---------------------------This is more of a Rant than a Review-------------------
Three times I have read Seo Kouji's work, and three times I have been disappointed. I originally read Kimi no Iru Machi upon a recommendation by a friend. I was cringing halfway through at the sheer stupidity of the story and how unrealistic the main characters were. So I dropped it. I later stumbled across Fuuka, not even realizing it was written by the same author until I had long dropped it. I will be discussing Fuuka in a moment. Finally, I decided I should give Fuuka another chance. So to prep myself, I read Suzuka for the first time: and HOOO BOY that was a shitshow. An unrealistic and unlikable main heroine, and comedy that is only funny after my 10th Budweiser. But this review is not about Suzuka or KnIM, it's about the monstrosity that is Fuuka, so here goes.
Fuuka is a plain, run-of-the-mill love story that takes place in a modern time, with no supernatural elements. It actually starts off pretty enjoyable with quite good art and decently done comedy. The romance doesn't feel forced liked of Kouji's other work, and I felt like I might enjoy this series. And then I was wrong. There is a major event that completely shifts the tone of the story, and I do not believe it was for the better. (Anyone who has read it will know what it is.) The story turns from a fun, coming-of-age romance to a brooding, melodramatic mess. So with the plot and characters becoming useless, what is left? Well, the art is pretty good, especially in the music performances. One major issue I had with the visual experience, however, is the almost random and completely ridiculously timed fanservice. There will be a panty shot in a dramatic scene; or a down-the-shirt shot of someone who is crying and depressed. It's almost tasteless.
I could go on and on about how bad Fuuka is, but to be honest, out of the three Kouji manga I've read, it's the best (though that's not saying much). However, I cannot recommend Fuuka to anyone except diehard Suzuka/Kimi no Iru Machi fans. Go read something else instead.
Alright, that's it from me, have a good one guys, and I got nothing against anyone who likes Fuuka, so don't be a flamer. See ya.
