What's a brilliant story without an endearing cast? Thankfully, My Girl delivers, and delivers big time. The main character, Masamune, is an insecure, lovesick, but charming and responsible father. His little angel, Koharu, always looks out for Masamune in the sweetest of ways. Beyond that, there’s Masamune's wise father, Masamune's foul-tempered but earnestly compassionate mother, Masamune's kind landlord, Koharu's rowdy and tsundere playmate Shuu, friends, and more. All serve their roles very well and get their fair share of characterization, often used in a way that brings out the best of their character.
From the characters, it is obvious that My Girl has a powerful vision of humanity: that even in tough situations, in times of unrest and dissatisfaction, or when people are incapable of expressing their true feelings, they are truly beautiful inside.
My Girl hits again and again with the feels train, never relenting until the end. It’ll likely make you tear up multiple times, since My Girl is just so potent at dramatic execution, playing around with emotions like it’s nothing. There's no doubt that My Girl is a drama; one that is filled with moments of sadness and pain. However, it is also the ultimate feel-good. The sad moments are always, without fail, beautiful and heart-warming, and the general portrayal of humanity is one of hope and of earnest optimism. Unlike "Watashitachi no Shiawase na Jikan" (Our Happy Time), which Sumomo Yumeka simply adapted into manga form, My Girl is her magnum opus. Her original story. Her heart and soul, poured into this work. Thank you, and congratulations. You touched yet another heart from halfway across the world.
