I Like Characters.com by Steve Rack

Ninjas can be bunnies too, and London artist Philip Spence can prove it! He is the master behind the popular bi-weekly Ninja Bunny comic strip. I wanted to know a little more info about this energetic character, and Phillip took time out to satisfy my curiosity. Read on.

SteveRack (SR):
When was Ninja Bunny born?

Philip Spence:
Ninja Bunny has been around since 2005, originally starting on mySpace before getting it’s own website at the start of 2006.

SR:
Who is Ninja Bunny?

Spence:
Ninja Bunny is, well, all about a bunny who is a ninja. Originally the comic had no overarching story and it just showed one off exploits. Since the 300th comic strip the story has tied in with the printed comics. The story is set in an ancient Japan where bunnies are the ruling animals; most of whom are ninjas. The story follows Ninja Bunny on his quest to save his beloved princess from the clutches of the Skull Bunny.

SR:
Does NInja Bunny have an arch enemy?

Spence:
While he’s more commonly battling a variety of ninja animals: from other bunnies to cats and monkeys, his arch nemesis is the Skull Bunny. Who much like Bowser to Mario is always intent on stealing the princess.

SR:
What is Ninja Bunny’s favourite ninja move?

Spence:
My personal favourite in the Ninja Ultimate Death Stare, which appeared in the very first comic strip.

SR:
What is Ninja Bunny’s proudest moment thus far?

Spence:
It’s hard to say, since things are always getting better. My most recent achievements have been a radio interview for Resonance FM a month back. Other than that, the big achievement was the 300th comic strip, not only was the website completely redesigned, but the comic changed from a very simple black and white look to full colour resembling Ukiyo-e, a style of Japanese wood block printing.

SR:
What’s in the future for Ninja Bunny?

Spence:
There’s the fourth and final b/w printed comic, which will tie the storyline from the comics into the current web comic story. While the story progresses online I hope to have a few new pieces of merchandise for the store, a few more t-shirt designs and a plushy Ninja Bunny are on my wish list.

SR:
What do YOU think makes a great character design?

Spence:
Something simple and memorable.

SR:
And the last question: The Moomins or The Muppets?

Spence:
It has to be the Moomins. Oddly, I watched some of the old animated series a few weeks back. The stories are a little ‘out there’ but you get a real sense of the world they live in.

Links:
Ninja-Bunny.com
myspace.com/ninjabunnycomic

Did you know? You can buy Ninja Bunny badges HERE!