Arbitrary List of Anime
From around 2001-2003, I spent a good amount of time watching and thinking about anime. I would drive down to Long Beach and attend Anime Expo every year, sleeping in my car at nights.
Here is a list of some anime that I enjoyed at that time.
Initial D: First Stage
A series about Japanese street racing. At the time, I would hang out and play Gran Tourismo with friends. I drove a humble little 4-door 1984 Honda Civic Sedan. Watching Initial D made me dream about what it might be like to drive a sports car and taught me about some of the techniques and skills needed to become a master driver.
Also, the Eurobeat tracks that play in every race are unforgettable and add so much to the series.
Currently available for streaming:
Tenchi the Movie: Tenchi Muyou in Love
This movie is so incredibly Japanese: school trips, teachers visiting students, Tokyo Tower, temples, bento boxes, bullet trains.
I’ve never actually watched any other works in the Tenchi world, but I must have watched this movie over 10x times. The art is gorgeous, the characters are endearing, and the themes are touching.
Oh, great, while writing this I’ve caught myself getting sucked in to watching it again!
Current available for streaming:
Rurouni Kenshin OVA
The becoming of a badass swordsman and killer: Kenshin. Amazing art. Amazing soundtrack. Lots of blood and gore.
Every sword needs its sheath.
Glimpses into life in Kyoto during the Meiji era.
Also known as “Rurouni Kenshin: Trust & Betrayal”.
Currently available for streaming: