Shugo Chara!! Doki - Discussion Thread

[Fudce]

The second series of Shugo Chara! starts this weekend, and even though it follows directly on from the first series (even down to the episode numbers) it seems appropriate to start a second discussion thread.

The first discussion thread can still be found here.

ANN entry (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=10247).
Official site (http://shugo-chara.com/).


Note
As usual, please try to follow these three easy forum courtesy habits when replying:
If you're the first person to post about an episode in any given week, please respond to the root post (this post) and indicate in the subject line which episode you're posting about.
If someone has already posted about an episode before you, please respond to that post (or a relevant reply to that post). Keep in the right subthread.
Don't use the blue "Post Reply" button because if you do your reply will not correctly inherit the subject line of the post you're replying to. It'll ignore it and pick up the root post title. Just click "Quote" to the post you want to reply to.

Please do not openly discuss events in the manga that have not occured yet in the anime. This includes events that were changed in previous storyline arcs.

Fudce's tips for polite posting:
Always remember to enclose spoilers in spoiler tags. TEXT GOES HERE
To respond to a specific post, make sure to click the "quote" button on that post.
To quick-reply to a specific post, make sure to only click the "quick reply" button on that post. This button is furthest to the right.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode fifty-two posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.



Start as you don't mean to continue...? Episode 1 of Shugo Chara!! Doki (technically episode 52) was a Guardian Character narrated flashback episode looking back at the story of Amu and the other six members of the guardians, as well as looking at Ran, Miki, Su, and Dia. Interestingly, Dia hatched in this episode, but by the time Amu had returned to the royal garden from class she had returned to her egg again. Is Dia hiding only to test Amu?

The opening credits offers more to talk about than the first episode proper, as it seems we have at least one major new character, a girl with a new guardian character. The girl is cute (looks smaller than Rima) but her guardian character looks to be a gothic lolita twintailed redhead with curls. First impressions are good. There is also the obvious return of another character, this time wearing a blue uniform. I can't wait for that epsiode.

Overall, it's very meh but an expected meh. They're reintroducing everything before Doki really gets started next week.

[bci110]

So Doki started with a recap episode, eh? Shouldn't come as a surprise, really. But that new character you mentioned sounds pretty interesting.

[Fudce]

But that new character you mentioned sounds pretty interesting.

When I get it, I'll try to take some screencaps of her, as well as her character. I'll also try to get some grabs of the powered up Amulets and the returning character.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode fifty-three posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.



I can see that there are going to be a lot of complaints about Doki, since the second episode gives us another half of a recap episode, looking this time at Easter and their many failed plans. Thankfully that was only half of the episode, and the other half did look very interesting.

There was a confrontation of sorts between Tadase and Ikuto about Amu, I don't know exactly what the grievance was, but you can imagine what sort of things pretty boy and kitty boy have to fight over. Amu ran to intervene but before she got there her Humpty Lock reacted to something and began to glow. She was thrust into a transformation with Ran with a new transformation sequence. While the outfit seemed the same, Ran seemed to be excited about something. Ikuto looks at his Dumpty Key, which also seemed to be reacting, and then did his now trademark "disappear while the screen is focussed on something else" trick. Amu may have just got her magical girl power-up.

Also at the end of the episode a strange girl with blonde hair appeared at the airport, after being discussed by Mr AlwaysFrowning of Easter. It seems that Lulu will definitly be a bad guy, and if the next episode preview is anything to go by, she'll be making her grand entrance sooner rather than later.

[bci110]

I can see that there are going to be a lot of complaints about Doki, since the second episode gives us another half of a recap episode, looking this time at Easter and their many failed plans. Thankfully that was only half of the episode, and the other half did look very interesting.

The way Doki is starting, it sort of reminds me of how Kaleido Star: New Wings started - with back-to-back recap episodes.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode fifty-four posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.



Ah, this is more like it.

Yes, it might be a throwaway episode in the overall story, but it is a very important episode for several reasons. It introduces the new character, Lulu, and gives us an initial impression on her. She seems to be out not to crush peoples dreams like Utau and Ikuto, but to put uncertainty into their hearts. Their eggs no longer get the X, they instead grow a question mark. These new ?-eggs are seemingly more dangerous than X-eggs, since the egg owner can perform a character transformation with them.

This episode has Lulu putting a question mark on the hearts egg of Minami, one of Amu's fangirls who just happens to live in a florists. Fight was interesting if a bit anticlimactic and there's a new Open Heart animation to go with the new transformation animations and new egg-type.

Didn't see much of Nana in this episode though, she was hiding in her egg a lot of the time, but she did seem to tease Lulu at one point, so it seems she has a playful personality, and that Lulu has a personality not a thousand miles from Amu's.


This episode was good, but next weeks episode will automatically be better, judging from a certain blonde character I saw in the preview.

[bci110]

Didn't see much of Nana in this episode though, she was hiding in her egg a lot of the time, but she did seem to tease Lulu at one point, so it seems she has a playful personality, and that Lulu has a personality not a thousand miles from Amu's.

So Lulu might be the complete opposite of Amu, eh? That sounds interesting, and could possibly explain why Nana looks like an elegant lady.

I kind of cheated last night and read about Lulu on the Wikipedia and her ability to turn X-eggs into these new "wishing" eggs with the ? on them. I'm a bit concerned that the character transformation angle with these new eggs might get overblown during the series, but I think the concept is pretty good if it's done in moderation.

I don't plan on watching Episode 54 - and for that matter, every future episode in the series - in the raw format. I made an exception with the first two since they were recap episodes, but I think this is a good time for me to take a little break from Shugo Chara until the subtitled version of Episode 54 becomes available, which I guess won't occur until at least 2 weeks from now.

[Suwako Moriya]

These new ?-eggs are seemingly more dangerous than X-eggs, since the egg owner can perform a character transformation with them.

*Reads* So long as the character transformation actually varies enough, that has potential to be interesting.

[Suwako Moriya]

So long as the character transformation actually varies enough, that has potential to be interesting.

Well after watching the episode and checking out the preview I have my question answered. Also I have to say I like the outfit that Minami ended up with for some odd reason.

[something]

Not actually going to waste time watching the ep, but I checked out the OP. Fun OP overall.

I'm not really looking forward to the ojou-sama-like girl. They can be so annoying unless done incredibly well. Hopefully this one beats expectations.

As for the other one, damnit, where is Nadeshiko? We're in the second season, she should be coming back! But instead there's some imposter passing himself off as a crossdressing Nadeshiko and that I just cannot agree to. Hopefully Nadeshiko beats him up and takes over soon, and then gets to the truly important business: making out with Amu.

[Suwako Moriya]

But instead there's some imposter passing himself off as a crossdressing Nadeshiko and that I just cannot agree to. Hopefully Nadeshiko beats him up and takes over soon, and then gets to the truly important business: making out with Amu.

You're never going to give up on that are you? Then again I'm not sure I can blame you. That had to be one of the more evil "traps", I've experienced in awhile. I can think of another from a different series that's also evil, but it's a different type of trap.

[Suwako Moriya]

All right just finished the episode. On one hand it was definitely a recap that can be most blamed on Dia, but on the other hand it still had some new footage. I guess it's the type of episode best to watch while doing something else on the side. Such as for example checking the forums.

[Fudce]

But instead there's some imposter passing himself off as a crossdressing Nadeshiko and that I just cannot agree to. Hopefully Nadeshiko beats him up and takes over soon, and then gets to the truly important business: making out with Amu.

You're never going to give up on that are you? Then again I'm not sure I can blame you. That had to be one of the more evil "traps", I've experienced in awhile. I can think of another from a different series that's also evil, but it's a different type of trap.

What was the most funny thing about the Nadeshiko trap, was that when rumours that one of the characters was a trap started to surface, everybody was like, "Oh no, please not Utau!". So, it could have been much worse.

That said, I still have a hard time seeing him as a he.

[bci110]

Not actually going to waste time watching the ep, but I checked out the OP. Fun OP overall.

I love the new OP. Very energetic, bubbly song. And the Charas dancing was very cool. The EN was okay, but the animation sequence made the song better than it sounded.

I'm not really looking forward to the ojou-sama-like girl. They can be so annoying unless done incredibly well. Hopefully this one beats expectations.

Lulu? I think she could potentially be a worthy adversary for Amu, but that depends on how the creators use her. Same goes for Nana.

I'm not going to touch your last comment :laugh:.

[Suwako Moriya]

That said, I still have a hard time seeing him as a he.

I'm still of the mindset that 90% of all traps consist of drawing a female and then saying "By the way she's male".

[Suwako Moriya]

I'm not going to touch your last comment :laugh:.

Ah come on, Fudce already washed something's comment with soap and water. It's safe to touch now. Regardless, the real fun will be if/when the err impostor joins the cast as the opening seems to indicate.

[bci110]

That said, I still have a hard time seeing him as a he.

I'm still of the mindset that 90% of all traps consist of drawing a female and then saying "By the way she's male".

Yeah, it wouldn't surprise me if Yaya ends up being a male, even though Peach-Pit insisted in the manga that Yaya is not a boy.

[Fudce]

That said, I still have a hard time seeing him as a he.

I'm still of the mindset that 90% of all traps consist of drawing a female and then saying "By the way she's male".

Yeah, it wouldn't surprise me if Yaya ends up being a male, even though Peach-Pit insisted in the manga that Yaya is not a boy.

I need to also point out that nowhere has anybody officially said that Lulu is a girl.

[Fencedude]

I need to also point out that nowhere has anybody officially said that Lulu is a girl.

One trap is enough, really.

Now, if they wanted to introduce a reverse trap...

[Mateo_home]

Yep, 90% recap as I expected. The Shugo Chara meeting was the only thing worth watching. Sure it's fun to go down memory lane if you didn't watch the older episodes recently, but it doesn't bode well when marathoning an anime. But in the end, I loved the episode for what it was worth. And having Il & El is a nice bonus.

As for the OP and ED, they're great. It makes you feel like you're watching a new series. The new additions to the Amulet trio are great too. Rollerblades, a "G" note wand, bubbles. Heck, even the new eyecatches are fantastic. Eagerly looking forward to more.

[bci110]

Yeah, the episode was pretty decent if you enjoy watching the Charas as much as I do. Having Iru and Eru at the Chara meeting, Ran and Suu getting into that little scuffle, and the Charas ignoring Kiseki (as usual) were nice considering that this was mainly a recap episode.

[Isuzu Inugami]

Not actually going to waste time watching the ep, but I checked out the OP. Fun OP overall.

Dia pops up to give an excuse to recap everything (skipping past Ikuto/Utau issues... which are saved for the next recap ep?) and the Chara interactions are amusing enough to make the episode not too laborious.


I'm not really looking forward to the ojou-sama-like girl. They can be so annoying unless done incredibly well. Hopefully this one beats expectations.

I kind of like that character myself, as long as there's something more to them that just being a foil to raise the general level of irritation of every character including themselves. Appearing in the opening suggests there will be. Actually, having an ojou-sama to clash with Tadase's ou-sama aspect could be pretty awesome.


As for the other one, damnit, where is Nadeshiko? We're in the second season, she should be coming back! But instead there's some imposter passing himself off as a crossdressing Nadeshiko and that I just cannot agree to. Hopefully Nadeshiko beats him up and takes over soon, and then gets to the truly important business: making out with Amu.

Well, we know Nadeshiko is studying dance for a year, and probably only six months have elapsed since she left, so the only reasonable explanation is that she has snuck away from her duties and is disguised as "twin brother Nagahiko" in order to be close to Amu... also, she may have concluded Amu has the bad taste to be straight, so she feels she has to crossdress in order to compete. Really, I can't think of any other scenario that makes sense.

[bci110]

(skipping past Ikuto/Utau issues... which are saved for the next recap ep?)

Actually, the next recap episode focuses on Easter's attemps to obtain the Embryo - and failing miserably.

[Isuzu Inugami]

(skipping past Ikuto/Utau issues... which are saved for the next recap ep?)

Actually, the next recap episode focuses on Easter's attemps to obtain the Embryo - and failing miserably.

Dang, I wanted to see Utau lip-lock Ikuto and then declare she's his blood sister again. :P

[Fencedude]

(skipping past Ikuto/Utau issues... which are saved for the next recap ep?)

Actually, the next recap episode focuses on Easter's attemps to obtain the Embryo - and failing miserably.

Talk about something that really doesn't need recapping.

[Suwako Moriya]

Talk about something that really doesn't need recapping.

I'm waiting for them to do a recap of the recap episodes. :sweat:

[Fencedude]

Talk about something that really doesn't need recapping.

I'm waiting for them to do a recap of the recap episodes. :sweat:

Utena recapped its filler episodes.

That always amused me greatly.

[Suwako Moriya]

Utena recapped its filler episodes.

Just from the description of that alone, it sounds like all kinds of wrong.

[bci110]

I don't plan on watching Episode 54 - and for that matter, every future episode in the series - in the raw format. I made an exception with the first two since they were recap episodes, but I think this is a good time for me to take a little break from Shugo Chara until the subtitled version of Episode 54 becomes available, which I guess won't occur until at least 2 weeks from now.

OK, my curiosity got the better of me last night and I did end up watching Episode 54, even though I said that I was going to wait until the subtitled version becomes availabe. Pretty good episode overall, and I think this Lulu character is going to cause a lot of problems for Amu and the rest of the Guardians. As I mentioned earlier in this thread, I think the new concept of these "wishing" or ?-mark eggs that can cause character transformations with their owners is a good idea if it doesn't get overused (as in every episode), which in a series of this length is something that I'm afraid might happen. But for now I like the concept and it could potentially open up new storyline possibilities that could make this series even better.

Looks like Utau will be returning in the next episode according to the preview for 55 so after a shaky start things might turn very interesting in the first half of Doki.

[Suwako Moriya]

As I mentioned earlier in this thread, I think the new concept of these "wishing" or ?-mark eggs that can cause character transformations with their owners is a good idea if it doesn't get overused (as in every episode), which in a series of this length is something that I'm afraid might happen.

I think even if the ?-Eggs end up being as common as the X-Eggs were, they'll still be a change of pace and have potential for better variety. Granted it will also force them to be a bit more creative. I won't be surprised through if they have occasional X-Egg episodes in between the ?-Egg ones.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode fifty-two posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.



Ah yes, plot. This episode didn't have much in the way of concrete plotline, but what it did do was provide us with more information about Lulu, who she is, what she's like, etc... Nana and Yoru immediately get into an argument, and I really think that the new pair could turn out to be very fun characters in the long run. They're really showing their characterisation early with her.

Ultimately, the episode is another Wishing Egg of the Week affairs, this time a girl wanting to sing as good as Utau does. It has the added benifit of giving Amu an excuse to level up her Amulet Spade, getting her the new attack, "Prism Music". She tried Colourful Canvas first, but was totally knocked back by her opponents attack. A combination of Utau's Angel Cradle and Amu's Open Heart make short work of the episodic character's Singing Dream transformation.

I did say that the episode was not really plot related. That is true, with the exception of the last scene. Ikuto returns home to find that his Violin is missing, taken by the company president guy. Make of that what you will, but it looks like they're setting something up in the background.


Next week looks fun. There's some strange wishing egg person, and talk of a new Jack. :)

[Mateo_home]

Since this was just a half-recap, it's no surprise I found it to be an improvement to the prior episode. The donut bit at the beginning was funny, and there's no better way to recap events than to use hand puppets.:bigsmile: I was hoping the second part of the eye catch would be different this time. Hate to see Amulet Heart get it everytime.

The new character transformation sequence was nicely done and I liked the remix. Unfortunately, Amu didn't get to try out the new rollerblades and all she did was stop it from raining. Judging from the end and preview, I'm curious to what this new character will bring. She's obviously working for Easter, but will she play a Kairi or Utau role. The new "?" Eggs look great too. Just finished this and I really want to see the next episode right now. Ah well, at least I got the recap episodes out of the way for now.:P

[Suwako Moriya]

Unfortunately, Amu didn't get to try out the new rollerblades and all she did was stop it from raining.

Ah, but just think for a minute here. Amu is more powerful than rain!

[Shinmaru]

Hopefully the show is completely finished with the recapping and will dive headlong into the new story next episode. I'm looking forward to see what kind of person the new character is and how she'll interact with everyone. New blood ftw.

And here is an image I whipped up while chatting with a friend the other day ...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v388/Shinmaru/ChallengerApproaching.jpg

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode fifty-six posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.



Well what do we have here? Apparantly there is a new member of the Guardians joining, to replace Kairi as the new Jack's chair. It's our old friend Nagihiko Fujisaki, but just to make sure people haven't forgotten the twenty-five episodes where we all thought he was a cute girl called Nadeshiko, they introduce him wearing his old uniform, complete with those boots. Cruel.

But anyway, they reintroduce Nagihiko, this time as Nagihiko, and quickly get him into his new blue uniform. It seems like Tadase already knew about him being of the Y half of the gender split, but the revelation to Kukai left him very shocked. Amu is still in the dark it seems, as is Yaya, and Rima never knew him to begin with.

Another development, highly hinted by her lack of attendance on the opening and ending credits, is that Temari appears to have returned to her egg. Also Nagihiko now has a second egg, joining the likes of Utau and Amu in having multiple heart's eggs. This one is identical to Temari's egg, only it's blue, not pink/purple.

The episode itself is your standard ?-transformation with a throwaway character, but that takes the back burner since the real story was the reintroduction of an old friend, only Amu doesn't know that yet. What's also cute is that Rima is immediately suspicious of Nagihiko for some reason, and gets very protective of Amu, as if to say, "She's mine, get your own". It's the cutest thing I've seen in a long way, especially when half of the time Rima is hiding behind Amu, the other half she's trying to keep Nagi away from her!

There's also a fun moment with Amu interrupting the picnic of Lulu. Lulu gets slightly annoyed, says something, and then appears to just float away, leaving Amu really annoyed.

Another note is that they've updated the transformation sequence for the Guardian Five, with them all joining in Amu's sparklies and getting their own new poses at the end. It means that while still ridiculous, Rima looks like she actually has a head now, rather than just being a huge body of hair with a bow on it.

[Mateo_home]

Hooray! Recap season is over! Yaya worshiping the Humpty lock hoping to power up. And later wanting the idea of less homework.:bigsmile: Oh yeah, the idea of the new ?-eggs adds a flavor to the "fight of the week". Not sure if Lulu will get tired of manipulating people's dreams. She's not even sure what she wants. The new Open Heart animation was cool, and not only is she more powerful than rain now, but even more powerful against magic flowers. But dammit Amu, you didn't use the rollerblades. Overall, it was a decent episode and a great way to really start off the new season. But yes, judging from the preview, the next episode does look like an improvement. Bonus points for Seraphic Charm.:P

[Mateo_home]

I agree, not really much in terms of plot. Seeing Lulu's family is the same as Amu's, minus one little sister. Wonder what's so scary about the Grandma. At least we see she wants the embryo for her own reasons. Anyway, this was probably the first character of the week who had two different desires, too bad not much came out of it.

The office part was funny. Su seems to be popular among adults for Shugo Charas. But stating Yukari is old gets the group kicked out classic cartoon style.:sdsmiley:

The new Amulet Spade transformation scene wasn't too different from the AH one, but still cool. And Prism Music was a beautiful attack. And it ends with one of the Easter guys taking Ikuto's violin. Probably motivating him to catch the embryo. Uh-oh. Ikuto's violin is being held hostage. No sign of the Dumpty Key.:P

[Mateo_home]

Hooray! Plot development! That was a sick joke where Nagihiko is re-introduced in his girl's old uniform. Also seeing Tadase using his cute boy face on him replying that it won't work on him was a neat laugh. As for Amu's reaction to his return, I'm honestly not surprised. Sure I was about how his identity is still kept secret from the girls yet Rima is suspicious about which I'll get to, but to consider she already met him once, I expected this type of greeting.

And I like this little rivalry between Nagihiko and Rima. She gets near Amu as if he's untrustworthy and before she's crying that Amu had a best friend before her, only to have Nagihiko point out that her tears were fake.

I concur that the OP and ED hinted that something was up with Temari. I actually expected Temari to have evolved during his travels or something, but to have her egg and another chara egg was a shock. I suppose his dream is to get a sex change err I mean if he's unsure he wants to be a boy or a girl. He'll do fine as the new Jack. He seems to be the strategist of the guardians which is a unique turn for the time being rather than have them all transform when required which is rather cliche. Speaking of which, it was great to have them all transform at once rather than five separate sequences. And hooray for Heartspeed (AKA the rollerblades).:P

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode fifty-seven posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.



So cute!

I'm not talking about Misae while she was younger this time, nor am I talking about Rima's refusal to let Nagihiko anywhere near her wife. I am referring to the totally disturbing but worryingly cute parts of this weeks episode where we get to see Tadase in the red uniform, and a bit later we get to see Tadase in a frilly maid costume, Nagihiko in a bunny suit, and even more disturbingly, Kukai in a girls cheerleaders outfit.

Yes, the theme of this week is cute, and it all focusses around some guy who does Judo or Karate. (My knowledge of martial arts extends only as far as to know that the one with the sword is Kendo) Unfortunately he also likes cute things and is unwilling to admit it in front of his shounen styled friends or his stereotypical dojo family. Cue Luluton Morselle (full name) and what is becoming a standard scene of "here, take this magic jewel, it can make your wishes come true..." (...you can go to the ball Tadarella)

He changes to some...thing. Seriously, I don't know how to describe him other than disturbing, and pink. He proceeds to change everything in the dojo into cute things, and then upon their arrival, uses his newfound power on the three guys of the guardian six. Yaya is useless, (really? nothing new there then) wanting to be attacked rather than wanting to fight, and only Amu and Rima share the transformation sequence, with Amu becoming Amulet Spade. Half way through the battle though, she uses a new graphic to change between Amulet Spade and Clover. Su gets a turn! Yay!

Amulet Clover uses some attack to summon cookies (it makes sense, honest) and then remake honey to counter the dojo queen's attacks. Amu as Amulet Clover then powers up! She uses a brand new ability for Amulet Clover and finishes the fight with an Open Heart. There's also some movement regarding Ikuto's violin, it seems like the blithering idiot trio are trying something with it.

The highlight of the episode was the awesome bunny suit on Nagihiko. I don't care if he's a boy, he's still cute!


Next week...

Wanting to build on the successful of her namesake addition to Toradora, Shugo Chara!! Doki is making an episode which seems to focus in on one of the series least popular character. That's right, it's Ami time!

[Shinmaru]

Really fun episode. Rima + Nagihiko = great victory. I hope they keep up their "rivalry" for Amu's friendship. Or, at least, I hope Rima keeps up her end of the rivalry. She's fantastic in this episode. It's kind of fun to see how much her friendship with Amu has evolved from when they first met to the present episode.

I'll add on to the surprise of Nagihiko having two eggs -- I was wondering how that would be handled, and this direction makes sense. It would be difficult to imagine Nagihiko/Nadeshiko not having any identity issues whatsoever. I'm looking forward to seeing what Nagihiko's chara is like!

Lastly, the group transformation sequence is fantastic. I don't think I'll ever get tired of that.

[Suwako Moriya]

Yaya worshiping the Humpty lock hoping to power up.

It's moments such as this one that make Yaya a valuable aspect to the series in spite of her not being that useful. Then again she is supposed to be the Ace, which if I remember right can both be used as the lowest card and the highest card in the deck. So maybe her true power has yet be revealed?

Oh yeah, the idea of the new ?-eggs adds a flavor to the "fight of the week".

At least it will force them to be a bit more creative than before.

Not sure if Lulu will get tired of manipulating people's dreams. She's not even sure what she wants.

Hard to say, but honestly Lulu is giving off a rather evil aura right now. Both in terms of her attitude and her look. Her aura is even stronger than the one Utau was giving off in the first season.

The new Open Heart animation was cool, and not only is she more powerful than rain now, but even more powerful against magic flowers. But dammit Amu, you didn't use the rollerblades.

You've got to understand this is like one of those video games where you use a specific item to win each battle. Rain is weak against rollerblades, but clearly flowers are weak against pompoms. Okay in all seriousness I suspect we'll see them again soon enough.

[Suwako Moriya]

Anyway, this was probably the first character of the week who had two different desires, too bad not much came out of it.

Which in some ways is kind of disappointing. They wasted a perfectly good set up.

Uh-oh. Ikuto's violin is being held hostage.

I don't know why, but there's something hilarious about that.

[Suwako Moriya]

And I like this little rivalry between Nagihiko and Rima. She gets near Amu as if he's untrustworthy and before she's crying that Amu had a best friend before her, only to have Nagihiko point out that her tears were fake.

Rima vs Nagihiko is certainly going to be epic. However I'll root for Rima because well as effective a trap as Nadeshiko might have been, Rima's actually female. Meaning it's the true path to true love. Yeah so I've decided to pair up Amu and Rima because I can.

In any case while Nagihiko is not the same as having his twin sister (denial is strong in me), having him appear in the anime has still resulted in making things more interesting. Plus it will be curious to see what happens with the two eggs. I just hope for two things. That we'll get to see transformations involving both Temari and _____. As well as of course Temari being re-awakened because I want her back.

All I know is this episode has made me conclude that the more focus Rima gets in an episode the better. She truly is my favorite character in the series right now. She's quite cute and pretty for her age anyway. She beats out Amu, Yaya, and yes even if Nadeshiko was actually female, Rima would still win out. Not going to compare her to Utau because she has the advantage of being older.

You know I think I realized what my major issue right now is. It's actually Dia. Ever since the beginning of the series, I knew Amu would have a fourth egg. It was just plain logical. Yet I'm getting rather impatient waiting for Dia to become a regular part of the series instead of just a rare occurrence or whatever. Also logic dictates that Amu needs an uber form where she transforms with all four of them at once. However that can't happen until Dia starts becoming a regular. In any case I've come to the conclusion that the longer it takes for Dia to become a regular the more likely I'll be raging.

On a final note in regards to the guardians and the whole card thing. Part of me thinks it would be cute if we had people representing 2-9. I mean Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and Joker is nice. However I'm sure the numbers feel very very lonely.

Okay I have one more thing to say. I've come to the conclusion that the problem Easter has is while they come up with plans to lure out the Embyro, they always neglect to come up with a plan to actually capture it once it appears. Am I the only one that noticed that?

[bci110]

You know I think I realized what my major issue right now is. It's actually Dia. Ever since the beginning of the series, I knew Amu would have a fourth egg. It was just plain logical. Yet I'm getting rather impatient waiting for Dia to become a regular part of the series instead of just a rare occurrence or whatever. Also logic dictates that Amu needs an uber form where she transforms with all four of them at once. However that can't happen until Dia starts becoming a regular. In any case I've come to the conclusion that the longer it takes for Dia to become a regular the more likely I'll be raging.

I'm with you on that, my friend :P.

C'mon, Dia! Break out of you shell and become a permanent member of the cast already ;).

[Mateo_home]

You know I think I realized what my major issue right now is. It's actually Dia. Ever since the beginning of the series, I knew Amu would have a fourth egg. It was just plain logical. Yet I'm getting rather impatient waiting for Dia to become a regular part of the series instead of just a rare occurrence or whatever. Also logic dictates that Amu needs an uber form where she transforms with all four of them at once. However that can't happen until Dia starts becoming a regular. In any case I've come to the conclusion that the longer it takes for Dia to become a regular the more likely I'll be raging.

I have to concur with this. I'd hope it's not too long till then because if she officially comes out in another twenty episodes, it better not be her asking for another recap episode.

On a final note in regards to the guardians and the whole card thing. Part of me thinks it would be cute if we had people representing 2-9. I mean Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and Joker is nice. However I'm sure the numbers feel very very lonely.10 is more lonely because you left it out. But I don't think Shugo Chara needs to become a series with more important yet useless characters. *cough* Sonic the Hedgehog. *cough*

Okay I have one more thing to say. I've come to the conclusion that the problem Easter has is while they come up with plans to lure out the Embyro, they always neglect to come up with a plan to actually capture it once it appears. Am I the only one that noticed that?They should know better than to have only Ikuto go after it be their only option.:P

[Suwako Moriya]

C'mon, Dia! Break out of you shell and become a permanent member of the cast already ;).

Only then will we have a real idea what's she like.

[Suwako Moriya]

I have to concur with this. I'd hope it's not too long till then because if she officially comes out in another twenty episodes, it better not be her asking for another recap episode.

Or better yet a recap of the recap episodes. Wait I better not give them any ideas. Dia needs a much better role than that. Regardless the long wait will continue to be painful.

10 is more lonely because you left it out. But I don't think Shugo Chara needs to become a series with more important yet useless characters. *cough* Sonic the Hedgehog. *cough*

Ah I apologize forgetting about 10. Still if there was a 2-10, I doubt they'd have much of a role. Likely they'd be working in the shadows doing secret grunt work. Or maybe not, but hey who says 2-10 have to be useless. Okay well 2 can't compare to anyone else, but sometimes the Ace like to pretend to be a 1 to have pity on 2.

[Fudce]

You know I think I realized what my major issue right now is. It's actually Dia. Ever since the beginning of the series, I knew Amu would have a fourth egg. It was just plain logical. Yet I'm getting rather impatient waiting for Dia to become a regular part of the series instead of just a rare occurrence or whatever. Also logic dictates that Amu needs an uber form where she transforms with all four of them at once. However that can't happen until Dia starts becoming a regular. In any case I've come to the conclusion that the longer it takes for Dia to become a regular the more likely I'll be raging.

I have to concur with this. I'd hope it's not too long till then because if she officially comes out in another twenty episodes, it better not be her asking for another recap episode.

I can't wait to meet Dia proporly, but at least all of this recent posturing is allowing for much more non-filler type things to resolve. There's Nagihiko's two eggs, plus any character transformations therein, there's Dia and her hatching, there's the tale of Ikuto's violin, the dealing (and maybe even befriending) of Lulu, the revelation of Nagihiko's true identity, the embryo and the retreiving thereof, the dealing with the easter idiot trio, the boss guy, and then the final boss guy after that, and also any other weirdo's they throw at Amu and co. Throw in the chance of a return episode for Kairi, plus some more characterisation for Rima, and we could have a very full series on our hands.

*the above is purely speculation based on what we know up to this point.

[Suwako Moriya]

I can't wait to meet Dia proporly, but at least all of this recent posturing is allowing for much more non-filler type things to resolve

*Reads full post* You forgot to mention the part about Rima proposing to Amu.:beatingheart:

[bci110]

Continuing Doki's slow start out of the gate, this was yet another filler ?-egg of the week episode - although when I was watching the subtitled version, the subs were calling the eggs "Riddle Eggs" instead of Wishing Eggs. (I don't necessarily agree with the terminology, but whatever.) Anyway, for a filler episode it wasn't too bad. Lulu's family looks similar to Amu's, except that they're ritzier and don't have the annoying kid sister roming around. Suu is starting to become popular among the adult crowd with her cleaning abilities, and I'm afraid that her kindness will get the better of her eventually. Amu's Amulet Spade upgrade - Prism Music - has some potential, but at this point I don't know how much use the upgrade will be.

I hope that these early filler episodes don't last too long because it's now starting to get mundane, which would be a shame considering how good this series really is when it focuses on character relations instead of the tried-and-tired monster-of-the-week formula (the bane of every magical girl series' existance). Fortunately Shugo Chara is a marathon and not a sprint, so hopefully by the next episdoe we get to see more plot development and character relations.

[Spirit Of The Stage]

. Fortunately Shugo Chara is a marathon and not a sprint, so hopefully by the next episdoe we get to see more plot development and character relations.

Couldn't have said it better myself. The ? egg sagas echo obviously the X Chara sagas with the fillerisms, but I'm actually enjoying these mainly because you get the elements of plot (Ikuto's violin) intermixed with them, and at least you have the fact all the kids have Character Changes - and you get the development with powers which whilst seems too Sailor Moon for me at times, at least it's Amu and Amu is always awesome.

But with the next episode...heh - it was awesome. Rima/Nagehiko - the TRUE boke/tsukomi - Rima/Amu - the TRUE pairing. :)

[bci110]

But with the next episode...heh - it was awesome. Rima/Nagehiko - the TRUE boke/tsukomi - Rima/Amu - the TRUE pairing. :)

Well I'm going to have to watch them this weekend to see what happens (although I have to make sure to do so before the Cavs-Jazz game on Saturday :cool:).

[EmperorBrandon]

I watched 52-56, so now I'm caught up. Yay!

Really fun episode. Rima + Nagihiko = great victory. I hope they keep up their "rivalry" for Amu's friendship. Or, at least, I hope Rima keeps up her end of the rivalry. She's fantastic in this episode. It's kind of fun to see how much her friendship with Amu has evolved from when they first met to the present episode.

Hah, the Rima and Nagihiko rivalry over Amu was really fun to watch. It's going to be amusing for sure... :) Hopefully we have some awesome episodes focusing on them, like some of the really good ones first series. One good thing coming from the recap was it did remind me how awesome ep. 32 was...

Lastly, the group transformation sequence is fantastic. I don't think I'll ever get tired of that.

Oh good, I'm not the only one who thought that was really cool. I'm hoping it's not too long until we get to see Nagihiko do a chara-nari, whether it's with Temari or his new chara.

The Nazo-tama setup is kind of interesting to me, in at least that we have battles going differently from the last season (and maybe some more variety there - though magical girl action really isn't Shugo Chara's strong suit anyway).

Lulu is pretty intriguing so far. She could have been really annoying, but so far, she hasn't been grating and I'm interested in learning more about her, so that's good. I think her chara Nana has been pretty amusing so far too.

[bci110]

Lulu is pretty intriguing so far. She could have been really annoying, but so far, she hasn't been grating and I'm interested in learning more about her, so that's good. I think her chara Nana has been pretty amusing so far too.

I have to agree that both Lulu and Nana are wonderful additions to the Shugo Chara universe. I really like both of them.

Of course the SC universe would be a whole lot better if Dia breaks out of her egg and permanently joins the cast.

[EmperorBrandon]

Anyway, this was probably the first character of the week who had two different desires, too bad not much came out of it.

Which in some ways is kind of disappointing. They wasted a perfectly good set up.

Given what the "? Egg" stuff is about, I wouldn't be too surprised if it happened again. Still, I rather like singing tennis girl Hitomi - she was cute. Rocket Boy wasn't really as interesting...

The first being Manami is kind of interesting, since she's one of Amu's recurring friends and not an episodic. I guess she's the "Naru" of this series. :P Speaking of Amu's friends outside the guardians, there needs to be some more Misaki this series. I really hope she shows up.

[bci110]

The first being Manami is kind of interesting, since she's one of Amu's recurring friends and not an episodic. I guess she's the "Naru" of this series.

That's an excellent comparison. I never though of that :laugh:.

[EmperorBrandon]

*Reads full post* You forgot to mention the part about Rima proposing to Amu.:beatingheart:

Well, pretty much everyone likes Amu. Have to wonder if the end of the series will be all the Guardians, Ikuto, Utau, (and possibly even Lulu too) fighting over who gets to be Amu's husband/wife. :P Kairi is the only one to have confessed, but I think he's at a disadvantage being away so long...

[Suwako Moriya]

Well, pretty much everyone likes Amu.

It just goes to show that many characters in the series have good taste.

[Mateo_home]

Speaking of Amu's friends outside the guardians, there needs to be some more Misaki this series. I really hope she shows up.

Energetic Bride? That would make a really awesome character transformation. Anyway, I think the problem with the ?-eggs feeling redundant already is because they're doing the same floating around and attacking from a distance the X-charas did the first season. It would be cool if it was more hand to hand. There have been some(not many) fights during the Dia recovery arc or whatever the proper term is. Amu vs. Kairi, Amu vs. Utau, Ikuto vs. the Guardians. But then I suppose it would be a physical girl anime. :P

[Fudce]

Speaking of Amu's friends outside the guardians, there needs to be some more Misaki this series. I really hope she shows up.

Energetic Bride? That would make a really awesome character transformation. Anyway, I think the problem with the ?-eggs feeling redundant already is because they're doing the same floating around and attacking from a distance the X-charas did the first season. It would be cool if it was more hand to hand. There have been some(not many) fights during the Dia recovery arc or whatever the proper term is. Amu vs. Kairi, Amu vs. Utau, Ikuto vs. the Guardians. But then I suppose it would be a physical girl anime. :P

There really are some great characters who need to return this series. Misaki is one, but I also want to see more Mifuyu Torii and Snoppe, plus of course Shuraiya and Pearl, and their guardian characters.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode fifty-eight posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.



Q: What is more scary than any X-egg or ?-egg?

A: Ami Hinamori.


This weeks episode is an Ami episode, but surprisingly it was actually very good! Basic premise is that Amu's guardian characters are kidnapped by Ami, and takes them to class with her to show her friends. Kiseki and the other characters (including Il and El) go along to see if they're alright, and all havoc is unleashed. That is never more true when Yoru also tags along to cause trouble. It's terrifying, nearly all of the characters, plus a class full of five year olds.

Kiseki gets himself a new fan as well. one kid decides to make a model of him, but can't quite get it right, and Kiseki isn't exactly helping things by being all regal about things. As the class draws to a close, with El locked in the rabbit hutch (no doubt Il's doing) Amu and Tadase go to pick up Ami. Lulu, who had been told about the artistic kid by Nana (who was spying on the other charas) decides to give the kid a magic jewel (you know the rest of the speach).

What follows is not your normal ?-egg of the week battle, and in fact we don't even get a ?-chara transformation this week! The kid is making model after model after model of Kiseki, perfect with the help of the magic jewel and ?-egg. Amu and the other three guardians transform, and start attacking the faux Kiseki's, until they all combine into one giant Kiseki. Rima attacks it, but Tadase defends it! All this time, Lulu is looking on laughing like mad. Tadase breaks his transformation, and Amu gets her open heart locked on, but remembers it's a ?-egg not a X-egg. So she can't lock on! She can't deal with a ?-egg that hasn't transformed the user it seems. Thankfully the egg changes back to normal on its own, much to Lulu's annoyance.

A strange episode, which is enjoyable if only for the laughing at the guardian characters. The ?-egg fight was more an argument than a fight, but it was fun.


Next week, fanboys rejoice as it is yet another Utau themed episode!

[Suwako Moriya]

So to make a long story short this episode was attack of the cuteness in more ways that one. It's nice to know that a former Queen can make such a fine Jack.

[Mateo_home]

So to make a long story short this episode was attack of the cuteness in more ways that one.

My guess is it was targeted towards yaoi fangirls. Granted this anime's target audiance is girls to begin with.

Moving on I couldn't help but laugh at Tadase in the girl's uniform and Nagihiko forcing it on Kukai as the girls walked in. It's disturbingly funny. So the lesson here is never ask a boy who's forced to wear women's clothing what it's like to wear a skirt.

Half way through the battle though, she uses a new graphic to change between Amulet Spade and Clover. Su gets a turn! Yay!

Amulet Clover uses some attack to summon cookies (it makes sense, honest) and then remake honey to counter the dojo queen's attacks. Amu as Amulet Clover then powers up! She uses a brand new ability for Amulet Clover and finishes the fight with an Open Heart.


That was awesome. It's cool she can swap charas between battles quickly. I think that was the first time I've seen Amulet Clover use Negative Heart. As for the violin, it appears they're infesting it with X energy. The question is, how will they convince Ikuto to play it?:P

[Spirit Of The Stage]

[QUOTE=Mateo;1468187

Moving on I couldn't help but laugh at Tadase in the girl's uniform and Nagihiko forcing it on Kukai as the girls walked in. It's disturbingly funny.

[/QUOTE]

As was Amu's reaction - what a day, being chased over by someone and being depressed, and then seeing Tadase in a skirt (Amu: That was nice...^_^) Shame Eru wasn't there, be another one of Amu-chan's fetishes she could have noted...:P

[Fudce]

Moving on I couldn't help but laugh at Tadase in the girl's uniform and Nagihiko forcing it on Kukai as the girls walked in. It's disturbingly funny.



As was Amu's reaction - what a day, being chased over by someone and being depressed, and then seeing Tadase in a skirt (Amu: That was nice...^_^) Shame Eru wasn't there, be another one of Amu-chan's fetishes she could have noted...:P
Don't worry, El's love-love radar would have picked up the signals even if she wasn't physically there.

[Shinmaru]

Everything with the crossdressing boys cracked me up. So damn funny. Almost as funny were Amu and Miki's reactions to maid!Tadase and princess!Kiseki. This was definitely my favorite episode of the season so far.

[EmperorBrandon]

Everything with the crossdressing boys cracked me up. So damn funny. Almost as funny were Amu and Miki's reactions to maid!Tadase and princess!Kiseki. This was definitely my favorite episode of the season so far.

Hah, it was fun seeing Miki being infatuated a male chara again. Hah, and both of them seem attracted to the crossdressing. :P

And even the though the routine is getting a bit repetitive at this point, I always like listening to Lulu's theme music. It's nice.

[EmperorBrandon]

Oh boy, an episode focused on kindergartners and shugo chara. I'm sure a lot will love that... In any case, it's really amusing to see the teacher wonder what the heck is going on with her class. The kids were all having fun, though, with the shugo chara showing off their talents.

And Nana definitely made a poor selection this time. The kid wasn't confused - just a weird artistic kid. :P Interesting that he kind of snapped out of the jewel's control all on his own. Oh, and Kiseki ended up being a short-time traitor, causing Tadase to stop Rima from destroying those clay statues of him. Definitely shows a lot of his narcissism in this episode.

[bci110]

Oh boy, an episode focused on kindergartners and shugo chara. I'm sure a lot will love that... In any case, it's really amusing to see the teacher wonder what the heck is going on with her class. The kids were all having fun, though, with the shugo chara showing off their talents.

And Nana definitely made a poor selection this time. The kid wasn't confused - just a weird artistic kid. :P Interesting that he kind of snapped out of the jewel's control all on his own. Oh, and Kiseki ended up being a short-time traitor, causing Tadase to stop Rima from destroying those clay statues of him. Definitely shows a lot of his narcissism in this episode.

I have a feeling that this won't be the last time Nana-chan will make a blunder like that. But I did like the little argument she and Lulu had when their plot backfired :devil:.

Overall I liked this episode, but mainly because the main focus was on the Charas more than the kindergarteners, and any episode in this series that focuses on the Charas get my personal seal of approval. I also like that they moved Kiseki more into the forefront in this episode. Yes he still showed the same egocentric behavior and narcissism that is his trademark, but it was handled in a way that made the episode flow more smoothly. So far this is my favorite episode in the Doki series.

Also intersting that Amu can't lock-on to the Mystery Eggs to purify them. Perhaps that concept will be explored more as we get futher into the series.

[Isuzu Inugami]

He changes to some...thing. Seriously, I don't know how to describe him other than disturbing, and pink. He proceeds to change everything in the dojo into cute things, and then upon their arrival, uses his newfound power on the three guys of the guardian six.

They shouldn't have defeated him. They should have left him to run wild. Seriously! Poor Yaya even wanted to be cute-ified (it was probably her one chance to be cute, when you think about it :devil: ). The world would have been a better place.... =P

Also, we see Nadeshiko continuing her plan to pose as the entirely fictitious Nagihiko in order to be close to her beloved Amu. I don't know why people keep talking to me about Egyptian rivers whenever I bring this up, either. You all just need to accept it.

[Spirit Of The Stage]

He changes to some...thing. Seriously, I don't know how to describe him other than disturbing, and pink. He proceeds to change everything in the dojo into cute things, and then upon their arrival, uses his newfound power on the three guys of the guardian six.

They shouldn't have defeated him. They should have left him to run wild. Seriously! Poor Yaya even wanted to be cute-ified (it was probably her one chance to be cute, when you think about it :devil: ). The world would have been a better place.... =P

Also, we see Nadeshiko continuing her plan to pose as the entirely fictitious Nagihiko in order to be close to her beloved Amu. I don't know why people keep talking to me about Egyptian rivers whenever I bring this up, either. You all just need to accept it.

Yep, we're all the ones swimming deep in De Nile really. All will be revealed and we will bow to your wisdom eventually Shimauma-sama. :P

[bci110]

He changes to some...thing. Seriously, I don't know how to describe him other than disturbing, and pink. He proceeds to change everything in the dojo into cute things, and then upon their arrival, uses his newfound power on the three guys of the guardian six.

They shouldn't have defeated him. They should have left him to run wild. Seriously! Poor Yaya even wanted to be cute-ified (it was probably her one chance to be cute, when you think about it :devil: ). The world would have been a better place.... =P

Nah, Yaya's cute just the way she is, really :P.

Now if he used his powers to make Yaya more useful, then that could be something we could talk about :bigsmile:.

[bci110]

I posted this in Digital Delivery section but for those that haven't heard, starting January 8, 2009, Crunchyroll will begin streaming episodes of Shugo Chara as part of their deal with TV Tokyo. I don't know if Doki is included in the deal, but I think that it is.

Article (http://fast.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-11-20/crunchyroll-to-stream-shugo-chara-skip-beat-anime)

[Fudce]

I just hope Crunchyroll's definition of "Worldwide" extends to places other than North America in this case. It often doesn't.

[Mateo_home]

I posted this in Digital Delivery section, but for those that haven't heard, Cruchyroll will begin streaming episodes of Shugo Chara as part of their deal with TV Tokyo. I don't know if Doki is included in the deal, but I think that it is.

Article (http://fast.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-11-20/crunchyroll-to-stream-shugo-chara-skip-beat-anime)

Does this mean it's considered licensed?

[bci110]

I posted this in Digital Delivery section, but for those that haven't heard, Cruchyroll will begin streaming episodes of Shugo Chara as part of their deal with TV Tokyo. I don't know if Doki is included in the deal, but I think that it is.

Article (http://fast.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-11-20/crunchyroll-to-stream-shugo-chara-skip-beat-anime)

Does this mean it's considered licensed?

No, but I think SC's chances of getting an R1 license slighly improved.

[Mateo_home]

No, but I think SC's chances of getting an R1 license slighly improved.

Well, at least the Japanese licenser's see it has potential for a R1 release. But I'd prefer if it's not download only.

[bci110]

No, but I think SC's chances of getting an R1 license slighly improved.

Well, at least the Japanese licenser's see it has potential for a R1 release. But I'd prefer if it's not download only.

I agree, although I have a good feeling that SC will receive an R1 license sometime next year. I believe that it will be one of the sought-after titles for the 2009 licensing season.

[EmperorBrandon]

No, but I think SC's chances of getting an R1 license slighly improved.

Well, at least the Japanese licenser's see it has potential for a R1 release. But I'd prefer if it's not download only.

Yeah, I'm not really sure if this means increased chances for a R1 DVD release. I would it hope that it does, though, because I really want to collect it on DVD. Need more shoujo series released as it is (Skip Beat would be great too).

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode fifty-nine posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.



Who put a plotline in my Shugo Chara?

It's back to one of the more interesting plotlines this week, as we get an episode heavily focussed on two of the more popular characters, and not an X-egg or a ?-egg in sight. Utau is getting ready for Heartful Song's first official concert, but things aren't going too well. There isn't much press about it, and Ikuto is nowhere to be seen. Amu agrees to go looking for him, in the hope he might accompany Utau using his violin.

Needless to say, Utau is very thrilled by this idea, but when Amu finds Ikuto he's very against the idea, still trying to hide the fact that he has lost his most precious object. Ikuto investigates in Easter, and finds the research team talking about a violin. Holds the leader hostage, until the other two trigger an alarm causing him to run. He gets cornered on the rooftop.

Amu breaks the "no Ikuto" news to Utau, who goes into her depressing mood once again. The concert isn't filling out well, and Yukari decides to give Amu the job of handing out flyers. Amu is unsuccessful in doing it, and eventually falls to the floor when she drops the flyers. She is helped up by Tadase, Rima and Yaya, who agree to help distribute the flyers. A mischevious little angel then decides to force character transformation to help draw in the crowds, and then we have Amulet Angel, Platinum Royal, Dear Baby, and Clown Drop handing out flyers, getting the crowds excited. It's a full house!

And towards the end, one extra guest. Utau spots him, and gets much happier while singing. Amu spots him slink away towards the end, and it looks like he might be hurt.


Next week... Some girl confessing to Tadase?

[bci110]

An episode with no Mystery Eggs and Eru being Eru? Sounds like a winner to me :cool:.

[bci110]

Now that's the Shugo Chara I know and love :cool:! Excellent episode from start to finish. It's been said a couple of times by several posters here, but indeed SC is at its best when the story focuses on the characters and their relations and not become too dependant on the X-Eggs or Mystery Eggs every week. The fact that there were none of those eggs in sight made the episode even better. Of course Utau's beautiful song (another awesome and moving performance by Nana Mizuki) and Eru being Eru (again proving why she's Shugo Chara's version of Suiseiseki, along with another strong performance by Hyo-Sei) helped significantly in the success of this episode. Hands down my favorite episode of the Doki series thus far :beatingheart:.

[Mateo_home]

Went ahead and saw it since my prefered version isn't showing up anytime soon.

And Nana definitely made a poor selection this time. The kid wasn't confused - just a weird artistic kid. :P Interesting that he kind of snapped out of the jewel's control all on his own. Oh, and Kiseki ended up being a short-time traitor, causing Tadase to stop Rima from destroying those clay statues of him. Definitely shows a lot of his narcissism in this episode.

True. But then again, Lulu should know better that small children don't have their dreams set right away. Speaking of which, I'm starting to warm up to her. Her character has a good balance. She's determined to complete her objective and comical with Nana. But not same level as the dopey scientists. Anyway, this was one of the better filler episodes. The charas get some attention with a twist ending. And El still locked up in a rabbit cage. Well, she kind of deserved it.:P

[Mateo_home]

Now that's the Shugo Chara I know and love :cool:! Excellent episode from start to finish. It's been said a couple of times by several posters here, but indeed SC is at its best when the story focuses on the characters and their relations and not become too dependant on the X-Eggs or Mystery Eggs every week.

Indeed. Also one of the more popular charas here played a strong role. It's been awhile since El's been a spotlight hog. Was a surprise to see Amulet Angel again. A little strange that no one walking down notices everyone character transforming. And yes, the new Utau song was wonderful. Looks like I have a new single to look forward too.

[bci110]

And yes, the new Utau song was wonderful. Looks like I have a new single to look forward too.

Speaking of which, does anybody here know if this song is available? I don't care if it's on one of Nana Mizuki's albums, on a soundtrack, or as a single CD - anyway I can obtain it I have to have it. Such a beautiful and moving song.

[Fudce]

And yes, the new Utau song was wonderful. Looks like I have a new single to look forward too.

Speaking of which, does anybody here know if this song is available? I don't care if it's on one of Nana Mizuki's albums, on a soundtrack, or as a single CD - anyway I can obtain it I have to have it. Such a beautiful and moving song.

Oh it's bound to get released eventually, but annoyingly nothing yet announced. They're likely going to tie the release in with an event in the series.

[bci110]

And yes, the new Utau song was wonderful. Looks like I have a new single to look forward too.

Speaking of which, does anybody here know if this song is available? I don't care if it's on one of Nana Mizuki's albums, on a soundtrack, or as a single CD - anyway I can obtain it I have to have it. Such a beautiful and moving song.

Oh it's bound to get released eventually, but annoyingly nothing yet announced. They're likely going to tie the release in with an event in the series.

Probably like they did with the Black Diamond CD I would guess. OK, I'll keep a sharp lookout for it. Thanks :).

[EmperorBrandon]

A mischevious little angel then decides to force character transformation to help draw in the crowds, and then we have Amulet Angel, Platinum Royal, Dear Baby, and Clown Drop handing out flyers, getting the crowds excited. It's a full house!

Heh, it was amusing how each of them managed to get a particular audience roped into checking out the concert. Putting all of their strong points together, they make such a great team. :)

Anyway, I rather liked this ep. overall too - it's a very good Tsukuyomi sibling-centric episode. Liked how we got to see a bit more of Tsukasa's personality, with him liking to play with cats. :P

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode sixty posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.



Well, after a momentary glimpse of brilliance, it's back to the ?-egg episodes we go. The episode itself was pretty much forgettable. Girl likes to tell fortunes, Lulu puts doubt in her heart. She advises friend to ask Tadase out, then regrets it. "This is a magic jewel..." ?-chara change!

We did at least get to see the new weapon from Amulet Clover, I missed what it was called but it seems to disrupt attacks without harming, definitly an amulet clover attack, and quite a useful one at that.


Next week... a new Guardian Character? She hatches from a diamond patterned egg, but not Amu's diamond patterned egg.

[bci110]

Just finished watching this episode (and I did watched the raw version even though I said that I wasn't going to watch any more raw SC episodes). I do agree that it was pretty much a forgettable episode, but there were some moments in the episode that I liked; such as Suu playing "love me, love me not", Miki dressed up like a wizard (similar to the guise Yuki wore for Haruhi's movie in The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya), and Ami drawing funny faces on the sleeping Charas a la Jigglypuff. Hopefully next week's episode will be a lot better. The new Chara that will be introduced looks promising, and a possible Dia sighting in the episode maybe?

[Mateo_home]

For a non plot advancing episode, I quite enjoyed this one very much. It just felt natural and for another ?-egg it wasn't too over the top. It kind of reminds me of the earlier Misaki episode. And had fun moments. Such as when Saya showed up Miki took the words right out of my mouth. And her dressing up and getting into the fad. While telling Kiseki's fortune to immediately have Kusu Kusu and Yaya "conquer his throne". Later predicting which chara transformation will be. Okay, I knew it was going to be Suu, but I actually thought it would start off with Ran or Miki and switch in-between. Maybe I'm just unlucky for liking this episode. My astrological sign is Leo after all.:P

[bci110]

Watching it a second time around with the subtitles, I actually enjoyed it more then when I watched the raw version last weekend. And apparently the name of the Chara that will be introduced in the next episode is Kiran. Sparkling cute little Chara, but it looks like she'll be a one-shot Chara much like Snoppe and Zero.

[Mateo_home]

And apparently the name of the Chara that will be introduced in the next episode is Kiran. Sparkling cute little Chara, but it looks like she'll be a one-shot Chara much like Snoppe and Zero.

From what I understand she's from a "create a chara" contest from fans. I guess this one was inspired by Dia and I'm assuming something with Kirarin Revolution.

Hey, it's better than Yonic the Hedgecat.:P

[Suwako Moriya]

Not much of a battle per se, but it was at least a change of pace. The stuff with the Shugo(i) Characters was fun. Ami was acting rather selfish at the start of the episode, but the explanation of her motivations at the end puts things in a more positive light.

So the girls now have a new home. Which hopefully all four er I mean three of them will enjoy. I swear the longer it takes for Dia to become a regularly the more angry I'll be. I wish they'd stop dragging it out. I mean it's not like Dia being a regular prevents them from dragging out the Embryo search...

[bci110]

I swear the longer it takes for Dia to become a regularly the more angry I'll be. I wish they'd stop dragging it out. I mean it's not like Dia being a regular prevents them from dragging out the Embryo search...

I hear ya, although base on the preview of the next episode (#61) she might make an appearance. Whether it's a brief one or that she finally breaks out of here egg and joins the cast reamins to be seen.

[Suwako Moriya]

I hear ya, although base on the preview of the next episode (#61) she might make an appearance. Whether it's a brief one or that she finally breaks out of here egg and joins the cast reamins to be seen.

Here's hoping, but I can already see it now.

Dia: Is it five seconds before the credits to the final episode?

Ran: Sorry we still have dozens of episodes to go.

Dia: In that case, good night.

Darn it, if we get a third season then we'll probably have to wait even longer to see her. Why do late comers torture me so much?

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode sixty-one posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.



Chalk up another throwaway episode for Shugo Chara!! Doki, but it's an enjoyable throwaway episode with probably the easiest plot to describe ever.

Some girl is moving house, and has a shugo egg in one of her boxes, unfortunately it drops out of the van and unknowingly leaves it behind. Amu finds it, and takes it to the guardians. During class, the guardian characters each try to awaken the new character, but it takes an unseen presence of Dia to finally awaken her from her slumber. Kiran awakens, charges around the place, cheering people up, and then gets trapped in the back of a van. They escape but not before being driven to the next town, where they run into Il and El. They search for her owner, she nearly disappears, but eventually finds her master. Everybody smiles.

The end.

Overall an enjoyable, but completely pointless episode. Oh well.



Next week... Are they doing something on the Nagihiko plotline? It seems that Rima is set to challenge him for Amu's hand in best friendship. The big fight is set for next week. Don't miss it!

[Spirit Of The Stage]

[I][COLOR="SeaGreen"]



Next week... Are they doing something on the Nagihiko plotline? It seems that Rima is set to challenge him for Amu's hand in best friendship. The big fight is set for next week. Don't miss it!

You misspelled friendship again - it's M-A-R-R-I-A-G-E...:)

[Suwako Moriya]

Who put a plotline in my Shugo Chara?

I have no idea, but whoever did should be thanked since it resulted in a decent episode. Nothing like an excuse to see Amulet Angel again. Plus Utau looked rather nice during the concert.

[Mateo_home]

I have to say, for a filler this one was great. Even better than the last one. Dia comes out even in spirit form. It's cute seeing Kiran wanting to find her owner but get sidetracked wanting to help people. Even with Il & El hand out fliers in some clown get up. Overall, this is how fillers should be handled, but even that would probably get old. Really looking forward to next week's episode.:P

[bci110]

I have to say, for a filler this one was great.

Yeah I like this episode too, although as I said a few times already any episode in which the Charas are the main focus automatically gets a thumbs up from me. While it wasn't as great as Episode 59 or Episode 50 of last season, this episode had some good moments (the Charas disguised as a clown to hand out fliers for Utau's concert, Kiran casually floating pass Amu in her classroom, and all those close-ups of the Charas' "sparkling" happy faces after they performed their good deeds across town), and overall was very enjoyable. That Kiran is sickening cute and sweet, and I love her overly positive, optimistic nature - even during the point in the episode when she was afraid that Hinako was starting to believe that she would never see her Chara, and Kiran started to disappear. Nice episode for a filler, but I'm hoping next week's episode will revert back to the main storyline.

[Suwako Moriya]

Well if nothing else sometimes the outfit of the transformation of the week can be nice. Also there were some decent Miki moments. I also felt kind of sorry for her since it's clear she was hoping to be picked for the transformation. Also it's good to know that everyone loves Amulet Clover.

Still this episode has me convinced that Lulu is an over glorified drug dealer.:sweat: Honestly part of me hopes they start developing Lulu beyond the well ***** phase. Yeah we did get some idea of her motivation, but still still they need to take the next step. Since we haven't gotten much beyond that. For some reason I'm having deja vu feelings with her.

[Suwako Moriya]

For a "filler" episode this was a nice change of pace. We get plenty of nice moments with the shugo charas. Such as the part where they handed out the fliers for the concert. Kiran was pretty fun all things considered. She's sparkly too. Also, I think this is the first time I've seen a chara change done not by a lead, but by a side character. In any case, the real fun will be the next episode.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode sixty-two posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Getting back on track comes episode sixty-two of Shugo Chara, and we are presented with an old friend at the start of the episode as the bumbling trio appear to be collecting X-eggs to do something with Ikuto's violin. It's all been ?-eggs recently, so it's a nice change to have X-eggs again - even if it is with the worst characters of the series.

Move on to the next day, and Amu is running late for school. On the way in she meets Nagihiko and Rima, the latter getting a bit jealous of how friendly Nagihiko is being with her wife. Yaya finds the picture they took at the end of the second cour, complete with the original five guardians. Nagihiko looks nervous and Rima looks suspicious. Sparks continue to fly with Rima getting ever depressed about losing some of Amu's attention. Rima is selfish but we can allow it because she's cute.

Amu decides it's time to get Rima laughing with her again, so decides to spend the day with Rima trying to get her to smile. She unknowingly asks Nagihiko to help. Yeah - great move there sherlock. One thing leads to another, and they are marginally successful, but Rima wont budge. They spend time at Amu's house (inviting a boy home - how forward of you Amu) and Ami shows them Amu's baby pictures. While there, Nagihiko imitates his 'sister' momentarily. More suspicion growing for Rima?

Then the scientists X-eggs escape and it's up to Rima and Amu to deal with them. Initially against taking advice from Nagihiko, after being saved from the X-eggs by him Rima follows his plan and the eggs are dealt with. Then Nagihiko falls into a pittrap.

Great episode, even if the Nagihiko/Rima relationship is still a bit confrontational it's a fun dynamic to have in the group.


Next week... Christmas special? Amu seems very friendly with Lulu there, so what's changed? Hopefully we can get to know her better too!

[Mateo_home]

Great episode indeed. Suu certainly doesn't take any prisoners when it comes to training in household chores. And just when you think Rima and Nagehiko will finally get along, in the end it's back to square one. Wonder how many holes he dug in one night. Also this episode makes me think that Amu's face is made of silly putty.

As for next week's episode, I'm going to try to hold back to watch it until Christmas Day if possible.:P

[bci110]

Great episode indeed. Suu certainly doesn't take any prisoners when it comes to training in household chores.

So Suu does have a dark side. Neat :devil:!

[Suwako Moriya]

Interaction between Rima, Amu, and Nagehiko definitely adds an interesting and fun new dimension to the series. The type it's definitely benefiting heavily from. Plenty of awesome moments.

Shugo Chara Christmas? Now for some reason, I'm imagining random Christmas stores reenacted by the charas. I have no idea why, but I am. Probably because I'm silly that way.

[Suwako Moriya]

So Suu does have a dark side. Neat :devil:!

Well of course, she's only into cleaning to make it easier to hide the evidence.

[Spirit Of The Stage]

So Suu does have a dark side. Neat :devil:!

Well of course, she's only into cleaning to make it easier to hide the evidence.

*Tries DESPERATELY not to think of a Phoenix Wright/Shugo Chara crossover*

[bci110]

So Suu does have a dark side. Neat :devil:!

Well of course, she's only into cleaning to make it easier to hide the evidence.

All the more reason why we should not get on her bad side :P.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode sixty-three posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Lulu is excited about christmas, her mom says that they're having a house party. Amu's mom also tells amu that they've been invited to a party at a friend's house. Yeah, it seems Amu's having a party around and Lulu's house. Both Lulu and Amu are surprised to see each other, but they get chatting and Amu finally meets Nana. Lulu disapears to go do some work rather than mingling at the party. It looks like she's a very good girl doesn't want her mother to look bad. She disapears to decorate the christmas tree (which it looks like was forgotten) when Amu sees her and helps her.
Lulu shows Amu the necklace that she is giving her mother for Christmas, but when she goes to give it to her, she is dressed as a reindeer making people laugh. Lulu disapears, upset at how her mom doesn't seem to be the person she remembers. She goes out embryo hunting since she feels that will bring the mom she remembers back.

?-egg transformation... SANTA DREAM!

Santa Dream swallows her mother's present, Amu transforms into Amulet Heart. Beats the enemy, and the presents return. Lulu returns home, gives her mom the present, and they all smile again. A simple episode, but a nice one. It broke some of the ice between Amu and Lulu, and let us get to know Lulu and Nana better.



Next week - New year's shrine visit, two ?-egg transformations, and a catnap in Amu's bed?!

[Suwako Moriya]

This was a pretty decent episode over all. For once we got to see Lulu spend time being a human and not just a bitch. Also considering what happened after she gave the guy the jewel, I wonder if Lulu might have been given a clue that perhaps her actions do have negative consequences to them. Granted how much she'll actually learn from this is debatable, but this may perhaps be a minor step in the right direction.

[bci110]

This was a pretty decent episode over all. For once we got to see Lulu spend time being a human and not just a bitch.

Agreed, although truthfully I do like the bitchy side of Lulu. But it was good to see Lulu break her shell a little bit and open up to Amu, even if it was just for the Christmas holiday. It shows that Lulu is not really as bad as she seems; that maybe Easter is somewhat manipulating her feelings and her desires to please her mother.

And Nana's little antics, while not as over-the-top as Eru's, were very entertaining. Thanks to this episode she quickly shot up into my list of fave five Charas :sdsmiley:.

[Mateo_home]

This was a pretty decent episode over all. For once we got to see Lulu spend time being a human and not just a bitch. Also considering what happened after she gave the guy the jewel, I wonder if Lulu might have been given a clue that perhaps her actions do have negative consequences to them. Granted how much she'll actually learn from this is debatable, but this may perhaps be a minor step in the right direction.

True. While it doesn't really rank in the top 10 anime Christmas episodes, it was quite enjoyable. Nana is acts quite similar to Suiseiseki, but not as much as El. Lulu really should give more thought into who she gives the jewel to rather than rush and go up to the first person she sees. But in the end, the dinner scene was heartwarming.:P

[bci110]

Nana is acts quite similar to Suiseiseki, but not as much as El.

Wow, that's pretty interesting. I never though of Nana being similar to Sui-chan but I think I see your point :cool:.

[Mateo_home]

Nana is acts quite similar to Suiseiseki, but not as much as El.

Wow, that's pretty interesting. I never though of Nana being similar to Sui-chan but I think I see your point :cool:.

It's not just the dress but the way she talks as well. Whereas El first puts on the innocent and scared front but once she starts talking her true character shows. That's from my viewpoint.

[Quarkboy]

A quick question: does anyone have lyrics for the background songs we hear in episodes 62 and 63?

Are they from any CDs that have been released or an upcoming vocal album?

[Fudce]

It looks like they are working up to an Amu vocal collection. She has sung several songs in the last dozen episodes. Add that to Utau's new song and you have a lot of unannounced CDs.

[Quarkboy]

It looks like they are working up to an Amu vocal collection. She has sung several songs in the last dozen episodes. Add that to Utau's new song and you have a lot of unannounced CDs.

Crap, that's what I figured... Well then, no official lyrics = no official subtitles then. Ah well.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode sixty-four posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




After a quick visit to Lulu's house to see her mom on TV again, we are shown a creepy shot of Ikuto's violin in the X-energy infusion device that was nearly used on Su oh so many episodes ago.

It's the new year, and Amu is going to the shrine to meet with the guardians. She looks awesome in her kimono. She is greeted and gets all loveydovey with Tadase as usual. They check their fortunes, with Tadase getting bad luck, and Amu getting a good fortune, then stumble across a pair of siblings practicing juggling balls on umbrella's for the festival. Rima goes all serious comedy and they all start practicing.

Cut to Easter again, and Ikuto and Lulu are getting a talking to from the boss. Lulu storms out, and Ikuto leaves too, but not before Yoru stole the key to the Violin cupboard!

Back to the festival, and Lulu bumps into Amu while she practices, Lulu shows that she is not just a pretty face, then gets called away by idiot scientist #1.

-insert ?-egg battle sequence-

Amu returns home and as she gets into bed she spots Ikuto in it, asleep.



Next Week - Nothing
The Week After - what do you think? Amu has just found Ikuto in her bed. REACTION! Plus snowmen.

[Quarkboy]

Next Week - Nothing
The Week After - what do you think? Amu has just found Ikuto in her bed. REACTION! Plus snowmen.

Hmm, my thoughts:

Amu: Ojamashima~su... [gets in the bed]
Amu: [whispering] Violin ga nakunatteru no ga kurushii desho? Doushitemo nanika wo hikitai kimochi ga areba, atashi wo...

(translation)
Amu: Pardon me...
Amu: I know it must be tough for you having lost your violin, right? I you feel like you just have to pluck something, then I'm...

(someone has been working a bit too hard on Shugo Chara these past few weeks and has gone insane, clearly)

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode sixty-five posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Woohoo! It's 1am GMT, which means it's Shugo Chara time again!

And for those who are of a nervous disposition, I advise you get your toothbrushes ready since the new OP is sweeter than a sweet little thing in a sweet factory, making sweet little cupcakes covered in sweet sweet sugar. There's still no sign of Nagihiko's second character in the OP, and no sign of Temari either, so they're likely saving that pair until the third cour of Doki. :(

Anyway, on to the episode... or actually lets remember where episode 64 left us, with Amu getting in to bed only to find that there is already a catboy in there asleep. Now we get the reaction!

It seems that after he stole the Violin, Ikuto got very week, presumably from all of the negative energy stored in it now. Yoru, desperate to stop him from falling asleep in the snow forced a transformation, giving Ikuto enough energy to find somewhere warm to collapse - Amu's bedroom, to be exact.

The love love scene is interrupted in the morning by Ami, excited by the snow that fell the previous night. She pretty much forces Amu to go play with her, and they meet the guardians out playing too. (Yaya and Kukai draggin Rima and Nagihiko along) There are lots of cute playing moments, which are split only by moments of wonder about Ikuto, and a heartfelt discussion between Tadase and Nagihiko about Temari and his other egg.

After the playing, Amu returns home, grabbing some Taiyaki for Ikuto on the way home. (Ami wanted some, and that got Amu thinking about Ikuto's hunger) Lots of back and forth between Iktuo and Amu, and the episode was over. It looks like Amu will be caring for a stray cat for a while. I wonder what Amu's prince would say to that? Or her wife?



Next week... A cat eared girl?

[bci110]

If I wasn't so busy watching the Cavs dismantle the Celtics tonight, I would've posted the comments for Episode 65 beforehand. Somehow I was able to squeeze in this episode during halftime of the game (thank you Crunchyroll :bigsmile: ).

First off, I absolutely hate the new opening sequence and song. It's just too sugary and cartoony for me, even for Shugo Chara. Fortunatelly they didn't changed the ending sequence and song as of yet, and I hope that they leave it that way.

As for the episode itself, it was pretty entertaining. Amu's akward attitude and uneasiness with Ituko staying in her room was pretty funny, and the scenes with the Guardians, Ami, and the Charas playing in the snow was a lot of fun to watch. I especially liked the heartfill talk between Tadese and Nagihiko about how he misses Temari and wonders when he will be able to see her and the new egg. I know how you feel, Nagihiko - I miss Temari, too :cry: .

Another good thing about tonight's episode - no Mystery Eggs in sight :P. But that was counterbalanced with no Lulu and Nana, though. Oh, well, looking forward to Episode 66 and the continual developments of the Amu/Ituko love affair.

[Mateo_home]

The new OP was unexpected and as well for the statements above it sounds like a song you hear in nursery school. More like Sweet and Cute over Cool and Spicy.


The beginning was awesome with Amu covering up Ikuto for the night. Later on I did like the Guardians playing in the snow just being kids. Takes me back to the snow sculpture episode. Along with Nagehiko discussing possibly how Guardian Characters work along with the user. Miki might want to work on her art as it doesn't attract small children.

Looks like Shugo Chara just found an exciting plot line with Amu looking out for Ikuto hiding out from Easter. Yoru stating that they're going to be roomates was priceless. Speaking of which, what exactly does Easter plan on with Ikuto's violin containing X-egg energy. Couldn't possibly plan on him playing it as it just makes him weak.:P

[bci110]

Speaking of which, what exactly does Easter plan on with Ikuto's violin containing X-egg energy. Couldn't possibly plan on him playing it as it just makes him weak.:P

Scare tactic, maybe? Quite possibly use the negative energy contained in the violin to force Ituko to do their bidding? Or maybe a backup plan to lure the Embryo if they're starting to get impatient with Lulu?

Anything to pump more light into this series and make it "shine" again. I'm curious to see what direction they will take the Amu/Ituko affair and the true function of the negatively-charged violin.

[Mateo_home]

Anything to pump more light into this series and make it "shine" again. I'm curious to see what direction they will take the Amu/Ituko affair and the true function of the negatively-charged violin.

That right there has to be what will make it shine. Can't get any more anticipating than that. Well, there is Dia becoming a regular at some point. But it's been so long I'm starting to forget.:P

[bci110]

Well, there is Dia becoming a regular at some point. But it's been so long I'm starting to forget.:P

She's a regular on the opening credits :sdsmiley:.

[Quarkboy]

Dia can't become a regular because she's basically God. :)

Hearing everyone really liking the "we're gonna be roomies-nya!" line really makes my day...

That was one of those times when a literal translation would have missed the point entirely.

[Mateo_home]

Hearing everyone really liking the "we're gonna be roomies-nya!" line really makes my day...

That was one of those times when a literal translation would have missed the point entirely.


Yargh! Ya got me. Now you got me asking what was the literal translation?

Also while there's Amu and Ikuto, Yoru doesn't realize how lucky he is.;):P

[Quarkboy]

Hearing everyone really liking the "we're gonna be roomies-nya!" line really makes my day...

That was one of those times when a literal translation would have missed the point entirely.


Yargh! Ya got me. Now you got me asking what was the literal translation?

Also while there's Amu and Ikuto, Yoru doesn't realize how lucky he is.;):P

Literally it was the phrase "to iu wake de, shibaraku sewa ni naru-nya!"
meaning "so this means (in this case, therefore), we'll take your favor/be obliged/in your care for a little while"

sewa ni naru is one of those set phrases that you say when someone is letting you stay over or is otherwise "taking care of you".

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode sixty-six posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




After a few interesting plot episodes, Shugo Chara returns to the normalcy that is the ?-egg of the week format, but they are forgiven this week since it's a pretty fun and cute episode.

It seems that people have been spotting a mysterious cat-eared person around town, and thinking that it might be somehow linked to Ikuto or Easter, Amu goes to investigate, only to find that it is a somewhat useless girl who is a huge fan of magical girl anime, and is dressed as "Pretty Transforming Heroine Cat's Ear" attempting to help people, and failing in epic proportions.

Amu takes pity on her (could she have a thing for cat ears?) and has a chat with her. Her name is Chiyako Nakayama, but insists on being called Choco-tan. During the conversation, Nana spots them, and after a series of failures Lulu does her epic "I can make your dreams come true" speech to Choco-tan...

Character Transformation: Pretty Transforming Heroine Magical Choco-tan Dream!

A fight ensues with Pretty Transforming Heroine Magical Choco-tan Dream facing off against the combined forces of Dear Baby, Platinum Royale, Clown Drop, and Amulet Heart. As ever, it ends in victory for the guardians and Choco-tan returns to normal, for her at least...

Outside of the main story for this episode we had some really fun moments between Amu and Ikuto, the most amusing one involving Iktuo, Yoru, and some balls of yarn.



Next week... Aliens have abducted Lulu?

[bci110]

I'm going to have to watch this episode tomorrow because I'm having buffering issues with Cruchyroll. Plus I'm gettig a tad distracted with the Cavs playing tonight ;) .

BTW, I received my copy of the Shugo Chara GN Volume 5 the other day, and I discovered something pretty interesting about Amu's Charas Ran, Miki, and Su. Peach-Pit derived their names from a 1970s pop-idol group called Candies (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candies_(Japanese_idol_group)). The three members in this popular group were Ran Ito, Yoshiko Tanaka (known as Su), and Miki Fujimura. They disbanded in 1977 because they wanted to "return to being normal girls". Banri and Shibuko mentioned in the volume that they saw some old footage of them and though their names were so cute so they used them to name Amu's Charas.

[Mateo_home]

BTW, I received my copy of the Shugo Chara GN Volume 5 the other day, and I discovered something pretty interesting about Amu's Charas Ran, Miki, and Su. Peach-Pit derived their names from a 1970s pop-idol group called Candies (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candies_%28Japanese_idol_group%29). The three members in this popular group were Ran Ito, Yoshiko Tanaka (known as Su), and Miki Fujimura. They disbanded in 1977 because they wanted to "return to being normal girls". Banri and Shibuko mentioned in the volume that they saw some old footage of them and though their names were so cute so they used them to name Amu's Charas.

That is pretty interesting to name the Charas after a group that wants to be normal in a manga about being your true self.

As for the rest of vol. 5, now I kind of wanted to see the Ami spin-off chapter get animated. At least it's the origin of the doll house.:P

[bci110]

As for the rest of vol. 5, now I kind of wanted to see the Ami spin-off chapter get animated. At least it's the origin of the doll house.:P

Oh please no. That story was a waste of paper; if I see it animated I think I'll :puke:.

[Quarkboy]

So, this is the first episode where Nana and Lulu appear that are subbed by CR, and it seems like they are dealing with the Nagoya accent by making Nana talk like a cowgirl... with lots of "y'all" and "y'hear"s... (no "yeehaw"s yet, though :) )

This is one of those times when it's unfortunately necessary to attempt to translate an accent over from one language to the next since it's so important to Lulu's character, and you can't exactly have a translation note each time she switches over to the Nagoya accent, so what do people think?

My own personal research into Nagoya accents revealed that it's interpreted as just a "salesman"-ish as an osakan accent, but not laid back at all, very much hurried and excited.
Nana's outfit itself I think gives a sort of wild-west feel to it, but it's definitely not something directly translatable.

[Fudce]

So, this is the first episode where Nana and Lulu appear that are subbed by CR, and it seems like they are dealing with the Nagoya accent by making Nana talk like a cowgirl... with lots of "y'all" and "y'hear"s... (no "yeehaw"s yet, though :) )

This is one of those times when it's unfortunately necessary to attempt to translate an accent over from one language to the next since it's so important to Lulu's character, and you can't exactly have a translation note each time she switches over to the Nagoya accent, so what do people think?

As much as people moan about the falseness of using such methods, the only way TO translate a change in accent, is to show that with an accent that we recognise. The classic example of course being the Osakan accent, famously shown as a southern accent in many dubs. It's not that Osakans = Texans, it's just that the osakan accent is different to the rest of the accents used in the show (and the same goes with Lulu's Nagoya accent) so it's translated in such a way that makes people know it.

[bci110]

Nana's outfit itself I think gives a sort of wild-west feel to it, but it's definitely not something directly translatable.

I pointed out on my blog that Nana has the resemblence of a Southern belle. Her accent reflects that in my view. Personally I think Nana talks more like a Southerner (someone from Georgia or Alabama per se) than someone that resides in Texas. Also I think her accent makes her more cute and enjoyable to watch :P.

[Quarkboy]

Nana's outfit itself I think gives a sort of wild-west feel to it, but it's definitely not something directly translatable.

I pointed out on my blog that Nana has the resemblence of a Southern belle. Her accent reflects that in my view. Personally I think Nana talks more like a Southerner (someone from Georgia or Alabama per se) than someone that resides in Texas. Also I think her accent makes her more cute and enjoyable to watch :P.

I think a southern accent feels too laid back for Nana. She's more like the hostess at some wild west bar :). But hey, you have her as your avatar, so you'd know best :).

[Mateo_home]

Liked that this was a filler and a plot advancing episode at the same time. Especially that the one-shot character was rather cute. Choto-tan should really make her character transformation and attack names shorter, but that's what makes her cute. And of course cutting back to Yoru sneaking to get some food only to get distracted by a ball of yarn, and Ikuto joins the fun. the taiyaki passing scene was funny as well. This Amu/Ikuto relationship is turning out great. Too bad Amu said some mean things to him to chase him off.

As for Lulu and Nana's Nagoya accents being translated as western accents, I'm okay with it. It at least it not New York accents.

Nana: Yo man! Who tryin' to take my embryo hee'a?:P

[bci110]

Nana: Yo man! Who tryin' to take my embryo hee'a?:P

Nana might be mad at not capturing the Embryo, but I have a bone to pick with her. She's been giving me bad advise on those ESPN Streak for the Ca$h picks today :sdsmiley:.

[bci110]

OK, I was able to watch this episode last night. For a Mystery Egg episode, it wasn't too bad; however the girl playing Neko Mini Mode throughout the episode was both cute and annoying at the same time. Luckily those fun moments with Yoru's issues with the yarn and Nana's issues with catching the Embryo counterbalanced anything Chiyako did. Still, though, I enjoyed watching it, though it won't make my Top 10 list of favorite Shugo Chara episodes anytime soon.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode sixty-seven posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Bentora Bentora Space People!

Sorry, I couldn't resist... :)


It seems there is another ?-egg of the week for us today, but that isn't bad since it is part of why I enjoy the series. This week's "lost child" is a strange girl who believes that UFOs exist, I'm talking serious space cadet here. Love her little silver highlight though. The interesting thing about the episode though wasn't the lost child, or that Amu actually had a hard time fighting her, and it wasn't that Amu had to resort to using a character transformation that wasn't Amulet Heart for a change, it was that Lulu seems to be getting lost herself.

But after all that was said and done, nothing really came about from this episode. Amu has (at least on the surface) moved on from Ikuto's departure, and Lulu still wants to find the embryo.



Next week... Saaya Heart? Saaya Spade? Saaya Clover? It seems like we have a Yamabuki dream, but is she leaving us?

[bci110]

I think I asked about it on the other Shugo Chara thread about whether there will be an artbook for the series in the near future, and I just found out through Akodat Retail that there is a Shugo Chara artbook that just came out recently. It's call PEACH-PIt Illustrations: Shugo Chara, and it contains selected artwork from the series with commentary from the ladies themselves. If you want to order the book, you can access the Akodat site here (http://www.akadot.com/product_info.php?products_id=27817).

[Mateo_home]

Bentora Bentora Space People!

Sorry, I couldn't resist... :)


Darn you beat me to it. It might be me, but the ?-egg episodes are getting better. It seemed for once Lulu showed interest in the lost child's dream. Until she's reminded what her motives are. The ?-character transformation was cool, and the battle was actually nicely animated, but not much. Also Amu surprising Ran in the morning was priceless. Enjoyable episode. Oh, and ending with MatemiteMoo was funny.

For some reason the next episode looks kind of....I should watch it before I pass judgement.:P

[Mateo_home]

I think I asked about it on the other Shugo Chara thread about whether there will be an artbook for the series in the near future, and I just found out through Akodat Retail that there is a Shugo Chara artbook that just came out recently. It's call PEACH-PIt Illustrations: Shugo Chara, and it contains selected artwork from the series with commentary from the ladies themselves. If you want to order the book, you can access the Akodat site here (http://www.akadot.com/product_info.php?products_id=27817).

Cool find. Only thing holding me back from ordering is that is contains illustrations up to volume 7 and I'm only up to volume 5. That would be O NOZ SPOILERZ! Then again I'm watching the anime up to the latest episode. Besides that the lag between 5 and 6 isn't as bad 4 and 5.:P

[Quarkboy]

The next episode with Saya will be a disaster. This is my "prediction". I apologize ahead of time to everyone on behalf of the creators.

[bci110]

The next episode with Saya will be a disaster. This is my "prediction". I apologize ahead of time to everyone on behalf of the creators.

If Saya gets "offed" next episode I won't be surprised. But then again I can't stand her so it's no big loss in my view.

[Quarkboy]

The next episode with Saya will be a disaster. This is my "prediction". I apologize ahead of time to everyone on behalf of the creators.

If Saya gets "offed" next episode I won't be surprised. But then again I can't stand her so it's no big loss in my view.

Maybe with Lulu inserted as a filler character the writers decided that there was only room for one ojou-san archetype in the show.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode fifty-two posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Wow, that episode was...

It seems that Saaya Yamabuki, Amu's personal rival is having to change schools, and as such she has decided to throw herself a leaving party. It is however all a ruse to get Amu into place so that she can try to beat her. First round of three is elegant walking. Amu is rubbish, but Saaya forfeits when she gets off to admire Tadase. Second round is flower arranging, something that Amu apparantly has a talent at (according to Saaya). Third round (worth three points) is dodgeball! Just when it looks like Saaya is about to win, Amu dodges her shot but also jumps outside of the court to save a small girl. The ball rebounds and KO's Saaya. Amu lands back inside the court (thanks to a character change with Ran).

Now, on to the fun part. The next day Saaya gets invited to the royal garden for a real farewell party from Amu, but she runs off when she sees how loveydovey Amu and Tadase are. Lulu finds her and after some persuading (Saaya's strong personality is a challenge for even Lulu) she takes the gem.

?-character transformation - HINAMORI DREAM!

Amu quickly transforms into Amulet Heart to combat her clone, only to be faced with a character transformatin into Gorgeous Heart! Gorgeous Heart beats Amulet Heart, causing Amu to transformation change into Amulet Spade, followed quickly by a transformation change into Gorgeous Spade. The same happens with Amulet Clover (and Gorgeous Clover). Eventually Amu talks Saaya into an X-chara, and locks on to her negative heart.

And after all of this, it seems Saaya's rivalry managed to get her permission to remain in Japan. She didn't even leave!



Oh well, next week... Somebody likes Rima? It's her birthday? NOO! Someone's trying to take Amu's wife away!

[bci110]

And after all of this, it seems Saaya's rivalry managed to get her permission to remain in Japan. She didn't even leave!




So Saaya ended up staying after all? What a waste :relief:.

[Quarkboy]

And after all of this, it seems Saaya's rivalry managed to get her permission to remain in Japan. She didn't even leave!




So Saaya ended up staying after all? What a waste :relief:.

Psych! And the worst thing was the whole "shot of airplane overhead" just to rub it in.

Although the concept of Saya living by herself in a huge mansion and being in control of everything might make for an amusing "trouble at Saya's house" filler episode in the future.

[Mateo_home]

And after all of this, it seems Saaya's rivalry managed to get her permission to remain in Japan. She didn't even leave!




So Saaya ended up staying after all? What a waste :relief:.

I couldn't agree more. Especially with the over-dramatic title card. But for a filler comedy episode I thought it was funny. But then again if they're going for comedy it should always star Rima. At least she'll star in the next one. And El makes an appearance.:P

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode sixty-nine posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Curse my annoying internet connection, since it was down most of today my weekly Shugo Chara fix was delayed by a day. But it eventually came, and for that I'm thankful.

It's Rima's birthday, and the guardians are throwing her a surprise party (but given how wise Rima-tan is and how bad Amu and Yaya are at hiding things it isn't that much of a surprise). There also seems to be a boy who wants to steel Rima away from her wife. Yep, I can see where this is going.

Some very nice touching scenes with Rima and how much she's grown, but it is a ?-egg of the week episode, albeit a cute one. Also interestingly Nagihiko nearly outs himself during the fight, and Tadase nearly screams out the name of the person who he loves (as if we can't guess).

In the end, Rima tells him that she is flattered but she can't see herself with a guy right now (she has Amu, after all).

Also interestingly, a new ending theme and animation, which for some reason seems to think that Ami is the main character. Bring back cute/sleepy Amu! The music is good though, which isn't surprising since I've liked every Shugo Chara theme from Buono so far.



Next week... Check what the date is on Saturday and judge for yourself what the episode could be focussed on. Very obvious theme for a possible ?-egg of the week. Will Amu be making one or two lots of chocolate this year?

[bci110]

Also interestingly, a new ending theme and animation, which for some reason seems to think that Ami is the main character. Bring back cute/sleepy Amu! The music is good though, which isn't surprising since I've liked every Shugo Chara theme from Buono so far.

So do the Japanese public - According to Oricon's weekly singles chart (http://fast.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2009-02-01/white-album-shugo-chara-singles-debut-at-no.2-no.4) for February 1, Buono's new ending theme for Shugo Chara debut at #4 on the list, selling 19,002 copies.

[Mateo_home]

This episode was a lot better than the last one. It was neat to see El show up again stating that her halo is a love array. Along with Utau for a scene as well (it's been a while) carrying out Amu's request and stating that El was originally sent out to do an errand. And to end it with Il delivering the gift and Utau's message to not return. Yeah, during the fight where Nagihiko and Tadase nearly spill their beans was funny. And it might just be me, but the animation in this episode was almost stellar.

As for the new ED, I like the song but I question why it's focusing on Ami (I guess to represent a child's imagination) and how the Dream Card snuck it's way in. And for a bonus, these are my current favorite OP and ED themes throughout Shugo Chara!:

OP: Minna Daisuki
ED: Rottara Rottara
:P

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Who'd have thought it, the episode that airs on February 14th being of a Valentines Day theme?

Regardless, I'd imagine most people can understand how this episode went, girl loves to cook, but is nervous about giving the boy she likes. She goes to a class (taught by Lulu's dad) to learn how to make great chocolates and meets Amu there (who was dragged there by her mother) and they become friends.

Boy says something about not liking chocolates, and she gets all nervous. Lulu pounces and the girl goes into her ?-transformation: Chocolate Dream!

The fight was actually quite good this week, with some culinary counters from Amulet Clover, culminating in the usual Open Heart attack.

Very cliched episode with an obvious finish of the girl giving the guy the chocolate and him accepting them, but the real treat for the episode was Amu and her chocolates.

She made chocolates for all of the guardians, but her father unwittingly eats most of them. The only three left are the "K" chocolates, for Tadase. During the fight, the chocolates get lost and Amu doesn't realise until she goes to give them to him. He says he looks forward to next year's chocolates and they're all loveydovey together. Amu's chocolates however end up in the hands of Yoru, who gives them to Ikuto without realising who made them. It seems he's staying in that greenhouse from episode 51, the one in the FunFair where he took Amu.

The episode has another valentines treat in the form of a brief but very nice Utau cameo, with her being depressed about not being able to give Ikuto her chocolates this year.



Next Week... The guardians are going on a trip. Who's that with the dark green hair and the sword?

[Mateo_home]

Wow. NestleCrunchroll's update sucks. When watching in LQ, this time the scroll bar is too big, the subs are too high, and the logo is too big.

Really can't say much about this episode. Only echo Amulet Clover's counter attack and Utau making another short appearance. I would have liked if Il & El were to deliver her chocolates somehow to Yoru to give to Ikuto. To also prevent interference with his distance relationship.

Lately I feel like the show is swaying away from what made some of the older episodes more enjoyable. I know Peach-pit had an illness (did they recover?) and there hasn't been much published lately, but still...I'm just going to watch more filler. It's still watchable. And it would be great if next week is a filler arc over a filler episode.:P

[bci110]

I know Peach-pit had an illness (did they recover?)

Yes, the Peach-Pit ladies recovered from their illness and are back at work.

[Mateo_home]

Yes, the Peach-Pit ladies recovered from their illness and are back at work.

That's good news. Speaking for their health, not their work.:P

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy-one posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Hmm, it seems like there's some inter-school confrence where all of the student councils get send representitives and discuss stuff. Nikaidou decides that Tadase and Amu should go to represent the guardians (presumably because Tadase is the King, and if Amu goes, he can hog Su to himself for the whole trip) And as the title of the episode gave away, Kairi is one of the folks organising the event, and he spots Amu and Tadase as attendees.

This is gonna be akward. The lovey-dovey-not-quite-couple and the only guy to have straightforwardly confessed his love to Amu...

Yup, it's akward. Kairi is being all stealthy, until Miki senses him. When you have a guardian character with you, you are about as stealthy as Clown Drop.

Lots of akward moments, split up by some nice reminiscing. Kairi feels he's not good enough for Amu though, and tries to escape. Tadase catches him, and when explaining that he can't see Amu until he's worthy, Amu hears. I seriously thought he'd get a slap, but she stops just short of doing so.

I'm half expecting him to X his egg, but it seems that wont be the case, since a little boy has got lost in the wood, and he needs to help look for him. Amu and Tadase find him, and then Kairi saves the three of them from a falling log.

More falling logs, so it's time to character transform, only without Amu. Samurai Soul and Platinum Royal combine nicely to stop the logs, and the kid thinks they're cool. :D

Nice episode, and a nice change of pace from the ?-egg of the week affairs.



Next week... Lulu's grandmother appears! Will we get movement on the lost-eggs arc? Even if we don't, we get to see a cute younger Lulu via flashbacks!

[bci110]

Aren't we suppose to have an installment of "Su's Urban Legend Corner" next week as well :laugh: :P ?

Anyway great to see both Kairi and Musashi back after a long absence from the series (and Samurai Soul is hands down the best Character Transformation in the series). Kairi was one of those characters that I didn't like at first when he was introduced, but grew to both admire and respect once his character and background story developed during his run in the series. the episode itself was very enjoyable; one of the best episodes in the series thus far. Kairi's akwardness towards handling his feelings for Amu and Amu's little speech she gave to Kairi were handled very well in my view. Kudos to the Charas for helping in "breaking the ice" when Tadase, Amu, and Kairi reunited with that pretend tag game they did. Very nicely done :cool:.

[Fudce]

Samurai Soul is hands down the best Character Transformation in the series

Dark Jewel would say otherwise, as would Lunatic Charm and Amulet Dia.

[Quarkboy]

Samurai Soul is hands down the best Character Transformation in the series

Dark Jewel would say otherwise, as would Lunatic Charm and Amulet Dia.

What, no love for Dear Baby?

I kid, I kid...

[bci110]

Samurai Soul is hands down the best Character Transformation in the series

Dark Jewel would say otherwise, as would Lunatic Charm and Amulet Dia.

Maybe in the power factor, but in sheer coolness they're no match for Samurai Soul ;).

[Quarkboy]

Samurai Soul is hands down the best Character Transformation in the series

Dark Jewel would say otherwise, as would Lunatic Charm and Amulet Dia.

Maybe in the power factor, but in sheer coolness they're no match for Samurai Soul ;).

Plus the fact that with the actual sword he has, Samurai Soul is the only Chara transformation other than Black Lynx that can actually seriously hurt people. (not like he'd ever do it, though).

[Mateo_home]

Kairi was one of those characters that I didn't like at first when he was introduced, but grew to both admire and respect once his character and background story developed during his run in the series.

I felt the same way. He started off as a student council stereotype character and was rather bland. Now he's one of the best ones in anime. Ditto for Rima. As for the episode, this show is really at it's best when it's dealing with the relationships between the characters. Great episode overall, only disappointment was that Platinum Royal and Samurai Soul's combination attack was just a pan shot.

Oh, my Shugo Chara artbook (http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/9848/img0293.jpg) arrived. I just couldn't resist.:P

[bci110]

Oh, my Shugo Chara artbook (http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/9848/img0293.jpg) arrived. I just couldn't resist.:P

Yep, that's the one. Awesome book - clearly my favorite of all the artbooks/visual guides that I own :beatingheart:.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy-two posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




It's festival time! And Amu is wandering the stalls seeing what there is to eat, not that she will actually eat anything considering she's apparantly on a diet. The relaxed atmosphere is quickly destroyed by a woman scolding everyone about things. She scolds Amu for her sloppy dressing (poor Miki) and demands that she be taken to the Morcerf's house.

It's Lulu's Grandmother! The parents are shocked to see her, and Lulu is delighted, but shocked to see Amu. Lots of scolding of the parents later, it's clear to see why they feared her and why Lulu loves her. Later, Nana visits Amu's house for help, since Lulu changes and becomes all snobbish when she's with her grandmother.

There's also a visit to the Royal Garden for the Grandmother, to see Amu about Lulu. Some fun moments as King wimpers in the face of the vicountess. There's a nice talk between Amu and the Grandmother about Lulu, and then a touching moment between Lulu and her Grandmother.

Outside of the Grandmother story, there's movement on the "Cursed Violin" arc, as the idiot scientists seem to be experimenting with a cursed tuning fork that also seems to affect Ikuto.

Finally, since there hasn't been any need to transform this week, Lulu finds the least lost "lost child" ever, as somebody who is confused about what to eat at the festival gets her egg changed.

It's getting quite interesting now, and it makes me wonder what is going to happen first, the eventual confrontation with Lulu, or the inevitable escalation of the cursed violin story.



Next week... The guardian characters are having an argument? It looks like a cute episode focussed on Su!

[Mateo_home]

What? Story? At least the grandmother wants Lulu to do what she wants rather than force her down the same path. Unfortunately Lulu's getting more confused herself. She's so desperate she chooses someone who can't make a simple decision. I wonder if she'll get to the point where she gives the jewel to the first person she sees who's not confused in the slightest.

Now I'm convinced that these story development episodes are the reward for watching through the fillers. Good and bad.:P

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy-three posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.






Shugo Chara, you are forgiven for the lastest spree of ?-egg of the week episodes. This weeks episode was as near to perfect as it could be, it just needed some Utau and it would have been there.

Amu's guardian characters are having a bit of an argument, and everything seems to irritate them, much to Amu's annoyance. It also seems that Dia is still very much concious of what's going on, and that Nagi seems aware of this fact. Regardless, the trio argue, and Su storms off leaving Ran and Miki completely not talking to each other.

Meanwhile, Easter are still tormenting Ikuto with their Tuning Fork of Doom (tm).

Su finds a girl who loves food, but can't cook, and stays with her for a while (even though the girl can't see her) until Lulu appears and thanks to a Nana distraction act that would be worthy of winning an award (a Razzy) she turns the girl's egg into a ?-egg.

Meanwhile, Nagi is having a heart to heart with Dia, who had previously told Ran and Miki to be friends. Even though Dia is still in her egg, Nagi is completely opening up in front of her. Ran and Miki find Nagi and tell him about the ?-egg, they charge for it.

Amu arrives on the scene first, but without any characters to transform with. When Ran and Miki arrive she tries but fails to transform with both. It seems like their argument is having an effect. One thing leads to another, and they rescue Su, who had been captured by the girl. Cue a fantastic triple play battle with Amulet's Heart, Spade and Clover all being used.

The episode could have ended there and still been good, but they just had to move the Dark Violin arc forward a bit more by getting Yoru to go ask Amu to help Ikuto who has collapsed after running from Easter's goons - who had found his hiding place.



Next week... What to do with Ikuto? Tadase comes to visit... It's White Day!

[bci110]

I knew it was just a matter of time before Ran, Miki, and Su finally get at each other's throats. After spending 70+ episodes together they were due to have a meltdown sooner or later :devil: :P .

But still a highly entertaining episode with everything going on, and any episode with Su as the main focus will always be a winner in my book. Nice to see another cameo apparance from Dia - love the heart-to-heart with Nagi and still hoping that she will finally break out and join the cast, along with Temari and Rhythm. Even Nana gave a winning performace in the second half of the episode with the fake sickness routine to lure Su away from Lulu's target. More of these kind of episodes and Shugo Chara will regain its greatness that it had in the first series.

[Mateo_home]

More of these kind of episodes and Shugo Chara will regain its greatness that it had in the first series.

True there haven't been many great episodes for Doki (filler good and bad). But once again this episode was reward for the filler due to Nagihiko's development with his two eggs thanks to Dia who may also be closer to coming out of her egg for good (or that's what they want me to think). Even took me by surprise a couple times. Such as Amu not transforming and ending on a cliffhanger. Will agree the interaction with the charas was funny as well. Also I think every ? character transformation form has "Dream" at the end of their name. maybe there's been some exceptions.:P

[Fudce]

More of these kind of episodes and Shugo Chara will regain its greatness that it had in the first series.

True there haven't been many great episodes for Doki (filler good and bad). But once again this episode was reward for the filler due to Nagihiko's development with his two eggs thanks to Dia who may also be closer to coming out of her egg for good (or that's what they want me to think). Even took me by surprise a couple times. Such as Amu not transforming and ending on a cliffhanger. Will agree the interaction with the charas was funny as well. Also I think every ? character transformation form has "Dream" at the end of their name. maybe there's been some exceptions.:P

Nope, they've all been -Dream. My favourite one was "Hinamori Dream". :)

[Mateo_home]

Nope, they've all been -Dream. My favourite one was "Hinamori Dream". :)

If that's the case, my favorite was the one with the long name I can't remember (the cat girl episode). But yeah, for that other episode the doppleganger fight was one of the few good things to come out of it. I liked it for a non-plot advancement episode, but lost points for the ending.:P

[Fudce]

Nope, they've all been -Dream. My favourite one was "Hinamori Dream". :)

If that's the case, my favorite was the one with the long name I can't remember (the cat girl episode). But yeah, for that other episode the doppleganger fight was one of the few good things to come out of it. I liked it for a non-plot advancement episode, but lost points for the ending.:P

You mean Pretty Transforming Heroine Magical Choco-tan Dream? Yeah, Chocotan was pretty fun.

[bci110]

More of these kind of episodes and Shugo Chara will regain its greatness that it had in the first series.

True there haven't been many great episodes for Doki (filler good and bad). But once again this episode was reward for the filler due to Nagihiko's development with his two eggs thanks to Dia who may also be closer to coming out of her egg for good (or that's what they want me to think). Even took me by surprise a couple times. Such as Amu not transforming and ending on a cliffhanger. Will agree the interaction with the charas was funny as well. Also I think every ? character transformation form has "Dream" at the end of their name. maybe there's been some exceptions.:P

Nope, they've all been -Dream. My favourite one was "Hinamori Dream". :)

I like that one too. Even though I can't stand Saaya, I though her character transformation was the best of the bunch so far in the Doki series. Amu was basically fighting mirror images of herself, and it made for a highly entertaining and interesting battle.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy-four posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.





Amu seems to be getting used to caring for her stray cat, but is even more on edge than usual. She even snaps at Yaya on the phone! But it seems like Ikuto will be staying at Amu's place secretly for a while again.

It's white day! (it literally is - today is March 14th) and Tadase wants to give whiteday chocolates to all the girls who gave him chocolates. He has boxes full of the things, now that's what I call dedication, but he has a special bag for Amu, and intends to go to her house to give them to her in person. After running into Nagihiko on the way there, he arrives to a shocked Amu (and Amu's dad). Amu quickly runs off to tidy her room (shoving things she doesn't want Tadase to see in the closet, including a certain pair of felines) before Tadase gets upstairs.

And what follows is a classic moment of Shugo Chara greatness. Tadase finally confesses. It is a beautiful scene made even better by the glimpses of Ikuto's reaction to their conversation in the closet. Later in the evening, Ikuto jokily tells Amu that he loves her too, and tells her to "grow up soon". I think that counts as Ikuto's confession, even if Amu sees it another way.



Next week... Utau pays Amu a visit, but what about Ikuto? Plus what does it all have to do with ramen?

[Quarkboy]

Next week... Utau pays Amu a visit, but what about Ikuto? Plus what does it all have to do with ramen?

The ramen thing is the ? Character of the week plot, but it is combined with introducing "Kukau" into the anime cannon before things get serious.

[Fudce]

Next week... Utau pays Amu a visit, but what about Ikuto? Plus what does it all have to do with ramen?

The ramen thing is the ? Character of the week plot, but it is combined with introducing "Kukau" into the anime cannon before things get serious.

It should be noted that I didn't actually want serious answers to my next episode rhetoric.

[Quarkboy]

Next week... Utau pays Amu a visit, but what about Ikuto? Plus what does it all have to do with ramen?

The ramen thing is the ? Character of the week plot, but it is combined with introducing "Kukau" into the anime cannon before things get serious.

It should be noted that I didn't actually want serious answers to my next episode rhetoric.

Ah, sorry. Well, anyway, this weeks episode was definitely pretty awesome.

I'm curious but did people catch the irony when Ikuto says "I guess I'm just the boy that cried wolf"
You see, in JApanese, that story isn't called "The boy who cried wolf", it's called "Ookami shounen" = "Wolf Boy".
So Ikuto says that "I guess I'm the wolf boy, then", in a literal translation. Oh, the irony!

Afraid that subtle point was lost in translation a bit but it was more important to keep the basic meaning than the clever wordplay.

[Fudce]

I'm curious but did people catch the irony when Ikuto says "I guess I'm just the boy that cried wolf"
You see, in JApanese, that story isn't called "The boy who cried wolf", it's called "Ookami shounen" = "Wolf Boy".
So Ikuto says that "I guess I'm the wolf boy, then", in a literal translation. Oh, the irony!

Afraid that subtle point was lost in translation a bit but it was more important to keep the basic meaning than the clever wordplay.

Why would it have been ironic with him refering to himself as "the wolf boy"? (other than that he's a catboy?)

[Quarkboy]

I'm curious but did people catch the irony when Ikuto says "I guess I'm just the boy that cried wolf"
You see, in JApanese, that story isn't called "The boy who cried wolf", it's called "Ookami shounen" = "Wolf Boy".
So Ikuto says that "I guess I'm the wolf boy, then", in a literal translation. Oh, the irony!

Afraid that subtle point was lost in translation a bit but it was more important to keep the basic meaning than the clever wordplay.

Why would it have been ironic with him refering to himself as "the wolf boy"? (other than that he's a catboy?)

That's what I was pointing out... The cat-boy is calling himself a wolf boy.

[Fudce]

I'm curious but did people catch the irony when Ikuto says "I guess I'm just the boy that cried wolf"
You see, in JApanese, that story isn't called "The boy who cried wolf", it's called "Ookami shounen" = "Wolf Boy".
So Ikuto says that "I guess I'm the wolf boy, then", in a literal translation. Oh, the irony!

Afraid that subtle point was lost in translation a bit but it was more important to keep the basic meaning than the clever wordplay.

Why would it have been ironic with him refering to himself as "the wolf boy"? (other than that he's a catboy?)

That's what I was pointing out... The cat-boy is calling himself a wolf boy.

Aha, that's ok then. I think the primary thing they were trying to say in that scene was the "boy who cried wolf" part of what was said, with any possible irony from Ikuto calling himself a wolfboy being a secondary part either intentional or not. The translators made the correct decision to go with "The Boy Who Cried Wolf" rather than "The Wolfboy".

[Mateo_home]

I'm curious but did people catch the irony when Ikuto says "I guess I'm just the boy that cried wolf"
You see, in JApanese, that story isn't called "The boy who cried wolf", it's called "Ookami shounen" = "Wolf Boy".
So Ikuto says that "I guess I'm the wolf boy, then", in a literal translation. Oh, the irony!

Afraid that subtle point was lost in translation a bit but it was more important to keep the basic meaning than the clever wordplay.

I have to agree. I wouldn't have gotten what he meant if they went with "wolf boy."

This episode was awesome despite barely leaving the room for the entire time. I thought they were going to have a perverted joke with the banana, guess not. Amu even gets two love confessions in one day. Well one direct and the other pretty much obvious. And Tadase's cookies shine and sparkle for some unknown reason.

Next week's episode looks kick ass. I knew Utau would go to Amu's house with Ikuto still being there.:P

[bci110]

Next week's episode looks kick ass. I knew Utau would go to Amu's house with Ikuto still being there.:P

Utau and Kukai alone will make the next episode awesome. Keep those damn Wishing Eggs away and that'll make it even better :cool:.

Course now I have a scheduling dilemma for Friday and Saturday. Both Ohio State's and Cleveland State's NCAA Tournament games are scheduled for Friday night at around the same time the next episode of Shugo Chara will be available on Cruchyroll. Of course I have to watch those games that night (especially the Cleveland State one since this is their first appearance in the tournament in 23 years) so I might not be able to watch it on Friday. I could probably squeeze in some time on Saturday afternoon if I'm not too distracted (Saturday night is a no-go because I'm involved in our group's Fantasy Baseball draft).

[Mateo_home]

Utau and Kukai alone will make the next episode awesome. Keep those damn Wishing Eggs away and that'll make it even better :cool:.


Another possible canon pairing? Well I can't assume just because a boy and girl interact means anything. Then again, I'm not even sure if Kukai/Yaya is official. I don't think she'd last long against Utau.

Unfortunately Lulu is going to be in this week's episode. I do like her and Nana. But when they make an appearance, someone needs to carry ?-egg repellent.:P

[Fudce]

Could I ask that we talk about episode 75 when episode 75 has aired?

[Quarkboy]

Could I ask that we talk about episode 75 when episode 75 has aired?

Technically we're talking about the PREVIEW for episode 75, that aired in episode 74. But I understand you're point.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy-one posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Well, Amu seems to be used to having Ikuto around again, and asks him about Utau, since Amu feels that she is obviously all worried about her brother being missing.. But it would be terrible if Utau were to pay Amu a visit.

Which Utau immediatly does, but thankfully they go out for some ramen. It appears that Utau is quite the ramen fan, but her way of eating it annoyed some strange ramen reviewer blog type person.

There's some fun moments between Amu and Utau, and after some history into Utau and Ikuto, they run into Kukai and Tadase. Kukai challenges Utau to a ramen eating contest, while the lovebirds go and exchange their sweet nothing's together.

Ramen kid is ?-ified, all four good guys arrive on the scene. Amu and Tadase fight it off but are trapped, only to be saved by Character Transformation: Lunatic Charm! Long time no transform Il, I've missed that hot red look. A good fight ensues only to be finished by a now freed Amu.

Towards the end there's a really cute moment where Utau hesitantly and adorably tells Amu that she wouldn't mind if she were to help Ikuto in her stead.

Finally there is a short scene with a mysterious cat eared boy (I wonder who that could be) plucking a violin and pulling out X-eggs from everybody around. It's not Black Lynx, he seems to be wearing a long flowing coat with fur around the collar.


Next week... Tadase and Nagihiko confront the mysterious new stranger, and the next morning Ikuto is wounded? And the new arrival has a SCYTHE?!

[Quarkboy]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy-one posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Well, Amu seems to be used to having Ikuto around again, and asks him about Utau, since Amu feels that she is obviously all worried about her brother being missing.. But it would be terrible if Utau were to pay Amu a visit.

Which Utau immediatly does, but thankfully they go out for some ramen. It appears that Utau is quite the ramen fan, but her way of eating it annoyed some strange ramen reviewer blog type person.

There's some fun moments between Amu and Utau, and after some history into Utau and Ikuto, they run into Kukai and Tadase. Kukai challenges Utau to a ramen eating contest, while the lovebirds go and exchange their sweet nothing's together.

Ramen kid is ?-ified, all four good guys arrive on the scene. Amu and Tadase fight it off but are trapped, only to be saved by Character Transformation: Lunatic Charm! Long time no transform Il, I've missed that hot red look. A good fight ensues only to be finished by a now freed Amu.

Towards the end there's a really cute moment where Utau hesitantly and adorably tells Amu that she wouldn't mind if she were to help Ikuto in her stead.

Finally there is a short scene with a mysterious cat eared boy (I wonder who that could be) plucking a violin and pulling out X-eggs from everybody around. It's not Black Lynx, he seems to be wearing a long flowing coat with fur around the collar.


Next week... Tadase and Nagihiko confront the mysterious new stranger, and the next morning Ikuto is wounded? And the new arrival has a SCYTHE?!

Not sure whether it was so obvious, but didn't the voice of the ? Egg of the week character sound a bit familiar to people? Once he transformed into his Character Transformation it might have been more obvious, but ramen boy was voiced by none other than the seiyuu for Goku herself. A lot of the humor for that part of the episode was sort of an in joke with that guest spot, I suspect.

[Mateo_home]

There's some fun moments between Amu and Utau, and after some history into Utau and Ikuto, they run into Kukai and Tadase. Kukai challenges Utau to a ramen eating contest, while the lovebirds go and exchange their sweet nothing's together.

I've been wondering about this ever since ep 47. Very grateful this got answered.

...only to be saved by Character Transformation: Lunatic Charm! Long time no transform Il, I've missed that hot red look.I was thinking the same exact thing. It's been ages. I also liked she says the name right after she counterattacks.

Next week... Tadase and Nagihiko confront the mysterious new stranger, and the next morning Ikuto is wounded? And the new arrival has a SCYTHE?!My guess is the x-energy pitchfork causes Ikuto to sleepwalk?
Oh right, this episode. Once again this was a great episode. Just have to add in Il & El doing the "Doki" intro. And another random attack from Su, Pepper! I also watched this episode in HQ opposed to my usual LQ. I knocked it up a notch.:P

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy-six posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Oh wow, now this is what I'm talking about. The drama is layed on thick and fast this episode where we see Ikuto and Tadase fighting head to head behind Amu's back. Easter has found a way to control Ikuto and even cause him to change into a new character transformation - while it isn't directly named, I'm going to assume that it's called Death Rebel, after something the Easter bossman said - that and it sort of looks like a Death Rebel.

Lots of Tadase angst today too, permeated by lovey-dovey moments between him and Amu. There's also a lovely moment between Nagi and Amu, where Amu asks Nagi his opinion on hiding things from people you care about. Perfect person to ask, and a nice insight into Nagi's character.


Next week... Amu and Tadase have a date, but Ikuto has been discovered by Amu's mom. And by Tadase!

[Mateo_home]

Excellent episode. There were some great comedic moments to go along with dramatic events. Like Kiseki calling up another Chara mission and no listens again. Yoru doesn't quite have good either. Trying to tell Ran, Miki, and Su about what he saw only to get interruped and have them pretend to capture him. Love how Su attempts to catch him only to be thrown into the wall. And of course Amu asking Nagi to play Nadeshiko. Looked like he was helping her out while hinting he was Nadeshiko.

And I'm no quite sure what to think of these cliffhangers. It just makes me want to see next week's episode even more.:P

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy-seven posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.





Before we even get into the episode there's something that struck me this episode, new opening, and just like the two previous it doesn't immediatly click with me. There's plenty of time though, so I'm sure it will click once I hear it more. Still no sign of Nagi's eggs hatching from the looks of the opening.

And so onto the episode, Amu and Tadase are still in love-love mode, with Ikuto still being akward when hiding in Amu's room. There some "chase the kitty" action from Ami, all with Ikuto hiding in Amu's bed. Things start getting interesting when Tadase finally plucks up the courage to ask Amu on a date (to a flower arranging demonstration? Knock-'em dead Kingy) and arranges to meet at 4. Amu gets home, and takes the oportunity to treat Ikuto's wounds and get him showered. Some lovely moments with him in the shower and her looking the other way, followed by her changing and him looking the other way. Unfortunatly as they're creeping out, BUSTED!

Her mom suspected something was up, but didn't dream that it was a boy hiding in her room, she thought it was a stray cat, so not 100% wrong there. She's awesomely understanding though, and while she does scold Amu, she arranges for Ikuto to stay in a business hotel, and gives him a few changes of clothes (stuff Amu's dad doesn't wear any more) to keep him going. Just as they are about to leave, it gets worse for Amu, as her date arrives wondering where she is. She tries to cover it up, but Ikuto decides to reveal himself. Tadase is crushed, Amu is flustered, and Ikuto plays the bad guy, but it's clear why he's doing it. He knows that he is trouble for Amu and wants to get her to hate him.

At the very end, Ikuto is cornered by Easter's goons, and so the episode ends - with a new ending theme! I actually like this one, it's mainly focussed on Yoru running scared from X-eggs and X-monsters, finding 3 rays of hope in the form of Ran, Miki, and Su.



Next week... Fallout from the big revelation a plenty, Lulu is back and she's found herself some lost twins, can Amu beat them while in a slump?

[Mateo_home]

Before we even get into the episode there's something that struck me this episode, new opening, and just like the two previous it doesn't immediatly click with me. There's plenty of time though, so I'm sure it will click once I hear it more. Still no sign of Nagi's eggs hatching from the looks of the opening.

I actually think it's better than the previous one that had somewhat of a "kiddie" image. It was dark but keeping a cute image simultaneously. Not sure what to think of the techno beat, and I was hoping to see a teaser of Nagi's other chara.

The development in this episode was great. I was expecting for Tadase to explain more about what he knows about Ikuto, but perhaps another time. While she was displeased, I'm amazed Amu's mom was cool about how Amu was secretly keeping Ikuto in her care. But it's understandable once she found the truth she wouldn't let it continue.

But having the in-between moments with the Guardians being interviewed by the school paper shed some light. By revealing who they really are. Surprised Tadase didn't go into "king" mode right there. However, that was a sad way to end the episode. Sure Ikuto had his way to make sure Amu would no longer get involved, but to distant her relationship with Tadase? Well, he is sort of his love rival. And he is right about Ikuto being a black cat who brings misfortune in some sense.

and so the episode ends - with a new ending theme! I actually like this one, it's mainly focussed on Yoru running scared from X-eggs and X-monsters, finding 3 rays of hope in the form of Ran, Miki, and Su.



Next week... Fallout from the big revelation a plenty, Lulu is back and she's found herself some lost twins, can Amu beat them while in a slump?That ending theme was epic. Probably the first one to have a dark twist to it. Nice! There was also a new eye catch. Ran, Miki, and Su posing as if they're superior only to have Amu blow them off set with a fan. The other part is rather similar to the first one. Really hope Amu recovers next week. Doubt it could happen, but I don't want Dia to get an X again. Actually you know what would be awesome? ?-Dia. Okay, that wouldn't be awesome. It's statically impossible, and you never see the ?-chara.:P

Fixed. I can't believe I spelled "quote" wrong. Well, okay I can. I was half asleep when typing this.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy-eight posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.





Amu's moping about being busted, unsurprisingly, and even less surprising is that her moping takes up the most time in the episode, but Shugo Chara being Shugo Chara, we can't go this many episodes without our friendly neighbourhood ?-egg of the week provider getting a twitch and supplying us with another themed badguy. It's nicely tied into the episode at least, so it isn't jarring in any way.

Lulu is upset about not getting any attention recently (lack of screentime anxiety?) so she goes hunting for lost children, and finds... Amu! She doesn't use her charm on her though, but we do get to see Lulu's character change personality for the first time. When changed she is sort of a cross between Ran and Temari, only not so bubbly or violent - and for good measure throw in some of Nana's accent. :P

She eventually finds a pair of twins who she does her thing with, and we end up with "Twin Dream", or "what would happen if 'The Twin' from Cardcaptor Sakura suddenly turned demonic". It's actually a tough fight, with Amu needing to get slapped silly verbally before she wakes up and smells the open heart.

It ends on a touching moment between Tadase and Kiseki...



Next week, Kukai's elder brothers, Yoru is at Amu's house again, and Amu battles with Death Rebel.

[Quarkboy]

I hearby bequeath a new fan-slang...

When Amu is being all emo, that shall be called "Emu". Personally, I'm not an emu fan.

P.S. To parents who have identical twins: Please for God's sake don't name them like "Nami, Nemi" in this episode. They'll have enough of an identity complex as it is!

[Fudce]

I hearby bequeath a new fan-slang...

When Amu is being all emo, that shall be called "Emu". Personally, I'm not an emu fan.
I'd rather not bequeath that slang - it conjours up traumatising memories of my childhood.

P.S. To parents who have identical twins: Please for God's sake don't name them like "Nami, Nemi" in this episode. They'll have enough of an identity complex as it is!
That goes beyond twins - parents need to name their children something significantly different. No "Ami and Amu", "Nami and Nemi", "Yui and Ui", or whatever.

[Mateo_home]

She eventually finds a pair of twins who she does her thing with, and we end up with "Twin Dream", or "what would happen if 'The Twin' from Cardcaptor Sakura suddenly turned demonic". It's actually a tough fight, with Amu needing to get slapped silly verbally before she wakes up and smells the open heart.

That's what popped into my head at that moment. Just add in the abilities of The Firery and Freeze cards. If only Amu had a Mirror Shield. Then she could block the attack and deflect it onto the other. It was cool to see the anime poke fun at itself when Nana points out to Lulu that she seems to have forgotten her goal.

And I will admit I wish Amu would come out and explain to Tadase why she was looking after Ikuto already.:P

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode seventy-nine posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.





I'm trying to find the words to describe the episode, and I am seriously struggling. Amu and Tadase are still depressed, and while Amu decides to go for a walk rather than helping poor Yoru out, Tadase finds himself around Kukai's house, where we are treated to some fun and touching moments with his four brothers.

The real action this episode takes place towards the end, where Amu transforms into Amulet Heart to go with Yoru to try to help Ikuto. They find him in the amusement park (the one where Ikuto and her had some touching moments together) where he's playing his now purple violin and extracting industrial quantities of X-eggs. Upon seeing her, he transforms into Death Rebel (we actually see the transformation this time) and relentlessly attacks her, Amu unable to retaliate in fear of hurting Ikuto.

Just as it seems like Amu is about to get defeated, her white king arrives.


Next week... more of the same it seems, and a new attack? Platinum Heart!

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode eighty posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




The heated battle continues in this episode, and it is seriously the most intense battle in the entire series so far. Ikuto is relentless in his assault, and Kazuomi Hoshino finally makes his big appearnce in front of Amu and Tadase. They argue, Ikuto and Tadase fight, and things are looking grim...

...until Amu and Tadase start speaking about how having someone to trust makes you stronger, and all that classic magical girl teamwork style stuff, culminating in a brand new attack, "Platinum Heart", which is a combination attack which purifies a lot of eggs. (similar in number to Utau's attack) The embryo appears, although it seems that Kazuomi can't see it. Amu charges towards it, and Ikuto follows, only to be interrupted by Tadase. As Amu gets close to the embryo, it emits a light and forcibly removes her transformation, causing her to plummet to earth and get saved by her prince in fabulous attire.

The rest of the episode is a glorified recap of the events leading up to Amu getting busted, but I'll forgive that since the rest of the episode was so intense.



Next week... The guardian characters sneak into easter to steal the tuning fork?

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode eighty-one posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.





It's been a while since we've had a chara-centric episode, and so this one arrived as something light but also meaningful after some quite dark and gloomy episodes in the last several weeks. Yoru arrives in the Royal Garden and immediatly passes out on Kiseki's chair. Amu and Tadase reveal the events to the rest of the guardians, and Yaya drags them everywhere to find out where Ikuto is.

While this sideplot is happeninrg, Yoru and Tadase reluctantly team up to infiltrate Easter's headquarters looking for Ikuto and instead steal the tuning fork. Eventually Yoru is faced with the Tuning Fork or Kiseki, and even though he's a bit of a playful cat, he takes the obvious choice and saves Kiseki.


Next week... A ?-egg of the week episode, for a change. Baseball themed.

[Mateo_home]

The infiltration was cool. Felt a little inappropriate that Kiseki and Yoru are being chased while the other charas are having fun. And it looks like Lulu goes to school after all. Catching up on all that homework due to spending all her time handing out pendants to people.

Also after reading vol. 6, I'm under the impression that the three dopey scientists are anime original characters.:P

[bci110]

Also after reading vol. 6, I'm under the impression that the three dopey scientists are anime original characters.:P

Same here. Also after reading the book, I'm growing more and more impatient to see if Lady Dia will ever appear full-time on the anime :P.

So what's this I heard about my favorite anime series merging with my favorite sport? I'll make sure to get caught up by then :) .

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode eighty-two posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Okay, I can be quite confident that bci will love this episode, it was very baseball themed and not much else. The ?-egg of the week character this time is a Ryo Hayakawa wannabe, trying to become the pitcher for her team. She has the power but not the accuracy when facing a real batter...

One thing leads to another, and after being trained by Kukai, she loses out again to the regular pitcher. Lulu does her thing, and we have a character transformation. Pitching Dream steals one from the aforementioned Ryo Hayakawa and proceeds to attack innocent bystanders with her magic ball, before a cliché ridden fight is brought to an end by a come-back home run from Amulet Heart and her Heart Rod. (is that thing even a legal bat?)

The episode character was pretty interesting, but other than that it was a mostly forgettable episode. I suppose they needed to take a break from the storyline again at some point, and it's come back here - still enjoyable thought.


Next week... An international music fair comes to town... Utau? Ikuto? Neither! Nagihiko takes the stage!

[Quarkboy]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode eighty-two posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Okay, I can be quite confident that bci will love this episode, it was very baseball themed and not much else. The ?-egg of the week character this time is a Ryo Hayakawa wannabe, trying to become the pitcher for her team. She has the power but not the accuracy when facing a real batter...

One thing leads to another, and after being trained by Kukai, she loses out again to the regular pitcher. Lulu does her thing, and we have a character transformation. Pitching Dream steals one from the aforementioned Ryo Hayakawa and proceeds to attack innocent bystanders with her magic ball, before a cliché ridden fight is brought to an end by a come-back home run from Amulet Heart and her Heart Rod. (is that thing even a legal bat?)

The episode character was pretty interesting, but other than that it was a mostly forgettable episode. I suppose they needed to take a break from the storyline again at some point, and it's come back here - still enjoyable thought.


Next week... An international music fair comes to town... Utau? Ikuto? Neither! Nagihiko takes the stage!
Random Translator comment of the week:

The boy pitcher's nickname for Natsuko which I translated as "Wild Thing" was literally "10,000 years no control" (mannen contoro nashi)

Pardon the slipping in of an american reference, but the literal translation was SO awful.

[Fencedude]

Random Translator comment of the week:

The boy pitcher's nickname for Natsuko which I translated as "Wild Thing" was literally "10,000 years no control" (mannen contoro nashi)

Pardon the slipping in of an american reference, but the literal translation was SO awful.

Well, if you are going to slip in an American reference, at least you chose a great one (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odOsx2AY6gs)

(I'm on a computer with no sound, so I'm hoping that video has what I think it has)

[bci110]

Okay, I can be quite confident that bci will love this episode, it was very baseball themed and not much else. The ?-egg of the week character this time is a Ryo Hayakawa wannabe, trying to become the pitcher for her team. She has the power but not the accuracy when facing a real batter...

Sounds like practically everybody on the Cleveland Indians' pitching staff - especially their bullpen. Though the girl has a loooonnngggg way to go to even be close to Ryo Hayakawa's level :cool:.

One thing leads to another, and after being trained by Kukai, she loses out again to the regular pitcher. Lulu does her thing, and we have a character transformation. Pitching Dream steals one from the aforementioned Ryo Hayakawa and proceeds to attack innocent bystanders with her magic ball, before a cliché ridden fight is brought to an end by a come-back home run from Amulet Heart and her Heart Rod. (is that thing even a legal bat?)

That might have been the bat A-Rod used tonight against the Orioles. He certainly didn't waste any time coming back from his injury :P .


The episode character was pretty interesting, but other than that it was a mostly forgettable episode. I suppose they needed to take a break from the storyline again at some point, and it's come back here - still enjoyable thought.


Now I wouldn't say that the episode was forgettable unless you're not a baseball fan or sports fan in general. And you are right - I certainly did enjoy it, and it was great to see Kukai, Daishi, and Sky Jack back in action. I will admit that it wasn't the best Shugo Chara or baseball-related episode that I've seen (the one in The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya is my favorite baseball episode in anime), but it definitely was a fun episode to watch, and it will make my list of favorite Shugo Chara episodes.

[bci110]

Random Translator comment of the week:

The boy pitcher's nickname for Natsuko which I translated as "Wild Thing" was literally "10,000 years no control" (mannen contoro nashi)

Pardon the slipping in of an american reference, but the literal translation was SO awful.

Well, if you are going to slip in an American reference, at least you chose a great one (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odOsx2AY6gs)

(I'm on a computer with no sound, so I'm hoping that video has what I think it has)

Well, yes and no. The audio was in Spanish, but they did had the "Wild Thing" scene in English so it did had what you were looking for :P.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode eighty-three posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




I really enjoyed this episode, and while it was just another "? egg of the week" affair, it wasn't JUST that. Lulu seems to be taking action to disadvantage Ikuto and the dark violin plot, whilst things seem to be slowly moving for Ikuto's own storyline.

This time it's about a music fair, with dancing and music. Lulu appears as a really cute fairy handing out flowers to people, and she is really talented at it too. She releases Ikuto using her disguise and turns a young girl's egg into a ?-egg.

The battle was traditional, but it did involve a strange situation where she controlled the people around her by making them wear tutus, including non-transformed Rima and Yaya. Amu (Amulet Spade - what else) and Tadase were almost defeated until Nagi had a Princess Tutu-esque moment where he calmed the ?-transformation through the use of dance, showing that dancing isn't about control, it's about freedom.



Next week... Nikaidou teaches us something.

[Mateo_home]

She releases Ikuto using her disguise and turns a young girl's egg into a ?-egg.


At least it was a good disguise rather than the old go up to the protagonists when it's obviously them. Nagihiko saved the fight this episode by dancing with the girl rather than the big speech before the ? to X transformation. It was a great episode.

But judging from what next week's episode will probably be like, I've decided to put this show on hold for a while. Probably going to be just a few weeks.

[Fudce]

I didn't have time to start a post about episode 84 before heading down to London on Saturday morning, but I did watch it, and I did enjoy it despite it being 90% filler. It's the other of Amu's friends that takes the focus, and she wants to be a teacher. There's also a bit of focus on Nikaidou - who it appears is a very competent if a bit scatterbrained teacher.

There is a bit of movement regarding Lulu, it seems she's been kicked out of Easter, maybe setting up a conclusion or next step to her storyline?


Next week, A famous singer! But not Utau? The girl has her own guardian character though...

[bci110]

At long last I finally got caught up with my Shugo Chara watching today :laugh:!

There is a bit of movement regarding Lulu, it seems she's been kicked out of Easter, maybe setting up a conclusion or next step to her storyline?

Hopefully it'll be the next step to the storyline because Lulu really has developed into a pretty decent character, and there's a lot of potential with her and her quest to find the Embryo all for herself (and no Lulu means no Nana, and that would be unacceptable in my view).

But I think Lulu's role with Easter was just about done 5 or 6 episodes ago, and it was time for the character to move on.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode eighty-five posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




There's a top new model gracing the pages of girl's magazine "Pretty" this week, and what's more, Yaya has secretly arranged a photoshoot for the magazine with the model and Guardians..

Introducing Yua-tan! Yua Sakurai, a year younger than the guardians, but isn't she a looker. She has a wonderful voice too - provided by the lovely Rie Kugimiya!

Yua-tan actually went to the same kindergarten as Amu, not that Amu remembers, and even though they never really spoke much, it was Amu that put her on her path to fame, and because of that the two get really close and friendly, like any single-episode character does with Amu. :P

Now here's where it get's interesting. Yua-tan has a guardian character of her own, Cecil. She's a cute thing which loves to sing, but Yua is not keen on the idea, and frequently gets into fights with her. But it seems that she needs to sing for some fashion show coming up. The truth is that Yua does love to sing, but gets horrid stage fright, even when in a studio. Utau is nearby but with nobody knowing the problem other than Yua, she can't really help.

The episode ends without any transformations or resoltion. Yup, just like with the Snoppe and Ramira stories, it seems it's a two-parter involving a guardian character.


Next week... Part 2! How will the ?-egg work with a pre-hatched character?

[The Great Bear]

There is a bit of movement regarding Lulu, it seems she's been kicked out of Easter, maybe setting up a conclusion or next step to her storyline?Hopefully it'll be the next step to the storyline because Lulu really has developed into a pretty decent character, and there's a lot of potential with her and her quest to find the Embryo all for herself (and no Lulu means no Nana, and that would be unacceptable in my view).

I don't think they're going to leave Lulu behind at this point. They've invested too much time in her, and they still need her to take up space while they wait for the Ikuto storyline to progress enough that they can actually animate it.

[bci110]

Now here's where it get's interesting. Yua-tan has a guardian character of her own, Cecil. She's a cute thing which loves to sing, but Yua is not keen on the idea, and frequently gets into fights with her. But it seems that she needs to sing for some fashion show coming up. The truth is that Yua does love to sing, but gets horrid stage fright, even when in a studio. Utau is nearby but with nobody knowing the problem other than Yua, she can't really help.

You gonna post avatars of Cecil, right? She's too cute not to have any :P !

Anyway, that episode sure did amplified the show's already pumped-up cuteness factor, didn't it? But I though it was a fairly enjoyable episode for what it presented. Part of me feels sorry for Cecil because she and her owner Yua doesn't seem to get along, but Cecil needs to realize her role as a Guardian Character to offer support and help Yua come over her stage fright. An unexpected Chara Change wouldn't hurt either. It seems to me that both Yua and Cecil don't really know exactly what their true ambitions are, and the way I was watching these two, they look very insecure and unsure of themselves. Perhaps in the next episode they will come to a realization as to what their true ambitions are and they can become stronger.

And I thought that Rie Kugimiya did a nice job playing her, too. :)

[Fudce]

You gonna post avatars of Cecil, right? She's too cute not to have any :P !
Both Cecil and Yua! They're both cute.

[bci110]

You gonna post avatars of Cecil, right? She's too cute not to have any :P !
Both Cecil and Yua! They're both cute.

Sweet! Looking forward to it :).

Oh by the way, it appears that Crunchyroll is running some sort of Shugo Chara promotion. For each episode of SC that you watch on CR, you will receive a random Guardian Character virtual item that will be displayed on your profile. The item will appear after you watch the episode and if you can find all 13 characters, you get a free one-month subscription. I don't think this will apply to me because I signed up for a three-month subsription that gets automatically renewed, but I think this could be a good way for more people to take a look at the show and maybe gain more fans. I received one after I watched Episode 85 this morning, but it was a X-egg badge, which doesn't count.

EDIT: Just watched a couple more Shugo Chara episodes (Episodes 3 & 82 - two of my favorites) and received another X-egg badge and a Kiseki badge.

[Suwako Moriya]

Oh by the way, it appears that Crunchyroll is running some sort of Shugo Chara promotion. For each episode of SC that you watch on CR, you will receive a random Guardian Character virtual item that will be displayed on your profile. The item will appear after you watch the episode and if you can find all 13 characters, you get a free one-month subscription.

It's an interesting strategy, but it wouldn't surprise me if some people just let the episode play in the background minimized and muted. As opposed to actually watching any of the episodes.

That being said, I've been watching a bit just for heck of it. In part to try out my luck and so far it's terrible. I've got like one Kusukusu badge and four X Egg badges...

On a side note, at this point I think they have enough ? Egg induced transformations that they could throw together some random game using them.

[bci110]

That being said, I've been watching a bit just for heck of it. In part to try out my luck and so far it's terrible. I've got like one Kusukusu badge and four X Egg badges...

I've watched 5 Shugo Chara episodes since the promotion began (#3, 31, 61, 82, 85) and thus far I received two X-egg badges, two Kiseki badges, and a Temari badge. There are supposed to be 13 badges in all (the X-egg badge doesn't count), and my guess that the Charas are Ran, Miki, Suu, Pepe, Kiseki, Temari, Kusukusu, Daishi, Iru, Eru, and Yoru for sure, but the other two could be between Dia, Musashi, and Nana. If they're using the first season, then I think Nana missed the cut.

[Suwako Moriya]

There are supposed to be 13 badges in all (the X-egg badge doesn't count), and my guess that the Charas are Ran, Miki, Suu, Pepe, Kiseki, Temari, Kusukusu, Daishi, Iru, Eru, and Yoru for sure, but the other two could be between Dia, Musashi, and Nana. If they're using the first season, then I think Nana missed the cut.

Well, I can tell you for certain that Musashi is one of the 13 since I just got that one. Thus it would be a choice between Nana and Dia. The first season thing would give the advantage to Dia. Also since she is connected to Amu that gives her another advantage. Then again her role has been severely limited. Probably because someone dislikes the twin tails.:cry:

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode eighty-six posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




So, a continuation of part one? Sounds good, more Rie Kugimiya and Akane Omoe is in no way a bad thing. :)

As from last time, Yua has stage fright, and can't sing a word. Just as things are looking bad, the lights dim, and Utau walks by her and steals the spotlight, all in order to stop Yua from being too hurt by embarrassment of course. It seems that Yua can't sing in front of anyone, even Cecil, but she does love to sing. She runs off saying that she will never sing again.

Later on, Lulu spots her and does her gem thing, but gets annoyed when an egg doesn't come out of Yua. She obviously doesn't know that Yua has her own character. A character who has just turned into a ?-chara!

Long fight short, Amu and Yaya get their butts kicked, are saved by Seraphic Charm, and Amu does her usual talk them into submission attack. It does come with a flashback to why she can't sing, and what Amu said that inspired her so much. It seems all silly, but when you're that age anything is ten times as bad as it actually is, so it's believable.

Close on a cute and lovely song by Yua, showcasing Rie Kugimiya's voice, and another chance for Pony Canyon to milk the CD sales. Not that I'm complaining. :)


Next week, Nana's sick! Amu takes care of her and Ran, Miki & Su dress up!

[Suwako Moriya]

After letting several episodes run in the background while doing other things, I've managed to get Ran, Miki, Kiseki, Temari, Kusukusu, Daishi, Iru, Eru, Yoru, and Musashi. Apparently, I'm incapable of getting Suu, Pepe, and Dia. That shows my level of luck in these type of things.

[Quarkboy]

After letting several episodes run in the background while doing other things, I've managed to get Ran, Miki, Kiseki, Temari, Kusukusu, Daishi, Iru, Eru, Yoru, and Musashi. Apparently, I'm incapable of getting Suu, Pepe, and Dia. That shows my level of luck in these type of things.

Just to note: Dia is a rare, and there are only 10 of her badges in existence total, plus 7 winners already, so there are only 3 more out there (at the most).

It works just like the monopoly game at mcdonalds :).

[Suwako Moriya]

Just to note: Dia is a rare, and there are only 10 of her badges in existence total, plus 7 winners already, so there are only 3 more out there (at the most).

Ah, so I shouldn't expect to get her at all. Not that I've been trying hard enough.

[Mateo_home]

Seeing as this was a two parter, I'm glad I took a little hiatus watching new episodes of this anime.

Anyway this was one of the better developed ?-character transformations. Usually they fly around causing mischief, Yui on the other hand just absorbed it. Also I never knew Lulu's ritual after giving the jewelry was that important. Yui's song playing during the credits was great, and she has a lot of energy. Overall, this was my favorite filler two parter topping the Snoppe one. Only complaint with this episode is I didn't get a new Utau song out of it (random note, it's been a while since she wore that black tutu.) Ah well, Heartful Song is still awesome.

[Mateo_home]

There is a bit of movement regarding Lulu, it seems she's been kicked out of Easter, maybe setting up a conclusion or next step to her storyline?Hopefully it'll be the next step to the storyline because Lulu really has developed into a pretty decent character, and there's a lot of potential with her and her quest to find the Embryo all for herself (and no Lulu means no Nana, and that would be unacceptable in my view).

I don't think they're going to leave Lulu behind at this point. They've invested too much time in her, and they still need her to take up space while they wait for the Ikuto storyline to progress enough that they can actually animate it.

One thing about her that's great is when an anime is willing to poke fun at itself. Especially coming from Nana asking Lulu "Why do you spend time at someone else's school" or "Why are you always targeting Amu's friends."

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode eighty-seven posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




Quite a simple episode really, Nana suddenly gets sick and with nobody else to turn to, Lulu begrudgingly calls Amu. Lots of hilarity ensues involving Ran, Miki and Su in nurse outfits, Lulu and Amu attempting to cook (without Su's help) and going on a quest to make all of Nana's favourite Nagoya foods. By the end of the day it's apparant that Lulu and Amu are quite a good match for each other as friends, but as Nana recovers she accidentally blurts out the truth about the ?-eggs.

Really good episode, blatantly set up for next week's affair, but it had a lot of good Lulu and Nana moments in it.


Next week... ?-charms, ?-eggs, ?-Nana, Dia.

[Mateo_home]

Really good episode, blatantly set up for next week's affair, but it had a lot of good Lulu and Nana moments in it.


Agreed. I'm actually sort of glad the ?-egg case is about to get wrapped up. I never thought this day would come. At the end of this episode I think the music was telling me I was supposed to feel dramatically shocked about how we found out who's been behind the ?-eggs (and by "we", I mean Amu), but I just couldn't help but laugh over how Nana spilled the beans like that.

[Fudce]

Really good episode, blatantly set up for next week's affair, but it had a lot of good Lulu and Nana moments in it.


Agreed. I'm actually sort of glad the ?-egg case is about to get wrapped up. I never thought this day would come. At the end of this episode I think the music was telling me I was supposed to feel dramatically shocked about how we found out who's been behind the ?-eggs (and by "we", I mean Amu), but I just couldn't help but laugh over how Nana spilled the beans like that.

It was a very Nana thing to do, wasn't it?

[Quarkboy]

Really good episode, blatantly set up for next week's affair, but it had a lot of good Lulu and Nana moments in it.


Agreed. I'm actually sort of glad the ?-egg case is about to get wrapped up. I never thought this day would come. At the end of this episode I think the music was telling me I was supposed to feel dramatically shocked about how we found out who's been behind the ?-eggs (and by "we", I mean Amu), but I just couldn't help but laugh over how Nana spilled the beans like that.

It was a very Nana thing to do, wasn't it?

And Nana's reaction when she realizes how deep sh*t she's in is just priceless. If shugo chara's had the ability to go to the bathroom I think she would have wet herself.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode eighty-eight posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.





The news is out that Lulu has been the one extracting the ?-eggs, and this episode is very much about the reaction to the revelations. There's some great backstory for Lulu, and some very distressed guardians who were shocked by the news.

Dia does appear but it's her usual role of talking to the guardian characters then going back to sleep again.

Towards the end, Lulu goes on a ?-extracting mission, handing out a basket full of charms, saving the last for herself.

Next week, the conclusion.

[Quarkboy]

Okay, here's a cool guessing game for you people:

Now that we know Lulu's going to ? Character Transform herself, the only real question remains:

What will she call herself? It's always "XXXXXX Dream!" where "XXXXX" is the name of the thing you want to be, but in Lulu's case she's never been able to figure that out exactly.

So what do people think she'll be called? (P.S. I happen to know the answer, of course, (as I'm translating the next ep tomorrow) but I'm curious what people think.

[Fudce]

Now that we know Lulu's going to ? Character Transform herself, the only real question remains:

What will she call herself? It's always "XXXXXX Dream!" where "XXXXX" is the name of the thing you want to be, but in Lulu's case she's never been able to figure that out exactly.

Several spring to mind, "Wishing Dream", or maybe something like "Free Dream".


And Quarkboy, please be careful about keeping replies within the ep88 subthread - especially with Crunchyroll shows (due to the one week delay for non-subscribers)

[The Great Bear]

My usual week late comments :P

That as an amusing episode, especially with the Guardian Character medical team.

Next week (which you've all already seen :P) does look to be where the revelation begins to reverberate.

[bci110]

Really good episode, blatantly set up for next week's affair, but it had a lot of good Lulu and Nana moments in it.


OK, I'll finally admit it - after watching this episode, Lady Nana leapfrogged over Lady Suu and she's now my favorite Guardian Character :cool:. It took a few episodes, but Nana-chan's antics in this episode finally pushed her to the top.

Ran, Miki, and Suu looked very cute in their medical outfits.

But more importantly, I like that they were moving forward with the exploration of Amu's and Lulu's budding friendship before Nana opened that big mouth of hers, even though Lulu was very reluctant to ask Amu for help with Nana's illness. But I do see a connection between the two; but obviously that will be tested in the next couple of episodes now that Amu knows who's behind the creation of the Mystery Eggs.

Overall a very entertaining episode and definitely one of my favorites in the Doki series thus far :).

[Mateo_home]

Easter boss: I'll get you next time Ikuto Tsukuyomi. Next time.
Oh gosh darn it I don't have a cat.

Moving onto the episode itself, I can't say I'm surprised it ended with a cliffhanger. In all honesty it's going to take more than one episode to wrap this up, but still handled nicely. My guess to why Lulu's mom turned down the offer is she would prefer to live a normal life and for Lulu as well.

At the end I did want to see what ?-Nana would look like, assuming she'll have a ? form. And I've come to realize that Dia is indeed one of those rare Pokemon you can't catch in the game. Which one? Jirachi.

[Fudce]

At the end I did want to see what ?-Nana would look like, assuming she'll have a ? form. And I've come to realize that Dia is indeed one of those rare Pokemon you can't catch in the game. Which one? Jirachi.

We'll get a good idea on what a ?-Nana would look like from what ?-Lulu looks like. If you remember, when Yui transformed she looked the same as how ?-Cecil looked.

As for Dia - she's more of a Mew. Pointlessly showing up to taunt you at every chance she gets.

[Mateo_home]

As for Dia - she's more of a Mew. Pointlessly showing up to taunt you at every chance she gets.

I dunno. I figured Mew would be better suited for the role of the Embryo. Showing up to check out an X-egg affair and flying off. I went with Dia being Jirachi because he's the Wish Pokemon, and he does have some yellow. In fact you pretend the star shape on his head are twin tails. Or perhaps I have the roles reversed. I can see both of them in SC.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode eighty-nine posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




A slight letdown of an episode if I'm honest, but I did enjoy it at least. The episode starts off where the last one ended, with Lulu putting on the necklace and Nana becoming a ?-egg... She seems concious of what's going on, and starts ordering the three giant ?-eggs around making their attacks more effective against Amu, Rima and Tadase, and Nagihiko and Yaya respectively. While all of this is going on, she transforms into Dream Dream. (That would have been one of my guesses had I not thought that it was a bit weird sounding - I was along the right lines at least)

The fight itself is pretty good, with some sustained trouble for the Guardian's, but it ends in the all too familiar "Amu's heart to heart Attack", literally talking the enemy into submission.

One good thing about the shortened battle is that the cooldown from the fight has time to be well rounded, with Lulu finally understanding her mother, and her mother finally understanding Lulu. Lulu moves back to France where her mother will be in a new film, but under strict conditions to allow time for family, and time for doing Japanese variety shows - of course!

There's some pretty sweet moments between Amu and Lulu as well, their cool and spicy friendship will continue it seems, and Lulu leaves Amu with a gift - a pendant like the ?-egg pendants, only without the ?-egg stuff. She proclaims that she wants to be a famous jeweller. As well as being a singer, dancer, model, patissier, etc... She really is a dreamer. :D


Next week... Love love time, as couples are in the spotlight... Oh, and Death Rebel resurfaces.

[Mateo_home]

I tend to agree the fight ended sooner than I thought it would have. Especially since it was won the same way all ?-egg fights are. Speaking of which we never did see a ?-Nana, huh? The rest was great though. I really loved the bonding with Lulu and her mother. Along with her and Amu becoming friends for real this time. In all honesty I'd rather have this than have the rest of the episode recap this part of the story.

Guess we'll have a new OP & ED next week. I know I'm being ungrateful, but watching next week's preview I was hoping we could finally shed some light on Nagihiko and his eggs. Ah well, at least we're being treated to Death Rebel.

[bci110]

Guess we'll have a new OP & ED next week. I know I'm being ungrateful, but watching next week's preview I was hoping we could finally shed some light on Nagihiko and his eggs. Ah well, at least we're being treated to Death Rebel.

Maybe that's the next story arch they will explore now that it seems that both Lulu and Nana-chan might've been written out of the story (hopefuly they'll have recurring roles like Utau and Iru and Eru). But as I said a while ago I believed that the writers did all they could with Lulu's character development and felt that it was time to move on. Unfortunately for me no more Lulu means no more Nana, but I'm hoping that they will re-hatch Temari so they can still use Ryoka Yuzuki in the series to reprise that role.

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode ninty posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




The beginning of the end? That pretty much sums up how I felt watching Shugo Chara episode 90 this evening.. but really that is what it is. We enter into the series eigth cour with a brand new opening, full of that Shugo Chara sweetness that I've grown to love over the series. An interesting note for the new opening is that there is no sign of either Lulu or Kairi and their characters, but Utau and Kukai do appear. Also appearing for the first time is a long blue haired guardian character who is very likely Nagihiko's new guardian character. No sign of Temari though... There's also much more of Ami than previous openings.

The episode itself looks to move things forward from the ?-egg arc and move things towards the conclusion as a whole - Yoru is still freeloading at Amu's house and Ikuto is still locked up at Easter. It's actually an X-egg of the week episode in all fairness, with an Amu/Tadase fight with Death Rebel thrown in for good measure. It's about a love festival where you shout your love. We learn that Ami is a playgirl, and that Yukari and Yuu make a really cute couple.


Next week should be interesting. Things are going to move at their own rhythm, but will Nagihiko find his? There's basketball, there's Nagihiko, and there's the blue egg.

[bci110]

The beginning of the end? That pretty much sums up how I felt watching Shugo Chara episode 90 this evening..

As much as I hate to accept it, I believe you might be right - tonight most likely started the final 13 episodes of the Shugo Chara anime. ANN listed the episode count up to 102, and I haven't heard anything about the series being renewed for a third term so it looks like we're entering the final story arch of the anime. I'm pretty sure Peach-Pit will keep the manga going beyond the eventual end of its anime run.

Speaking of which, I guess I can go ahead and safely say that we will finally see the long-awaited debut of Rhythm in anime form. I was hoping that Temari will re-hatch, but that doesn't seem likely now. Rhythm represents the athletic, more boyish side to Nagihiko, sort of like the opposite to the elegent, ladylike Temari.

And in case you're wondering, Rhythm is a male Character. Temari's gender however is still under debate, though ;).

As for the episode itself, it wasn't too bad. Not much to say about the episode except that the Death Rebel storyline does show some promise.

[Quarkboy]

[quote=Fudce;1606703]
As for the episode itself, it wasn't too bad. Not much to say about the episode except that the Dark Rebel storyline does show some promise.
It's Death Rebel, not Dark Rebel. Get it right or Ikuto will cut you.

And P.S. subs for new opening and ending coming next week (we got the ep too late to make them in time this week...)

[Mateo_home]

Couldn't watch this last night due to my internet being down. Unneeded, but wanted to get that out.

The beginning of the end? That pretty much sums up how I felt watching Shugo Chara episode 90 this evening..

As much as I hate to accept it, I believe you might be right - tonight most likely started the final 13 episodes of the Shugo Chara anime. ANN listed the episode count up to 102, and I haven't heard anything about the series being renewed for a third term so it looks like we're entering the final story arch of the anime. I'm pretty sure Peach-Pit will keep the manga going beyond the eventual end of its anime run.


It was around this time last year the series was getting green-lit, right? I'd be saddened for it not to get a proper ending, though on another forum read the manga is coming to a close, but I dunno. Wonder if an anime is popular enough it'll continue until it properly ends.....I wish.

Anyway this episode itself was pretty good (That love hoop doesn't suit Utau at all). I liked the new OP and I loved the new ED. Especially the summer theme it has going for it. While I've wanted a beach episode even if it would just mindless filler, this is probably the best I'm going to get. And for the next episode it's about ****ing time for Nagi's egg to hatch. Can't say I'm surprised about his design because months ago I was image searching out of boredom and saw him on vol. 8's cover. Either it was him or Kiseki. If the anime does end this fall at least he'll appear now rather than the end of the last episode only to get the big "CANCELLED" stamp.:P

[Fudce]

Remember to respond to this post for all episode ninty-one posts.
To respond directly to a post, click the button labeled "Quote", or the furthest button right to quick reply to this post.




They're quite up front about what's gonna happen this week, essentially telling us the story in the short intro segment, but we knew what was gonna happen this week from the preview, so no harm done.

Nagi is subbing for some injured players in a basketball match it seems, and he's pretty good at it. That doesn't stop Kukai from joining in on the fun and putting his replacement under the microscope. They have an arm wrestling match, which Kukai just about wins, but while it happens the blue egg shudders.

The episode revolves around Nagihiko and his egg, obviously, and the catalyst for the hatching of his egg is an X-character (wow, not said that in a while) attack caused by the idiot trio. I figured they'd get involved again given that abusing Ikuto would be kind of cheap.

Anyway, while fighting three basketball playing X-characters he remembers how much he loved to play the game and how much freedom it gave him from being tied to acting like a girl when he was a kid, and the egg hatches, and immediatly springs forth a character transformation. Beat Jumper!

It's a pretty standard X-character of the week afair (well, the first one in several months but still standard) but it does introduce us to Rhythm - Nagihiko's new character. He's gonna take some getting used to, but just like Miki, I'm sure we'll all end up loving him.


Next week we look closer at Nagihiko, Rhythm, and Beat Jumper it seems.

[Mateo_home]

For some reason it's like idiot villains actually go looking for their plans to be foiled. It just seems too coincidental that they'd pull off their experiment right where the main heroes are. And I agree that for standard X-egg or X-chara I'd rather have it be these three because with Ikuto it would lose flavor quickly. "Hey, he's recovering". "Quick! Call him back". "Oh gosh darn it". Have to admit while X-charas aren't new, it's certainly refreshing, so much Ran, Miki, and Su forgot who they were.

And hooray for Rhythm finally hatching (for now). Still want to see more focus on him. As for Beat Jumper, I could easily see him and Sky Jack working together. Looking back at his character change with Temari, it must have been his frustration of limiting himself.

[bci110]

Holy crap! X-Characters :knowitall:! Geez, when was the last time we saw them in the show - seemed like ages ago with all of the ?-Character Changes that was dominating the Doki series up to this point.

Anyway great to see the anime debuts of Rhythm and Beat Jumper. Didn't take long for Lady Miki to be smitten by Rhythm's sheer coolness (and didn't take long for Rhythm to occupy my avatar space either - take a pine, Lady Nana :P). The episode itself was pretty decent - good that we finally had a Nagihiko story in the series, and yes I do see Beat Jumper and Sky Jack being a formable duo, though I think he'll be paired more with Amulet Heart throughout the remainder of the series.