What is it: Hajimete no Gal
“Hajimete no Gal” is an anime that fits into the romantic comedy and ecchi genre, based on the manga of the same name written and illustrated by Meguru Ueno. The story revolves around Junichi Hashiba, a high school student who has never had a girlfriend. Pressured by his friends, he ends up confessing his love to Yukana Yame, a popular and outgoing girl known as “gal” (or “gyaru” in Japanese), a term that refers to a fashion style characterized by dyed hair and heavy makeup. and flashy clothes. To Junichi's surprise, Yukana accepts her request, and from then on, the plot unfolds with funny situations and moments of romance.
The term “gal” or “gyaru” is fundamental to understanding the essence of “Hajimete no Gal”. In the Japanese context, “gyaru” is a subculture that emerged in the 90s and is known for challenging traditional standards of beauty and behavior. Gals are often seen as rebellious, with a lifestyle that includes partying, extravagant fashion and a carefree attitude. In the anime, Yukana Yame embodies this subculture, but also reveals deeper layers of her personality throughout the series. She's not just a superficial girl; Her relationship with Junichi allows viewers to see a more vulnerable and genuine side of her, defying the stereotypes associated with “gals”.
The dynamic between Junichi and Yukana is one of the strengths of “Hajimete no Gal”. Junichi is initially a shy and insecure character, but his interaction with Yukana forces him out of his comfort zone. Their relationship is marked by comical moments and embarrassing situations, but also by an emotional development that is rare in anime of the ecchi genre. Yukana, in turn, despite her “gal” appearance and attitude, shows herself to be a loving and attentive person, who helps Junichi grow as an individual. This duality between the characters' appearance and true personality is a recurring theme in the anime, making it deeper than it seems at first glance.
Another interesting aspect of “Hajimete no Gal” is the exploration of themes such as friendship, acceptance and self-discovery. Junichi's friends, while often serving as comic relief, also have their own stories and developments. The series is not just limited to the romance between Junichi and Yukana, but also addresses interpersonal relationships more broadly. Each secondary character has their own motivations and challenges, which adds layers to the narrative and makes the world of “Hajimete no Gal” richer and more engaging. This multi-faceted approach helps maintain audience interest and delivers a more complete experience.
Visually, “Hajimete no Gal” is vibrant and colorful, reflecting the exuberant nature of “gals”. The animation is high quality, with attention to detail in facial expressions and comedy scenes. The soundtrack also complements the anime's atmosphere well, with music that varies from happy and energetic to softer and romantic, depending on the scene. The overall aesthetic of the anime is a feast for the eyes, capturing the essence of the “gyaru” subculture while still maintaining a universal appeal. The combination of attractive visuals and an engaging soundtrack contributes to the viewer's immersion in the story.
In terms of reception, “Hajimete no Gal” has a dedicated fan base and has received mixed to positive reviews. Some appreciate the series for its light and fun approach to romance and comedy, while others criticize its use of clichés and fanservice. However, it's undeniable that the anime managed to stand out in a saturated market thanks to its unique premise and memorable characters. For those looking for a series that combines humor, romance and a dash of daring, “Hajimete no Gal” offers a rewarding experience. The anime's popularity also led to an increase in interest in the original manga, further expanding the universe created by Meguru Ueno.
