Shield of Straw

BASIS OF THE TAKASHI MIIKE FILM | SOON TO BE A MOTION PICTURE STATESIDE

Ever since Assistant Inspector Mekari’s wife passed away, he has found no joy in living. As a member of Japan’s security police, he once served in the prime minister’s detail, but it’s been a while since he took himself off the promotion track. He thinks he’s ready to take a bullet, but something begins to change in him when he’s ordered to escort a child rapist-murderer who relapsed after being released from prison.

The multibillionaire grandfather of the suspect’s new victim is offering a staggering bounty to anyone who would kill the man, Kiyomaru, who might be spared the noose yet again. The government and the police brass, meanwhile, can’t tolerate such a challenge to the rule of law and their own authority. From the southern city where, fearing for his life, Kiyomaru has turned himself in, he must be transported alive to Tokyo, where the crime occurred.

As Mekari and the transfer team weave their way across the nation, its entire populace seems to salivate for the billion-yen reward. On guard against both civilian aspirants and fellow cops, the depressed assistant inspector has to wonder: What is duty? What is his?

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Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs