“Mine-kun is Asexual. He doesn't like sexual intimacy in a relationship. He can kiss a girl, but it's not something he wants to do if he can help it. But Murai loves him so much that she's willing to overlook the fact that she can't hold his hand; that she can't cuddle up next to him when they watch movies together; that she can't fall in love with him the way that she hopes to be loved in return. In the eyes of those around them, is this even a relationship that's meant to last, or is it a train wreck just waiting to happen?” (Official)
“Mine-kun is Asexual” is Available Through Irodori Sakura
Inspired by their own exploration of sexuality, Isaki Uta's “Mine-kun is A Sexual” is an honest and sincere exploration of those who identify as asexual. Consequently, the narrative is presented not to ‘fix' the lack of sexual interest in the titular character but nurture the positivity that can come from such relationships. Even though it is obvious from the get go that Murai and Mine won't last as boyfriend and girlfriend, Murai's passion and growth within the relationship still presents a positive outcome. The result feels educational, like a potential tool to teach the younger generation about this underexplored orientation. Overall, the mangaka's balance of informative and dramatic elements makes for an engrossing experience.
The doujinshi format, independent comics produced by the mangaka without an editor, comes with its own restrictions. Within 42 pages, there does seem a bit of a missed opportunity to explore Mine's own perceptions towards his girlfriend and any potential struggles that comes from not being able to offer up intimacy. Undeniably, Uta is able to create a sense of empathy for both characters with the singular perspective but an added element like Mine's perspective could have shed more light on the relationship. Essentially, the release will leave readers wanting more off the back of what little its creator is able to explore within the restricted format.
Isaki Uta's other release with Irodori Aqua, “A Mermaid in the bottle” showed the artist experimenting with colour and panel as a narrative device. Sadly, this title lacks the bold visual expressions that made “Mermaid” such stunning and impactful release. In comparing titles, the artist still shows the ability to capture the internal struggles of their subjects with beauty. In addition, the dialogue heavy work showcases the skill of Tim Sun and CC Su in presenting the work in English. Ultimately, the release may lack the flair of Uta's other work with Irodori, but maintains its charm thanks too expressive characters and crisp lettering/placement.
“Mine-kun is Asexual” is a well crafted drama that navigates a complex and often misunderstood orientation. The release not only sheds light on the difficulties of maintaining a relationship where sexuality is removed, but gives hope and reason to cultivate friendships within an overlooked community. Romantic while removing components that define the genre (intimacy), “Mine-kun” is as endearing as it is informative.
