Tokyo, Nov 5 (EFE).- Kazuo Umezu (Wakayama, Japan, 1936), well-known manga artist -mangaka- and creator of innovative works in different fields such as horror, science fiction and comedy, has died at the age of 88. as confirmed this Tuesday to EFE by a spokesperson for its publisher.
The artist died on October 28, his studio, UMEZZ, also said in a statement, adding that a private funeral has already been held with his close family and professional environment.
The artist and also producer differentiated himself from his contemporaries by including supernatural overtones in works such as ‘Reptilia’ and ‘The Cat-Eyed Boy’ with which he achieved success and earned him the nickname “god of horror manga.”
Umezu debuted as a manga artist at the age of 19 with an adaptation of Hansel and Gretel called ‘Mori’s Brothers’ (‘Mori no Kyoudai’).
Later – inspired by the bedtime stories his father told him in which snake women, ghosts and spirits appeared – he put aside childhood conventions to immerse himself in Gekiga, an avant-garde manga movement more focused on cinematic rhythm and adult charm of film noir and science fiction.
‘Drifting Classroom’, his controversial masterpiece in which some primary school students travel to a desolate future where they learn that monsters and hunger are nothing compared to the danger that their peers can pose, allowed him to win in 1974 the Shogakukan Award in the general category.
This award is one of the most prestigious in the field of manga in Japan and has been awarded annually since 1955 to the best manga of the year in different categories.
In addition, among other awards, the Japanese received the Angoulême Festival Heritage Award in 2018 for his book ‘I am Shingo. Volume I’, for being a work that is part of the world comic heritage.
The Angoulême comic festival (France) is considered the most important in this field in Europe.
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**Interview with Manga Scholar Dr. Hiroshi Yamamoto on the Legacy of Kazuo Umezu**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Yamamoto. We are saddened by the recent passing of Kazuo Umezu. Can you share your thoughts on his significance in the manga world?
**Dr. Yamamoto:** Thank you for having me. Kazuo Umezu was a pioneering figure in manga, especially esteemed for his work in horror, science fiction, and even comedy. His unique approach to storytelling, which often blended supernatural elements with everyday life, redefined what manga could be. His ability to weave complex narratives allowed readers to explore darker themes and mature content, setting him apart from many of his contemporaries.
**Interviewer:** Umezu’s iconic series “The Drifting Classroom” is often cited as his masterpiece. What impact did this series have on the manga industry and its audience?
**Dr. Yamamoto:** “The Drifting Classroom” is indeed a groundbreaking work. It tackled profound themes of survival, morality, and the inherent dangers posed by society and peers, particularly through the lens of children. This series challenged the expectations of manga at the time and opened the door for more experimental narratives. It introduced readers to a gritty realism that wasn’t typically associated with manga aimed at younger audiences. Winning the Shogakukan Award was a testament to its impact and quality.
**Interviewer:** Umezu was noted for his supernatural themes. How did his personal experiences and childhood stories influence his work?
**Dr. Yamamoto:** Umezu’s childhood stories, shared by his father, featured snake women, ghosts, and spirits, deeply influenced his creative vision. This backdrop of traditional folklore combined with his exploration of horror allowed him to develop a unique style that resonates with both Japanese traditions and universal fears. His works often reflect a tension between childhood innocence and the harsh realities of life, which many readers found relatable.
**Interviewer:** Umezu received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious Angoulême Festival Heritage Award. What does this recognition signify for his contributions to the comic heritage?
**Dr. Yamamoto:** Receiving the Angoulême Festival Heritage Award is a monumental recognition, celebrating the enduring impact of Umezu’s work. It highlights his influence not only in Japan but also on the international stage. His stories have transcended cultural boundaries, showcasing the power of manga as a form of art and storytelling. This award situates Umezu among the greats in the global comic landscape.
**Interviewer:** how do you see Umezu’s legacy continuing in the modern manga and comic scene?
**Dr. Yamamoto:** Umezu’s legacy will undoubtedly live on, especially as contemporary creators continue to explore horror and darker themes. His willingness to push boundaries inspires new generations of artists. We are seeing a resurgence of works that reflect the complexities and anxieties of modern life, much like Umezu’s did. His influence can be traced in various genres, and as readers, we will continue to see echoes of his work in the way stories are told.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Yamamoto, for sharing your insights on Kazuo Umezu’s remarkable contributions to manga and his lasting legacy.
**Dr. Yamamoto:** Thank you for having me. It’s important to remember and celebrate the artists who shape the culture we love.
