Marmalade Boy Fan Section - email Back to MB Guide Home and Links Page   From the British Isles "Marmalade Boy continues to live up to my high expectations! I especially enjoyed episodes 6 & 10-12. At this rate I'll probably even become a tennis fan ^_-^;;(OK only if Miki is playing ^_^). I really should compliment you on your excellent subtitles & obvious hard work you must put into the task of subbing Marmalade Boy. You are doing a magnificent job, keep up the good work. I keep my Marmalade Boy twitch under control with the thought that those nice Nikaku Animart people are sending me the MB Vocal CD & That my MB Heroes trading card collection is nearly complete ^_^. This should hopefully last me till I get some more episodes from you.   Mark Cleaver United Kingdom _______________________________________   A Social Marmalade Boy Watcher "My name is Phil. I just wanted everyone to know that I don't have a Marmalade Boy problem. I only watch it socially. OK, sometimes I watch an episode by myself. But, you know, that's only after a really stressful day. It helps me relax. And, I don't have to keep watching Marmalade Boy. I can quit "any time I want to". I just don't want to yet. Besides, it makes me look older. (I know watching a cartoon aimed at teenage Japanese girls has to help me look more mature.) And all my friends a TAAS watch it too. I've seen up to episode 16, and have episodes 17-24 waiting to watched. See? I still have Marmalade Boy that I haven't watched. And, I don't need to watch it. I can go without watching it for days, weeks even. No problem. And, even though I'm going to send off for more tapes as they come in (I'll be getting 25-28 soon), I don't spend a lot of money on Marmalade Boy. It' s just a little bit, here and there. I also have some of the manga, and will get some more soon. I know people say that the anime is like a stepping stone to harder forms of Marmalade Boy addiction, but I just like the more intense feel of the manga. I don't think I have a problem if I read it alone, or at work. It's not like it's hurting anyone else, right? And I don't think the Marmalade Boy trading cards are a problem either. I could live without them. And I don't have any of the art books. And, as I don't "need" the art books, I probably won't buy them. Yet. At least not until I have a bit of money to spare. But, I don't really need food. Yeah, I can do without for a few days... I don't know why people keep talking about what a problem Marmalade Boy is, and how it destroys people. I know that I'm not like those people who can't control their Marmalade Boy consumption. I've got more self control than that. It's not a problem for me. I like Arimi, but I think it's just the hair. Maybe I'll go watch an episode of Marmalade Boy now. Just one episode. Just one before I go to sleep..." Phil (Phil Lee) _________________________________   WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A HEATHEN? Marmalade Boy just gets better and better, I collapsed laughing at the end of episode 19. where it showed the trailer for episode 20 (somebody has a seriously weird sense humor ^_^). I was happy to see that Miki and Yuu seem finally to be expressing their feelings for each other, but this is probably just because I'm a hopeless romantic...sigh (we all have our faults ^_^). I'm doing my best to convert my anime club member to MB at the moment, so far only one has resisted (Heathen). One young lady has even started drawing pictures of Miki on her letters to me with her club requests (aren't I lucky). Mark ______________________________________________   Ginta's The Target Regarding episode #13: "Personally Ginta, I would suggest a cold shower." Chris Raymer   ___________________________________________   A Family Social Thing ".....I've watched to episode 22 so far. "We" is the operative word, because until MB, my wife showed no real interest in sharing my passion for anime. Sure, she could tolerate sitting through episodes of Ranma, Tenchi, or Orange Road. But MB is like a family picnic, something for which we set a little time aside in our busy, baby-focused home schedule. It's very gratifying that Meilin can enjoy this particular anime as much as I can and that we actually have long conversations on it's merits. ...Our son will be raised on the likes of Marmalade Boy. (KD: Does it work as well as Espillac and diapers? (^_^) Lee D.   ___________________________________________   CONDIMENTS .....It is rare to come upon a show with so many characters that one can care for, characters that are fleshed out, real, yet ever full of surprises. Though the title may belie it, _Marmalade Boy_is not just Yuu or even Miki’s show: it's Arimi's, Ginta's, Meiko's, Na-chans, etc.'s show...a veritable cupboard full of tasty breakfast condiments. Young-Kyu ___________________________________________   FROM EPISODE #1 TO SUZU! First off: WOW! That first episode is possibly the best intro any TV series has ever had. Every second a blast. Unlike to many other series where people assure you that "once you watch past episode 12 it starts to pick up" MB grabs you right from the beginning. And not a second is wasted. By the commercial break we are introduced to Miki and Yuu, both families, Meiko, Yuu, Ginta; the whole marriage situation is laid out; and amazingly none of it feels rushed in the slightest (unlike say, Nadesico). Brilliant story telling! And it continues - a simple gag like being hit by a basketball would, in most other series, be simply that. We'd get the laugh and then move on. But instead it's used as a tool to get Miki into the Nurse's Room so that we can have what may be one of the best cliff hanger endings I've ever seen. Why is this mysterious Yuu fellow? And why the hell did he do that? And "Oh my God!" It's MB's seamless mix of comedy and teenage angst that has always earned my admiration. Even quality series like Fushigi Yuugi often experience awkward transitions from their comedic to melodramatic moments, but MB never stumbles. Throughout the series that mix is handled expertly, the series only bringing unintentional laughs from the audience during Jinny's dance and when the animators use a particularly overly dramatic visual metaphor or device to underscore the gravity of the situation. I'll address these as they come. Just a few more points: Miki refers to a six month waiting period for divorced women before they can remarry. Is this law still on the books? does it also apply to men who wish to remarry? Miki comments that she's given up on trying to change everyone's minds about the partner swap because they look "like friends who've been together for a long time." Foreshadowing? Or was the manga's conclusion not yet written when episode #1 of the anime was done? And Moment, the song used to close the episode is still one of my favorite J-pop tunes. I often embarrass myself by humming it out loud while waiting at bus stops. It's a shame they play it much less often as the series progresses. If MB kept that level of intensity and just plain goodness throughout its run it would be considered probably the very best anime that ever was. It doesn't, but then I could hardly expect it to stay as good as its first episode. But it does continue to be a quality series throughout its run. Again, we'll see how it develops in the coming weeks. See y'all tomorrow. and don't worry, these are going to get very brief as I progress. (until Suzu arrives, and then I'll rant for pages on how she is the ANTICHRIST.) From one obsessed fan to another, Elijah van der Giessen ________________________________________________________________________     To this question posted by me... Marmalade Boy Gentlemen, For the sake of curiosity, please tell me WHY your favorite characters are your favorite characters. I'm really interested in hearing what moves people's minds and hearts.   VOTES FOR MIKI   Like Girlfriend Howdy all! I figured I'd finally start participating in this mailing list and throw in a vote for Miki. Reason? Cause she's a little clumsy at women things. Just like my girlfriend. Clumsy in a more cute sorta way rather than in an irritating fashion. And her insistence on sharing everything is reminiscent too. Although the choice was hard because I like Meiko a lot too. And I don't know why either. Actually, I kinda like all of `em. Which is one thing I've realized about this series; there really isn't anyone to dislike (well, except for Kyoto (or was it Kyoko?) sensei. But all the main characters are likable and even though there are love triangles everywhere everyone still manages to get along well and have good times together. Ben   Understands Miki Guess I should add my vote too...I like Miki most of all...I understand her so completely...I see a lot of myself in her..Especially in the way she responds to people, and her relationships with her parents /"family". Considering I'm a guy, that might be a bit worrying? Ah well... David   Just Two Cents Worth ...I'll put in my two cents worth for Miki. Or at least I'll cast a vote for her. Author Unknown   Micky's Cuter Than Hell As I said before, I'm fond of Miki. I don't know why (yes I do ^_^) She's cuter than hell and has a great personality. She has flat-can't-do anything-with-it- hair, and can't take being teased. Her figure is, less `robust" than what you find on similar aged girls in Mangadom (boys comics anyway) which is a refreshing change. True, she has some unusual problems, but don't we all! I am getting sick of those breast-larger-than-the head type things...enough is enough.... Maybe it's the 4 12 x 6" eyes. he, joudan desu! ^_^ Hehehe... Fred (I think he wrote this)     VOTES FOR ARIMI Determined I'd have to say Arimi is my favorite so far. Aside from the usual list of likable attributes, Arimi is determined without being ruthless. This young lady knows what she wants and she plans meticulously to get what she wants. Yet she is insightful enough to know when something is out of her reach and graceful enough to give it up without further fuss. Chae   Cute and Determined I like Arimi a lot too...she's a bit deceitful at times, but she's very cute, and very determined to get what she wants. David   Selfish, Clinging, Obnoxious Like Himself? ....I'm a guy too and I see a lot of myself in Arimi (which is probably why I don't like her that much). Or at least I see the qualities I don't like about myself in her.Selfishness, clinging to things that are long gone (or never yours to begin with), being obnoxious... Jean   Seeing Deeper Into Her Character I didn't really like Arimi at first. I've had problems with `over-aggressive' girls in the past, so this touched a nerve. It wasn't until she admits that she's lost, and has given up on Yuu that we get to see deeper into her character. We also get to see Ginta (the dumnnut ^_^) start to `understand' Arimi. Ginta doesn't understand Miki, and that is why Miki chose Yuu....People-think- they know what they want, but sometimes.... Fred   Not a Hapless Victim Arimi is the instigator, not a hapless victim swept into the current like Miki, Meiko. I think this aura of cool (even devious) control is what makes Arimi so interesting. Author Unknown.   VOTES FOR MEIKO   Just Like Cherished Ex-girlfriend Hi, my name is Jean. Yoroshiku. I'm new to this list and I'm catching the tail end of this thread, but I would like to put a bit in. My favorite is Meiko. Mainly, because she reminds me EXACTLY of a girlfriend (whom I still cherish) from 3 years ago. They are so alike, it's chilling. Rich fighting parents, air of mystery, understanding, quiet, beautiful, smart, well I could go on...but I think you have the point. All the things I like in a girl. (Well, I could do without the rich fighting parents). I do like Miki too, for her openness and honesty. Jean   Refleshing Anger Meiko started to do the one thing I thought I'd never see her do when Miwa started to pursue her...she gets so ANGRY! It's hilarious. Up to that point she is this stereotypical shoujo princess, all petite and proper. Her reaction to Miwa is different than what I expected and refreshing. (gotta love it) Author unknown   Attitude, Personality and Looks Why do I like Meiko: Well, I guess it could be wrapped up as interest, attitude, personality and looks, but that doesn't tell you much. IF I could only two points, I guess it would be her literary interests and somewhat detached involvement. She doesn't seem to be a real part of any of the groups in school (except the literary club, which is a bit odd) yet she is Miki’s best friend and confidant. Not much ruffles her. She does have an air of quiet mystery about her too; what's going on behind those big eyes of hers? Actually, Meiko, Nacchan and Ryoko are the 3 characters that I feel I understand best in the series (OK, Ginta too). That is, understand what they are thinking, feeling and why they are doing what they are. It does seem like a paradox to say I understand Meiko well, then turn around and claim she has this air of mystery around her..... George Robbert   Confidence and Cool Composure ....As for Meiko...I like her confidence and cool composure. It's tough to maintain some semblance of sanity when there's trouble at home. And her relationship with the Sensei..."GUTS!":) Besides, gotta love the hair:) Jay     VOTES FOR GINTA   I like Ginta's honesty... Author Unknown   Ginta Like Himself I'll add my votes for Ginta and Meiko. I identify a lot with Ginta. I was in similar situations during high school so I knew exactly how he felt. Also, I played tennis for my high school team (tho I was not even close to Ginta's level)... Jay     MIWA He's Great Miwa is the ultimate evil politician. He's GREAT. Although I do not like his long hair (it's personal I think, since I cut off my hair that I did not cut for 2 years just 2 weeks ago.). Ben C.   What he did in the Prom Episode Please put my vote in for Miwa. If you wanna know why, watch the prom episode. `Nuff said. dd Durkin   Heart in the Right Place Miwa's OK. He's not my favorite among the men, but turns out all right in the end. I don't always agree with his methods, in fact sometimes they annoy me as much as Meiko, but he does seem to basically have his heart in the right place. George Robbert     TSUTOMU   Doesn't Give Up Tsutomu really has a good attitude, actually. He doesn't give up, and as far as his, er..behavior...it's just the way he is. He doesn't try to act like someone else. You just think that he'd come up with some other sort of thing for losers to do rather than cut their hair... Fred   _______________________________________________________________________ THE INNER FEELINGS CREATED BY MARMALADE BOY   GIRL/ GUY RELATIONSHIPS The secret reason that I like Marmalade Boy so much is that I can really relate to Yuu and his relationship to Miki. Hell, I'm no where near as cool or as good-looking (Man, I wish ^_^). The girls who like him get really pissed at him because he "never expresses his feelings." It reminds me of the bit from Robert Bly’s book "Iron John" (of which I could only stomach three chapters) where he talks about how women are always asking "Well, how do you feel" expecting a response similar to what they feel. Instead, an honest answer from a lot of guys would be "I don't feel anything..." What girl wouldn't be pissed off with that kind of answer? (a strange one ^_^) Let's say a girl shows interest in you (and she might even be attractive too. You don't really feel anything for her and you know that you won't, but decide to go along anyway and give it a chance. She's gonna get hurt, no matter how much you try. (trust me, I know...) Even if the girl is really good looking, if your personalities don't match, it ain't gonna work. Looks are important to a point (like it or not, they are a reflection of how someone likes themselves) but personalities are more important. Lets face it, Ginta is too direct and pushy to deal with Miki, and Arimi would never really be able to understand Yuu's feelings the way Miki does. Then there's the times when I'd be dating some girl and she'd say, "I see you with someone like (A), not a plain girl like me, or a sharp girl like (B). I'm not the type of girl you should be going out with". MAN! It's like they don't believe me! ARGHH! I've gotten into shouting matches sometimes. Man, pisses me off...grumble grumble... What I like about Miki is that, deep down, she feels that she really is someone. She thinks that she doesn't have a chance against Arimi, But...when things do start to work out between her and Yuu, she's not afraid to cut into him about being honest and forward with her. I think Arimi would squelch her own desires if Yuu would just commit to her. For a while anyway... Miki is great. She is not perfect (lets face it, her, um, `build' is quite a bit less than that of similar aged girls in Mangadom ^_^) she has thin hair and a nasty temper. In KOR, Kyosuke is first attracted to Madoka because, well, she's a knockout. In Maison Ikkoku, Yusaku is attracted to Kyoko because, well, she's a knockout. The `personalities' of these two women are discovered as the series moves along. Yuu is attracted to Miki because she has a warm and wonderful personality (like lots of girls who should value this aspect of themselves more) and she IS pretty. Not a knockout who causes car accidents when she walks down the street, but cute. Yuu loves Miki because of his own feelings, not because he wants to show off to the world. One of my friends said to me that you could tell this was a girl's comic because Yuu seemed to show no interest in Miki sexually, it was all emotional goop. Jeez, people. There is more to life than sex, and some guys think so too (when they get past 18). It's bull too, because we are seeing this from Miki’s point of view, we don't really see all of Yuu's thoughts. Yuu is a gentleman (there are a few left in the world, I think) Besides, he does tease Miki sometimes. ^_^) Hehheh...yea yea yea...in the end I'd hope to find someone like Miki....^_^ Fred     THE STEP BROTHER/STEP SISTER THING I'm having a hard time deciding on a favorite character. I think what attracts me to MB is that I identify with the whole situation. 1) After my dad got remarried I eventually got a crush on my (youngest) step-sister. Of course with the American attitude that step-siblings are siblings, I never even told her... 2) I can just see me ending up in the kind of relationship that the parents were in... I actually want to see more of the parents...   I don't know...I'd probably pick Miki or Yuu right now... Scott EASY TO IDENTIFY WITH THE CHARACTERS Well, I think most people can see a bit of themselves in all these characters. I share Yuu's and Meiko's resistance to tell personal matters to other people, Yuu's penchant for teasing the one he loves, and I can sympathize with Ginta's position. That's why I think this series is so great. Besides the wildly ridiculous and amusing setting, it really strikes a chord. And it also has perhaps the best usage of vocals I've seen in any series. The song that played when Na-chan left to go home on the train was literally gut-wrenching. Ben   GENERAL OVERVIEW OF THE CHARACTERS It took me a bit of episode time (try 30 episodes) to get used to Miki’s voice actress. While cute, as I now realize, it grated on my nerves in the beginning. But the pure-hearted simply have to be appreciated. They give you the finished product of their feelings immediately...how can you refuse them? As for Meiko.....well......she's nice and tragic (she's the only character with dysfunctional parents, it seems) but her love is definitely NOT the most tragic. At least her love was NOTICED and returned by Namura! Arimi no matter how scheming some fans might think she is, never had her love returned by Yuu. That is why she is my "favorite" female character.... I also seem to have a thing for those female "trouble-maker" characters....i.e. Suzu....they just make things so interesting!!!!. I like Miwa, just because he's so entertaining.....although I must admit I'd rather not see him end up with Meiko. Jes THE WAY ANOTHER FAN SEES THE MAIN CHARACTERS So far, I have yet to see a character (at least among most of the seishi) that had emotions and reactions that I didn't empathize with. Let's go down the list so far - Miki - A really nice, sweet, wonderful human being! I agree with Yuu, Ginta, and Meiko - she brings joy wherever she goes, and she doesn't have to be perfect to do so! This makes her a truly desirable person, alleged "personality girl" reputation notwithstanding! Yuu - A really nice guy (who tries to hide it way too much). I suppose I'll learn eventually why he doesn't open up very much, but it's obvious he cares for Miki, but doesn't want to hurt anyone else in his life, either. Meiko - A very sweet, very sad girl. If anybody deserves a little happiness, she does. Very lucky to have Miki as a friend ( as is Miki to have her as one). Ginta - A nice guy, but way too angry for his own good. He realizes that he blew it with Miki big-time, and wishes he could change that. We all do something monumentally stupid in our lives, and wish we could undo it - that's what he's going through now. Arimi - A very nice, very needy girl. She has everything a girl like her would want - money, influence, admirers - except love. It's amazing how Yoshitsumi Wataru can put her characters through the things that she has them endure - I just hope that she will eventually let them have some happiness. I'm sure she will but, man, what a ride getting there! ^_^ I'm still letting all of this soak in a little more.... whoa! This whole thing has just picked me up, slapped me around, tossed me in the Cuisinart, and pureed my emotions pretty effectively! :) Like you said above, MB does bring out a lot of emotions to those who see it, including me! ^_^ I personally don't know how the MB fans in Japan could stand to wait each week to see how things turn out (as if they actually resolve during the next episode! ^_-) Brian _______________________________________________________________________   MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS (up to episode #28) Up to episode #28, what scenes or situations stuck in your mind and for what reason(s)?   Here's One Person's List: * When Yuu and Miki hold hands unknowingly (#22) Why? The whole scene gave me a good feeling. This is definitely my favorite MB moment. * When Namura-sensei leaves Meiko (the train scene) (#17) Very dramatic and gut-wrenching. That sad song didn't help much either. * When Arimi gets the boot (#26) The whole scene as she watches Yuu walk from the bridge. Sad. Again, another self-realization with Arimi and the point where I decided she's my favorite girl in the show...Can I change my vote? Jean-Andre'   The Picnic: The picnic planned for Meiko. The playful Yuu and Miki was fun to watch. You sort of get the idea that Yuu and Miki are getting intimate. Charley   Ginta's Confession: Up to ep. 7, I would have to say the Ginta's confession would have to be the best scene. Now to say why. Well, to watch a girl having a good time with another guy and still having feelings for that girl is a feeling that I at least have had. Actually finding the courage to out andout tell that girl though is what is the difficult part. I know how Ginta feels when Miki refuses to talk or see him. I guess I like this scene because it ties in with what has happen to me in the past (never again will I make that mistake though). The memories may not be good ones, but MB certainly made me think of those times, and that is why it is so good. It's so close to real life situations (at least in my view) that I find myself in some case sympathizing with the characters involved because I have gone through those experiences. Stuart THE MARATHON RACE (episode #20) I thought that was pretty funny, watching Miki trying to keep Miwa away from Yuu! They're having way too much fun teasing her! ^_^ Brian   A REVELATION Just a quick appreciation of a scene in episode 22: after Yuu tells Miki it's OK for them to hold hands. Suddenly, Miki has the big emotional revelation: "I love you...I hadn't realized how much." That was so "real", like when you've been dating for a while and then suddenly stop and think "Oh my God, this is the person I want to marry." Less sophisticated anime would have made this the climax of the series, as if there's nothing important left to say or do once you get to "I love you." But in MB, it's just part of the realistic progression, not a beginning or an end, but a somewhat memorable moment on the path. Lee D.   MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS UP TO EPISODE #44   YUU'S COMMERCIAL I still can't believe that Yuu's mother got Yuu into such a role in a commercial. (KD: comes to a head in #30). The rest of the family's reactions is precious though. Paul D.   HOWLED AT THE SCREEN, YUU'S COMMERCIAL Episode 30 - I HOWLED at the screen! ^_^ Totally out of the blue - if you had given me a million guesses as to what I should expect, I would have made a million WRONG guesses, because THAT was from WAY out in left field! ^_^ BTW, my initial response was to the commercial itself, but the reaction of Miki and the parents TO Yuu's appearance in the commercial was even funnier - and Ginta's infatuation with the "Queen" almost made me hurt myself laughing! ^_^) It's time for someone to do something about Suzu-kun - I don't like her one bit! She is not a nice person at all... When watching Kei tell Yuu that Miki didn't love him anymore, I realized that I was getting angry - absolutely furious - about it. The anger that I felt was stronger than I can remember in a very long time. I was stunned at the ferocity of my response - I was livid! I'm glad that Ginta and Arimi are finally starting to enjoy each other. They go well together. I love that's happening between Meiko and Miwa-san, but I know it's about to all blow up in their faces...I don't think I'm going to like the conclusion of this one very much... (BTW, IMHO, Namura is a gutless jerk - he doesn't deserve Meiko!) I hope Momoi finds some way to be happy. It's sad when you love somebody but are afraid to tell them. I fear that it'll be worse when she DOES tell Namura. Well, I'll watch some more ("some more"? Who am I kidding - I mean "the rest" this weekend. Brian _____________________   A BIT ABOUT EPISODES #'s 36, 40, 42, 43 ....After watching the last batch of MB....I've decided to change my opinion of Sakuma Suzu from dislike to active hatred!!!!. How cool Yuu & Miki’s trip! (KD: #36) I was look forward to seeing that (^_^);; Maybe I can start an anti-Suzu society. I however I gleefully watched her being ignored in the New Years episode (KD: #42) & having to apologize to Miki at the ski resort (KD:#43). Maybe I'm being too cruel but she deserves it!!!! (The length's an enraged Miki fan will go to! (^_^). I was very pleased to see Ginta & Arimi really hitting it off at last, I loved the bit when Ginta asked Arimi what she wanted for Christmas (My hopeless romantic streak again I'm sure). (KD: MB #40) UNKNOWN   A LOOK AT THE OPINIONS OF A GIRL - AGED THIRTEEN (KD: Eleanor is a rarity in anime, being female and also being as young as she is.) Since I've heard from some of the male anime fan population that it's difficult to find a female companion that enjoys anime, you might want to find her and raise her up! Whoops, sorry Ed...don't want anyone thinking about you daughter this soon? Giggle!) This is Eleanor. Just wanted to say we have just watched the MB episode where Yuu and Miki broke up (KD: She's talking about #35). OOOOOH! It makes me so angry! That Kei guy is a such a baka-mon! Now Yuu is hurt and dumb Suzu is scheming and Kei is STILL being a baka-mon. My only consolments are the station breaks (KD: Eye catchers) because that way I KNOW they're going to make up, and the whole Miwa-Meiko setup. Miki should punch Kei in the face ( I've never really liked anime characters name Kei). I was so happy where Miki and Yuu got together, but there wasn't a SINGLE EPISODE where they were simply happy together. Eleanor   More from 13 year old.... This is Eleanor again. We have just watched the very last episode we own, #40. OOOOOH! That Kei guy is so problematic. And Miki made those super-cute people just for Yuu too. Um, why were they on her backpack in the ending theme song? And plus, I can no longer pull out the small scrap of comfort that I had, that Miwa and Meiko are happy. That friend that told Meiko that she saw Na-chan is so BAAAAAAAAAAAAKA! Suzu is STILL scheming. I have a hunch that Suzu is actually Yuu's half sister! True? False? I don't know, but a first I thought that Suzu-chan was nice, too, so my guesses are often totally wrong. Here I am ranting. Ahhh, yaaaa. Thank you so much for translating the Marmalade Boys. Without you (Yuu), we could never know the true joy of watching them and the happy agonizing pain of never knowing when every one will come out happily e v e r ...after...Waaaaait a second! Anyway, although the whole series has caused all of us untold amounts of agonizing pain and worry and suffering, we still love it very much.   ....Sometimes I forget that I have a life of my own and that I'm not just some kind of zombie whose sole purpose is to watch MB. I mean, I have a LIFE in here somewhere! I think... ANYWAY aside from Marmalade Boy (how can anything be aside from Marmalade Boy...) I've memories the Hiragana. I feel all spiffy because now I can read all of our Japanese comic (which is more than a third of our collection) Unfortunately, I still don't know what they're saying, but that's okay. Eleanor   I just turned 13 on the 16th of January, I wanted to go off on my own for a year but our society can't allow anything so magical as that. I settled for camping out on our roof for a night.     ABOUT EPISODES #38 AND #39 Episode 38 & 39 were a riot. Ginta confessing his love in front of a hidden audience was cool. His fight with Rokutanda had me laughing nonstop. Arimi should have realized that guy stress relief is like that. Sam _____________________________________________________________________   COMMENTS ON #45 - 48 Glad Meiko Is Happy But.... Well, I was glad for Meiko when she got back together with Na-chan because that was what Meiko wanted. But I would have preferred it if Meiko could be happy with Satoshi instead of Namura. Throughout the story, we could see into Satoshi's mind and tell that he really loves Meiko. But we could not do the same with Na-chan. It was as if...there was no evidence of Na-Chan's love for Meiko besides the fact that "they were secretly in love". Also, when I first heard Namura say to Meiko that they should split up because "it's for her own good," he sounded like he was doing it for her and not for himself. But after I heard it again and again, it sounded more like he was trying to convince himself. I think what he meant was that he had no confidence in himself to go on having a relationship with Meiko. That was a little selfish of him; he was being inconsiderate of Meiko's feelings. But Satoshi was thinking about Meiko all the time as demonstrated when he said he "couldn't do anything for her" in Hiroshima. So you all can probably guess, I'm all for Satoshi and Meiko getting together! ^_^ It's not that Na-chan is a bad person, but I think he needs to get his priorities straight. All the same, I'm happy Meiko got what she wanted. I'd like to hear your responses too! Tony L.   THE DEER SCENE ......I loved the deer, poor Miki it always happens to her! I was delighted to see that Meiko at last managed to hook Na-chan, it's about time!! Shame about Miwa though....... Being a Miki fan I loved the new ending animation, lots of lingering shots....Yaaaaayy!! The new ending song has the thumbs up too! Mark     Miwa Is Deserving I was hoping she wouldn't get back with Na-chan, but I knew it was futile, given the little who-gets-who clips in the intermission. They kept showing Na-chan winning and Miwa losing (gracefully, of course!:). But from the storyline, I wonder if the author even knew up until the last minute which would be chosen. Miwa is more deserving. He can provide the emotional stability and protection that Meiko needs as well as Na-chan, and he knows he doesn't need to abandon Meiko to help her become all that she can be. All Na-chan has/had to offer is/was the love/romance that they had/have. Plus what of Momoi-sensei? The trailing clip from #48 showing stuff from #49 is really devious, promising to take care of Miwa and Momoi. Maybe a younger man/older woman relation- ship? Probably not, that may not be very Japanese (maybe more French:). (DON'T TELL ME, I DON'T WANT TO KNOW!! :) <grin> Another wonderful emotional roller coaster ride! The slow spots were fast forwarding through the credits and the intro to get to the next episode. EVIL INCARNATE! THE DEER, THE DEER! WA-HA-HA-HA-HA!!!! (KD: Glad someone mentioned that deer scene - it took a half of a full days work just to sub that alone. ^_^) That was perfectly timed, too. It was stuck in just at the right moment, giving the viewer some emotional release from all the heavy stuff that was going on, sort of like an emotional chocolate mint. When Miwa showed up at the beach to confront Na-chan, wow. I felt like Miwa was getting some payback, finally, and when Meiko took the last blow, I was surprised and a little shocked (once again how unfair to poor, loyal Miwa to make him hit her, even if accidentally, but thought it was `right'. It allowed her to make a sacrifice for Na-chan he could not refuse and make her feelings clear. I guess I tend to empathize with Ginta, Miwa and Rokutanda. It really bothered me to see Miwa going after Meiko so open-heartedly and in the end be the one to lose. So seeing him get a chance to return a little pain, even if only physical, made it easier to take. Besides, Na-chan deserved to get punched out after treating Meiko like he did (and Momoi-sensei as well), and what he said to Na-chan was something that needed to be said. Everyone else was too polite/scared/wimpy to say it. Of course, that all probably comes from my testosterone-ridden, western-culture-polluted mind, which leaves me curious as to how people in Japan reacted to that scene (and other anime fans as well). Charles H.   I DON'T UNDERSTAND NA-CHAN When I watch Meiko and Na-chan together I see the BIG ME, little Yuu (...I mean you) :-) thing that you are talking about. To me it does not seem as much like Na-chan loves Meiko, as that he is trying to protect her and care for her. Again, with Na-chan it is very hard to tell what is going on, since we are rarely ever given a clue as to what he is thinking or feeling. When youconsider it, so much of the Meiko/Na-chan relationship is even kept a secret from us, since we are only given a few small views of them together. The problem is that I do not understand Na-chan. I don't know why he fell in love with a 15 year old girl. I don't know what his motivations were or even how much there was to his feeling for Meiko. I don't think that Marmalade Boy gives us enough information, so we have to add our own experiences to the story and form our own beliefs, I suppose... When it comes down to my true feelings, I have trouble figuring out how I feel. :-) The train-station scene in Marmalade Boy was one of the saddest things I have seen....I know that Na-chan is not a perfect character, he is flawed in many ways. And although my choice of his name was almost arbitrary, I have developed sympathy for him, and somehow I hope he wins out in the end. :-) Doug   NA-CHAN WAS THE LEAST DEVELOPED CHARACTER He's like the least developed character in the show. I mean besides what he doesn't, his apparent love for Meiko, and a very strong conviction to his beliefs, he's just there. I just don't think I get a good enough feel of him to be able to like/dislike. Well actually I think he was kinda a moron to stick with his belief that he would only stunt Meiko's "growth" if he allowed her to stay with him, for so long. I mean get a clue man, does she look HAPPY in that situation to you? But anyway, in a way I'm glad Meiko and Na-chan got together because Meiko was long overdue for something positive to happen in her life. With the emotional battering she took during the breakup and having to live with those parents for all her life, I think Meiko had a lot more serious problems than what Miki has gone through. She probably would have been happy with Miwa but that's a moot point now. Besides, where would a young girl's show about love be without at least one relationship based on not just first love, but a love so strong that separation could be fatal? ;-) You can't be mad a Na-chan cause he didn't really do anything. At least directly. Not like he forcefully ripped Meiko or something. And you can't seriously be mad at Meiko for chasing after the first thing that actually meant something to her in her life can you? Miwa just chased the wrong girl at the wrong time and things just didn't go his way. Would I change the story if I had the chance? No. The story already has enough cutesy teenage couples in it (Miki/Yuu, Ginta/Arimi, Rokutanda/uh, forgot her name ^o^) for us to gawk at. New plot twist was in order. So I guess the only thing I can say about the whole deal is that, like Miki, I'm truly happy for Meiko. And Miwa....Kawaiisou.... Ben   PUZZLED BY DISLIKE OF NAMURA-SENSEI At this point, I'm puzzled by the dislike some folks have for Namura-sensei. Over in Use net he has been referred to as a "child molester" but I don't see that at all. For one thing, he did not pursue Meiko, but the other way around. Indeed, in the late forties episodes where Meiko goes to Hiroshima, I was wondering if he was made out of stone long before he gave in to her. Meiko's desperate cry for his love nearly broke my heart. Then, there is no indication anywhere I've seen the their relationship has been more physically intimate than kissing. If anyone thinks kissing qualifies as molestation ( I don't recall anyone in this group taking that stance, but it seemed to be in the Usenet posts on the subject), the problem I think, is there's not Namura's. Then, he handled the relationship so far in a very responsible manner ( too responsible, IMO, in some cases). When she was going to be in his class he told her they had to stop seeing each other--appropriate since that would put him in a direct position of power over her, involve conflicts of interest, and generally make a relationship (even if they were both "of age") a bad thing. In the recent eps. he insists she finish school and go to college. Looks like he wants her to be able to stand on her own without being totally dependent on him. This is good, and is good for a healthy relationship. It is much better to be with someone because you choose to than because you cannot survive without them. If I understand correctly, girls can marry at sixteen in Japan, right? That would mean that, had Namura chosen (and I don't think for a minute Meiko would have objected). he could have married her there in Hiroshima and Meiko might never have gone back to Tokyo. In fact, considering her parents, I'm not convinced that would have been a bad thing. Not saying it would have been a good thing either, just that it seems to be a open question. On other fronts, I'm not sure it follows that Meiko having survived so much makes her strong. As an analogy from weight training, you need two things to get strong: stress from resistance training and recovery time. Without the rest and recovery time, in sufficient amounts, you suffer over-training. You seem to get stronger for a while, but then you start getting weaker. And the more you exercise -- the more stress you put your muscles under, the weaker they get until finally you can actually make yourself sick. This seems to mirror Meiko's emotional life. The _only_ sources of joy in her life are her love for Namura and her friendship with Miki. Losing one the first time nearly seemed to break her then. That's why I think that losing it again could well destroy her. Suzu. The skiing incident would _have_ to be the peak. She, in her selfish little unthinking way, nearly _killed_ Miki! It wouldn't have been intentional, but that certainly would have been cold comfort to Miki-popsicle. Kei--We'll see Still, I'm not sure there are enough episodes _left_ to convince me of any sincere change of heart instead of just putting on an act. David B.   WHO WANTS TO DATE MIWA? Frederick ...... wrote: How many here on the ml think Miwa is sexy and cute, and would jump at the chance to jump go out with him? I know I would! *^_^* ABSOLUTELY! In fact, the male lead in the manga my sister and I are working on is inspired by Miwa. And not just his character design (although he *IS* gorgeous!). Meiko just doesn't know a good thing when she has it..... I've never seen a guy so truly supportive of a girl in anime. Like someone else on here said, he's trying to teach her to stand up on her own, and there's nothing more loving that someone who can do that for another. AND he's not supportive of just her. Look at how he supports Miki and Yuu on at least two separate occasions (in the middle of the series, where Miki’s angry because Yuu's going to America, and at the end). To quote my sister. "These kids are just lucky that Miwa is a force of good in this universe." All right, all right, I'll get off my soapbox now. It's just that Miwa's far and above my favorite MB character, but the world at large seems to appreciate him so little....     ANOTHER VOTE FOR DREAMY MIWA In reply to "These kids are just lucky that Miwa is a force of good in this universe"... Year, they are. Miwa could have screwed them over big time if he wasn't such a nice person. That' s why I think he's dreamy. *_* S. Perez   (KD: By the way, Fred was probably posting the note about dating Miwa to a mainly male group to see if he could get a rise out of them. As I recall he's quite a looker and popular with ladies. (^_^) ) Looks like the gentlemen were having fun with it. God, they're cute.) ___________________________   FROM A WOMAN WHO WANTS TO KNOW... (another woman, not me) Why do you like Miki-san? Just out of curiosity, why do guys on the mailing list like her? A friend of mine wants to know, because she doesn't find anything in Miki-san to like ^_^, ;;;;     WHY? As to "Why do guys like her?" - Ummm, actually she is sort of a pain. But she is cute, very open, very giving and devoted. The MB movie does a lot to make Miki look a lot better - we finally get to see her as Yuu sees her - no wonder he fell in love! She is so, well, so external - all there on the surface. She is a complete opposite from Yuu's reclusiveness. And most guys that like anime are romantics at heart (at least those that like shoujo :) - just because we like the hentai bits and pieces doesn't mean we watch it mainly for that. Anime being in Japanese, we can avoid listening to the American version the mushy romantic type stuff - the subtitling is there for the analytical side of our brains, and the emotional side can listen to the voices, tones and emotions. Usually when I watch a TV show, my brain is often too busy trying to figure out what they said, and so I often miss the nuances of how they said it. I don't understand Japanese, so all I can hear is the emotions, which are often a lot more subtle and subdued than the usual brassy caucaphony of American-brand entertainment. ....As a reclusive type of person, I would love to find a Miki - someone that would love me unconditionally and pull me out of my shell. Sheesh, the way Miki says "Yuu" with that little catch in the middle just sends shivers up and down my spine sometimes - its so sad. Which is why I rooted for Ginta so hard - he wouldn't hurt Miki the way Yuu does, by being secretive and emotionally uncommunicative. Of course, he probably wouldn't need Miki the way Yuu does. With Arimi, Ginta found someone to need, to give himself totally to - that scene in the soda shop is so sugoi. Umm, bottom line, we get so close to Miki that we inevitably fall in love with her, no matter how irritating she can be.... Charles Hurst   BEN'S LIST In no particular order of importance: she's cute, loyal, peppy, a true friend, a good listener, emotional (she wears her heart on her sleeve), considerate, caring, great fun to watch when flustered and teased, determined, somewhat clumsy, helpful, and kind. At her best, you can't help but smile at what she does. Ben   ANOTHER ANSWER Here's my opinion: She is just so full of life - it's rare these days to meet someone whose happiness is so infectious! Look at the variety of folks who want Miki as a friend. She inspires people to enjoy life with her - and there are enough folks who, at one time or another, need a little happiness in their lives: Yuu, Meiko, Ginta, Suzu, Kei, and many more... Here is a excerpt from stuff I've written about Miki to an unnamed Miki freak on this ML (guess who? ^_-). "That is exactly what I love about her. She's so open to people that they just can't refuse her when she wants to be part of their lives. That's a very rare trait in people, one I wish I would see a lot more often!" People tend to build a wall around themselves, to protect from being hurt. Miki doesn't have that wall around her, which is why she gets hurt so easily (and so often). However, it is also one of the reasons why people like her. She tries to make sure that they know that she values them and their friendships, and she takes the risk by letting them in (sometimes with people most of us wouldn't give the time of day). Thank about it - have you even heard Miki say an unkind word about anyone? That's just one of the many reasons I like Miki - even when she's confused panicky, and bewildered by what's going on around her, she's always true to herself, and these days, that can be a real accomplishment! ^_^ Brian     MARMALADE BOY EPISODE #49 AND BEYOND   Now to the latest episodes, am I peeved or what, Miki & Yuu's trip (#53) ruined again!!! I don't know who I hate the most Michael or the writers: Grrrrrrrr. Won't they ever get the chance to be together? Mark   VOLUME 15 (57-60) ...I loved this volume! It has proven what I suspected - that Kei has truly changed, and, because of this, becomes both truly attractive to Miki and a truly formidable foe of Yuu's for Miki’s heart. I can't wait to see how that is resolved. Meiko absolutely nails it after the concert - Kei has confessed his love of Miki to everybody, and Miki is blown away by that! "Reasonable to be captivated"?! She knows how to cut right through to the quick, doesn't she? ^_^ And as for Meiko - have you ever noticed that just about everybody (including a total stranger) inspires independent thought in Meiko except Namura himself? It's scary. She'll never be her own person as long as she's with him. And why does she still call him "sensei"? Now I realize that it's a term of endearment for her to use, but if they're engaged, you'd think she would occasionally call him Shinichi, or at least Namura. She is still so dependent on him for a complete sense of self - what a waste. I also find that I'm beginning to like Suzu a whole lot more - of course that's because she's being a whole lot more considerate towards others, especially Miki (I still wouldn't mind finding Michael floating in the Hudson River, though. Poor Jinny - she really needs a friend! It's a good thing Doris is there - she's the Meiko of St. Andrews, and boy, do they need one! (Is it just me, or is Jinny extra-skinny, even for MB! ^_-) Brian _______________________________________________   EPISODES #61-64 This volume of MB invoked real emotional response - a response which changed by the minute as I thought about it. I had to digest all of the feelings I had about it for a day before writing this. Poor Miki - she just can't handle the separation. She's been so faithful to Yuu, and she just can't stand all of the pressures that have come to bear on her. Michael, Kei, and (both directly and indirectly) the St. Andrews gang have kept her from him, and she just can't take it anymore. I really feel sorry for her. Which leads me to Yuu - that baka! I cannot believe that he would be so unemotional with her. telling her (essentially) that his studies mean more to him than her! This is one time I have to agree with Fred on Yuu - he doesn't know what he's giving up and he doesn't appreciate her nearly enough! He didn't make nearly enough of a good-faith effort to keep his relationship with Miki strong, and he just may pay a steep price for that! (Of course, you and I know that WON'T happen, but it'll take Yuu realizing that it WILL happen, and IS HAPPENING, if he doesn't do something to stop it! He has truly earned the scare of his lifetime - the possibility of losing her!) Michael - just put him under that semi that was reserved for Suzu earlier! :) He is just a pushy, spoiled, demanding American (!) brat! He just wants what he wants, regardless of the consequences. He may redeem himself later, but I don't see it now. Kei, however - he has truly changed. He knows that he can't enter Miki’s life romantically if there still is anything between her and Yuu. He cares enough allow her to grieve over her loss - a sure sign that he appreciates her a s friend first, before trying to get close to her again. In a way, Kei give Miki the one thing that she has wanted out of Yuu for a long time - the emotional support she needs as well as the freedom to be both herself and a part of a couple at the same time. While Miki has accommodated Yuu at every turn, Yuu has concentrated on his own needs (at Miki’s expense) for far too long - very selfish. In my opinion. (She's too good for him! ^_^) (The preview for episode 65 suggest that Kei demands that Yuu decide what he's going to do about Miki. This would seem to me that he wants to make sure that he only pursues Miki if Yuu has given up on her. That's a lot more consideration than Michael is giving Miki!) And Jinny - I don't condone hitting folks, but she had a good confrontation coming from someone over her actions. There are just some people in this world who want what they want, consequences be damned. (Just like Michael...) She needed for someone to let her know that what she did hurt other people badly. That slap jolted her to a point that she finally realized that she had done something truly wrong. Of course, she still had the temerity to ask Yuu for a romantic relation immediately after her confession, so it's obvious that she still has a lot to learn!   (author unknown) ______________________________________________________________________     ABOUT THE MARMALADE BOY MOVIE   SUGOI !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HONTO!!!!!!! (I just wish that I would get a chance to see Miki projected on a 100-feet-high screen - I bet that was a thrill for the Japanese MB fans!) It was nice to finally see Yuu react emotionally (if just a little bit) for a change! He only shows a flash of emotion when Chiyako and Youji told him about the impending divorce/exchange, but for his pre-Miki state of mind that was the equivalent of an emotional outburst! When he wanders off and sees Miki practicing her tennis shots, he sees someone with beauty, strength, and, more than anything, CONFIDENCE! (It was a flash of brilliance to use her tennis practice as Yuu's first chance to see her, since tennis is probably the one thing that Miki does - initially, that is - in which she has true self-confidence!) No wonder he stays to watch. The "Gastaman" scene was a riot, those little kids were incredible! That was a side of Miki I've always wanted to see - someone who'll just open up and be absolutely silly, enjoying themselves to the fullest. The look on those kids' faces when she comes out from under that towel was priceless! ( Yuu obviously thought so, too, because he nearly busted a gut laughing at it all!) When Yuu finally hears Miki’s name and makes the connection to the initials "M.K." on the sweatband, did you see how his fingers shook when he closed them on the sweatband? It's obvious he's (1) excited, (2) nervous , (3) happy about this discovery. He's going to be with this wonderful girl very soon! As he follows her around town, he sees her doing seemingly normal things -mimicking "Gastaman's" Karate, playing with a puppy, eating ice cream, and just generally enjoying life. When she runs the gamut of emotions while talking to the foreign couple, gyrating and generally being silly, Yuu sits transfixed. He's enthralled by her! Do you remember when Yuu tells Miki why he loves her? He says that she emotions just shine through, no matter what she's thinking. Her purity of thought and action are what makes her so attractive to him. All of his life Yuu has had to deal with people who have done things which have hurt him -inadvertently or not. All of a sudden, there's this girl who is full of life and love, things Yuu craves desperately. She has no hidden agenda, no ulterior motive, just a "joy of life" uniqueness which makes her special. When he is finally about to meet her for the "first" time, you can see that he's more than a little bit nervous, but he's excited that he's about to meet such a special person! I'd love to see them when he tells her about all of this! (KD: Me too.) Overall, I'd say that this has been the most purely enjoyable MB I've seen yet! As for the commercials (KD: All the MB TV product commercials were added behind the American fansub of the movie by request) - they were a hoot! Watching Miki doing all sorts of crazy things (flying a plane, exploring an ancient building, anchoring the news.) was so cool! Those folks know how to merchandise! (I can't see how Japanese parents keep any money at all with all of that being sold constantly!) Brian   Gastaman Brothers were Bleeping Hilarious Just finished watching the movie tape and well... those Gastaman Brothers were bleeping hilarious ^o^ Miki fans will probably love this thing. And those commercials. Daaanggg...... they merchandised like crazy for the series, eh? Too bad we can't get most of that stuff here. I wouldn’t mind going for the desk set, myself. :-] Ben   Great Animation Yup, I just saw it too. You know, you never know (ooo, that was good) just how much of a difference there is between a TV episode and a movie until you see the difference. Really, really nice animation. The kids were great. What I really loved was the redemption of Yuu. While he is still a sort of odd fish externally, since the whole 30 minutes is from his perspective, we get to see a lot more of those small signals that tell us what is going on inside of him. Like when his parents tell him about getting divorced. I watched his eyes, and sure enough, they flinch just a little bit, letting a little bit of of the pain out. Charles   (KD: The following note is a bit out of context since parts were written in response to others' comments) ... A little more budget I figure. Actually, for the first few minutes, it's so dreamy, when Yuu goes and kisses her (anyone hold their breath for that long kiss? jeeze) and then when Miki sits up and freaks...haahaha!! Great stuff... Criminy thou, it's TOO SHORT. I think it's really more of a mood piece than the psychological terror that the TV series is, which is a nice and pleasing break. Miki is just too damn cute for the likes of a bum like Yuu. (That's just me being jealous.) Love those pigtails. Kawaaiiiii! (my vote for favorite hair style. I haven't seen the subbed version yet, but it is so obvious what is going thru his mind there...I think Yuu's parents are redeemed a bit too, even that insensitive nut Youji....just after Yuu leaves the house. They look really somber, don't they? Perhaps we see here the typical lack of communication between sons and their fathers? Hell, Yuu doesn't even confide in his mom, (now he's got two of them too.) Yuu's redeeming quality is that he's pigheaded as hell. Once he put that thing in his pocket. Miki didn't have a chance. ....This (movie) more than likely was created long after the story was created. It really helps fill in a lot of things, and make some of the initial insanity where Yuu kisses her made sense. Did Yoshitsumi-sensei have such a thing in mind? I don't care how cold a fish Yuu is, his reactions to Miki between the time he meets her at the restaurant and when he kisses her is the infirmary don't add up to love at first sight. Adding the events of the movie make more sense (my god, something in Marmalade Boy making sense...stop the world I wanna get off...) ....My favorite parts of the whole show are where Miki is just being herself. I really find it very painful at times to watch her torture herself from the inside. I really do. Hell, I'm a guy. I can’t TAKE all that. I esp. loved her discussion with the American tourists at the restaurant, where she is gesticulating like crazy about "something - gad, if that ain't her, what is? Any chance to rave about Miki and I'll go for it. Miki! Miki! Miki! Fred   No Wonder Yuu Falls For Her ....the MB Movie now has pride of place on my tape shelf you will be pleased to hear ^_^ Being a Miki fan I was sure I'd love the movie but after seeing it I realized how wrong I was....!!!!! It was so good, I've decided my life wouldn't be complete without it ^_^;; Miki, Miki, Miki plus of course the Gastaman Brothers!!! I have never laughed so much in my life when Miki turns into the Towel Monster and chases the kids!, and the look on Miki & Meiko's face when the Gastaman Brother do their routine is priceless!!!!! Though my favorite bit must be Yuu watching Miki watching as she window shops with Meiko, Miki comes across as a person enjoying life to the full (No wonder Yuu falls for her!!) So the music clip at the end of the end of the movie was very much appreciated and the adverts were definitely an eye opener!!! I like the Miki Desk ones the best....I want one ^_^ ;;   Mark _____________________________________________________________________   THE TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF MARMALADE BOY Architecture: One of the more interesting things that keeps popping up in Marmalade Boy (to me, anyway:) is the various references to architecture. While Miwa Yoshimitsu is a fictitious character (I think ^_^), the rest of the architects and buildings cited in the series do exist. I think that the selection of buildings is interesting, and might say something about the characters, especially Yuu, who himself aspires to be an architect....   I studied architecture for six years, I work as an intern architect, and Japanese Architecture is one of my areas of specialization (it's how I got sucked into anime in the first place ^_^;;) I find it really curious that Yoshitsumi-sensei would select Antonio Gaudi as the main architect that Yuu concentrates on in the library (Of course, I'd assume that Yuu also thumbs thru the works of other architects, but this is the main one we get to see) The `Sagrada Familia' of which we see a fuzzy representation, also exists (as anyone who has been to Barcelona can attest. it's HUGE!). Antonio Gaudi is a Spanish architect who was born in Catalonia, Spain in 1852 and died in 1926. Part of what became known as the Art Nouveau movement, he is considered one of the most important architects Spain has produced. Most of his works, including the Sagrada Familia, are in Barcelona. (I pulled out my trusty "Encyclopedia of Modern Architecture" (dated1962) to get the right dates^_^...) Gaudi is best known for the incredibly `organic' nature of his works. IMHO, all his buildings look like they were left in the microwave too long ^_-. (of course, that's because I'm such a spatial-modernist/post-deconstructivist ^_^;;) Gaudi asserted that they straight line belonged to men, and the curved line to God. Henceforth, narry a straight line is to be found in his work. The organic nature of his building went beyond just ornamentation and into structure as well, with structural forms having close ties with the shapes of muscles, bones, wings and petals..... .....Gaudi's work is remarkably `different' than that of any other noted architect. ...... Whew! Now, having said that, what significance can we glean from this, regarding Yuu's personality? ^_^ (big grin) I think that it has a lot to do with the idea of individuality....   .....here are some other notes of Marmalade Architectural significance:   In ep.28, when Yuu announces that he wants to visit the City Art Museum by Ishozaki Arata...(uhmmmm, buys, it's_Isozaki_^_^_ That building also exists (big surprise) and yes, it does look like that:)   Heh, Meiko's house at the beach (I forget where) (KD: Izu) looks like it was an early design by Horoshi Hara. Fred Gallagher   Opinion on Architectural Accuracy On your previous post about architects. I find it interesting that Yoshizumi hauls this accuracy into it. I must admit that Gaudi was the only one I recognized (but that was obvious). (I forget which episode this was in) but did anyone else notice one time when Meiko and Nacchan met in the library, they were in the English literature section. Nacchan recommended [Thomas] Hardy, and sitting right there on the shelf in front of Meiko was Tess of the Durbervilles (sp?) [it may only have been labeled "Tess". George Robbert   ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ THE LIZ MANCZ - KAREN DUFFY MB EXCHANGE New About Michael Grant… I've seen Michael Grant now -- boy is he cute! Miki really must love Yuu she'd never be able to resist him otherwise! At first I couldn't believe that the same voice actor who did Tamahome did him! The voices and personalities are so different! Then, in volume 14, when he came up against Kei-kun, I could hear some of Tamahome's intonations in his voice! Wasn't that a GAS?!!! They reminded me of some of the stud dogs out in the kennel. They would sometimes just strut around another stud to show their superiority. Yup, those two reminded me of that very much. This is so funny -- I was thinking the same thing! And I had the same impulse I have when the boys (her dogs) are getting idiotic -- "That'll do, you two!" backed up by a whap on the nose if necessary! Michael is really a charmer -- and of course, he fell in love with Miki...sigh. Poor Yuu. The trip was pretty funny -- and pathetic(!) with Michael interrupting all their romantic moments. Am I over interpreting or was there the possibility that Miki and Yuu might have made love during that trip if Michael hadn't been there? Yup, interpreted right on. They weren't "planning" it as much as just knew it was really likely. I thought so! I have to say, for someone not really planning anything, they were really disappointed when Michael showed up! That was pretty funny... He was so oblivious! Look! The egg's BLACK!   About being without Yuu… Poor Miki. She's being so brave, the poor baby. I'm glad Kei-kun and Michael are distracting her. Their face-off was totally hilarious! When Michael came running around the corner of the school gate, I thought, "He's a perpetual motion generator!" And then, he and Kei-kun realized that they were rivals for Miki, and barely noticed when she walked away! Too funny. I loved it. Yup, yup...strutting. (^_^)!!   About Jinny… Liz: My, Jinny is quite something, isn't she? (I'm too polite to say what!) Kind of like Suzu, but not as smart! She's um...a bit more earthy. I found her embarrassing at times. A bit? Geez -- she's so earthy she should have potatoes growing out of her ears! BTW, once I saw 15, I had to see the rest. I've watched the last 4 volumes in something like 2 days! Am I burnt out.... wow. What Jinny does to Miki is so rotten that I can't believe that someone didn't push her in front of a car! wow. That little act looked like something Nakago could have thought up! And then she tries to tell Doris and Bill that it was a joke? I don't think so! No girl in love would have considered Jinny's story a joke. I was really glad when Bill slapped her! I mean, that was SO cruel. Seeing what Miki went through was so heartbreaking. It almost killed her! When she told Meiko why she didn't go in the room to see if Yuu was there, I just cried. That if he WERE there, she would have shattered. That's how much she loves him. I can see why she had to "go away" for a while after that.     About Bill and Jinny… And very surprised to find out that Bill was in love with her (Jinny)! Geez! I thought he had MUCH better sense than that! For pity's sake -- with An available, he wanted Jinny? I guess love IS blind -- and deaf and brainless! If Brian had a brain, he'd forget her, and go for Doris big time. She's worth ten of Jinny! I think there are some people out there that would agree. Well, I got the impression he was mulling it over. No doubt and here I thought Bill was just perfect for her! (I meant Anju, not Jinny) Oh, I agree. Bill IS perfect for Jinny - -but is Jinny perfect for Bill? Actually, she seems to behave better after she finds that she loves him -- Bill sees all her faults, and loves her despite them. And even though he loves her, he lets her know when she's behaving badly. Bill is the best thing that could have happened to Jinny! Kind of like Doris – who understands Brian perfectly, and still loves him. And has twice his brains.......     About first meeting Bill … He sure freaks Yuu out, doesn't he? I think you'll find out very quickly what he's all about. Poor Yuu. First Miwa, then Bill. Jinny was certainly surprised to find out that he wasn't gay! She's kind of like Arimi -- she's been chased by so many guys, that she never had a male friend until Bill worked out that ruse to become her friend -- and then she fell in love with him without knowing it! That was cute. And a surprise to have it happen so fast. Well I got the feeling that she (Jinny) actually was in love with Bill, but didn't know it. I think most guys have a very visceral response to Jinny – all hormones. And she was used to using that. And then she ran into two guys that it didn't work on, Bill and Yuu. She decided Bill was gay, and had a shot at Yuu -- and seemed VERY surprised that he didn't succumb. But as I said above, I'd bet that Bill was the first male friend Jinny had since she hit puberty -- she felt safe with him, because she thought he was gay. So she fell in love with him. So when she found out that he wasn't gay, and that he did love her, it hit her like a bolt of lightning. I really like the emphasis in this anime that friendship has to come before love. You see it in Hime-chan as well -- when Hime-chan says to Arisaka-kun -- "How can you love me when you don't know me?" Attraction without friendship gets nowhere in MB -- not to mention Hime-chan and Kodocha. It's interesting how many friends fall in love in these stories! And I think that's a very healthy thing. I see my students fall in love with people that I don't think they would otherwise even LIKE! And of course, it breaks up eventually.   The split of Ginta and Arimi… Poor Ginta and Arimi. I thought that he never stopped loving Arimi – he just felt that Miki needed him more than Arimi did. And is such a goof, that he didn't explain things to Arimi very well... Well, also he felt the past feelings welling up inside himself in such a way that he couldn't control. Until he faced it completely, he couldn't see straight. Miki getting them back together was very cute, wasn't it? I see. At times it seemed as though he could only give her up to Yuu -- that if she chose someone else, he felt on some level it should be him! Which confused the daylights out of him, I think! Yes, her plot to get them back together was really cute! Tsutomu and Yayoi were pretty funny as conspirators -- actually, I thought Tsutomu's upset over the break up was very cute. I was wondering if he'd gloat -- but no, he went after Miki and told her off! Good for him. And then when Miki went for him to get him to help he was really funny!   Michael’s apology to Yuu… I'll say. I thought Michael's apology to Yuu after the break up was pretty brave. He was genuinely trying to protect Miki. If Brian had had a brain in his head, he wouldn't have given Michael such a biased opinion! Loved the suitcase flying, picking up Miki, whose legs are flailing in the air. It looked so silly. It did -- and was a much needed touch of humor there! And the parents were so oblivious of Miki flying after them on the suitcase! I thought the camping trip was really revealing. Yuu would watch Miki and Kei and think that they were doing so well together, then turn away, and Miki would see him and An talking and think THEY were doing so well – how pathetic! Yuu comes out of the whole incident very well -- he didn't understand how stressed Miki was getting -- and didn't support her enough. But once he understood how she felt, he did what he could to make it better -- which meant giving her up. The whole conversation with Kei just broke my heart -- Yuu was trying so hard to do the best thing for Miki. On the camping trip, I thought it was just great how Miki ran straight to Yuu after the scene with Kei -- even though she had no idea he was in the woods. There's that red thread again! When she told him that she couldn't accept anyone else, it was just so heartbreaking. I felt badly for Kei, though. He really loved Miki, I think. Then at their last breakup, Miki just knew that Yuu wouldn't break up unless he had to -- and she realized that he was suffering as much as she was. For the first time, I actually agreed with the boy's reason for breaking up without giving the real reason -- to tell Miki that her father had cheated on her mother and fathered Yuu would have been cruel. It would have ruined her relationship with Jin and Chiyako, at the very least. Of course, it might have been better to tell her in Japan, where she'd have been safer when she ran away! Miki really grew up during that period. I was impressed!     The Ending…. wow. what an ending. Miki seems to have had some sort of emotional breakdown. She just couldn't deal with the emotional ups and downs any more. That was so sad. It wasn't even Yuu that really did her in – it was Michael, Kei and Jinny's antics. I really wanted to shake the three of them! It took Miki such a long time to figure out that she really did love Yuu. I kept yelling at her all through 16, 17 and 18! Every time she asked "Why do I feel this way?" I'd tell her! Ack.... Oh man, you could feel it...all her emotions. She's exhausted. Actually, I felt that she started dating Kei not so much because she wanted another boyfriend, but because she was too tired to be able to get rid of Kei and Michael, and Kei seemed willing to let her recover at her own pace. It was pretty obvious that Kei and Michael wouldn't leave her alone -- Michael really did himself in by giving Miki that ultimatum! When Kei told her that she didn't have to forget Yuu, he was the obvious choice. Otherwise, I think she would have done what she did after the second breakup -- just go on about her life alone, spending time with Meiko, Ginta and Arimi and her other friends. It wasn't even Yuu that really did her in -- it was Michael, Kei and Jinny's antics. I really wanted to shake the three of them! It took Miki such a long time to figure out that she really did love Yuu. I kept yelling at her all through 16, 17 and 18! Every time she asked "Why do I feel this way?" I'd tell her! Ack.... Oh my...that must have been a sight. (^_^) Probably! The dogs would occasionally give me a weird look -- what are you doing, Mom? At the very end, Miki kind of went through all the friends and talked about their futures. How did Miwa get left out? Given everything he did for Yuu and Miki, I can't see how he was forgotten! I was kind of hoping that he and An would someday fall in love.... I see that Miki thinks that Kei and Suzu might get together some day.... That would be quite something! I guess the author felt that putting everyone together as a couple would be too trite. Ack. I love trite! (Me too) I felt bad about poor Miwa san -- didn't get the girl he wanted -- no speculation about his future -- the forgotten character!   The anime ending was certainly different! So the Mamatachi are having babies? wow. That will certainly be something! Kind of a scary thought, them raising more kids. I figured out that Yuu and Miki were genetically predisposed to fall in love -- her mother loved his father and his father loved her mother -- so whatever the attracted the parents to one another, would definitely have been passed down to their kids! So does that mean the new babies will eventually fall in love? (Hee, hee, hee!)   THE IDEAL WAY TO SHOW A SERIAL ANIME Yup, it's starting a bit late, but better never late then never. Marmalade Boy is what transformed me into a raving anime fanboy. It performed the operation that changed me from normal person with a mild, rather healthy interest in Japanese Animation to an obsessive Otaku. Which may in the end not be for good, but I'm stuck with it so I may as well go with it. And all it took were two episodes. The first two episodes of Marmalade Boy I saw were the ones where the evil pedophile Namura was booted from the teaching profession. Yay! I was hooked and that week I changed my schedule at work to ensure that I could make it to future club meetings instead of showing up every 3 weeks or so like I'd been doing for the past 3 months. And so I continued watching Marmalade Boy for the next year and 3/4, our local club showing 2 episodes every second week. Even after I requested the whole series from Tomodachi after I'd seen about 30 episodes I continued to wait through the torturous periods between MB doses to watch the next episode. (I'll talk about this more in coming weeks.) Anyways, we finally completed showing the series about two months ago, and I've finally made my way through my backlog of tapes, so it's about time to watch MB over again. Marmalade Boy is my first love and I've always thought of it as my favorite series, although there were times when I would become a bit frustrated with the series and its refusal to die. I'm not sure if it's still my favorite TV series, we'll see as I progress with this project. My intention is to watch one episode a day (except for Mondays, when we hold club meetings and my time at A-kon) of MB from start to finish and share my comments as I progress with the members of this ML. This could either prove to be very interesting or monumentally boring for you. Give me a chance and we'll see how it develops. Why one episode a day? Well, that 's often all I have time for! But the main reason is that I've found that it's the ideal way to watch a serial anime. A 24 hour period is long enough to enjoy those cliffhanger endings but not too long (better than the 2 or 3 week gaps at the club!) as to cause undue suffering. One last thing: While I've watched the first 25 episodes or so at least 3 times I've only seen from episode 40 onwards once. So this'll be quite the adventure. Elijah van der Giessen   Section from Fictional Realms section of AOL: "I must say as of now that Marmalade Boy is one of my favorite anime of all time. With 76 episodes of pure story-line with many twists and turns you might as well say good-bye to your family and get ready to get hooked to one of the finest animes out there. The music is excellent adding a great effect to the story and setting the tone. With many diverse characters placed into one story-line there are going to be some great developments as Marmalade Boy continues. I've seen the whole series and trust me, things only get more intense as the series progresses." ---- "I recently received eps 1 thru 24 and stupid me decided to watch the 'preview' of ep25. ARRRRRGGGGHHH!!!! I didn't want it to happen again so I sent out for the entire series! Can't wait til it comes in!" ------ "I Iove, love, love this series! Everyone who's said it's totally addicting...well, you're absolute right! I meant to watch one episode this past Friday night ...and ended up watching all 4 on tape! I doubt we'll ever see this released in the U.S., so I'm grateful to all those fansubbers out there who've supplied us with this wonderfully written charming series." ----- "I finished all 76 episode of the Marmalade Boy series and the Marmalade Boy movie a few weeks ago, and I give the whole entire anime" ****************************************************************************************************** {pages full of stars} ***************** ----- "I recently finished watching volume 13-15 of Marmalade Boy, and now I am impatiently waiting for the last four volumes of this wonderful series. I don't know if I can wait any longer to find out what's going to happen. Would it be cheating if I just peeked at one of those spoiler pages out there? I don't' think I have the strength to hold out!" ----- "Hi. My name is Melissa, and I'm a marmalade-aholic. <breaks down crying>"   "Yes! It enslaved me and forced me to watch! Some of those cliffhangers were just plain unfair!!!! I came across the show at a busy time in my life - I already wasn't getting much sleep - and wound up watching the last 15 tapes in about 5 days. My closet collapsed while I was watching the last volume, and I didn't notice! It's evil I tell you evil! Something this good can not have been made by mortals! But seriously...I can't remember the last time I watch a show that just demanded to be watched like that. I can't imagine any drug being much more addictive. The only drawback is some of my Japanese friends laugh at me for watching it because it is supposedly a "shoujo" show." End of Fictional Realms Section of AOL   Fan Section - Mainly Email   Pages with directories for their sections... KD's Corner Home Page The Original Marmalade Boy Guide Page The New Marmalade Boy '99 Addition For those who linked in from exCel Animation Art and need to return: exCel Directories excel@ncn.com or karen.duffy@bbs.chemek.cc.or.us _________________________________ ________________________________________