Summer Storm!
Synopsis
In modern-day Japan, 13-year-old Hajime Yasaka moves to the countryside to stay with his grandfather. On the way to his new home, a lost Hajime finds himself in a cafe called Ark, where he immediately falls in love with one of the waitresses: the gorgeous Sayoko "Arashi" Arashiyama. While Arashi is initially unconcerned with the boy, her attitude quickly changes after she grasps Hajime's hand, leading her to believe they are "connected." As it turns out, Arashi is anything but a regular teenager—in reality, she is the ghost of a girl who perished in World War II. By touching a man she connects with, she gains the ability to travel back in time. Delighted to have found someone who can unlock her powers, Arashi asks Hajime to help with her mission: to save civilians from the carnage of the war that claimed her life. Smitten with Arashi, Hajime readily agrees. But as the two get further involved with Arashi's past, they soon discover that she is not the only one able to transcend time. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Natsu no Arashi! is a unique and quirky anime that blends time travel, comedy, and historical elements. While some viewers find the tonal shifts jarring and the plot confusing, others appreciate the well-developed characters, creative art style, and excellent music. Overall, the series is considered underrated and enjoyable, especially for those who appreciate SHAFT's distinctive style.
Strengths
- Unique blend of genres (comedy, romance, sci-fi, historical elements).
- Well-developed and likeable characters with distinct personalities.
- Excellent music, including opening and ending themes with a retro vibe.
- Creative art style and animation, with SHAFT's signature visual flair.
Weaknesses
- Tonally inconsistent, with zany comedy clashing with serious themes.
- Plot can be confusing and disjointed, especially in the first half.
- Repetitive jokes and running gags may become tiresome for some viewers.
- Directing choices might not fully complement the art style.