Yubisaki to Renren aka A Sign of Affection 7/10

 The anime "Yubisaki to Renren" aka "A Sign of Affection" is well done and sligtly more mature slife of life romance story about hearing-impaired university student Yuki Itose and her love interest Itsuomi Nagi, a multilingual travel enthusiast who takes an interest in Yuki and wants to explore her world.

"A Sign of Affection," is a heartwarming and poignant anime that delicately explores themes of communication, connection, and love. Adapted from the manga of the same name, it follows the story of Yuki, a college student who is deaf, and Itsuomi, a gentle and understanding classmate who is drawn to her and learn sign language for her - hence the name of the title.

 

One of the most striking aspects of the anime is its portrayal of Yuki's experiences as a deaf person. The show takes care to depict the challenges she faces in a world designed primarily for hearing individuals, from navigating social interactions to accessing information, crossing the streets at night, etc. Through Yuki's perspective, viewers gain insight into the importance of communication and understanding in relationships.

The relationship between Yuki and Itsuomi forms the heart of the series. Their interactions are beautifully crafted, filled with genuine emotion and sincerity. Itsuomi's patience and willingness to learn sign language to communicate with Yuki are portrayed with authenticity and sensitivity, making their connection all the more meaningful. I have to say though, the love-triangle involving Yuki's childhood friend is forced and unnecessary, Yuki and Itsuomi are a perfect couple as is.

Moreover, "Yubisaki to Renren" explores the broader theme of acceptance and inclusion. It highlights the significance of empathy and understanding in bridging the gap between people with different experiences and backgrounds. The side characters are also important in understanding how Yuki is surviving college and finding a job. Even the most simple things wouldn't have been possible without the help from friends and family. But we also see how quickly Yuki becomes independent.

Visually, the anime features soft, pastel-colored animation that complements the gentle tone of the story. The character designs are expressive, conveying a range of emotions that enhance the narrative, although the rest is not technically outstanding, it's good enough for a romance anime.

Overall, "Yubisaki to Renren" is a touching anime that celebrates the power of human connection and the beauty of love in all its forms. With its heartfelt storytelling and well-developed characters, it leaves a lasting impression on viewers, reminding us of the importance of empathy and communication in building meaningful relationships.