Going back to 1999, when the work of manga artist Akira Toriyama was at its peak. The manga series created by him, including Dr. Slump, Dragon Ball, and Dragon Ball Z, had sold millions of copies and became huge hits when they were adapted into anime.
At the same time, another phenomenon was shaping the cultural landscape globally. In the summer of 1999, Star Wars made its return after 16 years with a completely new film: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Amidst the global buzz surrounding the film, Akira Toriyama had created a piece of artwork featuring Anakin Skywalker during his childhood — who later became the fearsome Darth Vader — for a special issue of Shōnen Jump.
The Long-standing Admiration of Dragon Ball’s Creator for Star Wars
Akira Toriyama is one of the most devoted fans of the original Star Wars trilogy (1977–1983), a famous film series that has had a significant impact in Japan as well as around the world. Before becoming a professional manga artist, Toriyama often drew works inspired by Star Wars as a means of practice. Later, in the manga Dr. Slump, he incorporated cultural references to the franchise, with characters resembling C-3PO and R2-D2 making occasional appearances.
As the anticipation for The Phantom Menace built up towards its release in 1999, many fans, including Toriyama, were eager to see what the new installment would bring. With great excitement, Toriyama submitted a drawing featuring a young Anakin Skywalker (played by Jake Lloyd) along with a Battle Droid as an entry for the Weekly Shōnen Jump Newcomer Award.
Since the artwork was released prior to the film’s debut, the creator of Dragon Ball expressed his thoughts and feelings in a personal note:
“Finally, a new Star Wars film is about to be released! Not only is it a story that transcends the boundaries of the universe, but also many different designs have always amazed me. The film truly excites me and has influenced me greatly. Now, the release date is getting closer, and I can’t wait to see the film!”
“Personally, I didn’t find many familiar elements between the characters in this part, so when I saw Darth Vader again, I didn’t understand him (even though I was very excited to see Ewan McGregor). However, from the introductory sequence, the design of the mechas, droids, and extraterrestrial beings left a strong impression, and the special effects were absolutely beautiful. I couldn’t wait to see it!”
