Codename Sailor V1 by Naoko Takeuchi
Review by Cyn C. (Cyn-Sama)
Let me say, once again, that I love the Magical Girl genre. I love the cuteness, I love the clichéd happy endings, I love the fact that the good guys always win.
For me, the great granddaddy of this genre is Sailor Moon. I’ve been obsessed with her since I was in Jr. High, and FOX was showing the (very badly) dubbed version at 6AM. I have all the toys. I have the talking cat. I have all the manga. The only thing I didn’t have was the pre-cursor to Sailor Moon, that explains the origins of Sailor Venus, Sailor V.
Now, by popular demand, I have my beloved Sailor V in English.
It’s not going to be for everyone. I will admit to viewing anything to do with Sailor Moon with rose colored glasses. I like it because I want to like it. I enjoy seeing the glimpses of characters who are going to be major players in the Sailor Moon series.
There’s an awful lot of sweetness and light in this series, something that readers who are not used to this style may find a bit much.
Also, Naoko Takeuchi’s art work can take a little getting used to. The proportions of the characters can be a bit wonky, and the eyes are huge, even for a Magical Girl series.
We start off with Minako Aino, a 13 year old Jr. High student, with a penchant for crushing on just about every boy she sees. Everything changes after she meets a white cat who can talk, and instructs her that she has the power to transform into Sailor V. With the help of a magic pen, that lets her dress up as anyone she pleases, Sailor V fights for justice, against the evil Dark Agency.
Okay. I know. It sounds cheesy. But, really, it’s just a whole lot of fun. If you are a Sailor Moon fan, I highly recommend you check out this release.
Ah, Sailor Moon! I used to adore watching the show when I was younger. Great review!