3 Reasons Why I’m Enjoying Kanojo, Okarishimasu
Kanojo, Okarishimasu is a romantic comedy that debuted in this 2020 Summer Season that I decided to follow. I’ve watched four episodes and, although it’s still soon to share my final thoughts, I can clearly say that I’m loving the Anime so far. The story follows Kazuya, a college student who decides to rent a girlfriend after being dumped by his ex. However, what he wasn’t expecting was that the girl he decided to rent ends up going to the same college as him, and, worse than that, she lives right next door. Kazuya’s initial idea is to rent Chizuru once. However, after a few unpredictable events, they are forced to maintain this business relationship for longer than expected. The question arises, though, will they fall in love for real?
While some aspects of Kanojo, Okarishimasu fall into what you’re expecting from a romantic comedy, some characteristics make this Anime stand out. Moreover, even though it’s not the best-rated Anime of all time on MAL, I have to say that I’m enjoying the ride so far. Here are the three main reasons why:
1. Kanojo, Okarishimasu is Actually Funny
There are so many romantic “comedies” out there that don’t even make me crack a smile. It’s refreshing to find a new one that actually makes me laugh throughout all episodes. Sure, comedy is subjective (and I have a difficult sense of humor), but when it comes to Kanojo, Okarishimasu, jokes are usually well placed and well timed. I also like that fanservice is kept to a minimum. Obviously, there are some nice shots of the girls’ and guys’ bodies, and there are a few sexual scenes (they are college students, after all). Despite this, fanservice isn’t too much in your face like other Anime of the same genre.
Although comedy is the focal point of Kanojo, Okarishimasu, the Anime has already shown us that it can go a bit more depressive when it needs to. Considering that it’s a romantic comedy, these scenes are quite important, as they are the main drives for character and story development. I think they are going on an interesting route, and although we can all imagine how it’s going to end, the journey has been enjoyable so far. Thankfully, the Anime doesn’t brush off dramatic scenes with comedic gags, which allows you to immerse into what’s happening and what the characters are feeling. This is vital for me to care about what’s happening on the screen. If they just decided to cut the tension with a joke, I know I would just feel annoyed. At least, that’s what happened with The God of High School.
2. The Animation Is Gorgeous
I know we’re in 2020, so good animation should be a given already. With technological advancements, artists are able to create good-looking characters and backgrounds without spending so much time like in the past. Despite this, that’s not what always happens, and, considering we’re still living in difficult times due to COVID-19, I welcome good animation with open arms.
Characters’ design is pretty good and nice to look at. Both Chizuru and Kazuya are quite beautiful, and they (of course) do a good pair. Even smaller characters like the antagonist Mami have cute designs. Backgrounds are also quite polished, and they’re good enough even for the pickiest watchers out there.
3. Characters Are Fun and Interesting to Watch
Don’t take me wrong – characters still need to grow, a lot. Nonetheless, for the first episodes, they’re aren’t half-bad. Chizuru is the best character who everyone loves off the bat. She’s an intelligent, cute, funny, and empathic girl who is easy to fall in love with. However, that’s not the same for other characters like Kazuya and Mami. That’s why I like them, thought. It means that they have more space to grow.
Kazuya is one of those characters that you’re going to be on the fence about. On the one hand, he’s the main character used for comedic gags, making him cute and funny to watch. On the other hand, he clearly has some problems in speaking up and sticking for himself. Thankfully, episode four has already shown that he’s changing due to his relationship with Chizuru. Lastly, Mami is the straight-up vile character that everyone will hate quite easily. She reminds me of Kushida from Classroom of the Elite a lot – tries to pass as a cute, energetic girl who wants to befriend everyone, but ends up having a deplorable dark side. If Mami’s character is used well, she can effortlessly become my favorite of the show. But for now, everything’s open.
In short, Kanojo Okarishimasu is an Anime to check out if you’re into romantic comedies. It probably won’t become one of your favorites of all time, but it’s enjoyable enough to have a good time.