This review will address the anime’s depiction of modern romance, providing insights into its characters, thematic explorations, and key relationship milestones. By examining these elements, we gain a deeper appreciation for the authentic portrayal of love and work.
It’s important to remain informed about the streaming options available, ensuring that anime continues to be accessible to a broader audience. Currently, “I Have a Crush at Work,” known as “Kono Kaisha ni Suki na Hito ga Imasu,” is available for free with ads at Ani-One’s YouTube channel or Bilibili (Asia region only). As with several international shows, the anime is dealing with licensing challenges in the United States, limiting its availability for viewers. This means that people need to find unconventional ways to legally access the anime. Using a VPN apk android can help bypass geo-restrictions, allowing access content not readily available in their region.
“I Have a Crush at Work” is different from a traditional romance anime. Instead of focusing on a developing love story that results in a confession, this series starts with the main characters already in a secret relationship. The storyline dives into the lives of the couple as they try to balance their affection for each other with the demands of their professional lives.
In “I Have a Crush at Work,” the setting of the story primarily focused on a Japanese confectionary company. This setting not only provides a more realistic romantic plotline but also offers a glimpse into Japanese work culture. The diligence, hierarchy, and professional demeanor typical of Japanese workplaces are intricately portrayed, highlighting the subtle challenges and pressures faced by the main characters. The series captures the essence of what it means to balance personal desires with professional goals in a competitive corporate world.
The protagonists are working adults with the dilemma of performing their professional duties while concealing their romantic involvement from coworkers. This adds layers of complexity to their interactions, creating tension and excitement as they engage with other characters. Through the subtleties of their exchanges, the series effectively depicts the unique Japanese perspective of office romance, where love is experienced in silent gestures and fleeting moments amid daily responsibilities.
Masugu Tateishi is one of the protagonists of “I Have a Crush at Work.” As a diligent employee at the confectionary company, Masugu is praised for his work ethic and commitment to his job responsibilities. He tackles multiple tasks efficiently and ensures that every project is completed without errors. Masugu is a compassionate individual, often going out of his way to assist his colleagues.
Yui is known for her creativity and attention to detail, playing a crucial role in product development and design. Her ability to bring fresh ideas to the table makes her a valuable asset to the team. Like Masugu, Yui is committed to her professional goals, constantly striving for excellence in her work. She is cheerful and approachable, often setting the mood in the office with her positive energy. She possesses an innate ability to connect with others, fostering a sense of camaraderie among peers.
The anime has other characters that have scenes that doesn’t revolve around the protagonists. Among them is the relationship between Shizuno Hayakawa and Keisuke Somei. Shizuno is a charismatic and confident figure in the office, with a knack for leadership that makes her respected by everyone. Her relationship with Keisuke, a more introverted person, brings an interesting contrast to their dynamic.
“I Have a Crush at Work” intertwines themes of love, friendship, and ambition within a typical Japanese work setting. Throughout this exploration, viewers gain insights into the challenges of having a private romantic relationship and the societal pressures that accompany office work culture.
Maintaining a friendly relationship with coworkers is crucial to creating a harmonious office atmosphere. Opportunities for interaction outside of work, such as office parties and social gatherings, are an integral part of the culture. Despite such camaraderie, romance in the workplace is fraught with challenges. Short romances can disrupt office dynamics and potentially lead to personnel changes. Hiding a romantic relationship is often necessary to avoid the embarrassment and gossip of coworkers. The anime reflects this environment, displaying the delicate balance of maintaining professionalism while pursuing personal desires.
Japanese dating culture (especially in the workplace) is characterized by a discreet and cautious approach, particularly at the relationship’s outset. Privacy is of utmost importance, especially when romantic feelings develop between friends. Japanese individuals often hesitate to take the first step into a romantic relationship due to concerns about the relationship’s longevity. The anime reveals the subtly complex situation of signaling mutual attraction without jeopardizing existing relationships or inviting unwanted attention from coworkers.
Yui and Masugu set rules that ensure that their colleagues don’t find about their relationship. They don’t make eye contact in the hallway of the company building. When they meet at night, it’s at least three stations away (public transportation is huge in Japan). Also, they aren’t allowed to have outside dates with a lot of people around.
One of the ways they affirm their secret relationship is holding hands in an elevator, which allows them to spend time together even during the company’s busy period. During the early stages of their relationship, they had dates at low visibility places like a movie theatre. Throughout the series, various events with coworkers, such as a baseball game, karaoke, and a camping trip, serve as backdrops for their growing romance. Eventually, they celebrate their 6th-month anniversary with a gift of matching rings. The anime concludes with the reveal of their relationship to coworkers, a very important milestone that signifies the commitment they share.
In conclusion, I recommend watching the anime yourself if you’re tired of the formulaic school romance anime that are constantly being produced every year.
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