There is no definite storyline to follow in Jiraishin: each volume is dedicated to a specific case, in which the author carefully introduces the characters involved, as well as the setting without providing an access of clues to keep the reader interested. The cases take place in the 90's which enhances the gloomy atmosphere and provides a realistic to feel to the detective taking illegal actions which wouldn't be possible nowadays. In addition, the cases are varied, such as disturbed people killing because of their beliefs, disturbing family matters, international gangs operating in Japan, you name it. This may sound simple, yet this is where it really stands out: it is very human and realistic, displaying emotions of people involved flawlessly. All characters are susceptible to death, showing thourgh the narritve the fragile nature of humans.
The "episodic" nature of the manga has however a negative aspect to it: there is no real continuity to be found, neither a definite storyline. An additional problem is that it is difficult to develop the characters, and their relationships. Nevertheless, the author manages to introduce said elements carefully through the different situations provided and displayed.
The cast of Jiraishin is varied, yet small, implementing different characters with distinct personalities. Detective Kyoya Ida seems at first the most ruthless, emotionless and cold killer; yet throughout the manga the reader observes how Ida displays emotions, though very subtly, contributing to his own personality. The author manages to show the reader the different characters involved in the cases, presenting their actions behind their motives, giving a realistic feel to the story.
There is however little character development to be found in the characters, as well as the fleshing out of them. The manga seems to focus more on developing and showing the different murder cases, as well as the presentation of the characters.
The art style of Jiraishin is well drawn, and very distinctive in case of the characters and backgrounds. These add well to display the dark atmosphere and humanity of the manga, through good use of shading patterns, in addition to the facial expressions and character's behaviour.
All in all, Jiraishin was a well presented manga that managed to portray the cases as well as the dark atmosphere it was trying to portray through impressive, yet human and realistic interactions and murders, being the manga's main objective. There was nevertheless a certain lack of character development as well as backgrounds of the characters, yet didn't interfere with the story in any way. This manga is certainly worth a read for anyone in an interest in the mystery genre.
Thank you for reading.
