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This show is trash. You know it, I know it, everyone knows it. It doesn’t even try to hide the fact that it is indeed trash. It doesn’t take risks on the narrative, owns up to every typical harem trait ever, and just by watching it my functioning brain cells is halved each minute. Having paid the price of a million brain cells, I can, nevertheless, say without hesitation – I enjoyed this show, and I did so unreservedly.

“Why?” You asked in confusion, “why would anyone enjoy trash?” Well, Bokuben has reached a level of honesty only the most courageous can attain. When other trashy shows hide its true colours behind a curtain of drama, this show truly embraces being a dumpster. In short, I love honest shows.

There’s no plot to be spoken of but MC-kun flirting with his harem, albeit unintentionally on a daily basis. The shy classmate, the outspoken childhood friend, the school goddess, the teasing senpai, the clumsy teacher… I wasn’t spouting vague character traits, those are real characters inside this show.

They put some effort into the music though, not gonna lie. Both OPs in the first and second season is sung by the female leads of the show. The ED is nothing special though, not bad, but it probably would never get a place in my weeb playlist on Spotify. The character models are fine, but the animation is no good – it’s literally manga on TV. Luckily, the manga panels flow quite nicely, which is a silver lining in the clouds.

But all these serious analyses isn’t why you are here, it’s the second season already! You already know what you are getting into – complete nonsense. And yet, to all you brave warriors out there, bravo, bravo indeed – you have discovered the true way to enjoy this show. Now, spread that wisdom to those around you, I envision one day where everyone can enjoy any show they watch, where suffering is no more in the Land of Anime.

For those who want to try to get in the show, just leave your mind blank at all times. That’s how I think this series is best appreciated. And if you do so, I can promise it will be the most relaxed 20 minutes you are going to have all week. Just one caveat though, you most likely won’t be proud of yourself.

As the Buddhist saying goes, “the source of all pain is attachment.” And this show has offered a first-hand experience on how true that is. Only by detaching ourselves from the chains of human decency and the pride as a tasteful weeb can we truly transcend and be freed of agony and pain – the pain from watching a dumpster in flames.

At the end of the day, what makes for a good anime is its ability to inspire. And for the enlightenment this show bestowed on me has overcompensated for its flaws, proving itself worthy of a solid 7 and an earnest recommendation with a pinch of salt.