What is it: Here is Greenwood
Here is Greenwood is an anime that stands out for its unique and engaging approach, focusing on the lives of students at a male boarding school. The series, based on the manga by Yukie Nasu, was adapted into an OVA (Original Video Animation) series in the early 1990s. The plot revolves around Kazuya Hasukawa, a young man who moves into the Ryokuto Academy dormitory, known as Greenwood, after facing personal difficulties. The narrative is rich in elements of comedy, drama and romance, providing a multifaceted experience for viewers. The setting in a boarding school allows you to explore different relationship dynamics and character development, making it a great treat for fans of school stories.
The plot of Here is Greenwood is driven by the challenges and adventures that Kazuya faces as he adapts to life at boarding school. He deals with the presence of his older brother, Kazuhiro, who is also one of the school's teachers, and the recent discovery that his sister-in-law, Sumire, is the woman he had a secret crush on. These internal conflicts are balanced with moments of lightness and humor, often provided by Kazuya's dorm mates, such as the eccentric Shun Kisaragi and the enigmatic Mitsuru Ikeda. The series is known for its ability to mix everyday situations with fantasy elements, creating an environment where the unexpected can happen at any time.
The characters in Here is Greenwood are one of the series' strengths, each with their own quirks and backstories. Kazuya Hasukawa, the protagonist, is a resilient young man who, despite adversity, seeks to find his place in the world. Shun Kisaragi, with his androgynous appearance and captivating personality, often steals the show with his antics and charm. Mitsuru Ikeda, the dorm president, is a complex character who hides his emotions behind a calm and collected facade. The interaction between these characters creates an engaging dynamic that keeps viewers invested in the story. Furthermore, the series addresses themes such as friendship, loyalty and self-discovery, resonating deeply with the audience.
Here is Greenwood's setting at the Ryokuto Academy boarding school is a crucial element to the narrative. The Greenwood dorm is almost a character in its own right, with its quirky rules and unique atmosphere. The halls and rooms of the boarding school are the scene of countless adventures and misadventures, from clandestine parties to academic challenges. The series uses this setting to explore school life in a way that is both realistic and fantastical. The architecture of the dorm, with its hidden corners and common spaces, serves as a microcosm where the characters can grow and evolve. This rich and detailed setting contributes significantly to the viewer's immersion in the story.
The visual aesthetic of Here is Greenwood is also worth highlighting. The animation, although dated by modern standards, has a nostalgic charm that appeals to both old and new fans. The character designs are distinctive, with traits that capture their unique personalities. The color palette used in the series is vibrant, reflecting the light and often humorous tone of the narrative. The soundtrack perfectly complements the atmosphere of the series, with songs that range from cheerful melodies to more introspective themes. This attention to visual and auditory detail helps create a cohesive and enjoyable viewing experience.
Here is Greenwood is a series that, despite its apparent simplicity, offers surprising depth in terms of character development and narrative. The combination of comedy, drama and romance, set in a boys' boarding school, provides a unique insight into school life. The series is a classic example of how anime can explore universal themes in a way that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. For fans of school stories and character development, Here is Greenwood is a work that deserves to be discovered and appreciated.
