Kadokawa Pictures' youtube channel began streaming the trailer for their upcoming Strike Witches movie. The film which was originally announced in October of 2010 is scheduled to premiere in theaters on March 17, 2012. You'll find the trailer for the theatrical film which is based on 2 television anime series and an ova below.

(Full Version of the Header - Artist: hi-ho- [original image here])

Yoshika Miyafuji and the 501^st Joint Fighter Wing are back again to combat the alien Neuroi forces that are taking over Earth in the latest anime adaptation of the Strike Witches (ストライクウィッチー) light novels/manga. The second season of Strike Witches brings back the cast that fans have come to love, but it did not necessarily bring back a stronger plot with better action scenes that some may have been hoping for. In spite of that, it is still somewhat enjoyable watch. This anime aired from June 19, 2010 to September 23, 2010. As always, little to no spoilers will be in this review.

Many will say that the plot of Strike Witches 2 is not as good the first season as it does not focus as much on action packed scenes and that character development is not as strong between the characters. Some of the battles between the Neuroi in episodes may feel kind of quick and slapped on just for the sake of having action. Fanservice throughout the plot is more toned down compared to the first season and leaves a bit more to be desired. One of the biggest issues however, is the ending of Strike Witches 2. It had some great flaws which can almost ruin the entire series for someone.

First thing I will mention is that Strike Witches 2 is animated by a different studio. While AIC did a decent job, they certainly could not compare to GONZO’s performance in the first season. CGI is clearly apparent in some scenes, which is disappointing to see. Backgrounds and scenery however, still maintain a great amount of quality and are enjoyable to look at it. The show’s musical score is well done and has some new tracks. Voice actors gave a strong performance in their roles and continued to bring personality to cast. Another thing to note is that Sakamoto Mio’s voice actor has changed from the first season. Seto Saori is able to fulfill her role though and live up to performance of Chiba Saeko from the first season.

Overall, the second season of Strike Witches is enjoyable, but it cannot compare to the first season. This earns it a score of 7.4/10.

Oh yeah, they still have wonderful art for the half time transitions.

P.S. Sanya and Eila, BEST PAIRING.

Action, explosions, ecchi, cute girls, and moè anthropomorphizations of military planes is what Strike Witches/ストライクウィッチーズ could be summed up with. Strike Witches is simply a fun show to watch. The first season aired from Jul 3, 2008 to Sep 18, 2008 and is currently out as a DVD boxset in *gasp* AMERICA (and Canada). The bluray discs have to be imported though, sadly (they also have no subtitles). As usual, little or no spoilers will be mentioned.

Kicking off to skies, we start with Yoshika Miyafuji as our main character. She gets scouted by Squadron Leader Sakamoto Mio for her magical ability to be part of the 501^st Joint Fighter Wing. Strike Witches brings a somewhat unique plot to the table, blending the World War II time period into its story of girls fighting these alien-like machines called the Neuroi. As expected of a plot filled with cute and cool girls, it has its fun, cute, and serious moments. A generally easy and nicely flowing plot with arcs dedicated to each of the Witches of the 501^st. Due to its smooth narrative, it gives viewers enough time to develop feelings and attachments to each of the Witches and pick favorites from their personalities. I can’t say much when it comes to comparisons between the manga and show, but there are some great changes from manga.

You know it's a slow news week, when I wind up writing about underwear, but as the saying goes "Pantsu ja nai kara hazukashiku nai mon" ("I'm not embarassed since these aren't my underpants"). Popular anime, Strike Witches, has taken their merchandising to a place I'd rather not go... in to your pants. Online retailer, Chara-Ani is now accepting pre-orders for boxer briefs in 3 styles featuring the girls (Yoshika Miyafuji, Mio Sakamoto, and Sanya V. Litvyak) of Strike Witches.

The underwear, features an illustration of the character of your choice on the front and the 501st Joint Fighter Wing Strike Witches' insignia on the back. (Through the power of engrish, 501st is written as 501th). If that isn't too much information for you, then you'll be glad to know, that the underwear comes in 2 sizes, medium and large. Pre-orders end December 17th and the product is scheduled to ship in February.