Anime Review of the Week: Suki-tte Ii na yo (Say "I Love You")

This week's review will be of a short series I picked up after seeing an amv at Anime Boston.  Unfortunately, it's not online anywhere, so I'll link this amv with the same song/show combo.
So let's take a look at Suki-tte Ii na yo.

Our two protagonists: Mei and Yamato

 

Mei Tachibana -believes friendships aren't worth the risk

Their relationship begins rather awkwardly, with Mei consenting to exchange phone numbers so Yamato would leave her alone.  Soon after, Mei ends up calling him for help, since her mom wasn't answering, and she had no other contacts.

Yamato Kurosawa - The typical "popular guy" in school

 The series follows their developing relationship, and also gives some insight into their friends as well. 









While this show doesn't bring much originality to the shoujo genre, it is a solid series, and at only 13 episodes, it is short and sweet. The progression of their relationship is gradual, and doesn't feel rushed.  The interactions with secondary characters are interesting and varied.

My biggest reason for recommending this show is the cats!  If you like looking at cat pictures on the internet, this may be the anime for you.  The cats are cute, and do adorable things.  For a series focusing on the developing relationship between two characters with limited screentime, there is a surprising amount of focus on the CATS! 

At least this has a main character in it.

This is not the plot you were looking for.

 






So in conclusion, Say "I love you" is a solid choice for anyone looking for a 13 episode romance to watch this summer.  The cats are just a bonus.

-Hope Burns Bright