Hokazono Takeru Isn’t Even Trying to Hide Just How Much Inspiration Kagurabachi Took from Keanu Reeves and John Wick

When it comes to popular manga, Kagurabachi is all the rage currently. Hokazono Takeru gives a new meaning to gore and vengeance through his work. Be it art or writing, the series does absolute justice as one of the bestselling manga. Interestingly, Hokazono doesn’t shy from revealing the inspiration behind his work. Especially when it comes to iconic movies.

Like most mangaka, Hokazono’s work highlights Western influences. This is evident in his use of pop culture references. From Kill Bill to Marvel, the author took inspiration from legendary films. This also includes John Wick. Fans, however, feel that his love for the film is too obvious.

Kagurabachi and the not-so-subtle Keanu Reeves in John Wick reference

There are very few stories that manage to unpack grief and vengeance. Kagurabachi is one of them, especially with its compelling storyline. Be it art or character building, the series is anything but a mainstream revenge manga. What sets it apart from other series is its unique take on revenge. Despite the influences, the author adds a unique flair to the idea of justice and retribution.

This holds especially true with its inspirations from other pop culture media. One look at the series and viewers are instantly reminded of Kill Bill. While the series draws inspiration from Tarantino, it doesn’t end there.

Hokazono has previously stated that his work is inspired by popular Shonen series like Naruto and Demon Slayer. His recent chapter, however, proved his love for Hollywood films. Especially the ones that have influenced the mangaka’s work greatly.

An X user @Go_Jover noted the glaring similarities between John Wick and Chihiro Rokuhira. What followed was a chain of reactions from several users.

Yeah this is definitely a John Wick refference #Kagurabachi pic.twitter.com/Hr7krlkHiC

— Myamura (@Go_Jover) October 17, 2024

Hokazono cooked with this one🔥 pic.twitter.com/uM9U0iLbyY

— Xannie💊 (@Kloppyy1) October 17, 2024

Yeah this is definitely a John Wick

— 𝐆 𝐇 𝐈 𝐋 𝐋 𝐈 ツ (@Ghilli__Siva) October 17, 2024

Started reading kahurabachi

— Zoro_Edits (@Zoro_Cut) October 17, 2024

What they have in common is that they are both handsome and cool🥳

— WINDY (@FloraPierce5) October 17, 2024

Despite the similarities, the author excels in adding his unique twist to the story. Needless to say, the series is anything but a cheap imitation of iconic movies. This holds especially true with the idea of divine retribution that is reflected in the protagonist’s motives.

Hokazono Takeru’s manga outlines the divine dance of retribution

Hokazono Takeru is soaring heights with his manga especially through his novel take on vengeance. As cliche as revenge stories may sound, Chihiro isn’t a bog-standard shonen hero. Many a time, the protagonist is criticized for his edgy behavior.

His aloofness and cold demeanor is what makes him more familiar to most readers. But that’s not all, especially with the series’ underlining of grief, loss, and anger. Hokazono’s brilliance lies in navigating the complexities of human behavior. This is a resounding theme along with the idea of divine retribution.

Kagurabachi translates to the divine dance of retribution. The swordplay is nothing short of dramatic and choreographed. This isn’t to say that it is a literal dance. But the divine element lies in Chihiro’s wielding of the very blades his father forged.

It also is reflective of the hero’s god complex, especially through his proclamation. Chihiro, however, isn’t an archetypal god in this sense. This is evident in his vulnerability. He too has his moments of weakness notably in the drastic moments of change after his father’s death.

With his fallible nature and skills, Chihiro is a rather layered character. Kagurabachi may have taken inspiration from John Wick, but the series carves its own idea of vengeance.

Kagurabachi is available for reading on Viz Media.