*This article contains promotional material.
basic information
- title: Platinum End
- author: Tsugumi Ohba (original story), Takeshi Obata (illustrations)
- Publisher: Shueisha
- Publication: Jump Square (serialized from 2015 to 2021)
- Number of volumes: Completed in 14 volumes
- Genre: Dark fantasy, battle, suspense
- Media Development: TV anime adaptation (broadcast from 2021 to 2022)
The third work from the golden duo behind "DEATH NOTE" and "Bakuman." The themes are "life and death," "God's choice," and "human desire," and the work poses very heavy, philosophical questions.
Synopsis
main character·bridging futureAfter losing his parents and being taken in by his aunt and uncle, Mirai lives in despair. Having lost sight of the meaning of life, he finally jumps off the roof of a building.
However, at that moment, an angel appeared. The angel bestowed upon Mirai "wings (a symbol of freedom)" and "a red arrow (a symbol of love)," giving her even greater powers. Mirai chooses to live again, but at the same time becomes embroiled in a battle for the "next candidate for god."
The humans chosen as candidates for god each team up with an angel and fight using their special abilities, and the one who survives becomes the new "god"...
The story unfolds as it tackles the ultimate questions of "Who is worthy of being a god?" and "What is the purpose of human life?"
The charm of the characters
bridging future
- A boy who lost his parents and grew up in an abusive environment, losing the will to live.
- After meeting an angel, he is given wings and an arrow, and regains his will to live.
- What makes him so appealing is that he fights not to hurt anyone, but with the pure desire to be happy in his heart.
Angel Nasse
- A special-class angel, she is the one who bestowed powers upon the future.
- Although she is innocent and carefree, her words and actions are somehow at odds with human values.
- They encourage and guide the future, but their innocence can sometimes even be frightening.
Candidates for God
- Just like in the future, these people were chosen as candidates for god.
- The story depicts a variety of human relationships, including the greedy, those who advocate justice, and those who are in despair.
- Each character's "desires" and "way of life" greatly influence the story.
Imagery and atmosphere
- The designs of the characters and angels have an overwhelming presence, thanks to the stunning artistic talent that only Obata Takeshi can offer.
- The battle scenes are fast-paced and the contrast between light and darkness is striking.
- The characters' psychological descriptions are detailed, giving the reader a strong sense of immersion.
- Although the theme is dark and philosophical, the beauty of the illustrations makes it hard to put down.
Memorable scenes
Particularly poignant is the moment when Mirai goes from the brink of despair to a heartfelt desire to "live."
Even after receiving her powers from the angels, Mirai was initially overcome with confusion and fear. However, even when she realized she could control the people who had oppressed her by firing the "Red Arrow," she never abused her power.
The scene in which he stands up for the first time, expressing his strong desire to be happy, is a scene that leaves a strong impression and message in the reader.
Recommended for:
- People who like dark fantasy and psychological warfare
- People who like intellectual battles and philosophical themes like "DEATH NOTE" and "Code Geass"
- People who want to enjoy beautifully drawn battles
- People who want to think deeply about human desires and the meaning of life
Similar works
Here are some recommended works with similar worldviews and themes to "Platinum End."
- Death NoteA psychological battle between geniuses over a notebook that can control life. A masterpiece by the duo Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata.
- Bakuman.: A story of a manga artist's growth by the same author duo. Although not directly similar works, there are common themes in terms of creativity and outlook on life.
- Future Diary:A death game in which people who hold diaries that record the future fight each other, and the last survivor becomes a god.
- Code Geass: A story about a boy with the power of Geass who starts a revolution. The way he uses his powers and desires is similar to "Platinum End."
- Elfen Lied:A dark fantasy that depicts the dark side of humanity and the "loneliness of those with power."
- The Promised Neverland: A story about children trying to escape from a hopeless environment. It shares elements of suspense and psychological warfare.
- Darwin's Game: Battle survival using special abilities.
- Shigurui: A work that thoroughly depicts human desires and views on life and death. Recommended for those who like profound philosophical themes.
Q&A
Q: Are there many grotesque depictions?
A: There aren't as many directly brutal scenes as in "Death Note," but there are many psychologically heavy depictions.
Q: What is the difference between the anime and the manga?
A: The anime faithfully reproduces the original work, but it feels a bit rushed. Reading the manga gives a deeper understanding of the psychological portrayal and themes.
Q: Is there a happy ending?
A: The ending is a matter of opinion. Some people find it a relief, while others feel a sense of emptiness. It's a truly philosophical ending.
summary
"Platinum End" is not just a battle manga, but a profound work that asks questions such as "Why do humans live?", "What is happiness?", and "Is the existence of God necessary?"
The detailed story and overwhelming artistic skill that are typical of the Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata duo combine to leave a strong impact on readers.
The protagonist's journey from despair to hope will inspire readers, and the story will also make them think about what happiness means to them.
This is a masterpiece that anyone who enjoys psychological and intellectual battles, or who is drawn to dark fantasy, should definitely pick up.
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