"This journey through Junji Ito's 'Tomie' series is nothing short of a rollercoaster of horror, with each short story contributing to the unsettling narrative of a character who defies the conventional horror archetype.
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Tomie:
- Despite being Ito's early work with less polished art, 'Tomie' stands out as one of his best-told stories, setting the stage for the eerie saga that follows.
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Part 2:
- While somewhat forgettable, it features compelling facial expressions and a delightful twist in the ending.
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Basement:
- A thrilling hospital horror story, showcasing Ito's ability to craft unsettling narratives within medical settings.
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Photo:
- The introduction of Tsukiko adds depth to the series, with well-executed horror elements and an enjoyable ending.
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Kiss:
- Though considered the weakest of the Tsukiko stories, it still maintains an acceptable standard within the series.
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Mansion:
- A fun yet enigmatic installment that leaves lingering questions, craving for further exploration.
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Revenge:
- Marks a point of formulaic fatigue but remains enjoyable as a standalone story without introducing significant elements.
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The Basin of the Waterfall:
- While less interesting as a Tomie installment, its beautiful artwork and standalone narrative make it noteworthy.
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Painter:
- Strikes a perfect balance between standalone and Tomie-centric, offering an engaging storyline and refreshing the saga.
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Assassins:
- Introduces a development in Tomie's character but veers into absurdity, not resonating well with the audience.
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Hair:
- Well-executed with a shift in perspective, exploring the consequences of innocent intentions gone wrong.
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Adopted Daughter:
- Commendable for delving into a younger Tomie's story, with a heartfelt aspect amid moments of narrative excess.
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Little Finger:
- Depressing and lacking, with a protagonist's dilemmas feeling over-the-top and somewhat comical.
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Boy:
- A dark exploration of child grooming, showcasing Ito's willingness to confront real-life horrors and evoke genuine emotions.
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Moromi:
- A return to the formulaic "horny male" plotline without delivering significant scares or intrigue.
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Babysitter:
- Uncomfortable and unsatisfying, with a promising setup but a conclusion that falls short of expectations.
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Gathering:
- Unique with a sympathetic protagonist, showcasing Tomie's need to exert effort, exceeding expectations and providing an enjoyable experience.
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Passing Demon:
- The start of a trilogy offering a different perspective on Tomie, introducing a more innocent vibe and a mysterious man in black.
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Top Model:
- Explores the backstory of the man in black, presenting a satisfying rivalry with Tomie and a brutal conclusion.
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Old and Ugly:
- The final installment in the trilogy and the last Tomie manga, offering a fitting closure to the saga despite some unanswered questions.
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Takeover:
- A special feature on the Junji Ito Collection DVD, introducing a new Tomie manga with intriguing body-swapping elements and a descent into madness.
In essence, the 'Tomie' series delivers a mix of horror, discomfort, and occasional brilliance, offering a unique and complex narrative that has left a lasting impact on its readers."