Lovely Complex (2007) is a heartfelt romantic comedy that beautifully blends humor, vulnerability, and the slow burn of young love. Centered on the unlikely pairing of a tall girl and a short boy, the anime delivers charming character development, emotional resonance, and a refreshing take on romance tropes.
Its themes—awkward relationships, self-acceptance, and the underdog romance dynamic—resonate with viewers looking for meaningful stories beyond clichés. Yet many equally touching and well-crafted romantic comedies fly under the radar. Here’s a list of 15 underrated anime that echo Lovely Complex’s sincerity, humor, and narrative heart, each deserving far more attention.
1. Kimi ni Todoke (2009)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Episodes: 25
MAL Rating: 8.00
Studio: Production I.G
Plot Summary:
Shunned for her resemblance to a horror movie character, shy Sawako tries to change her image and make friends—especially with the popular Kazehaya.
Similarities:
Both anime explore social awkwardness, misunderstood protagonists, and a slow-burn romance. Like Lovely Complex, it balances heartwarming moments with light humor and strong character arcs.
2. My Little Monster (2012)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, HIDIVE
Episodes: 13
MAL Rating: 7.43
Studio: Brain’s Base
Plot Summary:
A cold, studious girl unexpectedly bonds with a loud, unpredictable boy with a troubled past.
Similarities:
The opposites-attract dynamic mirrors the Risa-Otani relationship. It features quirky humor, emotional depth, and the challenges of understanding one’s feelings.
3. Ojisan to Marshmallow (2016)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 12 (short episodes)
MAL Rating: 6.69
Studio: Creators in Pack
Plot Summary:
A marshmallow-obsessed middle-aged man becomes the unlikely object of affection for a mischievous younger coworker.
Similarities:
Features unconventional romantic pairings, comedic tension, and explores affection beyond traditional archetypes—echoing Lovely Complex‘s subversion of norms.
4. Tsuki ga Kirei (2017)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 12
MAL Rating: 8.09
Studio: feel.
Plot Summary:
Two middle school students quietly fall in love while navigating the complexities of adolescence.
Similarities:
Shares a gentle, realistic portrayal of young love and growing pains, with nuanced character development and subdued emotional storytelling.
5. ReLIFE (2016)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 13
MAL Rating: 7.95
Studio: TMS Entertainment
Plot Summary:
A 27-year-old man gets a second chance at youth when he’s given a pill that turns him back into a teenager for a year.
Similarities:
Focuses on personal growth, second chances, and subtle romantic development—all framed within a high school setting.
6. Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun (2012)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Episodes: 13
MAL Rating: 7.48
Studio: Brain’s Base
Plot Summary:
A serious girl meets a volatile classmate who immediately declares his love for her, complicating her orderly life.
Similarities:
A blend of comedy, emotional tension, and unexpected affection, with flawed characters learning to navigate love.
7. Horimiya (2021)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Hulu
Episodes: 13
MAL Rating: 8.21
Studio: CloverWorks
Plot Summary:
Two high school students hide their real personalities from the world but find acceptance in each other.
Similarities:
Underdog relationship, wholesome dynamics, and strong emotional growth—plus, humor that doesn’t undermine the drama.
8. Nijiiro Days (2016)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 24 (13 min each)
MAL Rating: 7.23
Studio: Production Reed
Plot Summary:
Follows four high school boys and their romantic misadventures with their crushes.
Similarities:
Features male friendship, lighthearted romance, and awkward-yet-charming emotional journeys, much like Otani’s struggles.
9. Skip Beat! (2008)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, HIDIVE
Episodes: 25
MAL Rating: 8.09
Studio: Hal Film Maker
Plot Summary:
A jilted girl enters showbiz to get revenge on her ex-boyfriend but discovers her own dreams and self-worth.
Similarities:
A fiery female lead, emotional ups and downs, and slow romantic elements—all wrapped in humorous, self-aware storytelling.
10. Itazura na Kiss (2008)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 25
MAL Rating: 7.50
Studio: TMS Entertainment
Plot Summary:
After a natural disaster, a clumsy girl moves in with her crush, a brilliant but cold student.
Similarities:
Romantic progression over time, comedic miscommunication, and a female protagonist who evolves emotionally.
11. Fruits Basket (2019)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Hulu
Episodes: 63
MAL Rating: 8.17
Studio: TMS Entertainment
Plot Summary:
A kind-hearted girl discovers the family she’s living with transforms into animals of the zodiac when hugged.
Similarities:
Though more dramatic, it explores emotional healing, unconventional bonds, and heartfelt character growth like Lovely Complex.
12. Just Because! (2017)
Streaming: HIDIVE
Episodes: 12
MAL Rating: 7.23
Studio: Pine Jam
Plot Summary:
A quiet transfer student reawakens old feelings among a group of soon-to-be-graduates.
Similarities:
Melancholic but subtle romance, miscommunication, and realistic teen dilemmas drive the show’s emotional weight.
13. Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun (2014)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 12
MAL Rating: 7.85
Studio: Doga Kobo
Plot Summary:
A girl confesses her love to her classmate, only to find out he’s a clueless shoujo manga artist.
Similarities:
Comedic misunderstandings, offbeat romance, and loveable, awkward characters—delivered with a tongue-in-cheek tone.
14. Lovely★Complex Specials (2007)
Streaming: Not widely available
Episodes: 2
MAL Rating: 7.50
Studio: Toei Animation
Plot Summary:
Short episodes offering extra scenes and laughs between Risa and Otani.
Similarities:
Directly tied to the main series, these expand on the heart and humor fans already love.
15. Karakai Jouzu no Takagi-san (2018)
Streaming: Netflix
Episodes: 12
MAL Rating: 7.70
Studio: Shin-Ei Animation
Plot Summary:
A middle school boy constantly tries and fails to prank the girl who teases him every day.
Similarities:
Captures youthful awkwardness, slow-burning affection, and character-driven humor that Lovely Complex fans adore.
Why These Anime Work for Lovely Complex Fans
These hidden gems deliver the same emotional highs, quirky humor, and character-centric storytelling that make Lovely Complex such a beloved series. Whether it’s unlikely couples, deep emotional arcs, or refreshingly human relationships, these anime offer compelling alternatives that deserve more recognition. They also showcase a range of animation styles and narrative risks, proving that heartfelt romance stories can still surprise and delight when given the spotlight.
