Story 9:
====
The story is quite simple indeed. Out of the blue, Daikichi decides to take Rin under his wings! A very surprising, and somehow far-fetched decision coming from a single man who has no experience whatsoever at raising a child. What's not surprising, though, is of course the fact that Daikichi's life is about to drastically change... Well, the idea of a single man suddenly thrown into the catacombs of parenthood has been tackled so many a time before, so what's special about Usagi Drop? It is the PACE! The pace, at which this change comes through, is simply perfect. Each episode takes you by the hand, along with Daikichi, and makes you slowly sip this change like red wine. And just when you feel like this is going to be only a portrait of Daikichi and Rin's everyday activities, you are reminded about the origin of the whole situation, and you start getting answers for your questions: who is Rin's mother? Is she alive? Why has she abandoned her daughter? Would she wish to see her daughter...
Art 7:
===
Well, although it is not fantastic, I believe it is perfect for the story. I mean, in such a slice-of-life anime, What you really look for is the general atmosphere. The art is simple, yet consistent and relevant.
Sound 8:
=====
Be it jocund, when Rin is enjoying her time, or nostalgic when Daikichi is searching through his grandfather's stuff... The music is very soothing indeed. Needless to mention that the piano background cannot but dazzle your feelings.
Character 9:
=======
Two main characters: Daikichi and Rin; however, Daikichi is the most important focus of this anime. Rin is but a reflection of Daikichi's development. We get to see the "change" through his eyes, and we do await his next moves. Daikichi is but a romantic teenager in the head. Had he not been one, he would have never made such a decision. Portrayed as a considerate man right from the very first episode, Daikichi always tries to put himself in Rin's shoes. Goodhearted enough to accept this from the start, he is also a very good learner. Quite often you see Daikichi asking for advice, whether directly from his sister, or implicitly acquiring it by observing how other parents behave... Yet, the most important quality Daikichi's character lays on the table is LOVE. This huge sacrifice he is offering, simple to see a child's smile, is nothing but pure love.
Rin, on the other hand, is just six years old, and so often she does behave as such... Yet, from time to time, we are reminded of her calamity: her father is dead, and she has no clue who or where her mother is. This is why we get to see her having qualms about being abandoned; these qualms are naturally displayed as nightmares from time to time.
Enjoyment 10:
========
I could never understand how to explain this part. How can one explain or even rate "enjoyment". Well, as far as I'm concerned, I have enjoyed each and every episode of Usagi Drop so far, so that must be a ten. :)
Overall 9:
=====
I recommend you watch this anime; that is, of course, if you are interested in experiencing some realistic sentiments for a change. It is a great show so far.
