Review of Tsukigakirei

As a slice of life anime, Tsuki ga kirei has its moments of brilliance that leave a lasting impression. It's title sequence of falling cherry blossoms and strong score in it's opening song are embedded in my head, weeks on from finishing the fleeting 12 episodes. The story is fuelled by the first love built between two school students, the shy and aspiring writer Kotaro and the equally shy and running enthusiast Akane. The show isn't just about love though, it highlights the daily grind of schoolers in Japan and the dedication of fitting in hobbies or clubs whilst keeping up with friendships. The main communiction betweenthe two near the start is by using LINE a popular messaging service in Japan. At the very beginning, the two seem to be complete strangers, but in fact they already have an unanswered interest in one another. It comes down to club work needs to keep in touch by a group chat to provide them with a way start talking one on one by LINE.

Further on in the series, the two do start dating officially and the awkwardness between them remains to be endearing, you can't help but route for them to build their confidence and grow as a couple.

One of my favourite moments were the simplest, such as the late birthday gift of an identical 'potato squishy bean anxiety releaver' (yes thats right) which she gives to him with what little money she has, and causing a blister whilst walking in traditional kimono for the festival in the process.

Later on, confessions of 'I like you, choose me instead' come from different friends in their close circle, and whilst this fuels anxiety about the strength of their relationship, they still get over their fears of having one another stolen away and become even closer. Friendships also stay in tact, even if we do see some heart wrenching scenes for affections not reciprocated.

I'll keep the ending itself spoiler free because it does drop like a bomb. You really need to stay with the anime to have the built up feels smack you down to only offer a hand and pull you up again. Tears will be inevitable if you let yourself connect to the characters developing their awkward romance and their determination to stay together forever.

All in all, the anime is pretty flawless, despite some bad CG in the background (and I really mean bad, watch out for souless students haunting the place), the story and characters are memorable and makes the 12 episode series worth a watch if you like a slice of life romance. Awkward couples and all, with plenty of LINE stickers. Give this show a go!

9/10 from me, point lost by bad CG soulless background people!

Opening tune is called Imakoko.

You can watch the anime on Crunchyroll subbed right now!

@RayeRayeChan