Basically, our damsel in distress "Miyo" has an abusive family (to say the least) in Meiji Japan and on one rainy day, they decided to get rid of her by marrying her to the rumored bad husband material in the town. Only thing they missed, is that this husband-to-be "Kuduo Kiyoka" has such a pretty face that the girl goes head over sandals for him. And what follows is a nice and wholesome training session for Miyo to become the best wife material for Kudou with one of the wholesomy granny...with a spice of magic and demons in the mix?
Yeah, one of the first unexpected moment I had was when Miyo had a self loathing session for not having the "sight", which is an indicator that she can manifest magic, which also explains why the whole family hates her. I was kinda expecting a conventional marriage dramedy rooted in that period of Japan, but the fantasy setting kind of took that fun away. Because being a fantasy anime and how Miyo's entire characterization roots into the magic element, there's nothing much explored on the culture part than just a few backgrounds. The fantasy element is pretty basic as well. Different families inherit different powers like thunder, fire, healing, mind control, so and so. Much of the conflict is grounded on this basic fantasy element, so I had quite the trouble to bare with it.
Now to the characters. And oh boy! Remember when I said "melodramatic"? Yeah, these characters are really the textbook definitions of all the tropes you would see in any drama of this sort of premise. Damsel in distress and her ice prince, shitty family who deserve a good slap, goofy subordinate, gory demons, etc. I would really not recommend if these seem like a immediate red flags to you. But what sold me to this show is the execution.
The melodrama and cliche characters are married to an excellent execution. From the gorgeous animation, well-crafted shots and solid voice acting, the anime keeps your eyes peeled on your screen. Whether they are a slow and tender moments like any scene between Miyo and Kudou, or a more serious character moment like Miyo "abuse" scene or her confronting her past self in the final act, to a more action heavy scene like Kudou barging into the Saimori household; the anime knows how to craft a gripping scene and it shines throughout it's runtime. While it might seem like effort could spared for a much realistic story, nevertheless, what we are left with is a see a solid show working with basic ideas.
Conclusion
It's not usual that we get a show revolving around married couple. It's also pretty unusual for it be on a more serious tone, but "My Happy Marriage" is a beautiful tale that deserves a bouquet of flowers.
