Claymore episode 23
Critical Limit – I

Update soon.

Screenshot of the episode

“I like this shot’s sparks effect.”

Comments: The graphic quality of this episode has tumbled very much worse than the scene at The Witch’s Maw. The flash sword effect is used so often as overlay of net wiring over the scenes (they want to catch flies?). Extremely poor quality in fighting animation that seem more like watching darts flying all over when Madhouse tried to make it seem like Rigardo and Clare has increased their movement speed. Clare’s face is pretty much distorted throughout the this episode (no makeups today?). This ep appears to show an endless brawl between Clare and the lion king, fighting for too long, what’s worse they added more Raki scenes and more Raki’s kissing flash back (yay more draggness). It’s quite amusing to realize that Easley and Priscilla happily rode their ponies while so much fighting occurred at Pieta. lmao. Helen plays chameleon slingshot and captures Rigardo’s arm reminds me of Ophelia T_T. I wondered how can Clare defeat Rigardo even if she awakens 3/4, being a #47 warrior. Rigardo was once #2 male Claymore, moreover he is fully awakened. Starting ep 25, it should be totally different than the manga storyline, Claymore is still great after this arc and if there is Season 2 I’m sure it still hold enough passion for everyone to continue watching. You can go to OneManga to read the manga/comic online if you haven’t. Episode Rating:

Clare vs Rigardo Click to view full.

Click here to download this episode at Eclipse Production download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

For alternative review, click here to go to Brian’s Claymore episode 22 review.

Previous Entries:
Claymore – 22

Claymore episode 22
Invasion of Pieta – II

Priscilla has stopped eating and the blood on her mouth makes it bitter for Raki to look at. When Raki stands, she hugged his thighs as if to make him stay.

Back at Pieta city, all Captains but Miria was killed. Clare was furious that she plead of killing Rigardo. Rigardo penetrates Clare, Deneve, and Helen instantly to get to Miria. When he points his talons at Miria, Helen extended her arm to strike him but misses. Thereafter, Deneve and Clare charges and tried taking on Rigardo together but they failed and both was slashed on their shoulders by him. When all three of them landed on ground, Deneve and Clare managed to dodge as Ligardo shoots out his extended claws.

Meanwhile, Priscilla fell asleep on Raki’s lap when Easley returns with a bundle of firewoods. Easley plead Raki to stay with her or she will be upset. Easley explained and answered some of his questions then tell them rest well and heads off.

As Ligardo lectures them of the worthless blind charging attacks, Miria appears behind him and swings her Claymore at him. Ligardo jumps and dodges while he counterattacks in the mid-air. Ligardo soon learns of Miria’s ability and both of them engaged each other. Abruptly, Clare charges and Ligardo moves behind her while he shoots his claws at Clare and eventually injures Deneve who is behind her.

Helen quickly rush to Deneve but Deneve feels she should worry more about Miria and Clare who is fighting Ligardo. After Helen then return to join others in the fight, Helen remembers what she told Undine before and starts to cry about how impotent she was, when she is unable to even land a slash on Ligardo for her avengement.

During that moment, Raki and others decides to set off towards Pieta city but they are warned by two bypassers of the dangers ahead. When Raki hears of the involvement of the lowest ranked Claymore in Pieta city, he realized Clare might by there. Priscilla tries to stop him from moving on by holding his hands, however Raki apologized to them both as he did not want to lose anyone anymore. He then rides his horse and rushes towards the city.

The battle continues as Miria is starting to kneel within her limits, Helen and Clare tries to intercept to protect her but was knocked aside. Clare persistence only proves to be futile as she continues to charge head-on. When Ligardo is attending to Clares attacks, Miria appeared behind him to strike him but she was immediately punctured all over by all of his extended claws. Ligardo knew she is near her limit and unable to dodge anymore.

Ligardo wants to end this battle and decides to dismantle Miria’s head at the point where she is severely injured. Clare forced herself to rush towards them as Ligardo prepares to deal a final blow. Thereupon she realize how slow her legs are and wished she could be faster, to save Miria. In a glance, Clare miraculously reached them and chops off Ligardo’s arm. Clare’s monstrous look no longer had a look of a human.

Screenshot of the episode

“WHERE IS MY LUNCH!!!”

Comments: I like how they animate Clare, at the moment she tries to save Miria from her execution. (how her shoulders sway as she runs) What irritates me quite a bit is the switching between scenes, nevertheless it is never worse than Naruto (the fight between Kakashi’s team against Itachi, and Gai’s team against Kisame). Do you feel the flashbacks are quite meaninglessly to keep repeating? The part on Deneve crying is a little dramatic, damn Undine should survive instead of Jeane!! zzz. As next episode should wander away from the manga storyline, my predictions is that Raki may meet Clare in the end. Episode Rating:

Random Pic: Happy family Click to view full.

Click here to download this episode at Eclipse Production download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

For alternative review, click here to go to Brian’s Claymore episode 22 review.

Previous Entries:
Claymore – 21

Love Complex episode 20
Declaration of War!! The Dangerous Beauty Who Burns with Jealously!!

Update soon.

Screenshot of the episode

“Bear-love vs Dragon-love”

Comments: The indifferent expression of Otani is quite amusing, if I were him i probably would show the same signs of emotion. lol. Mimi is evil and helpless at the same time. I think she should have given up by now since she realize how Otani and Risa can click on the things they do at the arcade. Let’s see how Otani and Risa can stay together even if Otani applies for university studies in the preview of the next episode. >_< Episode Rating:

Click here to download this episode at KissSub download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

Previous Entries:
Lovely Complex – 19

Claymore episode 21
Invasion of Pieta – I

Unaware of the invasion that is about to happen, Raki follows Easley and Priscilla towards the Pieta city. Rigardo is summoned to invade the city with his full manpower of 27 Awakened Beings.

All five Claymore teams are prepared to engage the awaiting tough battle. The army of Awakened Beings invaded the city and took several Claymore by surprise. Five Claymores were tore into pieces before they can act. With some planning and organizing, they managed to kill three of their enemies regardlessly. Outside of the city, Rigardo realized that it took too long for them to wipe out the city, as he expects all the Claymores to be weaker than his subordinates. He then heads to the city, attempting to accelerate his objective.

During that time, Raki finds Priscilla missing and goes to look for her. On the way, he sees a women tripped over while screaming at the sight of a monster and hurried off. He then finds Priscilla’s mantle on the ground and traced the footprints to a nearby cave. Inside, he finds Priscilla beside a campfire feasing on a man’s corpse. He starts to figure out that Priscilla is a Yoma, which he encounters in the past with Clare. He raised his sword in attempt to kill her but after hearing Priscilla’s grieving cry, he was held back. As he back away, he bump into Easley who just arrived. Easley covered Priscilla with the mantle and revealed Priscilla’s true nature, an Awakened Being. Raki then hugged Priscilla from behind as he desperately tries to stop her from consuming the body.

Meanwhile, the fight at Pieta stopped and all Awakened Beings fled when they heard a roar from the mountains. Rigardo appeared moments after and declared that he can no longer lose any of this force then he awakens.

Miria instantly recognizes Rigardo as the Silver-eyed Lion King. Before anyone can act, Rigardo tears Veronica into two. In another split second, Rigardo appeared behind Undine and striked her from top down. After some resistance, both of her arms dismembered (omg calm down people) then she was also sliced apart. As the situation becomes critical, Jeane discovered that Rigardo is targeting team leaders and command Clare to protect Flora. She then managed to corkscrew her arms and send her attack at Rigardo. However she misses and Rigardo pieced through her chest with his claws. Clare instantly burst into anger and charged at Rigardo but was knocked aside. After Jeane was laid, Rigardo reappears in front of Flora and thrust his finger into her forehead and slashed her with his talons.

Now four team leaders are presume dead, Rigardo roar with fury.

Screenshot of the episode

“Woots! Finger of Death!”

“The zookeepers”

Comments: What is Priscilla eating, it seems delicious. haha. I wonder; if Rigardo’s attacks are so powerful in a single strike which took Undine apart quite easily. But why Jeane is able to take so many hits from that wolverine. lol? The production studio overused Jeane’s drilling fork and it looked as if she will use that attack on every cute Yoma she encounters. It is never worse than Flora, who died before she even knew it. I think Undine is an interesting character, I hope she survive from the attack. It’s such a waste if she died without accomplishing her vow to get stronger with her double sword. If you awakened, you get powers 10 times better and you can still remain as emotional humans. I suggest everyone just awaken. Would it make much difference? Since Awakened Beings (Rigardo, Easley, Riful, etc) can transform into humans/monster as they wish and they have no mind barrier. Just that awakened beings have urge for guts. The world will be a better place, no fights, no deaths, every awakened gets their share. lmao. I think they could just remove the Raki character totally. He’s not important, less screen time, shallow objective, i could name a couple more but I think let’s not waste time on him. Finally, the graphics and conclusions; the red Yoki atmosphere is pleasant to watch since it brightens the scene. Great episode, many actions and there are casualties (something popular Bleach series never had up until now). From how Priscilla is portrayed, I doubt there will be second season. Let’s see how things turn out in next episode. Episode Rating:

Random Pic: Big Head Clare Click to view full.

Click here to download this episode at Eclipse Production download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

For alternative review, click here to go to Brian’s Claymore episode 21 review.

Previous Entries:
Claymore – 20

Love Complex episode 19
Sudden Downturn!! The First Date is the Beginning of Misfortune

In the previous episode, it was Risa’s birthday. She received two gifts from Otani, a necklace and a kiss (the best gift).

It’s summer season and time for the both comedian, Risa and Otani, to return to school for their summer extra classes. Risa returns to class and they greeted one another. Otani is stunned that Risa wore his birthday gift, the necklace to school. Shortly after, Nobu and Chiharu arrived and finds Risa with her new necklace. Nobu begins to ask about its origin, Risa hesitated due to the tense pressure by Otani and told her it’s god’s gift.

Immediately Risa is pulled outside by Otani who had something to discuss with her. Risa frankly told him he wish to tell everyone about their relationship. And so Otani had no choice but to return to class with his fingers crossed. While Otani and Risa heads back to class, both of them were utterly shocked to find Nobu and friends were secretively eavesdropping what they said earlier in a corner.

When class ended, Otani is pestered and tried to explain that nothing happened then heads off to avoid that topic. However, Risa confessed the happenings on her birthday to Nobu when questioned.

Risa appeared to be more joyous then before while Otani and her walked home together. Otani unexpectedly dates her out. They took a break at a drinks cafe, abruptly Otani hands Risa the ticket to World Athletics Championships which got her excited. However, Otani grasped the ticket back as he wanted to safe-keep it for her.

Suddenly, someone called out to Risa from behind. The stranger was revealed to be Risa’s friend from middle school. The middle school friend of Risa unexpectedly asked if Otani is her boyfriend but Risa suggested that they were just normal friends. Her friend also spout that Risa would not like a guy who is shorter than her. Otani is instantly irritated by the Risa’s reference. Otani wants Risa to know they are in a couple relationship but he spoked halfway then gave up and headed home.

It’s the day of the Championships, Risa arrived late and received some scoldings. Moreover, she totally forgotten about her handbag and so Otani had to treat her later.

They quickly rushed to find their seats but on the way, Otani is knocked over by three mean womens. Otani complained that his finger is hurt by their handbags. Risa was quick to become depressed upon realizing she did not bring her handbag when reaching for her band-aids.

Upon hearing the clamour from the crowds, they rushed to see the athletes. Halfway through the event, Otani asked Risa go over to the under-passage. Otani comforted her that there is nothing to be sad about for forgetting to bring her handbag. He also clarify that he wouldn’t kiss someone that is just a friend. Hinted about their relationship, tears began to blur Risa’s eyes who wholeheartedly gave her heart to Otani. Otani concedes and hands his handkerchief while telling her not to cry then walks up the stairs. During that time, Risa clutch his wrist and confessed her love for him many times (this part is funny =P). Otani turned embarrassed and tried to parry from reacting. When Risa asked if Otani loves her, Otani nods to assent her confession.

Suddenly, a roar of appraisal can be heard from the whole stadium. Then the both of them realized that they are being focused on-screen by the stadium cameras. Immensely embarrassed, they ran off to hide themselves.

Both arrived at the toilet to catch some breath, Otani laughs at Risa for saying all the embarrassing words. Risa admits that she was too happy to not express it. The both of them were thirsty, and Otani ordered Risa to get her some juice as an obligation.

As Risa blissfully heads for the drinks vending machine for some refreshments. Otani met her ex-girlfriend during that moment. Risa returned as she found Otani conversing with her ex-girlfriend, she cried and runs off. Accidentally, Risa hurt her foot and was soon aided by Otani’s ex-girlfriend.

Risa is a happy girl again when Otani tells his ex-girlfriend that Risa is her girlfriend and acknowledged her dressing efforts. They farewelled to the ex-girlfriend and heads home together.

On the way, Otani met his young neighbour, Mimi, who was there with her father. Surprised after hearing Risa is Otani’s new girlfriend, Mimi turned jealous and infuriated (there is fire aura around her, lol).

Screenshot of the episode

“I thought we are heading for the Stadium and not the Fish Market?”

Comments: Yes yes, i know i haven’t blogged about ep 18, give me some time alright. ;) This episode blew me away!! Full 10 stars for this episode. I hardly come across an anime that gives such great impact of emotions (mix of different emotions, can be shocking, funny, happy, and sad at the same time.). It’s just extremely impulsive that Risa confessed many times (like 10 times? funny) and forcefully asked if Otani loves her. Poor Risa must have dry eyes from crying that much. GREAT JOB voice actor of Risa! Did you noticed a mistake the production studio made?; since their confessions were put on-screen, everyone in the stadium will know about it. Apparently, Otani’s ex-girlfriend is still unfamiliar about their relation. Watch out for next episode! In the preview of next episode, the new character (Mimi, neighbour of Otani) appears to be mentally torturing Risa for a while. Episode Rating:

Click here to download this episode at KissSub download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

Previous Entries:
Lovely Complex – 17

Claymore episode 20
The War in the North – III

It’s been snowing everyday, Easley suggest the reason of Priscilla sticked closely to Raki is that he has the warm smell from the south which reminds her of her family whom was eaten by a Yoma. When a man riding a horse passes by and warns them of the Claymores that settled in the City of Pieta. Alerted by the news, Raki quickly forces Priscilla away and prepares to set off to the city. He was advised to travel with the both of them as Pieta is the same place they are heading towards. And so he was convinced to travel with them for Priscilla’s sake.

Soon, they set up a camp for the night. Easley questioned Raki about his purpose in Pieta and Raki revealed that he is searching for a Claymore named Clare. In order to have the ability to protect Clare, he needs to become strong which Easley asked if he had capability to achieve that. At the same time, Easley grabs Raki’s sword for some swordplay demostration. Seeing Easley’s incredible sword skills, Raki begged him to be his tutor.

Meanwhile at the City of Pieta, Claymores are resting and replenishing their strength. Some Claymores in Undine’s team are discussing among each other, about the first fight against awakened beings and afraid of awakening thy-selves. Shortly, Undine left the room after expressing her antipathy in her teammate’s cowardice. Deneve calms her teammates down, telling them Undine captain is just as tense.

Deneve then went to the equipment room to get changed. She was alarmed by the noise in the inner room. Undine bawl out and warns Deneve not to come close to her as she is changing in that room. As Deneve noticed two of captain’s swords lying beside and starts to ask the different emblem in one of her swords. Undine claims she took it from a fallen comrade. Knowing the Claymore sword is used as a grave marker for dead Claymores. Deneve then recalls Undine holding it tightly using her dominant hand.

As she approach the inner room, Undine promptly barked at her to not come close and admonish her about their obligations as leader and subordinate. Deneve intruded neverthelessly and finds Undine crying and shivering in her true appearance. She bring up to her captain that being terrified of awakening is nothing to be ashamed of. She believe that Undine was once a feeble warrior who depends on her partner until she died. Undine starts to get angry at Deneve for imposing into her past until they were interrupted by Helen.

Deneve reveals herself from the inner room and quickly shuts the door behind her. To prevent Helen from discovering Undine, she wards off Helen by telling her that the inner room has nothing but livestock records. After Helen changed her attire and left, Deneve returns to Undine with her other sword and tells her of her story that her elder sister sacrificed to save her from a Yoma. For that reason, she became a Claymore seeking avenge for her sister. With stronger thoughts of surviving, and became a defensive warrior instead.

Deneve reminds Undine that her comrades can act as a support for her and that she can relieve a bit.

Meanwhile, Clare was called upon by Flora to a nearby site and was challenged. Flora knows about the same technique, which she recalls from Irene/Elena, former #2 that Clare is using and asked about it. Clare remains silent. At that point, Flora wanted to test her Windcutter against the Flash Sword for superiority, Jeane stepped in to stop her of the useless predicament.

Flora stated that she need trust to be fighting together, then Clare finally reveals she borrowed the arm from Irene/Elena and her reason to become a warrior is to take the head of an Awakened Being, Priscilla. She also revealed that Irene is hiding from the organization. Realizing the truth, Flora draws her sword and pledge to live and bear through the mission together.

Back at town, Undine return to the inn and apologized for earlier feud. Shortly that night, Helen spotted a Claymore crying on the steps of a dwelling so she threw an apple while she comforts her.

During that time, Easley brought Raki back from some tiring training. Soon proceed to meet his subordinate, Rigardo and ordered him to send an army of Awakened Being to storm-front the City of Pieta leaving no trace of life behind.

Screenshot of the episode

“Check out my new waterproof wrist band from Puma.”

Comments: This episode is essential for the story to progress and I’m quite affectionate of this episode. 1. More background story about Undine and Deneve, and Claymore isn’t all about fighting. 2. There is no need for Clare vs Flora (which is in the manga, it just just proves nothing, what they do is just self-appraisal) Undine’s pretentious voice acting is immensely crude and barbaric. I have two thumbs up for the voice acting (seiyuu) of Undine, excellent job. Before all that, for non-advanced-manga readers (inclusive of myself) must be having a big inquiry of what exactly happened to Priscilla. Episode Rating:

Random Pic: Miria Team Click to view full.

Click here to download this episode at Eclipse Production download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

For alternative review, click here to go to Brian’s Claymore episode 20 review.

Previous Entries:
Claymore – 19

Starhub & SingNet ISPs ordered by court to reveal customers who download licensed anime videos illegally.

A Singapore video distributor said Tuesday it has won a suit against an Internet service provider asking for the identities of customers alleged to have downloaded popular Japanese animated cartoons.

Anime distributor Odex Pt. Ltd. said StarHub, a telecommunications, Internet and cable company, was ordered to reveal about 1,000 of its subscribers accused of downloading anime illegally.

StarHub had earlier resisted Odex’s efforts to obtain the data, citing “an obligation to protect our customers’ information.”

“In the instance of Odex, they have satisfied the court of their need for the information. As such, we will comply with the court order,” said StarHub spokesman Michael Sim.

Once Odex obtains the identities of the Internet users alleged to have downloaded the anime videos, the company will likely contact them and seek compensation of up to 5,000 Singapore dollars ($3,285) from each, Odex Director Stephen Sing said. The users will also have to destroy any stolen content and stop further illegal downloading.

“Singapore’s downloading situation is very bad,” Sing said. “We have engaged companies to track illegal downloads in Singapore, and ratio-wise, we’re actually right up there in the illegal downloads in the world, in terms of Japanese animation.”

Odex earlier this year obtained a similar court order seeking the identities of about the same number of customers of Singapore Telecommunications Ltd.’s Internet service, SingNet, Sing said. Those customers were also alleged to have downloaded anime.

The company will take more legal action later this week with a suit against a third Internet service provider, Pacific Internet (nasdaq: PCNTF – news – people ), for the right to track down another 1,000 customers suspected of the same offense, Sing said.

Odex, Singapore’s main anime distributor, has seen a drop of 60 to 70 percent in sales in the past two years, largely due to an increase in downloads, Sing said.

Source: asiaone digital, Associated Press

Letter Sent-out Samples from Odex

At DarkMirage.com

It’s getting serious. ISPs are coughing out its customers information, thus getting them into lawsuit. I remember 2-3 years ago when I wanted to buy an anime series DVD but there is no anime distributor at all in Singapore. Now that an anime distributor was set up, and they have to make approach to such extent, prosecuting fansub downloaders and blaming poor sales fully on them. Not that the licensed series are of sub-standard quality, and generally older series get licensed. Who would want to buy an old anime series that just got licensed which aired in Japan 3 years ago? Forget downloading licensed anime for the time being and if you want to watch them, there are streaming anime sites; Crunchyroll, Mangaspot, Keiichi Anime Forever, AnimeEDEN.

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Singapore anime downloaders charged
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Anime Fansub vs Odex Subtitles
Pacnet never retreat, Pacnet never surrender

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AVPAS acts upon copyright infringement of anime downloading
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Singapore’s licensed animes sucks
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I Talked to Odex

“still not out yet?? grr…”

Claymore episode 20 fansub is still not out. It seemed Eclipse used the time originally for subbing the latest episode for subbing the dvd version of episode 2. I need my weekly dosage and got nothing to do right now! Wondering how the it will end this season, it looks like there will be a different ending from the manga.

Claymore episode 19
The War in the North – II

Last week episode finished with the ‘turtle alike’ awakened being, attacking the Claymores. So in this episode, some Claymores were injured from the attack and so they had to fall back.

Undine and Flora dashed forward, and striked violently at the awakened being. It retaliate with its sharp tentacles, but both of them dodged. Striking their claymore on the side of the awakened being, but its body is too tough to cut through. Deneve and Clare leaped to attack again, however this time the awakened being jump to dodge their attack as well.

While in the awakened being is in the air, Undine charged forward. Surprised by the ability of the awakened being, it can control Undine’s Yoki directing her dual claymore at herself, placing them at her throat. Immediately, the swords sliced her, but was her cheeks, Undine forced the claymores out of place with her brutal strength. When they both reached the ground, Undine tried to strike it again but was countered and pinned down by its Yoki controlling power. Yet having pinned down, Undine struggled and used all her mighty strength to get up and deal multiple blow on the awakened being’s head. Shortly after, Undine is paralyzed again by the Yoki control and got pierced by multiple tentacles.

Trying to protect her comrades from the same attack, Undine yell at them and warns them not take a step. However, Clare did not hesitate and went forward, striking the awakened being madly. Deneve apologized and kicked Undine back to a further distance, safe from the awakened being’s attacks.

On Jeane’s team, she retrieved backup from Helen and comrades. Helen and comrades fend off the ‘bee alike’ awakened being’s attacks while Jeane twisted her arm 21 times, planning to deal a critical strike.

Clare and Deneve got paralyzed once again by the ‘turtle alike’ awakened being. To break off the hexing, both of them released their Yoki volunteerily to the point where they awakened.

Back at Jeane’s team, Jeane managed to corkscrew her arm to the max. Cynthia and Veronica are defensive type warriors so they dedicate their body as meat-shields for Jeane to do a devastating blow. When Jeane finally managed to get to the awakened being, Jeane let off her twisted arm and spin her Claymore at furious speed, hacking off lower arms and legs of the awakened being. Helen also manage to extent her arms and hack off upper arms and legs. Finally, Cynthia and Veronica leaped and cut the ‘bee alike’ awakened being to pieces.

Back at Undine’s team, Clare and Deneve recovered from awakened form shortly after they just awakened. This shocked the ‘turtle alike’ awakened being, and Deneve slashed a deep cut on its head. Wanting to finish off the awakened being, Deneve jumped and tried to cut off its head. The awakened being countered and thrust off bits of flesh on both side of Deneve’s waist. With Deneve’s ability, she regenerate the missing flesh almost instantly. After that, she hew the head to an extent but wasn’t enough to cut off the tough head. Then suddenly, Undine appeared and together, they managed to sever its head.

Unexpectedly, even with its head cut off, the awakened being can still control Yoki from the distant, two comrades were forced to put their claymores at each other’s throat. Flora and Clare went straight at the head and minced it to small bits, saving the two comrades’ life.

At Miria’s team, Miria effortlessly sliced off the head of the ‘whipping’ awakened being. After annihilation, they regathered for debriefing. Undine argued about the reckless strategy and walks off. All Claymores stay for the night for recuperation.

Raki appears to be in the north but is not able to find Clare but he met up with a guy and a girl named Priscilla whom he saved from falling brick chunks earlier.

Screenshots of the episode

“Never knew Deneve love turtle soup that much..”

Comments: I will say this episode is too short, squeezed too much stuff into one ep. What was madhouse thinking? This ep should be 1.5 ep instead, they squeezed many actions in 1 ep and for previous intro ep, they stretched it to fill the ep. Many parts from the manga wasn’t showed (I went to read the manga after i watched the anime). Characters hardly had any dialog when they were fighting. Miria battling team wasn’t showed more than 5 secs before Miria ended it with a single slash off the enemy. Madhouse also went cheap on animation (repeating fighting animation), almost all warriors fight like they had Flash swords. The part where Helen and 3 other warriors, blocking off attacks from the “Bee” awakened being was so repetitive. Moreover, the 3 awakened beings all have skin made of iron, taking almost no damage when swords are swung at them many times. Only when they try to awake (power up like dragon-ball), then their swords can sink into flesh. I felt the author made all the Claymore characters interesting but he neglected the Yomas and Awakened Beings. All the baddies had almost the same ability (hard skin and tentacles) They omitted Undine’s ultra muscle revelation. (The turtle-mon can manipulate her Yoki making her release more Yoki than she should) Some of the badly animated scenes. Just for laughs! Searchlights? Celebration with fireworks? It must raining cutleries. Woohoo! Free utensils!! Look at Clare in the background, how many times she have to repeat the same attacks.   Wow, Deneve learnt Flash Sword as well.   Some of the good animation scenes. Despite all, they manage to do a good perspective animation for Clare’s sword swing. But after this swing it’s the searchlights animation. Undine uses her double sword style. I would say this is by far the best animated fights in this episode. The best fighting scene would be among few warriors, not too many, and not solo (too longwinded, etg bleach). Nevertheless, the story part is still good. Raki has a new girlfriend now, he will forget Clare real soon. hahaha.. Next episode should be showing us Raki kidnapped, and Miria and Claymores moving on with the mission with heightened difficulty with Isley, that guards the north. Episode Rating:

Click here to download this episode at Eclipse Production download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

For alternative review, click here to go to Brian’s Claymore episode 19 review.

Previous Entries:
Claymore – 18

Love Complex episode 17
The Fist of Love! Accept It, A Maiden’s Spirit!

It’s club activity time! Otani vs Maity sensei, and Otani appears to have improved over time. With Risa and Nobu watching them by the corner, Risa began to recall the past with Otani. Then suddenly Otani let out a “ahhh”, the ball went into the basket. Otani won the match (so quickly?) while naively bragged about it to Maity. Nobu starts to question Risa of their progress in her relationship with Otani, and from the answer it seems they are back to square one.

The Maity fanclub has been disband, since president Risa’s love for Maity has turned dull. The miserable members from Maity fanclub gathered and let off the news of Maity sensei’s fiancee.

The final basketball competition is here, Otani gathered his clubmates and planned on winning this competition. Shortly after, it ended and the usual gang (Risa, Nobu, Heikichi) is waiting outside for him. Instead of receiving the standard appreciation for waiting, Otani knocks Risa’s head with his fist as a greeting. Immediately, Risa took revenge and tripped him over, while they get playful with each other.

On the way home, Risa suggested on supporting Otani with her ‘Lemons in Soy Sauce’ dish. Next day arrived, the competition chart is out. Otani is overwhelmed by the fact that they have to face their first opponent which is last year’s champion holder.

Late at night, Risa made a cheering board made of a rather large cloth for that day. On that very day, Otani and team’s morale were crushed by the first opponent’s physical statue. All of them are very tall. After Risa found Otani to be depressed, she gave Otani some wakeup beating. Miraculously, they are all back on track and won the match.

After the match, Otani confessed that he is no good without Risa. However, Risa is asleep beside him…

Screenshot of the episode

“We’re from Lakers.”

Comments: Please take note that I will be cutting down on screenshots for Lovely Complex series reviews, from 30 to 24. This can lighten my work and my reviews will appear less lengthy. Thanks for leaving comments, I’ll try to finish Lovely Complex even if some episodes are dull and are like fillers. The story of this episode is light hearted and seems to be going nowhere. The scene where Otani is thrown is quite exaggerated, it looked as if Otani can be thrown like a pillow. haha. And i must praised that the basketball competitor is freak-ass tall. Watch for next episode! Episode Rating:

Wooff!

Click here to download this episode at KissSub download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

Previous Entries:
Lovely Complex – 16

THE 9-year-old was caught illegally downloading Japanese anime online.

Now, the child’s parents have received a letter from Japanese animated cartoons distributor Odex telling them to go the company’s office to discuss the matter, if they don’t want to face legal proceedings. Similar letters were first sent out in May, when the company began cracking down on local Internet users who had been illegally downloading the cartoons.

News on The New Paper
Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge is one of the titles licensed by Odex.

Click here to see the list of titles licensed by Odex.
Click here to see AVPAS authorized titles.

Odex imports popular anime titles, such as Bleach, Inuyasha and D.Gray-man, from Japan.

Since May, the company has found the culprits to be mostly students. The youngest was just 9.

Mr Stephen Sing, one of Odex’s directors, told The New Paper that though they had expected the bulk of illegal downloaders to be students, they didn’t expect them to be so young.

When Odex sent out its first batch of 17 letters, it also posted warnings on anime forums against illegal downloading.

But these were ‘not taken seriously’, Mr Sing said.

He said they began sending out legal letters on a ‘much greater scale’ in June, catching many illegal downloaders by surprise. He declined to reveal the number of letters sent.

It is unclear whether all recipients were penalised, but Odex confirmed that it had taken action against some offenders.

One Sec 3 student, who declined to be named, said he received a letter from Odex in June. He was made to pay more than $3,000 in reimbursement to Odex. His parents had to cough up the amount.

He said: ‘I was shocked that they had been able to track all my downloading activities from as early as March.’

The boy’s father, a 47-year-old businessman, said that though he was shocked by the hefty penalty, he wasn’t surprised.

He said: ‘I think my son has learnt his lesson.

‘However, I think more has to be done to educate parents on these Internet-related issues as well.’

The student added that though he had seen some warning posts on online forums about illegal downloading, he thought it ‘wasn’t that easy’ to be caught.

He said: ‘I heard from friends that if I downloaded anime using a particular peer-to-peer file sharing protocol, it would be difficult to track.’

Peer-to-peer file sharing allows users to download files in small information packets from multiple users, instead of a single source.

MISCONCEPTION

This is a dangerous misconception, Mr Sing said.

He said: ‘There are ways to track downloading activities very easily.’ He declined to elaborate.

In a copy of one letter sent to an illegal downloader obtained by The New Paper, the user was sent a list of files which he had illegally downloaded since March.

Mr Sing said that the company was meeting with each recipient of the warning letters.

Lawyers hired by Odex will determine the penalties, if any, on a case-by-case basis.

‘Most of the Internet account holders are these students’ parents who knew nothing about their children downloading anime. They were shocked,’ he said.

He said that the company is in touch with the anime clubs of various schools and have given them notices to help students be better-informed.

Under the Copyright Act, users found guilty of wilful and significant downloads face fines of up to $20,000 and up to six months in jail.

The Act does not specify what constitutes a significant number of downloads.

Source: The New Paper

This is shocking news, I strongly discourage downloading of licensed animes by Odex, moreover through $ingnet ISP which can be tracked very easily by its user’s unique IP address.

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Claymore episode 18
The War in the North – I

Awakened beings were travelling in the north. #7 Eva and her team were clueless of their intentions, and were extinguished in their way.

Clare moved on in search of Raki with Jeane persistently following her back. Meanwhile Rubel and Rafaela steps in, he warns Clare should she resist. Both were given a mission in the north right away. Rubel also tells her about Raki’s presence in the north and so she still have to go to the north-lands for either purposes.

When they arrived at the City of Pieta in the north-lands, many Claymores were already there. Out of a sudden, a familiar Claymore swings down her sword at Clare. Clare blocked and to found it’s Helen, an old friend from previous mission, alongside with Deneve. Jeane thrust her sword at Helen, to protect Clare as a faithful guardian. Deneve dashed forward and laid her sword on Jeane’s throat. Jeane twisted her arms a few times and stave off Deneve’s sword however soon found they were friends and they break off their blunt actions. They apologized and introduced themselves, while Helen is shocked to know the rank of #9 Jeane is a single-digit ranked, and still being together with a low ranked #47 Clare.

Before long, all Claymores are ordered to gather for mission briefing by Flora, ranked #8. Flora revealed that she is not the leader in charge. Meanwhile, another familiar face gracefully walked in from a distant. It was Miria, ranked #6. She gaved a short briefing and assigned 4 captains along with team members to each of the five teams. The impolite Undine, ranked #11 flaunted other Claymores to piss off if they did not have what it takes for the mission. Being attention seeking, Deneve mocked Undine’s physical muscular build and nearly had an arguement when Flora breaks it off with her WindCutter sword. Windcutter is a technique that draws and withdraws sword so fast that is is not visible, quite similar to Flash sword.

The mission will commence tomorrow, many Claymore settled down for the night. Four Claymores, Miria, Deneve, Helen, and Clare had a secret gathering. They crossed their sword again like before, and then Jeane intruded but was allowed to join them. They discussed about the mission and found out about their position as sacrificial objects for the organization, which needed more time to plan. And so they sent 24 Claymores to fend off awakened beings in the north to buy time for an aftermath.

Meanwhile, 3 awakened beings arrived at the city. One of them slingshot his long tentacles onto buildings and catapulted himself into the city, killing everyone he sees. As he nearly killed an innocent girl, Miria saved her from his attacks. Immediately, all Claymores gathered, 3 teams were sent to fight each awakened beings while 2 on stand-by assist.

In Flora’s team, all of the teammates were paralyzed and one of them body-controlled to attack their own comrades. Luckily, Clare is able to use Irene’s right arm to stop the situation.

Over at Jeane’s team, all except Jeane were killed in a short instant, leaving her injured for trying to save them. Veronica, ranked #13 rushed out to strike the awakened being that is fighting Jeane. Stand-by teams arrived to back Jeane. Immediately, the spider-alike awakened being attacks with his tentacles…

Screenshot of the episode

“Gotta catch-em-all! It’s Whippie-mon.”

Comments: This introductory episode is better than i expected, packed with more action and new characters than previous eps. Still the scene is quite dark. The episode introduced, #8 Flora, #11 Undine, many other unknown Claymores, and 3 awakened beings. The 3 awakened beings are Mr. Whippie-mon, Mr. Hobbit in cloak, Mr. Spidey-mon. Heh, almost all of the monsters in Claymores have multiple long tentacles. But still I’m quite fond of the Whippie-mon, quite stylish in the above pic, “Screenshot of the episode”. The new Claymore, Undine seemed pretty amusingly interesting, wonder why she had 2 swords and so muscular. Quite happy with the reunion of the four musketeers. Devene seemed to be stronger over time and Helen is revealed to have more personality. What is sooo strong about that cock-eyed Rafaela? =P The thing I got disgusted is the seiyuu (voice-acter) of Flora!!! Omg, it seriously ruins it. Chibi/loli type of vocal is mismatch her look and also not suitable for dark fantasy animes. Besides, Flora’s Windcutter technique is very similar to Ilena/Irene’s Flash Sword. And I’m beginning to like Jeane better, mainly due to the following act on Clare and praised (“Very impressive”) her along the way. Ironically, a single-digit following the weakest warrior where-ever she goes? Let’s pray for the next episode to be good… Episode Rating:

“gheh??!!..” #11 Undine Random Pic: #8 Flora Click to view full.

Click here to download this episode at Eclipse Production download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

For alternative review, click here to go to Brian’s Claymore episode 18 review.

Previous Entries:
Claymore – 17

Claymore TV Animation O.S.T is here! All the background music. Maybe you need it to make Claymore 2? Quite surprising there are 34 tracks and not 4 tracks that play over and over again. haha.

Claymore TV Animation O.S.T (July 25, 2007)

Tracklist: 銀眼の魔女 (Ginme no Majo) Let me tell you what silver eyes being is, with this music. 大きな剣 (Ooki na Ken) They always play this when unknown Claymore has appeared. Is it #5 or #45 or Raki? 妖魔の掟 (Youma no Okite) This feels like mysterious clues and sinister aura within it. 砂漠と風 (Sabaku to Kaze) I don’t recall hearing this…sound like some arabian music. 斬り裂く者たち (Kirisaku Monotachi) First time meet up with a lousy awakened being. 恐ろしき布陣 (Osoroshiki Fujin) A formidable opponent has appeared. 微笑のテレサ (Bishou no Teresa) I loathe this music, they always play it directly when the show starts and showing Clare slay some yomas then enter a small town. 哀しき宿命 (Kanashiki Shukumei) End of mission, parting ways. Goodbye! 覚醒の鼓動 (Kakusei no Kodou) I LOVE this one.. hahaha. The gongs, drums, and short chant vocal bits. Feels like being in a deadly situation and all has fallen. I recall this music played when Priscilla awakens. 精悍なる闘い (Seikan Naru Tatakai) Start is similar to #7 (sound like Gokusen theme) but is when Claymore enters city to help slay some yomas. 神秘と深淵 (Shinpi to Shin’en) A sad moment after Teresa has died. 呼びかける記憶 (Yobikakeru Kioku) A grand city music. 北の地と白銀の王 (Kita no Chi to Hakugin no Ou) The ultimate sponsor song. 果てしなき旅路 (Hateshinaki Tabiji) A flashback about the past. 強靭な力 (Kyoujin na Chikara) Nice conversation with the bad guys. Maybe they can be friends? 荒野の落日 (Kouya no Rakujitsu) We are going to the mountains.. Hopefully there are banana trees! 心の傷跡 (Kokoro no Kizuato) I am loved! I am loveeed! 憧憬 (Shoukei) Did they play this yet? 街並み (Machinami) Moment of Peace, no mission at the time being. Rubel is being kind for a while. 田園と小川 (Den’en to Ogawa) Raki doing mischievous act. 美しき狩人たち (Utsushiki Kariudotachi) Angelic moment, some holy feeling. 妖しき者の宿命 (Youshiki Mono no Shukumei) Darn it. Town number 1 – 10 all have the same city music. 凶戦士 (Kusenshi) Engaging a battle with Number #1 Claymore! 覚醒への乱れ (Kakugo he no Midare) I think someone is craving for guts. 壮絶な死闘 (Souzetsu na Shitou) Claymore Jeane needs help and help is on the way. 選ばれし者 (Erabareshi Mono) Is this music played yet? 遥かな道程 (Haruka na Michinori) A joyful moment. 愛しさとぬくもり (Itoshisa to Nukumori) Recovering at Elena/Irene’s house. I feel so fortunate.. 地平線の彼方 (Chiheisen no Kanata) Pure scottish instrument. 石造りの家並み (Ishidzukuri no Yanami) Nope this is not played yet. 人を想うこと (Hito wo Omou Koto) This is not played yet again. 深き森の中で (Fukaki Mori no Naka) This music feels lonely. Feels like living in a tree-house in a jungle.. Raison d’etre (TV Sized) The opening theme song for Claymore. Danzai no Hana ~Guilty Sky~ (TV Sized) The ending theme song for Claymore.

Thanks to NiceYear.

Love Complex episode 16
Maity’s Magic! The Transforming Patterns of Love?!

After Risa oveheard their conversation, she runs off and cried on Maity’s shoulder. Risa tells her story to Maity and was comforted by him, he say he can do magic to make her happy. Back at school tommorrow, Maity taunts Otani on his basketball training. During the basketball activity, Otani got tripped by a ball, which worried everyone especially Risa. Otani sprained his ankle and is having a hard time walking about. After school, Risa borrowed a bicycle, intending to ride Otani home. Otani refused at first until Maity offered to drive Risa home then he forced Risa to ride him home. On the way home, they got busted by a bicycle police (no riding on streets?)..

Next day, having heard of Risa riding Otani home, her friends gathered and ask regard of their relationship. Later, Haruka visits Risa and friends, and he reveals Maity is his cousin. After school, this time Otani offers to pedal and ride Risa home until the bicycle police caught up again.

Screenshot of the episode

“You are under arrest!! (Bicycle version)”

Comments: Otani is jealous and there is hope for Risa but she still can’t see it. The bicycle police is pretty funny, turning up when the show is more emotional which breaks into a more comedic mood. Let’s see what happens next ep. Episode Rating:

Anger kills.

Click here to download this episode at KissSub download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

Previous Entries:
Lovely Complex – 15

Claymore episode 17
The Witch’s Maw – III

Galatea fought against Dauf while Clare rushed to find Jeane. Poor Jeane still entangled with ropes, pleaded for her death knowing she’s awakened. She has transformed into a Butterfly-looking awaken. Clare caught Jeane in her arms and managed to pull her back from her awakened form. After being half-awakened but still able to sustain a human form. Jeane introduces herself, telling Clare her name.

When Galatea can no longer sustain the fight with her injury, Clare and Jeane came to the rescue. Both drilled their way through the ceiling to get to her. Shortly, Galatea managed to stand on her feet, recouping from her injury, she came out with a plan. The plan is to try to pin Dauf’s both arms by Galatea and Clare, while Jeane pierce her claymore into his throat.

Galatea and Clare rushed forward and striked Dauf in almost all areas to split his concentration. When distracted, Galatea’s Yoki control is usable again. They continue to distract Dauf while Jeane twisted her arms 21 times and when released she can cause a drilling effect with her claymore inflicting critical damage.

When they managed to pin Dauf down, Galatea call out to Jeane for the attack. Soon after, Dauf caught hold of Galatea and Clare, slamming them onto each other. Jeane dashed forward striking with her Drilling Arm-sword. Dauf tried to stop her with his palm but her Drilling Sword drilled devastatingly through his palm. Dauf retaliate with another arm, sending her crushing to the ground.

The first attempt failed to kill Dauf, and they go for a second time. Clare plead that she will clear a path for Jeane to attack this time. Using her Flash Sword, she blocked all the pole shots by Dauf. Jeane grabbed the opportunity and rushed for an attack. Clare concentrate striking and blocking spaces outside Jeane and successfully drilled Dauf’s throat. Dauf collapsed and Jeane jumped for another final attack however, Riful intercepted and send her to the ground. Soon after, Clare swings down and striked Riful down on her skull but it was no use. Ultimately, Riful transformed into her true form and pulverized the whole castle from inside-out.

Clare managed to strike her once this time, and keeping her word, Riful revealed information about the awaken in the north. Riful told them she will be waiting for them if they want to join her to fight against awakens in the north. Apparently, that is the only way to gain victory. After that, she disappears into the sky.

Returning to Galatea’s main mission to take Clare back to the organization but Clare refused since she had other objective in mind. Galatea threatened to bring Clare even by killing her but Jeane defended, and decided to use her life for Clare as she was her saviour. Galatea let off a smile and let them off as she warns them to stay away from dwellers/abyss. She don’t know she will be their friend or foe when they meet again.

At the same time, four Claymores met a group of awakens in the north and two of them were killed instantly.

Screenshots of the episode

“The Best Screenshot Award.”

“One litre of tears.”

“This is for Galatea fans…”

Comments: This episode’s scene is still darker than black. lol. This episode finished off this arc and seems to brought out the main storyline of Claymore in next ep. They will be fighting some titans in the north (not from age of mythology?) soon. Overall I think this arc is consider good for the fact that ep 15, 16, 17, all included necessities in each episode (no dragging, no fillers). However up till now, I still think Teresa and Ophelia arc are still more interesting. Regarding skills, Jeane’s Drilling Sword requires her to stand motionless while she corkscrew her arms. SoOO unsafe. Easily dodge-able and miss-able. I think Jeane should be placed at #10-20 instead. Galatea is WEAK WEAK WEAK! =p #3 and still cannot defeat Dauf (not even Riful standard). Raki has gone missing for a bit too long (did u totally forget him?), probably dead and eaten up by dogs somewhere. lmao. Comparing the design for all awakens, Jeane’s awaken form is definitely best drawn. For animation, Madhouse has gotten lazy so they made the whole screen black and so they only have to animate the slashing and cutting sparks. Episode Rating:

Naga Starfish =p Rock golem?

Click here to download this episode at Eclipse Production download page. (You need Bittorrent client to download)

For alternative review, click here to go to Brian’s Claymore episode 17 review.

Previous Entries:
Claymore – 16