Mizuki Sakakibara’s manga adaptation of Tiger & Bunny 2 is set to conclude on June 6, marking the end of another chapter in the popular superhero franchise. This news arrives as a bittersweet moment for fans who have followed the adventures of Wild Tiger and Barnaby Brooks Jr. in their comic book form.
A Look Back at Tiger & Bunny
Tiger & Bunny is a Japanese anime superhero television series produced by Sunrise and directed by Keiichi Sato. The series premiered on April 3, 2011, and ran until September 17, 2011. Set in the futuristic city of Stern Bild, the story revolves around heroes who fight crime while promoting corporate sponsors on the popular “Hero TV” show.
The anime series focuses on veteran hero Kotetsu T. Kaburagi, also known as Wild Tiger, and rookie hero Barnaby Brooks Jr., often called “Bunny”. These two heroes are forced to work together by their employers, despite having conflicting opinions on what it means to be a superhero.
The World of Stern Bild
Stern Bild City is a vibrant metropolis where people of various races and backgrounds coexist, including those known as NEXT, individuals with special powers. These NEXT superheroes maintain peace within the city, solving cases, saving lives, and earning “hero points” while sporting sponsor logos. Their exploits are broadcast on “Hero TV,” where they compete for the coveted title of “King of Heroes”.
Sakakibara’s Manga Adaptation
Mizuki Sakakibara’s manga adaptation of Tiger & Bunny offers a unique take on the superhero saga. Sakakibara began serializing the manga in Kadokawa Shoten’s Comic Newtype website in April 2022. The manga delves into the relationship between Kotetsu and Barnaby, exploring their differing ideologies and the challenges they face as partners.
Mizuki Sakakibara: The Artist Behind the Manga
Mizuki Sakakibara is a talented manga artist known for her work on Tiger & Bunny. Her American comics debut was Marvel’s Exile in 2002. Sakakibara’s adaptation of Tiger & Bunny captures the essence of the anime while adding her unique artistic flair.
Other Adaptations and Spin-offs
Besides Sakakibara’s manga, Tiger & Bunny has inspired other adaptations and spin-offs:
- Tiger & Bunny 2 The Comic: A manga adaptation written by Erika Yoshida and illustrated by Hiroshi Ueda, which began serialization in Shueisha’s Tonari no Young Jump website on April 15, 2022.
- Tiger & Bunny: The Comic: Another manga series written by Erika Yoshida and illustrated by Hiroshi Ueda, published in Miracle Jump.
- Tiger & Bunny-chan: A spin-off manga series.
- Tiger & Bunny – Sky High: Another spin-off manga focusing on the character Sky High.
- Tiger & Bunny – Origami: A spin-off centered around the hero Origami Cyclone.
The Legacy of Tiger & Bunny
Tiger & Bunny has garnered a dedicated fanbase since its debut in 2011. The series has been praised for its unique blend of superhero action, comedy, and corporate satire. The dynamic between Wild Tiger and Barnaby Brooks Jr. has resonated with audiences, making them one of the most beloved superhero duos in anime history.
Themes and Characters
The Tiger & Bunny series explores themes such as:
- Partnership: The central relationship between Kotetsu and Barnaby, highlighting the challenges and rewards of teamwork.
- Generational Differences: The contrasting ideologies of veteran hero Wild Tiger and rookie hero Barnaby Brooks Jr.
- Corporate Sponsorship: The integration of real-world sponsors into the superhero world, adding a layer of satire and commentary on commercialism.
- Justice and Revenge: Barnaby’s quest to uncover the truth behind his parents’ murder.
The Impact of Tiger & Bunny 2
Tiger & Bunny 2, the sequel to the original anime series, premiered on Netflix in April 2022. The sequel continues the story of Kotetsu and Barnaby as they face new threats and challenges in Stern Bild City. The anime was produced by Bandai Namco Pictures, with director Mitsuko Kase taking over from Keiichi Sato.
Sakakibara’s manga adaptation of Tiger & Bunny 2 has provided fans with an alternative way to experience the sequel’s story. Her artwork and storytelling have brought the characters and world of Tiger & Bunny to life on the page.
Where to Watch and Read Tiger & Bunny
For those new to the Tiger & Bunny franchise, here’s how to get started:
- Anime: The original Tiger & Bunny anime series and Tiger & Bunny 2 are available for streaming on Netflix.
- Manga: Viz Media has licensed the Tiger & Bunny manga in North America.
- Mizuki Sakakibara’s Manga: This manga can be found in Newtype Ace Magazine.
Final Thoughts
As Mizuki Sakakibara’s Tiger & Bunny 2 manga comes to an end, fans can look back on her contribution to the franchise with appreciation. Her adaptation has captured the spirit of Tiger & Bunny, providing readers with a unique and engaging take on the superhero saga. While this particular manga series may be concluding, the adventures of Wild Tiger and Barnaby Brooks Jr. will continue to resonate with fans for years to come.
