Orange

Full disclosure: I'm picky to the point of exasperation when it comes to anime. (As a woman, fanservice drives me nuts.) But I liked the dubbed version of this one so much I now own the full series. Yes, it's a slow burn. And yes, Naho can seem a little timid, especially when viewed through the American cultural lens. But that's kind of the point. We wouldn't be able to really see her growth as a character if she didn't start out that way. And that's what this anime is supposed to focus on: how our choices either encourage our growth as human beings or stall it. Romance is certainly a part of this, but it's not all of it, which is why it plays the role of a subplot in this anime (as many have griped about). Great balance, fantastic music, very respectful handling of sensitive topics, and yes, cute couples (without a hint of fan service in sight if you watch the dubbed one). I docked it a star only because there is one mild innuendo, one (relatively innocent) comment about how short some girls' shorts are, and (in the dubbed version), a handful of misuses of God's name (though this is likely a translation problem). Not quite as squeaky clean as its sequel, but definitely a must-watch! (Keep the tissues handy, though.)

Note: The original subbed version does contain a joke about fanservice, which I do not endorse. This review applies only to the dub.

This is a show that everyone could benefit from watching. It covers some very heavy topics around mental health and relationships so please take into account your own mental state before choosing to start the show. With that being said, I am a different person having watched this and I truly wish I could've watched it sooner. The show is only 13 episodes in length but I was easily sobbing at the ending of over half of the episodes. Seeing how each of the main characters navigated their own personal lives and distinct personalities to comfort a friend will stick with me. Someone else on this site mentioned a quote from the show about how sometimes we can see those around us as being fragile or that we may break them. What this show has taught me is that no matter how fragile we may think them to be, just hug them and show them that their life matters.

I can honestly see myself rewatching this show once a year for the rest of my life as a testament and reminder for the person that I want to be and how noticing the little things can in-fact save a persons life.

Please watch this show, you won't regret it.

In this modern world where depression and suicides have become more common, this short series can be a perfect rescue for the ones undergoing hard times. It teaches the true meaning of friendship and love, something which this generation has to learn. Despite of it's flaws and a bit too streched story, " Orange " is a heartwarming short series and acts as a great mood uplifter, with a soothing soundtrack, which makes it an unforgettable experience. If we all were like the 5 friends Kakeru got, I am pretty sure there will be no more suicide in this world.

When I first watched orange I loved how they started the episode off with the letter from naho's future self as I continued the show I never really got bored and at first when I heard from my friend that it was supposed to be a very sad anime I thought I wasn't gonna cry like full on tears because I'm not much of a crier during sad movies or shows but orange really made me cry especially during very sad scenes and in this show they talk about some very serious topics that happen in real life so this will definitely make you cry even if you don't think so

I really enjoyed this anime! It handled a lot Of very difficult subjects with a sense of grace and sensitivity. The entire show takes you on journey to understanding just how precious life is. And how the things we say and do have a huge impact on others, even if it seems minimal to ourselves. Overall this anime was just breathtakingly beautiful! I highly recommend this! I had to watch it in a day.

From a su*cide attempt survivor; if you love someone that is in pain... hold them. Naho mentions at one point that she was always scared to touch Kakeru because she was afraid he was fragile and she would break him. People in that much pain are fragile, and most of us just want someone to hold us and help us figure out how to make the pieces fit again. Even when we deny it. Sometimes it's just really nice to be held and supported. Remember that.

Please remember to mindful of your mental health when watching a series like this. Yes, it tells us that we should live! But it can still be triggering, so just be careful.