The Plot
School Days is a popular anime series that aired in Japan in 2007. The story revolves around Makoto Itou, a high school student who falls in love with a girl named Kotonoha Katsura. However, Makoto’s indecisiveness and his attraction to other girls lead to a series of events that ultimately end in tragedy.
The anime is divided into 12 episodes, each with a runtime of 24 minutes. The series is known for its controversial ending, which deviates from the original visual novel the anime is based on.
The Dubbing
The English dub of School Days was released in 2010 by Sentai Filmworks. The dubbing was done by Seraphim Digital, who also worked on other popular anime titles such as Elfen Lied and Persona 4: The Animation.
The voice acting in the English dub is generally well-received by fans. The actors were able to capture the emotions of the characters, particularly in the later episodes where the story takes a darker turn.
The Music
The music in School Days is composed by Kaoru Okubo. The anime features several catchy and memorable songs, including the opening theme “Innocent Blue” and the ending theme “Usotsuki.” The soundtrack also includes several instrumental pieces that add to the overall atmosphere of the series.
The Animation
The animation in School Days is done by TNK, a studio known for their work on other anime titles such as High School DxD and Doreiku: The Animation. The animation is generally well-done, with smooth and fluid movements. The character designs are also well-received by fans, particularly Kotonoha’s iconic hairstyle.
The Reception
School Days has received mixed reviews from both critics and fans. Some praise the series for its realistic portrayal of teenage relationships and the consequences of infidelity. Others criticize the series for its excessive violence and sexual content.
Despite the controversy, School Days remains a popular anime series among fans. The series has spawned several spin-offs and adaptations, including a visual novel and a manga series.
The Legacy
School Days has had a lasting impact on the anime industry, particularly in the romance and drama genres. The series has inspired several other anime titles, including White Album 2 and Scum’s Wish. The anime is also referenced in other media, such as the visual novel Doki Doki Literature Club!
Conclusion
School Days is a controversial anime series that is known for its realistic portrayal of teenage relationships. The English dub of the series is well-done, with strong voice acting and memorable music. While the series may not be for everyone, it remains a popular and influential title in the anime industry.