#INTERVIEW: The Vampire Dies in No Time Director Hiroshi Koujina Dishes on That Provocative Episode 10 and His Next Big Project

Comedy is a tough thing to master. But for anime director Hiroshi Koujina, it seems to come easy. His work on the hilarious The Vampire Dies in No Time anime adaptation proves just how deftly he can navigate the perfect balance between slapstick hijinks and smart comedy, complete with buddy dynamics, colorful characters, and perhaps one of the greatest mascot characters of all time — John the Armadillo.

We had the chance to chat with Koujina-san ahead of the premiere of The Vampire Dies in No Time Season 2 (which you can now watch all of on Crunchyroll and you totally should!) about his prolific career in anime, from Cowboy Bebop and Escaflowne to the beloved Hunter x Hunter (2011), and how he found himself directing the adventures of Ronaldo and Draluc at studio Madhouse.

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Yes, we talked about Episode 10 and yes, he did tease that his next project is a big one. Check out the full interview below. And seriously, if you haven’t seen The Vampire Dies in No Time just yet, you’re in for a treat. Nu!

I just want to say, The Vampire Dies in No Time is personally one of my favorite comedy anime series ever. This series masterfully blends irreverent humor with a lot of heart and soul, as well as loveable characters. I’d love to know, how did you come to work on this series? What sold you on it?

Koujina-san: I’ve always wanted to try my hand at comedy in my long career. When Producer Oka from MADHOUSE asked me if I wanted to do this title, I immediately answered, “Yes!” 

Sticking with the humor of the series for a moment, how do you go about bringing it to life from the pages of the manga? There’s an undeniable flair to it. Where do you think that comes from?

The original work itself is funny, so I thought adding the animation and voices could only make it funnier. But if the viewers say “The original was funnier,” then it would be on me. But we didn’t get such feedback.

I don’t necessarily think I have a good sense of humor, but I paid close attention to expanding on the expressions I felt were funny when I read the original. I’m also careful not to create awkward pauses, so I pay attention to keeping a good tempo and rhythm when I’m editing.

You’ve worked in various capacities on some of the most prolific anime series out there, including key animation work on titles like Cowboy Bebop and Escaflowne. How does your past work influence your present direction? Is there a lesson you take into every project?

I am often involved in anime adaptations of original works. So first and foremost, respecting the original is most important. And in order to live up to the expectations of the fans of that original work, I am always keen to listen to the voices of the fans.

There are SO many incredible characters in The Vampire Dies in No Time, including the iconic, lovable – John the Armadillo. Why do you think so many fans love John? Do you share in that love?

Mascots appear in lots of animations. It can be a cat or a dog… But an armadillo is rare. He is round with his fluffy chest fur, and even the unique noise he makes, “nu,” is cute. But more important is his loyalty to Draluc. That’s what makes John’s behavior adorable. I’ve been hearing the fans’ joyful reactions to John’s every move and action, and I feel that he’s a beloved character.

Speaking of characters, we’d be remiss to not talk about the dynamics of the many characters in this series, even beyond just Ronaldo and Draluc. There’s Draluc and his family, Ronaldo and his editor, and even the relationships of many of the bar patrons. 

In this series, I try to include characters who may not have active roles in the narrative inside the shot. John may not have lines, but when he’s on the screen, it makes it livelier. “Doing something that’s pointless” leads to the charm of this series.

We have to talk about Episode 10 of the series, in which a unique type of vampire latches onto its host, causing it to look like…a particular body part. What was it like directing that episode? Did you run into any concerns with censors?

Episode 10 was pretty provocative, wasn’t it? (laughs) But I get more excited and motivated when it is provocative and challenging. And this episode was just that. If you try something and it doesn’t work, you simply have to work around it. Giving up on something because it feels impossible goes against the point of making The Vampire Dies in No Time.

Do you have a personal favorite character in the show?

Of the vampires, I like Draus. Of the humans, I like Handa. (Although he’s a dhampir.)

How about a favorite moment so far? Besides Episode 10, of course.

That would be Episode 1 of the second season, the ending that was only aired once. The ending of the final episode in the first season also went really well, but this song matched with my image perfectly, so it left me with a strong impression.

Do you have anything you’d like to say to fans of The Vampire Dies in No Time around the world?

First of all, I’m pleasantly surprised that this title is enjoyed outside of Japan. I am grateful that you watch the show, thank you very much. I’m pretty sure this series will continue. (laughs) So please continue to support us as long as it continues. Those voices of support will make the next series possible.

I know you’re working on the series now, but what’s next for you, Koujina-san? Whatever it is, we’ll be watching!

My next project is going to be huge! Like, really big in all kinds of ways. So please look forward to it!

Catch up on all of The Vampires Dies in No Time right here on Crunchyroll!