I actually skimmed the entirety of the first episode and was begrudgingly attracted to the show because of the incredibly awkwardness of the first episode at the very end. I thought the character interactions were hilarious and quite interesting even though it's a very dull and overused approach to introducing characters. Everything about the start of this show screams that it's already been done, but as soon as you hit episode 3 you start to recognize the underlying themes past the romantic aspect of the series.
The most satisfying feeling of watching an anime is when you're able to empathize deeply with a character even though it is fiction. This is why I think that love is such an easy and cliche method to elicit audience empathy. However, most animes don't emphasize the realism that exists in the world today while Sakurasou does beautifully. Although there are remnants of a slight harem around the character Kanda Sorata; the more profound themes of the series becomes much more relevant to the audience and you start to build a deep connection to each character while watching the series.
Failure is something that is used as a catalyst to allow for the protagonist to grow as a person in most anime. Usually people have the tunnel vision thinking that mistakes and failures are steps towards success which is true in many cases, but that isn't to say that there are people who will never truly succeed in life. Sakurasou addresses the dark truth that sometimes your best isn't or won't ever be good enough. This contrast to the way that hard work is usually portrayed gives an intriguing look at the anime as something more than just a happy go lucky type of work.
I was extremely fortunate to come across this rom-com and connected on a much deeper level than I have from other shows. The characters are developed extremely well and relating to each one is incredibly easy. I think the comedy is a bit unoriginal and at times repetitive, but nonetheless Mashiro Shiina provides more than enough to enjoy the series.
This is my first time writing a review and I think that I would most definitely recommend this show to all my peers and friends because it's a very easy watch and it'll keep you hooked.
