Raising children is not easy, and every parent or guardian knows exactly how to burden all the daily tasks, the sacrifices that need to be made in terms of work and social life, and the almost constant flow of considerations and concerns. The truth is that looking after children is one of the biggest causes of stress and gray hair (or hair loss), among adults, but given that most people in the world are (or will be) older people, it is rather strange that the topic The main is still rare in anime.

Again, those who want to watch shows about the trials and tribulations of raising children, especially when the fan service diet continues, explosions, brawny, heavy heroes over, plausible plots, pseudo-psychology, quantum - law, etc., apparently that applies to entertainment at this time. It is a sad fact that in a media where literally any story can be told, which can actually display anime in a positive light is constantly being ignored or completely ignored.

That is why Usagi Drop rarely happens.

Adapted from the josei manga by Unita Yumi, the story begins with Kawachi Daikichi, a 30-year-old salesman who has returned home to attend a family funeral. During his stay there, he learned that his deceased grandfather had an illegitimate daughter named Kaga Rin. No one knew who the girl's mother was, so the family began to argue about who would raise her until Daikichi, who became increasingly annoyed and disgusted with their behavior, asked Rin if he wanted to live with her.

Usagi Drop is one of the unusual adaptations in which the anime has tried to stay true to the source material, and while it places a number of restrictions on it, this series also managed to maintain the charm of the manga. The story develops with a measured pace that can sometimes feel rather slow, and there is a surprising lack of the top melodrama that so often characterizes such shows. This plot takes a much more mature approach to childcare issues than predicted, and while certain problems faced by Daikichi are specific to Japanese society, the overall theme is a theme that will resonate with anyone who has raised children.

This is also the reason why some viewers might not enjoy this anime, but we will discuss it a little.

In addition to the story, this artwork also strives to remain as honest as possible on the source material. Characters are depicted in a stylized form, and a rather simple approach to emotions is surprisingly expressive. Design is focused on showing everyone as an individual not only physically, but also in their construction, posture, and even movement. This animation is fluid, if a little utilitarian, and it is clear that attention has been paid to the physical nature and personality of each character. In addition, each episode begins and ends with a short, but the rather charming scene that is famous for its watercolor style palette used in it. The dichotomy between these scenes and the style and coloring used in the main part of the narrative add to the touch of a good book and is almost illustrated in the process.

In between these shorts and the story lies the opening and ending sequences, both of which are designed with children's paintings in mind. The opening theme, "Sweet Drop" by Puffy AmiYumi (yes, they are from Teen Titans and the fame of Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi), is a J-pop song that fits very well and matches Rin's character. Unlike the closing theme, "High High High" by Kasarinchu (a pop duo consisting of beatboxers and guitarists/singers), better reflects the overall atmosphere of the series.

As for background music, Usagi Drop features a variety of songs that are generally quite soft or cheerful, but often the scores are interspersed with slow and simple piano songs to highlight the more sensitive moments of the story.

Now it's trite to say that good acting can bring to life all kinds of stories and give it a feeling of something new and different, but in this case, it is actually a true statement. Simple but natural scripts allow more room to express themselves than expected, and with a little melodrama being produced, all players (especially child actors), are able to give some very valuable performances.

The most interesting character in Usagi Drop is, without a doubt, Kawachi Daikichi. Part of the reason is that most of the story is told from his perspective, but he is also one of the most famous adult male players in the anime to date. From the beginning, he was proven to be an individual complete with his own thoughts, habits, and values, and instead of trying to develop them, the narrative was more focused on developing himself through his relationship with Rin, and the problems, worries, and sacrifices he made. work to be a good parent.

On the other hand, Rin knew very well how someone expected children of his age to be curious, precocious, and somewhat interested in people he didn't know. Like Daikichi, he doesn't really develop as a character but instead shows a little girl who slowly accepts her new life and comes out of her shell. Now, this is surprising because this is a clear message about how difficult children are tough and how they can overcome it as long as they know they have the support of the adults who care for them.

Speaking of support, apart from the two leads there are a number of well-written characters in Usagi Drop, both adults, and children, and their presence in the story really completes everything. For example, the strong friendship between Nitani Kouki and Rin, or the slightly confusing interest between Daikichi and Kouki's mother, Yukari, all add to the overall charm of the series. In addition, one of the things that really stands out about Usagi Drop is the lack of relationship-related anxiety. Although there are events such as the death of Daikichi's grandfather, this does not create narration, and this allows for some interesting interactions and dynamics to emerge, a prime example of this is the bond that develops between the two main characters.

Usagi Drop is a simple, direct and interesting story about what it means to be a parent, and while stories and characters are presented in an ideal form, this does not really reduce one's enjoyment in the show. It goes without saying that anyone with experience raising children will be able to more easily relate to a number of themes in the show, but it must be pointed out that the plot is simple enough to allow anyone to enjoy it.

Which brings us back to why some people don't like this series.

Apart from the sometimes slow speed, the main theme of this event is a theme that may not be liked by many young fans (and even some older fans), especially if their desire for action, heavy melodrama, etc. It seems that Usagi Drop is nothing more than a piece of light life drama that only differs from people like Aishiteruze Baby because full adults play roles in the role of parents rather than teenage playboys, but there are more shows than that.

The simple fact is that this anime is one of the rare titles that does not use the word "adult" as a marker of violence, gore, sexual content, etc., and this makes it almost unique when people consider the event released last year. Emphasis on realism, although in form the ideal, might also be a factor because there are some people out there who want pure and blurred fantasy.

Whatever your opinion or taste, one thing remains true - Usagi Drop is clearly aimed at a more mature audience than usual. The fact that it does not demean the creator with useless blood, violence or fan service, or insult the viewer's intelligence by explaining everything that happens, is what sets it apart from the many other slices of life seen there.

"Daikichi ... Daikichi, wake up."

"... mmhhh ... Yes."

I feel happy. Why? Yes, because this show is so precise that it's hard not to do it. Usagi Drop remained true to the essence of the manga (before the time lag) and did not stray far, if at all, from the development of the original story. It captures the beautiful little nuance of an abnormal parent-child reality.

Our lives are full of insignificance. Get up easily and half-alert, wash your teeth, brush your face, find valuables, shop for groceries without a list. The nonsense that we experience every day but clean it and forget it soon after. This is an experience that almost everyone can connect with but never share with each other because it is something that is not worth sharing. So of course, connecting between irrelevant pieces is a meaningful moment that is unforgettable to remember. And we want to save those precious moments by documenting them. It is our nature to try and preserve the best time in our lives in various forms. So when something like Usagi Drop comes to symbolize 'life', boring and beautiful, we can truly connect with their characters and stories on a more personal level.

Rin is simple, caring, independent and responsible. He is very mature but then not without the traits that you find always present in children his age. Fun, curious, and truly adorable! In terms of love, he is equivalent to Ushio in my book. You just want to squeeze the small cheek and hold it until he dies of asphyxiation. He is HNNNGGable. Needless to say, his expressions were signs of love and sincere appreciation, even for something like a bad attempt to tie a pigtail. How he felt showed his face clearly on a sunny day. And the window where we can see all sides of him is Daikichi.

Daikichi is a very easy man, both in personality and appearance. In addition, he nurtures, is compassionate, and protects. Sometimes it's a little awkward but comes with work. Not to say I don't like my father, I love him, but Daikichi is the type of father I hope I grow up with. He juggles his new responsibilities well with work and still manages to maintain good relations with everyone around him. Standing as guardian for your grandfather's illegitimate son might not be easy, so I think he deserves to rest here and there for his Group. Watching Daikichi really breathes the fresh air of what is happening with all high school/university kids who focus on anime. What you get is a middle-aged man who is just trying to do his best to meet his needs and a warmer new home.

TWO small home heaters consider the frequency of Kouki's visits. He and his mother are two more people who you will like when they interact with Rin and Daikichi. Aside from his obvious cunning, Kouki is a good kid and that is seen in his obedient but protective behavior towards Rin. Seeing their close friendship and open chemistry between Yukari and Kawachi, it's easy to imagine them becoming family in the near future. In fact, beyond the conclusion of the event, you could say they were family.

And because art and animation are relatively smooth, we can see how they get very close. The soft watercolor-Esque scene starts each episode before the opening song rolls. This is really a great way to overtake most episodes. Character design is very simple but no need to bother. With a few extra touches of realism, happy to know that they change clothes every day and night and that Daikichi grows a beard if he doesn't shave every day like other adult men. The background is subtle but detailed; from cracks on the sidewalk to packaged market meat, everything looks easy on oculars.

To complete the animation is writing that shines through dialogue. The appearance of Ayu and Tsuchida as Rin and Daikichi's voice left a few more questions. Thanks to them and others, the lecture that took place in the show became one of its strengths. For example, in one episode, Daikichi and Harumi, Reina's mother, had a serious discussion about the issue of Harumi's marriage intercepted by Rin. But notice this, Reina took him aside and showed him how he overcame when mom and dad didn't get along well. Not something that is seen every day, you get the perspective of children and parents when things don't go well at home. Really, children are attracted to such times and it is good to see that anime takes this detail. And it's not only those I listed that have a depth of character, but everyone has their own charm about them and grows, if only a little, in their own way in a span of only one year.

Now soundwise, piano melodies and acoustic environments match everything around them on the screen. The opening/closing songs are two very cheating jingles. Interestingly it's not enough to sample my replays every week. Actually, I would never know that the group that did the opening was the same group that made the Teen Titans theme song (one of my favorites) if I didn't look for it. Nostalgia, wow! From their towers, they can see that together, music works in determining the way the scene is played.

Usagi Drop is a touching story from an unusual family that lives and learns how to adjust to their strange circumstances. It handles themes such as the importance of family values ​​and the trials of raising children with great consideration for their audience.

Regardless of the title, I suggest not to drop this anime because sitting down to watch Rin and Daikichi go through childhood/parenthood is an experience that should be appreciated. And I, of course, already.