We Never Learn: BOKUBEN Season 1 – A Fresh Take on the Harem Rom-Com That Redefines the Genre

We Never Learn: BOKUBEN (Bokutachi wa Benkyou ga Dekinai), the 2019 anime adaptation of Taishi Tsutsui’s manga, bursts onto the scene as a vibrant, character-driven harem rom-com that subverts expectations while embracing the genre’s tropes with a knowing wink. Season 1, spanning 13 episodes and produced by Studio Silver and Arvo Animation, is a masterclass in balancing humor, heart, and understated depth, making it a standout in a crowded field. This article dives deep into what makes We Never Learn Season 1 a unique and compelling watch, exploring its narrative structure, character dynamics, thematic resonance, and artistic execution, while offering a critical lens that avoids the pitfalls of promotional fluff.

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The Premise: A Study in Ambition and Connection

At its core, We Never Learn follows Nariyuki Yuiga, a diligent but financially strapped high school senior at Ichinose Academy, who dreams of securing a VIP scholarship to support his family. The catch? He must tutor three genius classmates—Rizu Ogata, Fumino Furuhashi, and Uruka Takemoto—in subjects where they’re hopelessly inept, despite their brilliance in other areas. Rizu, a math and science prodigy, wants to pursue literature; Fumino, a literary savant, aims for astronomy; and Uruka, an athletic star, struggles with academics altogether. As Nariyuki navigates this academic gauntlet, romantic tensions and comedic mishaps blossom, setting the stage for a harem dynamic that’s less about fan service and more about personal growth.

What sets We Never Learn apart from its peers, like The Quintessential Quintuplets (which aired concurrently and invited inevitable comparisons), is its refusal to lean solely on harem clichés. While the setup screams “generic rom-com,” the execution elevates it through sharp writing, nuanced character arcs, and a surprising emphasis on individual agency. The show doesn’t just ask “Who will Nariyuki choose?” but rather “How do these characters define themselves beyond their feelings for him?”

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Characters: The Heart of the Study Group

The strength of We Never Learn lies in its ensemble, each member crafted with distinct personalities and motivations that transcend typical harem archetypes. Nariyuki is no bland everyman; his work ethic, rooted in his late father’s mantra to “be useful,” makes him a relatable and grounded protagonist. Unlike many harem leads who stumble into affection through sheer luck, Nariyuki earns the girls’ respect through his dedication and empathy, creating a believable foundation for their budding feelings.

• Rizu Ogata: The socially awkward math genius with a passion for literature is a walking paradox. Her struggle to grasp human emotions mirrors her academic challenges, making her arc both humorous and poignant. Rizu’s moments of vulnerability—like her earnest attempts to understand poetry—add depth to her “kuudere” persona.
• Fumino Furuhashi: The literary prodigy with a knack for astronomy is the emotional core of the group. Her backstory, tied to her late mother and strained relationship with her father, grounds the show’s lighter moments in genuine pathos. Fumino’s empathetic nature and subtle insecurities make her a standout, though the show wisely avoids making her the “default” love interest.
• Uruka Takemoto: The energetic swimmer with academic woes brings a refreshing dynamic. Her long-standing friendship with Nariyuki adds a layer of familiarity that contrasts with the other girls’ newer connections. Uruka’s arc, particularly her determination to improve academically, is a testament to the show’s theme of perseverance.

The addition of secondary characters like Mafuyu Kirisu, the strict yet secretly disorganized teacher, and Asumi Kominami, the teasing former student, rounds out the cast. While some critiques note Mafuyu’s static characterization and Asumi’s less refined design, their roles add variety without overshadowing the main trio. The ensemble’s chemistry is electric, with each character getting enough screen time to feel essential—a feat for a show juggling six leads.

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Thematic Depth: Beyond the Harem Tropes

While We Never Learn revels in harem staples—misunderstandings, blush-inducing moments, and the occasional wardrobe malfunction—it’s the underlying themes that give it staying power. The show explores the tension between natural talent and personal passion, a universal struggle that resonates beyond the classroom. Each girl’s pursuit of a field where they’re not naturally gifted challenges the notion that we should stick to what we’re “good at.” Nariyuki’s role as a tutor becomes a metaphor for supporting others’ dreams, even when they seem improbable.

The series also tackles class dynamics subtly but effectively. Nariyuki’s poverty and his drive to uplift his family contrast with the relative privilege of his tutees, adding a layer of social commentary rare in the genre. His envy of Rizu and Fumino’s natural talents evolves into respect as he witnesses their struggles, creating a narrative of mutual growth rather than one-sided heroism.

Moreover, We Never Learn sidesteps the genre’s tendency to objectify its female cast. While it flirts with fan service—low-angle shots and bust-related gags appear sparingly—it prioritizes character development over gratuitous titillation. The first episode, for instance, establishes platonic bonds between Nariyuki and the girls, setting a tone that respects their agency. This restraint, combined with the show’s humor and heart, makes it one of the “most inoffensive harem series” in recent memory, as noted by fans.

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Art and Animation: Vibrant and Expressive

Studio Silver and Arvo Animation deliver a visual experience that’s clean, colorful, and brimming with personality. Taishi Tsutsui’s manga designs translate beautifully, with expressive character faces that amplify both comedic and emotional beats. The animation avoids clutter, even in chaotic group scenes, and the use of vibrant colors enhances the show’s upbeat tone. Moments like Rizu’s wide-eyed confusion or Fumino’s wistful gazes are rendered with care, making the characters’ emotions palpable.

The soundtrack, featuring the opening “Seishun Seminar” by Study and ending “Never Give It Up!!” by Halca, captures the show’s youthful energy. The music complements the narrative without overpowering it, with subtle piano cues underscoring quieter moments. While not groundbreaking, the production values are consistently solid, ensuring the story shines through.

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Critiques and Comparisons: Standing Out in a Crowded Genre

We Never Learn faced scrutiny for its similarities to The Quintessential Quintuplets, which premiered just before it in 2019. Both feature a male tutor guiding academically challenged girls who develop feelings for him. However, We Never Learn distinguishes itself through its focus on individual aspirations over romantic rivalry. Where Quintuplets leans into the mystery of “who wins,” We Never Learn prioritizes character growth, making the romantic tension a byproduct rather than the sole focus.

That said, the show isn’t flawless. Some critics argue that characters like Mafuyu and Asumi lack the development of the main trio, with Mafuyu’s strict demeanor feeling one-note and Asumi’s design less polished. The pacing can also feel episodic, with comedic scenarios occasionally overshadowing the broader narrative. Yet, these are minor quibbles in a season that lays a strong foundation for its characters and themes.

Compared to other harem rom-coms like Nisekoi or Tenchi Muyo, We Never Learn feels less formulaic. It avoids the “dull loser” protagonist trope and gives its female cast agency, making it a refreshing entry in a genre often criticized for stagnation.

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Why It Works: A Study in Balance

Season 1 of We Never Learn succeeds because it knows what it is—a harem rom-com with heart—and executes it with precision. It balances humor and sincerity, ensuring that comedic antics (like Nariyuki’s accidental entanglements) don’t overshadow the characters’ emotional journeys. The show’s refusal to commit to a single romantic outcome keeps viewers guessing, but it’s the characters’ personal growth that truly hooks you. By the finale, the question isn’t just “Who will Nariyuki choose?” but “Will these girls achieve their dreams?” This dual focus elevates the series beyond its genre constraints.

The show also benefits from its accessibility. Available on platforms like Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Funimation, it’s easy to dive into, with English subtitles enhancing the experience for global audiences. Its 23-minute episodes, rated TV-14, are a breeze to binge, offering a mix of laughs, light romance, and relatable struggles.

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Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Rom-Com Fans and Beyond

We Never Learn: BOKUBEN Season 1 is a triumph of character-driven storytelling, blending harem rom-com tropes with meaningful themes about ambition, perseverance, and connection. Its vibrant cast, sharp writing, and restrained approach to fan service make it a standout in a genre often mired in predictability. While it shares DNA with contemporaries like The Quintessential Quintuplets, it carves its own path by prioritizing personal growth over romantic resolution.

For fans of rom-coms, this is a no-brainer—a delightful, wholesome watch that delivers laughs and heart in equal measure. For newcomers, it’s an approachable entry point into anime, offering relatable characters and universal themes. By the end of Season 1, you’ll be rooting not just for Nariyuki’s scholarship or the girls’ affections, but for their dreams to come true. With Season 2 picking up where this leaves off, We Never Learn proves that sometimes, the best lessons are the ones you didn’t expect to learn.