Expectation of typical sports plot when it comes to Tsutomu can be classed as pure naivety. His innate noir-ish sensibilities prevent him from such orthodox escapades, instead we are presented with hyperrealistic version of occupied Japan where baseball plays a secondary role.

Nippon Banzai screams out of panels and tactful subtlety is nowhere to be found. Main character serves as vox populi amidst this anachronistic mumbo jumbo, which at some parts resembles David and Goliath with a nationalistic twist to it.

Tsutomu's adroitness both as artist and writer allow him to bypass the flaws. Aspects such as women's empowerment and anti-war mindset play in favor of laudability. Further on, fusion of sport, crime and noir adds to overall excitement and suspense. Most questionable -- as far as reception with readers is concerned -- is contrast between sport and Tetsuwan Girl's more quieter moments. Because latter appears too realistic in comparison to implausible talent achieved behind the scenes.

Baseball may be secondary in terms of plot, albeit artistically wise it probably receives most attention. Tsutomu's wild pen strokes and his evocative art style pertain to excitement on the field and masterfully convey tension of certain moments.

Tome Kano, the titular Iron Armed Girl, when not written as a tool for conveyance of nationalism, is an easily relatable character. Her untamable spirit and passion are inspirational despite of the fact that she remains stuck in her initial characterization till the very end.

Tetsuwan Girl mashes up various themes and conveys several mindsets, some better - some worse. But, stripped to its core, it offers distinctive and memorable journey; one of a determined woman who shakes up entire nations in pursue of her dream, the Iron Armed Beauty.