Lucky Star - Episode 11 Discussion / Poll [Archive]

Pellissier

2007-06-16, 13:16

Welcome to the discussion thread for Lucky Star, Episode 11.

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iamthebest22

2007-06-16, 14:27

Ummm question of interest, where did you get the watch the video so quick? I can't even find it at veoh or youtube.

Shiroth

2007-06-16, 14:28

Ummm question of interest, where did you get the watch the video so quick? I can't even find it at veoh or youtube.
It doesn't air until tomorrow. The thread is made early, thats all.

Claies

2007-06-16, 18:49

Hmm...

- Christmas time!
- The class receives their scores for their exams. As we can recall, Konata did horribly, and she got a parent's note.
- We see Yui get drunk in front of Konata and Sochirou.
- Kagami reels from screwing up her previous song by the second verse. Tsukasa gets to sing this time.
- Akira attacks. Two possible outcomes:
1) Shirashi gets booted off, and Akira hosts alone or with someone totally incompetent. We get a very dry and unfunny Lucky Channel, and Shirashi returns by next episode.
2) The managers decide to keep Shirashi. We see a very pissed off Akira.

- Announcement of Complete Tsundere Debate.

Animaniac: DN Guy

2007-06-16, 19:10

Oh.... lol I wonder what will happen with Tsukasa and her relationship with the cellphone! xD

Shiroth

2007-06-16, 19:21

- We see Yui get drunk in front of Konata and Sochirou.
The many sides of Cousin Yui.

<3

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-16, 19:29

Nemo_N

2007-06-17, 00:47

Since it's Tsukasa's turn to do the preview, we can expect it to be awfully short and to include one single scene (two at most).

Well, most of the time Lucky Star previews don't give away much anyway. Last week's has been the richest so far.

Psychotic_Virtue

2007-06-17, 10:37

Hope This Episode Succeeds The Greatness Of Episode 10, Still Cant Get Kagami Sama Out Of My Head:D, I Do Wonder When We Get Too See Minami And/Or The Rest Of The Cast...

P.V.

Demel

2007-06-17, 11:28

Considering it's Christmas and the rest of the cast join in as new students (Save Kagami's classmates) it should be Episode 13 at the latest? The faster the better anyway.

kj1980

2007-06-17, 11:41

After 11 episodes finally we get to hear Misao, Ayano and Yutaka (albeit shadow only)!

This week's ED: Doraemon~ wwwww
oh how cute.....tera iyashi~.

Nemo_N

2007-06-17, 11:41

iamthebest22

2007-06-17, 11:42

Ummm where's the site that you guys watched this before I can again? I forgot ><

pomps

2007-06-17, 12:23

I voted 10 for the doraemon song :D, "HAI, TAKEKOPUTA~~~"

iamthebest22

2007-06-17, 12:26

oi pomps where did you watch it? can you tell me the link or site name?

Shiroth

2007-06-17, 12:28

This week's ED: Doraemon~
Blast from the past --- i wonder who sings this one. :3

kj1980

2007-06-17, 12:37

Blast from the past --- i wonder who sings this one. :3

Tsukasa and Miyuki, with Konata saying "hai takekoputa-" www

Vexx

2007-06-17, 12:41

@iamthebest22: After it airs, the raws are available on certain sites that can't be named here because of Animesuki forum rules .... it isn't terribly hard to google for though. I suggest reading the forum rules if you haven't yet.

After the fansubs are released, they're available at the torrent section of Animesuki (the main page). They're available at the whim of the fansubbers, usually a few days or a week from air date.

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-17, 12:50

Does Tsukasa say Balsamic Vinegar again. If she does I'm ready to dish out the 10 on that alone. :p

Seriously though I find it very interesting that they havent' introduced Minami yet. I'm not complaining personally as I don't picture the character being very funny, but Chihara Minori's a popular singer and I would have imagined her being broken in sooner.

Vexx

2007-06-17, 13:12

The 'supernova sparkle' effect seems to be a trademark of theirs whatever one thinks of it... kind of like Tokyo Movie Shinsha's trademark in Animaniacs was their camera angles and lens flare techniques (they were a contracting animation company for Warner Brothers along with a couple of others but they had the supreme animation skills by most counts).

((anyone interested in all things Animaniacs can go to Keeper's website: http://www2.cruzio.com/~keeper/toons.html (http://www2.cruzio.com/%7Ekeeper/toons.html) as an ultimate jumppoint))
--sez the Really Cranky Dragon (for those who remember...)

I figure we'll see a new character or two around ep 12/13. If none have shown up by ep 14 --- then I speculate they're keeping the anime's focus on the Current Fab Four and the others will just be one ep cameos later. There's enough manga material to handle both possibilities, especially with the L*C's flexible size (meh...).

Deathkillz

2007-06-17, 13:27

Found on 2chan:

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/2897/new01aw5.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=new01aw5.jpg) http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/3599/new02qm6.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=new02qm6.jpg)
ooooh...big forehead :3 i bet kona has something to say about that :heh:

Doraemon Ed = win!!! i cant wait to watch this ^.^

Risaa

2007-06-17, 13:34

Oh, cool. o.O! I didn't know there were people out there still keeping track of Animaniacs... wow, I really want the DVDs - I'm tired of using YouTube. :heh:

I really like our three heros and one wiki, but I think the show could be even better with the new characters... and it looks like we'll get to meet them, at least for a couple eps. :) (Random: Misao's physical appearance reminds me so much of Kagura's from Azumanga... but cuter. XD )

I remember when sensei got lazy one day and just showed the class Doraemon episodes...

ooooh...big forehead :3 i bet kona has something to say about that
lol Forehead-chan. *shiny!*

Vexx

2007-06-17, 13:39

Must be her hairstyle (that wolf cut).... Kagura was a bit less tall and more curvy (remember Tomo's incessant torture of Kagami about her cup size). If I'm getting Minami's personality correct from the manga .... she *acts* a bit like a cross between Sakaki (AzuDa) and Nagato (ShnY). Tall and quiet, monosyllabic, gets very attached to a very small character of Chiyo-like nature.

Can't call L*S completely original .... but hey, any given fantasy novel is going to have the same archetypes as well with some personality permutations.

Risaa

2007-06-17, 13:44

How does it go again? A copy of a copy of a copy becomes an original?

Ah, true. Kagura was more full... though I don't recall Tomo messing with Kagami (sorry, sorry - I laugh at mistakes, even my own).

Oh, just realized. Happy Fathers Day, everyone. Even those who aren't celebrating it.

Nemo_N

2007-06-17, 14:30

Doreamon! Those CD's can't come soon enough!

And poor Nanako. So lonely... :(.

Mirrinus

2007-06-17, 14:43

Oh wow, Doraemon...I remember watching that a lot when I was like 5 or 6, lol. In Chinese...

WanderingKnight

2007-06-17, 16:02

Only one comment about this episode: "Dondake---!"

Claies

2007-06-17, 16:07

Oh god...Doraemon...I feel like a kid again. I loved that show so much.

shinku no kage

2007-06-17, 18:30

After 11 episodes finally we get to hear Misao, Ayano and Yutaka (albeit shadow only)!

This week's ED: Doraemon~ wwwww
oh how cute.....tera iyashi~.
:D FINALLY!! I was starting to get worried if any of the other chars would show up soon.:heh:
(o[]O)!! ドラえもん/Doraemon!? You gotta be F***ing kidding!? REALLY!?
Tsukasa and Miyuki, with Konata saying "hai takekoputa-" www
:twitch:

....NO, WAY!! Tsukasa AND Miyuki-san is gonna sing it!!? I, I cant believe it...since ep.1 I thought "it'd be cute if they did songs from shows like Doraemon or Anpan-man"...and to make it better would be to have Tsukasa sing it.

:heh: Guess wishes do come true when you hope for it enough...now only if that applied to my LS Moe Drill arriving on time.

Daniel E.

2007-06-17, 21:34

More pics courtesy of the Random Curiosity blog site.

Lucky Star eps. 11 (http://randomc.animeblogger.net/2007/06/17/lucky-star-11/)

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-17, 23:32

So have they busted out with that new Tsundere definition yet. I need to know so I know what to put into my internet searches for Boolean functions. I suspect I'm going to need some filtering to avoid an overabudance of this new word turning up more than necessary when looking for anime related stuff. By the way, I'd avoid 4Chan and possibly AOMM for a while once the new definition is out. That is unless your really truly interested in it as a meme.

By the way, my reaction to the episode. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0_Idu_p2w8)

archanfels

2007-06-18, 00:14

Doraemon ending clearly makes this episode instantly OVER NINE THOUSAND

arias

2007-06-18, 01:33

ooooh...big forehead :3 i bet kona has something to say about that :heh:

Doraemon Ed = win!!! i cant wait to watch this ^.^

Big forehead? Not really.. I only count the area above the eyebrows one's forehead. I'm quite fond of big-forehead females :D Very.. in fact, I think..

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-18, 01:39

ooooh...big forehead :3 i bet kona has something to say about that :heh:

Doraemon Ed = win!!! i cant wait to watch this ^.^

Wait for a picture with open eyes before you make the call. For all we know when her eyes are open the forehead will look smaller as the eyes will take up more space (Anime eyes that is).

Julius Firefocht

2007-06-18, 05:25

Doraemon ending clearly makes this episode instantly OVER NINE THOUSAND

This man is quoted for truth!

Meophist

2007-06-18, 13:29

Konna koto iina, dekitara iina
Konna yume anna yume ippai aru kedo~

…can't get that song out of my head now.

2H-Dragon

2007-06-18, 13:29

More pics courtesy of the Random Curiosity blog site.

Lucky Star eps. 11 (http://randomc.animeblogger.net/2007/06/17/lucky-star-11/)

Looking at the pics. Kona doing that kick pic and no panties. o_O Now that I think of it have we seen panties in this series? It's like they are going against the rules. O-O KyoAni is a frightening animation team not to be underestimated. :O

So Kagami has her own set of friends?! o.o I bet ya they are just classmates! xD

CrazyPerson

2007-06-18, 14:03

Oh man, I can't wait for Ep 11 to be subbed. Seeing as AFK's always so consistent (Thank God, consistency in subbing is my favourite virtue of a group) I think they'll release sometime late tomorrow.

PS. Since we've invoked the mysterious no panty shots thing, I patiently await Kaoshin's posts on his expertise in the matter. :) Should be an interesting read.

Vexx

2007-06-18, 14:15

Its rather simple... KyoAni has a talent for avoiding gratuitous pantsu shots, or more accurately -somebody- got a view but it wasn't the camera.
Manabi Straight also accomplished that feat without being KyoAni :)

(watches afk but patiently waits for EnA's work :) )

kenjiharima

2007-06-18, 14:45

I think the only panty shot we'll ever see is the cheerleader intro...just a split second frame...oh well. That's KyoAni for ya. :heh:

Hoping to see more characters soon and the subs. lol :D Thx AFK

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-18, 14:56

Which isn't to be mistaken for meaning Lucky Star doesn't pile on the Ecchi fanservice every now and then (Episode 6 with the naked hot springs, Episode 7 with Konata fondling Kagami and all the jokes surrounding Konata's father being a pedophile). The way I see it, Panty Shot's are the most basic form of ecchi fanservice and Lucky Star has adopted a "Go Big or Go home" philosophy.

That being said, I think a number of shows from hear on out are going to be going beyond the simple panty shot for a more innuendo and in your face style of ecchi fanservice. We've all grown too accustomed to expecting Panty Shots and so I think writers across the board in Japan are going to flexing their creative (and dirty thinking) muscle to come up with new ideas to please the sexual appetite of viewers.

Vexx

2007-06-18, 16:08

I think the only panty shot we'll ever see is the cheerleader intro...just a split second frame...oh well. That's KyoAni for ya. :heh:

Hoping to see more characters soon and the subs. lol :D Thx AFK

I've been informed by those that care about such things that the cheerleader sequence isn't a 'pantsu shot' .... they're wearing gym bloomers. :)

So far I think Gurren-Lagann is winning the skin and scenery awards for the season, leaving the current comedy and romances way in the dust in that sort of category.

Shiroth

2007-06-18, 16:13

So far I think Gurren-Lagann is winning the skin and scenery awards for the season, leaving the current comedy and romances way in the dust in that sort of category.
Now lets take this time, to imagine Lucky Star by Gainax --- plenty of bounce.

kenjiharima

2007-06-18, 16:19

I've been informed by those that care about such things that the cheerleader sequence isn't a 'pantsu shot' .... they're wearing gym bloomers. :)

So far I think Gurren-Lagann is winning the skin and scenery awards for the season, leaving the current comedy and romances way in the dust in that sort of category.

Oh...gym bloomers...to bad. So it's like Sakura's(StreetFighter Alpha series). Well I thought I'd see some Hinata(Rival Schools) panty shots from Kona-chan this ep, but no...waiting for the subs then time to rate! XD

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-18, 16:40

Now lets take this time, to imagine Lucky Star by Gainax --- plenty of bounce.

Making Konata Bounce would be a feat worthy of Banpresto.

Princess_of_Hell

2007-06-18, 17:03

Oh god...Doraemon...I feel like a kid again. I loved that show so much.

The show with the cat who has that magical pocket that can hold anything and everything, the pocket of multi-dimensions?

I have that opening theme mp3 on the computer.

archanfels

2007-06-18, 18:32

angel_wing0

2007-06-18, 19:27

Found on 2chan:

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/2897/new01aw5.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=new01aw5.jpg) http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/3599/new02qm6.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=new02qm6.jpg)

just watched the raw, and they did...nothing except say hi during the ep :heh:

*AWAITS AFK SUBS!*

Kaoru Chujo

2007-06-18, 19:57

...It's sad and it's so out of the mood, I have no idea what's the point of that. I guess they can't make her a pure fun character like Yukari sensei? Still, it feels really odd and inconsistent with the overall atmosphere. =/I know what you mean, but I appreciated it. It added some depth of mood, for me.

WanderingKnight

2007-06-18, 21:08

It's sad and it's so out of the mood, I have no idea what's the point of that. I guess they can't make her a pure fun character like Yukari sensei? Still, it feels really odd and inconsistent with the overall atomsphere. =/

It was actually on purpose, you know. I think the objective in those scenes was to get a laugh at poor Nanako :D

AVPlaya

2007-06-18, 21:17

The show with the cat who has that magical pocket that can hold anything and everything, the pocket of multi-dimensions?

I have that opening theme mp3 on the computer.

So do I... that's like the first Japanese song I've learned, and I didn't even know it was Japanese. Everyone loved Doraemon and his missing ears.

As for Lucky Star being fanservice... well, if you call discussions about pubic hair and menstral cycle fanservice, then lucky star is right there on top. I don't remember any other anime, adult or other wise, talked about these specific topic before. Poor Kona-chan, hope she gets her period soon.

That discussion about periods is also inaccurate. Any one who lived with Asian family memebers would know - if you're female family members are close as Tsukasa/Kagami, they not only know each other's period intimately but actually SYNCHRONIZE with each other so they all get it at the same time. That one piece is either written by a dude or the girls didn't like to get the secret out.

aorta

2007-06-18, 21:27

bayoab

2007-06-18, 21:31

As for Lucky Star being fanservice... well, if you call discussions about pubic hair and menstral cycle fanservice, then lucky star is right there on top. I don't remember any other anime, adult or other wise, talked about these specific topic before.
Girl's High has tons of stuff on these topics.

That discussion about periods is also inaccurate. Any one who lived with Asian family memebers would know - if you're female family members are close as Tsukasa/Kagami, they not only know each other's period intimately but actually SYNCHRONIZE with each other so they all get it at the same time. That one piece is either written by a dude or the girls didn't like to get the secret out.
Firstly, the entire script for that episode was written by a woman.
Secondly, you are really oversimplifying things and it is perfectly plausible.

nadare

2007-06-18, 21:55

That discussion about periods is also inaccurate. Any one who lived with Asian family memebers would know - if you're female family members are close as Tsukasa/Kagami, they not only know each other's period intimately but actually SYNCHRONIZE with each other so they all get it at the same time. That one piece is either written by a dude or the girls didn't like to get the secret out.

That's over generalization. It varies from family to family.

AVPlaya

2007-06-18, 21:59

That's over generalization. It varies from family to family.

Haha, funny how serious people take these comments. Relax, It's just true for everyone I know that is all. Should have added a smiley at the end. :) and I did say qualify by saying "close".

archanfels

2007-06-18, 22:00

It was actually on purpose, you know. I think the objective in those scenes was to get a laugh at poor Nanako :D

The way it was set up, If it was meant to be funny and laughed at, the execution cannot be worse. (There are only like Billions of ways they could have made the scene comical)

Plus I highly doubt kyoani is promoting the idea of laughing at 27 year old singles' misery of having to spend their X'mas eve alone. This is totally different from Kona being an otaku.

Vexx

2007-06-18, 22:21

There's also some assumption here that Konata isn't "ready for play" that is incorrect.
It is being based off of Kagami's hyperbolic speculation in an embarrassed moment -- since Konata is 17, Kagami is just blowing mental smoke...

And the synchronization *trend* is noted for all races.. not just asian and not just family members but anyone in long term close proximity. Though it is a statistical *trend*, not a given.

As far as the seriousness in this episode:
Lucky*Star has some very serious moments amongst the comedy -- it makes the comedy more dear because you know there's some poignancy underneath:
1) Kagami wanting to fit in and not making friends easily
2) Konata not ever quite understanding her ADD nature of impulsiveness and inability to track on schoolwork while hyperfocusing on videogames.
3) Nanako really not having anyone despite being a really wonderful and playful person.
4) Miyuki's long list of little fails underneath her "miss perfect" persona.
5) Tsukasa's fragile self-esteem and over-dependence on her sister

6) etc etc etc

These foibles make the funny more human and more directly hits the target.

Vallen Chaos Valiant

2007-06-18, 22:26

^ that's the one

Regarding the ep:

Watched the raw and won't comment on anything before sub except the Kuroi sensei part:

It's sad and it's so out of the mood, I have no idea what's the point of that. I guess they can't make her a pure fun character like Yukari sensei? Still, it feels really odd and inconsistent with the overall atomsphere. =/

Well, that's the thing; the teacher is actually not as much a gag character as the others, because she does have her own worries that are not associated with the younger characters. The fact that she is unattached was part of her character profile...

And are you sure Yukari sensei is purely fun? I guess it seems so because she has her best friend Nyamo to hang out with, while Kuroi is much more lonely and spends her time on MMORPGs. I will need subs to confirm, but it seems Kuroi really is similar to Kagami; they are lonely people. Even when Kuroi had the police-lady around she still doesn't know how to act.

archanfels

2007-06-18, 22:58

Again, the key here is execution:

Take Vexx's list, I wouldn't call those seriousness but rather more realistic characteristics that can make the audience relate to the characters. When executed properly, they became running gags and/or moe factors that people appreciate.

However, the scene in 11 is poorly done in this regard. Instead of leaving kuroi's loneliness the little gag as it is, they made a big deal out of it and the mood was all pathetic.

Again, I don't mind the "seriousness", it's the way they executed it bothers me. It'd be like actually showing Kona mourns her mother (which I'm sure she does at some point), which doesn't necessarily add any "depth" and would be totally uncalled for.

Nemo_N

2007-06-18, 23:33

Skane

2007-06-19, 02:11

Vexx

2007-06-19, 02:54

Ouch.. the Christmas Cake proverb..... ouch

Can't wait to see this ep....

~Tsukuyomi

2007-06-19, 08:22

Well, I for one, wanted to hug Kuroi-sensei...

Anyway, could some explain to me:

http://img461.imageshack.us/img461/5792/jonessc2.jpg

What the heck is Tommy Lee Jones doing there!?

I know it might not be him, but hasn't he done some commercials in Japan?

Argh, or in any case, who is he?!

I think it really is him... In this scene, they were Kona-chan was dead tired in the subway... Since Tommy Lee Jones does commercial for Japanese coffee, this is probably telling us people to drink your coffee and not miss your stop... Kinda somewhat make sense if you put it that way...

Well, episode 11 was great...

Kagami: Ah!
Tsukasa: Ah!
Miyuki: Ah!
Kagami: No!
Konata: Yes...

Nemo_N

2007-06-19, 10:11

There was a subtle cultural joke in Nanako's scene. It involves the calendar date and Christmas cake. Pay attention to what she says. I had a hearty laugh out of it because I got the joke. :heh:

Cheers.
Ouch.. the Christmas Cake proverb..... ouch

Can't wait to see this ep....

Had to look up for that:

In Japan, age counts. Especially if you are a woman. The ideal of feminine beauty in Japan is youth and innocence. Plus, there's a lot of pressure on women to get married. So, if you're an unmarried woman, and heading towards thirty, we'd say that you're being "left on the shelf" or maybe "past your sell-by date".

In Japan though, they compare such women to a "Christmas Cake". It may well be sweet and delicious, but no one really wants any after the 25th. So, if you're an unmarried Japanese woman, after the age of twenty five, you're in extreme danger of becoming a Christmas Cake.

More tidbits here (http://www.redbrick.dcu.ie/~melmoth/japan/c.html).

Poor, poor Nanako :heh:.

pomps

2007-06-19, 10:23

So Nanako bought the cake (50% off though) and convinced herself that someone will "buy" the Nanako-cake even after the 25th.
And poor Nanako still thinks she has Yui as her companion in this post 25 thing :D.

Anh_Minh

2007-06-19, 10:39

I don't care about Christmas. I still think Nanako's hot.

WanderingKnight

2007-06-19, 12:03

I still think Nanako's hot.

Kansai accent... Oooh...!

pomps

2007-06-19, 12:42

Fake accent though :D. I mean Nanako's using fake accent, not the seiyuu.

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-19, 12:55

I think it really is him... In this scene, they were Kona-chan was dead tired in the subway... Since Tommy Lee Jones does commercial for Japanese coffee, this is probably telling us people to drink your coffee and not miss your stop... Kinda somewhat make sense if you put it that way...

Well, episode 11 was great...

Kagami: Ah!
Tsukasa: Ah!
Miyuki: Ah!
Kagami: No!
Konata: Yes...

Wow that was my favourite scene too. It beats the heck out of the Dazed and Confused episode of Itchy and Scratchy. BEST DIALOGUE EVER! :rolleyes:

Fat Cat Lim

2007-06-19, 13:56

Well, episode 11 was great...

Kagami: Ah!
Tsukasa: Ah!
Miyuki: Ah!
Kagami: No!
Konata: Yes...

That scene was pretty cute, though I can personally testify that being around or using computers all the time does not make your body immune to static shock. In fact I get them a lot more than usual so I often have to make sure my body is grounded before using touching any computer component.

Kagami

2007-06-19, 14:28

Dang you guys already saw ep 11? I'm still waiting for the subs. :(

Mr JeburtO

2007-06-19, 18:10

to all those who understand japanese i say .... "for shame" .... and i hate you :p

Risaa

2007-06-19, 19:08

Hey hey, we work really hard to be able to understand Japanese (in many of our cases, we get some of it, but not all of it - that's certainly me). The learn-Japanese club is always open to new members though. ;)

Vexx

2007-06-19, 19:35

I'm exuberant if I can catch 1/3 to half the words in an episode -- even if I replay it. Often, they're using slang or such casual speech that I'm trying to figure out who the hell they said did just what then where.... :)

I do better with written material and surrounding myself with dictionaries ala Nodoka power (though I score zero on the 'moe' meter :P).

Dark Wing

2007-06-20, 07:13

The learn-Japanese club is always open to new members though. ;)

Sign me up then please.:D

nikorai

2007-06-20, 13:19

sorry for speaking offtopic. i havent watched ep 11. can't seem to find it. not that it bothers me. im sure a recording ll come up.
i'd love to understand more japanese. i mostly study alone using a textbook. it is very inefficient with nobody around to correct my mistakes. what is worse is that i can only find some time for japanese during vacations and it is a pretty thing as you can see.

CrazyPerson

2007-06-20, 13:20

Ep11 is out by AFK! Grab it while it's hot!

Getto-daze?

Anh_Minh

2007-06-20, 13:41

In no particular order:

Hm... Tsukasa's starting to rebel? (At least internally.)

Sebastian (= Minoru?) stinks?

Minoru calls Kagami by her given name, without honorifics?

Poor Nanako.

I've liked every Lucky Channel this far, but this one seemed pretty weak.

I really like the relationship between Konata and her dad.

Risaa

2007-06-20, 13:56

i'd love to understand more japanese. i mostly study alone using a textbook. it is very inefficient with nobody around to correct my mistakes. what is worse is that i can only find some time for japanese during vacations and it is a pretty thing as you can see.
When I first started out, I learned from a few internet sources and a couple textbooks (I'm very fond of Gene Nishi's Japanese Step by Step for independent study). Mistakes are bound to be made... I recommend asking for help in the Learning Japanese (http://forums.animesuki.com/showthread.php?t=180) thread (and to post there if you want to continue the convo... I need to check that thread more often). No worries; everyone's friendly. :)

Claies

2007-06-20, 16:36

Oh god...this episode rocks.

Short comments:
- Hey...I've missed stops before!
- Isn't there a term for those people who get on a train just to sleep in there?
- Wow...the girls have an insult battle royale this episode.
- What was the wordplay on "inbound" and "outbound" trains and people?
- Poor Konata...she gets burned pretty much the whole episode.
- Tsukasa is waaaaaay smarter and uhh...less nice than she lets on.
"Sebastian...like...stinks!" "You're grouping us together?!"
- Wow...the Hiiragis are really religious. I can find loads of those people around me...
- Poor Nanako...I have a feeling I'll end up like her. Pity...she's actually quite pretty to look at. But all 4 girls with the Christmas cake analogy was just painful.
- ^^^ Did Konata figure that out when she logged on the game?
- Ah! Ah! No! Yes.
- STRONGER!!!!

- Did Sebastian Shirashi imply that the minor characters will appear next ep?

- Doraemon alone makes this 10.

yura`

2007-06-20, 16:43

Enjoyed the episode very much! Like a few other posters, my favourite scene was definitely the static electricity scene, and Konata's dad's reaction was the clincher for that segment! I couldn't help but burst out laughing.

Kagami: Oh!
Tsukasa: Oh!
Miyuki: Ah!
Kagami: No!
Konata: Yes!

Konata's dad: (after being 'shocked') Oh, I wanted to try it again!

Minutes later... Excited yells: "Stronger!"

- Tsukasa continues to reveal interesting facets of her personality:

Kagami: Birds of a feather
Tsukasa: You're grouping us together!?
-----
Konata: But Tsukasa probably wasn't much competition.
Kagami: Well... that's true...
Tsukasa: Stupid Kona-chan thinks she's all that!

Tsukasa continues to amaze me! Lol.

And poor Kuroi-sensei! My heart really goes out to her... coming from an Asian background myself, and having seen a close cousin pass that age and gone through the pressure of being unmarried makes it easier for me to empathize with her.

But best of all,

OMG DORAEMON ED <insert unintelligible shrieks> Sung by Tsukasa and Miyuki, no less! Just listening to the intro of the all-too familiar Doraemon theme song brings back nostalgic memories. From the static scene to the end, it was a huge, wide, silly grin on my face the whole way.

Lucky Channel segment didn't impress much this time round, but I've come to not expect much from it, so when it does impress, it's a bonus.

Gsus

2007-06-20, 16:48

Bullet points:

- "Just five minutes more..."
- "...So they hit me on my side." "Doesn't that mean they're actually awake?"
- People stealing your seat, happens to everyone, I guess...
- "Santa Claus isn't real?" Oops.
- Ramen story, so true...
- Miyuki is starting to get a bit scary...
- What DO they write on those report cards?!
- Yui's very eager to see her husband again. What does he mean by sneaking up on her?
- Awww... Nanako...
- STRONGER!!!!

Great episode, a bit less otaku-flavoured, but very nice indeed.

Edit for preview: Seems like the next episode will be the New Year's Episode. Spring cleaning. I can imagine Tsukasa tripping and getting stuck on the bell rope...

Deathkillz

2007-06-20, 17:17

oh!
oh!
oh!
no! yes!

hahaha! that says it all XD and whats with kona's dad and his love of static shocks? O.o

pretty nice ep that touches on a few interesting topics...like how you will naturally lean on someone while falling asleep on the train (though in my case is when i take the bus :heh:)

and isnt it just a bummer when your cup ramen goes all soggy >.<

kagami experiences a time paradox and yui is being a baka again...

but the highlight for me has to be how caring kona is towards Nanako...yes she is single...and yes she is getting old now but kona is still willing to comfort her ~ i call that love :3

nadare

2007-06-20, 18:26

Lol that "I had a feeling I saw a girl in a sailor uniform with a machine gun walk by"... Isn't that Sailor Fuku To Kikanjuu reference?(The Drama which Kagami sang the op back in episode 4)

Vexx

2007-06-20, 18:29

Gunslinger Girls, eh?

I seem to be stuck in a lousy part of the torrent cloud today.... most of the peers who connect just sit there not exchanging packets.....

Gsus

2007-06-20, 18:40

kagami experiences a time paradoxMaybe not a time paradox. Konata rebuilt reality so Kagami was in the same class as her :rolleyes:

And I thought it was Gunslinger Girl too, but googling it revealed it was Sailor Fuku to Kikanjuu (http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Sailor_Fuku_to_Kikanjuu), Asakusa being mentioned and all that.

Good eye.

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-20, 18:50

I've posted my summary, commentary and review on my blog for those who are interested. The episode scored an 8.5/10 from me overall.

Claies

2007-06-20, 19:14

Maybe not a time paradox. Konata rebuilt reality so Kagami was in the same class as her :rolleyes:

Fanwork idea right there. :D

stormy001_M1A2

2007-06-20, 20:53

I was laughing like mad when Konata talks about martial arts and Master Oyama. I posted on who is he in cultural reference thread.

This anime is remarkable for lack of coherent story but yet people still love it. Remarkable indeed.

Skane

2007-06-20, 21:22

The following is based on [a.f.k.]'s fansub.

Random Thoughts On Ep11:
---- ----

Kagami getting flustered by Konata over her inability to maintain a diet is always good for a laugh.
.
Kagami getting small revenge by barbing Konata and Tsukasa over their 5-min routines was golden.
.
Who is the man in the train? The artstyle is definitely an indication of a reference.
.
An angry Tsukasa is fine too.
.
Interesting. Kagami's own classmates still address her by her family name (formal), while the people in Konata's class address her by her given name (casual). I wonder how many people picked up on this? ;)
.
Kagami's flower vision of Konata? Too bad it is not lilies. :D
.
Kagami destroys Konata with logic.
.
Konata destroys her father with filial piety.
.
Got to hear Yui's husband (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=12353). Another relatively unknown VA in the Lucky Star cast.
.
Dramatic increase in animation quality during Nanako's sunset scene. :heh: Like it was from some "tragic moment" in a Key game. Even the music was poignant. Even so, it was still quite a hilarious scene, if "sad".
.
As a model kit collector (ZOIDS), I share Konata's sentiment on not touching Collectors' Items. The value of such items take a drastic drop if the box is opened. The most prized ones are those in MISB conditions, shortform for Mint-In-Sealed-Box. MIBs can still command respectable prizes, but not as high as MISBs.
~~~~ ~~~~

Cheers.

lftwgr

2007-06-20, 21:54

Kagami: Oh!
Tsukasa: Oh!
Miyuki: Oh!
Kagami: No!
Konata: Yes.

Heh. I know it's been posted before in a spoiler, but this takes the cake. :D
Sojiro's a total masochist.

I actually liked the sunset scene. But then, 27 is still pretty young (to me at least). Gambate Nanako-san!

CrowKenobi

2007-06-20, 23:07

Interesting. Kagami's own classmates still address her by her family name (formal), while the people in Konata's class address her by her given name (casual). I wonder how many people picked up on this? ;)
.Cheers.Ah, so that's why Kagami made that remark that she spends too much time in Tsukasa's class (and makes it all the funnier)! Nice catch! :D

:cool:

Vexx

2007-06-21, 01:11

Of course, that's Kagami's rationale... it may be that people were simply less tolerant of the crabby little darling there and never warmed up to her anyway
;)

CrowKenobi

2007-06-21, 01:49

Of course, that's Kagami's rationale... it may be that people were simply less tolerant of the crabby little darling there and never warmed up to her anyway
;)...Being class rep and everything. :heh:

:cool:

Mirrinus

2007-06-21, 02:26

- So wait...Kagami and Tsukasa really ARE shrine maidens???

- Konata's father just continues to rock more and more with each episode.

- Ah, static electricity. My greatest foe in life.

- Nanako-sensei needs more love. I like uniquely toothy characters like Tsuruya or Haruka Kamio.

- Wait...Konata knows martial arts? So maybe she IS capable of defeating Guile in combat...

- I'm loving the voice acting work in this episode, especially with Konata. Like how her voice drifts off when talking about her little cousin, or when she's talking to herself about the ramen.

- Spending Christmas Eve on an online game...that sounds like something I'd do...

- DORAEMON FTW!

bayoab

2007-06-21, 02:56

Who is the man in the train? The artstyle is definitely an indication of a reference.
That was ID'd as Tommy Lee Jones by most people. For what reason, I have no idea.
Random linkage mentioned by one of ID'ing people:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=n-XxVv15pv4

Vexx

2007-06-21, 03:04

Um, yeah... Kagami and Tsukasa's dad is a shrine priest. Apparently he runs a pretty big-to-do one that gets a fair tithe.
The girls exhibit pretty typical Shinto practice in that it doesn't occur to them that some might be confused that they do shrine ritual, sing in a local christian church choir, and celebrate Santa-xmas.

@Crowkenobi: heh.... how many series have we seen now where they dump the 'class rep' position onto that sort of girl (glances over at Manabi Straight)? :) I'm starting to get the feeling "class rep" isn't a popularity contest as much as a punishment :)

The VA work in this ep was extra special on many counts.

Nanako's little stand-against-the-system was sweet (buying the cake and talking with it defiantly).

Tsukasa has some spiny edges .... excellent :)

... and Kona has enough social acumen to snap onto "Nanako is playing an MMO on Christmas Eve ... ... ... ... ... I'll keep her company." 4-stars there

I'll grant that was probably Mr. Jones on the train.... who seemed quite worried that Kona would wake up and think she was being molested :)

... and we get our preview of some of the incoming characters :) ... though they're being a bit mushy about who is in which class.

gekko

2007-06-21, 03:46

Nice episode but not one of the better. Kagami can be so cute when she smiles :)

Kagami

2007-06-21, 04:05

I loved this episode! So many funny segments in it. Well most of you guys already said it (esp the static door part) so I'll leave it like that.

I really loved the part where Konata was staring at her cup ramen while it was cooking. That and the part where she was wearing a santa outfit. :D

Hilinar

2007-06-21, 05:30

phantom_ryder

2007-06-21, 06:02

[QUOTE=Deathkillz;998343]ooooh...big forehead :3 i bet kona has something to say about that :heh:
QUOTE]

That forehead may just be able to rival Shion-sama's from SP

Sorrow-K

2007-06-21, 06:03

Didn't think much of this episode. Other than the static electricity jokes, which made me seriously lol, the rest of the episode was rather bland, and reminiscent of the earlier eps in this series that I just simply didn't get most of the time. A bit disappointing, since after consecutive good episodes in the last fortnight (definition of good = made me laugh), I started thinking this show was on a turnaround, but I guess not... well, not at this stage anyway.

Being self-centric for a second, I really think there are times where this show just isn't accessible to, well, me. It bewilders me slightly that Hayate no Gotoku can fill an entire episode with references, and I can get the majority of them, yet come to this show and have the four or five references they make completely go over my head. I mean, is "obscure" a fair criticism for what is an otaku anime anyway? I guess it is from my point of view, since the reference-driven humour is lost on me most of the time. Same with the distinctly Japanese culture humour. It's not too different from Azumanga, but Azumanga somehow presented such jokes in a way that made them accessible enough, that one could understand the issue, even if one didn't know exactly what they were talking about. Lucky Star doesn't seem to be able to do this... but Lucky Star isn't exactly aimed at Westerners anyway.

I guess my problem with this show lies in the fact that I don't fall within its target audience, which people would probably argue isn't a problem with the show at all. I'm still not sure what I think of this show overall, since some episodes can have me laughing for the entire episode, and others, like this one, can have only one worthwhile gag. I do know that there are other better comedies in my books. This isn't bad, but I don't think it's great either, if only because the jokes aren't aimed at me and, more often than not, go over my head.

DragoonKain3

2007-06-21, 08:41

Wow, is that the first time I've seen girls in anime actually wear coats during the winter season?

And this ep actually answers my question as to why Miyuki doesn't seem to hang around the gang after school... it seems she lives in the opposite direction than the gang lol.

I seem to be stuck in a lousy part of the torrent cloud today.... most of the peers who connect just sit there not exchanging packets.....
And that's the reason why I use IRC (thank you Dovac!). There's just some shows I just can't get fast enough. :heh:

FlashCE

2007-06-21, 10:00

Wow I especially loved the Doraemon theme.

Vexx

2007-06-21, 10:30

Heh Konata's dad is becoming more funny. And until this episode I didn't noticed his glare in the opening. In turn, other side characters don't shine with humour. Yui is boring and sensei's motive seems like some filler.

I've heard about high sincretism in Japan, but shinto girls worshipping monotheistic god freaked me out. There is number of assumptions that do not allow such combination without shallowing one religion (i.e. envy god concept).

That's why I always laugh when I hear some evangelist talking about the "progress they've made" in 'de-heathenizing' the Japanese. Shinto glorps Christianity the same way they glorp Buddhism --- its just another part of the Shinto pantheism. The "exclusivity" issue that jealous sky-gods have leave them a bit baffled so they just ignore that part.

Kinny Riddle

2007-06-21, 10:47

Such is the allure of shows like Lucky Star, that I actually saw the ep last night some time at 3am, rated it a 9 but was too tired to write anything. :cool:

The following is based on [a.f.k.]'s fansub.

Random Thoughts On Ep11:

Interesting. Kagami's own classmates still address her by her family name (formal), while the people in Konata's class address her by her given name (casual). I wonder how many people picked up on this? ;)
.

Hey, thanks for pointing that out. I never noticed that even after Kagami made her statement about her spending more time in Kona-chan's class.

Kagami-sama in miko costume is moe. :love: :love:

Konata destroys her father with filial piety.

You must have been reading all those Confucius-related articles on wikipedia. :heh: "Filial piety", lol. That sounds just too academically "cheesy". I wonder if there's a more suitable single word for that in English.

Poor Nanako-sensei. :sad: You're not alone! If you're feeling desperate, then MARRY ME! Nah, just kidding. :D But still, 27 isn't too old for a single hot lady like you. To hell with those flawed social perceptions that you're a loser if you're still single at 30.

I find how the Hiiragi sisters manage to give each other a static shock hilarious, but I lol'ed even more at Kona-chan's dad at trying to get himself thrilled through multiple shocks. This dad's crazy.

And the sisters singing the Doraemon theme sends me into another nostalgia since Kagami-sama sang Cha-la, Head Cha-la.

Claies

2007-06-21, 10:52

That's why I always laugh when I hear some evangelist talking about the "progress they've made" in 'de-heathenizing' the Japanese. Shinto glorps Christianity the same way they glorp Buddhism --- its just another part of the Shinto pantheism. The "exclusivity" issue that jealous sky-gods have leave them a bit baffled so they just ignore that part.

Ah...so the Christian god is just "another one" for them, except they have to worship Him in a huge stone shrine plus organ.

Vexx

2007-06-21, 11:16

Kinny Riddle

2007-06-21, 11:21

Aye, there's some novelty aspect (like the Western wedding dress motif) and the usual fascination with "things Western".

I'm not saying there aren't some truly converted believers, but studies and polls indicate that the rare japanese "believer" (<3% of the total population) will nonetheless check off Shinto and Buddhism in addition to Christianity when asked what holidays and rituals are practiced.

There's been nothing explicit but I also wonder if Kagami & Tsukasa were engaged in some inter-faith activities between the local church and the shrine her father maintains ... or if they were simply curious enough to participate since the Christmas Concert event is just part of the seasonal hoopla.
That pretty much applies to most East Asians (Koreans and Chinese). We can be pretty flexible when it comes to worshiping all things supernatural, of course there are always some extremists that try to enforce their jealous Abrahamic sky-God's will on other oriental religions' "peaceful competition for souls".

Mr JeburtO

2007-06-21, 11:21

the part where the door is shocking them is halarious :D

kenjiharima

2007-06-21, 11:26

Gave it a 10 for the Static shock...NO!! YES... LOL :heh: <<< Seems this is the most favorite scene LOL again also Konata's dad, fathers are always funny ni the anime :heh:

Another scene is with Kagami...

Hiiragi, Hiiragi-san, Hiiragi-chan, Oi Kagami and so on...I dunno just found it funny.

Nanako...Loney hearts club this xmas :( I think over hearing the girls talk kinda hurt her inside and made her think. Hey Konata's Dad is available!!! :P

Iam now hopping to see maybe on ep18 or 15 Yutaka and Minami since she appeared also but in a shadow form running.

I really hope Akira would appear in the next episode. It'll be a big bang when she and Konata meet face to face and Shiraishi will be there...I hope so I am also starting to like Sebastian...err... Minoru I mean and also hoping that Kyoani would give him more air time with the interactions with the girls.

~Tsukuyomi

2007-06-21, 11:49

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-21, 12:24

And the sisters singing the Doraemon theme sends me into another nostalgia since Kagami-sama sang Cha-la, Head Cha-la.

That was Konata that attempted Chala-Head-Chala, and the singing of that versus Doraemon was an entirely different thing altogether.

Claies

2007-06-21, 13:25

I was wondering if anyone is going to update the reference list topic for this episode... Need to check if I overlooked something... So far, not so sure, but I heard that there was a different name on Kagami Hiiragi's test... Could someone clarify...

It is indeed "Hiiragi Kagami".
http://img236.imageshack.us/img236/8620/vlcsnap106015sy2.th.png (http://img236.imageshack.us/my.php?image=vlcsnap106015sy2.png)

The funny part would be that almost every answer is Imoko Ono (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ono_no_Imoko).

Suzumiya Haruhi

2007-06-21, 13:27

Konata's dad has algolagnia. :heh:

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-21, 13:30

It is indeed "Hiiragi Kagami".
http://img236.imageshack.us/img236/8620/vlcsnap106015sy2.th.png (http://img236.imageshack.us/my.php?image=vlcsnap106015sy2.png)

The funny part would be that almost every answer is Imoko Ono (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ono_no_Imoko).

Even funnier is that Konata managed to blow the test apparently. Note that Daisuke Ono was the wrong answer too, meaning probably every answer was the same.

Risaa

2007-06-21, 14:39

And that's the reason why I use IRC (thank you Dovac!). There's just some shows I just can't get fast enough. :heh:
The reason why I don't use IRC... You're either "in" and know how to use it, or "out" and you make lots of mistakes trying to learn to use it. In big chans, if you make a mistake, *everyone* can see that you typed in a wrong command, and then people laugh. And I run away, completely embarrassed. :(

Poor Nanako-sensei. :sad: You're not alone! If you're feeling desperate, then MARRY ME! Nah, just kidding. :D But still, 27 isn't too old for a single hot lady like you. To hell with those flawed social perceptions that you're a lose if you're still single at 30.
You saying that actually does make me feel a little better about the Nanako being an old cake thing. XD I'm bitter about it, but I'll wait to comment until I've actually seen it. With subs.

Vexx

2007-06-21, 14:47

@Risaa: a very good Chinese friend of mine, she went through these stages from her grandma:
late teens: college is okay but marry a good China-born Chinese
early twenties: engineering is good degree, catch good Chinese man with that.
mid-twenties: get married soon, American-born Chinese okay, just marry!
late-twenties: marry somebody, anybody, don't care what color!!!

She married the guy she'd been dating since college. Heh....

One of wife's friends was Vietnamese and getting her pharmacy degree. She'd have to spend many nights locked in her room upstairs while her very traditional parents kept arranging courting-dates with Viet guys for her because she was nearing 20 and they were freaking out that she'd be too old to marry. She just kept yelling down that she was trying to study and stop making these appointments without asking her. :) :) My wife told her parents out of the starting gate that "like hell I'm going to marry anyone you bring home and I'll get married when I want to, dammit" (that would be the 'tsun' part of her)

O the tragic hilarity of it all....

Of course, it isn't totally confined to asian family culture ... I've lost count of the 'late 20-something' women that start panicking because they're not married or don't have a steady guy. But in their case, it isn't tradition so much as that biological clock starting to tick very loudly.

Nanako needs to just take the step of using those matching services they have there: they apparently work rather well.

Risaa

2007-06-21, 14:57

The idea drives me nuts! I'm glad Rinko-san (Japanese born in Japan, looks no older than 16) waited until her early thirties to marry... and even more glad that her parents were very reluctant to let her go. They didn't care if she married - they were terrified that she'd leave their home (which she did, of course :p ). Ah, my friendship with her is doomed, though; she had a baby and won't let it leave her sight. :(

My aunt (Korean, born in Korea, lives in Korea) felt incredibly pressured to marry ASAP once she hit 30. She ended up marrying a guy she doesn't really care for (much less actually love) just to get married and start a family.

Agh!

Claies

2007-06-21, 15:00

Teiran

2007-06-21, 15:43

Even funnier is that Konata managed to blow the test apparently. Note that Daisuke Ono was the wrong answer too, meaning probably every answer was the same.

You'd think someone like Kagami would've caught on. :p

That said, I think Kagami's conspicuously 'wrong' answers kind of draw attention in their own right. Ono no Komachi (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ono_no_Komachi), as a descendant of the Ono clan and an almost legendary figure in Japanese history because of her poetry, seems a plausible enough guess on that test. As for the other... I might be overlooking some lesser-known historical figure from the Heian period, or simply furnishing an apocryphal connection (and it wouldn't be the first time in L*S), but KyoAni and Ono Daisuke (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daisuke_Ono) have certainly crossed paths before.

dod13

2007-06-21, 18:21

Can someone in the know clarify the phrase that's been popping up in this episode? I hear 'dondake'? Not sure... and can't find it any dictionary. If it's slang, etymology would be nice. Thanks!

archanfels

2007-06-21, 20:29

Finally watched it with sub

Would only have been a so-so episode for me if not for the Nanako part, still can't help feeling depressed about the scene.

Didn't find the static door part as hilarious as someone of you make it, even Lucky Channel feels boring.

First LS ep. I don't feel like rewatching.

Only saving grace is the ED song~ When kona screamed "Hi Kakikoputa" it's the only part I chuckled the entire ep.

aorta

2007-06-21, 22:20

Can someone in the know clarify the phrase that's been popping up in this episode? I hear 'dondake'? Not sure... and can't find it any dictionary. If it's slang, etymology would be nice. Thanks!

http://complexdream.com/blog/?p=347

archanfels

2007-06-21, 22:56

http://complexdream.com/blog/?p=347

Thank you, I happened to notice the phrase and was wondering about it myself. That explains it （well, kind of :heh:)

Ascaloth

2007-06-21, 23:17

Watched the [a.f.k.] sub on Veoh. What with the entirely unjustified crackdown happening in Singapore nowadays, I've been avoiding downloading anything recently; only Sola is on my regular DL list now, while I've been watching much of the rest on Veoh lately.

Anyway, not a bad episode at all. A 7 for this one; lower than usual for some reason, I just didn't enjoy this one as much as I did the others. Not that it's bad, though...

1) Sailor fuku with machine gun. That's a reference to something, right?

2) I can relate to the oversleeping part. I do that all the time. :heh:

3) I don't get why Tommy Lee Jones is so bothered by a loli lolling her head onto his shoulder. I wouldn't have minded one bit. :p

4) I wish we got to see a bit more of Kona-chan cosplaying. One Santarina outfit isn't enough! :D

5) Poor Kuroi-sensei. :heh:
Seriously though, 25 is still quite young these days, I think. Wouldn't know about how it is in Japan, but at least over here 25 isn't that bad.

6) Why do I feel like I'm looking into my own future whenever I see Izumi-jiji? I really hope I have the willpower not to spoil my own daughter (if I should come to have one) like he does. :heh:
Something tells me that Kona-chan was expecting this all along, too; that's why the Xmas present for her beloved otousan. :naughty:

7) No!
No!
No!
No!
Yes.

:D

8) Izumi-jiji getting his kicks from zapping himself; Oscar, Mike, Golf. I really am starting to see a lot of myself in this old guy; I used to do a variation of that in school. Doesn't bode well for my future, now does it? :heh:

9) Akira has earned the dubious distinction of being the only female anime character whose face I really wanted to punch in, whenever she appears. Stupid bitch. :mad:

10) Doraemon seems to suit Tsukasa and Miyuki rather well. :p

dod13

2007-06-22, 01:40

Just what I was looking for. Thanks, aorta! Too bad the youtube vid is down =/

Anh_Minh

2007-06-22, 03:14

4) I wish we got to see a bit more of Kona-chan cosplaying. One Santarina outfit isn't enough! :D
Wholeheartedly agreed.

5) Poor Kuroi-sensei. :heh:
Seriously though, 25 is still quite young these days, I think. Wouldn't know about how it is in Japan, but at least over here 25 isn't that bad.
She's fun and hot. What's not to like?

6) Why do I feel like I'm looking into my own future whenever I see Izumi-jiji? I really hope I have the willpower not to spoil my own daughter (if I should come to have one) like he does. :heh:
Something tells me that Kona-chan was expecting this all along, too; that's why the Xmas present for her beloved otousan. :naughty:
Actually, I know it's bad parenting, but when I saw that scene, I totally thought I wanted a daughter and that I wanted to spoil her rotten.

8) Izumi-jiji getting his kicks from zapping himself; Oscar, Mike, Golf. I really am starting to see a lot of myself in this old guy; I used to do a variation of that in school. Doesn't bode well for my future, now does it? :heh:
I used to do that too. And hey, if you can have a daughter like Konata, it's totally worth it.

9) Akira has earned the dubious distinction of being the only female anime character whose face I really wanted to punch in, whenever she appears. Stupid bitch. :mad:
But she's so cute! Like those cats or puppies who think it's a fun game to bite you.

Skane

2007-06-22, 04:58

~
1) Sailor fuku with machine gun. That's a reference to something, right?
~
...

Hint: ED from a previous episode.

~
5) Poor Kuroi-sensei. :heh:
Seriously though, 25 is still quite young these days, I think. Wouldn't know about how it is in Japan, but at least over here 25 isn't that bad.
~
Nanako is 27, as stated in the sunset scene.

Cheers.

Ascaloth

2007-06-22, 09:32

...

Nanako is 27, as stated in the sunset scene.

Cheers.

Still quite young, if I may say so myself. I'll only really worry about a woman if she's hit her 30s. :p

Tatsumiko

2007-06-22, 09:40

Konata really looked like a little kid at the table XD..so cute!!

Hey people!!! Whats wrong with you!! You think your gonna die at your twenty's!!!
too pathetic...Listen to Oprah!!! Live begins at your 40's!!
Nonononono..dont go "Yeah thats not true" or "She's the old one"
Stop acting like you need a lover at your 20's to survive..ya damn baby's!!!

So further about the ep...I really liked how the twins sang and prayed at church..aww so cute X3..and Miyuki's personality is really improving ^o^

Suzumiya Haruhi

2007-06-22, 11:52

Daniel E.

2007-06-22, 12:12

Didn't find the static door part as hilarious as someone of you make it, even Lucky Channel feels boring.

First LS ep. I don't feel like rewatching.

Same here. This has been the worst episode of Lucky Star in my book so far. :(

Lucky Channel was just plain boring! >_< !!

Vexx

2007-06-22, 12:21

This episode wasn't so much about the "yucks" as it was about the relationships between the characters. Lucky*Star just isn't a "gag-per-second" show like some people seem to think (I think L*C and Kona's otaku hobbies lead many to misread the show).

This episode was more about exposition of character. Christmas is bittersweet for many people and the episode tells a bit about who these people are.

So, yeah if you're here for the jokes, it probably didn't measure up. But I thought it was a nice little character exposition episode and a nice bit of transition to Act Two of the series.

Daniel E.

2007-06-22, 12:33

So, yeah if you're here for the jokes, it probably didn't measure up. But I thought it was a nice little character exposition episode and a nice bit of transition to Act Two of the series.

Well I am not here just because of the jokes. As a fan of shows like Marimite and Ichigo Mashimaro, I can certainly say that comedy is not the only thing that makes me hate or love a show.

Some parts of this episode just didn't seem interesting (or funny) to me at all.

Proto

2007-06-22, 12:34

I want to include my vote as well as this being one of the L*S episodes I've enjoyed the most, and one of the few I've found myself rewatching parts of it time after another. I'm a sucker for charater development and relationships episodes/series :p

Vexx

2007-06-22, 12:39

@Daniel: ah, I see.... o well, I'll certainly tap into L*C being pretty much a dead joke for me. Devoting 1/3 of the series to it assures much of the manga won't make it onscreen at this point. Sorry if I sounded a bit grumpy, just came from another forum where being a jerk is pretty much required to state an opinion. I should just drop that place completely.

Kagami

2007-06-22, 12:41

Did anyone else notice how Konata's cup noodles changed from"CURRY" to "SEAFOOD" within a few frames? :heh:

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/7001/vlcsnap95983ml3.png

http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/8418/vlcsnap96064qb3.png

Yes Yes! That's the pic I was talkin about. :D I was like wtf the moment the cup ramen changing. She's already on her 2nd cup? :heh:

WanderingKnight

2007-06-22, 12:55

Did anyone else notice how Konata's cup noodles changed from"CURRY" to "SEAFOOD" within a few frames? :heh:

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/7001/vlcsnap95983ml3.png

http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/8418/vlcsnap96064qb3.png

Whoa, was that intentional or did it fly past the quality checker's eyes? :heh:

Somehow I feel we're in for a certain someone to give us a passionate speech here...

PS: Don't take me wrong, Kaioshin-kun! :D

Konata-chan

2007-06-22, 13:05

Whoa, was that intentional or did it fly past the quality checker's eyes? :heh:

But didn't Konata talk to Tsukasa on the phone saying that her noodles get soggy if you wait too long? Maybe it was as a result of the curry noodles getting soggy that she changed to seafood noodles.

Daniel E.

2007-06-22, 13:06

Sorry if I sounded a bit grumpy, just came from another forum where being a jerk is pretty much required to state an opinion. I should just drop that place completely.

Oh dont worry, It's not as if I am mad or anything. I was just mentioning that bit about myself as a side comment of sorts.

Here's hoping for a better Lucky Channel, next week! :)

Suzumiya Haruhi

2007-06-22, 13:12

But didn't Konata talk to Tsukasa on the phone saying that her noodles get soggy if you wait too long? Maybe it was as a result of the curry noodles getting soggy that she changed to seafood noodles.
That conversation was after the seafood noodles. They got soggy after Konata read manga to pass the time, which was during the frame with the seafood noodles. ^^;

Risaa

2007-06-22, 13:49

Vexx

2007-06-22, 14:01

You have to add actual seafood bits (like faux crab) to make it passable. I'll often just use a bit of the packet and add furikake, some chili pepper, faux crab, and maybe peas or broccoli bits to enhance the ramen in Iron Chef fashion :)

Totally random: I think I just grokked why twin tails are so sexy to me.... it exposes the back of the neck (he said while choosing a hairstyle for his draenei in WoW .... how completely geeky I am today...).

Claies

2007-06-22, 14:06

I still think it was intentional (the switch from curry to seafood flavors). I haven't watched the subs yet (so I don't know exactly what she says at that point), but I can't think that they would accidently change the flavors. The cups of ramen are one of the main focuses of the scenes (they're not part of the background), and they're pretty detailed.

For the record... I like seafood, but I hate seafood flavored ramen.

Those were two completely different instances where Konata made cup noodles. On the first time, she thought those 3 minutes were too long. The second time she went for a cup, she took manga along to pass the time. That didn't work out well.

The dialogue said "I'll use this to kill time today" on the Seafood scene, indicating that this is a different day.

I. Love. Japanese. Seafood. Ramen. But Americanized ramen had a crappy seafood flavor where they thought shrimp and shrimp sauce is all there is. The Asian kind had faux crab and faux cuttlefish...Asian ramen all tend to have better toppings. I hate Americanized crap...every bit of it.

Kyuusai

2007-06-22, 14:09

I still think it was intentional (the switch from curry to seafood flavors). I haven't watched the subs yet (so I don't know exactly what she says at that point), but I can't think that they would accidently change the flavors. The cups of ramen are one of the main focuses of the scenes (they're not part of the background), and they're pretty detailed.

For the record... I like seafood, but I hate seafood flavored ramen.

You are correct: It's not an accident.

It's two different instances. The first is when she reflects on how long it seems to take, and the second is when she decides to read a manga to kill the time.

For the unbelievers, watch for the different shirt and listen for the "今日は" when she's reclining to read the manga.

Parts of this episode seems to return to some of the awkward timing and jump cuts we saw earlier in the series (although overall I think it's still better). In addition, it seems to be more "series of random 4koma"-ish than the last few episodes, which had a bit more of a coherent flow. The character models also seem slightly different (a little rounder, a little more angled and elastic), so I imagine that the staff for this episode was different.

Edit: Dangit, Claies, I would have beat you to the punch if I hadn't decided to type out the rest of my thoughts, too! :D

Vexx

2007-06-22, 15:07

Animaniac: DN Guy

2007-06-22, 16:14

I'd have to say this is the best episode!

Konata-chan

2007-06-22, 18:30

My brother used to get really weird flavors of instant ramen and they all tasted pretty disgusting. For things like cup noodles, I'll just stick with the regular chicken/beef/shrimp flavored kinds. Recently, I'd rather just go to a Japanese restaurant and get $6-$10 ramen, I prefer to avoid those death-in-a-cup meals, and I'm a college student.

Yeah, I also thought that this episode was a bit on the meh side. I can't wait when Konata and the gang all become third years. That's when all the fun begins.

Shiroth

2007-06-22, 18:36

That's when all the fun begins.
I don't know about you, but i found that the fun began back with the first episode. :3

Claies

2007-06-22, 21:38

Aye on the "american ramen" (who the hell eats the 'picante chicken' ramen they sell??).

We usually either get the basic noodle packs (no extras other than the sodium death packets) from Costco and add our own toppings. Or we shop at the local Uwajamiya in their "amazing collection of East Asian wierdness" noodle packages. Those cost a bit more but 'wierdly amazing' makes up for it.

If you're looking at packs, I recommend Nissin's Demae Itcho...it looks like this:
http://www.mandom5354.com/tour/noodle/21.JPG

They released this line to Hong Kong decades ago, and I've grown up with them. They are unspeakably awesome. Thankfully I found those in markets near where I live.

They come in a huge variety of flavors, like Original (basically soy sauce-like), Beef, Chicken, Shrimp, Pork, Satay, Curry, Tonkotsu (pork bones), Miso Ramen, etc. They even have a line of udon and stir-fried (lo mein) packs out.

If you spot those (probably in a Chinese market), I definitely recommend a try. They have perfect English printed on them, so they're quite easy to take care of.

nanafan

2007-06-22, 22:52

umm..hi i am new to this forum. i am recently watching lucky star. this episode was hilarious like the others.

Scep

2007-06-23, 00:21

This thread is turning into a ramen discussion thread >.>

If you're looking at packs, I recommend Nissin's Demae Itcho...it looks like this:
http://www.mandom5354.com/tour/noodle/21.JPG

Ive tried that brand before, its pretty good. Usually when i eat japanese ramen I'll either eat that brand or a korean version of ramen. I like packet versions more than cup versions though. Although i guess sometimes you dont get much of a choice =\

Risaa

2007-06-23, 00:50

This thread is turning into a ramen discussion thread >.>
Ramen is what gets us college students through the year. :B

I prefer Korean ramen (I love spicy fire-in-mouth ramen), and I also prefer the packets to the bowls. My favorite is Samyang's Sutah Ramen (http://www.amazon.com/KOAmart-Sutah-Ramen-Spicy-flavor/dp/B0002MS5AI)... the noodles are hand-made (instead of using a machine), and I think it makes the noodles a little more tender.. however, it's not a huge difference from regular ramen noodles. I really dig the spicy soup flavor. <3

The Shin Ramen (which is also shown on the same page) is, IMO, the spiciest package ramen I've ever had. The soup flavor is pretty good, too.

Nanafan, welcome. :)

Michael Hopcroft

2007-06-23, 02:56

My thoughts on this ep:

1. Wonderful bit of melancholy determination with Sensei and the cake.

2. Yui's husband is in for a surprise all right -- a very, very drunken surprise unless she somehow has access to Instant Sobriety Pills. I just hope she doesn't end up getting sick to her stomach at an extremely inconvenient time....

3. "You gonna cosplay as Miko this year" to the girls who actually are miko.... Even Kona-chan can display lack of clue. and Kagami's explanantion of why her faily does Christmas neatly ties in with the classical view of eastern religiousness; their main faith may be Shinto, but they seem to practice a little of everything. Which is another reason I would be extremely surprised were Lucky Star to be a big hit in Iran. (Although stranger things have happened, like Islamists carrying posters of Haruhi-sama in their demonstrations.)

Vexx

2007-06-23, 03:39

If you're looking at packs, I recommend Nissin's Demae Itcho...it looks like this:
http://www.mandom5354.com/tour/noodle/21.JPG

I'm pretty sure I've seen those at my local asian grocery store, I'll give them a try. Thanks for the tip.

@Risaa: I've become a recent fan of Korean fare (my son's debate coach was raised by Korean mom and she's always on the hunt for Korean restaurants when we're at tournaments). May have to give that a shot as well since I'm a fan of extremely spicy things.

Kagami and Tsukasa in their miko garb are just the mind-blowingly cutest things. If they tipped in Japan, Kona would just rake in the dough at Christmas cosplay :)

Skane

2007-06-23, 04:25

If you're looking at packs, I recommend Nissin's Demae Itcho...it looks like this:
http://www.mandom5354.com/tour/noodle/21.JPG

They released this line to Hong Kong decades ago, and I've grown up with them. They are unspeakably awesome. Thankfully I found those in markets near where I live.

They come in a huge variety of flavors, like Original (basically soy sauce-like), Beef, Chicken, Shrimp, Pork, Satay, Curry, Tonkotsu (pork bones), Miso Ramen, etc. They even have a line of udon and stir-fried (lo mein) packs out.

If you spot those (probably in a Chinese market), I definitely recommend a try. They have perfect English printed on them, so they're quite easy to take care of.
I can vouch for their quality, and I must say... it is weird to see you people treat them as "exotic fare" when they are basically sold EVERYWHERE over here. :heh:

[Just like Pocky... that damn thing is so common here, it boggles my mind that people "worship" it so much. There are much better Japanese snacks out there, like "Hello Panda"]

Cheers.

Ultima_Rasengan05

2007-06-23, 04:30

great episode, but I really like the part when
when Kagami, Tsukasa, and Miyuki were gonna open the door to their classroom, but didn't because they fear that they were going to get shock, but when came to Konata's turn, Kagami said "no", but Konata said "yes" and opened the door, I found that really funny, it happened so quick:D
Oh yea and there's also Konata's cousin coming to Konata's house during Christmas night all drunk...then sped back home because her husband was back home...hahahah

pretty good episode, 9/10 though Lucky Channel didn't wasn't really interesting than episode 10's Lucky channel, but I still enjoyed the whole show!:)

Vexx

2007-06-23, 04:46

Deathkillz

2007-06-23, 10:13

I can vouch for their quality, and I must say... it is weird to see you people treat them as "exotic fare" when they are basically sold EVERYWHERE over here. :heh:

depends on where you live really...here i find them common but thats because i know where i can buy stuff like that (with my parents going to the chinese supermarket every week) ~ but even still the price is wayyy above normal (overseas stuff costs soo much ;_; )

and as far as pocky goes i never really liked the stuff that much...

Pretz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pretz) > pocky in taste ~

Claies

2007-06-23, 10:20

Pretz (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pretz) > pocky in taste ~

Pretz FTW.

@All the newcomers reading this thread: You're looking at episode 1 last page.

Scep

2007-06-23, 10:42

Im not a fan of either =X As for the so called "Asia exotic fare", it's alot easier to find them here in singapore. Well, yea, we're in asia =\ But even for the rare japanese snacks, there are alot of $2 shops here selling japanese stuff, so its not hard to find them.

Kyuusai

2007-06-23, 10:52

I can vouch for their quality, and I must say... it is weird to see you people treat them as "exotic fare" when they are basically sold EVERYWHERE over here. :heh:

[Just like Pocky... that damn thing is so common here, it boggles my mind that people "worship" it so much. There are much better Japanese snacks out there, like "Hello Panda"]

Cheers.

Like Vexx said, simply the rarity can create a frenzy for these foods. If I could just FIND some azuki beans or some glutenous rice flower, I probably wouldn't dream about taiyaki and daifuku.

I see another element, too: The relative quality.

Ramen has become a tremendously popular item in the US, but our ramen is absolutely AWFUL. Poor college students will buy US ramen for US$0.15 a package, while an incredibly cheap package from China, Korea, or Thailand might sit on the shelf in the "Asian Food Section" for US$3 or so.

Nearly the entirety of the mainstream grocery market is that way over here. Due to various reasons (mostly political, a little economic), the typical quality of food here is terrible. Most snacks don't use sugar, but instead corn syrup. Almost everything has all sorts of ingredients one would never ingest knowingly (and I mean the sorts of things that come out of a mine, not off of a farm), all for the sake of cutting production costs or increasing shelf life by marginal amounts.

For these reasons, when I'm in other non-famine-stricken countries, I frequently have to surpress squeals of joy at the grocery store. The food is just so much better than it is here. Often even the same brands, supposedly the same products, but different ingredients, and far better flavor (oh, and less deadly). I know that each country has it's own food-quality issues, but those are the things I note.

Along the same lines as my suitcase-burdening fascination with grocery shopping as an expat, our local organic food stores, or ethnic food stores that import their stocks, tend to be small, but their customer base tends to be fanatic.

And Pocky? You should be very happy if you have better snacks than Pocky. :)
I was a Pocky fanatic for many years before it came to the US, because my family would often bring it back from trips to Japan. Compared to anything else I'd ever eaten, it was heaven in my mouth. I'm not sure if it's acclimation or a difference in manufacturing, but the domestically produced Pocky I buy now just doesn't strike me the same way the foreign-manufactured stuff did, although it beats any other local candies by a mile. Maybe your local Pocky just isn't that good? I still have nightmares of the far-beyond-expired Thai Pocky I once bought by accident.

Konata-chan

2007-06-23, 12:42

I don't know about you, but i found that the fun began back with the first episode. :3

I also love this series and I enjoy its comedic elements, I was specifically referring to the introduction of cousin Yutaka.

I have a Japanese supermarket, but it's ~30 minutes away from my house. They offer up almost everything that I could want: melonpan, dorayaki, senbei, different flavors of Pocky. They occasionally sell taiyaki outside the store, but I've never been quite that lucky to catch that time. Nothing beats a nice Taiyaki. As for ramen, they have a huge selection too, but my Japanese isn't that great to actually follow the instructions. There's this one ramen my Japanese TA gave to me, and that still is the best tasting instant ramen I've ever eaten, too bad I can't find the specific brand.

Getting shocked... it happens during winter, and that's why I avoid wearing long-sleeved shirts during that time, but it also occurs during the summer for some weird reason. Last time I went grocery shopping I got shocked once every 5 minutes.

Claies

2007-06-23, 12:49

Like Vexx said, simply the rarity can create a frenzy for these foods. If I could just FIND some azuki beans or some glutenous rice flower, I probably wouldn't dream about taiyaki and daifuku.

I see another element, too: The relative quality.

Ramen has become a tremendously popular item in the US, but our ramen is absolutely AWFUL. Poor college students will buy US ramen for US$0.15 a package, while an incredibly cheap package from China, Korea, or Thailand might sit on the shelf in the "Asian Food Section" for US$3 or so.

Nearly the entirety of the mainstream grocery market is that way over here. Due to various reasons (mostly political, a little economic), the typical quality of food here is terrible. Most snacks don't use sugar, but instead corn syrup. Almost everything has all sorts of ingredients one would never ingest knowingly (and I mean the sorts of things that come out of a mine, not off of a farm), all for the sake of cutting production costs or increasing shelf life by marginal amounts.

For these reasons, when I'm in other non-famine-stricken countries, I frequently have to surpress squeals of joy at the grocery store. The food is just so much better than it is here. Often even the same brands, supposedly the same products, but different ingredients, and far better flavor (oh, and less deadly). I know that each country has it's own food-quality issues, but those are the things I note.

Along the same lines as my suitcase-burdening fascination with grocery shopping as an expat, our local organic food stores, or ethnic food stores that import their stocks, tend to be small, but their customer base tends to be fanatic.

Damn right. In America, we pay more for sucky groceries. What's up with that?! And then they say they're healthier because they use those 15 kinds of substitutes for fat and sugar and forgo the salt, which is what they should have done in the first place. Lately I started applying the same mentality with American brands as I do with stuff from the Chinese mainland: If they look weird or you can't tell what it is, and in case of doubt, just leave it alone, cheap prices and curiosity be damned.

Don't ever let me live in Japan. I might loathe America forever if I get used to Japanese quality.

And Pocky? You should be very happy if you have better snacks than Pocky. :)
I was a Pocky fanatic for many years before it came to the US, because my family would often bring it back from trips to Japan. Compared to anything else I'd ever eaten, it was heaven in my mouth. I'm not sure if it's acclimation or a difference in manufacturing, but the domestically produced Pocky I buy now just doesn't strike me the same way the foreign-manufactured stuff did, although it beats any other local candies by a mile. Maybe your local Pocky just isn't that good? I still have nightmares of the far-beyond-expired Thai Pocky I once bought by accident.

Maybe I just got too used to Pocky. I'm with those who don't understand why it's so good. Maybe it's not a filling snack - it doesn't feel as big as a cookie or a potato chip no matter how much of it you eat, you know?

[Asshole rant]Speaking of potato chips, American ones suck too.[/Asshole rant]

Risaa

2007-06-23, 13:19

Maybe I just got too used to Pocky. I'm with those who don't understand why it's so good. Maybe it's not a filling snack - it doesn't feel as big as a cookie or a potato chip no matter how much of it you eat, you know?

[Asshole rant]Speaking of potato chips, American ones suck too.[/Asshole rant]
Quite a few years ago, I tried Pocky, was unimpressed, and switched to Yan Yan stick snacks. Recently I've gone back to Pocky because I've discovered the mousse choco and strawberry flavor. I don't see why people eat the regular choco Pocky... it's rather plain and boring IMO... you just have to find the right flavors. I prefer Pocky kinds that are heavier on the choco (or strawberry or milk) than the stick itself.

I sent my own asshole rant to a "chip taster" guy online who dismissed Japanese and Korean chips (specifically cuttlefish and squid flavored) as the grossest chips in existence.

And I agree... Miko Kagami and Tsukasa are *adorable!* [*fangirl squee*]

Mirrinus

2007-06-23, 13:49

I confess...I actually don't like pocky all that much. I dislike dry snacks, and even the strawberry flavor doesn't help...I don't like artificial strawberry flavors very much. But then again, I'm very much not a snacking type.

Kinny Riddle

2007-06-23, 14:19

Claies

2007-06-23, 17:43

Kyuusai

2007-06-23, 18:00

Wow, people actually think Demae Itcho ramen is exotically tasty?

While they are okay in terms of taste, as someone who occasionally lives alone and has to make his own meals, already I'm sick of the sight of it. For people in East Asia, instant noodles is more like a ration than a food, kind of like canned spam.

Many college students that had to survive on instant ramen agree with you. :)

I can't stand to look at the stuff after my school-days. But as tired as you may be of your ramen, just imagine how bad our ramen here must be if we think of yours as a special treat. :uhoh:

nanafan

2007-06-23, 19:24

some types of ramen are good then some suck. i used to like the maruchan cup o'noodles which had artificial flavors in beef, chicken, etc...i can't say that i have had the plan ramen in a long time.

Vexx

2007-06-23, 19:37

Basic ramen packs constitute a significant part of our "earthquake rations". But its nice for a smackerel or late-night nummy :)

Claies

2007-06-23, 20:42

Kagami: Ohh!
Tsukasa: Ohh!
Miyuki: Ohh!
Kagami: No!
Konata: Yes!
Konata’s dad: STROOONGER!!!!

It just occured to me that we must never show this phrase to people who have never watched the episode, especially the more imaginative types. I had exactly that reaction when I first saw you Japanese-able people put it on the first couple pages.

AlphaDragoon

2007-06-23, 22:46

Total aww-inducing moment with Konata and her dad (when she gets him the present) > everything else in this ep.

TheWindKnight

2007-06-24, 00:24

Ah hah hah, pocky. You know, in my old high school, in the anime club (I had to be there--I was elected president when I was still a weeaboo -.-), everyone LOVED pocky. I always thought it was okay, but only if it was priced cheaply and the strawberry kind with the little bits of real strawberry. But Waffo and I had a discussion about it one day and why everyone loved it. And I we figure it's only because they want to be like anime characters, not because anyone really likes it. Hey, I'd rather have the e-mail iluvgirlswithglasses@yahoo.com than a box of pocky any day.

That e-mail is taken, by the way. Anyone know who has it? ^^;

And, heh. All the talking about missing the train? I used to miss my stop on the bus on the way home when i was a freshman because I'd fallen asleep. I think final period math class did me in.

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-24, 03:51

Here's how the snack foods break down for me in terms of favourites:

Tomyum Korean Soup (Only available at one store that specializes in imported Asian food in the city next over as far as I know)

Banana Flavoured Pocky

Chicken/Beef Kimchi (Randomly in stock at Costco)

Chicken/Beef Mr. Noodles Brand Ramen (If all other choices are exhausted which is pretty often).

Skane

2007-06-24, 04:12

~
And Pocky? You should be very happy if you have better snacks than Pocky. :)
I was a Pocky fanatic for many years before it came to the US, because my family would often bring it back from trips to Japan. Compared to anything else I'd ever eaten, it was heaven in my mouth. I'm not sure if it's acclimation or a difference in manufacturing, but the domestically produced Pocky I buy now just doesn't strike me the same way the foreign-manufactured stuff did, although it beats any other local candies by a mile. Maybe your local Pocky just isn't that good? I still have nightmares of the far-beyond-expired Thai Pocky I once bought by accident.
To avoid further misunderstandings, I am not saying that Pocky is terrible. Pocky IS a nice snack, and if offered some, I will gladly take it.

What baffles me is the level of adoration that some people have for it, as though they think it is the food of Gods or something. :heh:

Cheers.

bball_machine

2007-06-24, 05:59

Konata’s dad: STROOONGER!!!!

Perhaps not everyone knows this, so I would like to bring it up. When Konata's Dad said the above, wasn't he making reference to Kamen Rider Stronger? Rider Stronger uses electric attacks, so I thought maybe Konata's father was referring to him?

saihamaru

2007-06-24, 06:40

i lol'd harrrrdddddd

Kyuusai

2007-06-24, 09:00

What baffles me is the level of adoration that some people have for it, as though they think it is the food of Gods or something. :heh:

I just meant that, compared to what else we in the US have available as commercial snack foods... it kind of is. Everything is relative and subject to opinion, of course.

I personally developed a liking for it just based on the taste back when it wasn't really available in the US and so I treasured each box like gold (gosh, thinking back that must have been twenty years ago... I feel old.), but I freely admit that many people seem to enjoy it a little too much just because it's Japanese. It wasn't until I encountered the recent Japanophile Pocky-obsession that I really understood what "weeaboo" meant. If one can buy it at Wal-Mart, one has no need to get that danged excited about it!

Konata’s dad: STROOONGER!!!!

Perhaps not everyone knows this, so I would like to bring it up. When Konata's Dad said the above, wasn't he making reference to Kamen Rider Stronger? Rider Stronger uses electric attacks, so I thought maybe Konata's father was referring to him?

You are correct, sir!

I really enjoyed hearing Konata's dad doing this. Not only does it reinforce his fun-loving nature, but it shows that galge aren't his only source of amusement. :D

Baka-yuki

2007-06-24, 18:00

I used to not think Pocky was that good, i had about 4 to 6 boxes from a tournament so long ago. Now I can't stop craving it. No idea why, have'nt had any in so long.
Loved the static part and Kona-chans Christmas uniform.
Kagami: No!
Konata: Yes...
Kona's Dad: Strongerrr!!!
I lol'd

AVPlaya

2007-06-24, 22:41

I just watched the ep finally after a hellish weekend working... Very good episode. Lots of reference to cop shows.. even once to the movie used for another ED, Sailor Suit and Machine Gun.

The Christmas Cake reference to Nanako sensei: Unmarried women over 25 are called Christmas Cakes since after no one want one past the 25th. Christmas in Japan, if you must know, is a holiday for children and lovers. I heard that more girls become impregnate during Christmas than even Valentines Day. Love Hotels are packed during Christmas eve. That's why Konata cried when she saw Nanako online during Xmas eve... she was feeling compassionate for her lack of date.

Kona-chan's dad, despite being a Hen-na-oyaji, is a good father.

About inbound/outbound train, well Katsukabe City is considered a Tokyo suburb. People live in Saitama or Chiba are people who work in Tokyo but can't afford to live there. Inbound train probably means that they actually live closer to Tokyo, while outbound means they live farther to Tokyo than Katsukabe City, where land it cheaper. Miyuki takes in the inbound train because perhaps she's richer and her house is close to Tokyo.

Love Kona's cosplay pict.. finally. But where's the maido-fuku??? But at least we'll finally see the Hiiragi Sister's miko outfit next episode. Wohoo!

When Kagami-sama talked about they're open to all religions, they are shown worshipping in a Buddhist temple. They are Shinto priestesses but it's quite normal for Japanese to believe in both Shinto and Buddhism. Even professional Miko-chans. It's strange they would sing in a choir though, as less than 1% of Japanese population is Christian. Christmas is just an excuse to have sex, mostly.

The ED.. Oh my gosh... DORAEMON OP. Every man, woman, and children in Asia knows this song. Even those who knows zero Japanese or even hates the Japanese, knows the Doraemon Song. This is actually one of those anime songs frequently sang in karaokes which everyone will join-in. "On On On.. tottemo saisuki doraemon..." To most adult Japanese, doraemon IS their childhood.

Over all a great episode. Lost of aspect of Japanese live and trivia, and a few tender moments. Can't wait for Akira-sama's appearance in the main storyline. What would she be? Oh my, Cousin Yui's younger sister? I sure hope not.

EDIT: Doraemon OP posted in the Music Video thread.

FGSFDS

2007-06-25, 06:16

The ED.. Oh my gosh... DORAEMON OP. Every man, woman, and children in Asia knows this song. Even those who knows zero Japanese or even hates the Japanese, knows the Doraemon Song. This is actually one of those anime songs frequently sang in karaokes which everyone will join-in. "On On On.. tottemo saisuki doraemon..." To most adult Japanese, doraemon IS their childhood.

I'm one exception for a South-East Asian only exposed to local crappy shows, that's my childhood.

Skane

2007-06-25, 06:37

I'm one exception for a South-East Asian only exposed to local crappy shows, that's my childhood.
Unless you're 30-something or more, I am compelled to say that you must have been watching the wrong channels at the wrong times. :heh: The late 80's and the 90's were filled with pretty good stuff, both animated and live-action. I have no comments on the new century because I had stopped watching TV regularly by then due to lack of time.

Cheers.

Ultima_Rasengan05

2007-06-25, 08:30

sad thing though, I dont know Doraemon, so I wouldn't know anything about the opening theme in this episode's ending...

The whole "rub your head with something and then touch something metal" shock experiment...is that true?
the last segment about getting shock by even touching someone...has that happen to anyone?

Narumi

2007-06-25, 11:19

The whole "rub your head with something and then touch something metal" shock experiment...is that true?
It's probably analogous to rubbing one's feet on carpet to generating static electricity and then getting shocked.

The last segment about getting shock by even touching someone...has that happen to anyone?
*raises hand* And it's usually me that does the shocking. :heh:

AVPlaya

2007-06-25, 12:17

the last segment about getting shock by even touching someone...has that happen to anyone?

It happens to be me consistantly. I get shocked touching people, door handles, or anything metal related.

I can't say "YES" when opening doors... :(

Bonta Kun

2007-06-25, 12:21

ahhh good old static electricity........its a real royal pain in ones arse.

Tsukasa: Sebastian, like, stinks.

the totally random comment that had me lol

FGSFDS

2007-06-25, 12:22

Unless you're 30-something or more, I am compelled to say that you must have been watching the wrong channels at the wrong times. :heh: The late 80's and the 90's were filled with pretty good stuff, both animated and live-action. I have no comments on the new century because I had stopped watching TV regularly by then due to lack of time.

Cheers.

No I don't watch old animes in the past, I don't get to. Seeing the same old local actor/actress face when the television's on...

Oh god...

Ascaloth

2007-06-25, 12:23

It happens to be me consistantly. I get shocked touching people, door handles, or anything metal related.

I can't say "YES" when opening doors... :(

If you can't settle for "YES", why not go for "STRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOONGGGGEEER!!!!!" instead? :p

Anh_Minh

2007-06-25, 12:28

I hardly ever get shocked. :( It hasn't happened to me in years. And I never expect it, because it happens so seldom, so I can't really enjoy it.

AVPlaya

2007-06-25, 12:32

If you can't settle for "YES", why not go for "STRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOONGGGGEEER!!!!!" instead? :p

Cus I don't want to be stronger in that department. :D

For some reason I don't think Kona-Oto-san's really using his hand to touch the door handel when he yells "stronger!!" :)

Ascaloth

2007-06-25, 12:39

For some reason I don't think Kona-Oto-san's really using his hand to touch the door handel when he yells "stronger!!" :)

That just sounds so wrong for the, ahem, more "creative" people..... :heh:

Meophist

2007-06-25, 16:44

As for Pocky, it's probably more of a cultural thing than taste or flavour. In any case, I enjoy it, mostly because I rarely have it. Each time becomes a special moment, so it brings back memories. I also make sure not to have it too often because of that.

TheWindKnight

2007-06-25, 17:28

I can't say "YES" when opening doors... :(

You mean you don't enjoy it? Waffo and I actually rub our butts on chairs, or our socked feet on floors to get static'd.

Vexx

2007-06-25, 17:31

Sometimes I'll try the stuff I loved as a kid.... two possibilities:
1) I was a complete 'tard when it came to what was good tasting. (Actually there are a few studies that indicate that young tastebuds don't work well)
2) They've changed all the recipes so it really DOES taste like crap now.

It is probably a bit of both. I can't stand most of the chocolate bars and snacks on the US market anymore.

Risaa

2007-06-25, 17:32

I prefer to rub an inflated balloon on my hair, but that's just me. :p Living in a very dry environment helps a lot, too.

Edit: Darnit, second time today Vexx has slipped a post in milliseconds before I do. Grr, I see how it is. ;P

Vexx

2007-06-25, 17:56

I think the non sequitur of the two lines intermingling is quite funny :)

I suppose we should return to ep 11 (I'm downloading the EnA version now for preferred enjoyment).

Ultima_Rasengan05

2007-06-26, 02:21

wow so this whole static electricity shocking thing is real!?:twitch:...pretty cool, I might want to try it and shock my friends!:D

I know how it feels to get shock and I've been shocked before from my friends with those prank electric shock pens, where you try to click-open the pen, but you get shocked...ouch!

Scep

2007-06-26, 03:55

Haha static electricity... last time in my class we took our classes in an air conditioned room.. and eveyrone would vigorously rub their shoes on the ground and shock the person in front of them XD

And finally... AN ED THAT I'VE HEARD OF !!!~

nanafan

2007-06-26, 12:51

for awhile i got shocked a lot. not so much atm. i always wait to see if the ed is one i have heard of only a few i have heard of.

Crazy_O

2007-06-26, 18:00

konatas dad and her teacher should get together, that would be funny ^^

Vexx

2007-06-26, 18:27

Although there's absolutely no evidence that might happen, it would be amusing for Kona to have a step-mom to game with and the trauma of having her own teacher become her step-mom.

If Nanako cosplays, Kona-dad would probably just be unable to withstand the nirvana...

What Kona-mom's spirit might think...... heh... though she seems nice enough not to haunt them in a bad way.

Aime

2007-06-27, 12:54

Lol that "I had a feeling I saw a girl in a sailor uniform with a machine gun walk by"... Isn't that Sailor Fuku To Kikanjuu reference?(The Drama which Kagami sang the op back in episode 4)
i thought she was talking about Gunslinger girls

Aime

2007-06-27, 12:56

Maybe not a time paradox. Konata rebuilt reality so Kagami was in the same class as her :rolleyes:

And I thought it was Gunslinger Girl too, but googling it revealed it was Sailor Fuku to Kikanjuu (http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Sailor_Fuku_to_Kikanjuu), Asakusa being mentioned and all that.

Good eye.

ooooh :D I suppose I'll have to see this one :p

Vexx

2007-06-27, 13:02

The gods of the forum prefer that you try not to double post. If you have something to add and are still the previous poster - just edit that post.
That's what the edit button is for :)

AVPlaya

2007-06-27, 15:45

konatas dad and her teacher should get together, that would be funny ^^

She's too old for him. :p

Deathkillz

2007-06-27, 17:50

What Kona-mom's spirit might think...... heh... though she seems nice enough not to haunt them in a bad way.
but honestly can you see kona's dad wanting to hurt his dead wife's soul so much? i think he would rather stay a widower :3

Vexx

2007-06-27, 18:12

Hmmm, that's not the way people think of the departed with Shinto.

Kona-dad has NO idea his mom is lurking about and checking on him. He misses her terribly and dotes on her daughter but he's rather in romance limbo. It comes out in his ero-gaming and picture taking hobbies, but he seems at a loss for how to proceed. Kona-mom only shows up a couple of times in the 4 volumes so far. My speculation is that she's worried about him and that if he found someone, then she'd move on (problem solved) to the next incarnation.

Highly speculative based on glimmers from the handful of strips that are remotely related to her and a few strips about him and his activities. He's fairly complacent about being in limbo... so its really Nanako who's suffering... and since we're in a comicstrip world, he's the only available candidate so far unless she decides to go for a matchmaking service.

Deathkillz

2007-06-27, 18:26

eh???
so you wernt joking when you said that kona-mom's spirit could literally haunt him...i didnt know that LS had a supernatural element? :eyebrow:

shinku no kage

2007-06-27, 19:20

9/10

Good episode indeed, almost near perfection. =w=

LOVED seeing Konata in Santa costume and Kagami in her miko/shrine maiden outfit. =w=

Izumi sensei (Kona's dad)...you'll never be able to be mad at Kona. LOL, he's so random at times.

Finally!! 2 more of the LC chars appear!! To top it off Yutaka will probably be showing up soon too!! =w=

o_O!! Yui-san is drunk!? (A great example she sets. LOL)

Vexx

2007-06-27, 20:44

eh???
so you wernt joking when you said that kona-mom's spirit could literally haunt him...i didnt know that LS had a supernatural element? :eyebrow:
Hate to keep this in spoilers but those who've not read the manga may not want to know...

Actually, the supernatural is possible in *all* japanese stories ... Shinto is an integral part of life in Japan. Kami (spirits) are in about all things.
You do things in a certain order, start construction on certain days, have the priests bless the site, face things in a certain way .... not really out of fear but just because its prudent and the kami are pleased by this.
The supernatural element is explicit in L*S when Tsukasa buys charms, when she and her sister act as miko, when they worry about blood type.
You might read the email blogs of the guy who runs j-list (Peter Payne). He lives in japan part-time and is married to a japanese. They're currently remodeling their house and getting it all right so the spirits aren't annoyed is quite an entertaining read.

I tend to observe its all "half-serious" by most believers ... as in "it might be hogwash but it doesn't hurt to follow tradition".

Since Kona-mom has been seen by the readers in the strip, we can assume she's a spirit with unfinished business or simply worried about her family. Its treated only very briefly and the majority of the plot is unrelated to her presence.

Ziv

2007-06-28, 05:13

Claies

2007-06-28, 09:31

In the scene where Konata has a cup of ramen, I know it's blatant advertising, but I was rather intrigued to see the Cup Noodle brand. Is the ramen you buy in the US the same as what you can get in Japan, or do they change it to appeal to westerners?

Please forgive me for the possible outburst.

No, they are absolutely not the same. American Cup Noodles are filled with salt, bad flavor, westernized vegetables that don't fit in soup whatsoever, and fake vegetarian meat. I was overjoyed to see them when I first moved to the US, and the moment I tasted them I deflated. It is just not the same, and it is worse.

The kind of cup noodles they market in Asia (well...I'll tell you what I had in Hong Kong) had pretty believable flavors. The seafood kind had faux cuttlefish, faux shrimp, faux crab, and lettuce. The beef kind had actual slices of beef in it, and vegetables are usually scallion rather than green peas. There's also a chicken and mushroom flavor that had actual pieces of chicken and mushroom. They are awesome.

So yeah...when I go back to Hong Kong on mid-July, I'm going to eat a lot of those.

Sorry...back to your topics before I get too hungry.

lftwgr

2007-06-28, 09:56

Although there's absolutely no evidence that might happen, it would be amusing for Kona to have a step-mom to game with and the trauma of having her own teacher become her step-mom.

I think the trauma's more likely coming from the fact that her new step-mom will police her gaming habits more strictly - if Nanako is around, I guess Konata can say au revoir to her bishoujo/dating-sim games. :D

The kind of cup noodles they market in Asia (well...I'll tell you what I had in Hong Kong) had pretty believable flavors. The seafood kind had faux cuttlefish, faux shrimp, faux crab, and lettuce. The beef kind had actual slices of beef in it, and vegetables are usually scallion rather than green peas. There's also a chicken and mushroom flavor that had actual pieces of chicken and mushroom. They are awesome.

Where I am, my favorite flavor is chilli crab (fake crab, scallion, chilli paste and enough MSG to put anything to sleep - or permanent hair loss). Although the most interesting variant I've eaten are the ones imported from Japan - kitsune soba actually has a whole dehydrated kitsune in it.

Vexx

2007-06-28, 13:41

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-28, 16:19

I'll vouch for the fact that once you try asian import noodles, you kind of wonder what malicious evil people decided to sell the completely craptastic versions that get sold in American chain grocery stores.

I just found some Nong Shim Kimchi noodles (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nong_Shim) sitting in an average convience store. I find this stuff to be extremely good, comes with two flavour packs, a plastic spoon, and it has so much flavour I often find myself scrapping the sides of the bowls. They make Mr Noodles taste like Campbells Chicken Noodle soup in terms of spicyness and flavour. If only they had that Tom Yum Flavour soup though, so far I've only found one store that sells it in the big city next to mine. Anyway I snatched up like 8 bowls for about CAD $11.00 including Shrimp, Beef, Spicy and some huge monster bowl version of the spicy stuff.

Vexx

2007-06-28, 17:39

Hey, you're making Canadian convenience stores sound like exotic wonderlands compared to.... o wait, they are.

:)

Kaioshin Sama

2007-06-28, 19:18

Hey, you're making Canadian convenience stores sound like exotic wonderlands compared to.... o wait, they are.

:)

Well Canada is pretty much a multi-cultural country in every sense of the word. As such a lot of convenience stores stock foods from all kinds of ethnic backgrounds. One store I know of sells specially prepared Halal meat. Another sells Pocky, Yum Chew candy, Japanese potato chips, Black Black gum, all kinds of Japanese Candy, Pretz, Pocari Sweat, Calpis and many other import foods as well as just regular pepsi, coke and Lays Potato Chips and is sandwiched between an urban clothing store and TD Canada Trust Bank (If I recall, I'm dead certain on the urban clothing store though). So if you are ever in Hamilton, Ontario people, be sure to stop by Jackson Square and head to the DoReMi store, you'll know it in an instant based on all the posters of Asian Movie Stars and the manic store logo.

Then you too can be like Konata and Kagami and enjoy delicious Banana Pocky and Ramen Noodles.

lftwgr

2007-06-28, 19:45

As much as cravings for Japanese snack foods are easily met nowadays, there is still a dearth of melon pans, taiyaki and more importantly chocolate coronet (!) at local bakeries. I suppose you can say otaku culture hasn't truly gotten in here yet. :D

Otherwise, you can say we have it good here - local supermarts stock up on dried products and snacks virtually everywhere you go.

Vexx

2007-06-28, 21:13

I ended up buying some molds and learning how to make my own taiyaki --- it tastes a hell of a lot better fresh than the midget packaged ones I used to buy from the import store. Next on the list to learn is takoyaki (octopus hushpuppy fritter things). Okonomiyaki I've finally gotten a grip on though getting it to cook all the way through is tricksy.
(meanwhile she-who-is-cute-and-must-be-obeyed is working through various korean and indian recipes)

Should I mention that I'm in anime limbo since nothing I'm watching has had a drop in a week? (withers into dust).

lftwgr

2007-06-28, 21:53

Should I mention that I'm in anime limbo since nothing I'm watching has had a drop in a week? (withers into dust).

Actually, the withdrawal symptoms aren't so bad for me - the only real sense of loss is lucky star ep12... otherwise, the other series (sola, Claymore, Kaze no Stigma, Seto no Hanayome) are doing well. Also, I'm looking up older gems like Suzuka and Mahoromatic (something which earned me an infraction yesterday :D).

I wished ep12 could get out faster though.

Risaa

2007-06-28, 22:16

Same here though - no releases this week... Lucky thing I've got Hare+Guu to keep me entertained. Gawd, I love that show. :D

Vexx

2007-06-29, 00:51

Actually, yeah, I'm not exactly bored. Many tasks on my queue are simply unavoidable since I don't have a new shiny anime episode to distract me.

I have a pile of anime series on backlog I could watch but I'd rather wait til I can 'marathon' them to start any of those.

Risaa

2007-06-29, 01:17

Many tasks on my queue are simply unavoidable since I don't have a new shiny anime episode to distract me.
Ooh, ooh, that's good to hear. :) :) :) ..I mean, um, it's too bad there aren't any new releases this week for you either but, y'know, it's cool to get stuff done. :)

Deathkillz

2007-06-29, 02:20

Well Canada is pretty much a multi-cultural country in every sense of the word. As such a lot of convenience stores stock foods from all kinds of ethnic backgrounds. One store I know of sells specially prepared Halal meat. Another sells Pocky, Yum Chew candy, Japanese potato chips, Black Black gum, all kinds of Japanese Candy, Pretz, Pocari Sweat, Calpis and many other import foods as well as just regular pepsi, coke and Lays Potato Chips and is sandwiched between an urban clothing store and TD Canada Trust Bank (If I recall, I'm dead certain on the urban clothing store though). So if you are ever in Hamilton, Ontario people, be sure to stop by Jackson Square and head to the DoReMi store, you'll know it in an instant based on all the posters of Asian Movie Stars and the manic store logo.

Then you too can be like Konata and Kagami and enjoy delicious Banana Pocky and Ramen Noodles.
you are darn lucky...for here being "multi cultural" by name doesnt mean multi cultural by nature unfortunately :sad: (unless you want stereotyped crap like ZOMG pawn crackers, convients stores here are far from that in terms of what i want O.o)

and this show being one of those i wont even sniff the raw cause it will just be a waste of time ~ im already feeling the impact of the delay >_<

Ziv

2007-06-29, 03:15

Please forgive me for the possible outburst.

No, they are absolutely not the same. American Cup Noodles are filled with salt, bad flavor, westernized vegetables that don't fit in soup whatsoever, and fake vegetarian meat. I was overjoyed to see them when I first moved to the US, and the moment I tasted them I deflated. It is just not the same, and it is worse.

The kind of cup noodles they market in Asia (well...I'll tell you what I had in Hong Kong) had pretty believable flavors. The seafood kind had faux cuttlefish, faux shrimp, faux crab, and lettuce. The beef kind had actual slices of beef in it, and vegetables are usually scallion rather than green peas. There's also a chicken and mushroom flavor that had actual pieces of chicken and mushroom. They are awesome.

So yeah...when I go back to Hong Kong on mid-July, I'm going to eat a lot of those.

Sorry...back to your topics before I get too hungry.

I thought so. Thanks for the confirmation.

Dee Eon

2008-04-28, 13:15

Hi!

Anyone notice that somehow Konata's Cup-o-Ramen turned from curry into seafood in three seconds? Wow! Instant variety!

BTW, can anyone i.d. the brand if it's a real one?

Thanks!

Dee

Claies

2008-05-02, 23:00

Hi!

Anyone notice that somehow Konata's Cup-o-Ramen turned from curry into seafood in three seconds? Wow! Instant variety!

BTW, can anyone i.d. the brand if it's a real one?

Thanks!

Dee

Her ramen changed because well...they're two separate occasions. On the first, she commented how it takes so long, and decided she should read while waiting the next time she prepares ramen. We saw how well that went.

I've eaten both flavors. They're both from Nissin (which, to my immense confusion, cannot produce the same great flavors and settled for salted crap here in the US). The seafood one is an acquired taste - very crabby and squidy, which I'm used to. The curry one tends to be a bit overpowering. I wish I can find them in a store here... I really miss them.