Cat soup. Udon / Cat soup / Кошачий суп. Удон / Nekojiru Udon

"Mangasoup" is a black comedy manga that consists of two parts: "Cat soup. Udon" (1990) and "Nekojiru Dango" (1997). The first part, "Cat soup. Udon," is the focus of this review. The story revolves around the lives of a cat named Nyanto and his younger sister Nyako. They live in a surreal world where death is commonplace, and strange creatures roam freely. Nyanto and Nyako embark on a series of bizarre adventures, often searching for body parts and souls to restore their sickly grandmother's health. The manga depicts a dark and twisted universe filled with grotesque imagery and unsettling themes. It delves into the concept of mortality and the absurdity of life, presenting a satirical take on the human condition. Despite its seemingly cute and innocent art style, "Cat soup. Udon" delves into deep and heavy topics, challenging the reader's perceptions. One of the most intriguing aspects of the manga is its unique art style, characterized by simple, cute character designs layered over complex and chaotic backgrounds. It creates a stark contrast between the adorable characters and the disturbing events they find themselves in. The use of surreal and abstract imagery adds to the overall unsettling atmosphere of the manga. The narrative of "Cat soup. Udon" is non-linear, with episodic chapters that jump between different events in Nyanto and Nyako's lives. This approach adds to the dreamlike quality of the story and further emphasizes the absurdity of their world. It also allows for a wide range of storytelling possibilities, showcasing various scenarios and exploring different themes. While the manga is often dark and unsettling, it also incorporates moments of genuine comedy and tenderness. Despite their circumstances, Nyanto and Nyako exhibit a resilient spirit, and their sibling bond is heartwarming. These small moments of lightness amidst darkness serve as a glimmer of hope in an otherwise grim narrative. Overall, "Cat soup. Udon" is a unique and thought-provoking manga that challenges conventional storytelling and pushes the boundaries of the medium. It's not a manga for everyone, as its content can be disturbing and unsettling. However, for those willing to explore the darker side of humanity and appreciate unconventional narratives, "Cat soup. Udon" is a fascinating and rewarding read.