7.7 / 10 (based on 2760 reviews)
Bored with life, popular high schooler Yatora Yaguchi jumps into the beautiful yet unrelenting world of art after finding inspiration in a painting.
Genre: Animation, Drama
Main Cast: Hiromu Mineta, Yumiri Hanamori
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 24-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Blue Period (2021)
Komi-san wa, Komyushou Desu. (2021)
7.8 / 10 (based on 7258 reviews)
An elite and aloof schoolgirl is in fact severely withdrawn and anxious about communicating with others. An ordinary schoolboy befriends her and helps her to open up and talk with people.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Aoi Koga, Gakuto Kajiwara, Rie Murakawa, Rina Hidaka
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Takt Op. Destiny (2021)
6.9 / 10 (based on 1808 reviews)
In a world where aliens have invaded Earth and banned music, a group of fighter musicians use music as a weapon to maintain a resistance.
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Music
Main Cast: Koki Uchiyama, Shion Wakayama, Kaede Hondo, Daisuke Namikawa
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Mieruko-chan (2021)
7.2 / 10 (based on 1942 reviews)
A girl suddenly starts seeing monsters around her but nobody else can see them. Rather than trying to run away or face them, she instead musters all of her courage and ignores them. Join in on her day-to-day life as she keeps up her best poker face despite being surrounded by monsters.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Fantasy, Horror, Mystery
Main Cast: Sora Amamiya, Kaede Hondo, Ayane Sakura, Yumiri Hanamori
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Sekai Saikou no Ansatsusha, Isekai Kizoku ni Tensei Suru (2021)
7.3 / 10 (based on 2398 reviews)
When the world’s greatest assassin reaches the end of his life, he is sent by a goddess to be reborn in a magical world and use his skills to save that world.
Genre: Animation, Action, Fantasy
Main Cast: Kenji Akabane, Shino Shimoji, Reina Ueda, Yûki Takada
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 24.0-minute runtime
Senpai ga Uzai Kouhai no Hanashi (2021)
7.4 / 10 (based on 996 reviews)
Igarashi Futuba’s new job would be great if her senpai, Takeda Harumi, wasn’t so incredibly annoying. Futuba hates his laugh, she hates how big he is, and she really hates that he treats her like a little kid. Just because Futuba is short and looks young doesn’t make her a kid, and just because she spends so much time with Takeda doesn’t mean she sees him as anything but an annoying senpai – or does she?
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Romance
Main Cast: Tomori Kusunoki, Shunsuke Takeuchi, Saori Hayami, Akio Ôtsuka
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Platinum End (2021)
6.1 / 10 (based on 1738 reviews)
A young man is recruited by an angel into a battle to become the next God.
Genre: Animation, Action, Drama, Fantasy, Thriller
Main Cast: Griffin Burns, Jessie Flower, Alejandro Saab, Miyu Irino
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Saihate no Paladin (2021)
6.7 / 10 (based on 979 reviews)
A knight raised by three righteous but monstrous guardians sets out on a quest to improve his land.
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
Main Cast: Erica Mendez, Kirk Thornton, Veronica Taylor, Bill Butts
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Taisho Otome Otogi Banashi (2021)
7.6 / 10 (based on 443 reviews)
Tamahiko finds himself exiled to the countryside by his wealthy family because of his disability. His lonely life is turned upside down by the arrival of Yuzuki, his arranged bride.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Drama, History, Romance
Main Cast: Yûsuke Kobayashi, Saya Aizawa, Yûna Mimura, Yume Miyamoto
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Tsuki to Laika to Nosferatu (2021)
6.7 / 10 (based on 331 reviews)
In an alternate 1960s, a space program recruits a vampire to serve as an astronaut and go into space.
Genre: Animation, Drama, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Megumi Hayashibara, Koki Uchiyama, Hina Kino, Takaya Hashi
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Ôsama Ranking (2021)
8.5 / 10 (based on 9834 reviews)
Meet Bojji, a deaf, powerless prince who cannot even wield a children’s sword. As the firstborn son, he strives hard and dreams of becoming the world’s greatest king. However, people mutter about him behind his back as “a good-for-nothing prince” and “no way he can be king.”
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
Main Cast: A.J. LoCascio, Yûki Kaji, SungWon Cho, Justin Briner
Creators: Sosuke Toka
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Shin no Nakama ja Nai to Yuusha no Party o Oidasareta node, Henkyou de Slow Life Suru Koto ni Shimashita (2021)
6.7 / 10 (based on 1126 reviews)
Red was once a member of the Hero’s party, a powerful group destined to save the world from the evil forces of Taraxon, the Raging Demon Lord. That is, until one of his comrades kicked him out. Hoping to live the easy life on the frontier, Red’s new goal is to open an apothecary. However, keeping the secret of his former life may not be as simple as he thinks. Especially when the beautiful Rit, an adventurer from his past, shows up and asks to move in with him.
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
Main Cast: Ryouta Suzuki, Kanon Takao, Sora Amamiya, Rie Kugimiya
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 13 episodes
Shiroi Suna no Aquatope (2021)
7.3 / 10 (based on 311 reviews)
The anime takes place at Gama Gama Aquarium, a small aquarium in Okinawa, an hour’s bus ride from Naha. Kukuru Misakino is an 18-year-old high school student who works there, and she knows about the “secret” of the aquarium: sometimes you can see mysterious things. One day Kukuru meets Fuuka, standing in front of a water tank with flowing hair and a tear rolling down her cheek. Fuuka has given up on her dream of becoming an idol and she has run away from Tokyo to Okinawa. Wanting to find a place to belong, Fuuka earnestly asks to work at the aquarium. The anime follows Kukuru and Fuuka as they deal with the issues of the secret of the aquarium and a looming crisis of its possible closure.
Genre: Animation, Drama
Main Cast: Miku Itou, Rikako Aida, Shimba Tsuchiya, Lynn
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 24 episodes
In the vast ocean of anime, “Blue Period” emerges as a refreshing narrative that deviates from the usual themes of fantasy and action. Premiering in 2021, the series is an adaptation of the manga by Tsubasa Yamaguchi. It’s a story that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever questioned their path in life, felt the sting of creation, or yearned for a purpose. Unlike the typical high-octane adventures or fantastical realms that characterize much of anime, “Blue Period” roots itself in the relatable, real-world journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of passion.
The Heart of Blue Period: Yatora Yaguchi’s Journey
At the center of “Blue Period” is Yatora Yaguchi, a high school student who, on the surface, seems to have it all. He’s popular, has good grades, and navigates his life with a certain ease. However, beneath this facade lies a profound emptiness and a quest for meaning. Yatora’s life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters a painting that moves him deeply, awakening a fervent desire to express himself through art.
What makes Yatora’s journey compelling is its raw authenticity. He’s not a prodigy or a chosen one; he’s an ordinary person facing the daunting task of mastering something completely new to him. His struggles with learning the fundamentals of art, balancing his social life, and preparing for the rigorous entrance exam to an art school, are depicted with a realism that’s both refreshing and inspiring.
The Challenges of Pursuing Art
“Blue Period” does an exceptional job of portraying the challenges and nuances of pursuing art. It strips away the romanticism often associated with the artist’s life, presenting a more nuanced view that includes the hard work, technical skills, and emotional resilience required. The series delves into the technical aspects of creating art, from understanding color theory and composition to the physical act of painting. It’s a rare glimpse into the artist’s process, demystifying the act of creation while highlighting its complexity.
Moreover, the anime explores the emotional landscape of pursuing a creative path. Yatora and his peers experience moments of doubt, frustration, and the fear of not being good enough. These moments are balanced with instances of profound satisfaction and joy, capturing the highs and lows inherent in the creative process.
The Role of Supportive Characters
A key element of “Blue Period” is its cast of supporting characters, each bringing their unique perspectives and challenges to the narrative. From Yuka, a friend who struggles with societal expectations, to Ryuji, who faces the daunting task of seeking acceptance for their identity, the series showcases a diverse range of experiences within the art world. These characters not only enrich the story but also provide Yatora with different viewpoints and support systems, highlighting the importance of community and understanding in the pursuit of one’s passion.
The Visual and Emotional Appeal
Visually, “Blue Period” is a testament to the beauty of art itself. The animation captures the vibrancy and emotion of painting, with scenes that are both striking and filled with a palpable sense of passion. The use of color and light is particularly noteworthy, serving as a narrative tool that reflects the characters’ emotions and growth.
Emotionally, the series resonates on a universal level. It speaks to anyone who has ever felt lost, yearned for a passion, or struggled with the gap between their dreams and reality. “Blue Period” is a reminder that it’s never too late to discover what moves you and to pursue it with all your heart.
The Universality of Blue Period
What sets “Blue Period” apart is its universality. The themes of self-discovery, passion, and perseverance are not limited to aspiring artists but are relevant to anyone navigating the complexities of life and identity. It’s a story about finding your voice in a noisy world and the courage it takes to follow your heart, despite the uncertainties that lie ahead.
The series also touches on the societal pressures and expectations that can hinder personal growth and self-expression. Through its characters, “Blue Period” encourages a dialogue about the value of art and creativity in a world that often prioritizes more conventional paths to success.
Conclusion
“Blue Period” is more than just an anime about art. It’s a deeply moving narrative that captures the essence of the human spirit—the desire to find and express oneself through creativity. With its realistic portrayal of the challenges and joys of pursuing art, the series offers a poignant exploration of passion, identity, and growth.
For anyone who has ever doubted their path, felt the urge to create, or sought meaning in their life, “Blue Period” is a must-watch. It’s a reminder that the journey to finding one’s passion is fraught with challenges but also filled with moments of profound beauty and fulfillment. In the end, “Blue Period” is a celebration of art, not just as a form of expression, but as a way of life.