Im not the most experienced in the anime field as i didnt watch many animes but i can say confidently that Haibane Renmei is one of the most beautiful ones you could ever find out there.
The premise of it is quite unique since the context of it all is revealed later on, it being about the race of the Haibane living in old home slightly isolated from humans and are confined whitin the walls that keep the world living in it.
Id say that the characters, although all are unique, the only ones that stick out are rakka and reki for obvious reasons, as they seem to be the only ones with heavier development.
Rakka and Reki and the core of the story:
Rakka is the newest born haibane inside of a cocoon in old home starting off the series with her being guided and helped by Reki while we learn what the haibane are. At first Rakka seems to be pretty one-sided as a girl that just wants to help others around and enjoy herself but as it all progresses so does she, as she feels herself stick out due to not having a job comparbly to others. Rakka looked around others jobs and saw all kind of things that she liked but nothing that seemed to fit her. That would all be until the narative would change because of her haibane friend Kuu which she developed a bond with due to both being younger and newer haibane's. Eventually though the day of flight came for Kuu which left Rakka devastated, making herself feel a guilt almost as if she was the reason for Kuu going away. As the series unfolds we learn Rakka is sin bound leading her into a deeper sadness, causing her to cut her black feathers out of shame and for her wishing to dissapear and die. The one to comfort her would be Reki, as shes the other only one who is also sin bound, and ended up curing Rakka of it. Slowly we learn more about Reki and how she had a past full of pain because of her being sin bounded, becoming a good haibane just to wish to be forgiven, but she wasnt, she couldnt be since she always helped others, but couldnt ask for help herself. It was only until she understood just what she was doing she asked for help, and Rakka saved her, making her forgiven of her sin bound, letting her be able to take the flight.
I think ive rambled a bit about the story but it explains just what its about. Haibane Renmei to me atleast is a comfort show that is also thought provoking in some ways. There isnt a lot of room to explore once you finish the series, since most of the questions are answered and those that arent, dont need answers, but thats the beauty of it. Its a experience that you get to have and it wont just fade away, it would remain remembered and would always give you something to smile about. (Obviously it wont be that case for everybody but im speaking for the majortiy and myself)
In conclusion, i recommend Haibane Renmei to everyone who wants a slow beautiful tale that would make you smile. 10/10
