What is it?Nodame Cantabile is the story of two musicians. Chiaki is a uber-talented musician who wants to become a world famous conductor and study under his idol. Only problem is, he is afraid of flying (and boats :P) so he is stuck trying to form his own orchestra in Japan. Nodame (Noda Megumi) is a uber-talented yet untrained and unmotivated pianist. She quickly develops a crush on her neighbor (Chiaki). As the story moves along, both characters try to break away from their traumatic past and get lost in the world of classical music.
What's good about it?
Lots. First of all, the characters are great, especially the title character, Nodame. She is a lazy, pathetic, childish, hilarious character. While Chiaki is forced to play the straight man all the time, he is far from annoying. He has his own twisted sense of humor which he mostly keeps to himself. The animation and theme will remind many of Honey and Clover. However, this series is more than just Honey and Clover with music instead of art. While Nadame Cantabile does get serious at times, it is much better at keeping things light and not become a pity party(my biggest complaint with Honey and Clover). As to be expected, the music is fantastically chosen.
What's bad about it?
Not a whole lot. Sometimes the character interactions get somewhat predictable and the character development can be slow-moving.
Final Verdict
Great characters and easygoing plot made this series a slam dunk. It doesn't take enough chances to qualify as a legendary series but if you are looking for a drama that isn't angst-ridden, you can't go wrong with Nodame Cantabile. Thoroughly enjoyable lighter fare.
9.3/10
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