Gege Akutami, known for Jujutsu Kaisen, recently discussed his admiration for two Shonen Jump creators in an interview. In a chat with Tite Kubo, the mind behind Bleach, Akutami shared his appreciation for originality in manga.
He highlighted the importance of aspiring artists finding their own style rather than mimicking others. Akutami expressed his respect for Kubo and Tatsuki Fujimoto, the creator of Chainsaw Man, emphasizing the value of uniqueness in their works.
Gege Akutami’s Unique Approach: Embracing Influence Without Imitation
Gege Akutami, the creative force behind Jujutsu Kaisen, spoke openly about his admiration for esteemed manga artists like Kubo-sensei and Tatsuki Fujimoto-sensei, the genius behind Chainsaw Man.
Akutami emphasized the uniqueness of their artistic identities, suggesting that attempting to imitate such luminaries would be folly for someone like himself.
He expressed his belief that the creations of these artists stem from their innate instincts and talents, which are deeply intertwined with their individual identities. Akutami reasoned that trying to replicate their methods would only lead to self-detriment, as he would inevitably fall short of capturing the essence of their work.
He admitted to his enduring love for Bleach but recognized that mimicking it would be a perilous path. Despite its influence on him, he acknowledged the impossibility of replicating its distinctiveness.
When confronted with comparisons between Jujutsu Kaisen and Bleach, he responded cautiously, acknowledging similarities while also acknowledging their inherent differences.
While Akutami openly acknowledges Bleach’s impact on his own work, he makes it clear that he never seeks to emulate its style. He recounted his childhood memory of reading the first chapter of Bleach and how it shaped his perception of manga creators.
However, he maintains a firm stance against imitation, recognizing that the essence of these creators’ styles is deeply rooted within them and cannot be replicated. He believes that any attempt to imitate would only result in a subpar imitation.
Upon hearing Akutami’s sincere appreciation for his work, Kubo expressed gratitude, considering it one of the highest forms of praise he has received.
In the Shonen Jump, alongside the famed “Big Three” like Naruto and One Piece, there exists what fans dub “The Dark Trio.” This trio comprises the current top hitters: Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, and Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku.
Each of these series offers a distinct narrative and cast of characters, yet they share a common thread of darkness and grit, often accompanied by intense violence.
Recent installments of Chainsaw Man, for instance, have taken Denji on a tumultuous journey, leaving no stone unturned in his life. Likewise, Jujutsu Kaisen, known for its ruthless treatment of beloved characters, is pushing boundaries as it approaches its climax.
