Research: Manga: Kowloon Generic Romance
(Project 02: Sequences and Time)
In the distant future, individuals who adore the old way of like live in Kowloon Walled City —- A slum city that serves as a refuge for those who long for the Hong Kong of the past. Realtor Reiko Kujirai, however, craves for the new and exciting places in the area. In contrast, her only co-worker, Hajime Kudou, enjoys the nostalgia the city invokes and is put off by anything modern that seeps past its walls. But differing views and constant bickering on the most mundane of things the two often find themselves enjoying each other’s company. One day, a prank gone wrong leads Hajime to make an unexpected advance toward Reiko, after which he swiftly apologizes for. Baffled by his actions, Reiko starts investigating for possible explanations, only to discover a past that she has memory of.
Personal opinion
As someone who’s from Hong Kong, Kowloon Generic Romance was a love letter to me. One side of the story is a wholesome slice of life between two office workers in the bustling district of Kowloon, showing their fun daily life in a district that is known for being old and worn-down. The beautiful art style of this manga, mimics manga from older generations, complementing the setting of the manga and giving a sense of nostalgia. The detailed references, from the local food and overhanging street signs with traditional Chinese font to the hidden back alleys and the old architecture, really hits home and makes the story so much more immersive.
The character designs with traditional Chinese fashion, also following the recent Chinese fashion trend ‘’neo-Chinese style’’, which combines modern and traditional elements together for the outfits. On the other side of the story is a sci-fi mystery which gives more depth to a slice of life romance and interesting contrast between the past and future.
The reason why I did the research on this manga is because I was born and raised in Hong Kong. It’s surprising to see one of my favourite mangakas make a project based on an area that not longer exists, Kowloon Walled City. I didn’t have the opportunity to visit and explore the city due to is deconstruction during the late 80s. It was interesting to read the story and see the practices from my culture that remain in this modern era and the various practices that vanished with the city. I think the idea of combining the past city with the “futuristic” setting of the manga fit well with the “sequence and time.” Reading and learning more about the manga was a fun experience as it gave more insight to the culture I was raised upon.
Bibliography