Otome wa Boku ni Koishiteru

Pleasantly surprised. That is how I felt after watching this series. Unlike many of the other anime series I've watched, I actually started this one with a negative preconception, a misconception that is. After reading the story synopsis, I automatically thought the show was going to be dull. However, to be ever so cliche, I will say that the saying is true: you can't judge a book by its cover. In any case, I watched the first few episodes anyways out of curiousity, and I am happy I did.

Let's begin with the story. If you've read the synopsis, it ... is true. This is a story about a boy who ends up going to an all girls school, because it was his grandfather's dying wish. This seems ridiculous, and the fact is, it probably is. As far fetched as it is, this makes for some interesting situations. As far as a concrete storyline goes, I will tell you now, there's not really an intentional direction for this story. However, there is a structure to the story, and if asked, I would say that its a story about a boy growing up to understand himself and a little about his roots. Overall, however, I felt the story could have been a little better developed, so I only think it deserves a score of 6.

Next, examining the art, I must say, I am quite amused. The art was very beautiful and gave the story a light, warm welcoming feeling. I wouldn't say it's anything extraordinary, but I really enjoyed the art and colors used. The characters were also pretty well depicted; I even enjoyed the cute "minitures" used every so often. I gave this an enjoyable rating of an 8.

Sound- gorgeous. The music really hits the spot with the intention of this anime. The music sets the perfect mood: calm, light, and warm. If anything else, I must say I'm impress with how well the music set the atmosphere for this show. Never once did I feel the music disrupting the flow; it was always on cue. Definitely a 9.

Now this is where the anime shines, the characters. The character development is simply wonderful. Overall, I fell in love with all the characters. The way they are presented, their actions, their words, it all makes up for the lack of a strong storyline. Never once do you think the actions of the characters are exaggerated. Their dynamic personality is what makes this show with watching. I'm still contemplating the score I gave the story in this aspect, but being the harsh critic that I am, I give it a high 9.

Now, this is where I am truly amused. Despite all previous scores being below a 10, I can't help but to give an enjoyment rating of a perfect 10. I really enjoyed the this showed despite all odds. It is really a unique show. One of the other reasons why I enjoy it is because of how it stretches the limits of our minds. People are always restrained by societal expectations. Men should act like men, women as women; anything beyond this is ridiculed. However, this series goes to convey that people shouldn't be judged and labeled so. Stop categorizing people. You are you, and nothing more. This is how we see the main character. At first, we can't get over the fact that Mizuho is a boy dressed as a girl, but as the story progresses, we forget. Mizuho is a girl, no wait he's a guy, but then again, who cares? Mizuho is a virtuous person, whether he's a guy or a girl soon becomes frivolous.

If you're wondering on whether it is worth your time to watch this series, I would urge you yes. Despite how it looks, it's actually a really good show comparable to Fruits Basket, in my opinion. If you found that enjoyable, then you will definitely enjoy Otome wa Boku ni Koishiteru. With all the characters, the wonderful themes, and flowing music, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised.

Otome wa Boku ni Koishiteru,

Story:
Hmm, the story lacked quite a bit, being sent to a all girl's highschool due to his grandfather's will? What's in it for the main character? The storyline basis lacks in detail and does not give enough information, but through witty plot's and lots of cross-dressing this piece makes you quickly forget what the storyline even is.

Art:
The art of course was amazing.

Sound:
Soundtrack fit the lalala atmosphere perfectly and the character voices were nothing but exquisite.
...
Character:
Who does not love a "Cross-dressing boy that actually looks like a girl" character? The main character is very important throughout the anime and makes you quickly forget that she's a boy, whoops I mean he's a boy :p. With an entourage of supporting characters that make the experience even better.

Why did I like this anime?
Not only is this anime hilarious, but it has the capability to make you forget even the key plots of the storyline. Through various experiences the characters mature and relationships form. This anime is the funny, not serious, non-sexual version of Strawberry Panic, and it packs a soft punch =)

'Otome wa Boku ni Koishiteru' is a unique anime in that it combines several themes that you think wouldn't work in a million years. A guy masquerading around an all-girls school in a girl uniform (inflatable pair of breasts included), a subtle haremesque Yuri and not so Yuri romance theme and last but not least - a bit of slice of life drama supplemented by brief and witty comedy.

What's even more unique is that this combination works very well in this anime. I initially had low expectations and let's face it - the plot sounds corny. Once you start watching this series however, everything ... becomes clear and you'll be surprised just how well all of the components in this anime fit together.

The story does a tremendously good job when it comes to plot & character progression and the pacing is fabulous. It's neither slow, nor rushed. The speed of progression over this 12 episode series is just right. It gives you enough time to process the information, cry over the dramatic scenes and/or fist pump the piece of atmosphere in your room to oblivion during the romantic scenes between the male lead and the girls. The concept itself might not be the most original (as in MC + obvious harem dramedy) but other factors such as the fact that the male lead is disguised as a girl and has to avoid detection make it more novel and interesting.

That's not to say that the story here is flawless. No far from it as ironically it's the weakest component. While it has good pacing and certainly caries an interesting premise, it lacks direction. There's no definite conclusion here. No moral of the story. Additionally some of the initial questions are left unanswered all throughout the show. There's also one story arc that sort of ruins the seriousness of 'Otome wa Boku ni Koishiteru'. However I cannot mention exactly what it is and keep this review spoiler free.

The characters themselves are some of the most virtuous characters that I've seen in anime. The male lead - Mizuho, is an epitome of moral excellence. A selfless boy who willingly accepts the task given to him - moving to an all girls school to complete his education. Once there he assumes a high communal position and becomes a paragon of virtue, staying under cover and helping out all the girls in any way he can. This is what I liked the most in this anime. Any other plot would see the male lead taking advantage of the situation and... doing some fairly stupid stuff. Not in here though as Mizuho is a true gentleman.

The female characters were likewise extremely proper and looked up to the MC for guidance. Only 3 episodes in and you can clearly see that the connection between Mizuho and the girls is genuine and they work very well as a team. This in my opinion added to the realism of the series and gave it a lighthearted tone. Finally, there are a couple of female characters that are mysteriously drawn to Mizuho so the series naturally opens up the opportunity for romance and a bit of drama. Interesting to note however is that this romance and drama occurs in natural fashion rather than being forced upon the viewer out of trivial and otherwise superficial situations.

Moving on, the art style and quality are impressive and perfectly supplement this anime's overall cheerful tone. Attention was paid to the characters as well as static backgrounds so the viewer is presented with a consistent experience. Voice acting was authentic and the voices fit the characters very well, especially Mizuho who sounded androgynous and as such made it more believable that he'd fit into an all girls school. The OST itself featured extremely relaxing music, the start of the first episode is a testament to that. And some classical music thrown in between too which completes this series.

Overall, a near damn masterpiece. The story has some issues, mainly the fact that for the most part it doesn't have a clear direction + one arc that kind of ruined the seriousness of the plot. However, if one is to overlook these two problems then one will find that the story succeeds at most of the things it does. All other departments are either perfect or hovering a tiny bit below perfection. I have enjoyed this anime immensely from the start and have watched all the sequels and specials and while their enjoyability varies, the first season of 'Otome wa Boku ni Koishiteru' is not something to be missed.

9 points.