Unlike other reviewers, I'll simply break this short review into two sections: a "pro" section and a "con" section. I'll start with the former first, as stated earlier.
Sakamichi no Apollon is another sparkling example of a slice of life done correctly. Likeable and realistic, it's impossible not to relate and eventually empathize for these characters throughout the struggles they go through in the story. Plot wise, like any slice of life, there is no true overarching story line per se, other than the evident romantic subplot going on between all of our three main character, and a blooming "bromance" going on between our two male leads. The story is beautifully told and artistically written. It takes place in the 60s, World War 2 has just ended, and Japan, with the help of the US and its allies, is finally regaining its former economic propserity amidst all that has happened. Sakamichi no Apollon touches on America's presence in the region, and its growing influence on it--particularly in a particular genre called jazz. Sakamichi no Apollon is at its core, a music anime. Although the aforementioned themes are very present, perhaps the most essential and frequently revisited theme in the story is music. This brings us to our next criteria for review: the music and art of this show. Simply put, the art is refreshing to look at. Not really the most detailed work out there, it's unique to this series and I felt it suited it quite well. Music wise, it's everything you expect from a show that revolves around it. A beautifully composed opening and ending themes, with wonderful background music prevalent throughout the scene, the music selection is sure to please anyone, regardless of whether or not they appreciate jazz.
This is not to say that the show is perfect, however. The story leaves much to the imagination of the viewers. Without spoiling anything, the ending was satisfactory, however, it left many questions unanswered. Some side characters that played pretty important roles in the story seemed to have dropped off the face of the Earth with the timeskip that occurs in the last episode. We know nothing about these characters, hell, we don't even know what happened to our two main characters in the time between the time skip. Although not necessarily that major of a con, I would have liked to know what had happened between those 8 years to both Kaoru, Sentarou, and Ritsuko. Art wise, while I felt that the scenery was drawn beautifully, character designs, I felt, were flat, bland, and sometimes, unbelievable. Props to the drawing of the eyes though.
All in all, Sakamichi no Apollon is up there as one of my highest rated slice of life shows, perhaps Honey and Clover being the only one to trumph it. A show about two boys, the show delivers a down-to-earth, yet poignant message that rings true in the hearts of every viewer, regardless of gender. A tale about two men, and their beautifully developed relationship with one another.
