Watch Say I Love You

Say I Love You is a romantic anime television series that aired in Japan in 2012. Produced by Zexcs and based on the manga of the same name by Kanae Hazuki, the series consists of 13 episodes, each running for approximately 24 minutes. The story follows Mei Tachibana, a 16-year-old high school student who has never had any friends or romantic relationships. She is an introverted and lonely girl who prefers to be by herself rather than socializing with her peers. This changes when she accidentally kicks Yamato Kurosawa, one of the most popular boys in school, while trying to protect her friend from his harassment. Yamato finds Mei intriguing and begins pursuing her, which leads to a tumultuous romance that challenges both of them to confront their innermost fears and insecurities.

Mei is initially resistant to Yamato's advances, as she believes he is playing a cruel prank on her like some of her past tormentors. However, he gradually wins her over with his kind and caring nature, and they begin dating. As they navigate through the ups and downs of their relationship, they encounter various obstacles in the form of jealous rivals, overprotective parents, and misunderstandings caused by their own insecurities. Mei also struggles with her past traumas, such as being bullied and abandoned by her mother, which make it hard for her to open up to others or trust anyone.

Despite these challenges, Mei and Yamato's love for each other grows stronger as they learn to communicate and support each other. They also make new friends and learn valuable life lessons, such as the importance of forgiveness, self-acceptance, and following one's dreams. The series ends on a bittersweet note, as Mei and Yamato's relationship faces a major crisis that forces them to confront their true feelings and priorities.

Overall, Say I Love You is a heartwarming and relatable portrayal of teenage love and growth. It deals with serious issues such as bullying, social isolation, and mental health in a sensitive and nuanced way, while also providing plenty of romantic and comedic moments. The animation and music are both top-notch, with vibrant colors, expressive character designs, and catchy opening and ending themes. The voice acting is also excellent, particularly Ai Kayano's performance as Mei, which conveys both her vulnerability and strength.

The characters are the strongest aspect of the show, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations. Mei is a complex and sympathetic protagonist who defies the typical shoujo stereotypes of being overly timid or passive. She is brave in her own way, standing up for herself and others when needed, and her journey of self-discovery is rewarding to witness. Yamato may seem like a typical Prince Charming at first glance, but he has his own flaws and doubts that make him more relatable and interesting. The supporting cast, such as Mei's friend Asami, Yamato's friend Kai, and rival Megumi, also have their own story arcs and add depth to the overall narrative.

One potential drawback of the series is that it does rely on some cliches and tropes of the shoujo genre, such as the love triangle, the mean girls, and the dramatic confessions of love. Some viewers may find these elements predictable or overdone, while others may appreciate them as part of the typical shoujo experience. Additionally, some of the issues addressed in the show, such as sexual harassment and abusive relationships, may be triggering or uncomfortable for some viewers.

In conclusion, Say I Love You is a well-crafted and emotionally resonant anime that explores the joys and pitfalls of teenage romance. Its relatable characters, captivating story, and impeccable production values make it a must-watch for fans of the shoujo genre or anyone seeking a heartwarming and thought-provoking tale of love and growth.

Say I Love You is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (15 episodes). The series first aired on October 27, 2012.