Embrace Your Roots - Dragon Ball's Creator Shares Insight on Modern Manga

Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, expressed his opinion that recent manga by new authors lack originality compared to older works. He made these comments during a 2018 interview marking the 50-year anniversary of Weekly Shonen Jump. During the interview, Toriyama shared insights on various topics, including memorable experiences and works that inspired him, offering advice to aspiring manga authors.

During the interview, Toriyama was joined by Takehiko Inoue, the renowned author of Slam Dunk and Vagabond. As the interview drew to a close, the two were asked to share some parting words of wisdom for future manga creators.

Weekly Shonen Jump collage-style manga artwork featuring lead protagonists from many of the magazines most popular series. - When Toriyama spoke, he gave an anecdote about his time judging the entries for the Tezuka Award, and what he did not see in the new generation of burgeoning authors

When Toriyama spoke, he gave an anecdote about his time judging the entries for the Tezuka Award, and what he did not see in the new generation of burgeoning authors.

Dragon Ball Author Calls On Future Creators To Have Pride & Originality

Akira Toriyama asks for ideas to equal the quality of the art

Weekly Shonen Jumo collage style image featuring the lead protagonists of many of the magazines famous series, including Luffy from One Piece. - Akira Toriyama asks for ideas to equal the quality of the art - Dragon Ball Author Calls On Future Creators To Have Pride & Originality

Toriyama is a judge for the contest, where the winner gets a cash prize and a chance to be published in Weekly Shonen Jump. In a recent interview, he mentioned, "It's great that new manga artists are inspired by their favorite creators, but I hope they can also bring in their own unique touch." He went on to add, "While the quality of manga is improving, there seems to be a lack of individuality and pride. I'd love to come across a manga that surprises me and makes me think, 'this creator is truly original!'"

While imitation may be flattering, success in the manga industry requires creativity. Toriyama's remarks highlight that while new artists are skilled technically, their work often lacks a unique personal touch in both story and art. The shonen genre, in particular, is criticized for its predictable elements: young heroes embarking on adventures, battling with specific powers, and so on. It's time to break free from these stereotypes.

Promotional image for Dragon Ball Super shows the cast of characters including Goku, Vegeta, Piccolo, Gohan, and more standing in a line with a while background. - The Tezuka Award was created in 1971 by Shueisha and named after the legendary manga author Osamu Tezuka, who himself served as Committee Chair until 1988

The Tezuka Award was established in 1971 by Shueisha in honor of the renowned manga creator Osamu Tezuka. He served as the Committee Chair until 1988. Toriyama, on the other hand, not only acts as a judge but also took on the role of de facto Chair after Fujio Akatsuka. This means that the author of Dragon Ball plays a significant role in the judging process, making his comments valuable, even those made casually during interviews. In 2024, Toriyama's opinions carry even more weight, emphasizing that authors should not be afraid to stand out.

Editor's P/S:

Akira Toriyama's critique of modern manga highlights the importance of originality and individuality in the industry. While it's commendable that aspiring authors draw inspiration from their predecessors, it's crucial for them to forge their own unique paths. By embracing their own perspectives and experiences, new creators can inject fresh ideas and perspectives into the manga landscape.

Toriyama's emphasis on pride and uniqueness serves as a valuable reminder for all creatives. It's not enough to simply imitate established formulas; true success lies in breaking free from conventions and daring to be different. By embracing their own voices and visions, aspiring manga authors can create works that truly stand out and capture the imaginations of readers.