Review of Horimiya

Horimiya was cute, but it didn't retain my attention very well through much of the episodes. The premise was a sweet story about two characters - Hori and Miyamura - and their path to falling in love despite being superficially opposite. The plot is extremely easy-going and does not involve much drama, which means watching is very relaxing, to be fair. You know what you're getting when you watch a show like this, and it certainly delivers in that aspect. It's comforting. However, even with all the likable characters and appeasing storyline, it was a bit too lackluster for me. I don't need huge plottwists or climactic moments, but I wanted more than what it was. I'm a big fan of slow-burn and not having the love interests admit their feelings until the final, painful moments - but sadly, these two got together around halfway through the show.

The problem for me with that is that because they were already together so early on, it made the last couple of episodes feel more like filler than plot. There was nothing consequential that happened that affected the story or the characters.

Aside from pacing issues, I was also disappointed with how quickly they dropped the "bad boy" image with Miyamura. I loved every time they showed him with his piercings, tattoos, and hair pulled back. Unfortunately, the minute he really started spending time with Hori and her family, he stopped doing that. In my opinion, this was contradicting to the story and his character, especially when he proclaimed that he loved Hori for not judging him by his looks. Why would he say that and then never look that way again?

I could understand if they wanted to spin that as Miyamura's character growth and say that part of his rebellious image was created with the intent to push people away. So, once he felt he didn't need to put guards up anymore, he was able to let go of it. But, they never really said or explained anything like that, which would have been more meaningful.

Overall, I think if you're in the mood to watch a cute love story, this is a good choice. I just wouldn't expect more than that.