Isshuukan Friends, also known as One Week Friends, tells the story of classmates Fujimiya Kaori and Hase Yuuki. Fujimiya is always alone and gives others an impression that she is cold and hostile. However, this is because she loses her memories every Monday. Despite learning the truth, Hase decides to become her new friend every week.
The reason that got me watching Isshuukan Friends was my friend’s interest in the plot. I had told her about what I read in the first few chapters of the manga and she really liked the plot, so we decided to watch the first episode together in school.
I really like the animation for Isshuukan Friends. It might seem strange, since it’s so simple, without the use of any special effects. Usually, I like bright and sharp animation, with special effects as a bonus. That’s what catches my attention and makes me engrossed in an anime. However, that kind of animation is more suitable for an action anime. Thus, the animation used here suits the plot. Isshuukan Friends isn’t about standing out. It’s about Fujimiya trying to fit in and making friends. Pale colours set a better, warmer atmosphere to make it seem more cordial for her. The character designs and backgrounds are simple, making the audience focus on the plot. I like how the background fades out. It’s a pleasant contrast to the overly bright and distracting backgrounds or Hamatora.
As for the plot, I felt really bad for Hase at the end of episode 1. He knew that Fujimiya would forget him the next week, but knowing doesn’t mean that he would be prepared for Fujimiya’s cold response. It’s painful to be forgotten. Yet, with his strong determination to be Fujimiya’s friend, he musters his courage to request to be her friend again. I hope to see if Fujimiya will get to remember Hase by herself. It’s horrible for him to repeat the whole process every Monday. The only thing I’m worried is if the plot seems to repeat itself very often. Hopefully, each episode will bring something different and enjoyable.
Simple yet pleasant, Isshuukan Friends is a refreshing anime to watch this season.
Watch Isshuukan Friends episode 1 at http://www.animeultima.tv/Isshuukan-Friends-episode-1-english-subbed/
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