TokyoPop is better known for their manga released, based on Japanese properties. And this month, they are changing things up by publishing material from Noir Caesar Entertainment to bring more representation to the mainstream. It all begins with the launch of the graphic novel titled MUTUPO. It’s based on various beliefs from the country of Zimbabwe and that’s enough to catch my interest!
This 162 page work (sans covers) introduces readers to Shingai, a reluctant hero, who kind of reminds me of Monkey King. Here, he gets caught up in a mysterious Fight Club of sorts. But here, these warriors can use augmentation to up their skills and it’s not through cyber implants!
Normal people can use the spirits inhabiting their family totems to one up their opponents, and as for why one is superior to another, I’m not as well versed on African lore to know. What’s represented here differs vastly from the animism I studied, and I’ll have to do a lot of background reading to truly understand how mysticism works here. The spirits are alive, and they can do more than simply loan humans their power. What’s presented here differs from how Vixen (DC Comics) gains her abilities when fighting crime. But here, they use their powers for all the wrong reasons–to take part in fighting matches!
In this story, the world building is rather impressive and is perhaps even just as good as what Ryan Coogler crafted when realising Wakanda in Black Panther. However, instead of having everyone come from noble roots, this character is struggling to make ends meet. His relationship with his father is not all that tight, and some elements which will no doubt put the two in a bind much later.
The work is a huge introduction to a much broader world. The last time I fell in love with comic books from another country was back when Virgin Comics offered releases from India that had Hindu gods in the forefront!
For MUTUPO, what Kay Rwizi delivers is a humble introduction. It’s not too heavy on explaining the folklore, and I really appreciate how the culture comes alive in the dialogue. I appreciate the book brings the culture alive in the dialogue and doesn’t expect readers to understand the meaning of certain phrases or words.
Some fun facts from the press release include how this comic book started as a Webtoon. This work attracted over 10,000 readers in less than 3 months, and this series is Rwizi’s very first graphic novel! His style is rather unique, as it seems similar to Denver Jackson’s own CalArts style with Osamu Tezuka’s signature flair milked in!
This word is used to describe the animal or object deemed sacred by a clan or tribe. For centuries, Zimbabweans would stay in touch with their ancestry and the practices surrounding their culture by embracing Mutupo. There are some who can see their totem animal’s attributes as a superpower to augment their own physiology. Using this essence for all the wrong reasons is highly illegal, and Shingai better be careful should the authorities catch wind and decide to shut the operation down!
I’m uncertain about how many books will be released, but thankfully the last pages outline how other series may be part of the same universe as released through Tokyo Pop’s Noir Caesar imprint. What’s outlined as coming soon hints it may well all indirectly connect, and I’m ready to embrace this label with my arms wide open.
MUTUPO Comic Book Trailer
