LogFAQs > #946023644

60. Ode to Kirihito (17.5 points)
Nominated by: Xeybozn (4/5 remaining)


Importance: 4.5
Fear: 6
Snake: 7

Ode to Kirihito is a magnificent manga that blends the unique elements of medical drama with a werewolf story, well-regarded for its unique and influential panel layouts and as a predecessor to creator Osamu Tezuka's later more straight-laced doctor serials. What I like most about Kirihito is it never sacrifices one aspect of its story for the other. Main protagonist, doctor Kirihito Osanai, battles a viral infection that turns humans into dog-people, before becoming infected himself. Kirihito's relationships are compelling, and the series mainly explores themes of identity and self-discovery, along with the corruption and pure greed of the medical industry. Kirihito is often used, abused and exploited for his monstrous appearance, serving as an allegory for personal growth through tragedy and hardship. I love the artwork throughout the series, it's so sparse and dramatically lit, clinical yet imaginative, it leaves just enough to the reader's interpretation, never Junji Ito levels of pure terror but its horror is one that's approachable, subtle, relevant, and human. It is touching and heart-wrenching and I recommend it to any fans of horror manga.

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And it's gonna be a long October, and I don't have reasons to believe, in much of anything, alright
https://imgur.com/1e1e70S