Okay, let's talk about Rei Kiriyama. He's the main character of March Comes In Like a Lion, or 3-gatsu no Lion, if you're feeling fancy.
Imagine this: you're super good at your job, like, ridiculously talented. But it doesn't make you happy, not even a little bit. Sound familiar to anyone?
The Shogi Prodigy Problem
Rei is a shogi (Japanese chess) prodigy. By the time he's a teenager, he's already a professional, crushing opponents left and right.
Think of it like being Mozart at checkers. Impressive? Sure. Fulfilling? Apparently not so much.
He's living alone, battling loneliness and this vague, persistent feeling that something's...off. It’s like he’s eating a pizza, but someone forgot the sauce. The crust is perfect, but the overall experience is…missing something.
Enter the Kawamoto Sisters!
This is where things get interesting. Rei meets the Kawamoto sisters: Akari, Hinata, and Momo.
These three are like a burst of sunshine in Rei's perpetually gloomy existence. They're warm, caring, and practically drown him in home-cooked meals and genuine affection.
Seriously, these sisters could probably solve world hunger with the sheer amount of food they make. It's enough to make you drool!
More Than Just Shogi
March Comes In Like a Lion isn't just about shogi. It's about family, friendship, and finding your place in the world.
It's about dealing with grief, overcoming anxiety, and realizing that even the most stoic person needs a hug sometimes. Rei's internal struggles are something many can relate to.
It's about realizing that even when you feel like you're failing spectacularly, there are people who believe in you. People who would offer you a warm bowl of rice and a shoulder to cry on.
Emotional Rollercoaster (with Cats!)
Be warned: this anime is an emotional rollercoaster. One minute you'll be laughing at Momo's adorable antics, the next you'll be reaching for the tissues during a poignant scene.
And did I mention the cats? There are cats everywhere, adding a much-needed dose of fluffiness to some pretty heavy situations. They’re basically emotional support animals, and they're purr-fect!
The visuals are absolutely stunning, too! The art style is unique and expressive, and the animation is fluid and captivating. Seriously, you could frame almost any scene from this show and hang it on your wall.
Why You Should Watch It
March Comes In Like a Lion is a masterpiece. A certified, gold-plated, emotionally resonant masterpiece.
It's funny, heartwarming, and thought-provoking. It's a show that will stay with you long after you've finished watching it.
It’s not just about understanding shogi; it's about understanding the human heart. Even if you know absolutely nothing about shogi (I certainly didn't!), you'll still be hooked.
So, if you're looking for an anime that will make you laugh, cry, and feel all the feels, look no further. March Comes In Like a Lion is waiting for you.
Get ready for an amazing ride!
Just be sure to have a box of tissues handy. You'll thank me later.
