Actually, I am...

Actually, I am... is an anime television series, produced by TMS Entertainment and adapted from a Japanese manga of the same name. Premiered in 2015, this series showcases a distinct blend of genres that encompass romantic comedy, high school drama, and supernatural elements. The storytelling wonderfully merges light family-friendly comedy with heart-throbbing love scenarios, while splashing in shades of mystery through its supernatural backdrops.

The series is centered around the character Asahi Kuromine, a high school student who is famous for his inability to keep secrets. His friends love teasing him due to his expressive nature, often allowing his facial expressions and reactions to reveal hidden information. However, everything takes a remarkable twist when he stumbles upon a deep secret about his crush, Youko Shiragami. This discovery compels him to become the keeper of an unexpected secret, conflict-ridden with his truthful nature, thereby setting him on a rollercoaster of emotional turmoil, hilarious incidents, and an endearing pursuit of love.

One of the standout traits of Actually, I am... remains its unique character line up. The characters not only bring diversity but also they are eccentric and multifaceted with engrossing backstories. Asahi, our protagonist, through his journey of secret-keeping, encounters a slew of these intriguing individuals, each carrying their secrets, further enriching the narrative texture of the show. Starting from the charming and sweet yet secretive Youko to the stoic and aloof Mikan, each character significantly contributes to the plot while making the audience invested in their personal journeys.

The show reveals its magical side slowly. The creators decided to alternate real-world elements and supernatural phenomena creatively, never overdoing either of the aspects. This technique adds a layer of unpredictability to the plot, keeping the audience hooked, and curious about what venture is next for Asahi.

The romantic storyline remains the central thread of Actually, I am..., and it brings the charm in an otherwise fantastical narrative. The pining, the blushing, the set of misunderstandings, together play the symphony of high school love stories in all its element. Yet, it's never too clichéd; the romantic elements weave seamlessly with comedy and supernatural twists. Together, the elements keep viewers oscillating between laughter, surprise, and sweet swooning moments.

Actually, I am... also excels in its vibrantly colorful art style and animation. The animation is smooth, with primary focus on the character designs. With detailed attention to the backdrop, the anime is as pleasing to watch, as it is to follow the plot. The music complements this perfectly. From the snappy and powerful opening track to the soft and melodious ending theme, the series manages to add an additional pinch of emotion to the ongoing narrative.

One of the most admirable aspects of Actually, I am... is the balance it strikes between its genres. Neither the romance overpowers the fantasy, nor does the comedy dwindle the dramatic moments. Through its run time, the series maintains an engaging rhythm of highs and lows, charms and surprises, laughter and intensity.

In closing remarks, Actually, I am..., is an endearing tale of courage, trust, secrets, and love. Through an ensemble of fascinating characters, a vibrant animation style, gripping plotlines, and a seamless blend of romance, comedy, and fantasy, this anime provides an engaging viewing experience. Whether as a seasoned anime enthusiast or a beginner, there's much to admire and enjoy in this riveting 2015 creation from TMS Entertainment. Despite having high school as its setting, its themes are universal, thereby making it a show that appeals to a diverse age group of viewers. Ultimately, Actually, I am... is an intriguing, amusing, heart-warming show that encourages its viewers to accept people for who they are, secrets and all.