Racists are right about at least one thing (how’s that for a controversial opening statement): Other cultures are weird. The part that they miss out on is that weird can still be incredibly fascinating and cool. 47 Ronin is a story that doesn’t entirely make sense to Western sensibilities and yet exposes the underlying humanity that transcends culture. And if you aren’t interested in that, it’s got them samurai swords. Lots of ‘em.
Tag Archives: stan sakai
Major Spoilers Podcast #465: 47 Ronin #1 – DUELING REVIEW
In this issue: This week, Stephen and Matthew take a look at 47 Ronin #1 from Dark Horse Comics.
Among the best-known tales in Japanese history, the legend of the 47 Ronin and their epic mission to avenge their disgraced master epitomizes the samurai code of honor. It has been said, “To know the story of the 47 Ronin is to know Japan.” Retold through the ages, the legend at last comes to comics in a meticulously researched and beautifully illustrated miniseries from Mike Richardson, Stan Sakai, and editorial consultant Kazuo Koike! Recounting this sweeping tale of honor and violence in all its grandeur, chapter one details the tragic incident that would seal the fate of Lord Asano and set forty-seven of his vassals on a years-long path of vengeance!
Direct Download (Right Click+Save As)
A big Thank You goes out to everyone who downloads, subscribes, listens, and supports this show. We really appreciate you taking the time to listen to our ramblings each week. Tell your friends about the podcast, get them to subscribe and, be sure to visit the Major Spoilers site and forums.
SNEAK PEEK: 47 Ronin
Dark Horse Comics seems really excited about the upcoming 47 Ronin by Stan Sakai and Mike Richardson. The first issue doesn’t arrive until November 07, 2012, but we have a sneak peek, just for you, after the jump.
SOLICITATIONS: Richardson and Sakai team for 47 Ronin
Press Release
Dark Horse Comics is proud to announce a historical comic adaptation of the tale of the 47 ronin: A story of loyalty, sacrifice, persistence, and honor.
Major Spoilers Podcast #376: Circles
This week on the show: DC shakes things up again, a rabbit with a sword, and a poll of the week, that literally dials in. Plus, your comments!
Show Notes after the Jump!
Usagi Yojimbo reaches 200th issue
If you walked by Usagi Yojimbo on the shelf yesterday while picking up your weekly haul, you missed out on the 200th issue of the series.
SNEAK PEEK: Usagi Yojimbo #138
Dark Horse sent Major Spoilers a sneak peek of Usagi Yojimbo that arrives in stores this week.
Usagi Yojimbo gets plush toy
Dark Horse Comics has announced that Stan Sakai’s Usagi Yojimbo is getting the fluffy stuffed bunny treatment in May 2010.
This new toy stands fourteen inches tall from his carefully detailed sandals to the tips of his movable ears. Stan Sakai, who provided extensive reference art for the project, oversaw every detail in the design process.
“I have always thought that a doll of this type would be an excellent presentation of Usagi,†Sakai remarked in a prepared statement, “and have been happy to assist as the prototype evolved with commentary and revisions. I think he came out very well indeed.â€
It does indeed look dandy, and with the large number of Usagi fans around the world, this might be a product that will go fast.
Limited Edition Stan Sakai shirts go on sale this Saturday
Press Release
Dark Horse has teamed up with the LA-based clothing label The Hundreds for the creation of two extremely limited T-shirts featuring new art from creator Stan Sakai, to be released this coming Saturday. The T-shirts, which have been produced in a limited run of only two hundred of each design, will hit retail at The Hundreds’ Los Angeles and San Francisco locations this coming weekend. Usagi creator Stan Sakai will be at the Rosewood location in LA from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. to sign copies of the latest issue of the monthly comic. In addition, the first twenty-five people through the door will receive a signed copy of the first-ever full-color Usagi Yojimbo graphic novel, Yokai.
Stan Sakai covers Strange Tales #3
For the third issue of Strange Tales, Marvel looked to Stan Sakai to whip up a great Hulk cover in Sakai’s signature style.
MoKan Comics Conspiracy This Weekend
It’s only a few hours away from me, but with my cold, I don’t think I’ll be able to attend this year’s Mo-Kan Comics Conspiracy in Kansas City. But if you are in the area, I suggest you check it out as Sergio Aragones will be in attendance to meet and greet comic fans.
The complete guest list after the jump!