Review of Teasing Master Takagi-san
Do you remember your crush in middle school, who you always teased, but you only did that to keep their attention? Karakai Jouzu no Takagi-san is taking this very common and very plain concept, and make a very nostalgic and relateable experience for all viewers. The best word to describe this series is "pure". You won't see any huge plot twists, action, not even real drama, is is literally about "that" first childhood love, which is embarrassing and confusing at the same time. The first thing you need to understand about the story that it is not continuous. This doesn't mean that I recommend watching thisanime out of order, but there will be only small references to the previous episodes throughout the series. Of course, that doesn't mean that there is no character development, just that it is a light anime, which doesn't heavily depend on the story itself. I wouldn't go into detail regarding the story elements, other than it is about two (aside from some minor supporting characters) middle school student, who sits next to each other, and walk home together regularly.
As for art, it is nothing too special. Very clean, very easy to watch, no flashy elements, no 3D effects, it is what it is: an anime about middle school students. The art is perfectly mirrors and adjust to the story.
Karakai Jouzu no Takagi-san has a very clear and nice soundtrack. The opening song, and the ending songs are perfectly in balance with the anime itself, it describes and sets the mood for the series. I liked all of the songs for the anime and I found myself listening to the opening song in my free time as well, although I am not sure it was because my love for the series or the catchyness of the song. The soundtrack aside from the opening and ending song are perfect, in every possible way. I would easily say that it just give the anime a whole new layer of adorableness.
Now the true strength of the anime are the characters. Takagi-san and Nishikata are perfect protagonists. The cheekiness of Takagi-san, and the clumsiness of Nishikata are perfectly in balance, and it is just so nice to watch how these two characters are developing during the series. I loved all the characters though, even the supporting characters are cute -- although they are not as detailed as the two protagonists. Also a huge shoutout to Rie Takahashi, who made Takagi-san so adorable. I truly believe with another seiyuu it wouldn't have been as enjoyable as it was with Takahashi-san's acting.
Overall, I enjoyed this series, and I would recommend it to everyone. It gave me a very nostalgic feeling, made me remember my years in middle school and the purity of the characters and story was truly refreshing. I watched this series every week as it came out, and I always found myself looking forward to the next one. I really hope there will be a second season, there are much more potential in this series than just 12 short episodes. There is enough manga material for a new season, also I really hope for the spinoff manga to be turned into an anime Karakai Jouzo no (Moto) Takagi-san. Check out both if you loved the series. Until the next episode!