Osamu Tezuka created many notable characters in his life time, but only three of them became cult icons. The first was Astro Boy, the seacond was Kimba....
.....and the third was Dr. Black Jack.
Black Jack debuted in Weekly Shonen Champion in the early 70s, and instantly became a hit. This series of Bradbury-esque medical stories often baffle the mind with the multiple levels of meaning.
The hero of the series is the enigmatic Dr. Black Jack. He is the world's most gifted surgeon, almost super-human in his talent. He is often the last resort for people who are near death.
Of course, there's a downside. Besides his rather eccentric manner and his odd apperrance (he has a skunk llike hairdo and a large scar that crosses his face), he also asks for abosoluterly ridiculous amounts of money (usually 30 to 40 million yen, plus extra charges for overnight flights and what not).
Of course, he really is doing it for good. Black Jack is one who disdains material excess, and the fees are only brought about when some capitalist fat-cat tries to throw his weight around.
So, give it a try! It is Tezuka after all!!
And if you've read it already, give me a reply!
Underrated Manga, Part 5: Black Jack
Moderators: Mayhem, Steve Hubbell, Moderators
Underrated Manga, Part 5: Black Jack
"That which is not dead can eternal lie, and in strange aeons, even death may die..."
-H.P. Lovecraft
-H.P. Lovecraft
