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Masashi Kishimoto’sBorutohas gained much criticism since the moment it was born. From the lack of the OG characters to an ill-explained villainous group, the series has faced considerable backlash. But the one thing no one can argue against is Mikio Ikemoto’s art.
Sure, Naruto has suddenly lost his iconic hair and become a middle-aged man, but Ikemoto has drawn some detailed panels and dashing character designs so far. In an interview by MangaPLUS, the artist reveals everything you need to know about the Boruto illustration process.
Mikio Ikemoto Faces Restrictions While DrawingBoruto
Inthe interview, Mikio Ikemoto was asked if he was closely attached to the characters he drew. The illustrator answered that most of the time he is closely attached to the characters he creates. Thus, it is easier for him to empathize with Sarada, Kawaki, and the main characters other than the protagonist.
Because Boruto’s actions are pretty much predetermined in the storyline, there are many restrictions in his depictions. On the other hand, I have more freedom with other characters, so they are easier to depict.
Since Boruto is the protagonist of the series, his depiction needs to be accurate to his personality. Thus, Ikemoto must not have as much freedom in creating his panels. While it is left unsaid, it seems likeMasashi Kishimotohasvery strict opinionon how Boruto should be drawn.
Ikemoto also claimed that he has to be careful for everyBorutoscene including his interactions with other characters.
Also, I am careful when depicting Boruto interacting with other characters, as they often tend to affect my style.
The illustrator explained that sometimes his design of Boruto becomes more childish or overgrown depending on the character he is talking with. This fluctuation becomes a problem, which he tries to eliminate.
How Mikio Ikemoto Determines the Character Designs forBoruto
Ikemoto admitted that for each character, their role and personality are decided first. He also creates a rough draft based on his personal impression of the character. The next step is to check the pre-existing characters of both theNarutoandBorutoseries so that the design of the new character doesn’t interfere or overlap with any old one.
“Naruto looks better like this than he does in his own series”: Bleach Creator Tite Kubo Drew Naruto and Orochimaru and They Look Better Than Whatever Monstrosity Kishimoto Gave us in Boruto
The illustrator claimed that his designs were mostly created from his first impressions. Even when he was anassistant for theNarutoseries, Masashi Kishimoto requested him to create some character designs so he has the training and experience that is needed to create new characters in the type of style that Kishimoto wants.
I always attempt to avoid drawing something too original by closely aligning my style with the original Naruto and Boruto. Mr. Kishimoto often tells me to make “eyes and mouths large,” as smaller eyes and mouths leave characters spiritless.
It looks like Ikemoto isunder strict supervisionto createBorutodevoid of any personal impression since the character is highly supervised by Masashi Kishimoto.
“It had to be something more impactful”: Masashi Kishimoto Was the One Who Came up With the Most Brain-Rattling Boruto Twist Scene That Hinted Naruto is Dead
you’re able to readNarutoandBorutoon Viz Media and watch the anime on Crunchyroll.
Aaheli Pradhan
Anime Content Writer
Articles Published :1558
Aaheli is an Anime Content Writer at FandomWire with 1300+ published articles. With five years of experience under her belt, she is a living, breathing encyclopedia for anime and manga. From Shonen and Shojo to the most niche anime, nothing escapes her radar. Her poisons of choice are Assassination Classroom, Gintama, Ouran High School Host Club and every Ghibli movie ever. She believes in living a slow life, surrounded by incomplete art projects and her beloved cats.
