Citrus is a captivating Japanese anime series that first aired in 2018. Directed by Takeo Takahashi, this animated show was brought to life by the esteemed media company, Studio Passione. 

Citrus delves into the realms of romance, drama, and slice-of-life genres, captivating its audience with a compelling narrative. The series follows the tumultuous relationship between two high school girls, Yuzu Aihara and Mei Aihara, who find themselves entangled in a complex love affair amidst societal expectations and personal struggles. 

With its intriguing storyline and stunning animation, Citrus has garnered a dedicated fan base and has become a notable addition to the realm of anime.

Citrus Synopsis

Citrus revolves around the life of Yuzu Aihara, a stylish and vivacious high school girl who is forced to transfer to a strict all-girls school after her mother remarries. Yuzu’s carefree and outgoing nature clashes with the conservative atmosphere of her new school, especially when she encounters the student council president, Mei Aihara, who also happens to be her new stepsister.

As Yuzu tries to navigate her way through the school’s rules and regulations, she finds herself drawn to Mei’s enigmatic and distant personality. Despite their initial animosity, a forbidden attraction begins to develop between the two girls. Their complicated relationship becomes a secret they must protect from their fellow students, family, and the school’s strict disciplinary committee.

As the story unfolds, Citrus explores themes of self-discovery, sexuality, and the challenges of young love. Yuzu and Mei’s relationship is tested by societal expectations, personal insecurities, and the complexities of their own emotions. Alongside their evolving romance, the series delves into the lives and relationships of other students at the school, showcasing a diverse range of characters and their individual struggles.

Through its emotionally charged storyline and character-driven narrative, Citrus explores the depths of love, acceptance, and personal growth, inviting viewers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships and the power of understanding and compassion.

IS Citrus Worth Watching?

Citrus has garnered a significant following and has been cherished by many anime enthusiasts for various reasons. Here are some of the factors that contribute to its popularity:

1. Compelling Romance: 

The central focus of Citrus is the complex and intense romantic relationship between Yuzu and Mei. Viewers are drawn to the passionate and emotional connection that develops between the two characters, as they navigate the challenges of their love amidst societal expectations and personal struggles.

2. Exploration of Taboo Themes: 

The anime delves into taboo themes such as same-sex relationships, step-sibling romance, and societal judgment. By addressing these subjects with sensitivity, Citrus has resonated with viewers who appreciate its willingness to tackle unconventional and thought-provoking topics.

3. Character Development: 

The characters in Citrus undergo significant growth and transformation throughout the series. Yuzu and Mei, in particular, experience personal development as they confront their own insecurities and learn to embrace their identities. This character-driven narrative has captivated audiences who appreciate seeing the protagonists evolve over time.

4. Emotional Depth: 

The anime explores a range of emotions, from heartwarming moments of tenderness and affection to moments of heartache and turmoil. The emotional depth and rawness of the storytelling have struck a chord with viewers, allowing them to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

5. Art and Animation: 

The visual aesthetics of Citrus have been widely praised. The vibrant and detailed animation, along with the visually appealing character designs, contribute to the overall immersive experience of the series.

6. Soundtrack: 

The anime features a captivating soundtrack that complements the mood and atmosphere of each scene. The music enhances the emotional impact of pivotal moments, creating a more immersive viewing experience for the audience.

7. Representation and Relatability: 

Citrus resonates with viewers who identify with the struggles and complexities faced by the characters. Its exploration of LGBTQ+ themes and the challenges of young love provides a sense of representation and relatability for individuals who have experienced similar situations or emotions.

These reasons, among others, have contributed to the love and admiration that Citrus has garnered from its fanbase, solidifying its place as a memorable and cherished anime series.

The Only Beef We Have With Citrus

While Citrus has received praise from many viewers, it has also faced some criticisms. Here are a few common critiques:

1. Pacing and Adaptation: 

Some viewers felt that the anime’s pacing was rushed, particularly in the earlier episodes. The adaptation was criticized for condensing and omitting certain story elements from the manga source material, which resulted in a less nuanced and rushed storytelling experience.

2. Characterization: 

While the characters in Citrus undergo development, some viewers found the initial characterizations to be shallow or clichéd. The dynamics between the main characters, Yuzu and Mei, were also criticized for being overly dramatic and lacking in depth at times.

3. Controversial Themes: 

The portrayal of certain taboo themes, such as the step-sibling romance, has been a point of contention for some viewers. The anime’s handling of these sensitive subjects was seen as potentially romanticizing or trivializing the complexities involved, which led to discomfort or dissatisfaction for some viewers.

4. Lack of Subtlety: 

The storytelling in Citrus has been criticized for being heavy-handed and lacking subtlety in its approach. Some viewers found the dramatic moments and conflicts to be overly exaggerated, which diminished the impact of the emotional moments.

5. Predictability: 

A criticism that has been raised is the perceived predictability of the plot and character arcs. Some viewers felt that the narrative followed familiar tropes and lacked surprises, making it less engaging for those seeking more unpredictable storytelling.

It’s important to note that criticisms can vary among viewers, and what one person may perceive as a flaw, another might see as a strength. These critiques should be taken in context and not overshadow the aspects of the anime that resonate with its fans.

Conclusion 

Citrus is an anime that has sparked both admiration and criticism among viewers. It explores complex themes of love, identity, and societal expectations while delving into taboo subjects with varying degrees of success. 

The compelling romance between Yuzu and Mei, coupled with character growth and emotional depth, has captivated many fans. The visual aesthetics and soundtrack contribute to the overall immersive experience of the series. 

However, the rushed pacing, shallow characterizations, controversial themes, lack of subtlety, and predictability have been points of contention for some viewers. 

Ultimately, the appreciation for Citrus hinges on personal preferences and the ability to connect with the characters and their journeys.