▪	RELEASED BY:		VIZ MEDIA
		▪	AUTHOR / ART:		TAKAO SAITO
		▪	FORMAT:		JAPANESE / B&W
		▪	PAGES:		172
		▪	RATING:		M
		▪	RELEASE DATE:		06/19/2007
		▪	REVIEW DATE:		10/03/2007
		▪	REVIEWED BY:		SCOTT CAMPBELL

Golgo 13 is a classic series that has spanned four decades and is still going strong. From manga to live action films, Golgo 13 has seen popularity with a variety of media, and should continue to do so. This series has much of the same appeal as the James Bond franchise, with its spy-thriller escapades and plots, but enjoyably seems to want to go further with its realism and sophistication. Golgo 13 is the world’s greatest assassin for hire – sometimes to settle a personal score, and sometimes to change history. His real name and nationality are unknown – but his legend is everywhere. G13 never fails a job and never sees his clients again – unless of course they try to betray him.

In volume nine, “Headhunter”, we’re dropped into 1983, New York. When an investigator looking into a shady corporate acquisition is run over, his grandfather hires Golgo. Unfortunately for the people in question, this old man is no armchair spectator to revenge! The next chapter is a flash back to early in Golgo’s career. It’s 1972, and Golgo has just broken two of his own rules – he’s seeing a client again for a second time because he broke the other rule: he failed to carry out the job. When the world’s best assassin can’t complete a mission, you better believe he’s going to make amends for it.

Golgo 13, for those who haven’t read any of the previous volumes, is a fairly realistic look at crime drama, and at the life of an assassin – at least more realistic than what you would see in most movies/television. The characters do not use tricky new gadgets, and their cars do not sprout wings to get them out of a bind – they have to deal with each conflict in a generally realistic, realm of possibility kind of way. The story is sophisticated with its plot twists and hidden agendas. It’s almost impossible to try to figure out what’s happening before you finish each story, which is very entertaining. Everyone enjoys a bit of the unknown and a surprise ending! The art continues to be unique to the series and the era that it was produced in. It has a clean, detailed, 80’s era feel to it. Lots of gun fights, backstabbing and political and personal intrigue arise throughout. For those who were fans of the live action movies, read the manga back when it was first coming out, or just want to try something different when it comes to assassin/spy thrillers - Golgo 13 is a safe bet for some mature entertainment with good depth and action.

IN SUMMARY:
Golgo 13 is a classic series with a lot of thought and detail put into it. A mix of illusive characters, high action, and smart writing make this a sure fire hit for the older crowd looking for a thrilling read.