Introduction
If you’re a fan of rom-com anime, then you’ve probably heard of Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian, or Roshidere for short. It's the kind of series that might initially fly under your radar, but once you dive in, it quickly becomes a standout. Released in the summer of 2024, Roshidere has managed to charm its way into the hearts of viewers, and it's easy to see why.
Meet Alya and Masachika: The Perfectly Imperfect Duo
Our leads, Alya and Masachika.
At the heart of Roshidere is the intriguing dynamic between Alisa Mikhailovna Kujou (Alya) and Masachika Kuze. Alya is the epitome of an anime tsundere—cold on the outside but hiding a heart full of warmth. She’s the “solitary princess” of Seiren Academy, known for her beauty, academic excellence, and Russian heritage. What makes her more interesting is that she often expresses her true emotions in Russian, assuming no one around her understands. Unbeknownst to her, Masachika does understand Russian, leading to some hilarious and heartwarming moments.
Masachika, on the other hand, is a laid-back protagonist with a twist. He’s not the most diligent student, but he’s far from a pushover. He’s the only one who dares to call Alya by her nickname, leaving their classmates dumbfounded. Their relationship is entertaining, relatable, and beautifully balanced, creating a dynamic that keeps you hooked.
From Light Novel to Anime
Roshidere Light Novel 1, featuring Alya.
Roshidere began as a light novel series written by SunSunSun, with illustrations by Momoco. It was first self-published as two one-shots on Shousetsuka ni Narou in May 2020, but it wasn’t long before Kadokawa Sneaker Bunko picked it up for official publication in February 2021. The series quickly gained a following, expanding into a manga adaptation and, of course, the anime adaptation that started airing in July 2024.
The anime, produced by Doga Kobo, is praised for staying true to the light novels while enhancing the story with top-notch animation. The animation quality is consistently high, with smooth motion, expressive characters, and vibrant colors that make each scene pop. The attention to detail in the character designs, especially in how Alya’s emotions are conveyed through subtle changes in her expressions, is commendable.
The Unspoken Charm of Roshidere
In a season that hasn’t been as strong as previous years, Roshidere shines as a beacon of hope for rom-com fans. While it doesn’t necessarily break new ground in terms of plot—it’s still a tsundere falling for the lazy guy—its execution is what sets it apart.
One of the series' strengths is its well-developed characters. Unlike many other rom-coms, where side characters often feel like mere props, Roshidere gives each character their own unique personality and backstory. This makes the world feel lived-in and the relationships more authentic. Even the interactions between Alya and Masachika are layered; they’re not just about romantic tension but also about understanding, culture, and personal growth.
Alya's cultural heritage complicates matters even further. Her Russian origin is more than just a gimmick; it's an important aspect of her personality. The show approaches the language barrier in a new and fascinating way. When Alya becomes irritated or upset, she slips into Russian, which is both adorable and hilarious, especially since Masachika understands everything.
Alya-san Speaking Russian Moments 1
The charm of Roshidere lies in its simplicity and relatability. We’ve all experienced moments where we’ve hidden our true feelings, whether out of fear, uncertainty, or just not knowing how to express them. Alya’s struggle with this is both endearing and frustrating, in the best way possible. You find yourself rooting for her, wanting her to just say what’s on her mind, even as you enjoy the suspense of her not doing so.
Masachika, meanwhile, is the kind of protagonist that’s easy to like. He’s not overly heroic or particularly exceptional (at first glance, at least), but that’s what makes him relatable. He’s just a guy trying to navigate high school life, deal with his own insecurities, and figure out his feelings for Alya. The fact that he understands Russian adds a layer of depth to his character; it’s like he’s got a secret that gives him an edge, but he’s not smug about it.
Masachika’s sister, Yuki Suou. If she’s his sister, why does he have a different surname?
While Alya and Masachika take center stage, the supporting cast brings depth and variety to the show. Masachika’s sister Yuki, for instance, presents herself as a demure, lady-like student at school, but in reality, she's an otaku and a bit of a pervert. Their schoolmates are unaware that they’re siblings, so they pretend to be "childhood friends." Other characters also contribute to the drama and humor, each with their own distinct arcs and moments to shine, ensuring the story remains engaging and dynamic.
The potential for a harem-like situation is there, but Roshidere handles it with a level of maturity that’s refreshing. It doesn’t rely on cheap tropes or forced love triangles to create tension. Instead, it focuses on genuine character interactions and the slow, steady development of relationships.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch for Rom-Com Fans
Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian is a delightful blend of romance and comedy. It’s a show that understands its genre and knows how to play with its conventions while still delivering something fresh and engaging. Whether you’re a fan of tsundere characters or just well-executed rom-coms, Roshidere is a series that deserves your attention.
So, if you haven’t already, give Roshidere a watch. It’s one of the brightest stars of the Summer 2024 anime season and a series that’s sure to leave you smiling. And if you want to see more of Alya, you can always buy more of the series here at ZenPlus, delivered to your doorstep straight from Japan!
Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian (Roshidere) - Official Trailer 2 | English Subtitles
【ロシデレ】ノンクレジットOP｜「1番輝く星」アーリャ（CV：上坂すみれ）
What do you think?
Will Alya ever realize that Masachika understands Russian?
Will Alya and Masachika end up together?
Will other people at school know that Yuki and Masachika are actually siblings and not childhood friends?
Let us know in the comments or drop us a line on social media: X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook! We’d love to hear from you!
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You can watch Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian on Netflix, Prime Video, Crunchyroll, Ani-One Asia and Bilibili.
About the Writer
Cristy is a freelance artist and writer who has been obsessed with anime and manga since childhood. Her love for these imaginative worlds fuels her creative endeavors, and she shows no signs of stopping anytime soon.
