34 - Touch vs Cross Game by Mitsuru Adachi

It’s a double bill this time as we delve into the two pillars of Mitsuru Adachi’s iconic career: Touch and Cross Game (with a bit of Mix in the mix). These two series represent a bookend (more on less) on Adachi's catalog, and are the product of a writer at two very different stages of his life and career. Do you prefer a young and vibrant wine that practically jumps out of the glass, or a mature and subtle one full of bittersweetness that demands contemplation? Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction - Mitsuru Adachi, a giant in the industry, our feelings on him in general 7:56 Touch vs Cross Game 12:50 Do people expect a big twist in an Adachi series? 14:02 Touch - Why did it become a cultural phenomenon? 19:38 Touch spoiler discussion begins 20:10 The big ‘moment’ - its impact and effect on the series’ popularity 25:19 Cross Game - modern take on familiar tropes 28:00 Cross Game spoiler discussion begins 28:18 How do the twists in both series compare to one another? 32:04 Adachi’s minimalist artwork and smart way of panelling in those dramatic moments 34:34 Mix, Touch’s sequel - its own late moment and his restraint with returning characters 38:22 Which series is most focused on baseball? Comparing the Touch vs Cross Game 41:50 Aoba’s character - annoying or understandable? 49:19 Enzo’s love for Kou Kitamura as a protagonist 50:45 Supporting cast, Adachi’s fanservice critique, breaking the fourth wall 54:00 Comparing the endings 55:36 Samu’s Recommendation: Straighten Up! Welcome to Shika High's Competitive Dance Club by Takuma Yokota 59:15 Enzo’s Recommendation: Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day by Chou Heiwa Busters and Izumi Mitsu 1:02:58 Touch - overview and final score 1:04:39 Cross Game - overview and final score 1:07:00 Mix - overview and final score