I have always found it interesting how true to life the story is in relation to how relationships might actually work in real life. Stories and fairy tales from this age have this habit of teaching us that 'one day our prince/princess will come and we will live happily ever after" - in this story, however, this is not what happens, but instead we are given a dose of another possible outcome. One of heartbreak and loss. And while I do believe is it an exaggerated over reaction, I always found it comforting to know at least one person was telling me a story with a real basis to it and not just some idealistic future where I work for nothing and receive everything for being good.
Another thing I loved about this anime was the music. It is very moving and fits very nicely. Also, the sound quality was good for this era. There was attention paid to background noises this world was made real to me as a result.
The art style used was popular at the time it was made, but also unique. The lines were especially clean and I like the rendering of the Sea Witch very much.
Overall, this is one of my most favourite anime of all time. While it might not be the most original story, or the greatest in any category, for me it will always be a 10.
