Surfing through the internet filled with endless recommendations, unable to find a captivating watch? No worries! Keep your eyes peeled for these two underrated shows in this vast world.
“Toilet Bound Hanako-Kun [Jibaku Shounen Hanako-Kun]”
Based on the popular urban legend of “Hanako-san of the Bathroom Stall,” “Toilet Bound Hanako Kun” or “Jibaku Shounen Hanako-kun” is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by the mangaka (comic book author) Duo Aidairo that was later adapted into an animated series. The series takes place in a haunted high school that is renowned for its elusive seven wonders. The main story follows a love-struck high school girl who befriends “Hanako-san of the Toilet” now known as Hanako-kun. The series follows their blossoming friendship, the controversies that arise from it, and the romance that ensues as the manga goes on.
The manga is a brilliant combination of comedy, romance, and tragedy. The series is phenomenal at hooking readers in and taking them on an emotional journey. Every character feels like a human being, they’re all likable yet flawed individuals that almost anyone can see themselves in. The relationships between the characters, as a result, are all well-developed and diverse with the series exploring multiple different dynamics between a multitude of characters. These qualities all come together to create a series with a wonderful cast and a gut-wrenching core narrative. This is all topped off by the beautiful and distinct art style of the manga and the warm color palette used creating a delightful viewing experience.
However, despite all of these enjoyable qualities the series still remains unknown to even the most die-hearted of anime fans. This could be a result of the rearranging of the anime adaptation of the series, which may have caused certain viewers to leave with a different impression of how the manga was. Even though the anime is more than sufficient, we heavily encourage interested viewers to read the original source, the manga. The animated series is available for streaming on “Hulu”, “Crunchyroll”, and “Funimation.” The manga can be bought physically through “Amazon,” “Barnes and Noble,” or “Target” and also can be accessed via the official “Yenpress” printing site.
Many fans of the “Toilet Bound Hanako-Kun” manga have expressed their love for the series.
Cameron Perez, a senior at Eleanor Roosevelt High School, explained “I think the series is totally underrated because people tend to not really take the time to fully get into the romance of the series.” Perez elaborates, “None of the characters are one-sided and they all play a role in the story.”
A junior from ERHS, Ember Collado shared a similar sentiment “‘Toilet Bound Hanako-kun” is one of the best mangas out there.” Collado continues “It puts the readers on an emotional rollercoaster which shows how dynamic the characters are. Overall, it is a charming manga to read and I definitely recommend it”.
Meagan Salazar, a junior student at Polytechnic High School commented, “I like TBHK (“Toilet Bound Hanako-kun”) due to the plot and the art style.” She further explained, “It’s very pastel and pretty, I also like how the characters are relatable.”
“Heaven Official’s Blessing [Tian Guan Ci Fu]”
A brilliant romance between once a well-regarded child of the Heavens and the fearsome Ghost King whose very name makes people’s hair stand on end. 800 years ago, Xie Lian was a noble Crown Prince of the Xian Le kingdom. He was well-loved by his citizens and ascended to the Heavens at a young age. Alas, an unfortunate incident occurred and led to his banishment back to the mortal realm. Years later, he ascends once more–only to be banished minutes later. There he met San Lang– Hua Cheng. The comedic elements and the mysteries within make the series worthy of praise. Originally a novel written by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu later adapted into “Donghua” (Chinese cartoon) and “Dongman” (Chinese comic) across various platforms.
This magnificent BL (boy’s love or romance between two male leads) tampers with the viewers’ heartstrings. From unveiling ancient mysteries to rediscovering distant histories, combined with the fantasy-like setting, topped with a heart-throbbing romance, the delightful elements make the story extra entertaining. Honorable mention: the characters are beautifully illustrated, a true eye candy for the audience. Each character is unique to the core, these well-rounded characters enlighten the overall story. Words can’t describe the beauty this story offers. It is worthy of praise and attention. Do give the series a go, you will be hooked in no time. The animated series is available on “Crunchyroll”, “Netflix,” “Funimation” and “Bilibili”. The Dongman can be found in Bilibili comics. Meanwhile, the physical novel is available in both English and Chinese on Amazon for purchase.
Leaving yet another remark, Salazar revealed, “I don’t think TBHK is that underrated however, I think ‘Heaven Official’s Blessings’ is underrated because of its plot. She then added, “I just think people who are into anime really know about it.”
Haley Zelaya, a junior student at ERHS stated, “I think this is underrated because it’s an action show, but I enjoyed it because it’s BL.” sharing her opinion as a fan of “Heaven Official’s Blessing.”
