October 2023 marks a significant moment for yuri anime, as three new shows, including “I’m in Love With the Villainess”, “Stardust Telepath”, and “The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess”, hit the screens simultaneously. The yuri genre, which focuses on love between two women, has long been underrepresented in anime, but “I’m in Love With the Villainess” is setting a new standard for the genre.
The show follows Rae Taylor, a girl who was reborn in her favorite otome game, and her infatuation with the game’s rival, Claire Francois. Rae’s love for Claire is not limited to mere romantic interest; she is genuinely interested in exploring the complexities of sexuality and feelings of love. This show breaks barriers by having a character actually come out as gay, and it’s not just a casual acknowledgment but a real lived experience.
The show’s isekai formula adds a twist to the typical format, as Rae is transported to a fantasy world, but she rejects the typical harem format and sticks to her guns, focusing on making sure Claire is happy. The show’s cute banter, intrigue, and slow-burn romance will have the audience laughing and crying in equal measure. The supporting cast is filled with characters who bring their own intrigue, and the show’s attention to queerness and lesbian romance is a refreshing change in the anime medium.
A Still From I’m in Love With the Villainess (Photo: I’m in Love With the Villainess)
“I’m in Love With the Villainess” is not just a fun little show; it’s taking steps to change anime. It’s creating a precedent that these fun little gay shows don’t need to be afraid to have deeper things to say. The show is genuinely interested in engaging with queerness, not just a means for a love story. Rae’s character is gay, and she’s been discriminated against for it in the past. When someone tries to say gender is irrelevant to love, Rae makes a point to say that isn’t the case for her.
The show’s impact is not limited to the queer community; it’s a game-changer for the yuri genre as a whole. “I’m in Love With the Villainess” is not just a romantic comedy; it’s a show that wants to change the way anime addresses queerness and lesbian romance. The show is available to stream on Crunchyroll in the U.S., and it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the yuri genre.
