The rapid expansion of the anime industry continues as hit series like “Jujutsu Kaisen” and “Demon Slayer” make their debut, yet many outstanding anime series often go unnoticed by the public. This invisibility can be attributed to factors such as insufficient marketing, limited availability, or a niche audience appeal. Despite impressive storylines, animation quality, or character development, success is not always guaranteed. Regrettably, numerous exceptional anime have been overshadowed because they didn’t generate the buzz or media attention enjoyed by more popular titles.
More times than not, both genre and audience appeal play significant roles in an anime’s popularity. Even though these series might be artistic wonders on their own, they don’t always receive the same level of acclaim as more approachable genres such as shonen action. The anime world is so rich and diverse that it’s challenging to grasp its full extent with only a handful of globally recognized franchises. When you become engrossed in them, though, you’ll discover an endless stream of series and films that can leave your mind spinning. Here’s a list of ten underrated anime shows that deserve larger fanbases.
Barakamon
The anime titled Barakamon beautifully combines humor, self-discovery, and touching scenes as it chronicles Sei Handa, a calligrapher’s journey. Following his impulsive attack on an elderly art critic for criticizing his work, Handa is forced by his father to relocate to a tranquil island countryside. Initially finding it challenging to adjust due to the boisterous and inquisitive nature of the locals, as well as their disregard for personal space, it isn’t long before Handa finds himself deeply involved in the everyday lives of the villagers.
In this scenario, Naru Kotoshi, a cheerful young girl, frequently intrudes into Handa’s home. As he interacts with her and the villagers, Handa starts to rekindle his love for calligraphy and expresses remorse over past decisions. The anime debuted in 2014, adapting up to six volumes of the manga, meaning much of the story remains untold. Despite this, the anime delivers a fulfilling ending that effectively encapsulates the primary themes. If you’re curious about Handa’s ongoing journey, it’s highly recommended to read the manga, as it offers more depth in terms of character development, relationships, and career progression.
Hyouka
This less-known gem of an anime focuses on Hotaro Oreki, a high school prodigy who prefers to minimize his exertion and skip tasks he deems unnecessary. His philosophy is “If I don’t have to do it, I won’t. If I must, I’ll get it done swiftly.” However, his tranquil existence is disrupted when his elder sibling prevents the Classic Literature Club from dissolving by compelling him to join. Upon entering the club’s premises, he crosses paths with Eru Chitanda, a vibrant and inquisitive girl captivated by mysteries. The club springs back to life as Oreki’s companions Fukube Satoshi and Ibara Mayaka also become members. Every day, Oreki finds himself unraveling small but intriguing mysteries along with the group.
As the narrative unfolds, Oreki gradually discovers purpose in interacting with others instead of his usual lethargy. The anime seamlessly combines mystery, everyday life, and character growth, all while featuring breathtaking animation courtesy of Kyoto Animation. However, not all parts of the story have been adapted from the manga or light novel. If you wish to delve deeper into the narrative post-anime viewing, I’d recommend starting with Volume 5 of the light novels. Reading the manga is another option, but it lags behind the light novels in terms of progression.
Kids on the Slope
In simpler terms, the heartwarming tale of growing up titled “Kids on the Slope” boasts stunning animation and an emotionally resonant soundtrack that intensifies its anime appeal. Created by Shinichirō Watanabe, famed for his work on “Cowboy Bebop” and “Samurai Champloo”, this under-the-radar gem is a must-watch for enthusiasts of music and romance genres. The narrative unfolds in 1960s Japan, focusing on Kaoru Nishimi, a quiet and reserved high school student who recently relocated to a coastal town to stay with relatives. Throughout his childhood, Kaoru has been constantly uprooted and felt like a stranger in every new place he called home.
In the quaint seaside town, our protagonist finds it challenging to blend in, until he encounters Sentaro Kawabuchi – a vibrant, defiant student with a deep-rooted love for jazz. Their personalities and musical preferences contrast sharply, yet they form an unforeseen bond. After Sentaro manages to ignite Kaoru’s fascination with jazz, the pair frequently rehearse in Ritsuko Murae’s record store basement. As their friendship deepens, they confront the intricacies of adolescence, unspoken emotions, and personal hardships. The narrative delves into themes such as friendship, love, family, and the burdens of youth.
Ghost Hunt
In this anime, we follow Mai Taniyama, a student at her high school who enjoys swapping ghost stories with pals post-school hours. Eager to explore an abandoned school building, she inadvertently damages some valuable equipment belonging to Kazuya Shibuya, a former classmate investigating the building’s rumored hauntings with his assistant. To make amends, Mai takes up the role of Kazuya’s assistant instead. This man, known as Kazuya Shibuya, is a youthful and enigmatic leader at the Shibuya Psychic Research Center, specializing in ghost hunting.
This individual delves into inexplicable occurrences employing scientific procedures, intuitive skills, and traditional lore understanding. Soon after, Mai officially becomes part of his team, and the narrative unfolds as they tackle numerous mysteries together, along with a group of experts. In contrast to ordinary horror anime, Ghost Hunt combines supernatural aspects with investigation and humor, creating an atmosphere that is both chilling and amusing. The anime spans across eight different cases, from possessions and poltergeists to frightening urban myths.
Carole & Tuesday
Carole & Tuesday is yet another overlooked anime by Shinichirō Watanabe, focusing on two young women living in a future Martian society. In this world, AI has taken over, even in the realm of music production. The narrative revolves around two girls with contrasting upbringings who both harbor a deep love for music. Carole is an Earth refugee who’s been left to fend for herself, while Tuesday is the offspring of a high-ranking official, fleeing her privileged life in pursuit of her musical aspirations.
By serendipity, they cross paths and spontaneously decide to create a musical duo with the ambition of becoming major players in the entertainment world. Join them on their arduous journey towards recognition as they attempt to capture the attention of an obscure yet gifted manager. The series delves into real-life challenges such as immigration, the rise of AI over artists, corporate exploitation within the music industry, and political competition. The anime showcases a diverse range of accomplished musicians performing the numerous songs across two seasons, encompassing genres like pop, rock, R&B, and electronic.
Guardian of the Sacred Spirit
In this captivating historical anime, we follow the journey of Balsa, a nomadic female fighter, who takes up the role as bodyguard for Prince Chagum in order to shield him from assassination attempts. It is believed that Chagum is inhabited by a water deity, and priests foresee that his presence will cause drought within the realm. Despite the Emperor issuing an order for Chagum’s execution, his mother passionately opposes it. As the Second Empress, she can only covertly employ Balsa to safeguard her child.
During their covert travels across various landscapes, Balsa and Chagum’s secret connection becomes known. Their bond deepens throughout this adventure, providing insights into Balsa’s history. The show primarily concentrates on character growth, philosophical exploration, and world creation. It masterfully combines political motifs, mythology, heart-stopping action sequences, and poignant storytelling, making it a lesser-known yet captivating treasure within the fantasy genre.
The Piano Forest
The narrative revolves around Kai Ichinose, a young lad hailing from humble origins who finds tranquility by playing an abandoned keyboard hidden within the woods. Interestingly, despite lacking any formal education, Kai plays this instrument exceptionally well, making it seem as if the piano is communicating with him. However, here’s a twist — only Kai has the ability to play this piano. One fateful day, he encounters Shuehei Amamiya, a new student who comes from a distinguished musical family and has been schooled in classical piano, aiming to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Observing Kai play the piano amidst the forest’s tranquility, I witnessed the blossoming of a rivalry-turned-friendship between him and two eager boys, all sharing a common dream: mastery of the piano. Astonished by Kai’s innate skill, Sosuke Ajino – once a prodigious pianist himself, now a teacher – guides Kai in perfecting his artistry. Along their journey towards success, these young musicians encounter hurdles within the cutthroat music scene. This captivating tale delves into the complexities of talent versus diligence, passion versus discipline, and the transformative power of music that bridges divisions.
The Way of the Househusband
Although the animation isn’t exceptional, this heartwarming comedy anime boasts an engaging plot that will keep you hooked. This ongoing series centers around Tatsu, a one-time yakuza infamously known as “The Immortal Dragon.” However, he mysteriously vanishes from the criminal underworld and reappears as a dedicated homebody husband. After years of leading a questionable lifestyle, Tatsu is now wholeheartedly dedicated to helping his career-driven wife Miku.
It’s quite fascinating to discover that the notorious yakuza has a knack for domestic prowess, particularly when it comes to preparing exquisite meals, maintaining an immaculate home, and sniffing out the best bargains at supermarkets. Yet, his signature yakuza demeanor and unyielding seriousness transform even the simplest chores into high-pressure missions.
Nodame Cantabile
In simpler terms, this anime revolves around Shinichi Chiaki, a talented pianist and hopeful conductor, and Megumi Noda, a free-spirited pianist at the same elite Japanese music school. While Shinichi yearns to study in Europe, his fear of flying prevents him from leaving Japan. Yet, his life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Nodame, a disorganized and unique individual with exceptional musical skills.
Regardless of their stark differences, they’ve grown closer due to sharing a common boundary. As Chiaki assists Nodame in honing her abilities, he also embarks on his journey towards becoming a conductor. In the course of the series, we witness them forge friendships with accomplished musicians, participate in prestigious concerts, and maneuver through their humorous and touching romantic encounters.
Summertime Rendering
Given its skillfully created narrative, animation, and unexpected plot developments, it’s hard to believe that Summertime Rendering isn’t getting more recognition. The series centers around Shinpei Ajiro, who goes back to his native town, Hitogashima, for Ushio Kofune’s funeral – a childhood friend he hadn’t seen in two years since moving to Tokyo. While the villagers believe Ushio drowned while saving a child, peculiar aspects surrounding her death stir Shinpei’s suspicions.
In his quest for answers, Shinpei discovers enigmatic beings called Shadows that inhabit the island. These sinister doubles are responsible for murdering and impersonating people. Additionally, Shinpei uncovers his unique power to rewind time whenever he perishes, enabling him to relive events and unearth concealed facts. With each replay, he gradually unravels the secret behind Ushio’s demise, a mystery intertwined with the Shadows and their real intentions.
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2025-02-02 20:12