Abarenbou♥Darling Review – When a Homophobe is Actually Homosexual

abalumbuHoney sometimes called Abalembo Kareshior rough Boy friend.

introduce

Comics have always been a medium for pushing boundaries and experimenting with different themes. such a cartoon, abalumbu♥Honey,Depend on Junko, touches on the world of Boys Love (BL) and challenges some of the stereotypes associated with the genre. While the art style may be dated, the story makes for an overall enjoyable exploration of homophobia and the complexities of human sexuality.

abalumbu dear thumb
Naoto (left) and Hajime (right).

Art Styles and Stereotypes

First published in 2012, artistic style abalumbu♥Honey reflects the typical yaoi style that was popular at the time and is currently being subverted by works such as fast line. The characters in the illustrations have a softer, more androgynous personality, a characteristic of the genre. However, this art style sometimes reinforces the idea that homosexuality is associated with femininity, while ignoring the fact that individuals of various appearances can identify as gay or bisexual.

dear straight
dear straight

Some might even say that the art style is…. bad. Now, I Wouldn’t say it that way, but…just saying it. Some might say so.

abarenbou dear poor child
abarenbou dear poor child

overall enjoyable story

Despite the limited art style, the story abalumbu♥Honey Overall still attractive. One of the manga’s central themes is the exploration of both outward and inner homophobia. protagonist Naoto, initially held homophobic beliefs, Expressed the desire to eradicate homosexuality. Pretty extreme. This story explores how these prejudices are confronted and ultimately broken when the “right person” comes along.

The general outline of the story is that, one day, Hajime was waiting for Naoto to show up at their normal class place. However, Naoto called out of the blue to tell him that he had already started and Hajime could continue without him. Hajime was upset by the sudden cancellation and turned off his phone so Naoto couldn’t call back to apologize.

abarenbou dear hajime turn off the phone
abarenbou dear hajime turn off the phone

He was walking home and saw his sister’s daughter fall down the stairs, and he rushed to pick her up, but injured himself in the process. Naoto goes to visit Hajime and is surprised to find him injured, and in a half-asleep state, Hajime confesses.

Then, Naoto begins to see Hajime in a romantic light rather than a strict friendship. Despite “hating gays”, whenever Hajime gets close to him, he blushes.

abarenbou dear straight blushes
Naoto talks to Hajime shortly after hearing his confession

The main character, Ah, has romantic feelings for a straight person and faces the challenge of changing the straight person’s view of homosexuality. While the manga’s execution may give the impression that Hajime “turned” straight gay, it’s important to note that sexual orientation is not a choice or something that can be imposed on someone. It would be more rewarding to show a straight person’s self-discovery and acceptance of his own sexuality and suggest that he might be gay previously For Hajime’s confession.

exploring complexity

abalumbu♥Honey Attempts to explore the complexities of human sexuality, emphasizing that homophobia can also exist in the LGBTQ+ community. Through character development, the comics emphasize the importance of understanding, empathy, and acceptance. Note that Hajime is not offended by Naoto’s gay beliefs— It could just be that he’s romantic in his opinion, though.

abarenbou dear straight people and hajime
Hajime (left) and Naoto (right)

in conclusion

Although the art style abalumbu♥Honey While the comic may seem dated, and its depiction of straight people’s sexuality could have been handled more effectively, the comic almost succeeds in tackling important themes like homophobia. It serves as a reminder that stereotypes and prejudices should be challenged.

However, if you’re looking for a deep or psychological story, you won’t find it in this one.

What do you think? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments below!

Check out our coverage of the other series here! :
Junji Ito’s “Mountain of Weeping Ladies” review
My Lesbian Experience of Loneliness Review
Serial Killer Reincarnation Another World Chapter 1 Review

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