Recent research developments.

Plans for several more interviews have solidified for this weekend and over the next month.
I have a childhood friend and a relative of Dante's to speak with as well as a scholar who has written on martial arts and popular culture.

It has been hard to get an interview arranged in Japan with Akira Toriyama, creator, writer and illustrator of the Dragonball Z manga series. He seldom gives interviews.

I may be able to score an interview with one of the producers at Toei Animation in Tokyo. There is a character in DragonBall Z, Mr. Satan, or Hercules, who seems to be styled after Count Dante, cape, afro and specially carved facial hair. The appeal of the comic add is definitely the key to the global awareness of the legend.

The additional interviews will allow me to flesh out my themes and give substance to the idea of an urban legend who has achieved a global underground notoriety.