Without a single life-altering event, nothing supernatural, nor any science fiction or fantasy elements, and indeed not even a plot, this series of light-hearted, standalone slice-of-life shorts allows you to get to know these characters through memorable five-minute moments over the course of three school years as they naturally become friends.
It's this emulation of the way you actually get to know people as much as the depiction of realistic moments that make you feel a genuine sadness and realize the emotional connection you've developed to these characters when they break the forth wall and say goodbye at the end.
From beginning to end, this animé series is nothing short of charming. Rarely have I given any show a ten out of ten but Azumanga Daioh deserves it unreservedly.
If you can find it, I recommend the original three-volume six-disc DVD release which include a small booklet with each volume that explain certain puns and cultural items to non-Japanese viewers.
It's this emulation of the way you actually get to know people as much as the depiction of realistic moments that make you feel a genuine sadness and realize the emotional connection you've developed to these characters when they break the forth wall and say goodbye at the end.
From beginning to end, this animé series is nothing short of charming. Rarely have I given any show a ten out of ten but Azumanga Daioh deserves it unreservedly.
If you can find it, I recommend the original three-volume six-disc DVD release which include a small booklet with each volume that explain certain puns and cultural items to non-Japanese viewers.