The Agora-Maison Diocésaine in Monaco hosted a cultural showcase on Tuesday 9th June, celebrating the international success of the French manga Blitz. Organised by ACLI Monaco—the Association of Italians in the Principality—the event highlighted the manga’s successful translation and publication in Italy. Supported by Shibuya International and Pirreti Editore, the gathering brought together enthusiasts to explore the intersection of strategic chess and graphic storytelling.
The programme opened with a high-level chess demonstration led by International Grandmaster Pierluigi Piscopo. Reflecting on the discipline required for such strategic play, Piscopo said: “Chess is a game of complete information where analysis and anticipation allow a player to essentially see the future before it unfolds on the board.” This demonstration served as a practical exploration of the intellectual rigour central to the narrative of Blitz, mirroring the mental discipline required by the characters within the series.
The creative vision of Cédric Biscay
Author and creator Cédric Biscay took to the stage to lead a conference on his work. Biscay provided detailed insights into the creation of the series, which is notable for prominently featuring the Principality and references to the Princely Family. He also discussed how his personal cross-border ties serve to link Monaco and Italy through his writing.
Reflecting on the manga’s broadening international footprint, Biscay expressed his pride: “Having a true reader base in Italy for Blitz is a sign of growing soft power for the Principality of Monaco in sectors where it was previously absent; it is a great pride to contribute to this development.” He further credited the success to the passion behind the project, noting, “I have no formal training in writing manga; my work is driven by passion, motivation, and a deep familiarity with the genre.”
A cultural contribution to the Diocese
The evening continued with a formal ceremony, during which the Italian publisher Massimiliano Piretti officially donated the first eight volumes of the Italian edition of Blitz to the Diocese of Monaco. This act underscored the cultural weight of the series, positioning it as a notable contribution to the literary landscape of the region.
Fan engagement and future perspectives
The evening concluded with a signing session, marking the official launch of the eighth volume of Blitz in Italy. Ginevra de Masi, President of ACLI Monaco, explained that the event was central to the organisation’s strategy to engage local youth, utilising the global resonance of the manga to celebrate the bond between Monaco and Italy through the medium of Japanese popular culture.
As Biscay continues the production of the 12th volume of the series, the success of the gathering at the Agora highlights the growing importance of Blitz as a vehicle for cross-border collaboration and cultural exchange.
See also:
Interview: Monaco manga creator Cédric Biscay talks chess, storytelling and soft power
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Main photo: Cédric Biscay – Blitz author with Ginevra de Masi – President of ACLI Monaco, photo by Monaco Life