Unveiling the Irresistible Allure of Netflix's New Anime: My Happy Marriage - A Compelling Must-Watch!

Since its debut on Netflix on July 5th, the new romance anime My Happy Marriage has quickly gained popularity. Adapted from Akumi Agitogi's light novel series, which had previously been turned into a manga and live-action film, this anime has become a fan favorite of the summer 2023 season for good reason.

Produced by Kinema Citrus, the anime follows the story of Miyo Saimori, a young woman living in 19th century Meiji Restoration era-Japan, burdened by a verbally abusive family. As the time for her marriage approaches, Miyo is brought to the home of the wealthy and seemingly coldhearted Kiyoka Kudou. However, Miyo's journey is far from what it appears. Although she will face challenges and hardships, she will also experience a marriage that lives up to the promise of its title - full of happiness.

10 My Happy Marriage's Opening and Ending are Both Great

9 My Happy Marriage's Animation is Breathtaking

Fans of anime who are well-versed in the genre are aware that within a typical episode lasting twenty-two minutes, those three minutes devoted to the opening (OP) and ending (ED) sequences are of utmost importance. The OP and ED of My Happy Marriage are so well-crafted that they are nearly impossible to skip. The opening song titled "Anata no Soba ni," beautifully performed by Riria, captures the essence of a mellifluous J-Pop ballad. As for the ending song called "Vita Philosophica" by Kashitaro Ito, it starts off gently and gradually builds momentum, coinciding with the onscreen depiction of the happy couple watching the sunset together. In simpler terms, these songs serve as the perfect introduction and conclusion to each episode.

Kinema Citrus showcases breathtaking landscapes and captures the characters' emotions flawlessly in this adaptation. Fans of Tsukiho Tsukioka's stunning art in the original light novels will not be disappointed. The Heaven Official's Blessing anime enchants with its delicate pastel pink and blue color palette, coupled with meticulous attention to detail in every frame. Discovering a show that is crafted with profound love and care for its animation is always a joy. My Happy Marriage, with its meticulous attention to detail, undoubtedly belongs among the ranks of the best animated anime of all time.

8 My Happy Marriage is a Shoujo Story That's Perfect For Everyone

7 Miyo's Sister Kaya is Delightfully Nasty

Although Shoujo series are typically created with young women as the target audience, the appeal of a good Shoujo series extends far beyond its intended demographic. The genre's emphasis on romantic and personal relationships makes it suitable for any audience who appreciates a captivating narrative. Fans of popular Shoujo series like Fruits Basket will particularly resonate with this series. With Fruits Basket concluding its anime run in 2021, My Happy Marriage serves as an excellent alternative for enthusiasts of Shoujo and romance genres alike.

No Cinderella tale is complete without a wicked stepsister, or in this case, a half-sister. Meet Kaya Saimori, the epitome of spoiled, vain, and conniving. She gets away with her schemes directed at Miyo solely because she can. However, beneath this shallow facade lies a surprisingly intricate character. Motivated by both envy and entitlement, Kaya's complexities keep us guessing. As the half-filled My Happy Marriage anime season progresses, it remains uncertain how much insight into Kaya's inner world fans will receive. Regardless, Kaya is just as enjoyable to despise as Miyo is to adore.

6 Miyo is a Sympathetic Protagonist

Newcomers to My Happy Marriage may be astounded by the mistreatment Miyo endures from her own family for superficial reasons. This is particularly devastating considering Miyo's gentle nature. She speaks softly and tends to apologize excessively, a result of being constantly belittled by her family. Witnessing Miyo gradually embrace love from others, like her servant Yurie and Kiyoka Kudou himself, is an immensely gratifying and emotionally purging experience. Miyo's kind heart and challenging initial circumstances make her an incredibly endearing protagonist to root for.

5 Kiyoka Kudou is Deceptively Complex

Kiyoka, Miyo's newlywed, exudes the charm and mystery reminiscent of a character from a Jane Austen novel. At first, he comes across as reserved and distant, much to the disappointment of his previous fiancées. In truth, his cautious nature stems from a deep understanding of people's motives, as evidenced by the fact that others pursued him solely for his influence and wealth. As Miyo and the viewers delve deeper into his persona, they discover Kiyoka's remarkable intuition and kindness, making him an ideal match for the introverted Miyo. Notably, he astutely recognizes the scars of her troubled past and actively supports her journey towards self-assurance, even when others choose to ignore her struggles.

4 My Happy Marriage Nails comedy

3 My Happy Marriage's English Dub is Just as Good as the Sub

While some anime purists insist on watching series in Japanese, this one is an exception. Viewing it in English is equally rewarding. Miranda Parkin adeptly delivers Miyo's lines with a voice that exudes vulnerability, making her portrayal of a recovering abuse victim incredibly moving. Damian Haas skillfully walks a fine line as Kiyoka, effortlessly conveying his character's inner warmth despite his cool and measured speech. A romance series heavily relies on the main couple's ability to capture the essence of their characters, and the English dub of My Happy Marriage surpasses expectations with its portrayal of Miyo and Kiyoka.

2 My Happy Marriage is a Wholesome Series Despite its Subject Matter

While it may be early for viewers to form a strong opinion halfway through the season, it is widely agreed upon in the fan communities of MyAnimeList and Reddit that this series lives up to expectations of wholesomeness. Reviews circulating in these communities assure that although tears will be shed, they will be tears of joy. With the abundance of trials and tragedies in the real world, the romance depicted in My Happy Marriage serves as a refreshing breath of air. Despite the surprising prevalence of abuse in the storyline, My Happy Marriage has the potential to be the most heartwarming anime romance of Summer 2023.

1 My Happy Marriage is Bigger Than Just the Anime

The basis for My Happy Marriage includes a light novel, manga, and live-action adaptation. Enthusiasts of the anime have a wide range of media options to further immerse themselves in the series, along with an active online fan community. Currently, there are seven light novels and four manga volumes available, with additional installments being planned. Considering the fervent adoration the anime has received, it is highly likely that a second season will be announced in the near future.

My Happy Marriage, available now on Netflix, exemplifies the significance of romance in the anime industry. With its exceptional character lineup, breathtaking animation, and heartwarming narrative, this series has the potential to be regarded as one of the finest romance anime creations. Make sure to add My Happy Marriage to your must-watch list for 2023.