Watch Wake Up, Girls!

Wake Up, Girls! is a 12-episode anime series produced by Tatsunoko Production and directed by Yutaka Yamamoto. It follows the struggles of seven girls from the city of Sendai, Japan, as they try to make a name for themselves as idols in the competitive music industry.

The story begins with the dissolution of the idol group I-1, which was hugely popular in Sendai. In the wake of the group's breakup, the president of I-1's management company decides to create a new idol group to take its place. The new group, called Wake Up, Girls!, will consist of seven girls chosen from open auditions.

The seven girls who make up Wake Up, Girls! are all very different from one another. There's Mayu, the group's leader and the most experienced member; Airi, a shy girl who dreams of becoming an actress; Minami, a stubborn and independent girl from a working-class family; Yoshino, a serious and hardworking girl who wants to support her family; Nanami, a wealthy girl who is bored with her life and wants to find a new purpose; Miyu, a young girl with a talent for music who is also dealing with a difficult family situation; and finally, Rena, a cheerful and energetic girl who is initially wary of joining the group.

As the series progresses, the girls face a variety of challenges that threaten their fledgling careers. They struggle to find their own unique sound and style, deal with harsh criticism from the media and fans, and navigate the politics of the entertainment industry. Meanwhile, tensions arise within the group as personal issues and jealousies begin to surface.

Despite their struggles, the members of Wake Up, Girls! are determined to make a name for themselves and become true idols. They practice constantly, perform at every opportunity, and work to improve their skills. They also form tight bonds of friendship as they rely on each other for encouragement and support.

The series does an excellent job of portraying the ups and downs of the music industry, from the excitement of performing on stage to the disappointment of rejection and criticism. It also explores the personal struggles of each of the girls, from familial issues to self-doubt and insecurity.

One of the standout features of Wake Up, Girls! is its use of real-life locations in Sendai. The series incorporates many famous landmarks and locations throughout the city, giving viewers a unique look at the area and its culture. There is also a strong emphasis on the Sendai dialect, which is used by many of the characters in the series.

Visually, the series is well-animated and features vibrant colors and detailed character designs. The music is also a highlight, with a variety of catchy pop songs that are performed by the girls throughout the series.

Overall, Wake Up, Girls! is a compelling and engaging anime series that offers a realistic look at the struggles and triumphs of becoming an idol. Its diverse cast of characters and emphasis on friendship and perseverance make it a great watch for fans of the genre.

Wake Up, Girls! is a series that ran for 2 seasons (22 episodes) between January 10, 2014 and on Sentai Filmworks