Noroi Michiru likes to play with contrasts and unexpected twists. For example, the first story is about a girl who makes a deal with a demon to get powers and uses them to get revenge on men. This sets the stage for the kind of dark and thought-provoking themes you’ll find throughout the book.
Several stories feature characters that are similar to Frankenstein’s monster, pieced together in strange and unsettling ways. Most of the main characters are women, and they’re all different. Some are innocent girls who get caught up in bad situations. Others are evil women who don’t care about anyone else. And some are shy women who are trying to explore their darker sides. The manga doesn’t shy away from difficult topics like violence, cannibalism, unusual desires, and strong emotions. Some stories even make you question what you think you know about the world.
The artwork is incredibly detailed and beautiful. While there are some gross images, it’s not too over-the-top. You’ll see lots of beautiful women, scary situations, perfect anatomy, evil people, and dark nights. Whatever Michiru draws, it’s done with amazing skill. Interestingly, the colorful and wild cover doesn’t really match the stories inside.
Each story can be read on its own. At the end of each one, Michiru includes some background notes. These stories were originally published in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It’s a shame that Michiru doesn’t talk more about what inspired the stories, because that would be really fascinating to hear.
Star Fruit Books has released this collection in a beautiful paperback edition. Before reading this, I had never heard of Michiru. Now that I have, I’m happy that this creator’s work is finally available in English. If you like Junji Ito’s work, you might enjoy this, but I think it’s even more thought-provoking and unique. I definitely recommend it for horror manga fans. There will also be a second volume, which I’m excited to read.
Story & Art: Noroi Michiru
Publisher: Star Fruit Books
Translator: Dan Luffey
Danica Davidson is a well-known author, especially for her manga art instruction books.
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Let’s delve deeper into what makes The Horrors of Noroi Michiru such a compelling read for horror manga enthusiasts. Beyond the initial impressions, the collection’s strength lies in its ability to tap into primal fears and explore the darker aspects of human nature. The stories aren’t just about shock value; they often carry a deeper message about societal expectations, the consequences of unchecked desires, and the fragility of the human psyche.
Michiru’s art style is a significant contributor to the overall impact. The detailed character designs, particularly the female figures, are both beautiful and unsettling. The contrast between delicate features and grotesque situations creates a sense of unease that lingers long after you’ve finished reading. The backgrounds are equally important, often setting the mood with intricate patterns and shadowy landscapes that amplify the feeling of dread.
The “Frankenstein-style” stories mentioned earlier are particularly noteworthy. They explore the themes of creation, destruction, and the ethical implications of playing God. These narratives often involve women who are either victims of scientific experimentation or active participants in the creation process, blurring the lines between victim and perpetrator. This ambiguity adds another layer of complexity to the stories, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable questions about morality and responsibility.
One of the most striking aspects of The Horrors of Noroi Michiru is its willingness to tackle taboo subjects. The manga doesn’t shy away from depicting graphic violence, cannibalism, and other disturbing themes. However, these elements are not gratuitous; they serve a purpose in exploring the characters’ inner turmoil and the corrupting influence of power. The stories challenge readers to confront their own prejudices and consider the motivations behind even the most heinous acts.
While the psychedelic cover art may not perfectly reflect the content within, it does hint at the surreal and dreamlike quality of some of the stories. Michiru often employs unconventional narrative techniques, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. This can be disorienting at times, but it also adds to the overall sense of unease and psychological horror.
The inclusion of background notes from Michiru is a welcome addition, even though they don’t delve deeply into the inspiration behind the stories. These notes provide valuable context and insight into the creative process, allowing readers to appreciate the artist’s vision and the challenges of bringing these dark tales to life.
The publication of The Horrors of Noroi Michiru by Star Fruit Books is a significant event for fans of horror manga. It introduces English-speaking audiences to a talented and unique creator whose work deserves wider recognition. The collection offers a refreshing alternative to more mainstream horror manga, with its focus on psychological themes, complex characters, and unsettling imagery.
For those who enjoy Junji Ito’s work, The Horrors of Noroi Michiru is a must-read. While both artists share a talent for creating disturbing and memorable imagery, Michiru’s stories are often more provocative and emotionally charged. The collection is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to delve into its dark depths.
The upcoming second volume is highly anticipated, promising more tales of terror and psychological exploration from Noroi Michiru. It’s an exciting prospect for fans who are eager to discover more of this artist’s unique and unsettling vision.
In conclusion, The Horrors of Noroi Michiru is a compelling and thought-provoking collection of horror manga that is sure to appeal to fans of the genre. Its exploration of taboo subjects, complex characters, and unsettling imagery makes it a truly unique and unforgettable read. Highly recommended.