Ranma 1/2 (1990)

[らんま1/2]

Volume 12

Author/Artist: Rumiko Takahashi
Publisher: Shounen Sunday Comics

Synopsis:
Furinkan High School's deranged principal returns to Japan to make his students' lives a living Hell. Shampoo acquires some soap that blocks the Jusenkyou curse, only for it to fall into Ryouga's hands.

Story/Characters:
It would almost be a toss-up between Happousai and Principal Kunou as to who was the more obnoxious and hateable character, but as the elder Kunou isn't an insufferable one-note lecher and never has a power advantage that lets him run rampant (nor does he appear anywhere nearly as frequently), the award goes to Happousai. Principal Kunou can be a bit funny with all his Engrish and crazy schemes, but he wears out his welcome quickly. His kids almost seem well-adjusted by comparison.

The magic soap story has a lot of ship teasing for Ryouga and Akane but it also does some ship sinking by demonstrating that Ryouga's inability to control his strength absolutely terrifies poor Akane. (Also, as usual, Akane's mostly just playing along with the date to spite Ranma.) Still, it's always interesting to see Ranma and Shampoo collaborate. They're no ideal couple, but when their goals align, they really can work well together.

Art:
Principal Kunou is a very different sort of character for Takahashi, which makes him stand out all the more (and not just because of the little palm tree that seems to be sprouting out of his head for whatever reason). The waterfall scene during the magic soap story is really beautiful (and a total tease).

Conclusion:
Your tolerance for Principal Kunou's antics will determine how much you can stand the first half of this volume, but the magic soap section is solid. I'd rate this one as a read, but just be ready for Principal Kunou to get on your nerves.

Rating:
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