![[MANGA REVIEWS]](images/section_manga.gif)
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by Mark L. Johnson
In North America, many fans have probably never heard about
EAT-MAN, even though it completed a full
television run in Japan. However, Viz
decided to bring over this
manga rendition of the story and market it as an "action-packed
post-apocalyptic fantasy tale" in the same vein as BATTLE ANGEL ALITA.
The story does take place in a futuristic setting, and revolves
around the adventures of Bolt Crank, better known as EAT-MAN. Eat-man's claim to originality fame is the
ability of this "explorer" to absorb the capabilities of any weapon
he eats. He is often found chewing on screws or bolts when he
idles.
The plot in this adventure starts off with a random kingdom hiring
Bolt's services to deliver a crystal orb to the Devil King, who has
been reigning terror on the people, in order to appease him. Along
with Bolt they send their "best explorer" to guide him, who happens
to be a cute young girl named Roan. Thus, this first issue mainly
deals with the interaction between these two unlikely partners as
they travel to meet this Devil King. Bolt himself is cool,
experienced, wears dark shades, takes Roan along reluctantly,
and generally trashes all who stand in his way. Roan is ultra-cute,
completely inexperienced, and gets a crush on Bolt. Most of the first
issue has Bolt digging Roan out of trouble.
The plot is rather unoriginal, but has a light humorous tone combined
with the standard action. The art style is very clear and consistent,
and the manga style shows up well in black and white.
Although Bolt's ability is new, I found that the rest of the story
elements so far have been overly done by many before. However, I
found it an enjoyable read, even though it was very simple. I was
particularly attracted to the clear but detailed art, and found
the characters to be very likeable.
EAT-MAN is definitely another solid, though
unoriginal, chapter in this genre, and fans of light futuristic
adventures with a soft spot for tough heroes and cute sidekicks
should give it a read.
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EAT-MAN
© Akihito Yoshitomi
Story and Art by Akihito Yoshitomi
English Adaptation by Yuji Onike
(6-issue series) Issue 1 - B&W
33 pages
Viz Manga Heroes
Monthly $2.95 USA / $4.00 CAN
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