3-gatsu no Lion

March comes in like a lion

Characters

Hinata Kawamoto

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Akari Kawamoto

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Rei Kiriyama

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Takashi Hayashida

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Ayumu Kouda

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Raidou Fujimoto

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Momo Kawamoto

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Noguchi Eisaku

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Hanaoka

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Rei no Chichi

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Yuusuke Takahashi

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Misaki

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Kouda no Tsuma

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Harunobu Nikaidou

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Tatsuyuki Misumi

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Manabu Yasui

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Yuusuke no Chichi

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Someji Kawamoto

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Issa Matsumoto

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Okuyasu Yokomizo

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Masamune Gotou

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Morio Shigeta

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Izumida

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Touji Souya

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Kyouko Kouda

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March Comes in Like a Lion: Season 1 – A Masterpiece of Emotional Depth and Artistic Brilliance

March Comes in Like a Lion (Sangatsu no Lion), the anime adaptation of Chica Umino’s acclaimed manga, is a rare gem that transcends the boundaries of its medium. Season 1, which aired in 2016, is a breathtaking exploration of grief, resilience, and the quiet beauty of human connection, wrapped in a visually stunning package that elevates storytelling to an art form. This is not just an anime about shogi, Japan’s strategic board game; it’s a profound meditation on life’s struggles and the search for belonging, delivered with a raw emotional intensity that lingers long after the credits roll. In this review, we’ll dive into why March Comes in Like a Lion Season 1 is a next-level experience, unparalleled in its narrative ambition, character depth, and artistic innovation.

A Story That Roars with Quiet Power

At its core, March Comes in Like a Lion follows Rei Kiriyama, a 17-year-old professional shogi player grappling with the weight of his past and the isolation of his present. Orphaned at a young age after a tragic accident, Rei has carved out a solitary existence, his life defined by shogi and the lingering scars of loss, guilt, and alienation. The series opens with Rei in a haze of depression, living alone in Tokyo, disconnected from those around him. Yet, through his encounters with the warm, boisterous Kawamoto sisters—Akari, Hina, and Momo—and a cast of richly drawn characters, Rei begins to rediscover the meaning of family, purpose, and self-worth.

What sets this story apart is its unflinching portrayal of mental health. Rei’s struggles with depression, social anxiety, and survivor’s guilt are depicted with a sensitivity that feels almost revolutionary for anime. The series doesn’t shy away from the messiness of his emotions—his self-doubt, his fear of being a burden, and his quiet yearning for connection are portrayed with a rawness that resonates universally. Yet, the show balances this heaviness with moments of levity and warmth, particularly through the Kawamoto sisters, whose chaotic, loving household becomes a beacon of hope for Rei. This interplay between despair and hope is the heartbeat of the series, making every small victory feel monumental.

The shogi matches, while central to the plot, are more than just games—they’re metaphors for Rei’s internal battles. Each match is a window into his psyche, revealing his fears, growth, and determination. The show masterfully weaves these high-stakes games into the narrative, making them accessible and gripping even for viewers unfamiliar with shogi’s rules. Unlike many sports anime, March doesn’t rely on flashy action; instead, it uses the quiet tension of the board to mirror Rei’s emotional stakes, creating a narrative rhythm that is both contemplative and electrifying.

Characters That Feel Like Family

The characters of March Comes in Like a Lion are its soul, each one crafted with a depth that makes them feel achingly real. Rei Kiriyama is a protagonist who defies the typical anime hero archetype. He’s not a loud, determined shonen lead; he’s introspective, flawed, and deeply human. His internal monologues, voiced with haunting sincerity by Kengo Kawanishi, lay bare his struggles, making his gradual journey toward healing all the more rewarding.

The Kawamoto sisters—Akari, Hina, and Momo—are the emotional anchor of the series. Akari, the eldest, is a nurturing figure whose strength hides her own vulnerabilities. Hina, the middle sister, brings a fiery determination and empathy that become pivotal in later episodes. Momo, the youngest, is an adorable force of chaos, her innocence a reminder of the simple joys Rei has lost. Their interactions with Rei are heartwarming yet never saccharine, grounded in a realism that makes their bond feel earned.

The supporting cast is equally compelling. From Harunobu Nikaidou, Rei’s boisterous rival and self-proclaimed best friend, to the stoic yet compassionate shogi veteran Masachika Kouda, each character adds a layer to the story’s emotional tapestry. Even secondary characters, like Rei’s teacher Hayashida or the enigmatic Gotou, are given moments of depth that make the world feel alive and interconnected.

A Visual and Auditory Symphony

Studio Shaft, under the direction of Akiyuki Shinbo, delivers a visual experience that is nothing short of revolutionary. March Comes in Like a Lion is a masterclass in using animation to convey emotion. The series employs a bold, experimental style—vivid color palettes, surreal imagery, and dynamic camera angles—to externalize Rei’s inner turmoil. Scenes of his depression are depicted as drowning in a dark, endless sea, while moments of hope burst with warm, golden hues. The use of abstract visuals, like fragmented memories or swirling storms, adds a layer of psychological depth that makes every frame feel purposeful.

The animation is complemented by meticulous attention to detail. The Kawamoto household is rendered with a cozy, lived-in warmth, from the cluttered kitchen to the soft glow of lanterns. Shogi matches are choreographed with a kinetic energy that makes each move feel like a clash of wills. Even mundane moments, like a walk through Tokyo’s streets, are imbued with a painterly beauty that elevates the everyday to the extraordinary.

The soundtrack, composed by Yukari Hashimoto, is a perfect companion to the visuals. From haunting piano melodies to uplifting orchestral swells, the music amplifies the emotional weight of every scene. The opening theme, “Answer” by BUMP OF CHICKEN, is a soaring anthem that captures Rei’s journey, while the ending themes, like YUKI’s “Fighter,” add a layer of emotional resonance. The sound design, from the clack of shogi pieces to the ambient hum of the city, immerses viewers in Rei’s world.

Themes That Resonate Across Time

March Comes in Like a Lion tackles universal themes with a nuance that sets it apart from its peers. At its heart, the series is about the courage to keep moving forward, even when life feels overwhelming. It explores the complexities of family—not just the one you’re born into, but the one you choose. Rei’s strained relationship with his adoptive family contrasts sharply with the unconditional love of the Kawamotos, highlighting the idea that family is defined by care, not obligation.

The series also addresses bullying, self-worth, and the pressure to succeed in a competitive world. Episodes focusing on Hina’s experiences with a bullied classmate are particularly poignant, showcasing her strength and empathy in a way that feels authentic and impactful. These themes are woven into the narrative with a subtlety that invites reflection, making the series accessible to viewers of all ages and backgrounds.

A Cultural Milestone

March Comes in Like a Lion Season 1 is not just an anime; it’s a cultural touchstone that redefines what the medium can achieve. Its blend of emotional storytelling, innovative visuals, and relatable characters makes it a standout in a crowded field. The series has been praised by critics and fans alike, earning a 9.2/10 rating on MyAnimeList and winning awards like the 2017 Crunchyroll Anime Award for Best Drama. Its impact extends beyond anime, resonating with audiences who see their own struggles reflected in Rei’s journey.

Unlike many anime that prioritize action or romance, March dares to focus on the quiet moments—the pause before a shogi move, the warmth of a shared meal, the weight of unspoken words. This commitment to emotional authenticity makes it a series that feels both timeless and deeply personal.

Why It’s Next-Level

What makes March Comes in Like a Lion Season 1 a next-level experience is its ability to balance raw emotional depth with moments of joy and humor. It’s a series that respects its audience, never shying away from difficult topics but always offering a glimmer of hope. Its artistic ambition, from Shaft’s groundbreaking animation to its evocative soundtrack, sets a new standard for visual storytelling. And its characters, flawed and lovable, become companions you root for long after the season ends.

This is not a series that can be passively watched; it demands emotional investment and rewards it tenfold. Whether you’re drawn to its psychological depth, its celebration of human connection, or its sheer artistic beauty, March Comes in Like a Lion Season 1 is a transformative experience that roars with quiet power.

Final Verdict: 10/10

March Comes in Like a Lion Season 1 is a masterpiece that redefines anime storytelling. It’s a lion of a series—fierce, majestic, and unforgettable. For those seeking a deeply moving, visually stunning, and thematically rich experience, this is the anime to watch. Stream it, savor it, and let it remind you of the beauty of finding your place in the world.

Where to Watch: Available on Crunchyroll, Netflix, and other streaming platforms (availability may vary by region).

Note: This review is based on the 22-episode first season, covering the initial arcs of Rei’s journey. Season 2 builds on this foundation, but Season 1 stands alone as a complete, unforgettable experience.

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