Akadot: You have worked on Ninja Scroll and Vampire Hunter D. Are you currently working on any new projects?

YM: I will be a character designer and animation director in the next animation project under the direction of Mr. Kawajiri [Animatrix].

Akadot: Are you planning to do a samurai drama in the future besides Ninja Scroll?

YM: You will see soon. One episode of Animatrix [my new project] is a samurai drama. I can't talk too much about it yet because it is still in production.

Akadot: I heard this is an American project and Warner Brothers will distribute the Animatrix. What do you think about American animation, such as Disney, etc..?

YM: I like old Disney works. My favorite work from Disney is Shirayuki Hime (Snow White).

Akadot: Do you like any recent animation titles [from America]?

YM: Powderpuff Girls, Dexter's Labratory, and Samurai Jack.

Akadot: Do you want to draw animation in that style?

YM: Although I have a desire to challenge myself when my present works are done, but I am right now I am busy.

Akadot: These styles are common in America, but the design is a bit different from Japanese animation. Do you think that style will be accepted in Japan?

YM: It is popular in Japan [Cartoon Network in Japan]. Especially for animators.

Akadot: Do you think the character designs are too simple?

YM: No, not at all. I think that there is merit in animation done in a simplistic style. It is really wonderful. I think that it is more difficult since it is simple. Conversely, I draw in real detail, so I can cheat.

Akadot: Do you have any message to American fans?

YM: My new work with Director Kawajiri will be officially announced soon, so please look forward to it. I was drawing right before coming to Comicon, so I think I can show it to audiences in the near future. I seriously want to create work that will please fans of Ninja Scroll.

Did you read Part I of Akadot's interview with Japanese animation character designer Yutaka Minowa? Don't miss it!