Studio KAI is making its Anime Expo debut in a big way. The animation studio behind the hit dark fantasy series Sentenced to Be a Hero will host a special Creator Talk Show on Friday, July 3 from 4:15 to 5:05 PM at Room 403AB of the Los Angeles Convention Center.
The panel brings key members of the creative team traveling from Japan to share behind-the-scenes stories about the series’ production:
- Masafumi Masuo (Producer)
- Takeru Noda (Character Designer)
- Yoshiki Nakakoji (Assistant Director / Creature Designer)
- Yasutaka Kimura (Chief Animation Director)
The team will discuss their approach to crafting dynamic character action, immersive background art, and the design philosophy behind the series’ unique creatures.
One of the highlights is a live drawing performance by Chief Animation Director Yasutaka Kimura, giving fans a firsthand look at the artistry behind the characters of Sentenced to Be a Hero. The completed illustration will be presented to a lucky fan in attendance.
Fans attending the panel will receive original trading cards featuring newly drawn artwork of four characters: Xylo Forbartz, Teoritta, Patausche Kivia, and Rhyno. One random card from the set of four will be distributed per attendee on a first-come, first-served basis.
Sentenced to Be a Hero: The Prison Records of Penal Hero Unit 9004 follows condemned criminals sentenced to become “Heroes” as punishment, fighting against the Demon Lord’s army. The series has won multiple awards, including 1st Place in the User Recommendation Category of the Kakuyomu Awards 2020 and 2nd Place Overall in the Next Light Novel Awards 2021. Season 2 has already been announced, cementing the series as one of the most anticipated anime titles.
For fans of the series, this is a rare opportunity to hear directly from the creators behind one of the most visually striking dark fantasy anime in recent memory. The live drawing session and exclusive trading cards make this a can’t-miss panel.
Anime Expo runs July 2–5 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. See you there.
Source: Studio KAI
