Title: FLCL (Furi Curi or Fooly Cooly)
Author & Artist: Ueda Hajime
Chapters: 1-15 (Complete)
Summary
Naota has a lot going on for a boy in 6th grade. His older brother goes to play baseball in America while leaving his ex-girlfriend Mamimi behind. Mamimi’s mixed signals towards Naota leaves him confused on what to do with her. Everything changes when a mysterious woman runs Naota over with her Vespa. The woman then hits him on the head with her guitar causing a horn to grow out of his forehead. She says her name is Haruko, but the kids at school know her by a different title. Life for Naota just starts to get weirder from then on.
The Good
The Artwork
Don’t get the wrong idea. The artwork is unique, but nothing too fancy. It does look like a kid drew the artwork, but that is what makes it unique. Like White Clouds, the art works with the storyline. Confusing, blotchy, and somehow cool. May be a pain to others, but for those who can endure it just read.
Characters
The characters were the main highlights to the manga. From Naota’s cynical remarks to Haruko’s crazy antics, each character possess a specialness that adds to the fun of FLCL.
The Bad
May Have To Watch Anime First
The story, if you really can call it that, is confusing and takes awhile to understand. The best way to comprehend the story is to watch the anime first. But even then, I can’t guarantee you’ll fully understand the story.
Comparing with the Anime
I am not sure which came first, but the anime may dissuade potential readers. There is an obvious difference in both the anime and the manga. The story and character interaction is somewhat changed in both mediums. Ninamoro is more likable and Naota’s father and grandfather’s personality differs in the manga than the anime. The most obvious change would have to be the artwork. I can see why people would be reluctant to read the manga version when the art isn’t as clean cut as the anime.
Overall
I like FLCL mainly for its crazy antics and lack of story explanation. I would not recommend this for beginners though. As great as the characters are, the style and storytelling is the dividing factor to its greatness. Only read if you liked the anime and don’t mind artwork. I give it a 4 out of 5.
Rating: 
