Live Action Anime Never Looked This Good: Talking With the Folks Behind UA: LA

Three months ago, we got a glimpse into the world of UA:LA (More than 2.9 million views on YT as of the writing of this article). Set in and inspired by the My Hero Academia Universe, UA:LA focuses on one its students encountering a pickpocket and showing off their skills in a cinematic and stylish brawl that captured the imagination of its source material. Earlier this month, we were treated to the full 15 minute pilot in all of its incredible glory. The “pilot” of UA:LA instantly captured the hearts of the BNP staff, and when we had a chance to talk to the director, Christopher Clark Cowan, and lead villain, Khleo Thomas, we knew we had to jump at the opportunity to learn more about the process behind creating the series and how they went beyond, Plus-Ultra style. Left: Christopher Clark Cowan (Director, writer, editor, etc.). Right: Khelo Thomas (Veil) Inspired by the Journey to Become the Greatest BNP: It was clear from the get go that you and the cast loved My Hero Academia. What about the series personally resonated with you two? Chris: I loved how it took the American culture of superhero and added this honorable Japanese influence. It really emphasized the important of being a hero, something that gets sometimes gets lost in American comics which more about being a badass. With My Hero Academia, it’s really all about the heart. Khleo: For me, it was Deku and All Might having one hell of an origin story. All of these new characters, inspiring questions about what’s hap…