Don’t get me wrong, I do love my high school romances. They’re cute, but as I get older it’s easier to relate to people who are around my age and going thru things that I am going thru. While I may not be a mangaka, I am at a bit of a crossroads in life and stressed just like Ichiro, the protagonist of this series.
He and Shiori’s relationship starts out in a somewhat cliche manner with the old “I touched you now I have to marry you” trope. What makes this one so enjoyable for me is the well written relationship between the two of them. While the relationship starts out forced, we see them gradually fall in love and begin a healthy relationship. It’s not just overnight, the show takes us through their dates and intimate conversations where they get to know each other, and it just feels real. It’s nothing crazy special about the story. There’s no unnecessary fan service either. It’s just two adults talking things out, letting one another know how they feel and going from there. That is such a refreshing take on romance that I wish we got more of.
Another thing I REALLY like about this show is the relationship between Ichiro and his siblings. It is so cool to see an older brother who cares for his younger siblings the way he does. Treating them as equals in the house, speaking to them maturely, explaining his decision to date Shiori and making sure they’re included in everything. It honestly got me emotional quite a few times because of the backstory with their parents and just seeing how much he cares for his little brother and sister as a single guardian. Again, I think that’s just something you have to reach a certain age to appreciate and I’m getting there so I liked it.
This is the perfect type of romance story for those who are tired of high school aged anime characters and want people that they can relate to. It’s a mature and well written couple with plenty of cute moments, not overly anime-y with the writing and dialogue, great art and just a wholesome experience. One of my top shows of the season for sure.
Otonari ni ginga gets 9 stingers, out of 10.
