Blank Slate, vol. 2

The story: Zen's mysterious past is finally revealed in this second, and last, volume. First, Zen visits his old home, where he was found after being severely injured ten years ago. Later, there is a confrontation where those involved in making Zen who he is today come out of obscurity and the conspiracy behind his existence is shared.

Reaction: There are quite a few big reveals in this volume, including the secret pasts of two important characters. When I learned the truth about them, it made me see the events of the first volume in a completely new light. Of course, I didn't particularly like the somewhat ambiguous death of one of the few likable characters.

Deep thoughts: This volume shows how hypnosis is used to control people. I've always found the ability to tap into someone's unconscious fascinating, especially when it causes people to act in a way they never would in real life. Of course, it's threatening on another level as well, as it allows someone to have complete control over you and your actions.

Artwork: The focus here is on the characters and Aya Kanno's art is still beautiful here, especially the younger versions of Dr. Hakka, Zen and Colonel Gia. Since this focus exists, there is very little else as a result. The scenes are sparse, only revealing the most needed details to communicate the setting. Unsurprisingly, the most detailed scenes are those involving the slaughter and death brought on by Zen throughout the years, truly showing his lack of humanity.

The verdict: If only... I really wanted to like Zen here and to support him, but I found myself without reason. While, in the end, he resolved to be the only one in control of his destiny, this story could have been so much more if, at long last, Zen was able to at least exhibit some of the simplest of human emotions. However, this volume is an improvement on the first and a good enough read if you like mysterious thrillers. Blank Slate is available in the U.S. from Viz.

Blank Slate, vol. 1

The story: The first chapter tells the tale of a bounty hunter in search of a man named Zen, the series' anti-hero. Zen has no memory of his prior 20 years of existence, and death and destruction are left in his wake. After kidnapping the sheltered and blind daughter of a powerful general in the Galay army, Zen finds himself paired up with Dr. Hakka and in pursuit of the truth about Zen's past.

Reaction: Wow -- this manga is unlike any other shojo story I've ever read. While most shojo features magical girls, comedy or romance, Blank Slate has none of the above. This is Devil-may-care, destruction-sowing action, violence and thriller all wrapped into one. It's disjointed feel, especially at the beginning, is reminiscent of Quentin Tarantino's Reservoir Dogs.

Deep thoughts: Rian, the blind daughter of the Galayan general, seemed all-too-eager to escape her overly protective parents. Even though kidnapping would be a frightening experience for anyone, she seemed to quietly relish the opportunity to live a spontaneous moment or two. Rian's character also seems to play to the "disabled hottie" trope so often explored in other pop culture mediums. She's a fragile beauty, if you will, who only wants to live an independent life.

Artwork: Aya Kanno's artwork is fairly stylized and distinct. Her characters are all lifelike, while still maintaining an alluring beauty, especially Zen. Even the old fortune teller at the beginning of this volume is attractive in a very bohemian/gypsy way. I also found it interesting that Kanno is also the artist/author of the recently popular Otomen, which is more of a traditional shojo manga.

The verdict: Meh. Although this isn't your everyday shojo story, it reminds me of many other books I've read and films I've seen. It sets up a mysterious anti-hero whose past is a secret even to him. The only problem is, we're never given a reason to be interested in Zen's plight. The reader knows early on that Zen only cares for his basest instincts -- killing and destruction. When he's given moments to show his humanity, he never takes the opportunity for character growth. Blank Slate is available in the U.S. from Viz.