Higehiro is both heartbreaking and heartwarming

This is my short review of Higehiro. The conclusion is at the bottom. # Brief Higehiro: After Being Rejected, I Shaved and Took in a High School Runaway is, as the title evidently proclaims about a high school girl, Sayu, that has run away from home. On his way to his apartment, 26-year-old Yoshida drunkenly stumbles upon Sayu under a street lamp. She convinces him to let her stay at his apartment. Yoshida wakes up the next morning and reluctantly decides to let her stay. He consequently learns more about Sayu and why she decided to run away from home, as well as what she's been doing. We subsequently experience the heartwarming relationship between Sayu and Yoshida and learn what she will do.

Story

Name: Higehiro is both heartbreaking and heartwarming
Item: Higehiro: After Being Rejected, I Shaved and Took in a High School Runaway
Rating: 90
Author: Xydez

The story is great. The concept of taking in an underage child is given a different and interesting perspective. I really like the way we learn more about Sayu and the way she changes as a person. The story could easily just have been sexualized, but instead, it gives a new view of what it means to be a guardian to someone.

Yoshida is a really respectable person that's rare to find, and he's a really likable character. He is very principled, which shows in the way he acts towards Sayu. He is one of the few people that wish to take care of her instead of using her. His principles are constantly challenged, but he keeps them up throughout the show.

The other characters were good as well, and they had the perfect amount of presence to benefit the story without taking anything away. The main focus always lies on Yoshida and Sayu.

There were a few rare moments where some questionable things happened, but otherwise, I think the story progressed wonderfully. While the ending wasn't what I wanted the most, it was also really good, be sure not to miss the post-credit scene!

Animation

The animation is better than average, but nothing too out of the ordinary. The show has some beautiful scenes, but there aren't really any moments worthy of being wallpapers. I think the biggest strength lies in the character designs. They are really good and match the characters' personalities really well.

Music

Both the opening, the ending, and their respective songs are very generic. I don't really care since it has no impact on the story, but it's worth noting that it's nothing you're gonna add to your playlist anytime soon.

Conclusion

In the end, I think it was a really good anime. The story is very beautiful and wholesome while still remaining really interesting. The characters are wonderful and really likable. The story is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, and it was the highlight of the week to watch. If you're looking for a drama/slice-of-life anime that takes itself seriously I would give Higehiro a serious recommendation.