Akagami no Shirayuki-hime

Akagami no Shirayuki-hime is a different take of the Snow White story (the series title in English is Snow White with the Red Hair). However, Shirayuki is nothing like the Snow White most of us are familiar with in pop culture. She's independent, resourceful, and smart. Despite her skills as an apothecary, her bright, red locks draws different reactions from people. The prince of her hometown Tanbarun for one wants her to be his concubine because he likes her hair. She refused Prince's Raji's offer and fled the kingdom after she cut her hair. Escaping the prince isn't easy however. When she thought she was far away enough, one of Raji's agents found her.

She was rescued by a guy named Zen and his companions. He was poisoned by the apple meant for Shirayuki, but he able to withstand the effects. She later learned during the confrontation that Zen is the second prince of Clarines.

The two become friends. Shirayuki goes to Clarines with Zen. She now has a chance to start her life over. But her friendship with the prince is not looked upon favorably by the other members of the court.

Shirayuki and Zen

Prince Raji trying to convince Shirayuki to be his concubine

Prince Zen with his aides

The 12-episode series is a typical ordinary-girl-meets-well-to-do-guy. Romance between Shirayuki and Zen is of course to be expected. It has nothing new to offer in the romance genre. Its redeeming quality however is Shirayuki's character. In one episode where she was kidnapped, I was wowed by her actions. It's not often you see a character made out to be cute and attractive to try to defend herself. Granted, we see this type more often nowadays. Still, it's a surprise.

The lead male character however is no different from princes in fairy tale romances. He's a prince with influences and has skillful allies. The only difference however is that he isn't the crown prince. Whether there will be a significant conflict with the older sibling remains to be seen.

I don't like the love-at-first-sight stories but Shirayuki is fun to watch most of the time. There were also some instances where the characters were forced to resolve conflicts by sensible means. It would have been a turn off if Shirayuki tried to solve it by lecturing about what's good for the people and the kingdom.

Rating: 7 out of 10