The novel is the most known work by it's creator, Takei Touka, and has received a couple of manga adaptions. However, that doesn't mean that it's well-known. I must say that I'm surprised it actually got an anime adaption, but I'm sure they had something in mind. And I'm happy I got to know this story.
The story starts of like any harem comedy, which is probably why some people can't stand it. Other than our protagonist's strange power, it doesn't have any other special treats. The thing about flags is a quite original idea, and it was really entertaining even though it was pretty silly.
However, we're told pretty soon that something's off, which is probably the main thing that keeps the interest. Other than that, the comedy was actually quite enjoyable, having me laugh out loud in every episode. The harem is really big, and some characters are seen less than others, but all of them have their own characteristics which makes them special in one way or another. However, they have one thing in common; they reeeaaally love Souta. This was something that could get highly annoying at some points, seeing how everyone loses their heads when they're with him.
The reason I kept watching was probably since it was really funny, one of the very few animes that makes me laugh even when I'm all alone watching it. Also, I really liked some of the characters.
It was really late, but suddenly, the main story broke free, releasing a huge plot twist that really messes with your head. I never thought that I'd get confused while watching Gaworare, I never did. It was probably since it was so unexpected that I enjoyed it so much, but I actually do think it was quite good. The character relations were nicely handled on this point too, I was more than satisfied at the end. Although some parts of the "serious" story were just as silly as the rest of the show, I did enjoy it, and it raised my score a lot.
My favourite character was Akane, right from the start. She's by Souta's side through the whole show, and she really deserved the ending she got. Just like most characters in this show, she's really stupid whenever it comes to Souta, but she's still very charming and really cute.
The most outstanding character would still be Nanami, though, the most noted heroine with a cute personality. I got really happy when her true role was revealed. This really sorted out the character relations, and she kept her important role while still being a good character.
The other characters also have their roles, some being a little more noted than others. As an example I want to bring up Ruri, who I experienced being more of a witness, watching over the whole story and only making a move now and then. Her character was quite a mysterious one, which made her even more appealing even though she was a robot. This was really interesting.
I do have one complaint though, and that would be the old granny looking like a baby. This is one step over the line, but her aside, everyone were really nice characters.
Hatate Souta was a good protagonist, starting of as a depressing view and developing into a hero who really wants to save everyone. He does question some of the characters' actions, but he treats everyone like his friends and we know that his life would be less cheerful if everyone wasn't in it. His actions in the final scene were really touching.
To be honest, I do think that "Kanojo ga Flag wo Tateru Wake" is one of the best ending songs of spring 2014. The melody is sweet and really nice to listen to, I never skipped it while watching the anime, and I'm actually listening to it while writing this review. Also, the illustrations that were shown within those 1:30 seconds were really beautiful. The opening was cute as well, although I didn't find it as good as appealing as the ending.
Voice actors were nice, they fit their characters and I have no complaints. Ohsaka Ryota, Souta's VA, was a great fit. And once again, our sweet little Hanazawa Kana made a great job as the trap.
The character designs were really really nice, all girls (and the trap!) were cute and had different hairstyles and features. I liked all the colours that were used in this series, they were bright and cheerful, making you happy while watching. But as soon as we reach the depressing parts, the screen gets gray and dull, making us feel just as down as the character in focus. I also want to point out that the school uniform was adorable.
Other than that, the art was really pleasant, fitting the theme with it's infinite cuteness.
The BGs were at most times very well done, I especially liked how they portrayed the sea. Blue colours were a favourite.
With this said, I really did enjoy this show despite it's silliness. Even though it was really stupid at times, I could still laugh at it, which is important to me. As I was able to enjoy both the comedy and the "serious story", I want to give this show 7.5 in score, but since decimals are a 'no-no', I'll score it with an 8. So keep this in mind; this anime was not a complete flop, since I was able to enjoy it to this extent.
… Or maybe that just means that it really is a flop.
