LEVIUS/EST, VOL. 1
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]
CARTONIST: Haruhisa Nakata
TRANSLATION: John Werry
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Joanna Estep
EDITOR: Joel Enos
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0639-6; paperback (November 2019); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
212pp, B&W with some color, $12.99 U.S., $17.99 CAN, £8.99 UK
Levius/est is a sequel to the manga, Levius, with both manga being the creation of manga artist, Haruhisa Nakata. A currently ongoing series, Levius/est is published in the Japanese manga magazine, Ultra Jump. VIZ Media is publishing an English-language edition of Levius/est as a series of graphic novels, and also published Levius in English as a single-volume hardcover omnibus edition.
Levius/est, Vol. 1 (Chapters 1 to 5) opens in the 19th century. The world has entered the “Era of Rebirth,” as it recovers from a devastating war. Seventeen-year-old Levius Cromwell, who lost his parents to war, is a fighter in the sport of mechanical martial arts (M.M.A.), which has galvanized the nations of the world. Cybernetically augmented fighters turn their blood into steam and their bodies into brutal and sometimes monstrous fighting and killing machines.
Levius managed to become one of the “Grand Thirteen,” the 13 M.M.A. fighters in the sport's top level, “Grade I.” However, Levius is currently in a coma, and his gravely injured uncle, Zack Cromell (his father's brother), is determined to save him. To do so means engaging a dangerous young woman named A.J. Langdon, the fighter who caused Levius' injuries.
The Levius/est manga is a necessary sequel to the Levius manga. After reading Levius, dear readers, it was clear to me that there was more story to be told.
Levius/est Graphic Novel Volume 1 is appropriate for high school age readers, as was the original, although both are classified with the adult seinen manga label. Creator Haruhisa Nakata depicts some shockingly brutal fights in the original series, but here, he focuses on back story, flashbacks, and character relationships. For instance, Nakata offers us the first look at the events that led to Levius' mother's grievous injuries, and he shows us a more detailed and different side of A.J. Langdon.
Nakata's art reminds me of the work of Katsuhiro Otomo (Akira), and I expect this series will sometimes seem like a steampunk spin on Ghost in the Shell. Nakata's art makes for effective graphical storytelling and is also eye-candy.
John Werry and Jason A. Hurley's work on the English script for Levius/est won't fail us, and Joanna Estep's lovely lettering is perfect for this series. That is why I am recommending Levius/est. There is so much potential here, both in terms of action and in terms of character drama. Levius/est may be a sequel, but I don't think it will be a retread.
8 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog for syndication rights and fees.
-----------------------------
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Showing posts with label Jason A Hurley. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jason A Hurley. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 8, 2020
Review: LEVIUS/est: Volume 1
Labels:
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Jason A Hurley,
Joel Enos,
John Werry,
manga,
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Thursday, October 24, 2019
Review: LEVIUS
LEVIUS
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]
CARTONIST: Haruhisa Nakata
TRANSLATION: John Werry
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Joanna Estep
EDITOR: Joel Enos
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0502-3; hardcover (September 2019); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
672pp, B&W with some color, $34.99 U.S., $46.99 CAN, £25.00 UK
Levius is a seinen manga (comics for adult men) created by Haruhisa Nakata. It was serialized in 18 chapters from 2012 to 2014 in the Japanese manga magazine, Ikki. In Japan, Levius was collected in three tankobon (graphic novels). VIZ Media is publishing the entirety of Levius in English as a omnibus hardcover, entitled Levius.
Levius is set on an alternate Earth. It is the 19th century, and the world has entered the “Era of Rebirth,” as it recovers from a devastating war. Seventeen-year-old Levius Cromwell lost his father to war, and his mother lies in a coma in a hospital because she suffered grave bodily injuries in the battle in their neighborhood, Green Bridge. Five years earlier, Levius came to live with his uncle, his late father's brother, Zack Cromwell, and his paternal grandmother.
Now, Levius is a fighter in the sport of mechanical martial arts (M.M.A.), which has galvanized the nations of the world. Cybernetically augmented fighters turn their blood into steam and their bodies into brutal and sometimes monstrous fighting and killing machines. Young Levius is one of those arena battlers, a mechanical martial artist prodigy, hell-bent on winning in order to simply survive in a sport where combatants often enter the “Final Cage,” death.
There are five levels in M.M.A., I, II, III, IV, and V, and Levius is Level II. In order to move up to Level I, Levius will have to fight the monstrous Hugo Stratus and a young woman named A.J. Langdon. To defeat them, to maybe save them and himself, Levius may have to enter the Final Cage.
The Levius manga is appropriate for high school age readers, although it is classified with the adult seinen manga label. Creator Haruhisa Nakata depicts some shockingly brutal fights, but Levius' mixture of dystopian science fiction, mecha, and martial arts will attract a number of manga readers who are familiar with titles like Full Metal Alchemist and Ghost in the Shell.
The art is richly detailed and the fights and behind-the-scenes segments about cybernetics will remind readers of Ghost in the Shell. In the drama scenes, Nakata's art reminds me of the work of Katsuhiro Otomo (Akira).
I found this manga to be an exciting read. However, there were times that the story seemed to become repetitive. I will not say that the story is padded, but Nakata often needs to draw out fights to the gruesome end in order to convey the story's plot and themes. The consequence is that readers may find that some of the mechanical martial arts battles will simply wear them down, as it did me a few times.
Otherwise, Levius is a unique alternate Earth, futuristic drama and action-thriller. Its stylish art and powerful graphical storytelling left me wanting more. And there is more, a follow-up, entitled Levius/est, which hopefully makes it way to American readers.
8 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.
------------------------
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
[This review was originally posted on Patreon.]
CARTONIST: Haruhisa Nakata
TRANSLATION: John Werry
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Joanna Estep
EDITOR: Joel Enos
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0502-3; hardcover (September 2019); Rated “T+” for “Older Teen”
672pp, B&W with some color, $34.99 U.S., $46.99 CAN, £25.00 UK
Levius is a seinen manga (comics for adult men) created by Haruhisa Nakata. It was serialized in 18 chapters from 2012 to 2014 in the Japanese manga magazine, Ikki. In Japan, Levius was collected in three tankobon (graphic novels). VIZ Media is publishing the entirety of Levius in English as a omnibus hardcover, entitled Levius.
Levius is set on an alternate Earth. It is the 19th century, and the world has entered the “Era of Rebirth,” as it recovers from a devastating war. Seventeen-year-old Levius Cromwell lost his father to war, and his mother lies in a coma in a hospital because she suffered grave bodily injuries in the battle in their neighborhood, Green Bridge. Five years earlier, Levius came to live with his uncle, his late father's brother, Zack Cromwell, and his paternal grandmother.
Now, Levius is a fighter in the sport of mechanical martial arts (M.M.A.), which has galvanized the nations of the world. Cybernetically augmented fighters turn their blood into steam and their bodies into brutal and sometimes monstrous fighting and killing machines. Young Levius is one of those arena battlers, a mechanical martial artist prodigy, hell-bent on winning in order to simply survive in a sport where combatants often enter the “Final Cage,” death.
There are five levels in M.M.A., I, II, III, IV, and V, and Levius is Level II. In order to move up to Level I, Levius will have to fight the monstrous Hugo Stratus and a young woman named A.J. Langdon. To defeat them, to maybe save them and himself, Levius may have to enter the Final Cage.
The Levius manga is appropriate for high school age readers, although it is classified with the adult seinen manga label. Creator Haruhisa Nakata depicts some shockingly brutal fights, but Levius' mixture of dystopian science fiction, mecha, and martial arts will attract a number of manga readers who are familiar with titles like Full Metal Alchemist and Ghost in the Shell.
The art is richly detailed and the fights and behind-the-scenes segments about cybernetics will remind readers of Ghost in the Shell. In the drama scenes, Nakata's art reminds me of the work of Katsuhiro Otomo (Akira).
I found this manga to be an exciting read. However, there were times that the story seemed to become repetitive. I will not say that the story is padded, but Nakata often needs to draw out fights to the gruesome end in order to convey the story's plot and themes. The consequence is that readers may find that some of the mechanical martial arts battles will simply wear them down, as it did me a few times.
Otherwise, Levius is a unique alternate Earth, futuristic drama and action-thriller. Its stylish art and powerful graphical storytelling left me wanting more. And there is more, a follow-up, entitled Levius/est, which hopefully makes it way to American readers.
8 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.
------------------------
Labels:
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Jason A Hurley,
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Saturday, March 2, 2019
Review: RWBY Official Manga Anthology, Volume 3 - From Shadows
RWBY OFFICIAL MANGA ANTHOLOGY, VOL. 3 – FROM SHADOWS
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
CARTOONISTS: Ritsu Hayami; Tsutanoha; Sumiwo; monorobu; Rojine Kio; Natsutaro; Mochiyama; mojojoj; Sun Hiura; Kaogeimoai; Mugupo; Ogurapan; Sora; Siguma Koko; Sorappane; Mikanuji; Ohtsuki; Umiya
TRANSLATION: Joe Yamasaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Evan Waldinger
EDITOR: Joel Enos
MISC. ART: mojojoj, Mugupo, ryuga, Sai Izumi
COVER: Ein Lee and Meteo
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0281-7; paperback (November 2018); Rated “T” for “Teen”
168pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $17.99 CAN, £8.99 U.K.
Based on the animation from Rooster Teeth Productions; RWBY created by Monty Oum
Streamed over the Internet, “RWBY” is an American animated series. The late Monty Oum created the series for Rooster Teeth Productions (an American company), which is known for its streaming and web animated series. “RWBY” is produced in a Japanese anime style, although some consider it to be an actual anime series. It is the first western-produced anime series to be distributed to Japanese television.
“RWBY” is set on the world of Remnant, which is beset by “Grimm,” horrific monsters bent on the destruction of humanity. The kingdoms of Remnant have risen to combat these monsters by training powerful Huntsmen and Huntresses at academies around the planet. “RWBY” focuses on Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, and Yang Xiao Long, four such Huntresses-in-training who are collectively known as “Team RWBY.”
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology collects original short manga and comics set in the world of RWBY. Each graphic novel in the series showcases a particular member of Team RWBY. RWBY The Official Manga Anthology, Vol. 3 is subtitled “From Shadows.” It focuses on Blake Belladonna, the RWBY member who belongs to a race known as the “Faunus.”
The stories reveal how Blake initially worries about how she will fit in with her human teammates, who are also her roommates. A few of the stories reveal that Blake uses her hair ribbons to hide the most obvious sign of being a Faunus, her cat-like ears. In the story, “Curiosity Killed the Cat,” Blake tackles a school legend about a cursed mirror – with help of her teammate, Yang Xiao Long's dog, Zwei. In the story, “Proof of a Black Cat,” an early period story, Blake learns to trust a new teammate when it comes to helping with her sword work.
[This volume contains commentary one-panel cartoons from the cartoonists that contributed to this volume. It also includes “Message from Ein Lee.”]
As I have stated in previous RWBY manga reviews, I had not heard of “RWBY” until I received a VIZ Media press release that it was going to collect Shirow Miwa's 2015-2017 manga adaptation of the anime. My VIZ Media press rep has sent me all three volumes of the RWBY The Official Manga Anthology manga published to date.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Graphic Novel Volume 3 is, thus far, my favorite volume of the series. Why? For one thing, I think the manga/comics contained within this volume, short as they are, seem the most focused. Many of them have a plot or solid concept, and only a few of them seem to be nothing more than a gathering of girl friends having a chat and a laugh.
I think another element that makes Vol. 3 strong is that Black Belladonna belongs to a persecuted minority. Thus, the cartoonists can take various aspects of Blake's character or life and create conflict or drama about her fitting in at the academy or learning to trust her fellow RWBY teammates. Even something as simple as Blake's hair ribbons can yield interesting moment and vignettes. I would actually enjoy more Belladonna stories like this.
A-
7.5 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.
------------------------------------
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
CARTOONISTS: Ritsu Hayami; Tsutanoha; Sumiwo; monorobu; Rojine Kio; Natsutaro; Mochiyama; mojojoj; Sun Hiura; Kaogeimoai; Mugupo; Ogurapan; Sora; Siguma Koko; Sorappane; Mikanuji; Ohtsuki; Umiya
TRANSLATION: Joe Yamasaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Evan Waldinger
EDITOR: Joel Enos
MISC. ART: mojojoj, Mugupo, ryuga, Sai Izumi
COVER: Ein Lee and Meteo
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0281-7; paperback (November 2018); Rated “T” for “Teen”
168pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $17.99 CAN, £8.99 U.K.
Based on the animation from Rooster Teeth Productions; RWBY created by Monty Oum
Streamed over the Internet, “RWBY” is an American animated series. The late Monty Oum created the series for Rooster Teeth Productions (an American company), which is known for its streaming and web animated series. “RWBY” is produced in a Japanese anime style, although some consider it to be an actual anime series. It is the first western-produced anime series to be distributed to Japanese television.
“RWBY” is set on the world of Remnant, which is beset by “Grimm,” horrific monsters bent on the destruction of humanity. The kingdoms of Remnant have risen to combat these monsters by training powerful Huntsmen and Huntresses at academies around the planet. “RWBY” focuses on Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, and Yang Xiao Long, four such Huntresses-in-training who are collectively known as “Team RWBY.”
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology collects original short manga and comics set in the world of RWBY. Each graphic novel in the series showcases a particular member of Team RWBY. RWBY The Official Manga Anthology, Vol. 3 is subtitled “From Shadows.” It focuses on Blake Belladonna, the RWBY member who belongs to a race known as the “Faunus.”
The stories reveal how Blake initially worries about how she will fit in with her human teammates, who are also her roommates. A few of the stories reveal that Blake uses her hair ribbons to hide the most obvious sign of being a Faunus, her cat-like ears. In the story, “Curiosity Killed the Cat,” Blake tackles a school legend about a cursed mirror – with help of her teammate, Yang Xiao Long's dog, Zwei. In the story, “Proof of a Black Cat,” an early period story, Blake learns to trust a new teammate when it comes to helping with her sword work.
[This volume contains commentary one-panel cartoons from the cartoonists that contributed to this volume. It also includes “Message from Ein Lee.”]
As I have stated in previous RWBY manga reviews, I had not heard of “RWBY” until I received a VIZ Media press release that it was going to collect Shirow Miwa's 2015-2017 manga adaptation of the anime. My VIZ Media press rep has sent me all three volumes of the RWBY The Official Manga Anthology manga published to date.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Graphic Novel Volume 3 is, thus far, my favorite volume of the series. Why? For one thing, I think the manga/comics contained within this volume, short as they are, seem the most focused. Many of them have a plot or solid concept, and only a few of them seem to be nothing more than a gathering of girl friends having a chat and a laugh.
I think another element that makes Vol. 3 strong is that Black Belladonna belongs to a persecuted minority. Thus, the cartoonists can take various aspects of Blake's character or life and create conflict or drama about her fitting in at the academy or learning to trust her fellow RWBY teammates. Even something as simple as Blake's hair ribbons can yield interesting moment and vignettes. I would actually enjoy more Belladonna stories like this.
A-
7.5 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.
------------------------------------
Labels:
Jason A Hurley,
Joe Yamazaki,
Joel Enos,
manga,
Review,
VIZ Media,
VIZ Signature
Wednesday, February 27, 2019
Review: RWBY Official Manga Anthology Volume 4 - Burn
RWBY OFFICIAL MANGA ANTHOLOGY, VOL. 4 – BURN
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
CARTOONISTS: Ohtsuki; Ritsu Hayami; mojojoj; Xily; Mochiyama; Mugupo; Moromoimaru; Mikanuji; Meteo; Sun Hiura; Natsutaro; Sora; Tsutanoha; Kaogeimoai; Rojine Kio; EMO; monorobu; Umiya
TRANSLATION: Joe Yamasaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Evan Waldinger
EDITOR: Joel Enos
MISC. ART: monorobu; Ritsu Hayami; Ohitashi; Honojirotowoji
COVER: Ein Lee and Meteo
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0282-4; paperback (February 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
168pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $17.99 CAN, £8.99 U.K.
Based on the animation from Rooster Teeth Productions; RWBY created by Monty Oum
Streamed over the Internet, “RWBY” is an American animated series. The late Monty Oum created the series for Rooster Teeth Productions (an American company), which is known for its web animated series. “RWBY” is produced in a Japanese anime style, although some consider it to be an actual anime series. It is the first western-produced anime series to be distributed to Japanese television.
“RWBY” is set on the world of Remnant, which is beset by “Grimm,” horrific monsters bent on the destruction of humanity. The kingdoms of Remnant have risen to combat these monsters by training powerful Huntsmen and Huntresses at academies around the planet. “RWBY” focuses on Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, and Yang Xiao Long, four such Huntresses-in-training who are collectively known as “Team RWBY.”
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology collects original short manga and comics set in the world of RWBY. Each graphic novel in the series showcases a particular member of Team RWBY. RWBY The Official Manga Anthology, Vol. 4 is subtitled “Burn.” This volume focuses on Yang Xiao Long, the RWBY member who is also the older half-sister of Ruby Rose.
The stories offered in “Burn” reveal how hard Yang works at her warrior skills, at being a sister to Ruby, and at being a good teammate. Sometimes, she finds herself walking the dog, Zwei. Other times, she fights with two sisters over a teddy bear. Yang worries about her weight and tries to plan a party. Often, she has to play make up to her sister, when the entire team isn't fighting demons.
[This volume contains commentary one-panel cartoons from the cartoonists that contributed to this volume. It also includes “Message from Ein Lee” and “Message from Barbara Dunkelman.”]
As I have stated in previous RWBY manga reviews, I had not heard of “RWBY” until I received a VIZ Media press release that it was going to collect Shirow Miwa's 2015-2017 manga adaptation of the anime. My VIZ Media press rep has sent me all four volumes of the RWBY The Official Manga Anthology manga published to date.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Graphic Novel Volume 4 is a nice read, although it is not as good as Vol. 3, the best volume of the series, thus far. Yang Xiao Long is not a particularly strong character in these stories, as she seems one note.
The stories here are written by new, emerging, and amateur manga creators. Some the stories are pleasant, but nothing is standout material here. I do like the work of some of the artists, for instance EMO, who offers a particularly strong panel featuring only a pair of eyes. Beyond that, I think Vol. 4 is especially for RWBY fans.
B
6 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.
----------------------------
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
CARTOONISTS: Ohtsuki; Ritsu Hayami; mojojoj; Xily; Mochiyama; Mugupo; Moromoimaru; Mikanuji; Meteo; Sun Hiura; Natsutaro; Sora; Tsutanoha; Kaogeimoai; Rojine Kio; EMO; monorobu; Umiya
TRANSLATION: Joe Yamasaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Evan Waldinger
EDITOR: Joel Enos
MISC. ART: monorobu; Ritsu Hayami; Ohitashi; Honojirotowoji
COVER: Ein Lee and Meteo
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0282-4; paperback (February 2019); Rated “T” for “Teen”
168pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $17.99 CAN, £8.99 U.K.
Based on the animation from Rooster Teeth Productions; RWBY created by Monty Oum
Streamed over the Internet, “RWBY” is an American animated series. The late Monty Oum created the series for Rooster Teeth Productions (an American company), which is known for its web animated series. “RWBY” is produced in a Japanese anime style, although some consider it to be an actual anime series. It is the first western-produced anime series to be distributed to Japanese television.
“RWBY” is set on the world of Remnant, which is beset by “Grimm,” horrific monsters bent on the destruction of humanity. The kingdoms of Remnant have risen to combat these monsters by training powerful Huntsmen and Huntresses at academies around the planet. “RWBY” focuses on Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, and Yang Xiao Long, four such Huntresses-in-training who are collectively known as “Team RWBY.”
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology collects original short manga and comics set in the world of RWBY. Each graphic novel in the series showcases a particular member of Team RWBY. RWBY The Official Manga Anthology, Vol. 4 is subtitled “Burn.” This volume focuses on Yang Xiao Long, the RWBY member who is also the older half-sister of Ruby Rose.
The stories offered in “Burn” reveal how hard Yang works at her warrior skills, at being a sister to Ruby, and at being a good teammate. Sometimes, she finds herself walking the dog, Zwei. Other times, she fights with two sisters over a teddy bear. Yang worries about her weight and tries to plan a party. Often, she has to play make up to her sister, when the entire team isn't fighting demons.
[This volume contains commentary one-panel cartoons from the cartoonists that contributed to this volume. It also includes “Message from Ein Lee” and “Message from Barbara Dunkelman.”]
As I have stated in previous RWBY manga reviews, I had not heard of “RWBY” until I received a VIZ Media press release that it was going to collect Shirow Miwa's 2015-2017 manga adaptation of the anime. My VIZ Media press rep has sent me all four volumes of the RWBY The Official Manga Anthology manga published to date.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Graphic Novel Volume 4 is a nice read, although it is not as good as Vol. 3, the best volume of the series, thus far. Yang Xiao Long is not a particularly strong character in these stories, as she seems one note.
The stories here are written by new, emerging, and amateur manga creators. Some the stories are pleasant, but nothing is standout material here. I do like the work of some of the artists, for instance EMO, who offers a particularly strong panel featuring only a pair of eyes. Beyond that, I think Vol. 4 is especially for RWBY fans.
B
6 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.
----------------------------
Labels:
Jason A Hurley,
Joe Yamazaki,
Joel Enos,
manga,
Review,
VIZ Media,
VIZ Signature
Tuesday, August 28, 2018
Review: RWBY Official Manga Anthology Volume 2
RWBY OFFICIAL MANGA ANTHOLOGY, VOL. 2 – MIRROR, MIRROR
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
CARTOONISTS: KaTe; monorobu; Kuma; Mate; Ritsu Hayami; Amechan; Rojine Kio; mojojoj, EMO; Mochiyama; Mikanuji; Tsutanoha; Amaya; Sora; Kaogeimoai; ryuga; Uri; Assa; Sun Hiura; Umiya
TRANSLATION: Joe Yamasaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Evan Waldinger
EDITOR: Joel Enos
MISC. ART: shihou; Kuma; BUZZ; Ecru
COVER: Ein Lee and Meteo
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0158-2; paperback (August 2018); Rated “T” for “Teen”
184pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $17.99 CAN, £8.99 U.K.
Based on the animation from Rooster Teeth Productions; RWBY created by Monty Oum
“RWBY” is an American animated series that is streamed on the World Wide Web. “RWBY” was created by the late Monty Oum for Rooster Teeth Productions (an American company), which is known for its streaming and web animated series. “RWBY” is produced in a Japanese anime style, although some consider it to be an actual anime series. It is the first western-produced anime series to be distributed to Japanese television.
“RWBY” is set on the world of Remnant, which is beset by “Grimm,” horrific monsters bent on the destruction of humanity. The kingdoms of Remnant have risen to combat these monsters by training powerful Huntsmen and Huntresses at academies around the planet. “RWBY” focuses on Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna and Yang Xiao Long, four such Huntresses-in-training who are collectively known as “Team RWBY.”
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology collects original short manga and comics set in the world of RWBY. Each graphic novel in the series showcases a particular member of Team RWBY. RWBY The Official Manga Anthology, Vol. 2 is subtitled “Mirror, Mirror” and focuses on Weiss Schnee, sometimes called “the Ice Princess.”
The stories reveal how Weiss initially struggles to work in a team, and how she comes to think of her teammates as friends, although she still sometimes feels out of place. The stories also reveal how close she is to her older sister, Winter, and how the dynamics of her powerful family affects her as a child and still do. Most of all the stories are about how Weiss becomes a part of the family known as Team RWBY.
[This volume contains commentary one-panel cartoons from the cartoonists that contributed to this volume. It also includes “Message from Ein Lee” and “Message from Kara Eberle.”]
I had not heard of “RWBY” until I received a VIZ Media press release that it was going to collect Shirow Miwa's 2015-2017 manga adaptation of the anime. My VIZ Media press rep has sent me both volumes of the RWBY The Official Manga Anthology manga published to date.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Graphic Novel Volume 2 is, in tone and style, similar to the first volume of the anthology. The stories are mostly humorous, and they are lighthearted vignettes that focus on the relationships between the members of Team RWBY.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Volume 2 – Mirror, Mirror is a good way to let readers see various aspects of the character of Weiss Schnee. According to the press release that accompanied the first volume's release, the mangaka (creators) that contribute to this anthology are new artists. That shows in the fact that these stories feel like amateur press comics or “dōjinshi.” The stories in “Mirror, Mirror,” are about relationships and friendship, but very few are about RWBY's continuity or about the series' internal mythology.
B
6 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2018 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.
--------------------------
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
CARTOONISTS: KaTe; monorobu; Kuma; Mate; Ritsu Hayami; Amechan; Rojine Kio; mojojoj, EMO; Mochiyama; Mikanuji; Tsutanoha; Amaya; Sora; Kaogeimoai; ryuga; Uri; Assa; Sun Hiura; Umiya
TRANSLATION: Joe Yamasaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Evan Waldinger
EDITOR: Joel Enos
MISC. ART: shihou; Kuma; BUZZ; Ecru
COVER: Ein Lee and Meteo
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0158-2; paperback (August 2018); Rated “T” for “Teen”
184pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $17.99 CAN, £8.99 U.K.
Based on the animation from Rooster Teeth Productions; RWBY created by Monty Oum
“RWBY” is an American animated series that is streamed on the World Wide Web. “RWBY” was created by the late Monty Oum for Rooster Teeth Productions (an American company), which is known for its streaming and web animated series. “RWBY” is produced in a Japanese anime style, although some consider it to be an actual anime series. It is the first western-produced anime series to be distributed to Japanese television.
“RWBY” is set on the world of Remnant, which is beset by “Grimm,” horrific monsters bent on the destruction of humanity. The kingdoms of Remnant have risen to combat these monsters by training powerful Huntsmen and Huntresses at academies around the planet. “RWBY” focuses on Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna and Yang Xiao Long, four such Huntresses-in-training who are collectively known as “Team RWBY.”
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology collects original short manga and comics set in the world of RWBY. Each graphic novel in the series showcases a particular member of Team RWBY. RWBY The Official Manga Anthology, Vol. 2 is subtitled “Mirror, Mirror” and focuses on Weiss Schnee, sometimes called “the Ice Princess.”
The stories reveal how Weiss initially struggles to work in a team, and how she comes to think of her teammates as friends, although she still sometimes feels out of place. The stories also reveal how close she is to her older sister, Winter, and how the dynamics of her powerful family affects her as a child and still do. Most of all the stories are about how Weiss becomes a part of the family known as Team RWBY.
[This volume contains commentary one-panel cartoons from the cartoonists that contributed to this volume. It also includes “Message from Ein Lee” and “Message from Kara Eberle.”]
I had not heard of “RWBY” until I received a VIZ Media press release that it was going to collect Shirow Miwa's 2015-2017 manga adaptation of the anime. My VIZ Media press rep has sent me both volumes of the RWBY The Official Manga Anthology manga published to date.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Graphic Novel Volume 2 is, in tone and style, similar to the first volume of the anthology. The stories are mostly humorous, and they are lighthearted vignettes that focus on the relationships between the members of Team RWBY.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Volume 2 – Mirror, Mirror is a good way to let readers see various aspects of the character of Weiss Schnee. According to the press release that accompanied the first volume's release, the mangaka (creators) that contribute to this anthology are new artists. That shows in the fact that these stories feel like amateur press comics or “dōjinshi.” The stories in “Mirror, Mirror,” are about relationships and friendship, but very few are about RWBY's continuity or about the series' internal mythology.
B
6 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2018 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.
--------------------------
Labels:
Jason A Hurley,
Jeremy Haun,
Joe Yamazaki,
Joel Enos,
manga,
Review,
VIZ Media,
VIZ Signature
Saturday, May 19, 2018
Review: RWBY: The Official Manga Anthology Volume 1
RWBY OFFICIAL MANGA ANTHOLOGY, VOL. 1 – RED LIKE ROSES
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
CARTOONISTS: monorobu; Ritsu Hayami; Kuma; KaTe; Xily; Uri; Sora; Amaya; Mikanuji; Moromoimaru; Koogeimoai; Siguma Koko; Mate; mojojoj; Amechan; Shiki Miou; Sorappane; Rojine Kio; Sun Hiura; Umiyo
TRANSLATION: Joe Yamasaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Evan Waldinger
EDITOR: Joel Enos
MISC. ART: Sai Izumi; Esu; Shiki Miou; Tsukasa; Omutatsu
COVER: Ein Lee and Meteo
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0157-5; paperback (May 2018); Rated “T” for “Teen”
184pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $17.99 CAN, £8.99 U.K.
Based on the animation from Rooster Teeth Productions; RWBY created by Monty Oum
“RWBY” is an American animated series that is streamed on the World Wide Web. “RWBY” was created by the late Monty Oum for Rooster Teeth Productions (an American company), which is known for its streaming and web animated series. “RWBY” is produced in a Japanese anime style, although some consider it to be an actual anime series. It is the first western-produced anime series to be distributed to Japanese television.
“RWBY” is set on the world of Remnant, which is beset by “Grimm,” horrific monsters bent on the destruction of humanity. The kingdoms of Remnant have risen to combat these monsters by training powerful Huntsmen and Huntresses at academies around the planet. “RWBY” focuses on Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna and Yang Xiao Long, four such Huntresses-in-training who are collectively known as “Team RWBY.”
Shiwa Miwa, the creator of the manga Dogs and Dogs: Bullets & Carnage, produced a manga based on “RWBY” and entitled RWBY. It was published in graphic novel form by VIZ Media in January 2018. Now, VIZ is introducing RWBY The Official Manga Anthology, which will publish original short manga and comics set in the world of RWBY that showcase the members of Team RWBY
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology, Vol. 1 is subtitled “Red Like Roses” and focuses on Team RWBY leader, Ruby Rose. The stories reveal that Ruby has insecurities just like everyone else, although she is a Huntress team leader. While her worries run deep, Ruby is determined to overcome her shortcomings in order to be a true hero. From working with other teams to taking on evil clones, Ruby is driven to be the best... even if it means she has to change her hair color.
[This volume contains commentary one-panel cartoons from the cartoonists that contributed to this volume. It also includes “Message from Ein Lee” and “Message from Lindsay Jones.”]
I had not heard of “RWBY” until I received a VIZ Media press release that it was going to publish Shirow Miwa's 2015-2017 manga adaptation of the anime. As I wrote in a previous review, I was not interested in reading it, but my VIZ Media rep gave me a copy. However, I was looking forward to the RWBY The Official Manga Anthology manga, VIZ Media came through.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Graphic Novel Volume 1 is a little more entertaining than the first RWBY graphic novel. That is mainly because the stories are mostly humorous. They are lighthearted vignettes that focus on the relationships between the members of Team RWBY. Ruby Rose is the emphasis in these tales, but her teammates star in most of the stories here and are featured almost as much as she is.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Volume 1 – Red Like Roses is a good way to let readers learn more about the characters via comedy and teamwork. Most of these stories are about 10-pages in length. According to the press release that accompanies this first volume's release, the mangaka (creators) that contribute to this anthology are new artists, and it shows in the fact that these stories feel like amateur press comics or “dōjinshi.” These stories are fun, but I miss the fantasy-horror-action mix of the previous RWBY manga. Still, I think Red Like Roses will serve to make new RWBY fans just because of the friendly nature of these stories.
B+
7 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2018 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.
--------------
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
CARTOONISTS: monorobu; Ritsu Hayami; Kuma; KaTe; Xily; Uri; Sora; Amaya; Mikanuji; Moromoimaru; Koogeimoai; Siguma Koko; Mate; mojojoj; Amechan; Shiki Miou; Sorappane; Rojine Kio; Sun Hiura; Umiyo
TRANSLATION: Joe Yamasaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Evan Waldinger
EDITOR: Joel Enos
MISC. ART: Sai Izumi; Esu; Shiki Miou; Tsukasa; Omutatsu
COVER: Ein Lee and Meteo
ISBN: 978-1-9747-0157-5; paperback (May 2018); Rated “T” for “Teen”
184pp, B&W, $12.99 U.S., $17.99 CAN, £8.99 U.K.
Based on the animation from Rooster Teeth Productions; RWBY created by Monty Oum
“RWBY” is an American animated series that is streamed on the World Wide Web. “RWBY” was created by the late Monty Oum for Rooster Teeth Productions (an American company), which is known for its streaming and web animated series. “RWBY” is produced in a Japanese anime style, although some consider it to be an actual anime series. It is the first western-produced anime series to be distributed to Japanese television.
“RWBY” is set on the world of Remnant, which is beset by “Grimm,” horrific monsters bent on the destruction of humanity. The kingdoms of Remnant have risen to combat these monsters by training powerful Huntsmen and Huntresses at academies around the planet. “RWBY” focuses on Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna and Yang Xiao Long, four such Huntresses-in-training who are collectively known as “Team RWBY.”
Shiwa Miwa, the creator of the manga Dogs and Dogs: Bullets & Carnage, produced a manga based on “RWBY” and entitled RWBY. It was published in graphic novel form by VIZ Media in January 2018. Now, VIZ is introducing RWBY The Official Manga Anthology, which will publish original short manga and comics set in the world of RWBY that showcase the members of Team RWBY
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology, Vol. 1 is subtitled “Red Like Roses” and focuses on Team RWBY leader, Ruby Rose. The stories reveal that Ruby has insecurities just like everyone else, although she is a Huntress team leader. While her worries run deep, Ruby is determined to overcome her shortcomings in order to be a true hero. From working with other teams to taking on evil clones, Ruby is driven to be the best... even if it means she has to change her hair color.
[This volume contains commentary one-panel cartoons from the cartoonists that contributed to this volume. It also includes “Message from Ein Lee” and “Message from Lindsay Jones.”]
I had not heard of “RWBY” until I received a VIZ Media press release that it was going to publish Shirow Miwa's 2015-2017 manga adaptation of the anime. As I wrote in a previous review, I was not interested in reading it, but my VIZ Media rep gave me a copy. However, I was looking forward to the RWBY The Official Manga Anthology manga, VIZ Media came through.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Graphic Novel Volume 1 is a little more entertaining than the first RWBY graphic novel. That is mainly because the stories are mostly humorous. They are lighthearted vignettes that focus on the relationships between the members of Team RWBY. Ruby Rose is the emphasis in these tales, but her teammates star in most of the stories here and are featured almost as much as she is.
RWBY The Official Manga Anthology Volume 1 – Red Like Roses is a good way to let readers learn more about the characters via comedy and teamwork. Most of these stories are about 10-pages in length. According to the press release that accompanies this first volume's release, the mangaka (creators) that contribute to this anthology are new artists, and it shows in the fact that these stories feel like amateur press comics or “dōjinshi.” These stories are fun, but I miss the fantasy-horror-action mix of the previous RWBY manga. Still, I think Red Like Roses will serve to make new RWBY fans just because of the friendly nature of these stories.
B+
7 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2018 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.
--------------
Labels:
Jason A Hurley,
Jeremy Haun,
Joe Yamazaki,
Joel Enos,
manga,
Review,
VIZ Media,
VIZ Signature
Wednesday, February 21, 2018
Review: RWBY
RWBY
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
CARTOONIST: Shirow Miwa
TRANSLATION: Joe Yamasaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Evan Waldinger and Walden Wong
EDITOR: Joel Enos
ISBN: 978-1-4215-9512-2; paperback (January 2018); Rated “T” for “Teen”
250pp, B&W, $14.99 U.S., $19.99 CAN, £9.99 U.K.
“RWBY” is an American animated series that is streamed on the World Wide Web (or simply “web”). The series was created by the late Monty Oum for Rooster Teeth Productions (an American company), which is known for its animated streaming or web series. “RWBY” is produced in a Japanese anime style, although some consider it an actual anime series. It was the first western-produced anime series to be distributed to Japanese television.
“RWBY” is set on the world of Remnant, which is beset by “Grimm,” horrific monsters bent on the destruction of humanity. The kingdoms of Remnant have risen to combat these monsters by training powerful Huntsmen and Huntresses at academies around the planet. “RWBY” focuses on Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna and Yang Xiao Long, four such Huntresses-in-training.
Shiwa Miwa, the creator of the manga Dogs and Dogs: Bullets & Carnage, produced a manga based on “RWBY.” Miwa's story was based on the initial four trailers that were released to promote the “RWBY” anime shortly before it release. Miwa's manga debuted in the November 2015 issue of the manga magazine, Ultra Jump, and concluded in the same magazine in January 2017. VIZ Media collected Miwa's RWBY manga in a single-volume, paperback graphic novel in January 2018 (and my VIZ Media rep gave me a copy for review).
RWBY (Chapters 1 to 12) introduces Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna and Yang Xiao Long. They are four Huntresses-in-training at Beacon Academy, one of four academies that train Hunters who subdue the monstrous Grimm and maintain peace. Together Ruby, Weiss, Black, and Yang are Team RWBY.
We see a unique side of each member of Team RWBY. Later, the quartet is put through a grueling training test that forces them to work with RWBY's rival, Team JNPR. Their adversary is a giant, multi-headed serpent that seems impossible to defeat.
I had not heard of “RWBY” until I received a VIZ Media press release that it was going to publish Shirow Miwa's 2015-2017 manga adaptation of the anime. I must be honest with you, dear reader; I was not interested in reading it. Then, VIZ Media came calling with a way to force me to read the RWBY manga.
RWBY Graphic Novel is actually fairly entertaining. My experience with Shirwo Miwa is mixed. He can produce visually striking manga action art, but sometimes his narrative is shallow or even dull. RWBY has a slow start, but then, it really takes off when Miwa starts using separate chapters to delve into the mysteries of each of the series' four stars: Ruby, Weiss, Black, and Yang. The giant snake battle is a blast to read and makes me ready for more RWBY manga. [VIZ Media will start publishing an RWBY manga anthology this coming summer.]
Fans of the “RWBY” anime and fans of the manga of Shirow Miwa will want VIZ Signature's single-volume RWBY graphic novel.
A-
7.5 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2018 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.
---------------------------
VIZ MEDIA – @VIZMedia
CARTOONIST: Shirow Miwa
TRANSLATION: Joe Yamasaki
ENGLISH ADAPTATION: Jeremy Haun and Jason A. Hurley
LETTERS: Evan Waldinger and Walden Wong
EDITOR: Joel Enos
ISBN: 978-1-4215-9512-2; paperback (January 2018); Rated “T” for “Teen”
250pp, B&W, $14.99 U.S., $19.99 CAN, £9.99 U.K.
“RWBY” is an American animated series that is streamed on the World Wide Web (or simply “web”). The series was created by the late Monty Oum for Rooster Teeth Productions (an American company), which is known for its animated streaming or web series. “RWBY” is produced in a Japanese anime style, although some consider it an actual anime series. It was the first western-produced anime series to be distributed to Japanese television.
“RWBY” is set on the world of Remnant, which is beset by “Grimm,” horrific monsters bent on the destruction of humanity. The kingdoms of Remnant have risen to combat these monsters by training powerful Huntsmen and Huntresses at academies around the planet. “RWBY” focuses on Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna and Yang Xiao Long, four such Huntresses-in-training.
Shiwa Miwa, the creator of the manga Dogs and Dogs: Bullets & Carnage, produced a manga based on “RWBY.” Miwa's story was based on the initial four trailers that were released to promote the “RWBY” anime shortly before it release. Miwa's manga debuted in the November 2015 issue of the manga magazine, Ultra Jump, and concluded in the same magazine in January 2017. VIZ Media collected Miwa's RWBY manga in a single-volume, paperback graphic novel in January 2018 (and my VIZ Media rep gave me a copy for review).
RWBY (Chapters 1 to 12) introduces Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna and Yang Xiao Long. They are four Huntresses-in-training at Beacon Academy, one of four academies that train Hunters who subdue the monstrous Grimm and maintain peace. Together Ruby, Weiss, Black, and Yang are Team RWBY.
We see a unique side of each member of Team RWBY. Later, the quartet is put through a grueling training test that forces them to work with RWBY's rival, Team JNPR. Their adversary is a giant, multi-headed serpent that seems impossible to defeat.
I had not heard of “RWBY” until I received a VIZ Media press release that it was going to publish Shirow Miwa's 2015-2017 manga adaptation of the anime. I must be honest with you, dear reader; I was not interested in reading it. Then, VIZ Media came calling with a way to force me to read the RWBY manga.
RWBY Graphic Novel is actually fairly entertaining. My experience with Shirwo Miwa is mixed. He can produce visually striking manga action art, but sometimes his narrative is shallow or even dull. RWBY has a slow start, but then, it really takes off when Miwa starts using separate chapters to delve into the mysteries of each of the series' four stars: Ruby, Weiss, Black, and Yang. The giant snake battle is a blast to read and makes me ready for more RWBY manga. [VIZ Media will start publishing an RWBY manga anthology this coming summer.]
Fans of the “RWBY” anime and fans of the manga of Shirow Miwa will want VIZ Signature's single-volume RWBY graphic novel.
A-
7.5 out of 10
Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"
The text is copyright © 2018 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.
---------------------------
Labels:
Jason A Hurley,
Jeremy Haun,
Joe Yamazaki,
Joel Enos,
manga,
Review,
Shirow Miwa,
VIZ Media,
VIZ Signature
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