Episodes: 26

Year: 1998

Status: Complete

Alternative title: His and Her Circumstances

Subbed by: Lime Fansubs

Kareshi Kanojo no Jijou Official Site (Japanese)

Rating: Great

Review: All her life, Miyazawa Yukino has been hiding behind a facade of perfection – striving to maintain her image of the model student. However, the entrance of Arima Souichiro into her life changes all that. Arima is too good to be true – he tops the class, is good at sports and well-liked by everyone. In fact, he is Yukino’s main competitor who keeps her from her dream of being the most popular and successful girl in school. However, like her, Arima is hiding behind his own insecurities and his past. When the two meet, feelings develop on both sides and they begin to be throw away their masks and be true to themselves. Kare Kano traces their relationship and the ups and downs they both face in trying to get to know themselves and the other. Will Arima and Yukino be successful in finally being their true selves? Will theie relationship persevere through the obstacles and emotional complications?

Kare Kano is indeed a heart-warming story about the growth and development of two people. However, the production of the anime had many problems which reflect in the animation. The production faced many issues – the biggest one being funding. The result is that there are many recaps, repetitive stills and most of all, the sorely disappointing ending. In some cases this style of animation actually adds to the style of the anime itself. However, it can only stretch so far and its pretty clear in the finale that the anime was barely standing on its last leg. Despite these problems, the plot itself is interesting and deeply insightful. I would recommend this anime keeping in mind the drawbacks I just mentioned. If not for the animation problems, this anime would have got an “awesome” instead of just a “great” from me. Overall, Kare Kano is worth the watch just for the storyline.

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