C&C - Kekkaishi - "Yoshimori & Tokine" [6/5]

[macattack]

Adult Swim's newest anime continues tonight at 12:30 a.m. EST.

Last time on Kekkaishi:

Nine-year-old Yoshimori is thrust into a position of responsibility defending a spiritual site with eleven-year-old Tokine, a former close friend who's becoming increasingly distant thanks to their feuding families. Yoshimori's hesitation to destroy an ayakashi (spiritual monster in short) winds up with Tokine becoming badly injured saving her, scarring her right hand and arm permanently. Five years later, fourteen-year-old Yoshimori vows never to let Tokine or anyone else be hurt by ayakashi again . . .

Remember, this is the second part of the one-hour special. After this episode, then you can pass judgement on this series. Do you really want to skip out on half of the Vic Mignogna Power Hour? I didn't think so.

Laura Bailey, Barbara Goodson, David Lodge, Wally Wingert, and Troy Baker are also part of the recurring cast. Expect Kate Higgins to appear very soon too.

Enjoy!

Opening: "Sha la la -Ayakashi NIGHT" by Saeka Uura (full version below, TV version cut to 55 seconds)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdUU6gNj4BM

Ending 1: "Akai Ito" by Koshi Inaba (full version below, TV version cut to 20 seconds [ouch!])
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w42mVhCq9J8&feature=related

The ending contains very mild spoilers as it contains a preview for episode 4, but it was the best version I could find on short notice.

[Beat]

Previously on Kekkaishi-

Mix 1/2 of every shounen cliche ever, add Miroku's wardrobe and 1 cup boxes. Place in blender on frappe until stereotypical Toonami level anime is ready.

Meanwhile, the folks not preoccupied during the Memorial Day weekend (including parties, the NBA playoffs, and a UFC PPV which did around 1 million buys) kept looking for the so-called good part.

This week, those above factors are not present. Will the show break out of its stereotypical mold? Or will fans call for Kekkaishi to face a 5:30am banishment?

[bleachj0j]

Ah this time you got it Mac. I'll will get you back...somehowww.

[Gold Guy]

And this week, no more crybaby Yoshimori! Honestly, that little kid got on my nerves.

[bleachj0j]

Well who needs only one dose of Vic when you can get two!

[Kitschensyngk]

Last week: The start of what's turning into a combination of Bleach, Inuyasha and Pokemon.

Not liking this opening song all that much. It'd help if the lead singer could...sing a little better.

[animePWNS]

Whoa, it started without bumpers or any other warning.

[Dolphin Boy]

TV PG :shrug:
This outta be fun :sweat:

[zoombie]

Is Mustang the narriator?

[trance2009]

Yeah, this dude is the love child of Inuyasha and Ichigo, after that slapstick fall.

[Kitschensyngk]

Is Mustang the narriator?

It's possible. I'm hearing Tohru Honda and Edward Elric as the lead characters.

[Don_East]

Not liking this opening song all that much. It'd help if the lead singer could...sing a little better.
I agree.

I don't suppose there's any chance that grandpa's gonna end up under the wheels of a train, is there?

[zoombie]

If he told the other Vic character to grow up, he would fly off the handle. At least he is drinking his milk.

[Nobodyman]

TV PG :shrug:
This outta be fun :sweat:
Oh yeah. If we're lucky we might even get some blood or mild sexual innuendo.

[Dolphin Boy]

Yeah, this dude is the love child of Inuyasha and Ichigo, after that slapstick fall.
Again with the off-shot comparisons :shrug:

[Kitschensyngk]

Nice use of those little box things.

[Bloody Marquis]

What's with the soundtrack?

[Beat]

Good God, it's like Bleach and Inu-Yasha were mixed into a blender with an extra dash of tsundere. After the Cotto fight, this is just sad.

Edit- Pseudo-rap soundtrack, the kind we haven't heard since 4Kids dubbing went out of style.

[Kitschensyngk]

Good lord, they're arguing like a married couple. Not to encourage shipping, but I bet they end up together later on.

I like how he brought a pillow to class.

THIS IS A POKEMON HYBRID! THAT KID'S EVEN GOT HIS OWN POKEDEX!!

[bleachj0j]

Good God, it's like Bleach and Inu-Yasha were mixed into a blender with an extra dash of tsundere. After the Cotto fight, this is just sad.

You know you don't have to watch. But that would make too much sense.

[Don_East]

What is this, a high school version of the high school scenes in Bleach?

I miss those days.

[Dolphin Boy]

Good God, it's like Bleach and Inu-Yasha were mixed into a blender with an extra dash of tsundere. After the Cotto fight, this is just sad.
Are you implying that Bleach and Inuyasha are genre trendsetters for the shounen demographic?

[trance2009]

"You think I'm creepy?"

"Yeah....somewhat."

Ha. I did laugh at that one.

[Beat]

You know you don't have to watch. But that would make too much sense.

You know what? You're right. I'll deliver my grade now.

F.


Are you implying that Bleach and Inuyasha are genre trendsetters for the shounen demographic?.
No, just the first two shows that come to mind. The kid's too dorky to remind me of Yusuke.

Well Kekkaishi, you did not get better after all. See you at 5:30am. Say hi to Karate Kommandos for me.

[zoombie]

Dam he's got some dorky friends. I guess no different from Ichigo being friends with Keigo, or Ed friends with Mustangs subordinates.

[Nobodyman]

Hmm, all that playful bickering and cat-and-mouse tension between. Why, I don't suppose they'll - Oh screw it, we all know they will.

[Game Freak 4]

Is it me, or is he describing a Mary Sue?

[Bloody Marquis]

Is it me, or is he describing a Mary Sue?
And it seems she has exceptional problem-solving as well.

[Manga4life]

Strange episode so far, it's a lot different than last weeks in the sense that there is no action to speak of yet, but at least we get to learn a bit about the characters to see what their all about. So far it's been kind of cool and kind of reminds me of old school Bleach with all the classroom scenes and whatnot.

[Kitschensyngk]

I dare anyone to say "Kirara Kawakami" three times really fast.

No, you're not enemies. You're just from a poor family and she's from a rich one. Class-influenced tension is natural in high school shows.

[zoombie]

Is just me or was that girl's friend hitting on her? Maybe Chiziru has really messed me up.

[Don_East]

Dream castle made of cake? I bet Vic had fun saying that.

[Dolphin Boy]

So this guy is a lazy bum and his dream is to become a patisserie? Yeah....

[Kitschensyngk]

So I see he also makes gingerbread houses.

I don't think I like this grandfather character.

[bleachj0j]

lol a shonen hero who likes to bake.

[Nobodyman]

I dare anyone to say "Kirara Kawakami" three times really fast.
I dare anyone to say "Yuri" and not snicker.

So anyway, the hero's ultimate goal is to help bring obesity to Japan. A worthy goal.

Send shivers down my spine, body's aching all the time...

[Bloody Marquis]

Oh no, we're back into flashbackland.

[Game Freak 4]

Appearantly, Albert Wily is against anything his grandson does that has nothing to do with the family business.

Even making fortresses and castles.

[zoombie]

I am sorry, but the boy's father wearing the apren all the time is really creppy.

[Bloody Marquis]

So... it's Bleach, Inuyasha, and Yakitate Japan all in one?

[trance2009]

"Someday I'm gonna get you to eat it, and you're gonna love it."

Gracious. :sweat:

[Dolphin Boy]

-All the males act like jackasses
-Female is always better than guy
-Guys wearing aprons and loving to cook

sure is sexist in here

It's funny how adult swim hyped this show as an action adventure BUT THERE'S BARELY ANY ACTION WITHIN THE FIRST TWO EPISODES

[bleachj0j]

So... it's Bleach, Inuyasha, and Yakitate Japan all in one?

I don't see any swords

[TnAdct1]

So... it's Bleach, Inuyasha, and Yakitate Japan all in one? Well, this story in manga form appeared in the same magazine that contained Inuyasha and Yakitate! Japan.

[JShaggy]

Appearantly, Albert Wily is against anything his grandson does that has nothing to do with the family business.

Even making fortresses and castles.
Like father, like son. And the granddad is still a hotheaded jerk.

[zoombie]

I didn't see any villains in the opening. Are they just going to fight Hollow like characters for a while?

[Nobodyman]

All right, are we finally gonna get some action? I hope so.

[Game Freak 4]

lol a shonen hero who likes to bake.
Eh, why not? Ichigo likes reading Shakesphere.

[Kitschensyngk]

After midnight, he's gonna let it all hang down.


Eh, why not? IIchigo likes reading Shakesphere.

And Uryu likes to sew.

[Beat]

I really feel like I need to go into another "WTH is ASA's programmer thinking?" rant. I'm pretty sure you're all sick of hearing them though. Is it justified, or should I stick to the show? Figured everyone deserved a heads-up.

[Don_East]

Sorry to break it to you, kid. But speaking as a baker, there is no way you can build a actual scale castle out of cake on your own. To make it precise requires thousands of cake to make for one wall. Don't expect any floors either unless you have have really thick chocolate bars at the bottom. And don't get me started on how much icing is needed.

[trance2009]

I confess I like how their two dog familiars are metrosexuals.

[Kitschensyngk]

Saying to break to you, kid. But speaking as a baker, there is no way you can build a actual scale castle out of cake on your own. To make it precise requires thousands of cake to make for one wall. Don't expect any floors either unless you have have really thick chocolate bars at the bottom. And don't get me started on how much icing is needed.

Not to mention a castle made entirely of cake would be structurally unsound, as well as vulnerable to rainstorms, earthquakes and floods.

Did he just call Tokine "honey"?

[Nobodyman]

Oh, good job Tokine. You're doing SO much better than Yoshi.

[zoombie]

That little girl is like Keigo. The same "I know some serious stuff is going on and I want nothing to do with it" attitude.

[Game Freak 4]

Saying to break to you, kid. But speaking as a baker, there is no way you can build a actual scale castle out of cake on your own. To make it precise requires thousands of cake to make for one wall. Don't expect any floors either unless you have have really thick chocolate bars at the bottom. And don't get me started on how much icing is needed.
Applying logic to animation? I thought you knew better.

Now thinking about it, do they really have to wear that to capture Youkai?

So, Yukari Yakumo isn't the only one that relies on others to do do her dirty work.

He seriously cares too much.

[Kitschensyngk]

It's gotta be da shoes!

[zoombie]

Just like Ed stuck with clean up duty.

[Beat]

Saying to break to you, kid. But speaking as a baker, there is no way you can build a actual scale castle out of cake on your own. To make it precise requires thousands of cake to make for one wall. Don't expect any floors either unless you have have really thick chocolate bars at the bottom. And don't get me started on how much icing is needed.

You're a baker?

Admittedly that's the most interesting revelation I've heard in the past half-hour.

[Nobodyman]

Okay, I'm not liking Tokine in this episode. Yeah, mouth off to the guy that just showed you up six ways to Sunday.

[animePWNS]

They use paper dolls too? Cute.

[Don_East]

Not to mention a castle made entirely on cake would be structurally unsound, as well as vulnerable to rainstorms, earthquakes and floods.
And not to mention the assorted pests that will no doubt be attracted to it. Ever see that one Simpons episode where Homer protected that pile of sugar and all those bees showed up? Wait, what happened?

[Kitschensyngk]

And the Domo clones are stuck with cleanup duty.

You know she's not into you, right?

[Dolphin Boy]

Generic shounen line -076
"I never want to see _______ get hurt again"
Is the show always gonna close with these?

Pretty meh episode, once again it was used to explain more terms and give insight to the characters than actual action

[zoombie]

The two Vic characters in the Vic hour are similar. One doesn't want to see the girl get hurt again, the other one doesn't want to the girl tears again.

[Space Cadet]

You know she's not into you, right?

Its unrequited love...at least for now.

[bleachj0j]

Generic shounen line -076
"I never want to see _______ get hurt again"
Is the show always gonna close with these?

Pretty meh episode, once again it was used to explain more terms and give insight to the characters than actual action

I liked it because there was character devolpment instead of pointless action.

[zoombie]

Personally I like Winry better than the girl in this series.

[Soul]

Well
I MIGHT watch next week as a last try, but I find this show pretty dang boring.

[Beat]

Hello? Paranoia Agent? I'm sorry. Sure you were slow paced and ratings fail, but I'm sure in a context such a DVD's you would prove to be a better show. I want you back.

Like I said, F. The only way I could see this show reaching the heights promised is if they completely redid the script, sort of like a mid-series reboot.

[bleachj0j]

Hello? Paranoia Agent? I'm sorry. Sure you were slow paced and ratings fail, but I'm sure in a context such a DVD's you would prove to be a better show. I want you back.

Like I said, F. The only way I could see this show reaching the heights promised is if they completely redid the script, sort of like a mid-series reboot.

Oh wow you still here? Nothing else to do uh?

[Beat]

Oh wow you still here? Nothing else to do uh?

I shut it off, I just decided to pop back in and give some parting thoughts about how there were at least 5 if not more other shows that people wanted instead. You're just mad because no one likes the show that you've been endlessly defending for a month. You know, trolling anyone who says this is terrible (which it is)

[HEATXZ]

Kekkaishi is a great show :anime:
I own some of the manga volumes
My favorite parts are scenes with the Grandfather XD

[Funkatron]

Oh wow you still here? Nothing else to do uh?

Heh.

He acts like no other shonen show has had a slow start, ever. I know I found Bleach, Naruto and One Piece a bit okayish/dull before they found thier grooves (although I fell out of love with the first two). Kekkaishi is just one of those shows that takes its time to find its flow but once it does, its all goodness.

So far, loving the VA's chosen for this show, especially the ghost dogs. Got their smug, semi-metro voices down pat. Loving Tokine and Yoshimori. Only one I'mm not feeling is the classmate girl and I normally like the roles Coleen O'shaughnessey plays.

[Don_East]

Hello? Paranoia Agent? I'm sorry. Sure you were slow paced and ratings fail, but I'm sure in a context such a DVD's you would prove to be a better show. I want you back.
Hey, don't knock Paranoia Agent, it may not have been a fit for Adult Swim but it was still a good psychological thriller anime.

[TnAdct1]

Now that we've got some real action, I can say that is probably going to be one of those shows where a few more episodes will be needed before I can judge.

While the premise may have some promise, the real problem is that it's hard to like the characters, given how the competitive nature of demon hunting seems to bring the worst out some of these characters (i.e. Yoshi's grandfather forcing him to take things seriously, Tokine being Little Miss Perfect).

[Beat]

Hey, don't knock Paranoia Agent, it may not have been a fit for Adult Swim but it was still a good psychological thriller anime.

And I think I've been way too hard on it these past few years. I'll chastise it as a ratings failure, but not as a show failure. It takes a really bad show to put petty complaints in perspective, so...here we are.

[zoombie]

How long till we have some real villains besides the monster of the week that have so far?

[bleachj0j]

How long till we have some real villains besides the monster of the week that have so far?

Never it's like this the whole 52 episodes. I kid. Next 2 episodes you'll see glimpses

[macattack]

Edit- Pseudo-rap soundtrack, the kind we haven't heard since 4Kids dubbing went out of style.

Except I doubt 4kids ever wrote an insert song called "Motherf*****". Seriously, that's what it's called. And listen closely, you'll hear the F-bomb getting bleeped out during the rooftop chase. And the entire rap's in English by the same rapper who did the Dai-Gurren rap. Taku Iwasaki was just starting his Yoko Kanno-esque English-language insert songs that he'd later do better with Gurren Lagann, a Persona anime, and Soul Eater.

Anyway, this episode was a bit of an improvement over the first episode but the show is definitely taking its time. I like the character establishment going on, and Madarao is admittedly unique for a ghost dog-type. Kekkaishi needs a focus, but it's going to get one soon, the next episode will insert an antagonist figure for the next few episodes.

Stay patient, and you will be rewarded. But yeah, the first two episodes are very average but they are also necessary, otherwise we wouldn't have enough character establishment and development to care about the characters. That's a problem I've had with Bleach, character development's been lacking since Soul Society, but something I like about Naruto, which actually has character development with each arc. But I've never liked pure fighting/action manga, I've always been one for the adventure kind that usually gets published in the monthly magazines.

[Rho]

I'm watching it right now, and I can say it's decent, but I still don't see what it is that makes this more suited for [AS], especially now that this has a TV-PG rating... This could have probably been put on CN Friday nights and had no content issues. -shrug-

I definitely like the voice cast.

[TheGunheart]

I gave it another chance, even finishing last week's episode, and I'm still not sold. There just isn't a hook to the series thus far. Even shows that start off slow have something in the first few episodes to grab me.

[Monte]

I'm watching it right now, and I can say it's decent, but I still don't see what it is that makes this more suited for [AS], especially now that this has a TV-PG rating... This could have probably been put on CN Friday nights and had no content issues. -shrug-

The same could be said about A LOT of anime shows that are on Adult swim...

Essentially CN itself is just too over sensitive to what children can handle... it seems like it doesn't take much to set off CN's censors. Hell i'd bet Bleach, (who has the same demographic as Naruto) got pushed to late night merely because it revolves around death (remember back in the day when DBZ had people being "sent to another dimension"?)... Bleach, inuyasha, scryed, trigun, code geass, etc; none of these shows were ever really designed for adults, they always had teens in mind for their demographics... but no, the cultural standards are just too different... the irony is that CN wants more teen viewers and yet the shows that would be perfect for that are deemed TOO "mature"

So these shows can only find home on adult swim... and since teen shows like bleach and inu yasha turned out well, they are willing give others a shot aswell... and ya so far Kekkaishi seems like another one of those shows; will it be successful? well so far, i don't much care for it... frankly i got really turned off by the main character's dsire to get stronger and protect his friend (it just sounds so corny when you say it like that) and the whole desire to make a castle cake; i might be willing to ignore such things, but nothing about the series has really caught my attention yet...


I'll chastise it as a ratings failure, but not as a show failure.
I find that you can never really judge a series by it's ratings... frankly i have a low opinion of the average human viewer; if it doesn't have a lot of violence, sex or humor then it doesn't spark their interest... Shows that rely more on intelligent design like paranoia agent just don't spark the primitive desires of viewers; meanwhile complete and utter crap can be a real money maker because of the number of explosions it uses.

[Dark Moridin]

Well, this weeks eppy is just like this week's board, a little better. Personally, I like the quirkyness of the two family dynamics, and the fact that while the male lead hasn't changed much, his female counterpart has gone from "I want us to be friends, even though our families act like Romeo and Juliet", to "You're still breathing?? Get Lost, loser" mentality. Actually puts a spin on the whole get stronger bit, as I see the guy take all the abuse, and not caring as long as his own personal goal is acomplished. Yeah, it is the typical 'protect the girl' plot at this point, but at least it is entertaining, because it has CAKE!
Now, onto the stuff I didn't like...

Not liking this opening song all that much. It'd help if the lead singer could...sing a little better.
This, INDEED!
Now to borrow some words from Monte...

if it doesn't have a lot of violence, sex or humor then it doesn't spark their interest... Shows that rely more on intelligent design like paranoia agent just don't spark the primitive desires of viewers; meanwhile complete and utter crap can be a real money maker because of the number of explosions it uses.
I agree whole heartedly. Listen, I don't want to pick on anyone, but if you don't like the show, fine. Feel free to not watch it. But coming back just to slam it repeatedly is a little tired, just like people who slam those people. Endless cycle.
I personally am going to give this show a shot, because it's there. If I end up not liking it, then I'll stop watching it, and stop posting. No need to waste time trying to convince others of my opinion (of course, I'm doing it now, so I guess I'm a hypocrit).
Ok, end of rant, see (some of) y'all next week!

[Space Cadet]

The same could be said about A LOT of anime shows that are on Adult swim...

Essentially CN itself is just too over sensitive to what children can handle... it seems like it doesn't take much to set off CN's censors. Hell i'd bet Bleach, (who has the same demographic as Naruto) got pushed to late night merely because it revolves around death (remember back in the day when DBZ had people being "sent to another dimension"?)... Bleach, inuyasha, scryed, trigun, code geass, etc; none of these shows were ever really designed for adults, they always had teens in mind for their demographics... but no, the cultural standards are just too different... the irony is that CN wants more teen viewers and yet the shows that would be perfect for that are deemed TOO "mature"

So these shows can only find home on adult swim... and since teen shows like bleach and inu yasha turned out well, they are willing give others a shot aswell... and ya so far Kekkaishi seems like another one of those shows; will it be successful? well so far, i don't much care for it... frankly i got really turned off by the main character's dsire to get stronger and protect his friend (it just sounds so corny when you say it like that) and the whole desire to make a castle cake; i might be willing to ignore such things, but nothing about the series has really caught my attention yet...




Nah, Bleach went to Adult Swim because they outbid Toonami for the airing rights. Nothing to do with content.

While its true that shows like Kekkaishi could fit on CN better(I get a strong Toonami vibe while watching it), it has more to do with CN's current attitude with anime than content issues. Mainly that CN wants the cut of the merchandising profits, not just advertising revenue in the past. That's why they have shows like Bakugan airing: they get a cut of the merchandising profits.

[Rick Jones]

Now that we've been introduced to the character's world over the course of this two part episode, I hope that they can actually start doing something.

[zoombie]

Nah, Bleach went to Adult Swim because they outbid Toonami for the airing rights. Nothing to do with content.


How could Adult Swim outbid Toonami, they were both owned by the same company. How can you outbid yourself?

[Space Cadet]

How could Adult Swim outbid Toonami, they were both owned by the same company. How can you outbid yourself?

Both wanted the show. It went behind closed doors and Adult Swim emerged victorious.

[bleachj0j]

Both wanted the show. It went behind closed doors and Adult Swim emerged victorious.

How do we even know toonami wanted Bleach?

[Space Cadet]

How do we even know toonami wanted Bleach?

It was mentioned by someone who worked at CN a while back on the boards. Anyway, this is getting off-topic.

[Monte]

Y'know kekkaishi actually does make me think about "translating cultural themes and names" vs "Keeping things as natural and true to the original japanese version"

Honestly with some anime's keeping them they way they were in the japanese version works out well, but for some series a lot of japanese names and what not can just get confusing for me or just hard to remember... like would the series really suffer if the term "Ayakashi" was replaced with Demon or ghost? Or what about technique names being given an english translation as well... sometimes character names aswell can be hard to remember; particularly if they are either long or have to many syllables; sometimes the narration that explains history can be hard to follow... though REAL japanses people and locations are needed to remain the same... I guess maybe some of these things don't matter to much or people will adapt in time to remember them... Though i do wonder if it might effect the average viewers perception of the series and become a turn off, and if it does if they are really worth keeping them that way... in a lot of cases, names are not really that important and don't change the series at all



While its true that shows like Kekkaishi could fit on CN better(I get a strong Toonami vibe while watching it), it has more to do with CN's current attitude with anime than content issues. Mainly that CN wants the cut of the merchandising profits, not just advertising revenue in the past. That's why they have shows like Bakugan airing: they get a cut of the merchandising profits.

Well i do recall hearing that's the reason CN dropped Naruto...

[TheVileOne]

So far I like the show and I'm going to keep watching for now. The English voice cast is very good and I like all the characters especially the supporting ones.

I like that the main female love interest is an older high school girl. It adds an interesting dynamic with the main hero who is still a middle schooler.

[purplehairedwonder]

For all the shounen that have been mentioned with slow starts, I actually liked those first few episodes. With this show, as much as I want to like it, I'm having trouble finding some kind of hook. I'm willing to give it a few more episodes just because enough people are promising great things, but as of now, I'm not sold. It's not bad by any stretch... it's just not that good either. I hope it impresses me in the next few episodes, though.

[Wounded_Dragon]

I'll check back in 10 episodes. Maybe by then it'll be interesting. Still, the premise isn't gripping me, so I doubt I can be hooked.

[The Man in Black]

Alright, time to give my opinion:

I found this episode very enjoyable and amusing, and much more entertaining than the first episode. Am I the only one that seems to enjoy the grandpa character? Idk, I find him pretty funny. The main characters definitely seem like they're going to be more likable as teenagers. The secret baker stuff was :lol:. Also, am I the only one that actually enjoys the opening theme? Even the truncated version we're getting seems pretty enjoyabke to me.

I must however say that, while jumping to say this after only two episodes may be too soon, this show really doesn't seem to belong on Adult Swim. Then again, I'm starting to wonder if there's even a standard for what kind of anime they play anymore. This definitely would have been a Toonami show back when Toonami was going strong in the late 90's/early 00's and it probably would have fit there very well. I have a feeling that this comes off as a little too "kiddy" after FMA: Brotherhood, altho I haven't been watching because I'm still trying to finish the original FMA (yeah, I know that's terrible.)

[macattack]

Personally, I'm shocked Kekkaishi isn't on Disney XD. I really thought this would've become the companion show to Naruto Shippuden over there. I can't help but wonder what possessed Adult Swim to go after this, other than the hints that one of the programmers loves this series.

The main reason why Kekkaishi's here and not on Cartoon Network is because the only anime Cartoon Network's willing to play shamelessly advertises their products and puts the product before the story or characters. Even kid-friendly anime like Naruto, One Piece, KIBA, and even Deltora Quest don't cut it anymore.

This is the criteria for any anime to make it under the Snyder/Sorcher regime: it has to be Americanized, it can't have girl characters at the forefront, it has to sell stuff, and most importantly, it has to make Cartoon Network a ton of money.

Kekkaishi's an instant strikeout. It's impossible to Americanize, it has Tokine being an important character (and someone the hero rather openly loves, another nono), it's not out to sell toys (it has video games in Japan, though), and like hell Viz is going to give up profits to anybody, especially since Kekkaishi's probably not going to be a big hit.

That's why Kekkaishi's here.

[D.Shaffer]

I thought the show was OK. Typical Shonen stuff.

REALLY not seeing where people are getting the Inuyasha comparison, though.

[Classic Speedy]

Personally, I'm shocked Kekkaishi isn't on Disney XD. I really thought this would've become the companion show to Naruto Shippuden over there. I can't help but wonder what possessed Adult Swim to go after this, other than the hints that one of the programmers loves this series.

The main reason why Kekkaishi's here and not on Cartoon Network is because the only anime Cartoon Network's willing to play shamelessly advertises their products and puts the product before the story or characters. Even kid-friendly anime like Naruto, One Piece, KIBA, and even Deltora Quest don't cut it anymore.

This is the criteria for any anime to make it under the Snyder/Sorcher regime: it has to be Americanized, it can't have girl characters at the forefront, it has to sell stuff, and most importantly, it has to make Cartoon Network a ton of money.

Kekkaishi's an instant strikeout. It's impossible to Americanize, it has Tokine being an important character (and someone the hero rather openly loves, another nono), it's not out to sell toys (it has video games in Japan, though), and like hell Viz is going to give up profits to anybody, especially since Kekkaishi's probably not going to be a big hit.

That's why Kekkaishi's here. If that's the case, why even bring it to American TV at all? An anime shouldn't automatically go to Adult Swim simply because it doesn't have merchandising power and has a female character as one of the leads. Especially when it doesn't seem particularly adult, if the first episode I watched was any indication. Adult Swim shouldn't be a dumping ground for shows not cut out for CN for whatever reason (unless it's for adult content, of course).

[macattack]

If that's the case, why even bring it to American TV at all? An anime shouldn't automatically go to Adult Swim simply because it doesn't have merchandising power and has a female character as one of the leads. Especially when it doesn't seem particularly adult, if the first episode I watched was any indication. Adult Swim shouldn't be a dumping ground for shows not cut out for CN for whatever reason (unless it's for adult content, of course).

Who knows what goes on behind closed doors at Cartoon Network and Viz? Adult Swim obviously outbid (or was the only bidder) for Kekkaishi and so Viz took it. But it's clear the show is a poor fit.

But Cartoon Network's passed over a ton of kid-friendly anime that just happen to have plots. And they don't treat the anime they do have all that well.

Here's what Cartoon Network runs from the anime end:

Bakugan (new season got zero advertisement)
Yu-Gi-Oh! 5Ds (runs in an early slot)
Pokemon (premieres and runs in an early slot)
Beyblade: Metal Fusion (will premiere on Sunday mornings as well as Saturdays, and who watchs toons on Sunday mornings?)

And here is what CN had and dumped or simply passed over:

Naruto/Naruto Shippuden
KIBA
Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit (it's been well-rumored that the show was dumped to AS after the regime change to Snyder/Sorcher)
Deltora Quest (even though every CN in the world has this one, ours won't)
Kekkaishi
Dragonball Z: Kai
One Piece

These are not bad titles, and all are kid-friendly, and they all got passed over or canceled.

Kekkaishi may have been a case where somebody at AS sincerely wanted the series, or CN grabbed it to prevent a burgeoning competitor from taking it (like The Hub or DXD), but they actually don't want it and dumped it to AS after the rights were secured.

But we'll never know for sure unless there is another leak out of Techwood or Williams Street, like the one about the planned name change for CN from that angry guy who got fired out of Comedy Development.

[Beat]

OK, let's assume all that's true. Let's assume that anime can't air on Cartoon Network unless they get a cut of merchandise rights because Snyder's more interested in profits from toy sales than viewers and ad revenue. Let's assume that Adult Swim is the only place on the whole of Cartoon Network where non-toyetic animation can air. That just leaves two questions.

What makes this show adult and what is it doing on a block called Adult Swim? The Adult Swim audience is being punished because Toonami doesn't exist anymore. Look, we all miss Toonami. We all miss the old, non toy-based Cartoon Network. But that doesn't change Adult Swim's target audience and that doesn't make Kekkaishi fit the 18-34 male demographic. More importantly, it doesn't magically make Kekkaishi good. I do sympathize with those that miss teen/family oriented anime that isn't toy-based and want it on TV. I really do. But that doesn't make them adult shows. Kekkaishi isn't even a good teen-based show, it's horribly generic. There was no reason to acquire this. None at all.

[bleachj0j]

OK, let's assume all that's true. Let's assume that anime can't air on Cartoon Network unless they get a cut of merchandise rights because Snyder's more interested in profits from toy sales than viewers and ad revenue. Let's assume that Adult Swim is the only place on the whole of Cartoon Network where non-toyetic animation can air. That just leaves two questions.

What makes this show adult and what is it doing on a block called Adult Swim? The Adult Swim audience is being punished because Toonami doesn't exist anymore. Look, we all miss Toonami. We all miss the old, non toy-based Cartoon Network. But that doesn't change Adult Swim's target audience and that doesn't make Kekkaishi fit the 18-34 male demographic. More importantly, it doesn't magically make Kekkaishi good. I do sympathize with those that miss teen/family oriented anime that isn't toy-based and want it on TV. I really do. But that doesn't make them adult shows. Kekkaishi isn't even a good teen-based show, it's horribly generic. There was no reason to acquire this. None at all.

Well like I said I respect your opinion but after 2 episodes to label it generic is just not right. Inuyasha, Bleach are all kids shows no matter how you slice it.What makes a show adult to you? Story, characters, death, because Kekkaishi has all that.

[zoid9000]

Inuyasha and Bleach don't necessarily fit the age demographic, either. In truth, the key "demographic" here, if you will, seems to be anime fans in general. The action block isn't really a driving force anymore, especially since anime is pretty niche to begin with. I don't imagine fitting the demographic of adult swim is necessary for something to air or not, at this point. Plus I would hardly call it getting punished when fans are just happy to see anime on TV at all. Then again a lot of people sure seem upset and angry over the fact their favorite anime didn't get on [as], and I don't think Kekkaishi should suffer for that.

[Beat]

We've repeated the "anime is niche" (it is) argument ad nauseum, but the problem here is that the fans are suffering for Kekkaishi, not the other way around. This show is not adult focused no matter how you slice it, and therefore, should not be on an adult block. If it was gonna air on DisneyXD? Be my guest. But you can't air kids shows on adult blocks. Look at Pee Wee's Playhouse and its lack of success. The only place this show is going to go is 5:30 and the only thing Adult Swim will have accomplished is dwindle their ratings while tying up 30 minutes of programming. Is that really what you want in a block? I don't know about you, but I like to think that the block is capable of a bit more than waiting for the other shoe to drop.

We've done it one way for 6 years. Let's try something else. At this point, you can't really go anywhere but up.

[bleachj0j]

We've repeated the "anime is niche" (it is) argument ad nauseum, but the problem here is that the fans are suffering for Kekkaishi, not the other way around. This show is not adult focused no matter how you slice it, and therefore, should not be on an adult block. If it was gonna air on DisneyXD? Be my guest. But you can't air kids shows on adult blocks. Look at Pee Wee's Playhouse and its lack of success. The only place this show is going to go is 5:30 and the only thing Adult Swim will have accomplished is dwindle their ratings while tying up 30 minutes of programming. Is that really what you want in a block? I don't know about you, but I like to think that the block is capable of a bit more than waiting for the other shoe to drop.

We've done it one way for 6 years. Let's try something else. At this point, you can't really go anywhere but up.

Again Bleach and Inuyasha.

[Beat]

Again Bleach and Inuyasha.

At least Bleach has adult content in it that might be iffy on Toonami. At least Inu-Yasha got the go-ahead way back when to air on Adult Swim instead of Toonami because of violence and naked Kagome scenes. Tell me, what, if anything, anything at all would keep Kekkaishi from airing on Toonami if it was still around?

Nothing. There is nothing, violence wise, sexuality wise, or otherwise that would keep it off. I appreciate you going out of your way to defend the show, and I do believe that you think it's a good show (otherwise you wouldn't be putting all this effort into defending it) but the show should not be on Adult Swim. It does not fit.

[The Man in Black]

the show should not be on Adult Swim. It does not fit.
From the two episodes we have seen so far, I agree with you. Sadly, we don't run the network. People that make odd business decisions do.

I still think Kekkaishi is a decent show, however. And if Toonami did still exist today, that's where it should be airing.

[bleachj0j]

At least Bleach has adult content in it that might be iffy on Toonami. At least Inu-Yasha got the go-ahead way back when to air on Adult Swim instead of Toonami because of violence and naked Kagome scenes. Tell me, what, if anything, anything at all would keep Kekkaishi from airing on Toonami if it was still around?

Nothing. There is nothing, violence wise, sexuality wise, or otherwise that would keep it off. I appreciate you going out of your way to defend the show, and I do believe that you think it's a good show (otherwise you wouldn't be putting all this effort into defending it) but the show should not be on Adult Swim. It does not fit.

Oh please bleach has no adult content. Post episode 110 Bleach is edited even more in Japan so it's even less violent. Like I said you can't escape the fact their kids shows. Deal with it. And you've seen what 1 episode? So how would you know if anything was violent.

[Beat]

Oh please bleach has no adult content. And you've seen what 1 episode? So how would you know if anything was violent. In one episode someone lost their arm.

Partial nudity, bloodsprays, these are things back in the day that would have kept it off of Toonami. Kekkaishi in turn has nothing. It's about a middle school kid. It's not like Soul Society with a random cast of adults.

I just want the show to go to 5:30am, out of sight, and out of mind, because it is that boring. And I was with Sketch saying Bleach was Toonami material. If you had to put a gun to my head though, yes, I would say, Bleach is CLEARLY more adult than Kekkaishi. Not by a lot, but more adult. No matter how much you like Kekkaishi, it is still a kids show at the end of the day, and has no business on a block after Boondocks and King of the Hill.

[bleachj0j]

Partial nudity, bloodsprays, these are things back in the day that would have kept it off of Toonami. Kekkaishi in turn has nothing. It's about a middle school kid. It's not like Soul Society with a random cast of adults.

I just want the show to go to 5:30am, out of sight, and out of mind.

Naruto had that too and guess what they edit it. Stop posting like you talk facts when in turn you know nothing about this show. 1 episode and suddently your an expert on this show.

[Beat]

I know what I've seen, and quite frankly, it's terrible. Toonami worthy, dull, generic, and just plain boring. Why should I, as a viewer, or any viewer for that matter, stick with the show for an additional what, 10-12 episodes before we reach the so called "good part"? Why would any sane viewer engage in that kind of self-torture?

[The Man in Black]

I know what I've seen, and quite frankly, it's terrible. Toonami worthy, dull, generic, and just plain boring. Why should I, as a viewer, or any viewer for that matter, stick with the show for an additional what, 10-12 episodes before we reach the so called "good part"? Why would any sane viewer engage in that kind of self-torture?
In my opinion if AS wanted to air this kind of anime they should have keep some weekeday slots open for Japanese programming.

[bleachj0j]

I know what I've seen, and quite frankly, it's terrible. Toonami worthy, dull, generic, and just plain boring. Why should I, as a viewer, or any viewer for that matter, stick with the show for an additional what, 10-12 episodes before we reach the so called "good part"? Why would any sane viewer engage in that kind of self-torture?

I'm not saying you should I never even said that. You just talk about the show like you've seen enough to call it generic. When I've seen enough to know it's more dark than Bleach when things like death come into the picture. Also You claim you hate it but spend your time on the talkbacks complaining. Frankly just go do something else with your time.

[The Man in Black]

I'm not saying you should I never even said that. You just talk about the show like you've seen enough to call it generic. When I've seen enough to know it's more dark than Bleach when things like death come into the picture. Also You claim you hate it but spend your time on the talkbacks complaining. Frankly just go do something else with your time.
Why don't we try and suspend this bickering until some kind of so-called "darkness" comes into play here? Otherwise it's just going to get annoying and repetitive to read.

[Beat]

I'm not saying you should I never even said that. You just talk about the show like you've seen enough to call it generic. When I've seen enough to know it's more dark than Bleach when things like death come into the picture. Also You claim you hate it but spend your time on the talkbacks complaining. Frankly just go do something else with your time.

I'm sorry, but aren't you the one arguing with everyone who has a (justified) negative opinion, whether it be the show itself or the fact that it's airing on Adult Swim?

If the show is really that good, then the quality will speak for itself, and people will stop complaining. Conversely, if Kekkaishi continues down its current ratings path and ends up at 5:30am, the show will become such a non-factor that no one will be talking about it besides the fans dedicated to it. What you're doing is almost trolling people who disagree. Quality rallies people to a show, not bullying from fans.

And as Duelist as put it, this argument is going in circles, and is becoming pointless unless someone else has something to add.

[The Man in Black]

I'm sorry, but aren't you the one arguing with everyone who has a (justified) negative opinion, whether it be the show itself or the fact that it's airing on Adult Swim?
http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n104/djariya/Justified.jpg

Sorry, had to. :D

[bleachj0j]

I'm sorry, but aren't you the one arguing with everyone who has a (justified) negative opinion, whether it be the show itself or the fact that it's airing on Adult Swim?

If the show is really that good, then the quality will speak for itself, and people will stop complaining. Conversely, if Kekkaishi continues down its current ratings path and ends up at 5:30am, the show will become such a non-factor that no one will be talking about it besides the fans dedicated to it. What you're doing is almost trolling people who disagree. Quality rallies people to a show, not bullying from fans.

And as Duelist as put it, this argument is going in circles, and is becoming pointless unless someone else has something to add.

I'm not bullying anyone. I'm just expressing my extreme dislike towards you posting in a thread of a show you don't like. I haven't really to anyone besides you who say they're not into the show right now. Your just trying to force your opinons down us. As for rating Fullmetal isn't doing that great either.

Okay I'm done

[Classic Speedy]

We should get off this circular argument and back onto discussing the actual episode.

[Gold Guy]

I liked this one better in that I like older Yoshimori more than young Yoshimori. I dislike Tokine because she seems so full of herself.

In the next episode, I think thats when the plot actually starts. We'll also meet a few new characters in the next two episodes.

[firefoxprime]

I know I'm late to this series, but how's it been for you guys?
What episode has AS been up to?
It reminds me of that perverted shaman guy from Inyuasha

[{Shadow}]

What episode has AS been up to?
This was episode 2. Episode 3 airs tomorrow (late Saturday/early Sunday) at 12:30am. If you missed the first one, you can watch it on AS Video (http://video.adultswim.com/kekkaishi/scars.html).

[Manga4life]

This episode was pretty boring and was nothing like last weeks debut, the story was pretty bland too but it picked up torward the end when Yoshi encountered that giant frog. Other than the frog battle there was nothing really worth noting about this specific episode, hopefully things pick up as the series progresses on because I do see tons of potential here for a great series..

[Rho]

Not sure if this was already posted, but an [AS] bump reported that this episode was the third highest rated program on the night it aired, behind The Boondocks and FMA Brotherhood.

So Kekkaishi seems to surprisingly be doing well for itself here.