English Dub Review: Aharen-san wa Hakarenai “Seriously, Isn’t This Too Close?”

Overview (Spoilers Below):
It’s time for Aharen and Raido to graduate from high school and see just what the future holds.

Our Take:
It’s bittersweet that we get to see Aharen, Raido, and their friends one last time as they have finally reached graduation.  Considering how much they went through, ranging from Aharen and Raido’s first encounter to the school’s cultural festival, it’s also touching that they got the happy endings they deserve five years later.  Considering how many years have passed since graduation, it’s surprising that the characters still look the same as they did when they were younger, especially Aharen when she became a grandmother.  But, of course, it’s not without a minor setback that interfered with Aharen and Raido’s future together.  That setback, in particular, is that the two lovebirds decided to separate after graduation so they could focus on their own paths.
This would’ve caused some challenges in their separation that would interfere with their future together.  But, given the show’s low stakes and cheerfully positive vibes, it turned out that there’s nothing for us to fear.  Their separation only lasted for about five years until they finally reunited, promising they would get married after they met again.  However, they’re not the only ones tying the knot, as Ishikawa and Sato are also getting married after making a wedding video for Aharen and Raido.  Considering that these two decided to stay friends in the season’s tenth episode, this seemed out of left field from a narrative perspective, but it was also nice to see Ishikawa and Sato finally having a future together.
Undoubtedly, the season finale is just as heartwarming as the other episodes, as we say goodbye to the show’s endearing characters as they go on to bigger things.  Of course, that includes Raido and Aharen tying the knot, putting them closer than ever before.  Well, at least until Raido volunteered for an assignment on Mars.  Rather than drag viewers into another series of comical misadventures, the finale mainly injected warmth and sincerity into Aharen and Raido’s relationship, especially the moment involving Raido’s confession.  The result is as delightful and soft as a big teddy bear full of cuteness and comfort, bringing one of the most surprisingly enjoyable rom-coms to a satisfying yet bittersweet close.  Yeah, I can tell that I will undoubtedly miss this show….unless they decide to make a sequel series. But regarding how it ended, I highly doubt that’ll happen.