Walt Disney is quoted as describing Cinderella as his favorite fairy tale princess. It is little wonder why the tale of an abused, impoverished, dreamer who through hard work and sheer optimism manages to make good would appeal to Disney. Over seventy years later another take on the classic tale is stealing the hearts of animation aficionados; the Japanese television drama My Happy Marriage. The series offers an original twist on the classic tale while still offering the magic and romance befitting a fairy tale. Be swept off of your feet in My Happy Marriage.
The story begins in 19th century Japan with Miyo relegated to the role of servant to her abusive family. Despite her family's prominent status and coveted supernatural abilities, she has known nothing but disappointment and mistreatment. When her best friend and childhood sweetheart, Koji, is betrothed in an arranged marriage to her vindictive half-sister, Kaya, Miyo is devastated. She then learns that she has been promised to ruthless general Kiyoka Kudou, a man rumored to be so cruel that his three previous fiancées were forced to flee his abuse. Resigned to her fate, she travels to the Kudou compound awaiting what she is certain will be a miserable future. To her astonishment, Kudou shows himself to be the opposite of the monster her family described and the two begin a tentative romance. Just as Miyo's luck finally seems to be changing, however, the couple are faced with outside threats that force Miyo to confront the demons of her past.
My Happy Marriage sets itself apart from its contemporaries by beginning where other Cinderella stories end. In starting with Miyo leaving her abusive family to start a new life with Kudou, the series explores the question of what happens after Cinderella's happily ever after. In this way, the series allows both Miyo and Kudou to develop as three dimensional characters and for the pair to form a genuine connection. The series follows the unlikely couple as they overcome poor first impressions, political machinations, and their own demons. Much like Mr. Darcy before him, Kudou is forced to overcome his pride and prejudices in order to allow himself to accept his growing feelings for Miyo. Similarly, she must rise above the insecurities, fears, and trauma that once dominated her life in order to accept the possibilities of a brighter future. In this way, both characters experience a unique journey of growth even as they help each other to overcome their individual limitations. As a result, viewers will be rooting for their promised happy ending with each episode. For swoon-worthy viewing fall in love with My Happy Marriage.
The film's animation is nothing short of breathtaking. The character design infuses each of the characters with distinct personalities and allows for a full range of expression. Similarly, the animators' incorporation of historical fashion highlights various aspects of the characters' personalities while keeping the often fantastic plot grounded in its historical setting. The landscapes and background animation transport viewers to the tranquility of the Japanese countryside and the bustle of Japan's cities with equal skill. From its dazzling title sequence to the quiet beauty of its closing credits the animation serves as an apt reminder of the power of visual storytelling and the allure of anime.
At once a classic Cinderella story and a refreshingly original tale, My Happy Marriage is a modern fairy tale that has cast a spell on Japanese and Western audiences alike. The Japanese setting and inclusion of supernatural elements breathe new life into a story as old as time. Similarly, the unflinching depiction of Miyo's struggles to overcome years of abuse lend the story a compelling realism that sets it apart from Western fairy tales. The animation brings each of the characters to vibrant life while transporting viewers to Meiji era Japan. For some of the most enchanting viewing on television say 'I do' to My Happy Marriage.
