Is March Comes in Like a Lion a Romance? The Emotional Journey of a Unique Anime Series
In the world of anime, where fantastical worlds and action-packed adventures often take center stage, “Is March Comes in Like a Lion” (Uchi no Ko desu ka?, also known as “March comes in like a lion”) stands out as a unique and poignant tale that has captivated audiences worldwide. Often categorized as a sports anime, it delves into the life of a prodigy shogi player, Shouya, and his journey through the competitive and emotionally charged world of shogi. But is “Is March Comes in Like a Lion” truly a romance? Let’s delve into the emotional journey of this anime and explore its complex relationships.
The story begins with Shouya, a young boy who has been abandoned by his parents and raised by a single mother, Yumi. Despite his hardships, Shouya shows an incredible talent for shogi, a traditional Japanese board game. He joins the Shishoukan Shogi Club, where he meets three other players: Kuroki, Akira, and Takemiya. Their lives intertwine as they train together, face off in competitions, and navigate the complexities of their personal lives.
While the primary focus of the series is Shouya’s growth as a shogi player, the romantic elements are subtly woven into the narrative. The most prominent romantic relationship is between Shouya and Akira, a girl who has been his childhood friend and confidant. Their bond is strong, but it is not the central focus of the story. Instead, the series explores the depth of their friendship and the emotional support they provide each other amidst the pressures of their lives.
The other romantic subplot involves Kuroki, who has a crush on Takemiya. This relationship adds another layer of complexity to the story, as it highlights the challenges of pursuing one’s own desires while supporting a friend. The series doesn’t shy away from the emotional turmoil that comes with unrequited love and the difficulty of balancing personal relationships with one’s passion for shogi.
What makes “Is March Comes in Like a Lion” a compelling romance is its ability to delve into the emotional nuances of its characters. The series doesn’t just focus on the surface-level romantic interests; it delves into the deeper connections between its characters, exploring themes of loss, love, and the search for identity. Shouya’s relationship with his mother, Yumi, is a poignant example of this, as they navigate the complexities of their strained relationship while trying to rebuild their lives.
In conclusion, while “Is March Comes in Like a Lion” may not be a traditional romance in the sense of a story solely focused on romantic relationships, it does incorporate romantic elements that add depth to the emotional journey of its characters. The series’ ability to explore the complexities of human emotions and relationships, both romantic and otherwise, makes it a compelling and thought-provoking anime that resonates with viewers long after the final episode.
