I first learned of this manga through a recent recording for ICFAMM:Rebirth and was so sold on its premise, I instantly purchased the first three volumes on air. Now, having devoured the first volume of Killer Shark in Another World by Kuboken, I gotta say it more or less successfully blends the high fantasy manga genre with the energy of B-Movie shark films.
The story focuses on Shiromi Lovecut-Toothrough, who is enrolled at an esteemed magic academy in the hopes to one day defeat the Demon King who threatens her idyllic fantasy world. It’s revealed though that Shiromi, despite her optimism, can barely summon anything through her magics, adding to the disdain she receives from her fellow students and teachers alike. This all changes when after Shiromi experiences odd visions of what we the audience know to be classic scenes from famous b-movie shark films, she summons a truly terrifying monster.
Revealed to be simply known as Supreme Horrific Apex Rampant Killer: Sharkiller, the monster she brings to their world begins to create a blood bath in a form reminiscent to that of the shark creatures in films like Three Headed Shark Attack (2015) and Sharktopus (2010), killing all her classmates at the academy. Shiromi is quickly casted out by her teacher (the only survivor), believing that Shiromi is none other than a spy for the Demon King. Now Shiromi and the now chibified Sharkiller travel the land in an attempt to do good.
“Attempt” being the key word here.
This manga, while not outstanding, is a fun little read, and if you are a fan of creature features that involve sharks, you most likely will have a good time. To quote the creator Kuboken, “Shark movies are such an intriguing genre. Sometimes they are brutal. Sometimes they are funny and sometimes they don’t even feature sharks. This was my first attempt at transforming that insanity into a manga.” It is clear that this is the first attempt at combining these vastly different genres of fantasy and shark horror, showing that this series definitely has some teeth to it, even if it’s not the strongest of bites.
The art though is top notch and filled to the brim with bloody details in Sharkiller’s rampages. The contrast from cute high fantasy manga to brutal shark horror is what makes this narrative move forward. The chaos of Sharkiller’s shark attacks is incredibly detailed but easy to follow, guiding readers along the plot quite nicely. The highlight for me is the classic “turning the tide of battle with unlocking a new power” cliche seen in the final climax of the first volume that, simply put, shows why “When in doubt, Sharknado your way out.”
If you are looking for a niche and fun read to pass the time these days, I’d for sure recommend picking up this book!
| Overall Score: 6/10 A truly one of a kind experience, this manga combines all the charm of a fantasy story with the brutal insanity of a B rated Shark film. While it’s still finding itself narratively, it has potential for a truly wild and fun time. |
