While the basic premise is hardly unique, Matsumoto Taiyo is such an incredible story-teller that he manages to bring the characters of this simple tale to life so successfully, you soon begin to feel you have known them for years. The evolution of both Shigeo and Hanada, and the subtle yet telling manner in which they begin to appreciate each other as father and son is fascinating and delightful to watch. Shigeo's realization that even his 'good-for-nothing' father, with his simple dreams and minimalistic lifestyle, has something to teach him, is slow to come - but an omnipresent theme in each an every chapter. The story unfolds in a manner that is sometimes dramatic, at others, comedic - but it never loses its allure.

Supporting characters each have their individual charm; and the small town in which the manga is set is the perfect environment for these people to be depicted both realistically and endearingly. The mangaka's attempt to draw a contrast between high-strung city life and that of more rural subsurbs has been, needless to say, highly successful.

The art is unique and stylized - though it takes a certain kind of reader to appreciate it for its true worth. Those in search of 'beautiful' artwork had best avoid Hanaotoko. However, anyone capable of comprehending the importance of innovative skill over stereotyped styles that appeal to the masses, might do well to have a look at this manga.

All in all - one of the better slice-of-life comedies out there; and one of the few works that left me with a feeling of peace and good humour upon its conclusion.

... Last updated on August 14th, 2010, 3:01pm

I picked up this series just because there is an Elephant Kashimashi tribute album of the same title (with Hanao on the cover). I have heard of Taiyo Matsumoto before, what with the popularity of Tekkonkinkreet, though I was slow in looking for his stuff. I started to really enjoy the series when I got over the surreal art and got into the story. It's surprisingly engaging (given that I tend to avoid baseball-themed manga and anime for some reason), funny and touching at the same time. It's nice to watch Shigeo's character develop, and the weirdness of the art is also one of its strengths too, imo. Pretty good series.

Hanaotoko is ultimately a 'feel-good' manga. Its a relatively short series concerning the relationship between the young Shigeo and his father, Hanao. It is the contrast between the two that provides the basis for much of the humour, and the gradually closing distance between them is what makes up most of the plot. Most of the chapters are simply a day in the life for the pair, so its something you can dip in and out of whenever you like (though personally I ate up the entire series within a week).

It is perhaps the utter lack of cynicism that propels this manga forward, and truly makes it accessible to just about anyone with a mere interest in manga. Though I can't say the art is very accessible; Taiyo Matsumoto draws in a very loose, undefined wobbly-line style more familiar to European and underground comics. I've met some who would even deem it 'ugly'. Its a matter of taste, but I personally don't think such a story could've been drawn in any other style. The lack of toning and straight lines, the super wonky and surreal backgrounds, and the bizzarish-cartoony way in which the characters are drawn only contribute to the 'feel-good' and 'easy-going' nature of the series.

Hanaotoko is a sometimes quiet, sometimes hyperkinetic rollercoaster ride, and an experience you'll never want to forget.

(review completely re-done last 7/ 7/ 09)

... Last updated on July 6th, 2009, 5:29pm