The first season of Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii has concluded, leaving viewers with a complex mix of emotions. This isn’t your typical shojo romance; it’s a volatile cocktail of yakuza intrigue, dark humor, and an unconventional love story that constantly subverts expectations. The final episode, in particular, solidifies the show’s unique identity, leaving audiences both satisfied and yearning for more.
A Relationship Forged in Chaos
At the heart of the series is the relationship between Yoshino Somei, a seemingly normal high school girl with yakuza lineage, and Kirishima Miyama, her arranged fiancé and a member of a rival yakuza family. Their dynamic is far from smooth. Kirishima’s obsessive and often unsettling behavior is juxtaposed with Yoshino’s cool-headed pragmatism. The finale sees them navigating the precarious early stages of their relationship, which officially begins in episode 11, after Yoshino agrees to be Kirishima’s girlfriend.
Insecurities and Unease
The final episode delves into the characters’ insecurities. While Kirishima grapples with Yoshino’s cold shoulder as punishment for involving others in his affairs, Yoshino reveals her lack of experience with romance. She’s never had a boyfriend or even a crush, making the new dynamic challenging to navigate. This vulnerability adds another layer to their already complex relationship. Kirishima’s fear of losing Yoshino is palpable, highlighting a surprising depth to his character. The show cleverly uses these moments to peel back the layers of their tough exteriors and reveal a more human, vulnerable side.
Boundaries and Punishment
In a series known for its unconventional approach, the final episode further pushes the boundaries of their dynamic. Yoshino’s unique form of punishment—ignoring Kirishima until a timer she set goes off — is a bizarre yet fitting method of setting boundaries in a relationship that’s anything but conventional. This scene is not only humorous but also highlights the power dynamics at play and Yoshino’s increasing control within the relationship.
Yakuza Politics and Dangerous Undercurrents
Beyond the central romance, the series has consistently hinted at a deeper conspiracy within the yakuza world. The finale doesn’t resolve these plot threads entirely, leaving viewers on a cliffhanger, eager for more. Tensions within the yakuza community are at an all-time high and a plot to undermine Yoshino’s grandfather, Renji, is coming to light. This is intertwined with Yoshino’s own family history, as the circumstances surrounding her father’s death, which was supposedly a car accident, seem increasingly suspicious, hinting at potential treachery. This adds a layer of intrigue, suggesting that Yoshino’s position in the organization is not as secure as it appears.
Shoma’s Complicated Role
The finale also touches on Yoshino’s complicated relationships, particularly with her foster brother, Shoma Toriashi, adding to the overall complexity of her life. Shoma, who has shown romantic interest in Yoshino, is clearly unhappy about her relationship with Kirishima. This love triangle contributes to the show’s ongoing tensions and also reveals the complexities of relationships beyond the central pair. While their bond might be more familial than romantic, the possibility of shifting dynamics is very much present, creating an interesting and nuanced situation.
Atypical Romance with Dark Humor
Yakuza Fiancé distinguishes itself with its unique blend of dark humor and violent undertones. The characters are far from perfect, with Kirishima being depicted as a “peace of trash” and Yoshino being a “nutjob” herself. The series thrives on subverting typical romance tropes, creating an “uncomfortable show to watch” that is also incredibly engaging. This unconventional approach, however, is part of its charm and makes it a standout in the romance genre. The show’s chaotic nature is intentional, highlighting how their relationship is far from traditional, yet oddly captivating.
Subverted Expectations
The anime avoids the typical “blushing and faffing” of conventional romance. Instead, it dives straight into the core issues of relationships, such as physical intimacy, conversations about each other’s pasts, and the practical aspects of living together. This straightforward approach adds to the show’s unique flavor and makes it refreshing. Even something as simple as Kirishima’s suggestion of hand-holding highlights their unusual path.
A Visual Feast with Distinct Style
The series boasts a striking visual style that complements its narrative. The character designs are distinctive, with the characters often having a rough look, matching the gritty story. The animation is often intense, which is especially notable during action sequences and key character moments. Even the opening and ending sequences are carefully crafted, combining manga artwork with unique animated sequences. The opening theme “Under and Over” by THE ORAL CIGARETTES, and the ending theme “Nani Wararotonnen” performed by Yoshino, enhance the overall viewing experience.
Looking Ahead
While the first season concludes with a seemingly “happy” ending, it’s clear that there are many unresolved issues and potential conflicts that could be explored in future seasons. The show’s conclusion is less of an ending and more of a pause, setting the stage for a continuation of the chaos. Fans are eagerly anticipating a second season, as there is a strong desire to see the story of Yoshino and Kirishima progress.
The final scene shows Kirishima bringing flowers and pastries for Yoshino, only to find her asleep on her futon. He then lies down next to her, gazing at her, with only the sound of her breathing. This understated and intimate moment provides a nice contrast to the series’ usual intensity and may hint at a more stable and perhaps even “healthier” future, despite the rocky road they’ve been on.
Manga Hiatus
It’s important to note that the Yakuza Fiancé manga has recently gone on hiatus, with the author citing issues related to illegal translations as a reason. This situation has left fans concerned, particularly as the manga’s future is uncertain. However, the anime’s ending doesn’t necessarily signify the end of the narrative, and fans are hoping for more content either in the anime or manga format. The desire for a second season is high.
Final Verdict
The series finale of Yakuza Fiancé: Raise wa Tanin ga Ii is a testament to the show’s uniqueness, leaving viewers both satisfied and wanting more. It’s a thrilling rollercoaster that embraces its unconventional nature. The series concludes on a high note, showcasing both characters’ insecurities and hinting at deeper conflicts. While the ending provides a sense of closure, it also opens the door for further exploration of the characters’ tumultuous relationship and the intricate world of yakuza politics. The series has cemented itself as a must-watch for those seeking a romance that dares to be different, with dark humor, a unique visual style, and a narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
