The new one-shot from digital publishers Star Fruit Books, continues to shed light on independent mangakas with the release of “Look Into My Eyes” by Miyako Yoko. Following the decision of the pop idol group to disband, the manga focuses on the struggle of one member who is reliant on the group to bolster her own self-esteem and keep her personal demons at bay.
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Starting at the final performance of a popular group, the pleads from fans are met by one singer breaking character, yelling how she does not want the group to disband either. This emotional outburst goes to frame the backstory of what leads the group to the final decision, largely the desire to branch out into other arts. While this is common within many pop groups that only last a short time, the manga looks at one of the members not quite ready to let go. It is within this story that Miyako Yoko is able to express an abundance of emotion and commentary on pop music with a clever competence.
Working within the narrative confines of the one-shot format, Miyako delves deep into her subject's psychology by showing a sharp contrast between bubbly personality and a deep despair. These two different perspectives are interwoven to show the young singer's true desperation behind her more formal interactions with the other members and staff behind the group. As a result, there is an extra layer of tragedy added as the reader becomes aware of the insecurities that are hidden to save face, a necessary evil to keep her status membership in the group. Overall, the narrative manages to pack an emotional punch that is seldom accomplished within the shorter format.
Miyako's visual approach is utterly gorgeous in capturing reactions and movement, complimenting the poignant observations on the, possible, emotional desperation that come come with celebrity. Additionally, the artwork can take a more vibrant approach to capture the pop-aesthetic, well reflected in the cover that uses pastels to give a warm inviting image of the central character.
The ability to draw-in the reader on a cathartic level, within a short period of time speaks to the strength of Miyako Yoko as both a storyteller and a visual artist. While it would be great to see if an expanded work could keep the same depth and flow, “Look Into My Eyes” stands on its own as a complete and enthralling experience. Building off of a strong catalogue, with titles like “Sawanabe Zombie” and “Pop Life“, Star Fruit Books' show their ability to pick lesser known titles deserved of their own spotlight.
