Natsu no Arashi! Season 1 Episode 1 Episode 1

Natsu no Arashi! season 1 episode 1, titled "Episode 1", is a vibrant and intriguing introduction to a series that has gained a reputation for its mix of supernatural themes and nostalgic settings. The show takes place in the summer of 1970, with protagonist Hajime Yasaka arriving at a mysterious old-fashioned cafe called the "Cafe Foresight". While he's exploring the cafe and admiring its unique atmosphere, he happens upon a young girl named Arashi, who is dressed in a traditional Japanese school uniform. Hajime is surprised to find out that Arashi seems to possess a strange power that allows her to transport him back in time to the early 1940s, where he meets a young girl named Yayoi who bears a striking resemblance to Arashi.

The show explores the themes of time travel, nostalgia, and ghosts, and the first episode does an excellent job of setting up the premise and introducing audiences to the unique world of Natsu no Arashi! While the show's use of time travel might initially sound confusing, the first episode does an excellent job of grounding the story by introducing the character of Hajime, who serves as a relatable protagonist for audiences to follow. Hajime's reactions to the strange happenings around him help ground the story in a recognizable reality, while the time travel element adds an extra layer of intrigue and mystery to the narrative.

The character of Arashi is also a highlight of the episode, with her mysterious powers and playful demeanor adding a sense of wonder and excitement to the story. Arashi and Hajime have an interesting dynamic that's explored throughout the episode, with Arashi's mischievous nature and Hajime's attempts to understand just what's going on in the world around him making for some entertaining and engaging moments. The scenes set in the Cafe Foresight are also notable for their unique details and nostalgic charm, with the vintage furniture, old-fashioned cash register, and classic jukebox all adding to the show's overall aesthetic.

The episode does an excellent job of balancing the show's more supernatural elements with grounded character interactions and a heartfelt sense of nostalgia. The time travel element is used sparingly at first, with Hajime's initial jump to the 1940s hinting at a larger story just waiting to be explored. By introducing the character of Yayoi, the show begins to hint at the possibility of a deeper mythos involving ghosts and supernatural powers, without ever losing sight of the more personal story of Hajime and Arashi.

Overall, Natsu no Arashi! season 1 episode 1 is an excellent introduction to a series that's full of personality and charm. The episode does an excellent job of setting up the premise and establishing the show's unique world, while also introducing audiences to some engaging and relatable characters. With its mix of time travel, ghosts, and nostalgia, Natsu no Arashi! has all the ingredients for a truly unique and entertaining anime experience.