If you like me, you sometimes fall into that obvious trap and judge a book by its cover. Recommended in Domestic Girlfriend's page, has a very lewd cover and a suspicious name. They all say the same thing: "Stay away".

But here I am, telling you otherwise. Beneath that suspicious cover lies a gut-wrenching drama about people struggling with their past, present, and the tumultuous emotions of adolescence. These are the very emotions you may have experienced yourself—fearing the implications, social backlash, and bullying, yet being driven by fleeting and overpowering desire.

When you watch Scum's Wish, you'll witness a slice of these characters' lives, intricately intertwined. Those conflicting emotions of looking at someone you've called your Big Brother, who stood by you even when your father left your family. The longing fueled by the sheer amounts of testosterone towards your beautiful tutor and the pull you feel about that one close friend—mixed with fear and a hint of shame.

Throughout my media consumption, which includes Western TV shows, movies, and books, as well as a recent foray into anime and manga, I can confidently say that I can't recall anything that got me going this fast and this intense. However, I must clarify that this show isn't solely about lewdness. It skillfully explores every facet of sex it gets into. It will bring back memories of kissing your high school girlfriend or boyfriend, the fear, adrenaline, and exhilarating rush. It will remind you of the struggles you faced while trying to unravel your emotions. It will rekindle the fears that kept you up at night due to "socially unacceptable feelings" you harbored. You'll feel love, emptiness, melancholy, gratification, and frustration.

The characters in Scum's Wish may appear somewhat flat, but within this context, you'll see them as aspects of people that are relevant and significant. Presented with great art, animation, and tasteful score; the show creates an intense atmosphere. The themes will leave you with a mix of contempt and disgust, but ultimately, with empathy. Character design is gorgeous, and voice acting, aside from one character, is exceptional. I want to emphasize the outstanding performance of Chika Anzai, who delivers a sublime rendition of the female lead with her unique tone that will make her voice instantly recognizable.

In conclusion, I encourage you to give Scum's Wish a chance. Set aside any prejudices and immerse yourself in the narrative. Experience the lives of these characters and see the world from their perspectives. You don't have to judge them, but whatever emotions you may feel, focus on them and dissect them. Perhaps you will find answers to the questions you have about yourself or others.

Sometimes, what you discover while chasing the objects of your desires can be even more precious in the end.

Best regards...