Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo (Pet Girl of Sakurasou) Discussion Thread

[Buckeye]

A show about a hapless guy living in a dorm full of weirdos, and a manga artist who can't take care of herself.

Airs: Wednesday, October 10

Studio: J.C. Staff

ANN Entry (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=14238)
Official Site (http://sakurasou.tv/)
Crunchyroll (http://www.crunchyroll.com/magi)

Sakura Dormitory is a dorm of the high school affiliated with Suimei University of the Arts (often shortened as Suiko), which hosts the strangest, trouble-making students. After being kicked out of the normal dorm for keeping a stray cat, Sorata Kanda moves into Sakura Dormitory. As he starts to get used to the life in the dorm, Mashiro Shiina, a world famous artist who cannot even take care of her daily life, moves in. Sorata is forced to become Mashiro's handler. The story is about their daily life as well as mental growth.

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[Buckeye]

So this guy named Sorata is now living in the infamous Sakura Hall dormitory for taking in a pure-white stray cat as a pet, and his dorm supervisor and teacher is really throwing him under the bus. Then he is ordered around to take in a cute girl who just arrived from England. Turns out she is a manga artist, but she can't do anything else. Her room is a mess, she is sleeping naked underneath her desk, and she has problems getting dressed. It's onto school for her first day.

This show just comes out as being really dumb. At least it's the fun kind of dumb as it looks like it could be interesting, but I didn't see things that way in this episode. I'm close to dropping it, but I will give it another episode or two since Mashiro looks like she could really be something. Other than that, my feeling is been there, done that.

[Fencedude]

Less than amazingly thrilled (http://www.seaslugteam.com/2012/10/10/sakurasou-no-pet-na-kanojo-01/) with the episode.

It wasn't terrible, but it wasn't particularly good either.

[HitokiriShadow]

I was had mediocre expectations for this show but I really hoped it would be better. Being moderately decent isn't too much to hope for even with this premise. Alas, it blew things pretty badly and was even worse than I expected.

Somehow it manages to stop short of being terrible. I give that credit Okada Mari's writing and staff that are giving this show more love than it deserves. Unfortunately, the ingredients are rather terrible so there's only so much they can do.

Mashiro is even worse than I expected. Another character is almost as bad, though her sheer energy and insanity makes her a little endearing and somewhat amusing, unlike Mashiro. The only girl I actually *like* is the classmate. Main guy is bland sack of shit, and his self intro was basically "I'm really fucking boring, like 90% of the other male characters (now please project yourself onto me)". And that style of character introductions is really obnoxious in general.

Then the first thing we see of the roommate on speed is her panties and then she immediately says that its her dream to be housewife. All within the first 30 seconds of the show. For the next female character, the main topic of the conversation is her boobs. When Mashiro is introduced, we hear more words from the obnoxious perv friend giving her three sizes and describing her body than we'd heard from her up to that point. And Mashiro is a terrible character in general.

I'll keep watching and maybe it will get better, but unless Mashiro undergoes a drastic personality change in the first few episodes, anything involving the main relationship is likely to be painful, dull, or both.

[Draneor]

My fault for having high expectations, I guess, based on the script writer's history.

I honestly don't know what this show is trying to be. Ecchi fanservice harem? Touching Drama? Run-of-the-mill romantic comedy? I can think of an anime this season for each that appears to do each better. The budget is annoyingly high (compared to LB), and I feel Okada is being wasted. The backgrounds are pretty.

The sensei annoys me. The annoying 3-sizes, asshole player fucking annoys me. I find Misaki mildly annoying. I don't really care if she aspires to be a housewife or an animator (people can choose whatever life their want), but the show should pick one. An amazing animator (based on what the show said) who wants to grow up to be a housewife is just fucking stupid.

Nanami--who only appeared briefly--was my favorite character. I thought she'd be normal, but then the show annoyingly made her be an aspiring seiyuu. For some reason, every character in this show has to be involved in the anime industry.

Only good thing I can say about Sorata is he's kind to cats. He's average (and I usually like average characters), but his reaction to Mashiro at the end was pretty stupid.

I like Mashiro as a character, but I think she's in the wrong show. Maybe if the focus was on Mashiro learning to interact normally. There's a small possibility she's just not a morning person and otherwise just a bit different like an artist might be. But assuming she does have mental issues... it will be extremely difficult to write any sort of believable consensual relationship, and I assume the anime would go down that path. I'd have the same issue I have with any caretaker (like say PapaKiki).

I was extremely annoyed that she's a genius at drawing manga but terrible at writing it. Average Sorata will end up a great manga writer by the end if not three episodes in, mark my words (which would defeat the whole point of making him average--why not make him an aspiring writer to start).

As far as the fan service goes, I don't deny I enjoyed the white t-shirt. It's just the fanservice seems out of place with other parts of the show that seemed to be more seriously.

I'll give it a few more episodes. I heard there may be a trap and perhaps Okada can save it. Or perhaps not.

In conclusion, Xebec could have animated this.

[HitokiriShadow]

My fault for having high expectations, I guess, based on the script writer's history.

I give Okada Mari credit for the show not being completely execrable. But even she can only do so much if the ingredients are shit.


I find Misaki mildly annoying. I don't really care if she aspires to be a housewife or an animator (people can choose whatever life their want), but the show should pick one.

And it should not be the first or second line out of her mouth, right after she just woke up in the main guy's bed and showed off her panties to us.



Nanami--who only appeared briefly--was my favorite character. I thought she'd be normal, but then the show annoyingly made her be an aspiring seiyuu. For some reason, every character in this show has to be involved in the anime industry.

She was the only character I liked, though I somehow missed the part about her being a seiyuu. I think my brain was in self-preservation mode and was intaking limited info for a little while. But yeah, seiyuu, manga artist, and ALREADY MADE HER OWN ANIME.... like I said, this is the SAO of LN romances in terms of lulzy levels of wish fulfillment.



I like Mashiro as a character, but I think she's in the wrong show. Maybe if the focus was on Mashiro learning to interact normally. There's a small possibility she's just not a morning person and otherwise just a bit different like an artist might be. But assuming she does have mental issues... it will be extremely difficult to write any sort of believable consensual relationship, and I assume the anime would go down that path. I'd have the same issue I have with any caretaker (like say PapaKiki).

I can't stand Mashiro. Other than drawing manga, she has the mental capacity of the three-year old. Everything about her portrayal screams "severe mental issues". Whether they intend for her to be or seem mentally disabled or not, a relationship with someone like her is incredibly skeevy.


I'll give it a few more episodes. I heard there may be a trap and perhaps Okada can save it. Or perhaps not.


It's barely holding my interest, and only because the season is severely lacking in LN romances. (Thankfully, the other one is KyoAni, though that's.... different. Probably.)

[Draneor]

I give Okada Mari credit for the show not being completely execrable. But even she can only do so much if the ingredients are shit.

Got to pay the bills somehow, I guess. Some of the usual anti-Okada sources are already making stupid comments ("no cross-dressing for Okada Mari," "well-suited thematically," etc).

But yeah, seiyuu, manga artist, and ALREADY MADE HER OWN ANIME.... like I said, this is the SAO of LN romances in terms of lulzy levels of wish fulfillment.

It doesn't look to be even good wish fulfillment (from someone that often enjoys it). Also, the whole "anime industry" thing has been done so many times before. Doujin Work, for example. Or even Comic Party did it better. At least I found the characters in those interesting on their own (not to mention the jokes were actually funny).

I can't stand Mashiro. Other than drawing manga, she has the mental capacity of the three-year old. Everything about her portrayal screams "severe mental issues". Whether they intend for her to be or seem mentally disabled or not, a relationship with someone like her is incredibly skeevy.

Perhaps I'm still being too optimistic, but I'm not yet convinced she is mentally three. Not being a morning person is an incredible stretch, I know. The next episode should make who she is clear. All in all, the show did a pretty shitty job of introducing the entire cast.

[strangefour]

-Suddenly giant cat ass.
-Suddenly baby got back.
-You have a hyper fun girl in your room. Why are you unhappy dude?
-The winner of this years teacher of the year award is... That bra.
-A dorm filled with the worst students of an art school. I think I just found my favorite show of this cour.
-29 years and 15 months old. Hehehe.
-Our hero: the crazy old cat lady. heh.
-A sweet quiet little british girl.
-The sweet quiet little girl is a depressive nudist.

Finally a promising new show! Okay sure it's just a goofy little high school sorta harem show, but damn it this show has a sense of humor.

[something]

Episode 1:

- Ahaha Misaki is insane. It's more amusing when you realize Takamori Natsumi also voiced Mei in Another. And jeeze she kinda sounds lke Tomatsu Haruka in this role.
- "I'm 29 years and 15 moths." :sd:
- Maid-chan = Hocchan?
- I also like the two terrified girls watching all the insanity.
- Oooh Aoyama wants to be a seiyuu. She's such a nice girl. too bad she'll have no chance against the heroine.
- Sorata is really high strung, though I suppose not without some reason. I tend to prefer more subdued male protagonists though.

- Why would you stuff your face right then? Now you're just standing in front of her with food in your mouth looking like an idiot.
- Mashiro is pretty. And the art in this whole sequence is pretty darn good.
- Welcoming party. No doubt Sorata will soon get a chance to verify the other guy's guess about how she looks naked.
- Yep! Mmmm, Mashiro. <3 Sorata's overreaction was really annoying, but blah, romance light novels, what can you do?
- Hahah his reactions are kind of annoying, but the way Mashiro sets him off by saying things that sound innocent but are infuriating in context rather amuses me.

Fortune telling with panties...

Well, *I* liked it, at least. It's pretty cliche, but I can live with that as long as the bad parts of the cliche don't go overboard. Production values are also realllllly nice so far too. I hope JC Staff can keep that up.

[Fencedude]

Ehh...that was ok.

Shiina's really...well...uhh...yeah.

Interestingly, Misaki's actually after Jin, but he very much does not want, which is strange.

Everyone in this show really needs to calm the fuck down, however.

[bear]

Ehh...that was ok.

Would have been a lot better if the male lead wasn't such a dork. Meh.

Shiina's really...well...uhh...yeah.
Seems like they stole "Honey and Clover" and filed the serial numbers off.

Interestingly, Misaki's actually after Jin, but he very much does not want, which is strange.

No conquest if she's chasing him. And as he mentioned, she's nuts.

[HitokiriShadow]

ATASHI BE AMBITIOUS!

That was about the only part I actually liked. Still have major issues with Shiina and the show just doesn't really have anything else going for it.

I liked Aoyama, but this episode almost immediately went a really obnoxious direction with her.

Also, Jin was pretty clearly having kinky nurse roleplay sex.

[stardf29]

Decent characters, okay comedy, some semblence of a plot...

I'm actually kind of interested in Misaki's and Jin's relationship. Misaki seems pretty down that she's probably the only girl Jin hasn't gone after.

Other than that, decent show. Not good enough to make me want to follow it this season, but I'll put it on my streaming backlog.

[Buckeye]

It's all about cabbage trails, a girl wearing only whipped cream, and Mashiro asking a guy to strip down for her next work. As it turns out that despite knowing nothing other than drawing, Mashiro is famous around the world.

This episode was decent enough to keep my attention. But it is not wowing me to make me want to keep on watching it. I'll give it another episode or two before until my five episode rule kicks in where once I am beyond episode 5, I am committed to watching it. It's dumb stuff what the characters are doing, but at least it is entertaining enough to watch all that hi-jinx unfolding.

[FUNiOP]

This show is so much better than I ever expected it to be. I'm glad I stuck with it, even though I was originally planning to not even give it a shot at all. There's some fanservice for sure, and Mashiro first seemed like a lifeless object existing for the purpose of fanservice pandering to that specific fetish, but surprisingly, all the characters are being developed very well, and at this point there isn't even all that much fanservice for the sake of fanservice. There's nudity and sexuality, but a lot of it actually ties into the story and drama pretty well, and doesn't seem as pandering as standard fanservice. It's still not about to become a favorite or anything, but finding any enjoyment in something I assumed I'd hate is always a nice surprise.

[tytan88]

Some of the things that they are trying to do here are only serving as a distraction from the character development. They are trying too hard to be edgy and failing at it......They need to take some hints from a show like Hyouka........


EDIT: I really like the premise of this show........and my heart wants this show to succeed. I hope they can overcome some of these issues as the story progresses.....

[HitokiriShadow]

That was really tiring and annoying to watch. Shiina throwing the blankets on the Sorata at the end was literally the only decent part of the entire goddamn episode.

Odds of me giving enough of a damn to watch episode 4 are about 50/50. I really should just stop here, because the odds of this show improving enough to be worth my time to watch seem low and I've watched more than my fair show of crappy shows this year (ZnT:F, Amagami SS, Gundam AGE, probably one or two I'm forgetting).

[Fencedude]

Argh this show is way too bipolar.

On the one hand, everyone is running around and screaming, on the other, it wants to do quiet pathos.

Its not pulling it off.

[something]

Episode 2:

- And them ep 1 production values are mostly gone. Oh well.
- Mashiro ceacks me up.
- Ooh, Nanami's seiyuu Nakatsu Mariko is new, but sounds pretty interesting.
- CABBAGE.
- Haha what the fuck is going on. <3 Mashiro.
- Most deadpan "I won't let you sleep tonight" ever.

Yeah, what sells this show for me is Mashiro. Her lack of personality is her personality. Not so much what she does, but the way her notgiveafuck-itude contrasts against everyone else being totally high-strung. It just cracks me up. I don't know if it'll hold up for a whole cour but so far, so good.

Nanami also as potential even if she's just the doomed one with no chance.

[Fencedude]

I don't know if it'll hold up for a whole cour but so far, so good.

TWO COUR

TWO.

WHY.

[something]

Episode 3:

- "My shower scenes lack sexiness." Heh.
- So, Jin and Misaki. My take right now is that Jin is uncomfortable with Misaki's feelings, because he feels inferior to her. Or something like that?
- Random mob character walks by looking like she's about to puke? Just a random visual touch or is something going on? Weird, but interesting.
- Oh Nanami. Her delusions crack me up too. And maaaaaaaan her seiyuu sounds like someone else but I can't place it.
- Life is pain for Misaki. Too bad she doesn't realize Jin wants her more than anyone.
- Sorata totally just got told off by Mashiro, hah.

Good end to a nice opening arc. Two cour... I wonder what it'll do with that?

Definitely enjoying this so far.

[something]

I don't know if it'll hold up for a whole cour but so far, so good.
TWO COUR
TWO.
WHY.
Er yeah, I knew that, but my fingers didn't!

Well, while I'd pick some other shows to be two cour first, I'm glad this is two cour because I see a lot of potential so far, especially after episode three.

[Damius]

- Misaki is quite something… to say the least.
- She is not 30 years old; she is 29 years and 15 months!
- Aoyama wants to be a seiyuu! I hope her dream will come true.
- A picture of Mashiro. From that picture, I can tell she is really cute.
- Yeah, Mashiro is definitely cute.
- Mashiro naked! Too bad we had Sorata overreaction as well…

Well, of course there is the clichés and some annoying parts… I only hope there won’t be too many of them… Up to now, I like it enough to continue and see what this show will give us next.

[FUNiOP]

Sorata finally admits that he wants to stay at Sakura Hall, and finds a passion to pursue for himself. His relationship with Mashiro is starting to look up, and everyone else is loving it. Good times.

[tytan88]

This was the kind of episode I was looking for. Something with some real teeth in it. Sorata finally coming to terms with who he is and not blaming others or other things for his condition. He realizes he was placed in this environment for a reason and perhaps he actually DOES belong here. I hope they continue on this track.

[Buckeye]

Operation Escape Sakura Hall is now reaching its end as Jin is willing to adopt the cat that landed Sorata in this place. Sorata refuses a date with Mashiro, so Jin goes with her, and Misaki is up in arms fearing that they are headed for a love hotel. And indeed they end up going there, but it's Sorata who spends the night there. It seems like that stay must of made Sorata realize something as he prepares to leave Sakura Hall for good... or maybe not.

So it looks like Sorata is not so quick to leave Sakura Hall after spending a night at that love hotel as it seems like his perspective on life has changed. After a rather bland first two episodes, this one is a big improvement and it was a lot of fun to watch. This show went from being clear in the drop zone to the middle ground in terms of whether or not I want to continue. It definitely earned one more episode out of me, but given the amount of time I have to watch anime, I probably hold off watching it.

[Damius]

- How long Nanami will believe the wrong thing?
- Well, it was not for long, Mashiro went to Nanami and said what she really meant. But, for how long it will only be a friend for Mashiro?
- “Misaki decorated herself with whipped cream” Hehe… I didn’t know she was into Jin. And after that she is the gift.
- You will never leave Sakura Hall. Believe me.
- After that, Mashiro strikes again. And, Sorata was able to refuse...for a couple of seconds.

I personally like Mashiro.

[something]

Episode 4:

- Niiiiiice yukata, Mashiro.
- "I wish I could fire laser beams." Don't we all?

And stuff! I feel like this show is too dramatic at times (did Sorata really need to yell half as much as he did in this episode?) but man, overall this show totally works for me. There's a lot of heart in it, and that shines through even when it's being a bit too melodramatic.

Production values were also totally back on par with episode one, which is great to see. Mashiro looked fantastic throughout basically the whole episode. And that smile. <3 Nicely done.

[Buckeye]

It's time for Tanabata, and the wishes are written. Sorata was dead set on leaving Sakura Hall, but he is realizing that it may not be the best idea. After looking at Mashiro's manga, it turns out that it's about life at Sakura Hall. Then the reason why Mashiro didn't win the award: the ending was terrible, much like what Sorata is facing should he follow through with his departure. After seeing her work, that pretty much confirms Sorata that he wants to stay. And thus, he stays to become a VG designer.

This show is finally getting good after a rough start where things looked like they were going to be a mess as the story has established itself quite well. But episode 3 was quite a big step up by getting Sorata close to Mashiro to really understand her, and now this episode where Sorata leaving Sakura Hall means leaving Mashiro who needs him. It seems like his life came to a halt when he focused on escaping that his life was passing him by because of it. Next episode, it looks like Nanami is getting ready to move in for some reason or other (and her weekend job might be part of the reason). It looked like this show was clearly headed for the drop zone, that is until this episode and now, it looks like I can't get enough of this show already. Mashiro is an interesting character and it looks like Sorata is a pretty good lead.

[stardf29]

Hey, looks like this show has some good heart after all. I've decided to follow this one this season now.

[FUNiOP]

Of course the only normal character left has to join Sakura Hall. And it works out pretty well overall. Should make things even more interesting.

[stardf29]

Wait, is that a tiger-Taiga plush that Aoyama has?

Oh, right, the episode. Good stuff. Nice to see them give Aoyama some time and development aside from her futile attempts at romancing the male lead.

[something]

Episode 5:

- Sorata, seriously, calm the fuck down for once in your life.
- Poor hardworking normal girl Nanami.
- Mashiro continues to crack me up by doing... not much of anything. Her deadpan personality is just hilarious for some reason.
- Haha more non sequiturs and not giving a fuck. Mashiro is love.
- Ahahah, Jin is having so much fun listening to Sorata and Mashiro.
- Nanami takes over Mashiro Duty. She'd be great at it of course, though I don't see how she has the time.
- Well, she doesn't.

Nanami will add to the noise level at Sakurasou, but I'm still glad she moved in.

[Damius]

- "My shower scenes lack sexiness." Of course that is what she meant… unfortunately.
- Mashiro wants to take the cats, but…
- We can say that Nanami pass through a lot of emotions when she is with Sorata and Mashiro… How long she will last before she breaks?
- Mashiro and Jin are together on a…
- …plan to make Sorata take care of Mashiro, of course.
- I hope Misaki will find that out.

That was a nice episode a nice way to close the arc.

[FUNiOP]

Poor Nanami overworks herself to the point of exhaustion, and fails in her pursuits. Mashiro successfully makes her debut, but she can find no happiness in this accomplishment, as she feels responsible for Nanami's failure. Nanami finally breaks down and pours her heart on to Sorata, seeking the comfort she knows only he can provide her with, and after some powerful drama, she recovers to some extent, both physically and emotionally, although now she has to cope with the weakness she's shown to the rest of the hall. She reassigns Mashiro Duty to Sorata, which he gladly accepts, and after staying with Nanami during her recovery, Mashiro can hopefully move on and be happy with her debut, just as Sorata is.

[Buckeye]

- Nothing but zeroes on Mashiro's exams.
- Misaki and Mashiro are playing Samurai Showdown.
- Answers appear like art. That's how Mashiro gets perfect scores on the makeups.
- Nanami has to pay her rent and is soon to be evicted because the family doesn't approve of her career as a seiyuu. That's so messed up.
- The solution: move into Sakura Hall.
- Part-time jobs and Mashiro duty don't mix.
- Nanami, sleep in your room, not on the dining room table.

This episode is all about Nanami and she is quite normal. That is until her back story talks about running away from home. And it seems like her move was inevitable considering that she has some crush on Sorata and Mashiro is threatening it. Then there is her job and I was right on the money when her jobs are part of the reason why she moves to Sakura Hall since living there is much cheaper than at the normal dorms, where she is about to be evicted and that is cause for panic. At least now, she can back off on some of her jobs. Overall, a nice episode seeing how the attention is on Nanami this time being a new resident.

[Damius]

- Mashiro in a yukata! She sure looks great in it. I would have said way more than Sorata…
- I would have preferred a real festival…
- Sorata finally says he wants to stay at Sakurasou.

That was a nice episode.

[Damius]

- From only 0s to only 100s. Mashiro…
- Life is currently difficult for Nanami… I feel bad for her.
- Mashiro continues to give the wrong idea to Nanami.
- To find out by herself, Nanami will move to Sakurasou.

It’s great that Nanami is moving to Sakurasou.

[something]

Episode 6:

- Mashiro wanst to be a self-sufficient girl too. Now if only she learns to take the cap off a container before using it. Everyone has to start somewhere, Mashiro!
- Nanami is such a good girl. <3 Too good. It's going to kill her.

- Woah. Haven't commented much but this has been a great episode. From Mashiro begging everyone to let Nanami go up to the taxi scene was reallllly good. I absolutely love seeing Mashiro let more of her feelings out. Even if she does it with as straight a face and deadpan a voice as ever, the raw emotion comes through very clearly. She sees something of herself in Nanami, even as dissimilar as they are in so many ways.
- And on top of that, Mashiro feels guilty. She knows how much she owes Nanami.

- As expected, the audition goes terribly. =/
- Heh, Mashiro trying to catch a cab. :sd:
- Man, seeing Mashiro get so fiercely protective of Nanami is really quite moving.

Gaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh that was fantastic! Talk about smashing expectations. This show just keeps getting better and better. As in, a not impossible contender for an import at this rate.

That Mashiro smile. That next epiode preview. Heh.

[Buckeye]

- Nothing but work for Nanami. Plus Mashiro duty.
- Jin could be off to Osaka soon. That's where he wants to go to college.
- Fatigue is definitely setting in after working at several jobs and hardly any rest.
- Off to the auditions in a taxi. And Nanami is totally woozy at the worst possible time.
- It's also the day Mashiro's debut work is out. She's not happy for some reason
- Nanami has failed. No more Mashiro duty for Nanami.

Quite a nice episode that focuses on Nanami and her tough life seeing how her parents are telling her that she can't pursue a career as a voice actress. Either she must forget about it altogether or she needs to be prepared for an extremely difficult life here, not exactly an ideal situation for her. She tries to toughen up through everything, but she needs to back off at some point. After that disaster, she needs to make some adjustments. Next episode, Sorata's sister makes a visit.

[FUNiOP]

I give zero shits about hyperactive brocon imouto. Oh right, fanservice. I have been very surprised by how minimal that has been for the past several episodes. If the preview is any indication, it looks like they're making up for lost time with at least two episodes. At least that one should be better without Yuko and with Misaki in the main story. Her driving subplot was amusing, but this proves that this series can't really do a full comedy episode with Misaki essentially absent. I'd be worried about wasting time when there's important stuff to get to, but this is two cours, so I assume these are here for necessary padding. I guess that's better than the important stuff being either rushed because the series was only one cour or drawn out because they need to fill two cours and they only focus on the main plot. So keeping the pacing of the main plot good and adding in standalone episodes of no great importance is probably the best solution.

[tytan88]

The intensity of watching them helping Nanami as she was struggling to get to the audition was powerful. Then she fails! But she learns not to give up, just depend on others more. Learning to love is about being vulnerable to those you call 'friend' and learning to depend on those you can trust.

Powerful episode.

[Damius]

That sure was an awesome episode. The show is getting better episode after episode. Everyone cares for Nanami, especially Mashiro since realizes all the things Nanami did for her. Another thing that makes this episode really good is there was not any “loud” part. Congratulations on your debut Mashiro! Love!

[something]

Episode 7:

- Mmm, Mashiro in a towel. The scene itself was dumb (strange censored pantyshots...) but that was a nice visual.
- Sorata's mom is Arai Satomi. =D
- ...I see being entirely too high-strung runs in Sorata's family.
- But this just gives Mashiro more opportunity to be hilarious.
- Mmmm, Mashiro boobs.
- Mmmm, Nanami boobs.

That had its amusing parts, so I enjoyed it, but Yuuko adds a but too much chaos to an already borderline too-chaotic cast. This may be a case where I hope the imouto doesn't get a lot more focus. Although she was a good catalyst for letting Mashiro be hilarious.

And lol at the preview.

[FUNiOP]

Well it turns out the preview was extremely misleading for the first half, but came to be in the second. I seem to recall Misaki saying the "entire episode" was about it, though, so looks like she was trolling. Definitely a big disconnect in mood between the first and second half, but it all fit together really well. Sorata's nervous breakdown and inevitable rejection were very well done, and that much more painful to watch because of it. Wanting to be happy for Mahiro's continued success but just feeling worse because of his utter incompetence in comparison is some really strong material.

It's funny how I couldn't stand Sorata's imouto for a second of the previous episode that was overflowing with her, but I absolutely love all of Misaki's hyperactive insanity. I think there are probably a lot of factors contributing to that, but a big one I can definitely tell is that Misaki's actions are all genuinely for the benefit of everyone else, and work out almost perfectly most of the time, lightening the mood when it would remain depressing for a good while longer without her there, while imouto seemed pretty selfish for the most part.

Another interesting and potentially (hopefully) funny new character coming next time. Let's see how that turns out.

[tytan88]

I needed this episode. the message really spoke to me about failure and pain showing you what you really want. Misaki was a much better influence in this one as her insanity sort helped to knock Sorata out of his funk. He's finally found something he really wants. Failure hurts, but not trying is much worse!

Listen with your heart, Adam. you need to hear this.

[Buckeye]

- Even at her age, Yuko sure isn't afraid to use herself as fanservice. (But the kitty has other ideas)
- No, Yuko. Your brother is not womanizing. It's called Mashiro Duty.
- The hallway is a river. Guess it is off to the bathhouse for a change.
- Dirty thoughts are bad, and Nanami lets the boys know it.
- Since when did Sorata's room become a popular hangout for the girls?
- Time for a "date" and a tour of the area. Mashiro and Yuko are getting along, but they are lost with no cell phone.
- Yuko's next stop: Suiko. Meanwhile, Misaki has driven back with her license.

After a string of good episodes here, this one wasn't quite up to snuff. Just about everything up until the residents and Yuko go on their date felt like fluff and was just an opportunity to add on stuff that ran out of source material or something like that. But when Sorata, Mashiro, Nanami, and Yuko go out, it salvages the episode as that part was very nice to watch. And it ends with Misaki doing her crazy stuff as usual. Sorata sure has an interesting family to say the least, and Yuko is quite the person who is destined to live at Sakura Hall.

[Buckeye]

- Two letters are in. First off, Sorata is through round 1.
- The other letter, teach Mashiro what love is. Yeah, koi is in the fish.
- After lots of preparation, the day of reckoning has arrived.
- Sorata is totally dazed and confused, being asked a tough question right off the bat.
- His pitch is rejected, and he knew it even before the official word was given.
- It's off to the pool to cheer up. At night, and with Chihiro's approval apparently.
- Gotta run! It's another prank by Misaki, and poor Nanamin is running without panties. And with fireworks in the sky.

So after a rather unnecessary episode, things get really serious with Sorata's chance to make his dream come true. But now that he totally screwed the presentation that it is time that he needs to go back to the drawing board and figure out his next move. That was a nice episode there, seeing how someone goes through a tough time and that Misaki's aggressiveness is the only thing that got Sorata over his defeat. Next up, someone from England named Rita enters Sakura Hall.

[Buckeye]

- First day of the new term, and Sorata is greeted by Nyapollo, drawn on his walls by Mashiro and Misaki.
- In comes an autumn storm. And a visitor from across the pond.
- Say hello to Rita, who is determined to bring Mashiro back. Of course, Mashiro won't go back.
- Rita is staying in Sorata's room until Mashiro says yes. And Ryunosuke finally comes out of hiding.
- So Ryunosuke loves tomatoes, and likes doing stuff on his computer all the time.
- Yep, Sorata is an idiot.
- It's off to a date between Sorata and Rita, as the condition for vacating his room.
- They are off to a hotel. Wait, they are there to see an art gallery, not have an affair.
- Mashiro's last painting before heading back to Japan, is really something.

Great episode here as we are introduced to a Brit and a guy who looks like a girl and is hardly ever out of his room. Rita looks like a great character seeing how she has looked after Mashiro all this time, but is quite aggressive when it comes to getting Mashiro to return to the world spotlight. Then there is Ryunosuke who is definitely fitting in with the rest of the residents being someone who only cares about doing stuff on his computer. The next episodes should really be great.

[FUNiOP]

A new character in Mashiro's English ex-roommate, Rita, here to take her away from her happy new life and bring her back to the world of fine arts. Of course, Mahiro is not having this, which prompts Rita to, of course, be overly sexual with Sorata until she agrees to it, giving Sorata the rage (or equally unwanted praise) from everyone else once again. After some convincing, Sorata decides that perhaps Rita was right and Mashiro should in fact return. But we can't have her leaving, now can we? Something has to change his mind back. Especially now that they all plan to make this anime together.

Also, Akasaka comes out into the open, and really is voiced by Yui Horie just like his chibi maid creation. This allows her to show off the opposite ends of her range between the two roles, since Maid is of course girly as can be and the real Akasaka, although far more girly than I ever expected, is in fact actually male. I definitely wasn't expecting such a feminine bishounen to be the true face behind this enigmatic hikikomori. Very interesting. Hopefully he'll be a bigger part of the story now that he's been properly revealed.

[bear]

Also, Akasaka comes out into the open, and really is voiced by Yui Horie just like his chibi maid creation. This allows her to show off the opposite ends of her range between the two roles, since Maid is of course girly as can be and the real Akasaka, although far more girly than I ever expected, is in fact actually male. I definitely wasn't expecting such a feminine bishounen to be the true face behind this enigmatic hikikomori. Very interesting. Hopefully he'll be a bigger part of the story now that he's been properly revealed.

That was a total surprise to me. I expected the usual slovenly, unshaven, overweight hikikomori. Sort of like Sako (shudder) from PapaKiki.

[something]

Episode 8:

- Megane Nanamin. =D I like.
- What the hell? That cat sounds like a broken-down car trying to start.

- Teach Mashiro about koi. Also hey, good on the translator for leaving it in a parenthetical note, rather than rying to make some stupid approximated "translation".
- Everyone offers advice on Sorata's game pitch. Well, almost everyone. Mashiro sleeeeepy.
- Ouch, total failure at the presentation.
- And the aftermath is done very very well, something this show is getting increasibly good at.

- So this means... pool time? Sure why not?
- Misaki looks nice as you'd expect, and Nanami, wow. Not into the shorts, but that top, and the nice little animation tuoches put into the, uh, movements... yeah very nice.
- This episode in general has some pretty great visuals. Very nice production values.
- NO PORORI NO LIFE. Words of wisdom to live by, courtesy of Sage Misaki.
- Mashiron can flyyyyyyy!

Very very good.

[something]

Episode 9:

- Oh right, there's a school involved here. We almost never see it so I'd forgotten.
- Hahaha, I love how their classmates tease them. And then happily ship Sorata x other guy.

- Kawasumi Ayako has arrived! I like Rita already.
- And now I like her less because she's doing the old "I can't let you do manga, you should be studying fine art in Europe" thing. I literally just saw this in Bakuman yesterday.
- At least here it's due to some deeper psychological issues (intense jealousy and self-loathing as a byproduct of being too close to Mashiro's perfection for so long) rather than generic "ew manga, that's for plebs" class haughtiness.
- But could they have skipped having her throw herself at Sorata?
- ...Oh. Hello Ryuunosuke. o_O And so casual about it too. Also... possible reverse trap?

Then other stuff. And it was good. I hope they totally skip any feelings for Rita towards Sorata or whatever. She did say she's not interested in him, but that didn't stop the usual cliches like the girls finding her in his futon and stuff. If they focus on her relationship to Mashiro, which seems to be where it's going, she'll be much more interesting.

[FUNiOP]

Akasaka is such an asshole, but I appreciated it so much when Rita started being such a bitch. His logical harshness was exactly what was needed to deal with her illogical aggression. And of course she got to be consoled and accepted. All pretty nice, although a little faster than I expected.

[Buckeye]

- The culture festival is coming up, and the Sakura Hall residents are up against the wall.
- The solution, get Rita to help draw. But how to get her to draw is the problem considering her fake smile.
- Ryunosuke added fuel to the fire, and Rita gave up art thanks to Mashiro trading in her paintbrush for manga.
- Rita didn't quite realize it before. Mashiro has just been lonely and Rita's should love art for what it is.
- Time to get to drawing, and get Nyapollo up and running.
- These next few days will be quite busy, but for now a celebration dinner.

That was a good episode there seeing how Rita and Mashiro had their strained relationship getting repaired. Next episode, things are going to get quite hectic as the residents are getting dressed up in costumes for the festival.

[FUNiOP]

Misaki is so awesome. I was a little surprised that she didn't have twinkles in her eyes from the second Sorata suggested using the power of love to win the battle, but at least had a great reaction once he explained it. Actually, I feel like just hearing "the power of love" should've made her even more excited than what actually ended up being "the power of voice", but still, good stuff.

Hopefully Mashiro's work on Nyapollon will convince Rita that her talents are being put to good use here, enough that she can convince Mashiro's family as well. Of course, we don't actually know if anyone else is that against Mashiro staying, as it could very well be simply Rita's own desire that's causing her to claim that.

So that's where those outfits from the ED came from. I kinda just assumed they were randomly chosen for that sequence. Ryunosuke crossdressing was great, though.

[Buckeye]

- That's what pulling all-nighters will do. Sorata became a zombie waiter.
- Nanami is a maid, Mashiro is a cat, and Misaki is a bear.
- Nanami is taking an unintended shower, and Sorata makes an unintended entry. That stain just messed things up.
- Ryunosuke's feminine appearance came in handy for once. He is a maid guy at the festival.
- The most important rule about making a game: have it move you.
- Jin is supposed to be Misaki's love, but he had something for her sister.
- Now, how to make Nyapollo a success. The residents are backed into the corner with this one.
- One big adjustment to be made: add love as an attribute in this epic battle between Nyapollo and Ein.

That was quite a good episode there and now, those outfits that were worn in the ending have come into full circle. It's all fun for now, and then there is Mashiro's return to England that has yet to be decided on. The next episode should really have a lot going on now that the main event of the festival is coming.

[FUNiOP]

Well the few minutes of relative silence and general ridicule from the audience was tough to watch, their turnaround was a little too immediate and drastic even if that's how it had to be, and I was never a big fan of these kinds of gags where the character was just wording things in a way that would make the others think something different, but other than that... god this episode was amazing.

Everything about Nyapollon went beautifully. It's definitely realistic to have the audience reluctant to shout out their deepest feelings on cue like that. I know I'd be a lot less likely to do that than simple hand movements. I thought Sorata might be the most likely to start shouting his feelings, but having Mashiro do that worked quite nicely. It's amusing how difficult it is for her to be any louder than nearly inaudible. And everyone who followed from that point just got better and better. Of course Misaki would say what she did, and I'm actually surprised she needed anyone else to start it off; she seems like she'd be shouting out her love before the segment even began. Rita's playful crush on Ryunosuke and his embarrassment is getting used to great effect. And neither Sorata nor Mashiro really said what needed to be said at the time (well, that Mashiro started the shouting off was quite important for that purpose), but of course that just had to be built up for the second half of the episode.

Then to chase after Mashiro! Poor Bystander-kun has even less of a chance with Nanami than she has with Sorata. Well, everyone else is paired up, so unless Ryunosuke decides he's ready to be open with girls and doesn't see a long-distance relationship with Rita working, maybe he'll have a chance as the last resort. And I'm so glad they brought back Misaki's driving. Absolutely fantastic.

And the only thing better than Sorata's running hug was the reactions of all the random people in the airport. I'd definitely be there clapping with them. But it turns out Rita was just screwing with them anyway. Oh well, that's one way to work this problem out. For a second there, I was worried that Mashiro really would return, and much of the second cour would be the gang convincing her family that she should come back somehow. And wow, those Western women sure are forward, aren't they? I didn't expect Rita to be the first one to kiss someone. Nice to see her leave on a good note. And now Mashiro is beginning to learn what love is. I wasn't sure at first, but now I'm really glad this is getting a second cour. Oh, and Misaki's romance starts going in a positive direction as well. Yay!

[something]

Episode 10:

Okay now I want them to pair off Ryuunosuke and Rita because it would be hilarious.

But of emotional whiplash in this episode, but it all came together well in the end. I wasn't sure how long it would take for Rita to really go off on Mashiro, but there we have it. Best part of the episode was definitely Mashiro talking to Rita in the park, though. That meant a whole lot more to me than Sorata talking to her again.

[something]

Episode 11:

- Sexy waitress Nanami, yay.
- Cat suit Mashiro is very cute but I prefer the version from Sorata's fantasy.
- "Don't worry, I'm wearing panties." Haha.
- Heh, the seducing of Ryuunosuke continues.
- Random naked Nanami, yay. More of her please.

- That is one giant phone. >_>
- Rita is totally making plans without telling Mashiro.

- Waitress Ryuunosuke too, yay.
- Wait what the fuck Jin? You were dating Misaki's older sister? Again, what the fuck?
- At least it ends with Misaki realizing she still has a chance.

And one last spurt to get Nyapollon done.

[something]

Episode 12:

- Seeing all the characters together always reminds me that Nanami is doomed to be alone. 3 girls, 3 guys... and Nanami. Poor Nanami. That's what you get for being in love with the male protagonist and not being the "Vol. 1 Cover" girl.
- But she makes a cute catgirl at least.
- And she's awesome on stage. Lots of energy, hits all her lines, gets the crowd revved up. She was worried all this time about not being able to contribute as much as the others to the project, but when you get down to it, she is absolutely central to its success.
- Disaster strikes, kinda where I thought it would - but I was not prepared for that Mashiro shout. Holy shit, that was all the more effective for her softspoken personality until now. Fantastic scene, even if the crowd reaction requires a good bit of suspension of disbelief. I loooooooove Mashiro.

- I bet Mashiro is just going to see Rita off at thr airport. Of course everyone is reading too much into it.
- Oh right. Nanami will get paired off with this random nobody from class who likes her. Talk about the consolation prize. Well, we have a lot of episodes left so maybe they'll develop these two more soon.
- Hahaha, yep. Sorata basically confesses his love in front of everyone and all he gets is Rita trollface. Awesome.
- HAHAHA Rita scores a major hit on Ryuunosuke. =D
- And the Mashiro at the end. Gah, such a nice scene.

This show really just insists on being really damn good, doesn't it? I just did a currently watching post before this and pretty much decided it wouldn't make the cut but if they keep ending episodes like that I'm really going to need to reconsider, again. I'm constantly impressed by how high level the production values are in a lot of these scenes.

[Buckeye]

- It's showtime, and the host is Nanami all dressed up.
- The audience took care of those small fries. And now it's a showdown against Ein.
- Shout your love! Wait, how the heck are they supposed to do that?
- Mashiro got the ball rolling. Now everybody is shouting affection.
- And just like that, Nyapollon wins, and the production was quite an amazing success.
- No time to celebrate, cuz Mashiro and Rita are heading back to England.
- Whoops, just Rita is going back, and Mashiro was seeing her off. Mashiro belongs at Sakura Hall.
- Looks like Rita will be back as long as Ryunosuke is there.

That was a very nice episode there and it was funny to see the audience expressing their love in different and unusual ways all to charge up the meatball attack. And then there is the part where Mashiro was apparently going back to England and it turns out that even though Rita could not convince Mashiro to change her mind, her trip definitely changed her perspective. I have a feeling that she will be coming back soon.

[Damius]

- Imouto meets for the first time Mashiro in a towel… Well, Mashiro in a towel is always welcome.
- Mashiro still the best to create misunderstanding.
- The grain of rice didn’t work for Mashiro…as much as she added… Maybe next time?
- Bath scene!
- The imouto wants to join the same school...?

[Damius]

- “Sorata, teach me about koi!”
- You need to improve it Sorata… Mashiro won’t sleep when it will be good enough. Oh wait, but Sleepy Mashiro is so cute.
- “If [Nanami] finds you she’ll be annoyed” “Then I’ll stay” Well done, Mashiro. Well done!!! ^_^
- Ouch… the presentation sure failed.
- Pool Party Time!
- They are all so cute. WOW!
- And all of that cheer all of them up!

That was a really good episode.

[Damius]

- Heh… some class members say that Sorata and Miyahara are a couple…
- Rita is here. And Mashiro hugs her!
- NO, you won’t take back Mashiro to England, you WON’T.
- Rita, Mashiro wants to draw manga, that's what she really wants to do. Please you need to realize that.
- Ryuunosuke came out of her room… That’s a surprise!
- Isn't what Mashiro really wants the most important?

[Damius]

- Rita doesn’t want to draw again…
- And she says that it’s Mashiro’s fault that she gave up on art… This issue needs to be fixed as soon as possible.
- In the end, they were really enjoying painting together. The Rita/Mashiro scene in the park was amazing.

[Damius]

- Nanami as a maid, great!
- Mashiro is wearing a cat girl suit? I definitely want to see that.
- Hehe, I really like the cat girl suit in Sorata’s fantasy.
- And here is the real one. She is so adorable.
- Oh, Rita moved in Ryuunosuke’s room.
- Naked Nanami. That’s nice.
- Well, at the same time Jin will go to Osaka for College and Misaki learned as well that Jin won’t give Fuuka a second chance, so that means she still has a chance. I hope at least her chance will become reality. She would make a cute couple with Jin. Good luck Misaki!
- Nyapollon is completed.

[Damius]

- Nanami as a catgirl… She is really cute.
- Nanami finally got it, the compliment from Sorata.
- It’s time for Nyapollon now…Good luck to everyone!
- Wow, Nanami is really great on stage.
- Come on everyone, SHOUT your love!
- Who saved the situation? Mashiro, of course! Oh my god!
- And after that Misaki declares her love! Wow!
- Nyapollon ending up being a huge success.
- Good for you Misaki, good for you.
- It’s impossible, Mashiro doesn’t want go to England, I’m sure of it.
- That guy said to Nanami that he loves her…
- Of course, Mashiro only wanted to go to the airport to see Rita off. But, doubt made Sorata declares his love!
- There is no doubt that Mashiro belongs to Sakurasou.
- Oops, Ryuunosuke… your strategy completely failed. Nicely done Rita.
- Yeah, I really hope will see Rita again.
- Mashiro is definitely in love! She knows what koi is now.

That was an amazing episode. Wow, I’m out of words. The best thing is that we still have a full cour of it!

[Buckeye]

- You have been dumped by Mashiro. Wait, that's just a dream.
- Jin and Misaki are really going through with their marriage.
- Mashiro is trying to cook. That's quite a huge problem with her manuscript deadline just around the corner.
- Cracking eggs, no problem. Handling the knife, a huge problem.
- She may have cut herself, but she still met her deadline.
- Another failure for Sorata, and gives Mashiro the cold shoulder.
- It's Santa Misaki appearing at Sorata's window asking for something.
- And Sorata pinky swears with Nanami to see a play together on Christmas Eve.

So as the second half of the series begins in excellent fashion, there is a new opening and ending, and a brand new focus. Something tells me that Sorata will somehow manage to break his promise with Nanami, but we will see what materializes from all this as the holidays are approaching.

[FUNiOP]

- You have been dumped by Mashiro. Wait, that's just a dream.
- Jin and Misaki are really going through with their marriage.
- Mashiro is trying to cook. That's quite a huge problem with her manuscript deadline just around the corner.
- Cracking eggs, no problem. Handling the knife, a huge problem.
- She may have cut herself, but she still met her deadline.
- Another failure for Sorata, and gives Mashiro the cold shoulder.
- It's Santa Misaki appearing at Sorata's window asking for something.
- And Sorata pinky swears with Nanami to see a play together on Christmas Eve.

So as the second half of the series begins in excellent fashion, there is a new opening and ending, and a brand new focus. Something tells me that Sorata will somehow manage to break his promise with Nanami, but we will see what materializes from all this as the holidays are approaching.

Yes. All of this. So good. Goddamn.

Too bad this is all setting up for some major heartbreak. Obviously Nanami is going to be the loser (and repeated mentions of Miyahara lead me to believe that that relationship will develop after all), but things are going to be tough for Sorata and Mashiro in the near future as well. I love that Ryunosuke giving Rita Sorata's number led to her getting his number after all. Such good character writing; I love it.

[Buckeye]

- Mashiro wants some baumkuchen, and Mashiro wants Sorata to eat some, too.
- Deny all you want. This is a date even if Nanami says it's not.
- Time for the tomboy to unleash her feminine side even if just for one night.
- So Nanami is from Osaka, and an audition is coming up. It's pass or go home.
- It's an emergency! Mashiro has vanished! Could it be an accident? No, she is just freezing.
- Sorata and Mashiro declare their love, in front of Nanami. Now, about that letter.
- Sorata has another chance. Let's just hope he learned from his first failure.
- It's dark back at the dorm, and Misaki is naked. According to Jin, it's not quite time.

This episode is quite a huge shift compared to the rest of the episodes up to this point as now, it seems like the relationship aspect is getting more serious. There is Sorata and Mashiro showing their love, Jin not going full throttle with his relationship with Misaki, and Ryunosuke trying to keep Rita out of his life. And we don't know exactly where Nanami's heart is after what she saw between Sorata and Mashiro. We will see how things play out. Given that the dorm will be closed for the winter break, it looks like everybody will be going home next.

[Buckeye]

- It's winter break and the girls somehow end up going home with Sorata.
- Meanwhile, Jin is staying over at the former student council president's house.
- Yuko wants to go to Suimei, but not if dad has anything to say about it.
- Even during the break, Sorata is busy. And Yuko studies hard to convince dad to change his mind.
- It's a father-to-son talk about Yuko. But in the bathtub, while daddy is buzzed, no less.
- Time for the new year to come. And the wishes that that come along with it.
- The break is over, and it is time to return to school.

Quite a nice episode here seeing Misaki as her normal self, seeing Yuko again and being introduced to the parents. While Sorata's father can be so cold, he is not like Nanami's parents that will do everything and anything to make sure that they get their way. Yep, he is such a riot. Next episode, it's back to school, and it is going to be about Jin who had put off the marriage until after he finishes college in Osaka.

[something]

Craaaaaaap, behind on new shows, adding more new shows, behind on Fall shows... argh! I didn't want to be three eps behind on this. Though it looks like discussion here almost died at the same point so I guess the Winter season kicking in set a lot of people back on Fall.

Episode 13:

- At least I picked a good point to fall behind. Managed to reach the big mid-series climax anyway. Now for the second half, and a new OP! It's pretty good.
- Nanamin looks like she's ready to kick this love triangle into hgh gear.
- And interestingly, Jin seems to be giving her a hand. At the same time he's always pushed Sorata to understand Mashiro's feelings. I think he just can't resist cheering on a girl in love. ...Unless it's Misaki.

- The cooking scene is a great example of why I love Mashiro. She's got the whole "emotionally subdued and deadpan-serious" archetype and all but she still makes jokes too. "Do you want to be cooked?" lol. Watching her interact with the frantic Sorata reminds me of, like, a battle where one fighter is relying on brute strength and desperate attacks while the other just calmly evades all the hits with the slightest of movements and no sign of expended effort. :sd:
- But daaaaamn, Sorata was a fucking asshole to Mashiro later on that day. He got rejected again and takes it out on her because, what, she wants to have more to her life than just drawing manga? Goddamnit kid, get a grip. I really wanted to smack him. There better be an apology forthcoming.
- Especially since she's doing it all for him. Her reaction to his outburst was very interesting.

- Switching gears, sexy Santa Misaki!
- Oh wow, she's taking this very seriously now.
- And Nanami goes for it!
- Damn, this new ED has a great lead-in to play over the end of an episode. I hope that's used to maximum effect.

I may have been away from it for ages, but it's so easy to settle back in. This is really a first-rate show.

[something]

Episode 14:

- Gah, really really really want to punch Sorata. Good on Jin for telling it like it is too.
- Granted Jin has his own issues - but he's resolved to face them. His way of facing it and Misaki's are conflicting though.
- Damn. This show delivers brilliance when least expected. Like the change in Misaki's voice when she says "Of course I'm scared". And from there she explains the whole circular trajectory she's been on since middle school, a hundred times, and how tired of it she is. It's a great scene, all the more because it's pulled off so flawlessly with such a high-tension, goofball character.

- Christmas Eve. Mashiro is drop dead gorgeous in that dress.
- Nanamin is no slouch either in her very cute date attire. Nice seeing her with her hair straight down and that hairband in.
- When her native dialect slips out more strongly than usual, that's totally another one of her charms.

And then awesomeness, EVERYWHERE. God damn this show is so well written it's just absurd. For one, Misaki finally gets her answer from Jin! But, it's somehow both what she wanted, and also not. Then Nanami drops a bombshell about a do or die audition. And Mashiro... man. I feel so bad for Nanami. As usual, I'm drawn towards her type. Mashiro is a fantastic character, but Nanami's doomed love is what makes me feel for her the most.

But man, Jin. Love doesn't have to be perfect. Do you want Misaki to love you, or do you want to be better than her? She loves you for who you are. I wonder if you love her for who she is - or if you're just impressed with her abilities. Maybe that's why you can't understand something so simple.

[something]

Episode 15:

- CR translator person, Mashiro said "paku" (eating noise), not "baka".
- And um everyone speaks the break over Sorata's house because... yeah.
- Who cares, it's an excuse to hear Arai Satomi as UBER TROLL MOM.

- Watch out Misaki, your greatest romantic rival may be the (former) student council president!
- Looks like they've found something to keep Nanami occupied during the break. She's taken to Yuuko, since she understands the feeling of parents objecting to your dreams.
- Sorata's dad is kinda...
- Relationship advice from Mashiro? Misaki, you really have fallen to a bad place. :sd: Still, good call by Mashiro, it was something obvious, but Misaki was too close to see it.

- "What father could takl to his son sober?" ::sd:
- "I'll make Jin look at me!" "I'll pass my presentation!" 'I'll pass my audition!" "I'll get into Suimei!" "Meatball beam, nyaaaa" - One of these things is not like the other.
- Misaki is back in action! Good job Mashiro.

Sorata's presentation is very soon, then it'll be about two months before Nanamin's audition. Fight-o, Nanamin!

[Damius]

- “a person must experience…. pain….” Eh… Mashiro.
- A bento with a clear message… but…
- “Is that a love letter?” It’s even more than that… Marriage!
- Oh Mashiro… was just standing there in Sorata’s room… Eh.
- Mashiro wants to make a bento!
- Of course, holding a knife like that looks more natural… for Mashiro anyway!
- Sorata, because you had bad news, you needed to be that way with Mashiro? I hope you feel sorry about that and you tell her you are.
- Misaki sure is sexy!
- Good luck, Misaki!
- Nanami was able to ask… and succeeded.

That was a really good episode. It’s great to have another cour. I’m definitely looking forward for more.

[FUNiOP]

Sorata half-passes the presentation, which might as well be a huge success at this point. Now he gets to continue to work toward this goal without having to start over from step one, which is really as much as we could ask for. It's not a total victory, but it's still great to see some progress after his initial total failure. Next time, Valentine's Day, and all that comes with it.

[Buckeye]

- Looks like Jin won't be back for quite some time while studying for exams.
- This time, Sorata passes his presentation. Well, not completely, but they guys are very interested.
- There is love brewing between Sorata and Nanami.
- So the VG designer is friends with Chihiro. Well, it's a great thing he accepted the proposal.
- Valentine's Day is around the corner, and it also happens to be the day Nanami has her auditions.
- Yuko makes an overnight visit to get ready for exams. She just doesn't realize what Sorata has been up to.
- It's exam day, and Yuko is off, and letting her brother love complex be known.

Things moved pretty fast in this episode as Sorata's presentation went well this time, and then there is that love triangle going on. And now, the day of reckoning for Nanami comes near as it's Valentine's Day and the day that Nanami auditions to become a seiyuu as it's pass or go home. Somebody's feelings are going to get hurt in the next episode it looks like, but whose it is, we will soon find out.

[something]

Episode 16:

- Presentation time. But first, meganekko Nanamin!
- And Misaki is a bullfrog.
- Well, good job Sorata. You don't need to scream in every scene though, even if you're really happy. Now on to Nanamin soon, I'm much much much more interested in her audition. I mostly just wanted Sorata to pass so he'd stop being a mopey douchebag to Mashiro.

- I like jealous Mashiro because it adds another layer to her character. I hope she just doesn't take it too far. She's not malicious about it at all but having her constantly try to head-off, or copycat, anything Nanami does has to affect Nanami eventually. She won't admit it until she's on the verge of snapping but it's gotta be lingering there.
- Imouto has arrived.
- Mashiro in a towel is always a wonderful sight.

I really do love those lead-in notes to the ED.

[FUNiOP]

That might've been slightly less eventful than I'd expect from Valentine's Day. Still some pretty significant progress. Obviously things can't be too conclusive until we reach the end of the series.

It's kinda too bad, but I figured Nanami would probably pass her confession off as practice, for the reasons stated above. At least the blatant clues made Sorata start putting two and two together a little bit, but he still doesn't believe it. I'm glad Miyahara is such a good guy. If he does end up more important near the end and gets to be with Nanami, I'll feel a little better about it with more moments like this from him. Obviously they'll have to make Nanami's feelings seem genuine, though, which would be a bigger challenge at this stage in the story.

Sorata is obviously less oblivious about Mashiro's feelings since she doesn't know how to sort them out herself, much less hide them, and she's clearly the one who got his affection in this episode, even if he spent more time helping out Nanami.

Rita and Ryuunosuke definitely make an interesting pair. Very subtle progression on that here, but it looks promising for the endgame. But goddamn, she flew to Japan for that and got nothing for it. :(

[Buckeye]

- It's Valentine's Day, which means chocolates. The ones Sorata have are quite a work of art.
- Rita is back, and is after Ryunosuke. Of course, he isn't exactly in love with her.
- Uh, oh! It's just her rotten luck that a train accident is putting her audition in jeopardy.
- That bike isn't built to hold two, but desperate times call for desperate measures.
- Nanami made it, and apparently she outed a confession while doing some last-minute practice.
- Talk about a bad day. Jin never shows up, Rita went home already, and Mashiro...
- Well, at least Sorata shows up to deliver his affection and chocolates.
- It's time for a big dinner at the dorm. Chocolate-filled gyoza anybody?

This was quite a serious episode here seeing how these characters got messed up on a day where love is supposed to be for lovers, and all this happens. Misaka is still waiting for Jin, while Nanami was in quite a bind there, causing Mashiro to be on edge. Then there was Rita being rejected by Ryunosuke (although being aggressive like that is often a bad idea) and is now back in England. This is the audition Nanami has to pass or else she goes home, and she probably failed it since she was quite tired after having to go through this mess that she didn't have much left in the tank.

[something]

Episode 17:

- Gaaaaah I really hope Nanami passes her audition, but it's probably more dramatic if she doesn't and has to succeed some other way.
- Mashiro that's not how panties work.
- Hey, she (mostly) got herself ready. Progress, Mashiro.
- Rita Kita! Awww, cute kiss. I love Mashiro's smile.

- Miyahara. I have no real reason to dislike you, but I kinda do anyway becayuse I know you only exist to be a consolation prize for Nanami when she gets rejected. =/
- Damnit Ryuunosuke, don't make Rita sad. ;_;
- Hauhau has Haohao headphones.

- Of course Nanami's train gets stuck. I was going to say she should get a taxi but hey, they actually address why she can't instead of just ignoring the obvious for dramatic purposes.
- But jesus Sorata, stop screaming. You don't need to yell every time you say anything. Drama is not defined by volume.
- Rita didn't get to see Ryuunosuke. ;_;
- And damnit Jin you deadbeat, come get Misaki's chocolate! Goddamnit what is wrong with the men in this show?

- Very nice scene on the roof with Mashiro, although her jealousy is still pretty strong.
- And the post-ED, it maybe finally starts getting through Sorata's thick skulls that Nanami likes him.

Ahhhh, now to wait to find out if Nanami passed. Want to know now~

[Damius]

- Sorata… How could you??? Poor Mashiro…
- Thank you Jin. Thank you.
- Wow… Mashiro is so beautiful in that dress.
- He was not able to talk to her when Mashiro asked for it…
- Nanami is definitely really cute. Her outfit, her hair suits her really well.
- What a great scene it was between Nanami and Sorata.
- But then… Mashiro disappeared.
- Before we continue on that matter… Jin confessed his love to Misaki!
- And then… Mashiro’s scene… What a scene! Awesome!
- But, I feel bad for Nanami…
- Jin is not ready since he stills can’t threat Misaki the way he wants… At least she knows that he loves her.

This show… THIS SHOW!!! Even after 14 episodes it still surprises me at how good it is.

[FUNiOP]

Yuko's pain is infinitely entertaining.

And that's basically Misaki and Jin's story all wrapped up. And what a way to do it. Every contribution from every character throughout the whole thing was really great. And seeing the whole backstory was a nice touch. Misaki's parents are awesome. It's too bad Fuuka couldn't be the same way, but she's an interesting character in her own right. I hope we get some kind of epilogue showing Jun coming back after four years.

And with as happy as everyone was from that (and the number of episodes left compared to the relationships left to work out), I figured it would have to end with something like that.

[Buckeye]

- Misaki calls, and Jin won't answer.
- Gotta get some drawings from Mashiro for the upcoming game.
- Yuko failed the entrance exam. So much for going to Suimei and her big celebration.
- They can't exactly leave things as is. So Jin goes off to the rooftop with Sorata and a fistfight ensues.
- And a glimpse into Jin's past. He sure was close to Fuuka before deciding that Misaki is who he prefers.
- Misaki is dragged by Nanami to the rooftop. And the faculty are quite up in arms about it.
- They can go anywhere, and they are now tying the knot.
- And Sakura Dormitory is about to be bulldozed.

That was quite a nice episode that bridges the gap between Jin and Misaki about how their relationship has gone south with Jin headed off to Osaka. But then the episode ends with a huge cliffhanger after the credits that Sakura Dormitory is about to meet the bulldozer. The next episode should really be something with the residents trying to save their home as the situation goes from being a conflict between lovers to a huge crisis for all the residents.

[something]

Episode 18:

- Jin finally calls Misaki and she misses it. Or did she notice it and ignore it? I can't tell from the shot.
- Sorata seems upset about using Mashiro's illustrations to help him make his pitch. I really hope he doesn't take it out on her again due to his obnoxious inferiority complex. Hopefully he's just concerned about pulling her away from her manga.

- More of Mashiro's cute but borderline obsessive jealousy. It really teeters riiight on the edge of adorable and irksome. :sd:
- Alright so he does just seem to be concerned about her manga, not about getting help. Good.
- Oh wow, Yuuko failed the exam. Ouch. I was not expecting that. Poor Yuuko.

- And we move right on to the next crisis. Bye bye Yuuko. :sd:
- Go go Nanamin! Bring Misaki to Jin! Although it doesn't look like he's changed much. At least he's not willing to be honest about how he feels in front of them.
- Now Sakura-sou is a fighting anime.
- KO, Jin wins. "Sorata, are you dead?" :sd:

- Middle school flashback time!
- Sure did not take long for all the girls to ostracize Misaki, and the guys to view her as just a crazy pair of boobs.
- And we come back to that Jin/Fuuka scene.

- Back to the present and FUCK YEAH NANAMIN! She listens to the whole backstory and just goes "Oh hell with it" and leaps out the window with Misaki. =D And haha the look on her face when the thing goes crashing to the ground.
- Of course they arrive just in time. =D
- And then Jin kinda sorta proposes to Misaki. Yay! Though he'll still be gone for four years.

Earlier today I placed a really early March order (oh god it's going to come to over $2000 even with the better exchange rate these days) and finally bit the bullet to put the first three volumes of this in the order. Episodes like this are exactly why.

Post-ED:
- Although "the dorm will be demolished" is a pretty cliche last-minute crisis. Seems like there's enough drama potential just in the main love triangle + Ryuunosuke/Rita but I'm sure this brilliant show will work something out.

[Damius]

- In the end, all the girls go to Sorata's house.
- Well, let’s just say that Sorata’s family is out of the ordinary.
- So they are objected to Yuuko’s dreams… As soon as Nanami hears that she reacts, since she is in the same situation.
- It’s great that Mashiro was able to help Misaki!
- I’m sure you’ll pass your audition Nanami! You can do it!

[Buckeye]

- The dormitory is going away: inspectors found that the place is falling apart.
- Time for some flashbacks with the photo.
- Sorata and his cat got quite the welcome from Misaki. She was hiding in the closet.
- 98-match winning streak in Fatal Fury for Misaki. Sorata may be a gamer, but Misaki is an even bigger one.
- There's a ghost in the dorm. Wait, that's just Ryunosuke coming out of his room for once.
- And Misaki is keeping Sorata from sleeping. It's off to the part to find his second cat.
- Upon returning, it's another hot pot party with Jin.
- They will fight to save the place.

Here is a great flashback episode here, as it is pretty evident that these residents want to save their place as it has so many memories and stuff that they don't want to forget.

[FUNiOP]

Sorata flashback episode. Seems a little sudden, but I guess it fits with looking back on Sakura Hall and deciding why it's so important to keep. Definitely good stuff, seeing him meet everyone for the first time and realizing just what he got himself into.

I was a little surprised that Sorata decided that kouhai-kun would be Misaki's nickname for him; I assumed it was just another Misaki-ism.

"Remember that thing that happened in the opening?" "Yep... good times..."

Next time... Nanami episode maybe? Perhaps we'll learn the results of her audition.

[stardf29]

Watching this episode, it struck me that Misaki must have been pretty lonely before Sorata moved in. Chihiro-sensei lets her be, Ryuunosuke holes himself up in his room, and Jin to say the least, things are complicated between the two, not to mention that he's usually goofing off with other girls.

No wonder she's attached herself so much to Sorata.

[Damius]

- Good for you Sorata.
- Now please show us what I was really waiting for, Nanami!
- They are just acting… but there is no doubt Nanami would prefer they wouldn’t.
- Mashiro is so jealous… but doesn’t know it, or doesn’t know what jealousy really is, that makes it more interesting.
- Mashiro in a towel!!

We will have to wait next time (?) for Nanami audition. Good luck Nanami!

[Buckeye]

- The petition to save Sakura Hall from the wrecking ball is on. Miyahara is the first to sign.
- And the real reason for the immediate bulldozing: Mashiro's squandered potential for being a manga artist.
- Ryunosuke sure doesn't think it's worth saving. Neither does Sorata if Mashiro is not there.
- So that's why Ryunosuke rarely comes out. He was too good for his friends.
- Pass or fail, Nanami is leaving. And her audition ended in failure.
- Ryunosuke gets a phone call from Rita. No, it's not about love but about something far more important.
- Next attempt to collect signatures is Misaki's crazy idea of wearing animal costumes.
- And Ryunosuke comes through with the website and the notebook in the computer lab.

Great episode here, and we finally learn more about Ryunosuke, and how he ended up being locked inside his room. But it turns out he is an excellent hacker, which is coming in handy here. Being too good means nobody was willing to socialize with him given how he fails to look down at others who need to be looked that way. The battle continues on as he has only 300 sigs and needs lots more, all while Sorata's presentation is approaching.

[FUNiOP]

This show continues to be very good. As always, it's great to see everyone come together for a common good, and this is definitely a good opportunity to show that.

The developing relationships are always welcome, and this time we returned to one of the most minor ones with Rita and Ryuunosuke. Definitely a cute little dynamic because of how tsundere Ryuunosuke is. But Rita knows how to get what she wants, including getting some information from Maid-chan, and ultimately Ryuunosuke helps out in his own way. Definitely nice to learn more about Ryuunosuke's past, and the serious reasons behind his current lifestyle. I guess he was really the only one who hadn't some backstory explanation yet.

Very nice to see them all realizing that he's contributing just as much at the end. Let's see if they can find a dragon costume for him. And of course Mashiro has to get back in that cat costume.

Next time looks like it might have a bit more focus on Mashiro. Sounds about right. Looks like the story is staying strong through to the end.

[Damius]

- Please let Nanami pass her audition.
- Rita is back!
- You can give your chocolate to Jin, Misaki!
- Noooooooo… Nanami train stopped…
- Bicycle at the rescue.
- That was believable… it's the truth!
- I love that scene with Mashiro on the roof.
- No… we’ll have to wait next time to know if Nanami passed her audition.

[something]

Episode 19:

Good flashback overall, but god damn hearing that much screaming Sorata in one episode is painful. I still don't think "the dorm will be demolished" the the best possible ending arc but I have confidence it'll still turn out well.

[something]

Episode 20:

- Two thirds of the student body? Damn that is a harsh petition threshold. Especially for a decision that only affects about half a dozen people.
- Ryuunosuke is not entirely wrong, but his way of presenting it still leaves much to be desired.
- Oh hey backstory for him, thanks to Maid-chan. Rita, fly back to Japan!
- Shiho! YOu're adorable, why haven't we met you before (that I remember)?

- Ffffffffffffffff that brief smile, that fleeting moment of hope, before Nanami reveals she failed. I felt crushed when she said it. Damn. That's one of the subtle touches that this show excels at, and that puts it above so many other shows that seem similar on the surface. It's not something you can put in a PV or explain in a short review. You just have to watch it and see for yourself.
- Even worse is that she doesn't even have time to let loose and cry. It's just bottle it up, move on, worry about the next crisis.

Ryuunosuke comes through nicely at the end there. But Mashiro definitely heard everything he said earlier. I have no doubt.

Very good episode. Coming into the final stretch now.

Post-ED:
- Yeah now I'm even more sure Mashiro knows.

[FUNiOP]

We're definitely on our way to the end here. The scene in the rain was so great. This show definitely shaped up into one of my favorites for the past couple of seasons.

And sure, it follows plenty of standard tropes (very well), but it also makes a big point about being very real. The characters fail constantly, no matter how hard they work, and the gifted can succeed without having to try at all. Of course, that wouldn't mean much if one person's perspective was the absolute truth. I could never blame Sorata for feeling the way he does after all that's happened, but the "great" things being thrown at Mashiro aren't what she wants at all either.

[Buckeye]

- The sigs keep on coming. The residents are still going full force to protect their home.
- It's raining, and Nanami is crying. Off to the nurse's office she goes.
- Bad news for Sorata: his great proposal was snubbed. Gotta realize that life is unfair.
- Nanami is spaced out fully exposed to the rain, thinking about her rejection. Sorata now feels her pain.
- All it takes is a hug, and they are out of the rain, and sleeping in the nurse's office.
- The residents fought well, but it's not quite enough. They are still way short.
- A letter in the mail, and Mashiro will work as a character designer.

The bottom totally fell out in this episode as it was just all-around depressing. First, the residents are trying to do the impossible to save their home from the wrecking ball and if that wasn't enough, Sorata and Nanami are at a crossroad in their lives where they don't know where to go next. We will see where the characters go from here as they have big decisions ahead of them.

[FUNiOP]

And again, this series proves to be one of the best of recent seasons. I think it's safe to say that Nanami officially accepts her loss, with sadness but as far from bitterness and regret as possible, and encourages Sorata to finally confess his own feelings to Mashiro, keeping her from leaving at the last possible moment, with a full classic train scene and a fake-out to keep us gripped. I knew it would turn out the way it did, but it was still very successful. Time for graduation...

[Buckeye]

- Gotta find Mashiro. Ryunosuke's Mashiro radar leads them to the art room.
- There is a painting of the dorm. But Mashiro is missing.
- Next step, have Jin and Misaki search the school while the others go around town.
- And Rita has come back for Ryunosuke again. This time, Ryunosuke really needs her.
- Back to the place Sorata first met Mashiro at the station, and there is Mashiro just about to leave.
- Sorata declares his love for Mashiro and urges her to come back.
- Mashiro is gone... to the other side where Sorata is waiting for her.
- Time for the graduation ceremony. The underclassmen are going to be late.

Quite a nice episode here as it is episodes like these that put this show above other shows of its type (and just by watching the first couple of episodes alone, there was absolutely no hint that something like this would eventually come). While the residents were able to convince Mashiro to not run away from this battle, the next episode will be crucial. It's the commencement to start things off, but the fate of the dorm still hangs in the balance. I am thinking that the student council president, who is one of the guys who signed the petition, will make a speech about the dorm at commencement, and the students in the audience will rally behind him as the last sigs needed to convince the board to change their minds about bulldozing the building.

[something]

Episode 21:

- God it sucks to see Nanami slowly collapse under the pressure of her disappointment like this. She loses her dream, and is going to lose her home and her friends. She's tried to be strong but what can you do about that?
- And then some bad news for Sorata too. Sakura-sou is failing all over,
- Haha, woah hey, a shouout to Vocaloid. Awesome.
- Sorata, that pose you've fallen into looks really uncomfortable...
- ...Holy shit. That Nanami in the rain scene. Wow. That was fucking brilliant. For a second I thought she was going to say "all I care about is making you love me" or something annoying, but to my relief her emotions are portrayed as more complicated than that. She's sacrificed so much, more than anyone, for her dream of being a seiyuu. And it just fell apart.

Man. So let's recap:
1. Nanami failed her audition. Everything she's sacrificed for two years has gone up in smoke.
2. Sorata's game was rejected at the screening and he's lost all courage to push again.
3. They're hundreds of signatures short for saving Sakura-sou, and time is up.
4. Then Mashiro beats Sorata again without even trying by getting that concept art offer.
5. And unsurprisingly, Mashiro reacts by leaving Sakura-sou.

Yeah things aren't going very well. Fantastic episode though.

[something]

Episode 22:

- Operation Search For Mashiro has begun.
- Nanami finally confess-- wait, Nanami. That wasn't a confession. And yet I'm some how happier this way. The timing would have been terrible for one, but this also shows that Nanami knows what's most important right now. And she knows what she can and can't realistically hope for. Besides, nothing she said was a lie. It just wasn't the whole truth.
- Hah, Ryuunosuke finally gives in an asks Rita for help.
- And she's right there! YAY RITA!

Holy shit the station platform scene was incredible. These scenes are always a little awkward for taking place in public, but god damn, that was amazing anyway. What really sold it was Nanami's involvement. Fuuuck that was beautiful. I can't believe how good this show is with Nanami. It would be so easy to fall into annoying tropes about the third wheel, but she refuses to be a bland character like that. And I just love any scene that has Mashiro getting really emotional - her deadpan demeanor is hilarious in comedic scenes, but when she really lets her feelings out in these serious scenes it's just outstanding.

Maaaaan. This may well be the most underrated show from 2012.

With the possible exception of AnoNatsu, this is the best show JC Staff has done since Toradora.

[stardf29]

Ha, I knew that once the train had passed, Mashiro wouldn't be there because she was crossing over to the other side. Maybe I'm a bit too used to these things. :sweat:

All things said, though, this episode was amazing. The scene at the train station was already good with just Sorata and Mashiro, but when Nanami arrived and made her own connection with Mashiro, it really just brought the whole thing up to another level.

The only question now, is, just how will the last two episodes follow up on that?

[bear]

OMG, that was not what I was expecting. I expected Misaki to pull some crazy stunt, instead I wound up as emotional as the kids. That was just a great speech and they pulled it off wonderfully. There's one more episode, but this was a perfect ending.

[bear]

Something really hit me after listening to Misaki explaining how she came to Sakurasou. The school administrators weren’t closing Sakurasou because of Mashiro. It was because Misaki was leaving! She said that there was no one else as Sakurasou when she was sent there except the advisor. Sakurasou was to be demolished just after she graduated. It was only there to isolate their problem genius (Misaki) because they didn’t want to expel her but didn’t want to deal with her either (the rat bastards). Mashiro was being used as the excuse for the real reason though. They would have done it anyway even if she hadn’t been there. None of the other inhabitants were ones that really could cause trouble for the administration. Jin is gone, Nanami is gone, Sorata could just be expelled if he didn’t give up his cats (who really cares about him anyway), Ryuu just wants to be left alone, and Mashiro isn’t going to cause any sort of outburst that would be troublesome for the school like Misaki might do.

[FUNiOP]

Absolutely beautiful graduation episode from the first second to the last. I can't even pretend the amount of time spent on recapping the series was remotely detrimental to the episode. Yes, I can see the situation rationally like Ryunosuke as well, but that pales in comparison to the emotional effect that was accomplished.

Also, I know it's a classic graduation song (I actually didn't realize it was specifically for elementary school until this episode pointed it out), but I still can't help thinking of that Evangelion scene when I hear it now. :sweat:

If the finale can be anywhere near as perfect as this episode, this series will turn out to be quite the masterpiece.

[Buckeye]

- Time for graduation, and the students are given sakura pins, an idea coming from Rita.
- Misaki gives the speech, not the student council president. It sure was such a great ride.
- And now, the moment of truth. Save the dormitory from the bulldozer, it's in the hands of the students.
- The faculty and staff are sure up in arms over it. Chihiro knows they won't listen to reason.
- Time for the vote. All students who oppose the demolition, toss your sakura pins into the air. It's just about unanimous.
- And the dorm is saved. The experience and atmosphere is just way too valuable.
- Clever idea by the Tatebayashi to let Misaki speak at graduation.

This episode was pretty much what I was expecting with an emotional speech about Sakura Hall and the students respond by giving their support to save the place from the wrecking ball, although I wasn't expecting it to be given by Misaki. But then again, Tatebayashi couldn't have pulled it off seeing how he is not one of its residents. While they fell quite short in gathering sigs, this is a far more effective method seeing how the whole school is in attendance. One more episode to go as now the dorm gets three new residents with Jin and Misaki graduated and Nanami returning home, and one of them won't be Yuko since she flunked the entrance exam.

[stardf29]

And that was awesome.

This particular episode just confirmed Misaki as the best character of this show. Hyper-hyperactive characters like her so rarely show this level of depth of emotion or have this much depth of character. And yet, despite initially coming off as even more hyper than most such characters, across the show Misaki has really shown herself to be much more than just that, and her graduation speech here really shows everything about what sort of person she is and why I like her so much.

[something]

Episode 23:

- Heh, Jin finally takes Misaki up on one of her advances.
- And the kouhai make it in time for graduation, barely.
- Good on Ryuunosuke and Rita with the sakura pins. Rita getting Ryuunosuke flustered never stops being enjoyable.
- Hah, fuck yeah student council president, giving his farewell speech time over to Misaki.

And then holy shit, the number of awesome moments was impossible to keep track of. Everything just exploded, and while some bits felt too contrived, and others were overly dramatic (mostly Sorata's yelling always grating so harshly on my ears), the overall effect was the best goddamn graduation episode since Clannad, and the best "real" graduation possibly ever. There are so many points where lesser shows would have fallen flat on their faces (for example, while I still like the show, Maoyuu recently tried the "long dramatic speech riling up crowd support" scene and it pales in comparison to this) trying to do something like this. But Sakurasou made it work, as it's consistently make things work through sheer willpower and guts.

Misaki's speech was fucking phenomenal. She's such a powerful character, and nobody else could have pulled that off. Her individual addresses to the residents of Sakurasou were really overwhelming. Especially Chihiro-sensei and Mashiro. And then Ryuunosuke totally gets his moment to shine confronting the teachers, as does everyone else. So good, so god damned good.

It really sucks that this show is not being recognized for what I feel it is - one of the absolute best teen romantic drama/comedies since Toradora. As far as novel adaptations go, I can probably only think of 6-8 from any genre at all that I might put higher.

[bear]

Episode 23:
Misaki's speech was fucking phenomenal. She's such a powerful character, and nobody else could have pulled that off. Her individual addresses to the residents of Sakurasou were really overwhelming.

Big kudos to Misaki's seiyuu, the writer and the director. She really "sold" that speech. Just enough drama, pathos, and backstory to make you believe she actually lived it and felt it. Especially given the normal over the top genki character Misaki normally is, but then she's had some awesome moments of sadness in other episodes. Now if they had gotten a VA who could have done as well with Sorata...

As for Toradora I can't rank it as high, but then I'm really prejudiced in that regard. The last few episodes have really amped up their game though and have certainly brought up my impression of the show. Certainly in the top ten of teen romances.

[something]

As for Toradora I can't rank it as high, but then I'm really prejudiced in that regard. The last few episodes have really amped up their game though and have certainly brought up my impression of the show. Certainly in the top ten of teen romances.
It's still a big notch below Toradora overall. As for where it ranks, I guess I could get really bogged down in questions of classification... are this and the Key titles in the same genre? This and Haruhi? Depends how broadly I define it. I think I'd decisively classify it differently from Haruhi (much more sci-fi heavy) and Air (much more fantasy/supernatural) but you can make an argument for keeping Clannad and Kanon in the same group at least.

I've got this scored a high 9/10, assuming the ending delivers. The only other similar titles I score about the same are Chuunibyou, AnoNatsu, and AnoHana, and I'd say there are things this does better than any of them (but also things it does worse, so I'd have trouble precisely ranking them). The only titles above them are Toradora, Hyouka, and Hourou Musuko at 10/10. If I start counting certain visual novels, then Clannad, Kanon, and ef memories as well.

But that's really it. Never thought, when I first started watching this, I would consider it one of the best examples (#10 at worst) of its genre ever made. But it really is.

[Damius]

- Yuuko failed her exam… Poor Yuuko.
- Who will be able to convince Jin?
- Well, here we go Jin vs. Sorata.
- Welp, Jin won. Don’t worry Mashiro, I think he is alive.
- It’s your turn Nanami, you need to succeed.
- Nanami reaction to the backstory was perfect. Wow!
- Jin you got that one wrong. Here she is.
- He proposed to her… but Misaki will have to wait for four years.
- Well, then the "sakurasou will be demolished" was not a route they needed to take.

Still, we have here another amazing episode.

[Buckeye]

- Time to say goodbye. Rita to the airport for London, and Jin and Nanami to the train station for Osaka.
- Ryunosuke is going pro. He did all his work from his room, but now he is out and about.
- Sorata and Mashiro are about to kiss. Not so fast, the cat has something to say about it.
- It's time for the new year, and a welcoming hot pot. Nanami is back after somehow convincing her strict parents.
- Kanna and Iori are moving in. Kanna is fed up with her roommate, and Iori is a pervert.
- And the two sure got a rude welcoming with Sorata's bloodied knife from cooking, and Ryunosuke with the sickle.
- Wait, didn't Yuko flunk her entrance exam? She was reading her exam number upside down. And Misaki is now working nearby.
- And the new school year begins with a full house.

That's a very nice way to end this show, and certainly the new residents will make life at the dorm very lively like it was last year. The farewells, and the reunions, and new beginnings are all a nice way to put a bow on this show.

Overall, this show looked like it was headed for a huge train wreck seeing how shows set up like this tend to be terrible. But that lasted for only the first couple of episodes as shortly after that, it definitely shows its identity as a show that is about community and friendship more than anything. The plot was great and everything, and the cast list was just great. It felt like Sorata was a hapless lead like in a typical harem, Mashiro was eye candy, Misaki is the crazy girl full of nonsense, and Chihiro was going to be a jerk, all of which were not the case. I will buy the Sentai release if it gets released on BD as I really enjoyed this show, and certainly is my sleeper pick of the year. And with the way this show ended, it's definitely possible for there to be a second season.

[FUNiOP]

Well that wasn't as amazing as the previous episode, but it never really could've been, and we needed some kind of further wrap-up. This one also managed to throw us into the future, offering us a taste of the next year for Sakurasou, and in just those few minutes, it's clear that it will at least be as fun as this past one, and with new blood and the old guard continuing to strive toward the goals that have remained out of their reach despite all their hard work, plus whatever other surprises could come along, surely some of the same level of emotion could be reached as well. After all, I certainly never expected the show to ever be nearly as moving as it managed to be time and time again throughout its run. Although I was surprised at first, I can't imagine this not getting two cours at this point. I don't know if there's any real possibility of getting another season, and I don't think there needs to be one -- this works as an epilogue at least as well as it would work for a setup for more -- but I certainly wouldn't complain if we got to spend more time with this family.

And that's really what it is: a family. Even with some gone (which really only amounts to Jin in the end) and some new joining (one of whom happens to be Sorata's family in the literal sense, although that's hardly the point), the spirit of Sakurasou lives on, and it would take a lot more shaking up of the cast to take that away. Plus, we already have a new guy who comes off as a pervert joining the crew, and while it may feel like heresy to compare him to Jin on those grounds, I never could've expected to care about him from his initial characterization. The same is true of the entire cast, really, which is why I'm sure any new characters would follow suit easily enough. If Misaki and Nanami really ended up exiting the picture for good along with Jin (and if Rita stayed away), I could see that being irreparable damage to what makes Sakurasou so great, but that didn't end up being the case. And since we got to see Nanami and even Misaki return in the end and continue being as awesome as ever, I'm glad we didn't just end on the incomparably beautiful note of graduation day, as that also left a melancholy feeling of Nanami's fate being unknown and Misaki being out of the picture.

So in the very likely event that this is the last we'll ever see of this story animated, I'm just glad I got to spend this time with these characters and their struggles, and I'll think about what might happen to them in the future even if I never really find out. I look forward to watching this when Sentai releases it, assuming it gets the Blu-ray treatment. I still can't believe how bad I assumed this would be from the beginning, especially since I was closer to dropping it than anything else as a result. I'm sure I'll still have some issues with the first few episodes even knowing how amazing these characters really are and everything that will happen to convey that, and it still has some fanservice and the like scattered throughout that I could do without, but it actually ended up being one of my favorite J.C. Staff series. I definitely didn't think that I'd like this so much more than their other new series to run across these two seasons, Little Busters!, but J.C. Staff managed to flip all my expectations completely around. It certainly didn't hurt Sakurasou to clearly have the bigger budget (because apparently it makes sense to give the new Key adaptation a shit budget), but the creative staff was clearly much more capable in this case. I didn't end up liking it as much as Psycho-Pass (not even close in the end, really), but obviously you watch those two for entirely different reasons, so it's not fair to compare that to this on the same level as you would another slice-of-life drama, which there are plenty of, and which this, shocking as it was, ended up being the clear winner.

[stardf29]

Dang, where do I start? Such a great way to end what has really become such a fantastic show. Rita gets a kiss in on Ryuunosuke, Jin and Misaki get married (well, Jin only presented Misaki the registration form; Misaki being Misaki just turned it in early), Nanami convinces her parents to let her stay at Sakurasou and continue pursuing voice acting, and as much as I wanted Sorata and Mashiro to have a real kiss (darn you Hikari!), her cheek-kiss was still adorable.

And we meet the new residents of Sakurasou, the pervert younger brother of the former student council president's girlfriend, and a quiet studious girl who wants to have her own room... both of whom of course get introduced to Sakurasou in the best way to get introduced there: to utter chaos. Also, Yuko is there! She totally did not misread her exam number upside-down, of course. :P (Though, she's not actually staying at Sakurasou, is she? She was mentioned to be the former roommate of Kanna, and Sakurasou doesn't exactly have room for seven students... ah, whatever.)

The final version of Mashiro's painting of Sakurasou, with all the members old and new, including herself, was perfect. Even with Yuko only getting a random portrait window. Being Yuko is suffering. :P

Final Thoughts

The more I look over this show, the more I realize just how much this show has touched me. There's just so much I love about this show. The characters are amazing, breaking past their usual stereotypes to present a well-rounded cast of likable characters. Mashiro is a fascinating character that I can actually relate to fairly well (since I too have trouble sometimes in social interactions), Misaki is a far deeper character than most hyperactive characters like her are, and Nanami breaks past the stigma of being the "friend that is romantically interested in the male lead but has no chance of winning" and becomes an interesting and important character in her own right. The guys are all solid characters too.

Beyond that, one thing that I figured could endear me to this show when I first heard about it was if it could capture that sense of "home" that has been captured by other shows featuring a -sou, such as Mahoraba and Hidamari Sketch. In this way, Sakurasou didn't disappoint me… but it did surprise me, by combining this with something that I can also relate to: the pursuit of creative endeavors, and all the experiences of success and failure that go along with that. The combination is different but effective, and it's what has been driving Sakurasou to be a far greater show than its original premise and first episode had purported it to be; Sakurasou is definitely right up there with Mahoraba and Hidamari Sketch as an amazing show about a "-sou".

All this is to say, this show has truly been the biggest surprise, from a perspective of shows with lackluster opening episode(s) that become good later, since… well, ever. There really is not a single show rated higher than this one which has had an opening episode bad enough that it made me consider dropping it. I'm so glad I stuck with it, though. This show has really been a joy to watch, and there's just so much here that I can connect with myself, too.

(On another note, I'd rather not compare this show with Little Busters! at the moment. Sure, from a score perspective this show is far better, but then again, this show is more or less complete and Little Busters! has still yet to touch on the most important part of its story, so any comparison I feel would be somewhat unfair to LB.)

Final score: 10.7/11.0 - An outstanding show that has personally touched me in various ways. Currently my 11th favorite show of all time.

[Damius]

Well, we just had a really good flashback episode. Now let's see what the show will do with the current situation.

[Damius]

- 2/3 of the students need to sign the petition if they want to protest the school’s decision about Sakurasou? Ouch… that’s a lot.
- So that’s the real reason behind they want to demolished Sakurasou right away…
- Mashiro heard what Ryuunosuke said just now… right?
- Whatever happens at the audition, Nanami will leave Sakurasou in spring...
- Ryuunosuke’s backstory.
- That scene… that scene where after looking at the result of her nomination Nanami smiled, bringing hope, but only for a second, because she just said “I failed”. This was really well done. I really hoped… I really believed...
- And she doesn’t even give herself the chance, the time to cry…
- Ryuunosuke will help in the end. Thanks to Rita.

This show… I mean… THIS SHOW!!!

[something]

Episode 24:

- I really really love that Nanami is not defined by her feelings for Sorata. The most important thing we need to know about her as a character isn't who she has a crush on, but rather what her dreams are. Becoming a seiyuu is her most dearly held goal.
- Chihiro-sensei, you're such a good person. <3 And this episode has me tearing up already.

- So I guess everyone is heading away for break. Rita back to England, Jin and Misaki to get ready for college, Nanami to convince her parents to let her pursue a seiyuu career, and whatever Mashiro and Sorata are doing.
- Mahaha I love Rita. Steals another kiss from an unsuspecting Ryuunosuke.
- Heh she gives Horie Yui Maid a kiss too.
- Oh god Jin and Misaki are even better. Jin kisses her! And then proposes marriage!
- Nanami is next to leave. Poor Nanami, the only one not paired off.
- But she does get an adorable hug in with Mashiro. Awwwwwww.
- Ryuunosuke heads off to a "meeting". I.e., "I'm trying to give you some time alone with Mashiro, doofus."

- So back into Sakurasou they go.
- Aww, Mashiro drew herself into the painting finally.
- And a kiss... ...interrupted by an angry cat.
- But then Mashiro darts in for a surprise kiss on the cheek (her "reservation" and it's totally adorable.

- We jump ahead a bit to the opening ceremony of the next year. And nice, we actually meet the new students. A busty super-smart meganekko, and a sorta delinquent-y guy who is no doubt actually very nice and all that stuff.
- Ahahaha, I love Nanami (who, of course, is back) practicing the horror game lines as the new first-years walk in. That look on their faces... XD
- New guy would get annoying pretty fast (look show, we have more than enough screaming boys with Sorata alone) but this is the final episode so whatever!
- Oh right, new guy has Hau-Hau headphones. He's Hau-Hau's little brother.
- Bwhahaha, oh wow, Yuuko actually passed her exam. She gave Sorata a fake number so he would have no idea she was joining Suimei until she got there. :sd:
- HAH! Misaki figured waiting for Jin to graduate would take too long so she submitted the marriage registration already. Oh god, such a Misaki thing to do. Oh and she moved in right next to Sakurasou. Of course.

And then I looooooved the ED sequence. I'm rather shocked it didn't end with Mashiro cashing in her "reservation" but that just goes to show - Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo has always been about friendship and belonging first, romance second.

I could not be more satisfied with the way this ended. Phenomenal show through and through.

Right now, I easily rank it above everything from Winter, so it currently stands as my #1 show of 2013, since I count 2-cour fall in the next year.

Alright, 2013. Sakurasou is the show to beat. Can you beat this?

[Damius]

That was a so depressing episode… so many depressing things are happening… with Nanami, Mashiro, Sorata… and the fact they doesn’t have enough signatures… Still, with so amazing scenes like the one with Nanami under the rain with Sorata, this episode was really fantastic. This show is impressive. Importing this show was the best decision I could make.

[Damius]

- Mashiro did a painting of all her friends… and show her love for Sakurasou.
- And like Misaki said: “Operation: Search For Mashiron begins”
- And then, what Nanami said to Sorata wasn’t a confession, but it was the best thing she could say to him in the current situation.
- Ryuunosuke asks Rita for help and she is right there!
- And then…. WOW… Fantastic… Amazing… I was about to say that the scene at the train station was amazing, but then Nanami took an awesome part in it. It makes it an incredibly amazing scene.

And this show continues to be so impressive. I love this show so much. I’m so happy I’m able to give this show my support.

[Damius]

Since I read about this episode was so amazing I decided to just sit down and watch it. That was a great idea, it was truly amazing. I mean TRULY AMAZING. And wow, Misaki's speech, it was so powerful. What an episode, an unforgettable episode. I am so happy I decided to import this and I can't wait to get the first four volumes at the end of the month.

Now, it's time to watch the last episode...

[Damius]

- Nanami, has a dream, a dream to become a seiyuu, I hope her dream will come true. I certainly hope.
- Arigato Chihiro-sensei. Nanami will go and try to convince her parents.
- Misaki rented a van. Eh.
- Rita left for England, but she was sure to kiss Ryuunosuke before she leaves!
- Good Bye Jin, Misaki… Jin kissed Misaki and proposes!
- See you later, Nanami, you will convince them I know it!
- Awwww…. Nanami hugs Mashiro!
- Ryuunosuke goes to a “meeting”. Leaving Mashiro and Sorata alone together.
- He was talking about you Mashiro. I agree you are beautiful.
- Mashiro is on the painting now!
- Will Mashiro and Sorata kiss? Hikari says no!
- But she gave him a kiss on the cheek!
- Jump in time to the Entrance ceremonies.
- We meet new students.
- Of course, Nanami is back!
- Great timing! Nanami is practicing the horror game lines just when the first years get in!
- Yuuko is here too! She gave a wrong number so we would not know she passed the exam. Hehe.
- Oh wow, Misaki didn’t wait, she submitted the marriage registration already. And she moved next door!!

A really nice ED sequence. What an AMAZING show this was. Wow, I never thought I would love it that much. This show definitely needs my support and I’m sure quite happy to be able to give Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo my support.