March Comes in Like a Lion: A moving story and deep characters

"March Comes in Like a Lion": A moving story that tugs at the heartstrings

"March Comes in Like a Lion" is a TV anime series based on the manga of the same name by Chika Umino. It aired on NHK Educational TV from October 8, 2016 to March 18, 2017, with a total of 22 episodes. Animation was handled by Shaft and the series was directed by Akiyuki Shinbo. Although it is a coming-of-age drama themed around the game of shogi, the series has captured the hearts of many viewers by depicting universal themes such as human relationships, growth, loss and rebirth.

Story Summary

The protagonist, Rei Kiriyama, is a 17-year-old professional shogi player. He lost his parents and older sister in a traffic accident when he was young and was taken in by his relatives, but he was unable to find a place for himself there and began living alone. Rei devotes himself to shogi in solitude, but gradually opens up through his encounters with the three Kawamoto sisters and his interactions with his rivals. The story depicts Rei's shogi battles and the changes in the relationships around him, weaving a tale of growth and rebirth.

Character Introduction

Rei Kiriyama

Voice actor: Nobuhiko Okamoto

A 17-year-old professional shogi player. Having lost his family at a young age, he has devoted himself to shogi in solitude. Although he has a calm and rational personality, deep inside he is facing a deep loneliness. Through his encounter with the Kawamoto family and the relationships he forms through shogi, he gradually opens up.

Akari Kawamoto

Voice actor: Ai Kayano

The eldest daughter of the Kawamoto family. 23 years old. She is a support for Rei and has a kind and tolerant personality. She treasures her family and shows love for Rei like an older sister. Her presence plays an important role in warming Rei's heart.

Hinata Kawamoto

Voice actor: Kana Hanazawa

The second daughter of the Kawamoto family. 17 years old. She has a bright and cheerful personality, and treats Rei like a friend. Her innocence and purity heals Rei's heart, while the story also depicts her own growth.

Kawamoto Momo

Voice actor: Misaki Kuno

The third daughter of the Kawamoto family. 9 years old. Although she is young, she is intelligent and shows a deep understanding towards Rei. Her pure heart touches Rei's heart and deepens the bond between them as a family.

Shimada Kai

Voice actor: Yoshimasa Hosoya

A professional shogi player who is both Rei's rival and friend. 26 years old. He has a gentle and kind personality and is like an older brother to Rei. His passion for shogi and his humanity have a big impact on Rei's growth.

Animation production and direction

Shaft, the animation studio behind March Comes in Like a Lion, has established a unique visual style under director Akiyuki Shimbo. In this work, they also paid particular attention to the character expressions and the depiction of the background, pursuing visual beauty. In particular, the use of color and light in the scene that symbolizes Rei's inner thoughts is impressive, creating a visual impact. In addition, the shogi game scene beautifully expresses tension and drama, drawing the viewer in.

Music and Soundtrack

The music was provided by BUMP OF CHICKEN. The opening theme, "Fighter," is a powerful song that symbolizes Rei's loneliness and fighting spirit, and inspires the audience. The ending theme, "Answer," is a gentle song that expresses the warmth of the Kawamoto family and the healing of Rei's heart, and makes the theme of the story more deeply felt. The music in the play also plays an important role in enhancing the atmosphere of the story, and has the effect of enhancing the emotions of the audience.

Recognition and Awards

"March Comes in Like a Lion" has been highly praised by many viewers, especially for the depth of its characters and the moving storyline. It has also been highly praised within the anime industry, winning the Grand Prize at the 2017 Tokyo Anime Award Festival. This award is a testament to the high quality of the work and its impact on viewers, and a moment when the hard work of the production staff has come to fruition.

Recommended points

"March Comes in Like a Lion" is a work that depicts a human drama through the game of shogi, but because it deals with universal themes, it can resonate with a wide range of viewers. In particular, the themes of loneliness, loss, family ties, and growth will resonate with many people. In addition, by carefully depicting the growth of the characters and the changes in relationships, it provides an opportunity for viewers to reflect on their own lives. Furthermore, the beautiful visuals and music enhance the story, making it a work that is both visually and aurally satisfying.

Related works and recommendations

For viewers who enjoyed "March Comes in Like a Lion," we also recommend the following works:

"Honey and Clover"

Another of Chika Umino's masterpieces, this is a story about the youth and romance of university students. Like "March Comes in Like a Lion," it carefully depicts the growth of the characters and the changes in their relationships, and is a heartwarming story.

Your Lie in April

This coming-of-age drama with a piano theme depicts the protagonist's growth and changes in relationships. It combines music with a moving story, and fans of "March Comes in Like a Lion" will enjoy it.

"Sound! Euphonium"

It is a coming-of-age drama set in a brass band club, depicting the growth and friendship of the characters. It has beautiful music and visuals, and shares with "March Comes in Like a Lion" the careful depiction of changes in human relationships.

summary

"March Comes in Like a Lion" is a coming-of-age drama themed around the game of shogi, but it has captured the hearts of many viewers by depicting universal themes such as loneliness, loss, family ties, and growth. The deep characters, moving story development, beautiful visuals, and music combine to create a work that will satisfy both your eyes and your ears. Be sure to experience this moving story for yourself.