We've often heard the adage that the book is always better than the film/TV series, but how true is that statement? There are many cases where the written work is superior to the adaptation, and the reasons for the sometimes massive differences range from the limits of one's imagination and ability to visualise, to important chunks of plot being left on the cutting room floor.
Sometimes though, the difference between the two is very small....
So, Nodame Cantabile is finally over, and with it we say our collective goodbyes, gyabos and mukyas to the odd couple of the classical world. The aptly named "Finale" follows directly on
...
from Paris Chapter, and not much has changed since the end of the second series. Chiaki is still conducting the Marlet orchestra, and they are progressively getting better thanks to him and the concert master. Nodame is also improving thanks to her lessons with Professor Auclair, however she feels that Chiaki is drifting further away from her.
The one thing that has always surprised me about the entirety of Nodame Cantabile is how closely the anime tries to follow the manga, however while the majority of the tale is transposed extremely well, there are occasions where the adaptation only touches on the manga storyline. For the most part the plot in Finale flows rather well and, as with the rest of the series, the music allows one to appreciate the story in a manner that simply isn't possible in the manga. However, if one has read the manga then there may be some confusing occurences in the story, one example of this being the absence/alteration of a huge chunk of storyline from the final two episodes.
For many people the changes in the anime won't be an issue, regardless of whether they've read the manga or not. The story in either form is enjoyable, and while the manga may contain more plot,there are elements of the anime adaptation that more than maks up for the changes.
In terms of design and animation, Finale is very much in the mould of the first two series, something which should come as no surprise since J.C. Staff are responsible for the trilogy (and OVAs of course). Character designs are just as eclectic as they were before, and the European settings are just as good as they were in Paris Chapter. Animation is pretty much on par with the previous series as well, including the dreaded 3D fingers playing the instruments (something which has long divided opinion since it's not the best CG in anime, but is reasonably accurate in its usage). I didn't mind them personally, however they do interrupt the flow of the story a little (while you pause to chuckle at how robotic they are that is).
The star of the show though, as any fan of the series will know, is the music. While Finale may not be as heavy with the classical pieces on display as previous outings, there is enough here to enhance the story and add vibrancy to the series. One thing that I was pleased to hear was the more subtle thematic music used in the series, and many scenes were made without any accompaniment, something which is laudable given the series is top-filled already.
In addition to the quality of music, the acting is also very good throughout the show, but given that the cast is pretty much that of Paris Chapter, this should be no surprise. Seki Tomokazu is in fine form as Chiaki, while Kawasumi Ayako continues to bring out Nodame's oddness and eccentricity.
As far as the characters go, this is probably the weakest of the three series for Nodame and Chiaki. While the cast generally receive a decent amount of development, the overall quality seems a little rushed, especially in the last two episodes. It would have been better if Finale was a 12 or 13 episode series as the bits that have been left out of the manga shed a new light on Chiaki's feelings for Nodame, something that has been hurried in the anime version.
That said, those who have only watched the anime will probably find the characters to be pretty good overall.
Finale is a nice way to end the series as it continues to use the tried and tested formula of the first two seasons - mixing slapstick comedy with classical music. While the show does have some niggling issues that could have been resolved, these shouldn't really cause any major problems with one's enjoyment of the series, even if one has read the manga.
On the whole Nodame Cantabile: Finale is a good addition to the franchise, but not a great one. The somewhat rushed development of the characters during the latter half of the series may annoy some people (those who've read the manga for example), however those who love the show in its entirety will probably be happy enough with the results.
As it is, this is an enjoyable show that rounds off the franchise in a fairly pleasing manner, and if anyone is sad about the series ending, well, the encore has already started.
Alternative Titles
Synonyms: Nodame Cantabile Third Season, Nodame Cantabile Season 3
Japanese: のだめカンタービレ フィナーレ
Information
Type:
TV
Episodes:
11
Status:
Finished Airing
Aired:
Jan 15, 2010 to Mar 26, 2010
Premiered:
Winter 2010
Broadcast:
Fridays at 00:45 (JST)
Producers:
Dentsu, Genco, SKY Perfect Well Think, Kodansha, Fuji TV, Asmik Ace, Sony Music Entertainment
Licensors:
None found, add some
Studios:
J.C.Staff
Source:
Manga
Demographic:
Josei
Duration:
22 min. per ep.
Rating:
PG-13 - Teens 13 or older
Statistics
Ranked:
#3392
2
based on the top anime page. Please note that 'Not yet aired' and 'R18+' titles are excluded.
Popularity:
#1743
Members:
128,348
Favorites:
411
Available AtResources | Reviews
Filtered Results: 16 / 17
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Your Feelings Categories Apr 7, 2010
We've often heard the adage that the book is always better than the film/TV series, but how true is that statement? There are many cases where the written work is superior to the adaptation, and the reasons for the sometimes massive differences range from the limits of one's imagination and ability to visualise, to important chunks of plot being left on the cutting room floor.
Sometimes though, the difference between the two is very small.... So, Nodame Cantabile is finally over, and with it we say our collective goodbyes, gyabos and mukyas to the odd couple of the classical world. The aptly named "Finale" follows directly on ... Mar 28, 2010
Nodame Cantabile is truly a master piece because it got you hooked up from the 1st season till the 3rd season ending with beautiful music and awesome storyline it makes a really great anime.
Story: Nodame Cantabile Finale story follows up 2nd season as Nodame and Chiaki struggles between work and their relationship. Meeting people and playing wonderful music with well known musicians from all over the world. As Nodame is becoming better and more popular its time for chiaki to struggle the same way as Nodame struggled in the past. Art: Calming and beautiful. Sound: Beautiful classical music... which isn't so popular nowadays but still captures ... Feb 2, 2015
This may be quite unfair but I really want to rate this show based on all 3 seasons and I am going to do just that.
~~ This is based on my experience after watching S1,S2 + S3 ~~ Where do I begin? Ah. Nodame Cantabile is one of my favourite romance series and that being said, I do watch a lot of romance anime and although I do love the typical 'love at first sight' sort of thing - let's face it. It doesn't always happen in real life and Nodame Cantabile shows love in a realistic setting. I personally love the "find someone who makes ... Aug 30, 2016
Nodame Cantabile Finale is the third and final season of the series. This review assumes everyone reading has watched or is at least aware of seasons 1 and 2.
Finale picks up right after season 2, and carries on the plot in the same fast-paced style. The atmosphere changes dramatically, as the series shifts drastically from a music anime with career-focused protagonists to basically a drama anime with occasional short bursts of music. Honestly, Finale was a massive disappointment for me. The major reason for that was the thrust of Nodame into the sole leading role, to the point of pushing Chiaki to secondary status. ... Dec 29, 2014
So, I just finished watching Nodame Cantabile Finale, the last season of Nodame Cantabile, and so my memory is still fresh about it, not that the anime is short forgotten, not by any given means, because this may well be one of the most memorable anime that I will ever be given the chance to watch.
Watching Nodame Cantabile was just not simply watching but it was about having an experience as well. See I have 0 experience with musical studies, so I can't relate with the situation of the characters, but still after watching Nodame Cantabile I felt like I was experiencing the struggle of ... Dec 14, 2015
*SPOILER FREE*
If there's one thing I've learned throughout the viewing of Nodame, it's that everyone would hate me within the orchestra. But then again, most people hate me as I am, so it isn't really a surprise. Contrary to my score, I loved the series. I binge watched it within 2 days, and didn't regret it one bit. Yet, unfortunately, I felt a massive drop in quality during the 3rd season that relates to three major problems: story, character(s) and ending. I gave first season 9 without flinching, and will probably re-watch it again soon, but when I compare the finale to the 1st season, ... Jun 6, 2012
Paris-hen and finale could well have been made into one longer twenty something episode series as Finale directly follows from Paris-hen. If this was done Paris would have been better without affecting Finale.
Finale is the end of Nodame Cantabile and is a excellent ending. Essentially it shows all the characters making decisions about their futures as they are forced to take responsibility for their lives and head out in to the real world. Anyone finishing university will recognise how the characters feel. For Chiaki it is coming to terms with the feelings for Nodame and for Nodame it is whether she wants a career in music ... Feb 15, 2012
The first series to take the spot of "personal favourite" in my heart has been none other than the Nodame Cantabile series. This last part of the series proved to be an enjoyable watch like its prequels, however was lacking in the conclusiveness and depth of character development. I feel several plot articles were rushed and the end to not fully satisfy (hence needing me read the Opera-hen).
Regardless the finale of the anime, was very much, adagio cantabile. Song-like, floating and passing through all the twists and turns. The music used throughout the finale proved to be great selection, and the WAY the music ... Jul 12, 2022
For the most part it was an enjoyable season, everything is basically the same as usual however there was some issues with the characterisation that stood out to me.
Character intentions are muddy, they're very unclear. I suppose even Chiaki and Nodame don't know what they want but the constant flipflopping between wanting to have a relationship and not led to very little progress in their relationship the entire season. Chiaki mentions that he wants to heavily commit to them being together but then never professes so or seems to even try, he even actively attempts to distance himself from her on a regular basis. Originally ... Dec 9, 2012
At last, we can see the closure to the one of much seen series of today’s anime.
In this series Nodame and Chiaki’s relationship is put to a test while pursuing their dreams. While Chiaki is a genius who learns and does music splendidly, Nodame on the other hand relays more in her instincts when it comes to music. Even though both are talented, Nodame is in a really different caliber. Chiaki keeps on moving forward and making so much success in the music world leaving behind Nodame. At this point, Nodame struggles so much and keeps on envying Chiaki so much to the point of ... Jan 18, 2020
I'm not really fond of writing reviews, but I had to make a exception for Nodame Cantabile.
I'll also try my best to not saying spoilers from season 3. So, you all know that empty feeling you have when you just finished an anime that was >really< good? That's what I'm feeling right now, so much that I just ended the last episode and started writing this. The way the authors told us the story of development of Nodame and Chiaki was simply superb, I love the choice of songs, and the way we get caught in the mood of the characters, I'm a (really beginner) pianist, seeing ... Sep 27, 2017
Anime and Quality Films?
Just to let clear my situation as a reviewer, I followed the series timeline until the very end. After having watched the first season, I gave myself the chance to review it. One that I, personally, recognize more as a non-spoiling guide or introduction. Wait. What about season 2? Well, it failed to achieve my expectations, so I'm not giving a chance. It was only useful such as a bridge for third season. The third season somehow manages to conquer another failure that was pretty clear in the Paris presentation one: the bad calibration between its exposure from show to viewer and the ... May 26, 2020
I've watched this anime back when I was in elementary and now I've rewatched all 3 seasons having graduated from college. The experience watching this anime with different perspective of course is in itself different. Back then, all I knew was the comedy and romance genre of this anime. I was fascinated with the idea of music and Paris - that was the initial vibe I got from Nodame Cantabile.
But now, all I've realized is that it's more than that. It deals with characters with so much depth. The scenarios that I didn't understood back then, I've finally understood. Chiaki and Nodame's relationship is so beautiful. ... Nov 9, 2020
Finally, after putting it off for so long due to school, I was able to complete Nodame Cantabile.
I personally thought that this season was just like the last one, only a little heavier with the drama. But, I'm sorry, I have to rant about the last episode for a sec. The whole thing felt completely botched. It was rushed SO BADLY. I was left staring at my screen while the ending played like "Wait, what? that's it??" This ending, when you really think about it though, is true to life. Though it did not tell you what happened to Nodame and Chiaki, I believe ... Jul 19, 2020
Nodame Cantabile: Finale only took me a day to watch through, and part of that is because it's an incredible addition to the NC series as a whole.
Story: The storytelling in this season is outstanding. There's definitely a more of a mature vibe throughout each episode. Moments of tension. Suspense. Internal conflict. It's all there. All of this while keeping the trademark comedy of season 1. Watching Chiaki and Nodame's struggles with their relationship while pushing themselves in their musical careers is such a flavorful thing to watch, and I truly ended each episode wanting more. Art: Same average NC art. Art doesn't make a show ... Dec 14, 2021
"It makes me think it's all here and so I get irritated by the lack of involvement, but the ending with a bang leaves me completely satisfied." (Nodame on a Beethoven piece)
There are no words to better describe this show, which are even said directly by the protagonist; when I started watching it, I was initially afraid of a relapse of style and that the story would be incomplete: in fact, the story was empty, almost as if it had lost the way to follow. The only mirage of salvation was the secondary relationships, which kept the curiosity for history alive, and the hints of ... |