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What makes an anime a masterpiece? Many of us ask this question when we review, rank, or just think critically about an anime. I had trouble finding the answer to this question because I usually chose the anime that I loved the most; however, the Chihayafuru series has made me realize what it takes for an anime to break the barrier between just being an enjoyable anime and being an unquestionable masterpiece.

Let me first start off by saying that the Chihayafuru series as a whole is not for everyone. If you do not enjoy a slice of life/sports anime with a strong premise on ... characterization, this will not be your cup of tea; however, for those of us who do, it will be a favorite.

While enjoyable, the first two seasons of Chihayafuru do not offer anything but a buildup to the climax, which is the third season. All those hours of watching the characters hide their emotions and only for it all to spill out in twenty-four episodes pay off tremendously.

It is like attaining a gold medal in a sport you play or finally asking out your crush. All those hours of training or building up the courage to ask your crush out finally pay off, and you will find yourself just staring at the screen, not being able to take your eyes off the magic that is happening in front of you.

While not being a perfect show, it is a perfect example of anime that transcended boundaries in terms of characterization, and for that reason I would call this show a masterpiece!