Akane-Banashi: The Art of Oral Tradition

 Before I get into my thoughts on Akane-banashi from Yuuki Suenaga (Story) and Takamasa Moue (Art). I would like to note that this is my first experience with Rakugo. I haven't seen or heard of it prior to reading through the current amount of chapters from this story. So don't expect an analysis into the medium itself. I know just as much as any newcomer. With that out of the way, I am going to delve into some light spoilers in order to give a proper take on Akane-banashi. 

My knowledge on Akane-banashi prior to reading it, was through testimonies from people that have read the manga and random internet comments recommending it. I assumed that I was in for a treat without realizing that those recommending it weren't going hard enough. Akane-banashi is the real deal. The characters and scene depiction are so well done that it makes me interested in Rakugo itself. As far as the current titles in Shonen Jump go, Akane-banashi sits near the top of the list for me.

I think that the duo of Yuuki Suenaga and Takamasa Moue have something special going on here. Their chemistry on the page does wonders for the story. The words and images weave so well with each other that there aren't many panels that fall flat. It is nice to gripped by the story from both ends in a comic. Not a rarity by any means, but there is clearly a special rhythm that is achieved because the two understand what the assignment is. When Akane-banashi eventually ends, I will be looking forward to wherever these two end up. 

For those unaware, Rakugo is oral storytelling that is done by single person sitting on a cushion and acting out all the characters. A one-person show done from the knees that relies on distinct speech patterns and facial movement in some cases. Even posture and mannerisms play a part as the audience needs to know who is who. Not to mention eye positioning on where a character is looking can also affect the immersion. A deep art form that utilizes it's oral tradition well.

The story of Akane-banashi starts at the Shinuchi (Master Rank) promotion exam where Akane's father, Tohru, is looking to get his big break. It all comes down to this moment for him as he is tired of wading in the murky financial waters. Tohru gives it his all, the Rakugo that embodies his whole self. Only to be expelled along with every other examinee in attendance by Issho Arakawa. The expulsion marks the death of Shinta Arakawa, Tohru Osaki's Rakugoka name and career. He would leave the Rakugo world behind. And taking his place six years later would be his daughter and titular character Akane Osaki. 

Akane has a pretty simple but endearing goal that makes you want to root for her. She wants to reach the top of the Rakugo world using her Dad's Rakugo as a basis. To prove that he did not deserve the expulsion. As a reader, I want to root for the character that has something to prove. Akane's honesty is admirable in its own way. Early on she is able to understand the pain that comes from the art, but only through second-hand experiences. And eventually learns about the struggles and how it feels to fail on her own. Not quite in the same way as her Dad, but at the point where she learns that the road is not smooth up ahead. Despite having this immense amount of talent and potential.

My expectaion going in was that this was a story that has to do with theater. It kind of shocked me to see a sports manga vibe with certain interactions. On the surface, these Rakugoka do their sets at the performance halls with others of varying ranks. Under that I find ultra competitive storytelling and people trying to one-up each-other in any way that they can. Instead of being straightlaced and pure to the art form, you have cutthroat old men flexing their power over those that will never reach them. This aspect adds to the entertainment factor for me and keeps interest during these testy situations. 

Yet I think the most gravitating part for me are the characters themselves. They don't feel shallow. There are reasons for their actions and they all want what is best for their Rakugo world. You can't just fling shit and expect everyone to stick by you. But that is what makes these characters true to themselves. Everyone goes through with what they think is the best course of action. And the results will vary as one expects. Akane-banashi does a fine job at making me give a damn about an art form I had no previous knowledge of. 

As of right now, I would like to own the physical editions of Akane-banashi. I think the manga is that good. One of the heavy hitters in a saturated market that is excelling on every front. I promise that this story will not disappoint. There is a reason that so many people are recommending this story. Something that you pick up and can't put down. That is what Akane-banashi is.