Not everyone can get into anime production, but for those who can develop or acquire a taste for anime, the possibilities are almost endless as far as the realities you are able to examine through the imagination of writers. The vastly expanding world of manga productions is producing an ever-evolving world of excitement and exploration. One manga that has its own unique following is Hajime no Ippo. This particular anime television adaptation emerges from a simple question but opens up an entire world of possibilities. For those who might be interested in taking on the series, here are 10 facts that will definitely provide insight into the theme and plot of Hajime no Ippo
1. The Series Emerges Based on One Single Question
Makunouchi Ippo, the story’s main character, become a boxer in order to answer one simple question: What does it mean to become strong? This quest for understanding leads to the beginning of the step-by-step process of discovery that opens the mind of Ippo to explore his identity and sense of self.
2. The First Step
Hajime no Ippo actually means “The First Step,” and the concept of integrating relevant meaning in the character’s name is visited here as with most anime series. So, the series can be seen as the examination of the importance of taking the first step in pursuing anything of interest. In a world where people rarely take action, this message is huge and inspiring.
3. Serialization Began in 1989 in Kodansha’s Weekly Shonen Magazine
Most all anime televisions series have their origination in a paper periodical or magazine, much in the same way that both Marvel and DC comic book characters found their way onto the big screen. At last check, the manga was still running in the original magazine. In many instances, you will find that the television series will follow closely to the storyline of the manga, but not always.
4. An Almost Endless Line of Content
When you consider the fact that this particular manga has been active since 1989, it should not be a surprise that there are more than 100 volumes or stories. The series ins now moving into its 30th year and it does not appear that it has lost any of its momentum among the loyal fans. There is some concern as to the direction that will be taken moving forward.
5. Not A Part of the Digital Release
In 2015, Kodansha released a digital version of the print magazine; however, Morikawa, the creator of the mango did not want Hajime no Ippo to be included in the release, so it was left out. This means that those who want the continue engaging the manga as part of the television adaptation will have to continue their door subscription to the magazine.
6. More than 1200 Chapters
When I mentioned the 100-plus volumes (122 to be exact) earlier, it left a lot to be interpreted. The truth is that in those 122 volumes is over 1,200 chapters of storytelling, and the story is still in production. Who knows where things will end up and how far down the road that is. The series is currently enjoying an impressive run.
7. The Anime Is in Its 18th Year
It usually takes a while for the anime to enter into the equation, and this anime hit the screens in 2000, meaning that even the anime is 18 years into the game. That is definitely an impressive run. While the production has been slow over these 18 years, the popularity among fans is still rather high.
8. The Flagship Series Has Sold Over 94 Million Copies
It is difficult to get accurate up-to-date numbers on sales because of the cross markets and how things are reported; however, I can say with a certain level of certainty that the original series created for Weekly Shonen Magazine has sold in excess of 94 million copies and counting, and it is likely much more than that by now.
9. The Anime Has Achieved Success in Multiple Countries
It is expected that animes will do fairly well in Japan, but these shows are normally measured by how well they perform in other countries. Not only has Hajime no Ippo done well in Asian countries like Thailand, South Kora, and China, but it has also done well in France and the United States.
10. Extreme Market Latitude in Production
What I found surprising is the fact that each market has certain variations that are exclusive to the market, which interesting. The voice over characters are usually different in the market, but also the magazine covers and show intros can be different as well. While there are some differences, the experience is generally the same once you sink into the content.
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