El-Hazard

Set to be released on September 7, 2010, this 26-episode series chronicles the adventures of a group of teenagers cast into another dimension after a high school science experiment goes wrong.

Here is the exact synopsis from Right Stuff:

"Makoto always upstages Jinnai without trying, which just aggravates the delusional rivalry that Jinnai has concocted within his own mind. However, when Jinnai attempts to sabotage Makoto's newest invention, the machine creates a dimensional rift and throws Makoto, Jinnai, and several others from their school into a strange, new world that is filled with amazing creatures, beautiful sights, and dangerous enemies. If they ever want to get home, it's going to take wits, courage, and a lot of luck!"

Hmm, this just sounds ripe for adolescent pranks, innuendo, and post-pubescent feats of brilliance – the kind only anime can produce!

But wait! The creative team behind this series is damn good: AIC (the studio behind Tenchi Muyo! and Battle Athletes), direction by Katsuhito Akiyama (Dual!, Pumpkin Scissors), and character designs by Kazuto Nakazawa (House of Five Leaves, Samurai Champloo, Starship Girl Yamamoto Yohko).

Obviously I haven’t seen this anime yet. But this fantasy series may have something going for it. Though, having just caught Will Ferrell’s Land of the Lost on cable last night – which did make me laugh –, let’s hope for something better than cutesy Sleestaks and magical crystals that can transport you home.

Containing the usual host of extras, this DVD bundle will set you back $39.99.