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(DVD Set)

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If you’re in the mood for…

A heartwarming family/friends drama that’s uplifting and relaxing

My rating: 5/5

Plot Summary

Recently orphaned Tohru Honda was content living in a tent in the woods, until one day she stumbles upon a nearby neighbor’s home- where it just so happens (!) popular pretty boy Yuki Sohma lives with his cousin Shigure. And they just so happen to be looking for a housekeeper to help run their mess of a home…the next thing Tohru knows she’s moving in with the “prince” of her high school (lucky girl!) and learning of their mysterious family curse. Twelve of the Sohma family members are possessed by the animal spirits of the Chinese zodiac, and when they are hugged by a member of the opposite sex, they transform into that animal! Understandably, hijinks ensue as Tohru and the Sohmas tries to keep their secret while trying to lead otherwise ordinary lives.

Review Notes

As you can tell from my top 5 list, I love this anime. Sure it might sound cutesy or sweet, and is definitely well described by “heartwarming,” but it is also a drama that keeps you entertained with the combination of novel premise and good character development. Maybe I’ve just watched it so many times I’ve become brainwashed…but Fruits Basket is one of the most relaxing, happy, and endearing animes that I’ve watched. It just puts me in a good mood watching how the characters care about each other, grow to be able to express themselves better, and try to help those around them. There are some dark secrets in the Sohma family, and most of the characters have insecurities that make them doubt themselves sometimes; but in the end they support each other through any difficult times.

The Gossip Report

So this anime is mostly about family, friendship, and trying to be a good person…But of course the most interesting part is the drama and romance (just a little in the anime). There’s this slight romantic tension between Tohru, Yuki, and Kyo, and while it is slight, that’s what makes it so maddening! And also so good, sigh. But honestly, why can’t anyone in these shows ever realize how they really feel, and tell someone??? Is it really that hard?? (Ok well maybe it is…) I know the whole romance thing gets resolved in the manga, but the anime just leaves you wondering…Yuki, or Kyo? Yuki is able to be himself with Tohru, and he is the popular prince and all. But Kyo has the bad-boy attitude but obviously has a sweet spot for Tohru. I wish they would make a second installment of the anime, but I know they won’t…so I will have to wait until I can catch up with reading the manga.