Deadjournal

This is probably the most unusual josei anime I’ve ever seen, no romance, no relationships, but instead, a vocational school, delinquents, and street brawls. That originality really worked for me. It’s not every day you get to see a different side of Japanese society in anime, especially the lives of troublemaker students, street thugs, and even the yakuza, all wrapped up in a josei package.

What I didn't like:

• Cheap animation and simple art style. While the character designs are decent, the overall quality feels very basic.


• Ambiguous ending and short length. These two issues are likely interconnected. It feels like the anime was initially planned for at least two seasons but ended up with just one, leaving the story unfinished. I’ll probably check out the manga soon to get the full picture.


• Unrealistic moments and the over-the-top "coolness" of the protagonist. One of the most ridiculous scenes involves a group of burly, seasoned gangsters backing down after a single angry glare from the protagonist, a fragile-looking young woman with glasses.

Despite these flaws, the show stands out for its unique setting and themes, offering a fresh take on school life by focusing on underperforming hooligans and their world. It’s also entertaining to watch the main character balance her roles as a teacher and heir to a yakuza clan.

Apart from the protagonist, most characters feel somewhat bland and blend into the background. Only three stand

The protagonist: Her dual life and charisma are the backbone of the series.
Kuma (the big guy): He adds some comic relief and heart to the story.
Shin-chan: A classic bishounen with all the usual josei tropes—good looks, respect from the neighborhood gang, “mysterious” vibes, and rich parents.

Honestly, he feels out of place in such a gritty setting, but his inclusion seems obligatory for the genre. Without him, it might not have been “canonical” josei.

All in all, Gokusen is a worthy spiritual successor to Great Teacher Onizuka. While it has its flaws, the unique setting and themes make it a fascinating watch. Fans of school drama with a twist of yakuza flair will find it enjoyable, though the ending may leave them wanting more.

Rating: 7/10.