Story (7/10):
In my opinion, this is the weakest part of the manga but it is by no means bad. The story's purpose is to create interesting scenarios for the characters to do the heavy lifting. Kei's goal to become a top actor is a compelling enough premise that gets her to interact with colorful characters and reflect on herself. It's pretty basic on the surface, but the manga makes up for it in other areas.
Art (10/10):
Usazaki quite possibly has one of the most appealing and beautiful art styles I have ever seen. Her designs are stylish and sharp. It has a very "raw" quality to it because of her sketchy and angular style. Her style of eyes in particular reflect an expressiveness that I have never seen in any other series. I appreciate the lack of fanservice as well. The art is beautiful, but not "sexy". It makes Act-age visually distinct from the many other manga and anime with cutesier art, and helps sell the darker moments.
Character (9/10):
This is where Act-age's writing really shines. Act-age is very much a character driven series. Kei Yonagi is an incredibly refreshing protagonist. Against a sea of brash male shounen protagonists, Kei is a unique take on a determined, talented, and broken female character. Her struggle to hone her craft while also keeping control of her identity is an intricate balancing act, and watching Kei inch closer and closer to the brink is frightening and thrilling. The side characters are handled well too. Chiyoko is the most developed side character, and she makes for an incredible foil to Kei, creating one of the most unique shounen rivalries of recent memory. Kuroyama, Araya, Akira, Oogami, Hanako, and the recently introduced Ren all round out the cast wonderfully, each with their own unique talents and struggles in the industry. My only criticism is that some arcs introduce a few too many characters that get lost in all of the overarching stories.
Enjoyment (10/10):
I was heavily invested in Act-age from the start. The subject and approach was so novel. Each arc seemed to be bigger and better than the last. I eagerly waited for the next chapter to come out. I loved almost everything about this manga and it was truly something special. I doubt anything will fill the hole that this manga's author has left in my heart.
Overall (9/10):
Despite my gushing, and despite loving this manga wholeheartedly up until now, I cannot easily recommend reading it. For one, this manga's premature end will leave a sour taste in the readers' mouths. It is incredibly depressing to see such potential be completely squandered. I am also of the belief that art cannot be easily separated from the artist. While I love the work, the author has committed an egregious crime, and it is difficult for many to reconcile the fact that we have been supporting such an individual. Nevertheless, Act-age was an amazing manga while it lasted, and unfortunately will go down as a story that never reached its potential.
