Probably will talk about this more in depth in a YouTube video, but whether or not Kiui is actually trans is irrelevant to the actual message of the episode. She’s an amalgamation of virtually every Japanese societal faux pas in a society that still believes the nail that sticks out must be hammered down. She defies and overcomes that and in a time when most Japanese people, especially young people, feel unhappy, that’s a powerful message. It’s ok to be yourself.
I’ll never be the same after watching this show. The way these girls have altered my life’s story won’t be forgotten. Called it AOTS from episode 1 and it firmly stayed that way throughout. What a special anime and group of girls. Thank you Yaku sensei and Doga Kobo for this masterclass.
Kano overcoming her past and fear by delivering the performance of a lifetime was so beautiful to see. That wouldn’t have been possible without Mero telling her to look forward at the “aquarium” art Kano built on the buildings was such a great scene.
So many people, myself included thought Mahiru was snakey for working with Yukine, but it ended up being the best possible gift for Kano and the others. I just wish we would’ve been able to see more of the performance :/ we all know how good Doga Kobo can do idol performances.
That escalator reunion scene with Mahiru and Kano was everything to me. Them going in opposite directions initially before linking up was basically their relationship summed up. And Kano finally found her reason for singing! I love love love how it progressed from having no reason to sing, to Mahiru being the reason, to wanting to bring joy to peoples’ lives and help people who were lost like she was move forward.
In some more cliche stories, they would’ve kept it with the simple “I sing for you”, but that’s not really sustainable long term. You have to do things you enjoy for you.
Yukine finally acknowledging Kano as who she really is brought tears to my eyes man. All she wanted her entire life was to live up to her mom’s standards and make her happy. She also fulfilled her promise of selling out Tokyo dome with the number of live viewers 😭 I can’t man this was amazing. It’s so Yukine to not give a direct apology with words, but with her actions.
“Graduation” is a fitting literal and metaphorical way to end the episode. Everyone finally moving past their trauma and insecurities and just starting a new phase of life. Yukine showing up to Kano’s graduation and congratulating her was so sweet. I’m happy for them.
Mei trying to lift her skirt up for the farewell video got me dying 💀 she so slow man.
Is that Mahiru’s dad?!! Wow this was a perfect ending for everyone man. I don’t get the “rushed” complaints. Everything that needed to be wrapped up and addressed got addressed. And there’s still the LN for anything else. We will be reading.