Oct 28, 2023
I really needed to write a review after completing this, as it completely blew my expectations out of the water. Please give this manga a chance, especially if you have any interest in racing or F1. Also to refer another reviewer's comment - it is now fully translated thanks to the k-manga app - I'm so grateful to have experienced it in one go.
Capeta as a story understands the heart of racing more than most racing media I've seen. It makes you root for the antagonists, and cheer and cry for your heroes. His journey is arduous but is more than just his journey, as
...
he carries the wishes of his mechanics, his friends, and his fellow racers on his shoulders.
The beginning feels like it sets up expectations of the characters we know, and at first I was worried it would fall into a rut of repetitive plot beats of capeta winning and winning again, with the surrounding cast only changing slightly as it went on. In reality, the progression of the series and places these characters go are often surprising, especially with who Masahito decides to focus and leave by the wayside. If I could criticize one thing, it would just be that some characters do really get left by the wayside with great potential, but the blistering pacing received as a trade-off makes it hurt a bit less.
The art in this manga is spectacular - the way Masahito illustrates the events of the race in particular is a highlight. The action lines and heavy hatching really help emphasize the force and speed of the cars to pop them off the page, and alongside the stellar pace of the panelling, make it feel like the cars are actively moving in the still space. I want to bring attention to the character art as well though, as the emotions also shine through exceptionally well (though I understand if it's not everyone's cup of tea). Masahito isn't afraid to have the characters express 'ugly' emotions: they grit their teeth, they become obsessed, they scream and scream. Chapter 101 in particular is a series highlight for me, the culmination of everything alongside beautifully hatched expressions from Capeta really push it into something emotionally moving.
On a more objective rating I'd give it a 9, but its a 10 in my heart. Thank you Capeta for showing love to F1 around the world.
Reviewer’s Rating: 10
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