Recap: The Bridge Bike Gang

Hello everyone! Happy Pokémon day! While it’s been a while since I first saw this episode, I thought I would share it with you all for the festivities today! Let’s open up “The Bridge Bike Gang!” 

We open on the narrator describes everyone getting past fond memories in the Safari Zone. Oh yes, fond memories of having guns pointed at their heads and trying to stop bombs!

Everyone happens upon a bridge to Sunny Town, and it turns out the Cycling Road is on it. Yet, it’s never referred to as such in the dub. Most likely because 4Kids didn’t know what it was. I wouldn’t put it past them; this is the same company that infamously claimed that Arbok evolved into Seviper.

The traffic cop, Norman, even points out that they can’t walk across the bridge. Only cars and bikes are allowed, even if it was completed. Misty laments her roasted bike, and everyone points out the massive cost of the bikes at the shop. I remember this part in the game. You had to get the bike voucher from the president of the fan club and exchange it back in Cerulean. Then, you could use the Cycling Road as an easier way of getting to Fuchsia City and the sea route to Cinnabar Island.

At the Pokémon Center, everyone wonders what to do. I would also like to point out the oddity of Nurse Joy’s interior design; which includes some off-model paintings of a Pidgeot, a Farfetch’d, a Gastly and a Haunter. That’s like something I would do for my place!

Brock, of course, is all too eager to to help Nurse Joy; and everyone agrees to deliver medicine for Pokémon in Sunny Town, and she just conveniently has some bikes to loan them. Everyone then crosses the bridge to the anime’s arrangement of the Cycling Road theme.

Team Rocket then looks on from a raft; and it turns out Jessie and James have some history in Sunny Town. Everyone stops on an observation deck for a drink; where they’re ambushed by the titular bike gang, who would not be out of place among Schumacher-helmed Batman punks; or better yet, the Jokerz gang in Batman Beyond. 

As it turns out, these folks combine the biker trainer class from the games with the real-life “bowzock” punks in Japan. Their leaders, Chopper and Tyra; demand a battle as introduction. Their bikes have all sorts of flashy modifications on them; and they’re all dressed in varying degrees of leather, hair dye; and ‘90s street fashions. Brock tries to hit on Tyra, and Tyra hits him instead!

Ash engages Chopper, who sends out Golem. He counters with Bulbasaur, who should technically be doing double damage against Golem, but is not even denting him. Then, he uses Charmander, with half damage, wins the fight. Oh, the hilarity of Kanto; being so ludicrous and awesome that the time just gives it a free pass to do what it wants.

Tyra then sends out Cloyster; and Misty decides to engage it, but Psyduck pops out. What follows is one of my favorite comedic fights in Kanto, and possibly the entire series. His bumbling manages to hit every area except the one where it counts, the head.

Then, Team Rocket comes riding in on unicycles. I don’t know, I’m more of one for mono wheels, like the ones Ray Steam and General Grievous use.

It turns out that Jessie and James were once part of the biker gang; known as “Big Jess” and “Little Jim”. They have yet more names, “Chainer Jess,” who swung a chain around; and “Trainer Jim,” who had training wheels on his bike as he rode around in a quasi-Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure getup.

Officer Jenny and some backup chase everyone away; as everyone continues towards Sunny Town with the rain falling down. I guess the wanted meter wasn’t all that high.Then, Ash, Brock, Misty and Pikachu are riding the storm out, as foretold by REO Speedwagon. 

Chopper, Tyra, and the other gangsters encourage Jessie and James to ride in the storm; as well as Meowth. The Nurse Joy in Sunny Town is still awaiting the arrival of the medicine, and Team Rocket and the kids then go towards each other on the bridge as it lifts to make way for a barge docking.

Sure enough, Ash, Misty, and Brock complete the stunt jump. The gang is impressed; and they escort them towards the Pokémon Center. I missed this part when I was younger, since the friend’s house where I saw this episode had a dad that didn’t think too highly of the franchise at its peak. My mother and my friends’ mother were generally more receptive to the idea.

The medicine is administered to the Shellder; and the gang grants Ash and Misty the titles of “Awesome Ash” and “Mighty Misty.” When Brock suggests the title of “Honey,” he gets another taste of Tyra’s pimp hand as we close on Team Rocket pedaling out of the bay.

This episode is an enjoyable little romp on the cycling road; filled with some very humorous battles and colorful punks who would not surprise me if they grew up to join the Clown gang. I also enjoyed seeing what motivated Team Rocket to pursue a life of crime more. Go ahead and add this to one of my many reasons why I got back into the franchise as a teenager. See you, space cowboy!

Blog Update: Software Reinstall, Wakanda and Other Delays.

Hey everyone, just thought I would give you all an update on what's going on. I did go see Black Panther this weekend and loved it; so I would definitely recommend it.

On a more disappointing note, my main computer unexpectedly needed to have its operating system reinstalled; and that's taking longer than expected. I already have something written for Pokémon day next week; but other subject matter I had planned (such as my next recaps of Code Geass R2) will have to be delayed until this issue is resolved. Depending on how long it takes, I may have to find other usable computers to work on my 400th post. It will be as I pointed before: a positive recap of my favorite Miyazaki film, Spirited Away; which I hope to have done sometime in March at the earliest. Just thought I would let you know so you don't just think I'm playing games and watching stuff on Netflix and Crunchyroll (though that's true too).

I will let you know anything else later, though based on past experiences, I anticipated something like this would happen. So, keep an eye out for what's coming next. If you have seen Black Panther, great. If not, I definitely recommend it; since it really is that good. Later.

All the Pokémon Movies, Ranked.

Hello everyone. Given the recent DVD and Blu-Ray release of Pokémon the Movie I Choose You, I thought I would do something I've been wanting to for a while for Valentine's day. I thought I would rank all the main Pokémon movies. Anime News Network did something similar a bit ago; but to say I had issues with their list was putting it mildly. Heck, my dissatisfaction with their style was one of the main catalysts for starting this blog. So, rather than lump them all together, I thought I would use a simpler numeric ranking. Some of my choices might surprise you, others will not. So, here is my ranking of all the Pokémon movies.

20. Pokémon Jirachi Wishmaker

This film is still my least favorite entry in the series, even though it's not the worst film I've covered here. That, and it wasn't the film that ended my initial fandom either. That goes to The Legend of Thunder. It's basically an episode's worth of material and stakes stretched to an 80-minute runtime; nothing more.

19. Pokémon Ranger and the Temple of the Sea

As the last film of the Advanced Generation, it was a similar film to the Jirachi one; but a much better one to end on than they started; even considering how some fans feel, and the unpleasantness about the voice actor change at the time. It also helps that the film had more action than the Jirachi film; and it was a fun swashbuckling adventure on the high seas that definitely seemed ripe to cash in on the success of Pirates of the Caribbean at the time.

18. Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life

As the final film in the initial DP "trilogy," I found it to be enjoyable even though it's definitely not my favorite DP film. It definitely took a lot of creative license with Arceus, but the film was definitely bolstered by a unique take on the premise; some good animation and how cruel Marcus was as a villain. That, and referring to Pokémon as "magical creatures" reminds me of that Let's Play of the hilariously-bad Vietnamese Pokémon Crystal translation.

17. Pokémon: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction

A solid film to start off the XY series; it's not perfect, but still a lot of fun. I can definitely recommend viewing the full movie on the DVD or Netflix, since the initial airing on Cartoon Network cut some parts from the movie for time.

16. Pokémon: Hoopa and the Clash of Ages

While not everybody likes this movie as part of the XY series, I still found it to be a very solid way to spend 78 minutes overall. It may be thin on plot and characterization, but it does have some slick action and nice animation, video game-like CGI notwithstanding.

15. Pokémon: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel

I still ended up enjoying this movie a lot more than I thought I would when I first heard about it. The film had plenty of creative settings and good animation on the battle scenes, and it made good use of the Pokémon they had at their disposal.

14. Pokémon The Rise of Darkrai

This was a good movie to lead off the Diamond and Pearl films with, and I'm glad it featured one of my favorite monsters of Generation IV. It was also one of the darkest films they did up to that point; being the first main film to be rated PG by the MPAA (not counting Mewtwo Returns, probably going to do another ranked list for the side story anime in the near future). The animation also helped make it a great start to the DP "trilogy", and it was one of the films that helped me get back into the series a teenager.

13. Pokémon: Giratina and the Sky Warrior

Even though I can understand how some people feel about the liberties this movie took with Shaymin, I feel that Giratina was done justice here; and I definitely enjoyed the film's counterpart to the Distortion World from the games, the Reverse World. There were also very fun supporting characters with Newton Graceland as well as the villain; Zero. ... My next Code Geass R2 recap will be next and I have some choice words for it.

12. Pokémon Destiny Deoxys

This movie is definitely a big improvement over the Jirachi movie, and an overall better film for the Advanced Generation. As the first film to forgo the Pikachu shorts in favor of giving more attention to the film's proper runtime; it was a worthwhile film that not only put Deoxys and Rayquaza in big roles, but LaRousse City has to be one of my favorite settings in the franchise.

11. Pokémon: Kyurem VS The Swords of Justice

As someone that still has the same positive mindset towards Generation V that I did when I first experienced it, this was a fun movie because of how wild it got; and I really enjoyed Vic Mignongna's voiceover as Keldeo.

10. Pokémon 4Ever


This film is one I have seen many times since I was 10, and it still fascinates me after all this time. Despite all the heat it got at the time, it's better than many live-action video game movies in that time frame. I will address the new developments for Detective Pikachu later, since I still have more to do.

9.  Pokémon Heroes

As the final film of the original series, it was a good one to go out on. Again, it's much better a video game movie than the filmography of Uwe Boll or the 1993 live-action Super Mario Bros. movie (the animated reboot might be fun, we'll see).

8. Pokémon: Genesect and the Legend Awakened

Forget the haters: I like this movie, and I still submit it's better than most people would have you believe. I found it to be a solid film to help Generation V transition to Generation VI; and I rather like the setting's design. I know it has a lot of similarities to its seniors all the same, such as the next entry.

7. Pokémon The First Movie

I was addicted to this movie when I was younger, and in hindsight; I still submit that it works in a similar fashion to the 1986 Transformers movie or the first two 1990s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles films; taking a silly concept and making it work in a darker context. While I still concede the Japanese version is the superior film, it's still a big cult film as a whole for me.

6. Pokémon: Zoroark-Master of Illusions


This is easily my favorite of the Diamond and Pearl films, and was a good one for them to go out in as it transitioned to the Black and White films. Zorua and Zoroark are among my favorite Unova monsters, if not my favorite; since I'm considering revising my favorite lists again as I await more news on what Game Freak has planned for the Switch entry.

5. Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew

Of all the films adapted from the Advanced Generation, this was the one that delighted me the most. It's the movie I credit with reigniting my fandom of the franchise, and giving me my first taste of my favorite Pokémon.  It's also a film that manages to blend a surprisingly good story with good use of a medieval fantasy theme. Definitely prefer that to Black Clover (don't plan on doing that anytime soon, my ears need a break from Asta's shouting).

4. Pokémon 3 The Movie 

I suggested a while ago that the respect for the original anime series may come more from the movies than the TV series, and this film is a good argument for that. As the final film original head writer Takeshi Shudo was directly involved with before his retirement and passing in 2010; it's a good example of the series at its best. I first saw it when I was 9, and it's been in rotation ever since.

3. Pokémon The Movie 2000

My personal favorite of the original three films, which managed to take a lot of the ideas introduced in the first movie and expand on them. It was also a film that had some of the best animation of the series up to that point, and Lugia being introduced to me well before I played Pokémon Silver was a real treat. I will address Lugia potentially being in the new movie this summer later; since I need more information. So, that probably won't be until after my 400th post; at least.

2. Pokémon the Movie Black: Victini and Reshiram/White: Victini and Zekrom


With almost seven years having passed Generation V came around, I still appreciate the elements it brought to the series; and simply don't identify with the trend of denigrating it others have taken to as of late. One of the things I enjoyed them doing for their first film was a dual-release film. It may not be on the level of "Inception" or "Sliding Doors", but it does a good job at having subtle differences between films. One of the things I enjoy must about the medium is finding little details hidden in each frame, and these movies are great example of that. They used to be my favorite entry, but they've finally been displaced as of 2017 by the next choice.

1. Pokémon the Movie I Choose You

As a way to bring the series into a new generation and to celebrate past successes, this is easily my favorite Pokémon movie in years. With a story that honors the franchise as well as paints a picture that helps open a bright future for the series (including another film with a similar concept opening later this year), it's easily a film that I will happily re-experience with my Blu-Ray for ages; even after I leave this blog behind.


So, as I work on my next recaps (they are a surprise for Pokémon day, my next Code Geass R2 recap and my 400th post) and other assignments I have, I wish you all a Happy Valentine's day, Ash Wednesday and year of the dog all at once. That will be all for now. See you, space cowboy.

Recap: The Lovesick Pig

Hello everyone. Since I am occupied with some assignments I have for school, I thought I would do something different this month: since it’s February, I thought I would make this month a celebration of love, and I will start with one of my favorite episodes of Lupin III Part IV! While this incarnation of the series may be the latest attempt to make an impact on our shores, the character of Lupin III has been something of an institution in its native Japan; though this charming thief has been something of a cult favorite here as well. So, I thought I would do an episode that I really enjoyed in between my attempts to finish my work with Code Geass R2. Let’s open up “The Lovesick Pig!” 

After a brief intro narration from Lupin, we open on Lupin being invited to an auction of the wine collection of Count McCalman. It seems the count has passed on under mysterious circumstances, and the people in charge of auctioning off his collection of vintage wine also request the people invited bring dates. Naturally, Lupin ends up being caught between his lover/partner in crime Fujiko Mine as well as his starlet wife, Rebecca Minamoto. He doesn’t seem like the type to use social networking, but if he did, that alone would make his relationship status “it’s complicated.”

That night, as he gets ready for the night’s festivities, Jigen remarks that he can’t just take both the ladies; he has to choose. I smell shenanigans at this party. On that note, I do like how Lupin presents himself as a character. A young adult that still acts like a swaggering teenager may not seem like that great an idea on paper, but it’s a concept that works quite well as he puts on his formal suit. 

That's a nice outfit, Lupin. It would be a shame if something happened to it.

Despite the claims otherwise, Lupin is actually going to try to wine and dine both Rebecca and Fujiko. Good thing he’s at this kind of party: he’s going to need a lot of liquid courage for that. 

The auction begins with the crown jewel of the count’s collection: the Lovesick Pig wine from the title! This shot is the most I can show without violating Google’s policy. 

In addition to the count’s death, it also turns out that his wife disappeared under mysterious circumstances; and they fell on hard times in the later years of their marriage.

On top of that, the wine is also a powerful aphrodisiac that can help people find their true love, so it’s naturally worth quite a bit of cash. Based on what happens later, though, things are definitely not what they seem. 

As Lupin is torn between lovers, it also turns out that Rebecca and Fujiko have other ideas than to pay the exorbitant price at auction for the wine; and plan to use Lupin in their own way. I just love a hobby where I get to type things like that. 

Rebecca and Fujiko then slip away to the wine cellar, both using their own tactics to slip by the guards and crack the safe. 

As Lupin wonders where his dates have gone, he notices everyone else at the party is acting rather strange. Must be a Hell of a vintage they’re having.

I must say, given the innuendo and inebriation in this episode, it definitely earns its TV-14 rating. With its current time slot on Saturday nights; I am once again going to presume the moral guardians are probably sleeping.

Rebecca and Fujiko return, and in addition to cracking the safe, they seem to have gotten a whiff of the Lovesick Pig; and they both want to jump Lupin’s bones as a result. It’s fitting, given what he tried to pull; that it worked all too well.

Then, the curator of the collection tries to escape with a barrel of the wine; but this leads to a very crazy motorcycle chase in the vineyards between him, Fujiko and Rebecca! Nice work: you could be part of Kingsman with those skills.

Lupin gets involved, and it turns out that this curator is the Count after all! Now that’s a kick in the teeth. 

The mystery is solved when the stolen barrel is cracked open: it has the Count’s missing wife inside! Given how that’s red wine in that barrel, the symbolism is flowing as free as the vino. 

So, we close on Rebecca and Fujiko leaving, and Lupin being dazed at escaping from the party; minus his pants and one of his shoes. Long story short: they were the cost of his escape from the winos, as well as damage to his jacket. Tell the count that he owes him a new outfit and pair of shoes: Oxfords, not Brogues. 

After viewing this episode, I personally do not endorse and/or encourage the actions taken in this episode. I do, however, find them hilarious. 

“The Lovesick Pig” was a great way to kick of a sort of celebration of love this month, even if it’s in an unconventional way. The animation combines 1970s swagger with modern wizardry; and is a great take on a character that’s a show I’m really enjoying. I am almost done with the show on Toonami, and there is plenty of other content in Lupin’s fictional universe that I definitely can recommend checking out. I know I will: The Castle of Cagliostro is a great film, and was the first film by Hayao Miyazaki; becoming highly influential among both anime and animation as a whole. I have big plans for my 400th post; you’ll just have to wait and see what they are. I also have some stuff planned for Valentine’s day and president’s day weekend; you’ll just have to wait and see what they are. That’s all for now. Bang.

Recap: Power of Passion

Hey everyone. It took a while to determine what I wanted to do next, so I’ve decided to just close out this month with another episode of Code Geass R2. This might be a bit of a rush compared to other things I’ve done this month, but I’ve been occupied with schoolwork and I want to get that finished first. So, let’s open up “Power of Passion.”

Picking up from the last episode, I am once again pleased that this is one of the few episodes that doesn’t begin with an introdump or endless heavy-handed exposition!

One of the bystanders outside says that they “don’t understand what goes on with the Chinese federation.” That makes two of us. Also, I’m not going to make much of the symbolism of Shirley being given a handkerchief by someone disguised as Lelouch. There’ll be another time to address that, knowing what lies ahead.

Of course, Rolo is onto his “brother,” saying that “he’s acting too nice” as they go into an underground lair, complete with a bookcase entrance like an old episode of Scooby-Doo. If you’re wondering about all the quotation marks, I’ll get to that in a moment. What I want to know is, where’s the caveman?

It turns out that “Lelouch” is actually their maid Sayoko in disguise, furthering the Scooby-Doo jokes! I would have thought it was Old Man Dithers, the creepy candy store owner!

It would have been mine if it hadn't been for those meddling kids!

So yeah, the Black Knights are still in a stalemate with the Chinese federation, with Schneizel and the Knights of Round joining the battle and the fanservice returning with a vengeance. (Sighs) This is gonna be a total clusterfuck, isn’t it?

Also their plan is to basically destroy the mausoleum they’re hiding out, knowing the Empress would die in the process. Well, there goes more of the conflict of the last few episodes I covered down the drain.

In the span of less than a minute, we get another mecha battle between Xingke, one of the Knights of Round AND another coup by the High Eunuchs! Called it!

Zero even has an escape plan ready in case of a defeat, and Kallen has been bound to a table in a scene that I’m not going to show you. Not just because of Google’s standards, but because I personally find this intended fan service less titillating than even Fifty Shades; and that’s a criticism I don’t make lightly. 

At the five-minute mark, the battle is one of the least coherent ones in the series so far, with few characters saying anything of substance that I haven’t heard in previous episodes. It’s just a mishmash of quips and political hogwash, so not really a stretch these days.

Unaware she’s no longer of any value to the Federation (trust me, it’s stupid), the Empress just runs out onto the battlefield! Why do I get the feeling if she weren’t royalty, she’d throw rocks at beehives for fun?

It gets even dumber when Xingke defends the Empress in the Shen Hu! Congratulations, you found a way to make the last episode even more pointless than it already was.

Zero has apparently taken command of the Gawain Knightmare frame and its “Druid system,” and now I’ve totally lost it. Why do I even bother sometimes?

It’s also been reformatted into the “Shinikiro,” and its special move is essentially a downgrade of the battle at the waterfall in the first season and a ripoff of the “death blossom” from The Last Starfighter. We even get a reprise of the “strategy/tactics” thing from the last episode. Well, at least it’s not repeated eightfold like the “public/communal pool” thing.

Also, to further my comment about the 2017 setting being only slightly as shitty as the actual year was; the Shanghai rebellion scenes are definitely much more uncomfortable given numerous high-profile incidents that took place in real life.

Realizing that the revolt has cost the High Eunuchs their support, the enemy retreats just as reinforcements arrive; and Xingke finally kills those obnoxious caricatures. 

Yet, Kallen is taken prisoner; and we then get another scene with Jeremiah being “enhanced” in the presence of VV. I REALLY hope this plot thread is reworked for the remaster, since it raises numerous questions that the story doesn’t even attempt to answer, to say nothing of the other ones already on the table.

So, in order to annul the political marriage completely; it’s suggested that the Empress elope with someone from Japan. Look, if I don’t care which Kardashian is getting married; I sure as Hell don’t care who marries her, or for what reason. It’s just an excuse for the dialogue to further degrade into old sitcom clichés. 

On that note, Zero gets a call from Shirley about what Milly has planned for her graduation. … We’ll talk about that one in February, since it’s the halfway point of the series and it’s part of what I have planned that month. I still don’t think the scene of her changing into her swimsuit in the locker room was all that necessary. If she’s using a mobile, why couldn’t she make that call anywhere? For that matter, why does Lelouch have his phone on him? Why wouldn’t he just give it to Sayoko to complete the facade? Maybe not in my top 10 reasons this anime disappointed me, but still.

Honestly? Between asking Shirley to help break someone up, Tamaki acting like a dumbass, and Shirley fumbling with her socks in the locker room, this episode feels less like a follow-up to what the first season laid out and more like an old episode of Three’s Company! Some of you might have to Google that one, folks. 

The scene goes on with talking about passion, getting a glimpse of Shirley’s delicates and Zero somehow almost forgetting he’s doing all this for Nunally. Jor-El, Arceus, Bowser, this makes no sense.

Sayoko, disguised as Lelouch is able to dissuade Shirley’s suspicions and hide the bookcase entry by suddenly making a move on her in the library. … No comment there, just this music. 

With more fan service from CC, we close on Lelouch returning to the mainland via a submarine, somehow. (Sighs) Eleven episodes down, 14 more to go.

“Power of Passion” may have been marginally better than the last episode, but it still has many of the same problems. The animation quality is marred by incoherent editing, and the story and characterization further compound the problems with R2. Despite all the talk about passion and love in this episode, this whole story feels like it was made in a vacuum. This is also a shorter recap than I hoped to have out, but I’m still glad I got out something. So, check back with me in February for what I have planned next, and it’s all going to be related in some way. Later. 

Recap: A Peacetime Reward! Who Gets the 100 Million Zeni?

Dedicated to the memory of Hiromi Tsuru

Hello everyone. Given how busy this term might be, as well as how this week is also one year since my grandfather’s passing; I thought I would finally do some of Dragon Ball Super, as a way to do a belated tribute to Bulma’s Japanese voice actress Hiromi Tsuru. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in either case, since I watched some Bulma-centric episodes of the original series, but couldn’t find enough material to work with. So, I thought I would take the easy way out and do the first episode of Super, so let’s open it up. 

The opening theme song, “ Go, Let’s Dynamic” (roughly translated) is relatively good to set the stage, and it definitely has a good sound overall. I just get pumped every time I hear it coming on Toonami, so feel free to have a listen on this link. 

It turns out this anime goes a different direction after the defeat of Majin Buu towards the end of DBZ, and the world has been at peace for six months (even longer in terms of fan wait). This, along with the movies they’re coming out with, officially de-canonize GT and give Toriyama more incentive to wash away that terrible Evolution movie, much like me. The first episode of this new chapter in the Dragon Ball Saga is entitled “A Peacetime Reward! Who Gets the 100 Million Zeni?”

Our proper opening is on Goku doing some farm work when his tractor gets stuck. He then unroots the stump that the wheel got caught on before Goten arrives with lunch and takes over. Very amusing how all those bento boxes can fit in just one piece of cloth.

Anyway, Goku laments that he has to find work instead of training; since Chi-Chi’s been on him and the Ox King’s palace burned down again. Typical: never easy, even in times of peace.

Elsewhere, on a distant planet; Beerus is sampling some of the delicacies they have to offer before deciding whether or not to blow up their planet. He’s satisfied overall, but since the dessert had a greasy aftertaste, he only destroys half the planet. This initial arc, which I’m almost finished with; is adapting the Battle of the Gods movie, and I rather liked that film. After I watch episode 14, I’m going to finally finish the Resurrection of F movie so I can properly get caught up.

As his retainer Whis asks if that was harsh, Beerus replies that the grease would make him “sluggish.” I don’t think that would be a problem if you can split a planet in half just by tapping the same claw you’re picking your teeth with. What I do know is that it was a good call choosing him for my next top 13 anime villains. 

We then cut to the mansion of Hercule Satan (yes, that is his real name); where he is once again given credit for saving everyone despite the Z-warriors being responsible. I admit he’s not a good liar, but there are worse people whose adolescent power fantasies you could indulge. So, everyone decides to just let him have it.

Speaking of which, Majin Buu comes into the room and demands food, forcing Hercule to cut the interview with the news short. It’s a long story, but the main reason why Buu is living with Hercule is basically the same reason no one tries to make him angry: even though he’s reformed, they’re afraid of what he’ll do if he isn’t fed. Even if he’s no longer evil, you don’t want to make him mad, even if he is a pile of pink slime in Hammer pants. 

Meanwhile, we see Videl and Gohan in their studies, where Gohan has gotten what translates literally to a “Difficult Book.” Oh yes: I’ve always been a fan of the Difficult Book! I enjoy it almost as much the Complicated Film!

Goten and Trunks then decide to help find a belated wedding present for Gohan and Videl; leading to a somewhat amusing scene in a jewelry store with a man quite literally flipping his wig at their comments and the sight of them flying out the door! 

Trunks then suggests getting Videl something for her skin, leading to a brief flashback of him watching Bulma in her vanity mirror. It’s rather wistful, even as someone who’s a relative newcomer to the Japanese version.

When they’re priced out of getting the gift they want at the shop, they hear of a hot spring from an old man; and he’s even kind enough to give them directions! 

Goten and Trunks find the source of the spring, and fill a whole jug of water with special properties to give to Videl! 

After a brush with a massive snake, the boys return with their gift. Gohan and Videl are pleased to see them, but Videl corrects them; as they confused the “eau de toilette” skin care solution with merely “toilet water.” I used to mix up lightsabers with Life Savers candy when I was little, so no worries. 

I know it’s taken me a while to mention this, but the animation itself on this episode is actually not that bad. The original version was infamous for how off-model it looked when it aired, but by the time the dub started; Funimation must have gotten the footage from the Japanese Blu-Ray releases. Not quite as snazzy as the movies this series sometimes adapts, but still looks good.

Later that day, Mr. Satan then gives Goku 100 million Zeni for his help; and it also turns out that he built Gohan and Videl’s new house! While it takes some prodding, Goku accepts, meaning he can go train without worrying about money!

Of course, Master Roshi wants to spend it on erotic movies, which gets him reprimanded by Chi-Chi for being such a dirty old man! Yeah, you old coot: you can get a lot of that stuff online for nothing!

We then close on the realm of the Kais, where the Supreme Kai sense a disturbance of another planet being destroyed. Figures: when it’s not massive WMDS built by the Empire (and more recently, the First Order), it’s a hungry beast from a parallel universe.

It took longer than I was hoping to do this, since I was occupied with other projects when the news broke of Hiromi Tsuru’s death from an aortic dissection: in non-medical speak, a literal broken heart. She may be gone, but her legacy will last forever among fans the world over. In addition to Bulma, her many roles included Ukyo in Ranma 1/2, Meryl Strife from Trigun; and Naomi Hunter in the Metal Gear Solid series. I do not know how future Dragon Ball material will handle her passing, especially with the current run of Super set to end in March with more to come.

For now, though; this episode was a fun start to the show; and a good way to help wash away those bad memories of GT and Evolution. Sometimes, you just wake up one day and decide you want to put this on and write about it. I mean, what would you rather watch: a fun series like this or a mediocre one like Black Clover? Seriously, Crunchyroll- don’t sell me a passable anime and try to hype it as the best ever. It isn’t. 

Anyway, depending on what happens tomorrow; I have several things planned. I will decide what I want to do next after that. There is still no official word on the English dub of the third season of Yo-Kai Watch, and the dub being recast doesn’t change anything about my plans for that series. Everything else is to be determined. So, I leave you with these words from Tsuru’s memorial service.

“If you gather the seven Dragon Balls, they’re said to grant you any wish; but not this time. I’m sorry.” Nozawa Masako, Goku’s Japanese voice actress

That will be all for now. Later.

Recap: When Shen Hu Wins Glory

Hello everyone, and welcome to my 10th recap of Code Geass R2! It’s been a while since I covered the last episode and its sham of a political marriage; and one of my plans for this year is to finish this anime, and hope the planned remaster and third season can rectify the issues of this one. So, without any further ado (this includes the usual theme song and intro dump of the last episode), let’s open up “When Shen Hu Wins Glory,” if you’ll pardon the quasi- Engrish Romanization of the original title. 

Picking up where we left off, Zero is about to abscond with the Empress in a Knightmare Frame! Of course: actually delving into what sort of consequences the actions would have politically? (Scoffs) The Hell with that: we’ve got a fucking robot! 

Admittedly, the design of this one, the Zangetsu is actually not that bad, as Zero orders Tohdoh to take care of Schneizel while he makes off with the Empress! 

As Schneizel and the Eunuchs try to leave, the plan goes to “phase three” (and I’m not talking about Marvel either) as we’re treated to another leery cleavage shot of a female pilot. Well, at least she’s in full costume this time, but I would still appreciate it if R3 and the remaster did away with this. How much overboob do you need, Taniguchi?! 

The animation, as per usual, is fantastic; but this time, editing and camera work seem much more choppy than previous episodes. I know how tight deadlines can be (I don’t like missing ones either, especially not ones I set for myself); but this definitely needed a bit more time in post.

The Zangetsu is also apparently on the same level of footing as Suzaku’s Knightmare Frame. It would be nice if we could have actually built up this development, but like most of the stuff in this anime, it just comes out of nowhere.

Again with the float unit? That plot thread was stupid in “Operation: Pacific Surprise Attack,” and it’s even dumber here. After Tohdoh disables the unit, Zero demands they break off the attack. Why? You’ve got the upper hand, you’re supposed to be a clever strategist! Do you honestly think they wouldn’t account for the escape attempt you’re making?! Jor-El, Arceus, Bowser, this is bad.

More of the Eunuchs? Not only do they intercept Xingke’s order to cut off the enemy’s escape with the “Dragon Calvary,” their voices just grate on my ears every time I hear them. Not only does it give me flashbacks to Mr. Funioshi from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, it just makes me wish Xingke would tear out their voice boxes just to shut them up!

So, after that, CC and Tamaki try to help the Empress escape in the back of a truck while Kallen provides air support. Between Tamaki’s inept navigation, explosions and confusing editing; it feels like watching Riding With Death again. 

Apparently CC has been here before, and Zero actually sounds like he’s about to describe what might be a real plot; but sadly, this is not to be. It just devolves into the same fauxlosophical description of international politics that I’ve seen before. I really hope they get back to the balance R1 had with these elements in the remaster and third season.

The Empress then says she isn’t sure she understands all this. Even the characters themselves aren’t buying this crap anymore, and that’s really not a good sign when there’s still 15 episodes left to handle.

As Tamaki demands a position that’s more than a glorified roadie, Zero replies that can be discussed “once this crisis has passed.” If I waited for that, I highly doubt I’d get anything done anymore. So, I just have crises galvanize me into motivating myself instead.

So, the bridge at Shen Chun is out, but it turns out the Black Knights planned for this! Krispy Kreme: I’ve covered anime from the 1960s that didn’t have this much plot contrivance! I am this close to switching back to my reruns of Voyager again, I’m serious. 

Of course, after the pursuit forces are taken out; the Eunuchs immediately drop the charges against Xingke so he can help. Which makes this scene entirely pointless! Go ahead and add that to the list.

It turns out Zero planned for this to happen, and accounted for Xingke also wanting to free the Empress. He planned a coup at the same time Xingke was. Zero, the DCEU Lex Luthor called; he wants to know how why you’ve co-opted his way of planning!

Before they can call reinforcements form India, however, they’re ambushed by another mecha: the Knightmare Frame Shen Hu from the title! Barely ten minutes in, and they’re still desperate to surprise me. I’m just letting them know they had a snowball’s chance in Hell.

To be fair, this may not be the worst episode of R2 I’ve seen or looked at here, but it is one of the most shockingly dull ones I’ve done. Even when Kallen clashes with Xingke, I don’t really feel much tension as a viewer. I feel like I’m about to nod off on my keyboard in the middle of typing. Almost six years of doing this; and I’m starting to build up an immunity to this anime.

Seriously, despite all the technobabble about the mechs fighting right now; it just boils down to a couple pilots trying and failing to one-up each other despite dwindling ammunition and supplies. That translates to “slightly less boring than shutting down my computer and looking at a blank screen for 24 minutes” at this point. 

Somehow, Kallen is taken hostage in a flurry of noise and gunfire; but Xingke is unable to finish her off due to an injury from before. Goddamn it guys: this is an even bigger tease than last time! Seriously: I refuse to defend that chess game from before; since even Deep Blue would call bullshit on it!

Despite the Chinese Federation taking Kallen hostage, the men on the Ikaruga try to hold out until the reinforcements from India arrive. … Too easy.

Even Kallen seems bored in this whole ordeal, as am I. Insert another joke about her tight red flight suit here.

You are like cinnamon!

So, Zero tries another move out of left field, feigning the idea that India is betraying them too! Really, Zero? That’s as transparent a deke as using Bo Jackson against the Eagles’ QB in Tecmo Bowl!

Zero then declares, “Now we’ll teach Xing-ke the difference between strategy and tactics!”

Strategy, noun, Oxford English definition: the art of planning and directing overall military operations and movements in a war or battle. Often contrasted with tactics.

Tactics, noun, Oxford English definition: the art of disposing armed forces in order of battle and of organizing operations, especially during contact with an enemy.

Good grief, it’s the whole “communal vs public pool” thing all over again. In any case, the script where that makes any sense in terms of realistic dialogue is currently lost somewhere in the Bermuda Triangle.

The scene even time for some photos of the welcome party from before in one of the penultimate festival episodes. Don’t worry, I have a bit prepared for when the time comes, but Suzaku questioning this as an “invasion of privacy” is downright quaint nowadays. At the risk of editorializing, I refer you to his counterpart in Code MENT and his misadventures at soup. 

Also, I can’t really joke about his comment regarding Shirley, knowing what lies ahead. It just doesn’t seem right.

So, the battle on the hill tries to play itself like it’s the battle of Mutara, rather than the Briar Patch scenario it actually is. Just as well: in the process of watching these episodes again to write about them, I never know whether I’m going to get something that’s boring or something that’s so infuriating it blows my mind. Just like Washington these days. Total coincidence: no disrespect intended!

Seriously, the battle between Shen Hu and Zangetsu just feels like a game of Custom Robo that I’m not actually playing. Off topic: I still don’t have a Switch yet, but if the rumors of the Gamecube Virtual Console are true, that’s one of the games I want on there. Very underrated title, but I digress.

It actually turns out that Xingke planned for this too, since the irrigation breaks and leaves everyone covered in what I presume is the same septic water this episode is made of! The whole claim of shoddy construction is nowhere near as far-fetched as the Eunuchs think either, especially these days. Also: there’s a metaphor in that water; and it’s not good.

With few options left, Zero gives the order to retreat; but not before firing off another weapon at the enemy forces. Once again, the bad news is that I have no idea what just happened to who or why. The good news is I don’t care! 

Even though I still don’t like Rivalz, this bit of him, Rolo and Shirley at the computer is actually not that far off from the state of things right now. This anime was apparently set in 2017, but things are only slightly more shitty than how that year actually was!

We then close on the various forces scattering for their next attack, with Zero having another weapon ready. There’s a little bit with the news of the coup and a decoy for Lelouch, but it’s little consequence. Ten episodes down, 15 more to go.

“When Shen Hu Wins Glory” isn’t the worst episode of R2 I’ve done, but that’s the only thing it really wins in my eyes. It’s a small booby prize when I just get a dull episode in a series full of lackluster ones. Even with the animation being well-crafted as usual, the lack of an interesting plot; clear character motivations or cohesive editing make for one of the most tedious things I’ve covered recently, and I’ve seen Black Clover. However, being a sleep aid is at least a step above trying to melt my brain into a nutrient-rich slurry. Still, with my marathon of the Pokémon movies complete, this is one of my next big projects for the coming year: finishing what I started with this series. I doubt I will be able to take back any of what I’ve said before, but I know I can’t ignore my past experiences with this if the remaster and third season are on the way. All I hope for them is to be good: that’s all. On that note, I will determine what I want to do next after I find out how busy I’ll be with class this term, and I will see you then. Later.