Orange Review
- Written by GLX on Tuesday, September 01 2009 and posted in Reviews
Writing and artwork by Benjamin
Back when Tokyopop announced that they would release color graphic novels, the cover for Orange stuck out. Months later, I've finally gotten a chance to read it. Is Orange all good looks or does it have a story to match the art?
Orange tells the tale of a suicidal girl named Orange. One day, she tries to kill herself but is saved by a drunken young man. She tries to become closer with him, but as they first pages show...things don't work out.
The writing in Orange could be considered very...emo. Yeah, this tale deals with depression, but there are some overly dramatic lines. Dialogue that is mainly filled with..."Everything is fake." and, "I don't mind making out with guys, but they can't bang me." This might pass as realistic within the minds of angsty young girls, but it doesn't do anything for me. The story feels like a long short story, as far as the pacing is concerned.
On the art side of things...well..it's stunning. Everything about it looks amazing, particularly with the colors. It's the type of art that would make a passerby stop and take notice.
Outside of the story, there is some backmatter by the creator. His thoughts on being an artist are interesting. After reading the backmatter, I can't say that this guy does a halfass job with his work. He comes across as someone who puts a lot into the work, for better or for worse. The bonus material features some more stunning artwork and a preview for another one of his graphic novels.
Overall, Orange is a decent work. The art is mind blowing, but the story could've been a lot better. I recommend this for major art nuts, only. Seriously, it's the business.
6.5* out of 10* 