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The combination of high-stakes actions, distinct characters, and compelling storylines has always been a trademark of the Shonen genre. However, as the genre evolves, it comes under thorough scrutiny from its own passionate fans. Similarly, Eiichiro Oda’sOne Piecehas received several criticisms for its increasingly outlandish and comedic elements. Particularly after Luffy’s Gear Five form was introduced, there has been a great deal of critique about it as some people have accused Oda of driving the genre into absurdity.
But before Shonen fanatics jump to conclusions, it’s crucial to take into account the larger picture of modern manga.Jujutsu Kaisen, a series known for its dark and gory themes, has a character that exhibits the same ridiculous comedic aspect that someOne Piecefans find offensive. In Gege Akutami’s story, a failing comedian turned sorcerer named Takaba Fumihiko has a Cursed Technique that equals Gear Five’s chaotic and ridiculous nature. This brings a new light to the evolving nature of the Shonen genre.
Takaba Fumihiko as the Underdog ofJujutsu Kaisen
WhileJujutsu Kaisenhad earned a reputation as a more “serious” Shonen manga with its gloomy settings,Gege Akutamiintroduced a character whose powers and personality seemed ripped from a different genre altogether. Takaba Fumihiko, a struggling comedian turned jujutsu sorcerer, possesses a Cursed Technique that is as bizarre as it is powerful.
He is a sorcerer turned by Kenjaku in order to participate in theCulling game. His innate technique turns the battlefield into a stage for his absurd comedy, allowing anything that seems funny to him to come true. Whether it’s boasting an impressive level of cursed energy or turning the tide with well-timed goofiness, Takaba’s presence inJujutsu Kaisenis a stark contrast to the series’ otherwise serious tone.
Jujutsu Kaisen Theory Suggests that Despite His Battle with Takaba, Yuta was the Only One Meant to Kill Kenjaku After Gojo’s Death
Despite being extremely powerful, Takaba’s goofy nature makes people underestimate him. Even though normally he could have been written off as a comic relief, Akutami skillfully included him in the plot to display the unpredictable nature of the curses.Chapter 242ofJujutsu Kaisenproves that even the darkest of stories can benefit from a touch of humor and as a genre, Shonen manga is not bound by rigid tonal boundaries.
One Piece‘s Gear Five Luffy as the Frontman for Shonen Absurdity
The Gear Five transformation of Luffy has sparked both amazement and doubts within theOne Piecefanbase. The form’s visual design, which is similar to classic Western comics, was a striking deviation from the darker undertones that had definedOne Piecein previous arcs. For some fans, it displayed a new form of creativity while for others it was a step too far — a jump into the world of outright absurdity.
However, it’s important to note that these comedic character designs demonstrate that comedy and power are not mutually exclusive in Shonen manga. In fact, when the two are combined, a series can have some of its most powerful and memorable moments.
Both Oda and Akutami challenge conventional ideas of what Shonen should be by pushing beyond the boundaries of what is possible in their own worlds, paving the way for fresh approaches to storytelling and character development. Luffy’s Gear Five and Takaba’s Cursed Technique have a lot in common. In both cases, the norms of reality are twisted to fit the whims of the characters, resulting in a sort of hilarious invincibility.
One Piece: Eiichiro Oda Might Have Hinted a Traitor Among the Five Elders Who Will Help Luffy as His Gear 5 Badly Struggles in Egghead Arc
Thus, the claims made againstEiichiro Odafor ruining the Shonen genre fail to take into account the larger patterns influencing modern manga. Both inOne PieceandJujutsu Kaisen, these seemingly absurd and cartoonish characters highlight the genre’s capacity for innovation and its ability to blend different tones and styles in ways that enrich the story.
You can readOne PieceandJujutsu Kaisenon Viz Media as of 19th August, 2024.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :930
Moumita Chakraborty is a seasoned Anime Writer at FandomWire with over 900 published articles. Passionate about the vibrant world of Japanese anime, she brings sharp analytical skills and cultural insight to every piece. From dissecting intricate plotlines to spotlighting the latest trends and releases, Moumita’s work resonates with both casual fans and seasoned otakus. Her writing aims to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts while contributing meaningfully to the ever-growing anime community.
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Eiichiro OdaGege AkutamiJujutsu KaisenOne Piece
