No. 5 (Japanese: ナンバーファイブ, Hepburn: ''Nanbā Faibu'') is a Japanese ''seinen'' manga series written and illustrated by Taiyō Matsumoto. It was serialized in Shogakukan's ''Weekly Big Comic Spirits'' from 1999 to 2000, with its chapters collected into eight ''tankōbon'' volumes. The series is known for its distinctive surreal art style, complex narrative, and philosophical themes.
Synopsis
Set in a desolate, post-apocalyptic world, ''No. 5'' follows the titular protagonist, a former member of the elite "Peace Corps." This organization, composed of nine super-powered guardians, maintains order in what remains of civilization. Each guardian possesses unique abilities and is identified by a number.No. 5, along with his enigmatic female companion Matryoshka, has deserted the Peace Corps, seeking freedom and answers to his forgotten past. His defection triggers a relentless pursuit by his former comrades—No. 1 through No. 4, and No. 6 through No. 9—each determined to bring him back or eliminate him. As No. 5 journeys across a stark, fragmented landscape, he confronts not only his pursuers but also his own fragmented memories, the nature of his identity, and the truth behind the Peace Corps' rule. The narrative delves into themes of control, rebellion, memory, environmental decay, and the essence of humanity.
Characters
- No. 5: The protagonist, a former guardian of the Peace Corps who has gone rogue. He is pursued by his former colleagues and is trying to recover his memories.
- Matryoshka: No. 5's mysterious female companion, who accompanies him on his journey.
- The Peace Corps: An organization of nine super-powered guardians (No. 1 to No. 9) who maintain order in the world. Each guardian has unique abilities and a distinct personality.
Publication
Written and illustrated by Taiyō Matsumoto, ''No. 5'' was serialized in Shogakukan's ''Weekly Big Comic Spirits'' from 1999 to 2000. Shogakukan collected the individual chapters into eight ''tankōbon'' volumes released from February 2000 to December 2002.In North America, Viz Media licensed the series for English release and published all eight volumes under their Viz Signature imprint from 2020 to 2021.