Takashi Okazaki

Fri 2008/12/19 08:45 JST
 104
 in Japan
6265 views

Takashi Okazaki title=

From left to right:-

  • Fuminori Kizaki (Director of Afro Samurai, Animation Director of Blue Gender, Character Designer of Galaxy Railways, Key Animation for Macross Pluss OAV)
  • Eric Calderon (Writer of Afro Samurai Season 2, CEO of Wild Boar Media)
  • Takashi Okazaki (Original creator art/manga of Afro Samurai)
  • Danny Choo CEO Mirai Inc/Key toilet cleaner
  • Hiroya Iijima (Afro Samurai Character Design/Animation Director, Black Cat Animation Director, Gantz Key Animation, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society movie Key Animation)

Takashi Okazaki title=

Spent last night having a cozy dinner at Okazaki-sensei's gaff with a few other folks in the anime industry. Decided to take the car as I knew I would be there until past midnight when all the trains stop and taxi prices triple.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Arrived to find other comrades already enjoying the evening festivities. Okazaki-sensei is the creator of the original Manga Afro Samurai which has been made into a TV series and a movie. The movie stars Samuel Jackson and the second season stars Lucy Liu and Mark Hamil as voice actors.
Some Afro Samurai Resurrection below.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Having some lovely home made food while going over some industry chit chat.

Takashi Okazaki title=

A room full of anime industry folks is the perfect place to ask why many anime series starts off with great quality but quickly deteriorates over time.

The first EP is for the most part is produced with loadsa budget and time and is usually used to negotiate for the TV air time. A whole anime series is seldom made prior to getting air time.

Once air time is secured, they start to animate the stories and this usually happens while the series is being aired. Everybody is working on a tight schedule and sometimes quality has to be dropped to make sure the show gets aired in the allocated slot.

The quality of Geass stayed pretty much the same throughout the series and most of that is thanks to the folks who do the quality checks - forgot the job title but they check the quality and make changes. Geass apparently had quite a few quality controllers at each stage of production. They also managed to get very talented folks with much experience to handle Geass production too.

Another thing I would love to talk about is the up n coming anime that these guys are working on - but would have my spleen sliced by Okazaki-sensei's samurai sword.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Okazaki-sensei is a huge Star Wars fan and has just about every R2D2 known to wo/man.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Okazaki-sensei and his 'voice changer' Vader unit.
Before I forget to mention - all pics taken on the trusty Lumix LX3.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Two of these are dustbins, and the other two are remote controlled astro mechs.

Takashi Okazaki title=

This is where Okazaki-sensei does all his work.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Hes got a load of memorabilia n merchandise. The name of that ship on the far right is on the tip of my toe - '1999' or something?

Takashi Okazaki title=

So why do I put 'sensei' on the end of 'Okazaki'?
The Japanese use 'sensei' meaning 'teacher' when referring to their teacher or doctor too but I learned when starting to work with Azami Yuko that illustrators are called 'sensei' as well.

'sensei' is also used colloquially in the Japanese workplace when talking to a colleague who has lots of knowledge or skill in a particular subject.

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Votoms goodies.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Something special about this shirt but cant remember what. Think it was a gift from Samuel Jackson or something.

Takashi Okazaki title=

The creator of D.Gray-man does a doodle for Okazaki-sensei.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Okazaki-sensei's Mac setup.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Okazaki-sensei has a load of Star Wars related artwork.

Takashi Okazaki title=

You may need to enlarge this one to appreciate it.

Takashi Okazaki title=

More Japanese styled Star Wars artwork.

Takashi Okazaki title=
Takashi Okazaki title=

Hayao Miyazaki-sensei does a Nausicaä doodle for Okazaki-sensei.

Takashi Okazaki title=

I'm forgetting my Alien terminology - that Ripley with her Powerlifter?

Takashi Okazaki title=

The English language Afro Samurai manga.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Signed goodies by Samuel.

Takashi Okazaki title=

R2D2 gets the WD40 treatment.

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Name that Mecha.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Okazaki-sensei artwork.

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Anybody here who does not have tissue near the desk?

Takashi Okazaki title=

More manga related working utensils.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Okazaki went from having is work published in a doujinshi that had a circulation of about 2000 to having his creation turned into a multi-million dollar series.
A great example of how good things always happen around folks who focus on what they are passionate about.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Watched the first cut of EP1 from the second Afro Samurai season on their huge screen.

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The very cute Samurai Girl who we saw earlier on.

Takashi Okazaki title=

I met Eric at Promax Asia a few weeks back in Singapore - hes in Tokyo for a few weeks before flying back to LA. Look forward to seeing more awesome stuff from him soon - and more cute interns like Samurai Girl.

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The view from Okazaki-sensei's apartment.

Takashi Okazaki title=

Some Afro Samurai goodies from sensei.

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  • Tachikaze
    Tachikaze in Brooklyn, New York (Registered on 2007/12/26)
    University Student

    Those are some very impressive artwork he has

    Fri 2008/12/19 08:32:16 JST (ID #417851)
    reply to Tachikaze's comment
  • marvin
    marvin (Registered on 2006/12/24)
    http://www.marvinryan.com

    the bear on image ID#23631 Tim Burton's pedobear before Christmas? ^^
    haven't had the chance to catch afro samurai yet, but heard good things about it.
    love those Japanese styled Star Wars artwork!
    by the way nice of you to drop by in your stormtrooper outfit, Okazaki sensei must have been pleasantly surprised

    Fri 2008/12/19 08:32:29 JST (ID #417852)
    reply to marvin's comment
  • Darknight
    Darknight in Los Angeles, USA (Registered on 2008/03/17)
    Filmmaker
    http://josewritingthelife.blogspot.com/

    So... I saw a peek at the good life... look like an awesome night Danny..

    Fri 2008/12/19 08:32:46 JST (ID #417853)
    reply to Darknight's comment
  • Gibson
    Gibson in California (Registered on 2007/05/27)
    Student artist
    http://www.requestview.wordpress.com

    So lucky danny, I wish I can something similar to your job danny. One day

    Fri 2008/12/19 08:38:09 JST (ID #417857)
    reply to Gibson's comment
    • Danny Choo
      Danny Choo in Tokyo (Registered on 2006/12/11)
      CEO MIrai Inc
      http://www.dannychoo.com/profile/eng/

      Key Toilet cleaner?

      Fri 2008/12/19 09:21:13 JST (ID #417890)
      reply to Danny Choo's comment
      • Mini1-kun
        Mini1-kun in Lost (Registered on 2008/06/10)

        LOL

        Fri 2008/12/19 13:15:29 JST (ID #418081)
        reply to Mini1-kun's comment
      • Everfool
        Everfool in Between Dead and Dying (Registered on 2008/04/23)
        Student, Dead Man

        If being a Key Toilet Cleaner gets you SAFS and lets you meet anime/manga gods, then so be it!

        Sat 2008/12/20 01:40:31 JST (ID #418613)
        reply to Everfool's comment
        • bob-san
          bob-san in Madison WI (Registered on 2007/02/22)
          Administrative Assistant
          http://bob-san.animeblogger.net

          I to shall hoist a toilet brush with pride if those are such the perks a toilet cleaner receives.

          Sat 2008/12/20 15:32:10 JST (ID #419361)
          reply to bob-san's comment
      • Gibson
        Gibson in California (Registered on 2007/05/27)
        Student artist
        http://www.requestview.wordpress.com

        maybe, if it pay the bills. I would like to meet famous people like you

        Mon 2008/12/22 10:27:35 JST (ID #421556)
        reply to Gibson's comment
  • Snafu Slick
    Snafu Slick in South Carolina, USA (Registered on 2008/06/12)
    Motivational Speaker

    I would have loved to be in that work space! So much Star Wars and other anime all in one room and plus all the signed goodies, I think I would have had a huge smile on my face for the rest of the night.

    Danny, if Okazaki is such a big Star Wars fan, why didn't he keep you? :P

    Fri 2008/12/19 08:38:33 JST (ID #417858)
    reply to Snafu Slick's comment
  • chun
    chun in need to be in bed (Registered on 2007/01/09)
    part time illustrationist, doll clothing seamstress
    http://puppy52art.com/

    lol at your key toilet cleaner :P and the 2 are dustbins LOL I want a R2D2 dustbin too! :P

    Fri 2008/12/19 08:45:30 JST (ID #417863)
    reply to chun's comment
  • i'm mr. danger
    i'm mr. danger in Florida (Registered on 2007/08/17)
    student , otaku and awesome blogger
    http://otakudan.com

    you are so lucky that you got to meet him

    Fri 2008/12/19 08:46:09 JST (ID #417864)
    reply to i'm mr. danger's comment
  • litokid
    litokid in Toronto, Canada (Registered on 2007/11/25)
    university film student | ecchikid | the Archivist
    http://www.vimeo.com/longhim

    Interesting how the people in the industry are connected - all the memorabila was interesting. And I love the Japanese-style Star Wars artwork.

    ^^; LOL'd at Key toilet cleaner.

    Fri 2008/12/19 08:59:59 JST (ID #417874)
    reply to litokid's comment
  • andra
    andra in Singapore (Registered on 2007/11/06)
    中学生
    http://thezhukeeper.blogspot.com

    I want a R2D2 dustbin too lol! but I think I will preserve it rather than throwing rubbish ^^;

    His desk looks so professional! eventhough he isnt doing anything ^^;

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:02:24 JST (ID #417876)
    reply to andra's comment
  • silent1134
    silent1134 in Los Angeles, California (Registered on 2007/08/22)
    ???Confused???

    that is some awesome stuff...when did you head the toilet cleaning department?

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:03:45 JST (ID #417878)
    reply to silent1134's comment
  • manga
    manga in Sydney (Registered on 2008/06/27)
    Student
    http://bk201.wordpress.com/

    lucky you get to meet anime producers!

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:04:20 JST (ID #417879)
    reply to manga's comment
  • wickedclown
    wickedclown in California (Registered on 2007/12/07)
    Programmer/IT/Student
    http://wickedotaku.blogspot.com/

    Very cool, Danny. Looks like everyone had fun that night. ^^ I'm glad to see that you're meeting with some animators; it's always good to network with people in all the different aspects of a field.

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:09:41 JST (ID #417882)
    reply to wickedclown's comment
  • WiseFreeman
    WiseFreeman in DC Cloning Laboratory (Registered on 2007/11/07)
    Dance Trooper: DCX-001 O.D.E. (Order of the Dancing Empire)
    http://dannychoo.com.my

    AWESOME!!!!!! You get to meet these top notch animators~~~~~~~~~~

    The japanese art style Star Wars drawing are beautiful.

    LOL @ Key toilet cleaner~~~~

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:15:01 JST (ID #417887)
    reply to WiseFreeman's comment
  • Monkee
    Monkee in Canada (Registered on 2007/02/08)
    Otaku / Student in Networking
    http://hayasaki-kun.blogspot.com/

    =D

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:15:44 JST (ID #417888)
    reply to Monkee's comment
  • ceasol
    ceasol in Edmonton, Canada (Registered on 2008/01/08)
    Otaku
    http://imperiomoe.wordpress.com

    Awesome, spend some time with big name in Anime Industry. Afro Samurai is in my plan to watch list.

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:22:05 JST (ID #417895)
    reply to ceasol's comment
  • duffman
    duffman in the Urban Jungle that is Manila(PH)~ (Registered on 2007/10/30)
    Daigakusei [Consular and Diplomatic Affairs]
    http://dixinfernal.wordpress.com

    wowzer! another great article~
    that's some top caliber comrades you've got there danny
    btw
    samurai girl is super cute^^

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:22:28 JST (ID #417897)
    reply to duffman's comment
  • The Bard
    The Bard in Dokodemo ii yo (Registered on 2008/03/12)
    Poet (not)

    Hmmm.... wonder why 'key toilet cleaner' never appears in any anime credits. Very important job, that is... ;-)

    Btw Danny, did you drive with the armor on?
    A stormtrooper driving a family car around Tokyo... now that would've been a sight ^^

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:36:01 JST (ID #417900)
    reply to The Bard's comment
  • Rin
    Rin in Toronto (Registered on 2008/01/04)
    Student Otaku (ITM Student) and ACG NA Staff
    http://koiaichaku.com/

    That's just amazing!!!!!!
    All it's missing is Samuel L Jackson...
    Your lucky!!!!! I would love to meet Takashi Okazaki as I'm a fan of the series!!!!!
    WOW!!!!!
    We take a look at on how a manga artist lives...it's just amazing...

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:39:26 JST (ID #417901)
    reply to Rin's comment
  • Edward
    Edward in SE Michigan/Osaka (Registered on 2006/12/24)
    Troubleshooter, Universal Exports
    http://funkyblueame.tumblr.com/

    You got it Danny. The shows are Space 1999 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_1999 and UFO http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UFO_(TV_series)

    I understand the feeling being around these guys. Yes, key toilet cleaner...

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:40:47 JST (ID #417902)
    reply to Edward's comment
  • adanrico
    adanrico in California (Registered on 2008/12/01)
    Web Design & Marketing
    http://ciaopanda.com

    O: I have the same Wacom Tablet! XD I love photos of work space areas!!!

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:41:44 JST (ID #417903)
    reply to adanrico's comment
  • CMWilly
    CMWilly in Los Angeles, CA (Registered on 2007/04/19)
    Animation
    http://clockworkmachina.com

    damn! wish i was there! i think he won one of those r2 from a pepsi contest from the local conbini. haha! can't wait for japan!

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:44:14 JST (ID #417904)
    reply to CMWilly's comment
  • Coco the Bean
    Coco the Bean in Northern California (Registered on 2008/01/06)
    Pokemon master
    http://thecococafe.wordpress.com/

    It must be so cool to get drawings from such famous artists! :D

    Fri 2008/12/19 09:49:55 JST (ID #417905)
    reply to Coco the Bean's comment
  • blauereiter
    blauereiter in Tokyo, Japan (Registered on 2007/07/07)
    CG artist, Sunrise Emotion
    http://halcyonrealms.com

    Wow ! That Nausicaa sketch by Miayazaki-san...Priceless !

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:02:04 JST (ID #417921)
    reply to blauereiter's comment
  • gordon
    gordon in 新加坡 Singapore (Registered on 2007/06/11)
    銀河帝国五〇一軍团 TK/TD 8316 M.E.P.D. Police Sergeant
    http://gordonator.com/

    first time i see a trooper without shoes. does the bodysuit covers the feet as well or are these socks? ^^;

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:02:34 JST (ID #417923)
    reply to gordon's comment
    • phossil
      phossil in Guatemala City (Registered on 2008/07/22)
      http://twitter.com/phossil
      http://www.animoe.net

      Its true. I didnt notice it before.. ^_^

      Sat 2008/12/20 06:14:31 JST (ID #418891)
      reply to phossil's comment
  • Harts
    Harts in Estonia (Registered on 2008/06/02)
    Student

    Great article! Haven't seen Afro Samurai myself but have to put it to the to-watch list.

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:05:57 JST (ID #417927)
    reply to Harts's comment
  • N2
    N2 in Malaysia (Registered on 2008/12/10)

    WoW. How I wish I was there.
    I've never met real animators before.
    Fantastic Danny.

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:06:46 JST (ID #417929)
    reply to N2's comment
  • quicoto
    quicoto in Spain (Registered on 2007/12/10)
    Blogger
    http://quicoto.com

    Nice pics :) Nice otaku house :P

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:07:35 JST (ID #417931)
    reply to quicoto's comment
  • aprilius20
    aprilius20 in Malaysia. Physically, at least. (Registered on 2008/10/26)
    Student, part-time Haruhi wannabe (that bit about godhood etc)
    http://www.aprilius20.com

    After work traffic jam? That's a pain><;

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:08:42 JST (ID #417932)
    reply to aprilius20's comment
  • Hidden Oasis
    Hidden Oasis in California, United Sates (Registered on 2008/10/28)
    College Freshmen

    If Lucy Liu is in the second season, I think it's about time for me to start watching it. I only saw two episodes on spke tv.

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:15:23 JST (ID #417943)
    reply to Hidden Oasis's comment
  • Lelouch Lamperouge
    Lelouch Lamperouge in ClovisLand (Registered on 2008/08/21)
    former Emperor of Britannia
    http://reflectiarx.wordpress.com/

    AFRO SAMURAI!!!!
    This man is made of pure win!

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:34:43 JST (ID #417961)
    reply to Lelouch Lamperouge's comment
  • SlickDog
    SlickDog in サンフランシスコ (Registered on 2007/11/23)
    Freelance Digital Production Artist
    http://www.flickr.com/photos/victor_lee/sets/

    More pics of Samurai Girl, please.

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:34:50 JST (ID #417962)
    reply to SlickDog's comment
  • lerry[maru]
    lerry[maru] in Kuala Lumpur, MY (Registered on 2008/09/14)
    Nekophilia

    Wow. I never thought toilet cleaning job in Japan pays the bills!

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:39:26 JST (ID #417966)
    reply to lerry[maru]'s comment
  • Akiba-Kid
    Akiba-Kid in California, USA (Registered on 2008/01/17)
    Online Shop
    http://wildarms.egloos.com

    Simply amazing talents have gathered under one roof! It's like those anime convention guests gathered in a house, just awesome ^^; Those sketches look really good too, must be industry connection. I bet Okazaki sensei came to US for Afro Samurai at Comic Con along Samule L. Jackson, I remember reading an article about it. I envy you Danny, for be able to meet someone like that in person :)

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:42:00 JST (ID #417970)
    reply to Akiba-Kid's comment
  • Asterisk-CGY
    Asterisk-CGY in Cali (Registered on 2008/09/18)
    TBD

    It would be interesting if you could meet the American team behind this. Aka meet the voice actors.
    Interesting, to say the least.

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:47:23 JST (ID #417974)
    reply to Asterisk-CGY's comment
  • pooks
    pooks in Toronto,ON (Registered on 2008/09/27)
    3D Video Game Artist
    http://gamedevtalk.wordpress.com

    Those R2 units are looking sexy! I want them all! Must look for one online, and also I need a few cans of R2-D4 to keep them maintained...hehehe Looks like you had fun Danny! ~!

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:52:25 JST (ID #417982)
    reply to pooks's comment
  • Abi-kun
    Abi-kun in Poland (Registered on 2008/01/06)
    a guy who cares (sort of...)

    Forget dustbins, I want R2-D2 WD-40 version ^^.

    Fri 2008/12/19 10:55:16 JST (ID #417986)
    reply to Abi-kun's comment
  • Gorgo
    Gorgo in Florence, Italy (Registered on 2007/04/16)
    Games addicted
    http://addictedtoludus.com/

    That Star Wars Artworks are just impressive!
    Danny one think, i know that the Afro Samurai Game is near to come out. Did Okazaki-sensei say something about it?

    Fri 2008/12/19 11:12:06 JST (ID #417998)
    reply to Gorgo's comment
  • Mimi
    Mimi in MIT (Registered on 2008/03/11)
    Student
    http://anime.scripts.mit.edu/miteiru/

    Ohh I love Afro Samurai!!! Me and my friend watch it together ^^

    Fri 2008/12/19 11:21:16 JST (ID #418005)
    reply to Mimi's comment
    • bob-san
      bob-san in Madison WI (Registered on 2007/02/22)
      Administrative Assistant
      http://bob-san.animeblogger.net

      My friends won't bother watching the series, finding it a bit too...wtf for their tastes. To me, it's Samuel L Jackson FTW, plain and simple :)

      Sat 2008/12/20 15:34:08 JST (ID #419363)
      reply to bob-san's comment
      • bob-san
        bob-san in Madison WI (Registered on 2007/02/22)
        Administrative Assistant
        http://bob-san.animeblogger.net

        Although, with SLJ as Afro, it makes me wonder if they secretly drew in BMF on his personage somewhere.

        Sat 2008/12/20 15:35:36 JST (ID #419366)
        reply to bob-san's comment
  • FatBastard
    FatBastard in over his head (Registered on 2007/11/04)
    Dirty Gentleman
    http://cantstanzya.wordpress.com/

    I've heard of Afro Samurai, but haven't watched.

    I only have a minor in toilet cleaning. Two more years of training before I get my own brush.

    Fri 2008/12/19 11:39:20 JST (ID #418016)
    reply to FatBastard's comment
  • Tiny Red Man
    Tiny Red Man in Tiny Red Dot, Singapore. (Registered on 2007/04/11)
    free lance otaku, full time Protector of Peace.

    lol at how he stacks cds for his mac monitor.. and kawaii samurai girl FTW XD

    Fri 2008/12/19 11:55:49 JST (ID #418025)
    reply to Tiny Red Man's comment
  • kawaiiboyz
    kawaiiboyz in Malaysia (Registered on 2008/08/26)
    Otaku/ Secondary School Student/
    http://kawaiiboyz.blogspot.com/

    Hey danny, I'm become jealous with ya...
    to met really animator, It's awesome.

    Fri 2008/12/19 12:37:39 JST (ID #418050)
    reply to kawaiiboyz's comment
  • suki
    suki in Cape Town, South Africa (Registered on 2007/08/22)
    Graphic Design student | Receptionist | Otaku
    http://sukidesho.blogspot.com/

    Wow.. I really love your job, Danny-san! Meeting so many inspirational people >.<
    I've yet to see Afro Samurai, T_T so many shows to catch up on....
    The artwork that Okazaki-sensei has is brilliant D:
    R2D2 dustbins... hoshi~ ^^

    Fri 2008/12/19 12:51:03 JST (ID #418060)
    reply to suki's comment
  • lightningsabre
    lightningsabre in Vancouver (Registered on 2007/08/30)
    Pseudo-Graphic Designer, 触手 wrangler, H-Man
    http://lightningsabre.blogspot.com/

    Very nice stylish Star Wars art that he has. I guess the only major Star Wars thing I have is the life-size Darth Vader cardboard cutout that I have... I would love to add those R2-D2s though :)

    I have heard the name Takashi Okazaki from somewhere else before. What else has he done besides Afro Samurai?

    Fri 2008/12/19 12:57:35 JST (ID #418066)
    reply to lightningsabre's comment
  • Shinaru
    Shinaru in Australia (Registered on 2007/12/26)
    Freelance Illustrator
    http://furudango.com

    Ideon/Gigantis~ Lolz there I named that mecha

    Those artworks look cool, awesome how they are in a traditional style

    Fri 2008/12/19 13:14:09 JST (ID #418079)
    reply to Shinaru's comment
  • tintin-san
    tintin-san in シンガポオル Singapore (Registered on 2008/05/11)
    大学生

    Omg! The grand master Hayao Miyazaki!

    And kawaii girl!

    *dang*

    Fri 2008/12/19 13:30:32 JST (ID #418093)
    reply to tintin-san's comment
  • Koshiko
    Koshiko in Sydney, Australia (Registered on 2007/08/03)
    website/graphic designer and karaoke amateur~
    http://www.furudango.com

    I haven't watched or read anything of Afro Samurai ^^;; I think I stayed away as it looked fairly dark when I fist found out about it.

    Awesome photos~ looks like you guys had a lot of fun and stuff to talk about.

    Cute intern is cute~

    Fri 2008/12/19 13:30:52 JST (ID #418095)
    reply to Koshiko's comment
  • Shockerz
    Shockerz in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Registered on 2008/10/12)
    Student
    http://shockerz.wordpress.com/

    I heard of Afro Samurai, but I haven't watch it. I want to meet the cute samurai girl!

    Fri 2008/12/19 13:48:13 JST (ID #418102)
    reply to Shockerz's comment
  • Evil King
    Evil King in Vlaardingen, the Netherlands, Earth (Registered on 2007/12/18)
    Student and full-time otaku

    Sweeet stuff, does he also have the R2D2 phone? Got it for my b-day a couple of years back. It's really funny: one of the legs hides the horn and it bleeps in R2-fashion when the phone rings.

    Haven't seen afro-samurai, but I can't help but feel that something with samurai needs to be Japanese-dubbed, so no Sam Jackson for me ^^;

    Fri 2008/12/19 13:51:17 JST (ID #418106)
    reply to Evil King's comment
  • Alphonse
    Alphonse in Surabaya, Indonesia (Registered on 2008/07/29)
    Electrical Engineering Fresh Graduate

    never heard Afro Samurai before, is it good?

    PS: The girl is still in question...('~')

    Fri 2008/12/19 13:58:27 JST (ID #418114)
    reply to Alphonse's comment
  • jowy
    jowy in philippines (Registered on 2008/01/23)
    vendor
    http://www.friendster.com

    I haven't read that manga but some otaku says its a good story and some fighting styles.The creator is a big fan of star wars but i am interested in his mech figure..The red big arm is "ideon" How cool did he get that??

    Fri 2008/12/19 14:11:12 JST (ID #418118)
    reply to jowy's comment
  • Zombithulhu
    Zombithulhu in Arkham Asylum (Registered on 2008/12/18)
    Transferring old home movies into DVDs
    http://uk.youtube.com/user/NightUlf

    Another great interesting article.
    Heard of Afro Samurai and that it is supposed to be very good, but not yet seen or read. :(

    Fri 2008/12/19 14:51:43 JST (ID #418135)
    reply to Zombithulhu's comment
  • Saouri
    Saouri in Alicante, Spain (Registered on 2007/11/23)
    Chemical Engineer
    http://saoblog.laventanadesaouri.com/

    "Name that Mecha"?
    Is Ideon...

    Fri 2008/12/19 16:04:24 JST (ID #418158)
    reply to Saouri's comment
  • cuteninja
    cuteninja (Registered on 2008/02/26)
    Auditor Junior

    i intend to watch

    Fri 2008/12/19 16:05:35 JST (ID #418160)
    reply to cuteninja's comment
  • Xcomp
    Xcomp in UK, Glasgow (Registered on 2008/12/01)
    http://xcomprandomness.co.uk/

    I know a lot of Manga artists start off with Doujinshi - even Love Hina's Ken Akamatsu and CLAMP so it seems to be the norm in Japan. Only we don't have big Doujinshi conventions like Comiket to have a gathering of potential buyers which makes it harder to gain exposure and to distribute works.

    As for the "sensei" suffix isn't it used for anyone with a profession to show their skills and knowledge?

    Seems everyone working in their travels carry a Mac. Why is that...? Less reason to worry about hackers or crashes while on the move? I'd like to see someone using a Windows or even a Linux machine in these photos for once just for the hell of it, LOL.

    Speaking of which, most people use Office on their Windows machines so... What do Mac users go for now that Clarisworks is long gone?

    Fri 2008/12/19 16:10:26 JST (ID #418163)
    reply to Xcomp's comment
  • froggy
    froggy in France (Registered on 2008/11/20)
    Marketer

    hey the Darth Vader helmet is really weird

    Fri 2008/12/19 16:27:22 JST (ID #418177)
    reply to froggy's comment
  • Ang00
    Ang00 in A PLANET (Registered on 2008/12/19)
    STUDENTS

    Takashi Okazaki+star wars+R2D2+samuel l jacson=afro+samurai=afro samurai?????????^_^

    Fri 2008/12/19 16:31:50 JST (ID #418187)
    reply to Ang00's comment
  • Meimi132
    Meimi132 in Stuck in the void between the net life and real life. (Registered on 2007/12/03)
    Student, Otaku, She-Geek(Sheek lol)
    http://meimi132.wordpress.com/

    Wooooooooow...... so cool..... That must have been so much fun! And the R2D2's! OMG lol so many! And realisticly sized too!! :woot:

    Fri 2008/12/19 16:32:51 JST (ID #418188)
    reply to Meimi132's comment
  • Jaydead
    Jaydead in Philippines (Registered on 2008/05/21)
    Programmer
    http://www.philanime.com

    ooohhh... Afro Samurai! one of my fave anime! I even did a review on Afro Samurai on my blog months ago (http://www.philanime.com/2008/05/afro-samurai/).

    Can't wait for Season 2. ^_^

    Fri 2008/12/19 16:32:55 JST (ID #418189)
    reply to Jaydead's comment
  • ichiro
    ichiro in nagoya (Registered on 2007/09/18)
    the wholesale business of flower
    http://nakagawaichiro.com

    ほーかわいい。
    ダニーさんの取材は仕事的にも参考になって面白いですね
    こんどホームページに取材記事をのせていこうと思っているんですけど
    ダニーさんが取材で意識してることとかあるんですか?

    Fri 2008/12/19 16:56:48 JST (ID #418215)
    reply to ichiro's comment
  • suicchi
    suicchi in osaka, japan (Registered on 2008/11/22)
    research student
    http://osakacchi.blogspot.com/

    Interesting...Would really love to focus on my passion one day when I know which to choose... =(
    And wow to the green nails and nice rings.

    Fri 2008/12/19 16:58:53 JST (ID #418218)
    reply to suicchi's comment
  • suneo
    suneo (Registered on 2007/12/17)
    http://yuuwaku.wordpress.com

    seems like a cool dude
    so far only caught like one episode of Afro Samurai, but maybe will get around to watching the rest

    Fri 2008/12/19 17:17:28 JST (ID #418231)
    reply to suneo's comment
  • Pyoro
    Pyoro in Singapore (Registered on 2007/08/22)
    Student
    http://anime.tedfox.com/

    samuel l jackson! i would have been ecstatic to meet the guy in the flesh

    Fri 2008/12/19 17:20:51 JST (ID #418236)
    reply to Pyoro's comment
  • Freedom Gundam
    Freedom Gundam in United Kingdom (Registered on 2008/02/03)
    College Student

    Hayao Miyazaki personal drawing that would something very special!
    Didn't know that Takashi Okazaki did the Linkin Park Drawings, did he do the anime video for Linkin Park's song Breaking the Habit? Very cool.

    Fri 2008/12/19 17:57:44 JST (ID #418263)
    reply to Freedom Gundam's comment
  • ceasol
    ceasol in Edmonton, Canada (Registered on 2008/01/08)
    Otaku
    http://imperiomoe.wordpress.com

    wow Nausica dy Miyasaki dono!! sugoi^^

    Fri 2008/12/19 18:00:05 JST (ID #418266)
    reply to ceasol's comment
  • セイバー♥fangel
    セイバー♥fangel in Hong Kong (Registered on 2008/12/07)
    Graphic Designer

    Afro Samurai is actually a great anime, not only is it unique but also very "Gonzo".
    Love all the anime, especially because it is nice and short. The quality is top notch!

    I would love to meet Samuel L Jackson in real life, but I'm pretty sure I would be speechless and would properly be very nervous.

    Fri 2008/12/19 19:42:39 JST (ID #418358)
    reply to セイバー♥fangel's comment
  • Altair Hashan
    Altair Hashan in Ljubljana, Slovenia (Registered on 2008/05/18)
    A Real RocknRolla

    man i love Afro Samurai. the way S.Jackson plays his 2 roles i awesome...i loved the RPG scene XD
    Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39qzWTSYp-o&NR=1

    Fri 2008/12/19 20:02:04 JST (ID #418375)
    reply to Altair Hashan's comment
  • Phaeton99
    Phaeton99 in Momiji Castle, Japones NA (Registered on 2008/11/11)
    Executive Seneschal of the Third Ward
    http://phaeton99.deviantart.com/

    I saw a clip by accident and it was so bizarre and unexpectedly original, I had to see the whole thing.

    I suppose it is the sort of thing one either loves or hates.

    Fri 2008/12/19 20:35:28 JST (ID #418407)
    reply to Phaeton99's comment
  • section09
    section09 in New York City (Registered on 2008/12/19)
    Graphic Artist/Designer
    http://www.section09ds.com/

    Afro Samurai was great. I caught it on Spike TV here a few months ago. Really awesome animation and story. Some circle a friends you have there buddy.

    Fri 2008/12/19 20:38:52 JST (ID #418410)
    reply to section09's comment
  • KyokoHunter
    KyokoHunter in UK (Registered on 2008/06/08)
    Civil Servant
    http://kyokohunter.net/

    I have a new ambition in life - to be a key toilet cleaner in Japan. As long as it pays the rent, I can still do my artwork and still have some monies left for Nendoroids, I'd be happy. The get-together looked interesting, it'd be fascinating to see the sprouting of ideas that could one day shape the anime and manga that we view/read.

    Sat 2008/12/20 00:16:42 JST (ID #418547)
    reply to KyokoHunter's comment
  • nbreath
    nbreath in Pasto, Colombia (Registered on 2008/10/11)
    Student
    http://situsaleatorius.blogspot.com

    I see the first chapter of afro samurai but I don't continue, a second chance needed..

    Sat 2008/12/20 00:35:50 JST (ID #418564)
    reply to nbreath's comment
  • Jotham
    Jotham in Los Angeles, CA (Registered on 2008/03/08)
    Student
    http://yellowguy89.blogspot.com/

    thats a very beautiful view he has from his apartment.

    Sat 2008/12/20 01:01:55 JST (ID #418591)
    reply to Jotham's comment
  • .
    . in Montreal, Canada (Registered on 2008/07/17)
    Student

    Have seen it, and loved it! Actually it's the only anime that i bought. Personnaly think that the artwork is really really great.

    Sat 2008/12/20 01:16:45 JST (ID #418599)
    reply to .'s comment
  • unit78
    unit78 in Tampa, Florida (Registered on 2008/06/21)
    Ronin - Looking for #1
    http://unit-1978.deviantart.com/

    I remember watching it way back when it aired in the US. I bought the box set when it came out and I plan on buying the new movie thats coming out. I seen a commercial for the movie on spike network the other day. Cant wait for it and yeah that mecha is Ideon...very old mecha. Afro is a bad dude, I really loved the brothers 1,2,3 and so on. Great anime, Kuma was another favorite with that awsome teddy bear head.

    Sat 2008/12/20 02:06:11 JST (ID #418633)
    reply to unit78's comment
  • thefrikking
    thefrikking in Spain (Registered on 2007/08/18)
    Ork Warlord

    So Takashi Okazaki is a Star Wars otaku? Ja,ja, great article, Danny!! I see Afro Samurai some time ago, but don`t know about the film, I`ll look for it...

    Sat 2008/12/20 02:38:54 JST (ID #418661)
    reply to thefrikking's comment
  • Roddy
    Roddy in currently in Lisbon-Portugal (Registered on 2008/04/14)
    graduate studant (TV & Cinema )

    wow O_o what a privilege!!!!! hanging around those artists!!!! awesome, a life time opportunity!!!
    can't wait to watch Afro Samurai season 2 and get some of those figures as well ^_^

    Sat 2008/12/20 03:10:46 JST (ID #418691)
    reply to Roddy's comment
  • exurbanotaku
    exurbanotaku in America (Registered on 2008/01/10)
    Consultant

    That's awesome! I have wanted to watch Afro Samurai for the longest time, but continuously missed it during its original run on Spike TV. But, I'll before sure to catch the first season before the start of the second season.

    Sat 2008/12/20 06:17:10 JST (ID #418894)
    reply to exurbanotaku's comment
  • REVULSIVE
    REVULSIVE in Canada (Registered on 2008/06/03)
    Press Conveyance

    It's funny, I have Afro Samurai but I've never watched it. I plan to watch it one of these days.

    Sat 2008/12/20 18:44:20 JST (ID #419547)
    reply to REVULSIVE's comment
  • Saku
    Saku in Toronto (Registered on 2008/02/07)
    Wannabe Web Developer
    http://www.sakuafk.com

    I haven't watched Afro Samurai yet but seeing your post, I guess I should give it a try ^^

    Sat 2008/12/20 19:45:05 JST (ID #419597)
    reply to Saku's comment
  • Mimi
    Mimi in MIT (Registered on 2008/03/11)
    Student
    http://anime.scripts.mit.edu/miteiru/

    Mmmm fragments. ^____^ Just had to say it.

    Sat 2008/12/20 22:42:30 JST (ID #419733)
    reply to Mimi's comment
  • Iahel
    Iahel in Hikari no Machi (Registered on 2008/12/08)
    Student
    http://muketsu.wordpress.com

    Okazaki-sensei got plus from me for Pluto and Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind manga.

    Sun 2008/12/21 03:04:08 JST (ID #419913)
    reply to Iahel's comment
  • Henry
    Henry in /usr/bin/ (Registered on 2006/12/25)
    anime/cosplay events organizer
    http://www.cosplay.ph

    I have watched Afro Samurai and it was one of the most GAR anime that I've watched so far ^^

    Sun 2008/12/21 07:57:13 JST (ID #420219)
    reply to Henry's comment
  • aggitan
    aggitan in USA (Registered on 2008/04/08)
    Network Engineer
    http://www.aggitan.blogspot.com/

    I think Afro Samurai is a cool guy, eh got the number one headband and doesn't affraid of anything. OTOH does the #1 headband actually do anything for you or does it just prove that you're #1 and make people want to murderficate you...?

    Mon 2008/12/22 06:17:49 JST (ID #421251)
    reply to aggitan's comment
  • うちは サスケ
    うちは サスケ in Bulgaria (Registered on 2008/10/22)
    Student
    http://musou-enrai.deviantart.com/

    Mmm... I've never read or watched Afro Samurai. The animes I watch and the mangas I read are few. I'm a little conservative when it comes to these two.

    Mon 2008/12/22 18:09:49 JST (ID #421910)
    reply to うちは サスケ's comment
  • sergiom
    sergiom in Tucumán - Argentina (Registered on 2008/06/20)
    Programeer, WebMaster
    http://www.legionpaintball.com.ar

    Danny, are you the stormtrooper in this picture? http://img110.imageshack.us/img110/9960/dannyua5.jpg

    Tue 2008/12/23 01:09:18 JST (ID #422328)
    reply to sergiom's comment
  • MarToonZ
    MarToonZ in on the field (Registered on 2008/03/14)
    Designer
    http://www.flickr.com/photos/martoonz/sets/

    afro samurai-----> watched first chapter, never touch it again.....

    i wish the black (?) r2d2 (?)

    Tue 2008/12/23 05:34:49 JST (ID #422568)
    reply to MarToonZ's comment
  • lostandfound
    lostandfound in Singapore (Registered on 2007/10/21)
    Hikikomori in the making
    http://supermariabros.deviantart.com/

    The Afro Samurai anime was awesome! Can't wait for Resurrection!

    Tue 2008/12/23 07:50:00 JST (ID #422733)
    reply to lostandfound's comment
  • Alexa
    Alexa in Latvia (Registered on 2008/12/27)
    student
    http://alexasharlot.cghub.com/

    If I only know Okazaki e-mail I be happy. He really inspire me and Hiroya Iijima he's some good artist to.

    Sat 2008/12/27 01:51:43 JST (ID #426437)
    reply to Alexa's comment
  • Leo of !BORG
    Leo of !BORG in Somewhere in California.US.Sol3 (Registered on 2009/01/02)
    Geek
    http://twitter.com/leoofborg

    Okazaki-sensei is a Gerry Andersen fan. From image ID#23638::

    1/ Eagle Cargo type, seen in the pilot of Space 1999, Breakaway. Last seen trying to haul containers of nuke waste away before they went critical mass, blowing the moon out of earth's orbit.

    2/ SHADO 1. From UFO/SHADO, a sub and jet combo that would intercept the UFOs once they'd get past 'lunar defense'.

    3/ SHADO Interceptor. Armed with one rocket to destroy a UFO, deployed from the Moonbase. According to connected Andersen canon, UFO/SHADO occurred in the 80s, and Space 1999 in the 90s. Inteceptors were replaced by the modular Eagles and single purpose fighters called Hawks. Okazaki-sensei needs a Hawk.

    4/ UFO. The mysterious saucers that SHADO was always shooting down. If they landed people would disappear. As I remember the aliens were 'harvesting' earthlings.. for.. something.

    Darn, I'm old. I remember watching these when I was a kid.

    Fri 2009/01/02 02:09:31 JST (ID #432571)
    reply to Leo of !BORG's comment
  • Argyle
    Argyle in Toronto, Canada (Registered on 2008/12/23)
    Otaku Programmer/Gamer/Artist/Photographer
    http://argylebolivar.wordpress.com

    DANG
    Afro Samurai FTW!!!

    Wed 2009/04/01 03:53:01 JST (ID #544151)
    reply to Argyle's comment
  • Valdemar
    Valdemar in Virginia Beach (Registered on 2009/01/29)
    Exostential mouse herder
    http://www.yousaytoo.com/big65mopar?8530

    IF you remember Space 1999 then you would have to be 35 years or older to have watched it and remembered. The series was one of the greats that came out of the UK during its time giving Dr. Who a run for his money and it was pretty well ahead of its time in special effects. That ship is called an Eagle and was a multipurpose vehicle used for transport as well as defense and science experiments. Take a trip to youtube and watch some of the shorts and you'll recognize several actors and actresses who were popular to semi popular in American and English film and possibly other arena's of film from the 60's to the early 80's.

    That Eagle if its an original model from the 70's is worth allot of money, still wish I had mine along with the lunch box I had.

    Mon 2009/04/06 02:28:48 JST (ID #551194)
    reply to Valdemar's comment

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