Manga
Black Butler Volume 6
By Chris Zimmerman
August 22, 2011 - 12:56

Yen Press
Writer(s): Yana Toboso
Penciller(s): Yana Toboso
Letterer(s): Alexis Eckerman
ISBN: 978-0-316-08430-7
$11.99 US



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There’s nothing worse than when a series fails to capitalize on a great concept. Case in point: Black Butler. The series has all the right ingredients for a hit title: gothic atmosphere, androgynous characters, and a touch of the supernatural. Yet the series is bogged down with one arc after another that does offers little in the way of plot advancement. The basic formula for every volume thus far has been Ciel is called upon by the queen to solve a mystery, a new character is introduced with whom he can bicker with, Sebastian continues to prove that he is more than just a butler by achieving impossible feats, and everyone goes home happy. Wash, rinse, repeat.

The sixth volume locates the pair in the confines of the traveling circus called Noah’s Ark. However the joy supplied by the circus is tested when children begin disappearing after every show. Naturally Ciel and Sebastian are on the case, leading to more hijinks. Their investigation brings them into conflict with the rest of circus staff, particularly it’s animal trainer who takes it upon herself to whip Sebastian into line.

The arc also sees the return of an old acquaintance who takes it upon himself to challenge Sebastian. Their rivalry threatens to interfere in the case, with each trying to outdo the other, and while it’s interesting to finally find someone who is a match for Sebastian, their involvement is out of left field and serves only to prolong the arc further rather than let it flow in a logical manner.

Black Butler is a series that has a lot going for it but falters in its execution. The continual focus of random arcs rather than a linear plot makes for a repetitive story. After six volumes, the series seems to be running in place when it should be furthering its plot.


Rating: 6.5/10

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