On your pumpkins, get set, freak out!
Introduction
Halloween, this mysterious and enchanting celebration, has gradually made its way into the hearts and traditions of French-speaking Switzerland, transforming the night of October 31st into a veritable carnival of the strange and supernatural. In the streets, costumes and decorations compete in originality, while in homes, scary stories and fantastical tales come back to life for an evening.
For lovers of chills and mysteries, reading horror mangas has become an essential tradition of this holiday. But how do you choose the works that will captivate your attention and immerse you in the unique atmosphere of Halloween? That is the question we will answer in this article, by offering you a selection of five must-read mangas.
French-speaking Switzerland, with its rich cultural heritage and love for fantastical stories, provides an ideal setting to celebrate Halloween. Whether you are in Geneva, Lausanne, or a quaint small town, you will surely find a club, a hall, or an event dedicated to this celebration. And for those who prefer a quieter evening, what could be better than a good read to get in the mood?
This Halloween week, let yourself be carried away by captivating stories, explore dark and mysterious universes, and discover works that will mark your mind long after the reading is over. After all, Halloween is the celebration of imagination, the strange, and the thrill. So, are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of horror mangas?
Unveiling the Story and Themes of "Parasyte"
"Parasyte" is a Japanese science fiction horror manga series penned and illustrated by Hitoshi Iwaaki, serialized from 1988 to 1995. The narrative revolves around Shinichi Izumi, a high school senior, who becomes partially infected by a parasitic alien. Instead of taking over his brain, the parasite ends up in his hand, leading to a bizarre coexistence and a fight for survival against other parasites.
The Intriguing Plot
The story is set in a quiet neighborhood in Fukuyama, Hiroshima, where parasitic aliens invade Earth, aiming to take over human brains. Shinichi Izumi's life takes a drastic turn when one of these parasites attempts to enter his body. A twist of fate results in the parasite, named Migi, taking over his right hand instead. This unique situation leaves both Shinichi and Migi with their intellects and personalities intact, forcing them to coexist and face other parasites together. The series delves deep into philosophical and psychological themes, questioning the essence of humanity, the anthropocentrism of morality, and the complex relationship between humans and other species.
Philosophical and Psychological Depths
"Parasyte" explores profound philosophical questions about humanity, morality, and our place in the natural world. Shinichi's transformation and his interactions with Migi and other parasites force him to contemplate the moral superiority of humans over other species. The series challenges the audience to think about the inherent violence in human nature, the instinct to survive, and the capacity for love and sacrifice, even in the most unlikely beings.
Critical Acclaim and Adaptations
The manga has received critical acclaim, winning the 17th Kodansha Manga Award and the 27th Seiun Award. It has also been adapted into two live-action films, an anime television series, and has inspired various tribute projects and a spin-off manga. The anime adaptation, in particular, has been praised for its animation, pacing, and exploration of the series' deep themes.
Tomie - The Masterpiece of Junji Ito
"Tomie", a Japanese horror manga series written and illustrated by Junji Ito, stands as a must-read for fans of chills and mystery. Published from 1987 to 2000, this work has left a lasting impact with its captivating storyline and deep psychological themes.
An Enchanting Story
The story revolves around Tomie Kawakami, a mysterious and alluring woman, identifiable by her sleek black hair and a beauty mark below her left eye. She acts like a succubus, possessing an undefined power that makes every man fall in love with her. Her mere presence, or through psychological and emotional manipulation, drives these individuals to extreme fits of jealousy, often leading to brutal acts of violence. Men kill each other over her, and women are also driven to madness, though there are some who are strong enough to resist her. Tomie is inevitably killed time and time again, only to regenerate and spread her curse to other victims, making her effectively immortal.
Psychological Depth and Themes
"Tomie" delves into psychological and philosophical themes, questioning the nature of beauty, desire, and mortality. Tomie's regenerative abilities, partly fueled by cannibalism and assimilation, are showcased throughout the series. She can supernaturally replicate herself from any part of her body, whether it be severed limbs, organs, or even her spilled blood. Tomie's cells are also capable of transforming a victim into another Tomie via an organ transplant. Multiple characters are even driven to dismember her corpse, unwittingly allowing more Tomie copies to grow and spread throughout the world.
Critical Acclaim and Adaptations
The manga has received critical acclaim, winning the Kazuo Umezu Prize in 1989, and has since gained a cult status. It has been adapted into a series of live-action films, an anthology television series in 1999, and a streaming television series was in development for Quibi before the service's shutdown. The adaptations have helped to broaden "Tomie's" audience and solidify its status as a horror classic.
Choujin X - Discover a New Vision of Horror
In the dark and mysterious setting of Yamato Prefecture, "Choujin X" by Sui Ishida stands out as a captivating new vision of horror, offering readers a unique experience of its kind. This series, which began in May 2021, quickly captured the attention of the world, carving out a special place in the hearts of manga fans.
An Enchanting Story
Azuma Higashi and Tokio Kurohara, two childhood friends with opposite personalities, find themselves plunged into a chaotic world where the Choujin, human beings endowed with supernatural powers, reign supreme. Faced with a deadly threat, they are forced to become Choujin themselves, navigating between good and evil in a fierce struggle for survival.
A Unique Artistic Style
Sui Ishida's distinctive artistic style, combined with immersive storytelling, makes "Choujin X" a work of art in its own right. Themes of friendship, sacrifice, and inner struggle are explored with rare depth, offering readers a reflection on human nature and the price of power.
An Unforgettable Reading Experience
"Choujin X" positions itself as a must-read for thrill-seekers, perfectly suited for a Halloween night. Whether you are looking for a captivating story, an impressive work of art, or just a new series to devour, this series is for you.
Jagaaan and Gantz - Two Intense Experiences
Gantz: A Dark and Intense Adventure
Gantz is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Hiroya Oku, published between June 2000 and June 2013 in Shueisha's Weekly Young Jump seinen magazine. The story follows Kei Kurono and Masaru Kato, who, after perishing in a train accident, find themselves involved in a brutal posthumous game where they and other recently deceased individuals are forced to hunt and kill aliens with an assortment of futuristic items and weapons.
The adaptation into an animated television series aired in 26 episodes in 2004, and there have also been two live-action films in 2011 and an animated CGI film, Gantz: O, in 2016. The manga was divided into three main arcs, and has experienced great commercial success, with over 24 million copies in circulation as of November 2021.
An Exploration of Dark Themes
Gantz is renowned for its dark themes, exploring death, violence, and human nature. The participants in the Gantz game are faced with difficult moral choices and the brutality of their new reality, creating an intense and provocative experience for the reader. The combat scenes are extremely violent and graphic, and the series does not shy away from showing the consequences of violence.
Comparison with Jagaaan
Comparing Gantz to Jagaaan, another intense manga series, one can see similarities in how both series approach dark themes and use violence and chaos to explore the human psyche. However, while Jagaaan focuses on internal transformation and battling inner desires, Gantz places its characters in a life-or-death situation where they must kill to survive. Both series offer a deep reflection on human nature and the dark aspects of society, while providing intense action and captivating moments.
Visit a Museum and Discover the History of Manga
Dive into the History and Culture of Manga
For those looking to deepen their understanding and appreciation of manga, a visit to a museum dedicated to this art form is an essential experience. In Switzerland, particularly in the city of Geneva, the Museum of Art and History offers a unique opportunity to discover the history of manga, its origins, and its evolution over the decades.
An Impressive Collection
The museum houses an impressive collection of mangas, ranging from classic works to contemporary creations. Visitors can explore the different eras of manga, understand the cultural and social influences that have shaped this art form, and admire the works of master mangakas. It is a perfect opportunity for manga enthusiasts of all ages to immerse themselves in this fascinating world.
Events and Workshops
In addition to its permanent collection, the museum regularly organizes events, temporary exhibitions, and workshops. These activities offer visitors a chance to participate in reading sessions, meet artists, and even learn manga drawing techniques. During Halloween week, the museum offers special events, turning the visit into a unique thematic experience.
An Evening at the Museum
For an even more immersive experience, why not plan an evening at the museum? With its dramatically lit exhibits and unique atmosphere, a nighttime visit offers a completely different and enriching perspective. It is also an excellent idea for an evening outing, whether it be with family, friends, or even for an original date.
Discover Geneva and its Cultural Treasures
In addition to the Museum of Art and History, Geneva is full of cultural treasures to discover. Take the time to stroll through the city, visit other museums, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this Swiss city. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, Geneva has something to offer everyone.
Conclusions
A Fascinating Journey Through the World of Manga
At the end of our exploration, it is clear that manga is much more than just a form of entertainment. It is a complex and rich art form that has transcended time and borders to reach a global audience. From "Parasite" to "Gantz," and through the discovery of museums dedicated to this art, each step of our journey has allowed us to delve deeper into the world of manga.
The Cultural Impact of Manga
Manga has not only revolutionized the way we consume stories, but it has also had a profound impact on global popular culture. The universal themes addressed in these works resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds, creating a global community of passionate fans.
An Invitation to Discovery
Whether you are an avid manga reader or a curious novice, there is always something new to discover in this universe. Museums, exhibitions, and special events offer unique opportunities to deepen your understanding and appreciation of manga. In Geneva, the city itself becomes an ideal setting for exploring the history and culture of manga, with its museums and cultural events.
Celebrating Manga at Halloween and Throughout the Year
Manga has also found its place in Halloween celebrations, with stories ranging from the chilling to the terrifying. It is a perfect opportunity to organize a manga evening, whether by reading the scariest titles or visiting a museum for a unique cultural experience.
In Conclusion
Manga is a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate and inspire millions of people around the world. It invites us to explore new stories, discover new cultures, and participate in a global community of fans. As we conclude our journey through the world of manga, we invite you to continue exploring, reading, and celebrating this fascinating art form.
Maybe you want to learn how to draw your favorite manga characters? In that case, nothing better than taking a comic/manga drawing class to learn how to draw them and share your interests. Apolline offers courses in Lausanne, Morges, Montreux, Bienne and Delémont. And to deepen your knowledge even more, you can take part in the comic/manga drawing vacation camps that take place all over the French-speaking part of Switzerland during the school vacations!
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