The Betterman Frequently Asked Questions

Version 0.02 (6/11/03)

Edited by cxt217 (occam211@yahoo.com)

Please use the above email address for comments, questions, FAQ Submissions, et al.

Before proceeding:

1. Note that people have put in effort writing this FAQ. Therefore, please do not post or use any portion of this FAQ without proper credits. Not doing so is known as "stealing."
2. If you want to post this, please contact me first.
3. As long as it is properly credited, you are free to use reasonable excerpts for non-commercial purposes without needing to ask first, though a polite note informing me would be greatly appreciated.

4. Any questions and submissions (Or more material contributions. : )) can be sent to occam211@yahoo.com. Please put "Betterman FAQ" in the subject line. I welcome any further material, especially those with sources.

Updates:

Version 0.02 (11 June 2003) – Added "Betterman" section in "World of Betterman." Added "English-Language Cast" section to "Behind the Scenes – Production." Added "Differences in Language" and "Japanese Language Notes" to "Assorted Odds and Ends."

I. What is Betterman?

II. The World of Betterman

1. The Story
2. Betterman
3. Characters
4. Scenes and Locations
5. Terms
6. Episode Synopsis
7. Timeline
8. Beyond the Series
9. Connections

III. Behind the Scenes – Production

1. Series Production
2. Series Cast

1. Japanese Cast
2. English-Language Cast

IV. Behind the Scenes - Technical details

1. Original Airdates
2. Sales Rankings for Betterman

1. Japanese Sales Rankings

1. Technical Specifications

V. Misc

VI. Assorted Odds and Ends

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I. What is Betterman?

Betterman is a Japanese animated series produced by Sunrise and its subsidiary, Studio 7,

that was broadcast over several months in 1999. A mixture of sci-fi, horror, action, and a little bit of drama and comedy, the series was released in North America in June 2002 when the first English-language dubbed DVD, "Volume 1: The Awakening," went on sale, as well as being broadcast on the US cable channel TechTV's "Anime Unleashed" starting in February 2003.

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II. The World of Betterman

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A. The Story

1. The Enemy Within (Episodes 1-6)

2. Nightmare's Progeny (Episodes 7-14)

3. Creations of the Mind (Episodes 15-22)

4. Mortality's End (Episodes 23-26)

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B. Betterman

Note: Japanese names are drawn from the Betterman Complete Book.

Betterman has apparently existed since humans started keeping records of stories and legends. While there is no definite information on the natural life span of a Betterman, they can be destroyed, though not easily.

While few pieces of information exist about Betterman, some data can be arrived at. Their function in the environment is similar to the liver or antibodies in the human body, responding to threats against the natural order. Most astonishing, their genetic make-up is completely opposite of any other living organism on Earth, with the exception of the Animus Flower, which also is their only food source. Moreover, all Betterman are capable of transforming themselves into different forms, each suited for a different environment and situation, by the simple expedient of eating the appropriate seed for the desired form.

1. Betterman Lamia

1. Nebula – Lamia’s standard fighting form, capable of flight as well as physical attacks. Nebula is, like all of Lamia’s forms, capable of analyzing his enemy and determining the best counter. Nebula’s counter is in the form of the "Psychovoice," which uses sonic resonance to destroy opponents;
2. Forte – Usually, the most powerful fighting form available Lamia. The Seed of Forte comes from deceased humans who had participated in the Dive Inspection, 1999. While strictly ground-based, Forte has incredible strength and natural armor. Forte’s counter to its opponents is "Psychoglory," a sharp, horn-like appendage called a Sliding Saber which erupts from Forte’s head and lances into the target, aimed at its "Crumble Point," the single point which, if destroyed, leads to the destruction of the entire target;
3. Aqua – Lamia’s water-based fighting form. Can travel at high (600+ knots; 1000+ kph.) speed through water. Equipped with sharp tail and "wings" that can slash and cut through its targets. Capable of generating water if need be, as well as analyzing its opponents’ DNA. Aqua’s counter to its opponents is "Psychofluid," a substance capable of destroying the DNA structure of his opponents;
4. Oltos (Ortus) – An exceptional and unique transformation, Oltos is the most powerful fighting form for Lamia, if not all the Bettermans. Oltos’ seed is created by combining three Seeds of Forte, and it is the only form capable of defeating Kankel. It is capable of flight, boasts awesome physical strength, and has body armor that can stop and defeat Kankel’s piercing attacks. Like Forte, it has a Sliding Saber that can lance into its opponent’s "Crumble Point," though Oltos’ "Psychoglory" attack involves completely detaching and firing the saber at the opponent. Most importantly, it is capable of complete regeneration of its body or "Pyscho-Birth", restoring any damage it might have suffered, and is the only other creature able to do so besides Kankel.

1. Betterman Seeme (Seme)

1. Lume (Lumen) – Possibly based on the Seed from the Animus flower drawn from Hinoki Sai’s mother. Lume is the only Betterman transformation that is humanoid in appearance, in the form of a glowing, golden female humanoid. Capable of flight/levitation (In fact, the only way Lume can move.), she is also capable of releasing offensive energy blast in the form of bursts of gamma radiation.

1. Betterman Pakila (Pachira)

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C. Characters

Note: Unless otherwise noted, the following information came from the series, the "extra" Mode Warp Files that came with the North American DVD releases, and the Betterman Complete Book.

1. Keita Aono

Born 1989. Age: 17. Nationality: Japanese. Height: 155 cm. Weight: 52 kg.

Childhood friend of Hinoki Sai. A "Self-Adapting" Dual-kind, capable of learning from other Dual-kinds using Linker Gel and adapting abilities to suit the immediate need. Suffered brain injury in 1990, and had surgery that saw dura mater from donor Laurier Noir transplanted into him, giving him the abilities of two Dual-kinds and allowing him to pilot a Neuronoid by himself. Unfortunately, a major side effect of the transplant are the bouts of "illusions" he sees and dreams. High school student at time of Bottom World Incident, before becoming Head Diver and pilot of Neuronoid Kakuseijin for Akamatsu Industries. Chief ambition in life was to achieve victory on his Digi-Robo video game. While not always wise and sometimes capable of dumb things, Keita is intelligent and trustworthy (Unless confronted with laundry.), making him especially important to the team investigating Algernon, as well as opening up the emotions of other characters, including Hinoki Sai. Survived the destruction of Mode Warp headquarters, 12/2006.

2. Hinoki Sai

Born 1989. Age: 17. Nationality: Japanese. Height: 162 cm. Weight: 46 kg.

Childhood friend of Keita Aono. Parents were university professors, who moved the family away from Keita to be closer to the university. Lost her parents and older brother during their investigation of the Ajanta Caves in India, 2002. Transferred to Keita’s high school at the beginning of series. A Dual-kind Head Diver for Akamatsu Industries, piloting Neuronoid Kakuseijin. Very strong Dual impulses, capable of completing Brake Synthesize quicker and cleaner than normal. The "hope" of Betterman Lamia and Seeme, due to essence being capable of growing the Seed of Vivele, and apparently the last person who could. Initially still silently suffering emotionally from the loss of her family, the travails of the team’s investigation of Algernon, and especially the presence of Keita Aono, allows her to overcome her loss and face the challenges with increasing strength through-out the series, as well as her feelings for Keita. Was kidnapped by Dr. Mamon, 12/2006 and taken to Mode Warp headquarters, before being rescued. Survived the destruction of Mode Warp headquarters, 12/2006

3. Sakura [Akamatsu]

Born 1991. Age: 15. Nationality: Japanese. Height: 150 cm. Weight: 39 kg.

Dual-kind daughter of Shigeru Akamatsu. Born with a weak constitution and a severe case of ADHD, causing her to spend most of her life in hospitals and isolating her from the world. Has to sit in the Manage Machine and received shots of Ritalin and biofeedback impulses. Her weak constitution prevents her from being a normal Head Diver, though she is capable of operating Neuronoids. Her ADHD, along with the Limpid Channel, allows her to hear the voices of people from all across the world all the time. Survived destruction of Mode Warp headquarters, losing her Limpid Channel ability in the incident, 12/2006. Fell into a long coma after the incident.

4. Shigeru Akamatsu

Born 1961. Age: 45. Nationality: Japanese. Height: 168 cm. Weight: 72 kg.

Father of Sakura. Genius inventor and engineer, owner and head of Akamatsu Industries. Have patents on a large number of inventions, with varying commercial success and usefulness (For example, Endearing Kaori Sweet Seventeen, and Perfect Wear found on Neuronoids.). Father is a scientist living in the United States. Estranged from his wife and mother of Sakura. Signed a technical agreement with Mode Warp so he could have a license to use the Manage Machine for Sakura. Survived the destruction of Mode Warp headquarters, 12/2006.

5. Shou Yanagi

Born 1984. Age: 22. Nationality: Japanese. Height: 185 cm. Weight: 70 kg.

Dual-kind Head Diver for Mode Warp, transferred to Japan from Mode Warp French office, 5/2006. Along with Kaede Kurenai, piloted Neuronoid Tyran. Possess precognitive ability, allowing him to anticipate, avoid, and deal with potential problems (Main reason chosen as pilot for Tyran.). Older brother of Kei Yanagi. Definitely well-informed, as well as capable of crash landing aircraft. Very close to Kaede Kurenai, father of her child. Married to Kaede, 12/2006.

Died 12/2006 during final confrontation at Mode Warp headquarters.

6. Kaede Kurenai

Born 1987. Age: 19. Nationality: Japanese. Height: 163 cm. Weight: 49 kg.

Dual-kind Head Diver for Mode Warp, transferred to Japan from Mode Warp French office, 5/2006. Along with Shou Yanagi, piloted Neuronoid Tyran. Possess strong "dowsing" ability allowing her to "read" electro-magnetic impulses, akin to speed reading or photographic memory. Once attended a special school under the direction of Dr. Mamon, and was the key to Dr. Mamon’s project to transform humans to the Brahman form. Very close to Shou Yanagi, and became pregnant with his child. Married to Shou, 12/2006.

Died 12/2006 during final confrontation at Mode Warp headquarters, after being infected with Algernon.

Note: The fate of Shou’s and Kaede’s child is unknown, though the fetus survived the destruction of Mode Warp headquarters and the deaths of both parents.

7. Asami Miyako

Born 1978. Age: 28. Nationality: Japanese. Height: 162 cm. Weight: 45 kg.

Officially, Deputy Officer for Mode Warp investigations. Bio-Medical Engineer, travelling the world attempting to cure illnesses and diseases following in the footsteps of her parents. One of the participants in the Dive Inspection, 1999, serving under Dr. Umezaki. Frequently served as Mode Warp’s on-scene expert with Akamatsu Industries. Very much cool, controlled in crises, though definitely not always.

Died 12/2006 during final confrontation at Mode Warp headquarters.

8. Li-chan (Ric-chan - Ritsuko Fuchu)

Born circa 1971. Age: 35. Nationality: Japanese. Height: 165 cm. Weight: 51 kg.

All purpose driver and vehicle operator for Akamatsu Industries, being able to operate any land or water based vehicle in the company’s inventory. Usually seen with a cigarette dangling from one side of her mouth.

9. Yamaji

Born circa 1974. Age: 32. Nationality: Japanese. Height: 177 cm. Weight: 59 kg.

Technician for Akamatsu Industries.

10. Yakusugi

Born circa 1880(?). Age: 120+(?). Nationality: Unknown. Height: 172 cm. Weight: 67 kg.

Buddhist priest and practitioner of the Tantric sect. Considered the most powerful example of the human race. Participated in the Dive Inspection, 1999, as the subject of the experiment. Disappeared in the aftermath of the inspection and spent most of next decade residing near Lake Poopo, Peru, after being turned in Kankel. Capable of controlling impulses to become Kankel, but unable to fully suppress it after Lake Poopo’s water lost their purity. Returned to Japan to both aid and oppose efforts by Betterman, Akamatsu Industries, and Mode Warp.

Died 12/2006 in final confrontation shortly after destruction of Mode Warp headquarters, by Betterman Lamia.

11. Dr. Umezaki

Head of the Biotechnology Provisioning Laboratory (BPL) at Kushiro. One of the participants in the Dive Inspection, 1999. Creator and "father" of Chandy. Friend of Dr. Sai, and participated in the search for the university team which disappeared at Ajanta Caves, India. Suffered from symptoms of Algernon. Died 6/2006 in confrontation at BPL, after being attacked by Chandy.

12. "Chandy"

Name given by Keita Aono to last surviving superhuman created by Dr. Umezaki at BPL. Created from crustacean bacteria. Officially known as "D-kind Hunter." Survived the destruction of Mode Warp headquarters, otherwise, fate unknown.

13. Bakuto Mamon (Mugito Mamon)

Head of the Superhuman Federation. Possesses first-rate "dowsing" abilities. One of the participants in the Dive Inspection, 1999. Served as director at a school attended by a young Kaede Kurenai. Creator of the evolved human called "Brahman," and underwent transformation into one. Died 12/2006, during final confrontation at Mode Warp headquarters, at the hands of Betterman Lamia.

14. Kankel (Cancer – Yes, Studio 7 apparently had more imagination for the English translation.)

The "ultimate" evolutionary form of human being, created from Yakusugi in the Dive Inspection in Peru, 1999. Entire body is composed of cancer cells, capable of reassembling any chromosomes within it and also capable of limitless cell division, i.e. immortality due to infinite ability to create new cells and revitalizes the body. Virtually indestructible and was only destroyed by Betterman Lamia during the final confrontation shortly after destruction of Mode Warp headquarters.

15. Cactus Prickle

Dual-kind Head Diver working for Akamatsu Industries. One of the participants in the Dive Inspection, 1999. Piloted Neuronoid Kakuseijin. Died 5/2006 during the incident at Bottom World, after being infected with Algernon.

16. Officer

Founder and director of Mode Warp. One of the participants in the Dive Inspection, 1999, and was responsible for the experiment. Underwent multiple Dive Inspection at Mode Warp HQ, acquiring the abilities of the Limpid Channel. Died 12/2006, during final confrontation at Mode Warp headquarters.

17. Dr. Mikio Sai

Father of Hinoki and Mario Sai. Paleontologist and university professor. One of the participants in the Dive Inspection, 1999. Was a Dual-kind individual. Died with rest of research party investigating Ajanta Caves, 2002.

18. Mario Sai

Older brother of Hinoki Sai, and son of Dr. Mikio Sai. Died 2002 in Ajanta Caves with rest of research group. Became Seed of Vivele consumed by Betterman Lamia and provided the memories of Hinoki.

19. Heichin

Technician for Akamatsu Industries. Infected by Algernon, 5/2006, and participated in efforts at sabotaging efforts at investigating the Bottom World Incident as well as murder attempts on both Keita Aono and Hinoki Sai. Was later sent to the Ran Medical Center, from where he was carried to BPL to serve as flowerbed for the Animus flower.

20. Laurier Noir

Geologist who discovered Linker Gel. A Dual-kind with abilities to "communicate" with the gel. Died in Japan, 1990, with dura mater from brain surgically transplanted into Keita Aono. Gradually, with access to Linker Gel, to reconstitute her neural patterns in Keita Aono, sending him "images" and possible foreshadowing of events to come.

21. Kei Yanagi

D. Scenes and Locations

E. Terms

F. Episode Synopsis

G. Timeline

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H. Beyond the Series

1. Audio Drama CD Stories

1. Betterman Panorama Sound CD Yobanashi Janen (Released 1999)
2. Betterman Panorama Sound CD Yobanashi 2 Nozomi (Released 1/21/2000)

I. Connections

As different as the two anime series are, both in tone and content, Betterman shares the same story universe as the Gaogaiger series, a "giant robot" anime previously produced by Studio 7. The best evidence of this, outside interviews with director Yoshitomo Yonetani, is the appearance of the character Papillon Noir (Voiced by Ayako Kawasumi) in the second Betterman audio drama CD, Nozomi. Papillon Noir was a character previously introduced into the Gaogaiger storyline.

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III. Behind the Scenes - Production

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A. Series Production

(The information in quotes has been drawn from Animerica’s Gundam Official Guide, by Mark Simmons, Benjamin Wright, and the editors of Animerica Magazine, published 2002.)

Betterman was released by Sunrise and Japan Victor. Series production was done by Sunrise’s Studio 7, also known for the "giant robot" Gaogaiger anime series.

Serving as director, and song writer/music composer for the series was Yoshitomo Yonetani. Series head writer was Hiroshi Yamaguchi.

(Co-creator "Hajime Yatate" is actually "a pseudonym which reflects the collective contributions of the Sunrise animation studio." "Yatate" can be found on such Sunrise productions as Cowboy Bebop and the Gundam series.)

Mechanical Design for the Betterman series was done by Kunio Okawara, who "served as the mechanical designer of the original Mobile Suit Gundam, whose work has also appeared in nine of its sequels. After changing careers from the apparel business, Okawara became one of the anime industry’s first mechanical design specialists with the release of Science Ninja Team Gatchaman (a.k.a. Battle of the Planets, a.k.a. G-Force, a.k.a. Eagle Riders) in 1972. His subsequent work as a mecha designer encompasses everything from the hyper-realism of Armored Trooper Votoms (1983) to the super-robot heroics of King of Braves Gaigaigar (1997), and some of his latest Gundam work can be seen in Turn A Gundam and G-Saviour. He also designed new versions of the Gundam, Guncannon, Guntank, and Zaku for [Yoshikazu] Yasuhiko’s Gundam: The Origin comic."

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B. Series Cast

1. Japanese Cast

Betterman Lamia – Takehito Koyasu

Keita Aono – Kappei Yamaguchi

Hinoki Sai – Kyoko Higami

Sakura – Junko Iwao

Shigeru Akamatsu – Chafurin

Asami Miyako (Miyako Asami) – Noriko Kuwashima

Shou Yanagi – Shinichiro Miki

Kaede Kurenai – Yuko Minaguchi

Ric-chan (Li-chan) – Tomoko Kawakami

Betterman Seme (Seeme) – Tomoko Kawakami

Yakusugi - ?

Yamaji - ?

Cactus Prickle - ?

Actor’s Notes: The original Japanese voice actors for Betterman tend to be veterans of the trade, with extensive experience providing character voices. Hence, the links are provided below in lieu of complete works.

i. Takehito Koyasu – Betterman Lamia

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=662)

Saber Marionette J (Both TV series and OAV) - Mitsurugi Hanagata

ii. Kyoko Higami – Hinoki Sai

(http://us.imdb.com/Name?Hikami,%20Ky%F4ko)

1. Kappei Yamaguchi – Keita Aono

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=277)

Inu Yasha (Both series and movies.) – Inuyasha

1. Junko Iwao - Sakura

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=777)

Cardcaptor Sakura (Both TV series and movies.) - Tomoyo Daidouji

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Both TV series and movies.) - Hikari Horaki


2. Shinichiro Miki – Shou Yanagi

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=659)

.hack//SIGN - Kurimu
Initial D (Both TV series and OAV.) - Takumi Fujiwara

Pokemon (Both TV series and movies.) - Kojirou

1. v. Yuko Minaguchi - Kaede Kurenai

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=528)

1. Tomoko Kawakami - Seme/Ric-chan

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=526)

Cardcaptor Sakura (Both TV series and movies.) - Rika Sasaki

Revolutionary Girl Utena (Both TV series and movies.) - Utena Tenjou

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2. English-language Cast

Note: Information provided from Anime News Network (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=350)

Note: Japanese versions of names in ( )

Betterman Lamia - ?

Keita Aono – Matthew Erickson

Hinoki Sai - Onalae Gilbertson

Sakura - ?

Shigeru Akamatsu – Dave Pettitt

Miyako Asami (Asami Miyako) - Meredith Taylor-Parry

Shou Yanagi – ?

Kaede Kurenai – Colleen Blackmore

Li-chan (Ric-chan) – ?

Betterman Seeme (Seme) – ?

Yakusugi – ?

Yamaji – ?

Cactus Prickle - Mark Gatha

Actor’s Notes:

1. Matthew Erickson – Keita Aono

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=7153)
Banner of the Stars - Jinto
Crest of the Stars - Jinto
Dragon Ball GT - Trunks (Blue Water dub)
Mobile Fighter G Gundam - Domon Kasshu (teen)
Zoids – Van Flyheight

Comments – Spelled "Matthew Erikson" at Anime News Network.

2. Onalae Gilbertson – Hinoki Sai

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=5524)

Mobile Fighter G-Gundam - Natasha

Zoids - Moonbay

Comments – Alternately spelled "Onalea Gelbertson".

iii. Dave Pettit – Shigeru Akamatsu (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=5519)

Mobile Fighter G Gundam - Master Asia

Comments – Alternately spelled "Dave Pettitt"

3. Meredith Taylor-Parry - Miyako Asami

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=7157)

Angel Links - Anne
Banner of the Stars - Kenesh
Ceres, Celestial Legend - Miori Sahara
Fancy Lala - Emiko
Zoids - Viola

4. Colleen Blackmore - Kaede Kurenai

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=7439)

Fancy Lala - Serena
Mobile Fighter G Gundam - Janet
Zoids - Alina

5. Mark Gatha – Cactus Prickle

(http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=5517)

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IV. Behind the Scenes - Technical details

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A. Original Series Airdates

The 26 episodes premiered in Japan on TV Tokyo, during April-September of 1999, shown weekly starting on April 1^st, with a week break at the beginning of June.

Betterman aired in North America during February-March 2003, on the cable channel TechTV, as part of the network’s "Anime Unleashed" feature.

[Japanese Episode Name - English Episode Name]

[Japanese Original Airdate - North American Original Airdate]

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Episode 1

Yami – First Night: Darkness

4/1/99 – 2/10/03

Episode 2

Koe – Second Night: Voice

4/8/99 – 2/11/03

Episode 3

Sora – Third Night: Sky

4/15/99 – 2/12/03

Episode 4

Mezame – Fourth Night: Awaken

4/22/99 – 2/13/03

Episode 5

Zigoku – Fifth Night: Hell

4/29/99 – 2/14/03

Episode 6

Kodama – Sixth Night: Echo

5/6/99 – 2/14/03

Episode 7

Forte – Seventh Night: Forte

5/13/99 – 2/14/03

Episode 8

Doku – Eighth Night: Poison

5/20/99 – 2/14/03

Episode 9

Aqua – Ninth Night: Aqua

5/27/99 – 2/21/03

Episode 10

Musi – Tenth Night: Worms

6/10/99 – 2/21/03

Episode 11

Nebula – Eleventh Night: Nebula

6/17/99 – 2/21/03

Episode 12

Dragon – Twelfth Night: Dragon

6/24/99 – 2/21/03

Episode 13

Mitu – Thirteenth Night: Nectar

7/1/99 – 2/28/03

Episode 14

Kokoro – Fourteenth Night: Soul

7/8/99 – 2/28/03

Episode 15

Kage – Fifteenth Night: Shadow

7/15/99 – 2/28/03

Episode 16

Ututu – Sixteenth Night: Revelation

7/22/99 – 2/28/03

Episode 17

Yume – Seventeenth Night: Dream

7/29/99 – 3/7/03

Episode 18

Kawaki – Eighteenth Night: Hunger

8/5/99 – 3/7/03

Episode 19

Ituwari - Nineteenth Night: Mirror

8/12/99 – 3/7/03

Episode 20

Wana – Twentieth Night: Trap

8/19/99 – 3/7/03

Episode 21

Horobi – Twenty-first Night: Death

8/26/99 – 3/14/03

Episode 22

Mogaki – Twenty-second Night: Life

9/2/99 – 3/14/03

Episode 23

Mitugi – Twenty-third Night: Offering

9/9/99 – 3/14/03

Episode 24

Wakare – Twenty-fourth Night: Departure

9/16/99 – 3/14/03

Episode 25

Kioku - Twenty-fifth Night: Memory

9/23/99 – 3/21/03

Episode 26

Mu – Final Episode: Nothingness

9/30/99 – 3/21/03

Note: North American DVD containing Episode 26 labeled the episode "Twenty-sixth Night: Nothingness" which is different from the original Japanese episode title.

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B. Sales Rankings for Betterman

1. Japanese Sales

Video Compact Disc (VCD) (A precursor to DVD which can be played in normal CD-ROM drives.) is a far more popular format in Asia and Japan than in North America, as is Laser Disc (LD) (Similar to DVD and VCD where the disc is much larger, about the size of a vinyl record.). As well as videotape and DVD, commercial releases are also often made in VCD and LD formats.

Betterman was released in LD, VCD, and DVD in Japan. Unlike the North American release, the series appeared on more than 6 DVDs.

Unless noted, the following information came from the Anime News Service (www.animenewsservice.com).

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10-4-99---- Top Anime Laserdisc Sales (Japan) (As of Oct. 4th)

1. Card Captor Sakura vol. 10

2. Rurouni Kenshin vol. (9?)

3. Gasaraki vol. 9

4. You're Under Arrest Special #3

5. Yo-No vol. 4

6. Seikai no Monsho #4

7. Cyber Fomula SIN #4

9. Harlock Saga #5

10. Master Keaton vol. 4.

11. Jubei-chan vol. 2

12. Mamotte Syugogetten! #3

13. Nanako Kaitai Chinsho #2

14. Sorcerous Stabber Orphen #9

10-4-99---- Top Anime DVD Sales (Japan) (As of Oct. 4th)

1. Neon Genesis Evangelion vol. 7 (Movie)

2. Card Captor Sakura vol.10

3. Card Captor Sakura vol.1

4. Dual! Parale-lunlun Story #4

5.You're Under Arrest Special #3

6. Seikai no Monsho #4

7. Gasaraki vol. 9

9. Jubei-chan vol. 2

10. Yamamoto Yoko Mission 1

11. Nanako Kaitai Chinsho #2

12. Gaogaiger Half Box Division 1

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11-1-99----Top Anime LD Sales (Japan) (As Of 11-1)

1. Martian Successor Nadesico The Movie: The Prince Of Darkness

2. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 11

3. To Heart Vol. 5

4. Save Me, My Gardian Shaorin Vol.4

5. Seikai No Mansho Vol. 5

6. Galaxy Express 999 Memorial #1

7. You're Under Arrest Special 4

9. Ah! My Goddess TV Vol 6

10. Master Keaton Vol. 5

11. Maho Tsukai Tai TV Vol. 1

12. Jubei Chan Vol. 4

13. Angel Links TV Vol. 2

11-1-99---- Top Anime DVD Sales (Japan) (As Of 11-1)

1. Martian Successor Nadesico The Movie: The Prince Of Darkness

2.Card Captor Sakura Vol. 11

3. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 2

4. Dual! Parare Run Run Vision 5

5. To Heart Vol. 5

7. Seikai No Mansho Vol. 5

8. You're Under Arrest Special 4

9. Maho Tsukai Tai TV Vol. 1

10. Jubei Chan Vol. 4

11. Trigun D-1

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11-8-99---- Top Anime LD Sales (Japan) (As Of 11-8)

1. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 11

2. Martian Successsor Nadesico The Movie: The Prince Of Darkness

3. You're Under Arrest Special 4

4. To Heart Vol. 5

5. Ah! My Goddess TV Vol. 6

6. Seikai No Mansho Vol. 5

7. Jubei Chan Vol. 4

8. Maho Tsukai Tai TV Vol. 1

9. Save Me, My Gardian Shaorin Vol. 4

10. Galaxy Express 999 Memorial #1

11. Angel Links Vol. 2

11-8-99---- Top Anime DVD Sales (Japan) (As Of 11-8)

1. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 11

2. Martian Successsor Nadesico The Movie: The Prince Of Darkness

3. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 2

4. You're Under Arrest Special 4

5. Seikai No Mansho Vol. 5

6. To Heart Vol. 5

7. Maho Tsukai Tai TV Vol. 1

8. Jubei Chan Vol. 4

10. Dual! Parare Run Run Vision 5

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11-28-99---- Top Anime LD Sales (Japan) (As Of 11-29)

1. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 12

2. You're Under Arrest: The Movie

4. Sekai No Monsho Vol. 6

5. Bubblegum Crisis Tokyo 2040 Vol. 8

6. Master Keaton File 6

7. Harlock Saga Vol. 6

8. Turn A Gundam Vol. 1

11-28-99---- Top Anime DVD Sales (Japan) (As Of 11-29)

1. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 12

2. You're Under Arrest: The Movie

3. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 3

5. Sekai No Monsho Vol. 6

6. Turn A Gundam Vol. 1

7. Gaogaiger Half Box Division 2

8. You're Under Arrest: The Movie (Variation)

9. Jubei Chan Robbery 5

10. Trigun D-2

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12-5-99---- Top Anime LD Sales (Japan) (As Of 12-6)

1. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 12

2. You're Under Arrest: The Movie

3. To-Heart Vol. 6

4. Kikou Senki Doroguner Memorial Box 1

5. Turn A Gundam Vol. 1

6. Wazu Wasu Vol. 2

7. Dual! Parare Run Run Monogatari Real BOX

8. Harlock Saga Vol. 6

9. Shugogetten Vol. 5

10. Starship Girl Yamamoto TV LD 3

11. Master Keaton File 6

13. Nanako Kaitai Shinsyo LD 3

14. Angel Links TV Vol. 3

15. Sekai No Monsho Vol. 6

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12-26-99---- Top Anime LD Sales (Japan) (As Of 12-27)

1. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 13

2. To Heart 7

3. Sakura Taisen Gokajukuran Episode 1

4. You're Under Arrest Special 5

5. Seikai No Mansho 7

6. Detective Conan Seikimatsu No Majitsushi (Movie 3)

7. Queen Emeraldas Vol. 4 Siren no Megami

9. Shugogetten! 6

10. Maho Tsukai Tai! TV 2

11. Bubblegum Crisis Tokyo 2040 Vol. 9

12. Angel Links 4

13. Pia Carot 2DX ORDER. 1

14. Kakyusei The Director's Cut, Vol. 4

12-26-99---- Top Anime DVD Sales (Japan) (As Of 12-27)

1. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 13

2. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 4

3. Sakura Taisen Gokajukuran Episode 1

4. To Heart 7

5. Gundam 0080: War In The Pocket Vol. 1

6. Gundam 0080: War In The Pocket Vol. 2

7. Seikai No Mansho 7

8. You're Under Arrest Special 5

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1-9-00---- Top Anime LD Sales (Japan) (As Of 1-3)

1. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 13

2. Sakura Taisen Gokajukuran Episode 1

3. To Heart 7

4. Master Keaton File 7

5. You're Under Arrest Special 5

6. Queen Emeraldas Vol. 4 Siren no Megami

7. Nanako Kaitaishinsho Opr. IV Fire-Crackers

9. Starship Girl Yamamoto Yohko TV: Mission 4

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1-30-00---- Top Anime LD Sales (Japan) (As Of 1-31)

1. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 14

3. You're Under Arrest Special 6

4. Master Keaton File 8

5. Neoranga Vol. 12

6. Kaito Jeanne Vol. 4

7. Maho Tsukai Tai TV 4

8. Turn A Gundam 2

9. Omishi Magical Theater 1

10. Melty Lancer The Animation CODE: 005

11. Angel Links Vol. 5

12. Kakyusei Vol. 5

13. Eden's Bowy Episode 6

1-30-00---- Top Anime DVD Sales (Japan) (As Of 1-31)

1. Gaogaiger Final OVA Vol. 1

2. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 14

3. Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory Vol. 1

4. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 5

5. Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory Vol. 2

7. Turn A Gundam 2

8. You're Under Arrest Special 6

9. Chikyu Bouei Kigyo Die Gard 1

10. (Macross DVD Collection) Macross Plus 1

11. Maho Tsukai Tai 3

12. Trigun D-4

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2-6-00---- Top Anime DVD Sales (Japan) (As Of 2-7)

1. Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory Vol. 1

2. Gaogaiger Final OVA Vol. 1

3. Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory Vol. 2

4. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 14

5. Card Captor Sakura Vol. 5

6. Turn A Gundam 2

7. (Macross DVD Collection) Macross Plus 1

8. You're Under Arrest Special 6

9. Maho Tsukai Tai 3

10. Starship Girl Yamamoto Yohko Mission: 5

11. (Macross DVD Collection) Macross DVD Box Part 1

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3-5-00---- Top Anime DVD Sales (Japan) (As Of 3-6)

1. Card Captor Sakura (Movie)

2. Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory Vol. 3

3. Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory Vol. 4

4. Card Captor Sakura 15

5. Card Captor Sakura 6

6. Sakura Wars (Sakura Taisen) Gokakenran Episode 2

8. Turn A Gundam 3

9. The Big O Vol.1

10. Maho Tsukai Tai TV Vol. 4

11. Starship Girl Yamamoto Yohko: Mission 6

C. Technical Specifications

1. Broadcast Format

Betterman was the first anime series to be shown in 16:9 ratio (Theatrical, or Letterbox.)

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V. Misc

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VI. Assorted Odds and Ends

1. "Wilbur, get out the Japanese to English dictionary" – Translation

Not surprisingly, the direct Japanese to English translation as seen in the subtitle for the North American DVD release is different from the English dubbing, due to the difference in actual speech versus written dialogue and Japanese versus English speech. Also, it appears that in one case, a name was changed to allow easier pronunciation ("Li-chan" versus the original "Ric-chan".)

But still, that leaves the following:

1. Why is "Mugito Mamon" translated as "Bakuto Mamon" when the original Japanese name can be clearly seen, written in Roman characters no less, in Episode 19 "Mirror"?
2. Apparently, a bit of confusion existed during the translation and the writing used in the North American release, on whether it is "Asami Miyako" or "Miyako Asami." Both versions are used in the NA release.

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1. "Details, young man, details!" – Proofing Errors

1. According to the Betterman Complete Book, both Hinoki and Asami are the same height (162 cm). However, in Episode 22 "Offering," it is possible to clearly see that Asami is noticeably taller than Hinoki.

 

2. Trivia

1. In Episode 18 "Hunger" the bottle of wine is labeled "Sunrise." Betterman was co-produced by Sunrise Inc.

 

3. Differences in Language

Native Japanese speakers who do not have fluency in speaking English often give the hard English "R" a more liquid sound, like a "L". The difference in pronunciation probably accounts for the following changes (Japanese – English):

1. Ric-chan – Li-chan

2. Ortus - Oltos

3. Pachira - Pakila

(Yes, this kind of pronunciation does not always happen. But if you listen to the Japanese-language Betterman trailer included by Bandai as extras on such releases as Mobile Suit Gundam: Stardust Memory Volume 4 DVD, where the narrative was done by the Japanese voice-actress for Sakura (Junko Iwao), it is possible to hear the difference in pronunciation.)

E. Japanese Language Notes

Like English, Japanese has certain usage of words and terms that might be confusing to those unfamiliar with the language.

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