The Quirky Romcom Delight: Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san
A Unique Premise with Charismatic Characters
The avalanche of higher-expectations premieres continues with Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san – a romcom that is already generating buzz. Reuniting the entire core team from Senpai ga Uzai Kouhai no Hanashi, this series is adapted from a well-respected manga, promising an exciting storyline. However, when it comes to comedy, it’s always a gamble until you see it on screen. With the quirky premise, there were some potential pitfalls, but given the positive reception of the manga, those concerns don’t seem too serious.
A Reminiscent Dynamic
The series reminds me not only of Senpai ga Uzai but also Tonikaku Cawaii. In Tonikawa, we had a plain-seeming boy paired with a superhuman angel, while in Shikimori-san, we have Ishumi, a seemingly average guy, matched with Shikimori, who may not possess any exceptional attributes other than being left-handed. Although Ishumi is more assertive than Izumi from Senpai ga Uzai, the dynamic between the two leads is somewhat similar. Ishumi often finds himself in “I can’t believe this angel is with the likes of me” mode. The common thread connecting these series seems to be the adjective “kawaii” in their titles.
A Magical Realism Twist
Interestingly, the magical element of Shikimori-san is not attributed to Shikimori herself, but rather to Ishumi. He is portrayed as a character who attracts misfortune, yet he is fortunate to have Shikimori at his side, protecting him from life’s blows. While this narrative conceit may seem slightly exaggerated and unrealistic, it serves the purpose of fast-forwarding their dynamic and pushing them towards the direction the mangaka desires. As long as the results are amusing, a touch of the extraordinary can be forgiven.
The Endearing Characters
The primary reason for this premiere’s appeal lies in the likable characters, much like in Senpai ga Uzai. The cast consists of genuinely nice individuals, making it easy to root for them. It’s important to reserve judgment at this early stage because unconventional premises like Shikimori-san require significant groundwork in the first episode. However, despite Ishumi’s helplessness and Shikimori’s strong personality, their mutual attraction feels believable. Ishumi’s kind nature complements Shikimori’s protective instincts, making them a compatible pair.
The Potential for Long-Term Success
Exploring Deeper Themes
Moving past the introductory stage, the question arises whether this setup can sustain itself. While the series isn’t expected to turn dark or mean-spirited, there needs to be more to Ishumi’s character than just a nice boy in need of protection. Similarly, Shikimori’s role should extend beyond her typical fierce persona. Can the series explore Ishumi’s inevitable feelings of inadequacy and explore vulnerabilities in Shikimori, beyond mere embarrassment? Will Ishumi have opportunities to provide for Shikimori’s needs, aside from being the one who requires her protection? These are areas that could add depth to their relationship.
Visually Captivating
Visually, Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san does not disappoint, with the classic style we’ve come to expect from Doga Kobo. Additionally, the cast of friends surrounding the main pair adds charm and potential for further character development. It remains to be seen whether the secondary romance angle of “Inu to Neko” will play a prominent role, as Senpai ga Uzai demonstrated that sometimes the side couple can outshine the main pair. However, one factor of uncertainty hovers over the series – the temporary shutdown of Doga Kobo due to a major Coronavirus outbreak. While we prioritize the well-being of everyone involved, it is our hope that Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie doesn’t experience significant setbacks, as it has great potential to become an enjoyable weekly watch.
Conclusion
In its premiere, Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san presents a refreshingly quirky romcom with a charming pair of leads. With likable characters, a touch of magical realism, and potential for deeper exploration, this series has the ingredients for a delightful and entertaining journey. While uncertainties loom, such as the impact of the Coronavirus outbreak on production, one can’t help but anticipate the next episodes and the development of Ishumi and Shikimori’s relationship.
FAQs
1. Is Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san a manga adaptation?
Yes, Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san is adapted from a romcom manga. The series aims to bring the manga’s humor and charm to the screen while adding visual and auditory components to enhance the overall experience.
2. Will Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san explore deeper themes?
The series has the potential to explore deeper themes beyond the initial premise. It could navigate the complexities of Ishumi’s feelings of inadequacy and vulnerability, as well as uncover hidden layers within Shikimori’s character. This exploration could contribute to the longevity and depth of the series.
3. What is the significance of the “Inu to Neko” romance angle mentioned?
The mention of the “Inu to Neko” romance angle refers to the potential involvement of a secondary couple in the series. Similar to Senpai ga Uzai, where the side couple garnered attention, Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san might incorporate a dynamic secondary romance that adds further depth and entertainment to the story.
4. How has the temporary shutdown of Doga Kobo impacted the series?
Doga Kobo, the studio behind Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san, had temporarily shut down due to a major Coronavirus outbreak. While the exact duration of the hiatus is uncertain, it is not expected to be significantly lengthy. However, it’s essential to prioritize the well-being of the studio’s staff and wish for a swift recovery while awaiting the resumption of the series’ production.
5. What potential does Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san hold?
Despite the uncertainties, Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san has enormous potential to become an enjoyable and entertaining series. With charismatic characters, an endearing storyline, and the promise of exploring deeper themes, it stands out in the romcom genre. Its quirky charm and likable cast make it a show worth looking forward to each week.