Kanon - Review

Duration: 24 episodes (24 mins/episode)
Genre: Romance, Tragedy, Harem, Supernatural, Slice-of-Life

First of all I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Boxing Day, New Years, and every other holiday that comes around this time. Finally, the winter season is among us. Though snow may not reach all parts of the world, one can still enjoy winter-themed anime. Not surprising, the only one that comes to mind immediately is one of my favorites--Kanon.

Story

Aizawa Yuichi returns back to a city which he often visited during his childhood. During that time, a particular traumatic event occurred seven years ago which made him block out any and all memories related to it. While in the process of settling into his new home, he comes across several young girls, all related to his past. As a result, Yuichi begins to remember his previously suppressed memories to come to terms with his childhood.

Quite a convenient story originally based off Key's visual novel. It's harem anime at its finest. At a solid 24 episodes, the story progresses naturally without seeming rushed; one of the most prevalent problems with its first anime adaptation. There are elements of fantasy and supernatural occurrences that help the story along to its story book end, which most people will appreciate. Each respective character arc tends to wrap up conveniently, naturally transitioning to the next with most loose ends tied if any. Who doesn't like a happy end to their romance/drama anime?

Characters

Yuichi: I often times have problems with the male protagonists of harem anime, but I can't complain too much about Yuichi--he's alright. I'm not going to discount how plain he is though. He is endearing to the people around him and is very genuine, which is a solid, fair reason why all these girls swoon for him, but aside from that he's plain like a manila folder.

Nayuki: Yuichi's cousin. Plain and simple, she fell in love with him when they were kids and still does now. Doing a little bit of reading, apparently marrying first-cousins is a-okay over there in the land of the rising sun. In hindsight, my parents are second cousins so bleh, I'm not going to worry about it; though the first time watching it, I was a tad confused for sure. She loves all things cute, loves sleep, and has an upbeat, can-do attitude--my type of girl.

Ayu: Cutting to the chase, she's main female interest of the series. The linchpin holding together all of the other arcs, the time she spends with Yuichi and the others help him recall his childhood memories. Short, clumsy, and maybe a little aloof at times, she has a big heart that no one can ignore. Oh yeah, forgot to mention, she likes taiyaki..a lot.

Mai: Strangely quiet, shy, a girl of very few words-- she would make the Rei Ayanamis and Yuki Nagatos of the anime world proud. Not exactly viewed as a "normal" girl, she is deemed a delinquent amongst her peers. Yuichi thus befriends Mai and tries to assimilate her to society whilst inquiring about her mysterious nature.

Voice/Acting Sound

I'm pretty easy to please in the voice acting department, though most would agree that the Japanese voice actors for Kanon are great, if not excellent. Yui Horie shines again with her role of Tsukimiya Ayu. I'm certainly noticing her prowess as a well-faceted seiyuu. Not to discount the rest of the cast, they are all voiced well--no complaints.

Much of the soundtrack is what you would expect from any slice-of-life; nothing surprising or particularly outstanding, it's mostly forgettable (once you've let out the waterworks). There is a scene or two with Pachelbel's Canon in D playing in the background, which I found to be appropriate and quite charming. Lastly, the opening theme Last Regrets to me sets the ambiance and overall tone for the show well, though I have to admit the closing theme Kaze no Tadori Tsuku Basho blows it out of the water. It's truly one of my favorites and a good pick-me-up song. Run Ayu run!

Loved
Catchphrases: Just after watching the first episode or two, one will recognize that each girl has their own unique charms and respective idiosyncrasies or catchphrases. Uguu, Nyuu, Auu,--they're all annoying to a point, but at least for me, it puts a smile on my face hearing Sayuri's Ahaha~s.

Taiyaki: Need I say more? Aside from the catchphrases, most people will associate Kanon with taiyaki (and maybe pork buns too). I seriously want to try one of these or make my own. Mmm, red bean paste in a fish-shaped cake? What's not to like?


Hated
Catchphrases: On second thought, the idiosyncrasies are quite annoying; though only one in particular. Sorry Makoto, no more Auu~s please. Not to discount the good story arc, it was just too much. Beware of possible brain aneurysms.

All the same: Anyone who has watched a previous Key/KyoAni work (Clannad, Air TV) or has played the visual novels may feel that it's all too similar. The type of drama that occurs, the humor, and also its storybook deus ex machina endings. Though if you're interested in watching any romance or drama you won't care either way.

The Lowdown: Those who have an interest for romance or harem anime have already watched this and are just looking for more praise from critics. There are some moments that will have your heartstrings pulled and have the manliest man tearing up at times. The winter-ish setting and theme certainly have their purpose in the overall charm of the series. Get a cup of hot cocoa with some marshmallows and enjoy.

Notes: Watched series from beginning to end (SS-Eclipse subs).