Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Alichino Volume 1

Alichino Volume 1


Directed by: Kouyu Shurei
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


"Beautiful creatures called Alichino grant wishes to those in need-but at a price!"

The first thing about Alichino that caught my interest was the art. It is, without a doubt, gorgeous. The characters, character designs, and background art are all stunningly beautiful and detailed. The artist creates a lush fantasy world with mythology all its own. But there's more to Alichino than that.

The story is original, though it did remind me of xxxHolic a bit. Most of the characters are very interesting, so far, but they may need some more development in future volumes. Tsugiri is a bit bland, your typical bishonen hero with amnesia. I suppose that's better than an overly brave and loud hero, but still.

Alichino has some translation/grammar errors and a couple of plot holes. We never learn the name of the young girl who seeks an Alichino. Furthermore, she appears in the confrontation between Tsugiri and the snake Alichino, but seems to suddenly disappear in the middle of the fight. Also, dialogue bubbles don't always indicate exactly who is speaking, so you have to make an educated guess.

Alichino is worth reading simply for the art itself, though the story is also fascinating.


Recommended to: Manga fans (girls will squeal over the bishonen characters) 13+

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