Falling for Fall 2023: The Unexpected Anime Season

 

Ojou to Banken-kun

Episodes: 13

Aired: September 29, 2023 - December 22, 2023

Producers: Yomiuri Telecasting, Pony Canyon, Kodansha, Crunchyroll, Bit grooove promotion, BS Asahi, CHOCOLATE

Studios: Project No.9

Source: Manga

Genre: Romance

Themes: Organized Crime, School

Demographic: Shoujo

Duration: 23 min. per ep.

Review: The premise of the anime, which centers on a sheltered yakuza heiress protected by her overbearing 26-year-old bodyguard who pretends to be a high school student, creates a distinctive dynamic that some viewers find fascinating due to its protective romance and emotional intensity. Its chic character designs, genuine tender moments, and a few funny beats that defy genre norms. However, the relationship growth can appear forced or awkward rather than charming, the pacing frequently drags with repeated misunderstandings, and the considerable age difference between the leads poses ethical questions. Fans of unusual shoujo setups might find it appealing, but others could find its execution outmoded or problematic.

Keikenzumi na Kimi to, Keiken Zero na Ore ga, Otsukiai suru Hanashi.

Episodes: 12

Aired: October 6, 2023 - December 22, 2023

Producers: Pony Canyon, AT-X, Glovision, Docomo Anime Store, Sammy, Sun TV, Kadokawa

Studios: ENGI

Source: Light novel

Genre: Romance

Themes: School

Duration: 23 min. per ep.

Review: The story revolves around Runa, a popular girl with dating experience, and Ryuuto, a shy recluse, whose surprising romance starts with a confession made during a punishment game. The series features a number of poignant moments that examine vulnerability and development, and the refreshing reversal of love roles—Runa's self-assurance and emotional maturity contrast wonderfully with Ryuuto's clumsy sincerity. Their dynamic is made more charming by the voice acting and the sleek animation. However, it has a propensity to settle disputes too neatly, underdeveloped side characters, and a dependence on common romantic comedy clichés. It's a reassuring viewing for fans of high school romance with a soft emotional narrative, even though it's not revolutionary.

Kimi no Koto ga Daidaidaidaidaisuki na 100-nin no Kanojo

Episodes: 12

Aired: October 8, 2023 - December 24, 2023

Producers: Lantis, Movic, Bushiroad, Tokyo MX, Shueisha, NetEase, Bushiroad Move, Bandai Namco Filmworks, Bandai Namco Music Live

Licensors: Crunchyroll

Studios: Bibury Animation Studios

Source: Manga

Genre: Comedy, Romance

Themes: Harem, Parody, School

Demographic: Seinen

Duration: 23 min. per ep.

Review: The anime centers on Rentarou Aijou, a young man who is destined to encounter 100 soulmates, all of whom will perish if he fails to return their affection. Its unreserved embrace of fast-paced humor, parody, and surprisingly healthy emotional beats that honor mutual respect and polyamory. The voice acting is lively, the animation is colorful, and the females, despite their large number, are given unique personalities and eccentricities that make the group interesting. Its unrelenting pace, which may be draining, and the sheer number of characters run the risk of diluting emotional depth, which are its drawbacks. Not every audience will find some jokes funny, particularly those who are not familiar with harem clichés. Nevertheless, it's a daring and enjoyable journey for fans of meta-romcoms and extravagant narrative.

Pluto

Episodes: 8

Aired: October 26, 2023

Producers: Genco, Tezuka Productions, Netflix, NetEase

Studios: Studio M2

Source: Manga

Genre: Action, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Suspense

Themes: Detective, Psychological

Demographic: Seinen

Duration: 1 hr. 1 min. per ep.

Review: Through a murder investigation involving the most sophisticated robots in the world, Naoki Urasawa's adaptation of Pluto delves into themes of identity, bereavement, and artificial intelligence. Its breathtaking animation, eerie soundtrack, and philosophical narrative elevate the genre; its psychological impact is reminiscent of Monster and Neon Genesis Evangelion. The moral ambiguity of the story prompts contemplation of what it means to be alive, and the human and robotic characters are well-developed. However, the plot is slow-moving and sometimes seem to meander, especially with the repeated flashbacks and tone changes. Some viewers may find the framework jumbled or the emotional beats overdone. Nevertheless, Pluto is a noteworthy accomplishment for fans of sophisticated, provocative anime.

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