There's no doubt that many anime fans will have a fun time at this year's Otakon, located in Baltimore, MD and running from July 26th to July 28th. In addition to a wild array of crazy activities such as karaoke, game shows, and masquerades, Otakon will also feature the attendances of two prominent names in anime. Takehito Ito and Hiroyuki Morioka will both be attending their first convention in North America. Ito founded Morning Star Inc. and is most well known for creating the Outlaw Star series, which is currently enjoying a popular run on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim. He is also responsible for the creation of Angel Links and Ryu-Knight. Morioka has received raves for the creation of Seikai no Monsho: Crest of the Stars, a popular sci-fi drama anime. Fans of their works will have a chance to meet them at scheduled panels and autograph sessions.

Most folks in the Honolulu area will probably not make the long trip to Baltimore. Don't fret, you're still getting something special! You can check out the theatrical release of Bandai's Escaflowne the Movie! The opening starts July 19th. Here's the address:

Restaurant Row 9 Wallace Theaters 1 Waterfront Plaza 500 Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 808-545-8635