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Figure Unboxing and Review: Ononoki Yotsugi (Good Smile Company)

Saturday, February 24, 2018 / No Comments

Another figure from Monogatari Series makes it to the production phase and it's Ononoki Yotsugi. And although I do like Yotsugi and the whole Monogatari Series, I think this might be the last figure I get from the series, save for Hanekawa, Senjougahara and Tsukihi... because I can't keep up with all the Shinobu they are releasing out of nowhere!

But that is a story for another time, for now, let's start on the review for Yotsugi!

Packaging

The colours on Yotsugi's box is very vibrant and brings out the style of colouring in the series. In addition, different views of Yotsugi is on both the front and back of the box. This figure is that of her on the blu-ray disc jacket, where she is in a crane game machine.

This is Yotsugi in the blister. She doesn't come with much except herself, her hat, her base+throne, and a red pillow.

Do note that she comes with an instruction sheet in both Japanese and English if you require help in assembling her!

Base

Just like in crane games, we have a whole array of stuffed toys to be won, and we even see the chute (which the snake is resting on).

There are different elements that symbolizes different characters, such as the crab for Hitagi and the bee for Karen. This is overall, a very good touch, in my opinion!

There are also dips in the ring of stuffed toys were Yotsugi's feet are supposed to rest on, but there are absolutely no pegs to hold her in place. The 4 pegs you see are solely for sliding the throne into place.

Do note however that the bottom of the base is just a simple white circle and if you really do dislike that plainness, putting her on a high shelf would not be ideal.

Throne
The second and other important part to this would be the throne itself which Yotsugi sits on. There is a slight gap behind her, which you can slide the pillow into, but she can stay in position even without it. However, she doesn't have any pegs connecting her to any part of the base so be sure to exercise caution when moving her about.

The front of the throne shows this motif of moon and stars, perhaps linking to Yotsugi's "dark" nature as a familiar. There is also a slight gradient of yellow near the moon, to the red of the throne.

The sides and top of the throne also feature some sort of "crumbling" of the stone. This crumbling effect is done very artistically and actually rather accurate. Some darker grey have also been added to create the dirty unused look as well as tfor shading.

And similar to the base, the back of the throne is simply a rather smooth white/grey slab, which you'll probably never want to display it facing you.

The Figure
Do note that this Yotsugi is the deluxe version and if you got the standard version, it comes without the stuffed toys and the base would be this blue dome instead. All in all, I do feel that the she looks a little weird in the standard version and if you'll like to get this figure of her, this deluxe version is a much better choice.

Let's take all the points I've mentioned before into account and do a 360 of her.

Now let's look at Yotsugi in greater detail.

Her frilly outfit is on point with its poofy sleeves and creases, and you see the vibrant colours on her three-layer dress and it even ends off with a dip of the fabric between her legs so you get zero lewdness from this figure.

There's little shading on the reds and oranges of her outfit but a whole lot on the white ruffles on her chest, which makes it stand out a lot. Personally, I felt that this could have been more well-balanced.

Her stockings are also accurate but they appear to just be painted onto her legs. A little more effort could have went into making it look like a layer on her legs instead.

On the other hand, her rain boots are really well done. They are adequately creased and shaded and there's a shine to them as well.

Yotsugi's hat is magnetic and it stays right on her head. The strange "eyes" on them is exactly the same as depicted in the anime and as this is one of her trademark features, it's definitely a plus for me.

In addition, she is holding an origami crane which is folded (sculpted) to perfection! All the edges are crisp and it is completely white, which adds a contrast to the excessive red tones in the figure.

Behind Yotsugi you will also see a pillow. This pillow should be directly behind her, but as I mentioned before, she holds her pose even without the pillow and I am someone who likes to display as much of a figure as I can so I've taken the liberty to display the pillow beside her instead.

Another minor point is that her dress has been completely flat under her so she can be kept in place. There are some creases sculpted as well, to give the impression that she is actually really sitting on her dress. Considering the state of the bottom of the base and back of her chair I was actually pleasantly surprised they took the effort to do this!

Enjoyment 7/10

~ Reina-rin

The Simple Guide to Informative Youtube Channels

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There you are, fidgeting anxiously and tick off the dates to make a journey in a country that of which has your passion for their rich historical culture and subculture; Japan. Delicious varieties of food serving in little bars tucked into corners or fancy restaurants, colourful parade of kimono and modern outerwear, memorable festivals if you are lucky enough to be part of. Yet, you are dubious about your decorum in a foreign land, in favour so as not to insult the locals due to any etiquette misconstruction. At the same time, you inwardly revere to make an impression on that person traversing along. With that plant in your mind, you dawdle off to the local bookstores and collect travelling guide paperbacks, to which is a good idea, yet, within the print pages there isn't any instructions about social graces. Put your misery aside, because Youtube is another great site for garnering knowledge aside from wikipedia; it is a source of unlimited access to assorted channels teeming in the engine.

1) The Japanese Man Name Yuta has more than 500k subscribers and the number rises everyday, by the positive reviews we can deem it a safe channel for guidance; Yuta scouts the streets to interview unsuspecting folks. He is one amongst many youtubers to dole out his advocacy on the infamous case about Logan Paul's crazy antics during his visit to Japan. The host gets down to brass tack when dishing out explanations about the normalcy and politics in which expands your observation, so people like us who are earnest for wisdom as well as, any latest trending happening in Japan. You not only get in touch with the topics surrounding the country but Yuta, also give lessons on their mother tongue to anyone who is willing to grasp on the subject. The down to earth youtuber can be found in several social platforms that are linked in his Youtube channel.

2) Ask Japanese is a amusing channel interlinked with Kawaii Pateen! Let's Play Japan, DokiDoki Drawing, Only In Japan. Ask Japanese has approximate of 100k subscribers. The demographic aiming at every age and anyone who admire Japan's fashion subcultures, topics that of which include anime/manga, foreigners residing in Japan, a guide to tourism and cultures. Cathy Cat is the pretty reporter famous for her princess style cute outfits display in her Instagram and you are able to pinpoint her account under the link below each videos, she speaks fluently in their native language. You see her amidst the bustling streets questioning foreigners about their experiences in Japan and as well as local residents. It may sound similar to The Japanese Man Yuta but overall this channel spotlights on entertainment and be sure to check out the rest of the channels from Ask Japanese

3) Last but not the least, we have Find Your Love In Japan; I am sure just by the channel's name entices your inner curiosity. Most of us create a wreath of nonsensical wistful fantasies in search of a partner in the hearts of Japan. Once again, Nobita join forces to set Logan Paul's disruptive character and is vocal on the context in the broadcast videos that he uploads. He reports from busy streets and queries on topics that of which includes the input of the local residents. Relatively a "new" channel basing off from it's date of debut, three-years-old yet, push around 100k subscribers in a short list. Nobi Lesson is another channel for fledging learners. The site home in on sensitive issues as cultural appropriation; it is educational due to it's deeper subjects and gain credit from their perspectives. You can find him various social platforms seen on his Youtube channel.

When it comes to Youtube or any other social media, we have our personal opinions due to the exposure receive from the legions of veterans and upcoming fresh faces. Contents that are either appropriate or inappropriate since we have the younger audiences who easily have access to the cyber world. But I do hope that this aids your cause; if you are already a subscriber in either channels just like myself, even better! do you know more of similar contents? or have any preferable ones, don't be shy to type in the comment section below. We learn something everyday and that is one of the best experiences anyone could achieve.

Written by, Rugi chan

Figure Unboxing and Review: Edward Elric Exclusive version (Kotobukiya)

Friday, February 23, 2018 / No Comments

Most of us would be very happy with the influx of figures from old classics, in this case, Edward Elric from Fullmetal Alchemist. While Good Smile Company has delivered Nendoroids of the Elric brothers, Roy Mustang and soon, Riza Hawkeye; Kotobukiya started the ball rolling with this scale figure of Edward Elric!

This figure comes in two different versions: a standard version and an exclusive version, where the standard version can be pre-ordered from most distributors, the exclusive version can be bought from Kotobukiya online shop only. This means that a proxy would have been required for overseas buyers.

In retrospect, the standard version comes without any interchangeable parts and the base is a slab of concrete (the top part) while the exclusive comes with Alphonse and the shadows Pride controls. If you are a fan of the series, it's mostly a given that you'll grab the exclusive version instead.

Fresh out of the box is our favourite blond shorty, Edward Elric! I'll have to say that most of the little details on this figure is memento of the show, especially the base, and the bright red cloak. However, before we go deeper into these details, let's look at a 360 of this figure first!

The way this is sculpted really adds a different dimension to the figure as it creates a stark contrast of light and shadows depending on where your light source is and how you wish to display your figure.

Likewise, we can see how delicately sculpted Edward's hair is, which really shoes how each strand of his bangs are positioned and how each tuft of hair goes to make up his braid. The other part which adds a sense of movement to the figure must be the cloak, which is billowing out behind him with the adequate amount of shading as well.

Alphonse is sculpted mostly accurately, with the painting showing how damaged he is. The cracks around his shoulders are evidence of how hard he fought.

One gripe I have is how low the blood mark in his armour is. It really should be much higher but I do understand that if it were any higher we might not be able to see it as clearly.

From the back, we can see the movement even more clearly as both the cloak and Edward's jacket are billowing out in the wind. The singed ends of the cloak also have a darker, murkier red.

Shading on Edward's boots are done really well and the chunkiness of it in canon is translated rather well into 3D. I love how Pride's shadows turn translucent the higher it goes which the "fingers" are really sharp to bring out that vicious side of his personality.

The transmutation circle behind is rather reminiscent of Hawkeye's father's research but sadly, I am not a hundred percent sure if it's the same one, or is it the one in Xerxes.

The faces on the cement... could this be a link to Envy?

But that's not all! The exclusive version of this figure comes with two interchangeable parts: the faceplate and the upper body, so let's have some fun now!

First, the faceplate!

The faceplate comes attached the the front hair part so pull the whole part out as such and slip the additional faceplate into the two peg holes and you'll see grumpy Edward turn into one with a confident grin!

I love this confident side of Edward and I like how he always manages to turn any situation better!

Now, let's change his upper torso to one that will showcase his automail!

To do that, you'll have to remove the end of his silver pocketwatch chain that goes into his pants pocket and after that, you'll be able to pull his upper and lower body apart. After which, you can just push the other upper body part into the peg and voila!

And here's a reminder to put the silver chain back into the peg on his pants!

The automail comes with a paintjob that really brings out the metallic feel of the material. Likewise, the many layers successfully conveys the weight of it as well. I love how all the screw holes and screws are sculpted, and we can even get a glance into the inside of the automail with all the red and blue wires. To me, this is well-worth the exclusive price!

Enjoyment 8/10!

~ Reina-rin

Milkcananime Team Gathering: d'Good Cafe

Thursday, February 22, 2018 / No Comments

In the midst of the Chinese New Year festivities, several of the writers from Milkcananime and its founder Max met up for afternoon tea at d'Good Cafe in Takashimaya Shopping Centre. The writers in attendance were Neko, Devi, Rugi chan, and of course, me (J.Fluffysheep)! d'Good cafe has a London vibe to it, not that I have ever visited London. I mean, the setting is just obvious! :P

The strongest charm point must be this long chalkboard that has been so meticulously decorated with chalk art and Polaroids. Well, I thought the photographs were a little distracting though. To prevent itchy hands, there is also a little warning below stating the obvious.

Getting through the cafe's menu was rather challenging as the food, drinks and desserts were separated into...three booklets if I recall correctly. I thought the coffee and tea sections were really detailed. The cafe even offers appreciation classes!

Here is a close-up of what Max had ordered: D'Lobster Roll! Okay, I can't comment much on the food but I had stolen some of his fries though... :P Rugi chan had also shared some of her Potato Wedges. Not pictured anywhere is my order of Triple Chocolate Whoopie Frappe that I had wolfed down pretty quickly! Nonetheless, it was tasty.

Now, this is a little fancy stuff: Hot Chocolate Surprise. Devi had decided to go for it, and that humongous chocolate ball really did what it did! Okay, no spoilers here whatsoever. If anybody is remotely interested, please visit the cafe and order the same! :P

Max really loves his coffee, so here it is with a nice coffee art! Well, can anybody tell what that is?

We had such a wonderful time (I think we were there for almost four hours) eating, drinking, catching up...basically, just enjoying ourselves! The cafe may be a little small, but it should feel fairly cosy on a weekday afternoon.

Eccentrically Yours.

Written by J.Fluffysheep ♪

A Letter To Kotarou

Monday, February 19, 2018 / No Comments

Dear Kotarou,

Don't cry. Nobody is taking away your favourite nii-chan. Then again, it is probably okay to cry. I mean, you are scarily (?) expressionless most of the time! Even your nii-chan has some difficulty sometimes trying to figure out what you are thinking, or what you want to say. Anyway, despite your lack of expression, you have effortlessly become a hot commodity among the children in the daycare room.

I suppose there isn't an ideal explanation for your demeanour, and it is probably unnecessary to search for a reason as the people around you seem relatively okay with your 'maturity'. Well, the adults are occasionally intrigued though. Your prolonged silence does raise some concern from Usaida-san. You would really wait till the end of time for your nii-chan, wouldn't you? It is okay to make some noise, you know?

Now, this is undeniably cute! I don't know if it is a pure coincidence or not, but the colours really match! Your sweater and pants go very well with your nii-chan's bento cloth. Good work on your first errand! Don't worry about the little mishap by the stairs. Your nii-chan is still very happy!

I know I shouldn't laugh at this scenario, but seriously...it is just too much! Thankfully, you haven't caught the cold from being so dangerously close to your sick nii-chan. Even though you are far too young to understand many things, let me just say something: your nii-chan is a very strong man, and a strong man does tear up from time to time.

I would love to see this hairdo on you for real someday! It actually suits you perfectly, despite its tremendous volume. Perhaps the chairperson aka Granny would take you along to the hairdresser next time! Meanwhile, stay healthy and happy (I should probably say smiling but that isn't your trademark) in your own ways. I shall catch you and the rest of the gang back at the daycare room soon!

Eccentrically Yours.

Written by J.Fluffysheep ♪

Manga Review for Her Impact!

Tuesday, February 13, 2018 / No Comments

Title: Her Impact!
Writer: Mikel Miles
Manga Artist: Digitkame
Art: Sukma Agustriyana
Genre: Sports/Comedy/Slice of Life

Summary: Sadie Hiroshi, an African Japanese woman who took over her father's legacy in boxing. She's a single mother and having a hard time in life with her profession. With these things currently going on, what will be the impact of boxing on her?

Rate: 8/10

Review: Before I know it, the word "to be continued" stares back at me from the screen, I am much captivated by this indie manga. At the prelude, I peruse the chapters with a little detachment but it instigated my concentration and gratified that the storyline never prolongate; Sadie Hiroshi is a representation of strong women-I'm not a gung-ho feminist but at the same time, support feminism and fight for justice for both men and women. Sadie's character is very genial and as a reader get a charge out of her quirky personality. A fair warning for those who are discomfited with the number of cusses, you are to be of a certain age to read this manga because of the adult words fitted into the chapters, but that only adds on to Sadie Hiroshi's characteristic. She is your typical single mother who detests her working venue yet forces herself to be committed. What really has my interestedness is Sadie's mixed culture and also, curious to learn more about her background. The art design is pleasing to the eyes, both with and without color content.

Give this manga a chance, support the indie society, they have put in a lot of effort for Her Impact! and it shows throughout. I am glad to have the chance to review and I will make sure to send out information to my friends.

You may download the free "Her Impact!" here.

Written by, Rugi chan

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