Written by Avani Trivedi
review based on the first three episodes
Yoko Kamio, the author of Boys Over Flowers, has brought forth another delightful anime, Love Through A Prism — now currently streaming on Netflix.
Set in 20th-century London, Love Through A Prism follows the life of a young art student, Lili Ichijoin. Lili has come from Japan as a promising art student to study at the Saint Thomas Art Academy in London. While quite ambitious on her own, Lili also has pressure from her mother to become the number one artist at the Academy within six months. If not, she must return to Japan, get wed immediately and take over her mother’s Kimono shop.
This is where the male protagonist, Kit Church, is introduced. Kit is an art prodigy and the number one student at the Academy. Upon meeting him and seeing his paintings, Lili is immediately determined to beat him and take first place for herself.
Kit is shown as an aloof yet helpful man who does not care much about material things. Long-time fans of anime might already recognize this archetype. He is constantly drawing or painting, always ready to capture what he sees in his sketchbook. However, his aloofness draws an air of mystery around him.
The first two episodes primarily serve as the building blocks for the season. They focus on Lili, the cultural differences she faces as an immigrant from Japan and the difficulties that come with them. She has to make a switch from wearing kimonos to traditional English clothing of that time. Her diet switches as well, and despite not liking her landlord’s food, she does not object. Lili’s mannerisms are mocked as well. In Japan, it is a common courtesy to bow. However, when she bows in front of her classmates at the academy, she is met with weird looks and whispers. The episodes capture the discomfort of being in a new environment while still looking forward to new things perfectly.
The series is a sight for sore eyes with its pastel colors, calm compositions and the art shown throughout the scenes. With a calm essence and soft spoken dialogues. It captures the viewer’s attention instantly and maintains that attention with its mesmerizing scenes. The visuals and soundtrack allow the viewer to linger on details, mimicking the environment of an art museum. One cannot help but keep gazing at the pieces rather than moving on quickly. Whether one is new to anime or a long-standing fan, the series is a must-watch. Its visual allure and gentle tone invite viewers into a world that’s both comforting and captivating.
