Jin Roh

When it comes to collecting 12-inch toys, the Jin Roh is definitely on top of my top 3 figures to own. I suddenly was reminded of its highly acclaimed anime in which it first garnered world attention. From my point of view, people just love watching 'sadistic' movies; movies that generate a sense of helplessness.

And in helplessness, comes naturally hope. The anime aside, the design of the character Jin Roh is a complete work of a genius. Truly frightening in every way. For story plot, read on here, though I suggest you go watch it.

Jin Roh is one of my favourite short animes of all times. It is not merely another anime, but a complete masterpiece with idealogies and... hope, really. The creator, Mamoru Oshii, also created Ghost in the Shell. Hence if you are familiar with Ghost in the Shell (which somehow was more mainstream, but almost just as good), you probably could tell where I am heading in this post.

In terms of toy, the 12" Jin Roh is a masterpiece, similarly to the movie. Though I am no expert in telling you whether the quality, proportion and accessories of the figure is impressive or not, I can tell you that it is one heck of an intimadating figure to have among all 12-inchers.

Recently, very recently, Revoltech announced the release of a more affordable, smaller yet detail version of the Jin Roh for about $23 (via. here)

Here are the previously released 12-inchers

Here is a treat to sum it up

Mushishi

This is probably my first time writing and recommending an anime. But trust me, if I had to make start with one anime, it will definitely had to be this one. I am certain there are numerous entries in the internet that would agree with me.

I first watched Mushishi about two years ago and recently I wished to rewatch it. Mushishi isn't like any other typical anime, but rather in a league of its own. It is categorized into the Historial Fantasy anime genre. It has a very artistic approach with a combination of Japanese folklore tales and mythology with extraordinary entities to give you a serene and strong storyline with depth. The pace of the anime will also need to get some used to.

Our protagonist, Ginko

"The story features ubiquitous creatures called Mushi that often display supernatural powers. Mushi are described as beings in touch with the essence of life, far more basic and pure than the grotesque creatures we are accustomed to. Due to their ephemeral nature most humans are incapable of perceiving Mushi and are oblivious to their existence, but there are a few who possess the ability to see and interact with Mushi. The Mushi depicted in the anime look very similar to floaters."

So, basically Ginko is a mushi master (hence called Mushishi) that travels in search of mushi to research and at the same time cure people that suffer from them.

A feature film was made in 2006 with the same title, I have yet to watch it. Apparently it received good reviews but I suppose one would have to watch the anime prior to the film in order to understand the plot.