Toniko Pantoja On Working on Blue Eye Samurai, Edging and Industry Insights | Ep. 254

'Blue Eye Samurai did not take much references from anime' - Toniko Pantoja

In this episode of the Suuuper Anime Podcast, host Ed interviews Toniko Pantoja, a multi-award-winning story artist known for his work on major animated projects like Blue-Eyed Samurai and How to Train Your Dragon. The conversation delves into Toniko's creative process, the concept of 'edging' in creativity, and the importance of limitations in fostering innovation.

Toniko shares insights from his artistic journey, including his experiences in the animation industry, the challenges of balancing fun and work, and valuable advice for aspiring artists. The episode highlights the significance of storytelling, simplicity, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in the creative field. In this conversation, Ed and Toniko explore the evolving landscape of animation, particularly in relation to generative AI and its impact on the artistic process.

Discussion Points

Introduction to Toniko PantojaThe Concept of Edging in CreativityNavigating Choices and LimitationsUnderstanding the Creative ProcessLearning from FailureThe Balance of Fun and WorkToniko's Artistic JourneyBreaking into the Animation IndustryWorking on Blue-Eyed SamuraiNavigating the Challenges of StoryboardingAdvice for Aspiring Storyboard ArtistsThe Importance of Simplicity in StoryboardingInfluences and Inspirations in AnimationThe Role of AI in AnimationThe Future of Anime and Personal FavoritesExploring Anime Recommendations and Personal ExperiencesMartial Arts and Their Influence on AnimationThe Art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Its PracticalityQuickfire Round: Personal Preferences and InsightsReflections on Creativity and Authenticity in Content Creation

Toniko Pantoja Socials

You Tube - https://www.youtube.com/@TonikoPantoja/videosInstagram - Toniko Pantoja

Social media links

Instagram: SuuuperanimepodcastTikTok: SuuuperanimepodcastTwitter: @SuuuperanimeFacebook: SuuuperAnimePodcast You Tube: SuuuperAnimeDiscord: https://discord.gg/suuuperlightsassemble

Support the show

Suuuper Anime

The Suuuper Anime Podcast is a show that looks to entertain, inspire and inform you about anime. We provide our opinion and thoughts on various anime topics, as well examine these topics from a real-world perspective on what we can learn from anime. Whether you’re new to anime or a seasoned veteran, every week, we invite you to come listen, share and laugh with us :-). We hope every episode ignites your otaku spirit and leaves YOU feeling SUUUPER!

• No. of episodes: 321
• Latest episode: 2025-07-08
• TV & Film Leisure Animation & Manga Film Reviews

Where can you listen?