Review by Frank Plowright

The cleverness of Deadman Wonderland isn’t in the set-up of a prison livestreaming fatal tasks and fights, but in the way Jinsei Kataoka constantly drops one revelation after the next, each leading to new questions. Deadman Wonderland 3 answered most questions remaining from the events of the opening volume other than why our hero Ganta Igarashi was set up, and the opening chapter continues his learning about an organisation working from within the prison to bring it down. It’s revealed early that this involves a forthcoming inspection. However, several more surprises await. For the naggingly curious, the Deadman aspect of the title is also explained.

While still the primary character it’s noticeable that Ganta is no longer the only viewpoint. When the focus is on him, though, it’s desperate circumstances. He’s been entrusted with keeping something safe and delivering it, but there are obstacles all the way and it leads to a magnificent ending.

Deadman Wonderland has never been short of violent images, but Kazuma Kondou heads completely over the top in the second chapter, with explicit images when they’re not needed. It’s pandering to the twisted and completely distasteful, and that’s even before the appearance of a new stylised killer. When not turning stomachs, Kondou is an excellent artist, maximising the potential of any action scene, and for the most part ensuring that it can be followed.

From chapter to chapter Kataoka keeps the surprises and revelations coming, and there’s a brilliantly heartbreaking ending. The explicitly gruesome art is a matter of considerable concern, but this is otherwise another fine volume of challenges explored and secrets disclosed. Bring on Deadman Wonderland 5.