Kyoto Tachibana S.H.S. Band – Unofficial Fan Blog




Thursday, May 29, 2025

Manga vs Anime

Gemini: 
"Manga" and "Anime" are two distinct but closely related forms of Japanese storytelling and entertainment. Understanding their differences and similarities is key to appreciating both!
What They Are:
 * Manga (漫画): This refers to Japanese comics and graphic novels. They are typically printed in black and white (though color manga exists), read from right-to-left, and encompass a vast array of genres for all age groups. The artist and often writer of a manga is called a "mangaka."
 * Anime (アニメ): This refers to Japanese animation. It includes animated television series, films, OVAs (Original Video Animations), and ONAs (Original Net Animations). While much anime is adapted from popular manga, it can also be based on light novels, video games, or be entirely original stories. In Japan, "anime" broadly refers to all animation, but internationally it specifically denotes animation produced in Japan.
Key Differences:
| Feature | Manga | Anime |
|---|---|---|
| Medium | Print (physical books, digital comics) | Animated visual media (TV shows, movies, streaming) |
| Format | Static images, panels, speech bubbles, text | Moving images, sound (voice acting, music, sound effects) |
| Color | Primarily black and white (cost-effective) | Full color |
| Pacing | Reader-controlled; generally slower, more introspective; can delve into detail easily | Director-controlled; often faster-paced, especially for action; can sometimes rush plot |
| Production | Often by a single mangaka or small team | Large teams (animators, directors, voice actors, musicians, etc.) |
| Cost/Time | Generally faster and cheaper to produce | More expensive and time-consuming to produce |
| Originality | Often the original source material for a story | Can be original, but very often an adaptation of manga (or other sources) |
| Sensory Input | Visuals, text (dialogue, narration, SFX) | Visuals, sound (dialogue, music, sound effects, ambience) |
Similarities:
 * Distinctive Art Style: Both share the characteristic Japanese animation/comic art style, often featuring large eyes, expressive facial features, dynamic action lines, and stylized character designs.
 * Narrative Depth: Both delve into complex storylines, character development, and often tackle mature or philosophical themes, going beyond typical "cartoons."
 * Genre Diversity: They cover virtually every genre imaginable: action, adventure, fantasy, sci-fi, romance, comedy, drama, slice-of-life, horror, sports, historical, and many more.
 * Cultural Influence: Both are powerful cultural exports from Japan, influencing global pop culture, fashion, and storytelling.
 * Dedicated Fandoms: Both mediums cultivate passionate and dedicated fanbases worldwide who engage in discussions, fan art, merchandise collecting, and more.
Pros & Cons (from a fan's perspective):
Manga:
 * Pros:
   * Original Story: You get the story directly from the mangaka's vision, often before the anime is made.
   * Pacing Control: You can read at your own speed, reread panels, or skip ahead.
   * More Detail: Manga can often include more intricate details, subtle expressions, and inner monologues that might be cut for time in anime.
   * Less Filler: Manga rarely has "filler" arcs, unlike some long-running anime that add original content to avoid catching up to the manga.
   * Artwork Purity: You see the mangaka's original artwork without animation studio adaptations.
   * Cost: Often cheaper per chapter/volume than buying anime discs or subscriptions if you consume a lot.
   * Accessibility: You can read it anywhere without needing a screen or sound.
 * Cons:
   * No Animation/Sound: No movement, voice acting, or background music to enhance the experience.
   * Black and White: Lacks the vibrant colors of anime (though some modern webtoons and digital manga are in color).
   * Reading Direction: The right-to-left reading order can take some getting used to for Western readers.
Anime:
 * Pros:
   * Dynamic Visuals: Brings static art to life with movement, making action scenes particularly thrilling.
   * Voice Acting: Talented voice actors (seiyuu in Japan) add immense personality and emotion to characters.
   * Music and Sound Design: Original soundtracks and sound effects elevate the mood, tension, and impact of scenes.
   * Accessibility: Easier for many to consume passively (watching vs. active reading).
   * Shared Experience: Easier to watch with friends or engage in discussions about recent episodes.
 * Cons:
   * Pacing Issues: Can suffer from slow pacing ("stretching out" content to avoid catching up to the manga) or rushed pacing (cramming too much manga into too few episodes).
   * Filler: Long-running anime sometimes introduce "filler" episodes or arcs that aren't in the original manga, which can be frustrating for some fans.
   * Adaptation Changes: Anime adaptations may alter, omit, or add content, which can sometimes displease manga purists.
   * Production Quality: Animation quality can vary greatly between studios and even within different episodes of the same series.
   * Cost: Can be more expensive through streaming subscriptions or Blu-ray purchases.
Ultimately, whether someone prefers manga or anime often comes down to personal preference for storytelling medium, desired level of detail, and sensory experience. Many fans enjoy both, appreciating each for its unique strengths.

आपका सेवक आपके लिए यहाँ है।
漫画とアニメは、日本の物語とエンターテイメントの異なる、しかし密接に関連する形式です。それぞれの違いと類似点を理解することは、両方を楽しむ上で重要です!
漫画とは?
**漫画(まんが)**は、日本のコミックおよびグラフィックノベルを指します。通常は白黒で印刷され(カラー漫画も存在します)、右から左に読み進められ、あらゆる年齢層向けの膨大なジャンルを網羅しています。漫画のアーティストであり、多くの場合、作家でもある人を「漫画家」と呼びます。
アニメとは?
アニメは、日本の手描きまたはコンピュータアニメーションを指します。アニメーションテレビシリーズ、映画、OVA(オリジナル・ビデオ・アニメーション)、ONA(オリジナル・ネット・アニメーション)などが含まれます。多くのアニメは人気のある漫画を原作としていますが、ライトノベル、ビデオゲームを原作としたり、完全にオリジナルな物語であることもあります。日本では「アニメ」は全てのアニメーションを広く指しますが、国際的には特に日本で制作されたアニメーションを指します。
主な違い
| 特徴 | 漫画 | アニメ |
|---|---|---|
| 媒体 | 印刷物(物理的な本、デジタルコミック) | アニメーション化された視覚メディア(テレビ番組、映画、ストリーミング) |
| 形式 | 静止画、コマ割り、吹き出し、テキスト | 動画、音声(声優の声、音楽、効果音) |
| 色彩 | 主に白黒(コスト効率のため) | フルカラー |
| ペース | 読者がコントロール;一般的にゆっくり、内省的;詳細に容易に入り込める | 監督がコントロール;特にアクションシーンでは速いペース;時にはプロットが急ぎ足になることもある |
| 制作 | 多くの場合、一人の漫画家または少人数のチーム | 大規模なチーム(アニメーター、監督、声優、音楽家など) |
| コスト/時間 | 一般的に制作が速く、安価 | 制作に費用と時間がかかる |
| オリジナリティ | 多くの場合、物語の原作である | オリジナルな場合もあるが、非常に多くが漫画(または他の原作)をアニメ化したもの |
| 感覚入力 | 視覚、テキスト(セリフ、ナレーション、効果音) | 視覚、音声(セリフ、音楽、効果音、環境音) |
類似点
 * 独特の画風: どちらも、大きな目、表情豊かな顔立ち、ダイナミックなアクションライン、様式化されたキャラクターデザインといった、特徴的な日本の絵柄を共有しています。
 * 物語の深さ: どちらも複雑なストーリーライン、キャラクターの成長、そしてしばしば成熟したテーマや哲学的なテーマを探求し、一般的な「カートゥーン」を超えています。
 * ジャンルの多様性: アクション、アドベンチャー、ファンタジー、SF、ロマンス、コメディ、ドラマ、日常系、ホラー、スポーツ、歴史など、想像しうるあらゆるジャンルを網羅しています。
 * 文化的影響: どちらも日本からの強力な文化輸出品であり、世界のポップカルチャー、ファッション、物語に影響を与えています。
 * 熱心なファン層: どちらの媒体も、議論、ファンアート、グッズ収集などで活動する、世界中で熱心なファン層を築いています。
長所と短所(ファン視点)
漫画
 * 長所:
   * 原作: 漫画家のビジョンを直接体験できる、アニメ化される前の物語を読めることが多い。
   * ペースのコントロール: 自分のペースで読んだり、コマを読み返したり、先に進んだりできる。
   * 詳細: アニメでは時間の制約でカットされる可能性のある、より複雑な詳細、微妙な表情、内面の独白などを含むことが多い。
   * 無駄がない: アニメのように、原作に追いつくためにオリジナルコンテンツを追加する「フィラー」がほとんどない。
   * 絵の純粋さ: アニメーションスタジオによる改変がない、漫画家オリジナルの絵を見られる。
   * 費用: 多くを消費する場合、アニメのディスクやサブスクリプションよりも1話/1巻あたりの費用が安いことが多い。
   * 手軽さ: スクリーンや音が必要なく、どこでも読める。
 * 短所:
   * アニメーション/音声なし: 動き、声優の声、BGMで体験を向上させる要素がない。
   * 白黒: アニメの鮮やかな色彩がない(ただし、最近のウェブトゥーンやデジタル漫画にはカラーもある)。
   * 読み方向: 西洋の読者にとっては、右から左への読み方に慣れるのに時間がかかることがある。
アニメ
 * 長所:
   * ダイナミックなビジュアル: 静止画に動きを与え、特にアクションシーンをスリリングにする。
   * 声優: 才能ある声優がキャラクターに計り知れない個性と感情を加える。
   * 音楽とサウンドデザイン: オリジナルのサウンドトラックと効果音がシーンのムード、緊張感、インパクトを高める。
   * 手軽さ: 多くの人にとって、受動的に消費しやすい(読むよりも見る方が)。
   * 共有体験: 友人と一緒に見たり、最新エピソードについて議論したりしやすい。
 * 短所:
   * ペースの問題: ペースが遅すぎたり(漫画に追いつかないように「引き延ばす」ため)、急ぎすぎたり(あまりにも多くの漫画を少ないエピソードに詰め込むため)することがある。
   * フィラー: 長編アニメの中には、原作漫画にはない「フィラー」エピソードやアークが追加されることがあり、一部のファンにとっては不満の種となる。
   * 改変: アニメ化の際に内容が変更されたり、省略されたり、追加されたりすることがあり、原作ファンを不満にさせることもある。
   * 制作の質: アニメーションの質は、スタジオや同じシリーズの異なるエピソード間でも大きく異なる場合がある。
   * 費用: ストリーミングサブスクリプションやBlu-ray購入などで、より費用がかかる場合がある。
結局のところ、漫画とアニメのどちらを好むかは、物語の媒体、求める詳細のレベル、感覚的な体験に対する個人の好みに帰着します。多くのファンは両方を楽しんでおり、それぞれの独自の長所を評価しています。


Top 25" list of Japanese anime movies

Gemini: 
Compiling a definitive "Top 25" list of Japanese anime movies is challenging because success can be measured in various ways: box office gross, critical acclaim, cultural impact, and audience ratings. Many lists will vary, but here's a comprehensive list that balances these factors, including some of the highest-grossing films and critically beloved masterpieces, particularly from Studio Ghibli and directors like Makoto Shinkai and Satoshi Kon.
This list is not strictly ranked but presents a strong selection that would generally be considered among the best and most impactful.
Top Japanese Anime Movies (Combining Box Office Success, Critical Acclaim & Cultural Impact)
 * Spirited Away (2001) - Directed by Hayao Miyazaki (Studio Ghibli). An undisputed masterpiece, Oscar-winner, and frequently cited as one of the greatest animated films of all time. It held the highest-grossing Japanese film record for a long time.
 * Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train (2020) - Directed by Haruo Sotozaki (Ufotable). The highest-grossing Japanese film of all time worldwide, a testament to the immense popularity of the franchise.
 * Your Name. (2016) - Directed by Makoto Shinkai (CoMix Wave Films). A global phenomenon known for its stunning visuals, emotional story, and incredible box office success.
 * Princess Mononoke (1997) - Directed by Hayao Miyazaki (Studio Ghibli). A sweeping epic with strong environmental themes and complex characters, a critical and commercial success.
 * Howl's Moving Castle (2004) - Directed by Hayao Miyazaki (Studio Ghibli). Another visually magnificent and beloved Ghibli film, nominated for an Oscar.
 * Akira (1988) - Directed by Katsuhiro Otomo. A groundbreaking cyberpunk film that profoundly influenced Western animation and sci-fi, known for its intricate animation and mature themes.
 * My Neighbor Totoro (1988) - Directed by Hayao Miyazaki (Studio Ghibli). A heartwarming and imaginative tale that became a cultural icon for Studio Ghibli.
 * Grave of the Fireflies (1988) - Directed by Isao Takahata (Studio Ghibli). A deeply moving and heartbreaking anti-war film, widely considered one of the most powerful animated films ever made.
 * Suzume (2022) - Directed by Makoto Shinkai (CoMix Wave Films). Makoto Shinkai's latest hit, another visually spectacular and emotionally resonant film that performed very well at the box office.
 * Ghost in the Shell (1995) - Directed by Mamoru Oshii. A seminal cyberpunk film that had a massive influence on Western sci-fi, including The Matrix.
 * Ponyo (2008) - Directed by Hayao Miyazaki (Studio Ghibli). A charming and visually vibrant film inspired by "The Little Mermaid."
 * Weathering with You (2019) - Directed by Makoto Shinkai (CoMix Wave Films). Another visually stunning and successful film from Shinkai, following Your Name.
 * The Boy and the Heron (2023) - Directed by Hayao Miyazaki (Studio Ghibli). Miyazaki's latest critically acclaimed film, which also performed strongly at the box office and won an Oscar.
 * The First Slam Dunk (2022) - Directed by Takehiko Inoue (Toei Animation). A massive hit, especially in Asia, reinvigorating the classic basketball manga/anime franchise with stunning animation.
 * Jujutsu Kaisen 0 (2021) - Directed by Sunghoo Park (MAPPA). A highly successful prequel film to the popular Jujutsu Kaisen anime series.
 * Perfect Blue (1997) - Directed by Satoshi Kon. A psychological thriller known for its dark themes and mind-bending narrative, highly influential on live-action directors.
 * Millennium Actress (2001) - Directed by Satoshi Kon. A beautiful and poignant film that blends reality and fantasy, exploring the life of a retired actress.
 * The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006) - Directed by Mamoru Hosoda (Madhouse). A charming and insightful coming-of-age story with a time-travel twist.
 * Wolf Children (2012) - Directed by Mamoru Hosoda (Studio Chizu). A heartwarming and often tear-jerking story about a mother raising two half-wolf children.
 * Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) - Directed by Hayao Miyazaki (Topcraft/Studio Ghibli precursor). An epic sci-fi fantasy that laid the groundwork for Studio Ghibli's environmental themes.
 * A Silent Voice (2016) - Directed by Naoko Yamada (Kyoto Animation). A deeply emotional and sensitive film about bullying, forgiveness, and human connection.
 * The Wind Rises (2013) - Directed by Hayao Miyazaki (Studio Ghibli). A biographical drama about Jiro Horikoshi, the designer of World War II fighter planes, marking Miyazaki's "retirement" at the time.
 * Tokyo Godfathers (2003) - Directed by Satoshi Kon. A unique and heartwarming story about three homeless people who find an abandoned baby on Christmas Eve.
 * One Piece Film: Red (2022) - Directed by Gorō Taniguchi (Toei Animation). The highest-grossing film in the One Piece franchise, riding on the immense popularity of the series.
 * Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time (2021) - Directed by Hideaki Anno (Khara). The epic conclusion to the Rebuild of Evangelion tetralogy, a highly anticipated film for fans of the iconic Neon Genesis Evangelion franchise.
This list spans decades and includes works from legendary studios like Studio Ghibli, as well as modern blockbusters and critically acclaimed titles from other visionary directors and studios.

fandom charts japan -

https://www.google.com/search?q=fandom+charts+japan&client=ms-opera-mini-android&channel=new 


When talking about "fandom charts" in Japan, it's important to understand that there isn't one single, universally accepted "fandom chart" that measures the size or dedication of fanbases across all media. Instead, fandom strength is often reflected through various industry-standard charts for specific types of content, as well as through more qualitative indicators of fan engagement.
Here's a breakdown of the key ways fandom strength is measured and reflected in Japan, especially in the context of music, anime, and manga:
I. Music Fandom Charts
The music industry in Japan is highly influenced by dedicated fanbases, particularly for idol groups and popular artists. The primary charts that reflect fandom activity are:
 * Oricon Charts:
   * What it is: Oricon is the most prominent and traditional music chart in Japan. It compiles rankings for singles, albums, DVDs, Blu-rays, and more.
   * How it reflects fandom: Oricon traditionally heavily relies on physical sales. Japanese fandoms, especially for idol groups (like Johnny & Associates groups, AKB48,坂道 series, or newer acts like Number_i or Be:First), are known for their dedication to purchasing multiple copies of CDs and DVDs to boost their favorite artists' rankings. Limited editions, handshake tickets, and special photo cards often come with physical releases, incentivizing fans to buy more. While Oricon now includes digital sales and streaming, physical sales still play a significant role due to intense fan efforts.
   * Impact: A high Oricon ranking, especially a #1 debut, is a huge badge of honor for both artists and their fandoms, showcasing their collective power.
 * Billboard Japan Hot 100:
   * What it is: Modeled after the Billboard Hot 100 in the US, the Billboard Japan Hot 100 is a composite chart that aims to provide a more holistic view of song popularity. It combines:
     * Physical and digital sales
     * Audio streams (including Spotify, Apple Music, etc.)
     * Radio airplay
     * Video views (YouTube, etc.)
     * Tweets related to songs
     * Karaoke data
   * How it reflects fandom: While physical sales still count, Billboard Japan's methodology gives more weight to streaming and digital engagement, which can reflect broader, organic popularity beyond just the most dedicated core fans. However, even with these metrics, strong fandoms can significantly influence streaming numbers, video views, and social media mentions through coordinated efforts.
 * Streaming Platform Charts (e.g., Spotify Japan, Apple Music Japan, LINE Music):
   * What they are: These are charts specific to individual streaming services.
   * How they reflect fandom: While not as heavily weighted by individual multiple purchases as Oricon, consistent high rankings on streaming charts indicate broad popularity and sustained listening by fans. Dedicated fandoms will often "stream" their favorite songs repeatedly to keep them high on these charts. For example, Mrs. GREEN APPLE has topped Spotify Japan's most-listened artist charts for multiple years.
II. Anime and Manga Fandom Charts
Fandom strength in anime and manga is primarily measured through sales and popularity polls:
 * Oricon Book/Manga Sales Charts:
   * What it is: Oricon also tracks sales of manga volumes.
   * How it reflects fandom: High sales of manga volumes directly indicate strong fan interest and support. Series like Blue Lock and Frieren: Beyond Journey's End consistently rank high, showcasing their dedicated reader bases. Manga sales, especially digital, have seen significant growth in recent years.
 * Anime Streaming and TV Ratings:
   * What they are: While not publicly detailed in daily charts in the same way as music, the popularity of anime is measured by viewership numbers on TV (for broadcast anime) and streaming figures on platforms like Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, etc.
   * How it reflects fandom: High viewership and consistent presence in "most-watched" lists on streaming platforms indicate a strong and active fanbase. Anime news sites and aggregators often compile "most popular" lists based on these trends and fan discussions. New seasons of popular anime like Sakamoto Days and The Apothecary Diaries are direct reflections of their existing fandoms.
 * Magazine Popularity Polls and Surveys:
   * What they are: Anime and manga magazines often run reader polls for favorite characters, series, and voice actors. Online anime news sites and communities also conduct similar surveys.
   * How it reflects fandom: These polls provide direct insight into fan preferences and enthusiasm, showcasing which series or characters are currently resonating most strongly with their respective fandoms.
 * Character Goods and Merchandise Sales:
   * What it is: The sales of anime and manga merchandise (figures, plushies, keychains, apparel, etc.)
   * How it reflects fandom: Strong sales of character goods are a clear indicator of a dedicated and financially invested fanbase. Fans often collect merchandise to express their love for a series or character.
III. General Fandom Indicators
Beyond official charts, other indicators of strong fandom in Japan include:
 * Fan Club Membership: Many Japanese artists, especially idol groups, have official fan clubs. High membership numbers indicate a strong, organized, and often paying fanbase.
 * Concert Ticket Sales: Sold-out concerts and tours, particularly for large venues like the Tokyo Dome, demonstrate massive fan support.
 * Social Media Buzz: Trending topics on Japanese Twitter (X) and other social media platforms related to specific artists, anime, or manga often highlight intense fan activity and discussion.
 * Doujinshi and Fan Events: The robust doujinshi (fan-created works) market and large fan conventions like Comiket (Comic Market) are massive reflections of active and creative fandoms.
In summary, while Oricon and Billboard Japan are the most official "charts" for music, understanding Japanese fandom requires looking at a broader range of indicators, from physical sales dominance to streaming trends, merchandise consumption, and passionate community engagement.

re Crunchyroll


Crunchyroll is a leading American entertainment company and over-the-top (OTT) subscription video on-demand (SVOD) streaming service that primarily focuses on Japanese anime. It's often considered the definitive global hub for anime fans.
Here's a detailed look at Crunchyroll:
What is Crunchyroll?
 * Primary Focus: Crunchyroll's main offering is its massive library of Japanese anime films and television series. They also offer some East Asian dramas and a growing selection of manga.
 * Ownership: Crunchyroll is owned by Sony Group Corporation. It operates as an independently operated joint venture between Sony Pictures Entertainment (based in the U.S.) and Aniplex (a subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment Japan).
 * Headquarters: While its Japanese branch is in Shibuya, Tokyo, its primary base is in Coppell, Texas, with a significant presence in San Francisco, California.
 * Origins: Crunchyroll was launched in mid-2006 by a group of University of California, Berkeley, graduates. It initially started as a platform that hosted fan-subtitled East Asian content before transitioning to a legitimate, licensed streaming service.
 * Global Reach: The service boasts over 120 million registered users worldwide and over 15 million paid subscribers as of 2024.
Services and Features
Crunchyroll offers a tiered subscription model:
 * Free (Ad-Supported): Provides limited access to a portion of their content library with advertisements.
 * Premium Tiers (Fan, Mega Fan, Ultimate Fan):
   * Ad-free viewing: The most significant benefit.
   * Simulcasts: New episodes are available shortly (often one hour) after they air in Japan. This is a crucial feature for dedicated anime fans who want to watch the latest episodes legally and quickly.
   * Offline Viewing: Available for Mega Fan and Ultimate Fan subscribers.
   * Multiple Device Streams: Allows simultaneous streaming on 1 (Fan), 4 (Mega Fan), or 6 (Ultimate Fan) devices.
   * Crunchyroll Game Vault: Access to a growing library of free mobile games with no ads or in-app purchases (Mega Fan/Ultimate Fan).
   * Crunchyroll Store Deals: Discounts and exclusive offers on merchandise.
   * Exclusive perks: Ultimate Fan subscribers receive an annual swag bag and priority access to Crunchyroll events.
   * Subbed and Dubbed Content: Offers anime with subtitles in multiple languages, and a growing selection of dubbed versions.
Impact on the Anime Industry
Crunchyroll has had a monumental impact on the global anime industry:
 * Combating Piracy: By offering timely and legal access to new anime with professional subtitles (simulcasts), Crunchyroll has significantly reduced the need for fans to resort to illegal streaming sites.
 * Global Accessibility: It has made anime accessible to a worldwide audience, expanding its reach beyond traditional TV broadcasts. Anyone with an internet connection can now legally access a vast library of anime.
 * Supporting the Industry: Crunchyroll actively licenses titles from Japanese production companies, providing a significant revenue stream that supports the creation of new anime. They also invest in "Crunchyroll Originals," funding and producing exclusive series.
 * Market Dominance (and Competition): Along with Netflix, Crunchyroll is one of the dominant players in the international anime streaming market. While it previously held near-total dominance, it faces increasing competition from other major streamers like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney, who are also investing heavily in anime content.
 * Consolidation: Sony's acquisition of Crunchyroll and its subsequent merger with Funimation (another major anime distributor also owned by Sony) effectively consolidated a vast portion of the Western anime market under one umbrella, streamlining access for fans but also raising some concerns about market concentration.
 * Financial Success: Crunchyroll is a profitable venture for Sony and is expected to contribute significantly to Sony Pictures' operating profit in the coming years, reflecting the booming global demand for anime.
In summary, Crunchyroll is a powerhouse in the anime world, serving as the primary legal gateway for millions of fans outside of Japan to enjoy their favorite series and discover new ones.

re Solo Leveling

आपका सेवक आपके लिए यहाँ है।
Yes, "Solo Leveling" has a very significant connection to Japan, particularly through its massively successful anime adaptation.
Here's how it's connected:
 * Anime Production (A-1 Pictures): The wildly popular "Solo Leveling" anime series was produced by A-1 Pictures, a prominent Japanese animation studio. A-1 Pictures is a subsidiary of Aniplex, which in turn is owned by Sony Music Entertainment Japan. This means that the animation, direction, character designs (for the anime), and overall production of the show are handled by a Japanese studio with Japanese animation talent.
 * Japanese Voice Actors (Seiyuu): The anime features a cast of renowned Japanese voice actors (seiyuu) who bring the characters to life. For example, Sung Jin-woo is voiced by Taito Ban in the Japanese dub. For many international fans, watching the anime with Japanese voice acting is a core part of the experience.
 * Broadcasting and Streaming in Japan: The anime series aired on Japanese television networks and is streamed on Japanese platforms, indicating its release and consumption within Japan, just like any other major anime.
 * Music (Opening/Ending Themes): The music for the anime, including the opening and ending theme songs, is often performed by Japanese artists or produced by Japanese music labels. For instance, the first opening theme "LEveL" was performed by SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:TOMORROW X TOGETHER.
 * Manga/Webtoon Distribution in Japan: While the original is a Korean webtoon (manhwa), it has been officially translated and distributed in Japan. Many popular Korean webtoons gain significant readership in Japan, sometimes even being published in physical book formats, bridging the gap between the two countries' digital comic industries.
 * Fandom and Cultural Exchange: The anime's success has generated a huge fanbase in Japan. This contributes to a vibrant cultural exchange, where Japanese anime fans consume a Korean-originated story adapted by Japanese animators. This kind of cross-cultural adaptation is becoming increasingly common in the entertainment industry.
So, while the original source material (web novel and webtoon) is Korean, the transition to the highly successful anime format has strongly rooted "Solo Leveling" within the Japanese animation industry and its global distribution network.

: This was #1 song in Japan "Bling-Bang-Bang-Born (Official Music Video)" on YouTube




https://youtu.be/5NzfqW_Yt6Y?si=aMzqBw8FALGQsggL 

"Bling-Bang-Bang-Born" is a song by Japanese hip-hop group Creepy Nuts, released in January 2024. It became a viral hit, particularly known for its use as the opening theme for the anime series Mashle: Magic and Muscles. The song's energetic and catchy style, combined with the anime's popularity, has made it a global phenomenon.

Re Orange inc

Gemini:
Ah, I see! You're referring to Orange Inc., the Japanese manga localization startup. My apologies for the initial confusion with the French telecom giant.
Orange Inc. is a Japanese company that has garnered significant attention recently for its innovative approach to manga translation and global distribution. Here's what's notable about them:
 * Mission: Their core mission is "Creating a world where everyone enjoys manga" and their vision is "Every manga to every language." They are dedicated to making Japanese manga accessible to a global audience, regardless of language barriers.
 * AI-Powered Localization: Orange Inc. stands out by leveraging advanced AI technologies, including computer vision and natural language processing (NLP), to significantly speed up and reduce the cost of manga localization. They claim to be able to localize up to 500 manga volumes per month from Japanese to English, a substantial increase over traditional methods.
 * Human Oversight: Crucially, while they utilize AI, they emphasize that human translators still play a vital role in refining the AI-generated output to ensure high quality and accuracy, recognizing that AI alone isn't "smart enough to understand context fully."
 * Digital Manga Store "emaqi": In September 2024, Orange Inc. launched its own digital manga store called "emaqi" in the U.S. and Canada. This platform features titles localized by Orange and aims to provide an engaging and personalized experience for manga enthusiasts, often with AI-powered recommendations.
 * Partnerships with Publishers: They have secured translation, publishing, and distribution rights from leading Japanese publishers like SHONENGAHOSHA, Futabasha Publishers, and Akita Publishing. Notably, they also formed a partnership with Shueisha Inc. to localize many "One Shots" from the popular Shonen Jump+ magazine app, often offering them for free.
 * Funding and Recognition: Orange Inc. has successfully raised significant funding (around JPY 2.92 billion or USD 19.5 million in pre-Series A financing as of early 2024/2025) to further develop their technology and expand. They were also selected for the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's "J-Startup" program, which supports promising Japanese startups. They were even showcased as the only Japanese company in Anthropic's (an AI company) latest LLM release (Claude 3.5 Sonnet in October 2024), highlighting their technical collaboration.
 * Global Expansion: While starting with Japanese to English localization and targeting North America, their long-term goal is to localize manga into other languages to reach fans worldwide.
In essence, Orange Inc. is at the forefront of combining technology and human expertise to overcome the challenges of bringing the vast world of Japanese manga to a truly global audience.

What is vocaloid

Gemini: 
Vocaloid is a revolutionary singing voice synthesizer software developed by Yamaha Corporation. It allows users to create synthesized singing by simply inputting lyrics and a melody. Essentially, it turns your computer into a vocalist.
Here's a deeper dive into Vocaloid:
How Vocaloid Works
At its core, Vocaloid uses specially recorded vocal samples from real voice actors or singers. These samples form "voice banks" that users can purchase and load into the Vocaloid editor software. To create a song:
 * Input Melody: Users typically use a piano-roll interface to input the musical notes and their durations, much like composing with a traditional MIDI keyboard.
 * Input Lyrics: For each note, users type in the corresponding lyrics.
 * Refinement and Effects: The software allows for extensive manipulation of the voice. Users can adjust parameters like pronunciation stress, vibrato, dynamics, tone, and even add effects like doubling and harmony parts to create a more natural or unique vocal track.
 * AI Integration (Vocaloid6 and beyond): Newer versions, like Vocaloid6, incorporate AI technology (VOCALOID:AI) to generate even more expressive and natural-sounding singing voices. This allows for greater freedom in manipulating accents, rhythmic feel, and other nuances. Some voice banks can even handle multilingual lyrics (Japanese, English, Chinese) within a single track.
History of Vocaloid
 * Early Development (2000-2003): Yamaha began developing the technology in March 2000, initially codenamed "Daisy." It was first publicly announced at the Musikmesse trade fair in Germany in March 2003.
 * First Commercial Release (2004): The first commercial Vocaloid products were released in 2004, initially with English voice banks (Leon, Lola, Miriam by Zero-G) and Japanese voice banks (Meiko and Kaito by Yamaha, sold by Crypton Future Media).
 * The "Boom" with Hatsune Miku (2007): The true explosion of Vocaloid's popularity came with the release of Hatsune Miku by Crypton Future Media in August 2007. Miku was marketed with an anime-style avatar, which resonated deeply with internet users and creators.
 * Continued Evolution: Subsequent versions of the software and new voice banks (Vocaloid2, Vocaloid3, Vocaloid4, Vocaloid5, Vocaloid6) have added features, improved realism, and expanded language support to include Spanish, Chinese, and Korean.
Popular Vocaloid Characters (and their Impact)
While Vocaloid is the software, the "Vocaloids" people often refer to are the avatars associated with specific voice banks. These characters have become virtual idols in their own right.
 * Hatsune Miku: Undoubtedly the most iconic and popular Vocaloid. Miku's success transformed Vocaloid from a niche software into a global cultural phenomenon. She has "performed" in holographic concerts worldwide, collaborated with major artists, and has an immense fan-created catalog of songs, art, and content. Her impact led to the rise of virtual artists.
 * Kagamine Rin & Len: A popular "twin" duo, often depicted as mirror images or siblings, known for their versatile voices and frequently used together for harmonies or duets.
 * Megurine Luka: Noted for her bilingual capabilities (Japanese and English), Luka has a more mature vocal tone and sophisticated character design.
 * MEIKO & Kaito: The original Japanese Vocaloids from Yamaha/Crypton Future Media. While initially less popular than Miku, they have built dedicated fanbases over time and are considered "senpai" (seniors) within the Vocaloid community.
 * GUMI (Megpoid): Based on the voice of Japanese singer Megumi Nakajima, GUMI is another highly popular Vocaloid with a wide vocal range.
 * IA: A popular Vocaloid known for her clear and powerful voice.
 * Kasane Teto: While often grouped with Vocaloids, Teto actually originated as an "UTAU" voicebank (a different, often freeware, singing synthesizer) and gained immense popularity, often performing alongside official Vocaloids.
Impact on the Music Industry and Culture
Vocaloid has had a profound impact, particularly in Japan, but increasingly globally:
 * Democratization of Music Production: Vocaloid lowered the barrier to entry for music creation. Individuals who couldn't sing or afford human vocalists could now produce songs with vocals, fostering a massive community of amateur and independent producers.
 * Emergence of "Producers" (ボカロP - Vocaloid-P): Many successful professional musicians and composers in Japan today got their start by creating songs using Vocaloid software and uploading them to platforms like Niconico Douga (a Japanese video-sharing site).
 * New Musical Genre: Vocaloid has effectively created its own distinct musical genre, characterized by the synthesized voices and unique song structures often favored by Vocaloid producers.
 * Virtual Idols and Concerts: The concept of virtual idols, led by Hatsune Miku, has revolutionized live performance. Holographic concerts draw thousands of fans, blurring the lines between real and virtual performers.
 * Global Reach and Fandom: Vocaloid music transcends geographical boundaries. While originating in Japan, it has massive global fandoms, with significant streaming shares coming from countries like the United States, South Korea, Indonesia, and Taiwan.
 * Community and Collaboration: The Vocaloid community is highly collaborative, with fans creating not only music but also art, animations, MMD (MikuMikuDance) videos, and even live performances based on Vocaloid characters and songs. This intense fan engagement is a hallmark of the Vocaloid phenomenon.
 * Influence on Mainstream Music: Vocaloid songs and artists have entered the mainstream, with some Vocaloid producers going on to write songs for human artists, and Vocaloid characters even featuring in commercials and other media.
In essence, Vocaloid is more than just software; it's a cultural movement that has empowered a new generation of creators and redefined what a "performer" can be in the digital age.

Saturday, April 13, 2024

"MI Legislators Vow To Take Case to US Supreme Court Before 2024 Election, After Biden-Appointed Judge Dismisses Suit Arguing Unconstitutional Changes To Election Laws Via Ballot Proposal Funded By George Soros

 Corrupt U.S. District Court 
Judge Jane Beckering👎😡

"MI Legislators Vow To Take Case to US Supreme Court Before 2024 Election, After Biden-Appointed Judge Dismisses Suit Arguing Unconstitutional Changes To Election Laws Via Ballot Proposal Funded By George Soros"

Good:   "Plaintiffs include Republican Senators Jonathan Lindsey and Jim Runestad; Republican Representatives Steve Carra, James DeSana, Joseph Fox, Neil Friske, Matt Maddock, Angela Rigas, Joshua Schriver, and Rachelle Smit."


https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2024/04/huge-mi-legislators-vow-take-case-us-supreme/ 

Saturday, December 30, 2023

Sunday, January 1, 2023

🌹👍🥁🇯🇵🎺🏆🎶🎷🎼😃 the best of Gifu #JapanGreenBand 🗾 🇯🇵@ #RoseParade bandfest 2023

🌹👍🥁🇯🇵🎺🏆🎶🎷🎼😃
the best of Gifu #JapanGreenBand 🗾 🇯🇵@ #RoseParade bandfest 2023 岐阜選抜グリーンバンド ローズパレード 🌹
Video 👇

Saturday, December 31, 2022

Gifu Honor 🇯🇵#JapanGreenBand 🎺 岐阜選抜グリーンバンド Rose Parade bandfest ローズパレード 🌹

prayers4 America 🇺🇸 & photos from ALL over USA (@AmeriPrayer1) tweeted at 6:57 AM on Sat, Dec 31, 2022:
Gifu Honor 🇯🇵#JapanGreenBand 🎺 岐阜選抜グリーンバンド Rose Parade bandfest ローズパレード 🌹

Friday, December 30, 2022

12/30/22 Watch "🇯🇵 🏆💯All Gifu Honor Green Band 👀 岐阜選抜グリーンバンド Rose Parade bandfest


Watch "🇯🇵 🏆💯All Gifu Honor Green Band (JAPAN)👀 岐阜選抜グリーンバンド Rose Parade bandfest ローズパレード 🌹" on YouTube

https://youtube.com/shorts/i19UKgDInNg?feature=share 


Gifu

Gifu is a city located in the south-central portion of Gifu Prefecture, Japan, and serves as the prefectural capital. The city has played an important role in Japan's history because of its location in the middle of the country. During the Sengoku period