*This article contains promotional material.
basic information
"Blue Period" is a coming-of-age manga by Tsubasa Yamaguchi that focuses on art and began serialization in Monthly Afternoon (Kodansha) in 2017. It is still ongoing, and the popular series has sold over several million copies in total. In 2020, it won the Manga Taisho Award and was also adapted into an anime. By taking a straightforward look at the relatively niche subject of art school entrance exams, the work has provided a fresh and moving experience to many readers.
The story revolves around the protagonist, Yaguchi Yatora, who, in the process of searching for his future path and way of life, enters the world of art and grows through friendly competition with his friends.
"'What you like is fine as a hobby' - I think that's a mature way of thinking."
↑Quote from the book. These words really struck a chord with the protagonist. They really struck me too.
For those who have found something they love, those who are feeling pent up, and those who are unable to take the first step in their hearts, this film may give them the push they need.
Synopsis
Yaguchi Yato is a high school boy with excellent grades, good manners, and is seen as a "good kid" by those around him. However, deep inside he feels a sense of emptiness and is unable to express his "true feelings." One day, Yato happens to see a painting in the art room that really moves him. This triggers him to become absorbed in the act of "drawing" and to aspire to a career in art.
However, getting into an art university is not easy. There is a lack of understanding from those around you, a lack of specialized skills, and strong rivals. Of these, aiming to enter Tokyo University of the Arts is an extremely high hurdle. Yato continues to pour his emotions onto the canvas, despite repeated conflicts and setbacks.
You can draw anything
Show your expression to the world in a tangible form
The charm of the characters
The appeal of "Blue Period" lies above all in the humanity of its characters.
- Yaguchi Hachiko
The protagonist has lived his life conforming to those around him, but through art he begins to confront the "voice of his own heart." His transformation and growth resonate with many readers. - Mori Maruko
Yato's classmate. He has an otaku-like personality and has a strong sense of his own world. He is a good confidant for Yato. - Setasuke
A rival who also aspires to be an artist. Despite his overwhelming talent, he is clumsy in relationships with others. He adds excitement to the story as a contrast to Yato. - Yu Hashida
She has a generous and friendly personality, and her enjoyment of art has a big influence on Yato.
Each character is depicted taking on the uncertain challenge of "art," and the reader is also prompted to think about how they want to live their lives.
Imagery and atmosphere
Tsubasa Yamaguchi's illustrations are by no means flashy. However, by carefully depicting the characters' expressions and emotional fluctuations, he conveys a realistic sense of tension to the reader. He particularly focuses on "expressing the painting itself," and the works in the story are drawn in a variety of styles, giving them a realism that makes them seem as if they were drawn by a different artist.
While the atmosphere is that of a youth drama, it is more than just a "club activity" story. The harshness of reality is vividly portrayed, from the pressure of exams to the friction with societal values to feelings of inferiority towards talent, leaving readers with a refreshing yet powerful aftertaste.
People live with a variety of thoughts
Everyone has their worries.
When you have to make a choice, you are most likely to be yourself.
Memorable scenes
The most memorable scene is when Yato paints his first serious blue landscape painting. By painting the Shibuya landscape before dawn on canvas and pouring his emotions into the colors, he realizes that for the first time he has been able to paint his own picture. This experience becomes a turning point that will greatly change his life. It's great to see the change in the protagonist's feelings as he begins to value his own feelings over how others see him.
Recommended for:
- People who are interested in art and creativity
- Students and young people who are unsure of their career path
- People who want to pursue their dreams despite feeling inferior
- People who want to read youth manga but are looking for themes other than sports and romance
This work will particularly resonate with people who want to start something but are worried about whether it will work out.
Be honest with yourself.
If you give up on something just because you feel like you've grown up a little, nothing will ever begin.
Now is always the starting line for something.
Similar works
- "Bakuman." (A story about aspiring manga artists)
- "Forest of Piano" (A story of growing up through music)
- "March Comes in Like a Lion" (Shogi and human drama)
- "Left-Handed Ellen" (a work themed around designers)
Both songs resonate with themes such as "talent," "effort," and "being yourself."
Q&A
Q. Can I enjoy it even if I'm not an art expert?
A. There is absolutely no problem. The basics of art and the concepts behind it are carefully explained in the story, so beginners can actually enjoy it in a fresh way.
Q. Is there a romance element?
A. There aren't many scenes, but as a youth ensemble drama, the nuances of human relationships are portrayed well.
Q. Is it okay to start with the anime?
A. Yes. The anime faithfully reproduces the original work, so if you read the manga afterwards you can enjoy it even more.
summary
"Blue Period" is not just a manga about art school entrance exams, but a work that asks universal questions such as "How do I live my life?" and "What do I want to express?" Even those who have no experience with art will be able to empathize with Yato's struggles and growth, and find it an opportunity to reflect on themselves.
This film will be a strong encouragement for those who are at a crossroads in their lives or who want to start a new challenge.
There are many crossroads in life, but I don't want to regret my choices.
If you've read this article up to this point, you've surely come across a great piece.
Please use the purchase link below.
Purchase Link
Other works by the author
Before "Blue Period," Tsubasa Yamaguchi worked on the comic adaptation of "She and Her Cat." This was a collaboration with anime director Makoto Shinkai, and is also a work that delicately depicts the inner workings of human beings.
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