Review of Natsume's Book of Friends: The Waking Rock and the Strange Visitor

This movie is basically two standalone episodes of the anime. They don't touch on the main plot of the series, but I really liked the individual stories. The animation, music and voice acting are as always beautiful. I enjoyed these episodes very much since they kept the feeling of the series, with all the relaxing, supernatural and beautifully written stories. One was of Natsume trying to help a little yokai fulfill its duty while nyanko-sensei is as always on the hunt for fun and good sake. The second one was helping Tanuma with a very interesting guest. Both were wholesome with their heartwarming& funny moments while showingthe stories of the yokai involved. I really wish there was more, I love the calming atmosphere and the way the ayakashi are portrayed, debatably more human than humans at times, but also with the bit of sadness granted by their large lifespans as they know how fleeting time is.

As part of the series though, you'll probably not fully understand the characters, jokes& references, so I wouldn't recommend watching this "movie" if you haven’t seen anything of the anime.

Overall, if you enjoy the series I have no doubt in my mind that you'll enjoy these two as a little treat until we get more! If you haven't... Then what are you waiting for?

Bonus: If you like this anime& haven’t seen it already watch the Mushi shi series. They have a very similar atmosphere but slightly less.. colorful. I think you'll enjoy it as well.