The series is now available on DVD -- or at least the first two discs as of today. This is the animé that many said would never get translated into English (see previous review) because of some of the strange premises. For the most part, this is a straight forward shôjo (girl- oriented/relationship) animé, but that doesn't mean guys won't enjoy it too.
As the story develops, love interests form and break as in many other shôjo, but this one's different: Starting from the first episode (no spoilers), Sana's self-proclaimed boyfriend, manager, and "pimp" is Rei, who is obviously much older than she is, if only by the fact he can drive and she's 11. Rei lives with Sana and her mother and has a seemingly somewhat- too-friendly relationship with Sana. It's a little creepy at the beginning but things normalize as the animé progresses.
With the exception of Rei, this is a fairly normal animé, and is relatively tame with no "fan service" and very little harsh language. (A few "damn" and "hell" and one "pissed", but that's it.)
Sana is the world's most hyperactive girl, easily speaking over 200 words per minute, but she has obviously been around adults for most of her life because she has wisdom beyond her 11 years. Unlike many Japanese, Sana is very outspoken and has no problem telling people -- adults included -- how she feels about them.
To some, Sana might seem overly pushy, nosy, and annoying, but her intentions are always honorable. Sana occasionally breaks into song or a rap to explain her feelings during the show which helps the plot along nicely.
There are very few lulls in the action (or Sana's dialog!) and the English dub is very nicely done. Hats off to Laura Bailey for voicing Sana! There is no way that was an easy read... even for Laura's skill!
This is one of the last in a generation of cel-based animé. There are no sweeping CG landscapes or flythroughs. This is old-school animation and it's wonderful. This animation is smooth and no cels were spared. The artwork is bright and colorful and loads of fun.
If you enjoy "Marmalade Boy" or other shôjo animé, you're in for a treat with Kodocha.
