Watching 'Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai'

Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is probably one the most inaccurate and near deceptive names of any piece of media over the past few years. Primarily, because the entirety of the name is the first arc of the series which is made up of five individual arcs, four of which has nothing to do with a bunny girl. What bunny girl senpai actually is, is a surprisingly relatable narrative of adolescent individuals suffering from a set of exaggerated conditions called puberty syndrome that are actually reflections of fears and adolescent problems one experiences.

Bunny girl senpai is an adaptation of a set of light novels written by Hajime Kamoshida that has been running since 2014, with nine volumes in total being published so far. Each novel brings a separate arc contained within itself with a different name for each book. The only constant being Rascal Does Not Dream Of... The series is directed by Soichi Masui, who has in the past worked on the Final Fantasy XV Brotherhood anime, Fullmetal Alchemist, Ergo Proxy, RahXephon, and even Samurai Champion, working as a storyboard artist and even directing the occasional of episodes.

Bunny Girl Senpai is comprised of thirteen episodes which concluded in December, and as with most anime regardless of the length it boasts a sizable and ever increasing cast. Some becoming a recurring member in the series, while others being a one off character. What is undoubtedly its strongest aspect is the relationship between the two leads. The bunny girl herself, Mai, and the stereotypical disinterested male lead with the heart of gold willing to do anything for his friends, Sakuta.

The chemistry between the two leads is pivotal to the show, as much of it takes place from their perspective. In addition to this, the establishing of their relationship and Sakuta helping Mai get cured of her own case of puberty syndrome is the entire first arc taking place over three episodes. If the series did not land these two characters the rest of the show would have been rough to get through. This show distinguishes itself in a way that is extremely rare in an anime. The two actually become a couple during the series and we are shown their struggles in being together, as they are constantly tested by Sakuta helping other girls with puberty syndrome and Mai being a celebrity. This is an aspect of anime romances that is barely explored, as many are content on dragging out the "will they won’t they" trope beyond the breaking point and then some. This is quite refreshing and the type of relationship they develop along with their chemistry is both mature and adorable at the same time with a true lesson for any couple. Always be open with each other to avoid misunderstandings and operate under the assumption that they do not know what the other is thinking. As said earlier, a very mature relationship.

The progression of the story is quite brisk, never dwelling any more than they absolutely have to before moving onto the next character arc. In this time, the characters go through a significant amount of both character development and character progression, with character progression being a necessity, as it is what is required to get over the traumatic effects of puberty syndrome.

As far as the visuals of the show goes, it is not a sakuga intensive show in the way something like My Hero Academia or Attack on Titan is. In fact, most of the show is people sitting and talking. However, when there is movement involved, the quality is consistent with the standard set by the rest of the show. One of the stand outs of the show is the wonderful soundtrack that compliments every scene it is used in.

Even though this is an on going light novel series, the anime ended with the door open for a sequel, and at the same time, provided a satisfying conclusion to the narrative as a whole. Another rarity in adapted anime. There is a bunny girl senpai film that is slated for release in 2019, which is now an exciting prospect based on the quality of this show.

This is a show I can easily recommend to anyone, due to it being so relatable to the things that one goes through as a teen. It is currently available to watch on Funimation and on Crunchyroll.