One misconception about Japanese comics is that all of 'em have a singular look and style. But like American comics, there's a wide range of styles and stories in manga. There are action-packed stories that are like Hollywood blockbusters filled with action, drama and larger-than-life characters. There are teen romances, slapstick comedies, and quirky, individualistic creations that are more like indie movies. And then there are stories like Ristorante Paradiso by Natsume Ono from VIZ Signature / VIZ Media.
Ristorante Paradiso is a one-shot story that feels like a European art house film. It's a thoughtful slice-of-life tale that is mostly driven by its characters than any over-the-top action or drama. And did I mention it has lots of very suave Italian men who are older, wiser but no less sexy? Mmm-hm.
Check out my review of Ristorante Paradiso and see why its slice-of-life charms may appeal to some -- but may not be what all manga readers might be craving in comics.
You can also get a taste of Ristorante Paradiso another way -- in its anime version. Crunchyroll.com now has all episodes of the animated adaptation of this series, so you can view all 11 episodes of Ristorante Paradiso online and savor the flavors of this modern May-October romance.
Image credit: © 2006 Natsume ONO
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