I'd like to say few words about my reading of "Under Ninja." Currently ongoing with 120 chapters, serialized by Young Magazine, and published in Italy by JPOP. The plot is simple. It revolves around Kudo, a hikikomori who belongs to a ninja organization formed after World War II, dealing with violent and terrorist acts in the country. Initially, this organization, called 「NIN」, handled only domestic affairs, but over time it developed and expanded internationally, boasting a military force of at least 20,000 operational ninjas. The covers of the tankobon are very beautiful and meaningful from a graphic perspective. With the first printing of “I am a Hero,”Kengo Hanazawa made quite an impression, and here he does no less.

One thing I really like about Kengo Hanazawa's narrative style is that the story is told from all angles. The reader gets to see both points of view of the different factions in the series, whether it's 「UN」 (Under Ninja) or 「NIN」(National Intelligence of NINJA). What's intriguing is that there's no clear “good” or “bad” side; we just see two factions with different ideals in conflict. Sure, the reading will lead you to think that the 「NIN」 are in the right, being the main faction for which our protagonist works, but as you continue reading, you start to question and doubt this conviction more and more.

The description of ninja techniques and strategies is nothing short of genius. Techniques that at first seem outlandish and nonsensical, but after a detailed explanation, acquire unimaginable utility. Take, for example, the "Water technique," used multiple times in the series, which, depending on the context, can prove to be the only means of salvation. Hanazawa has a style as bizarre as his characters, but of incomparable brilliance.

One thing I appreciate and am positively crazy about in the manga is the constantly present sense of humor. Interactions with Kuro are often hilarious but also provide very important information for the reader to understand the overall situation. Then there are times when it seems like he's making a stupid and senseless comment when he's actually already applying a ninja technique to confuse those around him. Again, the genius of Kengo Hanazawa in this manga is palpable.

SPOILERS

Up to chapter 67, the sensei spoiled us with Kuro's presence, only to completely turn everything around with his death. Of course, not everything is lost because he left behind his legacy, his family, who will now take the lead of the story. It was truly interesting and bold of him to take this direction. It was definitely something the reader would not have expected. I would dare say it was more shocking than seeing Gojo die (and resurrect in all forms by now) at Sukuna's hand. I’ve read many negative reviews saying this was a wrong decision that ruined the manga, but I found it an added incentive to continue reading and to delve deeper into all the other characters surrounding our protagonist. By the way, I wanted to mention the brilliance of the tankobon covers where this event occurs and how there’s a clear reference to it. Kuro high-fives his brother, symbolizing the changing of the guard. (Check out manga cover no. 8 & 9)

Having reached chapter 120, the mysteries deepen even more, but you can definitely feel a change in the author's pace. Yes, it’s still relatively slow, but each faction is moving towards something big. The tension and carefreeness present in the first 50 chapters are gone. I wouldn't be surprised if everything exploded in a few chapters, as happened with the high school incident/mission.

From an artistic standpoint, not much has changed from his previous works. The double spread panels are always beautiful to look at, and the details are never lacking. His drawing style is clearly unique, and it’s really hard not to recognize his touch. I think the artwork is another main reason why I decided to dive into this reading.

I can’t say if it’s underrated or not because, to be honest, it seems more like a manga for a niche audience. But one thing is certain: after watching "Ninja Kamui" this was exactly what I needed to forget that poorly executed ninja story. And if I’m honest, this work seems better executed than “I am a Hero,” so if you didn’t enjoy that read, I’d still give Hanazawa a chance with this series.