At first, I didn’t think Uzamaid was something I’d watch, especially given its premise. However, after the show’s first episode, I’ve concluded that, in fact, I was mistaken: it’s not something anyone should watch.
You’ve Seen This Before
Really, Uzamaid shows nothing in episode one that hasn’t been done (better) elsewhere. Here’s the gist: a father needs a maid/babysitter to take care of their tomboyish daughter. An army veteran (who just happens to be a lolicon) gets the job. Hijinks ensue. Repeat for 13 episodes.
Now, there’s nothing wrong with a familiar premise as long as a show brings something new. The problem is that every plot point is progressively and painstakingly more obvious than the last. Misha, the girl in question, dislikes her new babysitter. By the end of the series, she’ll have a grudging respect for her. The father doesn’t get to spend much time with Misha – that will change. Oh, and Tsubame, the maid, loves prepubescent girls in a creepy way. Expect that to continue.
There’s Too Much Sketchy In This Ecchi
Over the course of one episode, Tsubame climbs a pole outside a child’s bedroom twice, talks to her about secondary sexual characteristics, discusses (at length) her attraction to very young girls, and makes several jokes based entirely on toilet humor. Aren’t we better than this? Isn’t our time worth a little more? I get it – sometimes you just want to turn off and chill with something mildly entertaining – here’s the thing: Uzamaid fails to be even that.
At the end of episode one, Misha says “This dumb maid is so annoying”. Agreed. Far from finding her funny or #SoRandom, she comes across as irritating to the extreme. While it’s important to note that this is only the first episode, and there have certainly been anime which turned an unlikeable character into someone relatable by the end, I just don’t see how this can be achieved with Tsubame. More tellingly, I don’t think we’re in for a profound redemption arc: it’s just not that kind of anime.
There Are Better Alternatives
If you want to watch a show with an adult doting on a young child, there are dozens of high-quality alternatives that won’t make you feel this uncomfortable. Seriously, there’s Bakuman, Usagi Drop, and even Clannad; all excellent shows, without the creepy undertones.
There are dozens of new anime every season, and while this means that occasionally, good shows are overlooked, this time, it’s a blessing. With any luck, Uzamaid will fade into obscurity and encourage Doga Kobo (the studio behind New Game!! and Plastic Memories) to return to a higher standard.
