In a recent announcement on the official website for the television anime adaptation of Megumi Morino's beloved manga series Hananoi-kun to Koi no Yamai (A Condition Called Love), exciting details have emerged, sparking anticipation among fans worldwide. This eagerly awaited announcement revolves around the selection of the anime's ending theme song, further enhancing the immersive experience awaiting viewers.
Mina Okabe's "Every Second" Chosen as Ending Theme
The official website for the anime revealed that Mina Okabe's enchanting single "Every Second" (Japanese version) has been selected as the ending theme song for Hananoi-kun to Koi no Yamai. This choice carries immense significance, as the ending theme song serves as a crucial element in establishing the atmosphere and emotional resonance of the series.
Background on Mina Okabe and "Every Second"
Mina Okabe, a talented Danish-Japanese artist, initially released the original version of "Every Second" as part of her debut album in 2021. Following its initial release, the Japanese version of the song was unveiled in September of the same year, captivating listeners with its poignant lyrics and captivating melody. The decision to feature this song as the ending theme underscores its thematic alignment with the narrative of Hananoi-kun to Koi no Yamai, promising a seamless integration of music and storytelling.
Premiere Details and Cast
Accompanying this announcement are crucial details regarding the premiere of the anime series. Scheduled to debut in April on TBS' 28 affiliate channels at 11:56 p.m. JST (10:56 a.m. EDT), the premiere promises to be a momentous occasion for fans eagerly awaiting the adaptation of Morino's beloved manga.
Stellar Cast Ensemble
The anime boasts a stellar cast ensemble, including renowned voice actors such as:
- Kana Hanazawa as Hotaru Hinase
- Chiaki Kobayashi as Saki Hananoi
- Yurika Kubo as Hibiki "Kyō-chan" Asami
- Maaya Sakamoto as Tsukiha "Shibamū" Shibamura
- Ryohei Kimura as Sōhei Yao
- Ryota Ohsaka as Keigo Kurata
Creative Team Behind the Anime
Director and Writers
Tomoe Makino, known for their work on Aharen-san wa Hakarenai and Kotaro Lives Alone, assumes the directorial role for Hananoi-kun to Koi no Yamai, bringing their creative vision to life at East Fish Studio. Hitomi Amamiya, acclaimed for their contributions to Merc Storia: The Apathetic Boy and the Girl in a Bottle, lends their expertise as supervisor and series scriptwriter.
Character Design and Music
Akiko Satō, recognized for their work on Trigun Stampede, undertakes character design responsibilities, ensuring that each character is visually compelling and distinct. Additionally, the music department, led by yamazo, guarantees an immersive auditory experience that complements the narrative seamlessly.
Manga Background and Reception
Synopsis and Publication History
Originally serialized in Kodansha's Monthly Dessert magazine starting December 2017, Hananoi-kun to Koi no Yamai follows the story of Hotaru, a high school first-year, and her unexpected encounter with Hananoi-kun, setting off a chain of events that challenge her perceptions of love and friendship. The manga has garnered widespread acclaim, with Kodansha USA Publishing releasing digital and physical English editions to cater to its growing international fanbase.
Critical Acclaim and Awards
With over 3.8 million copies in circulation, Hananoi-kun to Koi no Yamai has established itself as a standout in the shōjo manga genre, earning prestigious accolades such as the Best Shōjo Manga award in Kodansha's 45th Manga Awards in 2021. Its compelling narrative and relatable characters have resonated with readers worldwide, solidifying its status as a must-read series.
As anticipation continues to build for the premiere of Hananoi-kun to Koi no Yamai, the selection of Mina Okabe's "Every Second" as the anime's ending theme song reaffirms the commitment to delivering a captivating and emotionally resonant viewing experience. With a stellar cast, talented creative team, and a compelling source material, the anime adaptation is poised to captivate audiences and carve its place in the annals of beloved manga adaptations.
