Marmalade Boy Fan
Section - email
From the British
Isles
"Marmalade
Boy continues to live up to my high expectations! I especially
enjoyed episodes 6 & 10-12. At this rate I'll probably even
become a tennis fan ^_-^;;(OK only if Miki is playing ^_^). I
really should compliment you on your excellent subtitles &
obvious hard work you must put into the task of subbing Marmalade
Boy. You are doing a magnificent job, keep up the good work.
I
keep my Marmalade Boy twitch under control with the thought that
those nice Nikaku Animart people are sending me the MB Vocal
CD & That my MB Heroes trading card collection is nearly
complete ^_^. This should hopefully last me till I get some more
episodes from you.
Mark
Cleaver
United Kingdom
_______________________________________
A Social Marmalade
Boy Watcher
"My
name is Phil. I just wanted everyone to know that I don't have
a Marmalade Boy problem. I only watch it socially. OK, sometimes
I watch an episode by myself. But, you know, that's only after
a really stressful day. It helps me relax.
And,
I don't have to keep watching Marmalade Boy. I can quit "any
time I want to". I just don't want to yet. Besides, it makes
me look older. (I know watching a cartoon aimed at teenage Japanese
girls has to help me look more mature.) And all my friends a
TAAS watch it too.
I've
seen up to episode 16, and have episodes 17-24 waiting to watched.
See? I still have Marmalade Boy that I haven't watched. And,
I don't need to watch it. I can go without watching it for days,
weeks even. No problem. And, even though I'm going to send off
for more tapes as they come in (I'll be getting 25-28 soon),
I don't spend a lot of money on Marmalade Boy. It' s just a little
bit, here and there.
I
also have some of the manga, and will get some more soon. I know
people say that the anime is like a stepping stone to harder
forms of Marmalade Boy addiction, but I just like the more intense
feel of the manga. I don't think I have a problem if I read it
alone, or at work. It's not like it's hurting anyone else, right?
And I don't think the Marmalade Boy trading cards are a problem
either. I could live without them. And I don't have any of the
art books. And, as I don't "need" the art books, I
probably won't buy them. Yet. At least not until I have a bit
of money to spare. But, I don't really need food. Yeah, I can
do without for a few days...
I
don't know why people keep talking about what a problem Marmalade
Boy is, and how it destroys people. I know that I'm not like
those people who can't control their Marmalade Boy consumption.
I've got more self control than that. It's not a problem for
me.
I
like Arimi, but I think it's just the hair.
Maybe
I'll go watch an episode of Marmalade Boy now. Just one episode.
Just one before I go to sleep..."
Phil
(Phil Lee)
_________________________________
WHAT
DOES IT TAKE TO BE A HEATHEN?
Marmalade
Boy just gets better and better, I collapsed laughing at the
end of episode 19. where it showed the trailer for episode 20
(somebody has a seriously weird sense humor ^_^). I was happy
to see that Miki and Yuu seem finally to be expressing their
feelings for each other, but this is probably just because I'm
a hopeless romantic...sigh (we all have our faults ^_^).
I'm
doing my best to convert my anime club member to MB at the moment,
so far only one has resisted (Heathen). One young lady has even
started drawing pictures of Miki on her letters to me with her
club requests (aren't I lucky).
Mark
______________________________________________
Ginta's The
Target
Regarding
episode #13:
"Personally
Ginta, I would suggest a cold shower." Chris Raymer
___________________________________________
A Family Social
Thing
".....I've
watched to episode 22 so far. "We" is the operative
word, because until MB, my wife showed no real interest in sharing
my passion for anime. Sure, she could tolerate sitting through
episodes of Ranma, Tenchi, or Orange Road. But MB is like a family
picnic, something for which we set a little time aside in our
busy, baby-focused home schedule. It's very
gratifying that Meilin can enjoy this particular anime as much
as I can and that we actually have long conversations on it's
merits.
...Our
son will be raised on the likes of Marmalade Boy. (KD: Does it
work as well as Espillac and diapers? (^_^)
Lee
D.
___________________________________________
CONDIMENTS
.....It
is rare to come upon a show with so many characters that one
can care for, characters that are fleshed out, real, yet ever
full of surprises. Though the title may belie it, _Marmalade
Boy_is not just Yuu or even Miki’s show: it's Arimi's, Ginta's,
Meiko's, Na-chans, etc.'s show...a veritable cupboard full of
tasty breakfast condiments.
Young-Kyu
___________________________________________
FROM EPISODE #1 TO
SUZU!
First
off: WOW! That first episode is possibly the best intro any TV
series has ever had. Every second a blast. Unlike to many other
series where people assure you that "once you watch past
episode 12 it starts to pick up" MB grabs you right from
the beginning. And not a second is wasted. By the commercial
break we are introduced to Miki and Yuu, both families, Meiko,
Yuu, Ginta; the whole marriage situation is laid out; and amazingly
none of it feels rushed in the slightest (unlike say, Nadesico).
Brilliant story telling!
And
it continues - a simple gag like being hit by a basketball would,
in most other series, be simply that. We'd get the laugh and
then move on. But instead it's used as a tool to get Miki into
the Nurse's Room so that we can have what may be one of the best
cliff hanger endings
I've ever seen. Why is this mysterious Yuu fellow? And why the
hell did he do that? And "Oh my God!"
It's
MB's seamless mix of comedy and teenage angst that has always
earned my admiration. Even quality series like Fushigi Yuugi
often experience awkward transitions from their comedic to melodramatic
moments, but MB never stumbles. Throughout the series that mix
is handled
expertly, the series only bringing unintentional laughs from
the audience during Jinny's dance and when the animators use
a particularly overly dramatic visual metaphor or device to underscore
the gravity of the situation. I'll address these as they come.
Just
a few more points:
Miki refers to a six month waiting period for divorced women
before they can remarry. Is this law still on the books? does
it also apply to men who wish to remarry?
Miki
comments that she's given up on trying to change everyone's minds
about the partner swap because they look "like friends who've
been together for a long time." Foreshadowing? Or was the
manga's conclusion not yet written when episode #1 of the anime
was done?
And
Moment, the song used to close the episode is still one of my
favorite J-pop tunes. I often embarrass myself by humming it
out loud while waiting at bus stops. It's a shame they play it
much less often as the series progresses.
If
MB kept that level of intensity and just plain goodness throughout
its run it would be considered probably the very best anime that
ever was. It doesn't, but then I could hardly expect it to stay
as good as its first episode. But it does continue to be a quality
series throughout its run.
Again,
we'll see how it develops in the coming weeks.
See
y'all tomorrow. and don't worry, these are going to get very
brief as I progress. (until Suzu arrives, and then I'll rant
for pages on how she is the ANTICHRIST.)
From
one obsessed fan to another,
Elijah
van der Giessen
________________________________________________________________________
To
this question posted by me...
Marmalade
Boy Gentlemen,
For
the sake of curiosity, please tell me WHY your favorite characters
are your favorite characters. I'm really interested in hearing
what moves people's minds and hearts.
VOTES FOR MIKI
Like
Girlfriend
Howdy
all! I figured I'd finally start participating in this mailing
list and throw in a vote for Miki. Reason? Cause she's a little
clumsy at women things. Just like my girlfriend. Clumsy in a
more cute sorta way rather than in an irritating fashion. And
her insistence on sharing everything is reminiscent too. Although
the choice was hard because I like Meiko a lot too. And I don't
know why either. Actually, I kinda like all of `em.
Which
is one thing I've realized about this series; there really isn't
anyone to dislike (well, except for Kyoto (or was it Kyoko?)
sensei. But all the main characters are likable and even though
there are love triangles everywhere everyone still manages to
get along well and have good times together.
Ben
Understands
Miki
Guess
I should add my vote too...I like Miki most of all...I understand
her so completely...I see a lot of myself in her..Especially
in the way she responds to people, and her relationships with
her parents /"family". Considering I'm a guy, that
might be a bit worrying? Ah well...
David
Just
Two Cents Worth
...I'll
put in my two cents worth for Miki. Or at least I'll cast a vote
for her.
Author
Unknown
Micky's
Cuter Than Hell
As
I said before, I'm fond of Miki. I don't know why (yes I do ^_^)
She's cuter than hell and has a great personality. She has flat-can't-do
anything-with-it- hair, and can't take being teased. Her figure
is, less `robust" than what you find on similar aged girls
in Mangadom (boys comics anyway) which is a refreshing change.
True, she has some unusual problems, but don't
we all!
I
am getting sick of those breast-larger-than-the head type things...enough
is enough....
Maybe
it's the 4 12 x 6" eyes. he, joudan desu! ^_^
Hehehe...
Fred
(I think he wrote this)
VOTES FOR ARIMI
Determined
I'd
have to say Arimi is my favorite so far. Aside from the usual
list of likable attributes, Arimi is determined without being
ruthless. This young lady knows what she wants and she plans
meticulously to get what she wants. Yet she is insightful enough
to know when something is out of her reach and graceful enough
to give it up without further fuss.
Chae
Cute
and Determined
I
like Arimi a lot too...she's a bit deceitful at times, but she's
very cute, and very determined to get what she wants.
David
Selfish,
Clinging, Obnoxious Like Himself?
....I'm
a guy too and I see a lot of myself in Arimi (which is probably
why I don't like her that much). Or at least I see the qualities
I don't like about myself in her.Selfishness, clinging to things
that are long gone (or never yours to begin with), being obnoxious...
Jean
Seeing
Deeper Into Her Character
I
didn't really like Arimi at first. I've had problems with `over-aggressive'
girls in the past, so this touched a nerve. It wasn't until she
admits that she's lost, and has given up on Yuu that we get to
see deeper into her character.
We
also get to see Ginta (the dumnnut ^_^) start to `understand'
Arimi. Ginta doesn't understand Miki, and that is why Miki chose
Yuu....People-think- they know what they want, but sometimes....
Fred
Not
a Hapless Victim
Arimi
is the instigator, not a hapless victim swept into the current
like Miki, Meiko. I think this aura of cool (even devious) control
is what makes Arimi so interesting.
Author
Unknown.
VOTES FOR MEIKO
Just
Like Cherished Ex-girlfriend
Hi,
my name is Jean. Yoroshiku. I'm new to this list and I'm catching
the tail end of this thread, but I would like to put a bit in.
My favorite is Meiko. Mainly, because she reminds me EXACTLY
of a girlfriend (whom I still cherish) from 3 years ago. They
are so alike, it's chilling. Rich fighting parents, air of mystery,
understanding, quiet, beautiful, smart, well I could go on...but
I think you have the point. All the things I like in a girl.
(Well,
I could do without the rich fighting parents). I do like Miki
too, for her openness and honesty.
Jean
Refleshing
Anger
Meiko
started to do the one thing I thought I'd never see her do when
Miwa started to pursue her...she gets so ANGRY! It's hilarious.
Up to that point she is this stereotypical shoujo princess, all
petite and proper. Her reaction to Miwa is different than what
I expected and refreshing. (gotta love it)
Author
unknown
Attitude,
Personality and Looks
Why
do I like Meiko: Well, I guess it could be wrapped up as interest,
attitude, personality and looks, but that doesn't tell you much.
IF I could only two points, I guess it would be her literary
interests and somewhat detached involvement. She doesn't seem
to be a real part of any of the groups in school (except the
literary club, which is a bit odd) yet she is Miki’s best
friend and confidant. Not much ruffles her. She does have an
air of quiet mystery about her too; what's going on behind those
big eyes of hers? Actually, Meiko, Nacchan and Ryoko
are the 3 characters that I feel I understand best in the series
(OK, Ginta too). That is, understand what they are thinking,
feeling and why they are doing what they are. It does seem like
a paradox to say I understand Meiko well, then turn around and
claim she has this air of mystery around her.....
George
Robbert
Confidence
and Cool Composure
....As
for Meiko...I like her confidence and cool composure. It's tough
to maintain some semblance of sanity when there's trouble at
home. And her relationship with the Sensei..."GUTS!":)
Besides, gotta love the hair:)
Jay
VOTES FOR GINTA
I
like Ginta's honesty...
Author
Unknown
Ginta
Like Himself
I'll
add my votes for Ginta and Meiko. I identify a lot with Ginta.
I was in similar situations during high school so I knew exactly
how he felt. Also, I played tennis for my high school team (tho
I was not even close to Ginta's level)...
Jay
MIWA
He's
Great
Miwa is the ultimate evil politician. He's GREAT. Although I
do not like his long hair (it's personal I think, since I cut
off my hair that I did not cut for 2 years just 2 weeks ago.).
Ben
C.
What
he did in the Prom Episode
Please
put my vote in for Miwa. If you wanna know why, watch the prom
episode. `Nuff said.
dd
Durkin
Heart
in the Right Place
Miwa's
OK. He's not my favorite among the men, but turns out all right
in the end. I don't always agree with his methods, in fact sometimes
they annoy me as much as Meiko, but he does seem to basically
have his heart in the right place.
George
Robbert
TSUTOMU
Doesn't
Give Up
Tsutomu
really has a good attitude, actually. He doesn't give up, and
as far as his, er..behavior...it's just the way he is. He doesn't
try to act like someone else. You just think that he'd come up
with some other sort of thing for losers to do rather than cut
their hair...
Fred
_______________________________________________________________________
THE INNER FEELINGS
CREATED BY MARMALADE BOY
GIRL/
GUY RELATIONSHIPS
The
secret reason that I like Marmalade Boy so much is that I can
really relate to Yuu and his relationship to Miki. Hell, I'm
no where near as cool or as good-looking (Man, I wish ^_^). The
girls who like him get really pissed at him because he "never
expresses his feelings." It reminds me of the bit from Robert
Bly’s book "Iron John" (of which I could only
stomach three chapters) where he talks about how women are always
asking "Well, how do you feel" expecting a response
similar to what they feel. Instead, an honest answer from a lot
of guys
would be "I don't feel anything..."
What
girl wouldn't be pissed off with that kind of answer? (a strange
one ^_^)
Let's
say a girl shows interest in you (and she might even be attractive
too. You don't really feel anything for her and you know that
you won't, but decide to go along anyway and give it a chance.
She's gonna get hurt, no matter how much you try. (trust me,
I know...) Even if the girl is really good looking, if your personalities
don't match, it ain't gonna work. Looks are
important to a point (like it or not, they are a reflection of
how someone likes themselves) but personalities are more important.
Lets face it, Ginta is too direct and pushy to deal with Miki,
and Arimi would never really be able to understand Yuu's feelings
the way Miki does.
Then
there's the times when I'd be dating some girl and she'd say,
"I see you with someone like (A), not a plain girl like
me, or a sharp girl like (B). I'm not the type of girl you should
be going out with". MAN! It's like they don't believe me!
ARGHH! I've gotten into shouting matches sometimes. Man, pisses
me off...grumble grumble...
What
I like about Miki is that, deep down, she feels that she really
is someone. She thinks that she doesn't have a chance against
Arimi, But...when things do start to work out between her and
Yuu, she's not afraid to cut into him about being honest and
forward with her. I think Arimi would squelch her own desires
if Yuu would just commit to her. For a while anyway...
Miki
is great. She is not perfect (lets face it, her, um, `build'
is quite a bit less than that of similar aged girls in Mangadom
^_^) she has thin hair and a nasty temper. In KOR, Kyosuke is
first attracted to Madoka because, well, she's a knockout. In
Maison Ikkoku, Yusaku is attracted to Kyoko because, well, she's
a knockout. The `personalities' of these two women are discovered
as the series moves along.
Yuu
is attracted to Miki because she has a warm and wonderful personality
(like lots of girls who should value this aspect of themselves
more) and she IS pretty. Not a knockout who causes car accidents
when she walks down the street, but cute. Yuu loves Miki because
of his own feelings, not because he wants to show off to the
world. One of my friends said to me that you could tell this
was a girl's comic because Yuu seemed to show no interest in
Miki sexually, it was all emotional goop. Jeez, people. There
is more to life than sex, and some guys think so too (when they
get past 18).
It's
bull too, because we are seeing this from Miki’s point of
view, we don't really see all of Yuu's thoughts. Yuu is a gentleman
(there are a few left in the world, I think) Besides, he does
tease Miki sometimes. ^_^)
Hehheh...yea
yea yea...in the end I'd hope to find someone like Miki....^_^
Fred
THE
STEP BROTHER/STEP SISTER THING
I'm
having a hard time deciding on a favorite character. I think
what attracts me to MB is that I identify with the whole situation.
1)
After my dad got remarried I eventually got a crush on my (youngest)
step-sister.
Of course with the American attitude that step-siblings are siblings,
I never even told her...
2) I can just see me ending up in the kind of relationship that
the parents were in...
I actually want to see more of the parents...
I
don't know...I'd probably pick Miki or Yuu right now...
Scott
EASY TO IDENTIFY
WITH THE CHARACTERS
Well, I think most people can see a bit of themselves in all
these characters. I share Yuu's and Meiko's resistance to tell
personal matters to other people, Yuu's penchant for teasing
the one he loves, and I can sympathize with Ginta's position.
That's why I think this series is so great. Besides the wildly
ridiculous and amusing setting, it really strikes a chord. And
it also has perhaps the best usage of vocals I've seen in any
series. The song that played when Na-chan left to go home on
the train was literally gut-wrenching.
Ben
GENERAL
OVERVIEW OF THE CHARACTERS
It
took me a bit of episode time (try 30 episodes) to get used to
Miki’s voice actress. While cute, as I now realize, it grated
on my nerves in the beginning. But the pure-hearted simply have
to be appreciated. They give you the finished product of their
feelings immediately...how can you refuse them?
As
for Meiko.....well......she's nice and tragic (she's the only
character with dysfunctional parents, it seems) but her love
is definitely NOT the most tragic. At least her love was NOTICED
and returned by Namura! Arimi no matter how scheming some fans
might think she is, never had her love returned by Yuu.
That
is why she is my "favorite" female character....
I
also seem to have a thing for those female "trouble-maker"
characters....i.e. Suzu....they just make things so interesting!!!!.
I
like Miwa, just because he's so entertaining.....although I must
admit I'd rather not see him end up with Meiko.
Jes
THE
WAY ANOTHER FAN SEES THE MAIN CHARACTERS
So
far, I have yet to see a character (at least among most of the
seishi) that had emotions and reactions that I didn't empathize
with. Let's go down the list so far -
Miki
- A really nice, sweet, wonderful human being! I agree with Yuu,
Ginta, and Meiko - she brings joy wherever she goes, and she
doesn't have to be perfect to do so! This makes her a truly desirable
person, alleged "personality girl" reputation notwithstanding!
Yuu
- A really nice guy (who tries to hide it way too much). I suppose
I'll learn eventually why he doesn't open up very much, but it's
obvious he cares for Miki, but doesn't want to hurt anyone else
in his life, either.
Meiko
- A very sweet, very sad girl. If anybody deserves a little happiness,
she does. Very lucky to have Miki as a friend ( as is Miki to
have her as one).
Ginta
- A nice guy, but way too angry for his own good. He realizes
that he blew it with Miki big-time, and wishes he could change
that. We all do something monumentally stupid in our lives, and
wish we could undo it - that's what he's going through now.
Arimi
- A very nice, very needy girl. She has everything a girl like
her would want - money, influence, admirers - except love.
It's
amazing how Yoshitsumi Wataru can put her characters through
the things that she has them endure - I just hope that she will
eventually let them have some happiness. I'm sure she will but,
man, what a ride getting there! ^_^
I'm
still letting all of this soak in a little more.... whoa! This
whole thing has just picked me up, slapped me around, tossed
me in the Cuisinart, and pureed my emotions pretty effectively!
:)
Like
you said above, MB does bring out a lot of emotions to those
who see it, including me! ^_^
I
personally don't know how the MB fans in Japan could stand to
wait each week to see how things turn out (as if they actually
resolve during the next episode! ^_-)
Brian
_______________________________________________________________________
MOST
MEMORABLE MOMENTS
(up to episode #28)
Up
to episode #28, what scenes or situations stuck in your mind
and for what reason(s)?
Here's
One Person's List:
*
When Yuu and Miki hold hands unknowingly (#22) Why? The whole
scene gave me a good feeling. This is definitely my favorite
MB moment.
*
When Namura-sensei leaves Meiko (the train scene) (#17) Very
dramatic and gut-wrenching. That sad song didn't help much either.
*
When Arimi gets the boot (#26) The whole scene as she watches
Yuu walk from the bridge. Sad. Again, another self-realization
with Arimi and the point where I decided she's my favorite girl
in the show...Can I change my vote?
Jean-Andre'
The
Picnic:
The
picnic planned for Meiko. The playful Yuu and Miki was fun to
watch. You sort of get the idea that Yuu and Miki are getting
intimate.
Charley
Ginta's
Confession:
Up to ep. 7, I would have to say the Ginta's confession would
have to be the best scene. Now to say why. Well, to watch a girl
having a good time with another guy and still having feelings
for that girl is a feeling that I at least have had. Actually
finding the courage to out andout tell that girl though is what
is the difficult part. I know how Ginta feels when Miki refuses
to talk or see him.
I
guess I like this scene because it ties in with what has happen
to me in the past (never again will I make that mistake though).
The memories may not be good ones, but MB certainly made me think
of those times, and that is why it is so good. It's so close
to real life situations (at least in my view) that I find myself
in some case sympathizing with the characters involved because
I have gone through those experiences.
Stuart
THE
MARATHON RACE (episode #20)
I
thought that was pretty funny, watching Miki trying to keep Miwa
away from Yuu! They're having way too much fun teasing her! ^_^
Brian
A
REVELATION
Just
a quick appreciation of a scene in episode 22: after Yuu tells
Miki it's OK for them to hold hands. Suddenly, Miki has the big
emotional revelation:
"I
love you...I hadn't realized how much." That was so "real",
like when you've been dating for a while and then suddenly stop
and think "Oh my God, this is the person I want to marry."
Less sophisticated anime would have made this the climax of the
series, as if there's nothing important left to say or do once
you get to "I love you." But in MB, it's just part
of the realistic progression, not a beginning or an end, but
a somewhat memorable moment on the path.
Lee
D.
MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS
UP TO EPISODE #44
YUU'S COMMERCIAL
I
still can't believe that Yuu's mother got Yuu into such a role
in a commercial. (KD: comes to a head in #30). The rest of the
family's reactions is precious though.
Paul
D.
HOWLED
AT THE SCREEN, YUU'S COMMERCIAL
Episode
30 - I HOWLED at the screen! ^_^ Totally out of the blue - if
you had given me a million guesses as to what I should expect,
I would have made a million WRONG guesses, because THAT was from
WAY out in left field! ^_^
BTW,
my initial response was to the commercial itself, but the reaction
of Miki and the parents TO Yuu's appearance in the commercial
was even funnier - and Ginta's infatuation with the "Queen"
almost made me hurt myself laughing! ^_^)
It's
time for someone to do something about Suzu-kun - I don't like
her one bit! She is not a nice person at all...
When
watching Kei tell Yuu that Miki didn't love him anymore, I realized
that I was getting angry - absolutely furious - about it. The
anger that I felt was stronger than I can remember in a very
long time. I was stunned at the ferocity of my response - I was
livid!
I'm
glad that Ginta and Arimi are finally starting to enjoy each
other. They go well together.
I
love that's happening between Meiko and Miwa-san, but I know
it's about to all blow up in their faces...I don't think I'm
going to like the conclusion of this one very much... (BTW, IMHO,
Namura is a gutless jerk - he doesn't deserve Meiko!)
I
hope Momoi finds some way to be happy. It's sad when you love
somebody but are afraid to tell them. I fear that it'll be worse
when she DOES tell Namura.
Well,
I'll watch some more ("some more"? Who am I kidding
- I mean "the rest" this weekend.
Brian
_____________________
A
BIT ABOUT EPISODES #'s 36, 40, 42, 43
....After
watching the last batch of MB....I've decided to change my opinion
of Sakuma Suzu from dislike to active hatred!!!!. How cool Yuu
& Miki’s trip! (KD: #36) I was look forward to seeing
that (^_^);; Maybe I can start an anti-Suzu society. I however
I gleefully watched her
being ignored in the New Years episode (KD: #42) & having
to apologize to Miki at the ski resort (KD:#43). Maybe I'm being
too cruel but she deserves it!!!! (The length's an enraged Miki
fan will go to! (^_^).
I
was very pleased to see Ginta & Arimi really hitting it off
at last, I loved the bit when Ginta asked Arimi what she wanted
for Christmas (My hopeless romantic streak again I'm sure). (KD:
MB #40)
UNKNOWN
A
LOOK AT THE OPINIONS OF A GIRL -
AGED THIRTEEN
(KD: Eleanor is a rarity in anime, being female and also being
as young as she is.) Since I've heard from some of the male anime
fan population that it's difficult to find a female companion
that enjoys anime, you might want to find her and raise her up!
Whoops, sorry Ed...don't want anyone thinking about you daughter
this soon? Giggle!)
This
is Eleanor. Just wanted to say we have just watched the MB episode
where Yuu and Miki broke up (KD: She's talking about #35). OOOOOH!
It makes me so angry! That Kei guy is a such a baka-mon! Now
Yuu is hurt and dumb Suzu is scheming and Kei is STILL being
a baka-mon. My only consolments are the station breaks (KD: Eye
catchers) because that way
I KNOW they're going to make up, and the whole Miwa-Meiko setup.
Miki should punch Kei in the face ( I've never really liked anime
characters name Kei). I was so happy where Miki and Yuu got together,
but there wasn't a SINGLE EPISODE where they were simply happy
together.
Eleanor
More
from 13 year old....
This
is Eleanor again. We have just watched the very last episode
we own, #40. OOOOOH! That Kei guy is so problematic. And Miki
made those super-cute people just for Yuu too. Um, why were they
on her backpack in the ending theme song? And plus, I can no
longer pull out the small scrap of comfort that I had, that Miwa
and Meiko are happy. That friend
that told Meiko that she saw Na-chan is so BAAAAAAAAAAAAKA!
Suzu
is STILL scheming. I have a hunch that Suzu is actually Yuu's
half sister! True? False? I don't know, but a first I thought
that Suzu-chan was nice, too, so my guesses are often totally
wrong. Here I am ranting.
Ahhh, yaaaa.
Thank
you so much for translating the Marmalade Boys. Without you (Yuu),
we could never know the true joy of watching them and the happy
agonizing pain of never knowing when every one will come out
happily e v e r ...after...Waaaaait a second! Anyway, although
the whole
series has caused all of us untold amounts of agonizing pain
and worry and suffering, we still love it very much.
....Sometimes
I forget that I have a life of my own and that I'm not just some
kind of zombie whose sole purpose is to watch MB. I mean, I have
a LIFE in here somewhere! I think... ANYWAY aside from Marmalade
Boy (how can anything be aside from Marmalade Boy...) I've memories
the Hiragana. I feel all spiffy because now I can read all of
our Japanese comic (which is more than a third of our collection)
Unfortunately, I still don't know what they're saying, but that's
okay.
Eleanor
I
just turned 13 on the 16th of January, I wanted to go off on
my own for a year but our society can't allow anything so magical
as that. I settled for camping out on our roof for a night.
ABOUT
EPISODES #38 AND #39
Episode
38 & 39 were a riot. Ginta confessing his love in front of
a hidden audience was cool. His fight with Rokutanda had me laughing
nonstop. Arimi should have realized that guy stress relief is
like that.
Sam
_____________________________________________________________________
COMMENTS
ON #45 - 48
Glad Meiko Is Happy But....
Well,
I was glad for Meiko when she got back together with Na-chan
because that was what Meiko wanted. But I would have preferred
it if Meiko could be happy with Satoshi instead of Namura. Throughout
the story, we could see into Satoshi's mind and tell that he
really loves Meiko. But we could not do the same with Na-chan.
It was as if...there was no
evidence of Na-Chan's love for Meiko besides the fact that "they
were secretly in love".
Also,
when I first heard Namura say to Meiko that they should split
up because "it's for her own good," he sounded like
he was doing it for her and not for himself. But after I heard
it again and again, it sounded more like he was trying to convince
himself. I think what he meant was that he had no confidence
in himself to go on having a relationship with Meiko. That was
a
little selfish of him; he was being inconsiderate of Meiko's
feelings. But Satoshi was thinking about Meiko all the time as
demonstrated when he said he "couldn't do anything for her"
in Hiroshima.
So
you all can probably guess, I'm all for Satoshi and Meiko getting
together! ^_^ It's not that Na-chan is a bad person, but I think
he needs to get his priorities straight. All the same, I'm happy
Meiko got what she wanted. I'd like to hear your responses too!
Tony
L.
THE
DEER SCENE
......I
loved the deer, poor Miki it always happens to her!
I
was delighted to see that Meiko at last managed to hook Na-chan,
it's about time!! Shame about Miwa though....... Being a Miki
fan I loved the new ending animation, lots of lingering shots....Yaaaaayy!!
The new ending song has the thumbs up too!
Mark
Miwa
Is Deserving
I
was hoping she wouldn't get back with Na-chan, but I knew it
was futile, given the little who-gets-who clips in the intermission.
They kept showing Na-chan winning and Miwa losing (gracefully,
of course!:). But from the storyline, I wonder if the author
even knew up until the last minute which would be chosen.
Miwa
is more deserving. He can provide the emotional stability and
protection that Meiko needs as well as Na-chan, and he knows
he doesn't need to abandon Meiko to help her become all that
she can be. All Na-chan has/had to offer is/was the love/romance
that they had/have. Plus what of Momoi-sensei? The trailing clip
from #48 showing stuff from #49 is really devious, promising
to take care of Miwa and Momoi. Maybe a younger man/older woman
relation-
ship? Probably not, that may not be very Japanese (maybe more
French:). (DON'T TELL ME, I DON'T WANT TO KNOW!! :) <grin>
Another
wonderful emotional roller coaster ride! The slow spots were
fast forwarding through the credits and the intro to get to the
next episode. EVIL INCARNATE! THE DEER, THE DEER! WA-HA-HA-HA-HA!!!!
(KD: Glad someone mentioned that deer scene - it took a half
of a full days work just to sub that alone. ^_^)
That
was perfectly timed, too. It was stuck in just at the right moment,
giving the viewer some emotional release from all the heavy stuff
that was going on, sort of like an emotional chocolate mint.
When Miwa showed up at the beach to confront Na-chan, wow. I
felt like Miwa was getting some payback, finally, and when Meiko
took the last blow, I was surprised and a little shocked (once
again how unfair to poor, loyal Miwa to make him hit her, even
if accidentally, but thought it was `right'. It allowed her to
make a sacrifice for Na-chan he
could not refuse and make her feelings clear. I guess I tend
to empathize with Ginta, Miwa and Rokutanda. It really bothered
me to see Miwa going after Meiko so open-heartedly and in the
end be the one to lose. So seeing him get a chance to return
a little pain, even if only physical, made it easier to take.
Besides, Na-chan deserved to get punched out after treating Meiko
like he did (and Momoi-sensei as well), and what he said to Na-chan
was something that needed to be said. Everyone else was too polite/scared/wimpy
to say it. Of course, that all probably comes from my testosterone-ridden,
western-culture-polluted mind, which leaves me curious as to
how people in Japan reacted to that scene (and other anime fans
as well).
Charles
H.
I DON'T UNDERSTAND
NA-CHAN
When
I watch Meiko and Na-chan together I see the BIG ME, little Yuu
(...I mean you) :-) thing that you are talking about. To me it
does not seem as much like Na-chan loves Meiko, as that he is
trying to protect her and care for her. Again, with Na-chan it
is very hard to tell what is going on, since we are rarely ever
given a clue as to what he is thinking or feeling. When youconsider
it, so much of the Meiko/Na-chan relationship is even kept a
secret from us, since we are only given a few small views of
them together.
The
problem is that I do not understand Na-chan. I don't know why
he fell in love with a 15 year old girl. I don't know what his
motivations were or even how much there was to his feeling for
Meiko. I don't think that Marmalade Boy gives us enough information,
so we have to add our own experiences to the story and form our
own beliefs, I suppose...
When
it comes down to my true feelings, I have trouble figuring out
how I feel. :-) The train-station scene in Marmalade Boy was
one of the saddest things I have seen....I know that Na-chan
is not a perfect character, he is flawed in many ways. And although
my choice of his name was almost arbitrary, I have developed
sympathy for him, and somehow I hope he wins
out in the end. :-)
Doug
NA-CHAN WAS
THE LEAST DEVELOPED CHARACTER
He's
like the least developed character in the show. I mean besides
what he doesn't, his apparent love for Meiko, and a very strong
conviction to his beliefs, he's just there. I just don't think
I get a good enough feel of him to be able to like/dislike. Well
actually I think he was kinda a moron to stick with his belief
that he would only stunt Meiko's "growth" if he allowed
her to stay with him, for so long. I mean get a clue man, does
she look HAPPY in that situation to you? But anyway, in a way
I'm glad Meiko and Na-chan got together because Meiko was long
overdue for something positive to happen in her life. With the
emotional battering she took during the breakup and having to
live with those parents for all her life, I think Meiko had a
lot more serious problems than what Miki has gone through.
She
probably would have been happy with Miwa but that's a moot point
now. Besides, where would a young girl's show about love be without
at least one relationship based on not just first love, but a
love so strong that separation could be fatal? ;-) You can't
be mad a Na-chan cause he didn't really do anything. At least
directly. Not like he forcefully ripped Meiko or something. And
you can't seriously be mad at Meiko for chasing after the first
thing that actually meant something to her in her life can you?
Miwa just chased the wrong girl at the wrong time and things
just didn't go his way.
Would
I change the story if I had the chance? No. The story already
has enough cutesy teenage couples in it (Miki/Yuu, Ginta/Arimi,
Rokutanda/uh, forgot her name ^o^) for us to gawk at. New plot
twist was in order. So I guess the only thing I can say about
the whole deal is that,
like Miki, I'm truly happy for Meiko. And Miwa....Kawaiisou....
Ben
PUZZLED
BY DISLIKE OF NAMURA-SENSEI
At
this point, I'm puzzled by the dislike some folks have for Namura-sensei.
Over in Use net he has been referred to as a "child molester"
but I don't see that at all. For one thing, he did not pursue
Meiko, but the other way around. Indeed, in the late forties
episodes where Meiko goes to Hiroshima, I was wondering if he
was made out of stone long before he gave in to her. Meiko's
desperate cry for his love nearly broke my heart. Then, there
is no indication anywhere I've seen the their relationship has
been more physically intimate than kissing. If anyone thinks
kissing qualifies as molestation ( I don't recall anyone in this
group taking that stance, but it seemed to be in the Usenet posts
on the subject), the problem I think, is there's not Namura's.
Then, he handled the relationship so far in a very responsible
manner ( too responsible, IMO, in some cases). When she was going
to be in his class he told her they had to stop seeing each other--appropriate
since that would put him in a direct position of power over her,
involve conflicts of interest, and generally make a relationship
(even if they were both "of age") a bad thing. In the
recent eps. he insists she finish school and go to college. Looks
like he wants her to be able to stand on her own without being
totally dependent on him.
This
is good, and is good for a healthy relationship. It is much better
to be with someone because you choose to than because you cannot
survive without them. If I understand correctly, girls can marry
at sixteen in Japan, right? That would mean that, had Namura
chosen (and I don't think for a minute Meiko would have objected).
he could have married her there in Hiroshima and Meiko might
never have gone back to Tokyo. In fact, considering her parents,
I'm not convinced that would have been a bad thing. Not saying
it would have been a good thing either, just that it seems to
be a open question.
On
other fronts, I'm not sure it follows that Meiko having survived
so much makes her strong. As an analogy from weight training,
you need two things to get strong: stress from resistance training
and recovery time. Without the rest and recovery time, in sufficient
amounts, you suffer over-training. You seem to get stronger for
a while, but then you start getting weaker. And the more you
exercise -- the more stress you put your muscles under, the weaker
they get until finally you can actually make yourself sick.
This
seems to mirror Meiko's emotional life. The _only_ sources of
joy in her life are her love for Namura and her friendship with
Miki. Losing one the first time nearly seemed to break her then.
That's why I think that losing it again could well destroy her.
Suzu.
The skiing incident would _have_ to be the peak. She, in her
selfish little unthinking way, nearly _killed_ Miki! It wouldn't
have been intentional, but that certainly would have been cold
comfort to Miki-popsicle.
Kei--We'll
see Still, I'm not sure there are enough episodes _left_ to convince
me of any sincere change of heart instead of just putting on
an act.
David
B.
WHO
WANTS TO DATE MIWA?
Frederick
...... wrote:
How
many here on the ml think Miwa is sexy and cute, and would jump
at the chance to jump go out with him? I know I would! *^_^*
ABSOLUTELY! In fact, the male lead in the manga my sister and
I are working on is inspired by Miwa.
And
not just his character design (although he *IS* gorgeous!). Meiko
just doesn't know a good thing when she has it..... I've never
seen a guy so truly supportive of a girl in anime. Like someone
else on here said, he's trying to teach her to stand up on her
own, and there's nothing
more loving that someone who can do that for another.
AND
he's not supportive of just her. Look at how he supports Miki
and Yuu on at least two separate occasions (in the middle of
the series, where Miki’s angry because Yuu's going to America,
and at the end). To quote my sister. "These kids are just
lucky that Miwa is a force of good in this universe."
All
right, all right, I'll get off my soapbox now. It's just that
Miwa's far and above my favorite MB character, but the world
at large seems to appreciate him so little....
ANOTHER
VOTE FOR DREAMY MIWA
In
reply to "These kids are just lucky that Miwa is a force
of good in this universe"...
Year,
they are. Miwa could have screwed them over big time if he wasn't
such a nice person. That' s why I think he's dreamy. *_*
S.
Perez
(KD:
By the way, Fred was probably posting the note about dating Miwa
to a mainly male group to see if he could get a rise out of them.
As I recall he's quite a looker and popular with ladies. (^_^)
) Looks like the gentlemen were having fun with it. God, they're
cute.)
___________________________
FROM A WOMAN
WHO WANTS TO KNOW... (another woman, not me)
Why
do you like Miki-san? Just out of curiosity, why do guys on the
mailing list like her? A friend of mine wants to know, because
she doesn't find anything in Miki-san to like ^_^, ;;;;
WHY?
As to "Why do guys like her?" - Ummm, actually she
is sort of a pain. But she is cute, very open, very giving and
devoted. The MB movie does a lot to make Miki look a lot better
- we finally get to see her as Yuu sees her - no wonder he fell
in love! She is so, well, so external - all there on the surface.
She is a complete opposite from Yuu's reclusiveness. And most
guys that like anime are romantics at heart (at least those that
like shoujo :) - just because we like the hentai bits and pieces
doesn't mean we watch it mainly for that.
Anime
being in Japanese, we can avoid listening to the American version
the mushy romantic type stuff - the subtitling is there for the
analytical side of our brains, and the emotional side can listen
to the voices, tones and emotions. Usually when I watch a TV
show, my brain is often too busy trying to figure out what they
said, and so I often miss the nuances of how they said it. I
don't understand Japanese, so all I can hear is the emotions,
which are often a lot more subtle and subdued than the usual
brassy caucaphony of American-brand entertainment.
....As
a reclusive type of person, I would love to find a Miki - someone
that would love me unconditionally and pull me out of my shell.
Sheesh, the way Miki says "Yuu" with that little catch
in the middle just sends shivers up and down my spine sometimes
- its so sad. Which is why I rooted for Ginta so hard - he wouldn't
hurt Miki the way Yuu does, by being secretive
and emotionally uncommunicative. Of course, he probably wouldn't
need Miki the way Yuu does. With Arimi, Ginta found someone to
need, to give himself totally to - that scene in the soda shop
is so sugoi.
Umm,
bottom line, we get so close to Miki that we inevitably fall
in love with her, no matter how irritating she can be....
Charles
Hurst
BEN'S
LIST
In
no particular order of importance: she's cute, loyal, peppy,
a true friend, a good listener, emotional (she wears her heart
on her sleeve), considerate, caring, great fun to watch when
flustered and teased, determined, somewhat clumsy, helpful, and
kind. At her best, you
can't help but smile at what she does.
Ben
ANOTHER
ANSWER
Here's
my opinion:
She
is just so full of life - it's rare these days to meet someone
whose happiness is so infectious! Look at the variety of folks
who want Miki as a friend. She inspires people to enjoy life
with her - and there are enough folks who, at one time or another,
need a little happiness in
their lives: Yuu, Meiko, Ginta, Suzu, Kei, and many more...
Here
is a excerpt from stuff I've written about Miki to an unnamed
Miki freak on this ML (guess who? ^_-).
"That
is exactly what I love about her. She's so open to people that
they just can't refuse her when she wants to be part of their
lives. That's a very rare trait in people, one I wish I would
see a lot more often!"
People
tend to build a wall around themselves, to protect from being
hurt. Miki doesn't have that wall around her, which is why she
gets hurt so easily (and so often). However, it is also one of
the reasons why people like her. She tries to make sure that
they know that she values them and their friendships, and she
takes the risk by letting them in (sometimes with
people most of us wouldn't give the time of day). Thank about
it - have you even heard Miki say an unkind word about anyone?
That's
just one of the many reasons I like Miki - even when she's confused
panicky, and bewildered by what's going on around her, she's
always true to herself, and these days, that can be a real accomplishment!
^_^
Brian
MARMALADE BOY
EPISODE #49 AND BEYOND
Now
to the latest episodes, am I peeved or what, Miki & Yuu's
trip (#53) ruined again!!! I don't know who I hate the most Michael
or the writers: Grrrrrrrr. Won't they ever get the chance to
be together?
Mark
VOLUME
15 (57-60)
...I
loved this volume! It has proven what I suspected - that Kei
has truly changed, and, because of this, becomes both truly attractive
to Miki and a truly formidable foe of Yuu's for Miki’s heart.
I can't wait to see how that is resolved.
Meiko
absolutely nails it after the concert - Kei has confessed his
love of Miki to everybody, and Miki is blown away by that! "Reasonable
to be captivated"?! She knows how to cut right through to
the quick, doesn't she? ^_^
And
as for Meiko - have you ever noticed that just about everybody
(including a total stranger) inspires independent thought in
Meiko except Namura himself? It's scary. She'll never be her
own person as long as she's with him. And why does she still
call him "sensei"? Now I realize that it's a term of
endearment for her to use, but if they're engaged, you'd think
she would occasionally call him Shinichi, or at least Namura.
She is still so dependent on him for a complete sense of self
- what a waste.
I also find that I'm beginning to like Suzu a whole lot more
- of course that's because she's being a whole lot more considerate
towards others, especially Miki (I still wouldn't mind finding
Michael floating in the Hudson River, though.
Poor
Jinny - she really needs a friend! It's a good thing Doris is
there - she's the Meiko of St. Andrews, and boy, do they need
one! (Is it just me, or is Jinny extra-skinny, even for MB! ^_-)
Brian
_______________________________________________
EPISODES
#61-64
This
volume of MB invoked real emotional response - a response which
changed by the minute as I thought about it. I had to digest
all of the feelings I had about it for a day before writing this.
Poor
Miki - she just can't handle the separation. She's been so faithful
to Yuu, and she just can't stand all of the pressures that have
come to bear on her. Michael, Kei, and (both directly and indirectly)
the St. Andrews gang have kept her from him, and she just can't
take it anymore. I really feel sorry for her.
Which
leads me to Yuu - that baka! I cannot believe that he would be
so unemotional with her. telling her (essentially) that his studies
mean more to him than her! This is one time I have to agree with
Fred on Yuu - he doesn't know what he's giving up and he doesn't
appreciate her nearly enough!
He
didn't make nearly enough of a good-faith effort to keep his
relationship with Miki strong, and he just may pay a steep price
for that! (Of course, you and I know that WON'T happen, but it'll
take Yuu realizing that it WILL happen, and IS HAPPENING, if
he doesn't do something to stop it! He has truly earned the scare
of his lifetime - the possibility of losing her!)
Michael
- just put him under that semi that was reserved for Suzu earlier!
:) He is just a pushy, spoiled, demanding American (!) brat!
He just wants what he wants, regardless of the consequences.
He may redeem himself later, but I don't see it now.
Kei,
however - he has truly changed. He knows that he can't enter
Miki’s life romantically if there still is anything between
her and Yuu. He cares enough allow her to grieve over her loss
- a sure sign that he appreciates her a s friend first, before
trying to get close to her again.
In
a way, Kei give Miki the one thing that she has wanted out of
Yuu for a long time - the emotional support she needs as well
as the freedom to be both herself and a part of a couple at the
same time. While Miki has accommodated Yuu at every turn, Yuu
has concentrated on his own needs (at Miki’s expense) for
far too long - very selfish. In my opinion. (She's too good for
him! ^_^)
(The
preview for episode 65 suggest that Kei demands that Yuu decide
what he's going to do about Miki. This would seem to me that
he wants to make sure that he only pursues Miki if Yuu has given
up on her. That's a lot more consideration than Michael is giving
Miki!)
And
Jinny - I don't condone hitting folks, but she had a good confrontation
coming from someone over her actions. There are just some people
in this world who want what they want, consequences be damned.
(Just like Michael...) She needed for someone to let her know
that what she did hurt other people badly. That slap jolted her
to a point that she finally realized that she had done something
truly wrong. Of course, she still had the temerity to ask Yuu
for a romantic relation immediately after her confession, so
it's obvious that she still has a lot to learn!
(author
unknown)
______________________________________________________________________
ABOUT
THE MARMALADE BOY MOVIE
SUGOI
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HONTO!!!!!!!
(I
just wish that I would get a chance to see Miki projected on
a 100-feet-high screen - I bet that was a thrill for the Japanese
MB fans!)
It
was nice to finally see Yuu react emotionally (if just a little
bit) for a change! He only shows a flash of emotion when Chiyako
and Youji told him about the impending divorce/exchange, but
for his pre-Miki state of mind that was the equivalent of an
emotional outburst!
When
he wanders off and sees Miki practicing her tennis shots, he
sees someone with beauty, strength, and, more than anything,
CONFIDENCE! (It was a flash of brilliance to use her tennis practice
as Yuu's first chance to see her, since tennis is probably the
one thing that Miki does - initially, that is - in which she
has true self-confidence!) No wonder he stays to watch.
The
"Gastaman" scene was a riot, those little kids were
incredible!
That
was a side of Miki I've always wanted to see - someone who'll
just open up and be absolutely silly, enjoying themselves to
the fullest. The look on those kids' faces when she comes out
from under that towel was priceless! ( Yuu obviously thought
so, too, because he nearly busted a gut laughing at it all!)
When
Yuu finally hears Miki’s name and makes the connection to
the initials "M.K." on the sweatband, did you see how
his fingers shook when he closed them on the sweatband? It's
obvious he's (1) excited, (2) nervous , (3) happy about this
discovery. He's going to be with this wonderful girl very soon!
As
he follows her around town, he sees her doing seemingly normal
things -mimicking "Gastaman's" Karate, playing with
a puppy, eating ice cream, and just generally enjoying life.
When she runs the gamut of emotions while talking to the foreign
couple, gyrating and generally being silly, Yuu sits transfixed.
He's enthralled by her!
Do
you remember when Yuu tells Miki why he loves her? He says that
she emotions just shine through, no matter what she's thinking.
Her purity of thought and action are what makes her so attractive
to him. All of his life Yuu has had to deal with people who have
done things which have hurt him -inadvertently or not. All of
a sudden, there's this girl who is full of life and
love, things Yuu craves desperately. She has no hidden agenda,
no ulterior motive, just a "joy of life" uniqueness
which makes her special.
When
he is finally about to meet her for the "first" time,
you can see that he's more than a little bit nervous, but he's
excited that he's about to meet such a special person!
I'd
love to see them when he tells her about all of this! (KD: Me
too.)
Overall,
I'd say that this has been the most purely enjoyable MB I've
seen yet!
As
for the commercials (KD: All the MB TV product commercials were
added behind the American fansub of the movie by request) - they
were a hoot! Watching Miki doing all sorts of crazy things (flying
a plane, exploring an
ancient building, anchoring the news.) was so cool! Those folks
know how to merchandise! (I can't see how Japanese parents keep
any money at all with all of that being sold constantly!)
Brian
Gastaman
Brothers were Bleeping Hilarious
Just
finished watching the movie tape and well... those Gastaman Brothers
were bleeping hilarious ^o^ Miki fans will probably love this
thing.
And
those commercials. Daaanggg...... they merchandised like crazy
for the series, eh? Too bad we can't get most of that stuff here.
I wouldn’t mind going for the desk set, myself. :-]
Ben
Great
Animation
Yup,
I just saw it too. You know, you never know (ooo, that was good)
just how much of a difference there is between a TV episode and
a movie until you see the difference. Really, really nice animation.
The kids were great.
What
I really loved was the redemption of Yuu. While he is still a
sort of odd fish externally, since the whole 30 minutes is from
his perspective, we get to see a lot more of those small signals
that tell us what is going on inside of him. Like when his parents
tell him about getting divorced. I watched his eyes, and sure
enough, they flinch just a little bit, letting a little bit of
of the pain out.
Charles
(KD:
The following note is a bit out of context since parts were written
in response to others' comments)
...
A little more budget I figure. Actually, for the first few minutes,
it's so dreamy, when Yuu goes and kisses her (anyone hold their
breath for that long kiss? jeeze) and then when Miki sits up
and freaks...haahaha!! Great stuff...
Criminy
thou, it's TOO SHORT. I think it's really more of a mood piece
than the psychological terror that the TV series is, which is
a nice and pleasing break. Miki is just too damn cute for the
likes of a bum like Yuu. (That's just me being jealous.)
Love
those pigtails. Kawaaiiiii! (my vote for favorite hair style.
I
haven't seen the subbed version yet, but it is so obvious what
is going thru his mind there...I think Yuu's parents are redeemed
a bit too, even that insensitive nut Youji....just after Yuu
leaves the house. They look really somber, don't they? Perhaps
we see here the typical lack of communication between sons and
their fathers? Hell, Yuu doesn't even confide in his mom, (now
he's got two of them too.)
Yuu's
redeeming quality is that he's pigheaded as hell. Once he put
that thing in his pocket. Miki didn't have a chance.
....This
(movie) more than likely was created long after the story was
created. It really helps fill in a lot of things, and make some
of the initial insanity where Yuu kisses her made sense. Did
Yoshitsumi-sensei have such a thing in mind? I don't care how
cold a fish Yuu is, his
reactions to Miki between the time he meets her at the restaurant
and when he kisses her is the infirmary don't add up to love
at first sight. Adding the events of the movie make more sense
(my god, something in Marmalade Boy making sense...stop the world
I wanna get off...)
....My
favorite parts of the whole show are where Miki is just being
herself. I really find it very painful at times to watch her
torture herself from the inside. I really do. Hell, I'm a guy.
I can’t TAKE all that.
I
esp. loved her discussion with the American tourists at the restaurant,
where she is gesticulating like crazy about "something -
gad, if that ain't her, what is?
Any
chance to rave about Miki and I'll go for it. Miki! Miki! Miki!
Fred
No
Wonder Yuu Falls For Her
....the
MB Movie now has pride of place on my tape shelf you will be
pleased to hear ^_^ Being a Miki fan I was sure I'd love the
movie but after seeing it I realized how wrong I was....!!!!!
It was so good, I've decided my life wouldn't be complete without
it ^_^;; Miki, Miki, Miki plus of course the Gastaman Brothers!!!
I
have never laughed so much in my life when Miki turns into the
Towel Monster and chases the kids!, and the look on Miki &
Meiko's face when the Gastaman Brother do their routine is priceless!!!!!
Though my favorite bit must be Yuu watching Miki watching as
she window shops with Meiko, Miki comes across as a person enjoying
life to the full (No wonder Yuu falls for her!!)
So
the music clip at the end of the end of the movie was very much
appreciated and the adverts were definitely an eye opener!!!
I like the Miki Desk ones the best....I want one ^_^ ;;
Mark
_____________________________________________________________________
THE
TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF MARMALADE BOY
Architecture:
One
of the more interesting things that keeps popping up in Marmalade
Boy (to me, anyway:) is the various references to architecture.
While Miwa Yoshimitsu is a fictitious character (I think ^_^),
the rest of the architects and buildings cited in the series
do exist. I think that the selection of buildings is interesting,
and might say something about the characters,
especially Yuu, who himself aspires to be an architect....
I
studied architecture for six years, I work as an intern architect,
and Japanese Architecture is one of my areas of specialization
(it's how I got sucked into anime in the first place ^_^;;)
I
find it really curious that Yoshitsumi-sensei would select Antonio
Gaudi as the main architect that Yuu concentrates on in the library
(Of course, I'd assume that Yuu also thumbs thru the works of
other architects, but this is the main one we get to see) The
`Sagrada Familia' of which we see a fuzzy representation, also
exists (as anyone who has been to Barcelona
can attest. it's HUGE!).
Antonio
Gaudi is a Spanish architect who was born in Catalonia, Spain
in 1852 and died in 1926. Part of what became known as the Art
Nouveau movement, he is considered one of the most important
architects Spain has produced. Most of his works, including the
Sagrada Familia, are in Barcelona. (I pulled out my trusty "Encyclopedia
of Modern Architecture"
(dated1962) to get the right dates^_^...)
Gaudi
is best known for the incredibly `organic' nature of his works.
IMHO, all his buildings look like they were left in the microwave
too long ^_-. (of course, that's because I'm such a spatial-modernist/post-deconstructivist
^_^;;) Gaudi asserted that they straight line belonged to men,
and the curved line to God. Henceforth, narry a straight line
is to be found in his work.
The organic nature of his building went beyond just ornamentation
and into structure as well, with structural forms having close
ties with the shapes of muscles, bones, wings and petals.....
.....Gaudi's
work is remarkably `different' than that of any other noted architect.
......
Whew! Now, having said that, what significance can we glean from
this, regarding Yuu's personality? ^_^ (big grin) I think that
it has a lot to do with the idea of individuality....
.....here
are some other notes of Marmalade Architectural significance:
In
ep.28, when Yuu announces that he wants to visit the City Art
Museum by Ishozaki Arata...(uhmmmm, buys, it's_Isozaki_^_^_ That
building also exists (big surprise) and yes, it does look like
that:)
Heh,
Meiko's house at the beach (I forget where) (KD: Izu) looks like
it was an early design by Horoshi Hara.
Fred
Gallagher
Opinion
on Architectural Accuracy
On
your previous post about architects. I find it interesting that
Yoshizumi hauls this accuracy into it. I must admit that Gaudi
was the only one I recognized (but that was obvious). (I forget
which episode this was in) but did anyone else notice one time
when Meiko and Nacchan met in the library, they were in the English
literature section. Nacchan recommended [Thomas] Hardy, and sitting
right there on the shelf in front of Meiko was Tess of the Durbervilles
(sp?) [it may only have been labeled "Tess".
George
Robbert
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE
LIZ MANCZ - KAREN DUFFY MB EXCHANGE New
About
Michael Grant…
I've
seen Michael Grant now -- boy is he cute! Miki really must love
Yuu she'd never be able to resist him otherwise! At first I couldn't
believe that the same voice actor who did Tamahome did him! The
voices and personalities are so different! Then, in volume 14,
when he came up
against Kei-kun, I could hear some of Tamahome's intonations
in his voice!
Wasn't
that a GAS?!!! They reminded me of some of the stud dogs out
in the kennel. They would sometimes just strut around another
stud to show their superiority. Yup, those two reminded me of
that very much.
This
is so funny -- I was thinking the same thing! And I had the same
impulse I have when the boys (her dogs) are getting idiotic --
"That'll do, you two!" backed up by a whap on the nose
if necessary!
Michael
is really a charmer -- and of course, he fell in love with Miki...sigh.
Poor Yuu. The trip was pretty funny -- and pathetic(!) with Michael
interrupting all their romantic moments.
Am
I over interpreting or was there the possibility that Miki and
Yuu might have
made love during that trip if Michael hadn't been there?
Yup,
interpreted right on. They weren't "planning" it as
much as just knew it was really likely.
I
thought so! I have to say, for someone not really planning anything,
they were really disappointed when Michael showed up! That was
pretty funny... He was so oblivious!
Look! The egg's BLACK!
About
being without Yuu…
Poor
Miki. She's being so brave, the poor baby. I'm glad Kei-kun and
Michael are distracting her. Their face-off was totally hilarious!
When Michael came running around the corner of the school gate,
I thought, "He's a perpetual motion generator!" And
then, he and Kei-kun realized that they were rivals for Miki,
and barely noticed when she walked away! Too funny. I loved it.
Yup,
yup...strutting. (^_^)!!
About
Jinny…
Liz:
My, Jinny is quite something, isn't she? (I'm too polite to say
what!) Kind of like Suzu, but not as smart!
She's
um...a bit more earthy. I found her embarrassing at times.
A
bit? Geez -- she's so earthy she should have potatoes growing
out of her ears! BTW, once I saw 15, I had to see the rest. I've
watched the last 4 volumes in something like 2 days! Am I burnt
out.... wow. What Jinny does to Miki is so rotten that I can't
believe that someone didn't push her in front of a car! wow.
That little act looked like something Nakago could have thought
up! And then she tries to tell Doris and Bill that it was a joke?
I don't think so! No girl in love would have considered Jinny's
story a joke. I was really glad when Bill slapped her!
I
mean, that was SO cruel. Seeing what Miki went through was so
heartbreaking.
It
almost killed her! When she told Meiko why she didn't go in the
room to see if Yuu was there, I just cried. That if he WERE there,
she would have shattered. That's how much she loves him. I can
see why she had to "go away" for a while after that.
About
Bill and Jinny…
And
very surprised to find out that Bill was in love with her (Jinny)!
Geez! I thought he had MUCH better sense than that! For pity's
sake -- with An available, he wanted Jinny? I guess love IS blind
-- and deaf and brainless! If Brian had a brain, he'd forget
her, and go for Doris big time. She's worth ten of Jinny!
I
think there are some people out there that would agree. Well,
I got the impression he was mulling it over.
No
doubt and here I thought Bill was just perfect for her! (I meant
Anju, not Jinny)
Oh,
I agree. Bill IS perfect for Jinny - -but is Jinny perfect for
Bill? Actually, she seems to behave better after she finds that
she loves him -- Bill sees all her faults, and loves her despite
them. And even though he loves her, he lets her know when she's
behaving badly. Bill is the best thing that could have happened
to Jinny! Kind of like Doris – who understands Brian perfectly,
and still loves him. And has twice his brains.......
About
first meeting Bill …
He
sure freaks Yuu out, doesn't he? I think you'll find out very
quickly what he's all about.
Poor
Yuu. First Miwa, then Bill. Jinny was certainly surprised to
find out that he wasn't gay! She's kind of like Arimi -- she's
been chased by so many guys, that she never had a male friend
until Bill worked out that ruse to become her friend -- and then
she fell in love with him without
knowing it! That was cute.
And
a surprise to have it happen so fast.
Well
I got the feeling that she (Jinny) actually was in love with
Bill, but didn't know it. I think most guys have a very visceral
response to Jinny – all hormones. And she was used to using
that. And then she ran into two guys that it didn't work on,
Bill and Yuu. She decided Bill was gay, and had a shot at Yuu
-- and seemed VERY surprised that he didn't succumb. But as I
said above, I'd bet that Bill was the first male friend Jinny
had since she hit puberty -- she felt safe with him, because
she thought he was gay. So she fell in love with him. So when
she found out that he wasn't gay, and that he did love her, it
hit her like a bolt of lightning.
I
really like the emphasis in this anime that friendship has to
come before love. You see it in Hime-chan as well -- when Hime-chan
says to Arisaka-kun -- "How can you love me when you don't
know me?" Attraction without friendship gets nowhere in
MB -- not to mention Hime-chan and Kodocha. It's interesting
how many friends fall in love in these stories! And I think that's
a very healthy thing. I see my students fall in love with people
that I don't think they would otherwise even LIKE! And of course,
it breaks up eventually.
The
split of Ginta and Arimi…
Poor
Ginta and Arimi. I thought that he never stopped loving Arimi
– he just felt that Miki needed him more than Arimi did.
And is such a goof, that he didn't explain things to Arimi very
well...
Well,
also he felt the past feelings welling up inside himself in such
a way that he couldn't control. Until he faced it completely,
he couldn't see straight. Miki getting them back together was
very cute, wasn't it?
I see. At times it seemed as though he could only give her up
to Yuu -- that if she chose someone else, he felt on some level
it should be him! Which confused the daylights out of him, I
think! Yes, her plot to get them back together was really cute!
Tsutomu and Yayoi were pretty funny as conspirators -- actually,
I thought Tsutomu's upset over the break up
was very cute. I was wondering if he'd gloat -- but no, he went
after Miki and told her off! Good for him. And then when Miki
went for him to get him to help he was really funny!
Michael’s
apology to Yuu…
I'll
say. I thought Michael's apology to Yuu after the break up was
pretty brave. He was genuinely trying to protect Miki. If Brian
had had a brain in his head, he wouldn't have given Michael such
a biased opinion!
Loved
the suitcase flying, picking up Miki, whose legs are flailing
in the air. It looked so silly.
It
did -- and was a much needed touch of humor there! And the parents
were so oblivious of Miki flying after them on the suitcase!
I
thought the camping trip was really revealing. Yuu would watch
Miki and Kei and think that they were doing so well together,
then turn away, and Miki would see him and An talking and think
THEY were doing so well – how pathetic! Yuu comes out of
the whole incident very well -- he didn't understand how stressed
Miki was getting -- and didn't support her enough. But once he
understood how she felt, he did what he could to make it better
-- which meant giving her up. The whole conversation with Kei
just broke my heart -- Yuu was trying so hard to do the best
thing for Miki.
On
the camping trip, I thought it was just great how Miki ran straight
to Yuu after the scene with Kei -- even though she had no idea
he was in the woods. There's that red thread again! When she
told him that she couldn't accept anyone else, it was just so
heartbreaking. I felt badly for Kei, though. He really loved
Miki, I think.
Then
at their last breakup, Miki just knew that Yuu wouldn't break
up unless he had to -- and she realized that he was suffering
as much as she was. For the first time, I actually agreed with
the boy's reason for breaking up without giving the real reason
-- to tell Miki that her father
had cheated on her mother and fathered Yuu would have been cruel.
It would have ruined her relationship with Jin and Chiyako, at
the very least. Of course, it might have been better to tell
her in Japan, where she'd have been safer when she ran away!
Miki really grew up during that period. I was impressed!
The
Ending….
wow.
what an ending. Miki seems to have had some sort of emotional
breakdown. She just couldn't deal with the emotional ups and
downs any more. That was so sad. It wasn't even Yuu that really
did her in – it was Michael, Kei and Jinny's antics. I really
wanted to shake the three of them! It took Miki such a long time
to figure out that she really did love Yuu. I kept yelling at
her all through 16, 17 and 18! Every time she asked "Why
do I feel this way?" I'd tell her! Ack....
Oh
man, you could feel it...all her emotions. She's exhausted.
Actually,
I felt that she started dating Kei not so much because she wanted
another boyfriend, but because she was too tired to be able to
get rid of Kei and Michael, and Kei seemed willing to let her
recover at her own pace. It was pretty obvious that Kei and Michael
wouldn't leave her alone -- Michael really did himself in by
giving Miki that ultimatum! When Kei told
her that she didn't have to forget Yuu, he was the obvious choice.
Otherwise, I think she would have done what she did after the
second breakup -- just go on about her life alone, spending time
with Meiko, Ginta and Arimi and her other friends.
It
wasn't even Yuu that really did her in -- it was Michael, Kei
and Jinny's antics. I really wanted to shake the three of them!
It took Miki such a long time to figure out that she really did
love Yuu. I kept yelling at her all through 16, 17 and 18! Every
time she asked "Why do I feel this way?" I'd tell her!
Ack....
Oh
my...that must have been a sight. (^_^)
Probably!
The dogs would occasionally give me a weird look -- what are
you doing, Mom?
At
the very end, Miki kind of went through all the friends and talked
about their futures. How did Miwa get left out? Given everything
he did for Yuu and Miki, I can't see how he was forgotten! I
was kind of hoping that he and An would someday fall in love....
I see that Miki thinks that Kei and Suzu might get together some
day.... That would be quite something!
I
guess the author felt that putting everyone together as a couple
would be too trite.
Ack.
I love trite! (Me too) I felt bad about poor Miwa san -- didn't
get the girl he wanted -- no speculation about his future --
the forgotten character!
The
anime ending was certainly different! So the Mamatachi are having
babies? wow. That will certainly be something! Kind of a scary
thought, them raising more kids. I figured out that Yuu and Miki
were genetically predisposed to fall in love -- her mother loved
his father and
his father loved her mother -- so whatever the attracted the
parents to one another, would definitely have been passed down
to their kids! So does that mean the new babies will eventually
fall in love? (Hee, hee, hee!)
THE IDEAL
WAY TO SHOW A SERIAL ANIME
Yup,
it's starting a bit late, but better never late then never.
Marmalade
Boy is what transformed me into a raving anime fanboy. It performed
the operation that changed me from normal person with a mild,
rather healthy interest in Japanese Animation to an obsessive
Otaku. Which may in the end not be for good, but I'm stuck with
it so I may as
well go with it. And all it took were two episodes.
The
first two episodes of Marmalade Boy I saw were the ones where
the evil pedophile Namura was booted from the teaching profession.
Yay! I was hooked and that week I changed my schedule at work
to ensure that I could make it to future club meetings instead
of showing up every 3 weeks or so like I'd been doing for the
past 3 months.
And
so I continued watching Marmalade Boy for the next year and 3/4,
our local club showing 2 episodes every second week. Even after
I requested the whole series from Tomodachi after I'd seen about
30 episodes I continued to wait through the torturous periods
between MB doses to
watch the next episode. (I'll talk about this more in coming
weeks.) Anyways, we finally completed showing the series about
two months ago, and I've finally made my way through my backlog
of tapes, so it's about time to watch MB over again.
Marmalade
Boy is my first love and I've always thought of it as my favorite
series, although there were times when I would become a bit frustrated
with the series and its refusal to die. I'm not sure if it's
still my favorite TV series, we'll see as I progress with this
project.
My
intention is to watch one episode a day (except for Mondays,
when we hold club meetings and my time at A-kon) of MB from start
to finish and share my comments as I progress with the members
of this ML. This could either prove to be very interesting or
monumentally boring for
you. Give me a chance and we'll see how it develops. Why one
episode a day? Well, that 's often all I have time for!
But
the main reason is that I've found that it's the ideal way to
watch a serial anime. A 24 hour period is long enough to enjoy
those cliffhanger endings but not too long (better than the 2
or 3 week gaps at the club!) as to cause undue suffering.
One
last thing: While I've watched the first 25 episodes or so at
least 3 times I've only seen from episode 40 onwards once. So
this'll be quite the adventure.
Elijah
van der Giessen
Section from Fictional
Realms section of AOL:
"I
must say as of now that Marmalade Boy is one of my favorite anime
of all time. With 76 episodes of pure story-line with many twists
and turns you might as well say good-bye to your family and get
ready to get hooked to one of the finest animes out there. The
music is excellent adding a great effect to the story and setting
the tone. With many diverse characters placed into one story-line
there are going to be some great developments as Marmalade Boy
continues. I've seen the whole series and trust me, things only
get more intense as the series progresses."
----
"I
recently received eps 1 thru 24 and stupid me decided to watch
the 'preview' of ep25. ARRRRRGGGGHHH!!!! I didn't want it to
happen again so I sent out for the entire series! Can't wait
til it comes in!"
------
"I Iove, love, love this series! Everyone who's said it's
totally addicting...well, you're absolute right! I meant to watch
one episode this past Friday night ...and ended up watching all
4 on tape! I doubt we'll ever see this released in the U.S.,
so I'm grateful to all those fansubbers out there who've supplied
us with this wonderfully written charming series."
-----
"I finished all 76 episode of the Marmalade Boy series and
the Marmalade Boy movie a few weeks ago, and I give the whole
entire anime"
******************************************************************************************************
{pages full of stars}
*****************
-----
"I
recently finished watching volume 13-15 of Marmalade Boy, and
now I am impatiently waiting for the last four volumes of this
wonderful series. I don't know if I can wait any longer to find
out what's going to happen. Would it be cheating if I just peeked
at one of those spoiler pages out there? I don't' think I have
the strength to hold out!"
-----
"Hi. My name is Melissa, and I'm a marmalade-aholic. <breaks
down crying>"
"Yes!
It enslaved me and forced me to watch! Some of those cliffhangers
were just plain unfair!!!! I came across the show at a busy time
in my life - I already wasn't getting much sleep - and wound
up watching the last 15 tapes in about 5 days. My closet collapsed
while I was watching the last volume, and I didn't notice! It's
evil I tell you evil! Something this good can not have been made
by mortals!
But
seriously...I can't remember the last time I watch a show that
just demanded to be watched like that. I can't imagine any drug
being much more addictive. The only drawback is some of my Japanese
friends laugh at me for watching it because it is supposedly
a "shoujo" show."
End
of Fictional Realms Section of AOL
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