New York, NY – Media Blasters, a prominent American entertainment company, has announced the licensing of the “Amazing Nurse Nanako” anime series. This acquisition marks a significant addition to their catalog and a welcome development for fans of the classic anime. The company plans to release the six-episode original video animation (OVA) on Blu-ray disc, much to the delight of collectors.
A Classic Anime Returns
“Amazing Nurse Nanako” is a six-episode OVA that originally debuted in Japan in July 1999. The series follows the chaotic life of Nanako Shichigusa, a 16-year-old who works as a maid, not a nurse, at the hospital of the brilliant and eccentric Dr. Kyoji Ogami. Nanako is known for her slapstick antics and tendency to accidentally cause mayhem. The series blends comedy with elements of science fiction and conspiracy, as Nanako finds herself embroiled in various bizarre situations.
The anime, known for its fast-paced and colorful animation, originally saw a US release on DVD by Geneon Entertainment, starting in 2000. With Geneon no longer in operation, this new license from Media Blasters is an exciting development for fans who have been hoping for a re-release in high definition.
Media Blasters Secures License
Media Blasters officially confirmed the acquisition on Friday, January 17th, 2025, after teasing an image of an old Geneon DVD release. The company, known for its diverse catalog of anime and live-action programming, has secured the rights to bring “Amazing Nurse Nanako” back to North American audiences in a new, high-quality format. This announcement has generated considerable buzz among anime enthusiasts.
The company stated that they are in the process of gathering the best possible video sources to ensure the Blu-ray release meets the quality standards fans expect. The goal is to include all materials from past releases, making this new edition the definitive version of the series.
What to Expect from the Release
While there is no specific release date yet, Media Blasters is working towards a Blu-ray release of the complete six-episode OVA. Fans can anticipate a high-definition presentation of the series, along with all previously released content, offering the best possible viewing experience.
Key details of the release include:
- Format: Blu-ray Disc.
- Content: All six episodes of the original OVA.
- Source Material: Media Blasters is working to use the highest quality video sources available.
- Extras: Inclusion of all previous release materials is intended, though details are still to be confirmed.
The Story of Amazing Nurse Nanako
The plot of “Amazing Nurse Nanako” revolves around Nanako’s misadventures as she works for Dr. Ogami. Despite the title, she primarily functions as a maid and housekeeper, rather than a nurse. Her clumsy nature often leads to comical situations, but underlying these antics are government conspiracies and mysteries surrounding Nanako’s past.
Key plot points:
- Nanako’s role: She is an inept apprentice and maid at Dr. Ogami’s hospital, often finding herself in ridiculous situations.
- Dr. Ogami: A brilliant young surgeon, scientist, and bioengineer who is at the center of the bizarre events in the series.
- Conspiracies: Various entities target Nanako, leading her to question her past and current situations.
- Secrets: Only Dr. Ogami and his family know the full extent of Nanako’s secrets.
Media Blasters: A Company Overview
Media Blasters was founded in 1997 by John Sirabella and has become a key player in the North American entertainment market. Based in New York City, the company specializes in licensing, translating, and releasing a wide array of content, including:
- Anime
- Manga
- Asian Films and Television Series
- Adult Anime
- Monster Movies
- Concert Films
- Independent Films
- Horror Films
- Exploitation Films
The company has several divisions, each focusing on different genres, such as:
- Anime Works: Specializing in anime localization and distribution.
- Kitty Media: Known for adult anime releases.
- Tokyo Shock: Focuses on Japanese cinema.
- Shriek Show: Dedicated to grindhouse and B-movies.
Over the years, Media Blasters has licensed and released numerous popular titles, including “Rurouni Kenshin”, “Berserk”, and “Bakuman”. Their acquisition of “Amazing Nurse Nanako” further cements their reputation for bringing diverse and classic anime to Western audiences. The company aims to provide quality releases with complete content and strives to ensure a premium experience for fans.
Why this Acquisition Matters
The licensing of “Amazing Nurse Nanako” is a significant event for several reasons:
- Preservation of Classic Anime: It ensures the preservation of a classic anime that might otherwise be forgotten.
- High-Quality Release: The Blu-ray release offers fans the opportunity to experience the series in high-definition.
- Accessibility: It makes the series accessible to a new generation of anime enthusiasts who might have missed its original release.
- Nostalgia: It provides a nostalgic experience for long-time fans who remember the show’s initial release.
- Media Blasters Commitment: This move shows the company’s dedication to bringing back classic and unique titles that fans crave.
Reception and Legacy
“Amazing Nurse Nanako” has a mixed but generally positive reception. The show is praised for its colorful animation, fast-paced comedy, and unique characters. However, it has also drawn criticism for its treatment of its female lead character, with some reviewers calling it misogynistic. Despite some negative commentary, the anime remains a cult favorite, and its quirky blend of comedy and science-fiction themes has resonated with many fans.
The series is known for its unique character designs, and the ditzy, accident-prone nature of Nanako remains memorable. The show has a blend of slapstick and absurdist humor, with a touch of mystery and intrigue which has made it an interesting watch for many viewers. Its legacy as a product of the late 1990s anime scene, with its chaotic energy and over-the-top characters, remains appreciated by enthusiasts of the era.
Conclusion
Media Blasters’ acquisition of “Amazing Nurse Nanako” is welcome news for anime fans. The upcoming Blu-ray release is anticipated to provide a definitive version of this unique and quirky series. As the company works towards a release date, fans eagerly await the chance to re-experience or discover for the first time the chaotic world of Nanako and Dr. Ogami.
