Why Fan Sub Videos are like big fat pieces of chocolate cake

Okay, if you don't see the relationship- then imagine this: You see a gorgeous chocolate triple layered cake sitting on the table. You proceed to eat the whole thing. During the pig-out, you may feel like you're in hog-heaven, but it is a foregone conclusion that some part of your body will pay the price. Either your rear end will look like a tub of jell-O or your stomach will feel and look like Majin Buu. I feel the same way about Fan-Subs; they are so exciting to watch, particularly because you know you are one of very few in the US to watch these not-yet -released series. But, after watching so many fan-subs, you run into a problem later on- no good anime to watch!

Don't get what I am saying? Okay, here's the deal: typically, fan subs are available in tape formats, and usually after the series is complete. That means you can get your grubby little hands on entire series at once from your favorite fan sub distributor. Case-in-point: for the last two summers, I have gotten the entire Rurouni Kenshin, Berserk, Kare Kano, Love Hina, X, FLCL, and You're Under Arrest series in it's entirety. After marathon-watching those tapes, I was left with an empty feeling, along with eyebags that would rival your grandmother's. I suddenly panicked- what was I going to do for the rest of my time? These days, I don't even go to the local Anime rental shop anymore...because I have SEEN all the so called "new" series ( Kenshin, Love Hina), and have all the "upcoming" series (Berserk, Kare Kano, FLCL). Not to say these are
not good series..because they are awesome, but I am disappointed with the sub-par selection left, like BoogieFLop Phantom or *shudder* Vampire Princess Miyu. My Blockbuster card is getting more of a workout than my happy shiny Japan-Video card (best place in SF for Anime rentals). I am watching more movies with *gasp* real people rather than my beloved two-dimensional cell characters.

Not to fear my little gibblets, for there are still upcoming series than even *I* am drooling for, regardless of whether I've seen the fan sub or not. Not to be judgemental or nothing, but if you don't get off your derriere and get these titles when they come out *preferably at the JSTORE- grin* you don't deserve to be called an "anime fan". You should then be subjected to long hours of torture watching Martha Stewart bake beans, pass gas or something of that nature.

Ani-Man's Picks for upcoming titles that will get yer knickers in a bunch:

1. Berserk- (In-depth review coming soon) What I will say right now is that this series from Media-Blasters will kick off in May 2002, and it rocks so hard. There's action, a hero we can all identify with, a strong storyline, and a shocking ending. If you have the Kenshin DVD Fire Requeim, the trailer is on there. Get it at the JSTORE by clicking on the button ( you can't miss it unless you're blind) on our front page.

2. Spriggan - (In-depth review coming soon) A total orgasmic experience for all your senses. That is all you will need for now. Go to our JSTORE DVD page for more info.

3. GoldenBoy- actually, this series has been out for some time now, but never on DVD format. The first DVD will carry 3 of the first episodes. Get it just for the nice pretty art. Also available on the JSTORE section.

That's it for now, until next time, be safe, watch anime, and look out for your fellow man. Yeah right .. you are all probably going to just sit and vegetate and grow a potato.

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