The Best of Tokyo Pig

If I didn't know better (and I'm not sure I do know better), I'd say this hyperkinetic and slyly witty Japanese-produced series (which aired in the U.S. from 2002-2003) is actually a send-up of the bizarre, frenetic anime that currently dominates the cartoon world. Visually, the eight wacky episodes compiled here ape the psychedelic style that's been known to induce epileptic seizures in kiddie viewers, but the subversive stories and snarky asides are so ripe with pointed barbs at the clunky, self-absorbed personality typical to the genre that it cannot be accidental. Third-grader Spencer Weinberg Takahama's overactive imagination calls into existence a magical pig named Sunny, who helps him cope both with being way too smart for his age and dealing with his crazy family. Frequently deliriously silly and bursting with puns, this is a definite change-of-pace for anime fans tired of the same old storylines of the genre. Presented in English, and suitable for ages 5-up, this is recommended. Aud: P. (M. Johanson)