March Comes In Like A Lion does not pique your interest just from the looks. However, it is nothing less than a masterpiece once you start watching it. In fact, the 2016 anime is one of the most underrated and unnoticed shows of the year. Well, a 45-episode series consumes a lot of time. Is it worth the watch? Here’s a Spoiler-Free March Comes In Like A Lion Review, guiding you towards its good and bad aspects.
Sangatsu no Raion originated as a manga series written and illustrated by Chica Umino. The mangaka is known for her award-winning manga series Honey And Clover. Like her previous work, March Comes In Like A Lion received much appreciation when it began serialization in 2007. Hence, at the peak of its popularity, Studio Shaft picked it up for an anime adaptation that aired between October 2016 and March 2017. Exactly a year later, the studio released a sequel of the show. As of now, fans are waiting for the renewal of MARCH COMES IN LIKE A LION SEASON 3.
Synopsis
The story of the anime centers around 17-year-old shogi (also known as Japanese Chess) player Rei Kiriyama. He lives independently after moving out of his adoptive family home. Being a shogi prodigy, he faces an enormous amount of pressure leading him towards social anxiety and depression. Yet, upon meeting the Kawamoto sisters, Rei slowly opens up and comes to understand the complex emotions of himself and others around him.
Is March Comes In Like A Lion Worth The Watch?
When the anime first released, it seemed like a generic slice of life series. However, once the critic reviews started coming in, millions of otakus explored this beautiful roller-coaster of emotions. The acclaimed anime is simplistic, yet it takes you on a journey that is heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. Besides, it highlights mental health issues like social anxiety, depression, and loneliness. All in all, the setting is a good coming-of-age story topped with mangaka Chica Umino’s writing.
Studio Shaft’s animation style compliments the anime’s overall theme, and its colors resonate with the emotions. As expected, the music by Bump Of Chicken is aesthetically pleasing and deserves appreciation. In terms of story, March Comes In Like A Lion is one of the best character-driven shows in recent times. Overall, the anime is worth the watch and is a treat if you’re looking for something deep and intense.
What Went Wrong?
One of the only issues with March Comes In Like A Lion is its pacing. While it perfectly suits the theme, the slow pace is not the cup of tea for everyone. Moreover, the anime does not explain the rules of the game as much as it should. On the other hand, viewers pointed out that the second season is not as good as the first one. While the series is still an entertaining watch, if you don’t prefer slow-paced shows or heavy narration, then Sangatsu no Raion isn’t for you.
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