Hitohira TV Series

WJ · August 21st, 2007 08:23 AM

Major Credits:

Director: Nishimori Akira
Producer: Motohashi Hideyuki
Character Design: Yamanaka Junko, Sudo Masatomo
Art Director: Iijima Yukiko
Sound: Tsuruoka Yota
Based on the manga by: Kirihara Izumi

Summary: (from Anime News Network)

Asai Mugi, a new student at Kumataka arts academy, has trouble speaking when she is confronted with her extreme stage fright. Forced to join the schools Drama Research Society by upperclassmen, she gradually changes due to the influence of drama.

Review:

We all know that the world of anime is overabundantly filled with series revolving around high schools, and we've all seen our shares of unoriginal or downright crappy concoctions of premises and stories. But what Hitohira offers is a blend of realistic settings and believable characters centered around a theme/issue that many people can relate to, and it does o in a lighthearted yet touching fashion. Because a good mixture of humor and seriousness has been achieved in this case, the mood never swings too dramatically and viewers aren't subject to much of an emotional roller coaster (which can't be said for poor Mugi.)

Mugi, the protagonist of the series, has an incredibly powerful voice which is unfortunately suppressed by her timid personality and an extreme case of acute nervousness. To unearth Mugi's potential and save her own fledgling club in the process, Nono -- the quiet leader with a commanding presence -- "convinces" her to take part in the club. Other members of the club includes the extroverted Risaki and her brother Kai (who is pushed into the group by Risaki at the same time Mugi joins), along with the unassuming Takashi -- an object of one-way affection from a member of the rival Drama Club... Yes, there are two drama-related clubs in this school, and you'll have to watch the series to find out why.

The overall artwork is an example of making good use of contrast between light and darkness, between bright and dull colors, to highlight the frequent mood swings throughout the series. Both the OP (Yume, Hitohira by Asami Yuuko) and ED (Smile by Mizuhashi Mai) tracks are sweet, lighthearted tunes that underscore the nature of the series, and if you're not careful those songs will get stuck in your head and you'll be humming to yourself before you know it.

Overall Impression:

This is probably one of the most underrated series of 2007. Even though it touches on a sensitive and difficult subject for those who can relate to Mugi's problem, it's a feel-good series that will have you cheering for her every step of the way. Perhaps the plot itself might not be everyone's cup of tea, but the overall combination of visuals and sounds is very solid. It's very easy on your heart and emotions, yet is far from boring. And that's why Hitohira gets the WJ Seal of Approval.

Screenshots:

LostJounin · August 24th, 2007 06:37 PM

I also really enjoyed this series. Any anime that involves singing or music as it's general theme, is a winner for me

Moparx · August 26th, 2007 10:35 PM

It sounds like something that may interest me.
Now for the inevitable question: Is it licensed yet?

WJ · August 27th, 2007 08:55 AM

Not to my knowledge... But I think this is one of those Media Factory products.

#1 August 21st, 2007 08:23 AM

Hitohira TV Series

#2 August 24th, 2007 06:37 PM

Re: Hitohira TV Series

#3 August 26th, 2007 10:35 PM

Re: Hitohira TV Series

#4 August 27th, 2007 08:55 AM

Re: Hitohira TV Series

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