Shoujo Kakumei Utena

Years ago, a heart-wrenching tragedy struck a young princess when she lost both her parents. In the depths of her despair, it seemed as though nothing could mend her shattered soul. However, a ray of hope emerged when a benevolent prince crossed her path. Driven by the desire to bring a smile back to her face, the prince consoled the grieving princess, wiping away her sorrowful tears. He bestowed upon her a ring adorned with a delicate rose emblem, delivering a promise that their fates would intertwine once more. This encounter left a strong mark on the girl, the "Shoujo Kakumei" Utena Tenjou, and ignited within her a resolve to become a prince in her own right.

As years passed, Utena found herself enrolled at Ootori Academy, an institution bearing the same emblem as her cherished ring. There, an aroma of roses led her to a peculiar scene: amongst the blossoms stood Anthy Himemiya, diligently tending to the flowers, her presence attracting the attention of the Student Council President, Touga Kiryuu, and the Vice President, Kyouichi Saionji, engaged in a tense exchange over Anthy's fate. At this point, Utena merely observed the situation, unaware of the momentous events she was about to be drawn into.

Then, in the wake of a bewildering incident, our "Shoujo Kakumei" Utena is thrust into the realm of the Duelists - individuals who possess rings akin to her own. These Duelists engage in fierce battles for the possession of the enigmatic Rose Bride, Anthy Himemiya, who is rumored to wield unprecedented power. Driven by her determination to prove herself as a true prince and incensed by the mistreatment and objectification of Anthy, Utena embarks on a mission to confront the Duelists and rescue Anthy from a cruel destiny.

Release: 1997

MyAnimeList Score: 8.2/10