Insomniacs After School (anime series)
Series Review by Dennis D. McDonald
I'm a bit surprised that I watched this whole series and enjoyed it. Many high school focused anime are formulaic and a bit unrealistic if not outright outlandish. This one's focus seems a bit far-fetched initially: 2 high school students, both suffering from insomnia, find common interests and develop a friendship that slowly evolves into an understated but heartfelt romance. What sets it apart are sensitively described personalities, a dual focus on astronomy and photography, and downright gorgeous artwork.
As usual, I watch this anime in Japanese with English subtitles, but the few times I slipped into the Englis-dubbed version I was impressed.
One common criticism is that the series is "slow," especially at the beginning.
That's true. The characters, their relationship, how photography and astronomy relate to the story, how their friends and teachers interact with them, and how their significant back stories are eventually revealed, all take their time in appearing.
I'm OK with that. It's a pleasure to see a sensitively presented story of relationships that doesn't rely on extraneous action or fantastic coincidences. Plus, the two main characters have hangups that are sensitively presented and not always in a positive light. But I could not help but be drawn to the sensitive and visually gorgeous portrayal of these two. Perhaps you will be, too.
Review copyright © 2025 by Dennis D. McDonald
