In the world of anime , one of the most popular genres is romance, it is no wonder that every year, dozens of new adaptations are released with similar premises, which often end up becoming just another in an ocean of average anime, but with Horimiya the story was different.
Horimiya ( Hori-san to Miyamura-kun ) is a work that has several adaptations. It was originally published in digital format with four panels from February 2007 to December 2011, on the website Dokkai Ahen, created by writer and illustrator Hiroki Adachi behind the pseudonym HERO.
The work later gained a printed version by Square Enix , under the Gangan Comics label, with its chapters compiled in 10 volumes from October 22, 2008 to December 28, 2012. In January 2021, the work gained its anime version by the studio CloverWorks, based on the manga Horimiya , adapted and illustrated by Daisuke Hagiwara, under the supervision of HERO.
In the anime, two characters are part of the main couple, Kyouko Hori and Izumi Miyamura. Throughout the episodes, we follow the development of their relationship and the relationships between the other characters.
Questioning the Self:
Horimiya is a groundbreaking anime, not because of its themes, but because of how it addresses them. The main theme is the self, who I really am, and who people see. At many moments, it's possible to stop and think: " Am I truly happy with who I am? " or "Do people know the real me? " Questioning has become commonplace. Questioning the self and, especially, the world around you.
The anime raises important questions about our society, including the negative side effects of the high-minded outlook imposed on young people. This theme is evident at various points throughout the anime, but especially in the character Izumi Miyamura.
For many moments, questioning becomes commonplace.
Horimiya: An evolving couple
Being a romance anime, couples would form. However, the spotlight is on Kyouko Hori and Izumi Miyamura. Two extremely interesting characters who reflect the questions the anime sets out to explore.
Izumi Miyamura is a 17-year-old boy with black hair and blue eyes. He's quiet, somber, and antisocial. While he's a sweet and caring person, he's unable to express himself due to past trauma. Miyamura is an incredibly compelling character, portraying the struggle to accept oneself.
Kyouko Hori is a 17-year-old girl with brown hair and golden eyes. She's also very energetic and popular, always creating a happy atmosphere around her. However, even though she never tries to hide who she really is, she's ashamed of being that way, representing fear and insecurity.
The couple evolves throughout the episodes. Not only in terms of stages, but also in terms of personality. The fear and insecurity that were once common become something silly when they're around each other.
Horimiya's Conclusion:
Horimiya is a special anime because it offers the opportunity to reflect on who we truly are. And it manages to lead us to the conclusion that, even though it's a difficult task, it's also extremely enjoyable.
The people, situations, and especially the challenges we overcome are not just memories in our subconscious, but rather parts of us. They have become important tools that serve to shape our true selves.
And even if the future is uncertain, one thing is certain. Fate did its best to ensure we could be proud of everything we've experienced.
Horimiya is an excellent anime, definitely one of the best in the genre. Besides presenting a cute and fun story, the anime highlights the difficulties of accepting yourself, showing the journey of characters who could be you. It raises questions that are valid for everyone, even those who believe they've found their true selves.
