I just watched another fascinating episode of the “Manben” documentary on NHK World (see my article on this subject), dedicated this time to legendary mangaka Shigeru Mizuki (mostly known for GeGeGe no Kitarō [ゲゲゲの鬼太郎, 1960–1969], Showa: A History of Japan [コミック昭和史 / Komikku Shōwa-shi, 1988–1989], or Onward Towards Our Noble Deaths [総員玉砕せよ! / Sōin Gyokusai Seyo!, 1973]). Since Mizuki died in November 2015, Urasawa Naoki couldn’t interview him for his famous behind the scenes of manga series, but instead he meets with two of Mizuki’s former assistants, Ikegami Ryoichi (Mai The Psychic Girl, Crying Freeman, Nobunaga, Sanctuary, Strain) and Morino Tatsuya (Yokai Attack!), as well as Mizuki’s daughter, to discuss the yokai master’s techniques over original manuscripts. It really makes you want to read (or read again) his incredible works.

The episode aired yesterday (September 14) and today (September 15) and should be available to view as Video On Demand pretty soon. Highly recommended.