Kotaro Lives Alone - Netflix's New Anime Adaptation (A Review)

Netflix have expanded upon their ever extending catalogue of anime shows. Up next was a Netflix Original adaptation of Mami Tsumura's manga series "Kotarou wa Hitorigurashi". The show follows the life of protagonist Kotaro, Sato, a well off, four year old child who moves into an apartment block, it's here where he meets his neighbour Karino, Shin, a failing unmotivated manga artist. Throughout the ten part structure of season one we follow Kotaro and Karino's relationship whilst being given snippets of Kotaro's past, piecing together the puzzle of his seemingly dark relationship with his parents.

Kotaro Lives Alone can be described as a 'comedy slice of life' anime that tackles real world topics such as neglect, domestic violence, debt, child abuse and death to name a few, all through the eyes of Kotaro. 

 

 

(source: What's on Netflix)

My spoiler free review will be structured as follows: 

Story:

Following Kotaro as he carries out his independant lifestyle through the use of mini stories that form each episode, allows for a clear understanding of each scenario that Kotaro places himself in and the circumstances surrounding him, where he gets taught a new life lesson helping him develop further as a character as the show progresses.

Characters:

The characters, the characters are where this anime shines, each character is portrayed in such a sympathetic way that you can't help but want to root for their success and happiness in each episode. The relationship between Karino and Kotaro is one of the most organic and wholesome relationships I've seen in an anime. Kotaro as the protagonist is a great story telling pillar with him being so young it makes for interesting viewing watching such a young character dealing with heavy hitting material in such a mature yet immature manner simultaneously that you just can't help but want more from this show as Netflix have redeemed it for a season two just to see the arcs of the characters alone.

Art/Animation:

The artstyle is cute, the character designs are true to the manga. However, the animation is where I believe is what holds the show back, whilst it's not terrible, there is definitely room for improvement. Very interesting choices with certain characters that almost make it uncomfortable to watch at times, for example, supporting character Tamaru, Isamu's attire is very off putting as the anime goes for a hand drawn animation style, with his leopard print suit being more of a green screen that grabs your attention but not the good kind.

Soundtrack:

The sountrack as a whole is passable, nothing truly special or standout except the Tonosaman theme song. This little jingle really nails itself into your head to the point where you can't help but find yourself singing it subconsciously. 

Overall, the show hits all the right marks, managing to balance the show's dark and comedic elements very well wrapped up into a cute aesthetic bow. Personally, I cannot wait for more adventures with Kotaro and eagerly anticipate season two.