Jealousy Manga Review: A Dark and Intense Tale of Obsession

Discover the gripping and intense story of Jealousy, a manga that explores the depths of obsession and desire. Follow Uichi Rogi as he becomes infatuated with Akitora Oyamato, a member of the yakuza family, and embarks on a relentless pursuit. With its explicit content and exploration of unhealthy relationships, Jealousy is a captivating and thought-provoking read. Dive into the dark and complex narrative of this manga today.

Jealousy Manga Review: A Dark and Intense Tale of Obsession

Jealousy, a manga written and illustrated by Scarlet Beriko, offers a gripping and intense story that delves into the depths of obsession and desire. Published under Viz Media’s SuBLime BL imprint, this manga stands apart from traditional romance titles, offering a darker and more complex narrative. With its explicit content and exploration of unhealthy relationships, Jealousy is a book that will captivate readers seeking a tragic and captivating story.

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Set in 1989, Jealousy follows the life of Uichi Rogi, a young man who survives by using his wits and engaging in promiscuous behavior. Uichi becomes infatuated with Akitora Oyamato, a handsome member of the Oyamato yakuza family. Determined to win Akitora’s affection and become a part of the family, Uichi embarks on a relentless pursuit, regardless of the consequences. As the story unfolds, it becomes evident that Uichi’s obsession may lead to a devastating price, leaving readers questioning if there will be any semblance of a happy ending.

A Gripping Exploration of Complex Themes

Jealousy stands out among other BL titles due to its exploration of complex themes and the absence of a traditional romance narrative. While the manga does contain explicit scenes and a romantic relationship between two men, it goes beyond simple love and passion. Jealousy delves deep into the psyche of its characters, particularly Uichi Rogi, who serves as the antagonist in Scarlet Beriko’s previous work, Fourth Generation Head: Tatsuyuki Oyamato.

Readers familiar with Fourth Generation Head may initially be hesitant to delve into Jealousy, as it provides the backstory of a particularly cruel character. However, the manga can be read independently, and the knowledge of previous works is not necessary to appreciate the story. Despite Uichi’s questionable actions, his character is explored in-depth, shedding light on his motivations and the inner workings of his mind.

The Relentless Pursuit of Desire

Uichi’s relentless pursuit of Akitora is driven by his desire to belong and be noticed. The manga showcases Uichi’s reckless nature and his willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals. The narrative does not shy away from depicting the consequences of Uichi’s actions, resulting in a deeply flawed and troubled protagonist.

One of the standout aspects of Jealousy is the portrayal of sex as a form of currency for Uichi. While the manga contains numerous explicit scenes, they are not intended for titillation or romantic purposes. Instead, they serve as a reflection of Uichi’s relationship with his body and his use of sex to attain his objectives. This unique approach adds depth to the story, highlighting Uichi’s complex mindset and his detachment from personal emotions.

A Challenging and Tragic Narrative

Jealousy can be a challenging read at times due to its dark themes and the absence of a clear happy ending. Flashforwards to 2017 further emphasize the tragic nature of Uichi’s story, leaving readers with a sense of impending doom. The manga primarily focuses on the chase and Uichi’s desperate need for belonging, overshadowing any possibility of a fulfilling resolution.

Scarlet Beriko’s artwork in Jealousy is visually stunning, showcasing her talent in capturing emotions and portraying a variety of male body types. The characters’ expressive eyes and detailed illustrations enhance the overall reading experience.

Conclusion: A Captivating and Thought-Provoking Read

Jealousy pushes the boundaries of traditional BL narratives, offering a dark and intense exploration of obsession and desire. While it may not appeal to all readers, those who appreciate tragic romances and complex character studies will find this manga captivating. Scarlet Beriko’s masterful storytelling and beautiful artwork make Jealousy a worthwhile read for those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally charged narrative.