Wandering Son
Synopsis
Effeminate fifth grader Shuuichi Nitori is considered by most to be one of the prettiest girls in school, but much to her dismay, she is actually biologically male. Fortunately, Shuuichi has a childhood friend who has similar feelings of discomfort related to gender identity: the lanky tomboy Yoshino Takatsuki, who, though biologically female, does not identify as a girl. These two friends share a similar secret and find solace in one another; however, their lives become even more complicated when they must tread the unfamiliar waters of a new school, attempt to make new friends, and struggle to maintain old ones. Faced with nearly insurmountable odds, they must learn to deal with the harsh realities of growing up, being transgender, relationships, and acceptance. Lauded as a decidedly serious take on gender identity and LGBT struggles, Takako Shimura's Hourou Musuko is about Shuuichi and Yoshino's attempts to discover their true selves as they enter puberty, make friends, fall in love, and face some very real and difficult choices.
Audience Consensus
Hourou Musuko is appreciated for its serious and sensitive approach to transgender issues and the struggles of growing up. However, some viewers find the story slow-paced and feel that the anime doesn't delve deep enough into the complexities of gender identity. There's a general agreement on the beautiful art style and music, contributing to the anime's overall emotional impact.
Strengths
- Sensitive and tactful handling of gender identity issues.
- Realistic portrayal of puberty and growing up.
- Beautiful art style and fitting music.
Weaknesses
- Story can feel slow or aimless at times.
- Themes sometimes feel superficial or not fully explored.
- Beginning of the anime can be confusing for those unfamiliar with the manga.