“Actual realistic romance anime? Finally”: I Have a Crush at Work Is the Wake up Call Fans Need That Rom-Coms Need to Change

While there are numerous romantic comedy anime that have been released as of yet, for years, the genre has relied heavily on tropes and idealized depictions of romance that often feel disconnected from real-life relationships, especially for adult-centric rom-coms. However, the newly released anime, I Have a Crush at Work brought a refreshing take on the genre that trades the fantastical for the relatable. 

The cover of volume 1 of I Have a Crush at Work | Credit: Kodansha

In most adult-oriented rom-coms, characters frequently act like teenagers navigating their first crush rather than mature adults dealing with real-world complexities. But this new series; based on Akamaru Enomoto, has grounded its story in the realities of workplace relationships; awkward elevator encounters, office gossip, and the constant fear of being caught.

I Have a Crush at Work: When romance meets real-life

Unlike the dreamy, idealized settings of many rom-coms, I Have a Crush at Work takes place in a realistic office environment. From shared lunch breaks to the unspoken rules of workplace hierarchy, the series perfectly captures the dynamics of corporate working life. The leads, Mitsuya and Tateishi, aren’t destined lovers locked in a fantastical world, but they’re ordinary adults juggling deadlines, meetings, and the complexities of a budding relationship.

A still from I Have a Crush at Work | Credit: Studio BLADE

This relatable setting makes their romance all the more engaging. Whether it’s the subtle tension of a stolen glance during a meeting or the anxiety of keeping their relationship secret — the series resonates with anyone who has ever experienced a workplace crush.

Viewers have been immediately captivated by the first episode of I Have a Crush at Work. The relationship between Mitsuya and Tateishi is revealed right away, and it perfectly balances humorous banter with more serious moments. The understated tension of their secret romance makes their interactions more natural.

ON THE FIRST EPISODE?????? pic.twitter.com/tdJyqyK22Y

Actual realistic romance anime? Finally

i fucking love office romcoms, amazing first episode, we wil be watching weekly pic.twitter.com/VvouLlJWjY

Peak office romcom! pic.twitter.com/0flo5XgHfZ

So an actual realistic one lol? Most adult anime rom coms be treating the main characters like they mentally 12 lmao

Meanwhile, this episode also touches on more serious themes, such as the potential fallout of their romance becoming public knowledge; adding complex layers to the narrative.

Why I Have a Crush at Work is the change the genre needs

With Episode 2 of I Have a Crush at Work set to release on January 13, fans are eager to see what’s next for Mitsuya and Tateishi. We can anticipate more sincere exchanges and witty storytelling as the couple attempts to strike a balance between their personal and professional lives.

Mitsuya and Tateishi, the main leads of I Have a Crush at Work | Credit: Studio BLADE

The romantic comedy genre often leans heavily on overused tropes: misunderstandings, over-the-top declarations of love, and characters with teenage mindsets no matter how old they are. While these elements sometimes can be entertaining, they risk alienating audiences looking for something more grounded. I Have a Crush at Work breaks free from these conventions, offering a romance that feels real and relatable without sacrificing its charm.

By focusing on mature characters, realistic settings, and authentic relationships, the series sets a new standard for what rom-coms can be. For fans tired of juvenile and clumsy portrayals of love, this anime is a reminder that romance doesn’t have to rely on fantasy to be compelling.

I Have a Crush at Work will soon be available to stream on Crunchyroll.