Title: Maison Ikkoku (1980s)Author: Rumiko Takahashi
Media: Anime/Manga
Yusaku Godai is a wishy-washy college student (or, more accurately, he starts the series as a "flunkout") with no money, no special skills, no prospects, and no ambition. Enter Kyoko Otonashi, a beautiful widow who is still pining for her late husband. She is also the new manager of Maison Ikkoku, a run-down apartment where Yusaku resides. Toss in a dashing tennis coach with money,looks, confidence, and an obvious affection for Kyoko. Did I mention he can cook? Add a trio of crazy (there is really is no other term that better describes them) Maison Ikkoku residents whose sole purpose in life is to meddle in other people's affairs and you have the recipe for a truly great romance.
What?
Well, considering that this was made by the same creative genius that gave us Inuyasha, it's not that far of a stretch.
Maison Ikkoku is quite a lengthy ride, spanning 161 chapters (96 episodes if you would rather follow the anime) worth of tears, laughter, and romantic overtures. I rather liken it to running a long marathon. You can't rush it; you have to pace yourself and take in every moment of Yusaki's foibles and triumphs. The wide array of supporting characters and wacky adventures make for an interesting journey that you just have to see through to the end and once you do - it doesn't disappoint.
I could go on and on about these series; it being one of my all-time favorites! If I were to sum it all up in one sentence though, it would be to say that this is one story that will tug at your heartstrings and never let go.
"The woman I love burns with jealousy, leaps to conclusions, cries, and turns to ice, but when she laughs, the world is mine" - Yusaku Godai
*** Another popular series at the time was Kimagure Orange Road by Izumi Matsumoto. I've heard that if you like Maison Ikkoku or are looking for something similar, it would be worthwhile to check out KOR. I've yet to do so myself, though. Feel free to chime in if you have :) ***
What?
Well, considering that this was made by the same creative genius that gave us Inuyasha, it's not that far of a stretch.
Maison Ikkoku is quite a lengthy ride, spanning 161 chapters (96 episodes if you would rather follow the anime) worth of tears, laughter, and romantic overtures. I rather liken it to running a long marathon. You can't rush it; you have to pace yourself and take in every moment of Yusaki's foibles and triumphs. The wide array of supporting characters and wacky adventures make for an interesting journey that you just have to see through to the end and once you do - it doesn't disappoint.
I could go on and on about these series; it being one of my all-time favorites! If I were to sum it all up in one sentence though, it would be to say that this is one story that will tug at your heartstrings and never let go.
"The woman I love burns with jealousy, leaps to conclusions, cries, and turns to ice, but when she laughs, the world is mine" - Yusaku Godai
*** Another popular series at the time was Kimagure Orange Road by Izumi Matsumoto. I've heard that if you like Maison Ikkoku or are looking for something similar, it would be worthwhile to check out KOR. I've yet to do so myself, though. Feel free to chime in if you have :) ***
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