March Comes in Like a Lion Season 1 Episode 8 Episode 8

In Episode 8 of March Comes in Like a Lion Season 1, titled "Chapter 8: The Sound of the Cork," we see our protagonist, Rei Kiriyama, taking his first steps towards acknowledging the importance of his social circle.

As we recall from the previous episode, Rei had quite a setback in his professional career, leaving him feeling isolated and alone. However, he soon realizes that being surrounded by people who care about him can make all the difference in his life.

The episode starts with Rei attending a get-together at one of his shogi rival's home. His fellow shogi players are all there, along with their families, and Rei is struck by how close they all seem. He feels like an outsider, intruding on their familial bond. However, his mood soon lifts as he's welcomed into the fold and made to feel like part of the family.

The warmth and camaraderie of the evening make a lasting impression on Rei. The following day, he pays a visit to the Kawamoto family, who have become something of a surrogate family to Rei. He joins them for dinner, and again, we see how they care for him, even in small ways.

The episode is particularly touching because it shows Rei finally starting to open up to the people around him. We learn that he's always been very private and guarded, but he's starting to trust those around him and let his guard down. The result is that people are starting to connect with him on a deeper level, and he's beginning to feel like he's not so alone in the world after all.

As usual, the episode features stunning visual imagery and a dreamlike quality that's come to be a hallmark of the show. We see the light streaming in through the windows, the cherry blossoms gently falling outside, and the steam rising from the hot bowls of soup on the table. The contrast between the warmth and lightness of these scenes and the darkness and isolation of Rei's internal thoughts is striking, and adds to the tension and drama of the episode.

In a particularly memorable moment, we see Rei preparing instant ramen for himself in his apartment. It's a simple act, but it's imbued with so much pathos and emotion. We see Rei staring at the ramen, and we're left to wonder what he's thinking. Is he lonely and wishing for human connection? Is he feeling the weight of his failures? The ambiguity of the scene is precisely what makes it so effective.

The episode also tackles another theme that's been simmering throughout the season: the relationship between Rei and his adoptive sister, Kyoko. Kyoko has always been a source of tension for Rei, and we see why in this episode. We get brief flashbacks to their childhood, which hint at a traumatic incident that has scarred them both. It's clear that there's a lot of emotional baggage between the two, and it's fascinating to see the show slowly unpacking this over the course of the season.

All in all, Episode 8 of March Comes in Like a Lion is a thoughtful and contemplative chapter in the series. We see Rei inching towards a greater understanding of himself and the people around him, and we're left with a sense of hope that he'll continue to make progress in the future. The episode is a beautiful exploration of the human condition, and it's a testament to the show's ability to weave together complex themes and emotions in a way that resonates deeply with its audience.