Bunny Drop...
Since my local video store doesn't carry *any* titles distributed by NIS America, I had to order a handful of NISA releases from an online retailer. Among the titles that I have recently purchased is Bunny Drop...
Bunny Drop seemed like something I might like to watch, so, I thought I would give it a try. NISA tends to release noteworthy titles that might not otherwise find a home in U.S. distribution. NISA is also noted for releasing their titles with lots of goodies -- in this case: bonus short episodes 2.5, 3.5, 6.5 & 8.5 and a full-color, 28-page hardcover art book featuring in-depth story and character information and luscious art.
In reference to the source manga, according to Wikipedia:Daikichi, a 30-year-old bachelor, is surprised to meet a 6-year-old, Rin, at his grandfather Souichi's funeral. He and his family are even more surprised to learn that Rin is Souichi's daughter. When the topic of who will care for her comes up, the family shirks all responsibility of raising this "shameful" child. In an emotional outburst, Daikichi declares his intention to take Rin into his home. This is the story of two very different individuals coming together under one roof and learning what it means to be a family, an experience that teaches Daikichi what it means to be a parent.
About.com's Deb Aoki praised the first volume for its "heartfelt drama and slice-of-life comedy", uncluttered artwork, storytelling, and the relationship between Daikichi and Rin. She notes that the artwork is a bit plain and simple. Danielle Leigh's also praised the art and the parent and child pair, calling the relationship moving and amusing. Comicsworthreading.com's Johanna Carlson commended Daikichi's character to be realistic as if he were an actual Japanese single father. She rated the first volume as one of the best manga of 2010. Carlson expressed appreciation for the small moments where Daikichi learns what it is to be a parent and states the series is unique to the manga market. The manga is a candidate for the 2011 Eisner Award in the Best U.S. Edition of International Material-Asia category.In reference to the anime, John on the AnimeNation forum notes:
The Usagi Drop [aka Bunny Drop] slice-of-life series serves as a reminder that anime doesn't need fan service, fantastical settings, complex and convoluted narratives, and spectacular action to be satisfying. Usagi Drop is a very simple story illustrated with great charm and humanity. The characters all feel real and believable. There are no villains or even antagonists, just everyday people facing the humors and difficulties of routine life. This quiet show reminds viewers of the simple pleasures of life: the fun of taking a walk, of kind conversation, the warmth of family, the wonder of discovery, and the innocence of childhood belief. The anime’s soft, gentle animation, art design, and color setting invite viewers in and suggest a reassuring world where every difficulty can be overcome with love and human compassion.
Bunny Drop seemed like something I might like to watch, so, I thought I would give it a try. NISA tends to release noteworthy titles that might not otherwise find a home in U.S. distribution. NISA is also noted for releasing their titles with lots of goodies -- in this case: bonus short episodes 2.5, 3.5, 6.5 & 8.5 and a full-color, 28-page hardcover art book featuring in-depth story and character information and luscious art.
