We are finally at the end with Yune obsessing over cats once again. Underneath it all, there are some dramatic and heartwarming moments to resolve Claude’s concern for her.
From Yune’s love for cats, it’s apparent that Japan has a strong preference for cats. With the possible exception of Dog Days, it seems that most anime features either cats or cat girls with dogs being somewhat uncommon. I think this probably has to do with the significance of cats in the Japanese culture, especially with folk tales about the Nekomata. Besides, this becomes the basis of this episode as she decides to find the cat with the bell after getting Claude angry over touching his special gloves.
Back in Episode 10, there were a few flashbacks showing Claude’s father, Jean who he apparently hated. This gets brought up again when Yune tries to grab the small gloves to help out only to get yelled at. Sure, we have seen many cases where he was mean to her. In this instance, it was special because he still hasn’t gotten over his father’s death. Eventually, the reason behind it gets revealed later after he finds Yune walking on top of the roof and saving her from the same fate. Apparently, his father died from an accident while working on the Grand Magasin. When his father fell off, he just felt helpless. This was the main reason he didn’t want Yune to visit that place since it reminded him of the tragic memory. Fortunately, he gotten over it and changes his mind about taking her there. In short, he has finally warmed up to her from a result of this.
Besides the drama over one cat and losing her sandals in the process, the finale was a very present one. One can say that Yune lacked some proper judgment for walking on a roof to get a cat. Even so, I’m glad that he accepted her as part of the family after being afraid for so long. Moreover, the thought of everyone helping out to find her was sweet.
Final Thoughts
To me, Ikoku Meiro no Croisèe was a very heartwarming story that deserved a lot of credit. The depiction of France looked simply gorgeous and it sets the mostly lighthearted mood of the story. Furthermore, it was interesting to see some drama through the backstories of Claude and Camille despite the lack of a resolution. With shows like Aria and K-ON, Croisèe was refreshing as the developments are gradual and pleasing. While some people hate this kind of show and would rather watch something that has more action, I think there are many open-minded people who would come to appreciate this kind of show.
Overall Rating: 9.4/10, A, Masterpiece
Hopefully I get the review done for this weekend.
I agree, Ikoku Meiro no Croisee was very well done, I hope for a second season and the continuing manga gives me a feeling that there’s definitely a good chance for it. Croisee (both the manga and the anime) are beautifully drawn and definitely has become one of my all time favorites, “Masterpiece” is an understatement.
Well, of course the score can’t really go off the scale. While the feeling is similar to Aria, the premise is completely different. If you read any other reviews in the blogosphere, I do admit that the cuteness was somewhat overdone, but it brought a good feeling. I appreciate the developments with Claude regarding his father and his childhood friend and of course the setting…
If you haven’t already, I suggest checking out the Aria series… same kind of feeling, but it’s on a terraformed Mars and of course lighthearted development and friendship.