CHARACTER REVEAL, OSEI TUTU AND OKOMFO ANOKYE_Birth of an Empire animated movie
- K. Africana Jr.
- Jun 16
- 2 min read
At the heart of Opemsuo Osei Tutu I, Birth of an Empire animated movie, are two figures whose friendship and decisions shaped a nation—Osei Tutu and Okomfo Anokye. Before a single frame was animated, their look had to be found. That’s where concept art came in.
Lead Character Designer and Director Cycil Abban started with reference materials from the
museum: archival images, ceremonial regalia and portraits from the Asante period. These images grounded the designs in real history, giving weight and authenticity to every silhouette and gesture. But accuracy alone doesn’t make a character move on screen. Cycil added creative interpretation to bridge the gap between artifact and animation.
For Osei Tutu, he shaped a lean, watchful presence that shows courage and resolve.
For Anokye, he built a grounded, calm, commanding figure that reads authority without saying a word. Line weight, posture, and expression were adjusted so the characters would read clearly in motion and carry emotion frame by frame.
At Parables, we treat character design as the first draft of narrative. Cycil’s process of pulling from reference, then stroking it into a living form, ensures that Osei Tutu and Anokye don’t just look right – they feel right. Their visual language sets the tone for the entire world of 17th century Kumasi.
And this is only the beginning. More characters are waiting in the wings, each one built the same way: research, reference, and Cycil’s hand translating it into motion.
Stay tuned. The next reveal will show you more of the character leads; Obiri Yeboah, Manu Kotosii, Sasraku, Boa Ampomsem, the warriors, and the voices that shaped a nation.
Join the movement. Support the initiative. Make a great African/Ghanaian history come to life...for Asanteman, our children and posterity. Preserving a rich cultural heritage through animation
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