sunspitfire Reviews

Love Generation (1997)

True love never runs smooth

[9/10 · 30 May 2006]

Much to my surprise, Love Generation has become one of my favorite dramas of all time. The story revolves around a very energetic and cheerful young woman named Riko who recently breaks up with her fiancé. She meets Teppei, a fresh advertising designer who is popular with the ladies. The two cross paths in an unlikely situation that opens the ground for many conflicts of interest, misunderstandings, growth and maturity.

The drama and acting and dialog in this series is very natural and endearing, while the chemistry between Kimura and Matsu is refreshing. There are many memorable lines in this series that will remain salient in my mind. In this drama, you will come to understand that there is no real antagonist. It opens your eyes to human vices, and the realization that we often take many things for granted.

Love generation shows both strength and vulnerability between all four main characters. It incorporates well executed comedic tones while maintaining the overarching dramatic theme. You think you know, but it keeps you hooked till the very end. A wonderful drama that proves "true love never runs smooth." Kimura Takuya and Matsu Takako definitely shine in this one.

Honey and Clover (2005–2006)

Honey and Clover is a "slice of life" anime adaptation of the jousei manga created by Umino Chika of the same name.

[27 March 2006]

The series takes a glimpse into the lives of five students of an art university and allows you to view how these students slowly mature in their thoughts, feelings and relationships. Honey and Clover is a very heartwarming, touching, funny and poignant as it deals with the many issues college aged youth know best. It is not your ordinary slapstick, magic, robot war, cutesy or fan service anime. If you want that, look elsewhere. Honey and Clover has heart, a bit of comedy, beautiful animation quality, style, excellent voice actors, and a wonderful accompanying soundtrack. This series is certainly not for everyone. In fact, this is geared towards the college aged youth, but if you are looking for something deeper and heart felt, I highly recommend this series as well as its soundtrack and original manga.