Summary
Future manga creators were urged by Akira Toriyama to add originality and pride to their work to achieve success in the industry. As one of the judges of a major manga contest held annually in Japan, Toriyama discussed his desire to see a work that actually made him question the author. Toriyama’s advice reflects the general sentiment of manga readers, wanting to see the writing quality of new series match their art style.
Akira Toriyama’s Dragon ball fame feels it Recent manga by new authors is lacking in originality compared to previous works. He said so in a 2018 interview held on the 50th anniversary of Weekly Shonen Jump. There, he talks about a variety of topics, including anecdotes and past works that impressed him, and gives advice to readers who also aspire to become manga authors like him. that.
Toriyama spoke with Takehiko Inoue, author of Slam Dunk and Vagabond. When the interview ended, both were asked to send a few parting words to future manga authors.
When Toriyama spoke, he told an anecdote about his time judging entries for the Tezuka Prize and what he didn’t see in the new generation of authors on the rise.
The Dragon Ball author calls on future creators to have pride and originality
Akira Toriyama asked for ideas to balance the artistic quality
Toriyama serves as one of many judges for the contest, which awards cash prizes as well as winners being announced in Weekly Shonen Jump. Therefore, in the interview, the famous author noted: “It’s great that aspiring comic book authors are influenced by their favorite authors, but I want them to have pride and add a bit of uniqueness that only they can offer.” He further expanded on the statement, saying, “While the quality of work is increasing, individuality and pride in one’s work is decreasing. I want to watch a manga that makes me think, ‘this author must be crazy! ‘”
Although imitation is a form of flattery, survival in the manga business requires innovation. Toriyama’s comments suggest that while the new generation of ambitious artists may be growing in technical skill, that is not translating into stories or images that can be clearly demonstrated to be just that. Invented by personal vision. It doesn’t help that shounen manga is often stereotyped as formulaic: young, reckless heroes go on adventures and fight using tightly defined power systems that provide unique abilities. unique to every character the author invents, etc. This stereotype must be challenged.
The Tezuka Award was established by Shueisha in 1971 and is named after legendary manga author Osamu Tezuka, who served as Chairman of the Committee until 1988. Meanwhile, Toriyama not only acted as director reference but even acted as de facto President by assuming this position. mission from Fujio Akatsuka. In other words, the Dragon Ball author is so intimately involved in the review process that it’s difficult to dismiss his comments, even those made in a small celebratory interview. Even in 2024, Toriyama’s words carry more weight than ever: Authors should not be afraid to stand out.