Review of "School Days": The bittersweetness of youth and a contradictory ending

School Days - The Darkness Behind Youth

The TV anime series "School Days," which aired in 2007, attracted many viewers with its shocking plot and deep themes. The original work was an 18+ game, and there was much discussion even before the series aired about how the extreme content would be portrayed in the anime. Here, we will take a closer look at the appeal of "School Days" and its background.

Overview

"School Days" is set in Sakakino Academy and tells the story of the protagonist Ito Makoto's love for Katsura Kotonoha. Makoto secretly has feelings for Kotoha, whom he met at the entrance ceremony, and tries a spell on his cell phone. However, the spell ends up being discovered by his classmate, Saionji Sekai. As an apology, Sekai decides to mediate between Makoto and Kotoha, and the story begins to move forward.

The series was broadcast from July 4th to September 27th, 2007, and is made up of 12 episodes. It was broadcast on TVK, UHF, and AT-X, with each station having its own broadcast time. Episode 12 was not broadcast, and was included in the packaged version. This was due to the influence of the Kyotanabe police officer murder incident that occurred at the time of broadcast.

Character Introduction

The main character, Ito Makoto, is shy when it comes to love and has been unable to confess his feelings to Kotoba, but with Sekai's help, they begin dating. Katsura Kotoba has a complex about her striking appearance and isn't good with boys, but she is interested in Makoto. Saionji Sekai is a cheerful mood maker who acts as a bridge between Makoto and Kotoba's love. Other unique characters, such as Kiyoura Setsuna, Kato Otome, Kuroda Hikaru, Kanroji Nanami, Katsura Kokoro, and Sawanaga Taisuke, also appear to add excitement to the story.

Storyline

At first, the story of "School Days" seems like a youthful romantic comedy, but gradually the darkness lurking beneath the surface emerges. While Makoto and Kotoba's relationship develops, Makoto also becomes involved with other girls, forming complex human relationships. In particular, in the episode centered around the school festival, Makoto's actions become a turning point in the story, and a shocking turn of events awaits the viewer.

The final episode depicted the tragedy caused by Makoto's actions, leaving a strong impression on viewers. This ending was based on one of the endings of the original game, and was boldly rearranged for the anime adaptation. As a result, it was appreciated from a new perspective by fans of the original work.

Production background and staff

The School Days anime is based on the original game by Overflow. It was directed by Keitaro Motonaga, with series composition by Makoto Uezu, and character design and general animation direction by Junji Goto. Animation was handled by TNK, and the series was produced by the School Days Production Committee (Marvelous Entertainment, Avex Entertainment, Lantis, and Pony Canyon Enterprises).

The music was composed by Kaoru Okubo, and the theme songs and insert songs are also important elements in enhancing the atmosphere of the work. In particular, the opening theme "Innocent Blue" (DeviceHigh) and the ending theme "Usotsuki" (CooRie) have lyrics and melodies that symbolize the theme of the story, and have left a deep impression on viewers.

Related works and media development

There are related works for "School Days", such as the OVA "School Days Valentine Days" and "School Days OVA Special Magical Heart ☆ Kokoro-chan". These works depict different endings and side stories of the original game, allowing fans to gain a deeper understanding of the story.

In addition, the series was actively promoted in the media, with packaged versions being released and events being held. In particular, the release of the packaged version of episode 12 was something many fans had been waiting for, due to the broadcast hiatus.

Evaluation and impact

"School Days" received mixed reviews due to its extreme plot and deep themes. Some viewers praised it for depicting the darkness lurking behind adolescence, but conversely, it was criticized for its extreme nature. However, the shocking ending left a strong impression on many viewers and succeeded in increasing the buzz.

"School Days" has also influenced subsequent anime works as a work that goes beyond the framework of a youth romantic comedy. In particular, the themes of the complexity of human relationships, betrayal, and jealousy have come to be featured in many works.

Recommendations and viewing points

"School Days" is a work that depicts not only the superficial sweetness of a youth romantic comedy, but also the darkness lurking behind it. The story development that deeply moves and shocks the viewer is a point not to be missed. In addition, the human relationships and psychological depictions of the unique characters are also one of the highlights.

In particular, the episode at the school festival, where Makoto's actions become a turning point in the story, and the shocking ending of the final episode are must-sees. When watching, we recommend that you think deeply about the theme of the work while feeling both the sweetness and bitterness of youth.

"School Days" continues to be loved by many viewers as a work that depicts the darkness lurking behind adolescence. Its shocking developments and deep themes will leave a strong impression on viewers and provide them with an unforgettable experience.