Part 1 of our Kyoto Vacation, ‘Crying is the Key to Happiness,’ continues with 2007’s Clannad, the first entry in a two-series journey adapting the legendary visual novel by Key VisualArts. And it is, immediately, a major artistic leap for Kyoto Animation, a stunningly animated, beautifully written, alternatingly hilarious and poignant portrait of high school friendship and romance. Before we even arrive at the darker, bolder narrative turns of the second season, Clannad After Story, the series’ first half has us wondering if we’re watching one of the greatest anime ever made. This one is the complete package, and we break it all down in detail, sharing the history behind the visual novel and the team at Kyoto Animation behind the anime, breaking down the story, characters, and animation, and generally gushing about a truly incredible work of art. 

Enjoy, and come back next week as we review the second half of the Clannad saga with Clannad After Story! 

Time Chart:

Theme Song: 0:00:00 – 0:01:30 

Intro and History: 0:01:30 – 0:50:11

Eyecatch Break: 0:50:11 – 0:50:48

Clannad Review: 0:50:48 – 3:33:36

End Theme: 3:33:36 – 3:34:38

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“re:CAPTURE” and “Happily Ever After” – Original Music & Lyrics by Thomas Lack, featuring Hatsune Miku. https://www.thomaslack.com