Senpai is an Otokonoko
Synopsis
Much like the other students at her school, first-year student Saki Aoi finds herself captivated by the beauty of her senior on the school board, Makoto Hanaoka. While she worries that Hanaoka would be uncomfortable receiving a confession from another girl, Aoi musters up the courage to tell her anyway. However, Hanaoka's response surprises Aoi for a completely different reason—Hanaoka is actually a cross-dressing boy! Fully expecting Aoi to be abhorred by this revelation, Hanaoka is shocked to find that she has no issues with it. Though Hanaoka rejects Aoi's request to go out with her—citing his identity and the fact that he has never fallen in love before—Aoi insists that she will become his first love. Taken aback by Aoi's determination, Hanaoka wonders if he can really fall in love with her if he cannot find it in him to truly love himself first. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Audience opinions are mixed, with some praising the show's sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes and character development. Others criticize the rushed pacing, underdeveloped subplots, and tonal inconsistencies. While the show tackles important topics, its execution leaves some viewers disappointed, resulting in a moderately polarized reception.
Strengths
- Respectful and mature depiction of gender dysphoria and sexual identity.
- Exploration of important conversations about cross-dressing, gender identity, sexuality, friendship, love, and family.
- Well-rounded characters with relatable strengths and flaws.
- Addresses complex issues such as abusive parenting and neglect.
Weaknesses
- Underdeveloped subplots and themes.
- Awkward pacing and a fudged narrative.
- Incomplete adaptation with rushed content.
- Messy tone that struggles to balance comedy with serious themes.