Katsuhiro Otomo is one of the most legendary manga artists to come out of Japan. He’s best known as the creator of its groundbreaking 1988 film adaptation, which redefined both manga and anime on a global scale. But after Akira, Otomo’s creative output has been sporadic. Fans have seen major works like the steampunk film Steamboy (2004) and short manga such as 2019’s The Mood Is Already of War 3, but it’s been decades since he’s released something as massive and culture-shifting as Akira.

Now, in a recent televised conversation between Otomo and Pluto creator Naoki Urasawa, the question finally came up: “Aren’t you going to draw manga again?” Otomo replied, “Yeah… I think at some point, I have to draw manga properly. That would be my way of repaying manga—because it’s what raised me.” This moment is sparking fresh speculation among fans: is Otomo gearing up for a new manga? With Urasawa offering help, the excitement is real—and so is the possibility.

Origins of a Visionary

Akira’s Ongoing Global Legacy

Katsuhiro Otomo was born in 1954 in Miyagi Prefecture. He debuted as a manga artist in 1973 with stories published in Manga Action. He quickly made a name for himself with short, self-contained works before shifting to full-length science fiction epics like Domu (1980–1981) and Akira (1982–1990). Both were serialized in Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine and became milestones in manga history. Otomo introduced a level of visual precision and cinematic storytelling that changed the landscape of the medium—and set the stage for his transition into animation.

Since its release in 1988, Akira has continued to influence creators worldwide with its dense visuals and philosophical themes. Josh Trank, director of Chronicle (2012), has cited it as a major inspiration. The Duffer Brothers, creators of Stranger Things, have also pointed to Akira as a foundational influence. Otomo’s work didn’t just make waves in Japan—it helped redefine pop culture around the globe. Decades later, Akira remains a touchstone for animation and sci-fi storytelling alike.

A Peek Inside Otomo’s Process

“Everyone’s Waiting for You”

As a recent guest on the TV show Naoki Urasawa's Manben Neo, Otomo offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at the making of Domu, his pre-Akira sci-fi thriller. Hosting the program was Naoki Urasawa, creator of Monster, 20th Century Boys, and Pluto—a longtime Otomo irer and respected figure in the manga industry. As they reviewed Otomo’s original artwork, enlarged on a massive screen, he explained how he used string to map out perspective lines, eventually realizing the vanishing points formed a circle—“just like a camera lens.” The insight changed how Otomo approached drawing and helped Urasawa rethink perspective entirely.

Otomo also shared his personal techniques and artistic quirks. He prefers to use the most worn-out technical pens himself, letting assistants handle the fresh ones—a small but telling detail about his hands-on style. Urasawa, visibly delighted, mimicked Otomo’s pen work on camera. In one , Otomo hadn’t used correction fluid on a mess of tangled cables. When asked why, he simply said, “It’s like a ritual—I put a spell in it.” For a creator often seen as emotionally detached, the moment revealed a surprising warmth and reverence for the craft.

All the manga talk eventually led Urasawa to ask the big question: “Aren’t you going to draw manga again?” Otomo answered, “Yeah… I think at some point, I have to draw manga properly. That would be my way of repaying manga—because it’s what raised me.” Without hesitation, Urasawa replied, “I’ll help you anytime! Everyone’s waiting for you.” It was a quiet but powerful moment—one creator extending a hand to another, and the hint of a collaboration fans could only dream of.

What’s Next for Otomo?

A Dream Collaboration in the Making?

At Anime Expo 2019, Otomo announced a new Akira anime project—a full adaptation of all six manga volumes. Unlike the 1988 film, this version aims to tell the complete story. He also revealed his sci-fi film Orbital Era. In 2022, Otomo mentioned he was drawing a new manga, hinting it might be published “soon.” Then in 2023, he posted an image of Kiyoko from Akira, captioned: “Kiyoko’s prophetic dream will become reality.” While nothing is confirmed, something is clearly in motion.

With Otomo teasing new projects and Urasawa offering his , the idea of these two manga titans working together—even in a small way—is electrifying. Whether it’s a full collaboration or behind-the-scenes synergy, the creative chemistry is undeniable. An Otomo-Urasawa team-up wouldn’t just be exciting—it could redefine the future of manga itself.

Source: Real Sound JP