The wait is over! On February 20th, volume five of Oshi no Ko—the first to feature material new to anime-only viewers—hits shelves. This new release moves the series into the “2.5D Stage Play” arc, which only began in the final few minutes of season one and at the end of volume four. And just like the previous releases, volume five continues the excellence of this one-of-a-kind series.
Aqua is moving ever closer to finding Ai’s killer; by joining the production of a stage play adapted from a manga, he intends to build a relationship with an important leader in Akane’s acting troupe who knew Ai when she was first breaking into the business. Volume five follows Aqua through the ins and outs of rehearsal for the production, which will also feature both Akane and Kana. Some other old faces will be involved, as well as a few new ones.
Oshi no Ko is excellent at drawing readers into the central drama of each arc, drama being the appropriate word as it involves teens in the often exploitative world of entertainment. The situations and stakes change in each arc, but what stays the same is the tension, which gets pulled tighter and tighter until the climax releases it in a highly satisfactory way. We’re also always drawn in because we become deeply invested in the characters explored during each particular arc.
That care for the characters is already striking true, even with a cast of new and newish ones. For example, do you remember the mangaka of Sweet Today? She appears in volume five and plays an important role, as does her junior, Abiko, whose manga is now being adapted. The story explores their relationship and it’s, not surprisingly, captivating and entertaining. Model and actor Melt returns, while a screenwriter becomes a significant part of the story as well, with the focus turning from reality shows and idol concerts to stage productions and writing. As usual, the focus on the entertainment industry is every bit as compelling as the more personal storylines.
Readers looking for the kind of big moment we’ve come to expect will have to wait, but volume five does end on a cliffhanger—just to destroy us a little. And right after, in very Oshi no Ko fashion, is a silly one-page sketch of the characters that Mengo Yokoyari drew with his non-dominant hand. The quick turnaround reminds us how Oshi no Ko travels from the depths of despair to the heights of comfort and zaniness, and does both so very well.
Volume five is another strong release in this addicting series, and it further cements Oshi no Ko‘s place as among the best manga of this generation.
Oshi no Ko is published by Yen Press. Volume five releases on February 20th.
READ Reviews of Oshi no Ko: Vol. 1 // Vol. 2 // Vol. 3 // Vol. 4
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