Look Back is a one-shot manga by Chainsaw Man and Fire Punch creator Tatsuki Fujimoto. With its anime film adaptation to be released soon, let’s delve deeper into the story.
It focuses on Ayumu Fujino, a young girl who enjoys drawing manga strips for her school newspaper. But when a reclusive student named Kyomoto starts submitting better work, Fujino is threatened and eventually stops drawing altogether.
Years later, Fujino meets her former rival, Kyomoto, who is actually a big fan of Fujino’s work. Motivated by Kyomoto’s admiration, Fujino decides to make manga professionally, with Kyomoto as her assistant.
Art as Emotional Storytelling
One of the strongest points of Look Back is Fujimoto’s minimalistic yet powerful artwork, which manages to convey complex emotions. About a third of the manga is silent, so readers are left to feel the weight of turning points through the characters ‘expressions and gestures.
Fujimoto’s style alternates between detailed and rough sketch-like panels, reflecting the characters ‘attitudes and behaviors. Not overly elaborate, his drawings complement the emotional content of the story.
Characters and Themes that are relatable
Although it may be a basic premise, Look Back offers intricate layers of passion, self-improvement, and codependency through its characters. We can all relate to Fujino’s struggle to balance nurturing her talent and battling setbacks as she transitions from a validation-seeking child to a determined adult artist.
Kyomoto, in turn, mirrors these themes, emphasizing the need for support and inspiration when creating art. Their brief relationship illustrates how lasting relationships can change one’s life and passions.
A Reminiscence of Tragedy
About halfway through the manga, an unexpected tragedy strikes and the story changes to its aftermath. Fujimoto compares this tragedy to real-life tragedies, like the Kyoto Animation arson attack that killed 36 animators.
While these comparisons may seem offensive to some, the manga does not minimize the terrible loss of life. Instead, it provides a somber reminder of the need to treasure memories and carry forward passions sparked by loss.
Anime Movie Adaptation
With the emotional content and themes of Look Back and Fujimoto’s success in Chainsaw Man, it has been confirmed that an anime movie adaptation is being developed.
This adaptation is expected to capture the raw emotions and character expressions conveyed through Fujimoto’s art, while also offering scope for expanded storytelling and discussion of the manga’s themes.
A Lasting Impact
Look Back is a manga that lives up to its title. It forces readers to ponder the things they have touched upon others, even if those connections were fleeting. The skill of writer and artist Fujimoto is being able to convey depth and emotion through minimalistic storytelling.
The manga isn’t a particularly pleasant or upbeat read, but it can leave an impression on those who look at it with intention. It prompts reflection on the value of creativity, the need for support networks, and the capacity to weather tragedy and make sense of grief.
Conclusion
Look Back is a powerful and deeply felt work that establishes Tatsuki Fujimoto as a master storyteller. Its grounded premise, relatable characters, and explosive emotional storytelling are reasons to read it for fans of his previous works or anyone looking for an intriguing look at passion, loss, and the lasting impact of human relationships. And with the anime film adaptation coming this June, this touching tale deserves to be known to an even wider audience.
