Akira Miyashita: 'The Longing for Strong Men Resonates in the Reiwa Era' - 'Kou!! Otoko Juku COMPLETE DVD BOOK vol.2' Released Today!

Today, May 29 (Fri), Pia Corporation released 'Kou!! Otoko Juku COMPLETE DVD BOOK vol.2'. The original work is a manga of the same name by Akira Miyashita, which began serialization in Shueisha's 'Weekly Shonen Jump' in 1985. It was adapted into an anime in 1988 and became so popular that a theatrical version was also produced. Since then, it has continued to captivate fans for 40 years through sequels, spin-offs, stage plays, and web anime distributions. The story is set at 'Otoko Juku,' a place where delinquent boys from all over the country gather. Through life-or-death battles and superhuman Spartan education, the story follows them as they polish their friendship and become 'true men.' The intense characters and powerful battle scenes captivated boys at the time. The booklet for vol.2 includes an interview with the original author, Akira Miyashita. He shares his frank thoughts on the TV anime adaptation and explains that the reason Otoko Juku still generates enthusiasm today is that 'there is a longing for strong men that resonates even in the Reiwa era.' Furthermore, it includes an impactful 'Terminology Dictionary' and setting drawings of famous instructors. The DVD contains episodes 11 through 19, featuring battles against the Kanto Gogakuren and the American Super Police Academy. The book is priced at 2,420 yen (tax included) and is available at bookstores and online retailers nationwide.