Wednesday, July 25, 2012

The Hobo Corner: Slap up Party Arad Senki Review

I hope you like it.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

The Hobo Corner: Dungeon Fighter Online Review

At long last the review you have been waiting for my first video review I hope you enjoy and there's many more to come.

Friday, April 13, 2012

Quick update

Hey everyone Hobo Girl here sorry it's been so long. but I have some very good news and bad news.

Bad news: the editing software I was using happened to be a trial software which expired and gave my computer a virus. yes before I here this I tried using Run as date only works for  32-bit operating and programs while the computer I use is a 64-bit system. in other words I had to download another program and so far Sony Vegas pro is great hopefully I get it done before it expires. No it does not show how much longer I have left on the trial.


Good News: I have gotten along farther and are at the final stages of production. I also a request for myself to review a series and generous donation of it. the only issue I didn't grow up with the series so I'll have to do some  research on a few of the jokes they make being pop culture references of the time the series was made.
So far I really like the series so much so I'll probably make a video review.

Soap the TV series


A special thanks to DR. Ina for donating and requesting this series which has four seasons so it may take awhile to watch.


So expect in the future a review but just because I like the show don't expect for even a second I'll go easy on it.


Also as a special one year anniversary of the hobo corner being the internet I'll be reviewing XXXholic the movie. why XXXholic's movie because it so far the most popular and read review as back when I first started this site. yes we have lost many reviewers due to laziness, got a job, girlfriend/boyfriend, school and my all time favorite got attacked by a crazed Canadian after a hockey game the Canadian team won. there so used to losing they go nuts when they win. or just plain out not bothering to contact me and getting tired of hunting them down. but this site isn't going away so if your interested in being a reviewer message me at the e-mail address giving the following

name you want go by:
writing experience/ video experience, also any experience you would think be valuable to know about:
must be able to prove you have a strong grasp on the English language.
A sample of your writing
how frequently you would be able to do a review:
e-mail address, skype, aim, anything really.
two ways of getting a hold of you would be nice but one strong one is fine too.

so don't forget to message if interested at hobo-girl@hotmail.com.
or if it does not go through let me know on the site and I'll give you my alternate e-mail address.

Special Thanks to the fans and everyone that has been here the past year let's keep making
The Hobo Corner a wonderful site.


Friday, March 2, 2012

Site News and Updates




Hobo Girl 3/2/12

Well I have a very special surprise for all of you my first video review. I am reviewing the video game Dudgeon Fighter online. I am also currently editing footage and finished the audio.

Supernatural Knight: I am currently in the midst of watching Stein;Gate and soon I'll write up a review.

Hatless: I am watching Hikaru No Go and soon a review will be written.


In other News: I Hobo Girl have been doing some voice acting working and will be appearing in a Durarara!!
 parody.  Also soon the one who wrote the script for the parody I will be posting his videos he also does some by himself or does group project.

Supernatural Knight's intro


Hi all I'm Supernatural Knight, I'm the newest resident on this block called the Hobo Corner.

I'm going to be joining this reviewing site with my reviews directed at T.V. shows, Movies, and Anime. 
However mostly they will be directed at anime as that is where my area of expertise lies. I hope that I'll bring a level of sophistication with me however I should warn you that I have a sense of humour and hate romance, so my reviews may be a bit unorthodox.
I would be open to excepting requests as long as the request is anime related and is somehow connected to the Supernatural theme, just inform Hobo girl and I'll consider it.
What else is there to say except enjoy my reviews to come, and don't even think of asking for my real name because everyone that knows it has already been paid in apples [death note reference] to keep everyone quiet, including Hobo girl.


I told you I had a sense of humor.

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

[C] The Money of Soul and Possibility Control Review

A Supernatural Knight Review









[C] The Money of Soul and Possibility Control Review

Story Overview 7.5/10
The storyline of [C] the Money of Soul and Possibility Control revolves around the life of nineteen year old Kimimaro. He is the average college student attending lectures, taking notes, working a part time job at a corner store to earn minimum wage, and being infatuated with someone that is out of his league. His life consists of of nothing more than school and work because of insufficient funds for a social life, that is until he is approached by the mysterious Masakaki of the financial district. From here his life changes as he discovers the challenges associated with making money, and finds out exactly what the price of wealth is.

The series itself is set in two main locations, one being Japan and the other being a different dimension called the Financial District. The only way to gain access to the Financial District is to be chosen randomly after a position opens up. After being picked, the illusive Masakaki which is the anime version of Johnny Deep's Willy Wonka character, shows up to explain what the financial district is. The method of traveling between the two dimensions is essentially a taxi service that appears mysteriously from nowhere, often passing through walls for a short cut, now that is a money saving idea!

Upon entering the Financial District each individual is assigned an asset based upon their future which is used as collateral for this dimension. Assets are an accompanying ally that will fight by their entrepreneur or "entres" side to protect them. During these fights funds are gained or lost depending on the outcome of each "Deal" or battle. The assets are generally kept in small cards that have access to their winnings which then can be spent on earth, by now it begins to sound like a Pokémon Yugioh crossover with gambling, one of the themes missing from both of those series. However in a dimension that's only existence is to win money, not all is as it seems in this parallel world, what a shock. There is one condition to all entre's and that is if you lose a deal it will somehow effect the losers life negatively, however if you become bankrupt your banned from this dimension and the negative effects are far greater, usually resulting in suicide.

While the Storyline does seem somewhat borrowed, it still manages to be fairly unique with a few plot twists and interesting developments that keep things new and interesting until the end. This series is only 11 episodes long so it doesn't have too much time to spend on building complex back stories to all characters however they do manage to give some level of depth to the main cast. [C] the Money of Soul and Possibility Control is new out this year and as such there is currently not enough information revealed about the possibility of a dub release. The pace of [C] is slow starting as it takes an episode for Kimimaro to enter the Financial District, however it does indicate some of what is to be expected with a brief battle scene between two other Financial District competitors. This series is very much a science fiction,shounen, tournament anime which means it contains action and generally appeals to a younger male audience, however it also contains a hint of romance for variety.


Characters 6/10
The characters in the series don't have too long to develop since it is such a short series but the level of depth given is commendable. The main flaw is that the main character is nineteen yet he takes on the appearance of a young high school student with a slightly wimpy attitude, he is also another cliché's text book example of a hero that must first rise to the challenge to save the day. Also opponents are used mostly as one time appearance guests with only a few returning later in the series, which means that there are a few characters that seem flat and doesn't appear to have any conceivable feelings other than greed.


Animation
The animation of the series is consistent throughout the series, there is no unsightly slip in quality and the background is done in detail for earth while a plain grid like appearance is given to the world of the Financial District. The appearance of the Assets are done in a similar style to the humans however there are times when they take a more 3D form which seems slightly out of place. There is one scene where an overly dramatic deterioration in quality is used to heighten the climax of a fight, a technique that is somewhat of a cliché now as seen in many popular shounen series.

Music 2/10
The music for the most part is forgettable as it fades into the background and fails to be significant or even really heard. However in the disappointment of the music there is one piece that stands out and that is the opening theme Matryoshka performed by Nico Touches the Walls, which is a Japanese rock band.

Overall 6/10
While the story is entertaining and different from other shounen series, there are still some cliché's aspects that causes it to lose some of the appeal that a new series should generate. The characters are decent to look at, with the exception of a young looking nineteen year old. The themes present in [C] are somewhat relatable as they are not farfetched but realistic, other than the science fiction different dimension part. With the exception of the opening theme, the music is boring virtually nonexistent and therefore is the let down of the series, but other than poor musical soundtrack there aren't really any other let downs in the series.

Is the series worth a re-watch?
With all the positive points this series may be worth a re-watch, however for the most part it is easy to understand and explains mostly everything that you need to know. While enjoyable it isn't a feel good type of anime that is usually associated with a re-watch. However it does leave the viewer wanting more, possibly wishing for a second series, because of the open ended final scenes.
In the end it comes down to personal opinions and cannot otherwise be decided for you.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

The Hobo Corner: Black Butler Review



Black Butler Review




Story:  9.5/ 10

Coming this Fall! Ever wonder what goes on with the life of the rich and famous? Well this isn't that kind of show. Were covering the servants of the rich and famous an in depth look on the pressures and challenges they face. Watch the drama unfold and it will be a smash hit. Only on the Fox network Watch this Fall Cleaning it up!   The life behind the scenes which keep the celebrities looking pretty!

  Guess what I lied I just made the whole thing up.  But Black Butler does have some of those elements. Oh yeah watch they'll be an advertisement for it they have made a reality show about everything but the servants or hired help.   I'm going to cover season 1 and later get to season 2 that piece of work.
It's a very unique coming of age story where the main character having to grow up fast but still being about 12 years old physically. He and his butler must overcome amazing odd and fight various things. sounds great doesn't? Well that is only a fraction of what you really get is a lot of talking, scenes making fun of Yaoi and Shonen-ai sorry fan girls not Sebastian X Ciel. Also lots of talking about cleaning and food; not the best anime to watch when hungry you'll end up with a bad case of the munchies.  This for older audiences not something you want to show a five year old unless you want to teach them about Yaoi in a disturbing way; But heck I learned about furies that way. Anyways  The action scenes are amazing as well as the ending is perfect and will leave you screaming for more.
The only down side is you may end up googling some events considering this is a borderline historical anime. So if you're not a history buff well a buff on the Victorian era you may be confused at some points. That and the incessant display and talk of food which can be annoying and a waste of time.

As far as the manga goes it does leave out some characters which leaves some of the background characters unexplained why they do and act the way they do. A benefit of the manga unlike the anime it explains and elaborates more on references used in the anime. In other words you won't be looking up as much.  The art style is unique and shines in character development , But seem lacking when it comes to action sequences.
Compared to other manga I noticed there are lots and lots of speed lines in action scenes but to me there are more speed lines then being able to see what the character is doing.  But over time it gets better there also several plot differences.  There is one arc I wish they would have included from the manga where well generalized it's the titanic except with zombies and a all out shinigami war. if this sounds up your alley go check it out is amazing.




Episode one:
Our show starts out with a young naked boy covered in feathers talking to a crow.  Oh no someone left there Hentai on oh wait never mind it switches to a young boy being woken up by a older man.  He is being told his schedule and what not when as the older man leaves. The young man suddenly hurls a sharp dart at the guy but he catches it. I thought I was cranky when I didn't get my coffee guess the Ritalin coffee hasn't taken affect yet . When the butler brushes it off like it is nothing and we find out this young man has a butler. He keeps throwing darts and splitting what looks to a farmer splitting his head open. That's right kill the Monkey D. Luffie hat wearing blonde farm guy!  The Farm guy asks why and tempted to back hand the brat he just replies cause he felt like it.

We find out the blonde guy is named Finny a gardener , there is a space case, glasses wearing red headed maid named Mey-Rin and another  blonde guy who is busy chain smoking who looks to the chef named Bard. He doesn't look like a Bard more like a Stewart or Henry he doesn't even have a Lute his name is misleading. Also an elderly Asian man named Tanka who looks like he is part of the drapery sitting there drinking tea.  The butler looking to be the head of the servants chews out the other slacker servants. The other servants scurry away like children seeing  a horrible monster.  While the butler goes on a monologue about how everything is obsessively perfect and seems to get some sick pleasure out of it all being perfect.
When it switches to the servants talking in another room talking about the butler named Sebastian on how they want to knock him  off his high horse and that there not always big screw ups.

It switches over to the young man in an office asking Sebastian to make him a snack when the butler declines he throws a chair at him. No not really but he looks like he would. We find out that the young man's name is Ciel Phantomhive and he is the head of a large manor. He reminds Sebastian who is boss and he better straighten up.

We see Sebastian interrogating the other servants on why the front lawn is now a desert which was once grassy, why all the dishes are destroy and the kitchen is on fire. The reasons being Finny the gardener got a little carried away weeding, Mey-Rin the maid had a Steve Urkel moment and pretty much broke all the dishes in the dining room. Bard's being the chef reason is because he felt like doing some extreme cooking using chainsaws and flamethrowers. So much for trying to mess Sebastian up today. After Sebastian decided to stop being rude to the other servants he tells he has a plan to fix everything in time for a fancy dinner party there having that night.

When it switches and an Italian man gets out of a carriage oh look it's Mario!! oh wait wrong Italian guy!
It shows that they decided to fox everything by doing a Japanese theme night to hide all the damages.
The servants looked relieved but Sebastian forewarns them there is still much work to be done.
While it looks like Ciel and Italian guy as playing the game of life from hot topic now includes several kinds of new horrendous ways  to die. The Italian guy starts to get a little creped out as Ciel is acting very odd. Luckily Sebastian comes to tell them dinner is ready and the Italian guys tries to politely tell Ciel he is done playing but he makes a big stink out of it. So he says he'll play the twisted board game with him after dinner some more. As they walk toward the dining hall the Italian guy mutters rude thing about  Ciel on how he is a spoiled brat; But covers himself up  that him being a child is what makes the toy company they run one of the best in the world.
During the dinner Mey-rin who glasses are broken pours wine all over the nice table cloth of course Sebastian being escaped from the circus takes it and rips it off without knocking any of the dishes off.

Later on after the dinner the Italian guys tries to wrap things up but Ciel won't have up he is set on them finishing their board game. But the Italian guy excuses himself to make a phone call when we overhear the guy is just looking for money and just wants get the hell out of there. While a mysterious dark figure watches the whole thing.

On his way back the Italian guys starts getting super paranoid and starts acting insane thinking there is something after him. As he starts running through the house screaming terrified he falls down the stairs and breaks his leg. When the servants find him and try to help he just tells them to get away he crawls away his leg twisted in every direction but the right one to find some place to hide.
When Sebastian finds him telling the man to relax and that he needs to still be served dessert. Also with a sadistic grin he insists the man gets the full Phantomhive treatment. The man crawls away hearing  footsteps coming he hides in what appears to be a large cupboard but is very wet and greasy.  He finds he is trapped in the oven and the butler doesn't do a thing. well looks like they got the idea from this manga for Sweeny Todd.

Sebastian lets the other servants know that they are going to need to clean out the oven it has gotten quiet messy now. We see that the Italian man had managed to escape somehow burnt and screaming all the way home. We are let known that Ciel did all this to punish the Italian man for trying to steal his money. that is how the first episode goes it's a bit boring but it gets better as time goes on.






Characters: 5/10
They have some great characters but a lot of them don't get the attention they deserve. I guess my biggest grip is about Sebastian he is too perfect he has no weakness and you don't see him screw up. You can't relate to him or sympathize with what he is going through.  There are some cliche's though as far as the servants go. A clumsy gun totting maid, A super strong gardener  and a pyro-maniac chef. Well the chef is a new one. They do have good villains though so you have to give them credit for that but it more worth to watch the villains than anything.



Animation: 7/10
It's very clean nice and detailed some of the scenes look hand drawn but I have seen better.




Voices: 6/10
 Some of the dub voices can be grating and want to make your ears bleed. But the person who voice Sebastian is amazing. The main two characters on the dub are great as far as the sub goes the side characters are great. The only major plus with the dub is they get the accents dead on but then again in Japanese you really can't do accents. Whatever you prefer  a strong main character then go for the dub and if you want strong side characters go for the sub.





Music: 8/10
I really liked the music both openings and endings the animation is great. the songs are well placed throughout the series very simple violin and piano accompanist to full orchestrated pieces.  Also one of the ending surprisingly is done by an American band which I found a refreshing as an American I can understand what there singing  about. Then again I don't speak Japanese which I think the fan base would kind have the same reaction Americans have to their opening and endings. They may not exactly understand what there singing but it has a great melody so it keeps them dancing and singing.





Overall:  6/10
It's a good series I just wish they didn't have so many food related things and too much talking at times. It seems something one minute their serious the next running around screaming some of the jokes at time seem inorganic to the situation that there forced. But others not bad also I wish they would have given Sebastian some more depth though and maybe how he became a demon. There are pervert situations so you might not want to have little kids watch this unless you want to teach them about Yaoi.



Re-watch value: maybe once or twice but after reading the manga the anime is mild compared to the original work. If you like this series then I recommend reading the manga it's is still ongoing and worth checking out.



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