Oreshura

Oreshura, an abbreviation of the full Japanese title "Ore no Kanojo to Osananajimi ga Shuraba Sugiru" (translated as "My Girlfriend and Childhood Friend Fight Too Much") is a captivating romantic anime produced by Aniplex, that burst into the anime scene in January 2013. The series is based on the popular light novel series of the same name penned by Yuuji Yuuji, and it is an irresistible presentation that combines elements of romantic comedy, drama, and school life in a way that leaves anime enthusiasts asking for more.

The anime focuses on the life of Eita Kido, a high school student determined to study medicine to fulfill a childhood promise. Jaded by the bitter divorce of his parents, Eita has developed an aversion to romance and love, dedicating his life to his studies. However, Eita’s tranquil academic-focused life takes an unexpected turn when the school's beauty, Masuzu Natsukawa, develops an interest in him.

'Masuzu Natsukawa, sporting silver hair, a sharp wit, and a devilish charm, is the school’s enigmatic beauty that every boy desires and every girl envies. Recently transferred to Eita's school, she turns the everyday monotony upside down. Tired of the constant attention, Masuzu devises a plan to repel her student admirers by claiming Eita as her boyfriend. The catch, it's all a faux relationship.

Masuzu uses a secret from Eita's past to black-mail him into pretending to be her boyfriend, but this newfound relationship irks Chiwa Harusaki, Eita's childhood friend and neighbor. Chiwa, who has clear feelings for Eita, begins her own campaign to win Eita's affections, thus igniting a turbulent triad that upsets the balance of the school’s social hierarchy.

What makes Oreshura intriguing is its increasing circle of complex characters and the corresponding multitude of romantic interactions. Each character brings a unique flavor to the story, causing viewers to become emotionally invested in their various plights and triumphs. Apart from the main characters, the anime also features Ai Fuyuumi, Eita's assertive class president, and Himeka Akishino, a girl who believes herself to be Eita's past life lover, which leads to even more captivating romantic turmoil.

Oreshura is not only about romantic entanglements but also about true friendship, internal growth, and the realistic struggle with personal pasts and insecurities. Throughout the 13 episodes of this dynamic series, the audience accompanies Eita as he grapples with his intentional ignorance of love, forced to juggle these relationships due to the precarious circumstances he finds himself in.

Kanta Kamei, celebrated for his role as the director of other successful anime such as Saekano and Bunny Drop, exhibits his acumen in storytelling through the well-paced plot development of Oreshura. He weaves heavy emotional elements with comedic relief, resulting in an enriching viewing experience. Subplots in the show are aligned perfectly with the overall plot, never causing a disruption in the viewers' engagement.

Aniplex's decision to select A-1 Pictures for the animation of Oreshura added another feather to this anime’s cap. The animation captures the playful and colorful essence of the show, rendering the characters more relatable and appealing. The art style blends traditional and modern elements, visually cementing the light and jovial atmosphere that mostly permeates the anime.

Moreover, it's impossible to ignore the sonic effects that the music brings to Oreshura. Yukari Hashimoto’s compositions add an aural appeal to the entire display, allowing subtle melodies to highlight climatic moments and evocative silence at critical junctures to bolster the drama.

On the one hand, Oreshura embraces typical harem tropes that anime lovers enjoy. But on the other hand, it differentiates itself from other rom-coms by diving deep into the emotional turmoil faced by each character. It offers a greater depth of relationship implications and individual growth, making it a rollercoaster of unanticipated emotional realms.

Ultimately, Oreshura succeeds in weaving a complicated web of romance and comedy around a straightforward narrative premise. However, it's far more than just a romance anime. It’s a journey of self-discovery and the realization of feelings that make Oreshura a must-watch for anyone looking for a series that offers something more than just ordinary entertainment. This story of love, laughter, and friendship will indeed strike a chord with viewers, regardless of whether they are dedicated otakus or casual anime watchers.