I believe this man needs no introduction. He is the one behind the character designs of Last Exile, Blue Submarine No.6 and the upcoming sci-fi series, Shangri La. Of course, Range Murata is involved in much more than just anime, as you will soon see items of clothing, furniture and much more exhibited in Form|Code.

I actually bought this last year while I was in Japan, by then I was already in love with Murata’s style. This version of Form|Code is a little different from what you’d normally get, apparently it is the limited edition. I had the choice between the LE of this and Futurhythm, it was a hard choice. In the end I went for the former simply because I had already seen the scans of the other before. As promised, here is a “review” of the art book. It’s a “review” because I don’t really know how to do one on an art book. I would like to do one similar to one of Icie’s, however I don’t have a scanner nor the experience to do it. Before I begin, let me apologise (as usual) for the bad photos, I am no good with the camera at all, but do try and enjoy them.

The box itself is made out of thick cardboard, with the title of the art book and pricing presented clearly on it. This is probably because the product inside is very heavy, that is why it needs to be packaged in such way.

On top of everything else is a printed piece that appears to be coloured using markers which is rather rare given that most of Murata’s work are drawn and coloured using a computer.

After putting aside the first piece, the actual art book is sandwiched by two slabs of polystyrene for extra protection. At this point you may notice that this isn’t actually an art book, it is an art folder, a ring binder folder with a metal spine. This is why the package is so heavy.

First page is once again, protected by a glossy piece of plastic with Form|Code written in the middle (cannot be seen in the photo because I suck T.T)

A very clever and simple start to the collection, it even has instructions (the back of the previous page) on how to use the folder. It is little detailed things like this scattered through out the book which makes it even better than it is!

The Awesomeness begins here!

Most of these are used in magazines, covers to some of his other works and some of which are even used to make figurines.

I don’t actually own a standard copy of Form|Code so I can only guess, but I think these are some extra bits included only in this version. For those are sharp, I am sure you would have notice that the above picture is used as one of the ROBOT covers.

In fact, it came with quite a few, presumable covers to all the ROBOT volume published at the time (2006).

More delicious pictures!

Eventually, one will stumble upon many catalogues and design plans. Inside are many of Murata’s products, such as the ones from the P.S.E collection as well as plans to construct some unique furniture.

At the end of all this is a booklet titled Future Graph. It is a calendar. A bloody awesome one.

So there you have it, Range Murata’s Form|Code. A brilliant art collection of magnificent quality. Most of the earlier pages are printed on thick cards and the later ones on specialised paper. From the packaging down to the every minute detail, this product radiates awesomeness beyond human comprehension. It really does give us a taste of Murata’s unique style as well as, according to TJ, 3 main types of characters he likes to draw; “Cute young girls, exotically dressed fancy clothed alienish girls, and guys/girls in black uniforms.”

These are my personal favourites from the book. One of which has been made into a figure, as you can see above. I really regret not buying the LE Futurhythm as well, but I guess I can’t blame myself for being poor. (God damn it, the Futurhythm box had a leather cover! LEATHER!) Hopefully this will convert some of you into Range Murata fans and make you look forward to Shangri La a little more because, Gonzo aside, I know I am!

I never said I didn’t buy the normal copy though, haha. It was, after all, only a third of the price. Review to come next time!

P.S – Would be great if any of you can give me feedback on my photography ^^. I was using a Nikon D40 with a Kit Lens and a 50mm f1.8. I had trouble with setting the white balance… the camera won’t acquire the data it needs even though I was aiming at a blank piece of paper. Another issue was the natural light, since I was there for ages (carefully turning over each page making sure I won’t damage the book!) the amount of light coming through the window was constantly changing. Larger Resolution of the photos here.

*Goes back to revision, ignores Shangri La RAW*