Bakuman. [Manga] – Info, Plot, Main Characters
Japanese Title: バクマン。 (Bakuman。); stylized: BAKUMAN。
Year of Release: 2008 – 2012 (20 volumes)
Writer: Tsugumi Ohba
Original Publisher: Shueisha (Eng.: Madman Entertainment, Viz Media)
TV: Bakuman Anime Series 2010 – 2013 (75 episodes)
Anime Movies: –
Setting
Bakuman is set in contemporary Japan, vividly portraying the fast-paced and competitive world of manga creation. The story primarily unfolds within the urban landscape, focusing on the daily lives and aspirations of two ninth-grade boys. The manga industry itself serves as the central stage, a vibrant and demanding environment where the narrative showcases the intense challenges, unwavering dedication, and soaring ambitions of young artists striving to achieve success and recognition within this highly competitive field. The series meticulously depicts the studios, editorial offices, and the general atmosphere surrounding the creation and publication of manga.
Plot
The narrative of Bakuman follows the intertwined journey of Moritaka Mashiro and Akito Takagi, two ambitious ninth-grade boys who share a singular dream: to become wildly successful manga artists. Recognizing their complementary talents, they form a creative partnership, with Mashiro serving as the brilliant artist and Takagi as the imaginative writer. Their ultimate goal is to have their original manga serialized in the prestigious Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine, a pivotal aspiration for any aspiring manga creator. Throughout their arduous journey, they confront a multitude of obstacles, including the immense pressures and tight deadlines of the manga industry, the complexities of maintaining personal relationships, and the relentless pursuit of their shared dream. The plot masterfully interweaves their professional ambitions with the intricacies of their personal lives, notably their developing romantic relationships, which often become intertwined with their career aspirations.
Main Characters
Kaya Miyoshi: Takagi’s supportive girlfriend. She plays a crucial role in bolstering the morale of both Mashiro and Takagi, offering her unwavering support and encouragement as they navigate the demanding challenges of the manga industry.
Moritaka Mashiro: A gifted and exceptionally talented artist who is inspired by his late uncle, a former manga artist. Driven by a desire to achieve fame and fortune, he commits to the demanding path of manga creation, bringing Takagi’s stories to life with his stunning artwork.
Akito Takagi: An intelligent and ambitious aspiring writer who first conceives the idea of becoming a manga artist. He is the driving force behind their partnership, relentlessly encouraging Mashiro to pursue their shared dream and providing the narrative foundation for their manga.
Miho Azuki: Mashiro’s childhood friend and his primary love interest. She harbors her own artistic dream of becoming a voice actress. Mashiro and Miho make a promise that they will marry each other once both have achieved their respective career goals.
