It’s a common premise: you have a series that’s about a bunch of high school girls and you follow their daily lives; it’s that simple. It’s far from my preferred genre though, and I find myself bored with most of them. There are, however, exceptions. Having the guy who directed all of the Aria series behind this also helps.
The cast does need a bit of time to warm up (especially if you haven’t watched the prequel OVAs), but for me, this was one major step above the usual series in this genre. For one: it spends a lot of time on fleshing out and developing its characters. Every episode is dedicated to showing different sides of the cast, or having them develop as a character. This is all very subtly done, ad the characters themselves are all very believably acted, with some very impressive and fluid animation that remains very consistent throughout the entire series.
Sato Junichi also uses this one trick that also worked really well with Aria: well written dialogue and voice overs, containing subtle morals that all of the characters can relate to. It again works very well, and all of this leads to a very heart-warming series with a genuine cast of characters.
It’s definitely a series that needs to grow on you, because the characters definitely do not show themselves off right from the start. This does lead to a few annoyances that you just need to sit through, like a really big crybaby, or a character who does nothing but whistle. Plus Sato Junichi’s habit to go with the weirdest looking cats imaginable.
Nevertheless, if you’re looking for a heart-warming slice of life series then this is a very solid choice. This is very relaxing and heart-warming, and it’s short and to the point with only 12 episodes and 4 ovas.
| Storytelling: | 8/10 – It’s slice of life, yet things happen here. Excellent at creating a heart-warming atmosphere. |
| Characters: | 9/10 – Well developed in a short time, excellent acting, although you do need to get used to the cast. |
| Production-Values: | 8/10 – Lots of animation, fluid and consistent, and a very good soundtrack. |
| Setting: | 8/10 – The town in which this all takes place is actually very detailed and fleshed out. |
Suggestions:
– Aria the Animation
– Windy Tales
– Hitohira
I checked back your episode reviews for all the episodes.Except for one which you gave “Good” rest all were “Excellent” and even then this couldn’t cross 85 or 90?
The best thing I like about this series was that every character reminded me of someone I used to know back in highschool. I felt like I was familiar with each of their stories already, albeit with some difference in details. Although, I have to say I do not have any shotacon to call a friend.
I especially like the final arc, where Kaoru was envious that all her peers had a certain specialty except for her. I think Maon (whistling girl) is the one most similar to me. Like her, I’m constantly interested in a lot of arts and hobbies, yet is undecided on which is the one I want to focus on.
Initially, I decided to watch this series solely because it was the only slice of life for this season. The premier episode bored me to tears, unfortunately. But then Fu moved to a new town, and the cast increased dramatically, each with a different personality. And then each subsequent episode showed me a new part of the town along with new characters, and I didn’t feel so bored anymore.
All the characters in this series are very gentle and kind, and it shows in their actions. When Kaoru was left hanging alone because all her friends had prior engagements, I sort of pitied her. But then, even when they were engaged in their own activities, they still managed to find time to send her a mail. I wouldn’t mind living in a town like this, if I could find friends like these too.
There are 12 episodes plus 5 ova as far as I know (4 old ones and there will be 1 more).
I agree with review, especially that this is series that need either certain attitude towards it or moment to be watched. Just like Aria or Sketchbook – other way they are boring.
What is nice is that characters are changing there – or rather their perception – Norie was most irritating on the beggining but later I started to like her, for her relation with Maon.
Also how each person is shown in a bit different way, fitting her.
Personally it’s series of 2011 for me.
Even with weird cat – but after Neko-sensei (Tutu) I like this tradition.
Huh psgels, that picture in the bottom most left is from fate/zero not this series. Just thought you should know.
New site – same retarded scoring system.
One of my favorite things about this series was getting to know the town in which they lived. We visited sights all around, got to know some of the townsfolk, ate local specialties, and attended the festivals.
Psgels, thanks for covering this show which was one of my favourites this season!
When it started, I found myself a bit disappointed for it was announced as an iyashikei/ “healing” anime. Although Fu’s father’s passing away somewhat lingered in the background I found the general atmosphere pretty optimistic and not at all melancholic like in YKK, as I had expected.
Like the OVAs, however, this show was a real treat to me. Psgels, you cover perfectly both the highlights and the annoyances so I’d just like to add that this show had some of the most detailed and impressive backgrounds I’ve seen for quite a while. Particularly ep. 7 imo stood out in this respect.