INTRO
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Wow. I'm surprised how this gem passed under my radar for so long. I've forgotten how long it was since I watched a show so fun and relaxing that I always have a stupid grin on my face after each episode.
Tsuritama is simple (the studio knows it) and sometimes simplicity is good enough for a show about fishing.
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THE REVIEW
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The show starts with Yuki, a socially awkward boy, transferring to a new school. There he meets Haru, who's a hyperactive self-proclaimed alien, and invites him to fishing. Sounds silly? Don't worry it gets more sillier! Haha. From there on, you will see an indian guy, an alien organization that worships ducks, hilarious dances, squirt gun madness, a cool grandma, etc. You can actually see that the studio is having a great time making this show.
The background visuals are well suited to the show. It's simple but the colors are crisp and vibrant. There are times when the backgrounds looks like painting out of a canvass and it's just a treat to watch. The meshing of the colors are really relaxing to the eyes and you would just want to sit back, get a cool drink, and relax.
The pacing was also pretty good. Some might find it a little slow but for a premise such as fishing you don't need an adrenaline pumping sequence. Truthfully, every scene has a purpose and builds character.
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CHARACTERS
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This is where tsuritama shines. Our main characters feel so alive. Yuki starts off as an anxious boy who's had a difficult time making friends due to him and his Grandma moving places so frequently. Natsuki, the fishing prince, is a grumpy rebellious boy who has a family problem. Ya-maaaaa-dah, the indian guy, starts off as a stalker. Haru, the alien, is just there to annoy Yuki. Each episode always bring something to their characters and by the end of the show they have shown a new level maturity and growth.
The supporting characters are also engaging specially the Grandma, Natsuki's family, and Tapioca the duck. Yes...the duck. I can't count how many times I've laughed whenever Tapioca gets a screentime. And come on, it's name alone makes me crave for a bubble tea.
I also liked the symbolisms. From Yuki getting drowned whenever anxious, Haru carrying a fishbowl, Natsuki getting a haircut, the flowers in the garden, etc. It provides a nice contrast to the silliness of the show.
The soundtrack is also good, I find myself always looking forward to the ED. When that "Hooo..Ho Ho..Ho Ho." starts to fade in, I find myself humming to the tune and singing it. It's a nice song to listen to when you're at the beach.
For a SoL show, there is actually an overarching plot that slowly gets develop with each episode so even with the "compelling story guys", they will have a hard time bashing the show.
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VERDICT
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Tsuritama tells a good story and message. Like fishing, we may find ourselves bored and exhausted with our everyday lives; but when we finally caught that elusive fish, friendship in Yuki's case, it makes all those difficult moments worth it. Thing is, we should always cherish the smallest things in our lives no matter the hardship because that's what living comes down to.
There a some flaws with the show and I'm pretty conflicted whether I should deduct it to my score. It could've been better to add more characters or show some character's backstory but at the same time it felt like the overall intention of the show might get lost if it was the case. So ultimately, I give it:
9.5/10!
Tsuritama is one of the best on its genre. It's full of enjoyable characters and silly moments. Don't watch this show with the intention of getting an adrenaline pumping story. A good way is to watch it once a week, gather your snacks, and watch with a friend or family.
