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*****- Banana Fish by Yoshida Akimi Format: Manga Genre: Action-Adventure Released Through: Viz Comics Plot: Young gang leader Ash searches for the secret behind the drug "Banana Fish", which was responsible for the death of his brother. Along the way he is hunted by the Mafia and aided by several friends, including a young Japanese photographer. High Points: When I first read this title, the only thing I could say was "Wow." In my humble opinion, it doesn't get much better than this. This manga has almost everything. For starters, it's as realistic and action-packed as any crime drama on American TV. It's also a mystery story, so you never know what's coming next. It's a realistic picture of life on the streets and deals with issues like child prostitution, homosexuality, and gang rivalries. I love the way they show the relationship between Ash and Eiji (the young photographer). Their love for one another develops slowly and cautiously, which is much more realistic than most shonen-ai. And since their relationship is not the main focus of the story, everyone should like this title. Even if you hate other shojo titles, you'll still like Banana Fish. I recommended it to anyone, except hard core romantics. (Even then, you should take a chance on it!) Low Points: Um..um... Wow. I just don't know. I guess my only worry is that Banana Fish ran for 10 years in Japan. It better not take that long here, or I think I'll go crazy. Notes: If you can't wait for the graphic novels to come out, Banana Fish is currently running in Viz's Pulp Magazine. |