Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day was a anime that my friends have recommended to me for years. The commonality between all of their recommendations was that the story and animation were what drew them in. Other reasons included a brilliant soundtrack, relatable characters, and the wave of nostalgia felt when watching Anohana. After watching the entire anime in one binge session, I can say with much certainty that I regret sleeping on Anohana for so long. Here are a few reasons why Anohana might be or might not be for you.
Upon first viewing, much like my friends, I was drawn in by the animation. As episodes flew by I started to notice some themes throughout the story; perserverance, redemption, and the darkest of them all grief. Grief is easy to portray but hard to do well-enough to be emotionally gripping, but Anohana does it better than most. The main cast juggles all different types of pyschosis and trauma in a way that makes them both relatable and vulnerable at the same time. With their frivolous pursuit to honor their friend's wish and memory it's very hard not to relate to some if not all of them. Which is what makes this series an emotional rollercoaster and very rewatchable.
The cons of this anime are few and far between with subtle cliches and pacing being my minor gripe with the series. For 12 episodes it's both fast paced at times and terribly slow at others. For me, the cliches of grief doesn't affect the overall experience but it makes it a bit predictable at times. Sometimes the characters think and act irrationally even with the context of their emotional instability. Upon rewatching it was a lot more bearable but if you're watching Anohana only once you may have the same feelings I did initially.
In conclusion, Anohana will make you feel something whether you like it or not. Whether it be childhood summertime nostalgia or catharsis, you will laugh and cry and be moved by these brilliantly written characters (I related to Poppo the most.) If you like a great narrative or the stunning animation A-1 Studios is known for, then Anohana is for you. This anime is easily consumable whether you are a casual viewer or a anime connoisseur. Let your flowers of youth blossom in the sunshine of tomorrow. We found you Anohana!!!
Thank you for reading my review! Have a great rest of your day/evening.
