Iketeru Futari

Iketeru Futari is a unique and engaging romantic anime series that premiered on TBS in 1999. Based on the manga series of the same name by Masahiro Itabashi, the animated series introduces viewers to a mesmerizing story full of humor, love, and the typical struggles and aspirations of teenage life.

The story primarily revolves around the two main characters, namely, Saji Keisuke and Koizumi Akira. Saji is an outright teenager known for his perverted-like nature. He is the quintessential boy in high school, who loves the company of beautiful girls. But beneath the mask of frivolity lies a young man with a caring heart, hidden depths, and an unyielding spirit.

On the other hand, you have Koizumi, widely recognized as one of the most beautiful and popular girls in school. However, despite her immense popularity and the flurry of interest she generates among her male counterparts, she is not interested in any of them. Instead, she has a deep affection for Saji, much to everyone’s surprise.

The series comprises sixteen episodes, each no more than five minutes in length. Despite the short runtime of each episode, Iketeru Futari successfully offers a condensed yet comprehensive storyline that is both relatable and heartwarming. While it might first come across as a light-hearted comedy, it transitions into a deeper portrayal of teenage emotions and relationships.

The charm of Iketeru Futari lies not just in the intricate interweaving of humor and love but also in the way it taps into the complexities of growing up. The dynamic character evolution gives viewers a glimpse of their vulnerabilities while also celebrating their strength and resilience.

The animation style and artwork are reminiscent of the late 90s aesthetic, contributing to the show's nostalgic quality. At the same time, the voice acting, music, and pacing have a modern touch, making it enjoyable for both classic and contemporary anime viewers.

Another highlight of the series is its appealing supporting cast, who are much more than mere background entities. Whether it's Saji's childhood friend Yuki or his alter-ego, rubber-duck-costumed superhero Kappaeru, they each bring their distinct charm, either by adding their unique flavor of comedy or by playing key roles in the evolving relationship between Saji and Koizumi.

Iketeru Futari's major theme is love in a high school setting, but it is not your typical rosy romantic show. It displays a realistic portrayal of love, filled with several laughs, awkward silences, hidden emotions, and growing pains, painting a complete picture of a 'high school crush' turned into a deeper connection.

Despite certain adult humor and fan service elements, Iketeru Futari still retains its innocence and simplicity, making it a captivating watch. TBS has successfully used its entertaining plot, unique characters, and relatable themes to provide viewers with unforgettable experiences in every five-minute episode.

In analyzing the backdrop, the story takes place in an urban setting, specifically in Tokyo. The anime does a wonderful job portraying the city's vibrancy, bustling culture, and modern lifestyle. The city becomes not just a setting but a character in itself, organically blending into the narrative.

Overall, Iketeru Futari from 1999 is a must-watch series if one yearns to explore a unique blend of comedy and romance stitched together in a high school setup. It serves as an intriguing hangout spot for anime lovers who wish to watch something light yet intriguing. In its short episodic presentation, the show provides an interesting perspective on teen romance while keeping viewers hooked with its humor and relatable life lessons.