Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo, often referred to as just Sakurasou, is a romantic comedy slice-of-life anime that has garnered attention for its unique charm. In a genre saturated with similar productions, the question arises: what makes Sakurasou stand out and warrant a watch? This review delves into the anime’s strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it deserves a spot on your watchlist.
One of the most compelling aspects of Sakurasou is its exceptional character dynamics. This anime truly shines in developing the relationships between its ensemble cast. The narrative revolves around a core group of five main characters: Kanda Sorata, Kamiigusa Misaki, Shiina Mashiro, Aoyama Nanami, and Mitaka Jin. Unlike many rom-coms that focus on a pair or a love triangle, Sakurasou offers a richer tapestry of interactions by giving each of these characters significant screen time and development.
The story primarily follows Kanda Sorata, who finds himself relocated to the unconventional Sakurasou dorm. His banishment from the regular dorms stems from his unwavering love for cats, as the regular dorms prohibit pets. Sakurasou, or “Sakura Hall,” is presented as a haven for students deemed problematic or eccentric. Here, Sorata lives alongside other unique personalities, and the relationships formed within Sakurasou become the heart of the anime.
With 24 episodes to unfold these character-driven narratives, Sakurasou sets itself up for success in the slice-of-life genre. However, the romantic elements, while present, are arguably the weakest link in this otherwise strong anime.
[startspoiler] Mild Spoilers Ahead
The romantic storylines in Sakurasou are a point of contention for some viewers. Misaki’s pursuit of Jin’s affection, while a recurring theme, often feels more comedic than genuinely heartfelt. Her emotional outbursts and rejections are frequently played for laughs, making it difficult to invest emotionally in her romantic struggles. The swift resolutions to her romantic woes further diminish their impact, feeling somewhat underdeveloped and lacking in emotional depth.
The central romantic conflict, however, revolves around the dynamic between Aoyama Nanami and Kanda Sorata, alongside the seemingly predetermined pairing of Shiina Mashiro and Sorata. From the outset, the anime subtly, and sometimes not so subtly, hints at a connection between Shiina and Sorata. Their early interactions, filled with physical closeness and suggestive humor, establish a clear trajectory for their relationship.
This pre-established pairing raises questions about the purpose of introducing a second romantic interest in Aoyama. Sakurasou is not a harem anime, yet it dedicates significant time to developing Aoyama’s feelings for Sorata. This creates a sense of unevenness in the romantic narrative. Aoyama’s unrequited love becomes a source of discomfort for viewers who find themselves rooting for her. Her repeated attempts to confess her feelings to the oblivious Sorata are often portrayed in a cringe-worthy manner, particularly instances where she downplays her confession as “acting” or delivers a half-hearted admission after an audition. It feels as though the narrative teases the possibility of Aoyama and Sorata, only to ultimately dismiss it in favor of the expected Shiina and Sorata pairing.
Despite these frustrations with the romantic plotlines, Sakurasou redeems itself in other aspects, particularly in its emotionally resonant moments. Episode 23, the graduation episode, stands out as a highlight. It’s widely considered one of the most emotionally impactful episodes in anime. The episode masterfully portrays the genuine sadness and heartfelt speeches of the characters as they face graduation and the prospect of parting ways. Instead of leaning into melodrama, the episode captures authentic emotions, creating a deeply moving experience for the viewer. This episode, however, leaves one wondering why it wasn’t chosen as the series finale, given its powerful sense of closure.
Episode 24, the actual final episode, feels more like the beginning of a new chapter than a conclusion. Introducing new characters and setting the stage for a new school year, it hints at further stories to be told within the Sakurasou universe. This open ending, while intriguing, leaves a sense of incompleteness. It suggests the potential for a second season, yet no such announcement has been made, leaving fans with a lingering desire for more.
[endspoiler] End of Spoilers
Beyond the romantic entanglements, Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo excels in several key areas.
Story (9/10): While the romantic aspects may be flawed, the overall narrative of Sakurasou is compelling. The anime excels at creating engaging storylines and maintaining viewer interest. Despite some critiques, each episode is captivating, driving a desire to know what happens next. The dramatic moments are particularly effective, adding depth and emotional resonance to the story.
Art (10/10): The visual presentation of Sakurasou is truly exceptional. The art style is distinctive, employing a palette of warm and vibrant colors that sets it apart from many other anime. Character designs are appealing, and the animation is detailed and fluid. Notably, the anime brilliantly visualizes Shiina Mashiro’s artistic genius. The artwork effectively conveys the depth and skill of her creations, allowing viewers to appreciate her talent. The animation team’s own artistic talent in depicting Shiina’s work is undeniable.
alt: Shiina Mashiro, a prodigious artist from Sakurasou No Pet Na Kanojo, deeply focused on her drawing with intense concentration, showcasing the beautiful and unique art style of the anime.
Sound (10/10): The soundtrack of Sakurasou is another highlight. The opening and ending themes are not just catchy tunes but integral parts of the anime’s identity. Initially, the first opening might seem generic, but repeated listens reveal its charm and its perfect encapsulation of the anime’s overall mood. The opening sequences themselves are visually engaging, cleverly showcasing the anime’s distinctive art style. The second ending theme, in particular, resonates deeply with the evolving character dynamics within the story at that point.
Character (10/10): The characters are the heart and soul of Sakurasou. For a romantic comedy, the five main characters are surprisingly well-developed and complex. The anime delves into their backgrounds, motivations, and personal struggles, making them relatable and engaging. Despite their diverse personalities and upbringings, the Sakurasou residents form a genuine and supportive found family. Their acceptance of each other and lack of internal conflict create a heartwarming dynamic that is a joy to watch. The chemistry between them is palpable and is a primary reason why Sakurasou is so captivating.
Overall:
Despite its shortcomings in the romance department, Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo is an exceptional anime that leaves a lasting impression. Its strengths in character development, art, and sound design far outweigh its weaknesses. It provides both laughter and genuine emotional depth, ensuring that viewers remain engaged throughout the series. Sakurasou surpasses the typical expectations for a romantic comedy slice-of-life anime and stands out as a must-watch for anime enthusiasts. If you are looking for a series with compelling characters, beautiful animation, and a memorable soundtrack, Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo is highly recommended.
alt: A cheerful group photo of the main Sakurasou residents from Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo, including Sorata, Mashiro, Nanami, Misaki, and Jin, highlighting the strong bonds and camaraderie among these central characters.
