Prelude Maison Ikkoku: When the Cherry Blossoms Return in the Spring

This 27-minute OVA follows Kyoko Otonashi, who is adjusting to life as a widow after the death of her husband, Soichiro. As she manages her father-in-law's boarding house, she reflects on their brief time together and their first meeting when he was her geology teacher. The film utilizes flashbacks to convey their relationship, drawing on scenes from the original television series.

With a mix of animation and poignant storytelling, the film features voice performances from Sumi Shimamoto, Hideyuki Tanaka, Issei Futamata, and Ryuji Saikachi. This entry is notable for its emotional depth, as it revisits moments that define Kyoko's love and sorrow. Fans of the Maison Ikkoku series will find this prequel a compelling continuation of the narrative, enhancing the overall experience of the franchise.