Author: Gabriel Persechino-Forest Published: September 3rd, 2021
Shaman King Physical Release Announced
Discotek is releasing the original Shaman King series on standard definition BD discs. The set will include all 64 episodes but will feature the dubbed and edited version of the series that played on TV in the West at the time. The uncut version will be released at a yet undetermined date as a subtitled-only release.
Source: Discotek
Evangelion BD Release Announced
Neon Genesis Evangelion is getting a BD release, putting the original series back in print in the West. The series will come out in two different editions:
Standard Edition
A 5-disc set that includes the entire original series and the films Death (True2) and End of Evangelion. This set will feature over 5 hours of special features.
Collector’s Edition
Deluxe 11-disc set in a rigid case with exclusive content such as a 40-page book, art cards, the Netflix and classic (ADV) dubs and the Netflix and classic (ADV) subtitles. This set includes over 7 hours of bonus content. The series and two movies are, obviously, also included in this edition.
It should be noted that neither version contain Fly me to the Moon.
Source: Rightstuf (Link 1 and Link 2) and GKIDS Films
K-ON UK Release Issues
Funimation UK has acknowledged quality issues with their complete limited edition release of the K-ON series. Those affected by the issue have been asked to return the set for a refund. The issues include skipping frames or massive distortions, as can be seen below:
Source: Law and Funimation UK
DVD/BD Sales in Japan
For the first half of 2021, DVD and BD sales for animation have increased by 57.5% compared to last year (The record sales of the Demon Slayer movie is considered an important factor). Overseas animation, on the other hand, has seen a year-over-year decrease in sales in the Japanese market and accounted for only 1/35 of the market (Or US$ 6.8 million).
Source: Japan Video Software Association and Animation Business Journal