March Comes In Like A Lion | GR Anime Review

[@mishi583]

About your criticism regarding shogi: I have absolutely no clue about shogi and that's alright because the shogi matches in this anime are ultimately just a representation of the characters' internal struggles. 3-gatsu no Lion isn't your typical sports anime and shouldn't be watched as such.

[@princessthyemis]

Yeah!!!

[@D3sToD3s]

I think he needs a prequel with the story of Queens Gambit to explain the game to him. Queens Gambit is great btw. 👍 But this series would spiral into a Yu-Gi-Oh like structure where the side characters always explain what's going on, because the game is so goddamn complex. It can turn on a dime by moving a peasant over the enemies line and turning the piece into another one... wich obviously would be represented by a transformation animation and reaction shots of all spectators.

[@thelegendaryklobb2879]

Except for the people in Japan that DO know shogi. The manga was written in very close collaboration with a professional shogi player, and there are lots of end of chapter commentaries, stories and explanations on the world of shogi. Just not about the basics. I see this as 2 ways: if you're a shogi player, this manga and anime offer a massive additional layer for you to analyze. If you're not, I think the the emotional impact of the game is very well developed even if you don't get what's exactly happening on the board. And maybe it entices you to learn about shogi (one of the manga goals, to promote shogi in Japan) And I disagree with Arkada, there is indeed a commentary. It's mostly directed at readers/viewers that play shogi, true, but it is there. Even Kiriyama himself is sometimes acting as a commentator for the TV airing of some match. But I myself managed to grasp at least some of the implications of the moves albeit not knowing anything about shogi. You don't NEED to know the game to understand what's happening, the inner monologue of the players and the commentary of the viewers make it quite clear (at least for me)

[@aeirie-ii1993]

Why people talk about queen gambit or any gambit in shogi lol, no queen in shogi first and shogi is complex play that really slow unlike chess, thats why try force chess logic into shogi kinda weird tbh.

[@KenLeeCC]

i absolutely aree! this anime is very good in "show, don't tell" and it's a good thing. we don't need more useless expositions that WILL half-ass explaining shogi, if u wanna learn it, GOOGLE IT! and this is what this youtube video failed at, u just wasted 10 minutes on shogi that is absolutely unnecessary. Some more about the "show, don't tell" aspects, it is super depressing but there's a strong light at the end of the tunnel, and this is why it is one of my favourites.

[@tonberry1924]

"After she said that, she pulled my hand like in a dance and she started pulling me steadily. -And in my heart one more time I vowed loyalty to that brave little girl that would never bend her will no matter how much she cried or how much it hurt."

[@me-myself76]

This scene gave me chills

[@Emre.55]

Why did I almost tear up again just by reading this...

[@Eleckis]

Care to tell me in which episode that quote was. It really has been 4 whole years since this masterpiece closed its 2nd season off~

[@me-myself76]

@@Eleckis Season two episode 13(?)

[@Eleckis]

@@me-myself76 I did watch that episode yesterday after some research, but the quote when she pulled Rei's hand wasn't nearly the same~ 🤔

[@Indarow]

Hina’s story rings really true for me as well. I was bullied by my 6th grade teachers. Not my classmates, MY TEACHERS. I wasn’t given credit for assignments, one held me after school AND after the final bus (which was 2 hours after classes ended) and another gaslit me into believing that I was delusional and making stuff up in my head. The only reason I know my memories of those events are accurate is because several of my classmates later confirmed them. They’d be incredibly kind and caring during parent/teacher conferences and then turn around and degrade me the next day. Finally on a shadow day the worst of my teachers lashed out at me for not reading during the first 15 minutes of class. My mom expected her to address the parents in the classroom and asked me not to start reading in case she wanted to say something. I told her that the teacher will yell at me and my mom said that wouldn’t happen because she was so nice in their conferences… well, every single parent in the room got to see that woman’s true nature laid bare. Let’s just say they were outraged. Best day of the whole year, and one of the few good ones. After that my parents almost pulled me out of the school to go somewhere else, but the superintendent (who is a wonderful man that I genuinely respect) assured us he’d try to alleviate the situation. Things did get a little bit better after that, but those teachers were tenured and he wasn’t able to let them go, so they continued to hold distain for me the rest of my time at that school. Thankfully in 7th and 8th grade I moved on to a new slate of teachers (who were much better) and I didn’t interact with my 6th grade teachers at all. The really bad one was even moved from an active teaching role to an IT role after students in years following mine ended up having similar experiences.

[@000petar000]

Hearing about so many stories like yours makes me feel sick in my stomach and feel that i've been really lucky even though there was discrimination in my school, it was nowhere near that level of abuse. The worst teachers in my school would mostly focus on just best students and that can really mess up with a kid's head when his work is dismissed and he stops trying to do homework or do anything special after. My best friend gave up math for this reason as our math teacher didn't even grade the papers correctly, she gave you the grade she thought you deserved based on how you solved problems on the board previously, so even if you studied specifically for a test, she would invalidate your answers and just say you cheated. When we were 13 or 14, i don't remember how it was organized but there was an IQ test done for my class and i ended up scoring the highest while my teacher kept yelling at the guys that performed the IQ test on us that it was not possible for me and that i was just guessing because her favorite kid didn't score as much or higher, this didn't really have much of an effect at me as i was already kind of used to it and i never really focused on learning what they were teaching in school.

[@Ash_Wen-li]

I think comparing San-Gatsu to Grave of the Fireflies is unfair. The show gets much more uplifting as it goes on meaning that subsequent watch throughs are more positive because you know where the characters will end up Edit: Also you got a key point about Rei wrong. Rei actually doesn't like shogi. He's rather apathetic towards it. The only reason he desired to play was because it was the only connection he could share with his father.

[@Metranomix]

I actually agreed with Arkada's take although I understand your point. For me watching Sangatsu was like an experience and I absolutely loved it, but I can't bring myself to watch it again. Though I think this is more something to do with me being happy to remember the series as it was at the time when I watched it.

[@edleemu]

I totally agree

[@m0sterious]

My all time favorite show. While I agree on the depressing moments at the show being very powerful, I don't think I've ever experienced a piece of media that made me joyful as much as 3-gatsu made me at the happy times. The contrast was so powerful, I never related with a show so much, in basically all of its moments.

[@bomb_killfojoy8]

Watch your lie in April.

[@firstman1091]

​@@bomb_killfojoy8not even close. Your lie in April's characters are one dimensional. Typical romance anime. The only good moment is the son and mother.

[@Ikbob11]

I'm the opposite of what your intro suggests, Arkada. I loved watching BECAUSE it made me feel all those feelings, despite suffering under them in my own life. It wasn't an escape, it was an embrace. As if I were the one being loved by Akari, Hina, and Momo. I got to watch my boy Rei slowly come to terms with himself and gain the strength to move forward. It was inspiring to me and I think everyone should try it I might even rewatch it if I'm bored enough Side not: the op I am Standing is the most freeing tune, makes you feel like you have wings!

[@caseypace717]

This is exactly how I feel about the show too!

[@Solidude4]

My experience as well. I could relate so much to aspects of it and that's why I loved it.

[@PsychoPenguin1919]

I knew there was something special about March Comes in Like a Lion during the first season, but I did feel it was a bit hard to really get into. And then season 2 comes around and it just completely blew me away and drew me in. There are so many powerful moments and lessons in season 2 that make this show really shine compared to many others out there.

[@shaolinfang3520]

Truly this show is a once in a lifetime experience

[@Ash_Wen-li]

Season 1 has a bit of a slow section which can feel especially jarring if you go in thinking it's a sports anime not a character drama

[@andreay9935]

Yes, I tried season one. I watch episode after episode to get into it, but I couldn't get into it, but I really wanted to have the full experience. Even now and then I watch clips because how deep it is, but haven't fully watch it. Maybe I'll try again.

[@YitzharVered]

I think that the Shogi scenes being boring and unengaging is very intentional on the series' part. It shows on the one hand how Kiriyama, while good at the game, doesn't truly feel much passion towards it. In addition, it shows how the story *around* the game is the important part, not the game itself (need I remind your of a very special arc at the end of the series?). Just my thoughts on the matter!

[@catdogfishdogcats]

Yeah I think that Arkada spent way too much time harping on it not being explained when the point isn't how skilled Rei is, rather his relationship with Shogi, how it affects his life, and how Shogi has affected his relationships. The sisters didn't even know how good he was, because it didn't matter, and he hid this fact from the younger ones. His classmates don't really know About his Professional Shogi, just his teacher/Advisor who also does not discuss shogi with him, rather discusses it's life affect on him. His relationships with his prior family are about how the game is poison, and also sustaining Rei, Rei doesn't particularly like the game, but he is good at it,and it allowed him to leave his old house and live alone. So can it really be all that bad? Yet it left him isolated from his classmates, estranged from his prior family,and this baggage isn't what he wants to show the sisters.

[@Ash_Wen-li]

I guess he had the expectation of it being a sports anime

[@Strider_Shinryu]

Yeah, I wouldn't say that I ever felt lost during the shogi sections simply because, well, they largely didn't really matter. There were times were shogi mattered and even in those times the moves and strategies were often metaphorical. The exact details weren't at all important. At other times, as said, the matches were just background for other things. I would have actually hated if there was some side character specifically introduced to explain shogi and it's rules. That would have felt beyond artificial and would have completely broken the flow of the show.

[@yarion4774]

@@Strider_Shinryu this. Sangatsu is no Haikyuu. The technical and mechanical side of the game does not matter as much to the narrative. It matters for the characters which is why it's so prominent. To explain the role of shogi in this show would need its own essay but understanding the game is just not important.

[@Cowmoo83]

@@catdogfishdogcats This orientation toward the game also explains the connections between the main and “side” stories. They’re all about peoples’ relationships with their passion-good and bad, healthy and unhealthy. The fact that this passion is Shogi is largely inconsequential. Most of the times we follow Rei, but other characters’ experiences build on this theme extensively. The transitions between stories felt smooth to me because I felt like I was following a theme as opposed to just the characters. Even the bullying sub-arc is partially related to living life on one’s own terms and finding one’s place in the world…similar to how many of the characters are exploring their relationship with their passion (Shogi), what their life is because of it, and sometimes what their life would be like without it.

[@TheBrokenBeays]

I always thought of San-Gatsu as a show that demonstrates an incredibly realistic take on recovery. Namely recovery from sadness. The overall trend is up and Kiriyama ends the show in a much better place than where he starts, but it is not a straight shot upward. There are ups and downs. The somewhat happier demeanor that he achieves by the end is not that everything is amazing or that everything will be okay no matter what, but it makes me think of the phrase: "I'll keep moving forward" in a much more nuanced way than most shows or narratives do.

[@princessthyemis]

Yeah exactly! He doesn't magically get over it but he just learns to live with it. it'll always be a part of him. I really like that the show did that!

[@Token_Nerd]

Hina is the biggest chad in Anime. That fact alone makes it deserve a 10/10 I would argue that the series juxtaposes the sufferings of depression and anxiety of each of the main characters with the hope and brightness of their peers insanely well. The Kawamoto sisters (especially Hina) supporting Rei through his times of unknowing, especially with regards to his personal situation Nikaido, Smith and Shimada supporting Rei through his struggles with shogi as a competitor and a player Hayashida and Noguchi supporting Rei through his struggles at school But it's not just Rei who's getting supported: Hina gains the support of Rei, Takahashi, and her family during the bullying arc Hina gains the support of Rei during the high school exams arc Akari gains the support of Rei and Hina during her own struggles with standing up for herself Nikaido gains the support of Shimada and Rei during his health struggles Shimada gains the support of Rei and his friends/family back home when trying to go against Souya Souya gains the support of Rei during the poor weather incident Noguchi and Hayashida support one another throughout their friendship When you juxtapose these relationships with those of Kyouko and Gotou for instance, you can see the the balance of support which showcases the toxic nature of their relationship.

[@Ash_Wen-li]

I definitely think you're off the mark with your Shogi criticism. San-Gatsu is not a sports anime, it's an introspective character drama. The goal isn't for Rei to become the best or show us thrilling and engaging games. It's to show us how the game and interactions between people shape each others' lives

[@princessthyemis]

YES!!! EXACTLY!

[@SastredelDesastre]

perfectly described :)

[@sharkchannel61]

Even in that case they are too basic, games in Kaiji or Akagi were thrilling and also showed interactions between people, psychological aspect was very strong. Like showing an engaging game and also psychological depths of characters are not mutually exclusive to each other. Though I wouldn't point shogi as the biggest flaw in Sangatsu no Lion, but it definetly coud be executed better

[@Ash_Wen-li]

@@sharkchannel61 But that's a personal preference. The show isn't trying to be about gripping matches in the slightest. I don't think it's fair to criticise a show for choosing not to do something it doesn't want to do

[@alphacult6873]

For the Shogi part, they do have the internal monologue and other characters state what’s going on. They don’t exactly explain the moves, they state what position the game is currently, who’s winning and what they’re thinking. I will say that they do need to explain some rules but that part isn’t true. Also Shimada is like a secondary main character idk what you mean thrown away.

[@moonstonepearl21]

I got screwed over by my school with bullying too. I'm so sorry you had to go through that. I know of three families in my town who moved because of the bullying problem. In Japan, bullying seems to be a whole new level of horrible :(

[@Ignir]

March Comes in Like a Lion is my favourite series of all time. I always found it one of the most uplifting. It's excessively personal, dramatic, and loving. Little else I've seen is able to contrast the positive and negative aspects of life so flawlessly. Thank you for covering it.

[@Kriss_941]

March Comes in Like a Lion was that show for me that really hit me. Really resonated with me and made me realize my own problems... At the time when I watched it I was in university, I had always done well in school, had always gotten good grades, however I never worked for it. I had also played Handball up untill I moved for Uni and at a decently high level at that. My dad had been my coach and so even if it was never explicitly stated, I had always felt this pressure, same in school. I always felt like everyone had high expectations of me, although in later years I realize it may have been more me than anyone else. These expectations however all came crashing down at the same time, I had quit handball, which on it's own was very hard to do, and in uni I could no longer cruise on "raw talent" so my academic performance started taking a big hit as well. I felt like I was just fucking up at every turn and I started to isolate myself away from everyone else, I would hardly ever leave my apartment yet alone my room. My days were spent sleeping, watching anime and playing games. I just dropped off the map and it became a negative feedback loop where I knew I had to do something and I knew that I should try to go out and hang out with people, but the longer I waited the harder it was to reach out and it just kept building... It was in this time I watched March Comes in Like a Lion and I won't say that it fixed anything, because it's not that easy, but I guess you could say that it opened my eyes and it really resonated with me, because in some ways I believe it helped. Realizing your problems is the first step towards improving and to me this show was a big part of what made me recognize my problems and for that it will always have a special place in my heart.

[@katarinajokanovic1872]

I really relate to your story. I finished this anime few days ago while i was (still am) in this depressive rut of ex-prodigy child. I guess this anime isn't for everyone but once you watch it and pay attention to it, it makes you feel a little bit less alone in your little bubble of self deprecation.

[@Tsugandate]

Probably still the anime that has had the biggest emotional impact on me since I started watching anime. I'm sure it won't resonate with everyone just as strongly, but nowadays I'd find it odd if someone wasn't able to relate to any of the characters in the story, and be moved by their struggles and the beautiful things they go through as the show goes on, there are just so many incredible emotional moments, and I'm glad I was able to witness them. Here's hoping for a third season, hopefully sometime before 2030.

[@MohamedAshraf-fv8jk]

I *RELATE* THIS IS MY FAV ANIME EVER i set myself a timer ⏳, if this anime didn't get a a third season in 3 years i will read the whole manga, i have been waiting for 4 years already

[@alarik2187]

I think you missed the main point of the show. The focus isn't the shogi, but the characters and their feelings. It isn't a sport anime but a slice of life with the shogi as a pretext to tell a story. So loosing time explaining the shogi would break the immersion of the viewer and remove the focus from the feelings of characters and put it on something that didn't help the naration and isn't needed to enjoy the show. Also, I think that watching anime juste to empty your head isn't a great way to watch anime. It keep the industry moving in a bad direction where easy to produce "junk food" anime are produce in masse and more inovative / deeper works are less frequents.

[@jr637-1]

My favorite anime of all time. Chika Umino has made only two manga but she literally can’t miss. That scene where Rei is screaming in the park is the exact moment where I knew this show would be my favorite.

[@Treegona]

You're usually pretty good at these analyses, but I feel you've missed the mark entirely on Kiriyama's relationship with Shogi. He *doesn't* like shogi. He doesn't hate it or anything, he's just kinda dispassionate about it. But his dad was a pro shogi player, and playing together was one of the ways in which they could spend time together. And when his parents died, Kiriyama already saw that his family Did Not want to take him in, so when Kouda asks him if he likes shogi, Kiriyama sees it as literally the only way out of a Bad Place. Kouda's home turns out to be pretty toxic too, but it's better than Kiriyama's relatives would have been. Then, at Kouda's home, Kiriyama feels pressured to perform, or else forfeit his right to a place as Kouda's apprentice. Then, when he becomes a semi-adult and moves out, it's his literal bread and butter. Kiriyama doesn't like shougi, but it is his often literal lifeline. He's grown an affinity towards it, but that's more because it's all he does in his life, and he's gotten kinda good at it. Any analysis of him, his history and the choices laid before him that doesn't touch on the fact that he's basically a no-Reigen, real life equivalent to Mob (of _Psycho 100_ fame) is woefully incomplete. Also Akari's future is a thing that is discussed: she's basically locked into the role of housemother until she is in her 30s, because of the age gap between her and Momo. There was at least one story line that focused on the fact that she's basically sacrificing the best years of her life, because of the circumstances and choices that lead her family to where it is. Later parts of the manga go into.... how. and why? and you're going to build a list of characters who you thought you didn't like, but now understand better, and a list of characters who you *hate.* At this point my list is two dads long. Go read it.

[@DJKAFRUNEN]

I started this anime with a little bit of scepticism but it rapidly became one of my favorites ever: The music, Shaft's amazing animation to match what the characters are feeling (The "burnt field" is one of the best things I've ever seen in any work of fiction), the characters themselves... One thing: Is it just me who find the sound of the shogi pieces hitting the table so...satisfying or relaxing or something? xD

[@edgarfranciscootalora468]

What a joy to hear a deep analysis of one of my favorite, if not the favorite, anime I have ever watched. Despite that, I kinda agree on the lows, I actually don't care and I can see that anime as many times as possible, also please read the manga because it is the most beautiful thing imaginable. Funny enough it's kind of my happy place to go when I have a bad time, it's almost a reminder of how everyone just keeps going and can enjoy his life with a bit of company. Just beauty

[@althesilly]

It’s not a story about Shogi. It’s a show about pain.

[@jethrokustner1708]

March Comes In Like A Lion fills my heart with a certain warmth I have never found in any other story

[@martecoronel]

This one is truly a jewel of an anime. Yes, it deals with depressing things but it does so in such a great way. And just like you mentioned, that's the reason the endearing, cute moments shine so brightly. You know, just as you began to tell Kiriyama's story, I got suddenly invaded by this commotion, feeling my eyes well up. And to think I've watched this anime so long ago and it still manages to move at the mere reminiscence of Rei... It's a masterpiece.

[@aquaarietta]

SOOO many thoughts! First off, THANK YOU for finally reviewing Sangtsu! I can't believe this show is as old as it is. I've rewatched a number of times over the years, and I have to be honest that I think it will be extremely hard for anything to top this as my favorite anime/manga series of all time. While I agree with some of the downsides about the lack of shogi explanation or the somewhat disjointed narrative at times, I also think you summed it up perfectly at the end. The shogi itself really doesn't matter - because this isn't *really* a sports anime at its core. It's just one of the many layers. I think the manga does a bit better explaining more detail with commentary letters from a real shogi player (btw, the English manga is finally getting published later this year!). Really, Chica Umino uses it as a vehicle for exploring her incredibly complex and realistic characters (not unlike those of her work Honey and Clover). Even when side characters get their time to shine, I think it really fleshes out the world that Kiriyama is finding himself in, as we all do when we become adults and learn the deep nuances of life and the struggle of others older than us. Kind of like when you realize your parents are just people for the first time. What I also think was missing from the video was how Kiriyama learns and takes on responsibility while also learning how not to run away from his past or hard things to face in the present. It's a show about choosing to live, choosing to fight in the face of everything trying to keep you down. It's why Kiriyama calls Hinata his savior, not only because she stood up for what was right but also I believe because she inspires him so much. I could go on forever tbh, but Sangatsu really holds such a special place in my heart and always will. That said, you're right that it's not for everyone. But I will also still highly recommend it. I just hope we all live to see its conclusion in some form someday ❤️

[@Nkanyiso_K]

A brilliant story, I love the visual story telling & expressive animation. The character drama was incredible, and there was a good balance between the warmth he experienced from his friend and his past / his shogi journey

[@ВиталийКарнаухов-з9л]

I find all that shogi rant pretty stupid. Not even once did i think shogi matches were boring or i didnt understand whats going on. Not to mention that shogi in itself isnt a major piece in the story. It's there, it has its role,, but if could be chess or "go" and nothing would change at all. Sangatsu no lion is a very good show and to point shogi as a major setback is in my honest oppinoion is not making it justice.

[@Toucanbird]

I will say this…I suffer from extreme anxiety and depression…and Sangatsu no Lion is one of my favorite anime of all-time. So I think your disclaimer at the beginning is not a one size fits all. I think it is very possible to suffer from anxiety and depression and still find it to be a very enjoyable series. In fact, I’ve watched the show three times and I definitely could watch it again. I think what the show does extremely well is character growth. As the series progresses, Rei and the Kawamoto sisters grow immensely and it actually breaks my heart that we don’t have any more seasons on the horizon because the manga continues to build Rei into a very well-defined character that is night and day a different person from when the series started. I think the series does a phenomenal job of showing the trials and tribulations of Rei and how he was able to overcome them…and how having the right people in his life shown a light on it. Seeing Rei overcome his anxiety to be is rather uplifting, but at the same time, his experiences also help him help the people around him when they go through various trials. In a sense, Rei and the Kawamotos are great supports for one another because they help each other. One thing I would like to correct/clarify you on (and this is coming more from a manga reader’s perspective). Saying that the Kawamoto sisters “lost” both their parents is a little misleading. It makes it sound like their father is dead…which isn’t the case…he’s just a dead beat piece of shit that abandoned his daughters for a woman he cheated on his wife with. I know, that maybe kinda spoilery since the anime doesn’t really get into that but the manga does (after the events of the first two seasons, so if there was a third season, they’d probably go into it more), but I wouldn’t call that a HUGE spoiler since you can probably glean right away that there’s a disconnect when the Kawamoto sisters talk about their mother and grandmother, but don’t say a word about their father. To be honest, I’m okay with not really understanding a lot of the aspects of shogi because I wouldn’t exactly say it’s a game I’m super invested in. I think if the show tried to add more commentary to the games, I think it may have slowed down the pace of the show and I didn’t think the show was necessarily that fast paced in the first place, so I’d hate for it to get bogged down by commentary on a game that really should take a back seat to the main plot. That was actually something that annoyed me about Chihayafuru (which is a series I love btw) because it felt like an entire season would go along and it felt like barely anything would happen because a whole tournament would take up 5-6 episodes. As far as recommendations are concerned, I always recommend it to people, but add the caveat that it’s a series that deals pretty heavily with anxiety and depression, but the story is about the process of overcoming that. I can understand why it’s tough to recommend because I actually didn’t watch it until about 2 years after it’s release because I didn’t give a crap about shogi (which is what I thought was the “main” focus of the show). To me, it’s not a sports show. It’s a “character-building show.”

[@MohamedAshraf-fv8jk]

3 gatsu no lion is my fav anime of all times i have rewatched it twice, one of these 2 times was when i had mild depression symptoms, i didn't skip any single scene, it helped me a lot. the sad parts is balanced with the heart warming parts making it much more impactful and happy to watch, or this what i think

[@decusq]

When i watched this anime for the first time, it made me think, what we do to survive everyday vs how to live everyday. The main character doesn't enjoy Shogi as one does, he sees it as a means of survival, from the moment he was adopted to the point where he uses it as a means to live on his own. He's yet to see life as something worth living until he experiences life with others who reach out to him. This was the anime that shows that we as humans can survive on our own, but we cannot live on our own. We even see other characters in the show how they struggle and survive everyday life versus how they live when they have a moment to be free of survival. Whether it's social survival, surviving bills, competition, family matters, drama. Then we see how everyone Lives day to day, how they enjoy themselves and with the people they want to share it with. There was a moment in this show that made me genuinely cry when Rei reached out beyond his reach to help someone in their worst hour and it made me think when did i do something close to kindness as that?

[@Gummylongtail]

season 2 is amazing... I love hina and co... I adored Rei...I love everything about this show I feel like a large part of who I am comes from this show...

[@joserivera5633]

I would love another season of this show it’s one of my favorites especially since the arc that comes next is really good. But hey I’ll wait as long as I need to even if it never comes out

[@RemedialRob]

I think I've finally figured out why I'm so unhappy every time GR does a video on anime that I like. I could say it's because I've come to the conclusion that GR doesn't actually like anime at all, never has, and is gaslighting us all into arguing about things that already have broad appeal (I mean Jesus wept people "March Comes In Like A Lion" wasn't just an amazing two full seasons of anime; Japan loves it so much there's been live action films and series as well) but that's not exactly true. I think GR likes a very specific anime and that GR has become indicative of that young, Emo anime fan who's seen it all, is jaded and disdainful of anything new or popular, and is generally chasing that first "Crack high" of anime from his youth that most people understand will never come again. You can't unsee Akira or Princess Mononoke but if you could I'm certain a lot if people would just knowing how much they loved it the first time they saw it. And that would be exactly the kind of mistake that I think GR would make. I think GR is chasing his memories of all those perfect anime of his youth. And even when he intellectually understands they weren't perfect and that it was who he was at the time, the times themselves, and many other factors that created all those squishy chemicals in his brain that lead him to that time of nirvana; he still seems to put those rose colored glasses back on whoever he looks at anything new to him. Preconceptions are hard to overcome and if your thing becomes passively farting on an entire industry because they can't quite hook you up with the same high, high you got watching Cowboy Bebop twenty years ago... well I guess if that's what puts bread on your table you do what you have to. But I generally watch this sort of stuff because I want to stay informed on what is making people happy in anime. Where is the joy coming from these days? I'll admit I don't watch every GR video and he certainly doesn't need to tailor them to my taste. But I can't recall the last time he talked about any anime enthusiastically without a stumbling and stammering boatload of caveats and therebutfor's. Criticism is fine. One of the main reasons I keep coming back to this channel is because I keep confusing it with "Under The Scope" and its finely tuned deconstructions of what make certain anime memorable. But GR could do with some more fawning adoration. A bit more unabashed but more importantly unqualified endorsement. At least from my perspective. I can get negativity for negativity's sake anywhere. Arguing over whether or not March Comes In Like A Lion omitted any reasoned or understandable explanation of Shogi intentionally because the show was always intended to be about the humans involved and not the game one of them was playing or if it was done because the production and writing staff lacked a vision or technical skill on how to implement seems like an interesting discussion someone critiquing the show might have. I'm reminded of a movie called "Fresh" (1994) where a young boy trapped a drug soaked ghetto life carves a way out for himself and his sister using strategic thought inspired by his love of chess. At no point in the movie does anyone "Speedwagon" chess or any if the main characters' moves but the movie is engaging and suspenseful and ultimately successful as art. I think the discussion here, and this is indicative of a lot of GR's caveats and warnings, is less useful and interesting. To suggest that March Comes In Like A Lion has this massive bar to entry and everyone new to it should gird their loins for the unassailable reality that the show doesn't explain how Shogi works is just negativity for negativity's sake. I've watched both seasons of the show and the live action movie. I've ugly cried through the bullying arc. And I have zero understanding of Shogi or the Japanese language. All stories are human stories first. If you want to understand how Shogi is played so you can enjoy a story on a deeper level I can get behind that (though you will have to deal with the reality that an anime you nitpicked for nit explaining how Shogi worked inspired you to go and learn how Shogi works which is a bit of a slippery mental wicket). And I guarantee there are literally dozens of ways, including videos on this platform, to scratch that itch. But to suggest you might not want to watch the show because it doesn't explain... I mean the oldest sister works part-time at a hostess club and the anime chose not to explain wtf those are or all the complicated social balancing she has to do as a hostess serving a bunch of drunk and horny single men alcohol. I don't know man... The warnings just seem unnecessarily negative and ultimately will just serve to ends. One it will put people off the show before they even start or two if they decide they don't like it maybe they can come here and validate GR's concern that not explaining Shogi was actually some big deal? Like I said it just doesn't seem useful.

[@tylermustappa2982]

Glass reflection really misses the mark with Iskeai more often then not.

[@nahman5318]

It's hard watching GR's review on this. He watched sangatsu as a just a "story" and he wasn't able to connect to any of the characters. When I watched this show, I really felt like they are living people with their own conflicts. Additionally even without understanding shogi, It didn't bother me at all. It makes it harder to pull people watching this great show when people with platform like GR reviews like this.

[@Shebeast3]

ive watched 3 gatsu no lion at least twice.only watched it second time round because it is such a brilliant series

[@bryanbastos9955]

I feel you always have amazing timing when it comes to these videos. I just started this series a few days ago and was wondering why you haven't done a video on it. Low and behold I see this on my feed today.

[@final_friday]

San-Getsu is one of my all time favorites and I know nothing of shogi. I think I ended up watching the anime 2x + read the manga. Beautiful visuals, moving story, quality sound track. I also loved Hikaro no Go and I know nothing about Go either! I have never felt sports anime are about sports, not the good ones anyway. They are always about the people playing the sports. San-Getsu for me is about going through depression and coming out the other side. I really wish season 3 will come along at some point.

[@chadmiettunen]

As someone who has struggled with depression in the past, I was hooked on this show from episode one. I'm not sure if it was because its portrayal of depression made me feel seen, or it felt cathartic, or even some twisted sense of nostalgia, but it did affect me and I had to keep watching. Still have no idea how to play shogi and still hoping for more episodes.

[@princessthyemis]

I'd recommend learning how to play! My grandma and I learned how after watching the series and it was super fun! Understanding a little bit about how the game works does make following the matches in the show really fun!

[@Grapelordz]

This is one of my absolute favorite animes I’ve ever watched, hooked me in within the first minute of the anime. Depressing as it is, Rei’s perception brightens as the series progresses and is even shown in the Op’s and Endings, 3rd op even makes me tear up a little bit. Coloration is gorgeous, the characters are some of my favorites, the music hits home. I’m so glad a bigger anime youtuber made a video on it as I think March Comes In Like A Lion deserves more attention, and I seriously hope we get a Season 3 sometime in the future

[@seleswilderchan]

Sooooooo happy you reviewed this show! It’s one of my favorite anime of all time. I do agree that it’s hard to recommend and there are some frustrations (the ability to explain shogi- which the manga is even worse at- and the introduction of one-off characters, though Shimada is a more important character) but ultimately the characters make it so incredible and one of the best anime and manga I’ve ever experienced. I do like that it gets better over time for Rei as he deals with his past more and grows closer to those around him, something that is captured more as the manga goes on. In fact, for me, as someone who has struggled with depression, seeing Rei grow and move through his depression realistically honestly gives me hope, and it’s why I’ve come back to it again and again.

[@RemedialRob]

Look at the other comments on this video... Is it REALLY hard to recommend? I feel like anyone reading these comments would be enticed to check the show out... The video review though... not so much...

[@princessthyemis]

@@RemedialRob yeah exactly! The review definitely came from a place of emotional honesty but I agree. Based on what the video said it would be hard to recommend the show which isn't exactly appealing I think he was a bit too harsh on it

[@ritesh146]

Let's not forget about that one character who was assumed to be rude/bad guy based upon how he looks. But only to realize that he was such a humble guy caring for piegons. When his beloved piegon came back to him at the end of the episode, I shed manly tears.

[@princessthyemis]

Oh my gosh YES!!!! that part! My grandma and I were so emotional at that moment!

[@GamerUnglued]

Just a quick correction. 3-Gatsu no Lion isn't directed by Akiyuki Shinbou (no Shaft show actually is, he's usually credited as "chief director" or something like that and it's not the same thing as the director). 3-Gatsu no Lion was directed by Kenjirou Okada.

[@danielarjona8]

While I agree Sangatsu touches on a lot of dark topics, am I the only one that felt it was was motivational instead of depressing?

[@paramsekhon526]

Bro your criticisms go for a very long time which I dont think is as reflective of how good it is

[@danielarjona8]

Granted, I might have a bit of bias here, sangatsu no Lion is my favorite show of all time, but I have to voice my opinion. This anime does have a sport, shogi, but it is not a sports anime, I feel your criticism would be more than fair while watching, say, haikyu or chihayafuru, two other great shows. But sangatsu does not revolve around shogi like haikyu does around volleyball or chihayafuru on karuta. This show is a slice of life, about kiriyamas life and the people surrounding him, the struggles of other characters impact directly how he gets over his own problems, he learns from people around him, that's why there is so much focus on this people even though they are not the leads

[@baumundallesandere]

The show is about the characters. Not the sport.

[@Scerttle]

I feel like the many side stories with characters that previously felt inconsquential was to let the viewer know that everyone is the protagonist of their own story, even if you don't have their point of view. It made me feel that everyone you see is the centre of their own world and sometimes the people who matter most to you are the side characters. Once you acknowledge that it's easier to respect that you're point of view is but one of several billion.

[@siyoungrho357]

Thank you for talking about this show... I absolutely adored this show during my darkest times. It helped me get through the hard times and I hope that many others find this masterpiece

[@590dami]

Thank you for reviewing it, i hope people that need it are able to watch it. i don't agree with many of your statements but i assume you already know about some of them if you read the comments. But once again, thank you for bringing a bit of light into it, it's a good one

[@rafboum8014]

THANK YOU for this, completely unexpected to have you bring sangatsu in 2022 but OH SO GLAD you did

[@The_Erithian]

This series revolutionized the way I look at life. I love it with all my heart and will cherish it for the rest of my days. I hope with all that I have in me that they will continue on with the Anime because the story in the rest of the Manga is absolutely god tier. Anime only viewers don’t know what’s in store!

[@princessthyemis]

Whoaaaa! Guess I should read it!

[@cherishwillis4893]

Yay! A review! Ive missed it! I wish you would do recommendations though at the end of your videos again

[@12masterswarrior]

I do hope another season comes out. The later parts of the manga really has some of the most beautiful moments that invole hina if people know what im talking about

[@paranoia_24]

I cant really agree on the whole "sports anime but with shogi" take. SGNL never really has the same feel as them to me. A sports anime about a non sport looks more like a card game anime. Most of the show is specifically about the game, about the strategy of the game, about getting better at the game. SGNL isn't really about that at all, sure certain characters are focused on that, but the show doesn't center around it. At least not for being anything more than a tool used to tell the story. I went into the show some years ago knowing nothing about Shogi. After finishing it, I did what a good ADHD person does and hyperfocused on it for several hours reading about how it works. Eventually I decided to rewatch the show and was expecting my expanded knowledge of shogi to enhance my enjoyment of the show. This turned out to not be the case, not even a little bit. The shogi moments still hit and missed just as hard as they did when I first watched it. That was when I realized. This show isn't a sports anime with shogi. Its a road trip movie, except the car is shogi. You don't need to know about the car they are traveling in, except that it is the thing that gets them to the place. When it breaks or does something, there is no explanation of how or why it did it because its not important to know that detail so much as to go along with the fact that it did. The inverse of that is a show like Initial D that is a show involving a car where the show is ABOUT the cars. Almost as much, if not more than, the characters driving them. Initial D is a sports anime about car racing. SGNL is an intrapersonal character drama, that uses shogi to communicate that drama. Hell even in the arc about teaching people how to play shogi, its not even really about learning shogi. To me it was about selling Nikaido as a character to the audience and showing how nice and genuine of a person he is. Using him teaching shogi as a means to do so. Like you allude to near the end of the video, the show is about the emotions and experiences of the characters, and the strong visual representation of those emotions do volumes more to explain how the characters are feeling than an explanation of what the game they are playing is about ever could.

[@armen1136]

For me this show is a masterpiece, I usually can't say that about most Anime. One of my favorite stories. I would love for the show to continue, But I'm not going to get my hopes up. If it ever does, I'll gladly watch it.

[@nerolisk7630]

it doesnt need any commentary and a speedwagon-esque character would absolutely fucking ruin the moments during the matches (it's almost as if the matches are inconsequential against the internal thoughts and personal drama each character faces during the match cc: the Burnt Field episodes) other than that good vid

[@LordIronfist]

I got to this anime 7 years late myself. Solid content, you made it quite clear where your personal feelings affect your thoughts on the show, and that's something that often is missing from video essays about the format

[@chidisimo23]

I understand the critiscim about the anime not really explaining shogi, and I felt similar when I was watching, but some time ago I was watching Queen's gambit and even though I'm far from an expert in chess, I know a thing or two, and there was this moment, I don't remember what it was, where one of the characters makes a move and I went "Oh shit!" way before the opponent went "Oh shit!" and I felt really cool about it. So assuming most of the japanese audience that watched this show knew a thing or two about shogi, it would have been really detrimental for them them to get their "Oh shit!" moment, only to have another character go on a rant about how the move works and how the player pulled it off. I'm not saying one option is better than the other, just that that's what I think the creators were going for in this case.

[@Ellygator57]

I actually didn't find it hard to watch. Some parts were depressing, yes, but it is a very well balanced story as a whole. I watched it for the second time last week, and i love it much more than the first time. The characters are so loveable! Though it can be sad at time, the fact that the characters are able to pull eachother (or themselves) out of their despair is what makes it such an endearing anime. People will focus too much on the sad parts and completely miss the cute and funny parts.

[@arnoldm1361]

I love that you still do these

[@rclamond]

The cats need a spin-off

[@SeaCow1g]

Sangatsu is top tier anime. Not enjoyable for everyone but a masterful work of art that deserves all the praise it gets.

[@Ash_Wen-li]

Honestly one of the best anime of the 2010's

[@nanasolo6936]

i cant stress this enough it isnt really a sports anime. yes he plays shogi but that isnt the point of the show

[@Pulpxx]

I hold this show in such high regards. The climax of Hina's arc will never not make me start sobbing just from thinking about it.

[@FlorentiusIV]

I agree that Shogi isn't explained well in the show but I always completely understood the mood and situations of the matches thanks to the incredible visuals and nicely written inner-monologues of the characters because of this I never found an explicit need to understand Shogi to enjoy the show(although I did do some research on it out of curiosity) so it was less of a hurdle for me but actually easier to get into Shogi because of it. I also think delving into the minds of characters we barely knew up until that point was jarring at first but something I quickly grew accustomed to and eventually made me excited whenever we met new characters to see what their stories or thoughts were. It made me view all characters with another layer of depth even if we didn't get said stories about them.

[@sirwonkyofthewesternfield2251]

I have been eagerly awaiting this review by GR for 4 years. It did not disappoint.

[@RemedialRob]

Really?!

[@sirwonkyofthewesternfield2251]

Yep. I got started with anime in part by watching some of GRs reviews. I first watched March Comes In Like a Lion in 2018. Curiously, it was one of the few big anime that I knew of which GR hadn't reviewed. But there is only so much time in the day and it seems more and more anime every year so the wait is not unexpected.

[@RemedialRob]

@@sirwonkyofthewesternfield2251 you misunderstood. You thought I was asking if you were really eagerly awaiting it. I was not. I was asking if it really "did not disappoint." Even though he gave it his highest rating at the end he pretty much pooped on the anime from his first breath in the review.

[@sirwonkyofthewesternfield2251]

@@RemedialRob Ah, thanks for clarifying. Personally, I appreciate his honesty. I didn't watch this review to hear it aimlessly praised. I want hear his genuine take on the anime and maybe I would see something new that I didn't before. I did get some new perspectives even if I don't feel they same way as him about everything.

[@tragicangel2005]

@@sirwonkyofthewesternfield2251 same here.

[@animusswtor4822]

Sangatsu no Lion does an excellent job of building and developing its characters by showing it in such a relatable way that you just HAVE to get invested in them. And it somehow managed to get me invested in a game that I have absolutely no clue about how it works and I find that quite impressive. That said, personally for me the humour doesn't really hit a lot of the times so it could be hard to watch at times. But ultimately I liked it a lot and I still think I haven't seen a better handled story about bullying in anime than in season 2, it's honestly one of my favorite arcs ever. Plus, it's a SHAFT show so of course the visuals are amazing ^^ Also, if you like this one you should check out the anime/manga for "Hachimitsu to Clover"/"Honey and Clover" cuz it's written by the same person, I've got it on my plan to read/watch for a long time already too.

[@princessthyemis]

Oh my God YESSS!!Honey and Clover was the very first anime I ever saw! So watching this years later felt like coming full circle!

[@mrk131324]

Does anybody remember Hikaru no Go? I miss shows like that.

[@BigE1293]

Would absolutely love more anime reviews on shows you are just now getting to that might not be very popular for the algorithm right now. My favorite video of yours that I often come back to is your Shinsekai Yori review. For some reason it's just a comfort watch for me

[@shieldanvilitkovian9541]

Why is Arkada complaining about not explaining shogi in a cooking anime?

[@richmcgee434]

Because the cabbages weren't photorealistic, of course. The cooking part's beneath his notice. Man's got his standards. :)

[@Joaza998]

Tristan, I am glad to see you keep doing the thing that made me fall for your channel all those years ago. Keep doing the good work

[@snowfoxrunning]

There is a quote in the anime about a kotatsu in Winter, that it is so comforting in cold days, but if you were in the harsch outside for too long, even this soothing warmth will hurt at first… this series hurts to watch, maybe because you see yourself in those dark moments or maybe because you feel empathy for the sweet and innocent characters, that just try to live and hope for simple happiness. But it also warms your heart with little happy moments, seeing the characters move forward, tiny step by tiny step… For me it is one of, if not, the best anime:)

[@eli4644]

1:27 : funny thing is I have “rewatched” sangatsu multiple times…just skipping over the parts that would cause me major anxiety, more than usual 😅

[@Shebeast3]

ive been waiting for your views on this anime and was gonna request a review of it.i absofreakingloutley love this anime so so much.ive yet to read the manga but the anime has it all.its such a great show and i highly recommend it to everyone that will listen.

[@M_Northstar]

I haven't watched the show, but I used to read what I could find of the manga before it got adapted. I think the point of those one-shot side characters is not so much as side stories, as alternate perspectives for the MC. Whether as role models or object lessons, or just a warning of things to come, they are a part of the world he has immersed himself in. That, I think, is why they come and go like ships in the night: the other ship is Rei, and these side stories, with all their complexities, need to get out of the way to leave a level playing ground for their effect on him.

[@FortyFive13]

Wow it finally happened! Been waiting for this since it failed to make final choices of that poll.

[@Naturenerd1000]

March Comes in Like a Roaring Lion is a heavy show that makes you think so it's one of those shows you watch 1 or 2 episodes at a time rather than binge watch the series like a lot of other anime. It's okay to not win every game. It's about the jorney. Respect your peers and competitors.

[@hemangchauhan2864]

I finished it 3 months after this video was published. I have long forgotten its core plot but the emotions remained.

[@WhimsicottTCG]

I think the misunderstanding of Shogi is a personal issue of yours, rather than an issue of the show. I didn't personally struggle to understand the decisions made in the game, despite not at all knowing the rules. It could come from my experience in card games, and the given audio/emotional cues in the show, but I didn't have any problems.

[@irregularhunter0586]

The narrative of how import the matches were was something I was able to appreciate more due to having previously seen and loved Hikaru no Go. I highly recommend Hikaru no Go if you like the game match aspect, the drama part is very different from Sangatsu no Lion.

[@makiaftereight2099]

March comes in like a lion is an anime I love with all I have. Still, I agree 100% that it is not that anime that you watch just because. When I watched the first ep I didn't like it...because I wasn't in the right head space. I think this show requires the very hard exercice of you being able to face that darkness that Rei has and you might have inside yourself. Still, I won't say it was an "unpleasent" experience, because I find human struggles and painful situations beautiful in certain elements. It's beautiful to see people, to see Rei, fight so much to come into terms with himself. Sometimes it looks like he gave up on himself, but still... he is desperate to survive and live the best way he can. So, for me, March comes in like a Lion is poetry. It represents very very complex emotions in simple, beautiful ways but it also speaks directy to you. It's true that you feeling like Rei or Hina at some point of your life is important to understand the heart of the message, but I do think it captures a big portion of human emotions we all feel, so it can be relable to many people. The thing is, March comes in like a lion is a hard watch because it shows your demons in your face. I always get this mist of sadness and pure joy when I watch it. I do rewatch it a lot of times. I think negativity is also an important part of life, and while I like to turn my face away from it, I like to face it sometimes. When I want to face it, I watch Rei trying to face his problems too. And when I see Rei's life I find myself saying " oh so this is it": because that's how I felt all this time but I has never able to put those feelings into words, those words and visuals March comes in like a lion gives with care and tenderness to all of us. And for me, that is nothing more than what an absolute masterpiece work of media gives you. So I think March comes in like a lion is something you have to experience when you feel ready to. To finish this massive huge comment ( I am sorry ^^) I would like to point out some very little moments of March comes in like a lion that I love to death: - When Rei feels understood for the first time - When Rei talks about himself as a cuckoo to describe his family situation - When Rei befriends the science club and goes to the toilet to cry from pure hapiness of feeling good in school - When Rei visits his late house and hugs that little dog and says " live a long life, ok?"

[@dvillines26]

Only seen the first season, but for some reason I really loved Shimada. It was like, next level how he destroyed Rei, and then became a good mentor figure and friend. It's pretty cool because the narrative seems to be building to something else, and then swerves, and you're like "wait yeah that makes sense he's a young depressed kid, he's not going to get to even the semi-finals of a pro-tournament". I'll admit I assumed from fairly early on that the show doesn't give a shit if you understand shogi, because it places most of its emphasis on how the characters react to what's happening, and especially from that turning point with Shimada, it dramatizes the mood of the matches in a positively innovative way. Like, I was coasting on vibes in the shogi scenes - you don't know who has the advantage because of the board, but because of the music, the editing, the shot framing, the characters' expressions.

[@akinokenshi24]

This was one of those shows that had me wanting to rewatch it right after I finished. Even with the depressing moments, I wanted to experience it all again. That normally tells me to go buy the series on physical, but sadly it being Aniplex makes it incredibly expensive.

[@trinichan5103]

The way i instant clicked when i saw this in my subscription feed. This is honestly in my top 5 and is like number 2 out of 5. The only person i can talk to about it is with my mom since we watched it when it aired. When i tell you ive watched this show like 4 times. Twice in dub and twice in sub. But yeah definitely cant rec this to a friend mostly cuz my friends arent into deep emotional heavy anime.

[@metricstormtrooper]

I totally agree, also I have been waiting for your review, and I give thanks that the Manga is ongoing. To me the shogi episodes are nothing but a medium to explore some of the minor characters and thus they can be just static in the story line. I have been trying to think how I can interest my wife in watching the Anime, and I have now found that.

[@zZach___]

Simply put, this show and the Manga are a masterpiece

[@RandomKun]

I recently started this show and i have watched 2 episodes of it. And i am getting a feeling that i am gonna watch some serious stuff to which I can relate.

[@invoicequaint]

Feels like it's been a while since you've made a traditional review. I hope to see more sooner rather than later. I recently rewatched your older videos (long time viewer) and they hold up so nicely.

[@myssie-theanimedevourer5835]

I absolutely loved this anime. I read the manga. 😍 I never thought of the flaw in the way they explain shogi. I read the manga first. These things are actually explained better in the manga. 🤔 I see the issue. I had previous knowledge. The manga is so good and get much better.

[@tragicangel2005]

Arkada, I am so so happy you reviewed Sangetsu No Lion. I have been wanting to hear your thoughts on this show since I watched it a few years ago.

[@tragicangel2005]

Come Through Certified Frosty!!!

[@wontoned]

Wow a march comes in like a lion video just as march is coming out like a lamb

[@scumbad7953]

The bullying arc in the manga was just absolutely perfect.

[@TakaCode]

Ah yes peak modern anime. My favourite anime series of all time. So stylish and well written XD

[@CarAmeL624]

I was deeply moved by this story. Still hoping for another season. I have been following along with the manga and would love to see more of it adapted. And I agree, the bullying arc was so maddening. Kids can be cruel 😫😭

[@allfinesunshine5184]

What a fantastic show this was: beautifully crafted and empathetic to its subjects.

[@bananatiergod]

The shogi parts are actually uninteresting for a reason. It reflects on the fact that while it's a big part of Rei's life, he doesn't really feel happy with it, nor does he enjoy it. It's just the best way he had of coping with his insecurities and feeling useless to everyone around him. It's a quiet, dreary experience where most intrigue comes from us getting to know why the other players hold onto it as much as Rei does.

[@abdullahabdulrahman3856]

The intro music to season 2 of march comes in like a lion is really good

[@jeremiahreilly9739]

Watch the anime March Comes in like a Lion. It is not really a sports anime. It is a Slice of Life anime, and the protagonist happens to be a professional shogi player. Arkade, great video, as always. [And yes, you are being to hard on the painful sections.]

[@christopherzajonskowski7123]

Oh ffs - not a week ago I scrolled over it in my PTW list and decided that it is finally time to watch it after finishing some smaller series I watch currently on the side to get them out of my list. I was aware that it won't be something lighthearted, but after watching the intro of this video alone I'm not so sure any more I'm currently in the mood for such thing... :)

[@riahsaonirit2650]

2nd season is peak drama fiction.