Michiko & Hatchin: Complete Series Part 1

"From the other side of the road, someone will come to get me" - One of the initial lines of dialogue spoken by title character Hanna, also later on known as Hatchin, sometime in the middle of the first episode. She's contemplating running away, even though she knows it's a certain death.In the very next scene, a dark somber mood hangs over our Hanna as she's forced to slave yet another day under grotesque and abusive foster parents. Suddenly, while at the dinner table, a raging green bike [Pictured on the cover of this Blu-Ray boxed set] slams through the window and lands right on top of the dinner table's occupants. A tan-skinned sex diva, clad in tight and seductive clothing, slams her foot on the table, bringing fear to the startled family's eyes. She takes a moment to lower her bulky sunglasses, and then analyzes every terrified occupant's face with piercing eyes; scanning each and every person- she looks for features that resemble a picture of a little baby girl she knows as Hannah. Her eyes settle on a timid girl with bushy white hair."Come on Hannah" She says softly, and reaches out her hand. Hannah, looking at the hand, hesitates a moment. She feels scared. She doesn't even know who this person is. She fears her, and yet...admires her transient beauty and daring composure. Reaching out, she takes this stranger's hand. In a sudden and haphazard motion, this woman (whose name we later learn is Michiko) jerks Hatchin onto her bike. Gunshots start ringing out from police outside as well as, surprisingly, a money-hungry priest wielding a shotgun. Just as she had come in, this woman jerks her motorbike around in a 360 degree motion and explodes out into the world.By taking this woman's hand, whose name Hatchin quickly learns is Michiko, she begins a personal and physical odyssey that will see them connect in ways unseen before in any anime. For those that want to witness the rest of their journey. This is it.----------Let's make something clear: this show is not for everyone, and that is this show's biggest problem because it advertises itself as a very accessible show complete with action, gunslinging hot babes, and underworld criminal activity.I'm not a fan of highlighting a show's negative points first, but I want to make myself clear again. This show's biggest problem is that it advertises itself as a fun, action oriented Black Lagoon-type anime, even featuring a primary character that bares striking resemblance to Revy. However, this is simply not the case. It's...deeper then that. The true reality is that only those willing to undertake a slow and episodic story which focuses on its characters' inner conflicts, rather than external ones, will be the viewers who truly enjoy this anime the most. This fact is a shame considering the show's best characteristics lie within its presentation: graphics, animation, choreography, music. Very similar to most other high-caliber action series. Even so, let me be clear once more in saying that the interaction and story between the primary two characters takes massive precedent over everything else in this TV series. (That's three times I've stated that idea now.)If the premise of this show doesn't click with you, you aren't going to like this series. Period. End of story. The product description gives the simple gist that this is an adventure show featuring a sex deva and an awkward young girl bound together in their struggle to locate a man important to both of their pasts. Take that gist at face value. If that storyline doesn't sound appealing than you should probably avoid this series, and will especially regret purchasing this expensive boxed set later on. Personally, having already witnessed masterpieces such as Cowboy Bebop and Black Lagoon, I thought this show seemed somewhat outclassed. Close. So very close. Equal in everything else except story, but no cigar. By itself the show could by all means can be considered great. I can hardly argue with people that think so...If you are one of those people by all means consider this series five stars. More power to ya, I say. I myself remain firm.The bottom line is that this show's story can appeal to you or it can not. For me, it just didn't click. To me this show's story just seemed like an inferior version of the anime Samurai Champloo, which featured a near identical overarching storyline and similar-type characters. (Also made courtesy of studio Manglobe and director Shinichir' Watanabe) In both shows we see our primary characters scouring a country looking for a mysterious character relevant to all of their pasts. In Champloo it was the enigmatic Sunflower Samurai. In this show it ended up being what appeared to a random guy named Hiroshi Morenos. For the life of me, I couldn't figure out why this man could be so significant to the main characters. Some may feel that what I'm about to say is (or saying) something of a spoiler, but I honestly do not feel this way. I'd argue it's important to state the facts about what the show is about so potential fans/customers know what it is about. Here's how I interpreted it. To me, this show felt constrained in that the story was about the relationship between Michiko and [I think?] her daughter Hatchin in what was almost like a slice-of-life show, but was overall trapped within the setting and presentation of a high-caliber action anime. If you are anything like myself, or otherwise follow the message I am trying to portray: you will understand that when I say that the overarching storyline ended up being completely mediocre and flat in it's conclusion, you will know I'm saying that to protect you from wasting your time, money, and most of all expectation (Which is worth more than money) that they are getting something different. In Champloo it culminated in an explosive and heart-pounding finale that elevated what had previously been a mostly episodic and strictly B story to near-Cowboy Bebop level (legendary) status.This show? Not so much. The finale of Mitchiko to Hatchin isn't nearly as decisive as either Champloo or Bebop. There's action, sure. But the action in the final episodes of this series is no different or more suspenseful than anything the viewer sees throughout the previous to the final episodes. In fact, I'd argue the best action scenes featuring Mitchiko were actually in the beginning of the entire series (in the first few episodes) rather than the end. Besides that, I'd argue the best action scene of the last episodes of the series didn't even feature Mitchiko, but a side character...Who but one episode after [Slight spoilers] an amazing last stand goes on to be killed off and forgotten in the extended storyline, regardless. [/End Spoilers**] I don't know. To me, that seemed something of a waste. As for the title character Mitchiko, once she "rescues" Hatchin after her initial escape from a prison in the first couple episodes she holds on to a moral compass for the sake of Hatchin. Again, understandable for sure, but still nonetheless disappointing when compared to other action shows' main characters such as Revy from Black Lagoon, Spike from Cowboy Bebop, and/or Mugen from Samurai Champloo. Some would say that this fact makes this show distinctive, which is a perfectly fine opinion, but I feel compelled to state that I was disappointed.If you want a summary than this is it: as an action-oriented fan that came expecting something that presented itself so different; it felt like that I had been shot through the heart when those expectations didn't follow through. I remembering feeling almost ripped off but not quite. Instead I felt...somber. I'm enough of an anime veteran and have seen enough series to no longer get so upset at situations such as these, especially considering that (unlike many other anime series these days) there is a definitive conclusion..But I can't say for sure how I really feel about it. I can say this, though. I didn't love it. I can also very easily see such a disappointment devastating another newer or unsuspecting fan. Do not be mistaken, there are small moments of glory scattered throughout the series, particularly in the episode I listed below, but it is not nearly enough so that one seeking Hellsing Ultimate/Black Lagoon level action leaves satisfied.[*SPOILERS- LOOK AWAY!**] For those veteran fans that are wondering, I'm referring to the final standoff between Satoshi Batista and Shinsuke Saci Rodriguez in Episode 20: Rendezvous of Extermination [/End Spoilers]The show gives many hints in the forms of flashbacks and lines of dialogue throughout the series as to just who the "mysterious" main character is. Lines of dialogue are dropped, some flashbacks are thrown in that do add some substance to him. However this character, named Hiroshi Morenos, to me felt very unsatisfying. As a writer and longtime connesiuer of written fiction I could have easily thrown in a couple plot devices that would have made this character much more interesting, but as it stands it is in vain. This show did very much feel like a spiritual successor of sorts to Champloo, but the show's story just didn't seem quite ambitious enough to escape Champloo's shadow. If you've already seen Samurai Champloo in particular, you are proabably going to be somewhat disappointed with this show. Based off story alone, I would have given this show a measly three stars. The conclusion and supposed climax, unlike Samurai Champloo which was explosive and its best part, turned out to be very anti-climatical except for a single sub-plot that involved Hiroshi Morenos' old criminal associates. [Which actually did end up being very reminiscent of Gungrave or Black Lagoon.] If only these subplots had been expanded...Alas, the lost potential.Yes, therein lies a sort of contradiction this show fails to address. This show has got some /serious talent behind it. I mean really, Manglobe did a bloody fantastic job in the technical department; this is easily one of the best anime I've ever seen visually. Very rarely do I change a rating of a show based off its animation, choreography, or music. This show features all three exceptionally. For that reason and that reason alone, I felt compelled to add a star. Words can not overstate just how great many of those recently-stated characteristics are. The environments are drawn beautifully, the animation is so smooth, and it was an absolute pleasure to behold on my 42'' LG 1080P TV played through my PS3 and my 5.1 surround sound. In fact, for that reason alone I could see myself putting this show back on again. Speaking strictly about the show, it really was truly enchanting at times, but oh so underwhelming in others. It leaves one feeling a striking sense of lost potential which will leave you playing the "What-If" game in your mind for days after. I do not regret watching this show, nor do I regret buying it...but I do regret holding high expectations for it. Perhaps the biggest shocker was at how the trailer does not live up to the story. At least after the first couple episodes. Shame on me for believing a trailer and editorials, I guess.Anyways, getting off such a somber rant. Let's talk about the audio for a moment; the sound of this story is backed by the famous Shinichir' Watanabe, who primarily served as a this series' music producer. It's freaking fantastic. This is rare for me, but numerous times I felt myself stopping and just...listening. To the opening song or end credits. The setting of this story is mostly contained to unnamed Latin American countrysides and cities, and the audio reflects that. I suspect it is meant to be in Mexico, because it (**Slight spoiler!**) references different characters "crossing the border" (**/End Spoiler**) a couple times throughout the anime, but it could just as well be set within Brazil or any other South American country. The precise location and whether the country/setting is fictional or not is never made clear. Personally, I thought this was a good thing. By keeping the setting primarily fictional it helps keep most viewers [including myself] more detached from reality and better helps each viewer submerse themselves into the plot of the show. Seeing as this show's story as a whole, which just barley hung in the balance in keeping my attention, attachable. This may have well been one of those "small" factors that allowed me to rate this series as highly as I did. Change one of these small factors and I might have given up on this series. (Let's just say it walked a thin line.) For other viewers it might be under the bar, those viewers will give up on this series and/or view it negatively; while other viewers still will see it set way above the bar, and hold it amongst the best anime ever made. Once again, for me it was right on that thin line- but in keep mind I'm one who tends to appreciate smaller details. For this reason I go back and forth.I could probably go on and on rambling about this series, but let's leave it with a little game. Read the following quote."Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time."' John Lubbock, The Use Of LifeRead that quote again. (Slowly this time.) Try to take in its deeper meaning. If you find yourself connecting with the quote and pondering it's inner meaning, chances are you are likely just the kind of person that will enjoy this series. If such is the case: waste not a second more. Order this series immediately. If instead you skimmed the quote, thought about it merely a moment, and skipped to this paragraph: go ahead and skip pass this anime. Instead, I would refer you to go watch a show called "Lupin the Third: A Woman Called Fujiko Mine." or "Samurai Champloo"- if you haven't already seen them.Thank you for reading this review. It's my first one in a while. I rate this series a rock solid 4 stars, or a score of 8 out of 10. Good luck to you, fellow fans, and always remember Funimation's motto. "You should be watching".Remember there's always something out there for everyone.- Blitzkrieger Man, out!

" ...Cinematic Stylings of..Tarantino" is advisory and not to be taken as anything more than an explanation of the directorial style. The quality of the artwork,both in background and charactor design is superb and brilliant in all respects. Colors are bright,details are exact and the music is appropriate.Hana (Hatchin) is the star although she is only 9 years old on the day escaped convict Michiko crashes through the window on her motorbike and takes her on a long journey in search for Hana's father.If you are PC blinded,pass this by as this is not anything close to being PC. It is raw,real and violent and completly without humor or joy. Life is cheap,murder and vulgarity common and often involving children.Although there is a raw women's prison scene and Michiko is a drunk and a slut,there is zero nudity and fan service; when the stripper at a bar completes her pole dance and remains fully clothed,you get your first hint there is no nudity or fanserv.Hana(Hatchin) retains her inter-quality throughout as she navigates her way through the violence and destruction all around her and captures the hearts of many.Michiko,although she bends a little near the end and does "grow" a little, substantially remains the self-centered slut, almost without any redeaming qualities short of good looking.The ending may really piss you off but,when you think of it,there was no other possible ending.Well worth a view,just don't waste your time looking for anything naked as it isn't there.

Loved the feel and atmosphere of this Anime, reminded me somewhat of Cowboy Bebop. My main attraction to this series was the use of an African American/character of African descent, in addition to the fact that the artist actually drew them well and attractive looking, not like in the past anime's of the late 80's mid 90's where they over did certain features or skin tone due to possible lack of exposure to blacks or Afro-Latin's by Asian artist. The story line isn't the best to date along with the typical humorous hyperactive behavior, but the production value is so captivating,that it holds my attention. It's no "Ghost in the Shell" or "Akira" which is probably what they weren't aiming for in terms of production or target audience anyways, but it is worth having in my collection for me personally due too,..it's the first anime I've seen centered around a black character, and my exposure/interest in anime dates back to the late 70's-80's so I can say with some confidence that this may well be one of the few original anime's of its kind with the exception of Afro Samurai.

This is an excellent anime series. If you are a Cowboy Bebop fan, this is a must get.First the item review: The case is well done and the Blu-ray quality is superb. The actual video is 1080p native with good color and contrast. The dub in English is really amazing, you can feel the emotions from the dialogs (it is not a plane dub without emotion just reading text).Second the anime: The story is around Michiko, an inmate in a prison in Rio (well that's what I think, I don’t really remember) who took part on gang wars searching for Hatching, the daughter of boyfriend she had. Once the search of Hatching is over, they embark in a quest for searching Hatchins father. My description may sound pretty lame but do not be fooled, this series touches mature content, gun fight and social problematic that makes you to not leave your tv seat. The soundtrack is impressive and it immerses you in the favelas.As a fan of this series, my advice is: If you do not have it, what are you waiting for, do it. It is worth the money.

I watched Michiko to Hatchin years ago and kept expecting a bluray release outside of Japan that never came. When I found out about this release, I pre-ordered both parts immediately. There is a charm to the characters and setting that I've found to be rare in shows these days, and the creators did a great job of creating a show that has the special knack of taking you to it's places, vistas and relating to it's characters in a way that makes you want to go there and experience what they experience for yourself. I can't recommend this show enough; it's right up there with Cowboy Bebop for me.

My son loves this Japanese style of cartoons he is a big fan of this animation.

No issue