Media. "Manga has become a truly global entertainment medium and agreements like this will continue to provide innovative means to develop and establish international markets offering a range of compelling content."