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Mike Lightner, voice of Colonel East in Shadowskin

DVJ: How did you become involved in "Shadowskin"?

ML: I have been a long-time friend of the creator, Terrence Walker, since I met him working at Westwood and I have been a huge fan of anime for many years as well. When Terrence told me what he was doing I was more than willing to be included in the production.

DVJ: Do you have an acting background?

ML: Some, but very limited. For a long time now Westwood has included live-action in their games and I had some parts in those as well as a small part in an independent film.

DVJ: Were the other members of the cast with you when you recorded your dialogue?

ML: No, they were all done separately as far as I know. I came in for my session and we went through the scenes to get multiple takes for timing and quality.

DVJ:Do you know what direction Terrence Walker is going to take your character?

ML:Only some, in my time knowing Terrence I have learned that his creative mind never stops churning, so you never know what he might come up with fir any of the characters involved. I do know that he was going to expand upon the part though.

DVJ: How much input do you have into his development.

ML: I have been there mainly as support and inspiration and sometimes as a sounding board. As a friend I wanted Terrence to realize his dream and I recognized that he had the talent to do so. I was there to keep him going and try to ground him to one idea so that he could get it done. I am glad he finally took the steps and hope he doesn't stop anytime soon.

DVJ: What was your impression when you first saw the completed project?

ML: I felt proud, proud to see the dream come true and with such quality. I think there is room to improve but that the project alone says so much for what an independent animator can do. I hope that Terrence gets the widespread distribution he deserves.

DVJ: Do you have a "day job"?

ML: Yes, I am a senior game designer for Westwood Studios. I have been in the industry for 11 years and a game designer for 9 of those.

DVJ: What other voice work/acting have you done?

ML: I have had parts in the Westwood Studios games Command & Conquer and C&C: Tiberian Sun and had a small part in an independent movie "Monkey on Mama's Back". That is the extent of my acting work; this is my first voice-acting part.

DVJ: Do you enjoy anime?

ML: I love anime. I have been an avid fan for many years and even as an adult still fully appreciate them.

DVJ: What is your favorite anime?

ML: I think so far I enjoyed the Escaflowne series the most, although right now I am really into Yu-gi-oh

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