Anime Like Bronze: Zetsuai Since 1989

Clutching his Gibson guitar, Mafuyu Satou departs his gloomy apartment to begin another school day. While dozing in the quiet gymnasium stairwell, he encounters classmate Ritsuka Uenoyama, who reprimands him for neglecting the instrument, allowing the strings to rust and snap. Recognizing Uenoyama's proficiency, Satou requests that he repair the guitar and provide lessons. Uenoyama eventually consents and invites Satou to a jam session with his other bandmates: bassist Haruki Nakayama and drummer Akihiko Kaji. Struck by Satou's mesmerizing voice, Uenoyama persuades him to become the group's lead vocalist. Though initially reluctant, Satou accepts the position following a moving discussion with an old acquaintance. Supported by his new friends, Satou must learn to master the guitar while uncovering the enigmatic reasons behind why he possesses the instrument.

In Chihayafuru, young Chihaya Ayase initially aspired to become a top model like her older sister, Chitose. However, her trajectory changed when she intervened to shield Arata Wataya from their childhood friend and school bully, Taichi Mashima. This pivotal moment introduced Chihaya to competitive karuta, a rapid card game rooted in the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu anthology that requires swift reflexes, memory, and stamina. Enthralled by the competition, she establishes the Shiranami Society alongside Arata and Taichi with the goal of claiming the prestigious Queen of Karuta title. After drifting apart during middle school, Chihaya reunites with both Arata and Taichi in high school, prompting the formation of the Mizusawa High School Karuta Club. Leveraging Taichi's strategic intellect and the vitality of new recruits, the club aims to triumph in the national championships held at the Omi Shrine.

Makoto "Smile" Tsukimoto and Yutaka "Peco" Hoshino have been close friends since childhood, despite their opposite natures. Peco, an overconfident dreamer who wants to become the world's best ping-pong player, often skips practice and irritates his teammates at Katase High School, while Smile, despite his natural talent, frequently holds back in matches. Their bond remains strong through their shared love for ping-pong. When a former Chinese national team player arrives in Japan, Peco convinces Smile to visit Tsujido High School. There, Peco faces Kong Wenge and suffers a quick, crushing defeat that shakes his confidence. Seeing Smile's hidden potential, the Katase High coach starts training him to stop holding back, but Smile remains reluctant unless the game stays fun. As both friends struggle with their reasons for playing, they meet powerful opponents at the inter-high tournament, each dealing with their own inner conflicts. Only the most skilled can survive, and as these young athletes let their unchecked ambitions drive them, the harsh reality of chasing glory becomes clear.

Former star runner Kakeru Kurahara from Sendai Josei High School is caught shoplifting at a convenience store and flees, accidentally bumping into Haiji Kiyose, another university student who notices Kakeru’s quick reflexes. Haiji convinces Kakeru to join him at Chikusei-sou, a rundown apartment building shared by nine other students. After losing his entire apartment deposit at a mahjong parlor, Kakeru has no choice but to accept Haiji’s offer. At the welcome party for Kakeru, Haiji reveals that the apartment is actually the dormitory of the Kansei University Track Club. Haiji dreams of competing in the Hakone Ekiden, one of Japan’s most prestigious university marathon relay races. However, besides Haiji and Kakeru, none of the other residents have any running experience, and they are uninterested in Haiji’s ambitious plan. With only a few months until the race, can Haiji convince his reluctant roommates to join him and make his dream a reality?

In "Junjo Romantica," high school student Misaki Takahashi accidentally witnesses his older brother being embraced by a stranger, who turns out to be Akihiko Usami—a famous novelist and a close friend of the brother. As their relationship develops, Akihiko becomes Misaki’s private tutor, and Misaki begins to wonder about Akihiko’s true intentions after discovering his latest boys-love novel. Meanwhile, Hiroki Kamijou, a university professor of classical literature and a friend of Akihiko, is dealing with the aftermath of a failed romance. On the verge of an emotional collapse, he meets Nowaki Kusama, a student asking for academic help to prepare for an upcoming exam. Hiroki initially refuses but later agrees, and a relationship starts to grow, revealing hidden truths about Nowaki. Separately, wealthy teenager Shinobu Takatsuki learns that his sister has divorced You Miyagi, a colleague of Hiroki. Recalling a past incident where You saved him from a robbery, Shinobu becomes determined to court the teacher, despite You’s attempts to keep his distance. It soon becomes clear that Shinobu is steadfast in pursuing what he believes is their fated love. "Junjo Romantica" intertwines these three love stories, exploring the challenges and developments for each couple.

In "given The Movie," the band "given"—comprised of Ritsuka Uenoyama, Mafuyu Satou, Haruki Nakayama, and Akihiko Kaji—advances to the final round of the Countdown-fes Amateur Contest, where their live performance could secure their victory. However, they worry about performing with only one original song. Driven to create more emotionally resonant music, Mafuyu receives unexpected help from Ugetsu Murata, Akihiko’s former partner. Ugetsu, still grappling with his feelings for Akihiko, finds himself torn between the past and an unsure future. As the competition nears, Haruki begins to doubt his place within the band and his relationship with Akihiko, an uncharacteristic sentiment for him. The film explores how relationships inevitably evolve and whether something valuable can be preserved amidst the pain of heartbreak, or if only remorse will linger.

In "Chihayafuru 2," Chihaya Ayase focuses on strengthening her high school's competitive karuta club with ambitious goals, such as winning the national team championship at Omi Jingu and becoming the Queen, Japan's top female karuta player, and beyond. As they enter their second year of high school, Chihaya and her teammates must recruit new members, enhance their physical and mental abilities, and overcome tough opponents to achieve their championship aspirations. Meanwhile, her childhood friend Arata Wataya, who first sparked her love for karuta, rekindles his own passion for the traditional card game.

The boys' soft tennis team is failing, constantly outperformed by the girls' club and close to being shut down due to weak results and few members. Captain Touma Shinjou keeps searching for new players but never succeeds. The situation shifts when transfer student Maki Katsuragi impressively catches a stray cat in the classroom, catching Touma's attention. Although Maki initially refuses to participate in any clubs, Touma finally persuades him to join, accepting Maki's conditions of being paid and having club expenses covered. Once he joins, Maki's natural skill and quick progress raise the team's level, frustrating his teammates. His presence pushes and drives them to improve and take the sport seriously. As the team members uncover their own hidden strengths, they also face personal problems and the harsh realities of adolescence in middle school.

Love, drama, and pure-hearted romance return as we revisit the troubled couples, drawing parallels between each of their relationships. Misaki Takahashi thought Haruhiko Usami was already a handful, until a new love interest appears, sending their relationship into another downward spiral as both hope to find a way to reconcile. For the other couples, episodes center on Hiroki's struggles with his pride, Shinobu's age gap with his lover, Nowaki's patience and devotion, Miyagi's past and present loves, and Usagi-san's family issues. All of this means each couple faces a multitude of obstacles in their pure-hearted, forbidden love lives.

In Hitorijime My Hero, Masahiro Setagawa is a vulnerable teenager who frequently gets taken advantage of by local bullies. Believing he has been forsaken, he assumes no one will ever step in to aid him. His life changes drastically when he crosses paths with Kousuke Ooshiba, a man known as the "Bear Killer" who takes down neighborhood gangs. A year later, as Masahiro and his former friend Kensuke Ooshiba enter high school, they discover that Kousuke has become their math teacher. As their connection grows stronger, Masahiro begins to regard Kousuke as his hero, while Kousuke develops a powerful urge to shield Masahiro. Their circumstances grow more tangled when Asaya Hasekura, Kensuke's childhood friend, returns with romantic feelings toward Kensuke, leaving Kensuke unprepared. Can these three young men make it through their high school years without issue, or will the turmoil of forbidden love pull them apart?

For five years in a row, actor Takato Saijou has been named "Sexiest Man of the Year," a title that matches his two decades of experience in the industry and his confident personality. But the streak ends when Junta Azumaya, a newcomer who started acting just three years ago, takes the award instead. Takato's initial shock quickly turns into jealousy and hostility. On the set of their upcoming drama, Junta not only lands the lead role but also keeps getting on Takato's nerves with his upbeat attitude and kind words. Takato's anger hits its limit when Junta finds him drunk and vulnerable. Worried about his reputation, Takato angrily confronts Junta, but Junta uses the chance to film the scene, capturing Takato arguing with a fellow cast member. Armed with that video, Junta now has the power to blackmail Takato. When Takato asks what Junta wants, he's surprised to find out Junta isn't after a career boost. Instead, Junta's demands can only be met in private—specifically, in the bedroom.

Winning the high school tournament was a major milestone for the Mizusawa team, showcasing how each member had developed. That victory sparked fresh goals: Chihaya Ayase now intends to vie for the Queen's title against Shinobu Wakamiya, and Taichi Mashima, having reached Class A, sets his sights on facing Arata Wataya directly. The Mizusawa players continue to be driven to improve, and if they keep working hard, their futures hold limitless potential.

In "Super Lovers," Haru Kaidou, the eldest son of his family, travels to Canada after learning his mother is seriously ill. When he arrives, Haru finds out that his mother tricked him, and he is now responsible for looking after his adopted brother, Ren Kaidou, a quiet boy who feels more comfortable around dogs than people. At first, Haru struggles to connect with Ren because of his distrust, but as time passes, their relationship grows closer. Haru makes a promise to Ren that they will live together in Japan after he finishes high school. Unfortunately, a major accident causes Haru to lose all memories of the summer they spent together, including this promise. Five years later, Ren shows up in Tokyo, expecting Haru to keep his word. To Haru, though, Ren is just a stranger who claims to be his brother.

In the world of Loveless, individuals are born with cat ears and tails that vanish only after their first sexual encounter, marking these features as symbols of innocence and purity. Combat is conducted exclusively by pairs called "fighting pairs," which consist of a Sacrifice who absorbs damage and a Fighter who delivers the attacks. Twelve-year-old Ritsuka Aoyagi, struggling with amnesia from unknown causes, is coping with the recent death of his brother. On his first day at a new school, he meets Agatsuma Soubi, a stranger who claims to have known Ritsuka's deceased sibling. Ritsuka learns that Agatsuma and his brother were once a fighting pair, and that Agatsuma has now taken Ritsuka under his guidance. Together, they investigate the circumstances surrounding his brother's death and the involvement of a group called the "Seven Moons." As they delve deeper into this mystery, Ritsuka and Agatsuma find themselves developing a closer bond than either of them expected.

In "Cross Game," Kou Kitamura and Aoba Tsukishima are constantly at odds, even though their families are close friends and business partners. Kou, the only child of a sports store owner, has no interest in baseball, despite developing his batting skills through regular visits to the batting center run by the Tsukishima family. Meanwhile, Aoba is passionate about baseball and shines as a pitcher. Although they seem like complete opposites, Kou and Aoba share a deep bond through their feelings for Wakaba Tsukishima, Aoba's older sister and Kou's destined love interest. Wakaba often sparks their ongoing rivalry. Whether they will eventually recognize their common ground is uncertain, but baseball might be the key to resolving their personal struggles.

In Junjo Romantica 3, Misaki Takahashi and Akihiko "Usagi" Usami have been cohabiting for three years, and their bond has progressed steadily. Yet even the strongest connections encounter difficulties, and they begin to face some of these. A fresh rival appears, causing Usagi to worry about Misaki's affections. Ryuuichirou Isaka continues to meddle in Misaki and Usagi's romance, though his own relationship has its own hardships. He and his secretary, Kaoru Asahina, have been companions for years, but Asahina's insistence on keeping her professional and personal life separate often creates friction. Nowaki Kusama and Hiroki Kamijou see their careers advancing, leaving them with less time for each other. The limited moments they share allow doubts and uncertainties to seep into their relationship. Meanwhile, despite the significant age gap between Shinobu Takatsuki and You Miyagi, their growing mutual understanding helps to ease previous hesitations. Returning from Junjou Romantica, Junjou Egoist, and Junjou Terrorist, the cherished couples are now joined by a new story: Junjou Mistake!

In the busy city of Tokyo, Yamato Akitsuki, a teenager from rural Hiroshima, starts his high school life by moving into a dormitory for girls only and helping his aunt and cousin run a nearby bathhouse. On his first day in the city, he is captivated by a girl practicing high jumps at a local school. To his surprise, this skilled athlete, Suzuka Asahina, is both a dormmate and a neighbor. An elite track and field athlete at the same high school, Suzuka is annoyed by Yamato’s clumsy and easygoing attitude, making their shared living difficult. Inspired by Suzuka, Yamato finds a hidden ability for sprinting and joins the track team to earn her respect. Through intense training, interactions with teammates, classmates, and the often drunk college residents of the dorm, Yamato pushes himself, determined to improve and gain Suzuka’s approval.

After an incident with his former volleyball team in Tokyo, gifted setter Kimichika Haijima relocates to Fukui. There, he reunites with his childhood friend Yuni Kuroba, a talented but overlooked player on the Monshiro Middle School Boys' Volleyball Team. Seeing Kuroba's untapped potential, Haijima hopes to build a new squad around him. But during a prefectural tournament, Kuroba crumbles under pressure, causing Monshiro to lose and driving a wedge between the two friends, leading Haijima to quit the team. At Seiin High School, Haijima and Kuroba end up on the same team again. Determined to make amends, Haijima helps Kuroba conquer his anxiety and become the team's star. With support from captain Shinichirou Oda and vice-captain Misao Aoki, Seiin aims to win the prefectural championship and earn a spot in the Spring Tournament as Fukui's representative. Their journey pits them against Fukuho Technical High School, the defending champions of Fukui. Can Haijima's team overcome the odds, or will the past repeat itself?

Joe Yabuki is a young man who habitually settles disputes with his fists. Though he lacks manners and self-control, he possesses remarkable combat instincts developed on his own. While wandering through the Doya slums, Joe gets into a fight with a local gang and defeats them despite being heavily outnumbered. His performance draws the interest of Danpei Tange, a former boxing coach who has fallen into alcoholism. Seeing Joe's natural ability, Danpei wants to transform him into Japan's premier boxer. Joe initially dismisses Danpei as just another drunk, but after Danpei saves his life, he agrees to move in with him and learn boxing. However, Joe's stubborn personality makes him a difficult student, and he often slips back into his old habits. To make it in the harsh world of professional boxing, Joe must learn to trust his mentor and master the skills he teaches. The road to becoming a pro is filled with challenges that will push Joe to his absolute limits.

Yuki Sakurai, an orphan raised without knowledge of his family, struggles with a sense of purpose and a peculiar ability to sense others' painful memories through touch. Anonymous letters urging him to end his own life deepen his inner turmoil. Unbeknownst to Yuki, his life is watched by both those who wish to harm him and those who seek to protect him. One misty evening, Yuki's life is unexpectedly saved by a striking man with silver eyes and raven-black hair—someone Yuki recognizes despite never having met. The appearance of this enigmatic figure stirs Yuki's dormant memories and reveals the true meaning of his existence. "Uragiri wa Boku no Namae wo Shitteiru" follows Yuki as a teenager uncovering his identity and origins, all while navigating friendships, encountering betrayal, and gradually unraveling the mysteries of his past.

In the bustling city of Tokyo, elite horse girls and promising young talents dominate the national racing circuit. Aspiring trainer Jou Kitahara begins his journey with ambitious dreams but modest expectations, never anticipating that his breakthrough would come from an unremarkable town like Kasamatsu—until he discovers a girl with ash-gray hair who possesses a raw yet powerful running form. Oguri Cap endured a difficult childhood plagued by weak knees, struggling just to stand upright. Driven by unwavering determination, she overcame her physical limitations and found freedom in running, an activity once thought impossible for her. Unlike her fellow horse girls in Kasamatsu who pursue victory and recognition, Oguri runs purely for the joy of movement, without any particular goal. Fujimasa March, a rising local star, earns admiration through her disciplined approach, exceptional skills, and relentless drive. Running is her passion and source of pride. Yet, during a school-organized race where she competes against Oguri's untamed speed, March's confidence begins to falter. Meanwhile, Oguri undergoes a transformation after facing off against March, as a spark of ambition ignites within her for the first time, inspiring her to strive for more than the limits of her hometown and to reach the grand stages ahead.

Since their first live performance together, Mafuyu Satou and Ritsuka Uenoyama's relationship has grown steadily. Their mutual passion for music deepens their connection, and every moment they share becomes more meaningful. However, they are bound to face difficulties ahead, as both struggle with their own inner conflicts.

During middle school, Haruka Nanase and Makoto Tachibana navigate the challenges of growing up. While Makoto smoothly adapts to his new classmates and holds onto his love for swimming, Haruka finds it difficult to make friends and join the school's swim team because of past troubles with the sport. He keeps his distance from both his energetic classmates and the swimming club, uncertain about what to do next. Those around him, including Makoto, also hesitate over which clubs to choose. Following a disagreement, the boys decide to join the swimming club. There, they concentrate on enhancing their abilities, coordinating their strokes, and working through their conflicted emotions regarding swimming and one another. Fueled by resolve and innate talent, Haruka, Makoto, and their classmates discover who they are and sharpen their skills during these pivotal early years.

After relocating from Canada to live with Haru, Rei had started settling into life as the youngest among four brothers. Meanwhile, Haru’s new café was just beginning to succeed—until their mother Haruko suddenly appeared and announced she would take Rei to Switzerland! This surprising statement, coming right when Haru and Rei were becoming more connected, caused growing tension between them. Could more difficulties be ahead?