Devilman (デビルマン, Debiruman) è un
manga di Gō Nagai pubblicato sulla rivista Weekly Shōnen Magazine di Kōdansha
dall'11 giugno 1972 al 24 giugno 1973 e raccolto in cinque tankōbon. L'opera
venne liberamente trasposta in una serie televisiva anime dalla Toei Animation
e trasmessa la prima volta in Giappone dalla rete televisiva NET dall' 8 luglio
1972 al 7 aprile 1973. Ebbe inoltre un più fedele adattamento OAV, una
trasposizione cinematografica live-action nel 2004 e numerosi manga spin-off.
L'opera ottenne un grande successo di critica e pubblico e, insieme ad altre
opere come Mazinger Z e a Mao Dante, è considerata fra le serie più famose
dell'autore e il suo anime contribuì negli anni settanta allo sviluppo e al
successo dell'animazione giapponese in un decennio considerato il suo periodo
d'oro. In un sondaggio effettuato da TV Asahi è risultato al 76º posto nella
classifica dei cento anime più popolari in Giappone.
Devilman: Where innocence meets the abyss
RispondiEliminaIn a world saturated with superheroes and saccharine anime, Devilman stands as a grotesque, haunting anomaly. Created by the visionary Go Nagai, this manga and anime series is a brutal, unflinching exploration of humanity's darkest corners, wrapped in a package that is as visually striking as it is psychologically disturbing.
At its core, Devilman is a tale of transformation. Akira Fudo, an ordinary high school student, merges with a demon, Amon, in a desperate attempt to combat an impending demonic invasion. This fusion grants him extraordinary powers, but it also unleashes a monstrous alter ego capable of unspeakable violence.
What sets Devilman apart is not just its graphic depictions of violence, but its unflinching exploration of existential themes. Nagai doesn't shy away from questioning the nature of good and evil, the fragility of human existence, and the potential darkness lurking within us all. It's a world where lines blur, morality is questioned, and hope is a fleeting illusion.
Visually, Devilman is a masterpiece of chaos and beauty. Nagai's character designs are iconic, and the animation, particularly in the 1972 anime, is a bold and experimental departure from the norm. The series is a visual feast, but it's also a disturbing one, with images that will linger in your mind long after the credits roll.
While Devilman may not be for everyone, its impact on the world of anime and pop culture is undeniable. It has influenced countless works, from Neon Genesis Evangelion to Chainsaw Man, and its legacy continues to grow.
Devilman is a cautionary tale, a mirror reflecting the darkest aspects of humanity, and a testament to the power of storytelling. It’s a work of art that demands to be seen, but it also warns us to look away.
Are you brave enough to face the Devilman within?