Ranked #332

Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora

“Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora” or “Hantsuki”, as I will call it from now on, is yet another drama and romance anime. It’s a really happy and sad anime at the same time, which spans over only 6 episodes. That paradox feeling one gets is quite unique to this series.

Story:
Though Hantsuki is limited to only 6 episodes, its still a wonderful story which leaves no questions open. The story is about a boy, Yuichi, who is hospitalized due to hepatitis over the winter. He’s really just bored having to stay in this hospital the whole time and keeps on trying to escape, thus having to run away from and deal with the nurse. While in the hospital he encounters a girl called Rika. Amazed by her beauty he kind of falls for her, but she keeps on acting very selfish. After Yuichi figures out why Rika is in the hospital, he begins to understand and feel sorry for her - she doesn’t have very long to live.
That said, the story goes through how the doctor of Yuichi had a similar relationship with a girl quite some time ago and gets mad at Yuichi because he sees himself in him. It even gets to the point where he lashes out and beats him up. Other then that, the story is all about Yuichi and Rika finding their love. It’s really interesting though how, although Rika is acting really mean and selfish towards Yuichi, you still begin to like her character.
The story ends both very happy and very tragic, which makes the perfect ending for this show, though it is very short.
BTW: Be careful to watch past the ending of the last show.

Animation:
The animation is very well done. I found the characters to be designed in a very “realistic” way, making it easier to identify with them. I don’t really now what else to say, except the animation at no point bothered me.

Sound:
The sound, as in most romance/ drama anime, is made to fit the mood perfectly and make the experience more immersive. This show succeeds in doing so.

Characters:
All but 1 character (the friend of the nurse) are very easy to sympathize with. At the end of the show you don’t really hold a grudge against any character, since they all had their reasons for doing what they had done.
I found the characters to be very well fleshed out, especially Rika. The show also does a good job showing the situation Rika is in - already ready to die, but yet falling in love.

Enjoyment:
I enjoyed this show very much. I think that 6 episodes is the perfect length for this series, since it is really fast paced and doesn’t “dick around” as many other senseless romance/ drama anime do. I’d maybe only like to see an OVA showing how life is after the hospital or after Rikas death. Still, I highly recommend this show!

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5 WORDS OR LESS REVIEW: BITTERSWEET

The simplest way I could described Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora (or simply HanTsuki) is by saying that it’s bittersweet. I’m sure that the people who have watched this would have a similar opinion.

The reason why it’s so bittersweet for me is that even with the fun, happy comedic moments (a stack of porn and zebra man), I still get the feeling that something will go wrong, and it does happen. Even if it’s like that, I still think it couldn’t have gone in the better way, because if things went the way you wanted it to, wouldn’t that be boring (hey this applies to real life too, huh)? It doesn’t sugarcoat anything (specifically Rika’s condition) and I guess in that way, it’s realistic.

As for the two main characters, I have to say Yuichi and Rika is the best anime couple I’ve ever seen. They have chemistry, and I love their individual characters. They’re both so different, but they go well with each other. Akiko the nurse was also hilarious, and I hated Doctor Natsume at first, thinking he was some sort of lolicon, but in the end I understood why he was so protective of Rika.

From one shonen romance to another, Kenichi Suzumara (Kyoichi Kanzaki from Boys Be…) played the male protagonist of HanTsuki very well. I thought his voice was gentle, yet it had a hint of mischief in it, which is perfect for Yuichi’s character. Mikako Takahashi (Rika) is another familiar name for me, but her voice was different this time. Her voice was tinier (but resilient). Maybe it’s because of Rika’s loli and slight tsundere character.

Visuals were okay. There wasn’t really anything that I haven’t seen before in other series, except maybe for the shiny (possibly oily) faces. It kind of bothered me that the characters looked chubby though, but I guess that’s part of the cute look they were going for.

The music was okay too. It’s your typical shoujo music, except this time it’s for a shonen romance. I’m not a fan of mellow music, but it wasn’t really that mellow.

The greatest strength of this anime is its story and the character interactions. I overlooked all the other details and focused on the relationship of Yuichi and Rika, and the circumstances around them. That is why I was entertained from beginning to finish. read more

When I first was recommended Hanbun by a friend of mine, I didn't expect much. I thought this would be your run-of-the-mill, unoriginal, stereotypical romance anime.
After watching just the first episode, however, I realized that I was wrong.

Story - 10
Even though the anime is a mere six episodes, the storyline and plot was very well done. What I liked about it the most was that there was not a boring, or unneeded moment; everything was there for a particular purpose. Allthough this kind of story may seem typical to some viewers, I found it to be more than that. At times it could be very depressing, seeming that there would be no room for any happiness or comedic value whatsoever. But then I would be surprised when they could throw in funny comments or situations, while still keeping the plot intact and staying true to the original concept.
Another wonderful thing about the storyline was the ending - it was both a happy and sad moment, but fitting. It answered all the questions that the viewer needed to know, and it was executed very well.

Art - 10
I really enjoyed the artwork in this anime as well. It wasn't the over-dramatic, big-eyed, crazy style that you might usually see, but a more realistic, simplistic style that fitted the storyline quite well. The scenery was also well done, and as said before, was in a more "realistic" style.

Sound - 9
Not much to say about it, but the important thing is that it fit. The OP and ED were touching, and were relaxing and easy to watch. Allthough the background music was nothing groundbreaking, it had its moments, and fit the anime's concept quite well.

Character - 9
Every character was likeable in his/her own way - whether it be Tanizaki the crazy but caring nurse for the more upbeat, comedic moments, or the wonderful chemistry between the somewhat shy Yūichi, and the stubborn, but loving, Rika. The only character that I had trouble connecting at first was Natsume, but by the end of the show you realize that he had reasons for his actions.

Enjoyment - 10
Obviously, I enjoyed this anime very much, or I wouldn't have given it such a high rating. There were times when I laughed, and there were times when I cryed. Allthough I felt this anime was very depressing at times, it was still very enjoyable to watch.

Overall, this was a great romance/drama. It didn't have any excessive crap that you see in some romance anime's now-a-days, and it kept me interested until the very end (and when I mean the VERY end, I mean it. Make sure to stick around after the credits ;) ).
So, if you are looking for a good romance/drama anime with no frills attached, then watch this. You won't be disappointed. read more

Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora (HanTsuki) is a simple story of two high school students that fall in love at a hospital, one of whom is going to die. This was the first synopsis I’ve read about Hantsuki a few years ago and was immediately excited. After reading this synopsis one can already tell what the story is like as well as learn of my masochistic tendencies.

Hantsuki does sound and play out like a stereotypical Asian drama. In fact, I hear that there was a live action adaptation of Hantsuki. However, what makes Hantsuki is the execution of the story and the short run. This anime title was only 6 episodes long so they had to focus on the main story of Rika and Yuuichi. Very little is wasted and everything seems to push the story forward. Even Natsume’s story is related to the main story of Rika and Yuuichi. On the other hand, Hantsuki suffers from several ‘extremes.’ Hantsuki lacks subtly, many of the things the characters do push the borders of reality. For example, Yuuichi’s friend zebra mask, the crazy nurse, and various other events.

As for the characters, here where things start to get interesting. The interactions between Rika and Yuuichi are quite nice to watch as they grow closer to one another. Rika is a tsundere however, her ‘tsun’ was too pronounced, especially for the first 2 episodes. The things she does borders on abuse and can be very uncomfortable to watch. This is primarily why I stopped watching Zero no Tsukaima II. I don’t find anything funny when one character abuses another in a realistic fashion (think of this, what if the genders were reversed?). Yes, she has her reasons but, her actions were way too much for me. Thankfully, she gets better after the 2nd episodes. In addition, Natsume also does similar things to Yuuichi. Once again he has is reason but, the things he does are quite extreme

Much of my enjoyment of Hantsuki comes from the 2nd half, when the drama hits. In particular, I enjoyed the scene with the book and Natsume’s own story overlapping. However, Hantsuki isn’t completely sad as there are plenty of comedic moments to lighten up the mood (although its a bit much sometimes). Hantsuki doesn’t fall for the trap of going straight to the drama, as many stories do. The first half did its job to build up the characters to make the 2nd half, when the drama hits, have more impact.

I rather enjoyed the music in Hantsuki. There are typical violin and piano pieces however, there are a good about of guitar pieces. In particular, the OP really stood out for me. The simple use of character stills, minimal animation, symbolism, and music really worked for a series like this. In addition, a series like this doesn’t need the highest budget for animation. Never the less, I would have liked it if they had spent more money on the animation. Art/character design is another story, while it doesn’t need a very high animation budget the art/character designs should at least be good. Sadly the art and character designs for Hantsuki were very simplistic. Overall, Hantsuki had mediocre animation/art.

Hantsuki is a well executed romance/drama that does feel like your typical Asian live action drama. There are times where the characters and the situations feel a bit too over-the-top, thus lose a bit of the realism. Although, the story may be short, 6 episodes, they use this time effectively and very little is wasted. read more

Story (10): Realistic, simple, sometimes sad, sometimes very funny. They managed to mix this elements and make an great story.

Art (10): The graphics are simple but they are fine with the type of this anime.

Sound (10): I simply love the OST from this anime. It matches perfectly.

Character (9): even thought some times they act a bit clichê, its does not ruin the series.

Enjoymen (10)t: Well... If you like to see realistic series, which shows real love (not those lame rom/coms) and more, check this series. Its worth of 11, not only 10. xD

Overall (11): Yeah, eleven, ya didn't read it wrong, i really wanted to give 11 for this series... I really like this type of storys. read more

Length: 6 episodes
Original Airdates: 1/06 - 2/06
Demographic: Seinen
Genres: Drama, Romance
Also known as: Looking up at the half-moon, Hantsuki
One sentence description: "Boy meets a girl who probably has less than a year to live"

Plot Synopsis
During the winter, Yuichi was hospitalized due to hepatitis. Randomly he would try to escape from the hospital but would get beat up by the nurse. One day, he happened to meet Rika, a girl of his age, in the next building. He was fascinated by her beauty, but she was very selfish girl. Although she led him by the nose, he began to be attracted by her. However, when Rika told him about her illness, he knew why she acted so selfish; she didn't have long to live.
(From Anime News Network)

Personal Opinion
This was the next anime I saw after completing "ef - a tale of memories"... so my expectations were somewhat inflated.
Besides that... this was your run-of-the-mill romantic drama. On that note... it wasn't bad... but it wasn't good either.
First off... the anime length almost felt tooo short. With 6 episodes, I can't care about the characters, and from that, i can't really understand the emotions that the characters have to deal with.
Also plot developments were somewhat awkward and felt forced. Again probably from the fact that the anime was only 6 episodes
Actually when i think about it now... all my problems w/ this anime can be traced down to it's shortness
I mean besides that... the anime was decent... it had good characters... just not enough time to develop them

Rating: 7/10

Similar to...
- Air
Guy falls for a girl who's death is imminent.

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The story is about a 17 year old boy name Yuuichi. He sneaks out of the hospital every night, and due to his sickness and sneaking out everytime, he has to stay in the hospital longer.
This nurse that beats on him for sneaking out ask him help her with this patient that has no friends and always lonely. He falls in love with her, one way to get a girl, and is willing to do anything for her.

For an anime for only 6 episodes, it is a wonderful peace of work. A boy that is willing to help her and completes her wishes. But the story builds up to the story about the girl, Rika's sickness. Sad and is good. The ending is good and is worth to watch, if you like to watch romance and tragic anime like this. read more

Hanbun no Tsuki Noboru Sora/Hantsuki/Looking up at the half moon is an amazing drama, romance and tragedy anime.

The Story is outstanding but due to spanning only 6 episodes there's pretty much a lot of cramming in each episode and the major events are rushed.As for character development they managed to keep it steady.

This anime series is one that fans of the romance drama should take note. Tough situations are conveyed with realistic emotion, creating a genuine keepsake production for those who know the most intense conflict comes from within.

Straight 9's for this short but sweet series. The story is enjoyable, the art is pleasing to the eyes, and the characters are fun to watch and see how the interact with each other.

I don't think this series needs a second season. It's fine the way it ended.

If you're looking for a cute but also a bit sad story, this is the anime for you. I enjoyed it a lot.

Por que assistir?
O resumo do enredo é mais ou menos isso mesmo. Não posso entrar em muitos detalhes, pois se avançar demais na explicação, vou estragar boa parte das surpresas que Hanbun no Tsuki ga Noboru Sora esconde. Tudo que posso contar são os motivos para se assistir ou não essa série. Começando pelos bons motivos, o anime é obrigatório para quem procura um bom romance, drama, ou uma história fora do circuito tradicional dos animes, sempre recheados dos clichês. O enredo possui apenas uma história principal, não há nada de tramas paralelas, ou episódios fillers (como aquele clássico capítulo da praia, presente em 90% dos romances).

Os 6 curtos capítulos são aproveitados da maneira mais eficiente possível, sem desperdícios, e sem pontas soltas. Ou seja, é um enredo bem planejado e sem frescuras. E que enredo! Todos os personagens se encaixam muito bem na história, embora alguns possam parecer não ter importância no começo. A personalidade de cada um deles reflete bem o passado vivido pelos mesmos. As decisões tomadas, os acertos e erros provindos dessas decisões, principalmente na vida do doutor Gorou e do velho Tada, além dos problemas vivenciados por Rika, influenciarão diretamente as decisões de Yuichi. Hanbun é um anime sobre decisões, esse é o tema principal, e no meio do sofrimento, o telespectador não somente verá as decisões corretas e erradas dos personagens mais velhos, como também verá Rika e Yuichi lidando com vários problemas, que são difíceis de resolver com a idade deles.

Pode-se dizer que a mensagem do anime, é que toda decisão tem a sua consequência. Além de o enredo ser bonito e bem feito, a parte técnica não faz feio. Os traços são bem simples, sem muitos efeitos de luz, ou cores forte. Ainda assim, combinam bem com o clima melancólico e sem vida do hospital. Quanto à trilha sonora, ela pode não ter melodias que ficarão gravadas por tanto tempo na sua cabeça, mas conferem a ambientação necessária em cada uma das cenas mais importantes do anime. A mensagem que deixo aqui, é que não se deixe enganar pela simplicidade dos traços e o ritmo pouco frenético da trilha sonora, Hanbun reverte todos esses aparentes problemas, em grandes qualidades, somente se utilizando de seu excelente enredo.

Por que não assistir?
Não existem tantos defeitos a serem destacados, entretanto eles existem, e cabe ressaltá-los. O primeiro problema, é que para um anime sempre próximo da realidade, com uma temática bastante adulta e "pé-no-chão", a série peca um pouco em uma das suas cenas finais. E não se trata da parte de comédia (até por que essa está bem dosada), mas sim de uma atitude um tanto forçada de Yuichi, que normalmente seria classificada como loucura. Pode não parecer algo tão grave, mas quebrou bastante o ritmo realista do enredo, embora a cena seguinte ao acontecimento seja bonita. Mesmo assim, tirando isso, não há mais nada que possa ser considerada uma falha, quase tudo presente em Hanbun é da mais alta qualidade. read more