ashido fan
10-26-2008, 07:34 AM
The Kubo Tite FC
http://i429.photobucket.com/albums/qq17/ashidofan/titekubocaricaturezq2.jpg
Owner: ashido fan
Co-owner 1: Abigail
Co-owner 2: Ayu-chan
Members:iRukia
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Shishou's Biography :
Born :Noriaki Kubo
June 26, 1977 (1977-06-26) (age 31)
Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
Nationality: Japanese
Occupation :Manga artist
Known for :Zombie Powder, Bleach
In this Japanese name, the family name is Kubo.
The son of a town council member in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima, Tite Kubo graduated from the local high school. In an interview, Kubo has stated that he entered a magazine's manga contest, and that although he did not win, one of the magazine's editors noticed his talent. They subsequently worked together on joint projects. Not long afterward, his first manga short, "Ultra Unholy Hearted Machine", was published in Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump Special in 1996. This was followed by two more shorts, and in 1999 his first serial, Zombie Powder, began in Weekly Shonen Jump and ran for four volumes until 2000.
His next serial, Bleach, about a high school student who becomes a shinigami and fights evil spirits, began running in the same magazine in 2001. As of December 4, 2007, Bleach has reached over 300 chapters, and an anime adaptation began running in Japan in 2004. The manga was named a winner of the Shogakukan Manga Award for its category in 2005. A Bleach movie was released in Japan on December 16, 2006, followed by a second movie on December 22, 2007.
On July 26, 2008, Tite Kubo came to the United States for the first time and made an appearance at the San Diego Comic-Con International.
Kubo Tite's interviews:
Originally posted by Slev:
All translation and everything by k_shi (http://www.livejournal.com/users/k_shi/)
His character commentary that he did in 2004:
"Kurosaki Ichigo
When Ichigo goes to the hair dresser, people ask him about his hair color and since he hates that, he doesn't go to the hair dresser. Normally, Yuzu cuts it.
Kuchiki Rukia
Sometimes people ask me this, in book 5 they announced the semester's final exam scores and regarding Rukia's rank, out of 322 people in the 1st grade, she's 302nd. Besides Japanese, she flunked most of it.
Kon
The plushie body of his is the fake copy of the main character of the popular TV show, "Carnivor Kingdom" named "Ponkichi". It was a prize from the shooting game in the Karakura Town Festival.
Inoue Orihime
Tied with Ichigo, her face is the hardest to draw. She's going to be a very important character later on so, I want to get used to drawing her faster.
Sado Yasutora
He likes music so he rarely watches TV, but the only program he likes the "Carnivor Kingdom" that starts at 8 AM on Sundays. He likes it so much that he bought the DVDs for it.
Ishida Uryuu
The TV program he likes is Don Kanonji's "Bura-Rei". It's not mentioned in the comic, but in chapter 29, the shadow that tried to jump in before Ichigo was Uryuu.
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y27...nerdishida.bmp
Urahara Kisuke
The rare candy sold only in Urahara shouten, "Space candy". From the name, it sounds like it'll have some strange taste, but inside is only a coca cola tasting candy.
Shihouin Yoruichi
Yoruichi-san cannot drink so much alcohol. She likes milk the most. When she's tired, first she starts with milk. As long as there's milk, she's in a good mood.
Zangetsu
Zangetsu was the most difficult to decide for the appearance. After nitpicking on his hair style and his clothes, the only thing that remained from the original sketch were his shades.
Shiba Ganjyu
He looks good with goggles, so every time he came out with new clothes, I put a new goggle hanging from his neck, but by the next week I forget to draw it.
Ichimaru Gin
In my opinion, I was trying to draw him all creepy since his first appearance, but for some reason he is a man who is very popular amongst women. I envy him.
Kuchiki Byakuya
Within the seireitei, there're only four major noble families including the Kuchiki family that are considered high class noble men. Besides them, the life style of the other nobles are not much different from normal city people.
Zaraki Kenpachi
Tied with Tousen Kaname, out of the BLEACH characters, he has the hardest hair style to draw. I think I'll continue to regret eternally for giving him that hair style.
Hitsugaya Toushirou
He's from the West Rukongai 1st area "Jyunrinan". He is actually friends with Jidanbou and was the one who taught him the "city rules".
Abarai Renji
All his sunglasses are from Seireitei's popular glasses store "Silver dragon fly glasses store" (megane no gin tonbo). Every time he wears it, he gets it broken, but that costs half a year worth his paycheck.
Kira Izuru
All of Seireitei's shinigami are all considered "nobles", but it also has a high, middle, and low class and Izuru is from a low class noble family. He's had a pretty tough time.
Hinamori Momo
I had a tough time trying to decide her name. The name "Hinamori Momo" was decided right before drawing the official comic. During the sketch stage, she had a totally different name.
Yamada Hanatarou
A rather pitiful Hanatarou whose birthday lies on April Fools. Every year, on his birthday a bunch of people keep tricking him the entire day."
---
Shonen Jump interview from 2006:
Shonen Jump: How did you get into creating manga?
Tite Kubo: The summer of my third year if high school was the first time Id ever written a manga. I didnt have any experience or knowledge of how to draw manga I didnt know you were supposed to draw rough pages first, so I just drew directly on the paper and submitted to Weekly Shonen Jump for a contest. I didnt win, but I got a phone call from one of the editors who suggested we work together.
SJ: Which comes first, the story or the art?
TK: Of course, its either the pictures, or the characters sometimes I have ideas for the characters appearances, or sometimes their personality. Once you get those characters set, then the story kind of moves on by itself. The key thing is that I come to love the characters, as if they re real.
SJ: If you werent a manga-ka, what else would you do?
TK: Industrial design, architecture I never studied them, but Im very interested in them.
SJ: What are Rukias favourite manga?
TK: She loves horror manga, shojo-orientated horror titles. Shes from the afterlife, but theres actually nothing scary to read in the afterlife.
SJ: How involved are you in making the Bleach animated series?
TL: Im involved with the character designs. Usually the character designs are done with manga artists just overseeing, but in my case I actually draw what all the characters should look like I am essentially drawing all of the characters that appear in the anime. It is very rare for the artist to be involved this much.
SJ: What aould your dream cast be fore a live-action Bleach movie?
TK: If it were possible to do Bleach as a live movie, then I wouldnt have drawn the manga. I want to draw something that can only be done as manga.
Posted by Orihime:
SJ: What would you give Rukia as a present?
Tite Kubo: A vacation! She's been busy all year.
SJ: Is there a character that you enjoy drawing especially?
TK: I tend to prefer characters that are rough and tough. They seem more three-dimensional. I'd say someone like Kenpachi. Komamura's fun to draw, too. Behind his headgear, he's got the face of the wolf -- something you normally wouldn't think to draw.
SJ: So you like fierce characters?
TK: Yes, I like characters that aren't typical or a bit unusual. I enjoy drawing secondary characters. It's also fun drawing Mayuri.
SJ: If you could switch places with one of the characters for a day, who would it be and why?
TK: I'd switch places with Kon. He seems so carefree, and everybody loves him in one way or another.
SJ: What items from the human world does Kisuke sell in his shop?
TK: Basically lots of candy and snacks, and household items. Small things, like detergent.
SJ: Could we find copies of SJ there?
TK: You won't find SJ. Kisuke doesn't have a distribution channel. But he does buy copies from himself at a nearby convenice store. [Laughs]
SJ: Are kimono easy to draw?
TK: Initially I wasn't all that interested in a traditional Japanese look, so it was hard at the start, but I got used to it. I wanted a kimono style that was slightly different from the usual. For instance, I wanted some decoration along the edges and sleeves that fluttered a lot to make the action scenes gorgeous to watch.
SJ: Do you use models or have one of your assistants pose for you? Have you ever dressed as a Soul Reaper and posed for a drawing?
TK: I don't do such things. I know in my head pretty much what a character is going to look like, so for any action scene I'll make the character move around in my head, choosing the angle I want and drawing from there.
SJ: How can Ichigo swing a sword that looks heavier than he is? Is he secretly working out at home?
TK: Well, no. To begin with, a zanpaku-tou isn't something you'd swing with your muscles. Ichigo's zanpaku-tou comes from inside him, so he wouldn't find it heavy. If Ichigo tried to wield Renji's zanpaku-tou, Zabimaru, he'd find it heavy.
SJ: So it depends on the person?
TK: Yes. Zabimaru looks pretty heavy, too. Ichigo wouldn't be able to wield him. Renji would probably find the same thing with Ichigo's zanpaku-tou, Zangetsu.
SJ: The relationships between siblings mean a lot in Bleach. Do you have any brothers or sisters yourself?
TK: Yes, I'm the eldest of three children. I have a younger sister and a younger brother.
SJ: If you could choose a character as a sibling, who would it be?
TK: I'd choose Rangiku, I wish she were my older sister. [Laughs] Well, that's because you cna count on her when you're in trouble.
SJ: And you want to be Kon, too?
TK: Hey, I didn't mean that! [Laughs]
SJ: Could you tell us which characters you would want to see fight each other?
TK: Hmm...I'd pick Shunsui and Ukitake.
SJ: Why is that?
TK: Because they're both nitouryuu [two-handed swordmen] which would make for fantastic visuals. Also because I can't imagine a reason they would fight each other in the story. They get along so well; they have been best friends for so long. I'd want to see what I fight between them would be like. If I had to pick one that's simply impossible, then I'd choose Ichigo and (dundundun! ) Kaien. Kaien being dead, that is.
SJ: Bleach is increasingly popular in the U.S., now that the anime is airing on TV. What aspect of the anime do you want readers of the manga to enjoy the most?
TK: I think what's fun in the anime and what's fun in the manga are two different things. What's fun to see in the anime is, of course, the way things move and sound. What I recommend most is to read the manga first then watch the anime. You'll discover and enjoy how a particular scene in the manga is transformed and how the action is portrayed. Some things in the manga have evolved into something new or have been shown in a way only the anime can achieve. These are the things that I hope readers will enjoy most when watching the anime.
SJ: Do you have a message for our readers?
TK: I never imagined when writing Bleach that it would be eventually published in the U.S., so I'm really glad that American readers have taken to it and enjoyed my work. Please continue to support Bleach. I've also been told that I shouls visit America someday.
Posted by Geta Boshi in the IchiRuki thread, translated by MelodyMix:
Kubo-Sensei makes sure he watches anime every week. Morita-san, do you buy Jump every week as well?
M – Yes. Every Monday I read it at the Convenience store
K – You buy it with your own money?
M - Of course! *laughs* what, can I get one for free? I’ve been buying Jump since year 2 (7~8 years old in Japan), with my own money *laughs*
Ever since you voiced Ichigo, have you changed the way you read Jump?
M – It did change. When I read Bleach now I get really nervous. I go home, take a bath, and prepare myself to read *laugh*
K – It’s like a script *laugh*
M – It is like a script! I read before going to bed, making sure the area around me is quiet. Being a voice actor, first impressions are always important when reading a script. That’s why I make sure I’m in a quiet area so I can concentrate.
Favourite character?
M – People ask me that a lot. This also applies to real life as well but there are humans with different background stories, and when those humans interact a story is born. They present this very well in this manga so reading it is always fun. That’s why whenever someone asks me “Who is your favourite character?” I really don’t know the answer since they are all unique. But when they tell me to chose one I couldn’t think of anyone but the character I’m voicing, so I would answer Ichigo Kurosaki. Oh, and maybe Rangiku Matsumoto too
K - *laughs* Awesome. It was interesting listening to your answer. You really do read it carefully.
There is an image of Ichigo Kurosaki that is inside Sensei (Kubo) and inside Morita-san. Is there any scene you thought both your image of Ichigo was well presented?
M – I think the part where Renji and Ichigo roared out in synchro. Ichigo and Renji’s relationship is very interesting, that you can’t put it in words. They are rivals yet friends. Like if you are spelling out ‘enemy’ but you read it as ‘friends’ *laughs*. An amazing person called Kentarou Itou does this role (Renji’s voice) and because of this, that “TO MY SOUL!” speech made me think that those two (Ichigo and Renji) has unleased themselves using words. That speech was extremely hot. It was a very memorable scene as well.
(On this page there is a tiny screen cap, where Renji and Ichigo both shouted “TO MY SOUL!” and next to the screen cap it says “The scream of the soul. Episode 52, For Rukia, they have once fought against each other with their swords – Now they scream with their soul.)
M - Inside themselves they are doing ‘Gatsu-Pose’ but they would never tell anyone about it * laughs * (this means, they act tough and strong on the inside but they would never tell anyone about it). Playing Ichigo Kurosaki, there are ways I want him to say stuffs. Like if I want to put my own taste in him, or put my own thoughts about this character inside him. During the Grand Fisher arc, the part where he met Rukia in the forest, Sensei also found this scene memorable but the scene where he is mumbling out his words. In that scene there was this taste I wanted to present in his sentence
What was his sentence?
K – The part where Rukia told Ichigo that a Hollow might have killed his mum, right?
M – The part where he said “なんでもねーよ” and “残念でした” and left
K – In that scene when I first saw it on TV, I was so thrilled I actually got goose bumps. Morita-san put his own taste inside Ichigo and that made me really proud. I was very thankful and made me want to listen to it. And because of that, my image of Ichigo was different to his and made that scene really deep. I was really thrilled. That time I really thought making an anime is an awesome thing to do.
M – While reading a script an image just popped up into my mind. Even if Ichigo was just mumbling out his words I wanted to put my all into it because I wanted to show how I want to voice Ichigo Kurosaki and my image of him. I wanted to show Ichigo is a normal high school boy. The taste I wanted to show in that scene was how normal Ichigo is.
K – He did a good job
If it gave you goose bumps then that ‘image’ of Ichigo must have been powerful?
K – I guess you’re right. I’m happy with anime following the manga but what makes me even happier is making me think “Oh, so that’s how it’s shown” when watching the anime. That time, Ichigo’s attitude made me think “Oh, so that’s how Ichigo expresses himself”
M – That scene was a pretty normal scene, but that’s why it was so important and shows Ichigo’s character very well. Ichigo is pretty blunt and usually speaks few words. Even the time when he rescues Rukia, all he says is “Yo!”
K – “Saying that “Yo!” was an important bit in that scene. Ichigo was a normal high school boy who turned into a Shinigami. Him being a Shinigami isn’t that main point. So I wanted to express that in that scene. Ichigo isn’t very talkative. Even the time with Renji, all he says is “ああ” (referring to episode 32)
M – That speech really got to me. He was listening to Renji’s story you couldn’t help but cry. But he has to say something back to him so he said “ああ”. After I finished voicing that scene I was so worried if my voice turned out right that I couldn’t even watch it on air.
K – That episode was really amazing! Renji and Rukia. Watching those two was truly amazing and Morita-san’s speech “ああ” was amazing too. In that episode Orikasa-san (Rukia’s voice actor) said she got very emotional while doing that scene where Renji’s hand’s were on Rukia’s shoulder and says “ああ そうかありがとう” while letting go of his hands. I was thrilled, listening to the way she said “そうか”
M – That Rukia’s sentence “そうか” affects her relationship with Renji later in the episode so unless she puts a lot of emotions into it, it would sound plain and unimportant.
K – There are bits in the manga where I draw scene that wouldn’t get the reader’s attention too much. I always put all my effort into my manga but how each audience read my manga are different. So it’s really important to make sure they would end up all having a similar idea of my story, but then again, it’s really up to them how they read the manga, but then there are scenes where I want the audience to be touched, so it’s really hard.
M – The creators want everything to seem natural.
Where is your goal aimed at?
M - Voice actors are always living under the rules. Firstly, there is a rule called “Script” and inside the script there are lines you have to read. And there are also director’s rules. But inside those rules I want voice actors to be able to find a place where they can be free and express themselves. And when you find that space I don’t care whether it’s small or big, as long as it’s a place where they can play around then it’s okay. The director says “Instead of thinking “Oh no, what should I do?” you should try and find an route where you can escape, and when you find that route you think, “This is it!” and truly express yourself”. I want a place where I can spread my wings, and still continue working on Bleach while my wings are spread. I really think my wings can still get bigger. My wings aren’t fully opened yet. It can still spread and grow. I truly think Bleach is an enjoyable masterpiece that I would die for.
K – You must be number one fan of Bleach. Maybe you love Bleach more than me * laughs *
Any words to your fans?
M- a movie has been decided to be released. And I hope you are all able to see a new Ichigo after returning from Soul Society.
• Another question was "Any scene you found memorable?" and here's what Kubo (K) and Morita (M) said
M "グランドフィッシャー編のときの森の中だルキアと会ってしゃべるセリフ"
M said the scene in the Memories In the Rain episode, where Ichigo was talking to Rukia in the forest, and straight after than
K said "In that scene, when I first saw it on tv, I was so thrilled I actually got goosebumps"
* Also in one part they were discussing how Ichigo only says few words (In Japanese his sentences are often short to show his personality)and Morita brought up an example when he rescued Rukia, that all he said was "Yo", And KT said
"Saying that "Yo!" was an important bit in that scene"
M "一護ってぶっきらぼうというか、朴訥というか。ルキアを助けるときもただ "よう!" って"
K "そこで "よう!" っていうのは重要なことなんです"
"一護って短いセリフが多いんですよ"
Posted by MelodyMix:
Hiya. There was an interview with KT on chapter 307 and I have translated a part of it. I already posted it on the IchiRuki FC but I thought I might post it here as well.
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p214/annie08ws/23-1.jpg
About the character. 1 Until Ichigo and Rukia were made
Okay, lets ask about this months topic Characters. First of all, lets start with our main characters Ichigo and Rukia
The first Ichigo I drew wore glasses. He wore glasses and had black hair * laugh *
He also had kind eyes and it looks like a different person from the Ichigo we have now
Is it true that Rukias design was decided before Ichigos design?
Before the story was decided a Shingami uniform popped up into my mind. Unlike the design we have now it was like a uniform from Catholic school where they wore a black jacket over a white blouse with a black bowtie and they carried a huge scissors. I thought that was what Shinigami was like. After that, to match Rukias design I changed Ichigos character design. Like Rukia had black hair so its best if Ichigo didnt have black hair.
Posted by kaya:
I would love to share with everyone here with my own SJ's issue about Kubo's interview. I think everyone should read this as this interview is such a treasure and Kubo is such a darling here. In here, Kubo shown us how he works from drawing nemu to the final process, his workplace and his ipod. He is such a lover for music and a BIG inspiration to his works.
I am sorry I couldn't provide complete translations now as my japanese is not good enough, but I'm sure someone is going to provide translations later. I have to thank you first! :hug
I dedicated this to to debbiechan TEH LOVER, and to everyone who loves Kubo and Bleach dearly.
The pictures are big so please click them for larger pictures.
http://aycu12.webshots.com/image/40171/2002690686492813061_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002690686492813061)
http://aycu16.webshots.com/image/42775/2000088689056541919_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2000088689056541919)
http://aycu30.webshots.com/image/40709/2000070437678915893_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2000070437678915893)
http://aycu10.webshots.com/image/42569/2003990145690265294_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003990145690265294)
EDIT:
On page 2: Kubo Tite's one week work's schedule
Sunday-Tuesday: he will work with his helpers on original sketches(inking)
By Tuesday night,he must completed everything and pass to typesetter to do the words.
Wednesday is his rest day and doing on random chores(color spreads,SJ promotion etc.)
Thursday to Saturday is his story paneling. They called those pre-sketches, "nemu" (not our nemu XD)
Sunday: More works.
Page 3(The box with ipod's pic)
The ideas are born from music?
BLEACH THEME MUSICS- Characters' themes
Espada, Fraccion and some Arrancar- their themes, for HM people
Kill Me Music- battle musics
Kiss Me Music- for tear-jerking part
Soul Society Commanders and sub commanders- their themes, for SS people
Anytime the music suits the styles he wants, he just add into his ipod, even western musics. Most of his titles are western musics' title, for example:
Chapter 297: "King of the Kill" is by Annihilator (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annihilator_%28band%29)
The ipod is really in Jet-black.
EDIT: Page 1 brief translation
On his workplace
Kubo has an impressive and neat studio. His helpers work on the 1st floor and up the spiral stairs, his table is on 2nd floor.
"When my helpers are not around, I will move to 1st floor as working on the 2nd floor is kinda lonely.*laugh*" said Kubo.
Kubo will put little small accessories and arranged them so colorfully for his copic markers(see page 4, upper left picture. 200 copic markers!:yell I only owned 26 and they already cost me $200. )
"For the things I use, basically, I would pick clean, neat designs. For my manga tools, and for my furnitures too." Kubo replied.
Then a bit on how he created his manga weekly.
Page 2: MelodyMix more or less has translated everything there,except the parts how he works on his manga. :)
Page 3:More about characters designs
Page 4: On his Ipod and how musics inspired Bleach.
More coming up! :yay
Posted by Gintoki:
Tokyopop, the German Publisher of the Bleach Manga made an interview with KT in their newest release volume.
One of the questions was: Mr. Kubo what's your favourite Bleach character?
And his answer was: Aizen and Mayuri
That really surprised me.
And his favourite Chapter is 169. The Aizen x Hina Stab scene.
Posted by kaya:
I realized there is no SOULs interview translation at all so I translated it to share with everyone here.
WOOHOO :)
SOULs and VIBEs' interview are connected and SOULs' continued from VIBEs.
VIBEs' interview has been translated by our lovely Melodymix so it is advised to read VIBEs (http://bleachasylum.com/showpost.php?p=113314&postcount=203)' first and then this one.
Enjoy!:)
[SPOILER="text"]
p1:
KUBO TITE X MASAKAZU MORITA [TALK OF BLEACH]
Creator Kubo Tite and Kurosaki Ichigo's voice actor. Masakazu Morita's "BLEACH" special interview
"SOULs is focused on Kubo sensei
K- is Kubo
M- is Morita
p2
-Both first meeting and impression
When is Kubo sensei and Morita san's first meeting?
K: At the earliest recording(*1), I took the role as Kon; that should be the time we first met.
M: Because on that day, I have other jobs to do, I just stay for a while. Therefore we were really just passing by, even our conversations didn't consist more than a few words
Both impressions on each other?
M: He is a very reserved person.
K: He is a very lively, really passionate person. Although I am someone who is difficult to mix with people who are very outgoing, luckily Morita san is very approachable. In a favorable coincidence and common interests, we quickly become closer.
-About TV animation "Bleach"
Q---Have Kubo sensei seen the anime before?
K: Of course I watched it. Before the anime is broadcast, I've gotten the tape and seen it.
What is your feeling?
K: From the beginning to the end, the original work is done by me alone, while the animation is a product of a team that requires multitudinous people to understand, to interpret, and then to compile everything together.For that reason, it will make me even more "restless" to watch it. *laugh*
Did any line spoken by Ichigo as Moritan san's voice even appear in sensei's mind?
K:Sometime.*laugh* I have messaged about that part to Morita san.
M: When I heard it, I even searched for that one particular scene vigorously.
K: That was from the scene where he is leaving Soul Society back to the modern world, of the spoken line, "Bullies!" *laugh*(*2)
(*1) The recording is that pilot episode for the show, shown in Japan at the Jump Festa 2004 Anime Tour("BLEACH Jump Festa 2004 Anime Tour: Memories in the Rain")Kubo sensei debuts as voice actor, voices Kon in this special.
How does everyone thinks of his performance?!
(*2) The line that is spoken by Ichigo, the part about back to the modern world, when they required going through the dangerous "Dai-gai" once again.
P3-
"I think drawing is just like illustrating the "air"."
About "drawing ideas"
K: Didn't Morita san just mentioned "Connection to one another and a story is born."(*3), I think it was marvelously well-said.
I think when I am drawing, I wasn't just clarifying the lines, but illustrating the "air".
Therefore, no matter in drawing or writing,neither words nor lines, but singularly illustrating the "air". I always have this feeling of bringing the "air" into the paper when drawing.
How to phrase it, every panel should have a background.
Backgrounds are drawn to remind the reader where is the characters situated. However, I feel that it was not that important. In this manner, at the very panel when a character is exceptionally distinctive, I don't feel like filling the background at all.
In BLEACH, when a new character debuts, the background is actually white.(*4)
The reason is I want the readers to savor the atmosphere of one's surrounding through the characters themselves.
I believe that the world coexists with the characters and shaped, so I would hold this belief of "I want to shape this world" and pen it down.
M: When I read the manga, I can experience this kind of atmosphere; sometime intense, sometime 'delicate'. Because of that, I can even frequently hear the voices of the work as a role of a voice actor. How to conserve its most genuine state, to converse it most genuinely, that is very significant.
(*3) Please look up Moritan san's conversation in Animation book, 'VIBEs".
(*4) The White Background
The scene which Aizen is appeared alive.
It was just like what Sensei has mentioned that the background is white, but nothing is drawn behind the character.
P4
Kubo and Morita Q&A
How do you spent your vacation?
K: I have no vacation.
M: Me too.
K: When I am free, I would do some colorings. I don't even remember what I'd done for the last vacation. I didn't rest. The most is I spent a few hours outside, cutting my hair. Once I reached home, it's work again.
What is the thing you want to do the most now?
K: Now that you asked, I am unsure too. On account of the normal days whereby I just need to ponder what to do, my mind would be in a tangled mess. The things I wanted to do 2 years before, I can't do them anymore now.
What is happening?
Kubo sensei, have you ever think of working on a totally different work?
K: I try my best not to. Once you decided, your heart and mind will tend to lean over there as well. And once you concentrated too much, the other work would be discarded. So that's why I would try my utmost best not to think, and once I think of one, I would use my characters to divert the attention. Thus, I would only dedicated to BLEACH.
However, if it is BLEACH's side chapters, then I can draw. Someone mentioned of "trying other type of side-comics, but then it would make me grow distanced to BLEACH, as it has some difficulties, so until now, I didn't try.
Let's not talk about the present. What about the future?
M: If it is about career, I would challenge acting.
Originally, I can be considered someone from the theater field, and I considered of being in a performance or film before... But that is a faraway future. In the current state, I can only dream but I don't have the time to start.
K: In the area of design.
I would like to be the field of fashion design.(*5 & *6) Or maybe I should be practical and start investing first. I don't know whether I would have the desire to do it a few years later, but I would like to be in the fashion industry, and maybe I should try furniture design as well.
(*5)The designer shirt wore on Ichigo is another Kubo sensei's talent. It is currently the best-seller in "JUMP SHOP"
(*6) "The lacy fairy"
Ishida's pride, helping to fix up Kon, born into fantasy "The Lacy fairy"!
P5
About the work's poetry
The title of Aizen's story(*7) is pretty interesting.
K: Thank you for your compliment.
M: The poem at the front of every volume too.
Around how long does it takes to write a poem?
K: Those are what I collected a few years before.
When I think of an idea, I would just jot it down, and then find a suitable one later.
M: So you have a small note book?
K: That is a must. I already owned about 50. For example, it can be about the vibes the characters leaves, or just writes about the thoughts of the characters. If the poems I complied didn't suit the intended character, then I would keep contemplate of one that is most suitable. If even now I couldn't think of any, then it would really means trouble.
So you still this feeling even now?
K: Definitely.
Moreover, I was asked all of the sudden for SOULs and VIBEs, that every volume has to insert a poem, and now it has given a big headache.(*8)
-The satisfying moment
When Kubo sensei is at work, which moment give you the best satisfaction?
K: It should be the scenes that I always wanted to draw and I can still follow my heart and present it.
Every week, there are only 19 pages, so some scenes has to be cleared. Although it is hard to have a moment whereby everything you want is ideally portrayed,but when you get the smooth ride, it is pretty satisfying.
People say your work give off the impression "like watching a movie". For example, after Aizen's death, the before and after panels of Hinamori/Gin's battle.
K: That particular scene(*9) is among one of my most satisfying moment.
The reason is that scene expressed the portrayal of manga-paneling extremely well, and hearing this from you made me very happy, Thank you.
M: About this point, if you don't pay enough attention, you will missed it. And after you study the paneling and when you realized "so it was presented in this way", it would really give you a shock. How can someone draw out something so delicate like this?
K: There are still quite a lot of things I wanted to draw, and if i have unlimited amount of time, like Kenpachi's story, sooner or later I would put into the plot.
I am so curious about Yachiru's back story.
K: I will draw them. I still can't say it out now.
M: And the four nobles are?
Kuchiki and the Shihouin... and the Shiba?
K: The Shiba is not. At the beginning when the Shiba is part of the five nobles, I even thought of all other related ideas. However if it is not required, then there isn't a need to draw the out...
I want to portray the very best.
M: I am so looking forward to it. *laugh*
Words to the readers
Every readers' letters that sent to me, I have read every single one of them. Your feedback are going to be my biggest support. I look forward to everyone's letters. *laugh*
-Tite Kubo working laboratory
--Kubo sensei is an avid music lover. In every corner of the studio's wall-shelves are filled with CDs.
-- Kubo's sophistication to interior design, on the desk that is multi-functioned, BLEACH is born.
EDIT:
This is for you, debbie. :love
SOULs' scans(Click to enlarge)
http://aycu27.webshots.com/image/41386/2002448452044028600_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002448452044028600)
http://aycu24.webshots.com/image/44343/2002443966175397135_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002443966175397135)
http://aycu24.webshots.com/image/42503/2002407422102412072_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002407422102412072)
http://aycu16.webshots.com/image/42175/2002407331662400352_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002407331662400352)
http://aycu14.webshots.com/image/41613/2002415348610457519_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002415348610457519)
http://aycu27.webshots.com/image/42506/2002408621206070490_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002408621206070490)
VIBEs' scans(Click to enlarge):
http://aycu20.webshots.com/image/44339/2003693572710450783_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003693572710450783)
http://aycu03.webshots.com/image/42762/2003646592137529333_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003646592137529333)
http://aycu11.webshots.com/image/44330/2003688796605848813_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003688796605848813)
http://aycu21.webshots.com/image/40700/2003664653808562761_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003664653808562761)
http://aycu03.webshots.com/image/42442/2003672290803780070_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003672290803780070)
http://aycu33.webshots.com/image/43712/2003688538466185522_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003688538466185522)
Shared and posted by debbiechan:
LiveJournal (http://community.livejournal.com/burimyu/118266.html)
Posted by Rain:
SJ: Do you have an ending in mind for bleach? How much of the story is written in advance? And do you ever change your mind about what will happen?
KT: I still haven't decided how the series will end. As for how far ahead I write, that all depends. Occasionally, when I get ideas for new scenes, I try to link them by imagining the most interesting route. I dont know where the scens will go, because the ideas dont arrive in order. Things tend to be all over th place. I might think of a scene that belongs much much later int he story, and to get there I must draw a lot of other things first. If theres a scene I definitely want to draw, that doesn't change, but how I get there might.
SJ: You're obviously into music. Do you listen to different kinds when you're thinking up the story and drawing it?
TK:I never know when a story idea will come to me or what I'll be doing when it happens. I don't listen to music when im writing. if i listen to music, i start tof ocus on listening, so i dont do that. but i do listen to music when i draw.
SJ: Do you like any type of music in particular?
TK: I listen to rock. Its my favorite
SJ: What music do you recomend reading bleach to?
TK: It would depend on the scene. Ideally, you'd listen to the music that I imagined for it. that said, every scene would have music to go with it, so it could get hard to explain *kubo laughs*
SJ: Should readers listen to background music when they're reading the managa? Or should they skip the music and focus on reading?
TK: I think either is fine. Ive listed the theme music for each character in the manga volumes. if you listen to that while you read scenes with the characters in them, they'd probably go together well.
SJ: How how often do you get away from your studio? And what do you do in your spare time?
TK: I go out enalry everyday. Ive moved closer ot the center of Tokyo, where there are lots of places to eat and plenty of staore, too. I spend my tiem either eating or shopping
SJ: What do you eat when its crunch time
TK: I don't really eat when im busy *kubo laughs* But i do eat tiny chocolates. i lvoe chocolate. Itadakimasu* (SJ gave kubo a chocolate)
SJ: do you have a favorite food or drink
TK: I wonder what that would be. These days, its fuit
SJ: What kind of fruit?
TK: What dio you call mikan in America
SJ: They're called Mandarin oranges
TK: I wan't used to eating fruit, but i got a new editor whos been bringing me some fuit to cheer me up. they're rich in vitamins. Ah, so thoughtful...! *kubo laughs*
Posted by debbiechan:
Astute readers of Bleach will have noticed by now that the manga is unusual in more ways than one. For instance, where else can you find characters with names like Grimmjow? Or tons of characters each with a cool unique look? Being as curious as you are, we put our questions to the man behind it all, Tite Kubo himself. Here's what he told us.
SJ: There's a lot of Spanish in Bleach How did you get interested in the language?
TK: Spanish has always sounded bewitching and mellow to me.
SJ: Bleach uses and amazing number of special terms, like he names of the different zanpakutou (swords) and hadou (spells). When we interviewed you a while back, you told us that they were inspired by ancient Japanese literature. Where did you get the inspiration for the Arrancar names? They're so distinctive.
TK: This isn't something I normally do, but I got the idea of the Arrancar names from those of architects and designers. There is, in fact, a furniture designer named Ulquiiorra. And Grimmjow is inspired by an architect named Niicholas Grimshaw.
SJ: Oh, we're sure the American Bleach editor will be happy to know that!
SJ: You have such unique character designs that it's always easy to tell who's who, even with all the new characters in the Arrancar-Vizard storyline. How do you come up with so many designs, and do you have any tips for us?
TK: I don't have any tips (laughs). I've discussed this with other mangaka who've asked me the same thing. I can't figure it out myself. It could be because I like observing peoples' faces... that might have something to do with it. I've been doing that since I was young.
SJ: Do you people watch in cafes?
TK: I don't go anywhere in particular. It just happens in my daily life, like when I'm on a street and see people walking by or when I'm on a train.
SJ: Don't people recognize you when you're out?
TK: Not at all. I normally don't show my face in very public situations.
SJ: Do you consciously create characters whose outward appearance belies their true nature? For instance, are there good guys with mean looking faces and bad guys who look gentle?
TK: I've always been attracted to people with that seeming contradiction. I get this urge to draw people like that when I work.
SJ: Kon is such a character
TK: Oh, yes. He's cute on the outside , but... (laughs)
SJ: Evil inside?
TK: He's actually quite naughty. (laughs)
Posted by Soranushi:
Interview Credited to Mike On Anime Diet Blog
1:15 PM - Kubo has entered the stage in sunglasses. Looks like a pop star or something.
1:16 PM - Kubo presented with an award from Comic Con Intl. From the cheers I can tell the audience just got much younger than from the preceding Transformers panel.
1:19 PM - 10 kids from Japan are here, Shounen Jump essay winners. Also, we will be getting limited edition posters as we leave.
1:20 PM - I am very glad to see you all, thank you very much Kubo
1:22 PM - Kubo thinks this is immensely huge compared to Japanese events. First impressions of being in America: he had to get his passport for this. Strong sunlight makes everything colorful here.
1:25 PM - Has Kubo done any drawing in his time here? (He has to produce 19 pages a week, after all.) He actually worked ahead of time so he could home here. Not a procrastinator.
1:26 PM - Footage of his workspace. World exclusive. There are desks for his assistants as well, a big screen TV. Pictures of his chairs and metal suitcase he bought to come ovr here. A miniature TV just as decoration. A rare Bleach watch. Oddly enough, Bobobobo in some background art; he had asked a sketch/autograph exchange. The man has a vast CD collection, too (1200-1300 on a shelf; others stacked up). Picture of a kitchen, which is clean because they never cook!
1:32 PM - Upstairs: Kubos actual work area. Footage of him working with a ton of markers next to him. Hes coloring. HIs work chair was chosen based on design and he drew Aizens chair like it. Handing manuscripts and fan letters to his editor.
1:35 PM - Video portion over. Now questions from audience.
1:35 PM - What inspired him to become a manga artist? Decided when he was in elementary school. He became interested in architecture and design after he had already become a manga artist.
1:38 PM - What comes first in Bleach? : Kubo puts character, not plot, first.
1:39 PM - What inspired him to put Spanish/Mexican culture in Bleach? Nothing intentional with the character Chad. However, he just sensed he had a Mexican heritage. Someone in audience shouts Viva La Raza!
1:40 PM - Where does he come up with the opening drawings? He puts characters in clothes he cant get.
1:40 PM - Advice for aspiring manga artists: Seems stumpedbelieve in your talent. Do something you yourself must enjoy; otherwise its dishonest to charge someone for your story.
1:41 PM - What was the initial thought for bleach? "Bleach was inspired by the fact that i wanted to draw shinigami in kimonos, and to make something no one had seen before, started with Rukias design."
1:42 PM - How did Quincy and its name come about (JEREMYS QUESTION!): I created Quincy to be Ichigos rival character, so, for that, I put him in white clothing. He uses arrows because its long range, and it will be difficult for Ichigo to fight him. The Quincy name is from his five point star; in Japan this is a symbol. If you call every archer a Quincy Archer it sounds like a persons name, so he liked it.
1:45 PM - How do you draw action scenes? Plays rock music in his head as he draws it. He pauses the action and try to swing around in 3D mentally to find the best angle.
1:46 PM - When did he realize he had such a big fanbase in the US? Yesterday!
1:47 PM - Pancha Diaz, Viz editor asks: What part of the process does he enjoy the most? When thinking of the story, if its something hes been waiting to do for a while, he enjoys it very much. Usually has a scene rundown of things to draw in his head. Connecting scenes are a bit harder. Inking is also enjoyable for him.
1:49 PM - Pancha Diaz again: How long between drawing and publication? Between 2-3 weeks. Diaz, by contrast notes, has to do 6 months in advance.
1:50 PM - Will there be an Isshin backstory? Yes! He knew from the start he was a Soul Reaper.
1:51 PM - Three minutes left. Is the Kon doll inspired by something from his childhood? Wanted to create something fake looking, where you put random things togetherlike a sewing line in the middle of the face. Backstory: a father bought a cheap stuffed animal for his child, and the child threw it away because it was uglythats why he is on the street.
1:54 PM - Idea for Hell Butterflies: Looked up in a dictionary for word that goes well with Soul Reaper. It is a kind of butterfly that is another name for a real butterfly species. Prefers to fly in the dark, and it fits well with the Soul Reapers.
End of panel.
Posted by Kreed:
Report: Kubo Tite in America: San Diego Comic-Con International (http://www.otaku2.com/articleView.php?item=116)
Posted by vaizado:
SDCC 08: An Audience With Bleach's Creator (http://comics.ign.com/articles/895/895983p1.html)
Posted by Enth:
After a brief introduction by the Viz staff, questions written by panel attendees were read to Kubo-san. When asked to give his impressions of Comic-Con and America, he said "Compared to Japanese events it's immensely huge.
This is my first time in America as well as abroad. For this I obtained my passport!" When asked if he'd done any drawing or work on Bleach while he was in San Diego, Kubo was quick to joke "I work hard in Japan so I can come here!"
As a special treat to panel attendees, a visual tour of Kubo-san's studio was presented. Fans were held in awe of the nearly 2000 CD's in his collection. "I choose the music" he said with authority when asked who controls what his assistants listen to while working. Fans also got a good laugh about the extra clean kitchen on the premises. "It's very clean because we don't cook!" he laughed.
After the tour was over, it was back to the Q&A. When asked what he might have chosen as a career had he not become a manga artist, he responded "I decided to become a manga artist when I was in elementary school, so when you ask about other careers, I really don't have one." He also had a lot of advice for aspiring manga creators: "Believe in your talent, no matter what others may say. It is important for others to enjoy it, so you must enjoy it. If not, you're being dishonest."
The questions then turned to Bleach. Where did the inspiration come from? "I wanted to draw Soul Reapers wearing kimonos. Rukia at first wasn't wearing a kimono, so I put her in one. Bleach grew out of that." One attendee asked about Chad's Mexican background. "It wasn't intentional," Kubo replied. "When I first started drawing Chad, it just seemed that he should come from a Mexican heritage." When asked why he created the Quincy, he offered a lot of insight. "I created the Quincy to be Ichigo's rivals, which is why they wear white clothing. Also, they use bow and arrows, which makes them harder for Ichigo to fight."
(POTENTIAL SPOILER ALERT) One fan asked if there would ever be a back story for Ichigo's dad. "I will draw it!" he responded to thunderous applause. "When I finished drawing the first chapter, I knew he was a Soul Reaper."
Some final questions dealt with his artistic style and ability. "Nobody poses for me when I'm doing action scenes. I usually have rock music playing and it comes out of that. When I think about the story, if it's something I want to draw, I usually have these random scenes I want to draw, so my real job is trying to connect those scenes."
Posted by debbiechan:
From here: http://manga.about.com/od/mangaartis...a/TiteKubo.htm
It appears to incorporate the panel questions as well.
Q: First of all, welcome to San Diego. It's been so exciting to have you here at Comic-Con!
Tite Kubo: Thank you! It's great to be here. I was really looking forward to coming to America. This is really my dream come true.
Q: You got this incredible rock star-type reception from your fans today! Did you expect that?
Tite Kubo: I had heard before that American fans are very, very enthusiastic, but I didn't expect this much!
Q: When did you realize that you had such a broad fan base in America?
Tite Kubo: Yesterday. (laughs)
Q: What are your impressions of San Diego Comic-Con so far? Is there anything like this in Japan?
Tite Kubo: This is really impressive. Compared to Japanese events, Comic-Con is immense! I go to Jump Festa, but compared to that, Comic-Con is many times larger.
Q: Is this your first visit to the U.S.? What do you think?
Tite Kubo: It's the first time for me to be abroad from Japan. I got my passport just so I could come to this event. Compared to Japan, the sunlight is very different and it's very strong. It makes things look very colorful as well.
Q: I heard that you have to draw 19 pages of manga every week, and that you drew ahead so you could take a break to come out to San Diego. Have you done any drawing since you've been here?
Tite Kubo: I worked really hard so I could take the time to come here, so no, I haven't worked on any drawing since I've been here (big smile).
EARLY INFLUENCES AND THE BEGINNINGS OF BLEACH
Q: When did you decide to become a manga artist?
Tite Kubo: I had already decided when I was in elementary school. When I became a manga artist, I became interested in architecture and design, but I've really only wanted to become a manga artist.
Q: Which artists influenced you then, made you feel like it would be really cool to become a professional manga artist?
Tite Kubo: Hmm. My number one favorite manga then was Ge Ge Ge no Kitaro (by Shigeru Mizuki)! I've always liked the yokai (monsters) in that series. The other one that I liked a lot is Saint Seiya (a.k.a. Knights of the Zodiac by Masami Kurumada) -- the characters all wear armor and have interesting weapons.
Q: Huh! I guess that makes sense. I can kind of see some of the influence of both series in Bleach -- the Japanese supernatural themes from Ge Ge Ge no Kitaro and the weaponry and battle scenes from Saint Seiya.
Tite Kubo: Yes, I think so, definitely.
Q: What was your inspiration for Bleach?
Tite Kubo: I wanted to draw Soul Reapers wearing kimono. When I first designed Rukia, she wasn't wearing kimono, but i wanted to create something that no one has seen before. From there I created the world of Bleach.
Q: You've been drawing Bleach since 2001, seven years now. Has it changed dramatically from what you thought this story would be when you first started drawing it?
Tite Kubo: At first, I didn't plan that there would be Taicho, the head Captain of the Soul Society. The captains, they didn't exist at first.
ICHIGO, CHAD, URYU AND KON: CREATING THE MANY CHARACTERS OF BLEACH
Q: What comes first? the characters, or the story's plot?
Tite Kubo: (emphatically) Characters first!
Q: Bleach has so many characters with so many different powers, weapons, personalities and relationships! How do you come up with them?
Tite Kubo: I really don't intend that characters have certain personalities when I come up with them. Sometimes I can't think of any new characters. Then other times, I come up with 10 or more new characters.
Q: Are there any characters that you thought fans would love but didn't, or a character that caught on with fans in a way that you didn't expect?
Tite Kubo: I don't really recall any characters that I've created that I thought fans would love but didn't, but usually I notice that when I start describing a character's personality or back story, the fans start to really respond to them, and really start liking them.
However, in the case of Suhei Hisagi (Lieutenant / Acting Captain of Squad 9), fans got hooked on him before I even started describing his personality, so that was very unusual.
Q: Are there any characters that are most like you?
Tite Kubo: I feel like all the characters have a little bit of me in them! (laughs)
Q: How do you come up with the clothes for the characters in Bleach?
Tite Kubo: I just put the characters in the clothes I wish I could buy, but can't find in stores.
Q: What do you consider to be Ichigo's greatest strength and his greatest weakness?
Tite Kubo: His strength is that he is always considerate and thoughtful. He always thinks about other people's needs. That is a great strength, but it's also his greatest weakness, because worrying about his friends puts him in danger too, sometimes.
Q: Speaking of Ichigo's relationships with his friends, there seems to be a love triangle between Ichigo, Rukia and Orihime. Do you delve more into this in later volumes?
Tite Kubo: (laughs) I get asked about that a lot! I don't want to make Bleach into a love story because there are much more exciting things about their personalities and things that they can do instead of getting into the romance aspect of their relationships.
Q: Your male characters are great, but your female characters are also very strong, interesting women. Are you influenced by strong women in your life when you create these characters?
Tite Kubo: I have quite a few female friends who are not physically strong, but mentally, they are really very strong people.
Q: Do you have a favorite female character in Bleach?
Tite Kubo: Hmm. Yoruichi and Rangiku! Their attitude is like, they just don't care what people think of them! (laughs) I have a lot of fun drawing them and creating stories with them.
Q: What inspired you to have a Mexican character like Chad and to include Hispanic culture in Bleach?
Tite Kubo: It wasn't something intentional. When I designed Chad, he looked like he had a Mexican heritage, so I just wrote that in.
Q: How did you come up for idea of the Quincies?
Tite Kubo: I created Qunicies to be Ichigo's rival characters, so i put Uryu in white clothing (compared to the black kimono worn by the Soul Reapers). Qunicies use arrows because they're long range weapons, so it's difficult for Ichigo to fight them with his sword, which is more for short range combat.
The Quincy cross has 5 points, kind of like the the Japanese 5-pointed star. 5 points, quintet, Quincy! Quincies use arrows, so if you call them Qunicy archers, it sounds like a name, so I kind of liked that.
Q: Is the Kon doll based on anything from your childhood?
Tite Kubo: I wanted to create something that looks fake, that looks like something that was just random things put together. Normally you don't have a sewing line in the middle of a stuffed doll's face unless it's done to make the face look more three-dimensional. But look at Kon! His face is flat so that line is unnecessary -- so I kind of like that fact.
Ichigo and Rukia first find Kon on the street, so I made up a back story about how he got there. At a festival, a child wanted a stuffed animal, but since the one that he wanted was too expensive, so the parent bought a cheap one instead. The child didn't like it and threw it away, so that's why the Kon doll was found on the street!
BLEACH STORY DEVELOPMENT AND THE FUTURE OF BLEACH
Q: One thing your fans love about your manga is that you always keep them guessing. Do you plan very far ahead how your characters will interact with each other, and the various plot twists you throw into your stories?
Tite Kubo: After i finished drawing chapter one, I already knew that Ichigo's dad Isshin would be a Soul Reaper. At the time, I didn't plan on having leaders in the Soul Society, so I didn't plan on him being one of the leaders.
Q: Will you feature a back story about Isshin?
Tite Kubo: Yes, I will draw it!
Q: One thing I enjoy about Bleach is that there are many moments of humor as well as drama. Is that intentional to break up some of the heavier moments in the story?
Tite Kubo: I don't really plan on it, but when I get bored drawing battle scenes, then I throw in a joke or two to make it more fun for me.
Q: How do you draw your action scenes? Do you have models?
Tite Kubo: Nobody poses for me -- I just have rock music going in my head and just imagine the action scenes. I pause the action and rotate the characters and find the best angle, and then I draw it.
Q: What part of the creative process do you enjoy most?
Tite Kubo: When I think about the story, if it's something I've wanted to draw for a long time, it's fun.
I usually have this rundown of scenes I want to draw in my head. My job is to try to make it interesting. When it comes to drawing a scene I really want to do it's fun. When I draw the connecting scenes, I try to make it lively. And when it comes to inking, I really enjoy doing that work too.
Q: You're already up to 33 volumes of Bleach -- how much longer do you think this story will go?
Tite Kubo: I can't really say how long this story will be by the time it ends, but I have a few more stories that I want to tell, so this series will go on for a while. (laughs)
MEETING HIS FANS AND A FEW WORDS OF ADVICE FOR ASPIRING MANGA-KA
Q: Let's talk a bit about your encounters with your fans this weekend. Are there any memorable experiences, or anything that stands out in your mind as your favorite memory so far?
Tite Kubo: One of my favorite experiences so far was seeing the artwork from the winners of the fan art contest. The color illustration (by Christy Lijewski) was especially impressive. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to meet the artists, but it was really great to see their work.
Q: So as you can see, there are a lot of American fans who love manga and who would love to be a professional manga artist like you are. Do you have any advice or secrets to your success that you could share with them?
Tite Kubo: Just believe in your talent. Maybe others will tell you otherwise -- but just believe in it. It's very important for readers to enjoy what you create, so you must do something that you find enjoyable too. Otherwise, it's dishonest to charge people for something that you don't enjoy.
Q: Do you have any message that you'd like to pass on to your fans who weren't able to meet you here today?
Tite Kubo: I really get it now that American fans are really enthusiastic (about my work). I would love to come back to America again to meet more of my fans and maybe see them where they live next time.
Posted by debbiechan:
Fromhere (http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6584260.html)
W Comics Week: When you were first creating Bleach, did you think it would be this successful?
Tite Kubo: I dont think its a success yet. But Im very, very happy to learn that lots of fans are enjoying it in a place where Id never imagine [it would be popular]. Its very rare and difficult for me to see fans because Im so busy, so this is a rare opportunity for me.
PWCW: What do you think of the U.S.? And Comic-Con?
TK: My first impression is that America is so huge, so big, and the sun is very strong, very bright. Thanks to the intense light, you can see the vivid color of trees, the buildings.
Comic-Con is huge, too. Its very interesting to see big major publishers and also independent artists drawing and selling [their comics] on the same floor. That doesnt really happen in Japan. Also artists are close to their audience, which doesnt happen in Japan, either. I feel envious of this situation. Artists and fans are so close, and they can get closer to each other. In Japan, artists and fans are rather far apart from each other.
PWCW: Now that Bleach has been going on for a bit, how do you keep the adventure and the story fresh?
TK: I think it maintains a freshness because when I create manga, I dont think about whats going to happenI just come up with an idea and let it flow. Its a weekly installment, so I have a very short time to create manga, but the good thing is that because its short, I can come up with the idea and start creating it.
PWCW: Have you ever gotten yourself into a situation that made you say, Uh-oh?
TK: I dont really face that kind of situation because its a long story and sometimes I forget whats happened in the past, but I read the previous volumes of Bleach and that usually helps me to create and have a new idea.
PWCW: What is your favorite aspect of creating Bleach?
TK: When I draw the scene that Id been dreaming about or had always wanted to draw, that is the time that Im happiest. The other time that I really enjoy is when I create new characters. But when I create new characters, its not usually when Im working. When Im running errands, it will come up in my mind, and then Ill develop it. Its one of the most enjoyable parts. But I enjoy drawing and creating manga, so its always fun.
PWCW: In both Bleach and Zombie Powder 9 [an early, unfinished work by Kubo], the theme of death is prevalent. People are haunted, family members are killed. Why is this theme important to you?
TK: When I was very small, three or four years old, I remember wondering what was going to happen to me or other people when they die. When I saw babies images in mothers wombs, I wondered where we all came from. For me, life and death are very important themes. There is no life without death. Thats why its very important to me.
PWCW: You mentioned that when you draw action, you choose the best angle in your head. How do you decide which is the best angle?
TK: I select the angle based on its looks. It has to be cool. And at the same time, it has to be realistic. If its not realistic, the reader cannot feel the pain. In a battle scene, its most important to make it realistic so that readers can feel the pain. I choose the action where if I were the character, I would feel the most pain.
If the flow of power or impact is not right, then the impact cannot be communicated to the reader. Otherwise its incomplete, and it needs to be perfect.
PWCW: How do you maintain such a demanding schedule?
TK: Hard work. (laughs) I dont think its too hard. I draw faster than others so I dont really think its an issue.
PWCW: You also had a message for aspiring mangaka, advising them to believe in their work, otherwise its dishonest to charge money for it. What do you mean by that?
TK: The message is that if you believe in what you create, its enjoyable and people will follow. The talented mangaka should know that, otherwise no one would read or enjoy it. So believe in yourself. Believing in yourself is important.
Posted by debbichan:
Lucia just posted these links in the IchiRuki fanclub to translations by sketchbaka of Bleach B Station 112 and Bleach B Station 103 when Kubo and Morita were guests.
Btw, I just read something really interesting from Sketch's LJ. Bleach B Station 112's guest was Kubo. He did an interview with Morita Masakazu (Ichigo's seiyuu) during the show last year. In case anyone doesn't know, Bleach B Station is a Bleach-related radio program in Japan. Sketchbaka heard the interview and did a translation of it. There are info about Rukia and where Kubo got her name from. But nothing about the meaning for it. There's also another interview from Fumiko Orikasa (Rukia's seiyuu) last year on Bleach B Station 103 as well. There are some info about Rukia and IchiRuki on it.
the Bleach B Station 112 is here: http://sketchbaka.livejournal.com/3763.html
This one is particularly interesting because the blogger seems to infer that Kubo listens to fan wishes in determining the course of his manga!
the Bleach B Station 103 is here: http://sketchbaka.livejournal.com/4032.html
Re Rukia's zanpakutou: Morita mentioned that Kubo-sensei told him before that her zanpakutou is the most beautiful. Fumiko added, "He keep telling me he has a 'totteoki' (special/most valued) feeling for it." Fumiko was very happy for it.
There are some other things the seiyuu say that shippers can go to town on but the transcripts are very fun and presented here for your enjoyment.
Posted by vaizado:
Creator Tite Kubo surprised by 'Bleach' success (http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-etw-kuboweb28-2008aug28,0,3099871.story)
Posted by Amaranth, originally by Jaina:
Is there a reason the manga is called Bleach, or is that a secret?
The Soul Reaper - the color that you associate with the Soul Reaper is black. But "black" is too straightforward. So I thought about "white", but white is too simple. So if you put "bleach", somebody can associate that with white. So that's how Bleach came.
If you become a Soul Reaper, what division would you want to be in?
The fourth [medical], because you don't get hurt there!
One thing a lot of people have noticed is that Bleach has many different female characters, each with a distinctive strength. Is that something you took a lot of care in doing?
Usually, I don't intend to create personality before I draw. Usually I draw a character and then I know which side of her is strong and which side is weak. But sometimes the personality and the design come at the same time. I dont think that the artists should create the character that you want it to be. I think that the character should have its own character. Let them grow: thats my belief.
What do you think is the main theme of Bleach?
In my work, I dont like to impose a message or theme onto the reader. I want the characters to develop on their own and create the story themselves, and it usually turns out very clever. So I tend to do that sort of thing.
Way back in the beginning of the manga, when Ichigo was first using Rukias powers, was he also wielding her actual sword, just much bigger? A lot of people have noticed that the marking on it were the same.
The design is the same because at that time he was bearing her power. So yes.
Was the spirit of her zanpakuto in him also?
The outside [of the zanpakuto] has the design of Rukias but when he was fighting at the beginning, the spirit was his Ichigos. At one point during some battle, Urahara tells him that Ichigos zanpakuto is big, but theres nothing in it. So at that time he hasnt really developed his spirit in it, but he gradually starts to.
For a shonen series, Bleach spends a lot focusing on the emotions and different bonds between the characters. Im sure youre asked this a lot, but will we ever see any romance by the end of the series?
I dont really intend to make it a romantic story, but its one of the aspects of the series, so I put it in here and there.
In some of the earlier collected volumes, you list a theme song for each character in the character profile. Do you have any songs picked out for some of the newest characters?
Usually when I draw, when I create a character, Im playing some music in my head and thats why I assign that music, for example, to Ichigo. So even if I dont list it now, I do assign it, I just dont put it on paper. But every character has a theme song.
When did Rukia have the Hogyoku put inside her?
Its a secret!
From the beginning of the series, the team-up of Ichigo and Rukia was very important to making the series work. How did you plan it out?
Ichigo obviously needed help because he was developing his talent and strength, and here she was, so I thought theyd be a good match to help each other.
Finally, can you tell us why Aizens couch is so big?
The bigger, the more beautiful!
Posted by Sheryl Nome:
Tite Kubo's Big Comic-Con Adventure!"
Drawing Inspiration
Shonen Jump: Did anyone inspire you to draw?
Kubo-sensei: When I create characters, I'm inspired by music rather than stories, other manga or movies. The characters then create the story. So for me, my creativity comes from music.
SJ: Are any of the characters based on people you know?
Kubo-sensei: Well, I haven't mentioned this before, even in the Bleach SOULs Official Character Book, but Kisuke Urahara is based on Snufkin. Snufkin is so cool.
[The character appears in Tove Jansoon's Moominvalley novels.]
SJ: You seem to use mythical content about death and the afterlife from Japanese folklore. Did any books influence you?
Kubo-sensei: I can't point to a particular book, but one manga that influenced me when I was small was Saint Seiya [published in the U.S. as Knights of the Zodiac], which is based on Greek mythology. Because of it, I started looking into things like myths, monsters and the afterlife. I was reading about them until around junior high school, so they might have been the basis.
SJ: What does Rukia's name mean, and why is it written in katakana?
Kubo-sensei: When I'm working, I jot down names in the margins of my notebook as they come to me. Once on TV, I saw the original type of cosmos in South America.
SJ: You mean, the flower?
Kubo-sensei: Yes. The show mentioned the name of the flower in Latin or something-like "rukia." It sounded like "Kuchiki Rukia" to me, and I wrote this down. When I created the character, I thought Kuchiki really fit as a Soul Reaper (Shinigami) name and called her Kuchiki Rukia. She had her full name from the very beginning. Later on, I learned that the word "rukia" means "light." She's like a ray of light for Ichigo, which makes the name really suit her.
[In English, the name is read "Rukia Kuchiki." The meaning of the kanji for Kuchiki is "decayed tree." When Kubo-sensei talks about light, he may be referring to the word "lucia."]
SJ: Why did you pick Bleach as the title?
Kubo-sensei: The title wasn't Bleach when I decided to draw a story about Soul Reapers. (Shinigami) This was before I drew the one-shot manga that appeared in Akamaru Jump. The weapon wasn't a sword, but a scythe. Only Rukia had a scythe and the other characters used guns. At that point, the title was Snipe [as in "sniper"]. Right before I started drawing, I began to think that a sword would be better and realized I couldn't use Snipe as a title anymore. I began looking for a title that grasped the bigger picture. Soul Reapers (Shinigami) are associated with the color black, but it would have been boring to use "black." "White," on the other hand, can suggest black as a complementary color. So I chose "bleach" to evoke the impression of the color white.
[Kubo-sensei explained to us how he chose English chapter titles for the manga. He uses a dictionaru to look up words that match his idea for the title, and ogten replaces a word with one that has a similar meaning but sounds better. Kubo-sensei didn't use a dictionary to choose "bleach" because the English word is already commonly used in Japan.]
Behind the Scenes
SJ: Will you ever do an Aizen backstory?
Kubo-sensei: Will I...? To be honest, I think part of Aizen's appeal is that he's mysterious. It probably wouldn't be good for his character if I revealed everything about him. If I felt the urge to tell, maybe I would, but I'm just not sure right now.
SJ: Does Captain Yamamoto have a larger plan for the Soul Society? He seems to have no problem with his captains dying.
Kubo-sensei: Does he? I don't have anything planned for him right now. What's interesting about Genryuusai is you can never guess his true intentions. Among the captains, like Shunsui and Unohana, there are a few who appear to have something more to them, but for now I'll have to say it's all a secret.
SJ: Will we learn who will become captains in place of Aizen, Ichimaru and Tousen?
Kubo-sensei: Probably not anytime soon. Assistant captains lack certain abilities that captains have. I personally think the assistant captains need some time before they can become captains. Renji is a major character who's pretty powerful, but put him next to the captains and you'll probably notice that he's kind of erratic... and missing a noble quality. The captains are simply on a whole other level.
SJ: Do you have any plans to make Ichigo and Rukia a couple?
Kubo-sensei: I'm not going to confirm nor deny that. [Laughs]
SJ: Which American superheroes do you admire?
Kubo-sensei: I don't know of many American comic book heroes. I only know them from the movies, but appearance-wise, I thought Cyclops [from the X-men] looked pretty interesting. He can't take off the visor. When he does, his eye power is too strong and kills people- wasn't it something like that? I think that kind of setup is great because it's so dramatic.
SJ: Will Kon ever get his own body?
Kubo-sensei: I hadn't thought about it. I like him in his current body, and I think Kon likes it, too.
SJ: He gets more attention in that body.
Kubo-sensei: That's true.
Kubo-sensei on Comic-Con
SJ: What was the most impressice Bleach coustume you saw?
Kubo-sensei: There were actually two. One was Komamura, who had a wolf's face on when he took off his helmet. The other was Neliel [a character who hasn't yet appeared in the manga in the U.S.], who was in all white. Those two coustumes impressed me the most. I also saw a few Kons out there that were very cute.
SJ: We do call it Comic-Kon!
Kubo-sensei: It's an event made for Kon. [laughs]
SJ: He seems to think so.
Kubo-sensei: That's right, definitely.
SJ: We also saw on Arrancar with a mirror.
Kubo-sensei: Ah, yes. That was Grimmjow.
SJ: He had a round mirror over his stomach to look like a hole.
Kubo-sensei: That was a great idea.
SJ: What will you tell your family and friends about this trip?
Kubo-sensei: I want to tell them about everything. I'll take the time and tell them everything I can remember. I was so glad to meet the fans. I received their heartfelt welcome and felt their warmth. I want to be able to convey what I felt as much and as truthfully as possible.
SJ: Thank you so much for the interview!
Kubo-sensei: You're welcome. It was fun.
Join if you love this awesome manga artist and spread his love! :love
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Shishou's Biography :
Born :Noriaki Kubo
June 26, 1977 (1977-06-26) (age 31)
Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
Nationality: Japanese
Occupation :Manga artist
Known for :Zombie Powder, Bleach
In this Japanese name, the family name is Kubo.
The son of a town council member in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima, Tite Kubo graduated from the local high school. In an interview, Kubo has stated that he entered a magazine's manga contest, and that although he did not win, one of the magazine's editors noticed his talent. They subsequently worked together on joint projects. Not long afterward, his first manga short, "Ultra Unholy Hearted Machine", was published in Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump Special in 1996. This was followed by two more shorts, and in 1999 his first serial, Zombie Powder, began in Weekly Shonen Jump and ran for four volumes until 2000.
His next serial, Bleach, about a high school student who becomes a shinigami and fights evil spirits, began running in the same magazine in 2001. As of December 4, 2007, Bleach has reached over 300 chapters, and an anime adaptation began running in Japan in 2004. The manga was named a winner of the Shogakukan Manga Award for its category in 2005. A Bleach movie was released in Japan on December 16, 2006, followed by a second movie on December 22, 2007.
On July 26, 2008, Tite Kubo came to the United States for the first time and made an appearance at the San Diego Comic-Con International.
Kubo Tite's interviews:
Originally posted by Slev:
All translation and everything by k_shi (http://www.livejournal.com/users/k_shi/)
His character commentary that he did in 2004:
"Kurosaki Ichigo
When Ichigo goes to the hair dresser, people ask him about his hair color and since he hates that, he doesn't go to the hair dresser. Normally, Yuzu cuts it.
Kuchiki Rukia
Sometimes people ask me this, in book 5 they announced the semester's final exam scores and regarding Rukia's rank, out of 322 people in the 1st grade, she's 302nd. Besides Japanese, she flunked most of it.
Kon
The plushie body of his is the fake copy of the main character of the popular TV show, "Carnivor Kingdom" named "Ponkichi". It was a prize from the shooting game in the Karakura Town Festival.
Inoue Orihime
Tied with Ichigo, her face is the hardest to draw. She's going to be a very important character later on so, I want to get used to drawing her faster.
Sado Yasutora
He likes music so he rarely watches TV, but the only program he likes the "Carnivor Kingdom" that starts at 8 AM on Sundays. He likes it so much that he bought the DVDs for it.
Ishida Uryuu
The TV program he likes is Don Kanonji's "Bura-Rei". It's not mentioned in the comic, but in chapter 29, the shadow that tried to jump in before Ichigo was Uryuu.
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y27...nerdishida.bmp
Urahara Kisuke
The rare candy sold only in Urahara shouten, "Space candy". From the name, it sounds like it'll have some strange taste, but inside is only a coca cola tasting candy.
Shihouin Yoruichi
Yoruichi-san cannot drink so much alcohol. She likes milk the most. When she's tired, first she starts with milk. As long as there's milk, she's in a good mood.
Zangetsu
Zangetsu was the most difficult to decide for the appearance. After nitpicking on his hair style and his clothes, the only thing that remained from the original sketch were his shades.
Shiba Ganjyu
He looks good with goggles, so every time he came out with new clothes, I put a new goggle hanging from his neck, but by the next week I forget to draw it.
Ichimaru Gin
In my opinion, I was trying to draw him all creepy since his first appearance, but for some reason he is a man who is very popular amongst women. I envy him.
Kuchiki Byakuya
Within the seireitei, there're only four major noble families including the Kuchiki family that are considered high class noble men. Besides them, the life style of the other nobles are not much different from normal city people.
Zaraki Kenpachi
Tied with Tousen Kaname, out of the BLEACH characters, he has the hardest hair style to draw. I think I'll continue to regret eternally for giving him that hair style.
Hitsugaya Toushirou
He's from the West Rukongai 1st area "Jyunrinan". He is actually friends with Jidanbou and was the one who taught him the "city rules".
Abarai Renji
All his sunglasses are from Seireitei's popular glasses store "Silver dragon fly glasses store" (megane no gin tonbo). Every time he wears it, he gets it broken, but that costs half a year worth his paycheck.
Kira Izuru
All of Seireitei's shinigami are all considered "nobles", but it also has a high, middle, and low class and Izuru is from a low class noble family. He's had a pretty tough time.
Hinamori Momo
I had a tough time trying to decide her name. The name "Hinamori Momo" was decided right before drawing the official comic. During the sketch stage, she had a totally different name.
Yamada Hanatarou
A rather pitiful Hanatarou whose birthday lies on April Fools. Every year, on his birthday a bunch of people keep tricking him the entire day."
---
Shonen Jump interview from 2006:
Shonen Jump: How did you get into creating manga?
Tite Kubo: The summer of my third year if high school was the first time Id ever written a manga. I didnt have any experience or knowledge of how to draw manga I didnt know you were supposed to draw rough pages first, so I just drew directly on the paper and submitted to Weekly Shonen Jump for a contest. I didnt win, but I got a phone call from one of the editors who suggested we work together.
SJ: Which comes first, the story or the art?
TK: Of course, its either the pictures, or the characters sometimes I have ideas for the characters appearances, or sometimes their personality. Once you get those characters set, then the story kind of moves on by itself. The key thing is that I come to love the characters, as if they re real.
SJ: If you werent a manga-ka, what else would you do?
TK: Industrial design, architecture I never studied them, but Im very interested in them.
SJ: What are Rukias favourite manga?
TK: She loves horror manga, shojo-orientated horror titles. Shes from the afterlife, but theres actually nothing scary to read in the afterlife.
SJ: How involved are you in making the Bleach animated series?
TL: Im involved with the character designs. Usually the character designs are done with manga artists just overseeing, but in my case I actually draw what all the characters should look like I am essentially drawing all of the characters that appear in the anime. It is very rare for the artist to be involved this much.
SJ: What aould your dream cast be fore a live-action Bleach movie?
TK: If it were possible to do Bleach as a live movie, then I wouldnt have drawn the manga. I want to draw something that can only be done as manga.
Posted by Orihime:
SJ: What would you give Rukia as a present?
Tite Kubo: A vacation! She's been busy all year.
SJ: Is there a character that you enjoy drawing especially?
TK: I tend to prefer characters that are rough and tough. They seem more three-dimensional. I'd say someone like Kenpachi. Komamura's fun to draw, too. Behind his headgear, he's got the face of the wolf -- something you normally wouldn't think to draw.
SJ: So you like fierce characters?
TK: Yes, I like characters that aren't typical or a bit unusual. I enjoy drawing secondary characters. It's also fun drawing Mayuri.
SJ: If you could switch places with one of the characters for a day, who would it be and why?
TK: I'd switch places with Kon. He seems so carefree, and everybody loves him in one way or another.
SJ: What items from the human world does Kisuke sell in his shop?
TK: Basically lots of candy and snacks, and household items. Small things, like detergent.
SJ: Could we find copies of SJ there?
TK: You won't find SJ. Kisuke doesn't have a distribution channel. But he does buy copies from himself at a nearby convenice store. [Laughs]
SJ: Are kimono easy to draw?
TK: Initially I wasn't all that interested in a traditional Japanese look, so it was hard at the start, but I got used to it. I wanted a kimono style that was slightly different from the usual. For instance, I wanted some decoration along the edges and sleeves that fluttered a lot to make the action scenes gorgeous to watch.
SJ: Do you use models or have one of your assistants pose for you? Have you ever dressed as a Soul Reaper and posed for a drawing?
TK: I don't do such things. I know in my head pretty much what a character is going to look like, so for any action scene I'll make the character move around in my head, choosing the angle I want and drawing from there.
SJ: How can Ichigo swing a sword that looks heavier than he is? Is he secretly working out at home?
TK: Well, no. To begin with, a zanpaku-tou isn't something you'd swing with your muscles. Ichigo's zanpaku-tou comes from inside him, so he wouldn't find it heavy. If Ichigo tried to wield Renji's zanpaku-tou, Zabimaru, he'd find it heavy.
SJ: So it depends on the person?
TK: Yes. Zabimaru looks pretty heavy, too. Ichigo wouldn't be able to wield him. Renji would probably find the same thing with Ichigo's zanpaku-tou, Zangetsu.
SJ: The relationships between siblings mean a lot in Bleach. Do you have any brothers or sisters yourself?
TK: Yes, I'm the eldest of three children. I have a younger sister and a younger brother.
SJ: If you could choose a character as a sibling, who would it be?
TK: I'd choose Rangiku, I wish she were my older sister. [Laughs] Well, that's because you cna count on her when you're in trouble.
SJ: And you want to be Kon, too?
TK: Hey, I didn't mean that! [Laughs]
SJ: Could you tell us which characters you would want to see fight each other?
TK: Hmm...I'd pick Shunsui and Ukitake.
SJ: Why is that?
TK: Because they're both nitouryuu [two-handed swordmen] which would make for fantastic visuals. Also because I can't imagine a reason they would fight each other in the story. They get along so well; they have been best friends for so long. I'd want to see what I fight between them would be like. If I had to pick one that's simply impossible, then I'd choose Ichigo and (dundundun! ) Kaien. Kaien being dead, that is.
SJ: Bleach is increasingly popular in the U.S., now that the anime is airing on TV. What aspect of the anime do you want readers of the manga to enjoy the most?
TK: I think what's fun in the anime and what's fun in the manga are two different things. What's fun to see in the anime is, of course, the way things move and sound. What I recommend most is to read the manga first then watch the anime. You'll discover and enjoy how a particular scene in the manga is transformed and how the action is portrayed. Some things in the manga have evolved into something new or have been shown in a way only the anime can achieve. These are the things that I hope readers will enjoy most when watching the anime.
SJ: Do you have a message for our readers?
TK: I never imagined when writing Bleach that it would be eventually published in the U.S., so I'm really glad that American readers have taken to it and enjoyed my work. Please continue to support Bleach. I've also been told that I shouls visit America someday.
Posted by Geta Boshi in the IchiRuki thread, translated by MelodyMix:
Kubo-Sensei makes sure he watches anime every week. Morita-san, do you buy Jump every week as well?
M – Yes. Every Monday I read it at the Convenience store
K – You buy it with your own money?
M - Of course! *laughs* what, can I get one for free? I’ve been buying Jump since year 2 (7~8 years old in Japan), with my own money *laughs*
Ever since you voiced Ichigo, have you changed the way you read Jump?
M – It did change. When I read Bleach now I get really nervous. I go home, take a bath, and prepare myself to read *laugh*
K – It’s like a script *laugh*
M – It is like a script! I read before going to bed, making sure the area around me is quiet. Being a voice actor, first impressions are always important when reading a script. That’s why I make sure I’m in a quiet area so I can concentrate.
Favourite character?
M – People ask me that a lot. This also applies to real life as well but there are humans with different background stories, and when those humans interact a story is born. They present this very well in this manga so reading it is always fun. That’s why whenever someone asks me “Who is your favourite character?” I really don’t know the answer since they are all unique. But when they tell me to chose one I couldn’t think of anyone but the character I’m voicing, so I would answer Ichigo Kurosaki. Oh, and maybe Rangiku Matsumoto too
K - *laughs* Awesome. It was interesting listening to your answer. You really do read it carefully.
There is an image of Ichigo Kurosaki that is inside Sensei (Kubo) and inside Morita-san. Is there any scene you thought both your image of Ichigo was well presented?
M – I think the part where Renji and Ichigo roared out in synchro. Ichigo and Renji’s relationship is very interesting, that you can’t put it in words. They are rivals yet friends. Like if you are spelling out ‘enemy’ but you read it as ‘friends’ *laughs*. An amazing person called Kentarou Itou does this role (Renji’s voice) and because of this, that “TO MY SOUL!” speech made me think that those two (Ichigo and Renji) has unleased themselves using words. That speech was extremely hot. It was a very memorable scene as well.
(On this page there is a tiny screen cap, where Renji and Ichigo both shouted “TO MY SOUL!” and next to the screen cap it says “The scream of the soul. Episode 52, For Rukia, they have once fought against each other with their swords – Now they scream with their soul.)
M - Inside themselves they are doing ‘Gatsu-Pose’ but they would never tell anyone about it * laughs * (this means, they act tough and strong on the inside but they would never tell anyone about it). Playing Ichigo Kurosaki, there are ways I want him to say stuffs. Like if I want to put my own taste in him, or put my own thoughts about this character inside him. During the Grand Fisher arc, the part where he met Rukia in the forest, Sensei also found this scene memorable but the scene where he is mumbling out his words. In that scene there was this taste I wanted to present in his sentence
What was his sentence?
K – The part where Rukia told Ichigo that a Hollow might have killed his mum, right?
M – The part where he said “なんでもねーよ” and “残念でした” and left
K – In that scene when I first saw it on TV, I was so thrilled I actually got goose bumps. Morita-san put his own taste inside Ichigo and that made me really proud. I was very thankful and made me want to listen to it. And because of that, my image of Ichigo was different to his and made that scene really deep. I was really thrilled. That time I really thought making an anime is an awesome thing to do.
M – While reading a script an image just popped up into my mind. Even if Ichigo was just mumbling out his words I wanted to put my all into it because I wanted to show how I want to voice Ichigo Kurosaki and my image of him. I wanted to show Ichigo is a normal high school boy. The taste I wanted to show in that scene was how normal Ichigo is.
K – He did a good job
If it gave you goose bumps then that ‘image’ of Ichigo must have been powerful?
K – I guess you’re right. I’m happy with anime following the manga but what makes me even happier is making me think “Oh, so that’s how it’s shown” when watching the anime. That time, Ichigo’s attitude made me think “Oh, so that’s how Ichigo expresses himself”
M – That scene was a pretty normal scene, but that’s why it was so important and shows Ichigo’s character very well. Ichigo is pretty blunt and usually speaks few words. Even the time when he rescues Rukia, all he says is “Yo!”
K – “Saying that “Yo!” was an important bit in that scene. Ichigo was a normal high school boy who turned into a Shinigami. Him being a Shinigami isn’t that main point. So I wanted to express that in that scene. Ichigo isn’t very talkative. Even the time with Renji, all he says is “ああ” (referring to episode 32)
M – That speech really got to me. He was listening to Renji’s story you couldn’t help but cry. But he has to say something back to him so he said “ああ”. After I finished voicing that scene I was so worried if my voice turned out right that I couldn’t even watch it on air.
K – That episode was really amazing! Renji and Rukia. Watching those two was truly amazing and Morita-san’s speech “ああ” was amazing too. In that episode Orikasa-san (Rukia’s voice actor) said she got very emotional while doing that scene where Renji’s hand’s were on Rukia’s shoulder and says “ああ そうかありがとう” while letting go of his hands. I was thrilled, listening to the way she said “そうか”
M – That Rukia’s sentence “そうか” affects her relationship with Renji later in the episode so unless she puts a lot of emotions into it, it would sound plain and unimportant.
K – There are bits in the manga where I draw scene that wouldn’t get the reader’s attention too much. I always put all my effort into my manga but how each audience read my manga are different. So it’s really important to make sure they would end up all having a similar idea of my story, but then again, it’s really up to them how they read the manga, but then there are scenes where I want the audience to be touched, so it’s really hard.
M – The creators want everything to seem natural.
Where is your goal aimed at?
M - Voice actors are always living under the rules. Firstly, there is a rule called “Script” and inside the script there are lines you have to read. And there are also director’s rules. But inside those rules I want voice actors to be able to find a place where they can be free and express themselves. And when you find that space I don’t care whether it’s small or big, as long as it’s a place where they can play around then it’s okay. The director says “Instead of thinking “Oh no, what should I do?” you should try and find an route where you can escape, and when you find that route you think, “This is it!” and truly express yourself”. I want a place where I can spread my wings, and still continue working on Bleach while my wings are spread. I really think my wings can still get bigger. My wings aren’t fully opened yet. It can still spread and grow. I truly think Bleach is an enjoyable masterpiece that I would die for.
K – You must be number one fan of Bleach. Maybe you love Bleach more than me * laughs *
Any words to your fans?
M- a movie has been decided to be released. And I hope you are all able to see a new Ichigo after returning from Soul Society.
• Another question was "Any scene you found memorable?" and here's what Kubo (K) and Morita (M) said
M "グランドフィッシャー編のときの森の中だルキアと会ってしゃべるセリフ"
M said the scene in the Memories In the Rain episode, where Ichigo was talking to Rukia in the forest, and straight after than
K said "In that scene, when I first saw it on tv, I was so thrilled I actually got goosebumps"
* Also in one part they were discussing how Ichigo only says few words (In Japanese his sentences are often short to show his personality)and Morita brought up an example when he rescued Rukia, that all he said was "Yo", And KT said
"Saying that "Yo!" was an important bit in that scene"
M "一護ってぶっきらぼうというか、朴訥というか。ルキアを助けるときもただ "よう!" って"
K "そこで "よう!" っていうのは重要なことなんです"
"一護って短いセリフが多いんですよ"
Posted by MelodyMix:
Hiya. There was an interview with KT on chapter 307 and I have translated a part of it. I already posted it on the IchiRuki FC but I thought I might post it here as well.
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p214/annie08ws/23-1.jpg
About the character. 1 Until Ichigo and Rukia were made
Okay, lets ask about this months topic Characters. First of all, lets start with our main characters Ichigo and Rukia
The first Ichigo I drew wore glasses. He wore glasses and had black hair * laugh *
He also had kind eyes and it looks like a different person from the Ichigo we have now
Is it true that Rukias design was decided before Ichigos design?
Before the story was decided a Shingami uniform popped up into my mind. Unlike the design we have now it was like a uniform from Catholic school where they wore a black jacket over a white blouse with a black bowtie and they carried a huge scissors. I thought that was what Shinigami was like. After that, to match Rukias design I changed Ichigos character design. Like Rukia had black hair so its best if Ichigo didnt have black hair.
Posted by kaya:
I would love to share with everyone here with my own SJ's issue about Kubo's interview. I think everyone should read this as this interview is such a treasure and Kubo is such a darling here. In here, Kubo shown us how he works from drawing nemu to the final process, his workplace and his ipod. He is such a lover for music and a BIG inspiration to his works.
I am sorry I couldn't provide complete translations now as my japanese is not good enough, but I'm sure someone is going to provide translations later. I have to thank you first! :hug
I dedicated this to to debbiechan TEH LOVER, and to everyone who loves Kubo and Bleach dearly.
The pictures are big so please click them for larger pictures.
http://aycu12.webshots.com/image/40171/2002690686492813061_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002690686492813061)
http://aycu16.webshots.com/image/42775/2000088689056541919_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2000088689056541919)
http://aycu30.webshots.com/image/40709/2000070437678915893_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2000070437678915893)
http://aycu10.webshots.com/image/42569/2003990145690265294_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003990145690265294)
EDIT:
On page 2: Kubo Tite's one week work's schedule
Sunday-Tuesday: he will work with his helpers on original sketches(inking)
By Tuesday night,he must completed everything and pass to typesetter to do the words.
Wednesday is his rest day and doing on random chores(color spreads,SJ promotion etc.)
Thursday to Saturday is his story paneling. They called those pre-sketches, "nemu" (not our nemu XD)
Sunday: More works.
Page 3(The box with ipod's pic)
The ideas are born from music?
BLEACH THEME MUSICS- Characters' themes
Espada, Fraccion and some Arrancar- their themes, for HM people
Kill Me Music- battle musics
Kiss Me Music- for tear-jerking part
Soul Society Commanders and sub commanders- their themes, for SS people
Anytime the music suits the styles he wants, he just add into his ipod, even western musics. Most of his titles are western musics' title, for example:
Chapter 297: "King of the Kill" is by Annihilator (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annihilator_%28band%29)
The ipod is really in Jet-black.
EDIT: Page 1 brief translation
On his workplace
Kubo has an impressive and neat studio. His helpers work on the 1st floor and up the spiral stairs, his table is on 2nd floor.
"When my helpers are not around, I will move to 1st floor as working on the 2nd floor is kinda lonely.*laugh*" said Kubo.
Kubo will put little small accessories and arranged them so colorfully for his copic markers(see page 4, upper left picture. 200 copic markers!:yell I only owned 26 and they already cost me $200. )
"For the things I use, basically, I would pick clean, neat designs. For my manga tools, and for my furnitures too." Kubo replied.
Then a bit on how he created his manga weekly.
Page 2: MelodyMix more or less has translated everything there,except the parts how he works on his manga. :)
Page 3:More about characters designs
Page 4: On his Ipod and how musics inspired Bleach.
More coming up! :yay
Posted by Gintoki:
Tokyopop, the German Publisher of the Bleach Manga made an interview with KT in their newest release volume.
One of the questions was: Mr. Kubo what's your favourite Bleach character?
And his answer was: Aizen and Mayuri
That really surprised me.
And his favourite Chapter is 169. The Aizen x Hina Stab scene.
Posted by kaya:
I realized there is no SOULs interview translation at all so I translated it to share with everyone here.
WOOHOO :)
SOULs and VIBEs' interview are connected and SOULs' continued from VIBEs.
VIBEs' interview has been translated by our lovely Melodymix so it is advised to read VIBEs (http://bleachasylum.com/showpost.php?p=113314&postcount=203)' first and then this one.
Enjoy!:)
[SPOILER="text"]
p1:
KUBO TITE X MASAKAZU MORITA [TALK OF BLEACH]
Creator Kubo Tite and Kurosaki Ichigo's voice actor. Masakazu Morita's "BLEACH" special interview
"SOULs is focused on Kubo sensei
K- is Kubo
M- is Morita
p2
-Both first meeting and impression
When is Kubo sensei and Morita san's first meeting?
K: At the earliest recording(*1), I took the role as Kon; that should be the time we first met.
M: Because on that day, I have other jobs to do, I just stay for a while. Therefore we were really just passing by, even our conversations didn't consist more than a few words
Both impressions on each other?
M: He is a very reserved person.
K: He is a very lively, really passionate person. Although I am someone who is difficult to mix with people who are very outgoing, luckily Morita san is very approachable. In a favorable coincidence and common interests, we quickly become closer.
-About TV animation "Bleach"
Q---Have Kubo sensei seen the anime before?
K: Of course I watched it. Before the anime is broadcast, I've gotten the tape and seen it.
What is your feeling?
K: From the beginning to the end, the original work is done by me alone, while the animation is a product of a team that requires multitudinous people to understand, to interpret, and then to compile everything together.For that reason, it will make me even more "restless" to watch it. *laugh*
Did any line spoken by Ichigo as Moritan san's voice even appear in sensei's mind?
K:Sometime.*laugh* I have messaged about that part to Morita san.
M: When I heard it, I even searched for that one particular scene vigorously.
K: That was from the scene where he is leaving Soul Society back to the modern world, of the spoken line, "Bullies!" *laugh*(*2)
(*1) The recording is that pilot episode for the show, shown in Japan at the Jump Festa 2004 Anime Tour("BLEACH Jump Festa 2004 Anime Tour: Memories in the Rain")Kubo sensei debuts as voice actor, voices Kon in this special.
How does everyone thinks of his performance?!
(*2) The line that is spoken by Ichigo, the part about back to the modern world, when they required going through the dangerous "Dai-gai" once again.
P3-
"I think drawing is just like illustrating the "air"."
About "drawing ideas"
K: Didn't Morita san just mentioned "Connection to one another and a story is born."(*3), I think it was marvelously well-said.
I think when I am drawing, I wasn't just clarifying the lines, but illustrating the "air".
Therefore, no matter in drawing or writing,neither words nor lines, but singularly illustrating the "air". I always have this feeling of bringing the "air" into the paper when drawing.
How to phrase it, every panel should have a background.
Backgrounds are drawn to remind the reader where is the characters situated. However, I feel that it was not that important. In this manner, at the very panel when a character is exceptionally distinctive, I don't feel like filling the background at all.
In BLEACH, when a new character debuts, the background is actually white.(*4)
The reason is I want the readers to savor the atmosphere of one's surrounding through the characters themselves.
I believe that the world coexists with the characters and shaped, so I would hold this belief of "I want to shape this world" and pen it down.
M: When I read the manga, I can experience this kind of atmosphere; sometime intense, sometime 'delicate'. Because of that, I can even frequently hear the voices of the work as a role of a voice actor. How to conserve its most genuine state, to converse it most genuinely, that is very significant.
(*3) Please look up Moritan san's conversation in Animation book, 'VIBEs".
(*4) The White Background
The scene which Aizen is appeared alive.
It was just like what Sensei has mentioned that the background is white, but nothing is drawn behind the character.
P4
Kubo and Morita Q&A
How do you spent your vacation?
K: I have no vacation.
M: Me too.
K: When I am free, I would do some colorings. I don't even remember what I'd done for the last vacation. I didn't rest. The most is I spent a few hours outside, cutting my hair. Once I reached home, it's work again.
What is the thing you want to do the most now?
K: Now that you asked, I am unsure too. On account of the normal days whereby I just need to ponder what to do, my mind would be in a tangled mess. The things I wanted to do 2 years before, I can't do them anymore now.
What is happening?
Kubo sensei, have you ever think of working on a totally different work?
K: I try my best not to. Once you decided, your heart and mind will tend to lean over there as well. And once you concentrated too much, the other work would be discarded. So that's why I would try my utmost best not to think, and once I think of one, I would use my characters to divert the attention. Thus, I would only dedicated to BLEACH.
However, if it is BLEACH's side chapters, then I can draw. Someone mentioned of "trying other type of side-comics, but then it would make me grow distanced to BLEACH, as it has some difficulties, so until now, I didn't try.
Let's not talk about the present. What about the future?
M: If it is about career, I would challenge acting.
Originally, I can be considered someone from the theater field, and I considered of being in a performance or film before... But that is a faraway future. In the current state, I can only dream but I don't have the time to start.
K: In the area of design.
I would like to be the field of fashion design.(*5 & *6) Or maybe I should be practical and start investing first. I don't know whether I would have the desire to do it a few years later, but I would like to be in the fashion industry, and maybe I should try furniture design as well.
(*5)The designer shirt wore on Ichigo is another Kubo sensei's talent. It is currently the best-seller in "JUMP SHOP"
(*6) "The lacy fairy"
Ishida's pride, helping to fix up Kon, born into fantasy "The Lacy fairy"!
P5
About the work's poetry
The title of Aizen's story(*7) is pretty interesting.
K: Thank you for your compliment.
M: The poem at the front of every volume too.
Around how long does it takes to write a poem?
K: Those are what I collected a few years before.
When I think of an idea, I would just jot it down, and then find a suitable one later.
M: So you have a small note book?
K: That is a must. I already owned about 50. For example, it can be about the vibes the characters leaves, or just writes about the thoughts of the characters. If the poems I complied didn't suit the intended character, then I would keep contemplate of one that is most suitable. If even now I couldn't think of any, then it would really means trouble.
So you still this feeling even now?
K: Definitely.
Moreover, I was asked all of the sudden for SOULs and VIBEs, that every volume has to insert a poem, and now it has given a big headache.(*8)
-The satisfying moment
When Kubo sensei is at work, which moment give you the best satisfaction?
K: It should be the scenes that I always wanted to draw and I can still follow my heart and present it.
Every week, there are only 19 pages, so some scenes has to be cleared. Although it is hard to have a moment whereby everything you want is ideally portrayed,but when you get the smooth ride, it is pretty satisfying.
People say your work give off the impression "like watching a movie". For example, after Aizen's death, the before and after panels of Hinamori/Gin's battle.
K: That particular scene(*9) is among one of my most satisfying moment.
The reason is that scene expressed the portrayal of manga-paneling extremely well, and hearing this from you made me very happy, Thank you.
M: About this point, if you don't pay enough attention, you will missed it. And after you study the paneling and when you realized "so it was presented in this way", it would really give you a shock. How can someone draw out something so delicate like this?
K: There are still quite a lot of things I wanted to draw, and if i have unlimited amount of time, like Kenpachi's story, sooner or later I would put into the plot.
I am so curious about Yachiru's back story.
K: I will draw them. I still can't say it out now.
M: And the four nobles are?
Kuchiki and the Shihouin... and the Shiba?
K: The Shiba is not. At the beginning when the Shiba is part of the five nobles, I even thought of all other related ideas. However if it is not required, then there isn't a need to draw the out...
I want to portray the very best.
M: I am so looking forward to it. *laugh*
Words to the readers
Every readers' letters that sent to me, I have read every single one of them. Your feedback are going to be my biggest support. I look forward to everyone's letters. *laugh*
-Tite Kubo working laboratory
--Kubo sensei is an avid music lover. In every corner of the studio's wall-shelves are filled with CDs.
-- Kubo's sophistication to interior design, on the desk that is multi-functioned, BLEACH is born.
EDIT:
This is for you, debbie. :love
SOULs' scans(Click to enlarge)
http://aycu27.webshots.com/image/41386/2002448452044028600_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002448452044028600)
http://aycu24.webshots.com/image/44343/2002443966175397135_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002443966175397135)
http://aycu24.webshots.com/image/42503/2002407422102412072_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002407422102412072)
http://aycu16.webshots.com/image/42175/2002407331662400352_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002407331662400352)
http://aycu14.webshots.com/image/41613/2002415348610457519_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002415348610457519)
http://aycu27.webshots.com/image/42506/2002408621206070490_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2002408621206070490)
VIBEs' scans(Click to enlarge):
http://aycu20.webshots.com/image/44339/2003693572710450783_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003693572710450783)
http://aycu03.webshots.com/image/42762/2003646592137529333_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003646592137529333)
http://aycu11.webshots.com/image/44330/2003688796605848813_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003688796605848813)
http://aycu21.webshots.com/image/40700/2003664653808562761_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003664653808562761)
http://aycu03.webshots.com/image/42442/2003672290803780070_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003672290803780070)
http://aycu33.webshots.com/image/43712/2003688538466185522_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2003688538466185522)
Shared and posted by debbiechan:
LiveJournal (http://community.livejournal.com/burimyu/118266.html)
Posted by Rain:
SJ: Do you have an ending in mind for bleach? How much of the story is written in advance? And do you ever change your mind about what will happen?
KT: I still haven't decided how the series will end. As for how far ahead I write, that all depends. Occasionally, when I get ideas for new scenes, I try to link them by imagining the most interesting route. I dont know where the scens will go, because the ideas dont arrive in order. Things tend to be all over th place. I might think of a scene that belongs much much later int he story, and to get there I must draw a lot of other things first. If theres a scene I definitely want to draw, that doesn't change, but how I get there might.
SJ: You're obviously into music. Do you listen to different kinds when you're thinking up the story and drawing it?
TK:I never know when a story idea will come to me or what I'll be doing when it happens. I don't listen to music when im writing. if i listen to music, i start tof ocus on listening, so i dont do that. but i do listen to music when i draw.
SJ: Do you like any type of music in particular?
TK: I listen to rock. Its my favorite
SJ: What music do you recomend reading bleach to?
TK: It would depend on the scene. Ideally, you'd listen to the music that I imagined for it. that said, every scene would have music to go with it, so it could get hard to explain *kubo laughs*
SJ: Should readers listen to background music when they're reading the managa? Or should they skip the music and focus on reading?
TK: I think either is fine. Ive listed the theme music for each character in the manga volumes. if you listen to that while you read scenes with the characters in them, they'd probably go together well.
SJ: How how often do you get away from your studio? And what do you do in your spare time?
TK: I go out enalry everyday. Ive moved closer ot the center of Tokyo, where there are lots of places to eat and plenty of staore, too. I spend my tiem either eating or shopping
SJ: What do you eat when its crunch time
TK: I don't really eat when im busy *kubo laughs* But i do eat tiny chocolates. i lvoe chocolate. Itadakimasu* (SJ gave kubo a chocolate)
SJ: do you have a favorite food or drink
TK: I wonder what that would be. These days, its fuit
SJ: What kind of fruit?
TK: What dio you call mikan in America
SJ: They're called Mandarin oranges
TK: I wan't used to eating fruit, but i got a new editor whos been bringing me some fuit to cheer me up. they're rich in vitamins. Ah, so thoughtful...! *kubo laughs*
Posted by debbiechan:
Astute readers of Bleach will have noticed by now that the manga is unusual in more ways than one. For instance, where else can you find characters with names like Grimmjow? Or tons of characters each with a cool unique look? Being as curious as you are, we put our questions to the man behind it all, Tite Kubo himself. Here's what he told us.
SJ: There's a lot of Spanish in Bleach How did you get interested in the language?
TK: Spanish has always sounded bewitching and mellow to me.
SJ: Bleach uses and amazing number of special terms, like he names of the different zanpakutou (swords) and hadou (spells). When we interviewed you a while back, you told us that they were inspired by ancient Japanese literature. Where did you get the inspiration for the Arrancar names? They're so distinctive.
TK: This isn't something I normally do, but I got the idea of the Arrancar names from those of architects and designers. There is, in fact, a furniture designer named Ulquiiorra. And Grimmjow is inspired by an architect named Niicholas Grimshaw.
SJ: Oh, we're sure the American Bleach editor will be happy to know that!
SJ: You have such unique character designs that it's always easy to tell who's who, even with all the new characters in the Arrancar-Vizard storyline. How do you come up with so many designs, and do you have any tips for us?
TK: I don't have any tips (laughs). I've discussed this with other mangaka who've asked me the same thing. I can't figure it out myself. It could be because I like observing peoples' faces... that might have something to do with it. I've been doing that since I was young.
SJ: Do you people watch in cafes?
TK: I don't go anywhere in particular. It just happens in my daily life, like when I'm on a street and see people walking by or when I'm on a train.
SJ: Don't people recognize you when you're out?
TK: Not at all. I normally don't show my face in very public situations.
SJ: Do you consciously create characters whose outward appearance belies their true nature? For instance, are there good guys with mean looking faces and bad guys who look gentle?
TK: I've always been attracted to people with that seeming contradiction. I get this urge to draw people like that when I work.
SJ: Kon is such a character
TK: Oh, yes. He's cute on the outside , but... (laughs)
SJ: Evil inside?
TK: He's actually quite naughty. (laughs)
Posted by Soranushi:
Interview Credited to Mike On Anime Diet Blog
1:15 PM - Kubo has entered the stage in sunglasses. Looks like a pop star or something.
1:16 PM - Kubo presented with an award from Comic Con Intl. From the cheers I can tell the audience just got much younger than from the preceding Transformers panel.
1:19 PM - 10 kids from Japan are here, Shounen Jump essay winners. Also, we will be getting limited edition posters as we leave.
1:20 PM - I am very glad to see you all, thank you very much Kubo
1:22 PM - Kubo thinks this is immensely huge compared to Japanese events. First impressions of being in America: he had to get his passport for this. Strong sunlight makes everything colorful here.
1:25 PM - Has Kubo done any drawing in his time here? (He has to produce 19 pages a week, after all.) He actually worked ahead of time so he could home here. Not a procrastinator.
1:26 PM - Footage of his workspace. World exclusive. There are desks for his assistants as well, a big screen TV. Pictures of his chairs and metal suitcase he bought to come ovr here. A miniature TV just as decoration. A rare Bleach watch. Oddly enough, Bobobobo in some background art; he had asked a sketch/autograph exchange. The man has a vast CD collection, too (1200-1300 on a shelf; others stacked up). Picture of a kitchen, which is clean because they never cook!
1:32 PM - Upstairs: Kubos actual work area. Footage of him working with a ton of markers next to him. Hes coloring. HIs work chair was chosen based on design and he drew Aizens chair like it. Handing manuscripts and fan letters to his editor.
1:35 PM - Video portion over. Now questions from audience.
1:35 PM - What inspired him to become a manga artist? Decided when he was in elementary school. He became interested in architecture and design after he had already become a manga artist.
1:38 PM - What comes first in Bleach? : Kubo puts character, not plot, first.
1:39 PM - What inspired him to put Spanish/Mexican culture in Bleach? Nothing intentional with the character Chad. However, he just sensed he had a Mexican heritage. Someone in audience shouts Viva La Raza!
1:40 PM - Where does he come up with the opening drawings? He puts characters in clothes he cant get.
1:40 PM - Advice for aspiring manga artists: Seems stumpedbelieve in your talent. Do something you yourself must enjoy; otherwise its dishonest to charge someone for your story.
1:41 PM - What was the initial thought for bleach? "Bleach was inspired by the fact that i wanted to draw shinigami in kimonos, and to make something no one had seen before, started with Rukias design."
1:42 PM - How did Quincy and its name come about (JEREMYS QUESTION!): I created Quincy to be Ichigos rival character, so, for that, I put him in white clothing. He uses arrows because its long range, and it will be difficult for Ichigo to fight him. The Quincy name is from his five point star; in Japan this is a symbol. If you call every archer a Quincy Archer it sounds like a persons name, so he liked it.
1:45 PM - How do you draw action scenes? Plays rock music in his head as he draws it. He pauses the action and try to swing around in 3D mentally to find the best angle.
1:46 PM - When did he realize he had such a big fanbase in the US? Yesterday!
1:47 PM - Pancha Diaz, Viz editor asks: What part of the process does he enjoy the most? When thinking of the story, if its something hes been waiting to do for a while, he enjoys it very much. Usually has a scene rundown of things to draw in his head. Connecting scenes are a bit harder. Inking is also enjoyable for him.
1:49 PM - Pancha Diaz again: How long between drawing and publication? Between 2-3 weeks. Diaz, by contrast notes, has to do 6 months in advance.
1:50 PM - Will there be an Isshin backstory? Yes! He knew from the start he was a Soul Reaper.
1:51 PM - Three minutes left. Is the Kon doll inspired by something from his childhood? Wanted to create something fake looking, where you put random things togetherlike a sewing line in the middle of the face. Backstory: a father bought a cheap stuffed animal for his child, and the child threw it away because it was uglythats why he is on the street.
1:54 PM - Idea for Hell Butterflies: Looked up in a dictionary for word that goes well with Soul Reaper. It is a kind of butterfly that is another name for a real butterfly species. Prefers to fly in the dark, and it fits well with the Soul Reapers.
End of panel.
Posted by Kreed:
Report: Kubo Tite in America: San Diego Comic-Con International (http://www.otaku2.com/articleView.php?item=116)
Posted by vaizado:
SDCC 08: An Audience With Bleach's Creator (http://comics.ign.com/articles/895/895983p1.html)
Posted by Enth:
After a brief introduction by the Viz staff, questions written by panel attendees were read to Kubo-san. When asked to give his impressions of Comic-Con and America, he said "Compared to Japanese events it's immensely huge.
This is my first time in America as well as abroad. For this I obtained my passport!" When asked if he'd done any drawing or work on Bleach while he was in San Diego, Kubo was quick to joke "I work hard in Japan so I can come here!"
As a special treat to panel attendees, a visual tour of Kubo-san's studio was presented. Fans were held in awe of the nearly 2000 CD's in his collection. "I choose the music" he said with authority when asked who controls what his assistants listen to while working. Fans also got a good laugh about the extra clean kitchen on the premises. "It's very clean because we don't cook!" he laughed.
After the tour was over, it was back to the Q&A. When asked what he might have chosen as a career had he not become a manga artist, he responded "I decided to become a manga artist when I was in elementary school, so when you ask about other careers, I really don't have one." He also had a lot of advice for aspiring manga creators: "Believe in your talent, no matter what others may say. It is important for others to enjoy it, so you must enjoy it. If not, you're being dishonest."
The questions then turned to Bleach. Where did the inspiration come from? "I wanted to draw Soul Reapers wearing kimonos. Rukia at first wasn't wearing a kimono, so I put her in one. Bleach grew out of that." One attendee asked about Chad's Mexican background. "It wasn't intentional," Kubo replied. "When I first started drawing Chad, it just seemed that he should come from a Mexican heritage." When asked why he created the Quincy, he offered a lot of insight. "I created the Quincy to be Ichigo's rivals, which is why they wear white clothing. Also, they use bow and arrows, which makes them harder for Ichigo to fight."
(POTENTIAL SPOILER ALERT) One fan asked if there would ever be a back story for Ichigo's dad. "I will draw it!" he responded to thunderous applause. "When I finished drawing the first chapter, I knew he was a Soul Reaper."
Some final questions dealt with his artistic style and ability. "Nobody poses for me when I'm doing action scenes. I usually have rock music playing and it comes out of that. When I think about the story, if it's something I want to draw, I usually have these random scenes I want to draw, so my real job is trying to connect those scenes."
Posted by debbiechan:
From here: http://manga.about.com/od/mangaartis...a/TiteKubo.htm
It appears to incorporate the panel questions as well.
Q: First of all, welcome to San Diego. It's been so exciting to have you here at Comic-Con!
Tite Kubo: Thank you! It's great to be here. I was really looking forward to coming to America. This is really my dream come true.
Q: You got this incredible rock star-type reception from your fans today! Did you expect that?
Tite Kubo: I had heard before that American fans are very, very enthusiastic, but I didn't expect this much!
Q: When did you realize that you had such a broad fan base in America?
Tite Kubo: Yesterday. (laughs)
Q: What are your impressions of San Diego Comic-Con so far? Is there anything like this in Japan?
Tite Kubo: This is really impressive. Compared to Japanese events, Comic-Con is immense! I go to Jump Festa, but compared to that, Comic-Con is many times larger.
Q: Is this your first visit to the U.S.? What do you think?
Tite Kubo: It's the first time for me to be abroad from Japan. I got my passport just so I could come to this event. Compared to Japan, the sunlight is very different and it's very strong. It makes things look very colorful as well.
Q: I heard that you have to draw 19 pages of manga every week, and that you drew ahead so you could take a break to come out to San Diego. Have you done any drawing since you've been here?
Tite Kubo: I worked really hard so I could take the time to come here, so no, I haven't worked on any drawing since I've been here (big smile).
EARLY INFLUENCES AND THE BEGINNINGS OF BLEACH
Q: When did you decide to become a manga artist?
Tite Kubo: I had already decided when I was in elementary school. When I became a manga artist, I became interested in architecture and design, but I've really only wanted to become a manga artist.
Q: Which artists influenced you then, made you feel like it would be really cool to become a professional manga artist?
Tite Kubo: Hmm. My number one favorite manga then was Ge Ge Ge no Kitaro (by Shigeru Mizuki)! I've always liked the yokai (monsters) in that series. The other one that I liked a lot is Saint Seiya (a.k.a. Knights of the Zodiac by Masami Kurumada) -- the characters all wear armor and have interesting weapons.
Q: Huh! I guess that makes sense. I can kind of see some of the influence of both series in Bleach -- the Japanese supernatural themes from Ge Ge Ge no Kitaro and the weaponry and battle scenes from Saint Seiya.
Tite Kubo: Yes, I think so, definitely.
Q: What was your inspiration for Bleach?
Tite Kubo: I wanted to draw Soul Reapers wearing kimono. When I first designed Rukia, she wasn't wearing kimono, but i wanted to create something that no one has seen before. From there I created the world of Bleach.
Q: You've been drawing Bleach since 2001, seven years now. Has it changed dramatically from what you thought this story would be when you first started drawing it?
Tite Kubo: At first, I didn't plan that there would be Taicho, the head Captain of the Soul Society. The captains, they didn't exist at first.
ICHIGO, CHAD, URYU AND KON: CREATING THE MANY CHARACTERS OF BLEACH
Q: What comes first? the characters, or the story's plot?
Tite Kubo: (emphatically) Characters first!
Q: Bleach has so many characters with so many different powers, weapons, personalities and relationships! How do you come up with them?
Tite Kubo: I really don't intend that characters have certain personalities when I come up with them. Sometimes I can't think of any new characters. Then other times, I come up with 10 or more new characters.
Q: Are there any characters that you thought fans would love but didn't, or a character that caught on with fans in a way that you didn't expect?
Tite Kubo: I don't really recall any characters that I've created that I thought fans would love but didn't, but usually I notice that when I start describing a character's personality or back story, the fans start to really respond to them, and really start liking them.
However, in the case of Suhei Hisagi (Lieutenant / Acting Captain of Squad 9), fans got hooked on him before I even started describing his personality, so that was very unusual.
Q: Are there any characters that are most like you?
Tite Kubo: I feel like all the characters have a little bit of me in them! (laughs)
Q: How do you come up with the clothes for the characters in Bleach?
Tite Kubo: I just put the characters in the clothes I wish I could buy, but can't find in stores.
Q: What do you consider to be Ichigo's greatest strength and his greatest weakness?
Tite Kubo: His strength is that he is always considerate and thoughtful. He always thinks about other people's needs. That is a great strength, but it's also his greatest weakness, because worrying about his friends puts him in danger too, sometimes.
Q: Speaking of Ichigo's relationships with his friends, there seems to be a love triangle between Ichigo, Rukia and Orihime. Do you delve more into this in later volumes?
Tite Kubo: (laughs) I get asked about that a lot! I don't want to make Bleach into a love story because there are much more exciting things about their personalities and things that they can do instead of getting into the romance aspect of their relationships.
Q: Your male characters are great, but your female characters are also very strong, interesting women. Are you influenced by strong women in your life when you create these characters?
Tite Kubo: I have quite a few female friends who are not physically strong, but mentally, they are really very strong people.
Q: Do you have a favorite female character in Bleach?
Tite Kubo: Hmm. Yoruichi and Rangiku! Their attitude is like, they just don't care what people think of them! (laughs) I have a lot of fun drawing them and creating stories with them.
Q: What inspired you to have a Mexican character like Chad and to include Hispanic culture in Bleach?
Tite Kubo: It wasn't something intentional. When I designed Chad, he looked like he had a Mexican heritage, so I just wrote that in.
Q: How did you come up for idea of the Quincies?
Tite Kubo: I created Qunicies to be Ichigo's rival characters, so i put Uryu in white clothing (compared to the black kimono worn by the Soul Reapers). Qunicies use arrows because they're long range weapons, so it's difficult for Ichigo to fight them with his sword, which is more for short range combat.
The Quincy cross has 5 points, kind of like the the Japanese 5-pointed star. 5 points, quintet, Quincy! Quincies use arrows, so if you call them Qunicy archers, it sounds like a name, so I kind of liked that.
Q: Is the Kon doll based on anything from your childhood?
Tite Kubo: I wanted to create something that looks fake, that looks like something that was just random things put together. Normally you don't have a sewing line in the middle of a stuffed doll's face unless it's done to make the face look more three-dimensional. But look at Kon! His face is flat so that line is unnecessary -- so I kind of like that fact.
Ichigo and Rukia first find Kon on the street, so I made up a back story about how he got there. At a festival, a child wanted a stuffed animal, but since the one that he wanted was too expensive, so the parent bought a cheap one instead. The child didn't like it and threw it away, so that's why the Kon doll was found on the street!
BLEACH STORY DEVELOPMENT AND THE FUTURE OF BLEACH
Q: One thing your fans love about your manga is that you always keep them guessing. Do you plan very far ahead how your characters will interact with each other, and the various plot twists you throw into your stories?
Tite Kubo: After i finished drawing chapter one, I already knew that Ichigo's dad Isshin would be a Soul Reaper. At the time, I didn't plan on having leaders in the Soul Society, so I didn't plan on him being one of the leaders.
Q: Will you feature a back story about Isshin?
Tite Kubo: Yes, I will draw it!
Q: One thing I enjoy about Bleach is that there are many moments of humor as well as drama. Is that intentional to break up some of the heavier moments in the story?
Tite Kubo: I don't really plan on it, but when I get bored drawing battle scenes, then I throw in a joke or two to make it more fun for me.
Q: How do you draw your action scenes? Do you have models?
Tite Kubo: Nobody poses for me -- I just have rock music going in my head and just imagine the action scenes. I pause the action and rotate the characters and find the best angle, and then I draw it.
Q: What part of the creative process do you enjoy most?
Tite Kubo: When I think about the story, if it's something I've wanted to draw for a long time, it's fun.
I usually have this rundown of scenes I want to draw in my head. My job is to try to make it interesting. When it comes to drawing a scene I really want to do it's fun. When I draw the connecting scenes, I try to make it lively. And when it comes to inking, I really enjoy doing that work too.
Q: You're already up to 33 volumes of Bleach -- how much longer do you think this story will go?
Tite Kubo: I can't really say how long this story will be by the time it ends, but I have a few more stories that I want to tell, so this series will go on for a while. (laughs)
MEETING HIS FANS AND A FEW WORDS OF ADVICE FOR ASPIRING MANGA-KA
Q: Let's talk a bit about your encounters with your fans this weekend. Are there any memorable experiences, or anything that stands out in your mind as your favorite memory so far?
Tite Kubo: One of my favorite experiences so far was seeing the artwork from the winners of the fan art contest. The color illustration (by Christy Lijewski) was especially impressive. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to meet the artists, but it was really great to see their work.
Q: So as you can see, there are a lot of American fans who love manga and who would love to be a professional manga artist like you are. Do you have any advice or secrets to your success that you could share with them?
Tite Kubo: Just believe in your talent. Maybe others will tell you otherwise -- but just believe in it. It's very important for readers to enjoy what you create, so you must do something that you find enjoyable too. Otherwise, it's dishonest to charge people for something that you don't enjoy.
Q: Do you have any message that you'd like to pass on to your fans who weren't able to meet you here today?
Tite Kubo: I really get it now that American fans are really enthusiastic (about my work). I would love to come back to America again to meet more of my fans and maybe see them where they live next time.
Posted by debbiechan:
Fromhere (http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6584260.html)
W Comics Week: When you were first creating Bleach, did you think it would be this successful?
Tite Kubo: I dont think its a success yet. But Im very, very happy to learn that lots of fans are enjoying it in a place where Id never imagine [it would be popular]. Its very rare and difficult for me to see fans because Im so busy, so this is a rare opportunity for me.
PWCW: What do you think of the U.S.? And Comic-Con?
TK: My first impression is that America is so huge, so big, and the sun is very strong, very bright. Thanks to the intense light, you can see the vivid color of trees, the buildings.
Comic-Con is huge, too. Its very interesting to see big major publishers and also independent artists drawing and selling [their comics] on the same floor. That doesnt really happen in Japan. Also artists are close to their audience, which doesnt happen in Japan, either. I feel envious of this situation. Artists and fans are so close, and they can get closer to each other. In Japan, artists and fans are rather far apart from each other.
PWCW: Now that Bleach has been going on for a bit, how do you keep the adventure and the story fresh?
TK: I think it maintains a freshness because when I create manga, I dont think about whats going to happenI just come up with an idea and let it flow. Its a weekly installment, so I have a very short time to create manga, but the good thing is that because its short, I can come up with the idea and start creating it.
PWCW: Have you ever gotten yourself into a situation that made you say, Uh-oh?
TK: I dont really face that kind of situation because its a long story and sometimes I forget whats happened in the past, but I read the previous volumes of Bleach and that usually helps me to create and have a new idea.
PWCW: What is your favorite aspect of creating Bleach?
TK: When I draw the scene that Id been dreaming about or had always wanted to draw, that is the time that Im happiest. The other time that I really enjoy is when I create new characters. But when I create new characters, its not usually when Im working. When Im running errands, it will come up in my mind, and then Ill develop it. Its one of the most enjoyable parts. But I enjoy drawing and creating manga, so its always fun.
PWCW: In both Bleach and Zombie Powder 9 [an early, unfinished work by Kubo], the theme of death is prevalent. People are haunted, family members are killed. Why is this theme important to you?
TK: When I was very small, three or four years old, I remember wondering what was going to happen to me or other people when they die. When I saw babies images in mothers wombs, I wondered where we all came from. For me, life and death are very important themes. There is no life without death. Thats why its very important to me.
PWCW: You mentioned that when you draw action, you choose the best angle in your head. How do you decide which is the best angle?
TK: I select the angle based on its looks. It has to be cool. And at the same time, it has to be realistic. If its not realistic, the reader cannot feel the pain. In a battle scene, its most important to make it realistic so that readers can feel the pain. I choose the action where if I were the character, I would feel the most pain.
If the flow of power or impact is not right, then the impact cannot be communicated to the reader. Otherwise its incomplete, and it needs to be perfect.
PWCW: How do you maintain such a demanding schedule?
TK: Hard work. (laughs) I dont think its too hard. I draw faster than others so I dont really think its an issue.
PWCW: You also had a message for aspiring mangaka, advising them to believe in their work, otherwise its dishonest to charge money for it. What do you mean by that?
TK: The message is that if you believe in what you create, its enjoyable and people will follow. The talented mangaka should know that, otherwise no one would read or enjoy it. So believe in yourself. Believing in yourself is important.
Posted by debbichan:
Lucia just posted these links in the IchiRuki fanclub to translations by sketchbaka of Bleach B Station 112 and Bleach B Station 103 when Kubo and Morita were guests.
Btw, I just read something really interesting from Sketch's LJ. Bleach B Station 112's guest was Kubo. He did an interview with Morita Masakazu (Ichigo's seiyuu) during the show last year. In case anyone doesn't know, Bleach B Station is a Bleach-related radio program in Japan. Sketchbaka heard the interview and did a translation of it. There are info about Rukia and where Kubo got her name from. But nothing about the meaning for it. There's also another interview from Fumiko Orikasa (Rukia's seiyuu) last year on Bleach B Station 103 as well. There are some info about Rukia and IchiRuki on it.
the Bleach B Station 112 is here: http://sketchbaka.livejournal.com/3763.html
This one is particularly interesting because the blogger seems to infer that Kubo listens to fan wishes in determining the course of his manga!
the Bleach B Station 103 is here: http://sketchbaka.livejournal.com/4032.html
Re Rukia's zanpakutou: Morita mentioned that Kubo-sensei told him before that her zanpakutou is the most beautiful. Fumiko added, "He keep telling me he has a 'totteoki' (special/most valued) feeling for it." Fumiko was very happy for it.
There are some other things the seiyuu say that shippers can go to town on but the transcripts are very fun and presented here for your enjoyment.
Posted by vaizado:
Creator Tite Kubo surprised by 'Bleach' success (http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-etw-kuboweb28-2008aug28,0,3099871.story)
Posted by Amaranth, originally by Jaina:
Is there a reason the manga is called Bleach, or is that a secret?
The Soul Reaper - the color that you associate with the Soul Reaper is black. But "black" is too straightforward. So I thought about "white", but white is too simple. So if you put "bleach", somebody can associate that with white. So that's how Bleach came.
If you become a Soul Reaper, what division would you want to be in?
The fourth [medical], because you don't get hurt there!
One thing a lot of people have noticed is that Bleach has many different female characters, each with a distinctive strength. Is that something you took a lot of care in doing?
Usually, I don't intend to create personality before I draw. Usually I draw a character and then I know which side of her is strong and which side is weak. But sometimes the personality and the design come at the same time. I dont think that the artists should create the character that you want it to be. I think that the character should have its own character. Let them grow: thats my belief.
What do you think is the main theme of Bleach?
In my work, I dont like to impose a message or theme onto the reader. I want the characters to develop on their own and create the story themselves, and it usually turns out very clever. So I tend to do that sort of thing.
Way back in the beginning of the manga, when Ichigo was first using Rukias powers, was he also wielding her actual sword, just much bigger? A lot of people have noticed that the marking on it were the same.
The design is the same because at that time he was bearing her power. So yes.
Was the spirit of her zanpakuto in him also?
The outside [of the zanpakuto] has the design of Rukias but when he was fighting at the beginning, the spirit was his Ichigos. At one point during some battle, Urahara tells him that Ichigos zanpakuto is big, but theres nothing in it. So at that time he hasnt really developed his spirit in it, but he gradually starts to.
For a shonen series, Bleach spends a lot focusing on the emotions and different bonds between the characters. Im sure youre asked this a lot, but will we ever see any romance by the end of the series?
I dont really intend to make it a romantic story, but its one of the aspects of the series, so I put it in here and there.
In some of the earlier collected volumes, you list a theme song for each character in the character profile. Do you have any songs picked out for some of the newest characters?
Usually when I draw, when I create a character, Im playing some music in my head and thats why I assign that music, for example, to Ichigo. So even if I dont list it now, I do assign it, I just dont put it on paper. But every character has a theme song.
When did Rukia have the Hogyoku put inside her?
Its a secret!
From the beginning of the series, the team-up of Ichigo and Rukia was very important to making the series work. How did you plan it out?
Ichigo obviously needed help because he was developing his talent and strength, and here she was, so I thought theyd be a good match to help each other.
Finally, can you tell us why Aizens couch is so big?
The bigger, the more beautiful!
Posted by Sheryl Nome:
Tite Kubo's Big Comic-Con Adventure!"
Drawing Inspiration
Shonen Jump: Did anyone inspire you to draw?
Kubo-sensei: When I create characters, I'm inspired by music rather than stories, other manga or movies. The characters then create the story. So for me, my creativity comes from music.
SJ: Are any of the characters based on people you know?
Kubo-sensei: Well, I haven't mentioned this before, even in the Bleach SOULs Official Character Book, but Kisuke Urahara is based on Snufkin. Snufkin is so cool.
[The character appears in Tove Jansoon's Moominvalley novels.]
SJ: You seem to use mythical content about death and the afterlife from Japanese folklore. Did any books influence you?
Kubo-sensei: I can't point to a particular book, but one manga that influenced me when I was small was Saint Seiya [published in the U.S. as Knights of the Zodiac], which is based on Greek mythology. Because of it, I started looking into things like myths, monsters and the afterlife. I was reading about them until around junior high school, so they might have been the basis.
SJ: What does Rukia's name mean, and why is it written in katakana?
Kubo-sensei: When I'm working, I jot down names in the margins of my notebook as they come to me. Once on TV, I saw the original type of cosmos in South America.
SJ: You mean, the flower?
Kubo-sensei: Yes. The show mentioned the name of the flower in Latin or something-like "rukia." It sounded like "Kuchiki Rukia" to me, and I wrote this down. When I created the character, I thought Kuchiki really fit as a Soul Reaper (Shinigami) name and called her Kuchiki Rukia. She had her full name from the very beginning. Later on, I learned that the word "rukia" means "light." She's like a ray of light for Ichigo, which makes the name really suit her.
[In English, the name is read "Rukia Kuchiki." The meaning of the kanji for Kuchiki is "decayed tree." When Kubo-sensei talks about light, he may be referring to the word "lucia."]
SJ: Why did you pick Bleach as the title?
Kubo-sensei: The title wasn't Bleach when I decided to draw a story about Soul Reapers. (Shinigami) This was before I drew the one-shot manga that appeared in Akamaru Jump. The weapon wasn't a sword, but a scythe. Only Rukia had a scythe and the other characters used guns. At that point, the title was Snipe [as in "sniper"]. Right before I started drawing, I began to think that a sword would be better and realized I couldn't use Snipe as a title anymore. I began looking for a title that grasped the bigger picture. Soul Reapers (Shinigami) are associated with the color black, but it would have been boring to use "black." "White," on the other hand, can suggest black as a complementary color. So I chose "bleach" to evoke the impression of the color white.
[Kubo-sensei explained to us how he chose English chapter titles for the manga. He uses a dictionaru to look up words that match his idea for the title, and ogten replaces a word with one that has a similar meaning but sounds better. Kubo-sensei didn't use a dictionary to choose "bleach" because the English word is already commonly used in Japan.]
Behind the Scenes
SJ: Will you ever do an Aizen backstory?
Kubo-sensei: Will I...? To be honest, I think part of Aizen's appeal is that he's mysterious. It probably wouldn't be good for his character if I revealed everything about him. If I felt the urge to tell, maybe I would, but I'm just not sure right now.
SJ: Does Captain Yamamoto have a larger plan for the Soul Society? He seems to have no problem with his captains dying.
Kubo-sensei: Does he? I don't have anything planned for him right now. What's interesting about Genryuusai is you can never guess his true intentions. Among the captains, like Shunsui and Unohana, there are a few who appear to have something more to them, but for now I'll have to say it's all a secret.
SJ: Will we learn who will become captains in place of Aizen, Ichimaru and Tousen?
Kubo-sensei: Probably not anytime soon. Assistant captains lack certain abilities that captains have. I personally think the assistant captains need some time before they can become captains. Renji is a major character who's pretty powerful, but put him next to the captains and you'll probably notice that he's kind of erratic... and missing a noble quality. The captains are simply on a whole other level.
SJ: Do you have any plans to make Ichigo and Rukia a couple?
Kubo-sensei: I'm not going to confirm nor deny that. [Laughs]
SJ: Which American superheroes do you admire?
Kubo-sensei: I don't know of many American comic book heroes. I only know them from the movies, but appearance-wise, I thought Cyclops [from the X-men] looked pretty interesting. He can't take off the visor. When he does, his eye power is too strong and kills people- wasn't it something like that? I think that kind of setup is great because it's so dramatic.
SJ: Will Kon ever get his own body?
Kubo-sensei: I hadn't thought about it. I like him in his current body, and I think Kon likes it, too.
SJ: He gets more attention in that body.
Kubo-sensei: That's true.
Kubo-sensei on Comic-Con
SJ: What was the most impressice Bleach coustume you saw?
Kubo-sensei: There were actually two. One was Komamura, who had a wolf's face on when he took off his helmet. The other was Neliel [a character who hasn't yet appeared in the manga in the U.S.], who was in all white. Those two coustumes impressed me the most. I also saw a few Kons out there that were very cute.
SJ: We do call it Comic-Kon!
Kubo-sensei: It's an event made for Kon. [laughs]
SJ: He seems to think so.
Kubo-sensei: That's right, definitely.
SJ: We also saw on Arrancar with a mirror.
Kubo-sensei: Ah, yes. That was Grimmjow.
SJ: He had a round mirror over his stomach to look like a hole.
Kubo-sensei: That was a great idea.
SJ: What will you tell your family and friends about this trip?
Kubo-sensei: I want to tell them about everything. I'll take the time and tell them everything I can remember. I was so glad to meet the fans. I received their heartfelt welcome and felt their warmth. I want to be able to convey what I felt as much and as truthfully as possible.
SJ: Thank you so much for the interview!
Kubo-sensei: You're welcome. It was fun.
Join if you love this awesome manga artist and spread his love! :love