Jujutsu Kaisen has taken the manga and anime world by storm, captivating fans with its unique blend of supernatural elements, intense battles, and compelling characters. The creator of Jujutsu Kaisen, Gege Akutami, has often been open about the influences that shaped his work. Among these influences, two iconic series stand out: Bleach and Naruto. Both of these legendary mangas have left an indelible mark on Akutami’s storytelling and artistic style, contributing significantly to the success of Jujutsu Kaisen.
Gege Akutami has expressed admiration for Tite Kubo’s Bleach, particularly its early arcs. Bleach’s influence is evident in Jujutsu Kaisen’s structure and pacing. Much like Bleach, Jujutsu Kaisen features a world where the supernatural and the human realms intersect, leading to thrilling confrontations between powerful entities. The concept of exorcising curses in Jujutsu Kaisen mirrors the soul reaping duties of the Shinigami in Bleach. Akutami has acknowledged that the way Kubo handled the balance between action and character development in Bleach inspired him to adopt a similar approach in his own work.
The character designs in Jujutsu Kaisen also bear a resemblance to those in Bleach. Akutami has a knack for creating visually striking characters with distinct personalities, much like Kubo did with his diverse cast of Shinigami and Hollows. The influence of Bleach is particularly noticeable in the way Akutami designs his antagonists. The curses in Jujutsu Kaisen, with their grotesque and imaginative forms, echo the monstrous Hollows from Bleach. This visual inspiration helps to create a sense of familiarity for fans of Bleach while still offering something fresh and original.
Naruto, created by Masashi Kishimoto, is another major influence on Jujutsu Kaisen. Akutami has cited Naruto as a significant source of inspiration, particularly in terms of character dynamics and thematic elements. The mentor-student relationships in Jujutsu Kaisen, such as the bond between Yuji Itadori and Satoru Gojo, are reminiscent of the connections seen in Naruto between characters like Naruto Uzumaki and Kakashi Hatake. These relationships add depth to the story and provide opportunities for character growth and development.
The themes of friendship, perseverance, and the struggle against overwhelming odds are central to both Naruto and Jujutsu Kaisen. Akutami has skillfully woven these themes into his narrative, creating a story that resonates with readers on an emotional level. The camaraderie among the students at Tokyo Jujutsu High parallels the bonds formed among the ninja of Konoha, highlighting the importance of teamwork and mutual support in overcoming challenges.
Naruto’s influence extends to the combat system in Jujutsu Kaisen as well. The intricate and strategic nature of the battles in Naruto, where characters often rely on a combination of physical prowess, special abilities, and tactical thinking, can be seen in the fights between sorcerers and curses in Jujutsu Kaisen. Akutami has crafted a combat system that is both complex and engaging, drawing readers into the high-stakes confrontations that define the series.
In addition to these narrative and thematic influences, Akutami has also drawn inspiration from the way Kishimoto handled the progression of his story. Naruto’s journey from an outcast to a hero is a classic underdog tale that has inspired countless readers and creators. Similarly, Yuji Itadori’s journey in Jujutsu Kaisen is one of self-discovery and growth, as he learns to harness his abilities and confront the dark forces that threaten his world. This narrative arc, rooted in personal development and the pursuit of a greater purpose, is a testament to the enduring appeal of the hero’s journey.
The impact of Bleach and Naruto on Jujutsu Kaisen is a testament to the enduring legacy of these iconic series. Both Tite Kubo and Masashi Kishimoto have left an indelible mark on the manga industry, inspiring a new generation of creators to push the boundaries of storytelling and artistry. Gege Akutami’s ability to draw from these influences while crafting a unique and compelling narrative is a testament to his skill as a storyteller.
Jujutsu Kaisen’s success is a reflection of the rich tapestry of influences that have shaped it. By blending elements from Bleach and Naruto with his own creative vision, Akutami has created a series that stands out in the crowded landscape of modern manga. Fans of Jujutsu Kaisen can appreciate the nods to these classic series while enjoying a fresh and exciting story that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
As Jujutsu Kaisen continues to grow in popularity, it serves as a reminder of the power of inspiration and the importance of paying homage to the works that have come before. Gege Akutami’s acknowledgment of the influence of Bleach and Naruto on his work is a testament to the interconnected nature of the manga industry, where each new creation builds upon the foundations laid by its predecessors. In this way, Jujutsu Kaisen not only honors the legacy of Bleach and Naruto but also contributes to the ongoing evolution of the medium.
Source: Crunchyroll, ComicBook.com
