If you liked
Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu
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...then you might like
Yuri!!! on Ice
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What do a goofy romcom and an artistic period piece have in common? More than you might think. Both Yuri and Bon are emotional, complex characters dealing with disappointment, pain, and loss, but they move through those feelings to find motivation, beauty, and purpose. Their mental anguish also makes them highly unreliable narrators, and just when you think you understand someone you will discover something surprising that changes everything. For me, the most interesting element of these shows is how seemingly repeated performances are augmented by the characters’ mental and emotional states. Bon repeats Rakugo stories several times, and Yuri skates the same routines throughout the show, but each iteration is noticeably different, allowing viewers to appreciate different aspects of the performance. I found myself wanting to rewatch each show to see what I missed the first time around!
If you liked
Barakamon
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...then you might like
Yuri!!! on Ice
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These two shows drop in right when the protagonist is reeling from a major failure. It’s rewarding to watch them grow, learn, and find their motivation again.
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If you liked
Barakamon
|
...then you might like
Udon no Kuni no Kiniro Kemari
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Both feature lots of funny kids and center on young-ish guys learning about responsibility. You’ll see the characters grow and mature in ways they never expected, but ultimately they find fulfillment in their new lives.
If you liked
Usagi Drop
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...then you might like
Udon no Kuni no Kiniro Kemari
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Both involve men learning how to be father figures and are full of funny, adorable kids. They also invoke strong feelings of nostalgia and will make you reminisce about your own family. Heartwarming!