Why do people like "Ranma 1/2" so much? Is it because we have Ranma's father who, when gets wet, becomes a gigantic *panda*? Or is it Ranma, who turns into a super-voluptuous girl (& an object of men's lust), when cold water is poured upon him? Or is it poor Ryoga who, either in his human or a cute black piglet form, inevitably wanders around, completely lost for all eternity? "Raman 1/2" is the title of the manga series by Rumiko Takahashi and the animated series based on it. Ranma Saotome was cursed to become a hot redhead (a girl!) whenever he comes in contact with cold water (caused by his accidentally falling into a cursed spring). He was supposed to marry Akane Tendo, as arranged by his father. Unfortunately, it was hate at first sight for both of them; Akane detests all boys and Raman finds Akane neither cute nor sexy. There's Kuno, the head bully of the high school who loves Akane, but falls in love with the female Ranma. Then there's Ryoga, who has followed Ranma since junior high because of a grudge. He is also in love with Akane and finds every opportunity to kill Ranma. Incidentally, Ryoga, like Ranma, has fallen into a different cursed spring before, which has him turned into a cute black piglet whenever he gets wet. Akane, not realizing this is the transformed Ryoga, adopts him and names him P-Chan. Ranma is honor- bound not to reveal Ryoga's secret, as much as he would like to. Then there is Shampoo, who turns into a cat whenever she gets wet. She too, was a victim of the accursed spring. Guess which animal Ranma is phobic about? Sounds exciting enough for you? What are you waiting for? ;)