Citrus

Citrus is a captivating, dramatic anime series that aired on AT-X in 2018. Based on the popular manga title of the same name by Saburouta, the 12-episode series resonates with the viewers by delving deep into the complexity of teenaged relationships, familial ties, and personal self-discovery.

The main narrative of Citrus explores the unusual relationship between two step-sisters who find themselves attending the same all-girls high school. Yuzu Aihara, the protagonist, is an outgoing, fashionable, and rebellious high schooler who was fascinated by the idea of falling in love and attending a co-educational institution. Her dreams are brutally squashed when her incredibly dynamic mother remarries, leading to a series of life-altering changes for Yuzu.

Post her mother’s remarriage, Yuzu is forced to move houses and change schools – shifting from her co-educational institution to an all-girls high school. This shaking transition is only made worse by the school's strict rules that require the students to follow a simple dress code, forbid makeup, and regulate any form of interaction between the students.

At her new school, Yuzu finds herself rubbing shoulders with the seemingly cold, aloof, and impeccably disciplined Mei, who is not only the student council president but her step-sister as well. This meeting is the start of their complex relationship, starting from heated hatred and animosity to developing into inexplicable feelings that neither of them fully understand initially.

The series takes a turn when Yuzu starts developing romantic feelings for Mei, a confusing turn of events that pushes her into an emotional whirlpool where she battles against her own morals, society’s norms, and her newfound feelings. Simultaneously, Mei, always self-contained and emotionally distant, also starts navigating her emotions towards Yuzu, further causing tensions to brew.

Citrus excellently handles the taboo subject of same-sex love in a conservative setting, like an all-girls high school, and how societal preconceptions and self-doubts make the situation even more complicated. The show boldly addresses the trials and tribulations faced by the characters due to their romantic feelings towards the same gender and their subsequent struggle to find acceptance, not just from society but from themselves as well.

Each episode of Citrus probes deeper into the protagonists' evolving relationship, displaying mature themes and scenarios. Yuzu’s fun-loving and vibrant personality starkly contrasts Mei’s rigid and introverted demeanor, which leads to an amalgamation of arguments, misunderstandings, and passionate moments. The series is also replete with a handful of secondary characters who post their unique challenges to the lead pair's blossoming relationship and individual character growth.

The animation in Citrus is visually appealing and conducive to the theme of the story. With its delicate illustrations, meticulous attention to detail, and immersive setting, the series provides an excellent representation of the manga. The show effectively translates the emotive depth and complexity of the protagonists’ relationship, granting a visually rich platform for the narrative to unfold.

The use of poignant background music and voice acting in Citrus is characteristic, adding depth and reinforcing the intensity of the plot. The melodious openings and endings not only fit perfectly with the tone of the show, but also provides a brief respite from the emotional intensity that permeates each episode.

All in all, Citrus presents a challenging tale of self-discovery, love, acceptance, and growth. While it revolves around the emotional journey of two step-sisters and their entangled feelings, it also effectively addresses the societal constructs surrounding gender, orientation, and love. Despite its dramatic elements and intense emotions, Citrus is an anime series that touches the heart and leaves a lasting impression. It's a daring depiction of forbidden romance that laces shock with sweetness while still being relatable and emotionally honest.