Full Moon wo Sagashite [Special]

“Full Moon wo Sagashite [Special]”: A Heartfelt OVA That Leaves Fans Wanting More

When it comes to emotional storytelling, Full Moon wo Sagashite has always stood out as a gem in the shoujo anime and manga world. The Kawaii Kawaii Daibouken OVA, a short but sweet addition to the franchise, captures the essence of Mitsuki Kouyama’s journey—a 12-year-old girl battling a life-threatening illness while chasing her dream of becoming a singer. Produced by Studio Deen and released in November 2002, this special episode is a nostalgic treat for fans, though it leaves some wishing for more depth.

The Story: Dreams Against All Odds

The OVA follows Mitsuki, who, with the help of two shinigami (death gods), Takuto and Meroko, transforms into her alter ego, Fullmoon, to pursue her passion for singing. Despite her grim prognosis—a malignant throat tumor—Mitsuki’s determination shines through. The OVA condenses the manga’s emotional weight into a bite-sized adventure, focusing on Mitsuki’s playful yet poignant moments.

Fans have mixed feelings about the adaptation. While some adore the anime’s ability to bring the music to life (a crucial element of the story), others argue that the manga’s darker, more detailed narrative is superior. One fan on MyAnimeList put it perfectly: “The anime’s music is beautiful, but the manga’s plot hits harder emotionally.”

Fan Reactions: Manga vs. Anime Debate

The Full Moon wo Sagashite community is divided between manga purists and anime enthusiasts. Here’s what stands out from recent discussions:

1. The Manga’s Depth
   Many fans praise the manga for its richer character backstories and darker themes. As one commenter noted, “The manga explores Takuto’s death and Meroko’s morally gray side way better. The anime feels too sanitized.” Another fan lamented the absence of certain arcs, like “no human Izumi and Meroko, no Sheldan and Mystere—it’s a shame!”

2. The Anime’s Charm
   On the flip side, anime lovers argue that hearing Mitsuki’s songs adds an irreplaceable layer to the story. “Reading about music isn’t the same as hearing it,” one fan wrote. “Takuto’s dreamy voice and Mitsuki’s emotional performances make the anime unforgettable.”

3. The OVA’s Role
   The Kawaii Kawaii Daibouken OVA is often seen as a fun, if lightweight, addition. It doesn’t delve deep into the manga’s lore but offers a cute, self-contained adventure. Some fans wished it had adapted more pivotal moments, while others appreciated its lighthearted tone.

Why It Still Resonates

Despite its flaws, Full Moon wo Sagashite remains beloved for its core message: chasing dreams despite impossible odds. Mitsuki’s journey—filled with love, loss, and hope—touches hearts even years later. As one fan beautifully put it, “It’s not just about music; it’s about Mitsuki’s soul pouring into her lyrics.”

Final Verdict

If you’re new to Full Moon, the OVA is a sweet introduction, but the manga is where the story truly shines. For longtime fans, this special is a nostalgic trip—short, sweet, and slightly bittersweet, just like Mitsuki’s songs.

So, which side are you on: Team Manga or Team Anime? Either way, Mitsuki’s story is one that lingers, proving that even a fleeting dream can leave a lasting impact.

What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments!