Series & First Appearance
Sakurako Busujima appears in the anime and manga series Grand Blue, created by Kenjirou Hata. The series originally debuted in 2014, and Sakurako makes her first significant appearance in Chapter 18 of the manga and Episode 8 of the anime adaptation.
Profile at a Glance
Sakurako is a 20-year-old female character who serves as both a supporting character and a love interest in Grand Blue. While she is not the primary protagonist, her interactions and development are crucial to the plot, especially regarding romantic themes. She has a stylish fashion sense and is known for her striking long fuchsia hair and fashionable waitress outfit, which she wears while working in her part-time job.
Personality & Motivations
Sakurako is a complex character defined by her effort to appear trendy and amiable, particularly when it comes to impressing attractive men like Kouhei and Naomi. Despite her charming and polite demeanor around strangers and acquaintances, she possesses a darker side; she can be snarky and even sadistic toward those she dislikes, particularly targeting Iori. Her challenges in expressing her feelings honestly often lead her to take indirect or even antagonistic approaches. Following a rejection from Naomi, she experiences emotional turmoil but ultimately develops romantic feelings for Iori, a fact he remains oblivious to. Her character embodies a mix of determination, insecurity, and a desire for validation in love.
Abilities / Powers
While Sakurako doesn’t possess any supernatural abilities, her skills are rooted in her social capabilities and interpersonal dynamics. She showcases a strong work ethic and dedication, especially in her hospitality job. Given the comedic atmosphere of Grand Blue, her powers are more about her social maneuverability—she excels in flirtation and sarcasm, often using humor as a shield for her vulnerabilities. However, she does have limitations in being straightforward about her feelings, leading to misunderstandings throughout the series.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Sakurako’s character arc is notably shaped by her experiences of rejection and her budding feelings for Iori. A pivotal moment occurs when Naomi turns down her romantic advances, leading to a low point in her storyline. However, this rejection serves as a catalyst for growth; Iori comforts her, awakening feelings she had not fully recognized. Her character takes a significant turn during a trip to the Okinawa islands, where she commandeers a bold move to kiss Iori, marking a turning point in their relationship dynamic in front of Chisa and Aina. Throughout the series, she evolves from a romantic hopeful to a more complex individual who balances her assertiveness and vulnerability.
Notable Relationships
- Iori (Love Interest): Initially, he is the target of her bullying, but their relationship gradually deepens as she develops romantic feelings for him.
- Naomi (Rival): Her unrequited feelings for Naomi trigger a lot of her internal conflict and growth.
- Kouhei (Attraction): Represents the type of attractive boys that influence Sakurako’s behavior and motivations toward maintaining her fashionable appearance.
- Chisa & Aina (Friends): They provide social support and comedic relief, enriching the dynamics of Sakurako’s character interactions.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Sakurako’s most memorable moments occurs in Episode 8, when she unexpectedly kisses Iori in front of other friends during their Okinawa trip. This scene not only showcases her impulsiveness but also leads to a crucial turning point in the narrative, changing the dynamics within their friend group. Another impactful line is, "It’s so hard to confess when you really like someone!"—highlighting her struggles with direct emotional expression, resonating with many viewers who have experienced similar situations.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Sakurako’s character design features long fuchsia hair and striking eye color, which may contribute to her popularity. She has been voiced by Tomoyo Takayanagi in the Japanese version and Kayli Mills in the English adaptation. In popularity polls for Grand Blue, she often ranks as one of the most beloved characters, showcasing her appeal among fans.
Interestingly, her last name, "Busujima," means "ugly" in Japanese, a trait that she finds distasteful. This juxtaposition adds layers to her character as she grapples with self-esteem issues while striving to maintain a fashionable and attractive exterior. Furthermore, her penchant for fashion may be reflective of broader themes in the series that critique youth culture and the quest for social acceptance.
Sakurako Busujima’s character is a blend of charm, complexity, and humor that resonates with fans, embodying the challenges of young adulthood and the intricacies of budding love in a fast-paced, comedic environment. Her journey in Grand Blue invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences with affection, rivalry, and growth.
