“They’re so goofy, they’re cool. Warm-up’s over. Easy mode may be off now, but nothing’s impossible when they’re all in it together. Get ready for this crew of dorks overflowing with pizzazz to turn things up a notch! There’s no clumsy that they can’t make cool. Everybody, please return to your seats…It’s time for Act II.” (Yen Press)
Buy This Title
Having previously introduced readers to a varied cast of ‘cool guys’, the second volume brings the perfectionists under one roof (a café). Initial intros out of the way, the series’ idyllic balance of light comedy and stylish aesthetic begins to hit its strive as the group begins to interact and play off each others eccentricities.
Pushing the previously established humorous tone, the second entry sees the crew begin to play off of their own insecurities while competing to keep the calm composure they built up. Simple everyday awkwardness (weird shuffle to pass another in a narrow space) becomes comic as the internal monologue of both participants plays across the page – a bizarre internalized exchange wherein appearing ‘uncool’ is the ultimate social faux paus. In addition, these interactions imbue the characters with a deeper sense of humanity as they bond over this peculiar and unreal standard they adhere too. Overall, the humor is still relatively lighthearted but the flow and depth has certainly improved, as the protagoninsts begin to interact on a more intimate level.
While the artwork itself is rather simplistic, the full-color edition adds a sleek gloss to the book (a trend I would love to see becoming commonplace with certain manga titles). Essentially, intuitive choices make the release pop and elevate the playful narrative; such as injecting various background tints to give the book a rainbow pattern or the complimentary use of pastels sprinkled throughout. Undeniably, presentation and color is key in making this title excel and it is fantastic to see a publisher present the work in complimentary fashion.
“Play It Cool, Guys” may not be a standout series in itself, but it hits that perfect tone of being a ‘comfort read’ thanks to gorgeous presentation and lighthearted story – kind of series that will put a smile on your face. Ultimately, fans of relaxed stories that are perfect to curl up and destress with will find a lot to adore in this strikingly vibrant release.
