BJFF 2016: Shady

Shady a Japanese thriller released in Japan in 2012 and then by Third Window the following year in the UK. This was a welcomed addition to the Brick Lane Japanese Film Festival. A 93 minute story of bullying in Japanese schools where the treatment gets so out of hand that school children take justice into their own hands.

Kumada (meaning Bear and Rice Paddy) played by Mimpib is the overweight student in her classed bullied by the popular girls and nicked name 'Pooh'. She witnesses bullying in her class but does not intervene to avoid herself being caught in the cross fire. Eventually one girl goes missing and her case becomes high priority in the news and also a mystery at school. Who kidnapped her? A teacher, a fellow student? Is she still Alive? these are all questions running in Pooh's mind.

You eventually realise that the girl who has gone missing was also a bully who had made other girls lives hell including pretty loner Izumi. Strangely she is given a hard time for being attractive the opposite of Pooh. Izumi reaches out a hand of friendship to Pooh and they become close friends. Pooh finds it hard to believe how kind Izumi is and despite neglecting to help Izumi in the past when she was being bullied.

You begin to feel uneasy by this instant clinginess to Pooh by Izumi and she even follows her to her only club which is the biology club where she is the only member. Izumi envy's the love Pooh has for her class fish and mysteriously the fish dies. Izumi says it was a accident but who can really be sure? Was this a malicious attatck as Pooh formed an attachment to a fish, no a male fish?

At a shopping trip Izumi treats Pooh to some mascara which Pooh refutes as it was stolen and she makes advances on her. This left the audience confused, what was it Izumi wanted from Pooh? Or was she securing Pooh's loyalty by doing pleasurable things as a form or bribery. Nothing is clear and the plot thickens when Izumi see's Pooh has a bird as a pet, a male bird, Izumi demands to borrow Chuta the bird and Pooh is alarmed and at first refuses but is emotionally blackmailed into agreeing. The next day Izumi makes a joke abou the bento she has made Pooh saying it used to Chirp and immediately Pooh believes she is eating her pet Chuta. At this point you would think Pooh would end the friendship but somehow Izumi talks her way out of it. Mean while there is a lot of emphasis towards the missing classmate and the bullying at school.

One thing leads to another and things suddenly move fast paced, Izumi invites her to her flat, different from her house, their is a horrific stench coming from one of the rooms. They are also joined by another guest, one their their school teachers who Izumi explains is giving her test questions in exchange for sex. Things start to make more sense, perhaps the bully at school was horrible but she wasn't the one who dissapeared the other girl, Izumi so tramatised from the bullying has snapped and done one terrible thing after another...to a point of no return. The end result is only bloodshed.

Written and directed by Ryohei Watanabe he focuses on inner torment inside human beings and how innocence can be polluted and turned into manipulation and selfish gain. We see the change physically manifest in Izumi through her eyes becoming blood shot and the mirrors smashing as she puts on her 'facade' aka the stolen makeup.

This film explores bullying as a real phsycological experience which is shown as more harmful than physical fighting. Similar to the film Confessions this film really looks at taboo subjects and exposes the Japanese education systems flaws. No one see's the bullying nor goes to investigate the disappearance. There is a sense of negligence.

Overall the film was slow paced which built up to a swift conclusion, every detail mattered so you really had to focus on the film. It didn't feel long at all, the animal torture aspect is shown to be an outlet for students in a few films I have seen so far which is perfectly disturbing signs of a psychopath. Even though it was low budget and you only see a small cast set in a school, it is perfectly directed. Pooh has many opportunities to seek help but feels trapped in an open world. A great physiological thriller to be appreciated , you will enjoy this if you liked the Audition.

Showed at Brick Lane Japanese Film Festival with permission of Third Window Films. Available to buy online.

BJFF 2016: Story of Yonosuke

This film was something I had to watch after missing the first UK screening with The Japan Foundation East Side Stories film festival. It follows the life of Yonosuke starting college in 1987. 

After ticking yourself off the guest list, you are welcome to choose the free sake or beer of your choice which included Saporro and Mio. You then walk into a cosy room with seats at the back then blow up mattresses for people to sit on at the front.

You follow his life and the friends he meets and the impact he has on their lives. He meets Yui, who gives him a lot of attention and follows him around. This chance meeting leads him into taking her to check out the different clubs. The clubs system is very popular in Japan and the clubs campaign hard to get freshman to join.

Here they bump into an awkward guy who met Yonosuke at the opening ceremony. Whereas Yonosuke complimented Yui's eyeliner, this guy criticised the glue on her eyelid. Someone they end up dating all thanks to Yonosuke!

Through out the film you are taken between the past in 1987 and the future where the couple reminisce hanging out with the carefree and funny Yonosuke, but where is he now?

You later see that the couple drop out of college due to Yui falling pregnant. Yonosuke carries on samba the club that the three joined. He makes a new friend Kata. Kata is a quiet guy who tries to avoid Yonosuke at all times but ends up getting caught up in his questions and ideas and seeing benefits hanging with Yonosuke.

Through Kata, Yonosuke accompanies him on a double date and meets Shoko, she is rich and takes an instant fancy to Yonosuke. Finding all his jokes hilarious and his poverty refreshing.

She turns up at his apartment and tells people they  are dating. This is strange for him. At the same time Kata reveals a deep secret on why he doesn't date women. Yonosuke shows unconditional to Kata and he in the future recalls him as the most interesting part of college.

Not only a true friend too, but even a great son, coming to visit and calling regularly it's a shame his mother chose washing dishes over speaking to him. It flicks to the future where his mother writes to Shoku sending her a requested item Yonosuke promised her a long time ago.

Even though the film is 160 minutes long, you were engrossed for every second laughing along with Yonosuke's naivete with him falling in love with the out of his league IT girl, third wheel behaviour with Yui and her boyfriend, dancing his samba proudly on stage or sharing watermelon with his newly outed friend.

I recommend watching this film to give people motivation with life. It would prompt you to get in touch with that long lost close friend you had from University.  Give them a call. Life is too short.

Showed at Brick Lane Japanese Film Festival with permission of Third Window Films. Available to buy online.

Review: The Visit

I was meaning to write this as soon as I watched this, the best M. Night Shyamalan film I have seen to date. He brought us great films like 'The Sixth Sense', 'The Village' and terrible films like 'The Last Airbender'. This film follows kids Becca and Tyler who go on a trip to visit their estranged grandparents. Their mother ran away from home many years ago and refused to make amends with them, however one day the grandparents request to meet their grandkids. So while the mum and her boyfriend go on a cruise the kids go to visit the farm.

It was a great start showing single mother explaining bits of her past to her children and not being able to come to terms with her childhood at the farm and struggling to talk about it. However Becca decides she wants to go in order to restore her mothers severed relationship with her grandma and pop pop. Armed with a camcorder the two kids happily travel into the stix where there is barely any internet or life.

Not being to keen on amateur filming this film however revealed lots of errie atmosphere where scenes worked out perfect from the kids perspective rather than the normal view - hiding the reality. The grandparents really have their quirks whether it be grandmas's senile ramblings, and odd requests fror Becca to get into the oven to clean it or pop pop always going into the mysterious shed out back.

One of my favourite scenes is when the kids decide to crawl under the house and play almost hide and seek but grandma appears and chases them out. This reminded me of scenes from the game Project Zero, crawling in close confinement and being unable to escape. When the kids mention this on skype to their mum she exclaims this is how she used to play as a child, passing it off as 'normal behavior'. With the mother condoning all the bizarre behavior I began to feel uneasy about the whole arrangement as Tyler does.

One of the rules of the house was never to leave your room after 9.30 as strange things occurring, noises, screams, scratching. Tyler encounters what looks like naked Grandmama crawling on the floor. Things don't add up and Becca reluctantly films the occurrences in the night and eventually gives in to Tyler's notion that something isn't quite right with their grandparents.

It is the day before they are to return home that Becca tells her mum to come pick them up early as something isn't right and puts the web cam on the grandparents standing outside, mum drops the bombshell of 'That''s not my parents." Yes they have been living in a house with two complete strangers lying about everything. This also explains the lack of photos and grandma trying to break the web cam. This has alarmed the kids and they pretend that nothing is wrong and try riding it out till mum comes to their rescue.

This film has some shocking scenes and a real plot twist and I urge you to watch the film for it's black comedy. Shyamalan has produced and written a well though out story and witty script for the children who steal the show. Also great baking is displayed and made me wanna eat cake till i bloated into Fat Princess. Recommended for people who appreciated 'Drag me to Hell'.

For more adventures of me at conventions and anime reviews follow me on Facebook and Twitter.

Aisha Anime ^_^

Review: Dragon Ball Z: EXTREME BUTODEN

The caps lock in the title was to signify the manly screams of the Dragon Ball franchise. If you are new to the DB series then you have missed out on a long history of shounen manga spanning over 325 chapters which was then adapted into anime (dubbed into several territories over the world) and then into  games and animated movies.

The story follows  a child on earth is found to have incredible strength and later grows up has a family and searches for the mysterious Dragon Balls which bring your wishes to life. Later, aliens arrive and believe his is a missing member of an alien race and Goku is one of a rare breed of Saiyans.  Dragon Ball Z follows Goku’s adult life and his son Gohan and his other companions.

Dragon Ball Z Extreme Butoden is set at the start of the DBZ saga which follows the direct anime adaptation you may have watched on TV many years ago. It is in the form of a 2D fighting game.

Story mode takes you through the DBZ story where you play as Goku and and engage with the villains and fight one round which dictates the story.  The moves are pretty straight forward and are virtually the same for every character except signature moves for certain characters. It’s almost impossible to lose whilst playing as Goku. Later in the game you switch characters and become young Gohan which makes things tricky.

All in all with the complete story mode including Hercule’s long winded story within , it can take up to 45 minutes to complete and then you have unlocked the majority of the game options.

You can also use old cheat codes from the snes days including unlocking Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan Vegeta, players can enter the following code on the title screen: XAB↓→↑YAR↓→↑A→R.

In total there are 25 playable characters and a few more available in Z-Assist that you choose ton come in to battle to help fight. The list includes Chi Chi, Bulma, Launch but the list does not include any Super Saiyan forms even have the Super Saiyan 3 versions. In comparison you have more assist character to choose from which seems to be rather odd.

Adventure mode is a bit more experimental as you can choose different characters and change the story but it is a but more technical than the story mode as you have conditions to meet.

You also have 1v1 mode and you can mix up your team which is standard for a fighting game. The best way to compare it is to Street Fighter, where you use your specials according to the character but proceed to button bash and occasionally if you jump up you are flying which doesn’t change the fighting style at all.

(Originally posted on Parallax Play)

For more adventures of me at conventions and anime reviews follow me on Facebook and Twitter.

Aisha Anime ^_^

The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2016

The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2016 has kick started the year with some great movies for people to watch to educate themselves in Japanese culture. This years theme is IKIRU: The Highs and Lows of Life in Japanese Cinema.

Running  from 5 February to 26 March 2016, the first stop is London ICA, the ICA is particularly one of my favourite cinemas as they are tucked away in between Charring Cross and Piccadilly on the outskirts of a serene park. Inside a home to art exhibits, cafe, trendy bar, walk in gift shop and comfy cinema screens for lots of independent films.

The Japan Foundation added two anime's to the list due to popular demand and here are the titles:

Anthem of the Heart

We follow Jun Naruse a young girl who believes her words have caused unmeasurable trouble. She is one day visited by a mysterious ‘Egg Fairy’ who casts a spell on her preventing her from speaking, stopping her from conveying her emotions. When she enters high-school, Jun is asked to join a musical – a group which turns out to be an unexpected mix of students all suffering from emotional trauma just like Jun. Through the key themes of friendship and music can will Jun be able to find her voice again?

A charming story from the creators behind the smash hit movie, Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day. The creative team of director Tatsuyuki Nagai, scriptwriter Mari Okada and character designer Masayoshi Tanaka return with a completely original animated film which was a huge hit upon its domestic theatrical release in late 2015, touching many hearts across Japan. (Distributed by All the Anime)

Miss Hokusai

A animation from the Keiichi Hara who, who's film, Colorful, the Japan Foundation screened previously. (Watch the interview with Keiichi Hara here.) Set in early Edo period, this animation brings to life the story of O-Ei, the daughter of the ukiyo-e master, Katsushika Hokusai (globally famous for his piece The Great Wave).

Based on the original manga Sarusuberi by Hinako Sugiura, an adaptation which Hara, a huge fan of the series, called ‘a dream come true,’ the film brings Sugiura’s comic and worldview to the big screen, creating a wonderfully detailed recreation of Edo life through combining hand-drawn 2-D with 3-D techniques. The film scooped three awards at the 2015 Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal, including the Satoshi Kon Award for best animated feature film. (Distributed by All the Anime)

Here are also a few that have taken my fancy:

Uzumasa Limelight

An award-wining film telling the admirable story of Seiichi, a ‘kirareyaku’ actor whose main job in samurai movies is simply to be killed-off by the lead star. When the studio where Seiichi works decides to discontinue its samurai epics, Seiichi finds himself at a loss but hope arrives in the form of a young woman named Satsuki, who soon becomes his disciple.

Using Charlie Chaplin’s Limelight as an underlying theme, this film pays homage to the unsung heroes of Japanese movies filmed in Uzumasa film studios (Kyoto), Japan’s Hollywood. The semi-autobiographical performance by real-life kirareyaku, 71-year-old Seizo Fukumoto, who is said to have acted out 50,000 on-screen deaths, earned him the best actor prize at the Fantasia International Film Festival, Montreal, in 2014, with the film also winning the festival’s Cheval Noir for best film. (Distributed by Third Windows Film)

I'll Give it My All...Tomorrow

Fed-up forty-something Shizuo (Shinichi Tsutsumi) quits his secure job to become a full-time slacker, embarking on a reluctant pursuit to follow his true dreams. Despite now spending most of his time hanging around the house in his underwear playing video games and working part-time at a fast-food restaurant, Shizuo eventually comes to realise his true passion in life: Manga! Without much preparation or any skill, Shizuo starts working on his masterpiece…

Adapted from Shunju Aono’s popular manga series, this comedy by Yuichi Fukuda (the director behind HK: Forbidden Super Hero) follows the mid-life crisis of a loveable lazybones trying to find his calling. It will no doubt delight many aspiring manga writers of all stages of their lives! (Distributed by Shochiku)

Starting at the prestigious ICA London from 5th February - 11th February

Find the full list of movies and anime on the Japan Foundation website.

Review : The Danish Girl

This film has been rumored to receive many oscars, starring mainly Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander. Redmayne already famed for playing Stephen Hawking in The Theory of Everything, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor, the BAFTA Award, the Golden Globe Award, and the Screen Actors Guild Award.

The Danish Girl is fictitious love story very loosely inspired by the lives of real Danish artists Einar Wegener and Gerda Wegener. We follow the lives Einar and Gerda's both artists within their own rights evolving in their careers and the interesting aspects of their personal life.

Einar is a famous landscape artist who often props up his wife for which she resents him as she believes she can be respected as an aertist without his recommendation. She focuses on portraits and one day she asks Einar to do a favour for her to wear stockings and ballet shoes to help her complete her ballerina painting which triggers a series of emotions in Einar.

Einar is not social-able and loathes art parties, even for his own work and would rather reside in his work or privately with his dominating wife. It is her dominance that brings to light Einars hidden side. Upon wearing one night a satin under garment she unearths a dark secret Einar has been keeping locked within his heart for years.

Einar is in fact struggling in a battle within himself as he has been unable to impregnate Gerda and has been suffering stomach cramps every month and having nose bleeds...similar to ladies periods. These motions tied in with a series of cross dressing antics bring to life Lili Elb, his alter ego if not his true self. Gerda after witnessing an emotional infidelity ends up supporting her husband or Einar's cousin as they introduce Lili to others through her mental anguish. After many diagnosis of perversion, schizophrenia they finally find an american doctor willing to preform a groundbreaking surgery on Einer, making him a transgender pioneer.

This film delved in deep into a persons psyche and I was quite suprised at how important art was and how art as a profession which meant everything to Einar was a reminder of Lili's past life. Einar the painter was now Lili the muse. What Gerda awakens in her husband, his true self Lili she now awakens Gerda's artistic potential. Gerda's portraits of Lili sell like hot cakes, and are exhibited in Paris and yet all Gerda longs for is her husbands embrace which is forever lost.

This film is for thinkers and I would not recommend for anyone under 18, my friends walked out very pleased with the film, I walked out feeling empty and sad. Happy or tragic ending, you can decide.

To follow my adventures at conventions, and to read my anime/gaming reviews and see general cat photos follow me on Facebook and Twitter.

^_^ Aisha Anime

Pokemon: Symphonic Evolutions

For the first time in the Uk we had the themes from all the Pokemon games from the the first Red and Blue generation to the newest X and Y. Performed by the acclaimed Royal Philharmonic concert orchestra and conducted by Susie Benchasil Seiter.

All brought to us by the creative team behind The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses concert tour have joined forces with The Pokémon Company for a follow-up centered around one of the most popular game series in the world to the Hammersmith Eventium on the 20th December.

There were lots of attendees cosplaying as Pikachu, Pokemon trainers (including myself) showing their love for the series. The merch stall was bombarded by queues to get a t-shirt for £20 and poster £15. If you bought the poster you got to get it signed by the composer and some of the orchestra.

Some of the themes played are from the games listed:

• Pokémon Red and Pokémon Blue
• Pokémon Yellow
• Pokémon Gold and Pokémon Silver
• Pokémon Crystal
• Pokémon Ruby and Pokémon Sapphire
• Pokémon Emerald
• Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl
• Pokémon Platinum
• Pokémon Black and Pokémon White
• Pokémon X and Pokémon Y

The highlight was the sing-a-long for the Pokemon opening to the first anime series, sadly a lot of the audience didn't know the second verse but the loud singing when the chorus came. Alot of my friends came than I expected, they were in the closet but at the end of the day it was apart of my generations childhood and I talk about Pokemon with pride in regards t watching it on TV and playing all the games.

A great event to enjoy for gamers and also people who appreciate the games and great orchestra music. I have attended the Zelda concert and not being the biggest fan but walking out in utter awe for the talent of musicians capturing the magic of the games. This concert was nostagic and emotionally moving, the feels achieved by the ending themes and footage edited together were wonderful. 

For more information on future tours check the website:

http://www.pokemon.com

To follow my adventures at conventions, and to read my anime/gaming reviews and see general cat photos follow me on Facebook and Twitter.

^_^ Aisha Anime

Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium

After a few years in existence and a fully booked schedule with a three month waiting list, I finally got tickets to Lady Dinah's Cat cafe. On New Years Eve I took a chance and waited in hope for cancellations and there were ZILCH so I waited for VIP tickets to turn into normal walk in tickets and an hour and a half later - success!

Whilst waiting we inspected the menu and were impressed with the selection of fine cakes including Red Velvet, Chocolate and Mandarin, Banana cupcakes and even some vegan friendly choices. Being near Bricklane they even sold beigals with special fillings exclusive tot he cafe.

The cover charge is £6 which covers the welfare of the cats and anything you choose to eat is added on top. So you could indeed spend £6 and play with cats for an hour and a half.

• There are rules to protect the welfare and safety of the cats which included:
• Do not pick cats up and carry them around
• Do not wake them when they are asleep
• Do not feed them human food
• Turn off flash when taking photos

Apart from that you are welcome to walk around the two floors and play with the cats. There were a variety of toys, handmade and just household objects that each cat preferred. Queen of the roost, Mew enjoyed taking rides by siting on Bubble wrap or fabric and being dragged around the floor. However due to her being rescued from an unpleasant home she is very nervous about humans touching her head. So as long as you let her smell your hand you are welcome to give her a back massage and pat her bum.

A real surprise was seeing a cat tail sticking out of a cat house close to the ceiling and then see a ginormous cat plodding around sheepishly looking for snacks, Wookie had been predominantly asleep through my session and showed face when he was peckish. He was definitely one of the shier cats but a cute (but large) tabby.

Alice one of the black cats took turns going to ever table and jumping up for treats, she didn't stop till she ate them all. After she played with her favourite string toy, which when not moving - causes her to panic and meow. This was the sweetest thing seeing and hearing a cat cry because she believes it is dead. My cats normally get bored and walk off. Alice demanded attention.

The crowd were a mix of couples, families with kids and mostly females enjoying the company of cats lounging around or sleeping nearby creating a relaxed atmosphere to be in. The staff were more than happy to tell you the cat's names and toy preferences and how to handle them so long as they were sleeping.

The merchandise was quite personalised with postcards with the resident cats faces including Wookie, Donnie and Petra. Cat sweaters in the window perfect for Christmas and some mementos like badges, stencils so you can have cat faces on your coffee !

Unlike Japanese cafes than can have up to 80 cats in venues this cafe had a modest 11, which did as they pleased and looked satisfied with the humans bidding to their needs. Cats tend to sleep alot so I do recommend coming in the mornings and late evenings for more activity.

Book in advance on the website:
http://ladydinahs.com/

Find more of my photos here.

To follow my adventures at conventions, and to read my anime/gaming reviews and see general cat photos follow me on Facebook and Twitter.

^_^ Aisha Anime

Happy new year - 2016!

Art by Robo-Craig - http://roboarts.tumblr.com/

We have entered 2016!

Let's have a look at what had 2014 brought us?

• More Conventions outside of London 
• Regular cosplay meet ups
• Two cereal bars 
• New UK idol groups
• More Japanese movies distributed in the UK
• More Anime movies on the cinema!
• The demise of the Silent Hill franchise.
• The rise of Suikoden series
• Pokken announced to release in the UK (date tbc).
• Regular Mayamada events involving gaming and creativity.

This is only a selection of things that impacted my life, feel free to post your favourite or most loathed moments from 2015.

May the new year bring you a step closer to your goals.

We are Perfume: 3rd Document Movie

It was great to have the opportunity to see rare Japanese films on the big screen let alone a documentary about a music band. We are Perfume: 3rd Document Movie was shown at Rich Mix in Bethnal Green sold out completely of merchandise including 30 t-shirts, 30 stickers and 30 folders showing the documentary title photograph. 

The showing itself big enough to screen 100 filled a whooping 89 seats at 12 noon on a Saturday, this was a great success for the NHK to show in the UK and should be an incentive to show more niche Japanese movies in London.

Amongst Japanese enthusiasts the UK Perfume PTA were in attendance with all there purchased merch and there own fan made items including laser printer models of the three ladies in a fans hat. It was also nice to see genuine Japanese fan towels on show too.

 The Film itself used footage from Perfume's debut audition tape to the most recent tour in 2014 mixed with new interviews. We got to hear from the girls themselves how they met and the introduction of Nochhi to the group and how they felt she was the relaxed member who brought fun to the overall serious thinking troup.

One of my favourite moments was footage from the London tour last year which I attended, Nochhi in fact forgot some of her steps and had a moment looking around on stage lost - this was not something a lot of people would notice and she talks about it opening and then we see the comical clip. It's these moments that show they are human as well as famous pop idols, at last we see the idols who strut around in heels put their legs in ice to calm the leg swelling!

It was also a great insight into the bands rituals, how the three say a mantra before each show and pat each o n the back for reassurance. It is also great team work and they show appreciation to all staff alongside them put the shows together. When the LED lights malfunction on the USA tour the poor manager takes the blame upon herself when Perfume reassure her they did a great performance despite which was a test to their ability and the fans enjoyed the show.

Speaking of fans watching the rare meet and greets was invigorating a select few in USA got to meet the band intimately including having chats and lots of photos. Any suggestions on favourite songs where taken very seriously and A-chan would re evaluate each set list before the next show.

I have also been educated in Merlions thanks to this documentary, if I ever go Singapore I am checking it out. The ladies discover different tourist attractions in each destination they go to and even get recognized in the street. You followed the trio with their highs and lows and feel close to the aspiring singers who still have yet to hit the big time in their own (modest) eyes. Their next big aim to perform in Times Square in 2017 - let's see if this will happen.

A great documentary using backstage filming with high quality interviews with each individual member put into a chronological order following the whole 3rd Perfume tour in 2014. Definitely worth buying on DVD when it's out.

For more news on anime, cosplay, games and Japanese culture follow me on Twitter and Facebook.

Aisha Anime ^_^

Snowy Lane Luxury Mince Pies (from Lidl)

After all the hype over these specific brand of mince pies in 2014, I was able to procure two boxes in early December. Quoted by Which? as the best brand of Mince pies to buy. Snowy Lane Luxury Mince Pies (from Lidl) will you out do the others?

Appearance

They have changed the packaging since last year, now in a posh looking box with see through window. The holly leaf has now become a star. It has the standard mince pie look with a star pattern on top. Lots of sugar was on top to create the snowy look.

The First Bite

The Mince itself was mild, but the overwhelming taste of orange engulfed my tongue. The smell lept at your nostrils once crunching into it. and from each pie varied in quantity, once pie had lots and one was half empty.


Price

6 for £1.15

Conclusion

Standard size, overwhelming taste, I tried two batches and this is the new recipe. Unless your a citrus fanatic i think this pies are not so great. Not that sweet, even drowning it in cream didnt mute the orange taste.

1/5 So much promise so much Dissapoint!

More Mince pie reviews to follow during December but if your not a fan check out my blog for all the latest event news, anime, game reviews, cosplay and Japanese culture.

For more news on anime, cosplay, games and Japanese culture follow me on Twitter and Facebook.

Aisha Anime ^_^

Interview with Himezawa

Aspiring cosplayer, Himezawa, came from Germany to the UK at first as a guest at London Anime and Gaming Convention. Since that appearance she decided to study in the UK. Since we last saw Himezawa in the UK she had just signed a contract with Asobi a Japanese modelling company who arranged the Hyper Japan fashion show in 2013.

Since you went to Japan, what have you got up to?

- I had a lot of photoshootings for Japanese street snap sites, designers and make-up lines. I went to various fashion shows and events like Harajuku Kawaii Week, Osaka Kawaii and MoshiMoshiNippon Festival. I also appeared on national television a few times, was in catalogues and released a single. It's been really busy!

What has been your favourite moment in Japan?

- Though I absolutely love my work and I have a lot of great memories on each of them, to me traditional Japan is more enjoyable than pop culture sometimes. I went on a short trip to Kyoto and Nara a few months back and I really enjoyed the quiet side to it. I live in Tokyo, so it's always noisy and always busy, so I love to take job offers from outside the city. A week ago I had the chance to model for a Kimono company in Osaka, and the places we shot in were absolutely breathtaking!

Favourite project you worked on?

- That's without a doubt my debut single!

I never thought I would end up doing music one day, and I mainly wanted to try it, because I love j-pop music a lot. I love singing and I really enjoy dancing, but covering other peoples songs never gave me the chance to express myself fully. I got to write a lot of the lyrics myself, and most of the project was based on my ideas and my script, so it's "the most me" I got to create since I moved to Japan.




You also are a self published author, can you tell us about your book?

- I am not self-published, I have contract with a publisher in Germany.

My first novel "Staubmädchen" (English: "Dust Maiden") released February 2015. It's a mix of SciFi and Fantasy, and the story follows Mister Penber, an agent for the Ministry of Occult Criminal Cases, who meets a young Exorcist while investigating a murder case. Exorcists have been known as nothing but a myth and though he doesn't quite believe her story, Penber follows her to London, that earned its new name "Cursed City" after a terrorist attack a few weeks prior. In the catacombs of Londons former underground he is introduced to other exorcists of the Grey Order, a group of exorcists remaining after the "London Doomsday", the day of the apparent attack. Much later on Penber finds out that it was in fact fate that lead him to the Order and that he plays in fact a bigger role in this scenario than he anticipated.

"Dust Maiden" will have an English release in 2016 (via Best Off Verlag),

Recently you released a single, what inspired your song?

- It's a song about growing. It's about growing up, finding yourself and overcoming hardships that life throws at you. In Japan especially suicide rates are high and the number of shut-ins (Hikkikomori) is extremely high. Many young people have the feeling that they can't live up to to the expectations society has for them, so they chose "a way out". My song "Wagamama Love" (English:Selfish love) is the story of telling your last goodbye, telling your friends and family to forget about you, and letting go.

Now, I want my song to support people who feel alone with my song. To distract them and show them a way out of the negative thinking they are caught in. My song ends with the words "You are not alone.".
You are currently raising money for charity, why have you chosen this charity and what are you hoping to achieve.(write link as well)

Last year I lost someone very close to me to cancer and it was hard for me to accept that I couldn't help that person, no matter how much I wanted to. We grew up together and it made me realize that cancer can hit anyone, no matter how healthy and no matter where from.

I started fundraising because I can't open my PO box to public this year, as I usually do for my birthday / around Christmas anyway. So instead of sending me cards or small gifts, I want to encourage people to donate to the charity.

Last year my followers gave me the chance to go to Japan and follow my dreams, by donating more than 1,000 pounds to my kickstarter campaign, but this year I want to raise money for charity instead. I felt like it was time for me to give something back.

http://www.justgiving.com/himezawa

It's great to see that ones dreams can become a reality with hard work, determination and a little lucky. I can't wait to here how Himezawa is doing next year.

For more news on anime, cosplay, games and Japanese culture follow me on Twitter and Facebook.

Aisha Anime ^_^

Hyper Japan Christmas Market 2015: Interview with Airly Momok/ Edo Anime

It was fantastic walking around Hyper Japan meeting so many like minded people. Amongst the VIP guests I helped out at a friends stall Japan Underground and a beautiful lady in a Cinderella dress approached me and handed me a leaflet. This was Airly Momoko a Japanese-French idol who came to Hyper Japan to help promote the Edo Anime stall.

For more information on the Edo Anime 1803 project please check out their website.

Watch our interview below:

For more news on anime, cosplay, games and Japanese culture follow me on Twitter and Facebook.

Aisha Anime ^_^

Mince Pie Reviews 2015: Sainsbury Bakery

It's that time of the year and mince pies are rife, to be honest they've been knocking around from October but who can turn a good mince pie down BUT which is the pie to rule them all? Starting with Sainsbury's Bakery pies, I spied them today whilst locating sourdough bread. 

Appearance

What lured me to this pie?

The star detail of course. Showing all the goods on offer, hehe. Well you can see some have over spilled over the thick shortcrust pastry. MMMM GLUTEN

The First Bite

I will say the pastry has been the best I've tried since 2014 and it was crunchy but didn't crumble into my mouth. It was perfect consistency, not dry or too sweet or chewy - just right. The Mince itself was mild, with t he odd rasien with a burst of sugary sweetness. 

Price

Four for 80p or two boxes for £1.50 (8) With a saving of 10p

Conclusion

Small  portions means you will be eating two at a time. Tastes great with double cream. I would recommend NOT to heat up as it makes the filling chewy. Looks like a kid made it but great for people not into sickly sweet desserts. 

3/5 The modest pie

Moore Mince pie reviews to follow during December but if your not a fan check out my blog for all the latest event news, anime, game reviews, cosplay and Japanese culture.

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Review: Disgaea 4

Disgaea returns with a new bunch of demons on a quest to save the reputation of the lowly Prinnies...? Dood what? So we enter another parallel Neverworld this time inhabiting Valvatorez the great. Or so we're told. Loyal fans to the series will see this as the 4th available on PS3 and PS Vita. We are greeted with a new set of classes, options and cast of demons.

The story gripped me at once, a hero who respects Prinnies? What's going on here, is he soft in the head. Apparently Valvatorez or Lord Val as most call him is banished to be a Pruinny Instructor. A totaly underdog of the demon world but with a past of once greatness. This greatness has been long forgotten since he stopped drinking blood due to a promise. A promise made to a human which in fact drained him of most of his powers. He is now stuck in a shrimpy body and obsessed with sardines which he feasts on instead of blood.

Alongside the law abiding Lord Val we have his loyal servent Fenrich who is pretty mean and bad ass, did I mention he was a werewolf too? Twilight resonances are appearing to me but nope there is no glitter just relentless trolling and beats. Whilst the Prinnies are slandered to be the cause of the receding death rates to Celestia and the Netherworld, the pair go on a journey and come across a great rag tag bunch. One of my least favorite recurring characters holds a lead role in this game, Emiziel. The president of the Netherworld's son, a right 'rascal' and pain in the butt. After much leveling you realise he has the second best magic in the game. The best magic is owned by Desco a big boss who gets whooped by the team and strives to over throw the couruptment to become the ultimate big boss. Also tentacles.

The game cleverly adds hints into the conversations on how to improve your characters like 'chara world' this was an interesting touch but I very quickly lost interest. For you see instead of the 'item world' concept where you clear out all the enemies, in char world you are surrounded by geo cubes that you must destroy to obtain the level ups and character bonuses. This takes a VERY LONG time to do. I found it was really worth while to do for the mages to unlock great spells and evilities. Otherwise it's a very tedious procedure for every character.

Within the stats demon, you can see what you have achieved ie. what percentage of rare items you collected, enemies killed, levels reincarnated (for Lord Val) which is handy for unlocking all the ending and through that you do get the indication of a hidden ending. *Squuueee* sorry ignore my inner fan girl. You can also re watch scenes and art from the game which is for the hardcore fans.

They also bring up the option of opening the 'Cave of Ordeals' early in the game for you to hideously fail at but aspire to play maybe in your third or fourth gameplay (no really it's pretty hard).

Basically you need to play this game becuase of tentacles. Nah just kidding, as much as I love the odd mix of characters, there is so much more to offer from the game. A great addition of extra levels so you can do endless grinding in different settings. Also there are a lot of cameos from a favourite past characters from the series including everyone's favourite fallen angel Flonne. If you like the Prinnies, you get a lot of interaction and conversations and well what can I say the characters like to ship each other which makes all otaku's happy. Fenich and Lord Val FTW. A JRPG fan's must play game.

For more news on anime, cosplay, games and Japanese culture follow me on Twitter and Facebook.

Aisha Anime ^_^

Models/Designers/Photographers/MUA's wanted for Harajuku Fashion show 2016

Photos from the last LAGC on http://www.darkangelphoto.net/

Hello all my creative friends ^_^

Once again we will be hosting a Fashion show celebrating Japanese fashion this coming February 2016. On Sat 6th Feb - because it is called the 'Harajuku Fashion Show' we are showcasing great creativity from fashionistas or fashion enthusiasts to put their twists on stage.

What we are looking for:

*Models - styling together there own Japanese Style including: Lolita/punk/gothic/visual kei/fairy kei/roccoco/creepy cute/hime/rave/sweet/classic/kimino/mori/prince/decora/gyaru/yomamba.


*Designers - to showcase their Japanese style or fusion rage of clothing/accessories.


*Makeup Artists/hairstylists - not afraid to try bold looks or soft and natural for mori styles


What you get out of this:


All Models, hair stylists, makeup artists, Designers, will receive a free entry ticket to the event on Saturday 6th Feb 2016. Since this is an event you will be able to walk around freely and watch other stage events, look at the merchandise, access the bar, watch movies, play games - including the after party.


Models: You will get at least two digital professional photos of you in your outfit for your portfolio and many cat walk photos and from backstage.
Hair stylists/Makeup artists: you get to practice your skills and also obtain photos for your portfolio
Designers: Showcase your pieces on a catwalk


If you are interested, please message me with the information listed below ^_^
Application Form:

Name:
Modelling name:
Gender:
Description of proposed outfits(s):
Photo of outfit or something similar.


Please message me on:
the anime league forum - @Aisha
email - doomed.prinny@gmail.com
twitter: @aisha_anime

Review: Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection F

It was a truely 'wow' moment when Manga Entertainment announced that on September the 30th they were screening Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection F around the UK.

This is one of the first anime titles to be shown on cinema in the UK which is not Studio Ghibli related.

Being one of the most iconic anime's spanning over 325 chapters in manga form. One of the few anime's to be dubbed into several territories over the world and then into  games and animated movies.

I was fortunate to get tickets for the showing at Bluewater , whereas other Londoners went to the Prince Charles Cinema. Here I saw lots of enthusiasts talking of the series before and after the screening. You also got a free keyring after, sadly I didn't get Goku or Gohan but Freezer himself.

The Film is set after the Freezer sage, Cell Saga and Maijin Boo saga. In fact the beginning eludes you into thinking you were watching another film with happy animals dancing around din flowers where something is tied up in a tree. This is Freezer in his personal hell.

With a great opening scene such as this, the crowd laughed and onto the main story where Freezer's minions seek the Deragon Balls in order to summon Shenron to bring Freezer to life like the title indicates - Resurrection F.

We see all our favourite warriors older, including a Krillen with a head full of hair, Gohan donning a suit rathe than a Ghii and of course Goku and Vegeta still training. This time we see a lot more of Beerus and Whis since Goku and Vegeta literally turn up unannounced to train and well with a little help of edible bribery.

Beerus and Whis feel like villains more than comrades but that adds to their charm and gluttony for Earth food. The animation on the food was divine - i think I wanted the banana split more than they did. With poignant uses of CGI at places the anime really looked crisp on the big screen.

Also the audio was dubbed and it was great to hear the likes of Sean Schemmel, Christopher R. Sabat, Monica Riel again. Also fans of XXXholic would have been pleased to hear Colleen Clinkenbeard and Todd Haberkorn and more much loved favourites who paved the way in anime for a high standard of voice acting.

Obviously hardcore fans of the manga would know the outcome of the movie but I was blown away by the jokes and chemistry between the characters I had not seen for a long time and to hear the audience laugh and gasp alongside the scenes was refreshing.

Also sad part was you didn't get to see Android 18 fuight nor any sign of Trunks or Gotenks. However you get to see a new Super Saiyan form  which is blue and Freezer got full on Gold. Also a rare tim e not seeing Yamcha dying but a lot of Master Roshi kicking butt and taking names. Some of the best one liners came out of Vegetas mouth, I love his hate for Goky, even when they are old and decrepit he will will never let Goku forget how stupid he is.

I dont have to tell you what happened in the movie, frankly I recommend you watch on cinema or buy on DVD. Hopefully Manag Entertainment bring out more titles to the big screen.

For more news on anime, cosplay, games and Japanese culture follow me on Twitter and Facebook.

Aisha Anime ^_^