Nodame Cantabile: Finale

Nodame Cantable: Finale is the third and final series of this anime based on the manga of the same name.  This 11 episode series aired in Japan early 2010.  For a complete understanding of what the Nodame Cantabile titles are all about please read my reviews on Nodame Cantabile and Nodame Cantabile: Paris.

    We find Nodame and Chiaki still living in Paris, trying to accomplish their goals of success in the classical music world.  They also have to figure out what will happen with their relationship as they both focus on the tasks ahead of them and move ahead in life.

   I have always enjoyed this series and was happy to be able to conclude it.  This season seemed to pick up from some of the things that were lacking in the second series, most notably the emphasis on the music.  The humor remained strong as well through the majority of the story.  Even during the serious moments in the second half of the season I found myself smiling through almost all of the show.  It truly was a return to form from the original series.  We get to see some old faces in tiny cameos and the resolution of side characters from the Paris series.  Ultimately there are 2 main story lines that blend into one overall story; Nodame finally figuring out what she wants to do for herself.  The important themes of the entire series are not tidied up in the end, but enough is suggested that you can be confident everything will work out as it should.  Happy endings!!!

    If you still want to get your Nodame fix there are more live action renditions available and the manga, which ended its Japanese run in 2010 officially!  Gyabo!!!!!!!

   While the original series was licensed and released in North America, the Paris and Finale series’ have not been so fortunate.  The manga has also been licensed and is being released by Del Ray.