Most romance animes are quite slow paced, and is usually boy chase girl or girl chase boy. Heck, it takes the whole season just to get a confession. But Itazura na Kiss is different. What happens after the confession? Do they get married? Do they have a family? In this anime, you get to see their life about 10 years after they first meet.
The story is considered a classic. It was made in the 90's afterall, so there may be some cliques here and there. Not so bright, but super determined girl (Kotoko) chases smart, handsome, cold boy (Naoki). Honestly I was kind of annoyed at the characters in the beginning but I quickly changed my opinion after just a few episodes. Kotoko (the main girl) can't cook, is clumsy, and one of the dumbest people in school, but she sure has determination. That's where she shines. For the 10% that Naoki can't do, she can do it like no one else can.
Each character has their own unique personality and looks. They all stand out on their own. (The mom is really funny! and supportive. of their love. yes.) Also, you'll be seeing a lot of character development (even with the supporting characters that are only there for 2 episodes).
The story was predictable but I enjoyed it. There's alot of comedy thrown here and there. It was pretty funny. I found myself laughing aloud at times.
The pacing was SUPERIOR. You see them grow up. So many things happen just in one episode. I thought one part was rushed and unrealistic but that may be just me.
The art style also really reminds me of the 90s. Perhaps due to respect of the author? (It reminded me alot of Sailor Moon). I was bothered by the proportions at times and Naoki's eye placement (lol) but it's all good. It fits well with what they do in the anime. It's not the best, but it works! (Heck, the side characters even look like two of the characters in Sailor Moon!) Another reason why it is so different from other romance animes! (Don't get me wrong, the animation is good and it flows.)
The sound was amazing. Ok I only recall like 3 songs they used but I can tell you the opening and ending (especially the 2nd one) is really good. It also reminded me of back then, and it was calming. Voice actors fit well.
Many people say this anime is really realistic. I didn't think so the first few episodes (I think you know what I mean if you watched it but I don't want to spoil more LOL) but I saw it after some time.. Dreams, determination, limits, family problems, marriage, jealousy, unfortunate moments. Everything is there.
I think you'll like this series alot. Whether or not you like romance. It was really enjoyable and unique. I think I can watch it like 50 times.
Honestly I was so emotionally attached to this anime. It's one of my favorite romance animes. I finished it in under 24 hours..(but that's because I had an unintentional all nighter cause I couldn't sleep so I got up earlier BUT THAT'S NOT THE POINT) I really loved the couple and how you see the cold man in the beginning open up. I liked seeing everyone in the future. I felt like I was growing up with them. It was really heartwarming but also sad. I cried. LOL
And then I cried myself to sleep knowing this fact... (You should probably read this after you watched it)
Itazura na Kiss was first published as a manga in 1990 by Kaoru Tada. Since then (as of Jan. 3 2015) there has been 4 drama adaptions and 1 anime adaption, however she would only witness one in her lifetime due to an unfortunate, unseen death. In 1999, she hit her head on a marble table while moving into a new home. She suffered from cerebral hemorrhage. She went into a coma and died 3 weeks later. The manga was never completed, but the husband told the animators how she intended to end it, so this would be the first adaptation with the "real ending".
It took 18 years since it was first published for it to become an anime. And then 6 years more to be on DvD.
Did you cry. I cry everytime. SHE WOULD NEVER SEE HER SUCCESS
Anyway..thank you so much for reading my review. This was my first one and I'm not really good with putting my feelings into words. I tried my best not to put in side comments but it's too hard. Sorry.
Please watch this anime. Please.
