Although it wasn't quite as good as the second, this was still a great, highly enjoyable episode. I felt that this episode was terrifically paced, allowing for a thoroughly entertaining balance between the introduction of Sanae and the forming of what is essentially the chuunibyou club. The lighthearted, embarrassing tone works really well in creating an atmosphere that is quite interesting and engaging. One of the only criticisms I have of this particular episode is that Rikka seemed to be more of a secondary character, thus creating a noticeable lack of the Rikka and Yuuta dynamic, which remains the best element of the show by far.
The best moment was, of course, yet another of Rikka's wildly imaginative delusions that are illustrated by way of an action sequence. I always like the transitions from the fantastical illusion to the mundane reality, such as, in this case, Sanae and Rikka rolling along on the floor. Aside from the fight, my favorite scene involved Rikka feeding a willing Yuuta, followed by the class attentively clapping, effectively illuminating the gradually altered nuances of his personality, due to Yuuta's interaction with her becoming increasingly natural and familiar. Their relationship and, by extension, their interactions, is the most interesting, enjoyable aspect of the show, so it was a bit disappointing to see that element temporarily overshadowed by a multitude of other developments throughout this episode. Since their relationship provides the most opportunity for character development and growth, I'm really looking forward to the return of that focus. Yuuta's reluctance to join the club was unfortunate, since I feel this was a missed opportunity to continue the portrayal of a gradual deterioration of his hesitant nature, since he'll now likely join solely due to Nibutani's unexpected involvement. The engrish exchange with the teacher was hilarious, particularly due to the teacher's ability to effortlessly play along with Rikka's embarrassing delusion.
Sanae is a surprisingly good character so far. Her mutual appreciation for delusions provides some hilarious interactions with Rikka. Despite this, her characterization is a bit lacking though, as she's occasionally a bit too similar to Rikka's own personality. Although Nibutani is pretty likable, she's definitely the worst, least interesting character up to this point. Her joining the club was predictable, and, hopefully, rather than indicating she likes Yuuta, it's instead a sign that she possesses chuunibyou tendencies as well, which would be excellent character development for her, while also serving as an instrument to dissolve Yuuta's needless affections for her. As such, Yuuta's continual infatuation with Nibutani has become quite tiresome and unnecessary, given the distinct inevitability that he'll fall for Rikka, since, of course, this is their story. I'm assuming the subtle hints that Nibutani might like Yuuta are basically used in an attempt to throw off expectations. Of course, I'm also hoping that Nibutani doesn't have any feelings for Yuuto, since a triangle would likely depreciate the natural development of Rikka and Yuuta's relationship, and she wouldn't have a chance anyway, so it'd ultimately be a waste of time.
The production values are, for the most part, terrific. Though frequently understated, the direction is really good, due to it's subtle confidence in establishing the contrast in atmosphere and tone between the playful moments in reality and the dramatic nature of the action sequences. The animation continues to be superbly consistent, displayed most notably throughout the fantastic fight, while also impressing with it's ability to capture Rikka's movements in a wonderfully exaggerated fashion. The music is relatively unspectacular, but occasionally great.
All in all, Chuunibyou manages to consistently exceed my expectations, and it's definitely becoming one of the best shows of the season. Despite this, I do feel the story would benefit considerably with an increased focus on the development of Yuuta and Rikka's relationship, which I assume is imminent, and, although I enjoy the lighthearted tone of the story, I'd also prefer a heightened level of realism towards the narrative's conclusion, in which, through Yuuta's help, Rikka is accepting of her need to essentially relinquish a portion of her childhood.
Also, Touka's easily best girl, followed closely by Rikka. Nibutani is the worst girl. She's still good, but definitely the worst. |