His and Her Circumstances

(Kareshi Kanojo no Jijou)

Episodes reviewed: 1-26

Kare Kano logo

What: Yukino. A High School student at the top of her class. Everyone thinks of her as a proper and kind person. Arima. Yukino's rival in grades. One day, he finds out Yukino's secret, who she really is. As these two grow closer, how will they initiate and maintain a relationship as boyfriend and girlfriend? As Kareshi and Kanojo?

The Good: This Gainax series really shines in the sheer comedy of certain situations. Creative animations styles coupled by fantastic voice acting and scripting will have you rolling with laughter. Also, the animation is top notch. Very fluid and original. The character development and interaction between the two main characters, Yukino and Arima, really help build upon them. The background music rocks, and Yume no Naka e, the ending song, is one of the most addictive songs I've come across, not to mention the fact the ending "animation" is different every episode, which really scores points in my book for positive originality.

The Bad: The anime really doesn't focus on some of the minor characters as much as it should. One of them shows up and plays a fairly large role for a good 2-3 episodes, but after the storyline with them is complete, they are forever in the background, mentioned once in awhile, and, alas, perpetually chibi. However, some are focused on entirely too much, as is the case at the end of the series. Also, the entire anime is text driven. This can be pretty hard for subbed/anti-overlay purists. Finally, my biggest beef with the series, and for which it loses the most points with me, is it's ending. Or should I say, lack thereof. It is quite abrupt and without OAVs or a movie to further tidy things up, you're left scratching your head, wanting more. I'd pick up the manga then, which I hear continues the story further.

The Bottom-Line: Despite it's abrupt end, the ride getting there is a blast. Nearly every episode is packed with emotion and comedy (despite a few review episodes in the middle). With outrageously hilarious moments, and heart-pounding drama, you can't miss Kare Kano.

The Dub: Actually, the dub is pretty good! My biggest complaint is with Arima's voice actor, who sounds a little too robotic, and too deep for Arima.