7/7/2005

Figured it was about time for another classic. The name of Takahashi Rumiko is very well known among anime and manga fans, and with good reason; she’s the talented manga artist behind some of the longest-running titles out there, such as Maison Ikkoku, Inuyasha, and of course Ranma 1/2.

Ranma, which began its manga run in Shounen Sunday in 1987, was quickly imported to its animated form, and 161 episodes ran from 1989 until 1992. There were also three movies and a handful of OAVs produced.

But what is this show about? It might actually surprise you. The story of Saotome Ranma is that of a young martial artist under the influence of a terribly irritating curse – when he comes in contact with cold water, he turns into a busty, redheaded, female version of himself. When Ranma and his scheming father move in with the Tendo family, Ranma must learn to deal with his mostly-unwilling tomboy fiancée, martial arts challenges, Chinese curses, crazy enemies and would-be suitors of both sexes. What’s an androgynous martial artist to do!?

Ranma starred many well-known voice actors, such as Hidaka Noriko as the brave Akane, Hayashibara Megumi as girl-type Ranma, Yamaguchi Kappei as his masculine half, Takeyama Minami, Sakuma Rei, Seki Toshihiko and others. Many of the female voice actors performed as part of the musical group DoCo, recording music videos and songs for the series.

This series is long, but it’s a classic, and very funny! Check it out!

Links:
Rumic World – Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
AnimeInfo.org – Ranma 1/2
Ranma 1/2; off to a great start! (anything goes!) (Fanlisting)
The Penultimate Ranma Fanfic Index