UlasanAnime.com – The Otakon 2014 experience was a whirlwind of activities, leaving the author both exhausted and reflective on how their approach to fandom has evolved. While some key objectives at the convention were missed, the overall enjoyment of the event remained high, indicating a shift in priorities from solely chasing autographs and panels to a broader appreciation of the convention atmosphere and social interactions.
A memorable moment involved relaxing in a hotel room, watching a baseball game, and enjoying the unusually cool weather for Otakon 2014, with temperatures in the low 80s. The author fondly recalls the energetic atmosphere of attending seiyuu (voice actor) concerts late at night, with the suite providing a surprisingly soundproof environment for such enthusiastic participation.
The success of a convention, the author posits, hinges on several crucial elements: a well-organized schedule, clear autograph policies, and the presence of desirable guests. The appeal of a guest like Maon, in a metaphorical sense, can draw significant attention. However, after years of attending conventions, the author has found that the traditional methods of enjoying them, such as waiting in long lines with fellow fans, are no longer the most fulfilling approach, even if a sketch or autograph is the ultimate prize.
Ironically, the longest and most anticipated line at Otakon 2014 was for Hayamin’s autograph, with some attendees arriving hours before the official start time. This particular situation became a point of frustration for the author. Instead of joining the lengthy queue, they opted to visit ALTIMA. While direct interaction with Hayamin was limited, the author notes her consistently “freestyle” mode during promotional activities, a characteristic also evident in her solo radio show, “Hayami Saori’s Freestyle.”
The author and a group of friends prepared for Hayamin’s appearance by studying her solo radio show, “Hayami Saori’s Freestyle,” and a more popular show she co-hosts with Aoi Yuki, “Aoi Saori New Radio Program.” This preparation led to the idea of incorporating a “kouza” (lecture) on “contempt” during their interactions with Hayamin. The author found the execution of this idea to be amusing, attributing its success to Hayamin’s professional demeanor, which prevented it from becoming overly awkward. This “type-A” personality, combined with her distinctive voice and style, was also observed during a brief press interview, though the limited time prevented a deeper exploration of this facet of her persona.
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During a Q&A session, Hayamin identified her character Sawa as being the most similar to her in personality. When asked about her high school life, she described being involved in numerous school committees and activities, which the author believes sheds light on her organized nature.
A significant point of regret for the author was Hayamin’s limited time at Otakon. Her schedule only allowed for a brief appearance, arriving early Saturday and departing early Sunday, granting her approximately five hours of operational time at the convention. Despite this constraint, Hayamin maintained a highly professional attitude.
Beyond the focus on Hayamin, other significant aspects of Otakon 2014 were also noteworthy. The author attended a panel by Katabuchi, who used the convention to reveal details about his new animated film. This project, centered around a child in the 1940s, resonated with the author, who had previously enjoyed Katabuchi’s “Mai Mai Miracle.” The involvement of Matsubara in this new film was also a revelation, and the author had the opportunity to briefly meet him, observing that he appeared more mature and refined than in previous encounters. While Maruyama was not met, his presence was noted as being related to the promotion of “In This Corner of the World.”
Otakon 2014 also served as a platform for promoting “Under the Dog,” a Kickstarter project for an original anime. The author felt that this project, spearheaded by Yura and involving notable figures from the anime and game industries, bore similarities to “Canaan.” While the Kickstarter aspect was acknowledged, the author expressed mixed feelings about “Under the Dog” itself, finding Kizaki’s design work to be superior to Takeuchi’s. Nevertheless, the author decided to back the project, citing Masahiro Ando’s strong track record and the potential for visually impressive animation, despite the risk of it being primarily “eyecandy.”
Yoshiki was also a presence at the convention, with the author encountering members of his party at a Saturday night dinner, though their interaction was limited.
In contrast, ALTIMA was described as friendly, personable, and accessible, earning the author’s approval. The author hoped Maon enjoyed her time at Otakon beyond her professional duties, acknowledging the likely lack of free time. Motsu was perceived as the group’s spiritual leader, while Sats took on the role of the business manager. The author’s “WUG happi coat” attracted attention from ALTIMA, leaving a memorable impression due to its vibrant orange color.
The author was close to asking ALTIMA about the I’ve Sound special performance at Chokaigi and the inspiration behind Takase and Maon’s backup dancing for “Princess Bride.” This performance at Niconico Chokaigi 3, where Maon danced with Takase while Ray covered “Princess Bride,” was linked to a 2008 Nico video featuring similar dance moves. The author also recalled the earlier connection between Sato and I’ve Sound during the Visual Arts days in Osaka.
On Sunday, with fewer scheduled events, the group opted for a karaoke session. While initially planning to join others for “MOVE” karaoke, the plan shifted. Instead, they sang “Knight of Sidonia,” widely considered the year’s best anison opening, and performed “Girlish Lover” with four singers. Despite the limitation of only three microphones, they managed. Two Japanese girls, cosplaying as Mio and Yui from “Don’t Say Lazy,” provided enthusiastic support, adding a pleasant atmosphere to the relatively empty room on a Sunday morning/afternoon. The author noted that Sundays at Otacafe are typically when more serious singers perform.
The author intends to publish a follow-up article, as pictures are still being processed and not all the enjoyable surprises from Otakon 2014 have been discussed yet.
