Mikako Kouda is a 16-year-old girl whose sole ambition is to establish her own clothing brand. To this end, she attends the renowned Yazawa Art School alongside her childhood friend Tsutomu Yamaguchi. Although the people around them interpret their closeness and constant bickering as signs of budding love, both Mikako and Tsutomu deny it, as they cannot see each other as anything but friends.
However, everything changes when Tsutomu starts to resemble Ken Nakagawa—the vocalist of the popular group Manbou—and gains popularity among girls. Suddenly, the childhood friends find themselves wondering about the meaning of love, friendship, and the true nature of their relationship.
[Written by MAL Rewrite]
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Comentários
Kokujin-kun
I might as well write a review of this anime since I was the one who provided (most of) the raws, translated it and reviewed each episode at least three times before it was released, which in my opinion counts for at least something. Well, as much as I am loathed to put labels on what are clearly three-dimensional characters, here we have a show where Ai Yazawa pretty much presented us with what could be a psychological profile of a tsundere before such a term even came to existence. She's brassy, full of herself and can sometimes be unfairly cruel, but that isjust a front she she feels she has to put up in order to shield her vulnerable side.
Yes, it would be convenient to say Mikako is the way she is because of the childhood trauma of a divorce (and what her Mom did afterwards). But alas, the reason behind her disagreeable personality is artistically anticlimatic. That is simply the way she is, as is evident from the flashbacks from her childhood and later when she becomes "honest with herself." This is the place where I feel the anime succeeds because we become too used to seeing the lead female character who is cutesy, klutsy, timid, moe or whatever stereotype that is supposed to appeal to the regular anime audience. She is truly one of the more variated full-rounded characters you'd find in any narrative.
The main drawback from this show, like a lot of the shoujo anime that aired around that time (Marmalade Boy, Kodocha) is the number of episodes. I really believe they could have more effectively told the story that they presented if they instead aired around half the episodes. Of course I am talking about filler episodes that sometimes introduced inconsistencies (***spoiler****e.g. why would Mikako be unable to sell her wrong-sized clothes at the second flea market if she was able to sell out all those exact same clothes at the first flea market?***spoiler***), but that is a minor quibble compared to the parade of episodes that occupied the middle featuring a love triangle between three supporting characters. They could have easily settled that matter in a handful of episodes, but they stretched it out over at least ten episodes, padding those with situations based on uselessly masochistic self-abnegations so contrived that my suspension of disbelief almost never recovered.
But thankfully, it didn't overtake the main story of the show, which was the real draw in the first place. It's clear the creator had a lot of fun with her inaugural anime adaptation and it shows through her somewhat unconventional artwork and character designs. The whole thing sort of reminds me of "Doug". The animation certainly shows its age, although it's pretty solid for what was shown at the time. For those who are expecting the quality put into Yazawa's other two animes by Madhouse Studio, be warned that you've been spoiled.
The music, mostly provided by Mikako's seiyuu Rumi Shishido might be an acquired taste for some (for those who don't like unsteady singing voices), but it grows on you, at least it did for me. The story, as long as it focuses on the two main characters, is pretty solid-grade work as it navigates you through the ups and downs of a teenage girl trying to cope with her contrary personality. As for enjoyment - well I wouldn't have spent at least 62 total hours going over the series if I didn't enjoy it. So in the end it would have received a higher grade for the story and characterization if it weren't for the mostly repetitive fillers.
haydenluvsanime
Ai Yazawa, known mostly for Paradise Kiss and Nana, has been a prolific figure in the world of shoujo manga for decades with her mature themes and more realistic approach to character development. Gokinjo Monogatari was my introduction to her. What initially drew me to watch this show was the very unique art style. Everything is done completely with flat colors which made me think of '70s cartoons. It's definitely a peculiar look, but fits the show to a tea. There's a perfect balance between being tastefully retro and progressively modern. Thankfully nothing is really lost with having such beautiful artwork either. It's similar to SailorMoon in the sense that the art style at its core is so strong and appealing that the limited animation isn't as much noticeable, though, that's not to say that it doesn't also look great in motion, because it does.
But art only nets you so many points in your favor. I could also mention the music which is absolutely phenomenal and so good that it can almost be a little distracting at times. Take that as you will, I see it as a positive. But the characters is where Ai Yazawa shines and Gokinjo Monogatari certainly doesn't skimp out on that. Despite being one of her earlier manga, it works because it all feels very personal.
Every character in Gokinjo Monogatari is lovable and easy to empathize with. Even if there were a character you didn't particularly like or connect with at first, I guarantee you'll grow to love them during one of their episodes. Yes, while there definitely is an on-going narrative, for the most part it's pretty casual. There definitely is plenty of drama and romance, but it weaves in and out of relevance rather than being the main focus. And in between that you have a string of really wholesome episodes that'll tug at your heartstrings. These were some of my favorite episodes and really showcases the show's wide emotional palette.
With that being said, comedy is one thing Gokinjo Monogatari does not prioritize. Most of it comes from cheeky banter between the characters. It's more charming than anything, but you won't exactly be laughing out loud. Honestly I kind of like that though. Makes everything feel a lot more genuine. Every scenario feels like it could've been directly inspired from the creators' lives. It creates this very intimate bond between the show and the viewer. Gokinjo Monogatari is something you watch to invest yourself into these characters' lives. To see this group of friends figuring themselves out through the hard times, but ultimately sticking together out of mutual love for each other. While some moments hit very close to home and and made me feel the same guilt and anxiety as the characters, at the end of the day it encourages self-improvement and shows you that there are people out there for you. Is it anything life-changing? Maybe, maybe not. It's honestly more reaffirming than anything. Makes me feel more confident in myself. And I think that's something everybody could appreciate. Regardless of what you get out of this show, it absolutely will stick with you one way or another.
Miki-Samusu
I started watching this because I am a fan of Yazawa Ai. I was so happy to know that she has done a number of manga's and anime's other than NANA or Paradise Kiss. I loved Paradise Kiss so much but did not know that it is a sequel of Neighborhood Story or Gokinjo Monogatari. I had to rewatch it because Mikako, Tsutomu, Rika and Norijii were all in Paradise Kiss. I love how the character's Yazawa creates are all in the same dimension because you really feel like your favorite characters are getting older but still living their lives as if they are realpeople. Such uniqueness from Yazawa.
Now I wasn't too thrilled with seeing the opening of this anime because it looks so old, the characters are drawn in a funny way, none of the female characters have boobs and the music was kind of blah. But, somehow, you get hooked on the show and start to enjoy it without realizing.
Story (9)
Story is great. I love that everyone is in a Art school. Each character has goals and aspirations that are different from typical anime out here so I enjoyed that. Also because I can relate to most of the characters as well. Mikako wants to have her own brand and sell her handmade clothes. Her friends study, work hard and make everything that they by hand to sell at the flee market. It just goes to show that hard work really pays off! There's a lot of love triangles that takes place in this anime. It might become too much at times but just follow along. Great story. You see the characters unfold when the time is right and you get to learn a lot from this anime too.
Art (7)
Of course the art isn't all that great but it doesn't matter because the story and plot is what keeps you watching. Also, I realized that even though the females are drawn a certain way and don't seem to have womanly features such as breasts, hips and thighs, they are still beautiful in their own way. Especially with the several fashion ideas and clothes they wear. I kind of liked that because you don't have to draw a busty woman just to make her look sexy. It's all about the personality of the person, or in this case, the characters.
Sound (7)
Many of you aren't going to like the music. it took me awhile to get used to it but I grew to like it.
Character (9)
I love the characters mainly because it's a creation of Yazawa Ai. But also since I am a big NANA lover, i like to think that Mikako is Hachi and Risa is Nana, Risa's boyfriend is Ren and Yuusuke is Takumi.. But that's just me and my fantasies lol I grew to love all the characters even though some of them annoyed me. Mikako annoyed me through half of the show because she is actually a tsundere character to the fullest. But I learned to appreciate and love her and her personality because most girls go through the same feelings and thoughts. Everyone has thought of something that isn't true or loved a person so much but couldn't tell him so you be mean to them for no reason. Or when you see your lover talking to someone else you get jealous. Mikako goes through so many emotions that you learn to love because she is like most people, even yourself. There's a lot of ups and downs in this anime and in the end, it will be all worth it.
Enjoyment (9)
I enjoyed this very much. I liked the story, I liked the characters, I like how creative everything is and the journey of a young girl trying to sell her fashion brand clothes, with the conflicts of relationships and family. Yet she still tries her best to become successful. Her and everyone else in her group. It's a bitter sweet kind of anime. The one thing I hate about this anime is the filler episodes and the constant flashbacks. Sometimes it would be so long and so repetitive that it can take up half of an episode! So, its ok when you know when to skip a few minutes but all in all its a pretty good watch.
Overall (9)
I was going to rate it a 7 at first but after finishing the show and looking back on it, the story was really great. Especially for an anime back in the 90s with a story like this. I really enjoyed it and to everyone that has seen Paradise Kiss, please watch this anime and watch Paradise Kiss again. You will enjoy it 10xs more because now you fully understand each character and the message being sent about women, aspirations and goals, and conflict with love and family. Thank You.
Automemory_Doll
This anime does everything right, it can be translated as "How difficult are interpersonal relationships", "Why can't I be able to correctly show the way I feel to my family and friends?" "Why do I have to be the way I am?" "What I choose in life now will haunt me all my life?", "The things I do, is it for me or for others to see me?" and many other questions. I understand that many who are used to the modern style of anime art may not find the artistic approach offered by Gokinjo Monogatari appealing, however, if you give it a chance I amsure, you will not only get used to it, but embrace the artistic style. And this story has to be told through the catalog of expressions that this style of drawing achieves for its characters. It is wonderful how slight movements in the faces of the characters denote so much of their personality and the emotions they are feeling.
As for the music, Gokinjo Monogatari has such a characteristic OST, it's one of those OSTs that don't go unnoticed and stay engraved in your memory. Its opening song may be puzzling to many, but it completely describes the vibes of its protagonist and if you like the series, you will be infected by its vibes and therefore share the feelings of the protagonist in its opening.
And without a doubt, what makes this series stand out the most is its story. In my opinion, this is the best Slice of life about teenage life I have ever seen. It deals with emotions in a forceful and at the same time subtle and realistic way, as I said before, it helps a lot with the tools provided by its artistic style to make it clear what each character feels with slight changes in their faces. This anime touches too many teenage themes in such a funny way but at the same time so easy to identify with them. More than anything portrays how complicated interpersonal relationships are, many of the problems between characters are only due to poor communication, so we see how they deal with jealousy, feelings of inferiority, vocation problems and the feeling of being derailed in life, unrequited love, contempt for oneself, feelings of misunderstanding, loneliness and many personal fears that I could not explain in words, because it is not an explanatory anime, but rather demonstrative.
And that is, if you were ever a teenager, this anime will remind you of that time and the immensity of emotions, worries, desires and aspirations that we feel in our youth.
girltokyo
i first off want to say that i really enjoy Ai Yazawa's work so thats the main reason i started to pick this show up and the fact that I've seen NANA and Paradise Kiss already. The story i enjoyed because it's pretty realistic which makes what happens in the show relatable, and with that it makes it even more moving and emotional to watch and experience. It was fun and interesting to see the story progress and see Mikako going through her struggles whether that was with her designs, her relationships, or family problems it was nice to see her progress as the showwent on.
I also enjoyed the other story with Yuusuke, Mariko, and Ayumi (who is introduced later in the show) and seeing how they all progress and what each of them are going through.
The only character i would say i had a problem with is Mariko because of her bratty attitude, it's a little frustrating watching her character progress because she's so stubborn. i was up and down with her, some episodes i liked her and understood her and then there was some episodes where i couldn't stand her and why she was acting the way she was, and the way she talked was a little annoying as well but not that big of a deal.
Now with the art it's to be expected that it's not going to be the best because the show is dated, i like the style of Ai Yazawa's work so i did enjoy that and i loved the designs for the clothing on each character (especially Risa since i have a similar style i really took a liking to her, *sigh i wish the show gave her more attention because i really enjoyed that one episode surrounding her). But anyway back to art, the only big thing i would say i had a problem with is the lipstick i didnt like how that looked on the characters who wore it but over time i did get used to it but still not the best.
Now onto the sound, i really enjoyed the ost i think it really fit with the atmosphere of the show and really helped set the mood for scenes. I enjoyed the op i thought it was really cute and for the endings i only listened to both one time but i remember them both being good.
One problem that got on my nerves a bit was they dragged out scenes for too long and they showed the same scene like which felt like 6 or so more times, i know this is just to show the character thinking about it and for the viewer to be reminded of it but it got annoying that the same scene sometimes got shown more times then i think it should have. Now with scenes being dragged out for too long i also get that they were probably going for setting up the mood and making it more emotional or something like that but for my liking it went on for a bit too long imo. I'm not saying this show is slow paced because i quite enjoy those shows it's just you'll see some scenes being dragged out a bit too long which i think can be a little annoying.
Overall i really did enjoy the show, it was a nice romance drama with more realistic elements! If you enjoyed NANA or Paradise Kiss or Ai Yazawa's work in general then i think that this is a enjoyable watch!
CataOrShane
I've watched Paradise Kiss back in 2010 and I enjoyed it a lot. Ten years later I decided to watch the prequel (back in 2010, it was considered a parent story so I was in no rush to watch it). The story presents itself as a couple of teenagers in love with each other but they don't know how to deal with it, on top of discovering their dreams and chasing them. I was into it and the characters are lovable, for the most part. The name of this anime is Gokinjo Monogatari but "Flashback Monogatari" would be much more fitting. There are so manyflashbacks throughout every single episode that it's insane. I kept skipping them because they're so common and repetitive that their job to create drama and emotion isn't possible to be fulfilled.
I also disliked the overall pacing of the story. After 10 episodes in, it felt that the anime was just dragging itself off while nothng major was happening to the characters, with a couple of exceptions after.
On episode 34, there's a spelling error on the english word "Paradise". This is funny considering that the sequel that would be released 10 years later would have that word in the name.
Everything from now on will be SPOILERS that affected my overall enjoyment of this anime:
1) Body-ko's character development was a mess. Everytime Body-ko was shown to have a solid personality, the next 10 episodes were presented like she was still the 1-dimensional character that she was introduced as.
2) The amusement park scenes when Body-ko realized that Tsutomu wasn't in love with her, including the whole conversation they had about their childhoods and life expectations was a joke. That sequence was interrumpted by dumb, unfunny "comedy" and it didn't have the dramatical impact it should've had.
3) When the old man danced with Risa and began imagining her as his ex-girlfriend, I couldn't help but get all these creepy vibes.
4) It makes no sense whatsoever that a 16/17 year old would still miss and adore her father like Mikako does, considering that she has no proof that her father has tried to stay in touch with her: no phone calls, no visits and no letters. In reality, it was Mikako's mother that hid the letters. It would be so much better for Mikako to be extremely bitter against her father and chase him for answers, only for her to learn the truth about her mother's attitude.
5) Yuushiro slapping the face out of Body-ko was extremely uncalled for. If he stepped up with a talk or even a yell it would still be meaningfull and without physical violence. This was a sweet romantic show about young people and their first experiences with love and suddenly it actually showed an example of domestic violence and presented it as being acceptable if someone's jealous or acting "crazy". It was such a let down and on top of that, not a single character supported Body-ko, quite on the contrary. I don't care how "crazy" someone is, violence is not the way to go.
6) It's extremely weird how Mikako's mother decided to visit her ex-husband's exhibition a 2nd time and also decided to check the visitors' record. There wasn't any hint or plausible reason that would make her think of checking the names.
7) Having Mikako's father propose and try to be with his ex-wife again was so stupid. They broke up because they were both too focused on their own jobs. In the 4 years they were apart, nothing changed in that regard but yet the first things out of that man's mouth in a hospital room is "let's try again". I understand it's a romance anime but a little bit of common sense and realism only helps.
8) Yuushiro's and Body-lo's relationship didn't evolve at all from the "tsundere-tsundere" couple. This was a wasted opportunity for some really good episodes.
I've watched other Yazawa Ai's works: Paradise Kiss and Nana and I loved them. I'm happy that over the years she got better at story telling, building drama and creating characters. Overall this anime is a 6/10.
