Ep 1. Truth Is Stranger Than Fiction

Junjo Romantica is a Japanese anime series that revolves around the lives of three couples and explores the themes of romance, love, and relationships. The first season of the show consists of twelve episodes, and in the first episode, “Truth Is Stranger Than Fiction”, we are introduced to the three main couples and their unique love stories.

The first couple we meet is Misaki Takahashi and Akihiko Usami. Misaki is a young high school student who is preparing for his college entrance exams. He has a deep admiration for his older brother Takahiro, who is a successful lawyer and a close friend of Akihiko Usami, a famous novelist who is also his brother's best friend. Misaki ends up seeking Akihiko's help in tutoring him for his exams, and as they spend more time together, Misaki develops feelings for Akihiko.

The second couple is Hiroki Kamijou and Nowaki Kusama. Hiroki is a university professor who is still mourning the loss of his former lover. He is caught off guard when he meets Nowaki, a young man who takes a liking to him and shows him a level of persistence that he has never experienced before. Hiroki initially tries to push Nowaki away but eventually starts to develop feelings for him.

The third and final couple is Miyagi Yo and Shinobu Takatsuki. These two met when Miyagi was married to Shinobu's older sister. After his sister's death, Shinobu moves in with Miyagi, and despite their age difference, they end up falling in love. However, their relationship is not without its challenges, and they must navigate their feelings while dealing with outside pressures from family and society.

As the episode unfolds, we see each of the three couples dealing with their individual struggles and romantic entanglements. Misaki tries to come to terms with his feelings for Akihiko and grapples with the taboo nature of their relationship. Hiroki and Nowaki have their own set of issues, as Hiroki struggles with letting go of his past and Nowaki tries to convince him that they are meant to be together. Miyagi and Shinobu's relationship, on the other hand, faces opposition from his family, who are against their age difference and their same-sex relationship.

Overall, “Truth Is Stranger Than Fiction” serves as an introduction to the various characters and their love stories. The episode sets the stage for the season and gives viewers a glimpse into the complex and intricate world of relationships. It is a heartfelt and emotional start to the series, and it promises to be a roller coaster ride of emotions for the viewers. Junjo Romantica is a must-watch for fans of romantic anime and those who enjoy exploring the complexities of love.