Watchlist #51 - Attack on Titan

With the release of the Live-action adaptation of probably the most renowned Anime series coming out in theaters today, it's only plausible that I give my thoughts on the original Anime. For those of you living under a rock, this Anime (like SAO or KLK) are renowned and have created an enormous fan base. At least in every Con I've attended (which is only 2), I've seen someone wear something related to this Anime. It's action-packed, thrilling, emotional, and probably a landmark in Anime. It also features a kick-@$$ opening that I think a lot of Anime fans can identify with that. This Anime (like SAO & KLK) has become a franchise, a household title that all fans are aware of. Whether you're a fan of it or not, the name cannot escape you. The Manga was written by Hajime Isayama, published by Kodansha, and then made into an Anime directed by Tetsuro Araki & licensed by Madman & Funimation entertainment ~ it isn't news that an Anime THIS big would get its own live-adaptation. However, the problem is that live-action adaptations of Videogames/Anime/Books aren't always well-received. Some work and some don't ~ it's a matter of source material & direction. We already got a live-adaptation for (not all, just some):

1) Mortal Kombat (Videogame)
2) Street Fighter (Videogame)
3) Dead or Alive (Videogame)
4) Dragon Ball Z (Anime)
5 Avatar the Last Airbender (Animated Cartoon)
6) Death Note (Anime)
7) The Hunger Games (Book)
8) The Lightning Thief (Book)
9) Harry Potter (Book)

Out of the 9 I just mentioned, I only heard good things about the 3 of them (Death Note, The Hunger Games, & The Harry Potter movies). Sometimes movie studios like to change things up, but why make an adaptation when you're not going to follow the original source material. Yes changes are necessary, but when major components are missing ~ it just doesn't work. When I watched Avatar in theaters, I was so incredibly excited.....at first. When I left the movie house, I was so pissed off that I wanted to punch the director, the actors, & the studio that allowed the director to turn one of my favorite cartoons into a complete atrocity in cinema. Movie directors try to conjure up the ideal way to picture the movie, but it isn't always crystal clear. The heart of the source material could be missing because production studios like to pull our heartstrings in all the wrong ways. I'm seeing the live adaptation tonight of an Anime I like ~ will it satisfy or disappoint, who knows. Hopefully, since it's made by the folks in Japan, it won't be a total letdown....I hope. IF you haven't guessed it yet, the Anime I was talking about is Attack on Titan. I decided not to talk about the source material...yet. Next week's Watch-list post will be the Live-action adaptation of AOT & compare/contrast the Anime & Movie.

I hope you enjoyed this week's Watch-list post. Watch-List posts will be on Wednesdays. Until then, stay classy as always. Don't forget to check out the other Watch-list posts (in order):

1) Tenchi Muyo

2) Cowboy Bebop

3) Trigun

4) Dragonball Z

5) School Rumble 

6) Is This A Zombie?

7) Fairy Tail

8) Omamori Himari

9) FLCL

10) Gurren Lagann 

11) Shin-Chan 

12) Tenchi Muyo GXP

13) Tenchi Muyo In Tokyo

14) Power Puff Girls Z

15) Kirby!

16) Samurai Champloo 

17) Hanaukyo Maid Team 

18) True Tears 

19) Zombie Powder (Manga)

20) Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai 

21) Teen Titans
22) Yu-Gi-Oh
23) Rosario+Vampire
24) Death Note
25) Pokemon
26) Digimon
27) Big-O
28) X-Men (Anime Version)
29) D-Frag
30) Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun
31) Akame Ga Kill
32) Invaders of the Rokujyōma!?
33) OniAi
34) Ben-To
35) Testament of a Sister New Devil
36) Minamoto-kun Monogatari (Manga)
37) My Love Story (Ore Monogatari!)
38) Space Dandy
39) Wanna be the strongest in the world
40) When Marnie Was There (Film ~ Studio Ghibli)
41) The Garden of Words (Film ~ Makoto Shinkai)
42) Song of the Sea (Film ~ Tomm Moore)  
43) Nagasarete Airantou
44) DBZ: Resurrection 'F' (Film)
45) Bikini Warriors (First Impressions)
46) Yu Yu Hakusho
47) Monster Musume (First Impressions)
48) Code Lyoko
49) Ninja Scroll (Film)
50) Kill La Kill
51) Attack on Titan 

Food for Thought #5 - Can context be misconstrued?

Often when we invest our time into any form of entertainment, we are enthralled by certain aspects. Characters, story, setting, and themes are a recipe for any TV/Movie, but when we take another look, sometimes we catch something. When watching another TV show from beginning to end more than once, we might catch something we didn't see the first time. Innuendos are what I'd like to call them and sometimes the setting or tone captures certain symbols that might not catch fans at first. There's meaning in everything and in TV/Movie, it's no different. The only difference is that finding the message within a certain show might not catch our attention at first. You'd have to really buckle down and pay attention to each detail and, you know what, there's replay value in that. Now have I watched a TV/Movie more than once? Sure, everyone has. I've watched the movie Inception 10x in theaters and When Marnie was There 3x in theaters. Watching them again, it heightened my appreciation for the film. There is, however, one thing that I'd like to point out since I am bringing up context (Innuendos/Meanings) ~ when is the context misconstrued? Yeah, if you think about it, there are so many perspectives and anything can be interpreted in many ways. Some may have a simplistic view of a show/movie, but others may say "There's more to it than just that." When I watched the movie Whiplash 3x, I noticed that a relative of mine & I had different perspectives on the film as a whole. This means that the first, second, and third sitting, my interpretation of the movie was being much clearer and thus wasn't misconstrued as something else. The relative of mine says that Whiplash is a feel good movie and that it illustrates the theme of never giving up despite what hardship there may be. However, after watching it 2 more times & watching even an analysis video on the film, I critiqued the movie a little differently. The movie can be perceived as happy & feel-good, but I also learned that it's a movie that also illustrates the psychology behind the drives & motives in the pursuit of something greater & the idea of one's dilemma being shadowed by a driving force of reprimanding. Anime is no different when it comes to context. When people take a glance at an Anime, say Kill La Kill, newcomers will say"Dude, they're just half-naked chicks and it's over-the-top." However, I watched it and started to notice much more than what the average Anime fan would say. To be, KLK is a satire of Fan-service and over-the-top action. IT knows that it is and it's having a good time feeding it to us by means of showing cleavage, panty shots, and dramatic background songs that surprisingly build up a character's growth. Most (if not all) Fan-service Anime are innuendos by sexualizing the women by means of giving them cute voices, attractive bodies, & mesmerizing (and huge) eyes. Perspective & context aren't to be taken literally, but the idea is that it exists at all. No one thinks alike and that's the beauty of us all ~ we're all so different and yet we were born with the purpose to grow. Context doesn't just apply to entertainment ~ it applies to everyone. So yes, context can be misconstrued as something else, but that doesn't necessarily means it's all good or bad. It means perspectives are challenged and views are given rise to more analytical & observational means. As long as people don't fight over them, then that's fine. Unfortunately, we live in a society where if someone thinks differently, then that person is shunned or looked at funny. It's ironic we live in a World where violence can arise from polar opposites ~ Not everything and everyone can comply with just 1 standard meaning. There is infinite many solutions and thus, to put it in a sentence: Context can become misconstrued by anyone and everyone.

Food for Thought? Comment below and let me know your thoughts on this topic. This was a very analytical and thorough FFT that didn't explore much into Anime, but of real life. Sometimes I'll provide #thetruth because, well, I'm a human and thoughts matter. FFTs will be posted every Tuesday. Like always, you stay classy as always! Here's the order of FFTs:

1) Anime: Subbed or Dubbed?

2) When does a Harem become stale?

3) What's Shipping?

4) What's Ecchi?

5) Can context be misconstrued? 

Bleach Hakusho 2 Round 9: Uryu Ishida vs. Hiei (Finale)

VS.

Welcome back to the penultimate Round of Bleach Hakusho. So far, Bleach is in the lead 5-3 against YYH and we have only 1 more Round to go (final BH 2 post is this Friday). Without further ado, let's start off the 9th Matchup ~ Uryu Ishida vs. Hiei. Take into account that Storyline & Powers/Abilities are the deciding factors in these Fight Night posts. Let's jam! 

Storyline (Uryu)

Uryu Ishida is/was considered the title "The Last Quincy" for being a rare breed, an enemy of the Shinigami. This dates back to his father, who was fond of loathing Shinigami (EX: Isshin) as well as his Grandfather, Soken, who was killed by hollows and dissected by Mayuri Kurotsuchi because the reinforcements from the Shinigami came too later (under orders from Mayuri). Since then, Uryu has harbored a specific hatred for Shinigami and wants to prove that the Quincy are a superior race unbeknownst to him of the origins of the Shinigami & Quincy (later would be told). Uryu attends the same school as Ichigo and since learning of his Shinigami powers (from Rukia), Uryu treats him coldly and believes he is a nuisance, disgrace, and a mockery of Shinigami. It wouldn't be long before Uryu befriends Ichigo, but still they bicker over disputes amongst each kind. Uryu's hatred for Shinigami is personified in his merciless killing of hollows, but later - Uryu warms up to the Shinigami as not all are bad. He soon joins Ichigo alongside Chad, Orihime, Rukia, & Renji in fighting off various enemies (EX: Jirobo, Mayuri, Cirucci, & Tsukishima) before embarking on his own, alongside Yhwach, in eliminating the Shinigami for unclear purposes. Apart from being part of Team Ichigo, Uryu is notable as being the 2nd strongest member of their team and as a Quincy, is knowledgable and calculative when it comes to fighting his opponents. Currently, he's partaking in a war between the Quincy & the Shinigami. 

Storyline (Hiei)

Hiei is considered a cursed "fire demon" Child and and as result, was cast away forever under orders from the Ice Maidens. Hina was Hiei's mother, but later would take her own life because of her son's demise and abandonment at a such a tender and young age. Ree, Hina's friend, was forced to do the unthinkable - drop Hiei, the fire demon child, from a cliff. From there, he had to endure demons of all calibers, being adopted by bandits and eventually venturing forth for power and revenge for his banishment from his home. As soon as Shigure, the surgeon and friend of Hiei, implanted him with the Jagan eye, Hiei strove to look for the very people who cursed him. It wouldn't be long before he realized they were already dead, met Ree, and soon discovered that he has a sister. From then on, he strove to find an protect his sister, but along the way - he met Kurama and eventually allied with the Spirit Detective, Yusuke Urameshi on his endeavors against various demons of all classes. He currently is residing in the Demon World alongside Mukuro. 

Powers/Abilities (Uryu)

Uryu, when it comes to his bow and arrows, is precise, much like a marksman. He is able to stand on par with Captain class Shinigami Mayuri Kurotsuchi, Espada Yammy, and Bount Yoshi. Next to Ichigo, Uryu is the 2nd strongest member of Ichigo's group. What makes Uryu such a formidable opponent is his ability to discern, much like Kurama from Yu Yu Hakusho, opponent's strengths and weaknesses. Prime examples was figuring on former Espada Cirucci Sanderwicci's attack patterns when in her Resurreccion, Bount Yoshi's abilities in her Doll, or planning ahead a booby trap for Espada Yammy. Uryu was at his strongest when he fought Mayuri, but since then, he's grown stronger, mastering Reishi absorption, Hirenkyaku (speed), Ginto (similar to Kido), and is versatile in the utilization of his bows and arrows. Uryu, however, has had his fair share of losses - Kaname Tosen & the 4th Espada, Ulquiorra. As a proud Quincy, Uryu prides himself in his abilities and it clearly showcases that he isn't someone to underestimate, considering he holds the highest title in the Sternritter. 

Powers/Abilities (Hiei)

What makes Hiei such a compelling character isn't just his backstory, but his powers as well. He has the Jagan Eye, capable of telekinesis, memory manipulation, and telepathy. A renowned swordsman, Hiei is unrivaled when it comes to his agility and notably, harnessing the power of the Dragon. During his fight with Zeru, he summoned the Dragon of the Darkness Flame technique and pretty much did a # on Zeru, leaving only a outline behind. Not only that, but he managed to consume the Dragon during his confrontation with Team Toguro's Bui. Hiei relentless training has made him go from wielder of the dragon to becoming the dragon itself. Hiei is also capable of harnessing fire and has combined the Dragon & Fire when fighting Kuro Momotaro. Hiei truly is a force to be reckoned with, being able to stand on par with the strongest fighters in Demon World. 

Verdict

And the winner is…

Not going to lie, this Round was pretty easy to judge. Both are bad@$$e$ in their own right, are best friends with the protagonist, have keen intellect, have been able to get out of the worst situations known to man, and even as an ally, pose a legitimate threat to everyone around them. However, as you are well aware on my blog, I'm not the biggest fan of Uryu Ishida from Bleach because, to me, he is much like Sasuke Uchika from Naruto. Sure, Uryu has had his moments, but even when he's opposing the Shinigami ~ his role is downplayed. In YYH, Hiei's role was balanced alongside Yusuke, Kurama, & Kuwabara. Hiei is my favorite (I think everyone's) character in YYH because he started off as an antagonist and then became the coolest ally in Team Urameshi. His Jagan eye & Dragon of the Darkness Flame pretty much sum up that he is not to be f*cked with. With Uryu, there's no lying that his archery skills are top-notch, but if he were to fight Hiei ~ Hiei could foresee Uryu's every move and just fire his Dragon right at him. So in terms of who'd win in a fight, yeah ~ Hiei is more perceptive than Uryu. Uryu can strategically try to outwit Hiei, but with Hiei's Jagan eye ~ it'll be a difficult target to catch. In terms of storyline, both are pretty damn tragic. Uryu lost his mentor & grandfather ~ a teacher, friend, & relative was murdered right before his eyes. With Hiei, it's much more f*ked up. Hiei brought him a son and, in her village, men are forbidden. As a baby, Hiei was thrown off a clip by Hiei's Mom's Best Friend. As a result of this loss, Hiei's Mom committed suicide and Hiei was never able to get revenge on the very people that cast him out as a Demon. Hiei, with nowhere to go, grew up  with our any parental figures. So the loss of one's relative vs the loss of his right to live ~ I think the latter is more effective. Uryu is Ichigo's friend/rival, but like Sasuke in Naruto ~ they often bicker & he always thinks he's better than our hero. To me, that's so cliche that it's become so irksome to even see him. Hiei is the clear victor in this Round. 

So who do you think won this matchup? Hiei from YYH or Uryu Ishida from Bleach? Comment below & let me know. Look forward to the final BH post on Friday. Until then, you stay classy. Here's the current score:

1) Sojiro Kusaka vs. Shinobu Sensui ~ YYH

2) Aaroniero Arruruerie vs. Elder Toguro ~ YYH

3) Renji Abarai vs. Kazuma Kuwabara ~ Bleach

4) Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez vs. Younger Toguro ~ YYH

5) Rukia Kuchiki vs. Yoko Kurama ~ Bleach

6) Tier Harribel vs. Mukuro ~ Bleach 

7) Yhwach vs. Yomi ~ Bleach 

8) Kenpachi Zaraki vs. Toshin Raizen ~ Bleach 

9) Uryu Ishida vs. Hiei ~ YYH 

Bleach leads 5-4 against YYH

Bleach Hakusho 2 Round 8: Kenpachi Zaraki vs. Toshin Raizen

 

VS.

Welcome back to another installment of Bleach Hakusho where I pit the worlds of Bleach & Yu Yu Hakusho (YYH abbreviated). So far, Bleach is in the lead 4-3 against YYH, but within September, anything can happen. Bleach Hakusho 2 Fight Night posts will be on Mondays & Fridays all throughout September. Without further ado, let's start off the 8th Matchu ~ Kenpachi Zaraki vs. Toshin Raizen. Take into account that Storyline & Powers/Abilities are the deciding factors in these Fight Night posts. Let's jam! 

Storyline (Kenpachi)

Prior to becoming the 11th Captain of the Gotei 13 or heck, even before meeting his future Lieutenant, Kenpachi was born in the lawless district in the North Valley of Rukongai - Zaraki. As a child, he took it upon himself to take the Zanpaktou of a already dead Shinigami and implanted his soul upon it to make it officially his. His renowned swordsmanship improved overtime as he garnered the attention of then 11th Division Captain & current "Kenpachi," Yachiru Unohana. This was the first fight Zaraki felt anxious and fearful of his life, but later came to admire and respect her. Sometime later, he met a little girl and named her after his admirer and the district she was born in - Yachiru Kusajishi. He, alongside Yachiru, also met Ikkaku & Yumichika, now forming the current 11th Division. Zaraki Kenpachi took it upon himself to kill the current "Kenpachi" and became the new 11th Division Captain. During his time as a Captain, he was trained in the art of Kendo by then Captain-Commander, Genryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto. 

At the very beginning of the Rescue Arc, Kenpachi Zaraki was one of Ichigo's opponents (the first two being against Ikkaku & Renji). The two fought valiantly and it came out to be a draw, but Kenpachi, admiring Ichigo's strength and tenacity, gave him the victor. Sometime after recovering, Kenpachi aids Ichigo's team in saving Rukia and challenged Kaname & Komamura, putting both his life & rank at state in aiding Ichigo's cause to rescue Rukia. It wouldn't be long before the Soul Society has to face its new enemy - Aizen Sousuke & his army of Arrancars. Kenpachi, alongside Byakuya, was forced to take-back Captain Hitsugaya's squadron as to prevent further assistance in Ichigo's rescuing of Orihime. However, deep down, Kenpachi could care less about orders as he, Byakuya, Unohana, & Kurotsuchi enter Hueco Mundo and fight against the Espada. Here, Kenpachi fought valiantly against Nnoitra. Kenpachi almost lost his life, but he remembers the Old Man (Yamamoto) teaching him Kendo. Utilizing what he taught from the Old Man, Kenpachi subdues Nnoitra. After Aizen's defeat, the Soul Society has to deal with its new enemy - the Wandenreich, led by Yhwach. Kenpachi easily defeats 3 Stern Ritters, but lost terribly to Yhwach as he holds him by the neck, almost lifeless. It wasn't until later where Captain Kyoraku, now 1st Division Captain after Yamamoto's death, tells the Central 46 that Yachiru Unohana will train Zaraki Kenpachi in the art of fighting. The two Kenpachi(s) fight with Zaraki ending up winning against his former admirer, but is saddened by her loss as it is the most entertaining fight he's ever had. He hears a voice coming from his Zanpaktou, now being able to communicate with it as he could never had in the past. It is recently revealed that he learned of his Zanpaktou's name - Nozarashi after having fought against Gremmy "The Visionary Thoumeaux and nearly saving Yachiru's life (although her whereabouts are unknown). However, before Kenpachi had anytime time to relax after Gremmy dug his own grave, the TGPZ Sisters (Thunderbolt, Glutton, Power, & Zombie) arrived, did considerable damage to both KEnpachi & his squadron, and is left on the floor - weakened by the combined efforts of the enemy attacks. Ichigo shows up in aiding the weakened Kenpachi. Later, we see Kenpachi appear before Mayuri Kurotsuchi, ready to be on the offense against Yhwach & the Wandenreich. 

Storyline (Raizen)

Raizen was the most powerful of the Demon Kings. During the coexistence of humans and demons together, Raizen was considered at the top of his peak - towering over Mukuro and Yomi in power and stature. When being chased by the League of Demons, Raizen was gravely injured and sought the help of a young beautiful woman who is proficient in utilizing poison. It was love at first sight and way way way way later, Yusuke was born. He has remained one of the strongest leaders next to Mukuro & Yomi, who by now have grown stronger. Ever since he met his true love, he has refused to eat humans, keeping his word to his true love to see her again.

In the Chapter Black Saga, Raizen took control of Yusuke's body in his fight against Shinobu. Ending Shinobu's life, Yusuke depises Raizen since Shinbou wasn't defeated by his hands. Yusuke realizes that Raizen was the one who took control of him, killed Shinobu, and is his descendant. In the Three Kings Saga, Yusuke, chosen by Raizen, is picked up by Hokushin as his successor. Knowing thus, Yusuke goes on ahead to challenge Raizen for killing Shinobu and to personally kick his ass. Up until his death, Yusuke relentless trained until he eventually becamee the rightful ruler of Raizen's empire. At the very end of the series, Yusuke finally comes to respect and admire his ancestral father and his spirit gives Yusuke advice to be together with Keiko and to never let her go.

Powers/Abilities (Kenpachi)

Prior to becoming a full-fledged Captain, he was renowned in swordsmanship - testing out his blade to any who oppose him. Even as a kid, Yachiru Unohana, the former 11th Division Captain & 1st Kenpachi, said that she was too much for Zaraki. As a Captain, Zaraki Kenpachi learned Kendo from Captain Yamamoto - amplifying his spirit energy a lot more than when he just used one arm in swinging his sword. Kenpachi's Zanpaktou is always in its Shikai state - amplifying his Spirit energy to the point where he has become a feared and renowned Captain. He was able to take-on both Kaname Tosen & Sajin Komamura in their Bankai states and this was way before he used Kendo on Nnoitra or found out that his Zanpaktou finally communicated with him. In fighting Yachiru Unohana to the death, he unlocked his true power and resolve. One of Kenpachi's strongest attributes is his ability to endure blow by blow by his opponents - having enhanced endurance, durability, and strength in combat. Much like a brick wall, it'll take a lot before it can truly be toppled. His Reiatsu truly is unruly when it comes to combat - exerting everything when his eyepatch is off (which conceals his Spirit Energy). As a Captain, he is one of the strongest in representing the Gotei 13. As said before, Kenpachi learned of his Zanpaktou's real name ~ Nozarashi. Although its abilities are unknown, it was able to cut down the Meteorite that Gremmy imagined and anything and everything that stood in its path. It's a huge-@$$ blade that can pretty much cut through any object. 

Powers/Abilities (Raizen)

Being a Mazoku, Raizen is one of the strongest S-class demons out there; in past he was stronger than Mukuro & Yomi in their prime. Raizen's demonic energy is up there, being able to handle just about anyone in his way. Some of Raizen's abilities include energy cutter, made by just flicking his fingers and creating energy blasts from his demonic energy. His power and skills garnered the respect and admiration of Enki & his gang, former sparring buddies of the late Raizen. As well having incredible power, he, as shown in the Chapter Black saga, can possess people as he took control of Yusuke to kill off Shinobu. His love for fighting and his strength are unparallel. 

Verdict

And the winner is…

This was a one-sided victory in my opinion. I love both these guys ~ loving the fight every minute. Both surprisingly lost to the protagonist, but the difference between the two is worlds apart. One's a former King whereas the other is a Captain-level Death God. The King has reigned for many years, but his empire crumbled. The Captain-level Death God still lives and continues to only get stronger whenever on the brink of death. Both have stood atop Death's footsteps, but came nowhere near close to opening its gates. They have had their fair share of losses and from it, have only proven time and time again that their experiences are what define them as individuals and are what give them power. However, reiterating once again from what I previously said ~ this is one-sided on the basis that Kenpachi continues to deliver much more needed development to his character. Finally attaining his Shikai was no easy feat, but he managed to and was able to f*cking cut a meteorite in half like a boss. With Raizen, he was easy to deal with Yusuke, but due to his longevity declining & his reign about to come to an end, Raizen's peak of power is minimal in comparison to how he originally was. He was on top of his game ~ outranking both Mukuro & Yomi. However with Kenpachi, I think he'd just spit at their feet, smile, and have a blast challenging the best of the best. Kenpachi has much more potential and as a result, has more to prove. He's a special war potential and it clearly shows both sides don't want to get on his bade side. With Raizen, it's true he's powerful enough to pose a legitimate threat, but I don't necessarily think he's enough to scare Kenpachi. If Kenpachi isn't scared of anything, why should he be scared of Raizen? Raizen may be the strongest S-class Demon, but Zaraki is and always will be "The" Kenpachi.

So who do you think won this matchup? Toshin Raizen from YYH or Kenpachi Zaraki from Bleach? Comment below & let me know. Look forward to BH 2 posts on Mondays & Fridays all throughout September (will be posted on weekends if and only if there is any delay). Until then, you stay classy. Here's the current score:

1) Sojiro Kusaka vs. Shinobu Sensui ~ YYH

2) Aaroniero Arruruerie vs. Elder Toguro ~ YYH

3) Renji Abarai vs. Kazuma Kuwabara ~ Bleach

4) Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez vs. Younger Toguro ~ YYH

5) Rukia Kuchiki vs. Yoko Kurama ~ Bleach

6) Tier Harribel vs. Mukuro ~ Bleach 

7) Yhwach vs. Yomi ~ Bleach 

8) Kenpachi Zaraki vs. Toshin Raizen ~ Bleach 

Bleach leads 5-3 against YYH

WBCR - Return of the X-Axis (Grade: A)

As Mayuri walks away from an explosion looking like a bad@SS, he notices that Pernida's nerves managed to latch onto his legs and Mayuri was unable to walk. He noticed that both Ikkaku & Yumichika were glaring at him and went on to praise that they didn't get involved in the fight as well as being in a similar position like Kenpachi Zaraki. Mayuri also informed them that he was able to reverse the zombification of Captain Hitsugaya & Lieutenant Matsumoto. Although it took awhile, the one downside that the process shortens their lifespan, but the fact of the matter still remains ~ they are alive now and are thankful for being given a 2nd chance Ikkaku & Yumichika put both Zaraki & Mayuri in the containers Nemu left behind and thanked him wholeheartedly for having saved their Captain's life. As Mayuri's container closed, he remarked at how far he's gone and how he was able to successfully create a Konpaku (made from rudimentary scraps) that is able to evolve on its own. He wished for a day that he'd finally step out of Kisuke Urahara's shadow and all he wants to do is relish in Urahara's possible reaction to this. The question that now boggles my mind is ~ did Mayuri Kurotsuchi die? The captions say (on the side of the page): "The Father, Knowing the growth of his daughter, begins to slip into an endless dream of self-satisfaction." That quote hints that he is either recovering and it'll take time or he's so drained/wounded from his fight that he is dying in peace from his accomplishments. We see a bare-naked Nemu (very nice btw) floating above as he sleeps. I hope he'll recover because recently, Mayuri has been showing more humanity to his character. If he were to die, then it isn't necessarily a bad way to go, but he's a very pivotal character when it comes to strategies and creations that'll benefit the Gotei 13 against any threat that may arise.

Next, we see Kisuke Urahara & Captain Shunsui Kyoraku alongside Renji, Rukia, Nanao, & Shinji running around looking for possible enemy encounters. From the distance we see Sternritter "X" Lille Barro about to snipe any incoming threat that may come his way. He goes on to explain that their are lunatics, idiots, or both that just decide to charge without a moment's hesitation that it could potentially be a setup. He shoots Kyoraku and goes on to explain that he actually held Shinigami to a high standard. However, turns out that the Kyoraku that Lille shot was a fake and the real one showed up and disarmed his weapon. Now, it's a battle between Kyoraku & Barro. That concludes the chapter.

In all honesty, I dug this chapter. I loved Mayuri's quick-thinking and how much more role he's been given. People think he's just a madman, but underneath that is a man who cares for his daughter despite the fact that he'll never emit any sort of emotion indicating otherwise. It's hinted at, but never pictures on his face. Now, it seems that he & Nemu will recover or both died....who knows. If he lives, then that's good news & we get to see him come up with more tricks up his sleeve, but if he does ~ then it's a sad departure from what could've been. And finally, another fight shows up ~ Kyoraku & Barro is going to be epic (I hope). Also, it's nice to see Hitsugaya & Rangiku up again ready to kick @$$. Ikkaku & Yumichika thanking Mayuri fo saving Zaraki's life is an indicator that Mayuri has garnered much more respect after having reversed the zombification process. I give this week's chapter an A.

What did you think of the chapter? Did it satisfy and deliver or just outright sucked and disappointed? Comment below and let me know. Look forward to WBCRs on Thursdays (when chapter's released) Until then, you stay classy as always.

Watchlist #50 - Kill La Kill

We've just reached the 50th Watch-List post and it's only appropriate that I discuss with you my favorite Anime. Many of you would think that Bleach is my favorite Anime hands down, but it's not. My favorite Anime of all time is none other than the renowned Kill La Kill. Practically all the posters/wall-scrolls in my room are made up of KLK as well as possessing a wooden replica of the Scissor Blade & a KLK themed backpack. I also have KLK keychains that are latched onto my car keys and, at each Anime Con I attend, will most likely end up buying something KLK related. So yeah, Kill La Kill has has a profound influence on my Anime viewing. Now if you ask if its mainly because of the Fan-service, then no that's not the primary reason why I watch it (though it is a reason). Kill La Kill has great over-the-top action scenes, amazing visuals, memorable characters, and a killer soundtrack followed by the theme song Before my Body is Dry (Don't lose your way). Produced by Studio Trigger, Licensed by Madman Entertainment, and has broadcasted on CrunchyRoll & Toonami, Kill La Kill is a phenomenon that cannot be missed. I watched the subbing/dubbing of it and both hold up pretty well. So if you ask me, what's the story ~ here's my condensed version of the plot: A girl named Ryuko enters Honnouji Academy to find the person who killed her father & stole 1/2 of a scissor blade. However, Honnouji Academy isn'y any ordinary school ~ students possess Goku uniforms ranging from 1-3 stars and it enhances their strength, durability, agility, & sensitivity. It's up to Ryuko to adjust to her life in Honnouji Academy while finding his father's killer. That sums it up in the first 13 episode. Kill La Kill has 24 episodes and, much like any Anime, also had a OVA released sometime later (so technically 25). I can go on and on about why I praise Kill La Kill, but it's just an pretty damn entertaining Anime. It certainly does parody Ecchi/Fan-service and you know what, that's pretty refreshing considering that it seems that its the norm of most Romance/Drama Anime is to sexualize girls by showing off their body parts/upskirts. Studio Trigger in making both Kill La Kill & Gurren Lagann have proven that they can make some pretty damn interesting Anime while making it over-the-top, giving it a lot of badassery, & also a lot of heart. I will stop here for now, but I highly suggest taking a look at Kill La Kill (KLK). If I could, I'd want to meet the Director of the Anime, Hiroyuki Imaishi and Illustrator of the the Manga, Ryo Akizuki and give them both high-fives, hugs, & a selfie proclaiming that I LOVE KILL LA KILL. Now that I've covered 50 Watch-list posts, the 100th better be more grand. 

I hope you enjoyed this week's Watch-list post. Watch-List posts will be on Wednesdays. Until then, stay classy as always. Don't forget to check out the other Watch-list posts (in order):

1) Tenchi Muyo

2) Cowboy Bebop

3) Trigun

4) Dragonball Z

5) School Rumble 

6) Is This A Zombie?

7) Fairy Tail

8) Omamori Himari

9) FLCL

10) Gurren Lagann 

11) Shin-Chan 

12) Tenchi Muyo GXP

13) Tenchi Muyo In Tokyo

14) Power Puff Girls Z

15) Kirby!

16) Samurai Champloo 

17) Hanaukyo Maid Team 

18) True Tears 

19) Zombie Powder (Manga)

20) Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai 

21) Teen Titans
22) Yu-Gi-Oh
23) Rosario+Vampire
24) Death Note
25) Pokemon
26) Digimon
27) Big-O
28) X-Men (Anime Version)
29) D-Frag
30) Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun
31) Akame Ga Kill
32) Invaders of the Rokujyōma!?
33) OniAi
34) Ben-To
35) Testament of a Sister New Devil
36) Minamoto-kun Monogatari (Manga)
37) My Love Story (Ore Monogatari!)
38) Space Dandy
39) Wanna be the strongest in the world
40) When Marnie Was There (Film ~ Studio Ghibli)
41) The Garden of Words (Film ~ Makoto Shinkai)
42) Song of the Sea (Film ~ Tomm Moore)  
43) Nagasarete Airantou
44) DBZ: Resurrection 'F' (Film)
45) Bikini Warriors (First Impressions)
46) Yu Yu Hakusho
47) Monster Musume (First Impressions)
48) Code Lyoko
49) Ninja Scroll (Film)
50) Kill La Kill 

Food for Thought #4 - What is Ecchi?

In any form of entertainment, there is always a target audience. Not everyone likes the same thing and interests differ. Interests & Aspects of entertainment are separated into categories called genres. There's a lot of genres to cover: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Romance, Drama, Horror, etc. Primarily though, most forms of entertainment are split between two specific terms: Fiction & Nonfiction. Fiction, as you are well aware, are events that take place in a fictional setting meaning that it isn't based on any real-time event where nonfiction is based on something that did happen in real-time. Movies, TV Shows, & Cartoons fall under this category and, for the most part, it's primarily compiled of fictional characters, settings, and are filled with fictional themes that tackle various aspects that range from comical to serious. Anime, like TV Shows, has a wide range of genres, but there is one specific genre that I'll be covering today that seems only Anime is capable of doing. That term is titled "Ecchi."

What is "Ecchi?" Ecchi is a sub-genre of Romance/Harem & is pretty much Fan-Service. I have not once seen a Harem where Ecchi wasn't involved. Ecchi pretty much is a primary theme in the Anime, is this a good or bad thing? For many, it's a pretty damn good thing whereas others don't take too kindly to it and rather watch something else. Ecchi is a word in Japanese that primarily translates to anything relating to lewd conduct. In Anime, genitalia or intercourse is never seen, but rather is implied. Call it sexual innuendo, mixed messages that come across as either perverted or hinted as repulsive. So why show Ecchi? Well, I can sum it up in one word: FANSERVICE. Fans take kindly to see lewdness in Anime such as bouncing boobs that defy logic, panty shots of women, and situations in sex is implied. There are a lot of Ecchi Anime, but ones that I think are perfect examples of Ecchi include (but not limited to):

1) To-Love-Ru

2) Monster Musume

3) Highschool DxD

4) Kill La Kill

To-Love-Ru is, if not, the most Ecchi-est Anime/Manga I've seen and it pains me to say it, but it's so motherf*cking beautiful to see a man with so much kindness & bad luck to be able to get into the scenarios he ends up in. An ongoing theme is the main character falling and somehow getting tangled within a girls' boobs or pussy. It's hilarious to see, but the audience is so jealous that we can't help but imagine ourselves in his shoes. To have that kind of bad luck & have a way with women, it's definitely the work of fiction. The other Anime(s) I've listed to have various degrees of Ecchi, but by far a show that completely parodies Ecchi & Fan-service is Kill La Kill. The outfits, the over-the-top shots pictures, & the logic that definitely defies it ~ KLK is parodying the boobs, panty shots, nosebleeds from men, and OMGs from everyone. 

So do I recommend Ecchi? I'll admit it's not for everyone, but if you're into fictional animated boobs & panty shots, I don't see what's wrong with it. It's a work of fiction after, none of this matters in real life ~ just know the difference is all. The whole emphasis of Fan-service & Ecchi is to encompass the idea of sexualizing people & scenarios and somehow turning it into comedy.That's my interpretation of it anyways, but there are a lot more ways to describe what Ecchi is. 

Food for Thought? Comment below and let me know your thoughts on this topic. FFTs will be posted every Tuesday. Like always, you stay classy as always! Here's the order of FFTs

1) Anime: Subbed or Dubbed?

2) When does a Harem become stale?

3) What's Shipping?

4) What's Ecchi?

Bleach Hakusho 2 Round 7: Yhwach vs. Yomi

VS.

Welcome back to another installment of Bleach Hakusho where I pit the worlds of Bleach & Yu Yu Hakusho (YYH abbreviated). So far, YYH and Bleach are tied 3-3, but within September, anything can happen. Bleach Hakusho 2 Fight Night posts will be on Mondays & Fridays all throughout September. Without further ado, let's start off the 7th Matchup ~ Yhwach vs. Yomi. Take into account that Storyline & Powers/Abilities are the deciding factors in these Fight Night posts. Let's jam! 

Storyline (Yhwach)

Yhwach is the Father of the Quincy (also referred to as Your Majesty) and current major antagonist in Bleach's Thousand Year Blood War Arc. As a child, he could not hear, speak, or even move. Knowing this, Yhwach was fearless and never cried. Those around Yhwach treated him with reverence because upon who touched Yhwach gradually found something that they lacked beforehand. This only happened because Yhwach possessed the power to share out of his soul. Thus, anyone who came in contact with him shared a part of his soul and was able to heal their wounds (that person's own soul could have never done that). Treating him as a special being, Yhwach was always met with people and as he continuously shared out his soul unto everyone - Yhwach's own body became to function. He was able to harness his senses and as a result, he learned of the name people chanted to him - YHWACH. He realized that the very name people gave him is the name of the God that the people worshipped. As said above, he is the Quincy - the founder, creator, and King. His very blood flows unto every living Quincy. 1000 years ago, Yhwach and a man named Genryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto (Aka the former 1st Head Captain of the Gotei 13) met face-to-face and Yamamoto was unable to deliver the finishing blow unto Yhwach. He is the first person to bear witness to Yamamoto's Bankai - Zanka no Tachi and thus has a thorough understanding of how his Bankai works. Supposedly after the two fought, Yhwach lost his powers. Quincy Folklore suggested that "The Sealed King," after 900 years, would regain consciousness, after 90 ~ regain intellect, and after 9 ~ absorb the power of every "impure" Quincy to make their abilities his very own. As a result of what is known as Auswahlen, Ichigo & Uryu's Mothers died and lost their powers. This leaves Uryu as being the last "impure" Quincy alive. Yhwach reveals that this song (the absorption of "impure" Quincy) is known as Kaiser Gesang (Praise-Song of the Sacred Emperor in Japanese) and has another verse stating that the "Sealed King" will have the world after 9 days. During As Nodt's recovery in the hospital, Yhwach visited him and gave him power and sometime during the 17-month after Aizen's defeat, The Wandenreich conquered Hueco Mundo and currently hold Tier Harribel as hostage ~ using Hueco Mundo as another stepping stone to invading the Soul Society. It is also revealed that Yhwach intends to hire the assistance of former antagonist, Aizen Sousuke, but he turned down the offer. As of now: Ichigo Kurosaki, Kenpachi Zaraki, & Aizen Sousuke are known as the special war potentials. It is also revealed that the manifestation of Zangetsu that Ichigo saw was, in fact, Yhwach 1000 years ago. 

As two Arrancar(s) by the names Luder Friegen & Asuguiaro Ebern served under Yhwach and reported to the Wandenreich base, they were instantly killed for getting into a disagreement and for Asuguiaro failing to detain Ichigo Kurosaki. It is revealed that the Arrancars' deaths will not do any potential damage to the Wandenreich and that their deaths serve more as a stepping stone for the invasion of the Soul Society. While Ichigo is currently fighting Quilge Opie, Yhwach & the Wandenreich take this opportunity to invade the Gotei 13 and reveal a stunning ability - stealing Bankai. As Soul Society is plunged into war, it seems as if the Wandenreich have the upper hand as they stole most of the Captain's Bankai(s) and all that was missing was Captain Yamamoto's. Royd Lloyd, a former Sternritter that has the ability to mimic Yhwach in his entirety, fought and tired out Captain Yamamoto up until his death. With the Head Captain tired and drained after revealing his Bankai, the real Yhwach shows up, steals Captain Yamamoto's Bankai, and mercilessly cuts him down until he is nothing more than ash. Just as Yhwach kills Captain Yamamoto, Ichigo shows up from behind and tries to stop only ~ only for Yhwach to figure out that Ichigo used Blut Vene and stopping the fight from going any further. Aizen Sousuke, the former antagonist, was able to distort Yhwach's senses just a little after their little meeting. Yhwach & the Wandenreich soon retreat while the Gotei 13 recover from their injuries and the huge loss of the Head Captain. As Yhwach summons the Sternritter together, he reveals his successor and also given the letter "A" to be Uryu Ishida. This angers and confuses the Sternritter, but Yhwach still stands by his decision. As the Wandenreich invade the Soul Society again, Yhwach watches as his Sternritter fight the Shinigami (he witnesses both Mask De Masculine & Gremmy's loss). Yhwach managed to overcome the 0 division & now is currently the Soul King after murdering him. 

Storyline (Yomi)

Before Yomi was one the 3 Kings of the Demon World, he was a bandit alongside Yoko Kurama's ragtime of no-good looters. His ambition led him to stumble in the ranks of Yoko's command - wanting to go off doing his own thing in hopes it'll be the quickest way to power. However, time and time again Yoko saved him, but there was one particular day where he didn't come ~ leaving Yomi to die due to his careless . The day a formidable assassin actually hired by Yoko took away Yomi's sight ~ was it a premonition of good faith or a gesture of betrayal? To Yomi, it seemed as if it was both as he'd rise up to the ranks as being one of the strongest S-class demons out there and one of the 3 Ruling Demon Kings of Demon World up until Enki took control. Even after losing his throne, he comes to respect Yusuke as a fighter and as a man who changed Yomi's view of the world.

Yomi, after losing his sight to an assassin that was hired by Yoko himself, spend a majority of his life trying that assassin and he was successful. Yomi then took it upon himself to hire Yoko's help in thwarting Raizen & Mukuro's power, but deep down the seeds of hatred between these two bloomed. Yomi blackmailed Kurama into doing his dirty work - bringing in 6 Demons up to S-Class level. With this, Yomi's empire seemed like it was ready to take control, but Yusuke's decision in wanting to set up a Demon Tournament to decide who'll be the King had his empire crumble. Yomi fought his way up to Yusuke's level and it ended in a draw, but Yomi managed to stay up because of his son's encouragement. In the end, his empire crumbled and he ventured forth with his son all about the Demon World - having newfound peace after his fight with Yusuke.

Powers/Abilities (Yhwach)

Being the Creator & Leader of a group of species known as the Quincy, Yhwach's very spiritual power SURPASSES that of an Espada (as seen when Tier Harribel is held hostage as she utterly lost to him) and he is the only one able to wield Captain Yamamoto's Bankai. He is also a expert swordsman, being able to repel a Captain in combat and, as said above, is known for his soul distribution ~ having others share a part of his soul, drink his blood, and in doing so - gets stronger and lives longer. If, however, he does not do this ~ then of course he becomes weakened. Like any other Quincy, he is also able to absorb and solidify reishi just from everything in the Soul Society, use Blut Vene (a defense mechanism that repels attacks when skin is under attack), Hirenkyaku (Quincy's version of Sonido or Shunpo to move incredibly fast), has enhanced strength/durability/agility, & is a hand-to-hand combatant that was able to repel Ichigo's attacks and escape unscathed. With any Quincy, Yhwach is able to fire arrows without the use of an actual bow or weapon that was able to kill Captain Yamamoto and his very own reishi broadsword that was enough to cut Captain Yamamoto in two.

Powers/Abilities (Yomi)

Being an S-Class demon, Yomi is incredibly strong and possesses a immeasurable amount of demon energy because of his status as one of the 3 Kings of Demon World. Yomi, despite his blindness, is on par with the other 2 Kings of the Demon World, Raizen & Mukuro. Yomi was able to stand on par with Yusuke, but favored that if he ever fought him again, he's probably lose. Yomi is incredibly gifted as being one of the strongest demons in the Demon World, being able to create a transparent absorption wall that is able to defend itself against various demon attacks, fire limitless energy blasts, and create a tornado energy blast from charging his fists w/his demon energy. Aside from that, Yomi is able to amplify his demon energy, which enhances his energy blasts and punches when he fought against his son, Shura, and Yusuke. 

Verdict

And the winner is...

I will openly admit that this match-up was one-sided to begin with. We have a powerful Demon who rose to the ranks, but opened up to peace in the end whereas we have a Creator of a species who rose to the ranks AND now is 10x more powerful after having murdered the Soul King, the very being that balances out the worlds. One knows compassion, humility, & patience whereas the other only knows of "peace" and despises justice & honor. These two couldn't be any more different, so why pit them both together? Well, they are the last antagonist of Bleach/YYH so it's only fitting that I pit them together. However, in terms of storyline & powers/abilities ~ Yhwach has much more to offer. Born without movement, sound, or even vocals ~ Yhwach, from the beginning, was treated as a deity. A gifted child who'll eventually share a part of him unto everyone and be praised miraculously as a result. Yhwach was the first person to challenge the former 1st Division Captain of the renowned Gotei 13, Genryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto. It wouldn't be til years later that he'd come back and once and for all kill the old man. To be able to kill the strongest Shinigami without leaving a trace of his existence, that's saying something. Then we have Yomi, a former bandit turned King once his sight was taken from him from his former leader, Yoko Kurama. Yomi explained that he doesn't blame Yoko Kurama for taking away his sight as he was able to have a bigger sense of the world around him. It changed his perspective and for what it's worth, it did for the better. Yhwach doesn't have any time for that and, to be honest, would mop the floor with Yomi every single time. A God vs. A King ~ which title has more gravitas to it? In this case, A God has much more weight to it. Yhwach is the winner. 

So who do you think won this matchup? Yomi from YYH or Yhwach from Bleach? Comment below & let me know. Look forward to BH 2 posts on Mondays & Fridays all throughout September (will be posted on weekends if and only if there is any delay). Until then, you stay classy. Here's the current score:

1) Sojiro Kusaka vs. Shinobu Sensui ~ YYH

2) Aaroniero Arruruerie vs. Elder Toguro ~ YYH

3) Renji Abarai vs. Kazuma Kuwabara ~ Bleach

4) Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez vs. Younger Toguro ~ YYH

5) Rukia Kuchiki vs. Yoko Kurama ~ Bleach

6) Tier Harribel vs. Mukuro ~ Bleach 

7) Yhwach vs. Yomi ~ Bleach 

Bleach leads 4-3 against YYH

Bleach Hakusho 2 Round 6: Tier Harribel vs. Mukuro

VS.

Welcome back to another installment of Bleach Hakusho where I pit the worlds of Bleach & Yu Yu Hakusho (YYH abbreviated). I do apologize that there was a delay in this week's post, I've been quite busy with school & work. However, like I've said, it'll be posted on the weekends if delayed. So far, YYH leads against Bleach 3-2, but within September, anything can happen. Bleach Hakusho 2 Fight Night posts will be on Mondays & Fridays all throughout September. Without further ado, let's start off the 6th Matchup ~ Tier Harribel vs. Mukuro. Take into account that Storyline & Powers/Abilities are the deciding factors in these Fight Night posts. Let's jam! 

Storyline (Harribel)

Before Harribel was the 3rd Espada under Aizen's tutelage, Harribel was trying to stay alive in Hueco Mundo as a Vasto Lorde-class Menos. When Apacci (later would be one of Harribel's fraccion) is being attacked by 2 male Adjuchas, Harribel steps in to save her. Afterwards, Apacci introduces Harribel to Mila Rose & Sung-Sun ~ a fated meeting of the 3rd Espada and her underlings. Harribel brought up the idea of working together as a group not only to survive together, but to defend themselves from any threat that may come to them. Harribel's philosophy on power is that she'd rather work in a group than to sacrifice others for her own benefit (this means she's a team-player). It wouldn't be long before Harribel & her new comrades were faced with a new terror - the King of Hueco Mundo, Barragan Louisenbairn. Her refusal to yield to the King only made things worse as Baraggan's underlings, one by one, attacked Harribel & her new comrads. Baraggan personally was tired of Harribel's rebellious attitude and refusal to yield to him. Since then, Harribel & her comrades had to stick close since Baraggan was after them. A henchmen of Baraggan's appeared and tried to do away with Harribel only to have her own life saved....by Aizen Sousuke. Aizen gave Harribel a choice to join his ranks ~ to protect not only herself, but the lives of her own comrades. Hearing Aizen's concept of sacrifice, Harribel & her Fraccion joined him.

Harribel isn't formerly introduced as of yet, but is briefly seen at the birth of Wonderweiss Margela and at the debriefing of Ulquiorra & Yammy's visit to Karakura Town. She is rightfully seen and introduced when Aizen summons the Espada about the intruders in Hueco Mundo (Ichigo, Uryu, & Chad). She is seen bickering with 5th Espada, Nnoitra, about the intruders. Just as Nnoitra asks her if she was scared, Harribel was quick to turn angry, but is stopped when Grimmjow decides to leave the meeting in order to pursue the intruders. When Grimmjow & Ichigo finally have their anticipated match, Harribel & her Fraccion are seen watching from a distance, but Harribel notices something? The opponent Grimmjow was fighting, to her, didn't feel human ~ it felt like it was an Espada vs. Espada fight. She is in shock of how Ichigo's strength was on par with Grimmjow's & that it was, as I said before, inhuman. Tier Harribel shows up later on alongside Starrk & Baraggan to fight the resistance in Fake Karakura Town. She, alongside her Fraccion, fight the 10th division. Hitsugaya, Captain of the 10th Division, is surprised that Harribel is strong and is only the 3rd Espada. An expert iswordsman and being highly perceptive & tactical in battle, she was able to discern all of Hitsugaya's attacks. It wouldn't be long before Harribel releases her Resurreccion - Tiburon (Imperial Shark Empress). However, she didn't ascertain the full extent of one of Hitsugaya's abilities and is frozen-in place temporarily by this attack (Hyoten Hyakkaso). However, it seems that Harribel has yet to face defeat as Wonderweiss appears and breaks Harribel from the ice that imprisoned her ~ ready to face Hitsugaya once more. All seemed to be in Harribel's favor up until the Visored showed up to back the Shinigami in their confrontation against the Espada. Lisa, Hiyori, & Hitsugaya triple-teamed her, but Harribel was able to tactically and carefully maneuver her way out of each and every one of their attacks. As Starrk & Barragan fell, Harribel is seen being the only remaining Espada. Seeing that it was futile and that they served their purpose, Aizen betrays and mercilessly cuts down Harribel. Angered by this sudden betrayal from her savior, she retaliates only to be struck down by Aizen & his Kyoka Suigetsu. After Aizen's imprisonment, she becomes the new ruler of Hueco Mundo. However, a new threat shows up known as the Wandenreich and Yhwach quickly dispatched Harribel. Harribel is last seen being held captive.

Storyline (Mukuro)

Mukuro, in YYH, was responsible for retrieving Hiei to serve under her empire in attempts to thwart Raizen & Yomi's ambitions. She helped trained hiei to eventually reach S-class by giving him rigorous tests of endurance and patience. She & Hiei developed an affinity for another as they share a history of displeasure, loss, and humiliation during their upbringing. She, alongside Hiei, sided on Yusuke's proposed Demon Tournament for all out control of Demon World. In this, she fought against Hiei and won, garnering the respect of Hiei as well as her freedom from the shackles that bound her to the past. She goes on to face Natsume and winning narrowly, but eventually lost to Enki, who would then be the Ruler of Demon World. Mukuro remains alongside Hiei, patrolling Demon World's program to ensure that any humans who accidentally walk into this realm are sent back home unharmed. She lives with Hiei in her castle and is heavily hinted in wearing the Tear Stone Necklace that Yukina gave to Hiei. 

Powers/Abilities (Harribel)

Being the 3rd Espada, she possesses incredible spiritual power. As said previously above - Harribel is a master swordsman, being able to perceive and tactically maneuver her way from Hitsugaya's attacks. With any Hollow, she is capable of performing Cero, Sonidl, & Descorrer (this allows her to move freely between worlds). However, she is most proficient in her Zanpaktou ~ Tiburon. In her Resurreccion form, not only is her power, agility, and durability enhanced ~ but she has a onslaught of attacks that prove to be devastating on Captain Hitsugaya & her main basis of attacks is based on water manipulation. By garnering her spiritual power onto the tip of her blade, she is able to fire a yellow-colored projectile called Ola Azul (Blue Wave Gun). Harribel is able to fire tridents (infusing her sword with her spiritual power that fires high-force slashes in a series of three shots ~ being able to cut through anyone at ease). Her attack, Hirviendo (Burning Current) ~ she can control and manipulate her boiling water just by pointing her blade in any direction. La Gota (War Drop) allows Harribel to condense large amounts of water around her blade before firing it as a blast that resembles much like a shark tooth (this attack alone was enough to destroy houses). And her last attack, Cascada (Cutting Waterfall) ~ allows Harribel to launch a surge of water at her opponent which is large enough to cover several town blocks.

Powers/Abilities (Mukuro)

As seen in the picture, Mukuro, being an S-class dmon & one of the Three Kings of Demon World, is incredibly powerful. Despite her horrible upbringing, her powers are no laughing matter as it defies the very foundation of all demons - being able to slice through the 3rd dimension. This God-like ability allows for possibilities as it limits her opponents from coming into contact with the dimensional slashes as well as create a barrier for herself where her opponents can't touch her. Aside from this impressive ability, she is able to perform telekinesis and create deadly energy blasts at the palm of her hand. Going back to the picture, she effortlessly beats down Hiei despite his relentless training by her side. She was even able to completely destroy Hiei's Black Dragon technique. She truly is someone you don't want to F with.

Verdict

And the winner is....

Reiterating once again in the beginning, I do apologize that this post was delayed. I'm balancing out school, work, and spending time with family/friends. So if a post if delayed, it'll be posted on the weekends before midnight. Going back to this Match, I took a better look into these two pasts. Both are tragic to say the least ~ one was damaged physically, sexually, and psychologically whereas the other was damaged physically. Mukuro's upbringing definitely was more of a tear-jerker and it's all the more satisfying to see her grow into a woman who'll one day be free from her shackled. However, the main concern is that she ascended into power whereas Harribel was saved by Aizen and became only his underling in courtesy for being saved. Later, Harribel would ascend to power only to be beaten by the Wandenreich. So in terms of storyline, Mukuro's is much more tragic. Then, there's powers/abilities where I think there's more layer to Harribel's powers/abilities than there are Mukuro. Mukuro can slice through the 3rd dimension, a god-like power that is unrivaled within the Demon World. Harribel's power is focused on water in all its shapes and forms. So it's obvious that Mukuro's powers/abilities are much more eye-catching, right? Well, not in this case. Mukuro barely scrapped the surface of what she is capable of whereas with Harribel, she went all out. She was a threat before she even released her Resurreccion and even her opponents were either matched or weren't on par with her skills. These were the points I got out of the Match

1) Mukuro's upbringing is much more tragic with Harribel's, Although Mukuro's ascension into power is fascinating to see, Harribel, from the start, has always been lying under the shadows. It took a betrayal to realize that she was destined for greatness, but was quick to be beaten by an unknown enemy. 

2) Mukuro's abilities are unrivaled to anyone else in the Demon World, but she mainly utilized her enhanced strength, durability, & durability to overcome the odds against Hiei. With Harribel, she definitely threw more punches & was more bite than bark when it came to displaying what she could so in her Resurreccion form.

I'm giving this victory to Harribel on the basis that I think there's more potential to her character. She was saved by Aizen, served under him, and was betrayed by him. She herself has been beaten & left broken many times and now, it seems that she potentially could be a possible reason why there'll likely be a truce between the Soul Society & Hueco Mundo. I felt really bad for Harribel from the beginning whereas with Mukuro, I felt bad for her upbringing, but she seemed perfectly content afterwards. Even with God-like powers, she didn't demonstrate much. Harribel threw in much more punches & had a large assortment of attacks that all proved devastating. I want to see Harribel alive and more importantly, what she is capable of now after the time-skip. Sorry Mukuro, I know you're a bad@SS that can cut dimensions & sh*t, but with a very minor appearance in comparison to Yomi & Mukuro ~ Harribel takes the cake just on the basis that there's room for potential/improvement. 

So who do you think won this matchup? Mukuro from YYH or Tier Harribel from Bleach? Comment below & let me know. Look forward to BH 2 posts on Mondays & Fridays all throughout September (will be posted on weekends if and only if there is any delay). Until then, you stay classy. Here's the current score:

1) Sojiro Kusaka vs. Shinobu Sensui ~ YYH

2) Aaroniero Arruruerie vs. Elder Toguro ~ YYH

3) Renji Abarai vs. Kazuma Kuwabara ~ Bleach

4) Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez vs. Younger Toguro ~ YYH

5) Rukia Kuchiki vs. Yoko Kurama ~ Bleach

6) Tier Harribel vs. Mukuro ~ Bleach 

YYH and Bleach are tied 3-3. 

WBCR - Save the Cerebrum (Grade: A)

Nemu delivers a fatal blow to Pernida and as she had a moment of relief, Pernida's nerves latched onto her and.....she was gone. Nothing but blood & meat remained and Mayuri was in disbelief of the events that had just taken place. Mayuri has just lost his lieutenant and prized creation....why should a madman be worried over death? Szayelapporo makes his appearance as a figment of Mayuri's imagination and he pesters Mayuri to no end about their previous confrontation. As a scientist, the two constantly bickered over whether they should emit emotion. The moment Mayuri felt despair, it hinted at a supposed sign of weakness on Mayuri's part as explained by Szayelapporo. Mayuri & Szayelapporo's ideals clashed - Was Nemu a perfect being? To Szayelapporo, not even remotely close because she died. Mayuri, hoever, saw it differently and was dumbfounded that his old enemy would preach to him once more. Mayuri snaps out of his trance and says for Pernida to devour Nemu as it sees fit. Mayuri, however, goes in the middle and takes back the cerebrum. Mayuri then explains that Pernida would die before it had the chance of digesting Nemu. When Nemu was made, a forced accelerated cellular breakdown organ was imbedded within her. And within just explaining, Pernida exploded. First off I was technically right when I saw Nemu sacrificed herself in order to save Mayuri, but I'm also wrong because so long as the cerebrum is fine ~ then Nemu can be made again. Her memories, her functions, & her overall position wouldn't change. Not going to lie, the past couple of chapters involving Nemu have been pretty interesting and I wouldn't be lying if I said that Nemu is f*cking hot. Nemu didn't die..her vessel may be gone, but the heart of it in the hands of Mayuri. This illustrates that Nemu's death did signify Mayuri feeling despair, but at that moment ~ all Mayuri could do was save his lieutenant/daughter. This builds a level of love that Mayuri has for Nemu and although he'll probably never express it, the actions he took to save the cerebrum were heroic. It was probably the first time he wasn't perceived as a madman. Mayuri could've scrapped the idea and make another creation, but he went above and beyond ~ he values Nemu over everything and anything. It's been awhile, but I got to give this week's chapter a A. Pernida is no more (hopefully) and hopefully we'll see Nemu back and active again.

What did you think of the chapter? Did it satisfy and deliver or just outright sucked and disappointed? Comment below and let me know. Look forward to WBCRs on Thursdays (when chapter's released) Until then, you stay classy as always.

Watchlist #49 - Ninja Scroll (Film)

One of most epic, nostalgic, gruesome, and over-the-top Anime films I've ever seen was titled Ninja Scroll. For those of you who don't know, Ninja Scroll is an Anime movie released in 1993 (was released in 1995 for Western audiences), directed by Yoshiaki Kawajiri, and features some pretty bad@$$ fight sequences, gruesome visualization of blood, & some impressive animation for its time. This was my first Anime film that I saw with my brothers and I got to say, even to this day ~ it brings back a lot of nostalgia. Set in feudal Japan, Ninja Scroll stars a vagabond who sets out to stop an enemy from achieving his goal of living in a Golden paradise while also trying to stop the incoming plague that is causing death amongst villages. Along the way he meets a princess and a shady monk and together, the three are able to bring an end to madness....but at a cost. Ninja Scroll's ending is bittersweet as it entails how tragic life is and how much weight it carries. The vagabond and princess are from different worlds, but oddly enough ~ the two developed an affection for one another after countlessly saving one another and treating each other with respect & humility. So it's bittersweet to see the princess die in the Vagabond's hands, but also illustrates that life shouldn't judge others based on differences. The vagabond clearly is the star of the film and, though we get to know more of his backstory, he was just a man wandering around until he was suddenly attacked by a group of thugs. This film, I will admit, isn't fully developed and I think focuses more on the appeal of the action & animation than its story, but nonetheless was pretty damn entertaining to see just some over-the-top action and NC-17 blood & gore. Let me tell ya, there's a lot of explicit content in this film. A man's arms can pulled from his body, there's a rape scene, and each of the antagonists are all given gruesome deaths. So yeah, don't show this film if you're squeamish....it isn't for the weak of heart. If you want a film that delivers when it comes to to story, you're not gonna get it here. If, however, you're looking for a solid action film w/the over-the-top fight scenes, a lot of blood & gore, and is from the 90s ~ this is for you. 

I hope you enjoyed this week's Watch-list post. Watch-List posts will be posted on Wednesdays. Until then, stay classy as always. Don't forget to check out the other Watch-list posts (in order):

1) Tenchi Muyo

2) Cowboy Bebop

3) Trigun

4) Dragonball Z

5) School Rumble 

6) Is This A Zombie?

7) Fairy Tail

8) Omamori Himari

9) FLCL

10) Gurren Lagann 

11) Shin-Chan 

12) Tenchi Muyo GXP

13) Tenchi Muyo In Tokyo

14) Power Puff Girls Z

15) Kirby!

16) Samurai Champloo 

17) Hanaukyo Maid Team 

18) True Tears 

19) Zombie Powder (Manga)

20) Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai 

21) Teen Titans
22) Yu-Gi-Oh
23) Rosario+Vampire
24) Death Note
25) Pokemon
26) Digimon
27) Big-O
28) X-Men (Anime Version)
29) D-Frag
30) Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun
31) Akame Ga Kill
32) Invaders of the Rokujyōma!?
33) OniAi
34) Ben-To
35) Testament of a Sister New Devil
36) Minamoto-kun Monogatari (Manga)
37) My Love Story (Ore Monogatari!)
38) Space Dandy
39) Wanna be the strongest in the world
40) When Marnie Was There (Film ~ Studio Ghibli)
41) The Garden of Words (Film ~ Makoto Shinkai)
42) Song of the Sea (Film ~ Tomm Moore)  
43) Nagasarete Airantou
44) DBZ: Resurrection 'F' (Film)
45) Bikini Warriors (First Impressions)
46) Yu Yu Hakusho
47) Monster Musume (First Impressions)
48) Code Lyoko
49) Ninja Scroll (Film)