| Overall |
8 |
| Story |
8 |
| Art |
8 |
| Character |
7 |
| Enjoyment |
8 |
Eagle was the first Manga series I ever purchased and it was essentially the beginning of what has blossomed into a considerable collection. I'm only disclosing this information because it might explain any bias in my review.
(Edit - Since the review is being voted down to hell, I'd also disclose that I'm Black! For context; I doubted this country's President as being anything other than White (at the time). thankfully I was proven quite wrong.)
That said I enjoyed this series at the time because of the premise that at the time seemed so improbable. An Asian (see:minority)-American US President? Combined with the considerable heft of
each volume made it a purchase at the comic book store.
Fortunately everything within the first (and succeeding volumes) was just as interesting. The art is detailed reflects the efforts of an artist who did his homework. Kawaguchi's depictions of major US Cities and landmarks is considerable, and visually everything seems authentic and American. Characters are drawn with an obvious western influence which may turn off some of the less informed enthusiasts who argue over things like what manga is "supposed" to look like. The only criticisms I might have might be the occasional lack of character and environment detail but overall the art is impressive.
But backtracking to the story, the premise is simple; A Japanese reporter has been flown out to the States to follow the campaign for the very first Asian American for President starting of course at the his efforts to become the democratic nominee. I won't spoil the plot details but rest assured the drama extends well beyond politics even though one or two major plot points are revealed early in the story and with little fanfare.
Of course now that we actually do have a minority president from such a diverse background the premise doesn't seem quite as ridiculous anymore. A quick re-read from this perspective should yield some interesting interpretations and I look forward to seeing if Kawaguchi's insights into what this sort of historic event would look like!
Overall a great read for anyone vaguely interested in Politics (and Political Drama) and in a good story. But definitely an acquired taste for just everyone else. read more
