Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo, internationally known as ‘The Pet Girl of Sakurasou’ or more directly as ‘No Pet No Kanojo’, often falls under the rom-com slice of life anime genre. This categorization might suggest a light-hearted, easy watch. However, with a market saturated with similar anime, the question becomes: what makes Sakurasou stand out and is it truly worth your time? This review delves into the nuances of Sakurasou, exploring its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it deserves a spot on your watchlist.
One of the most compelling aspects of ‘No Pet No Kanojo’ is its exceptional character dynamics. This anime distinguishes itself through the intricate relationships and developments of its core cast. To truly appreciate this element, a detailed exploration of the plot is necessary, which will be discussed further with spoiler considerations.
The central figures in ‘No Pet No Kanojo’ are Kanda Sorata, Kamiigusa Misaki, Shiina Mashiro, Aoyama Nanami, and Mitaka Jin. Immediately, the anime signals its unique approach by presenting five main characters, each integral to the narrative. This structure allows for a richer tapestry of character development compared to typical romantic comedies. The story primarily revolves around Kanda Sorata, who finds himself relocated to Sakurasou, the infamous “Sakura Hall.” This dormitory houses students deemed problematic or eccentric by the regular dorm standards, notably due to Sorata’s unwavering dedication to keeping cats, a violation of dorm rules. Choosing his beloved pets over conventional housing, Sorata enters the unconventional world of Sakurasou, living amongst other perceived misfits. The evolving relationships between these five residents form the heart and soul of the anime’s storyline.
For enthusiasts of rom-com and slice of life anime, the premise of ‘No Pet No Kanojo’ with its ensemble cast and 24-episode run appears promising. Yet, a critical point of contention arises within the romance aspect of the anime. Regrettably, the romantic elements in Sakurasou are arguably its weakest link. This is a particularly difficult critique, as nearly every other facet of Sakurasou is remarkably well-executed and enjoyable.
To provide a comprehensive analysis, the following section will discuss plot details. Readers wishing to avoid spoilers should proceed directly to the [endspoiler] tag.
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Firstly, the portrayal of Misaki’s romantic pursuits with Jin feels largely comedic and lacks substantial emotional depth. Despite her repeated setbacks and emotional outbursts, it’s challenging to invest genuine sympathy in her romantic struggles. Her romantic arc often feels trivialized and resolved too swiftly, further diminishing its impact.
However, the most significant issue lies in the relationship between Aoyama and Kanda. This particular dynamic is a major point of contention for many viewers and arguably the most flawed aspect of ‘No Pet No Kanojo’. While some viewers, like myself, might have initially hoped for a romance between Aoyama and Kanda, the narrative trajectory strongly favors Shiina and Kanda from the outset. The anime subtly but consistently establishes Shiina and Kanda as the central romantic pairing from the very first episode. Their early physical closeness, suggestive humor, and recurring intimate moments all point towards a predetermined romantic outcome. This raises the question: why introduce a seemingly significant romantic subplot with Aoyama and Kanda? The execution of this secondary romantic interest feels awkward and ultimately unsatisfying. Kanda remains remarkably oblivious to Aoyama’s feelings, while Aoyama’s attempts at expressing her affections are often portrayed as pathetic and repeatedly unsuccessful. Witnessing Aoyama’s unrequited feelings can be genuinely uncomfortable, especially for viewers who sympathize with her character and perhaps prefer her over Shiina. Key instances, such as Aoyama’s confession disguised as “acting practice” and her hesitant, underwhelming confession after her audition, amplify this sense of frustration. It almost feels as if the narrative intentionally builds up hope for an Aoyama-Kanda pairing only to cruelly dash those expectations. Instead of a clear resolution—either acceptance or rejection—Aoyama’s love remains perpetually unfulfilled. The inclusion and mishandling of the Aoyama-Kanda dynamic feel unnecessary and detract from the overall romantic coherence of ‘No Pet No Kanojo’. Focusing solely on the development of Kanda and Shiina’s relationship would have likely resulted in a more streamlined and emotionally resonant romantic narrative.
Despite these romantic shortcomings, ‘No Pet No Kanojo’ delivers a powerful emotional punch in episode 23, the graduation episode. This episode stands out as one of the most emotionally impactful in anime history. The genuine sadness and heartfelt speeches of the characters, encompassing students, faculty, and Sakurasou residents, create a deeply moving experience. Rather than resorting to melodrama, the graduation scene evokes authentic emotion, resonating with the viewer on a profound level. However, the question lingers: why wasn’t this poignant episode the finale?
Episode 24, the actual final episode, feels more like the beginning of a new chapter rather than a conclusive ending. Introducing two new characters and setting the stage for a new school year, it suggests ongoing storylines and character development. The prospect of seeing Kanda and Shiina navigate their relationship without the initial Sakurasou cohort, along with the introduction of fresh personalities, hints at substantial potential for further seasons. The ending, therefore, feels abrupt and unresolved. It leaves viewers wanting more, prompting speculation about a potential second season. However, as of now, no official announcements have been made, leaving fans with lingering hopes and unanswered questions.
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Beyond the problematic romance, ‘No Pet No Kanojo’ excels in virtually every other aspect.
Story [9/10]: Narrative is paramount in anime, and Sakurasou boasts an exceptional storyline. While the romantic subplot is arguably weak, as previously discussed, it doesn’t significantly detract from the overall narrative strength. Despite minor critiques, each episode remains captivating, consistently driving the viewer to anticipate the next development. The anime masterfully builds suspense and incorporates moments of genuine drama, lending considerable depth to the narrative.
An image of Shiina Mashiro, the artistic savant, showcasing the visually stunning character designs of ‘No Pet No Kanojo’.
Art [10/10]: The visual artistry of ‘No Pet No Kanojo’ is a standout feature. The anime employs a distinctive style characterized by warm and vibrant colors, deviating from the generic color palettes often seen in anime. This unique visual approach enhances the anime’s aesthetic appeal, making it visually memorable. Character designs are meticulously crafted, and even minor animation details are executed flawlessly. Furthermore, the anime’s depiction of Shiina Mashiro’s artistic genius is particularly noteworthy. The visual representation of her artwork effectively conveys the extent of her extraordinary talent, allowing viewers to appreciate her artistic brilliance. The artistry not only complements the narrative but also elevates the overall viewing experience of ‘No Pet No Kanojo’.
Sound [10/10]: The soundtrack of ‘No Pet No Kanojo’ is undeniably superb. The opening and ending themes are not only catchy but also deeply reflective of the anime’s overall tone and emotional landscape. Initially, the first opening theme might seem somewhat generic, but repeated listens, facilitated by watching the anime, reveal its intricate musicality and emotional resonance. The opening themes skillfully encapsulate the mood of ‘No Pet No Kanojo’, while also cleverly showcasing its distinctive art style. The second ending theme, in particular, harmonizes beautifully with the evolving character dynamics at that stage of the story, further demonstrating the soundtrack’s integral role in enhancing the anime’s narrative and emotional depth.
The diverse cast of Sakurasou residents, illustrating the anime’s focus on rich character dynamics.
Character [10/10]: Character development is a cornerstone of ‘No Pet No Kanojo’, especially for a rom-com. Each of the five main characters is surprisingly well-developed and nuanced. The narrative delves into their individual backgrounds, motivations, and personal growth throughout the series. What truly distinguishes the characters in Sakurasou is their remarkable acceptance and genuine camaraderie despite their diverse upbringings and eccentricities. The absence of animosity or resentment among them underscores their authentic friendships. This exceptional chemistry between the Sakurasou residents is a key factor in making the anime so engaging and emotionally resonant.
After careful consideration, ‘No Pet No Kanojo’ warrants a near-perfect score. While acknowledging its flaws, particularly in the romantic subplot, the anime’s overall impact is undeniable. It leaves a lasting impression, a testament to its strengths in storytelling, art, sound, and character development. Few anime possess the ability to evoke such a strong desire for more content, and ‘No Pet No Kanojo’ achieves this admirably. Throughout its run, the anime delivers consistent humor and poignant drama, ensuring that viewers remain engaged and emotionally invested. ‘No Pet No Kanojo’ not only meets but surpasses the typical expectations for a romantic comedy slice-of-life anime. It is a genuinely exceptional production, and it earns a strong recommendation as a must-watch anime for enthusiasts across various anime preferences.
