The more people who have a difficult past, the more you should see ☆☆☆
1. Basic Information
- Title: March Comes in like a Lion
- Format: TV Anime Series (adapted from the manga by Chica Umino)
- Genre: Drama, Slice of Life, Psychological, Sports (Shogi)
- Studio: Shaft
- Aired: October 2016 – March 2017 (24 episodes)
- Overview:
March Comes in like a Lion tells the story of Rei Kiriyama, a young professional shogi player, as he navigates the pressures of his career and the pain of personal loss. Amid the solitude and challenges of competitive shogi, Rei slowly finds hope and healing through meaningful relationships.
2. Plot Summary
Rei Kiriyama is a 17-year-old professional shogi player whose life is overshadowed by a traumatic past and the isolation that comes with high expectations. Struggling with internal conflicts and the demanding nature of professional competition, Rei’s world begins to change when he meets the warm, caring Kawamoto sisters. Their genuine kindness and familial bond offer him a glimpse of a life beyond shogi—a life filled with friendship and emotional support.
As Rei faces both professional and personal battles, he gradually learns to confront his inner demons, rediscover the beauty of everyday life, and find solace in the connections he forges with others. The series skillfully weaves together the high-stakes world of shogi with a deeply personal exploration of growth and healing.
3. Main Characters
Rei Kiriyama
- Role: Protagonist; a professional shogi player
- Personality: Quiet, introspective, and burdened by past trauma, yet resilient
- Arc:
Rei’s journey is one of gradual emotional recovery. Initially overwhelmed by loneliness and self-doubt, he learns to open up and embrace life through his interactions with the people around him. His growth is marked by the courage to face his past and the determination to build a brighter future.
The Kawamoto Sisters
- Role: Support system and source of emotional warmth
- Personality:
- Hinata, Momo, and Akari Kawamoto embody kindness, humor, and the spirit of family.
- Arc:
The sisters provide Rei with a sense of belonging and a safe space to express his vulnerabilities. Their nurturing presence plays a pivotal role in his gradual journey from isolation to emotional connection.
4. Themes
- Isolation and Healing:
The anime explores the deep loneliness that can come from personal loss and high-pressure environments, while also highlighting the transformative power of human connection and support. - Growth Through Adversity:
Rei’s struggle with his past and the challenges of professional shogi mirror the broader theme of personal evolution. The series emphasizes that growth often comes from confronting and overcoming one’s inner demons. - The Interplay of Solitude and Community:
The contrast between Rei’s isolated life and the warmth offered by the Kawamoto sisters underscores the importance of community and how relationships can help us rediscover ourselves. - The Duality of Strategy and Emotion:
Shogi, a game of deep strategy, serves as a metaphor for life—highlighting the balance between calculated moves and the unpredictable nature of human emotions.
5. Symbolism
- Shogi as a Life Metaphor:
Every move in shogi represents a decision with far-reaching consequences, symbolizing how our choices shape our destiny. The game mirrors Rei’s internal struggle, where strategic thinking must sometimes give way to emotional intuition. - Seasons and Renewal:
The title itself suggests the coming of spring—a time traditionally associated with rebirth and hope. This seasonal symbolism reflects the possibility of renewal even after the harshest winter of life. - Light and Shadow:
The recurring visual contrasts in the anime (between light and darkness) symbolize the balance between hope and despair in Rei’s journey. Moments of brightness often accompany breakthroughs in his emotional healing, while darker imagery underscores his inner pain. - Family as a Sanctuary:
The Kawamoto sisters and their home represent safety and the nurturing power of familial bonds. They are a living symbol of the warmth and care that can help mend even the deepest wounds.
6. Why This Anime Is Special
- Deep Emotional Resonance:
March Comes in like a Lion offers a nuanced portrayal of mental health, loneliness, and recovery. Its sensitive exploration of these themes has touched many viewers, making it a memorable and relatable experience. - Rich Character Development:
The series focuses on the slow, realistic growth of its characters. Rei’s journey from isolation to emotional healing, bolstered by the supportive Kawamoto sisters, creates a compelling narrative about finding one’s place in the world. - Unique Blend of Sports and Personal Drama:
By intertwining the high-stakes world of professional shogi with intimate personal struggles, the anime presents a refreshing take on both sports and slice-of-life genres. - Striking Visuals and Soundtrack:
Produced by Shaft, the anime is renowned for its beautiful, symbolic animation and a poignant soundtrack that perfectly captures the mood of the story, enhancing its emotional depth. - Universal Themes:
Despite its focus on shogi, the series addresses universal issues like self-acceptance, resilience, and the importance of human connections. Its messages of hope and renewal resonate across diverse audiences.
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