The Prince of Tennis: Box Set, Vol. 1

Inspired by the well-known manga of the same name, The Prince of Tennis became a popular and long-lived television anime in its own right beginning in 2001. Twelve-year-old protagonist Ryoma Echizen is a bit of a cold fish, but he's also a tennis prodigy, so his arrogance and poor communication skills are overlooked by a small cadre of fans at his new school. Quickly becoming the youngest member of the Seigaku regular tennis team, Ryoma wins grudging respect as he trounces seniors and other rivals. Ryoma's burning ambition and chip on his shoulder stem from the same source: his father, retired tennis darling Nanjiro Echizen, who now serves as a temple monk, as well as Ryoma's tennis coach. Ryoma will take on all comers, but his ultimate aim is to defeat his father. Although somewhat repetitive, the over-the-top tennis matches often exhibit energy and a droll sense of humor. What brings the flow to a screeching halt, however, is the endless squealing and needless exposition from Ryoma's sycophantic followers, while Ryoma's father's lecherousness is disappointingly stereotypical. Boasting solid animation and decent character design, The Prince of Tennis: Box Set, Vol. 1 compiles the first 13 episodes on a dual-language, unrated (but suitable for 10-up) three-disc set. Optional. [Note: The Prince of Tennis: Box Set, Vol. 2 and Vol. 3 are also available.] Aud: P. (L. Martincik)