Ranked #1935

1999nen 7 no Tsuki Shanghai (Manga)

HOW I WAS INTRODUCED TO 1999NEN 7 NO TSUKI SHANGHAI:
This is somewhat important, to understand the rating and review I gave this manga. I stumbled upon this series after reading (the fantastic) After School Nightmare series by the same author, Setona Mizushiro.

STORY (5/10):
The story, inspired somewhat by the star-crossed lovers of Shakespeare, is actually (and surprisingly) 1999nen 7 no Tsuki Shanghai's strong point. The story is transplanted into Shanghai in a world where kids must join gangs to survive. There was a lot of potential or the protagonists--members of opposing gangs--to have truly tense moments and torn loyalties. Instead the story bogs itself down needlessly with trysts of minor characters, dully executed scenes, and embarrassingly flimsy motivations.

ART (3/10):
If you want to see fantastic art, go look at Mizushiro's "After School Nightmare". ASN was done at a later date, so it's understandable that she's matured as an artist since "1999nen 7 no Tsuki Shanghai"; however, the art within 1999 is passable at the best of times. As the series goes on--and more characters introduced--it's nearly impossible to tell each apart by looks alone. The layouts are dull and unflattering. Mizushiro is a great artist, but it simply doesn't show in this series.

CHARACTERS (4/10):
This is another section that was somewhat lacking. The two protagonists, are arguably done well enough, even with flimsy motivations. When one looks at the supporting cast, however, one has to wonder how much time Mizushiro truly put into thinking each out. Developments with little or no foreshadowing are common in the later pages of the series, while the beginning is wasted on bland, nearly nameless sexual encounters. The tension that should build between gangs is barely felt in the face of trying to figure out who is sleeping with who and why.

ENJOYMENT (4/10):
As the score reflects, I was very disappointed in this series. I would earnestly recommend that anyone new to Setona Mizushiro avoid this series and instead try the higher quality "After School Nightmare Instead". Even for those who want to explore Mizushiro's other works, this title is simply not worth the time invested.

OVERALL (4.7/10)

- Spiffyish

NOTE ABOUT THIS REVIEW: Also, if you find this review unhelpful in anyway, send me a private message saying why (please) so that I can improve it for future readers! :D read more

Don't be fooled by the horrendous art style, this manga is full of heart wrenching plot and romance. You'll get used to the style as you read on, and it won't bother you anymore once you get into the story (well, that's how it was for me). If you're looking for something sad and memorable, read it.