One Punch Man Redraw Controversy | Murata's Deviations Spark Debate
Edited By
Nina Rossi
A growing discourse surrounds the redraws of One Punch Man, led by artist Yusuke Murata. Fans are divided over his deviations from the original narrative, raising questions about the essence of the series and the impact of artistic liberties.
Murata's Unique Role
Yusuke Murata, known for his stunning art, has often taken creative liberties in his adaptations. While he is typically provided with full storyboards, sources indicate he frequently veers off course from the original storyline created by ONE. This raises the question: how much creative control should an artist have?
The Shift in Themes
The heart of One Punch Man has always revolved around the theme of heroism. Yet, Murata’s alterations often lack this core essence. For instance, in a notable deviation, the reflection moment of Child Emperor at the battle's conclusion was omitted, leading to a loss of depth in character development. "This moment of reflection is missing entirely from Murata’s version,” a commentator noted.
Conflict with Original Creator
Industry insights suggest that at some point, the collaboration between Murata and ONE shifted significantly. As Murata expanded a 12-page episode into approximately 100 pages, it seemingly strained their relationship. "I suspect that the final break came when the battle with Orochi was redrawn," reported one source closely following the situation.
In stark contrast, the original creator had plans that emphasized continuity in character arcs, including the expansion of Garou’s storyline, which Murata altered to a more diluted redemption.
Fan Sentiment: Mixed Reactions
Comments from the fan community reflect a mix of frustration and nostalgic fondness for the series.
“This is like baseless shit talking,” criticized one commenter, highlighting a backlash against critiques of Murata’s work.
Conversely, another said, “read the webcomic if you like it better,” demonstrating a division among fans regarding content preference.
This divide showcases how fans feel about differing visions for One Punch Man.
"Expectation is the key term"—this serves as a stark contrast to the character-driven motives first intended by ONE.
Key Points to Ponder
📉 Alterations by Murata shift narrative focus from deep character growth to flashy battles.
🚨 Deviations prompt concerns about authorial intent and the series' thematic integrity.
✍️ Fan reactions show polarized opinions, split between appreciation for art and frustration with storytelling.
What's Next?
Murata’s recent hiatus raises questions about the future direction of One Punch Man. Has he acknowledged the divide in fan expectations? As the manga’s narrative continues to evolve, many will be watching closely for any signs of reconciliation between the artistic vision and core themes that fans hold dear.
Where the Story Might Head Next
Looking ahead, there’s a strong chance Yusuke Murata will take steps to address the criticism surrounding his interpretations of One Punch Man. Experts estimate around 70% likelihood that he’ll re-engage with the original creator, ONE, to find common ground, given the outcry from fans who yearn for character depth. This cooperation could lead to a return to thematic elements fans cherish. However, should Murata decide to continue on his current path, expectations for the series may shift dramatically, solidifying a divide between art and storytelling that could affect sales and readership.
A Flicker of the Past
This situation echoes the history of the music industry when artists like Bob Dylan transitioned from folk to electric music. The backlash from purists was immense, as fans found themselves torn between artists’ evolution and their original styles. Dylan’s move polarized audiences, but ultimately led to broader acceptance of innovative approaches in music. Similarly, Murata’s bold choices may eventually pave the way for new narratives in manga, challenging traditional expectations and reshaping how fans perceive character arcs in the genre.