Though not as impressive as the last, this was a pretty good episode, as it further delved into the complexities of Iori’s internal complications, as well as the difficulties that the rest of the group were facing in their attempts to understand her, which became slightly repetitious, but not too overtly so. The dramatic elements that were heavily interspersed throughout the episode, though seemingly contrived at certain moments, were consistently effective, due, in large part, to the relatively skillful execution of this episode, as it possessed a certain balance that really elevated several scenes. The humorous moments throughout this episode were thoroughly effective in lightening the atmosphere, much to the episode’s benefit. As such, the entire conversation between Taichi and his sister was particularly amusing, though equally disturbing.
Iori’s well-constructed façade has been considerably fractured, as she finally rids herself of the manufactured emotions that she had been displaying for so long, which was an excellent development, and hopefully one that’s partially permanent. Of course, this transition within her personality has been meticulously developed from the start, allowing for an exceptionally satisfying portrayal of her nuanced development and the complex characterization that is composed of an abundance of fragmentary emotions. This, in turn, has directly compelled her into a sort of emotionally detached isolation, since she has consistently felt a naïve inclination towards solely indulging one aspect of her emotions, rather than the entirety of them. She essentially needs someone that would appreciate every element of her personality, but, at the very least, it certainly seems that Taichi doesn't fully possess the ability to understand her seemingly contrasting sensibilities. Though excessively cold and uncaring, Iori’s newly-realized, brutally honest personality seems to be a far more suitable one, so I’m hoping she retains the core elements of this characterization, which appears quite likely, since reverting her necessary development would be detrimental to the established narrative.
Inaba was, once again, fantastic in this episode, most evident in her often amusing, but occasionally romantic interactions with Taichi, such as their conversation in the restaurant. Taichi and Inaba’s relationship is the best and most engaging aspect of the narrative, due partially to their immense chemistry, as well as their subtly illustrated emotional connection, wonderfully accentuated by their conversation at the park in the last episode or their wonderfully natural interactions in this one, which consistently serve to highlight how well they complement one another. As such, these intermittent touches of romance within their established dynamic throughout the beginning of this arc have subtly developed their relationship in a manner that’s exceedingly satisfying.
The direction throughout this episode was occasionally superb, but largely stale. This episode was very well-paced, balancing a plethora of dramatic elements with an infusion of relatively effective comedy. Musically, this episode was quite good, but partially unspectacular, save for the melancholic selection that was used throughout Iori and Inaba's final confrontation. The OP was decent, but not particularly memorable. The ED was pretty good, but definitely the worst, and nowhere close to the brilliance of the last one. However, I did like that the ED essentially visualizes Iori’s isolation.
All in all, though, at times, needlessly dramatic, Kokoro Connect has satisfied immensely with the first two episodes of this concluding arc. The narrative has become considerably more compelling, since this particular arc is drawing upon a plethora of foreshadowed elements within Iori’s surprisingly complex development. This is definitely the best arc so far, and, having read the LN’s, that perception is only going to solidify throughout the final two episodes. As such, I’m really looking forward to the last two episodes, so hopefully they will provide a satisfying conclusion to one of the most impressive surprises of the year. |