UlasanAnime.com – This is a collection of various thoughts and observations, touching on internet trends, personal travel experiences, demographic shifts in Japan, anime industry insights, and convention plans.
A Korean streamer reportedly caused themselves burns by attempting to make ramen using “UO fluids” (likely from glowsticks) and hot water. The vaporized fluid caused burns, and while the streamer evacuated their home upon noticing the fumes, they still required ER treatment. The author expresses concern over the proliferation of such dangerous practices, noting that while responsible ways to use such items exist, playing with glowsticks in this manner is ill-advised and potentially qualifies for Darwin Awards.
The author describes a trip to see ML3rd as a “weekender,” though it technically spanned four days. This extended duration allowed for social interaction and took advantage of cheaper airline fares, involving three layovers each way. The trip to Makuhari for ML3rd offered more than just the two live performances, hinting at other experiences that might be discussed later, alongside potential discussions of Kawaii Kon.
Regarding Japan’s aging and shrinking population, the focus is on the impact of a declining young demographic and workforce. While foreign press often covers economic and immigration policy aspects, the author speculates on the effects on the otaku market. Increased participation of women in the workforce, for instance, could lead to a rise in “fujoshi pandering” content due to growing disposable income. Although anime and manga traditionally target younger audiences, the increasing adult consumption of these media may balance this out. This demographic shift also contributes to Japanese animation increasingly targeting adults, as the younger audience base shrinks.
On the topic of children and anime, the author is enjoying Haifuri primarily for the characters Mocho and the Trysails. A closer look at the cast reveals a significant number of voice actors involved in idol works, including members from Deremas, Nanasis, WUGs, and veteran voice actors like Kobayu, Asumiss, and Kanaechan. This concentration of “seibuta” (idol anime voice actors) makes enjoying the show from that perspective particularly rewarding, especially since the story and concept are also considered good. The author is blogging about Haifuri at Jtor.
The author is scheduled to participate in a panel at AnimeNext. The panel’s framework has been developed since early in the year, with the intention of fleshing it out closer to the event. The topic is centered on Bandai Namco’s intellectual property management, specifically focusing on THE IDOLM@STER but not necessarily the characters themselves. AnimeNext is being held in Atlantic City this year, presenting a travel challenge, but the author is committed to attending. They hope the panel won’t be scheduled concurrently with events featuring Kouno Megumi, whom they are excited to see. A ZAQ concert is also mentioned as a significant draw.
The author mentions that Chokaigi, happening the next day, will likely be the catalyst for their summer plans.
In terms of anime viewing, the author is attempting to watch the first episode of everything but admits to falling behind and not picking up certain series. While not keen on rewatching Unicorn, they hope the TV series might encourage them to finally finish the OVAs. They are also trying to clear out shows from the previous season, such as Dimension-W, which they plan to marathon soon.
Planning for Anime North is progressing smoothly, with a venue secured just in time. The author hopes that public information for their offkai (off-site gathering) will be released this week, before any potential disruptions from Chokaigi or announcements from Anime Expo.
The author recently saw a dubbed screening of Empire of Corpses in theaters. They found the film itself to be a worthwhile watch, appreciating its blend of steampunk, zombies, and philosophical themes surrounding animated corpses and souls, though the overall package wasn’t entirely to their taste. The animation and philosophical elements were particularly praised. The dub was effective due to the international cast of characters, featuring many British and Russian individuals. However, the author notes the absence of Houko in a humorous role and Hanakana as the token female lead. They are also anticipating seeing Harmony in theaters soon, a work they are more familiar with.
The author is still experiencing jetlag due to late shifts requested by their work after returning from Japan. While not ideal, they are managing, finding their “weekender training” to be somewhat useful.
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The Million Live “Believe My Dream!” event is approaching, and the author is aiming for two in-game achievements. Given their spending on the game this month, they feel this is the least they can do.
