Astro Boy Collection Box Set (2003)

Although Osamu Tezuka's Complete Manga runs to 300 volumes and his filmography as a writer, producer, and/or director includes more than 70 shorts, features, and TV series, Astro Boy--including this 1980 remake--remains his iconic creation. Tezuka wrote many of the scripts for the second version, and he and Noboru Ishiguro are listed as co-directors. Created by Dr. Boynton to replace his dead son, Astro is a 100,000-horsepower super-robot with jets in his legs, lasers in his fingers, and a gun in his derrière. His round head and goo-goo eyes reflect Tezuka's affection for the old Fleischers cartoons. Astro overcomes criminals, people who use robots for evil purposes or who harbor anti-robot prejudice, and Atlas, a robot who wants to rule the world. In these struggles, Astro never loses his temper, holds a grudge, or feels temptation. Tezuka wanted him to embody the virtues of selflessness and compassion, but his naive, unflagging goodness makes him a rather dull character.

The color version of Astro Boy is better animated than the 1963 original, which relied heavily on cycles and reused footage. But the stolid timing robs the action scenes of the punch they should pack. The English dub is equally flat, with little inflection or acting to communicate the characters' emotions. The faded prints have been restored to their original colors. Characters are called by their English names in the dialogue but by their Japanese names in subtitles (e.g., Dr. Boynton becomes Dr. Tenma). Among the extras are several deleted scenes, including one of Tezuka introducing "Astro's First Love." Tezuka devotees and fans who grew up watching the color version on TV will want this set, but the original, black-and-white series remains the definitive Astro Boy. (Unrated, suitable for ages 7 and older: violence, alcohol use) --Charles Solomon Amazon.com

If you like Kimba

I bought Kimba for my kids, since I wanted cartoons that taught values and I didn't want the vacant all flashes and lights cartoons. I also wanted short 20 minute cartoons so that they wouldn't see too much TV a one time. They saw all 52 episodes multiple times, what a bargain.
When I needed more material, I checked out material from Osamu Tezuka the creator of Kimba and found Astro boy box set Astro Boy Collection Box Set (1980) . This is the collection to buy there's another (black cover 2003 edition) that has converted Astro Boy in an all Flashes, music cartoon.
I believe that Astro boy for young kids is absolutely wonderful. It contain a great story line, great quality (colour version), and it delivers a message! The music is catchy.

If you like Kimba, buy this collection for your kids, and for you, if you one of those parents that convert seeing TV in a family activity.

Box that I recommend and that I purchased:

Astro boy
Astro Boy Collection Box Set (1980)

Kimba
Kimba The White Lion Ultra DVD Box Set (Limited Edition)

Sincerely,

Will DC-Madrid
May 24, 2008

He's soaring high in the skies!

Tezuka was quite the genius.
First, the 1963 Astro Boy cartoon (along with the comics from the 50's and 60's), then this version which appeared in the early 80's, then the 2003 edition (although Tezuka has already passed by this point).
If you are an Astro fan, then you'll appreciate this set. However, the acting is dull and lifeless, and the action is a bit off. However, this set is a must have for Astro fans.

If you get this, be sure to get the 60's and 2003 edition!

December 31, 2007

80's Astroboy

Ok, I got it for my kid but it's really for me. I just wanted to see the black and white show from my childhood in the 60's and I did. But my kid likes the newer one better and it's as trippy as ever. Now if only Tobor the 8 Man would be released on DVD... October 10, 2007

excellent purchase

the product arrived in excellent conditions in just a week. every dvd is in excellent conditions, they don't had even a scratch.

thanks February 17, 2007

This is the Astro Boy I grew up with!

I'm not old enough to have watched the original 1950's Astro Boy, so I can't comment on that. I also haven't watched the 2003 version, so I can't comment on that either. (If I have extra money in the future, I'll probably give those 2 series a try...)

I can comment on this version (the 1980's version), because this is the one I grew up with and watched when I was a kid! After receiving this in the mail, and watching it immediately, it is as good as I remember it!

You know how sometimes you feel nostalgic about something, and then when you can actually "re-live" that moment, it's not as good as you remember it? Well, that doesn't apply here! After watching this DVD set, I enjoyed watching it as much as I did when I was a kid!

If you grew up on the 1980's Astro Boy and loved it, you will still love it this time around! November 26, 2006

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