UlasanAnime.com – There are moments while watching Nagi no Asukara (NagiAsu) that evoke a sense of familiarity, as if certain motifs are directly inspired by “The Little Mermaid.” It’s akin to distilling a classic fairytale, built upon foundational plot devices, and then reassembling them in a new configuration. If one considers the archetypal fairytale narrative—a mermaid falling for a human prince, sacrificing her voice to a sea witch for a chance at terrestrial life and his affection, with the consequence of dissolving into sea foam if unsuccessful—then NagiAsu can be quite literally seen as “Onegai Little Mermaid.”
Despite these observations, I am thoroughly enjoying the series and eagerly anticipating its conclusion, which is just around the corner.
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My primary hope is that the distinctive narrative style often associated with Mari Okada will not become overly dominant. I am open to being surprised; it reminds me of the experience with Samurai Flamenco, where after a multitude of plot twists, one eventually surrenders to the unfolding narrative. While still invested, you cease trying to anticipate or steer the direction of the story. It’s a sentiment comparable to Dr. Strangelove’s relationship with impending bombs. Having two such shows offering this unique viewing experience in the same season is quite a treat.
