MDS Vol.05 "Our Time Bokan Series, Peccha!"

Our Time Bokan Series, Peccha!

Performance

Kunio Okawara (Mechanical Designer)

Hiroshi Sasagawa (Animation Director / Producer)

Ikuji Nukawa (Animator / Producer)

Koji Igarashi (Animation Researcher)

Contents

In Vol.05, under the theme "Our Time Bokan Series, Peccha!", we focus on the legendary animation series produced by Tatsunoko Production Co., Ltd., the "Time Bokan" series, which has sparked major movements with each work over more than 40 years—from the first series in 1975, "Time Bokan," and the 1977 "Time Bokan Series Yatterman," up to the latest work, "Time Bokan 24." We welcome as guests the original production team members, including General Director Hiroshi Sasagawa and Director Yuji Nukawa, and discuss the appeal of the works with animation researcher Koji Igarashi as the moderator.
Tatsunoko Production, one of the veterans in the history of Japanese animation, has been committed to creating original works rather than adaptations, producing innovative titles such as "Science Ninja Team Gatchaman."
The theme "Time Bokan" began airing in 1975, but this work was shelved for several years after its planning before being released to the public and gaining popularity. Even today, the characteristically strong design of the popular "Time Mecha Kabuton" is said to have been modeled after a rhinoceros beetle that flew into the studio at the time. Following this, the series continued with motifs based on insects and animals.
The word "play" appeared repeatedly in the conversation. Things that might seem pointless at first glance are actually important, and it is said that various ideas were born during walks on planning retreat trips.
It is also said that the story could develop from voice actors' ad-libs, and that everyone including the scriptwriters and directors created the work with a playful spirit. In a world where norms and efficiency are emphasized, it made me think that playfulness and seemingly wasteful things might sometimes be necessary.
Additionally, the "All Japan Manufacturing Top Battle," where small and medium-sized manufacturers from across the country, supported by Mr. Okawara, compete with tops they have crafted with pride on the dohyo ring, was held as the Inagi tournament.