This article contains discussion of domestic abuse.

Most of the anime in the Spring 2023 lineup have by now reached their midway point. While some shows like Oshi no Ko and Hell's Paradise have already found their audience and are basking in glory, others are failing to live up to their expectations for various reasons. However, one particular show is not getting the recognition it deserves: the intriguing new thriller titled My Home Hero.

With tens of shows airing each season and many receiving well-funded marketing strategies, it is not surprising that certain shows get buried. However, popularity isn't always a good measure of quality; sometimes it's just a matter of shows finding their respective niches. So while it's not necessarily the best anime there is, My Home Hero deserves a lot more attention than it has received thus far.

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My Home Hero's Dark Theme Reels Interest

Tetsuo Toso from My Home Hero violently murdering Nobuto Matori

Despite its lack of popularity, My Home Hero is a captivating anime that explores the dark side of human nature. It follows the story of Tetsuo Tosu, a father who will do anything to protect his daughter -- even if it means taking the law into his own hands. He kills his daughter's abusive boyfriend and is now trying to get away with it.

The show's premise is undeniably controversial, and it's understandable why it may turn some viewers off. However, My Home Hero tackles its subject matter with nuance and depth, delving into the complex emotions and motivations of its characters. Tetsuo is not portrayed as a hero, but rather a flawed individual who is willing to do anything for the people he loves. He is just an average Joe trying his best to save his daughter from her abusive boyfriend. There aren't any amazing action sequences or genius manipulations here -- just some witty traps and fake outs, hoping the target falls for it.

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My Home Hero Shows the Lengths Parents Will Go for Their Children

Reika Tetsuo from My Home Hero looking angry with bruises on her face

My Home Hero's story starts after Tetsuo sees his daughter Reika's bruised face. He soon discovers the culprit behind her bruises is none other than her current live-in partner, Nobuto Matori. Tetsuo may only be an average middle-aged salaryman, but he won't stand by and watch his daughter get abused. He sneaks into his daughter's closet and soon discovers Nobuto's vile scheme of using Reika as a means to earn some quick cash. One thing leads to another, and Tetsuo finds himself bashing Nobuto's head with a rice cooker, killing the young thug. Unfortunately for Tetsuo, this is also the start of his hardships.

Nobuto turned out to be no ordinary thug; he is actually the son of a powerful and protective yakuza leader. With the group thinking Nobuto is missing and possibly dead, they hunt for Tetsuo, who becomes the prime suspect in everything. Tetsuo must use all the knowledge he accrued from reading various mystery novels to trick them into thinking he is innocent and possibly even pin the crime on somebody else.

What sets My Home Hero apart from many anime is its mature and thought-provoking themes. It's not just a mindless action show, but rather a psychological thriller that explores the human psyche. The series' slow-burn approach and character-driven narrative help likewise make it a compelling watch with a dark but interesting premise. It may not be for everyone, but for those willing to give it a chance, My Home Hero is a hidden Spring 2023 gem waiting to be discovered.