Besides the usual criticism of pacing and power scaling, Boruto stands out in most aspects. It is clear, especially with its character designs and concepts. Illustrated by Mikio Ikemoto, the series features some power-packed action scenes and epic showdowns. Like most mangaka, however, he too has inspirations and it isn’t Naruto.
One would assume the mangaka to refer to Kishimoto’s work however that’s not entirely true. In an interview, Ikemoto revealed his inspiration for the fight scenes in the manga. Surprisingly enough it wasn’t his mentor’s magnum opus. This, however, doesn’t negate the series’ potential in highlighting some of the best fights.
Mikio Ikemoto reveals his inspiration for the fight scenes in Boruto
From its character designs to its concepts, Boruto showcases novelty in most aspects. This also extends majorly to its art albeit the major criticism. In their criticism of Mikio Ikemoto’s ‘bland’ designs fans negate his importance. Especially when it comes to his experience as a veteran manga artist. His tutelage under Masashi Kishimoto is pretty much reflected in his artistic style.
As an illustrator, Ikemoto’s art style differs greatly from his mentor Kishimoto. It is evident in most character designs that reflect his unique flair. While it is deemed banal by fans, rather it has more to do with his approach to the characters.
Moreover, like his mentor, the mangaka refers to some iconic shonen works for inspiration. It holds especially true for the fight scenes in the series. Surprisingly, it isn’t Kishimoto sensei’s magnum opus as he later reveals.
In an interview with Anime News Network, the mangaka revealed his inspiration for the fight scenes. He quoted:
I still use the Dragon Ball volumes as a reference for action scenes. When I’m stuck, I just grab the books off the shelf and look at them. I check the Naruto manga for reference about the abilities and things like that. Dragon Ball is great at conveying speed and movement, so that’s why I use it. I use Dragon Ball and Naruto for different reasons.
It isn’t infuriating or surprising considering the legend Toriyama sensei truly is. The mangaka has influenced several iconic and popular series through its writing. To this date, the series has set a benchmark for Shonen in terms of fights. Kishimoto’s series, however, shouldn’t be excluded especially in comparison to its sequel.
Naruto created a benchmark in terms of its iconic showdowns
From its fights to visuals, Masashi Kishimoto carved his niche in the shonen genre through Naruto. It is one of the esteemed series among the big three of Jump’s shonen. To top it off, the series showcased some of the iconic fights in the history of anime. From Gaara’s fight with Rock Lee to Neji’s battle against Sound Four’s Kidomaru, the series redefined legendary. And there’s more to it.
The series peaked as a shonen anime through its iconic fights. This is especially true with the Sasuke Retrieval Arc. Konoha ninjas’ showdown against Sound Four was no less than a death battle. Of all the fights, Neji Hyuuga’s showdown with Kidomaru stands as one of the epic fights in the series.
Moreover, Part One also showcased some of the iconic duels during the Chunin Exams Arc. This is especially true for Gaara’s battle with Rock Lee. The pre-Shippuden fight is a testimony to Kishimoto and Studio Pierrot’s glory.
Despite its major criticisms Boruto continues to thrive as a sequel. The sequel series True Blue Vortex is a great example of that. With a more refined art style, Ikemoto has proved his brilliance and artistic prowess.
Boruto, Dragon Ball, and Naruto are available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The manga is available for reading on Viz Media.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
