First on my list is Romeo x Juliet:
In Neo Verona, the House of Capulet is wiped out by the House of Montague. Only young Juliet, her nurse maid, and a handful of Capulet knights escape. For years, Neo Verona is ruled by the cruel hand of Prince Montague. Only the Red Whirl Wind dares to oppose his tyranny. However, the Red Whirl Wind meets his match one day with the prince's guard, only Romeo is near to save him. Thus begins Juliet's curiosity and inevitable love for Romeo, for Romeo did not save a boy, but Juliet in disguise. The story continues with famous Shakespeare scenes, but leads up to further twists in the plot. As the Capulet supporters join forces under the rule of Juliet, Prince Montague sets out to crush the rebels. Foreseen trouble builds between the two star cross lovers, and so the battle of right versus wrong begins, pulling Romeo and Juliet appart...or is it closer?
Out of all the renditions of Shakespeare's famous love story, this one is my favorite. Not because it was done anime style, but because the story takes on its own life. There are enough differences in the settings, character backgrounds and plot for it to be a new story, but it remains true to Shakespeare's version and scenes. I'm getting chills just thinking about it!
To top the way the story is told, RxJ has masterful illustrations and animation to match the beauty of this story. And not to give the ending away, but we all know how the original goes, I suggest a box full of tissues. Oh how I wished Romeo and Juliet could have lived, but it had to remain true! I encourage anyone who has had a love for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet to watch this version. You will not be disappointed.
Second on my list of love stories to enjoy during this time of year is Mars by Fuyumi Soryo. It is a manga and one that is no longer in print. However, it can be purchased online!
Mars follows the story of Kira, a quiet and untrusting artist, and Rei, a rowdy, motorcross racing, trouble maker. The two are brought together by one of Kira's paintings. Rei shows an unexpected admiration in the sketch and its artist. Soon, the two become friends that quickly turns into a crush, and then unspoken love. As the story unfolds, both Kira's and Rei's dark pasts are revealed, but they are not enough to keep the two apart.
Though Mars has a darker bit of a love story, it is definitely worth the read. And I know I probaby didn't do the synopsis justice, but once again, you will not be disappointed. Tears will be shed. Hearts will race. Nerves for the couple will have you reaching for more. The art is beautiful and original. Mars is manga that many new anime fans know little or nothing about. However, to me, it is a timeless tale.
Shizuku is an aspiring novelist. Seiji, an aspiring masterful violin maker. When Seiji tells Shizuku he is going to Cremona, Italy to practice his skills and to learn or his potential, both share their feelings for one another. After Seiji leaves, Shizuku starts her own goal to complete a novel in the two months Seiji is gone. Though she worries she is not good enough for him, all doubt is cast aside once Seiji returns.
It's a sweet story of how love can bring out the best in us all. When I first watched this movie, I couldn't help but connect it to my life. I wanted (and still want) to be Shizuku who is working hard on a story while I wait for the one I love to return from finding his own place in life. Like all Studio Ghibli and Miyazaki films, Whisper of the Heart is a beautifully animated film that will bring comfort and admiration.
So! On this day also known as "Single's Awareness Day", from one single person to the next, do not let today get you down! Though I may walk around mopey, I know there is someone out there for me just as there is for you! Take time to enjoy these series and this movie. Happy almost end to Valentine's Day!
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