The final chapter of Chiho Saito's beloved VS Lupin manga has officially been published in the summer issue of Shogakukan's Zōkan Flowers magazine, marking the end of a remarkable 12-year run. Fans have followed the adventures of the world-famous gentleman thief, Arsène Lupin, through Saito's distinctive artistic lens since the manga's launch in the inaugural issue of Zōkan Flowers back in 2012.
A Decade of Daring Heists with Arsène Lupin
VS Lupin brought Maurice Leblanc's iconic character to life in manga form, captivating readers with his exploits set in early 20th-century Paris. The series masterfully blended classic mystery with dramatic flair, true to Saito's signature style. From its first compiled book volume in 2014 to its seventh volume released in 2023, the manga has been a consistent presence, delivering thrilling narratives and elegant character designs.
The series resonated with both long-time fans of the original Arsène Lupin novels and newcomers alike, offering a fresh interpretation while honoring the spirit of Leblanc's creation. The conclusion of VS Lupin marks a significant moment for the shojo manga world, bidding farewell to a series that has charmed and thrilled its audience for over a decade.
Chiho Saito's Prolific Career Continues
Even as VS Lupin concludes, Chiho Saito's creative energies show no signs of slowing down. A truly prolific mangaka, Saito has already launched a new ongoing series, Hi no Tsugai (Lovers in Scarlet), in Shogakukan's Flowers magazine in June 2024. The fifth volume of this new work was published on July 9, demonstrating her continued dedication to storytelling and art.
Her recent history also includes the completion of Kaguyaden (Bright Night Legend), which ran in Flowers from April 2018 until its conclusion in January 2024. Prior to that, her manga Torikae Baya captivated readers in Monthly Flowers from July 2012 to November 2017. These works highlight the breadth and depth of Saito's narrative talent, encompassing various genres and historical settings.
The Enduring Legacy of Revolutionary Girl Utena
No discussion of Chiho Saito's career would be complete without acknowledging her pivotal role in the creation of Revolutionary Girl Utena. As part of Be-PaPas, a formidable group of industry professionals that included Yōji Enokido, Shinya Hasegawa, Kunihiko Ikuhara, and Yūichirō Oguro, Saito contributed to developing both the manga and anime adaptations concurrently. Her manga version debuted in Shogakukan's Ciao magazine in 1996 and was later compiled into five volumes.
Revolutionary Girl Utena became a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its complex themes, striking visuals, and innovative narrative structure. Viz Media brought the manga to North American audiences, including a collector's edition, solidifying its international appeal. The series' enduring impact was further showcased with the compilation of three one-shot chapters into Shōjo Kakumei Utena: After the Revolution, released in Japan in May 2018. This collective body of work firmly establishes Saito as a transformative figure in manga history, influencing countless creators and leaving an indelible mark on readers worldwide.
Looking Ahead for a Master Mangaka
The conclusion of VS Lupin closes an important chapter in Chiho Saito's extensive bibliography, but it also paves the way for new narratives and artistic explorations. Her consistent output and dedication to her craft assure fans that there will be many more compelling stories to come. As we bid farewell to her interpretation of the gentleman thief, we eagerly anticipate the future works from this celebrated mangaka, whose contributions continue to enrich the world of manga.
