- Hearing “Osamu Tezuka”, what are your impressions even if you haven’t read any of his works?
- If you’ve read any of his works, do you think it holds up to modern manga?
- What’s your take on old manga like these? Do they have similarities from other works in this era?
Introduction
Osamu Tezuka, often referred to as the “God of Manga,” was a prolific Japanese manga artist, animator, and film producer. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of manga and anime. Tezuka’s impact on the industry is immeasurable, as he pioneered many of the storytelling techniques and visual styles that continue to shape manga and anime to this day.
Short Bio
Osamu Tezuka was born on November 3, 1928, in Toyonaka, Osaka, Japan. He demonstrated an early interest in drawing and animation, creating his first manga at the age of five. Tezuka’s contributions to manga are so significant that he is often credited with shaping the modern manga industry. He played a pivotal role in moving manga from being primarily humorous and light-hearted to encompassing a wide range of genres and themes.
Tezuka’s major works include:
Astro Boy (Tetsuwan Atom) (1951)
Astro Boy is one of Tezuka’s most iconic creations. It follows the adventures of a robot boy named Atom in a futuristic world where robots and humans coexist. The series was groundbreaking for its exploration of complex moral and ethical dilemmas through the lens of science fiction.
Black Jack (1973)
Black Jack is a brilliant surgeon with a mysterious past and a penchant for performing miraculous medical procedures. The series delves into medical ethics, societal issues, and the human condition.
Phoenix (Hi no Tori) (1954)
Phoenix is an epic manga that spans multiple timelines and explores themes of immortality, rebirth, and the cyclical nature of human history. Each story arc is set in a different time period, from ancient Japan to a distant future.
Buddha (1972)
Buddha is a historical drama that retells the life of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. Tezuka’s unique storytelling combines historical accuracy with imaginative elements.
Kimba the White Lion (Jungle Taitei) (1950)
Kimba the White Lion follows the adventures of a young lion named Kimba as he strives to bring peace and understanding between animals and humans. The series is known for its environmental and conservation themes.
Message to Adolf (Adolf ni Tsugu) (1983)
Message to Adolf is a complex narrative that weaves together the stories of three individuals named Adolf against the backdrop of World War II. It explores themes of identity, prejudice, and the impact of historical events on personal lives.
Legacy
Osamu Tezuka’s impact on the manga and anime industries is immeasurable. His innovative storytelling techniques, cinematic panel layouts, and diverse range of genres have shaped the medium for generations to come. Tezuka’s work laid the foundation for the development of more mature and socially relevant themes in manga, expanding its audience and artistic possibilities.
Fun Fact
Osamu Tezuka’s animation studio, Mushi Productions, faced financial difficulties due to ambitious projects and overexpansion. Despite its eventual bankruptcy, Tezuka’s creative vision and legacy continued to inspire countless artists and animators, leading to the vibrant industry we know today.
What do you think about this author and his works?
Hello, I’ll try to make at least one mangaka discussion post per week. Let me know in the comments which one you want to see next time.
Any suggestions to make these better are welcome.
Other Mangaka Discussion
I’ve heard of Tezuka but never read any of his works. I have heard of the ones you listed though (except the Adolf one).
You said they’re decent? Do you think they’re worth reading today? I always imagined the stories in these to be pretty simple and mostly aimed at children
I think they don’t compare to modern manga right now, but if you like the plot of one of his manga I think it’d be worth the read.