May 11, 2011
STORY
Despite the fact that this story begins as a typical good vs. evil plot, the story thickens, twists, elaborates, and eventually becomes a huge web of gray. One of the previous reviews states that the main villain is inherently and undeniably 100% evil. If the reader simply invests into the series, there will doubts. D.Gray Man has proved itself to be unique and compelling. The story line may begin as standard, but evolves onto a whole new caliber.
ART
The art is very appealing to those that enjoy detail. The style consists of handsomely created main characters that are set in juxtaposition with the Gothic 'Akuma'
...
and sometimes ugly Innocence. The visual appeal of D.Gray-Man is never boring, especially considering the fact that the author's style vastly and rapidly changes over time. Look at a picture from the beginning, middle, and end. It's difficult to believe they're even done by the same artist, save the detailed character designs.
Towards the most recent chapters, Hoshino displays an immense understanding of muscle and anatomy as well has implicating immense details into her horror-geared demons. Definitely one of the most interesting mangakas out there.
CHARACTER
The characters of DGM are anything but typical. Allen Walker, the protagonist, starts out to seem one way, but then turns out to be another person completely. As the series develops and reveals new questions and insights, so does the main character. Allen begins as someone who knows exactly what he wants and where he's going, and the current Allen is completely at a loss for who he is and isn't as open-minded as he would have liked to think (as are most people in the world). He becomes easier to identify with as he struggles with his identity.
Miranda Lotto is a great comic relief character, and it is delightful to know that Hoshino (the author) based this accident-prone screw-up almost solely on herself.
Kanda Yuu is the typical brooding jerk that the fangirls always fall for. At first, I hated this character. But when his mysterious past is revealed, I gained a new respect and intrigue for him.
Lavi is another one of the humor-oriented characters, but has a very serious dark side. The Bookman clan of which he belongs is a very interesting idea of the author and offers a new take on things.
There are several other lovable characters, one being Lenalee Lee. As far as female characters go, she is one of the best. She has a strong personality and holds her own even without the overwhelming male characters.
The villains are absolutely phenomenal. They're sometimes more likable than the heroes themselves. Tyki Mikk and Road Camelot are good examples. They have their own motives and ideals along with the Exorcists.
ENJOYMENT
There is a nice balance of comedy, tragedy, and mystery. Despite the fact that the situation of the protagonist is inherently hopeless, the readers find themselves loyal and tenacious just like the main characters. There aren't very many dull moments in this manga.
OVERALL
Definitely recommend. There is so much to this series. To really grasp the ideas listed here (and so many more that aren't mentioned), one just has invest in the work. Ultimately, DGM deserves a 10.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
