In a recent revelation, Naoya Matsumoto, the mastermind behind the hit manga series “Kaiju No. 8,” opened up about the intriguing origins of his creation. Matsumoto disclosed that his inspiration for “Kaiju No. 8” stemmed from Hideaki Anno’s acclaimed film “Shin Godzilla,” known for its captivating portrayal of the iconic monster.
Delving deeper into the genesis of his protagonist, Kafka Hibino, Matsumoto revealed a personal connection, stating that Kafka’s character was loosely based on himself. Drawing from his own experiences of grappling with career aspirations and setbacks, Matsumoto imbued Kafka with a sense of realism and depth.
Reflecting on his journey as a manga artist, Matsumoto candidly shared his struggles and frustrations, particularly during a period when his peers were finding success while he faced financial hardships. These challenges served as the foundation for Kafka’s character, portraying a 30-year-old protagonist striving to achieve his dreams amidst adversity.
Furthermore, Matsumoto’s professional background offers insight into his creative development. Having worked as an assistant to prominent manga artists such as Yuki Tabata (“Black Clover”) and Ryuhei Tamura (“Beelzebub”) under the mentorship of Toshiaki Iwashiro (“Psyren”), Matsumoto’s journey through the industry undoubtedly influenced his artistic vision and storytelling approach.
As fans eagerly anticipate each chapter of “Kaiju No. 8,” Matsumoto’s revelations provide a fascinating glimpse into the intricate layers of inspiration and personal experience that shape the captivating world of his manga.
