Highlights
My Happy Marriage is an outstanding romance anime that goes beyond the genre by incorporating action, thriller, and horror elements.
The series skillfully portrays the evolution of Miyo and Kiyoka's characters, showcasing their transformation from shy and indifferent individuals to self-assured individuals deeply enamored with each other.
Though only a glimpse into the larger narrative, the initial season of My Happy Marriage merely touches upon the story's depths, leaving behind numerous enigmas and unresolved queries, setting the stage for a heightened and exhilarating second season.
Warning: Spoilers ahead for My Happy Marriage's first season, available now for streaming on Netflix.
After a thrilling 12-week run, My Happy Marriage has successfully concluded its first season. Renowned as one of the top romance anime of Summer 2023, this exceptional series can confidently claim a spot among the very best of the season.
A Genre-Bending Romance
My Happy Marriage is a profoundly captivating series that encompasses several remarkable elements. Specifically, the intriguing blend of romance and various genres, the meticulous growth of the characters, and the mere surface we have barely explored, all contribute to its excellence.My Happy Marriage is undeniably a romance anime, showcasing the heartfelt connection between Miyo and Kiyoka as they navigate their journey towards marital bliss. Their ability to heal and complement each other, combined with the challenges they face along the way, is both heartwarming and empowering. Even if the series solely focused on this aspect, it would still be an exceptional romance anime. However, My Happy Marriage goes above and beyond, seamlessly incorporating various genres into its already outstanding romantic storyline. The end result is nothing short of sublime.
In the world of My Happy Marriage, action takes center stage. Kiyoka Kudou, known as one of the most powerful individuals in the country, showcases his extraordinary abilities through intense battles. Whether it's demolishing a massive wooden gate or effortlessly slicing through grotesqueries with his flaming swords, Kiyoka demonstrates that he is more than just a romantic figure in this captivating series.
Alongside the action, My Happy Marriage delves into thrilling and mysterious elements, primarily revolving around the grotesqueries - supernatural beings that play a significant role in the storyline. It becomes apparent that the recent surge of grotesqueries is part of a grand sinister plan originating from the imperial palace. Additionally, in a chilling climax, the series combines horror and suspense as Miyo confronts a dark version of herself, while Kiyoka battles relentless hordes of rampaging grotesqueries in a sinister demonic realm.
So as you can see, watching the 12 episodes of My Happy Marriage is a roller coaster journey in its truest sense.
A Carefully Crafted Character Development
The story of My Happy Marriage revolves around the development of its characters. In order to prioritize character growth, other aspects like world-building take a backseat. This provides us with an opportunity to shed light on some of the remarkable transformations that occur within this series.
At the outset of the series, Miyo Saimori is a timid girl, lacking the confidence to express her thoughts. Despite being the eldest daughter in the Saimori household, she is treated as inferior to a mere servant. However, everything changes when she encounters Kiyoka Kudou. Gradually but surely, Miyo recovers her self-assurance. Now, she exhibits the bravery to voice her opinions and pursue her aspirations. Not only that, she is capable of standing up for herself, fearlessly expressing her feelings to Kiyoka with pride and demonstrating her willingness to confront any opposition in order to be with her future husband.
Initially, Kiyoka Kudou comes across as a cold and indifferent individual when he first meets Miyo. He harbors suspicions and prejudices towards her during their initial days sharing the same living space. Yet, as time progresses, Kiyoka begins to perceive the kindness and sincerity underlying Miyo's every word and action. Slowly but surely, his admiration blossoms into a profound love. By the conclusion of the series, that once unfeeling man transforms into someone ready to do anything and defy anyone to be with his future wife.
Just The Tip of The Iceberg
In addition to the main couple, the supporting characters receive their fair share of development, although not as extensive as Miyo and Kiyoka. One noteworthy character is Miyo's sister, the impolite and spoiled Kaya Saimori, who is compelled to acknowledge her misdeeds and confront the consequences of her actions. Another prime example is Kouji Tatsuishi, a timid young man who is in love with Miyo. He realizes the need to assert himself and decides to distance himself from his family in order to shape his own future.
Numerous conflicts and enigmas arise in the inaugural season of My Happy Marriage. While some, like the disputes involving Saimori and Tatsuishi, the revelation of Miyo's tumultuous past, and the burgeoning bond between Miyo and Kiyoka, have been successfully resolved, countless other enigmas remain unsolved. Numerous questions still remain unanswered.
Why does the Emperor fear Miyo's power? What is the genuine connection between the Imperial Palace and the Usuba family? How did the Kudou family attain such immense power and influence? What is the true purpose of the grotesqueries in the narrative? With numerous enigmas and unanswered queries, it is evident that the initial season merely touches the surface of the overarching tale of My Happy Marriage. Considering this, it is reasonable to expect that the second season will surpass the intensity of the first.