Anime Roundtable

Of course Mike and James had to start with a lot of video game talk (we believe in fandom’s overlap). Then Mike wonders how much AI help would be needed for the socials in the future, and how much video should figure into the podcast side. We come back to Toronto and look ahead to Anime North and beyond to the Toronto Comic Arts Festival, and the Toronto Japanese Film Festival. The first English voice of Sailor Moon is running for Toronto City Council this fall. Then, in memoriam we remember Ted Turner, Tatsuo Sato, and Koji Suzuki and their impact on our fandom over the years. And it’s Mother’s Day, so we talk about our Moms in our fandom.And the Queues:- Your Castle’s Little Helper- Cat’s Eye- Petshop of Horrors- Gals Can’t Be Kind to Otaku- Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten- The Girl I Like Forgot Her Glasses- I Made Friends With the Second Prettiest Girl in Class This Week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot when Mike or James make a joke that goes over the other’s headMike Nicolas and James Austin——Visit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

And we start it with a story about Neil and one of his favourite subjects…hentai. And the others give their 20 year reflections of the Roundtable and the Toronto fan community00:33:10 - We give the latest update to the Pokemon Centre stabbing murder. Along with an overview of shops based on specific IPs01:06:20 - We finally weigh in on the Shogakukan cover up controversy and wonder about the past competence of its editorial department01:28:00 - And the nominees for the Crunchyroll Anime Awards are…And the QueuesIs It My Fault That I Got Bullied?One Piece Live ActionHagenaiGeppy-XThe Darwin IncidentOshi UplinkTim Horton's Korea and Anne of Green GablesThis Week’s Drinking Game - Pour one out to the victims of the stories we talked about this weekMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin Ng, Mohamed Sharmarke, Amy-Lynn GreigOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

Mike and James do a space heater for the first time with the wireless mics…and you can hear it. And we start by looking back on 20 years of the Roundtable, and what has changed in terms of how we keep up with any of this (hint: social media and life). And then we look ahead to episode 100This Week’s Drinking game: Take a shot when you hear Mike taking a TUMS, or use the word “efficency”Mike Nicolas and James AustinWhat was mentionedGachiakutaKaho Shibuya becomes a Twitch ambassador Afroman LawsuitThe Shogakukan controversySeven Seas Publishing is purchased by Media DoRight Stuf warehouse is for saleVisit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

We start the Valentines episode by recapping Mike’s space heater review of Scarlet00:15:22 - We look at the latest crackdown in manga piracy and try and make some sense out of it00:49:38 - Kodansha expands their Print on Demand program. Of which Crunchyroll is part of?00:56:00 - We crack the whip on the obligatory Crunchyroll stuff. Let’s start with the store…01:13:30 - Then the streaming subscription prices…going up01:32:00 - Fandom kept the receipts from Viz. And a quick history of limbo titles from them01:53:35 - What’s on our queues?James - Lupin III: The Immortal BloodlineMoh - Scarlet (maybe)Kevin - Stray Kids: The DominATE ExperienceMike - Falling For Her Secret Side (LN), Otonari Asobi (LN)02:11:55 - The community calendar, Fruits Basket Prelude, Oshi Uplink V-Tuber ConventionThis Week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot when Mike goes on his rantMike Nicolas, James Austin, Mohamed Sharmarke, Kevin Ng (eventually)Opening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

Mike and Moh were talking on the phone the day after the former went out to see Scarlet in IMAX. So the former hit the record button so everyone can know if it's worth seeing in IMAX...Check out our linktr.ee for more all of our links to our blog, channels, and socials, animeroundtable.com

As we settle in and spill a few drinks (this week’s drinking game), we welcome Amy back around the table and get her thoughts on the last number of months00:12:05 - We start with the Toronto goings on with the official start of the countdown to Anime North, The Artist Alley Shop, local sweets, the follow up to AniRevo Toronto (and what it might overlap with), the predatory nature of the Gaming Card side, and the Nerd Market00:46:10 - Another angle on the Amazon AI Dubbing story and the scenarios00:54:40 - An update over the battle between Netflix and Paramount for the soul of Warner Bros/Discovery, and a thought for series being released for binge vs week to week01:14:30 - Hideaki Anno on Japanese creators adapting to international markets…let’s dig here a little bit, there’s some nuance to talk about01:45:50 - And what’s on our read, watch, and play lists…with some further therapy for Mike and his growing Light Novel addictionMoh: Rental Family, FrierenJames: Wash It All AwayKevin: Another Code: RecollectionAmy: My Hero Academia, Sanda, Spy x Family, Rica ‘tte Kanji, My Journey to Her, With You Our Love Will Make It ThroughMike: My Stepmom’s Daughter is My Ex, Catch Me at the Ballpark, Days With My Stepsister, Falling for Her Secret SideAnd finally a possible idea for a future stream...Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Amy-Lynn Greig, Kevin Ng, Mohamed SharmarkeOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiCheck out our Linktr.ee for more details and the socials: animeroundtable.com

Kevin lives to tell about his experience working retail the day after Christmas (one of the busiest shopping days of the year). Kevin lives to tell about his trip to Asia (which did include Japan). Kevin gives us his takes on the last few Space Heaters (because he was living). Then Kevin wonders what our reading and watching lists say about him and Mike (and tries to survive telling that)It's the final podcast recording of 2025. Hope you like it*more links to be added*Mike Nicolas and Kevin NgCheck out our Linktr.ee for more details and the socials: animeroundtable.com

Mike and Mohamed go on and off topic wondering what was the bigger garbage fire this week. Was it the FIFA World Cup Draw, or Amazon's anime AI Dub attempt? And then we went on and off topic one more time with Netflix/WB and Crunchyroll ending winding down their ad tier. And then we end with our usual "What are we watching and reading" segment. Here's one of Mike's hints: Happy Birthday Mahiru Shiina!!This Week's Drinking Game: Take a shot for Mike when he realizes Moh got disconnected...Mike Nicolas and Mohamed SharmarkeCheck out our Linktr.ee for more details and the socials: animeroundtable.com

TLDR: It was better than the microphones for this taping…and you can hear itMike and James give their review on the first Anime Revoution Toronto the previous weekend, and in particular the Japanese guests. With a few thoughts on the Toronto Game Expo which was also the same weekend. With a longer conversation about the convention scene for Toronto. And a throw away thought on Amazon’s AI Dubbing attemptRemind Mike to do a mic check next timeMike Nicolas and James AustinCheck out our linktr.ee for more information: animeroundtable.com

Mike and James finally go back to the podcast mics. And James talks watching Virgin Punk in theatres, XSEED, and Crunchyroll subtitles. Mike talks his first impressions of using the Manga UP service. We look ahead to Anime Revolution Toronto. And end with a tribute to an Anime North original Visit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

Our first regular episode since Anime North begins by looking back on the Demon Slayer movie talk in last week’s Space Heater. And a question about how much Sony’s recent form has been a win00:31:40 - Crunchyroll announces an opening for their returning manga service. And there is an extra charge for it and…Mike seeks therapy after going anime window shopping visit to Chinatown for the first time in years01:09:20 - The AnimeMen youtube channel has made some news lately01:34:50 - Kevin went down to AnimeNYC01:53:00 - The Toronto Community calendar. Anime Revolution Toronto, and Anime FestaThis week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot everytime you hear Mike tapping his penMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin Ng, Amy-Lynn Greig, and Mohamed Sharmarke (eventually)Opening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico Masaki——Visit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

Taped after the successful opening weekend of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle in North American theatres. Mike hasn’t seen it, but Kevin and Moh have. So we talk about that and “a few” things surrounding itVisit our launch page for more links: animeroundtable.com

The short answer is yes...as James catches up with the Mike. Gives his view last week's chat on the VShojo controversy, his thoughts on manga, light novels, and how they roll into anime. And then he talks about what caught his attention, namely the Animeigo and Discotek panels at Otakon and how they're a throwback to anime announcements from a by gone timeVisit our launch page for links: animeroundtable.com

Mike finally returns on the podcast side and catches up with Kevin for a talk around the space heater. We get Kevin's take on recent manga announcements from Anime Expo and San Diego, as well as his take on Mike's recent thoughts on manga and light novels. Then, Kevin did see BlackPink when they were in Toronto a few weeks back. So we get his thoughts on that and the Ado concert which took place last night. And finally under the "What the hell man?" heading, VShojo...Visit our launch page for links: animeroundtable.com

Day two from Anime North always starts with impressions of it. Especially the weather and cosplay, what we saw in the TCC, and the panels seen and even done0:49:40 - We talked about Matt Alt’s article about the resilience of the popularity of Japanese Pop Culture in comparison to Western…perhaps it’s a focus issue. And maybe the west’s influence in Asian Pop Culture1:20:55 - Anime North Assistant Program Director Norm McEvoy makes his annual walk on with his thoughts on the convention so far1:32:20 - Headlines in brief. Crunchyroll now at 17M subscribers. Anne Shirley’s all American cast. And watching 1100 One Piece episodes in 24hr??!1:52:28 - What’s on our reading and watch lists (Beastars, Blue Box, The Makani, Summer Pockets, Kowloon Generic Romance, Anne Shirley, Apothicary Diaries, Catch Me at the Ballpark, Gundam GQuuuax, Pikman 4, Haganai, Vigilantes MHA, Dr Stone, Red Ranger Isikai)2:03:10 - Mike’s Final InsultMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin Ng, Amy Lynn Greig, with Norm McEvoyOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our launch page for links: animeroundtable.com

We look back on Day 1 of AN. We talk initial impressions, how the AN compound looks, the weather, then some thoughts on the foreign film tariffs and wonder how this either ties into anime in North America and how it makes any senseThen we look ahead to Day 2, and Mike's special presentation before the evening tapingMike Nicolas, James Austin, Mohamed Sharmarke, Lawrence BlackVisit our launch page for links: animeroundtable.com

Editors Note: This was taped just before Switch 2 preorders were also delayed in Canada. Which means a chunk of this aged about as well as milk...A very long conversation about the ongoing Ghibli/ChatGPT controversy, the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, and V-Tuber Mint Fantome speaks as herself to explain her world to the rest of itMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin NgOpening Theme: Fubuki - Snowstorm by Pico MisakiVisit our launch page for links: animeroundtable.com

James finally gets a little time away from work again to visit Mike for a Space Heater. After a quick overview of shopping options in Toronto, they decided to talk about the Animeigo documentary series “The Anime Business”, the upcoming Anne of Green Gables anime and the hopes for it in Canada, and James’ thoughts on Assassin’s Creed: Shadows and how he feels it’s not enough to save UbisoftMike Nicolas and James AustinOpening Theme: “Fubuki-Snowstorm” by Pico MisakiCheck out our website for more information and other links: animeroundtable.com

We start with Mike looking back on 19 years (on and off) of the Roundtable. And then current events with the Oscars, a followup to Space Heater and Ontario politics (with the election earlier in the week)18:25 - Everyone around the table tonight has seen Gundam GQuuuux Beginning in theatres. And we have thoughts from Gundam watchers, and newcomers57:12 - On the anniersary of Akira Toriyama’s passing, the Japan Foundation New York is doing an online panel about Dragon Ball’s popularity (on YouTube now)And coming back full circle, Mike looks back on 19 years of the Anime Roundtable, and ahead to kicking the Twitch stream into high gear. Cheers to all thatMike Nicolas, Kevin Ng, Mohamed SharmarkeOpening Theme: “Speed Demon” by Simon Holland (Greetings and Saluations)Visit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

Kevin gives a Mike quick lecture to Mike as feedback on the first gaming stream. Then we talk Japanese Music with his thoughts on seeing Nano and MADKID in concert, Cloud Nine CEO Takuya Chigira’s thoughts on the state of JPOP internationally. How the downfall of a former member of SMAP is proving to be an issue for the TV network he was an anchor of, and some possible ramifications. Then we unwind with by looking back on Animeigo’s Valentine’s town hallMike Nicolas and Kevin NgAnime Roundtable playlist on SpotifyOpening Theme: “Fubuki-Snowstorm” by Pico MisakiLanding Page: animeroundtable.com

Mike and Moh sat down for a space heater. We started by looking back on the first gaming stream on Twitch the night before, and the ongoing Playstation Network outage, which at the time of taping had gotten to 25 hours. But at the heart of the matter, Mike and Moh wanted to talk about The Colors Within, and why you should check it out in theatres before its run likely ends in less than a weekMike Nicolas and Mohamed SharmarkeAnime Roundtable playlist on SpotifyOpening Theme: “Fubuki-Snowstorm” by Pico MisakiLanding Page: animeroundtable.com

We just had to talk about the reveal of the Switch 2 and take a quick trip down recent Nintendo history and how it rebounded from the Wii U almost 15 years ago. And wonder about the future of the handheld gaming console world as a whole. Then we dive into some anime headline with Diamond Distributor's Chapter 11, Discotek's latest reveals, Crunchyroll's latest issue (add it to the pile please), and James giving a thought on an anime title this season that doesn't have a North American pickup...when its manga does, and a business reason as to why you should be disappointed that's the caseCouldn't you tell Mike wanted to meet quota for the month?Mike Nicolas and James AustinCheck out our Linktree for more links animeroundtable.com, or our socials @animeroundtable

We begin 2025 with Mike and James doing a live video space heater where James goes on a rant about the issues with the Phantom Trigger Grisaia anime Kickstarter and looks back on similar anime and manga crowdfunds over the years. Then, some CES news with Crunchyroll looking to restart their digital manga service (hot off the heels of the increased stake in Kadokawa), do some Ghosts of Tsushima live action, and VLC looking to get into the AI subtitle space. Then we come home as the pre-reg for Anime North memberships and hotels begin, and Anime Revolution makes its move on TorontoMike Nicolas and James AustinCheck out our Linktree for more links animeroundtable.com

Aside from talking about the fallout from the Video Game Awards, you know we just had to talk about every piece of Sony and anime related news over the last few weeks (00:17:00)00:22:00 - Sony becomes the largest major shareholder in Kadokawa. And a little more about how we got to here00:37:42 - Bloomberg’s expose on the inner workings of Crunchyroll as their recent numbers don’t look great00:55:50 - Former Funimation man Lance Heiskel speaks01:28:35 - NHK noting how big the anime business is this year. And CNN arguing for the upside for SonyAnd finally, Kevin was late because he was returning from a shopping trip, the Gashapon pop up at Union Station, and the first of Mike’s New Years Resolutions (01:45:07)This Week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot when Mike thought it was already 2025 Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin NgOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

Mike, James, and Kevin catch up after a month and a half off. We talked about Black Friday shopping in Canada (especially video games and some from the store formerly known as Right Stuf) before talking about Sony’s pursuit of Kadokawa and VISA of all thingsVisit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

We finally get in for the first time in a few months. But Mike and James kept it simple and just talked more of the ups and downs of Playstation’s last bit, then the busy week Toho has had, remember a few more voices that have been silenced, and James’ further issues with Crunchyroll taking over Nozomi’s Kickstarter campaignsVisit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

Mike and Moh test out some new equipment by talking a little Playstation. A little bit of Pro, 30th Anniversary, and maybe a new portable as the 6 comes out?Hope the new equipment passed the testVisit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

After completely missing out on August, Mike quickly gets the first episode of September out of the way. And we quickly talk about Kevin’s brief experience at this year’s FanExpo Canada and how it fit in with our fandom this year00:30:30 - Then we talk about Toronto’s Union Station and Amy’s experience at a Gashopon pop up there earlier today01:05:35 - James goes through some of the summer company announcements made during convention season. Which gets into a talk about extras on physical media releases01:22:50 - Mike remembers Tanaka Atsuko and Rachael LillisThis Week’s Drinking Game: Here’s to the ones that we got. Cheers to the wish you were here but you’re notMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin Ng, Mohamed Sharmarke, Amy Lynn GreigOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

*Note: This was taped just before the Euro FinalJames is English, Moh has relatives in England, we had to talk soccer to start, before getting the former caught up on the space heaters00:12:19 - We finally talk at some length about the demise of Gainax. Maybe time gives us a little perspective and lessons00:25:55 - Crunchyroll getting rid of their comments functions, we discuss how this happened and other motivations behind it00:46:35 - Let’s go to Los Angeles. First we talked about the Dodger x Hololive promotion. And then Anime Expo and the line between artist alley and dealers room01:17:47 - The Community Calendar. Back to the two Muv Luv bundles on Humble. Oh and the Revue Theatre in Toronto is doing a 20th anniversary showing of Place Promised in Our Early Days (which will probably be done by the time this goes up). And Flow is coming to TorontoThis Week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot when Bluelock is referencedMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin NgOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

It’s been two weeks since the ITZY concerts. Mike and Kevin were on site for the ITZY concerts in Toronto. So they talk about their observations from different angles, from Kevin’s previous experiences at KPOP concerts, to Mike soaking in the atmosphere around the concert hall. And how it reminded them of Anime NorthVisit our linktree for more information and links: animeroundtable.comOther links coming soon

Mike, Kevin, and Mohammed give a few thoughts on Anime North almost three weeks after, the City Hunter live action almost three weeks after Mike was supposed to have watched it, a conversation with a friend and listener sparking another thought on merchandise, and maybe three headlines as we settle back into the micsNot necessarily in that orderToronto Japanese Film FestivalGainax Goes BankruptVisit our launch page for more links and socials: animeroundtable.com

We actually got a few people in the audience, it didn’t last long though. As always we started with impressions of the con so far. First with the new layout again, then the actual panels and events we sawThen we get to the news00:53:50 - Matt Alt talked about the potential and pitfalls of AI in the fine art of translation, so we did too01:19:20 - Norm McEvoy takes a break from his rounds to make his annual visit to the podcast and explains a few of the changes that happened to Anime North this year, and talk about its DNA01:35:06 - Norm gives his thoughts on Akira Toriyama as the tributes continue at AN, and then goes on his usual pro wrestling fandom for Terry Funk, and remembers some AN staff who passed awayThen some headlines in brief01:45:15 - Wanna watch Miku Expo on TV? Pretty sure those who’ve gone to the concert in person weren’t interested01:48:05 - Toru Furuya, say it ain’t so!? Another in a list of voice actors and bad behaviour01:51:59 - Best wishes to Rachael Lillis as her Breast Cancer battle reaches a difficult pointThis Week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot of sake when someone in the audience adds to the conversationP.S. We’ll hopefully figure out the buzzing sound by next yearMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin Ng, Amy Lynn Greig, with Norm McEvoyOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiOther LinksLawson's and Mt FujiCheck out our website for more links and socials: animeroundtable.com

Mike, James, and Lawrence make their observations as day one of Anime North winds down. Also we revisit some of the conversations from last year after the Nominoichi, and James and Lawrence give their thoughts on Akira ToriyamaGive it a listen before day two beginsCheck out our website for more links and socials: animeroundtable.com

Mike’s voice and well being has recovered enough for him, James, and Kevin to sit around and talk about the world that has passed by in the last two months. After looking back on the Leafs’ season, we actually look forward to TCAF and Anime North (but watch your cellphones), and other things headlines that caught our attention This Week’s Drinking Game: Take a pint when Mike finally realizes that we’ve talked about Dokibird already this yearVisit animeroundtable.com more information and links

We spend most of the episode sharing our memories and giving a toast to Akira Toriyama after news of his death brokeBut we did also talk about these too on the community calendarHumble Bundle: Japanese Language, Culture, and TravelMomo Anime Market at The Momiji CentreMike Nicolas, Kevin Ng, Mohamed Sharmarke, Amy Lynn GreigOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our website for more information and links: animeroundtable.com

Mike, James, Kevin, and Moh briefly got together over coffee and each talked about one thing that caught their attention this weekMoh: Initial reactions to the Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender live actionKevin: The latest on the Ninjisanji controversyJames: Some titles people thought would never see an english release (from titles like Tsukihime and Fate/Stay Night to Ashita no Joe) will see oneMike: Animego’s sale to MediaOCDAnd in case you missed it in the community calendar, 100 Yen the Documentary, and another recommendation Living the GameVisit our launch page animeroundtable.com to links to everywere we are online 

We are able to return two weeks after the last time we taped (and less than a week after said episode was posted). Too bad Mike was still half asleep through it00:05:15 - Changes abound at Anime Toronto. We try to make sense of that and what it  means for the anime convention scene in Toronto00:28:00 - Sony is finally winding down the Funimation streaming service. Of course there’s going to be an issue there. So the Sony bashing continues as we talk more about the kicking and screaming move from physical media to digital consumption of content01:06:05 - The conflict between V-Tuber Selen Tatsuki and former agency Ninjisanji/ANYCOLOR has been the talk of that part of fandom, Kevin gives us a quick summary there and how it parallels the rest of the fandom01:22:40 - And Japan Foundation Toronto and Humble Bundle have some stuff going onThis Week’s Drinking Game: Pour one out for Funimation. Then pour one more for the creator of the World of Narue who passed away this weekMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin Ng, with “long time listener first time caller” Mohamed SharmarkeOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit animeroundtable.com for links to everywhere we are online

The first episode of 2024 (which was taped a week before it was published) starts with us catching up with James. He’s been playing some games. So we talk games 00:28:35 - James gives another eye roll in talking about his latest shopping experience on the Crunchy store. Another lesson about being a Canadian fan00:52:10 - We look back on the verdict in the Kyoto Animation arson tragedy01:04:50 - We look back at the beginning of Anime North season, and the traditional scramble for early spots of any sort at the convention later this year01:15:06 - The community calendar (of items that may have already passed as of publishing). A Japan Foundation Toronto discussion on Japanese Arcades. And KPop group ITZY is coming to TorontoAnd more shopping at the endThis week’s drinking game: Take a shot of espresso when you realize Mike wants to finish the episodeMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin NgOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit animeroundtable.com for a list of all of our links online

Mike, Kevin, and Moh gather around the table for the final time in 2023 and talk more Miyazaki, Mike and Moh’s Netflix watches, streaming services Mike should take a longer look at, defining titles of various generations of fandom, and Kevin’s little exercise. We then make our new years resolutions and debate how fast we’ll break themVisit our website for more information and links:Website: animeroundtable.comTwitter and IG: @animeroundtableEmail: [email protected] Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/animeroundtableYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5U1yZNlQ1VYFH_fV26bYwADiscord: https://discord.gg/Dg38nRm3 

*SPOILER WARNING* Mike and Kevin talk about and try to wrap their heads around every aspect of The Boy and the Herron, Miyazaki’s latest (final) film. And I mean EVERY POSSIBLE ASPECT

After looking back on the Space Heater Chat and some purchases in the latest Indigo Books sale. We focus on Crunchyroll on a few fronts this time around00:09:45 - The retail side of CR with the end of Right Stuf. James gives his experience ordering from the revamped retail site00:37:03 - New mobile games to Crunchyroll services, and manga service winds down. And James puts up an arguement as to why that’s not a totally good thing00:51:07 - So what about the Crunchyroll’s current anime season?And then on to other things01:04:14 - AnimeNYC will have its 2024 edition on August 23-25th, the same weekend as FanExpo Canada. Aside from other news coming from this year’s edition01:10:20 - Japan Foundation has a discussion on video games and trauma recovery01:13:50 - James and Kevin go fanboy on Daigo01:23:30 - Kevin talks a little more about his time watching V-tubersThis Week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot of Espresso when you realize Mike really wants to go to sleep soonMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin NgOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico Masaki

After Mike recovers from yet another illness, he, Kevin and Moh have a morning coffee to talk about the last month to settle back around the table. Like Halloween and Anime North, thoughts on the Overwatch League Finals as Championship Season in various eSports wind down, and the uncomfortable story and latest developments in the Johnny Associates scandalMike Nicolas, Kevin Ng, Mohamed SharmarkeVisit our website for more information and links:Website: animeroundtable.comTwitter and IG: @animeroundtableEmail: [email protected] Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/animeroundtableYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5U1yZNlQ1VYFH_fV26bYwADiscord: https://discord.gg/Dg38nRm3 

A rare time we decided to get right to the main topic and talk at length about PLANETES and Vinland Saga creator Makoto Yukimura’s appearances this past weekend in Toronto01:20:32 - Then in brief, more Haruhi to celebrate 20 years, and One Piece with Jamie Lee Curtis is very possible01:21:39 - Studio Ghibli sold to TV Nippon. We go through the coles notes version, how it came to this and what to expect in the near future. And Miyazaki gives up driving01:30:16 - And longer than usual thought on Sony winding down the Right Stuf store, and how James saw the announcement coming over the last week or two01:46:38 - Wow Paru Itagaki got married?! This Week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot everytime James says “Stuff Like That”. Even more impressive, try and count how many shots you take before passing outMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin Ng, Mohamed SharmarkeOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our website for more information and links:Website: animeroundtable.comTwitter and IG: @animeroundtableEmail: [email protected] Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/animeroundtableYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5U1yZNlQ1VYFH_fV26bYwADiscord: https://discord.gg/Dg38nRm3 

Amy finally returns and starts with some of her watching over the summer and we follow up from last week’s epsode on Anime Toronto with a thought on the poplarity of Hololive and other types of virtual idols00:23:55 - So we decide to do a few headlines in brief in relation to live action adaptations. We start with a Japanese Drama based on Pokemon and its life lessons00:36:22 - The GTO live action is returning…WITH ITS ORGINAL STAR!!00:41:30 - We take a long look at what surrounds the renewal of the One Piece live action for a second season. What has helped it, and is it sustainable?01:43:54 - We look ahead to Makoto Yukimura’s Toronto appearances at the end of the weekThis Week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot when Kevin attempts to sing againMike Nicolas, Kevin Ng, Amy-Lynn Greig, Mohamed SharmarkeOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our website for more information and links:Website: animeroundtable.comTwitter and IG: @animeroundtableEmail: [email protected] Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/animeroundtableYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5U1yZNlQ1VYFH_fV26bYwADiscord: https://discord.gg/Dg38nRm3 

James returns to the table for the first time since Anime North. So we start by recaping his take on the anime summer00:06:22 - A thought on anime on physical media00:10:25 - The original Sailor Moon TV series is leaving streamer Crave on September 17 as Kevin finally shows up!!00:17:25 - Discotek will bring back the original Digimon dub cast for their release of the second movie among other things from them00:24:05 - On Anime Expo, James does go at length on the Tsukihime visual novel release on consoles, and attendance00:37:40 - Crunchyroll having a presence at FanExpo Canada made James and Mike reminisce about the on and off history of anime programming there (which predates the use of the name “FanExpo”)00:49:20 - We begin our long review of Anime Toronto (Formerly IFF Toronto), and how did being on Labour Day weekend a week after FanExpo affect things00:53:40 - So how about autographs from the guests of honour?01:18:40 - A quick word on TIFF and the international premier of The Boy and the Herron01:24:25 - Kevin talks about the Anime Toronto Discord and the Hololive and Yukana presentations01:43:26 - Makoto Yukimora (creator Planetes and Vinland Saga) is coming to Toronto. And then we look aheadThis week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot whenever you hear Kevin’s keyboard, or when you realize this was taped a day before the 22nd anniversary of 9/11Mike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin NgOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our website for more information and links:Website: animeroundtable.comTwitter and IG: @animeroundtableEmail: [email protected] Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/animeroundtableYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5U1yZNlQ1VYFH_fV26bYwADiscord: https://discord.gg/Dg38nRm3 

Would you believe we taped this more than three weeks ago? Mike, Kevin, and Moe decided to shoot the breeze and talk sports, esports, the convention news to that point, the (at the time) convention look ahead, anime movies, movie festivals, and a thought for those who are no longer with us. Not necessarily in that order

Mike, Moh, and Kevin just had to talk about Toronto politics throughout the chat (we taped it as the city elected its new mayor). Mike, Moh, and Kevin also had to ask again about “appointment viewing” vs binging. Mike, Moh, and Kevin also just had to update the Kenshin reboot controversy (with some thoughts about how adapted titles are better with most of its source material straightened out). Then Mike, Moh, and Kevin just had to bring up the first impressions of the One Piece Live Action trailerVisit our website for more information and links:Website: animeroundtable.comTwitter and IG: @animeroundtableEmail: [email protected] Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/animeroundtableYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5U1yZNlQ1VYFH_fV26bYwADiscord: https://discord.gg/Dg38nRm3 

As day two of Anime North ended, Kevin and Amy finally sat around the table to give their impressions of the show so far. Kevin and Amy talk the panels, and Mike talks the general atmosphere…and the parkingThen, we have a serious discussion…51:22 - With the reboot of the Rurouni Kenshin anime now on the horizon, we revisit the discussion that has simmered in light of the issues of its creator some years back. Can you separate the art from the artist here?After we tried to lighten the mood with a game of Yes or No, but then…1:33:15 - Anime North’s Co-programming head, Norm McEvoy joined us for his annual visit and gave his take on the Kenshin issues and looks back at the weekend to this point. And looks back on the lives of Leiji Matsumoto, Ichiro Mizuki, and Antonio Inoki1:59:57 - Hey Kevin. What do you really think about Kodansha’s K-Manga?2:09:49 - Great Pretender has been picked up for physical media. And a Final Insult from MikeThis Week’s Drinking Game: Take a shot for a job well doneMike Nicolas, James Austin, Kevin Ng, Amy Lynn Greig, with Norm McEvoyOpening Theme: “FUBUKI - Snowstorm” performed by Pico MasakiVisit our website for more information and links:Website: animeroundtable.comTwitter and IG: @animeroundtableEmail: [email protected] Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/animeroundtableYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5U1yZNlQ1VYFH_fV26bYwADiscord: https://discord.gg/Dg38nRm3 

*10:45am Editors Note: Mike was so sleepy while putting up the episode this morning, he put up the wrong one. It's now corrected. To the both of our listeners, enjoy!!*Mike is joined by James, Moh, and Lawrence and make observations on the first night of Anime North 2023 and the Nominoichi. James talks about Jun Miyuzuki’s appearance at TCAF and her creation process. Then the others give their take on the evolving media mix in fandom. And look ahead to SaturdayWe’re off and running at Anime NorthVisit our website for more information and links:Website: animeroundtable.comTwitter and IG: @animeroundtableEmail: [email protected] Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/animeroundtableYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5U1yZNlQ1VYFH_fV26bYwADiscord: https://discord.gg/Dg38nRm3 

Kevin and Mike start off by talking about the core items in otaku fandom’s eco-system (and define what a core item is). And then we update manga and graphic novels at this stage of the pandemic in light of the belief that manga sales may have plateaued. Talk some more Kodansha and Drops of GodVisit our website for more information and links:Website: animeroundtable.comTwitter and IG: @animeroundtableEmail: [email protected] Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/animeroundtableYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5U1yZNlQ1VYFH_fV26bYwADiscord: https://discord.gg/Dg38nRm3