Manga is where you can truly find Japan's best talents.
After the Japanese movie industry declined in the 60s (post-Kurosawa era so to speak), most of the greatest creative talents in Japan shifted to the Manga industry. Anime is a sort of spin-off of this larger trend.
Many titles you guys have listed are aimed for high-teens, which is fine in their own right. But if you're in the 20s or above, there still are a great number of manga that adults can enjoy.
For instance, as some of you have mentioned, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. By far, the manga version of Nausicaä is superior to the anime in almost every way.
The manga version of Nausicaä is a 7-volume epic story which Miyazaki spent over 12 years to develop. The manga is incredibly more complex, tragic, richer, darker, more compelling, and thought-provoking than the anime version.
It deals with broader issues such as the frightening and yet forgiving essences of mother nature, and the conflict and coexistence between human/technology on one hand and animals/environment on the other.
Politically, it deals with the tragic consequences of our lust for domination and our power-seeking in the name of "security".
But it also involves personal issues such the little girl's determination and devotion to save the lives of not just her fellows but also of her enemies and animals.
It's just a fantastic epic story. Just a tip for adults who are open-minded and are up for some wonderful Manga experience.
No, it's not going to stop 'Til you wise up
No, it's not going to stop So just ... give up
- Aimee Mann
