Creator of such modern manga classics like Monster, 20th Century Boys, and Pluto, Naoki Urasawa is considered by many to be a modern master of Japanese Comics and the only person worthy to step in footsteps of the legendary Tezuka Osamu.  In this five-part documentary, we get to see how Urasawa brings his creations to life.

I’m absolutely amazed that it takes only seven days to complete a 24-page chapter.  Of course, he has a room full of assistants which is something that I’ve rarely seen.  But still, that kind of fast-paced schedule is insane, especially considering it takes an entire month for American comic artists to produce 22 pages.  His attention to the slightest detail is fascinating.  Truly inspired work.

Sing!  Sing like Bob Dylan!

The woman interviewing Urasawa has the best expressions!  OMG!  I never seen a pen draw different weight lines!

Wow, even his grade school manga looks professional.

With such prolific output, I’m not surprised his body developed major pain.  He’s sacrificing even his body to manga.

Ah, the eternal struggle between fan desires and creator’s vision.

I’m glad he ultimately chose to stick with his vision.  In the end, that’s really what the fans want.