Higehiro: After Being Rejected, I Shaved and Took in a High School Runaway is an anime series that aired in 2021. Directed by Manabu Kamikita, the show explores themes of compassion, growth, and the complexities of human relationships. 

Falling under the genres of drama and romance, Higehiro delves into the unconventional bond formed between Yoshida, a salaryman, and Sayu, a high school runaway. As Yoshida provides Sayu shelter and support, their shared experiences lead to personal transformation and emotional exploration. 

The anime was produced by Project No.9, a notable production house known for creating compelling and thought-provoking anime series.

Higehiro Synopsis

Higehiro: After Being Rejected, I Shaved and Took in a High School Runaway follows the story of Yoshida, a diligent salaryman who is dealing with the pain of unrequited love after being rejected by his crush. 

One night, as he drowns his sorrows in a bar, he encounters Sayu, a teenage girl who has run away from home and offers herself to him in exchange for a place to stay. Driven by his compassion, Yoshida takes Sayu in, but under the condition that there will be no physical intimacy. 

As they begin living together, Yoshida becomes a source of emotional support for Sayu, and the two form an unlikely friendship. Through their daily interactions and heartfelt conversations, Yoshida learns about Sayu’s troubled past and helps her confront her fears and insecurities. 

As their bond grows stronger, both Yoshida and Sayu undergo personal growth and discover the healing power of genuine connections. Higehiro portrays a touching tale of redemption, trust, and finding solace in unexpected places.

Is Higehiro Worth Watching?

There are several reasons why people love the anime Higehiro: After Being Rejected, I Shaved and Took in a High School Runaway. Here are some of the key aspects that resonate with viewers:

1. Engaging Storyline: 

The anime tells a unique and emotionally captivating story that explores complex themes such as loneliness, redemption, and the power of human connections. The unconventional relationship between Yoshida and Sayu, and the challenges they face, make for a compelling narrative.

2. Relatable Characters: 

The characters in Higehiro are well-developed and relatable, with their own personal struggles and growth arcs. Viewers often find themselves connecting with the protagonists, empathizing with their experiences, and rooting for their happiness.

3. Emotional Depth: 

The anime delves into deep emotional territories, addressing sensitive topics like trauma, self-worth, and healing. It resonates with viewers by presenting these issues in a realistic and heartfelt manner, evoking empathy and introspection.

4. Themes of Redemption and Growth: 

Higehiro explores the transformative power of compassion, as Yoshida’s kindness and support help Sayu overcome her past and rebuild her life. The anime portrays the characters’ personal growth journeys, which can be inspiring and uplifting for viewers.

5. Realistic Portrayal of Relationships: 

The anime presents a nuanced portrayal of relationships, depicting the complexities and challenges that arise when two individuals with different backgrounds come together. It explores themes of trust, boundaries, and the gradual development of genuine connections.

6. Thoughtful Exploration of Taboo Topics: 

Higehiro tackles sensitive subjects such as societal norms, social stigma, and the consequences of one’s actions. By addressing these issues with sensitivity and depth, the anime encourages discussions and reflections on these taboo topics.

7. Well-Crafted Animation and Visuals: 

The quality of animation and visual aesthetics in Higehiro is often praised by fans. The art style and attention to detail enhance the storytelling and create a visually pleasing experience.

Overall, people love Higehiro for its emotional depth, relatable characters, thought-provoking themes, and the way it navigates complex relationships. It strikes a balance between heartwarming moments and tackling challenging subjects, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.

What You Might Hate About Higehiro

While Higehiro: After Being Rejected, I Shaved and Took in a High School Runaway has garnered a considerable fanbase, it is not without its criticisms. Here are a few common critiques:

1. Unrealistic Premise: 

Some viewers find the initial premise of an adult man taking in a high school runaway girl to be implausible or uncomfortable. They argue that the situation presented in the anime may perpetuate unrealistic or problematic expectations about relationships and boundaries.

2. Lack of Depth for Supporting Characters: 

While the main characters, Yoshida and Sayu, receive significant development, some critics feel that the supporting characters are not given enough depth or exploration. This may result in a perceived imbalance and missed opportunities to fully flesh out the story.

3. Pacing and Predictability: 

A criticism raised by some viewers is that the pacing of the series can feel rushed or uneven at times. Additionally, certain plot developments may be perceived as predictable or lacking surprise, potentially impacting the overall engagement and enjoyment of the story.

4. Limited Exploration of Sensitive Topics: 

Although the anime tackles sensitive subjects, such as trauma and societal norms, some viewers argue that the show falls short in fully delving into these themes. They feel that more in-depth exploration could have added additional layers of complexity and emotional resonance to the narrative.

5. Insufficient Resolution: 

A point of contention for some fans is the perceived lack of a fully satisfying or conclusive resolution to certain character arcs or storylines. This can lead to a sense of dissatisfaction or unresolved plot threads.

It’s important to note that these criticisms are subjective, and different viewers may have varying perspectives on these aspects. While some viewers may find these points detract from their overall enjoyment, others may still appreciate the anime for its strengths and emotional impact.

Conclusion 

Higehiro: After Being Rejected, I Shaved and Took in a High School Runaway is an anime that evokes strong reactions from its viewers. While it has garnered a devoted fanbase and praise for its engaging storyline, relatable characters, emotional depth, and thought-provoking themes, it is not without its criticisms. 

Some viewers have raised concerns about the premise, character development, pacing, predictability, and the exploration of sensitive topics. However, it is essential to acknowledge that opinions on these aspects vary among individuals. 

Ultimately, Higehiro stands as a series that delves into complex human relationships and tackles challenging subjects, leaving a lasting impact on those who resonate with its themes. 

Whether it’s the heartfelt moments, the growth of its characters, or the exploration of redemption and connection, Higehiro offers a unique narrative that sparks contemplation and emotional engagement.