Customer Reviews

Testarotho: Volume 2 (Testarotho (DC Comics))

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In Volume 2 of Testarotho we get a little more explanation of the setting that was just barely sketched out in the first book. 300 years ago, a movement called Santogique started preaching its vision of a creatable utopia to the masses. But contrary to their purpose, the sect instead caused widespread war and destruction. The Church of Arsenal formed as an opposing force and eventually defeated Santogique, along with the late aid of Corinthia. But elements of Santogique still survive to this day, and have infiltrated not only the Corinthians, but the highest levels of Arsenal. It is implied that it might be behind the latest conflict between Arsenal, elements in Corinthia, and Materia, exploting both sides to its benefit for an as yet unrevealed goal. In this volume, the Testarotho are sent to the ancient city of Setenburo to expose and capture city leaders that are working for Materia. To their surprise, the Testarotho are the ones who get arrested when they enter the city. Father Garrincha is accused of slaughtering an entire village because of their Materia sympathies. Garrincha, Leonedus, and the others realize too late that it's all a setup.

The main reason Testarotho succeeds is that Sanbe Kei has envisioned such a rich world that has layers of thought behind it. From my experience, this is a pretty rare occurence in manga, which most of the time, even with a fantastical plot, is set in the real world. I also liked this volume a lot because it showed flashbacks of Leonedus' childhood, or what little he had of one as he trained to be a killer. It also revealed Garrincha's past and why Leonedus has such a strong bond with the man. The art is great, and even though there is a ton of action, it never becomes messy or confusing to read. There is a plot twist that borders on dumb and I'm still curious as to where Leonedus hides his 1-ton gun but these are small concerns. This is a nice read.

For a lighter take on an action series with religious overtones, try the manga Chrono Crusade.

All I can say is... Yikes! This series is pretty twisted, in a "We all believe in the same God, but you should die anyway." sort of way. I really like this series, it asks a lot of those uncomfortable questions, and it really wants to make you think, and say ewwwwwwwww. This is definatly not for the kiddies, unless you are training a young david koresh, but is a satisfying read. As you move into the later books the story really starts to solidify, and you actually get to know the otherside of those heartless (not really) nut job preists. Overall a very cool read, and I highly recomend it!