Superbook in the Philippines | 90s English-Dubbed Children's Show

Superbook was an English-dubbed animated show for children which aired in the Philippines back in the late 90s about bible stories. Superbook, originally entitled "Animated Parent and Child Theatre" in Japan was initially produced by Tatsunoko Productions in Japan in conjunction with the Christian Broadcasting Network in the United States that originally run from October 1, 1981 to March 29, 1982 on TV Tokyo (in Japan) and on CBN (United States) with a total of 52 episodes; two seeming different season (or series) in terms of the iteration of the story. Let's go down memory lane and remember the original English-dubbed Superbook run in Philippine Television.


Superbook - The Story
About Superbook

The first series (season) of Superbook began at the home of a young boy named Christopher Peeper (Sho Azuka in Japanese) who discovers the "Superbook" (Time/Space Travel Book) Bible that speaks and sends him, his friend Joy (Azusa Yamato), and his clockwork toy robot Gizmo (Zenmaijikake) back in time to the early events of the Old Testament. Gizmo can walk and talk, but only for the duration of the adventure and needs to be wound up regularly in order to function. This first series of Superbook featured stories mainly from the Old Testament of the Hebrew Scriptures, although a few episodes dealt with the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.


In the second series of Superbook II (episode 27 onwards), which took place two years after the first series, the book fell onto a computer keyboard, giving anybody the ability to see into the past from Christopher's home via the monitor. Ruffles, Chris' dog, managed to get lost in time, prompting Gizmo and Chris' cousin Uriah (or "Uri" for short; Hisashi in the original Japanese) to search for her. Chris and Joy kept watch and control of the computer from the present. The older children also had a hard time trying to keep what happened a secret from Chris's parents. Gizmo appeared as a functioning robot in the present day rather than as a toy (first series) in this (second) series, however Gizmo still needs to be wound up on a regular basis. Gizmo also had a built in computer keyboard and a monitor in his chest in order for Gizmo and Uri to stay in contact with Chris and Joy in the present day as well as transporting to other places in time or returning to the present. The Second Season of Superbook focused solely on Old Testament stories; covering some stories featured in Season One (for example, the stories of Abraham, Joseph and King David) in more detail, while also covering and featuring some stories not included in the first series (i.e. the Fall of Sodom and Gomorrah).

Superbook Series 2 US Opening Theme
Superbook Season 2 US Series Intro


Superbook Series 1 US Closing Theme
Superbook Season 1 US Series Outro





Superbook Series 2 US Opening Theme
Superbook Season 2 US Series Intro


What can be said about Superbook's run in Philippine television back in the late 90s? Well, looking back at it now it sure brings a lot of nostalgia specially that US opening and closing theme. They are those that will keep ringing in your head when you feel like being nostalgic about it. The concept of kids traveling through time to learn various life lessons and learning about "historical" characters seems to be a great formula; ABS-CBN's Bayani uses this same formula as well. If only there is a computer that allows one be "magically" transported to the world found in the book that falls on it and not be harmed by "some" violent tendencies also featured in that book. What if the characters of Superbook was in the actual Sodom and Gomorrah and while it was being "purged", Superbook would probably be not that too kid-friendly. Oh wait a minute, I remember the story of "Joshua and Walls of Jericho" (also "The Battle of Jericho") which was also featured in Superbook. So that probably answered my question, as long as violence is kept from the eyes of the main protagonists and the young audience, it is all good; but I digress.






In a majorly Christian (or Catholic) country like the Philippines, the English-dubbed Superbook animated series blends so perfectly well. Who knew that most of us kids growing up during the 90s were already being indoctrinated in teachings of Christianity specifically Old Testament Bible stories through this wonderful anime about "time travel". Now that we are all grown up and have wider views with the world now, we can all see what Superbook is really IS now.


How about you guys? What are your fondest memories with Superbook? Share your thoughts and opinion about the original English-dubbed Superbook Philippine television run in the comments section below.

Eto Rangers | Juuni Senshi Bakuretsu Eto Ranger | ABC-5's 90s Filipino Dubbed Anime Retrospective

Eto Rangers was a Filipino dubbed (Japanese) anime which aired in ABC-5 (now TV5) back in the 90s here in the Philippines about the adventure of 12 anthropomorphic Chinese Zodiac characters as they traveled various fairy tale worlds. Eto Rangers was originall titled Juuni Senshi Bakuretsu Eto Ranger (Twelve Warrior Explosive Eto Rangers) that originally run from April 7, 1995 to January 26, 1996 on NHK with a total of 39 episodes. Let's go down memory lane and remember Eto Rangers.


Eto Rangers - The Story
Juuni Senshi Bakuretsu Eto Ranger Premise

The Eto Rangers anthropomorphic animals representing each of the twelve Chinese Zodiac animals which in Japan is called "Eto" animals, thus the Eto in Eto Rangers. The Eto Rangers are sworn protectors of the Novel Worlds. These Novel Worlds are stories created by human imagination (folktales, legends, fables, and fairy tales) which plays out repeatedly for the goodness of humanity. The Novel worlds are eventually endangered by Nyanma by distorting each stories using the Jarei monsters. Nyanma (represents the forgotten spirit of cats) who was once Chocolat was excluded from being chosen as one of the 12 protectors by being disqualified in the race.


The Eto Rangers which primary comprised of Bakumaru (rat) known as Powell in the Filipino dub version, Hols (Ox) as Bukuh, Gao (tiger) as Delacao, Cream (rabbit) as Kelly, Drago (dragon) as Paccalachi, Nyorori (snake) as Wannie-Wannie, Pakaracchi (horse) as Yabu, Souffle (sheep) as Cesley, Monk (monkey) as Mencue, Tart (rooster) as Chickee, Pochiro (dog) as Yalung, and Urii (pig) as Vivi. The Eto Rangers boards the Space-Time Transmitting Machine Kirinda to repair the Novel Worlds of Mugen which has been altered by a Jarei monster. Missions to each Novel world usually involves up to 5 Eto Rangers chosen by the Kirinda's roulette member selection system. Each Novel world story altered by a Jarei monster turnes it into a different version or sometimes a parody of itself. Since most of the stories in the novel world involves fables or features an animal, Eto Ranger members chosen for such mission usually takes on the role of one of the characters in the tale. Bakumaru (Powell) must use the Genmakyou mirror (shouting "lumabas ka halimaw!") to reveal the evil spirit once enough clues lead to its identity. Kirinda is usually summoned after defeating the Jarei monster to purify the evil spirit with a "laser beam" weapon finally restoring the Novel world story to its original form.

Eto Rangers Opening Theme
Juuni Senshi Bakuretsu Eto Ranger Series Intro



"Mada mada mada"
Sung by Shinmei Yumiko
Eto Rangers Closing Theme
Juuni Senshi Bakuretsu Eto Ranger Series Outro



"Aitakute"
Sung by Kiyomi Kobayashi




Eto Rangers one of the classics for a Filipino child growing up during the 90s. There was this certain fascination towards the Zodiac, astrology, or the Chinese influence back in the days and Eto Rangers seems to be the celebration of that. I vaguely recall if this came first before the Power Rangers (or sentai series) or later, but it probably added a charm to the series. Of course, this won't be a memorable anime series if not for the characters and the Novel world stories featured for the day (or week). I remember finding it very entertaining as to how the series put a twist to the usual stories (fairy tales, legends, and fables) we grew up hearing and reading into something new (Noir, old Western, space age, mafia, etc.). I recall it was being showed in ABC-5 alongside Sailor Moon every Saturdays and Dragon Ball on RPN-9 every Sundays. I remember my classmates back in grade school or at home playing Bakumaru holding up a circular object (usually a mirror) holding it up to each other shouting "Lumabas ka Halimaw!" ("Unveil yourself monster!") then act as if we were to fight. Eto Rangers' opening and closing theme also added to how memorable the series now to those of us who grew up watching it.


How about you guys? What are your most memorable experience with the this Chinese Zodiac inspired Japanese animated series? Any particular episode, characters, or memory you have regarding the show? Share your thoughts and opinion about Juuni Senshi Bakuretsu Eto Ranger in the comments section below:

Raijin-Oh | Zettai Muteki Raijin-Oh | Absolutely Invincible Raijin-Oh | RPN 9's 90s English Dubbed Japanese Anime

Zettai Muteki Raijin-Oh or simply Raijin-Oh was a popular English-dubbed Japanese animated series that aired in RPN around the 90s. Zettai Muteki Raijin-Oh or Absolutely Invincible Raijin-Oh was produced by Sunrise and originally aired in TV Tokyo from April 3, 1991 to March 25, 1992. Raijin-Oh's story revolves around a group of elementary school children who are given command of a mecha named Raijin-Oh and their efforts to defend the Earth from the evil Jaaku (evil) Empire. Filipinos would best remember this series for the elementary school students piloting the various mecha that forms into Raijin-Oh. The elementary school children can also transform their school into a mecha base using coins/medals. Let's go down memory lane with Raijin-Oh.

Zettai Muteki Raijin-Oh - The Story
Raijin-Oh Series Plot

Raijin-Oh starts with the Jaaku Empire (which literally translates to "Evil Empire") comes to Earth to conquer it. From their fortress they launch a missile that will flood the world with Akudamas, eggs of darkness which hatch into monsters called Evil (Jaaku) Beasts based on things that negatively affects (annoy or frustrate) humans.

The "guardian of light" Eldran appears. Eldran is an Ultraman-like entity who's sworn duty is to protect the universe, particularly the Earth using the heroic robot Raijin-Oh. Eldran attempted to stop the Evil Empire by using Raijin-Oh to prevent the missile from striking the Earth. Raijin-Oh got thrown down to Earth as the missile detonated against Eldran. The mecha crashed into a Japanese elementary school.

Eldran must leave to continue protecting the Earth and entrusted the duty of defeating the Evil Beasts to a classroom full of children in the school where he crashed. Eldran entrusts the children with Raijin-Oh, granting each child a different role to perform in either operating or supporting Raijin-Oh. Eldran also transforms their school itself so it can transform into a command center when Raijin-Oh is needed. Jin, Asuka and Koujii are chosen to lead Raijin-oh. Jin is the leader of the trio who pilots Ken-Oh (literally "Sword King") which forms the torso of the Raijin-Oh. Asuka pilots Hou-Oh ("Phoenix King") which forms the arms and wings of Raijin-Oh. Koujii pilots the Juu-Oh's ("Beast King") with the appearance is that of a lion which forms the legs of the Raijin-Oh. The trio combines all their three robots (Ken-Oh, Hou-Oh, and Juu-Oh) to form the Raijin-Oh when individual robots can't handle the Jaaku Beast. Raijin-Oh is a large humanoid robot (mecha) with wings that trap its opponent with a beam from the Raijin Shield and finish it off with the Raijin Sword.

Later in the series, the Bakuryu-Dragon got discovered by the other students. The Bakuryu-Dragon transforms into Bakuryu-Oh which has the same power as the Raijin-Oh. The Raijin-Oh and Bakuryu-Oh can further combine to form the ultimate robot, the God Raijin-Oh.

Raijin-Oh Opening Theme
Zettai Muteki Raijin-Oh Series Intro



"Dream Shift"
Performed by by Kinuko Oomori

Daiji na koto nante jibun de mitsukeru yo
kyooshitsu no mado kara miteru aozora no shita.
Yaritai koto bakari takusan ari sugite
tsukue no mae ni nante jitto shite irarenai.

Hijoo door o akeru tabi ni
mune ga naze ka dokidoki suru.
Atarashii sekai e tobidasu thrill
kimi ni mo oshietai yo.

Hitori ja nai sa*
kujikesoo na toki wa
tatakau yuuki o sasaete ageru yo.
Mirai wa itsumo
bokura ga hero
yume miru chikara wa zettai muteki Raijin Oh.

Ashita no chizu nante jibun de egakeru sa
kakedasu biru no machi kaze ga odotteiru yo.

Sabita fence tobikoereba
hazumu iki ga kirakira suru.
Hajimete no jibun ni deaeru shunkan
kimi ni mo tsutaetai yo.

Fushigi ja nai sa
mune ga atsui no wa
kokoro o tsunai da dareka ga iru kara.
Chikyuu ni ikiru
bokura ga kiseki sa
aisuru chikara wa zettai muteki Raijin Oh.

* Repeat

There have been various anime series that aired here in the Philippines, but this is probably the first one that featured elementary school students as pilots of a mecha. That along with a whole school that transforms into a command center that deploys the (Ken, Hou, Juu) -Oh mechs to form Raijin-Oh are the most memorable parts in this series. I remember rushing home from school every afternoon (being an elementary school student that time) just to catch an episode of Raijin-Oh in RPN-9.

I have vivid memories of each of its episode, but luckily we have home videos and the internet to stream those episodes now. Don't you just love the internet! Besides Voltes V, this is probably one of the most nostalgic mecha anime series that I grew up with. Well, there are other nice mecha series later shown in Philippine television, but a series that has kids piloting a mech is something that Raijin-Oh has been highly noted for not just here in the Philippines but in the whole world.

How about you guys, what are your fondest memories, episodes, mechs, villains, or memorabilias of Raijin-Oh? Share your thoughts about Zettai Muteki Raijin-Oh on the comments section below:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles | 90s ABS-CBN American Animated Series

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or TMNT was an American animated television series that began back in December 28, 1987 starting as a 5-part miniseries and later becoming a regular Saturday morning syndicated series on October 1, 1988 with 13 more episodes. TMNT the cartoon series originally ran from December 28, 1987 to November 2, 1996. Contrary to its original Mirage Studios comics source that was created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated series placed a much stronger emphasis on humor than the comics. The series was produced by Murakami-Wolf-Swenson Film Productions Inc (later Fred Wolf Films). Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon series originally aired in various syndicated channels in the United States from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The cartoon series also fell victim to heavy censorship that time, In the UK, TMNT was released under the name Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles aired in ABS-CBN around the 90s on a Saturday-Sunday morning block. Let's take a look back at the well loved turtles in a half shell, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - The Story
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Series Plot

An honorable ninja master named Hamato Yoshi, banished from the Foot Clan in Japan was exiled and moved to New York where he was forced to live in the sewers. One day he found four turtles, recently bought from a pet store by an unnamed boy who accidentally dropped them in the sewer. After exploring the sewers along with his friend rats, Toshi found the turtles covered with a strange glowing ooze that caused the turtles (most recently exposed to Yoshi) to become humanoid, while Yoshi (most recently exposed to sewer rats) became a humanoid rat, and started going by the pseudonym "Splinter". Yoshi adopts the four turtles as his sons and trains them in the art of ninjitsu. He names them after his favorite Italian renaissance artists: Leonardo da Vinci (Leonardo), wears a blue mask and wields two Katana; Donato di Niccolò di Betto Bardi (Donatello), wears a purple mask and wields the bō staff; Raffaello Sanzio (Raphael), wears a red mask and wields a pair of sai; and Michelangelo Buonarroti (Michaelangelo), wears an orange mask and wields a pair of nunchaku.

Oroku Saki, the man who deceived and disgraced Yoshi's name left Japan and tracked Yoshi to New York City, where he intends to destroy him once and for all. He become associated with Krang, a disembodied alien brain who has been banished from his home, Dimension X. Saki then took a new persona, donning a suit covered with razor spikes, complemented by a long cape, and a metal mask over his mouth. He has also taken on the pseudonym "The Shredder". The two is later joined by Bebop and Rocksteady, two street thugs morphed into an animal humanoid form by exposure to the Shredder's mutagen; and a small army of robotic Foot Soldiers. Their aim is try to destroy the Turtles and take over the world. In their quest to restore their master's honor, Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, and Michaelangelo begin to take on the role of vigilante crime-fighters against any criminals. The team is later joined by Channel 6 reporter April O'Neil who usually needs rescuing from Shredder and later with another vigilante Casey Jones.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Opening Theme
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Series Intro

The idea of anthromorphic group of teenage mutant ninja turtles protecting the world from evil was very entertaining to kids growing up in the 90s, myself included. It featured brothers bounded by a common cause who still have time to be jolly and happy. Looking back at it now, it sure has some phased out 90s funny moments but it doesn't hold well if you compare them with a much more serious tones of animated series nowadays. Well it was a different time back then and even if they followed the original serious tone of the comic source it was based from, it might eventually get censored out.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles was purely for kids who won't dare to ask us what could have happened to the people living in that apartment that the Technodrome just destroyed. Well it was fun while it lasted. The show made me crave for pizzas back in the days. For a kid living in a small suburban provincial neighborhood, pizza became that dream snack. It made me ask who are those famous people behind the name of the four turtles making me know that besides being artists in their time, they were also scientists. There are also later incarnations of the Teenage Mutant ninja Turtles, but this one holds a special memory as this is the first TMNT animated series which the film also took inspiration from.

How about you guys, what's your fondest memory, episode, characters, or memorabilia of the 90s US cartoon show? Share your thoughts about the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in the comment section below:

Samurai X | Rurouni Kenshin | 90s Studio 23 Anime

Rurouni_Kenshin or more popularly known here in the Philippines as Samurai X was first an English dubbed Japanese animated series that first aired in Studio 23 at around the late 90s (October 18, 1998). Samurai X a.k.a. Rurouni Kenshin originally Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story (Ruroni Kenshin Meiji Kenkaku Romantan) like many other anime series was first a popular manga series before its animated television series adaptation. Rurouni Kenshin was written by Kikuhide Tani and illustrated by Yoshihiro Kuroiwa released by Shueisha publication and Monthly Shōnen Jump from April 11, 1994 – November 4, 1999. The manga was later adapted into a ninety five episode anime television series that ran from January 10, 1996 – September 8, 1998 in Studio Gallop for episodes 1-66 and in Studio Deen for episodes 66 onwards in Japan. Let's take the road down memory lane and remember at this once brutal Battousai: The Slasher (Hitokiri Battōsai) who later became the beloved warrior of peace Kenshin Himura.

Samurai X - The Story
Rurouni Kenshin Series Plot

Samurai X (Rurouni Kenshin) tells the story of a wanderer named Himura Kenshin, formerly known as the assassin "Hitokiri Battosai" who after participating in the Bakumatsu war walked away. Kenshin later wanders the countryside of Japan offering protection and aid to those in need as atonement for the murders he once committed as an assassin. His travels lead him to Tokyo in the 11th year of the Meiji era, where he befriends Kamiya Kaoru, a female Kendo master; Sagara Sanosuke, a brawler and a former Sekihō Army member; Takani Megumi, a doctor; and Yahiko Myojin (Yoshi Myojin in English dubbed Samurai X). Together they fight off various enemies surfacing from their inescapable dark past.

Some of the Rurouni Kenshin's (Samurai X) most notable villains include the group of Oniwanbanshou Shinobi(s), Shinomori Aoshi, Saito Hajime, and Shishio Makoto.

Samurai X Opening Theme
Rurouni Kenshin Series Intro







"Sobakasu" (Freckles)
Music by Judy & Mary


Daikirai datta sobakasu wo chotto
Hitonade shite tame iki wo hitotsu
Hebii kyuu no koi wa migoto ni
Kakuzatou to issho ni toketa
Mae yori mo motto yaseta mune ni chotto
"Chiku" tto sasaru toge ga itai
Hoshiuranai mo ate ni naranai wa
Motto tooku made
Issho ni yuketara nee
Ureshikute sore dake de

Omoide wa itsumo kirei dakedo
Sore dake ja onaka ga suku wa
Hontou wa setsunai yoru na no ni
Doushite kashira?
Ano hito no egao mo omoidasenai no

Kowashite naoshite
Wakatteru no ni
Sore ga atashi no seikaku dakara
Modokashii kimochi de
Ayafuya na mama de
Soredemo ii koi wo shite kita
Omoikiri aketa
Hidari mimi no piasu ni wa nee
Waraenai episoodo

Sobakasu no kazu wo kazoete miru
Yogoreta nuigurumi daite
Mune wo sasu toge wa kienai kedo
Kaeruchan mo usagichan mo
Waratte kureru no


Omoide wa itsumo kirei dakedo
Sore dake ja onaka ga suku no
Hontou wa setsunai yoru na no ni
Doushite kashira?
Ano hito no namida mo omoidasenai no
Omoidasenai no
Dou... La La La La La La
Doushite na no?
Samurai X Closing Theme (English)
Rurouni Kenshin Series Outro



"Tactics"
Music by The Yellow Monkey

Well, what to say about Samurai X? As a kid, I was one of those kids who were kinda left off with the discussion of this series. Our television back then was that classic TV with a tuner knob which has limited television reception. Ibelieved that it was only up to TV station IBC-13 that our tv set can receive, so that was a bummer. Later in the early 2000, we upgraded our television set where I finally saw the re-run of the Samurai X in Studio 23 which was still dubbed in English.

Samurai X had a rocking and memorable opening and closing themes. Besides Sobakasu, a personal favorite of mine is Rurouni Kenshin's sixth closing theme entitled "1/3 no Junjo na Kanjou" (1/3 True Feelings) by Siam Shade. Want to know why? I'll let you hear it for yourself and you be the judge:

Let's throw n the full song for Siam's 1/3 no Junjou na Kanjou in the process:

Besides the rocking theme, Rurouni Kenshin is considered to be one of our generation's greatest anime series for of how it build on its characters and great storyline. For me The most notable and diabolical villain of the Japanese samurai series was Shishio Makoto who stood by his twisted philosophy that only the strong will live and the weak shall die. Well, the series would not be that successful if we do not have a rocking protagonist. A seemingly happy nomad with a dark and brutal past. Well, it can be considered pretty generic when compared to today's standards, but hey it works!

How about you guys, what's your fondest memory, merchandise, character, episode, OVA, or movie of Rurouni Kenshin a.k.a Samurai X. Share your thoughts about Rurouni Kenshin in the comments section below:

Voltron: Defender of the Universe | 80s - 90s IBC-13, RPN-9, SBN-21 Animated Series

Voltron: Defender of the Universe was an American animated television series adaptation of two different Japanese anime television series Beast King Golion and Armored Fleet Dairugger XV. Simply known as Voltron, the series originally aired in various syndicated channels in the United States from September 10, 1984 to November 18, 1985. Voltron: Defender of the Universe aired in the Intercontinental Broadcasting Network (IBC-13) and Radio Philippines Network (RPN-9) around the 80s until 90s. Let's take a look back at this beloved supre robot series of the 80's, Voltron.

Voltron: Defenders of the Universe - The Story
Voltron: Defender of the Universe - Series Plot

The first season of Voltron was based on Beast King Golion (Hykauu Juu Ou Golion). This series is also known as Lion Force Voltron (Voltron of the Far Universe) featured a team of five young pilots commanding five robot lions which could be combined to form Voltron. In this undefined future era, the Voltron Force was in charge of protecting the planet Arus which is ruled by Princess Allura from the evil forces of King Zarkon, his son Lotor, and the witch Haggar who would later create huge Robeasts to terrorize the people of Arus. This is the most popular iteration of Voltron, but was later called Voltron III.

The second season was based on Armored Fleet Dairugger XV (Kikou Kantai Dairugger XV), with the storyline considerably changed. In this iteration of Voltron, which was also known as Vehicle Voltron (Voltron of the Near Universe), the Galaxy Alliance's home planets have become overcrowded, and a fleet of explorers has been sent to search for new planets to colonize. Along the way, they attract the attention of the evil Drule Empire, long engaged in an ongoing war against the Alliance, and the Drules proceed to interfere in the mission of the explorers and the colonists. Since the Voltron of Planet Arus is too far away to help the explorers, a totally new Voltron is constructed to battle the Drule threat. This Voltron was called Voltron I since its setting was set closest to Earth.

This Voltron team consists of fifteen members, divided into three teams of five, known respectively as the Land, Sea, and Air Teams. Each team is specialized in gathering data or fighting in their area of expertise. Each team can combine their vehicles into a bigger machine, with each combined vehicle differing amongst the three teams: the Aqua Fighter (Sea Team), the Turbo Terrain Fighter (Land Team), and the Strato Fighter (Air Team). When necessary, all fifteen vehicles combine to form the mighty Voltron.

A proposed Voltron II, which was set to take the name of Gladiator Voltron (Voltron of the Middle Universe) was to have been based on Lightspeed Electroid Albegas (Kosoku Denjin Albegas) but was later cancelled in the United States because of the lack of popularity of Voltron II (second season).

Voltron: Defender of the Universe Opening Theme
Voltron: Defender of the Universe Series Intro

I was but achild when these series exploded in the Philippines. thanks to reruns of the show which have been very frequent in Philippine television, I was able to experience Voltron. I remember my father giving me a Voltron matchbox toy which was eventually lost. If only I or my father took care of that toy, I could have had a piece of my childhood up until now, but there is no real sense in crying over spilled milk. What matters is that I was able to enjoy my childhood thanks to these robo lions. I prefer and am more familiar with the Lion Force Voltron just like most Voltron fans.

Voltron was one of the most popular super robot series during its time. Both the Englsh dubbed animated series and its toyline became phenomenal. Whether it is on its catchy opening and closing themes, or the sheer awesomeness of a five giant robo lions forming into one robot battling giant monsters terrorizing the galaxy, Voltron has forever joined the ranks of the most popular kids show of the 80's. Just like any other 80's Americanized show, Voltron was heavily censored to cater for kids, but amidst its censorship World Events Productions and Toei Animation still managed to bring something special which up to this day are remembered by those who grew up humming its theme, shouting its formation sequence, and playing with its various toy lines.

How about you guys, what's your fondest memories of Voltron: Defenders of the Universe? Did you also liked the second season? What are your fondest memories of Voltron? Share everything on Voltron at the comments section below:

Zenki | Kishin Doji Zenki | An ABS-CBN - 90s Filipino Dubbed Anime Retrospective

Zenki was an Filipino dubbed Japanese animated series which first aired in ABS-CBN around the late 90s. Zenki, originally 鬼神童子ZENKI Kishin Dōji Zenki,like many other Japanese anime, Zenki started as a manga series written by Kikuhide Tani and illustrated by Yoshihiro Kuroiwa. The manga was serealized in the Shueisha publication, Monthly Shōnen Jump from 1992 to 1996 and was later adapted into a fifty-one episode anime television series in 1995 by Studio Deen. Let's take the road down memory lane and remember this brat of a child but kick-ass eyeball-eating Demon, Zenki.

Zenki - The Story
Zenki Series Plot

Enno Ozuno, Master of the Enno temple used the demon guardian spirit Zenki to defeat the demon goddess Karuma. After defeating Karuma, he later sealed Zenki away in a pillar until needed again.

Centuries later, his descendant, a school girl named Chiaki Enno (Cherry) was able to free Zenki from his seal because of the return of the forces of Karuma (Karma). The seeds of karma which looks like eyeballs feeds on the greed and desire of humans later turning them into monsters. Zenki was freed because of this and needs to then again to eradicate this menace. Instead of the powerful yet defiant battle-born demon warrior, the freed Zenki has now taken the form of a brat demon child. To transform this extremely defiant demon into the form that made him useful by her ancestor, she was bestowed with a magical bracelet that appeared on her wrist.

After defeating Karuma again, all seems well until a new evil rose, the threat of the Grand Lord with the help of Inugami. This time Zenki acquires a new power. Goki, an old companion joins him to battle this new powerful evil.

Zenki Opening Theme 1
Zenki Series Intro



"Kishin Douji ZENKI" (Demon-God Child Zenki)
Performed by Ogata Megumi & Yokoyama Chisa

* Vajura on! Vajura on!
Vajura on! Vajura on!
Vajura on! Vajura on!

Toki wa ima sennen no jubaku wa yaburareta
Fuku kaze ni tsukiagero jiyuu no Vajura wo
Yomigaeru riyuu sae seigi no imi sae mo
Ima wa shiranai omae da keredo

** Hoero ZENKI ZENKI
Itsu ka deau Kitto
Mune ni sasaru you na
Inori wo kometa hitomi ni
Sou sa ZENKI ZENKI
Sono kagayaki koso
Ai to iu mugen no chikara da

* Repeat

Wazawai ga uchiyoseru jaaku wa hanatareta
Hateshinai yokubou no uzumaku umi e to
Shikkoku no nami no soko yagate hito wa horobi
Sono rekishi sae shizumeru darou

Tatake ZENKI ZENKI
Subete no yami ute
Ten ga kureta sono
Saikyou no ude ni kakete
Sou sa ZENKI ZENKI
Futatabi kono yo ni
Eien no asu wo terashidase

* Repeat
** Repeat
* Repeat

Zenki Opening Theme 2
Zenki Series 2nd Intro



"Chou-Kishin Douji Zenki Raigou Shourin" (Super Demon-God Child Zenki, Coming of Buddha Looking Down from the Heavens)

Yami ni sasaru hito-suji no hikari
Yatsu no me ga gira-tsuku no wo mita ka
Yatsu wa warau tsuyoi teki na hodo
Kiba wo muki "Fuzakeru na" to hoeru

* Oo Jidai wa seikimatsu
Aku wa sakae Chi wo oou
Aa Yatsu nara iu darou
"Hyakuman-nen hayai ze"

** Yatsu wa ZENKI! ZENKI!
Inori no wa no majiwaru tokoro
Raigou! Shourin! Yatsu wa kuru
Kishin ZENKI! ZENKI!
Furikazashita honoo to tomo ni
Raigou! Shourin! Kikoete kuru no sa
"Rajasu" no koe ga

Yatsu wa ikaru Sore wo seigi da to
Yonda nara ano me de furikaeru
Gura-tsuite 'ru kono yo no mashin ni
Ikazuchi wo kureta dake to niramu

Oo Sennen seikimatsu
Megurasareta wana no soko
Aa Yatsu nara tachiagaru
Hyakuman-kai ochite mo

Yatsu wa ZENKI! ZENKI!
Yabou megake tsukawareshi mono
Raigou! Shourin! Toki wa kita
Kishin ZENKI! ZENKI!
Yagate hareta mirai no sora ni
Raigou! Shourin! Hito-kiwa fuku no sa
Rajasu no kaze ga

* REPEAT
** REPEAT

Zenki was probably the most memorable anime character for a 90s kid. He was a brat but packs a lot of power when unsealed to his true form. Not to mention he eats the seeds of Karuma after each kills. I remember getting excited to go home back in grade school to just watch this series which aired every weekdays afternoon on ABS-CBN.

I remember being one of those kids who usually role plays acting like Zenki and shouting "PALAKOL NI DIVA" (Axe of Diva) picking up sticks and swaying it like crazy to my friends acting like Karuma monsters or fellow Zenki themselves, or placing a stick between our middle and ring finger with our hands closed shoutng "KUKO NI DIVA" or "APOY SA KUKO NI DIVA!". This was one of the many definitive anime of the 90s and Zenki was that memorable of a series. Looking back at it now, I can say that the animation and music still rocks.

How about you guys? What's your fondest and most memorable moments, episodes, character, monsters, or merchandise you have of Zenki. Share your memories of Zenki in the comments section below:

Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light | ABS-CBN - 80s & PTV - 90s US Animated Show

Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light was a 1987 short-lived Sunbow Productions animated series based from a Hasbro toyline. Vissionaries: Knights of the Magical Light or simply "Visionaries" has originally 13 episodes and ran from September 21, 1987 to December 14, 1987 on Claster Television, Inc. Visionaries got its Philippine television broadcast via ABS-CBN around the 80s and later on other Philippine Television channels like PTV (NBN Channel-4 for the Greater Manila Area) during the 90s. Let's take a look back on this short-lived kids show with an interesting concept.

Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light - The Story
Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light Series Plot

The inhabitants of a distant planet called Prysmos enjoy the life of convenience brought by science and technology, but like everything else this eventually came to an abrupt end. When the three blazing suns of Prysmos re-aligned signaled the end of the age of Science and technology, and ushered in the power of mystics and magic.



As the world collapsed, a new but primitive order began. A post apocalyptic medieval era began. An era known for its inquisition and wars. Leoric, leader of the Spectral Knights and prince of New Valarak leads and defends their fortress against the scheming Darkstorm of the Darkling Lords. They are both called to for a competition by the wizard Merklynn. After surviving traps, dangerous creatures, and each other, the survivors on both sides are rewarded. Everyone of them is given a different animal totem which appears on the front of their armor, which they can turn into. The animals are selected by Merklynn based on their personalities. Some knights have staffs with them, and these are told to dip them into an energy well. They become magical, each given a different power. They activate these by reciting a special verse. Any staff-wielding knight can activate any staff, as long as he casts the spell properly.

The war for power and supremacy on the two opposing faction heightens after obtaining their new found magical powers.

Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light Opening Theme
Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light Series Intro




It is a time when Magic is more powerful than Science,
and only those who control the magic, control destiny.
...They are the Visionaries.

Visionaries, knights of the magical light,
Visionaries, with magical powers they fight.
Powers of mind and strength, skill and speed,
Powers to accomplish the greatest of deeds.

Visionaries, knights of the magical light.

The Visionaries seems to have left an imprint in my mind. This is probably because the series has an impressive toyline courtesy of Hasbro. I remember having two visionary toys when I was still a kid. The Visionaries toys have those hologramic 3-D-esk stickers which gave kids like me the allusion that they can pop in any time just like the series. I have little memories about the conflict between Leoric and Darksorm and only recalls it after researching and making this post. But still a post-apocalyptic medieval magical era with magic and technology mix is an interesting concept. Too bad is was cancelled. As a kid, the Visionaries was pretty much all eye candy for me. I just watched it for the fight scenes and the cool summoning and transformation sequences.

How about you guys? What are your fondest memories, cool merchandise, favorite character, summons or episode in the short-lived series? Share your thoughts about Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light in the comments section below:

Spider-Man: The Animated Series | An ABS-CBN Animated Show Retrospective

Spider-Man: The Animated Series or simply Spider-Man was a US animated television series that aired on ABS-CBN during the 90s. Spider-Man The Animated Series was an American action animated television series based from the popular Marvel Comics superhero, Spider-Man. The animated series originally run from November 19, 1994 – January 31, 1998 on the Fox Network as part of its Fox Kids lineup in the United States. Let's take a look back on this nostalgic superhero animated series which aired on ABS-CBN during the 90s.

Spider-Man: The Animated Series - The Story
Spider-Man The Animated Series Plot

The show follows college student and Daily Bugle part-time photographer Peter Parker as he balance personal life and his role as a masked superhero Spider-Man as he protect New York from various forms of criminal and evil masterminds. Spider-Man: the Animated Series featured most of Spider-Man's classic villains like the Kingpin, the Green Goblin, the Hob Goblin, the Lizard, the Scorpion, Doctor Octopus, Mysterio, Shocker, the Rhino, the Vulture, Smythe, Tombstone, Hydro-Man, the Chameleon, Electro, Carnage and Venom. The show also featured various cameo appearances from other Marvel superheroes like the the X-Men, the Fantastic Four, Iron Man, Nick Fury, Daredevil, Blade, the Punisher, Black Cat, and Captain America.

Spider-Man: The Animated Series Opening Theme
Spider-Man The Animated Series Intro

As a kid growing up during the 90s Spider-Man: The Animated Series was my first real introduction to Spider-Man as a superhero and ever since then I have followed every animated series that came after that. The cool thing about STAS (Spider-man The Animated Series) was the many story line that included various cameos of other Marvel characters. Here are two favorite story arcs featuring a great roster of other characters from Marvel: The episodes entitled "The Mutant Agenda" and "Mutants' Revenge" featured the friendly Neighborhood Spider teaming up with the X-Men which also was a popular 90s animated television series; and the Secret Wars arc where Spider-Man was tested by Madam Web and the Beyonder. This is where Spider-Man teams up with the Fantastic Four, Captain America, Black Cat, Iron Man and Storm against the villains Doctor Doom, Doctor Octopus, Lizard, Alistair Smythe, and Red Skull.

If my memory serves me correct, Spider-Man the Animated Series aired every Friday nights alongside Batman in ABS-CBN. Being nostalgic about the show, I re-watched the entire series last 2011 and all I can say that it still somehow holds up to today's standards, well for me that is. Although the series was a victim of heavy censorship of kids shows during the 90s which probably greatly affected the epic scale of the series, it still was an entertaining television adaptation of the popular Marvel superhero. Episodes or story arcs were still as grand (if not as epic) as I remembered them to be. There still were some pretty corny and bad episodes of the series and this is why I ranked STAS as the third of my best favorite US animated series from the 90s with Batman being the top, followed by the X-Men. My most memorable episode was the Venom story arc and remember making a comic strip based on Spider-Man the Animated Series on my spiral notebook back in my elementary school days.

What about you guys? What's your fondest memory, favorite episode, story arc, villain or cameo in the series? Share your thoughts about Spider-Man: the Animated Series on the comments section below:

Batman: The Animated Series | An ABS-CBN - 90s Animated Series Retrospective

Batman: The Animated Series or simply Batman was a US animated television series that aired on ABS-CBN during the 90s. Batman: The Animated Series was an American action animated television series based from the DC Comics character Batman that originally run from September 5, 1992 to September 15, 1995 on the Fox Network as part of its Fox Kids lineup in the United States. With its mature themes, effective writing, and animation presentation, Batman: The Animated Series was a favorite amongst everyday television audience (from children to adults) and DC comics fans alike. Let's take a look back on this nostalgic superhero animated series from the 90s.

Batman: The Animated Series - The Story
Batman The Animated Series Plot

Batman: The Animated Series chronicles the adventures of a multi-billionaire bachelor Bruce Wayne as he took it upon himself the responsibility to protect and preserve the city that he and his parents loved the most, Gotham City. Witnessing the death of his parents right before his eyes, the heir to the multi-billion corporation Wayne Industry, young Bruce Wayne was left broken. One fateful day, he finally finds the answer to all his questions, to take the disguise of a crime fighter and become's Gotham's dark knight. With his seemingly unlimited resources, he uses technology, martial arts expertise, and superb deducting skills and intelligence to fight the evil that looms around Gotham City.

Batman: The Animated Series Opening Theme
Batman The Animated Series Instrumental Intro



Batman: The Animated Series
Theme music & composer: Danny Elfman

On a time when animated shows were heavily censored out and catered for kids to appreciate alone, Batman: The Animated Series was a breath of fresh air. As a child growing up during the 90s, I have to admit that Batman: The Animated Series featured some very mature content for the era for a kids show and it was the animated series' biggest strength. Kids need an icon to look up to and they somewhat know that criminals are not as goofy as other superhero television kids show portray them to be back in the 90s. Dark themes and violence are very common in animated shows nowadays, but back then it was pretty rare, so when Batman somehow effectively portrayed the likeliness of the violent nature of real life crime and crime fighting, plus the fact that Batman had no super powers, kids felt that they were taken seriously and he was the hero that kids can become, a bad ass brawler who uses cool gadgets and a smart detective. It was awesome! Well, at least that was what I felt back then. If my memories served me right, Batman aired every Friday nights in ABS-CBN which is a perfect weekend primetime treat for a grade school student like me. One of my favorite villain in Batman the Animated Series was Clayface because he has the ability/power that I've always dream of having, to shapeshift.

What about you guys? What's your fondest memory of Batman: The Animated Series? Any favorite episode or characters? Share your thoughts on Batman: The Animated Series on the comments section below: