Non Non Biyori is another entry into the popular Slice of Life genre and proves how competent and aware it is of its own strengths right from the very first episode. The entire anime evokes feelings of calm and "Natsukashii" with its inherent familiarity and warmth, from the music to the characters, but not least the art, background design and scenery. Taking place far away from the city, Non Non Biyori replaces classrooms, hallways and sidewalks for a criminally underused rural setting that feels like a welcome change and a chance to relax. Long, stretching roads flanked by rice fields, big country homes and green, vibrant mountains are all present as the main cast spends their days with activities that would be foreign to any other SoL cast.
The best example of this kind of approach would probably be Aria, with its focus on beautiful scenery and a laid back attitude that NNB shares, except here the focus was likely to bring out the beauty through its simple but realistic style.
The writing makes full use of the setting and invents scenes and scenarios that are common, but out in the country things are done a bit differently. It might take a bit longer and it might not be as convenient, but who knows what might happen along the way. Even something as easy as going to the candy store becomes a long bus-trip where anything could happen, and when the characters arrive they talk to the owner as they were all friends. Moments like this wouldn't happen otherwise. Too many people and you'll feel lonely, but here there is a small community of friends and acquaintances that are brought together through work and play.
Watching NNB is like forgetting where you are for just 20 minutes and just letting yourself be carried into a friendly world without modern technology and what comes with it, which is the appeal oh this healing SoL comedy.
I think this is an excellent SoL that offers something that few do and it deserves a watch by anyone willing to experiment with the old Seinfeld idea of a show about nothing.
Is it yuri?
Hotaru definitely has a crush on her smaller elder, Komari, which pushes her to her absolute limits and is often the subject of a joke or two. What would you be willing to do for your chibi senpai?
What eurobeat song would this be?
Jilly - Fly. Bright, cheery and floaty with enough carefree attitude to bring a smile to anyone's face.
