'Saiunkoku monogatari' ~ The story of the Kingdom of colourful clouds

The advantage of long stories is that all characters have enough screen time to develop and show what kind of individuals they are. The problem is that not only the viewers, but the creators themselves become bored and start thinking up one plot twist after another for the sheer sake of twisting the plot.

Still, 'Saiunkoku' is a refreshing example of shoujo genre, because the main female character, despite a huge reverse harem around her, behaves like a normal woman, trying to pursue her career and still unsure about her feelings. Because the characters around her are not the standard set of handsome love-interests, but are just as colourful as the clouds that the country is named for. Because their feelings and relationships are as colourful too.

Because the creators were not afraid to make fun of what could be otherwise awkward.

Because the emperor of the country is comforted by little pandas in the woods when he is feeling down. Because a nobleman makes a flute out of a radish.

Because a loyal friend protects the heroine with bamboo shoots.

This anime may be far from ideal. After all, I spent 2 months watching it, too long for less than 80 episodes, which means I didn't feel like I couldn't wait to watch further.

Still, I'd recommend it to absolutely everyone, because I know I already miss them - the people of the Kingdom of colourful clouds.