Summary:

It took me a while to get used to the artstyle of 3-gatsu no Lion, but once I got used to it,
this series has easily become my top 5 best anime series of all time. While it is not as complete as Assassination Classroom in terms of what the series can offer, 3-gatsu no Lion compensates with unique cinematography, example showcased in the form of 5-seconds close up shots, unique music scores, etc. Similar to Assassination Classroom, the majority of the casts gets their spotlight, although this season mainly (and understandably) focused on Rei's perspective. Nevertheless, the story is anything but one-dimentional, bringing in multiple themes applicable to real-life situations (such as depression, the importance of companions and how to be a valuable companion, etc.). The direction of the art, storytelling and cinematography actually reminds me of Disney Pixar's Ratatouille (won't go into detail on this).

What I like: many things, but especially: music scores, cinematography, multi-dimentional story
What I dislike: maybe too shogi centric...although that is kind of the point of the story

Details: POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING
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• I like how the series is that it takes time for Rei to develop. It took the combined effort of the persistent Kawamoto sisters and Nikaido to even get Rei out of his miserable state (about 10 episodes (?)), and even after that, his perspective and thinking is still very flawed, showcasing the severity of trauma and depression that can relate easily to real life.

• Speaking of supporting characters, while generally the characters are very interesting, Kawamoto sisters and Nikaido are the best characters in this season so far, probably the best companions in any fiction writing. Without their persistence support, Rei will not develop and survive. Despite their flaws and struggles (which will become even more prevalent in the next season), they have become the source of inspiration to Rei, and to me personally.

• I am glad that the series did not make Gotou and Kyouko a full antagonist, despite basically

causing serious mental scar to Rei. It goes to show that Rei's not fully righteous. He even failed
to pass judgment to Gotou, as shown by his lost in shogi match, which serve as a valuable lesson to Rei later on.

• This series has one of the best cinematography of all anime series (including anime movies). It incorporates unique emotion-based storytelling via multiple 5-seconds close up shots. The music scores are also excellent: OP/EDs fits the overall tone of each halfs, the mellow and calm BGMs provide exquisite feeling between scenes.

• Extra: the desserts are gorgeous lol

• Best character: Nikaido
• Worst character: the small kid that bullied Rei as a child (idk lol)