mono [Season 1 Episode 1]

Mono Episode 1 Review: A Promising Start to a Cozy Adventure

The highly anticipated anime Mono has finally arrived, and its first episode, Time to Buy a Camera, delivers a charming mix of slice-of-life warmth, quirky humor, and stunning visuals. Produced by the new studio Soigne and backed by Aniplex, Mono is an adaptation of Afro’s manga, the same creator behind the beloved Yuru Camp (Laid-Back Camp). While comparisons to Yuru Camp are inevitable, Mono carves out its own identity with a focus on photography, a fresh cast of characters, and a vibe that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

A Glimpse into the Premise

The episode introduces us to Satsuki Amamiya, a high school sophomore with an unusual obsession: she’s taken over 30,000 photos of her senior, the Photography Club’s president. When the club is left in shambles after the seniors graduate, Satsuki becomes its unlikely savior, joined by the eccentric new member An Kiriyama. The twist? A laid-back manga artist, Haruno, stumbles into their lives, turning their quiet club activities into a chaotic yet endearing adventure.

The premise is simple but effective—Mono isn’t about grand narratives or high stakes. Instead, it thrives on the small, relatable moments: the joy of capturing a perfect shot, the awkwardness of new friendships, and the absurdity of Haruno’s antics (like her questionable driving skills).

What Fans Are Saying

Diving into fan discussions, the reception has been overwhelmingly positive, though with a few reservations. Here’s what stood out:

1. The Yuru Camp Comparisons

Many fans couldn’t help but draw parallels to Yuru Camp, given Afro’s signature style. Comments like, “This instantly gave me Yuru Camp vibes, but with cameras instead of tents!” and “If you loved Yuru Camp, you’ll adore this!” were common. However, some felt Mono lacked the same magic, calling it “a corporate side project” rather than a passion piece.

2. The Characters Steal the Show

Satsuki and An’s dynamic was a highlight, with fans praising their chemistry. One user noted, “Satsuki’s obsession with her senpai is either adorable or borderline creepy—I can’t decide!” Meanwhile, Haruno’s chaotic energy (and her cat) won over viewers, with comments like, “Haruno is the drunk aunt we never knew we needed.”

3. The Animation and Aesthetics

The studio’s debut work impressed fans, especially the detailed backgrounds and fluid animation. “The 360-degree photo scene was mind-blowing—did they use 3D CG for that?” one fan speculated. Others gushed over the night sky shots, calling them “wallpaper-worthy.”

4. The Photography Nods

Photography enthusiasts appreciated the technical details, like the focus on camera equipment and composition. “As a photographer, this episode resonated with me,” shared one viewer. Another joked, “Now I want to buy an action camera—thanks, Mono!”

5. The Weirdly Endearing Quirks

From Satsuki’s eyebrow-raising photo obsession to Haruno’s terrible driving, the episode’s absurd humor landed well. “They made it to their destination without crashing—miracles do happen!” laughed one fan.

Final Thoughts

Mono Episode 1 is a strong start, blending Afro’s signature cozy storytelling with a fresh twist. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of Yuru Camp yet, it has all the ingredients to become a fan favorite: lovable characters, stunning visuals, and a premise that’s both niche and universally appealing.

If you’re a fan of Yuru Camp, K-On!, or just need a dose of wholesome chaos, Mono is worth adding to your watchlist. The journey has just begun, and if the first episode is any indication, we’re in for a heartwarming ride.

Rating: 8.5/10 – A delightful debut with room to grow.

What did you think of Mono Episode 1? Share your thoughts in the comments!