The 2023 box office had never seen such a slam dunk before when The First Slam Dunk film created waves of cinematic greatness, touching the hearts of millions worldwide. This animated masterpiece, born from the iconic manga of Takehiko Inoue, was phenomenal in Japan and moved the rest of the globe capturing its position among the greatest works ever for modern times.
Ryota Miyagi from The First Slam Dunk | Credits: Toei Animation and DandeLion Animation Studio
Interestingly, South Korea proved to be an excellent ground for the unparalleled success of the movie. It was trending in Korean theaters for a record time: a whole year straight!
The First Slam Dunk cemented itself as the longest continuously screened film in South Korea. One year after the movie’s release in Korean theaters, Cine21 news channel got the exclusive privilege to peek at the creative mind behind this huge cinematic achievement of creator Takehiko Inoue.
Ryota Miyagi from The First Slam Dunk | Credits: Toei Animation and DandeLion Animation Studio
Interestingly, South Korea proved to be an excellent ground for the unparalleled success of the movie. It was trending in Korean theaters for a record time: a whole year straight!
The First Slam Dunk cemented itself as the longest continuously screened film in South Korea. One year after the movie’s release in Korean theaters, Cine21 news channel got the exclusive privilege to peek at the creative mind behind this huge cinematic achievement of creator Takehiko Inoue.
- 9/24/2024
- by Diganta Mondal
- FandomWire
Anime is bigger than ever. With each passing year, the industry continues to make a huge impact not only on television but also in movie theaters. From Slam Dunk to Hajime no Ippo, sports anime like Haikyuu! and Blue Lock offer intense rivalries, engaging characters, and stunning animations.
With so many fan-favorite titles, it becomes increasingly difficult to determine which deserves the top spot; however, Slam Dunk and Haikyuu!, undeniably remain the most influential and popular sports anime in the industry.
A Still From The First Slam Dunk | Credit: Toei Animation
Not to forget, Japan carried on Haikyuu‘s legacy and represented the fan-favorite sports anime on a bigger stage, the Olympics 2024. On the other hand, Slam Dunk is arguably the greatest sports anime in existence, as it created the foundation of the entire genre back in 1993. Interestingly, The First Slam Dunk‘s director, the film that topped the Japanese...
With so many fan-favorite titles, it becomes increasingly difficult to determine which deserves the top spot; however, Slam Dunk and Haikyuu!, undeniably remain the most influential and popular sports anime in the industry.
A Still From The First Slam Dunk | Credit: Toei Animation
Not to forget, Japan carried on Haikyuu‘s legacy and represented the fan-favorite sports anime on a bigger stage, the Olympics 2024. On the other hand, Slam Dunk is arguably the greatest sports anime in existence, as it created the foundation of the entire genre back in 1993. Interestingly, The First Slam Dunk‘s director, the film that topped the Japanese...
- 9/24/2024
- by Mehul Rolta
- FandomWire
Slam Dunk is widely acknowledged to be one of the most influential sports series in anime and manga, period. But sooner or later, its impact left the industry and entered into the real world of sports. In fact, many of the current Japanese national basketball team players grew up reading Slam Dunk.
Slam Dunk manga | Credits: Viz Media
Ace Japanese basketball player Yuta Watanabe said the phrases from the manga, such as “If you give up, that’s the end of the game” and “Having experienced defeat will someday become a great asset,” have become ingrained as a mentality for many players when they compete. Another player, Yudai Baba, admitted that basketball wouldn’t be this popular in Japan today if it wasn’t for Slam Dunk, and thinks all the national team players have a desire to do their best for Inoue-sensei.
The reason for Slam Dunk‘s author...
Slam Dunk manga | Credits: Viz Media
Ace Japanese basketball player Yuta Watanabe said the phrases from the manga, such as “If you give up, that’s the end of the game” and “Having experienced defeat will someday become a great asset,” have become ingrained as a mentality for many players when they compete. Another player, Yudai Baba, admitted that basketball wouldn’t be this popular in Japan today if it wasn’t for Slam Dunk, and thinks all the national team players have a desire to do their best for Inoue-sensei.
The reason for Slam Dunk‘s author...
- 9/23/2024
- by Anand Bhaskaran
- FandomWire
The cinematic triumph of The First Slam Dunk movie crossed all the borders and created waves in the 2023 box office, snatching the hearts of millions. It certainly grabbed slam-dunk levels of success, both at home in Japan and worldwide.
However, South Korea responded to it somewhat exceptionally, and the movie rocked the Korean fans, driving it onto a historical, year-long streak of screening. It cemented the record of the longest continuous screening ever in Korean history. While the outside world changed with the seasons, inside the theatres, the movie silently accompanied its audiences from one winter to another.
Shohoku High School team from The First Slam Dunk | Credits: Toei Animation and DandeLion Animation Studio
While commemorating its 1st anniversary in Korean theatres, the creator, Takehiko Inoue, gave a special interview wherein he presented a further glimpse into the mind behind this masterpiece that had the world under its spell.
Would...
However, South Korea responded to it somewhat exceptionally, and the movie rocked the Korean fans, driving it onto a historical, year-long streak of screening. It cemented the record of the longest continuous screening ever in Korean history. While the outside world changed with the seasons, inside the theatres, the movie silently accompanied its audiences from one winter to another.
Shohoku High School team from The First Slam Dunk | Credits: Toei Animation and DandeLion Animation Studio
While commemorating its 1st anniversary in Korean theatres, the creator, Takehiko Inoue, gave a special interview wherein he presented a further glimpse into the mind behind this masterpiece that had the world under its spell.
Would...
- 9/23/2024
- by Diganta Mondal
- FandomWire
In recent times, anime as a whole has grown to be immensely popular, and several Shonen series have made a name for themselves. However, Blue Lock has quickly grown to be the most popular title and newest sports project that has taken over not only in Japan but the whole world.
Team Z in Blue Lock. Credits: 8Bit Studios
Otakus who are ardent followers of football have already grown a quick liking to the series because of how different the title is from other sports series. The series has easily toppled its competitor, Haikyuu, without even dropping a sweat.
However, that’s not all because greatness followed it, as it was different from previous football titles, which brings forward the best of new and old worlds. The series now returns with a second season that has got the fans on their tiptoes as the unique show with a never-before-seen plot...
Team Z in Blue Lock. Credits: 8Bit Studios
Otakus who are ardent followers of football have already grown a quick liking to the series because of how different the title is from other sports series. The series has easily toppled its competitor, Haikyuu, without even dropping a sweat.
However, that’s not all because greatness followed it, as it was different from previous football titles, which brings forward the best of new and old worlds. The series now returns with a second season that has got the fans on their tiptoes as the unique show with a never-before-seen plot...
- 9/18/2024
- by Tushar Auddy
- FandomWire
Former NBA All-Star Dwight Howard is ready to take his basketball skills to the dance floor as he’s among the Dancing with the Stars Season 33 competitors.
Dwight starred for several NBA teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic, and will partner with dance professional Daniella Karagach on DWTS.
The towering center will appear in a cast that includes Olympic medalist Stephen Nedoroscik, The Bachelorette star Jenn Tran, and convicted con artist Anna Delvey.
While Dwight stands tall above most of his competition on the court, his height could present some challenges for his dance partner.
However, she knows how to win with basketball players as her teammates since she and former NBA star Iman Shumpert captured the Mirrorball Trophy several seasons ago.
That said, Dwight revealed that he and Daniella have yet to begin their rehearsals and will start the schedule late, indicating he was at fault for the delay.
Dwight starred for several NBA teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic, and will partner with dance professional Daniella Karagach on DWTS.
The towering center will appear in a cast that includes Olympic medalist Stephen Nedoroscik, The Bachelorette star Jenn Tran, and convicted con artist Anna Delvey.
While Dwight stands tall above most of his competition on the court, his height could present some challenges for his dance partner.
However, she knows how to win with basketball players as her teammates since she and former NBA star Iman Shumpert captured the Mirrorball Trophy several seasons ago.
That said, Dwight revealed that he and Daniella have yet to begin their rehearsals and will start the schedule late, indicating he was at fault for the delay.
- 9/5/2024
- by Matt Couden
- Monsters and Critics
The Dragon Ball manga is revered for its simple narrative and detailed illustrations. Even before Dragon Ball was serialized on Weekly Shonen Jump, series creator Akira Toriyama was already hailed as the “embodiment of illustrative sense” during the running of Dr. Slump.
That series already made Toriyama a multi-millionaire. In fact, Monster and 20th Century Boys author Naoki Urasawa read Dr. Slump and thought, “This might be the guy to raise manga to the next level.” Even Astro Boy creator Osamu Tezuka referred to Toriyama as his “heir apparent.”
Astro Boy | Credits: Tezuka Productions
Even so, Toriyama admitted that there were still some skills that were out of his reach and he was shocked that a certain mangaka was able to do it. And that is the creator of Slam Dunk, Takehiko Inoue.
Slam Dunk creator’s one creative ability that surprised even Toriyama Goku and Vegeta | Credits: Toei Animation...
That series already made Toriyama a multi-millionaire. In fact, Monster and 20th Century Boys author Naoki Urasawa read Dr. Slump and thought, “This might be the guy to raise manga to the next level.” Even Astro Boy creator Osamu Tezuka referred to Toriyama as his “heir apparent.”
Astro Boy | Credits: Tezuka Productions
Even so, Toriyama admitted that there were still some skills that were out of his reach and he was shocked that a certain mangaka was able to do it. And that is the creator of Slam Dunk, Takehiko Inoue.
Slam Dunk creator’s one creative ability that surprised even Toriyama Goku and Vegeta | Credits: Toei Animation...
- 9/4/2024
- by Anand Bhaskaran
- FandomWire
The two manga giants Eiichiro Oda and Gosho Aoyama put up a new light on a crucial moment in the history of Weekly Shonen Jump. Oda disclosed how his series saved Japan’s premier manga publication house in the mid-1990s following the end of its two most iconic franchises.
Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball | Credit: Toei Animation
The end of Dragon Ball in 1995, followed by the cessation of Slam Dunk has put a period of uncertainty for the publication house. Oda’s recount was marked by widespread speculation regarding Jump’s future viability in the absence of its major series.
A Fluctuating Period of Shonen Jump
Over 100 Miracle Talk, which was featured in Weekly Shonen Jump 2022 issue #34 via Tumblr, Eiichiro Oda offered something that has been muffled for years. The end of two major manga series in 1995 left the publication in a precarious position.
One Piece Opening 1 | Credit: Toei...
Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball | Credit: Toei Animation
The end of Dragon Ball in 1995, followed by the cessation of Slam Dunk has put a period of uncertainty for the publication house. Oda’s recount was marked by widespread speculation regarding Jump’s future viability in the absence of its major series.
A Fluctuating Period of Shonen Jump
Over 100 Miracle Talk, which was featured in Weekly Shonen Jump 2022 issue #34 via Tumblr, Eiichiro Oda offered something that has been muffled for years. The end of two major manga series in 1995 left the publication in a precarious position.
One Piece Opening 1 | Credit: Toei...
- 8/31/2024
- by Akihito Chakma
- FandomWire
Kagurabachi became a sensation even before it started publishing. Soon after the first few chapters dropped on the MangaPlus app, the manga surpassed Jujutsu Kaisen to reach the second spot. Initially popular for being the treasury of memes, Kagurabachi has come a long way with a dedicated fanbase. Fans appreciate the way Takeru Hokazono is weaving the story, making every panel worthwhile.
Chihiro, the protagonist | Credits: Viz Media
Looking at the roster of titles that publish in the w\Weekly Shonen Jump, Kagurabachi sets itself apart with its stunning art. There’s more to the visual aspects of the manga than meets the eye. But that’s not all, it seems like the author already had an idea of where he wanted to take his creation. In an interview, Hokazono delved into what inspired him to create Kagurabachi.
The Inspiration and Ideation behind Kagurabachi One of the chapters with the...
Chihiro, the protagonist | Credits: Viz Media
Looking at the roster of titles that publish in the w\Weekly Shonen Jump, Kagurabachi sets itself apart with its stunning art. There’s more to the visual aspects of the manga than meets the eye. But that’s not all, it seems like the author already had an idea of where he wanted to take his creation. In an interview, Hokazono delved into what inspired him to create Kagurabachi.
The Inspiration and Ideation behind Kagurabachi One of the chapters with the...
- 8/25/2024
- by Laveena Joshi
- FandomWire
Takehiko Inoue is a mangaka who has excellent expertise in his detailed and beautiful art style. Slam Dunk, Vagabond, and Real are all the masterpieces of Inoune. Yuiuchirou Fukushi, the producer of Studio Madhouse, has shown enthusiasm for adapting Inoue’s manga Real into an anime. This latest development gave rise to questions about whether is it possible or not to bring Inoue’s detailed artwork into an animated version.
Takehiko Inoue’s Real | Credit: Viz
Real is a sports manga with a different approach. It follows Nomiya Tomomi, the main character who wants to play basketball despite being disabled. The story explores wheelchair basketball and his personal struggles. However, it poses a difficult challenge for a studio to adapt this manga from artistic and economic perspectives.
Challenges in Shaping of Takehiko Inoue’s Art into Animation Nomiya Tomomi from Real | Credit: Viz
Takehiko Inoue has been a renowned mangaka...
Takehiko Inoue’s Real | Credit: Viz
Real is a sports manga with a different approach. It follows Nomiya Tomomi, the main character who wants to play basketball despite being disabled. The story explores wheelchair basketball and his personal struggles. However, it poses a difficult challenge for a studio to adapt this manga from artistic and economic perspectives.
Challenges in Shaping of Takehiko Inoue’s Art into Animation Nomiya Tomomi from Real | Credit: Viz
Takehiko Inoue has been a renowned mangaka...
- 8/15/2024
- by Akihito Chakma
- FandomWire
Slam Dunk is a legendary manga by Takehiko Inoue, and its fame has spread far and wide. It also has a beloved anime that has adapted the entire manga, other than the most important final match of Shohoku. This led fans to grieve the cliffhanger for almost three decades until Toei decided to release the final match as a movie, The First Slam Dunk.
Just as expected, the theatrical release brought tears to the eyes of Slam Dunk fans as they finally received a beautifully animated conclusion. And if this doesn’t convince you to watch the movie, the accolades it has received might.
The First Slam Dunk is the Sixth Highest-Grossing Movie in Japan A Still From The First Slam Dunk | Credit: Toei Animation
The First Slam Dunk movie featured the adrenaline-pumping match between Shohoku, a no-name high school from Kanegawa and Sannoh, the defending national champion basketball team.
Just as expected, the theatrical release brought tears to the eyes of Slam Dunk fans as they finally received a beautifully animated conclusion. And if this doesn’t convince you to watch the movie, the accolades it has received might.
The First Slam Dunk is the Sixth Highest-Grossing Movie in Japan A Still From The First Slam Dunk | Credit: Toei Animation
The First Slam Dunk movie featured the adrenaline-pumping match between Shohoku, a no-name high school from Kanegawa and Sannoh, the defending national champion basketball team.
- 8/15/2024
- by Aaheli Pradhan
- FandomWire
Netflix is all set to add The First Slam Dunk anime film to its platform, as revealed by its official X account. The film will be available for streaming in 75 countries, including the United States, starting on Aug 25, 2024.
According to Netflix, the decision to bring The First Slam Dunk to the platform is part of the streaming giant’s ongoing efforts to expand its anime offerings for its global audience.
In Japan, the film already started streaming exclusively on the platform on June 10.
The First Slam Dunk movie released in Japanese theatres on Dec 3, 2022.
The opening theme song was performed by The Birthday, while 10-feet performed the ending theme song “Zero Sensation”.
The First Slam Dunk movie was directed and scripted by Mangaka Takahiko Inoue himself at Toei Animation.
Among the listed staff members are character designer/animation director Yasuyuki Ebara (Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress) and technical directors Katsuhiko Kitada (Attack on Titan episodes,...
According to Netflix, the decision to bring The First Slam Dunk to the platform is part of the streaming giant’s ongoing efforts to expand its anime offerings for its global audience.
In Japan, the film already started streaming exclusively on the platform on June 10.
The First Slam Dunk movie released in Japanese theatres on Dec 3, 2022.
The opening theme song was performed by The Birthday, while 10-feet performed the ending theme song “Zero Sensation”.
The First Slam Dunk movie was directed and scripted by Mangaka Takahiko Inoue himself at Toei Animation.
Among the listed staff members are character designer/animation director Yasuyuki Ebara (Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress) and technical directors Katsuhiko Kitada (Attack on Titan episodes,...
- 8/14/2024
- by Ami Nazru
- AnimeHunch
In terms of top-notch anime, Toei animation is one of the few that take the cake, especially with its recent animated episode in One Piece that topped the charts through its visuals and impact frames. From Dragon Ball to Slam Dunk, this animation studio has produced some of the most iconic Shone anime of all time.
Monkey D. Garp in a still from the series | Credit: Toei Animation
With its cult popularity and cultural influence, the anime continues to sustain its crown when it comes to the genre of Shonen anime. From iconic fights to action sequences, it is nothing short of legendary. To add to that, episode 1114 featuring Monkey D. Garp, took Toei Studio’s animation to another level.
Layering of Impact Frames in One Piece Anime
From legendary kicks to iconic punches, One Piece, written by Eiichiro Oda showcased legendary fights in the manga that have been recreated...
Monkey D. Garp in a still from the series | Credit: Toei Animation
With its cult popularity and cultural influence, the anime continues to sustain its crown when it comes to the genre of Shonen anime. From iconic fights to action sequences, it is nothing short of legendary. To add to that, episode 1114 featuring Monkey D. Garp, took Toei Studio’s animation to another level.
Layering of Impact Frames in One Piece Anime
From legendary kicks to iconic punches, One Piece, written by Eiichiro Oda showcased legendary fights in the manga that have been recreated...
- 8/9/2024
- by Himanshi Jeswani
- FandomWire
As the world is anticipating the Paris Olympics 2024, the spirit of athletic competition is in the air. While we witness real-life heroics, there’s no better way to fuel your Olympic fever than by diving into the world of sports anime. These animated series capture not just the thrill of competition, but also the heart and soul of what makes sports so captivating.
Paris Olympics 2024 opening | YouTube – Olympics
From the squeaking sneakers on a basketball court to the splash in a swimming pool, sports anime brings athletic pursuits to life in vibrant detail. These shows offer more than just action-packed matches, it has the personal struggles, teamwork, and sheer determination that shape athletes. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or simply looking for some inspiring entertainment, these 5 sports anime series will get you pumped for the Olympic Games.
5. Free! (Swimming) Mikoshiba siblings meeting Gou from Free! | Kyoto Animation
Free!
Paris Olympics 2024 opening | YouTube – Olympics
From the squeaking sneakers on a basketball court to the splash in a swimming pool, sports anime brings athletic pursuits to life in vibrant detail. These shows offer more than just action-packed matches, it has the personal struggles, teamwork, and sheer determination that shape athletes. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or simply looking for some inspiring entertainment, these 5 sports anime series will get you pumped for the Olympic Games.
5. Free! (Swimming) Mikoshiba siblings meeting Gou from Free! | Kyoto Animation
Free!
- 8/2/2024
- by Akihito Chakma
- FandomWire
Artist and writer Takehiko Inoue, best known for his series Vagabond, Slam Dunk, and Real, has a surprising secret. He expressed dissatisfaction with his own art style. The mangaka’s work has worldwide readers for his unique brush strokes and details.
Takehiko Inoue’s Slam Dunk (1993) | Toei Animation
Yet, he sees a flaw he can not fix. His statement in a 2007 interview offers a glimpse into his mind. It shows that sometimes artists can be their own harshest critics. His honesty in this regard is both surprising and relatable.
The Restless Pursuit of Improvement
In the exclusive interview that was interpreted by Viz Media via Mangasplaining Extra, Inoue says that maintaining the same artistic style over an extended period would be creatively stifling. Instead, he embraces change and uses his boredom to improve more. His approach has resulted from a progression in his art from his earlier works.
He exclaims:...
Takehiko Inoue’s Slam Dunk (1993) | Toei Animation
Yet, he sees a flaw he can not fix. His statement in a 2007 interview offers a glimpse into his mind. It shows that sometimes artists can be their own harshest critics. His honesty in this regard is both surprising and relatable.
The Restless Pursuit of Improvement
In the exclusive interview that was interpreted by Viz Media via Mangasplaining Extra, Inoue says that maintaining the same artistic style over an extended period would be creatively stifling. Instead, he embraces change and uses his boredom to improve more. His approach has resulted from a progression in his art from his earlier works.
He exclaims:...
- 7/17/2024
- by Akihito Chakma
- FandomWire
In the vast world of anime, sports anime are irresistibly thrilling and grip their viewers with a heart-pounding narrative and profound character depth. Takehiko Inoue’s Slam Dunk is one of those names that has established itself as one of the greatest watches alongside other classics like Inazuma Eleven, Hajime no Ippo, Air Master, and many more.
A still from Blue Lock. Credits: Eight Bit
Inoue’s magnum opus has been an inspiration to many because it not only shows a classic underdog story but also enlightens its viewers by showcasing the importance of teamwork.
Well, it has been 28 years since the cult classic series’ last episode was aired, and the mangaka has a surprising confession that will blow the minds of the fans.
Takehiko Inoue Makes a Surprising Confession Following the Art Style of His Magnum Opus
While a ton of anime series fall into anonymity after the series comes to an end,...
A still from Blue Lock. Credits: Eight Bit
Inoue’s magnum opus has been an inspiration to many because it not only shows a classic underdog story but also enlightens its viewers by showcasing the importance of teamwork.
Well, it has been 28 years since the cult classic series’ last episode was aired, and the mangaka has a surprising confession that will blow the minds of the fans.
Takehiko Inoue Makes a Surprising Confession Following the Art Style of His Magnum Opus
While a ton of anime series fall into anonymity after the series comes to an end,...
- 7/17/2024
- by Tushar Auddy
- FandomWire
San Diego Comic-Con's 2024 Special Guest List Is One More Reason to Get Excited - Main Image
The upcoming San Diego Comic-Con is right around the corner, and fans would want to know which artists the convention center will welcome to the panel. Check out the special guests at the San Diego Comic-Con this 2024 below!
The comic-con will last from Thursday, July 25 up to Sunday, July 28, 2024. Attendees can plan ahead of their agendas for the convention once they see which of their favorite authors and artists they'll get to see live. Here are a few highlights:
Sonic the Hedgehog's Scott Shaw
Scott Shaw is best known for a number of animated TV series, but most prominently for Archie Comics' Sonic the Hedgehog in its early series run.
He has also previously written and drawn underground and mainstream comics
You may also recognize his works in comic stripes for Bugs Bunny and Woodsy Owl,...
The upcoming San Diego Comic-Con is right around the corner, and fans would want to know which artists the convention center will welcome to the panel. Check out the special guests at the San Diego Comic-Con this 2024 below!
The comic-con will last from Thursday, July 25 up to Sunday, July 28, 2024. Attendees can plan ahead of their agendas for the convention once they see which of their favorite authors and artists they'll get to see live. Here are a few highlights:
Sonic the Hedgehog's Scott Shaw
Scott Shaw is best known for a number of animated TV series, but most prominently for Archie Comics' Sonic the Hedgehog in its early series run.
He has also previously written and drawn underground and mainstream comics
You may also recognize his works in comic stripes for Bugs Bunny and Woodsy Owl,...
- 7/8/2024
- EpicStream
Only a legend can truly understand what goes on in the mind of another legend. Akira Toriyama left his mark on the world as one of the greatest mangakas in the world with a legacy left for many to follow through. For the creator of Dragon Ball, his was a world so immersive that every corner of the world found itself connected.
Goten meeting Goku in Dragon Ball Z | Credit: Toei Animation
When legends meet others with potential just as magnificent as their own, they recognize it. Toriyama was no different, finding himself enamored by the artistic prowess of one mangaka who left no stone unturned in expressing the subtly of his work through an even more captivating story. When it came to the art, even Toriyama had to admit that Takehiko Inoue was on another level, one that was too ambitious for the Dragon Ball mangaka to reach.
Akira...
Goten meeting Goku in Dragon Ball Z | Credit: Toei Animation
When legends meet others with potential just as magnificent as their own, they recognize it. Toriyama was no different, finding himself enamored by the artistic prowess of one mangaka who left no stone unturned in expressing the subtly of his work through an even more captivating story. When it came to the art, even Toriyama had to admit that Takehiko Inoue was on another level, one that was too ambitious for the Dragon Ball mangaka to reach.
Akira...
- 6/30/2024
- by Adya Godboley
- FandomWire
Over the last decade, it seems like sports anime has scored more points in the anime fandom, quickly rising through the leaderboards and becoming more popular. While tracking how much a fandom "likes" something is difficult through social media, one metric can help show how popular an anime is: box office takings. Two of the latest sports anime films in Japanese theaters, The First Slam Dunk and Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle , have done huge numbers and currently rank as the 13th and 35th highest-grossing films of all time in Japan (not just anime), respectively. While both were already generational-defining series getting long-awaited canon sequels with huge built-in audiences, these are the first sports anime films to pass 10 billion yen in Japanese theaters ever. And that's partially by design. The First Slam Dunk and Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle both were massively helped by the anime films that preceded their releases. In...
- 6/21/2024
- by Daryl Harding
- Crunchyroll
As previously announced , Nintendo had plenty of games to give today in its June 2024 Nintendo Direct, revealing some new titles in some long-running franchises, twists on some other popular concepts and teasing Metroid Prime 4 with the first footage from the long-awaited sequel. Catch the entire Nintendo Direct below or the round up after the video: The Direct started with the first look at the first new Mario & Luigi game in nine years, Mario & Luigi Brothership . Brothership is the first Mario & Luigi game on the Nintendo Switch and launches November 7. A new Nintendo World Championship Nes Edition trailer showed off more challenges and a new Survival Mode mode. The game launches July 18. Fairy Tail 2 lets players act out the Arbaless Empire arc when it launches this Winter on Switch. Fantasian Neo Dimension , a new game from Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi and Square Enix, reunites the power team this Winter. Basketball...
- 6/18/2024
- by Daryl Harding
- Crunchyroll
Στις 6 Απριλίου, η σειρά anime Haikyu!! γιόρτασε την 10η επέτειό της. Ωστόσο, με το franchise να έχει σταματήσει να παρουσιάζει νέα επεισόδια από το 2020, το τελευταίο κεφάλαιο, το οποίο έρχεται με τη μορφή ταινίας, ήταν πολυαναμενόμενο, επιπλέον επειδή φέρνει την Καρασούνο ενάντια στη Νεκόμα και τον Χινάτα ενάντια στη Νεκόμα, σε μία από τις πιο συναρπαστικές αναμετρήσεις ολόκληρης της σειράς.
Με αυτή την έννοια, ο Σουσούμου Μιτσουνάκα ακολουθεί την συνήθη τακτική παρόμοιων ταινιών anime, όπως υπαγορεύτηκε πρόσφατα από το “Slam Dunk”, όπου η ταινία είναι ουσιαστικά ένας ολόκληρος αγώνας, διανθισμένος με αναδρομές από το παρελθόν που τοποθετούν το ‘ντουέτο’ σε δραματικό πλαίσιο. Σε αυτή την περίπτωση, ο τρόπος με τον οποίο δύο παίκτες που είναι αρκετά παρόμοιοι, ο Χινάτα και ο Νεκόμα, συναντήθηκαν στο παρελθόν, ο τρόπος που ο πρώτος προσπάθησε να επηρεάσει τον δεύτερο να παραδεχτεί την αγάπη του για το βόλεϊ και το γεγονός ότι η Καρασούνο είχε...
Με αυτή την έννοια, ο Σουσούμου Μιτσουνάκα ακολουθεί την συνήθη τακτική παρόμοιων ταινιών anime, όπως υπαγορεύτηκε πρόσφατα από το “Slam Dunk”, όπου η ταινία είναι ουσιαστικά ένας ολόκληρος αγώνας, διανθισμένος με αναδρομές από το παρελθόν που τοποθετούν το ‘ντουέτο’ σε δραματικό πλαίσιο. Σε αυτή την περίπτωση, ο τρόπος με τον οποίο δύο παίκτες που είναι αρκετά παρόμοιοι, ο Χινάτα και ο Νεκόμα, συναντήθηκαν στο παρελθόν, ο τρόπος που ο πρώτος προσπάθησε να επηρεάσει τον δεύτερο να παραδεχτεί την αγάπη του για το βόλεϊ και το γεγονός ότι η Καρασούνο είχε...
- 6/14/2024
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Reminiscent of the outsized Chinese box office success once enjoyed by a certain genre of Hollywood movie – think “Expendables 3,” Pacific Rim” and “Transformers: Age of Extinction” – some Japanese anime films are now earning more in China than they are in their native Japan.
Last year, “Suzume” (pictured above) earned $117 million in China, coming in ahead of the film’s $104 million total in Japan.
And this year, Oscar winner “The Boy and the Heron,” despite its late release in China, enjoyed Middle Kingdom gross revenues of $109 million, dwarfing that of Japan, where the film was received more tepidly and earned only $57 million.
The scale of the China theatrical market has occasionally thrown up other examples of outsized success — in 2016, “Dangal” earned $190 million in China, compared with its already huge $77 million in India; the same year “Bad Genius” earned $41 million in China, compared with its $3.3 million in its native Thailand; Luc Besson...
Last year, “Suzume” (pictured above) earned $117 million in China, coming in ahead of the film’s $104 million total in Japan.
And this year, Oscar winner “The Boy and the Heron,” despite its late release in China, enjoyed Middle Kingdom gross revenues of $109 million, dwarfing that of Japan, where the film was received more tepidly and earned only $57 million.
The scale of the China theatrical market has occasionally thrown up other examples of outsized success — in 2016, “Dangal” earned $190 million in China, compared with its already huge $77 million in India; the same year “Bad Genius” earned $41 million in China, compared with its $3.3 million in its native Thailand; Luc Besson...
- 6/11/2024
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Following the the Kanuma City mayoral election held on June 9, 2024, a campaign flyer distributed by the losing candidate’s team has come under scrutiny for potentially violating copyright laws.
The flyer featured an illustration resembling the poster of Slam Dunk‘s latest anime film. This similarity has raised potential copyright infringement issues, according to legal experts.
It included key political figures donning basketball uniforms, including Liberal Democratic Party (Ldp) Secretary-General Toshimitsu Motegi and Tochigi Governor Tomikazu Fukuda. Central to the illustration was the mayoral candidate Mikio Kobayashi.
Under the headline Total Effort, the flyer also carried the message “If we give up, Kanuma ends here“.
Left- Campaign flyer; Right- Slam Dunk movie poster
Hiroyuki Nakajima, a lawyer specializing in copyright law, highlighted the similarities between the flyer and the movie poster.
“The number of people, their poses, clothing, bibs, and the overall composition strongly evoke the essential characteristics of the ‘The First Slam Dunk’ poster.
The flyer featured an illustration resembling the poster of Slam Dunk‘s latest anime film. This similarity has raised potential copyright infringement issues, according to legal experts.
It included key political figures donning basketball uniforms, including Liberal Democratic Party (Ldp) Secretary-General Toshimitsu Motegi and Tochigi Governor Tomikazu Fukuda. Central to the illustration was the mayoral candidate Mikio Kobayashi.
Under the headline Total Effort, the flyer also carried the message “If we give up, Kanuma ends here“.
Left- Campaign flyer; Right- Slam Dunk movie poster
Hiroyuki Nakajima, a lawyer specializing in copyright law, highlighted the similarities between the flyer and the movie poster.
“The number of people, their poses, clothing, bibs, and the overall composition strongly evoke the essential characteristics of the ‘The First Slam Dunk’ poster.
- 6/11/2024
- by Ami Nazru
- AnimeHunch
After dominating the Japanese box office in 2023 by being the number one film of the year, The First Slam Dunk will rebound back to the big screen by returning to over 300 theaters across Japan on August 13. Alongside a theatre return, the Japanese streaming start date for the award-winning film was also confirmed. The First Slam Dunk will start streaming on Netflix in Japan on June 10, a little under two week before the film is released in North America from Gkids on June 25. This is the first time the film will be available for streaming anywhere in the world. Related: The First Slam Dunk, Oshi no Ko Win Top Honors at Tokyo Anime Award Festival 2024 Takehiko Inoue’s The First Slam Dunk anime film was first released in Japan on December 3, 2022 and went on to make 15.73 billion yen (US$117.35 million) during its long run, becoming the 7th highest-grossing anime film of...
- 5/29/2024
- by Daryl Harding
- Crunchyroll
Baseball, basketball, and soccer remain the kings of sports manga, with some of the most popular titles to date falling under one of those three sports: “Slam Dunk,” “Diamond no Ace,” and “Blue Lock,” for example. Combat sports have also captured the attention of manga fans, with series like “Hajime no Ippo” being the longest continually running series of all time. With so many outstanding, long-running sports manga titles available, there are equal amounts of underrated gems that don't get the attention they deserve.
Here, we present 10 sports manga worth your attention, ranging from purist interpretations to absurd takes on popular and niche sports. These manga offer different experiences and approaches to the genre, so the following list is not ranked.
10. Run On Your New Legs (2019) by Wataru Midori
After an accident, Shouta Kikuzato's dreams of being a pro soccer player are crushed when he loses his leg. Withdrawing from others,...
Here, we present 10 sports manga worth your attention, ranging from purist interpretations to absurd takes on popular and niche sports. These manga offer different experiences and approaches to the genre, so the following list is not ranked.
10. Run On Your New Legs (2019) by Wataru Midori
After an accident, Shouta Kikuzato's dreams of being a pro soccer player are crushed when he loses his leg. Withdrawing from others,...
- 5/19/2024
- by Adam Symchuk
- AsianMoviePulse
What Even is 'Retro Anime'? Epic Anime Debates - Main Image
At Epicstream, our team regularly debate the big questions around anime fandom. This week, with the release of T.P Bon on Netflix, we decided to ask what makes a retro anime so retro.
Most of us conjure a specific image when considering a loaded phrase like retro anime. However, how much is retro to do with a particular show's style and how much is it to do with our own experiences of anime growing up?
Check out what our experts had to say and join the conversation in the comments!
Cathlyn: "Retro is About Art Styles"
When we talk about retro anime, two or three things come to mind: the anime's time of release, visual techniques, and genre tropes. After all, retro anime often reflects character archetypes and distinctive art styles prevalent during the time of their production.
At Epicstream, our team regularly debate the big questions around anime fandom. This week, with the release of T.P Bon on Netflix, we decided to ask what makes a retro anime so retro.
Most of us conjure a specific image when considering a loaded phrase like retro anime. However, how much is retro to do with a particular show's style and how much is it to do with our own experiences of anime growing up?
Check out what our experts had to say and join the conversation in the comments!
Cathlyn: "Retro is About Art Styles"
When we talk about retro anime, two or three things come to mind: the anime's time of release, visual techniques, and genre tropes. After all, retro anime often reflects character archetypes and distinctive art styles prevalent during the time of their production.
- 5/2/2024
- EpicStream
Goku, the protagonist of Dragon Ball and one of the strongest characters in the anime world, is known for a lot of things. From his goofy attitude to his never-ending hunger to fight strong opponents, Goku has developed quite a distinctive personality for himself. But one thing that makes him iconic is his unique hair.
Goku’s Super Saiyan Hairstyle
Goku’s hairstyle is one of the most popular traits of the character. His different Saiyan forms have had different hairstyles, and fans have loved all of them. These hairstyles also became a depiction of his various power-ups in the Dragon Ball universe. His style became so iconic that Akira Toriyama started using it with other Saiyan characters too.
However, Toriyama once revealed that Goku’s unique hair is not just a fashion statement or a power depiction, but it helps him compensate for a major factor in the Dragon Ball manga.
Goku’s Super Saiyan Hairstyle
Goku’s hairstyle is one of the most popular traits of the character. His different Saiyan forms have had different hairstyles, and fans have loved all of them. These hairstyles also became a depiction of his various power-ups in the Dragon Ball universe. His style became so iconic that Akira Toriyama started using it with other Saiyan characters too.
However, Toriyama once revealed that Goku’s unique hair is not just a fashion statement or a power depiction, but it helps him compensate for a major factor in the Dragon Ball manga.
- 4/29/2024
- by Tarun Kohli
- FandomWire
The Dragon Ball franchise has not only left a huge impact on generations of children, teens and young adults, but also on the manga industry. So, after the original Dragon Ball manga concluded in 1995, a huge vacuum was created in its place.
While many wanted to take advantage of it and further their own manga, very few could actually survive in the market. The same is true for Eiichiro Oda, the creator of One Piece. In an interview with Weekly Shonen Jump, the mangaka opened up about the intense competition that occurred in the aftermath of Dragon Ball‘s conclusion.
The Gaping Hole Left by Dragon Ball
In an interview with Weekly Shonen Jump, Eiichiro Oda talked about his memories from when One Piece had first begun serialization. One Piece debuted in July 1997 in the Weekly Shonen Jump magazine, two years after Dragon Ball ended in 1995. After the legendary manga had ended,...
While many wanted to take advantage of it and further their own manga, very few could actually survive in the market. The same is true for Eiichiro Oda, the creator of One Piece. In an interview with Weekly Shonen Jump, the mangaka opened up about the intense competition that occurred in the aftermath of Dragon Ball‘s conclusion.
The Gaping Hole Left by Dragon Ball
In an interview with Weekly Shonen Jump, Eiichiro Oda talked about his memories from when One Piece had first begun serialization. One Piece debuted in July 1997 in the Weekly Shonen Jump magazine, two years after Dragon Ball ended in 1995. After the legendary manga had ended,...
- 4/27/2024
- by Aaheli Pradhan
- FandomWire
TV Asahi is one of Japan’s best-known television channels, and anime fans will know it as well for its contribution to the anime market, which includes Crayon Shin-chan, Doraemon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Blue Lock, Boys Over Flowers, Slam Dunk, Sailor Moon and numerous Gundam titles. But, recently, TV Asahi has decided to make a slightly different contribution to the world of anime by revealing a list of the 20 best anime songs of all time in a special program, but with a twist.
Namely, these songs were selected and ranked only by foreign, non-Japanese fans from around the world. The list includes songs from different time periods, which is why it is a very diverse list, and that is always a good thing. Sadly, we don’t have the special for you as it is not available for streaming, but we do have the list, so enjoy some of the best anime songs ever!
Namely, these songs were selected and ranked only by foreign, non-Japanese fans from around the world. The list includes songs from different time periods, which is why it is a very diverse list, and that is always a good thing. Sadly, we don’t have the special for you as it is not available for streaming, but we do have the list, so enjoy some of the best anime songs ever!
- 4/27/2024
- by Arthur S. Poe
- Fiction Horizon
At a glance, Haikyuu might look like a typical sports-genre anime; however, it might be a fatal mistake if you decide to skip watching this masterpiece. Haikyuu focuses on Hinata Shoyo’s journey, as he overcomes all odds and gives a destructive reply to the people ridiculing him for his height by showcasing his breathtaking abilities. The series has a massive fanbase scattered around the globe.
Despite its popularity, Haikyuu never got an update after its cessation in 2020 with the ending of season 4, part 2. With the unveiling of Haikyuu: The Dumpster Battle, fans were delighted; however, no release dates for the movie were announced, making fans very eager to see Karasuno High and Nekoma High’s volleyball teams go head-to-head.
Haikyuu Movie
Finally, the long wait is over, as the release dates have been revealed on Crunchyroll’s YouTube account, and the audience can witness the final battle of the two powerhouses as Haikyuu!
Despite its popularity, Haikyuu never got an update after its cessation in 2020 with the ending of season 4, part 2. With the unveiling of Haikyuu: The Dumpster Battle, fans were delighted; however, no release dates for the movie were announced, making fans very eager to see Karasuno High and Nekoma High’s volleyball teams go head-to-head.
Haikyuu Movie
Finally, the long wait is over, as the release dates have been revealed on Crunchyroll’s YouTube account, and the audience can witness the final battle of the two powerhouses as Haikyuu!
- 4/25/2024
- by Jiyad Shaikh
- FandomWire
Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball is a name that you are bound to mention in the context of top shonen anime. Naturally, he is a huge inspiration to the future generations of mangakas. But it turns out that Toriyama himself is not very satisfied with various inspired works.
In a 2018 interview, Akira Toriyama and Takehiko Inoue, the author of Slam Dunk, opened up about prospects in the Weekly Shonen Jump magazine and shared their thoughts on up-and-coming mangakas.
“Have pride and add a little originality” – Akira Toriyama Akira Toriyama | Source: egames.news
The 33rd issue of the Weekly Shonen Jump 2018 magazine was a special feature celebrating the magazine’s 50th year anniversary. It featured an interview with Akira Toriyama and Takehiko Inoue, who were asked to say some words for new authors aiming for Shonen Jump’s publication.
Toriyama sensei jumped at the opportunity to talk about the time he...
In a 2018 interview, Akira Toriyama and Takehiko Inoue, the author of Slam Dunk, opened up about prospects in the Weekly Shonen Jump magazine and shared their thoughts on up-and-coming mangakas.
“Have pride and add a little originality” – Akira Toriyama Akira Toriyama | Source: egames.news
The 33rd issue of the Weekly Shonen Jump 2018 magazine was a special feature celebrating the magazine’s 50th year anniversary. It featured an interview with Akira Toriyama and Takehiko Inoue, who were asked to say some words for new authors aiming for Shonen Jump’s publication.
Toriyama sensei jumped at the opportunity to talk about the time he...
- 4/12/2024
- by Aaheli Pradhan
- FandomWire
Gkids said it had an announcement today that is not an April Fools' gag, and the distributor came through with news regarding the home video release of The First Slam Dunk . The anime film from director and Slam Dunk creator Takehiko Inoue is coming to Blu-ray in North America on June 25, and more information on a planned Collector's Edition version will be revealed soon. For now, the standard edition is up for pre-order. Bonus features include: Sticker Pack Trailers & Teasers Behind the Starting Line-up: English Dub Featurette Color Commentary with the English Dub Team Related: The First Slam Dunk Anime Film Wins 29th Amd Chairman Award The First Slam Dunk opened in Japan on December 3, 2022. The film is Anime Limited and Toei Animation Europe brought the film to the UK, Ireland and Malta this summer, while Gkids released the film in North America on July 28, describing the film as such: Shohoku's “speedster” and point guard,...
- 4/1/2024
- by Joseph Luster
- Crunchyroll
Sports anime and manga series generally do quite well in Japan, although they are not as popular in the West as some other shounen titles (just look at Haikyuu!! or Slam Dunk), but there are some exceptions. One of the most recent ones is the football (soccer)-centered manga series Bluelock by Muneyuki Kaneshiro and illustrated by Yusuke Nomura. Published since 2018, the manga currently has 28 collected volumes and is still ongoing.
On top of that, a 24-episode anime adaptation was produced in 2022, becoming one of that year’s major and most popular titles. The anime series has been renewed for a second season, but that is not all, as it has been confirmed that the spin-off manga, Bluelock Movie -Episode Nagi-, will also be adapted in the form of a movie, which is set to come out on April 19, 2024 in Japan.
The movie is projected to be a big hit,...
On top of that, a 24-episode anime adaptation was produced in 2022, becoming one of that year’s major and most popular titles. The anime series has been renewed for a second season, but that is not all, as it has been confirmed that the spin-off manga, Bluelock Movie -Episode Nagi-, will also be adapted in the form of a movie, which is set to come out on April 19, 2024 in Japan.
The movie is projected to be a big hit,...
- 3/30/2024
- by Arthur S. Poe
- Fiction Horizon
The Association of Media in Digital (Amd) was established in 1994 as a general incorporated association to support the development and global expansion of digital content in Japan. Since 1995, the organization has held the Amd Award annually to honor the achievements of an individual or group of creators of digital content. The 29th ceremony for the Amd Award was held in Tokyo on March 5, and the anime film The First Slam Dunk received its Amd Chairman Award . The First Slam Dunk is based on Takehiko Inoue's basketball-themed sports manga, Slam Dunk , and Inoue himself served as the director. The film produced by Toei Animation and DandeLion Animation Studio released theatrically in Japan on December 3, 2022, and made 15.8 billion yen (105 million Usd) from its total domestic run to become the seventh top-grossing anime film of all-time in Japan . Takehiko Inoue, the original author of the manga and director, and voice actor Sougo Nakamura,...
- 3/6/2024
- by Mikikazu Komatsu
- Crunchyroll
Japan's Agency for Cultural Affairs announced the year's winners of the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award for Fine Arts on February 28. The two prize winners of its media arts category were manga artist Takehiko Inoue ( Slam Dunk ) and Yumi Tamura ( Don't Call It Mystery ). Also, animation artist Jun Wada ( Ikimono-san ) received the Rookie Award in the same category. Since 1950, the Agency for Cultural Affairs has annually awarded the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award for Fine Arts and its Rookie Award to individuals who have made outstanding achievements or have opened new frontiers in 12 fields of the arts: theater play, film, music, dance, literature, fine arts A, fine arts B, broadcasting, popular entertainment, arts promotion, critic and media arts. Inoue's reasons for receiving the award were stated as follows: "'The First Slam Dunk' is a film adaptation of the climax of the original manga,...
- 3/2/2024
- by Mikikazu Komatsu
- Crunchyroll
The 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend is going to be a huge party! All-Star Weekend continues on Saturday, Feb. 17 at 8 p.m. Et, when TNT and Max will present All-Star Saturday Night, featuring the annual All-Star Skills Challenge, the Starry 3-Point Contest, and of course the Slam Dunk competition. There’s even an alternate broadcast available on truTV and Max, and you can read more about it below! You can watch TNT and truTV with a 5-Day Free Trial of Directv Stream. You can also watch with Sling TV, Hulu Live TV, or YouTube TV.
How to Watch 2024 NBA All-Star Saturday Night When: Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 8:00 Pm Est TV: TNT, truTV Stream: Watch with a 5-Day Free Trial of Directv Stream. 5-Day Free Trial$79.99+ / month directv.com/stream
Save $50 Over Your First Two Months of Directv Stream.
About 2024 NBA All-Star Saturday Night
Kevin Harlan, Reggie Miller, and Kenny Smith will provide...
How to Watch 2024 NBA All-Star Saturday Night When: Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 8:00 Pm Est TV: TNT, truTV Stream: Watch with a 5-Day Free Trial of Directv Stream. 5-Day Free Trial$79.99+ / month directv.com/stream
Save $50 Over Your First Two Months of Directv Stream.
About 2024 NBA All-Star Saturday Night
Kevin Harlan, Reggie Miller, and Kenny Smith will provide...
- 2/17/2024
- by David Satin
- The Streamable
Toei Animation, the Japanese studio behind “Dragon Ball,” “Slam Dunk” and the “One Piece” cartoon franchises, is planning to open a European office in Italy. That may be followed by others in Latin America and India as well as a ramp up of its international production.
The group already has a handful of overseas regional offices covering Asia, the Americas and Australasia, and Europe-Middle East and Africa (Emea). But the group believes that there is more business to be had from the lucrative European market, which the Italy office would service.
Speaking at an event within Tiffcom, the three-day rights market that aligns with the Tokyo International Film Festival. Senior executive, Shinohara Satoshi said, “At times this has been a contrarian approach. We value the responsiveness and speed that you get with local offices.”
He explained that having a sales function in India would be hugely significant and that one...
The group already has a handful of overseas regional offices covering Asia, the Americas and Australasia, and Europe-Middle East and Africa (Emea). But the group believes that there is more business to be had from the lucrative European market, which the Italy office would service.
Speaking at an event within Tiffcom, the three-day rights market that aligns with the Tokyo International Film Festival. Senior executive, Shinohara Satoshi said, “At times this has been a contrarian approach. We value the responsiveness and speed that you get with local offices.”
He explained that having a sales function in India would be hugely significant and that one...
- 10/25/2023
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
With a selection from the “top of the shelf” once more, as the films of Keishi Otomo, Yuya Yagira, and the next big anime thing “Slam Dunk” eloquently highlight, Japan Cuts showcased how the top of the Japanese movie industry fares currently, while not forgetting the “hidden gems” aspect, with the returns of Yusaku Matsumoto and Daisuke Miyazaki and the presentation of “Sanka”, a film that has passed absurdly under the radar, moving into that direction. The general direction in terms of selection seemed to move towards mainstream paths, with the shorts, the animation and the documentary “I am a Comedian” adding an element of diversity. Without further ado, here is a list of this year's coverage of Japan Cuts.
You can read the full reviews by clicking on the titles 1. Interviews: Kentaro and Yuya Yagira 2. Anime Review: The First Slam Dunk (2022) by Takehiko Inoue
What is the most impressive aspect,...
You can read the full reviews by clicking on the titles 1. Interviews: Kentaro and Yuya Yagira 2. Anime Review: The First Slam Dunk (2022) by Takehiko Inoue
What is the most impressive aspect,...
- 8/8/2023
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
An animated high-school sports movie, The First Slam Dunk is also an adaptation of a long-running and beloved manga franchise. Running in Weekly Shonen Jump, an anthology comic whose closest UK analogue is probably still 2000Ad, the collected work was printed in 31 volumes. Several titles have made the crossover from those pages, just as Dredd did. Slam Dunk is kin to works like Fist Of The North Star, Kimagure Orange Road, One Piece, Death Note, and Dragon Ball. There's good odds that if you've heard of all of those you'll know Slam Dunk, and if you've only heard of one you won't.
The film is focused on Ryota Miyagi. Seen in a subtitled version, the distinctions between the -kun, -chan, and other suffixes are left as an exercise to the tutored ear. Other translation issues come from the basketball focus. 'regular member' might be the term of...
The film is focused on Ryota Miyagi. Seen in a subtitled version, the distinctions between the -kun, -chan, and other suffixes are left as an exercise to the tutored ear. Other translation issues come from the basketball focus. 'regular member' might be the term of...
- 7/31/2023
- by Andrew Robertson
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
There was no guarantee that there would be an anime feature film adaptation of Takehiko Inoue’s hugely popular basketball manga series “Slam Dunk,” especially after its successful anime TV series. But not only did Toei Animation bring the beloved ’90s manga — about basketball as a psychological rite of passage through the overcoming of pain and hardship — to the big screen, but “The First Slam Dunk” (playing theatrically from GKids) is now the fifth highest-grossing anime of all time and the winner of the Japan Academy Prize for Best Animated Film.
But it took five years of 2D and CG prototyping by Toei Animation (led by producer Toshiyuki Matsui) to perfect the visual look before getting the greenlight from Inoue. But he didn’t consider himself the director until later in production, after participating in the writing, mo-cap basketball action, voice acting, and score (Satoshi Takebe and Takuma Mitamura of...
But it took five years of 2D and CG prototyping by Toei Animation (led by producer Toshiyuki Matsui) to perfect the visual look before getting the greenlight from Inoue. But he didn’t consider himself the director until later in production, after participating in the writing, mo-cap basketball action, voice acting, and score (Satoshi Takebe and Takuma Mitamura of...
- 7/28/2023
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Produced by Toei Animation and Dandelion Animation Studio, the “First Slam Dunk”, based on the manga series by Takehiko Inoue who also functions as the director here, was another crowning success in the box office not only of Japan, but also of the neighboring Asian countries. As such, the movie became the fifth highest-grossing anime of all time in Japan, the second in S. Korea (and the second highest grossing film overall this year so far) while it also broke a number of records in the Chinese box office. Lastly, it was awarded the Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year at the 46th Japan Academy Film Prize in 2023.
The First Slam Dunk is screening at Japan Cuts
Despite its title, the movie actually adapts the last chapter of the manga, which has the underdogs of Shohoku high school basketball team facing the reigning champions Sanno, which feature a...
The First Slam Dunk is screening at Japan Cuts
Despite its title, the movie actually adapts the last chapter of the manga, which has the underdogs of Shohoku high school basketball team facing the reigning champions Sanno, which feature a...
- 7/27/2023
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
One of the most popular manga series of all time––one which ran in the same pages as Dragon Ball, Naruto, One Piece, and JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure––has never achieved the same Western pop-cultural ubiquity as some of its Shonen Jump colleagues. Originally serialized from the early to mid 1990s, Takehiko Inoue’s Slam Dunk eschews martial arts and superpowers to take as its subject, ironically enough, the all-American sport of basketball. Borrowing the tropes of teen sports dramas from both Japan and Hollywood, Inoue’s 31-volume saga traced the winding ascendancy of a high school ruffian and his motley crew of teammates through rivalries, romantic entanglements, and backstreet brawls to find their purpose in the game and the pursuit of B-ball greatness. In lieu of fantastical elements often present in shonen (boys’ YA) manga, Inoue’s detailed art and writing emphasized realistic maneuvers and tactics of the sport...
- 7/25/2023
- by Eli Friedberg
- The Film Stage
Inoue Takehiko’s epic sports anime The First Slam Dunk begins with a showdown between two high school basketball teams: Shohoku’s scrappy over-achievers and Sannoh’s well-oiled winning machine. We don’t know any of the players involved yet or what this match really means to them. All we get is the game itself—and it’s one hell of a spectacle.
Adapted by Inoue from his own manga series, the film uses a mixture of computer-generated and hand-drawn animation to capture the explosive physicality of basketball. The players’ movements are fluid and lifelike, with just a little extra oomph added to their more ostentatious moments. And the film’s sound design is enveloping, neatly mimicking the sound of a ball as it rolls off a player’s fingertips and lending a seismic boom to each slam dunk.
The film’s hyperkinetic style turns Shohoku and Sannoh’s showdown into an exhilarating experience.
Adapted by Inoue from his own manga series, the film uses a mixture of computer-generated and hand-drawn animation to capture the explosive physicality of basketball. The players’ movements are fluid and lifelike, with just a little extra oomph added to their more ostentatious moments. And the film’s sound design is enveloping, neatly mimicking the sound of a ball as it rolls off a player’s fingertips and lending a seismic boom to each slam dunk.
The film’s hyperkinetic style turns Shohoku and Sannoh’s showdown into an exhilarating experience.
- 7/23/2023
- by Ross McIndoe
- Slant Magazine
North America's largest Japanese film festival presents two weeks of contemporary movies from Japan, including opening film The First Slam Dunk directed by Takehiko Inoue, centerpiece film Under The Turquoise Sky directed by Kentaro, closing film The Three Sisters Of Tenmasou Inn directed by Ryuhei Kitamura
Japan Society announces the full lineup of the 16th annual Japan Cuts: Festival of New Japanese Film, the largest festival of its kind in North America, set for July 26–August 6. This year's edition will present 29 films and mark the first fully in-person Japan Cuts since 2019. This year's festival spans 12 days and features 24 feature-length films and five short films across Feature Slate, Next Generation, and Short Film Spotlight sections, as well as a special tribute to Ryuichi Sakamoto. Among the festival's lineup are five International Premieres, 10 North American Premieres, seven U.S. Premieres, three East Coast Premieres and three New York Premieres. Additionally, Japan Cuts...
Japan Society announces the full lineup of the 16th annual Japan Cuts: Festival of New Japanese Film, the largest festival of its kind in North America, set for July 26–August 6. This year's edition will present 29 films and mark the first fully in-person Japan Cuts since 2019. This year's festival spans 12 days and features 24 feature-length films and five short films across Feature Slate, Next Generation, and Short Film Spotlight sections, as well as a special tribute to Ryuichi Sakamoto. Among the festival's lineup are five International Premieres, 10 North American Premieres, seven U.S. Premieres, three East Coast Premieres and three New York Premieres. Additionally, Japan Cuts...
- 6/22/2023
- by Adam Symchuk
- AsianMoviePulse
Box office headlines have lately been dominated by Hollywood movies like Universal’s “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” which has become the first movie of the year to hit $1 billion, and Disney’s “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3.” But a closer look at the global box office recovery indicates that Tinseltown does not have the field to itself.
In fact, international films and markets — not the United States — are driving the current global box office recovery. In some territories, local-language titles are even dominant over Hollywood releases. And the overall scale of overseas ticket sales now dwarfs that of North America by more than two to one.
In the first weekend in May, the global box office charts were led by “Super Mario.” But the top 10 ranking also contained five non-English-language titles, according to data service Comscore. Three were Chinese, one was Japanese “(The First Slam Dunk”) and one...
In fact, international films and markets — not the United States — are driving the current global box office recovery. In some territories, local-language titles are even dominant over Hollywood releases. And the overall scale of overseas ticket sales now dwarfs that of North America by more than two to one.
In the first weekend in May, the global box office charts were led by “Super Mario.” But the top 10 ranking also contained five non-English-language titles, according to data service Comscore. Three were Chinese, one was Japanese “(The First Slam Dunk”) and one...
- 5/12/2023
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Manga adaptation grossed more than $98m in home country, won Japan Academy Prize for best animation of the year.
GKids has acquired North American rights to Toei Animation’s Japanese box office smash and manga adaptation The First Slam Dunk.
Takehiko Inoue’s film opened in Japan on December 3 last year and has earned more than $98m. It has grossed more than $212m worldwide, and just opened in mainland China on $55.2m to rank as the biggest opening ever for an imported animated film in the country.
The First Slam Dunk follows the exploits of a high school basketball team...
GKids has acquired North American rights to Toei Animation’s Japanese box office smash and manga adaptation The First Slam Dunk.
Takehiko Inoue’s film opened in Japan on December 3 last year and has earned more than $98m. It has grossed more than $212m worldwide, and just opened in mainland China on $55.2m to rank as the biggest opening ever for an imported animated film in the country.
The First Slam Dunk follows the exploits of a high school basketball team...
- 5/2/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Gkids has acquired the North American rights to “The First Slam Dunk,” an anime sports film that took the Japanese and Korean box office by storm this past winter, the indie animation distributor announced Monday.
The film follows Ryota Miyagi, a small but agile point guard for Shohoku High School’s basketball team struggling to live up to the legacy of his older brother, Sota. Alongside his teammates, the sophomore star leads his team for a run at the Inter-High National Championship against the defending title holders.
Produced by Toei Animation and based on director Takehiko Inoue’s bestselling 90s manga series, “The First Slam Dunk” has grossed $212 million so far at the global box office. Not only has the film been a success in its home country, it also set a record for the most watched Japanese film in South Korea that was just broken last month by Makoto Shinkai’s “Suzume.
The film follows Ryota Miyagi, a small but agile point guard for Shohoku High School’s basketball team struggling to live up to the legacy of his older brother, Sota. Alongside his teammates, the sophomore star leads his team for a run at the Inter-High National Championship against the defending title holders.
Produced by Toei Animation and based on director Takehiko Inoue’s bestselling 90s manga series, “The First Slam Dunk” has grossed $212 million so far at the global box office. Not only has the film been a success in its home country, it also set a record for the most watched Japanese film in South Korea that was just broken last month by Makoto Shinkai’s “Suzume.
- 5/1/2023
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
"Miyagi. This is your stage." GKids Films has revealed a first look teaser for the US release of the Japanese anime comedy The First Slam Dunk, adapted from the manga by Takehiko Inoue. After opening in Japan late last year, it's set for US release this summer in theaters. The First Slam Dunk is an update based on the iconic comics and previous series, including Slam Dunk from the 90s and Slam Dunk: The Movie in 1994. Takehiko Inoue's basketball series had a huge impact when it was first published in the 90s, so much so that it created a huge surge in interest in the sport in Japan. The movie shifts the focus from Hanamichi to his teammate Ryota Miyagi, the point guard for the Shohoku high school basketball team, and his story and personal challenges. Hanamachi is also in the film, as are teammates Takenori Akagi, Hisashi Mitsui and Kaede Rukawa,...
- 5/1/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Gkids has snapped up North American rights to Toei Animation’s film The First Slam Dunk, an adaptation of the hugely popular Takehiko Inoue manga, which Inoue wrote and directed for the screen. The film which has already proven a smash hit in other territories, grossing over $212M globally, will hit theaters in the U.S. and Canada in both its original Japanese language and an all-new English-language dub later this summer.
Marking Inoue’s directorial debut, The First Slam Dunk follows Shohoku High School’s “speedster” point guard, Ryota Miyagi, who always plays with brains and lightning speed, running circles around his opponents while feigning composure. Born and raised in Okinawa, Ryota had a brother who was three years older. And following in the footsteps of his older brother, who was a famous local player from a young age, Ryota also became addicted to basketball.
In his second year of high school,...
Marking Inoue’s directorial debut, The First Slam Dunk follows Shohoku High School’s “speedster” point guard, Ryota Miyagi, who always plays with brains and lightning speed, running circles around his opponents while feigning composure. Born and raised in Okinawa, Ryota had a brother who was three years older. And following in the footsteps of his older brother, who was a famous local player from a young age, Ryota also became addicted to basketball.
In his second year of high school,...
- 5/1/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Indie distributor Gkids acquired North American distribution rights for The First Slam Dunk from Japanese animation studio Toei Animation.
Based on Takehiko Inoue’s best-selling manga Slam Dunk, which was serialized from 1990-1996 and spawned several anime movies in the ’90s, The First Slam Dunk marks the first new feature-length film from the franchise in nearly three decades, as well as Inoue’s directorial debut. In the story, point guard Ryota Miyagi and his Shohoku High School basketball teammates take the stage at the Inter-High School National Championship.
Since opening in Japan on Dec. 3, the movie has earned $212 million at the global box office and was awarded this year’s Japan Academy Prize for best animation of the year.
This summer, Gkids will give The First Slam Dunk a theatrical release in the U.S. and Canada, in both its original Japanese language and a new English dubbed version.
“I...
Based on Takehiko Inoue’s best-selling manga Slam Dunk, which was serialized from 1990-1996 and spawned several anime movies in the ’90s, The First Slam Dunk marks the first new feature-length film from the franchise in nearly three decades, as well as Inoue’s directorial debut. In the story, point guard Ryota Miyagi and his Shohoku High School basketball teammates take the stage at the Inter-High School National Championship.
Since opening in Japan on Dec. 3, the movie has earned $212 million at the global box office and was awarded this year’s Japan Academy Prize for best animation of the year.
This summer, Gkids will give The First Slam Dunk a theatrical release in the U.S. and Canada, in both its original Japanese language and a new English dubbed version.
“I...
- 5/1/2023
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.