What makes Honey and Clover stand out from the typical high school rom-com slice of life is the fact that it takes on a much more serene and mature tone compared to the often crazy, silly, and awkwardness you might in other slice of life anime. Honey and Clover does an excellent job of drawing and evoking a variety of emotions out of the watcher. From laughing at Shinobu drive Takemoto and Mayama up a wall, to smiling at the genuine and caring Professor as he watches over Hagu, to frustration over Yamada and Mayama's relationship; there is never a dull moment. For anyone who's watched their fair share of slice of life, Honey and Clover pulls the genre off in a refreshing and unique matter and offers something new.
Honey and Clover does an excellent job of utilizing the characters' unique personalities and habits to create a realistic portrayal of everyday college life. From the crazy genius Shinobu who seems to be talented at many things but doesn't really care about utilizing it to the fullest to Takemoto, who on a whim chose to major in architecture because he liked making things with his hands, each character has their own set of problems that the series explores. The clash between desires and expectations is the overlying theme.
The drama and romance aspect of the show can be frustrating at times, but is a more accurate representation of relationships in real life. Often times in anime one can predict the flow of romance and relationships, such as who will end up with who, and the feelings and emotions come in a nice superficial box with a neat bow tie on top. However, relationships in real life are often different. Unlike in most romance and drama shows, love in real life does not always go the way you want it. It is more bitter, more mature. It can be extremely frustrating. It can be confusing and hectic. Honey and Clover does a very nice job of representing this through a solid cast of characters and exploring each individual's feelings for one another.
One last theme this show explores is natural talent and feelings of inferiority. In our world, there will always be an insurmountable gap between those of us who are truly talented and gifted, and those who are on the more ordinary side of things. Hard work and dedication can only close that gap so much. Honey and Clover shows how individuals both talented and ordinary think about this fact, and the problems that come with being on either side of the spectrum. Through the relationships of Takemoto, Hagu, Professor, and Shinobu, aspects such as expectations, guidance, free will, and desires are all laid out and explored.
The art was very simple and easygoing on the eyes. There is no flashy animation, just very basic yet powerful scenes and warm colors. The music complemented the mood being presented in each scene and was never out of place. There were lively pieces to accompany merry times and happy days, and somber tones to accentuate tension and dramatic moments.
Honey and Clover gives us a fresh perspective of the slice of life genre. Through mellow and slow-paced storytelling, the tale of this group of college students comes to life, and will make you feel as if you're living right alongside them. For those who tire of conventional slice of life romantic comedies with little to no substance, Honey and Clover might just be right for you.
