Sohelee Tahmina
Junji Ito, born on July 31, 1963, in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, has been a prominent figure in horror manga for over three decades. His unique storytelling and distinctive art style have captivated readers worldwide, cementing his reputation as a master of the genre.
Early Life and Inspirations
From a young age, Ito was drawn to the macabre, influenced by the works of horror manga artists Kazuo Umezu and Shinichi Koga, which he read alongside his older sisters. This early exposure ignited his fascination with horror, shaping his future career.
Breakthrough with “Tomie”
Ito’s professional journey began in 1987 when he submitted a short story to a magazine contest, winning the Umezu Award. This story introduced “Tomie,” an immortal woman who drives her admirers to madness, leading them to commit gruesome acts. The character’s unsettling allure and regenerative abilities made “Tomie” a standout work, resulting in multiple adaptations, including a series of films from 1998 to 2011.
Notable Works and Themes
Throughout his career, Ito has produced a plethora of works that delve into various facets of horror:
- “Uzumaki” (1998-1999): This three-volume series explores a town cursed by spirals, leading its inhabitants into madness and grotesque transformations. “Uzumaki” was adapted into a film in 2000 and has an upcoming anime adaptation set to premiere on Adult Swim in September 2024.
- “Gyo” (2001-2002): A two-volume narrative where fish, controlled by a sentient bacteria known as the “death stench,” invade the land, bringing a horrific plague upon humanity.
- Short Stories: Ito’s collections, such as “The Junji Ito Horror Comic Collection,” feature tales like “The Long Hair in the Attic” and “The Hanging Balloons,” showcasing his ability to infuse everyday scenarios with terror.
Adaptations and Recent Projects
Ito’s influence extends beyond manga. In early 2018, “Junji Ito: Collection,” an anime series compiling several of his stories, was released, offering a new medium for his chilling narratives. Additionally, his works have inspired video game collaborations, such as the inclusion of characters like Tomie and Soichi in the popular game “Dead by Daylight” in January 2025.
Junji Ito: Legacy and Future Endeavors
Celebrating over 30 years in the industry, Ito continues to explore the depths of horror. He has expressed a preference for creating short stories and has ventured into illustration, aiming to captivate audiences with his distinctive style. His enduring impact on horror manga is a testament to his unparalleled creativity and understanding of the human psyche’s darkest corners.
For those new to Ito’s work, “Uzumaki” is often recommended as a starting point, exemplifying his talent for blending the ordinary with the horrific.
Junji Ito’s contributions have not only defined horror manga but have also influenced a broader cultural appreciation for the genre, ensuring his stories will continue to haunt and inspire for generations to come.
Read in Bengali: জুঞ্জি ইতো: ৩০ বছের ধরে হরর ম্যাঙ্গা’র এক অনবদ্য স্রষ্টা
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