Spiraken Review Podcast

In this mini movie review episode, Xan prepares to drink some whiskey and put on a bespoke suit as he reviews this smashing sequel. So pour a glass of Statesman whiskey and remember that Manners maketh man as Xan reviews Kingsman: The Golden Circle, directed by Matthew Vaughn and starring Colin Firth, Taron Egerton, Mark Strong, Edward Holcroft, Hanna Alström Sophie Cookson, Julianne Moore, Halle...

In this episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan returns to the fantasy genre in a slightly new way. So enjoy as Xan reviews the Fantasy adventure Manga adaptation of the Light Novel Hai to Genso no Grimgar/ Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash written by Mutsumi Okubashi   Besides comparing this series to .Hack, Overlord and many other protagonist gets stuck into video game series, Xan discusses the pros...

In this mini movie review episode, Xan dives back into the world of Stephen King as he reviews the latest Stephen King adaptation of the year (and arguably the best one in a while). What is it you fear? Well sit back and listen as he reviews IT, directed by Andy Muschietti and starring Jaeden Lieberher, Wyatt Oleff, Jeremy Taylor, Sophia Lillis, Finn Wolfhard, Jack Dylan Grazer, Chosen Jackobs and...

In this episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan regains his sense of justice as he reviews the tattoo inspired action adventure seinen series Taboo Tattoo by Shinjiro   Xan goes over the basics of this series and why it is so similar to other series. He also promotes his upcoming appearance at Anime NYC in New York City in November of this year. you should check it out. Either way, Hope you enjo...

In this episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan goes over a manga that could be considered a guilty pleasure by manga, So sit back and relax as he reviews  Amano Megumi wa Suki Darake! by Nekoguchi   As he goes over this manga, Xan also talks about the reasons for this episode's lateness (Do you think Xan should get a new laptop or should he finally get a tablet?) .. Hope you enjoy ----more----...

In this mini movie review episode, Xan delves deep into Midworld as he reviews the latest Stephen King adaptation. Is it a success or a failure, well sit back and listen as he reviews The Dark Tower, directed by Nikolaj Arcel and starring Idris Elba, Matthew McConaughey,  Tom Taylor and Jackie Earle Haley     ----more---- As with our other mini reviews, this is not an official review , but I do co...

In this episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan goes over a manga which has won several awards and is responsible for a sequel series that has become hugely popular in the last year. So sit back and relax as he reviews the comedy manga, Osomatsu-kun by Akatsuka Fujio   Besides talking about this gag manga, Xan reveals the location of his upcoming panels at Otakon 2017 in Washington DC.. Hope you...

In this episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan finished out the month of Aliens, Boxers & Crazy Curses, with a series that is celebrating its 30th anniversary. So, enjoy as Xan reviews Rumiko Takahashi's take on Sports Romances in One Pound Gospel   While mixing Catholicism and Boxing seems like a risky topic for manga, Xan talks about how it works in this series. He also talks about some of th...

In this episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan continues our theme month of Aliens, Boxers & Crazy Curses, with a series about insane neighbors, unrequited love and unlucky ronins. So, enjoy as Xan reviews Rumiko Takahashi's romantic comedy series Maison Ikkoku   Xan discusses how this is one of the few series of Rumiko Takahashi to have a proper ending as well as the unique elements that inspi...

In this zany episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan continues the Surprise theme month of Aliens, Boxers & Crazy Curses, with the first long running series by Rumiko Takahashi that made her the sensation she is. So, enjoy as Xan reviews Rumiko Takahashi's sci fi comedy series Urusei Yatsura/ Those Obnoxious Aliens   Besides being the origin of the first real Otaku Dream Girl, this manga sets up...

In this mini movie review episode, Xan gets flashbacks to high school as he reviews the superhero action movie Spider-Man: Homecoming, directed by Jon Watts and starring Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Jon Favreau, Zendaya, Donald Glover, Tyne Daly, Marisa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr.    ----more---- As with our other mini reviews, this is not an official review , but Xan does talk about the awesomene...

In this fun episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan  begins the Surprise theme month of Aliens, Boxers & Crazy Curses, with the first published manga by Rumiko Takahashi. So, enjoy as Xan reviews Rumiko Takahashi's Natte ne Yatsura/ Those Selfish Aliens   This manga is one of those that makes you laugh and confuses you at the same time. Xan also discusses the origins of Rumiko Takahashi and sets...

In this mini movie review episode, Xan puts on his earbuds and jams to amazing music as he reviews the action comedy music filled Baby Driver, directed by Edgar Wright and starring Ansel Elgort, Kevin Spacey, Lily James, Eiza González, Jon Hamm, Jamie Foxx and Jon Bernthal.    ----more---- As with our other mini reviews, this is not an official review , but I do cover how unexpected this film was,...

In this rhythmic episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan steps it up as he reviews an unexpectedly addictive sports manga. So, enjoy as Xan reviews Sesuji wo Pin! to ~Shikakō Kyōgi Dance-bu e Yōkoso~/Straighten Up! Welcome to Shika High's Competitive Dance Club by Takumi Yokota   Despite it's unusual concept, Xan found himself really enjoying this manga. Definetly check it out and if you are int...

In This sepcial con review, Xan is joined by Doug Wilder from Animecons.tv and John McNally of Crazy O.T.A.K.Us. as they talk about their experiences at  AnimeNext 2017 from June 9th - June 11th in Atlantic City, NJ. Besides discussing the technical difficulties in having to re-record this podcast, our intrepid hosts discuss the merits of proper communication between con staff and panelists, the n...

In this cheerful episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan takes it easy as he reviews a heartwarming slice of life manga about family, food and friendship. So sit back and relax as he reviews Amaama to Inazuma/ Sweetness & Lightning by Gido Amagakure   While discussing the more unique aspects of the story, Xan also discusses where this series will go, which of the recipes he has tried making and...

In this special mini episode of Spiraken Movie Review, Xan has his faith in the DCEU restored. So sit back and listen as he gives a mini review of the latest super hero movie, Wonder Woman directed by Patty Jenkins & starring Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, David Huston, and David Thewlis    ----more---- As with our other mini reviews, this is not an official review , but I do cover how Gal Gadot portrayed...

In this oppressive episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan goes all out as he reviews the crazy and insane manga that is Prison School by Hiramoto Akira   Besides talking about all the creepy fetish images in this manga, Xan discusses the underlaying themes, unique storyarcs and ponders why the principal is an assman. Either way  Hope you enjoy ----more---- Music For Episode: Intro Music - Ai no...

In this special mini episode of Spiraken Movie Review, Xan geeks out and talks  about his initial reactions to the Latest Marvel Cinematic Universe Film, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2, directed by James Gunn & starring Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Batista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Michael Rooker, Karen Gillian,Pom Klementief f , Kurt Russell and a special Cameo by Stan Lee ----more---- As wit...

In this Spiraken Book Review, Xan reminisces about his childhood as he reads an autobiographic story about the trials and tribulations of making friends. Sit back and relax as he reviews "Real Friends" by Shannon Hale & LeUyen Pham"   If you ever need someone to talk to about bullying or stresses, you can always email at xan@spiraken.com  . I hope that this review and this book can bring a smile t...

Hello ladies and gents, boys and girls, reds, blues and all you good folk of the Spiraken community! We’re back discussing your eventually go-to devices for all the entertainment you could want. In this episode, Xan gets to review arguably the greatest RPG of all time in Altus's latest installement in the Shin Megumi Tensai Series, "Persona 5" From the unique combat/ negotiation system to the amaz...

In this cool episode of the podcast, Xan give into the fandom and geeks about one of the coolest slice of life manga series to come out in the last 4 years.. So sit back and enjoy as Xan reviews Sakamoto desu ka? / Haven't You Heard? I'm Sakamoto by Nami Sano   While this episode is short, Xan tries his best to go over why the main character is cool. If you don't believe him, check out the first v...

In this Spiraken Book Review, Xan gets artistic as he reviews Charise Harper's "The Amazing Crafty Cat"   Besides geeking out over the DIY Projects in the book, Xan talks about the art style and his favorite parts of this book. if you like our book reviews and want more, email me at xan@spiraken.com Anyway Hope you enjoy   hope you enjoy ----more---- Music For Episode:  Ending Music -Up In The Air...

In This episode of the podcast, Xan reviews his experiences at       Anime Boston 2017 from March 31-April 2nd in Boston MA. besides talking about his experiences at the convention, he also talks about the various pros and cons of this retro themed anniversatry convention. From the stalled elevators and increased security to the awesome tech staff and goodies that panelists receive. there is also...

In this exciting episode of the Spiraken Manga Review, Xan talks about Economics, trade and mysticism as he reviews Isuna Hasekura's manga adaptation of "狼と香辛料 (Ōkami to Kōshinryō)"  or as it is known in the west as Spice & Wolf   Xan geeks out over the various adaptations of this unique fantasy story as well as pimps out the Collector's edition. Check out Xan at Anime Boston 2017 from March...