Anne Shirley [Season 1]

Title: “Anne Shirley Season 1: A Heartwarming Ode to Imagination and Belonging”

From the moment Anne Shirley steps onto the screen in Season 1 of this Japanese anime adaptation, you can’t help but be swept away by her fiery red hair, freckled face, and a personality that’s equal parts chaos and charm. Produced by The Answer Studio and directed by Hiroshi Kawamata, this series breathes new life into Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved Anne of Green Gables novels, and let’s just say—fans are obsessed.

The story kicks off with a classic mix-up: Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert, a pair of quiet siblings on Prince Edward Island, send for a boy to help with their farm, but instead get Anne, an orphan with a mouth faster than a speeding train and a mind full of daydreams. What follows is a rollercoaster of emotions as Anne navigates life at Green Gables, from her first day at Avonlea school (where she immediately clashes with the stuck-up Gilbert Blythe) to her adventures with best friend Diana Barry. The anime stays true to the original’s cozy, nostalgic vibe, but adds vibrant animation that makes Prince Edward Island look like a watercolor painting come to life.

One of the biggest wins here is how the show captures Anne’s spirit. Her rants about “kindred spirits” and her tendency to name everything (even a pond!) feel both relatable and magical. Fans on forums like MyAnimeList can’t stop gushing about how the voice acting—especially for Anne—nails her energy. “Her lines are so over-the-top, but you can’t help but smile,” one user wrote. Another added, “I cried when she finally feels like she belongs at Green Gables. It’s like watching your own childhood dreams come true.”

The animation style is soft and whimsical, with pastels that mirror Anne’s vivid imagination. Scenes like Anne and Diana’s picnic by the Lake of Shining Waters or Anne reciting poetry under a cherry blossom tree are pure eye candy. And let’s not forget the music—gentle piano melodies that wrap around you like a warm blanket, making even the smallest moments feel special.

Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Anne’s struggles with being an orphan, her insecurities about her appearance, and her clashes with Marilla’s strictness add depth to the story. But what makes this season stand out is how it balances these heavier themes with humor and hope. Whether Anne is accidentally dyeing her hair green or getting into trouble for “borrowing” a neighbor’s brooch, her resilience shines through.

For anyone who grew up with the books or the live-action series, this anime is a delightful trip down memory lane. And for new fans? It’s a perfect introduction to the world of Green Gables. The pacing is just right—each episode feels like a chapter in a book you can’t put down. Plus, the supporting characters, from Matthew’s quiet kindness to Diana’s unwavering loyalty, make the world feel lived-in and lovable.

In a world full of action-packed anime, Anne Shirley Season 1 is a breath of fresh air. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most powerful stories are the ones about finding home, friendship, and the courage to be yourself. So grab a cup of tea, curl up on the couch, and let Anne’s adventures sweep you away. You won’t regret it.

Final Verdict: 9/10—A heartwarming, visually stunning adaptation that captures the magic of the original. Perfect for all ages, and a must-watch for anyone who loves stories about hope and imagination.

P.S. Keep an eye out for the scene where Anne and Diana get drunk on currant wine—you’ll laugh until your sides hurt!