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A sweet, incestually implied, slice of life with two twin sisters. It delivers exactly what it promises.

-Minor Spoilers-

Story (7)-

There isn't much of a story really. Just the life of these two sisters- Yukino and Kanade- and the challenges or events they go through. The rough plot seems to be the twins’ feelings for each other although if it hadn't been listed as yuri and incest I doubt anyone would be able to tell when watching the first couple of episodes. Saying that however, what I really liked about this anime was the gradual development that is put so subtly it makes it seem life-like and ... therefore grants the anime with a somewhat messy but passable story line.

Art (8)-

It has very cute and appropriate animation that fits the story well. I don’t have any complaints about the character designs although sometimes the boobs seem to have grown considerable amounts one episode then revert the next. Overall it’s nicely done.

Sound (6)-

All the voice actors did incredible jobs for their characters with none of them sounding whiny or annoying. However the background music is unremarkable (so unremarkable I’m having trouble remembering it...) All in all it does what it’s suppose to and remains fitting for whatever certain scene.

Character (8)-

This is a great part of the anime with all the characters being likeable and funny without seeming too unreal. Kana and Yuki’s relationship is a big influence on their personalities and it’s amusing to watch how their own personalities change around each other (let’s not forget to mention it’s also adorable). The supporting characters such as Shi and Sakuya are also pleasant to watch and add their own emotions to the anime. This show has a good variety of cute, realistic characters.

Enjoyment (9)-

I enjoyed this anime a lot and didn’t feel my eyes wandering or staring at the clock like they do most animes. The somewhat subtle fan-service and sweet interactions between characters keep me entertained through each episode.

Overall (8)-

Candy☆Boy is a cheerful anime focusing on the sweet relationship of two sisters who obviously care deeply for me other. I like how this show blows of all gimmicks and clichés to display a range of pure and honest characters that can make you smile. A great show, I strongly recommend it to you.

It's been a while since I've watched this, so bear with me...

-Spoiler free-

Story-

The story switches back and forth between the now grown up main character- Taeko Okajima – and her childhood self. Although many seem to dub the story unoriginal I beg to differ, the setting and style is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. Yes I must agree that the underlying aspect of the story; did my life really turn out the way I want it to? - is rather weak. However I like to think that things like whether it’s weak or not can be changed dramatically by directing and art, which this story ... succeeds in, therefore supplying the whole story with quite a strong and actually rather beautiful tone to it. I think the story is emotional and quite enjoyable however some may find fault with its more cliché aspects (such as how Taeko’s childhood self deals with parents, puberty and boys) but in my personal opinion the fabulous directing of Isao Takahata moves these aspects away from nauseating and more into heart-touching.

Art-

Although the art may make some people back away (as Taeko is most definitely not a wide-eyed girl whom belongs in a shōjo anime), I think the artwork is actually pretty charming. I praise Studio Ghibli for never having any awkward movement or pauses; everything seems to flow as it would in real-life. Speaking of real-life, this anime definitely succeeds in that area. All the settings and character designs are very believable for the era! Personally I find the young Taeko very adorable and the adults are quite plain which is indeed a good representation of life. With this sort of not detailed yet at the same time detailed artwork you either love it or you hate it, though personally I loved it.

Sound-

I think the music wasn’t bad however it certainly isn’t very mentionable. Quite frankly it reminded me of spa music (very relaxing) however towards the end it was more like elevator music (incredibly annoying). The same goes for the voice actors; they did an okay job but nothing came up that would particularly stand out. Although I would usually be bowing down to Youko Honna for her skills I was a little surprised that her voice sounded so droning, making it not all entirely pleasant to listen to. Never the less I’d say it was decent enough but hardly note-worthy.

Character-

I cannot praise the character’s personalities enough for Only Yesterday; they showed such a range of people with such intriguing words to say. I loved how nothing was vague about the character’s but more open about what sort of people they where, yet through all the character-faults I found an amazing explanation of why I was enjoying this movie so much and that was because I didn’t dislike a single one of the characters. They where all so life-like in their pro’s and con’s that I couldn’t help but feel myself get sucked in their world. It is something I would say you would have to experience for yourself; however the characters are most definitely deserving of a 10.

Enjoyment-

This was a beautiful anime movie that touched upon a disturbing truth that many of us think about day in and day out of our life’s; did my life turn out the way I wanted it to as a child? Was I true to my childhood dreams? I can admit that the whole topic reduced me to tears and was something you could really think about afterwards. I truly did enjoy Only Yesterday and I found it to be cliché yet completely unique. There was never a boring moment...or a dry-eyed moment for that matter. It made me smile afterwards which I am sure is a sign of success for any anime.

Overall-

If you’re hesitant I encourage watching this, not only is it entertaining and romantic but also a real slice of life that will really get you thinking. It’s realistic and sad yet completely cheerful. A real subject that many of us cry over touched upon so gently in such a way only Studio Ghibli could do. If you’re a continuing Ghibli fan then you won’t be disappointed and if this is your first time...well...be prepared to get out the hanker-chiefs.

I haven't read this in a while so bear with me...

Story-

The first thing that drew me to this was the promised incest, if you've got incest in a plot you know there is going to be a hell of a lot of angst and romance. The overall idea isn't the most thought out or original- separated siblings that have a fling in Rome then they meet at a funeral only to find out...they are brother and sister! Like I said it isn't the most original. However I think once we get past the love square (which actually isn't as annoying as most love squares are), ... we can see the manga for what it really is; a very cute, honest and warmly sweet story. The forbidden love element only heightens its appeal though I do find a complainant in it's all too much soap-opera approach. Never less I'd say it's a decent plot.

Art-

Typically adorably! Although this type of artwork is to be expected from this manga I still finding myself muttering "kawaii" everything I see Kasumi whom plays the sister in one of her shōjo outfits. I think the art exceeds expectations and for me is definitely more detailed than I thought it would be. Occasionally people are out of proportion or the artwork looks rushed or tired but in general it’s pleasant and something to watch out for.

Character-

I think the nice thing about the characters in this is that you’ll find someone who will annoy you but also someone who you’ll really like. My personal favourite is Yoshiki’s (whom plays the brother) crazy girlfriend Kyoko, just because I think she’s the character with the most depth. Kasumi is a big question mark, she never stops crying but I think the mangaka does a good job of showing her love for Yoshiki. The characters are average but none the less passable.

Enjoyment-

Despite its faults Tsumi ni Nureta Futari is one of those manga’s that just draw you in, and I would be lying if I denied enjoying this manga. I laughed out loud, smiled and frantically claw at my screen for the next chapter in anticipation.

Overall-

This manga is one you can be pleased to add to your “completed” list. It’s naive, sugary and touching and despite complainants that I can find in it I still recommend you to read it.

This is one of the best underrated manga’s I have seen in a long time, so I hope my review can convince you to buy or read online such a masterpiece.

-Spoiler Free-

Story-
A misunderstood Sumire finds a homeless boy in a cardboard box outside of her apartment complex. It isn't the most gripping start but don't be fooled to think that this is its basis, instead of being a typical manga that follows a weak female character and a hot male this goes in a completely different direction. Sumire is strong and Momo is quirky and funny, with this they build a good friendship that is ... intriguing to read and hard to pull you're eyes away from. Throw in some twists and love triangles (that strangely unlike most manga's isn't nauseating) plus a couple of side pairings that we no doubt we will be cheering for equals a fabulous and touchingly original story.

Art-
This is a hard subject; personally I found the art to be pleasant however from fellow readers I have been told it took them around 5+ chapters to get used to it. No doubt it is different; big lips, big eyes and overall a strange drawing style. However I think all of it is quite charming and detailed especially clothing and hairstyles. Also unlike most manga the background is absolutely packed with effort and hard work that you can definitely appreciate. From my own personal option the art is something special in an individual and unpredictable way.

Character-
By far my favourite aspect of this manga, every character even if it’s a main or side shines personality. Even with someone we only see for a couple of pages we can really grasp their situation, life style and persona. Every character is like a real life person with their own views and morals, some more intriguing than others but all the same interesting. Momo is my personal favourite, with his being secretive, wise yet childish and loyal. Every one gives you a chance to become attached to their individuality and teaches you just a little bit about how people work and because none of the characters are at all the same we learn to love each of them for themselves. A definite win for this category and something I recommend you to pay close attention to.

Enjoyment-
There has never been a moment in reading this amazing piece of work that I wanted to get up and do something else. As soon as each one arrived to me I ripped it open and read it for all it was worth. Each chapter has development in some way or another that makes it hard to put it down, every chapter holds something funny, angsty and just downright heart-warming. I think the goal is to make you smile by the end of every chapter and it succeeds with flying colours.

Overall-
If this review hasn’t convinced to read this (which you may do online or from buying it) then I pray that something else will. This is an underrated manga that needs to be recognised for being the stunning success that it is. Although I was hesitant to read it at first I’m very grateful that I did. It’s gripping and pulls you deep into the story. I hope to see more fans for it soon!