Skip and Loafer

I watched all 12 episodes, eagerly awaiting the development of this "so-called" romance, only to be disappointed when it never came to fruition. While there were numerous backstories for supporting characters, the authentic connection between the protagonist and their romantic interest was utterly absent. I am left feeling both disappointed and confused about how this show received such high ratings, particularly considering the subpar art style-those distracting eyes were a constant issue! The storyline was, at best, mediocre. We were never provided with a clear indication of whether the main characters had any feelings for one another. This has undoubtedly become the worst romance anime I have ever encountered.

This is one of the best slice-of-life animes I've seen. Each and every character in this anime feels so real. Each of them is handled with so much love and care by the author. The plot revolves around them, rather than them being used for the plot.

It was so refreshing to see a realistic character-based high school anime, which actually showed these characters' coming of age and actually made me nostalgic about high school life. And there are some really heartwarming short messages given by the story that are so real at the same time.

The bonds that form between all these characters, are some of the sweetest I've seen.

In the first episode, we see these characters introduce each other in their classroom. And the teacher asks each of them, what their dream is. That alone sets up such a brilliant character arc for one of these characters (I won't spoil who), and at the same time that alone introduces how these characters are. That truly is brilliant writing.

And PA Works, you've really amazed me again and again with so many great adaptations and originals. The animation is so nice and the soundtrack too is so comforting.

And just seeing so many of these characters progress as the story went along made me so, so, so happy.

I highly recommend this anime guys. Yes it's not an action or shounen or romance. It's just a high school slice-of-life, yes. But it shows why writing is enough to make some of the best stories. And I honestly have ZERO problems with this season. The only problem I would have, is if this anime doesn't get a season 2. But I believe it will.

This was BRILLIANT.

First off, I adore the characters in this anime. Mitsumi is a very endearing protagonist, and her unusual but cute appearance is like a breath of fresh air compared to other shoujo's.

All of the side characters are very well written too and don't serve as just background noise. They have actual unique personalities, relatable traits / motivations and feel like they could stand on their own if the main couple vanished from the story.

As for the romance, the gradual relationship between Mitsumi and Shima feels very realistic / true to their character and takes a route I haven't seen other romance animes take. I'm glad the both of them make mistakes and aren't perfect, their romance doesn't feel like a melodrama but like an actual teenage relationship.

Let's begin with a rather critical point of view (I promise I won't hold it for long): it is probably a bit unrealistic to think that the primary cast of *Skip to Loafer* would wind up being such close friends. Their origins are so dissimilar, both in terms of their social and geographic characteristics. Every individual has unique concerns and obstacles that hinder their progress, ranging from feelings of conceit and apathy to feelings of isolation, inadequacy, and harsh reality checks. Given all of the barriers, one may argue that the characters would remain separate and ultimately become much more alone if left to their own devices.

But despite all of life's strange and ironic turns, there is one such force that propels everything forward. Iwakura Mitsumi arrives late for her first day of high school because she is disoriented in Tokyo and does not know which way is left. Someone who is determined to achieve has put herself in a difficult situation. Shima Sousuke, however, who also arrives late for the first day of school and doesn't seem to care, comes "to the rescue." Mitsumi trips as they hoof it to the school during this peculiar meeting of two persons with diametrically opposed viewpoints. But in a flash of sheer willpower, she kicks off her shoes and socks and keeps running despite the pavement thudding into her feet.

Skip and Loafer feels like a warm, nostalgic journey back to school days. Mitsumi's story coming from the countryside to Tokyo, making new friends, and experiencing simple, everyday moments captures that cozy, small-town vibe, reminding you of childhood innocence and the joy of discovering new friendships. The show's quiet moments and relatable characters bring a comforting familiarity, like scenes from your own memories. It celebrates the little joys and struggles of growing up, making it feel both heartwarming and deeply personal. Watching it feels like stepping back into a simpler, more genuine time.