The Story: 6/10
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In Lamune, every episode begins with a flashback from the past, detailing a section of the childhood relationship of the two main characters, Nanami and Kenji. What was depicted in the flashback is then, in one way or another connected to the main story which admittedly is not much. Lamune adopts a storyline we’ve seen too many times in anime- the ‘childhood friend romance’. Even so, it is one of the best to take advantage of this. It’s comedy revolves around the two main characters and some of the supporting characters to poke around in the main characters bubble to create a very light humour in the series. The story overall is peaceful, with little dramas and being all about the growing relationship between Nanami and Kenji. Though predictable, one can ignore this if they aren’t expecting it to be the most absolutely amazing masterpiece. What this anime is for is the ride. A peaceful one where you should simply relax, sip some tea and watch all in one sitting. The ending, being entirely satisfying promotes it to become a very solid romance anime.
The Art: 8/10
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For a 2005 anime, its art is actually quite pretty. The character designs truly do look similar, but the bright colours on each and every one of the characters make them look entirely different in a way and this makes them likeable, and memorable. The background looks like a professional artist painting on an expensive canvas creating scenery of the green and lush countryside. Yes, it’s actually that good. The director attempted to create a neutral scene to compliment the mood of the story and at that- it was undeniably successful.
The Sound: 7/10
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Character voice actors were very fitting for the ones portrayed in the anime. Voice complimented character figure, and character figure complimented the voice. Seiyuus, physically seemed like they matched the condition of the specific role they played and so little natural voice alteration was not needed. Background music is fitting for the story, from the noise rain makes on the concrete to the natural noises in forest walks- the sound was very fitting for the atmosphere. The opening isn’t that particularly interesting, neither is the ending soundtrack. The only thing they provided or the viewer was to convey the emotion you’re meant to feel while watching the anime- and the opening scenes helped to reinforce that and prepare you for what was lying ahead.
The Characters: 7/10
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The characters were made entirely stereotypical. The regular guy you see- not overly perverse but to the extent of blushes and staring at the girl with her underwear showing before looking away after realising she’s looking directly at him. Then you have the girl who’s a bit blunt- as well as being overly innocent and slow to catch on. Then the shy girl- the one who can’t confess and needs her friends help to start making a move. Then the younger sister figure who teases around his older brother and girlfriend’s relationship. Nothing we haven’t seen before, but then at least it’s not horrible. Character development was evidently slow, but it’s quite suitable because of the time span in the anime from the first episode to the last. The supporting cast had a suitable number of characters but none of them were really developed in the story.
The Enjoyment: 8/10
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Others looking for a non-dramatic ride in an anime would probably enjoy this. I know I sure did, especially right after watching a romance anime with the most horrible ending ever. Ever. I’ll probably never re-watch this, and you’ll probably not either if you were to view this as well. Ultimately, it’s just too plain. You won’t rediscover mind-blowing things by re-watching this, nor will you gain anymore satisfaction from it. It’s best to be used as a one-time-only anime.
Overall: 7/10
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Overall, this anime is a good change from all the teary-dramatic romance anime you find nowadays. This is basically a slice-of-life anime without the heartbreaks and serious atmosphere. A great time filler, recommended if you’re not looking for something thoughtful.
