BANANA FISH is a renowned Japanese manga series created by Akimi Yoshida, originally serialized in Bessatsu Shōjo Comic from May 1985 to April 1994. Set against the gritty backdrop of 1980s New York City, the narrative follows Ash Lynx, a street gang leader who unravels a criminal conspiracy tied to a mysterious drug known as “banana fish,” which brainwashes its users. Throughout his investigation, Ash forms a profound bond with Eiji Okumura, a Japanese photographer’s assistant, adding a rich emotional layer to the story. The series is notable for its realistic artwork and action-oriented storytelling, diverging from conventional shōjo manga’s stylized illustrations and romantic fantasies. Although aimed primarily at adolescent girls and young adult women, BANANA FISH addresses mature themes that resonate with a broader audience, including men and adult women, and its exploration of homoeroticism has had a lasting influence on the boys’ love genre. Critics have lauded the series for its compelling plot, sharp dialogue, and intense action sequences, solidifying its status as Yoshida’s most commercially successful work, with over 12 million copies sold by 2018. An English-language translation by Viz Media, which began serialization in 1997, helped introduce BANANA FISH to a wider audience in the United States, making it one of the first manga series to gain significant traction there. In 2018, the story was adapted into a 24-episode anime television series directed by Hiroko Utsumi and produced by MAPPA, airing on Fuji TV’s Noitamina programming block and streamed globally on Amazon Prime Video, further cementing its legacy in contemporary anime culture.
Banana Fish - Release Date, Trailer, Songs, Cast
| Movie: | Banana Fish |
| Genre: | Action Crime |
| Language: | Japanese |
| Director: | Hiroko Utsumi |
| Main Cast: | Jun Fukuyama Yuma Uchida Toshiyuki Morikawa |
| Release Date: | July 5, 2018 – December 20, 2018 |
| Banner: | MAPPA |
| Music: | Shinichi Osawa |
| Budget: | Not available |
| Runtime: | 24m |
Banana Fish Screenshot
Banana Fish Story
BANANA FISH unfolds in the bustling streets of 1980s New York City, where Ash Lynx, a charismatic and fiercely independent leader of a street gang, becomes embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy surrounding a drug known as “banana fish.” This drug has the sinister ability to brainwash its users, leading Ash to investigate its origins and the shadowy figures behind it. As he delves deeper into the criminal underworld, he crosses paths with Eiji Okumura, a kind-hearted Japanese photographer’s assistant. Their chance meeting blossoms into a profound friendship that transcends cultural barriers, providing emotional support as they face overwhelming challenges. Together, they navigate a perilous landscape filled with rival gangs, corrupt law enforcement, and powerful mobsters, all while confronting the haunting trauma of Ash’s past. The narrative weaves themes of loyalty, love, and the struggle for freedom, culminating in a gripping tale that explores the complexities of their relationship against a backdrop of violence and intrigue. As the stakes rise, Ash and Eiji must rely on each other to survive, ultimately discovering the true meaning of courage and connection in a world filled
Banana Fish Review
BANANA FISH is a powerful and compelling manga that has left a lasting impact on both the shōjo and broader manga landscape. Akimi Yoshida masterfully crafts a narrative that intertwines action, drama, and deep emotional connections, primarily through the relationship between Ash Lynx and Eiji Okumura. The series is lauded for its mature themes, including the exploration of trauma, loyalty, and the complexities of friendship, all set against the gritty backdrop of 1980s New York City. Yoshida’s art style enhances the story’s realism, capturing both the intensity of action scenes and the subtleties of character emotions. The depiction of Ash’s struggles and his bond with Eiji resonates deeply with readers, providing a rich exploration of love that transcends societal norms. Critics and fans alike praise BANANA FISH for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and its influence on the boys’ love genre. The anime adaptation further popularized the series, introducing its poignant story to a global audience. Overall, BANANA FISH remains a significant work that challenges conventions and offers a thought-provoking, emotional journey that continues to resonate with readers.
Banana Fish Trailer
FAQ About Banana Fish
Q1 – Who Directed Banana Fish?
A -Hiroko Utsumi
Q2-What Genre Is Banana Fish?
A-Action Crime
Q3-Lead Cast of Banana Fish?
A-Jun Fukuyama
Q4- Rating Of Banana Fish?
A-13+