Japan: A Manga Exploring Societal Collapse and Redemption
In 1992, a collaborative manga titled Japan emerged from the creative partnership of Buronson (known for Ken the Warrior and Sanctuary) and Kentaro Miura (renowned for Berserk and Gigantomachia). This marked their third joint project, following The Wolf King and The Legend of the Wolf King. Japan presents a dystopian narrative centered around a group of Japanese individuals grappling with the consequences of societal excess and environmental degradation.
The Premise: From Barcelona to a Dystopian Future
The story begins during the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Yuka Katsuragi, a television news reporter, is conducting interviews to gauge Western perceptions of Japan. Katsuji Yashima, a Yakuza member deeply infatuated with Yuka, follows her to Spain with his brother, Akira. During an interview with a group of Japanese university students – Yoko, Mitsuo, Naoto, and Hiroshi – their detached attitude towards global issues is highlighted. Yuka draws a parallel between modern Japan and ancient Carthage, a prosperous trading civilization ultimately destroyed by Rome.
An earthquake dramatically alters their fate, plunging Yuka, Katsuji, his brother, and the students into an underground world. There, they encounter an enigmatic old woman who reveals a grim prophecy: Japan will suffer a similar fate to Carthage, succumbing to the consequences of its own prosperity and disregard for the wider world. After insulting the old woman, they are shown a vision of a desolate future.
A World in Ruins: Neo-Europe and Japanese Slavery
The manga unfolds in a future Europe ravaged by pollution and nuclear energy, reduced to a wasteland of sand and rubble. Japan itself is submerged beneath the ocean. A new political entity, Neo-Europe, has established a violent and oppressive dictatorship. The surviving Japanese population is subjected to enslavement, blamed for the global catastrophe.
The narrative emphasizes the protagonists’ growing awareness of the present’s flaws and the dire consequences that await. The future depicts a world governed by brute force, a damaged planet, and a pervasive sense of guilt stemming from the failure to prioritize global well-being over national interests.
Character Dynamics and Moral Growth
Katsuji Yashima emerges as the group’s leader, driven by a fierce determination to protect Yuka and fight against the oppressive regime. He embodies a sense of justice and humanity, rejecting violence for personal gain. Yuka demonstrates courage in confronting the forces of Neo-Europe and a group of Japanese bandits known as Yellow. Akira remains steadfast in his loyalty and commitment to restoring the dignity of his people. The university students undergo a significant transformation, shedding their initial arrogance and developing empathy and resilience.
Artistic Style and Influences
Kentaro Miura’s artwork is characterized by its detailed and dynamic style. The manga features powerful character designs and expressive faces, enhanced by intricate hatching techniques. Whereas less frenetic than his operate on Berserk, Japan still showcases Miura’s skill in depicting action and emotion. The landscapes and character designs bear resemblance to the punk aesthetic found in Buronson’s Ken the Warrior and Mad Max, with certain character designs echoing villains from Buronson’s previous works.
Themes and Legacy
Japan explores themes of societal responsibility, environmental destruction, and the consequences of unchecked greed. The manga’s use of time travel, similar to The Wolf King, allows for a stark contrast between the present and a potential future. Despite its relatively short length of just over 200 pages, Japan delivers a thought-provoking and timely message. While the abrupt ending leaves some wanting more, the manga remains a compelling and worthwhile read, prompting reflection on the path humanity is currently taking.
Published in Italy by Planet Manga in 2022, Japan is a 224-page paperback manga available for €7.00 (ISBN: 9788828720546).