(W/A/CA) Takehiko Inoue. Real is a tale of triumph over adversity told in the unmatched illustrative style of one of Japan's most popular and talented creators, Takehiko Inoue (Slam Dunk, Vagabond). The series' main characters, three young men in their late teens, have one thing in common - their love of basketball. As they experience harrowing personal tragedies, their love for the sport provides an unexpected lifeline and a path to redemption.