Full Breakdown
TEZUKA! God of Manga Documentary Launches Kickstarter Campaign
4/30/2026, 6:26:30 AM
Core Event: Documentary Announces Funding Drive
A feature-length documentary titled TEZUKA! God of Manga has entered its final fundraising phase with a Kickstarter campaign slated for spring 2026. The project, directed by Peabody Award-winning producer Jason Andrew Cohn and produced by Bread & Butter Films, released a trailer to generate interest ahead of the crowdfunding launch. The film traces Tezuka’s postwar life, career and lasting impact on entertainment.
Background & Context: Osamu Tezuka’s Enduring Influence
Osamu Tezuka, creator of seminal works such as *Astro Boy*, *Kimba the White Lion*, *Princess Knight*, *Dororo* and *Black Jack*, is widely regarded as the “god of manga” and has been compared to Walt Disney for his impact on Japanese popular culture. His post-World-War II output introduced a new, DIY-oriented comics medium that spread globally, shaping both manga and animation.
Key Figures & Groups: Creators Behind the Film and Interviewees
The documentary is helmed by director Jason Andrew Cohn, known for *No Straight Lines: The Rise of Queer Comics* and *Eames: The Architect & the Painter*. Production is overseen by Bread & Butter Films team members Camille Servan-Schreiber, Jinko Gotoh, Glen S. Fukushima and Roland Kelts. Interview subjects include manga and anime creators Katsuhiro Otomo (*Akira*), Riyoko Ikeda (*Rose of Versailles*), Naoki Urasawa (*Monster*), Go Nagai (*Devilman*), Toshiyuki Tomino (*Gundam*), Madhouse co-founder Masao Maruyama (*Tokyo Godfathers*), director Rintaro (*Metropolis*), fantasy author Ada Palmer (*Too Like the Lightning*), animator Jorge R. Gutierrez (*The Book of Life*), scholars Fred Schodt (*Manga! Manga!*) and Helen McCarthy (*The Manga Bible*). Additional interviews with Paul Pope (*THB*) and Ronald Wimberly (*Prince of Cats*) are planned pending funding.
Data & Statistics
- Kickstarter launch: Spring 2026.
- Production wrap target: 2028, aligning with the 100th anniversary of Tezuka’s birth.
- Tezuka’s death: 1989, age 60.
- Kickstarter rewards: Tezuka Productions merchandise, limited-edition prints, and a Blu-ray of the documentary.
Official Statements & Responses
Director Jason Andrew Cohn said the film celebrates Tezuka’s enigmatic career, highlighting his influence on popular culture and cross-fertilization between Japanese creators and the community. He added the documentary seeks to introduce Tezuka’s works to a generation via an immersive experience.
Verbatim Quotes
- “TEZUKA! God of Manga celebrates Tezuka-sensei as a preposterously prolific, enigmatic creator who forever altered popular culture by introducing young readers to a brand-new, DIY medium that rocketed around the world,” — Jason Andrew Cohn, Director
- “The creative cross-fertilization between artists in Japan and the rest of the world made Tezuka one of the most beloved and influential artists of the 20th century.” — Jason Andrew Cohn, Director
- “God of Manga is a moving, immersive, and visually stunning romp through comics history.” — Jason Andrew Cohn, Director
- “The creative cross-fertilization between artists in Japan and the rest of the world made Tezuka one of the most beloved and influential artists of the 20th century. TEZUKA! God of Manga is a moving, immersive, and visually stunning romp through comics history. This film will celebrate his legacy and introduce his incredible creations to a new generation.” — Jason Andrew Cohn, Director
What’s Next: Anticipated Release and Impact
Backers will receive exclusive merchandise and a Blu-ray copy once production concludes. The documentary is scheduled for completion in 2028 to coincide with Tezuka’s centennial, positioning it as a timely tribute that may further cement his influence on contemporary manga and animation worldwide.
