Review of Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day
Very rarely does an anime bring me close to man-tears, but in this case, Anohana wins that award. Anohana is a brilliant, very moving, very emotional story about a group of young teenagers and how they cope with the loss of one of their own, ten years after the incident occurs. Anyone who has dealt with loss can relate to how powerful and emotionally challenging it can be to move on from that. Anohana is story about six friends who, at a young age, formed a close bond with one another and formed a group they called the Peace Busters. One day, one of their ownpasses away in a tragic accident, which eventually drives them apart as they each blame each other for the loss of their friend. The ghost of their friend, Meiko Menma however, appears to one of their group members, the "Leader", Yadomi Jinta, and he is the only one who can see her. Her re-appearance as a ghost brings the group back together ten years later as they make it their mission to fulfill Menma's last wish in the hopes that they will grant her peace so she is able to move on into the afterlife. Throughout the series the group of friends come to learn more about each other, and discover that each and every one of them are struggling to deal with the past, and all of them are having trouble letting it go.
STORY 10/10
Although the series is short, comprising of 11 episodes, it is the perfect length for the show, not too drawn out and not too long-winded. The plot is in no way confusing to the viewer, and it allows you to connect with each character on a very emotional level, understanding how each and every one of them feels.
MUSIC 8/10
I normally don't pay a lot of attention to the music, but this show had a great OP and a good ED.
CHARACTERS 10/10
As the series progresses, you discover how each of the characters grow and evolve, making them very relatable characters. Each of their stories tell something different, my favourite being Naruko Anjo, and her attachment to the main character, Yadomi Jinta. Her love for him reminded me a lot of relationships I've had in my own life, where you fall in love with someone who you know doesn't love you back the same way. Poppo was also one of my favourite characters, his upbeat personality and drive to ensure that all his friends remain friends forever is something that I would strive to do in many situations. Ultimately, all of the characters' connection to Menma is what makes the show intense and full of emotion.
OVERALL 9/10
Overall, Anohana was one of the best drama series I've seen in a long time, it's bound to strike you at the heart and make cry. It's not too long and not too short either making it a great show to enjoy during your free time. If you love shows that hit you in the feels, then you'll really enjoy Anohana.