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REVIEW: Dolis GN

+ Powerful, thought-provoking emotions and minimalist artwork unlike any other.
− At its core, still a typical romantic tragedy that could have used more substance.

Swishy-haired, big-lipped character designs are part of the idiom as well; everything about them says stylish, although it's something of an acquired taste.

In a world of ninja and samurai adventures, fantasy epics, and high school romps, it's something of a miracle that Dolis has reached English-speaking readers. Experiencing this volume is like reading manga for the first time all over again—discovering whole new worlds of expression and depth that you never could have imagined. It's easy to get lost in the story's haunting colors and emotions, and then wonder why there isn't more stuff like this. How about it, Tokyopop? How about it, manga publishers? When are you going to give us something artistically unique and challenging? People always say that English speakers have barely begun to explore what manga has to offer—and if Dolis is what's hiding under the surface, we can only hope that there's plenty more like it.

Tokyopop seems to be more open to what they licence nowadays so hopefully this won't be the last experimental project published by them.

+ Powerful, thought-provoking emotions and minimalist artwork unlike any other.
− At its core, still a typical romantic tragedy that could have used more substance.

How about it, fans? Are we going to claim that Fullmetal Alchemist is one of the most profound, deep works in the medium, Death Note is one of the most ingenious thrillers ever concocted, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya is utterly brilliant because it was SO MADE to be made in its broadcast order... Ahem, I tend to ramble, so I'll finish this near-smug elitist remarks by stating that I hope more experimental manga and anime is brought over. Types like Dolis would certainly be welcomed, considering that it belongs in the niche (josei) of the niche (mature) of the niche (manga) category over here.

Anyway, I agree on all points, save for me actually favoring the ending even if was a bit... well, anti-climatic, for a lack of a better term. It's one of my favorite releases this year, and Tokyopop really did it justice. It makes for a quick read in addition to also having a lot of power by going over it again, so it's something I plan on coming back to frequently.

Tokyopop can pull out some pleasant surprises since they don't have an automatic grab for manga like Viz and Del Rey do. Here's to more success in that department.

Quote:
Tokyopop can pull out some pleasant surprises since they don't have an automatic grab for manga like Viz and Del Rey do. Here's to more success in that department.

'fraid I don't know the specifics surrounding different publishers' rights and procedures on acquiring new titles/series.