Review of School Days

I won’t say this anime is good, because it truly lacks many things. However, I’d like to start by highlighting the positive aspects. One of its achievements is creating a genuine disaster out of its main character, which I interpret as intentional on the author’s part. By the second episode, it’s clear what kind of person this character is, something I consider a strength despite the character’s negative traits. Here is where the central theme of the story emerges: nonconformity. The fulfillment of their expectations and the pursuit of pleasure perfectly complement the hedonistic and selfish nature of the protagonist. Additionally, the series offers an interestinglook at emotional dependence and the whims of the other characters involved, themes explored in a significant way throughout the story.

However, elements like manipulation, the urge to please someone due to emotional dependence or fear of abandonment, the inability to let someone go out of sheer stubbornness, betrayal, emotional detachment, and the pursuit of pleasure as the sole goal are characteristics that, while they work in key moments to keep the audience engaged, ultimately weaken the overall narrative of the series.

One of this work’s biggest issues is that it reveals most of its main arguments by episode 4. From that point onward, it overexplores each character’s flaws and exaggerates situations until the final two episodes, where it presents a "relatively good final twist." However, upon closer analysis, this ending feels somewhat out of place, though convincing within the style the series aims to project. Still, it may not appeal to all viewers.

For those curious enough to watch, I suggest not looking too deeply into it, as it might lead to a sense of disdain. Those who watch out of morbid curiosity might find it enjoyable, but anyone expecting to uncover a masterpiece is likely to be deeply disappointed.