CBR TV @ WC12: Mike Richardson & Stan Sakai & 47 Ronin

[Steve Hubbell]

CBR TV @ WC12: Mike Richardson & Stan Sakai Tell the Tale of 47 Ronin

CBR TV spoke with Dark Horse Publisher Mike Richardson and the legendary artist/writer Stan Sakai about their new project, a comics adaptation of the true Japanese story of the 47 Ronin. The adaptation has nothing to do with the movie currently in development at Universal, but when he heard it was going to be a movie, Richardson approached Sakai, convincing the artist to put “Usagi Yojimbo” aside so he can work on the historical drama.

Sakai explained that this is a story he grew up with and is one that is truly important to him, marking the first time in his storied career that he’s illustrated another artist’s work. The art style will be different from what Sakai’s fans are used to, depicting humans rather than animals, in an art style inspired by Japanese woodcut. And for traditionalists, Sakai plans to start with a new miniseries when “Usagi” returns from hiatus, before picking up the long-running ongoing title with it’s regular numbering.

http://video.comicbookresources.com/cbr ... -47-ronin/

[Stan Sakai]

I'm finally able to talk about the project that absolutely no one knew about.

[Steve Hubbell]

Any word on when the first issue should be coming out?

[coolray85]

Any word on when the first issue should be coming out?

thanks for sharing this, steve!...and when issue one will hit is a very interesting question, too..but I think it may be still to early to say for sure..some one please correct me;)...
I have to say that mike richardson is so invested all of his life is really putting a 'must-experience-this-comic-series' stamp on this project for me, that is if I never knew already that stan wuld be doing the art work;)....oh man, I am so excited fr this to unfold!let me tell you, this will be my first version of this true tale...I only once heard a summary on this forum by someone...cannot wait!

[Stan Sakai]

Any word on when the first issue should be coming out?

I have no idea. I'm still working on the first issue. It is taking much longer than I expected because it's an unfamiliar drawing style, there is much more research to do, and there are some personal medical issues that Sharon is going through. I did turn in the cover for the first issue though. I am doing all the covers with watercolors.

I don't know who the interior colorist will be.

[Maka]

If I recall correctly(which is questionable) Stan said when we asked him at his WonderCon table that he had finished issue one. Any new Stan Sakai art, even if he isn't writing it, is something I look forward too. Peace, maka

By the way - Stan showed us his watercolor sketchbook. When he prints those you all will want to pick up a copy. Beautiful!!!

[Jubei]

Wonderful news! Eagerly looking forward to this project, especially seeing this new art style for you. I've only heard/read summaries of this classic story, so this this would be my first full exposure to it as well.

[coolray85]

oh, I didn't even imagine it would be anything but black and white interior art...
I would like to wish sharon the best for her health!...and also a happy eastern hollyday time nevertheless!(since it IS rabbit-related;)..)

[Mayhem]

Looking forward to seeing some art from the issue, and please wish Sharon all the best health wise Stan