AkiDearest and Joey, the Anime Man, now going by Joey Bizinger, were interviewed by myself and Willem V at ComiCon Africa 2023. The interview covered a range of topics, including their thoughts on the One Piece live-action adaptation, the future of anime distribution, Joey’s creative endeavours, and Aki’s True Crime series.
Joey, better known as the Anime Man, is a true heavyweight in the anime and manga scenes. He’s not just a big name; he’s practically a legend! Joey’s YouTube channel is at the heart of his impact, offering a blend of entertainment and education. It’s not just about racking up views; it’s a living testament to his unbridled love for Japanese anime, manga, and the rich tapestry of Japanese culture.
Aki, or as you may know her, Akidearest, is a shining star in the YouTube universe of anime and manga, and what sets her apart is her base in Japan. Her YouTube channel is like a goldmine for anime and Japan lovers, where she delves into all things anime, manga, and Japanese culture. Aki’s videos are not just informative; they’re as engaging as a rollercoaster ride, and you can’t miss her genuine passion for the topic, which has made her a hit with fans all around the globe.
One Piece and other Live-Action Adaptations
The interview began with a discussion about the One Piece live-action adaptation. Joey expressed his positive surprise at the wardrobe work and the actors’ portrayal of the characters. He highlighted the decision to downplay certain physical aspects of characters, focusing more on their personalities, which made the world more believable. Joey was particularly impressed with the actor who portrayed Buggy, Jeff Ward, capturing both the character’s maniacal and comedic sides.
Aki also chimed in, noting that the adaptation successfully found a balance between the live-action and anime styles. She appreciated the commitment to capturing the essence of the characters rather than replicating their physical appearances. Both Joey and Aki emphasised the role of Eiichiro Oda, the original creator of One Piece, who supervised the project closely.
Joey discussed how live-action adaptations often face the challenge of capturing the essence of the original anime. He cited “Fullmetal Alchemist” as an example where the film’s creators attempted to replicate characters’ physical appearances, leading to a result that felt more like cosplay. This overemphasis on visual accuracy detracts from the storytelling.
The discussion then shifted to “Cowboy Bebop,” and Aki shared her thoughts on the casting choices. She praised John Cho’s portrayal of Spike Spiegel, highlighting that, while the character’s age in the anime was 27, the maturity and depth of the character made the casting work. Joey emphasised that the core issue with “Cowboy Bebop” was more in its storytelling and writing than the casting or visual elements.
Future of Anime Distribution
The conversation then shifted towards the future of anime distribution, particularly in Western and South African markets. Joey acknowledged the enthusiasm from international distributors eager to promote anime globally. However, he pointed out that the Japanese anime industry tends to focus more on domestic sales and marketing.
Joey stressed the need for a shift in the Japanese industry’s approach to fully embrace the global market. He believed that once Japan recognises the value of international support, anime can reach an even wider audience. To make their voices heard, he encouraged fans to avoid pirating anime and instead support official releases through streaming services and the purchase of licenced merchandise.
Balancing Creative Endeavours
When asked about balancing his creative endeavours, Joey discussed his various projects, such as his YouTube channel, music under “Ikurru,” the Trash Taste podcast, and his clothing brand, “Nonsense.” He emphasised the importance of staying passionate about his work and noted the need to make sacrifices at times.
Joey also highlighted the significance of seeking assistance from a team of editors, videographers, and even a personal assistant. This support allowed him to focus on what he was most passionate about while maintaining a work-life balance. He stressed the importance of asking for help when necessary.
True Crime Series
The interview concluded with a question directed at Aki about her True Crime series (On the Case – Detective Aki), which represents a departure from her usual content. Aki expressed her enjoyment of creating these videos, even though they required extensive research and often dealt with disturbing subject matter. She found exploring the darker side of Japan intriguing, as it showcased a side of the country that often goes unreported and unexplored.
The interview with Joey, the Anime Man, and Aki Dearest provided valuable insights into the world of anime adaptations, the challenges of international anime distribution, balancing creative endeavours, and the exploration of darker themes in the Japanese context. It showcased the passion and dedication of content creators like Joey in their quest to promote and appreciate the diverse world of anime.
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