First Impression: Always a Catch!

Maria, also known as Mimi, has been raised as the heir in her family, but when her mother gives birth to a boy, Maria’s father declares that it’s time for her to find a husband, as he now has his new heir! She unfortunately isn’t having much success in her own country in “finding a catch,” so she ends up studying abroad and living with her cousin, Aida. It’s there she attends an academy for nobles and meets both princes of the country, with one of them, Prince Renato, being Aida’s fiancé. However, Mimi doesn’t miss how busy he seems to be and never makes time to visit with Aida. It’s not until they attend an important event to announce Aida and Prince Renato’s engagement that he calls off the engagement…with Mimi?!

I confess I have mixed feelings for this first episode, but that’s definitely only because I kept comparing it to the manga, which I absolutely adore! I was bummed that where the manga begins is where the first episode ends, leaving me feeling that the manga’s build-up isn’t quite the same in the anime. However, I definitely think this first episode shone in showing how deeply close Mimi and Aida are! I loved that! I also appreciated how we were able to get to know the second prince a little more compared to the manga! Mimi’s expressions were also so wonderful! I laughed out loud during several scenes and deeply enjoyed seeing her enthusiasm, protectiveness, and cuteness on screen! The animation was good, and I definitely would like to try out the second episode because, based on the preview, one of the best parts in volume one of the manga is about to unfold in episode two. So I would say, if you’re a fan of the manga, keep watching because we know what’s to come; and if you’re not familiar with the manga, but looking for a new can-be-punchy heroine, I would still tune in for this one!

Always a Catch! can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

Laura A. Grace
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