Shirohiyo [Season 1 Episode 1]

Shirohiyo – Season 1 Episode 1: A Promising Start with a Few Hiccups

Introduction
The premiere episode of Shirohiyo: Reincarnated as a Neglected Noble has finally dropped, and it’s already sparking a mix of excitement and frustration among fans. The show follows Ageha Kikunoi, a spoiled 5-year-old who suddenly regains memories from his past life and decides to use that wisdom to raise his younger brother, Regulus. It’s a unique blend of reincarnation, family drama, and personal growth—something that’s been gaining traction in the anime world lately.

But while the premise is intriguing, the release strategy has left many scratching their heads. Let’s dive into what worked, what didn’t, and why fans are divided.

The Premise: A Fresh Take on Reincarnation

The first episode wastes no time setting up the story. Ageha, our protagonist, is introduced as a bratty noble kid who suddenly remembers his past life—one where he was an adult with skills in cooking, sewing, and singing. Instead of using these memories for personal gain, he decides to step up as a big brother to Regulus, who’s been neglected by their aristocratic family.

This twist on the reincarnation trope is refreshing. Instead of the usual power fantasy, Shirohiyo focuses on familial bonds and responsibility. The dynamic between Ageha and Regulus is heartwarming, and the show hints at deeper political intrigue within their noble household.

The Controversy: Dub vs. Sub

Now, here’s where things get messy. The episode premiered with an English dub, but the Japanese audio wasn’t available—at least not officially. And boy, did fans have opinions about that.

The Dub Debate

Some viewers found the English dub serviceable, but others… well, let’s just say they weren’t impressed. Comments like:
– “Even an AI could put more emotion into the lines.”
– “The VAs sound like they took tranquilizers before recording.”

Ouch.

The lack of Japanese audio at launch baffled many, especially since platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix usually offer both options. One fan pointed out:
“Max and Hulu/Disney have got to be the worst platforms to officially license anime. They just have no clue what audiences expect.”

The Sub Hunt

Frustrated fans took matters into their own hands, sharing links to fan-subbed versions with the original Japanese audio. One user even provided detailed instructions on how to sync unofficial subtitles with the Japanese track, saying:
“If you’re like me and can’t stand the dub, here’s a workaround.”

This led to a flood of requests in forums, with people begging for the Japanese version. Some even joked:
“Why would they include Bulgarian audio but not Japanese?!”

First Impressions: What Worked

Despite the audio drama, the episode itself has a lot going for it.

1. The Emotional Core

Ageha’s transformation from a spoiled brat to a caring brother is handled well. His past-life memories add depth to his character, making his actions feel genuine rather than forced.

2. The Animation & Music

The art style is clean and expressive, with a color palette that suits the aristocratic setting. The music, especially the opening theme, has already become a fan favorite. One viewer noted:
“The music is fire. Even if the dub is rough, the soundtrack carries it.”

3. The Potential for Growth

The show hints at darker themes—corruption in the nobility, neglect, and the struggles of parenting (even if it’s a 5-year-old doing the parenting). If the writers lean into these elements, Shirohiyo could evolve into something truly special.

Room for Improvement

Of course, no premiere is perfect.

1. Pacing Issues

Some fans felt the episode rushed through Ageha’s backstory. A slower build-up might have made his emotional moments hit harder.

2. The Dub’s Reception

While some didn’t mind the English voices, the general consensus is that the Japanese audio is superior. As one fan put it:
“The Japanese version sounds far more natural. It’s a shame we have to jump through hoops to watch it.”

Final Verdict: Worth the Watch?

If you can get past the dub controversy, Shirohiyo’s first episode is a solid start. The premise is fresh, the characters are endearing, and the potential for deeper storytelling is there.

But if you’re a sub purist, you might have to wait (or sail the high seas) for the Japanese version. Here’s hoping the producers take note and fix the audio issue soon—because this show deserves a fair shot.

Rating: 7.5/10 (with room to grow)

What did you think of the episode? Drop your thoughts below—let’s keep the discussion going!