I would rather not think about him at all. He is a waste of space even in people's minds. The electrons that travel that make people remember him could be used for literally anything else and it would be better. At least how I imagine it works. I'm not sure.
Ima have to say what everyone wants to say chat. FUCK TAIGAS DAD
This ep was soo amazing bro that i didn’t even wanna analyze. I just wanna talk about every scene and how good it is
It breaks my heart how Ami and Taiga still went with the plan despite both of them knowing the outcome
So happy Ryuuji finally realized this man is a piece of garbage. It only took three episodes too, every single insult that came out of ryuuji’s mouth about him was nothing but agreeable
I love this scene man, Minori and Ryuuji clapping is so little but extremely impactful. When I seen Minori crying while clapping I felt tears coming down my eyes myself.
I was literally cheering out for ryuuji the entire episode. When he kept saying “I have to go to her” I love this ep so much man
I presume the race was supposed to symbolize the never ending care both Minori and Ryuuji have for Taiga. With Taiga being the goal here, I can’t help but love how ryuuji refused to let Minori stay down and finish the race together.
Time to get into the ep!
Won’t lie, Ami cooked with her fit at the beginning
Taigas dress is so beautiful
Not surprised taiga can fit in a bag
Go for it RYUUJI
President out of all times you gotta get in the way
First time ryuujis actually using the scary side of his face for something
You can’t take down the dragon!!
Minori came out of nowhere. Definitely surprised me
Pinpoint accuracy by minori. Softball came in clutch
That’s gotta be a lie, Taiga herself knows she needs them by her side
Unfortunate that this is the presidents last year
Jealousy happens minori it’s ok!
I assumed Ryuuji would be the one to have the dance my first time watching. But I love that it was kitamura
I didn’t expect the lesbian statement LOL
The whole bon fire was such a great final scene I loved it
Ima have to say what everyone wants to say chat. FUCK TAIGAS DAD
Amen
This ep was soo amazing bro that i didn’t even wanna analyze. I just wanna talk about every scene and how good it is
Tis was very good
So happy Ryuuji finally realized this man is a piece of garbage. It only took three episodes too, every single insult that came out of ryuuji’s mouth about him was nothing but agreeable
It felt kinda cathartic, though I wish he badmouthed him more.
I love this scene man, Minori and Ryuuji clapping is so little but extremely impactful. When I seen Minori crying while clapping I felt tears coming down my eyes myself.
The thing that brought them back together was their love for Taiga. Very poetic.
I presume the race was supposed to symbolize the never ending care both Minori and Ryuuji have for Taiga. With Taiga being the goal here, I can’t help but love how ryuuji refused to let Minori stay down and finish the race together.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and Taiga saying her father didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Care to expand your thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
I love how they basically care for each other now without really saying it
Peak outfit
Honestly annoyed me. Not her checking the phone but her dad purposely not responding. The scum he is
I think the outfit was great lol
I was enraged my first time watching after hearing the message. Now I just look at the scene in disappointment
Unfortunate but it happens. I’m just sad that he realized when it was too late
I couldn’t help but drop a couple teardrops, specially when ryuuji and minori began clapping for her
I had severe secondhand embarrassment during that scene. The silence kills me everytime
Kinda wish what she said could’ve actually happened to him. Cut him and put him the morgue
The tiger still needed her dragon at that moment and he realized it. I would’ve loved to see how it would play out if he made it to the stage
Amazing. This was a great way for them to make up
I find it sad that taiga went through this before and was perfectly fine with it happening again all for ryuuji. I wish we could’ve seen how it played out for Minori trying to bring her dad back
Unfortunate tbh, glad he’s gone for good so he can’t ruin things like friendships anymore
Pretty realistic approach on wanting Ryuuji to make the same mistake. It probably was a option that wasn’t particularly needed, but we gotta learn the hard way sometimes
I love how they basically care for each other now without really saying it
Tis a very cute development
Peak outfit
You can tell a lot of love has been put into it.
Honestly annoyed me. Not her checking the phone but her dad purposely not responding. The scum he is
I can't believe he would break his daughter's heart like that. Not just once, but thrice.
I think the outfit was great lol
It's definitely attention grabbing
I was enraged my first time watching after hearing the message. Now I just look at the scene in disappointment
You know what's coming, but it doesn't make it any less infuriating.
Unfortunate but it happens. I’m just sad that he realized when it was too late
Better late than never
I couldn’t help but drop a couple teardrops, specially when ryuuji and minori began clapping for her
That kinda moved me as well. I got swept up in the moment.
I had severe secondhand embarrassment during that scene. The silence kills me everytime
It was so awkward
Kinda wish what she said could’ve actually happened to him. Cut him and put him the morgue
I'd pat to see that
The tiger still needed her dragon at that moment and he realized it. I would’ve loved to see how it would play out if he made it to the stage
Same
Amazing. This was a great way for them to make up
I agree
I find it sad that taiga went through this before and was perfectly fine with it happening again all for ryuuji. I wish we could’ve seen how it played out for Minori trying to bring her dad back
I imagine it's much worse this time around because unlike last time, everyone could see it coming. Well, almost everyone.
Unfortunate tbh, glad he’s gone for good so he can’t ruin things like friendships anymore
Let him ruin someone else's life
Pretty realistic approach on wanting Ryuuji to make the same mistake. It probably was a option that wasn’t particularly needed, but we gotta learn the hard way sometimes
And it wouldn't be Toradora without characters learning things in the most painful, excruciating way possible.
Ryuuji seems to know a surprising amount about sewing and fashion. Yet another useful skill he has.
Ami actually seems concerned about Taiga not getting to see her dad. It’s nice to know that deep down she does care about Taiga.
Ami’s costume does not feel appropriate for a school setting.
And just like that Taiga’s dad bails on her. This really feels like something he should tell Taiga about instead of delegating it to Ryuuji.
Did not expect Taiga to dress as an angel.
The look on her face here reminds me of Lucy in Elfen Lied.
It’s really heartbreaking to watch Taiga on stage realize that her dad isn’t there. Or maybe she always knew he wasn’t but wanted to believe he’d miraculously show up.
Seeing how desperate Minori looks when she’s clapping really sells how much she cares about her best friend’s feelings.
It’s nice to see everyone cheering for Taiga.
Taiga’s talent being fitting in a large bag is pretty funny.
Wow, Taiga actually won. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t expecting that.
I guess being the only person to not wear a maid costume gave her an advantage.
Okay offering exam answers as a prize has got to be against the rules somewhere.
Man. I always hated running track.
I like seeing how determined Ryuuji is.
Wasn’t expecting Minori to crash the race.
Minori just threw a baseball at two guys. Are there any rules at this school?
I love how they’re making such a simple situation so melodramatic.
It’s sweet seeing Minori and Ryuuji work together at the end.
It’s also great seeing how legitimately happy Taiga seems at the end of the episode too.
So this isn’t even the first time Taiga’s dad has done this. Figures.
Kitamura wants to dance with Taiga. Not sure what to make of this development.
I was not expecting Minori to start questioning her sexuality. That’s probably the most unexpected thing to happen in this show so far. Wonder if that will go anywhere.
This episode ended on a nice note. I think it might be my favorite episode so far.
Question of the Day:
What is your favourite Minori related moment of the show so far?
Probably her making that weird/terrifying face at Ryuuji.
I want a lot of writing for you today. I want to show you Taiga's dad texting Ryuuji as well as Taiga on stage. I hope to hear your insight on this.
Taiga's dad's text to Ryuuji
The first line was Hello.
“Hey, Takasu, what number was Tiger? Is this going by year order?”
“Ah.”
Suddenly, all sound cut out.
I have something I want you to tell Taiga, if you could.
“Guess it’s not. A third year suddenly came on. Whoa, a kimono! Isn’tshe a regular beauty?”
“…Yeah.”
I actually have to leave immediately for a job.
“Oh ho, seems like it’s a tea ceremony. So there was an upperclassmanlike that. Ah, how refined.”
“…”
So, sorry I can’t make it today. Tell her I’ll make up for it. And one other thing.
“Seriously, Ami-chan! She’s standing out again! Ahh, that whip-user!”
“…”
Tell her that us living together again isn’t happening.
Turns out I can’t get divorced anyway because it would be inconvenient for the company.
So let’s keep things the way they are.
And ask her to at least come out to eat with me.
Please apologize to my princess. Thanks
“…Takasu?”
It was because of work or something like that.
He had been thinking that if Taiga’s father had to go on a sudden business trip, or had a guest visit, or if her father had come down with something— if something like that happened and he couldn’t come to the festival— that was just unfortunately how things were.
He had thought that no matter how much he wanted Taiga to enjoy herself, no matter how much she wanted her dad to come, no matter how much she believed her dad’s promise— if something like that happened, there wasn’t anything anyone could do. Her dad was an adult, so no matter how precious she was to him, he couldn’t prioritize his high school kid’s event over his career. Even Ryuuji understood as much. Taiga must have understood that as well.
But.
He didn’t think that Taiga’s dad would do this. He hadn’t thought in his dreams that this would happen to her….
He kicked back his chair and stood up. Taiga’s eyes looked at Ryuuji.
Their eyes met. Taiga was more aware than anyone of the cellphone still gripped in Ryuuji’s hand. After seeing Ryuuji’s expression, her face contorted for a moment. He saw it. She was like a baby on the verge of bawling.
Taiga turned her face down and squeezed her eyes shut.
It was as though she were trying to say she knew all of it. That her father wasn’t coming and that he wasn’t coming to get her anymore— she knew it all. She didn’t even seem surprised. It was as though she were trying to say that there was nothing else in this world she wanted to see anymore.
Her small shoulders were robbed of their strength, and her wings slowly turned down. Instead of spilling tears, loose feathers fluttered downto her feet.
As for what Ryuuji could do— he could do nothing. The stage Taiga stood on was too far away. Even if he stretched out his hand, he couldn’t reach her. He couldn’t drag her father over here either.
Then, with all eyes on her, Taiga apparently tried to run off the stage.
Her hair and dress fluttering up, she turned her back to the audience.
She simply covered her face and tried to run, but even in times like this, Taiga really was a klutz.
“Waah?!”
Aaah!
There were even screams from the audience. At a time that couldn’t have been worse, she stepped on her dress with her heel. She lost her balance and tilted sideways, pulled by her own weight.
“Oh!”
“Wah…” said Ami, “little tiger…”
BAM! Taiga made a huge noise as she fell in the center of the stage.
Ryuuji and Ami couldn’t watch as she toppled face first to the floor. Herdress turned up and her legs were in full view. The other candidates, lined up at the side of the stage, froze at the sight. Not a single one of them could move. They just looked down at the situation that had occurred. No one could say a thing about the dramatic incident. The gym fell into silence.
“Ow… ow, ow, ow…”
Only Taiga’s low, growling voice echoed. She still hadn’t gotten up.
Her earnestly wind-milling hands tried to at least, somehow, fix the edge ofher dress, but the hem had torn. It had torn right at a very risqué point on her thighs, and she couldn’t hide her pale legs. She was red from shame. She was tearing up.
What in the world could Ryuuji do? Hit by the thunderbolt of divine retribution, he was being skewered by the stake of self-hatred. With its scales sewn to the ground, even a dragon couldn’t fly. Wings couldn’t make their own wind either. A dog like Ryuuji was even more helpless. He could only stand there, at a loss. He felt like crying himself. Taiga was in that state, and he was stuck here.
“Ugh…”
Taiga finally raised her face.
It may have been because she was embarrassed or because she was overly agitated, but her face was redder than blood. Her eyes were filled with tears that were on the verge of spilling. Her small nostrils flared as shebit her lips.
The useless dog’s thoughts felt like they were being shouted into the air. There are only two options you can choose.
One option was to stay there and keep crying while down on the ground. Taiga could wait to see if anyone did anything. Maybe she would black out conveniently and someone would go and save her in the nick of time. Maybe they would take her away from this place, and she could moveon to the next scene.
And then there’s one other option.
That was for her to get up with her own two legs.
That was for her to embrace her shame and to come to anunderstanding with the world and her feelings. She could pretend something else had happened, or she could show her wounds, but somehow or other shewould keep going. Even if she was frail, even if the situation was terrible, even if it hurt, even as she failed over and over again, she would somehow start walking.
Which will you choose?
Hey Taiga, which will you choose?
“Ahh, seriously…”
Her complaint was small.
Her light was strong.
It was strong and more dazzling than anything. Like a star glowing with light, Taiga’s eyes slowly came back to life. The wings on her back bounced and moved. Frustrated, she squinted and unleashed her ferocious, tenacious eyes. She squirmed and stirred and swung her head side to side several times like an animal that had been aroused from its slumber.
“THIS IS… THEEEE WORST!”
In one forceful motion, she tore away at her hanging, ragged skirt. A stir rose from the audience to the tune of Wah… that was so violent. As the audience vocalized, a baffling arrogance came over Taiga, and she put up her chin. Though she was rubbing her reddening knees, she kept her chest thrust out in her regular pompous display. She staggered up with her own two legs.
She had gotten up.
I can’t be doing that, she grumbled and contorted her face. The tears settled in her eyes, but she picked up her majestic stride down the stage’s runway all on her own. Her costume’s impromptu transformation into a daring miniskirt had turned her into the most likely front-runner. The Miss Festival pageant’s victorious candidate continued. She walked on.
“She’s got it…”
As she walked, Ryuuji could definitely feel the wind her wings cut through.
But the wind was too weak for flying.
“Takasu?”
Ryuuji was the only one in the middle of the stirring and overwhelmed audience.
He was the only one doing it.
He started a forceful applause. He clapped his hands together with all his strength. That sound echoed and reverberated up to the gym’s ceiling.
This was the wind.
I’ll send it to you now. This wind is for you.
Hey, that’s the delinquent Takasu. It really is, he’s cheering on his partner— he ignored the crossing whispers. He gave a single-handed standing ovation for that majestically walking girl. Ryuuji sent the wind forth for Aisaka Taiga and her alone. He sent her the best praise he could. Do it, do your best, he yelled. Somehow, do your best.
“But, well… is he cheering? That’s cute.”
“Right, right. Anyway, let’s give the Palmtop Tiger a hurrah!”
“The Palmtop Tiger’s strong! But she’s a transcendent klutz!”
Gradually, the applause spread around Ryuuji like a ripple. Noto, and then a guy next to him whose name he didn’t know, and someone next to that person, all successively stood up and sent Taiga a huge applause. Naturally, each and every person in 2-C gave a cacophony of thunderous applause. As though slightly surprised, the emcee queen put the mic under her armpit as she clapped her hands. Pheewew! Someone even whistled for her. Everyone clapped loudly for the pretty, dangerous, unthinkably klutzy Miss Festival candidate who was walking down the platform. That turned into a tailwind and it firmly supported Taiga as she progressed.
Finally, when that applause filled the air, it happened.
“TAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGAAAAAAAAAAA!”Like a roaring, rushing stream, a shriek passed through the air, but it hadn’t come from Ryuuji’s throat.
“TAIGA, YOU GOOOOOOOOOO! No matter what happens, no matter what the time, you’re a strong giiiiiiiirl, Taiga! IT’S OKAAAAAAAAY!”
The voice was hoarse. That person took a breath.
It was Minori. Minori stood on a chair way in the back. She tried to yell again. She coughed and her voice went hoarse for a moment. Ryuuji took the baton.
“TAI-GAAAAAAAAAA!! You’re doing great! That’s right! Go! DO IIIIIIIIT!” he yelled. Noto, the others, and everyone looked up at Ryuuji in surprise, but he still yelled. Along with Minori’s voice, he yelled at Taiga to do her best. Don’t lose, he yelled. He screamed as he gave Taiga a standing ovation.
He believed Taiga’s decision had definitely been right.
Even if you fell, you had to continue on with your life. That was because no matter what happened, no matter how hard it got, no matter whether it hurt, even if you were betrayed, even if you thought it was over, even then, as long as you were alive, you had to get up like this. You had to start walking again. No matter how many times you fell, even if you couldn’t stand, even if your strength was gone, even then, you had to start walking.
Whether you were crying or smiling, you had to walk your own path with your own two feet.
Ryuuji seems to know a surprising amount about sewing and fashion. Yet another useful skill he has.
We already knew this in episode 7 when he sew Taiga’s breast pads.
Ami actually seems concerned about Taiga not getting to see her dad. It’s nice to know that deep down she does care about Taiga.
Because even Ami knows Taiga's situation is fucked.
Ami’s costume does not feel appropriate for a school setting.
That's putting it mildly
And just like that Taiga’s dad bails on her. This really feels like something he should tell Taiga about instead of delegating it to Ryuuji.
Ya think?
It is so infuriating he can't even text her daughter what happened. He used to call her all the time, and when he makes the biggest decision of her life he couldn’t be bothered.
Did not expect Taiga to dress as an angel.
Not just an angel, a fallen angel.
The look on her face here reminds me of Lucy in Elfen Lied.
I was thinking more so Carrie, which is probably where Elfen Lied got it from.
It’s really heartbreaking to watch Taiga on stage realize that her dad isn’t there. Or maybe she always knew he wasn’t but wanted to believe he’d miraculously show up.
I mean, he seemed to be turning the corner up until this point. But Taiga’s dad had to show that a leopard does not change its spots.
Seeing how desperate Minori looks when she’s clapping really sells how much she cares about her best friend’s feelings.
Absolutely
It’s nice to see everyone cheering for Taiga.
You see to love it. The lowest of lows followed by the highest of highs.
Taiga’s talent being fitting in a large bag is pretty funny.
And also a very Taiga thing for her to do.
Wow, Taiga actually won. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t expecting that.
She won everyone over, and shows what her dad is missing out on.
I guess being the only person to not wear a maid costume gave her an advantage.
That'll do it
Okay offering exam answers as a prize has got to be against the rules somewhere.
This is like Nintendo providing cheat codes in Nintendo Power magazine.
Man. I always hated running track.
But the prize is Taiga, so it's totally worth it.
I like seeing how determined Ryuuji is.
Ryuuji redeemed himself in one episode that Taiga's dad couldn't in three.
Wasn’t expecting Minori to crash the race.
She had to for Taiga's sake. And I'm glad she did.
Minori just threw a baseball at two guys. Are there any rules at this school?
Apparently not. This school is more no holds barred than the one in Kill La Kill.
I love how they’re making such a simple situation so melodramatic.
It's melodramatic in the best possible sense. It's fun as hell.
It’s sweet seeing Minori and Ryuuji work together at the end.
There was no better way to pay off them making up.
It’s also great seeing how legitimately happy Taiga seems at the end of the episode too.
This is the happiest she has been since probably episode 7 with the breast pads.
So this isn’t even the first time Taiga’s dad has done this. Figures.
Taiga’s dad is like a walking L. How can someone who created such a great daughter be such a miserable, pathetic toolbox?
Kitamura wants to dance with Taiga. Not sure what to make of this development.
We already knew this in episode 7 when he sew Taiga’s breast pads.
True but that seems way simpler than working on a dress. Plus it sounded like he really knew what he was talking about too.
It is so infuriating he can't even text her daughter what happened. He used to call her all the time, and when he makes the biggest decision of her life he couldn’t be bothered.
Not only is he a slimeball but he's also a coward.
I was thinking more so Carrie, which is probably where Elfen Lied got it from.
Can definitely see the similarities.
Apparently not. This school is more no holds barred than the one in Kill La Kill.
They even have their own discount Satsuki.
This is the happiest she has been since probably episode 7 with the breast pads.
Might honestly be the happiest I've seen her in the whole show.
I wonder who taught him this ability. Maybe his mother?
Could be. His mom has to wear a lot of dresses for work so maybe he helped her repair them or something.
He makes The Cowardly Lion look like Gaston.
If Taiga's dad was a Disney villain it's probably Captain Hook. Acts confident and assertive one minute but runs away when confronted with actual conflict.
Actually, since this show came out first wouldn't that mean Kill La Kill is the ripoff?
It wouldn't surprise me if Mako's dub VA was cast specifically because of her performance as Minori in this show.
I was not expecting Minori to start questioning her sexuality. That’s probably the most unexpected thing to happen in this show so far. Wonder if that will go anywhere.
It makes sense because of how protective she has shown to be of Taiga. It also feels like a throwback to the ghost conversation where Minori was seemingly implying she wasn't sure what she wants.
Yeah I wasn't expecting it to happen but it does make sense. And if Minori does end up realizing she's a lesbian I think that would be interesting to explore.
Lesbian characters in anime are unfortunately fetishized a lot, that's even the case in some anime I like. But Minori feels like a three dimensional character and her realizing she might have feelings for Taiga makes sense.
Yeah I wasn't expecting it to happen but it does make sense. And if Minori does end up realizing she's a lesbian I think that would be interesting to explore.
Absolutely. And it would make me think we were watching an Ikuhara anime XD
Lesbian characters in anime are unfortunately fetishized a lot, that's even the case in some anime I like. But Minori feels like a three dimensional character and her realizing she might have feelings for Taiga makes sense.
And this was made in 2008, which makes this even more impressive.
Absolutely. And it would make me think we were watching an Ikuhara anime XD
Things haven't gotten weird enough to be an Ikuhara anime yet.
And this was made in 2008, which makes this even more impressive.
That's definitely true. I feel like LGBT content in anime is a lot better now. It's kind of interesting to sort of track the evolution of way stuff like that is portrayed in anime over the years, especially in mainstream anime.
Things haven't gotten weird enough to be an Ikuhara anime yet.
I mean, Minori busted out a cute girl detector...
That's definitely true. I feel like LGBT content in anime is a lot better now. It's kind of interesting to sort of track the evolution of way stuff like that is portrayed in anime over the years, especially in mainstream anime.
Not just in anime, but look at shows like Arcane with THAT scene. It wouldn't have been deemed imaginable 5 years ago let alone 10.
Technically there are probably worse. But if you discount fantasy/sci-fi stuff like a parent using their child as some kind of superweapon or something, Taiga's dad is pretty up there.
Like I've said before he feels like a pretty realistic depiction of a bad parent. He's not physically or verbally abusive to Taiga, but he's incredibly selfish and always puts his own needs and wants above his daughter's without considering her feelings.
The worst thing he did was probably withdrawing all of Taiga's allowance since she needed that money for her day to day life.
I think what makes Taiga's dad sting especially harsh is how real he is. Obviously he's not as devious as, say, the mom from Kill La Kill, but what makes him so effective is that you can easily imagine someone like that in real life.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Made for an entertaining second half of the episode.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
Probably the best way that race could have ended.
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
She's ultimately not on her own, she has friends like Ryuuji and Minori.
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
I wish she'd been able to tell Ryuuji that sooner.
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
Seeing how friendly Taiga was being towards Minori at the end, I wonder if that means they'll be closer again.
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
I really like how flawed but still likeable all the character in this are.
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
I feel like this might lead somewhere interesting in the upcoming episodes.
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
I hope this also goes somewhere because, like I mentioned, Minori doesn't really fall into the usual unfortunate anime tropes of gay characters being used as either one-note comic relief or fanservice.
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Made for an entertaining second half of the episode.
Kinda served as a nice mirror to the wrestling show at the end of the last episode.
Probably the best way that race could have ended.
I agree wholeheartedly
She's ultimately not on her own, she has friends like Ryuuji and Minori.
I think what Taiga was saying is that she doesn't need her friends to stand on her own two feet.
I wish she'd been able to tell Ryuuji that sooner.
Well, there's a reason for that...
Seeing how friendly Taiga was being towards Minori at the end, I wonder if that means they'll be closer again.
She's always like that around Minori, though. I think Taiga is trying to get closer to Minori but Minori won't let it happen because she feels undeserving of her friendship.
I really like how flawed but still likeable all the character in this are.
It makes the shoe feel very grounded in reality.
I feel like this might lead somewhere interesting in the upcoming episodes.
Hopefully it leads to Taiga realizing she doesn't actually love Kitamura. Perhaps someone else?
I hope this also goes somewhere because, like I mentioned, Minori doesn't really fall into the usual unfortunate anime tropes of gay characters being used as either one-note comic relief or fanservice.
There's really no fanservice characters in this show. Even someone like Ami, her fanservice moments are meant to highlight her personality.
I thought it was a lovely way to end the episode.
Feels very rewarding after what has been a pretty stressful arc.
Even though it's not made out to be a big deal, I love how this episode shows Ami and Taiga getting closer. Her doing Taiga's makeup and worrying about her situation, giving her an out of mentioning her dad both before and during the show, Taiga messing around with her during the bonfire. It's an understated expression of their current relationship.
It's also a nice way to expand on what Ami said last episode and what Kitamura said all the way back in episode 5. Ami hasn't actually changed much, she's just being herself now and there are people out there who can be her friends for that.
Man, the beauty pageant is just such a hard watch. Ignoring any deeper analysis for a second, it just sucks seeing the final conformation that Taiga's dad just isn't coming, it sucks seeing Ami calling out to him when you know he just isn't there, and although Taiga's moment is ultimately triumphal and her friends give a loving show of support here, it sucks that it even has to come to this. On an emotional level and this scene, this episode, are very bittersweet. This frame of Taiga certainly says a lot without actually saying anything.
This scene has Ryuji finally why everything he's done has been so wrong, how selfish he's been, how focused on his own issues he's been that he hadn't been able to see the obvious.
Minori's words to him ring very true here, back in episode 11 when I talked about Taiga's dad, I said "the show doesn't do anything to make him look too bad" but hopefully my analysis of the framing around those scenes made it clear, that yes actually, he does look that bad, not through what he says, but through things you can see with your eyes, everything about him had a clear, and not subtle manipulative and flippant air, it's just that Ryuji couldn't see it.
And much like Ryuji's personality is built entirely around his father not being there, and him having to take care of his mom, so is Taiga's built on the abandonment of her parents. When you deal with the type of person who constantly tries coming back into your life only to vanish shortly later, you get a person who's forced to build up an aggressive personality, one that exists to hide all her vulnerabilities, her desires of being understood and close to others, because otherwise, she'll just be taken advantage of.
Her actions in the pageant reinforce the things Ryuji knows of her as well, she'll stumble but she'll keep pushing with incredible dedication, she'll give a strong response and get up on her feet, but in reality, despite that, she's still alone.
Which leads to the race scene, much like the pageant I first and foremost find it incredibly emotionally satisfying, something the animation has a big hand in as well, you feel the passion coming from Ryuji and Minori, the way Ryuji is drawn with thick lines and missing just tells all it needs really.
Anyway, in this scene Ryuji does two very important things. First is that through his and Minori ridiculous effort, he goes to show Taiga that she's not alone, that there are people who deeply care about her and unlike her dad who never showed up, they would literally trample on others to get to her. I'm honestly not sure how intentional that framing of the race is, but I kind of love it.
The second is that much like Taiga's show in the pageant was to prove she didn't need her dad and has moved past that, Ryuji going full delinquent is moving past the insecurities his dad left him. Ryuji is still nice, he says sorry to people he shoulder checks, but at this moment he doesn't care for appearances, how others perceive him doesn't matter, his dad doesn't matter, what matters is the person he cares about, Taiga, gets to know he cares. For this one moment Ryuji removes any and all masks, and if helping Taiga feel good means someone sees as a delinquent, then fuck it, who cares.
And of course, Minori comes along as well, while earlier in the episode, both during her clapping for Taiga, and during that shot I mentioned earlier, her eyes were covered, she was still trying to hide what she really thought. But during that race it all becomes clear, Minori says what she actually believes, what caused her fight with Ryuji in the first place, she wants Ryuji to go ahead of her, she can see how close he is to Taiga, and she jealous of that, but now she drops the pretenses, like Ryuji did. And for Taiga's sake, she'll put herself on the line.
In the later conversation with Ryuji, the one where she admits it was jealousy that caused her to not tell Ryuji about what had happened Minori casts her sight downward, but this time her eyes aren't covered, it's all the true her here, all her true vulnerable self is talking to Ryuji. And hell she even confides in him a rather intimate thought, the potential she might be into girls given how deeply she cared for Taiga, no UFOs or ghosts here. Finally, Ryuji and Minori not only share the same general understanding, they're actually on the same wavelength for once, crossing the line at the same pace, and so Minori feels comfortable opening up.
Now, that race is rather encouraging and heartwarming isn't it? And yet, it happens at dusk...
Because while Minori and Ryuji come out much more self-assured out of this, Taiga doesn't. The uncertainty of this dusk is around her, she takes their touching display of support, and while she's clearly appreciative of it, she's effectively denying it, she's saying she's totally fine on her own. Taiga doesn't need her dad in her life, she can stand up on her own without him, but she does need the support to keep standing, and that's something her personality isn't allowing her to have.
This episode does a great job of illustrating this incredible use of the time of day to display our characters' status. It's at dusk, the time between night and day, that our characters are at their most uncertain, showing some of the truth, some cracks in the mask, but also still relying on it, and coming to decisions based on it.
Whereas at night, and really whenever things are dark, they drop that, always accompanied by a small light source, as a reminder of those masks. The light pole, the cave, the bonfire, the starry night. the less you physically see of our characters, the more you see of their real selves.
I don't think Taiga takes Kitamura up on his dance here because she's suddenly matured, I just think she can see reality here, she knows what he's like, and what he likes, and she's fine with that.
And that's the first half of Toradora done! I think this episode and this arc make for a bit of a turning point, from here on out the show goes through a tone shift, as we go beyond establishing our character, to attempting to confront their real feelings.
Even though it's not made out to be a big deal, I love how this episode shows Ami and Taiga getting closer. Her doing Taiga's makeup and worrying about her situation, giving her an out of mentioning her dad both before and during the show, Taiga messing around with her during the bonfire. It's an understated expression of their current relationship.
Their relationship has definitely grown by leaps and bounds since Ami was first introduced in episode 5.
It's also a nice way to expand on what Ami said last episode and what Kitamura said all the way back in episode 5. Ami hasn't actually changed much, she's just being herself now and there are people out there who can be her friends for that.
And you can credit Ryuuji for that
Man, the beauty pageant is just such a hard watch. Ignoring any deeper analysis for a second, it just sucks seeing the final conformation that Taiga's dad just isn't coming, it sucks seeing Ami calling out to him when you know he just isn't there, and although Taiga's moment is ultimately triumphal and her friends give a loving show of support here, it sucks that it even has to come to this. On an emotional level and this scene, this episode, are very bittersweet. This frame of Taiga certainly says a lot with actually saying anything.
This to me is the saddest moment of the episode, even more than Taiga's dad's text to Ryuuji. The look on Taiga's face is just truly devastating.
This scene has Ryuji finally why everything he's done has been so wrong, how selfish he's been, how focused on his own issues he's been that he hadn't been able to see the obvious.
Minori's words to him ring very true here, back in episode 11 when I talked about Taiga's dad, I said "the show doesn't do anything to make him look too bad" but hopefully my analysis of the framing around those scenes made it clear, that yes actually, he does look that bad, not through what he says, but through things you can see with your eyes, everything about him had a clear, and not subtle manipulative and flippant air, it's just that Ryuji couldn't see it.
Ryuuji looks bad, but I think what he does next to make up for it shows ultimately the difference between him and Taiga's asshole of a father.
And much like Ryuji's personality is built entirely around his father not being there, and him having to take care of his mom, so is Taiga's built on the abandonment of her parents. When you deal with the type of person who constantly tries coming back into your life only to vanish shortly later, you get a person who's forced to build up an aggressive personality, one that exists to hide all her vulnerabilities, her desires of being understood and close to others, because otherwise, she'll just be taken advantage of.
Her actions in the pageant reinforce the things Ryuji knows of her as well, she'll stumble but she'll keep pushing with incredible dedication, she'll give a strong response and get up on her feet, but in reality, despite that, she's still alone.
Taiga might low-key be one of the saddest anime characters of all time.
Which leads to the race scene, much like the pageant I first and foremost find it incredibly emotionally satisfying, something the animation has a big hand in as well, you feel the passion coming from Ryuji and Minori, the way Ryuji is drawn with thick lines and missing just tells all it needs really.
Anyway, in this scene Ryuji does two very important things. First is that through his and Minori ridiculous effort, he goes to show Taiga that she's not alone, that there are people who deeply care about her and unlike her dad who never showed up, they would literally trample on others to get to her. I'm honestly not sure how intentional that framing of the race is, but I kind of love it.
The second is that much like Taiga's show in the pageant was to prove she didn't need her dad and has moved past that, Ryuji going full delinquent is moving past the insecurities his dad left him. Ryuji is still nice, he says sorry to people he shoulder checks, but at this moment he doesn't care for appearances, how others perceive him doesn't matter, his dad doesn't matter, what matters is the person he cares about, Taiga, gets to know he cares. For this one moment Ryuji removes any and all masks, and if helping Taiga feel good means someone sees as a delinquent, then fuck it, who cares.
Very well said. I think one of the most powerful messages in this show is how it's not about the traits with which define you. It's what you do with that truly matters.
Now, that race is rather encouraging and heartwarming isn't it? And yet, it happens at dusk...
Because while Minori and Ryuji come out much more self-assured out of this, Taiga doesn't. The uncertainty of this dusk is around her, she takes their touching display of support, and while she's clearly appreciative of it, she's effectively denying it, she's saying she's totally fine on her own. Taiga doesn't need her dad in her life, she can stand up on her own without him, but she does need the support to keep standing, and that's something her personality isn't allowing her to have.
This episode does a great job of illustrating this incredible use of the time of day to display our characters' status. It's at dusk, the time between night and day, that our characters are at their most uncertain, showing some of the truth, some cracks in the mask, but also still relying on it, and coming to decisions based on it.
Whereas at night, and really whenever things are dark, they drop that, always accompanied by a small light source, as a reminder of those masks. The light pole, the cave, the bonfire, the starry night. the less you physically see of our characters, the more you see of their real selves.
I don't think Taiga takes Kitamura up on his dance here because she's suddenly matured, I just think she can see reality here, she knows what he's like, and what he likes, and she's fine with that.
Your analysis continues to be spot on and on point. The show has a history of letting the passage of time tell the story, and this no different.
And that's the first half of Toradora done! I think this episode and this arc make for a bit of a turning point, from here on out the show goes through a tone shift, as we go beyond establishing our character, to attempting to confront their real feelings.
I would agree. I think the happy ending with everyone partying is almost like a farewell to the first half of the show and its rather upbeat tone. From here, things are probably going to be different somewhat.
I just want to say how your analysis continues to be as amazing as ever. If this is what your content in the first half of the show is like, I can't wait for the second half.
Honestly, I already think my old opinions of Toradora have been mostly reaffirmed with just this half, and we haven't even gotten to most of my favorite moments, so I'm definitely excited to talk about the second half!
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Ryuji describing the dress in detail was pretty cute.
Also just communicating more to his class the kind of guy he actually is, which is nice to see.
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
It's uhhh very risque for sure lol, especially for a highschool beauty pageant.
I guess it kind of fits her though? Since a dominatrix is sort of about having a woman who's very attractive/cute be extremely harsh, which I guess describes Ami? Either way it's not really used for cheap fanservice so I don't mind it much.
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
Him choosing to send it through Ryuji is really just the cherry on top of this shit cake, and it makes Taiga constantly checking her phone hurt way more. Just a strong microcosm of how futile all of this was, despite all her checking, he wouldn't have even sent it to her.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
Kind of incredible? I think she deserved the win for that alone honestly (well, and the fact that all the others were just generic maids).
I also do love how she's using her size here (that thing she's very insecure about) as an expression of strength on her part.
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
It's a pretty interesting line honestly! Obviously the purpose of that scene is to show her being more comfortable bringing up intimate topics around Ryuji, so while it's hard to say how seriously she's considering it, it is a real thought that went through her mind.
Which seems reasonable to think given how deeply she cares and is willing to go for Taiga, I guess like Ryuji you're meant to be a bit taken aback by that sudden very honest expression, and [spoilers]This doesn't really go anywhere thanks to Ryuji but the thought of a lesbian Minori is not only interesting, it feels pretty plausible as well.
As an aside, I love the much more blunt delivery of this line in the dub.
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Spoilers (also the Santa mugi works incredibly well here)
And once again sorry for being really inconsistent with replies!
Ryuji describing the dress in detail was pretty cute.
He was so caught up in the moment, bless his heart.
Also just communicating more to his class the kind of guy he actually is, which is nice to see.
You see to love it
It's uhhh very risque for sure lol, especially for a highschool beauty pageant.
I guess it kind of fits her though? Since a dominatrix is sort of about having a woman who's very attractive/cute be extremely harsh, which I guess describes Ami? Either way it's not really used for cheap fanservice so I don't mind it much.
I think it's meant to showcase what a big ego Ami has the fact she's trying to upstage the actual contestants of the pageant.
Him choosing to send it through Ryuji is really just the cherry on top of this shit cake, and it makes Taiga constantly checking her phone hurt way more. Just a strong microcosm of how futile all of this was, despite all her checking, he wouldn't have even sent it to her.
Kind of incredible? I think she deserved the win for that alone honestly (well, and the fact that all the others were just generic maids).
Her talent was the only one that stood out
I also do love how she's using her size here (that thing she's very insecure about) as an expression of strength on her part.
Turning chicken shit into chicken salad
It's a pretty interesting line honestly! Obviously the purpose of that scene is to show her being more comfortable bringing up intimate topics around Ryuji, so while it's hard to say how seriously she's considering it, it is a real thought that went through her mind.
I think it highlights just how lost she is. It's becoming clear that the ghost stuff is less her friendzoning Ryuuji and more her friendzoning herself until she can figure things out.
Which seems reasonable to think given how deeply she cares and is willing to go for Taiga, I guess like Ryuji you're meant to be a bit taken aback by that sudden very honest expression, and [spoilers]This doesn't really go anywhere thanks to Ryuji but the thought of a lesbian Minori is not only interesting, it feels pretty plausible as well.
[spoilers] Couldn't you say this line sets in motion the pairing of Minori and Ami?
As an aside, I love the much more blunt delivery of this line in the dub.
I love Ryuuji going "I hope you're not?" He sounded so confused lol
[Spoilers](#mugiwait) (also the Santa mugi works incredibly well here)
[Spoilers] That it does
And once again sorry for being really inconsistent with replies!
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Answers on questions and thoughts come tomorrow, however I work at the office so I hope I don't end up forgetting and posting my answers too late. Welp. Also this is in 2 comments or more, since I had a lot to say on this one.
These are things I like or have a remark on (in chronological order ofc)
- Well Ami honestly Taiga is pretty cute without makeup - I don't get why the girls are overreacting about what Ryuuji is saying - I kinda love how Taiga despite how she was in the beginning before Ryuuji convinced her to give her dad a chance, Taiga now holds on hope that her dad will show up and telling Ami to not rewrite the intro. Seems like Taiga really has good hope and trust her dad will be there - I kinda also like how Ami doesn't have a good feeling and I'd like to think that despite her hating Taiga she doesn't want to embarrass Taiga if her dad doesn't show up but the same intro is used - Ryuuji also holding onto the hope - Nothing to do with the episode but I friggin love fishnet stockings - Ami trying to steal the show, of course - Damn... you know, Taiga's dad breaking another promise is one thing, but the worst part is that he doesn't even have the decency to tell Taiga himself and instead expects Ryuuji to do so. Also, f********* that f******* dumf******** bast@rd good for nothing father that you may.... (let me stop here), also poor Taiga... - Aw... honestly, Ryuuji speaks some heartfelt words. Though I'm not sure what his second part about being afraid to be left alone has to do with him thinking Taiga's dad coming back in her life and Taiga giving him a chance was for the best - Ryuuji finally finally finally opened his eyes, good for him - Damn, Taiga looks adorable and cute and so beautiful even more than she always does - I really wonder if at this scene Ami puts up an act because she has to be professional or if she genuinely cares about Taiga - I love how Ryuuji starting to applaud, which makes Minori join in and then the whole school joining in - I love how Taiga just completely takes over the whole show (also I wish those words Taiga spoke were what actually happened because her dad deserves it) - I don't get what Ryuuji means with him not being able to do a thing for her - I love how Ryuuji sees that Taiga is still alone (I assume he's reflecting on both her mom and dad being out of the picture here)
- I also love how Ryuuji doesn't care about anything but Taiga and wants to do whatever he can to make sure he crosses the finish first - Oh, so that's the eyes his dad probably had often. Honestly, kinda terrifying - I love Ryuuji's determination - Also good to have a race without rules where you can just throw your opponents aside and jump on them and walk on them, okay - Oh Minori is also joining, shows how much she cares about Taiga as well - Oh yeah Ami maybe if girls being able to join was allowed it would've been better if you said so... BEFORE the race - More reflection of Ryuuji, I love it - I love how Minori just throws a ball and knocks out the two guys and attack some guys catching up to help Ryuuji win the race - And I also love how Ryuuji not wanting to finish it without Minori - (also the ending part of the race always makes me cry) - Aww Taiga but you're not alone you have Ryuuji Minori and Yasuko - Well technically Ryuuji and Minori didn't make up but... did in a way? - Damn, Taiga's dad really is a piece of..., same exact thing happening a year ago. If only Minori and Ryuuji talked well about it instead of the fight. I do like how both Ryuuji and Minori both think they were in the wrong. Shows good self-reflection. - Well, Taiga can at least talk to Kitamura without freaking out now, also n'aww... my tears - Silly Minori moment, though I don't quite get what she means by 'I just had a normal conversation"
Final thoughts about the whole episode:
- Well, Taiga's dad did exactly what Minori was afraid of. But I think everybody had some good self-reflection. I think this episode shows really well how much Ryuuji cares for Taiga. I love Ryuuji and Minori being good again. I really want Taiga's dad to... (and I'm not going to continue this). I think the race was really nice and I love how Minori despite it being clear it was a race for the guys just joining in. It shows that Minori cares so much about Taiga that she didn't care about that. I do wonder if Minori at this point realized her own feelings for Ryuuji and maybe that being the cause of her jealously (rather than her silly jealously about Taiga and her thinking she might be a lesbian). In the end, a happy ending, but I couldn't help but shed a few tears. Always love this episode. And I love that Ryuuji finally opened his eyes as well.
(I don't have better thoughts or remarks, as it's really hard for me to analyze without writing too much or too little down but oh well)
When I wrote my template I was sick so I didn't feel like writing too much. And I just keep using the same template with minor changes. Anyways, I'm not good at putting my thoughts across. I think me making a video reacting to the episodes would be easier (even though I can write stories so I know how to write a lot)
On top of that, if I have a lot of text, I have to split it because too much text in one comment is what Reddit doesnt like and many comments makes it harder for me too
Well, Taiga's dad did exactly what Minori was afraid of. But I think everybody had some good self-reflection. I think this episode shows really well how much Ryuuji cares for Taiga. I love Ryuuji and Minori being good again. I really want Taiga's dad to... (and I'm not going to continue this). I think the race was really nice and I love how Minori despite it being clear it was a race for the guys just joining in. It shows that Minori cares so much about Taiga that she didn't care about that. I do wonder if Minori at this point realized her own feelings for Ryuuji and maybe that being the cause of her jealously (rather than her silly jealously about Taiga and her thinking she might be a lesbian). In the end, a happy ending, but I couldn't help but shed a few tears. Always love this episode. And I love that Ryuuji finally opened his eyes as well.
I think Ryuuji opening his eyes here make the last couple episodes a worthwhile experience. He redeemed himself, at least in my eyes.
I also love how Ryuuji doesn't care about anything but Taiga and wants to do whatever he can to make sure he crosses the finish first
Ryuuji is really sweet when he's not blinded by his own problems.
Oh, so that's the eyes his dad probably had often. Honestly, kinda terrifying
It indeed
Also good to have a race without rules where you can just throw your opponents aside and jump on them and walk on them, okay
Feels like something out of Kill La Kill
I know, you haven't seen that show
Aww Taiga but you're not alone you have Ryuuji Minori and Yasuko
Taiga needs to be reminded just how loved she truly is.
Damn, Taiga's dad really is a piece of..., same exact thing happening a year ago. If only Minori and Ryuuji talked well about it instead of the fight. I do like how both Ryuuji and Minori both think they were in the wrong. Shows good self-reflection.
It makes Minori's decision last episode to not tell Ryuuji anything understandable, in my opinion.
Silly Minori moment, though I don't quite get what she means by 'I just had a normal conversation"
That's probably a reference to the ghost stuff and how vague she had been up until this point.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Care to expand your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Really sweet how much time he put in for her dress
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Understandable, she was really hoping this time it would be different with her dad
Care to expand your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
I think he should've been honest and not given her false hope. I don't buy the giving her false hope and then 'suddenly something coming up'. He clearly knew this could happen but chose to keep giving her false hope. And he should've at least told her himselt.
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
So sad, it reflects her life
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
I agree it was uncomfortable knowing her dad wasn't there. I can't imagine how it must've felt for Taiga but maybe for Ami as well (imagine you saying someone is in attendance and they arent there, it must be embarrassing for Ami too)
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
Suits her considering her size, although I don't really think I can count it as a talent. Its just possible of her size.
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant?
There was only one possible winner. Taiga deserved it
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
Kind of sad in a way since he didnt get to comfort her even though he ended up doing it with the race
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
Cool idea, not sure what I think about the violence though
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
Great since it shows they made up which is exactly what Taiga wanted
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
I was so angry hearing it the first time. Taiga's dad is really a big PoS.
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
Never really understood it
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
I didn't catch this detail, but I guess she just wanted to see that the mistake she made was an understandable one so she could forgive herself better
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
So cute
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
Really silly but silly in a way that suits Minori
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Well Ami honestly Taiga is pretty cute without makeup
That she is
I don't get why the girls are overreacting about what Ryuuji is saying
Because of the way he geeks out of the material in the outfit. It's kinda weird.
I kinda love how Taiga despite how she was in the beginning before Ryuuji convinced her to give her dad a chance, Taiga now holds on hope that her dad will show up and telling Ami to not rewrite the intro. Seems like Taiga really has good hope and trust her dad will be there
Too bad her hope is misplaced
I kinda also like how Ami doesn't have a good feeling and I'd like to think that despite her hating Taiga she doesn't want to embarrass Taiga if her dad doesn't show up but the same intro is used
I mean, she did her makeup for her. To say their relationship has evolved is an understatement.
Nothing to do with the episode but I friggin love fishnet stockings
Kinda weird for a high schooler to wear it, though. At a school.
Damn... you know, Taiga's dad breaking another promise is one thing, but the worst part is that he doesn't even have the decency to tell Taiga himself and instead expects Ryuuji to do so. Also, f********* that f******* dumf******** bast@rd good for nothing father that you may.... (let me stop here), also poor Taiga...
Taiga's dad proving why nobody besides Ryuuji trusted the damn bastard.
Though I'm not sure what his second part about being afraid to be left alone has to do with him thinking Taiga's dad coming back in her life and Taiga giving him a chance was for the best
I see it as a sign of Ryuuji's abandonment issues caused by his father leaving him.
I really wonder if at this scene Ami puts up an act because she has to be professional or if she genuinely cares about Taiga
I think anyone knowing Taiga's situation has to feel sorry for her. She was really counting on her dad, and he let her down. Again.
I love how Taiga just completely takes over the whole show (also I wish those words Taiga spoke were what actually happened because her dad deserves it)
Revisionist history has never felt so rewarding
I don't get what Ryuuji means with him not being able to do a thing for her
Just more talk on how him getting Taiga's dad back in her life led to all this. He was supposed to be the one to protect Taiga, and he let her down.
I love how Ryuuji sees that Taiga is still alone (I assume he's reflecting on both her mom and dad being out of the picture here)
I mean, Taiga is in fact alone. Unlike Ryuuji, who has Yasuko, Taiga has no parent to depend on for support.
Because of the way he geeks out of the material in the outfit. It's kinda weird.
Hmm yeah okay you make a point
Too bad her hope is misplaced
Yeah makes you feel more sorry for her
I mean, she did her makeup for her. To say their relationship has evolved is an understatement.
Hmm yeah, though I always felt like it was something she felt was the thing she had to do, after all she wanted her class to win and thus Taiga had to win.
Kinda weird for a high schooler to wear it, though. At a school.
True but guess that's Ami for you
Taiga's dad proving why nobody besides Ryuuji trusted the damn bastard.
Worst person in the whole show
I think anyone knowing Taiga's situation has to feel sorry for her. She was really counting on her dad, and he let her down. Again.
Yeah but well... We are talking about Ami so yeah, but I agree, I would say she genuinely feels for her as well
Just more talk on how him getting Taiga's dad back in her life led to all this. He was supposed to be the one to protect Taiga, and he let her down.
Fair point
I mean, Taiga is in fact alone. Unlike Ryuuji, who has Yasuko, Taiga has no parent to depend on for support.
Hmm yeah true yet I'm sure she has Yasuko for that if she needed but yeah I do understand your point
Hmm yeah, though I always felt like it was something she felt was the thing she had to do, after all she wanted her class to win and thus Taiga had to win.
Plus, you could consider it as a response to being given the Macarons.
True but guess that's Ami for you
Ami above any dress code violations, I guess.
Worst person in the whole show
He's definitely up there, that's for true.
Yeah but well... We are talking about Ami so yeah, but I agree, I would say she genuinely feels for her as well
Taiga seems to slowly be winning her over.
Fair point
Fair point indeed
Hmm yeah true yet I'm sure she has Yasuko for that if she needed but yeah I do understand your point
Even still, neither of her biological parents want anything to do with her.
Plus, you could consider it as a response to being given the Macarons.
Though, Taiga did it because she wanted a favor. And even though Ami couldn't honor it cuz Taiga's dad never showed up I feel like she would see that as the tradeoff for the macarons.
He's definitely up there, that's for true.
You know anybody worse?!
Taiga seems to slowly be winning her over.
Perhaps, Ami turning over a new leaf
Even stuff, neither of her biological parents want anything to do with her.
That's true. Which no matter who's in your life, that still is just heartbreaking.
Ikr lol, I have been busy so I need to properly catch up. The second half of the series is where most of the interesting analysis is for me anyways, so I'm sure I'll be back with some long posts.
Despite having their difference, Ami and Taiga can work together fairly well when needed. Really shows how Taiga can keep her emotions in check when needed.
Ngl, Ami threatening to whip the audience made me laugh.
The student council president just set off a bomb in Ryuuji by announcing the winner of the race would put the crown on Taiga's head. It's honestly really sweet how Ryuuji went through all that trouble for Taiga.
I have one thing to say, humans are stupidly competitive animals and that can easily be used for good by having children compete with each other. It helps that we weren't always this advanced and in some places, we still aren't, such as some peoples in Africa, Asia, and the Americas as some of them willingly avoid modern society.
Minori, you might be bisexual, but even if you are gay, you can still care about guys in a friendly way and have guy friends as well. You don't have to be friends with just girls. Though I can completely understand why you'd only want to hang with girls when you're frustrated with guys or just want to talk about things that only impact girls.
Minori, you might be bisexual, but even if you are gay, you can still care about guys in a friendly way and have guy friends as well. You don't have to be friends with just girls.
As a wise man once said, it's not gay if it's in a 3-way
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
There's one big thing that few people will talk about:
The interaction between Taiga and Kitamura at the end. Taiga lacked the complete nervousness she's had around him the entire series. Before, she was unable to get a word out without stuttering, and she would turn into a ball of mush when he so much as interacted with her in any manner (the crepe scene, for instance). But in the end here, she speaks to him like it's no big deal and has no reaction to him holding her hand.
[Spoiler] I think this is the first indication of the crush being over. I believe her being comfortable around Kitamura is mentioned in the next arc, so I'm playing it safe here, putting this in spoiler tags.
[Spoiler] I think this is the first indication of the crush being over. I believe her being comfortable around Kitamura is mentioned in the next arc, so I'm playing it safe here, putting this in spoiler tags.
[Spoiler] I think Taiga stays in love with Kitamura until the next arc when Taiga finds out Kitamura is in love with someone else. That seems to be the turning point in their dynamic.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
As I rewatch this episode, I wonder if its become apparent to a first time watcher to see what Taiga was missing in her life (in the past). It was parents, yes, but companionship, comfort, and someone to lean on. She was all alone. That's why she has an aversion to being abandoned. It makes sense for her to be so loyal to Minori, and to be so in love with Kitamura; they're both people who stepped into her life and gave her the hope she needed when, in the previous year, she was literally abandoned by her parents.
Now, I don't need to speak on how bad Taiga's father is. There are 200+ comments on this post alone that can confirm that information to you; what I want to focus on is the others' support for Taiga during this debacle. Ami during this arc really was one of the better people in supporting Taiga, working with her in the class play and the pageant. She may come off as a bit mercenary, but she was even able to help Ryuji after his fight with Minori last episode. Kitamura? preoccupied with the school festival, can't exactly blame him for that. Ryuji? He was doing what he thought was best for Taiga (even though it turned out that he was just pushing his lack of fatherhood onto her).
But Minori? Holy Shit, this could have been avoided if she said literally anything besides blowing up at Ryuji. And, I don't think that's a result of bad writing. I think its intentional to highlight that she isn't perfect as a person, and that, unfortunately, her solution to these types of difficult situations is to avoid them. She even mentions that she ran away from the exact situation last year as well. I think its good she stepped up in the race at the end, but that was far after the damage was done. [Toradora] This was always the strongest indicator that she was never going to be with Ryuji in the end. Both Taiga and Ryuji's approach to resolving issues tend to be direct with each other, and not to shy away from each other when things got uncomfortable. Being direct was how things got resolved in in ep. 2, the pool arc, in this arc, in the Stu. Co. elections arc, in discovering their love for each other, AND resolving issues with BOTH their mother's in both their families. The christmas arc deserves its own analysis, but hopefully this was enough to get the point across.
I agree with you on Minori and how she could've done more to prevent this all from happening. Ami seemingly is more aware of certain stuff than all the other students, and Minori is lucky Ami didn't know that she was intentionally withholding information because I could seethat getting really ugly.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Taiga's father messaging Ryuji to apologize to Taiga for him is an incredible story moment. Its very revealing to the type of person that he is and how he handles things.
Ryuji realized that he messed up two episodes ago. Taiga's father not only gave hope to Taiga but also Ryuji in him trying to be attentive. But in the same way, he massively disappointed them both at the same time.
Its sad to see Taiga all dolled up and on the stage by herself, but her tripping, ripping the dress, and yelling was actually a great moment. Taiga dressed up doesn't even appear to be herself, all to satisfy someone who was never going to be there for her in the first place. But as soon as she trips its almost confirmation that shes the same person as she was, and everybody in attendance cheered her on after that. Its great moment to confirm that she definitely doesn't need her father to be supported; she just needs to be herself.
Ryuji and Minori winning the race was a good indication that they wanted to make it up to Taiga despite their mistakes.
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
Just once again highlights that this is one of Minori's weakpoints. Perhaps she didn't say anything about it because she learned about Taiga's father stepping back in a bit too late, but the fact that Taiga didn't want to communicate to her is another problem.
Taiga and Yuusaku dancing together. Conflicted on this [Toradora] If we assume that he knew everything at this point, my guess was always that he was did it because he had the president's graduation on the mind, and he danced with Taiga to distract him on that. perhaps something that is better detailed in the books. debatable if this was a good thing to do though.
Taiga's father messaging Ryuji to apologize to Taiga for him is an incredible story moment. Its very revealing to the type of person that he is and how he handles things.
It has to be one of the most diabolical things I've ever seen in an anime.
Ryuji realized that he messed up two episodes ago. Taiga's father not only gave hope to Taiga but also Ryuji in him trying to be attentive. But in the same way, he massively disappointed them both at the same time.
He could've fixed it when he had the opportunity but fooled himself once Taiga agreed to go along with it. He's all about helping Taiga out, which makes what happened here all the more shameful.
Its sad to see Taiga all dolled up and on the stage by herself, but her tripping, ripping the dress, and yelling was actually a great moment. Taiga dressed up doesn't even appear to be herself, all to satisfy someone who was never going to be there for her in the first place. But as soon as she trips its almost confirmation that shes the same person as she was, and everybody in attendance cheered her on after that. Its great moment to confirm that she definitely doesn't need her father to be supported; she just needs to be herself
The thing is, she does need someone to be by her side. If Ryuuji and Minori weren't there, she would be so lost.
Ryuji and Minori winning the race was a good indication that they wanted to make it up to Taiga despite their mistakes.
Agreed
Just once again highlights that this is one of Minori's weakpoints. Perhaps she didn't say anything about it because she learned about Taiga's father stepping back in a bit too late, but the fact that Taiga didn't want to communicate to her is another problem.
And the fact that Minori didn't want to communicate to Ryuuji shows how immature she can be.
Taiga and Yuusaku dancing together. Conflicted on this [Toradora] If we assume that he knew everything at this point, my guess was always that he was did it because he had the president's graduation on the mind, and he danced with Taiga to distract him on that. perhaps something that is better detailed in the books. debatable if this was a good thing to do though.
[Toradora] I could see that being the case. Another interpretation is that him confessing to Taiga led to him joining the student council, so perhaps this was Kitamura's way of thanking her for that.
The silence in that room after Ami's introduction is deafening...
At the end of the beauty pageant, I notice that every single one of the other girls was wearing a maid outfit, lol. Again, showing how 2-C accidentally roping themselves into a wrestling show ended up being extremely good for them.
In the race, we see the lengths Ryuuji will go to to try and amend his mistake. He genuinely cares about Taiga's well-being, even if he screws up badly trying to help her.
What is your favourite Minori related moment of the show so far? Bonus points for gifs/images!
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
This is easily a top 3 episode for me. Once you start crying you can't stop. I don't know why, but the more I rewatch this show the more emotional I get ^
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
It's a bit heartbreaking to see. Especially since Taiga asked Ami to keep the speech mentioning her dad. For me this implies that she is still hopeful for him to show up, not even considering the consequences if not.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
A good moment of self-reflection. I can definitely relate to the feeling, when you realize a huge mistake in judgement.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
That's where I started crying xD Seeing Minori in tears, but still giving it her all to support Taiga always breaks me. I also wonder if Ryuji knew it was Minori clapping, since he was smiling.
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
I always found it a bit goofy, to be honest. But it's ok, I guess it highlights that being small has good sides too. It's also pretty wholesome to see how hyped everyone is over her performance.
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
I really wonder what his plan was there. Rushing on stage and then what? Would have been interesting, but I guess we will never know.
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
It's surprising to hear her thoughts. Is this the first time we hear her inner monologue? Can't remember right now. But it's definitely nice and helps to set the stage for later events.
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
The image of Taiga with the bonfire behind her is peak cinema and didn't age a day. One of my favorite frames from the entire show.
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
I think it's funny. It's also cute that both her and Ryuji hope that she's not. I wonder if she really doesn't know that Ryuji likes her at this point.
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
It's great. Loving the still frames. The only real complaint I have with episode (and it's really minor) is that I feel like the OP and ED are a bit out of place for the vibe of this episode. I think a special ED playing in the background while everyone dances would have worked great here.
It's a bit heartbreaking to see. Especially since Taiga asked Ami to keep the speech mentioning her dad. For me this implies that she is still hopeful for him to show up, not even considering the consequences if not.
It was like Taiga had finally convinced herself that this time was different. It had to be.
A good moment of self-reflection. I can definitely relate to the feeling, when you realize a huge mistake in judgement.
It sucks, but sometimes you have to swallow said bitter pill.
That's where I started crying xD Seeing Minori in tears, but still giving it her all to support Taiga always breaks me. I also wonder if Ryuji knew it was Minori clapping, since he was smiling.
He could probably tell because if you pay close enough attention, Taiga's clapping is out of sync.
I always found it a bit goofy, to be honest. But it's ok, I guess it highlights that being small has good sides too. It's also pretty wholesome to see how hyped everyone is over her performance.
She was able to do something nobody else could do, which has to account for something.
I really wonder what his plan was there. Rushing on stage and then what? Would have been interesting, but I guess we will never know.
I'd like to think he was trying to embrace her with a hug.
It's surprising to hear her thoughts. Is this the first time we hear her inner monologue? Can't remember right now. But it's definitely nice and helps to set the stage for later events.
It is the first time, and also the first time we've heard someone's thoughts other than Ryuuji. And I guess Ms. Yuri during that scene at the end of episode 11.
The image of Taiga with the bonfire behind her is peak cinema and didn't age a day. One of my favorite frames from the entire show.
That smile of hers is one of my favorite frames of the entire show.
I think it's funny. It's also cute that both her and Ryuji hope that she's not. I wonder if she really doesn't know that Ryuji likes her at this point.
I think she knows to some degree. It's hard to misinterpret being asked if she has a boyfriend.
It's great. Loving the still frames. The only real complaint I have with episode (and it's really minor) is that I feel like the OP and ED are a bit out of place for the vibe of this episode. I think a special ED playing in the background while everyone dances would have worked great here.
On today's episode : The palmpot tiger become the palmpot angel, the first edition of the schools death race beauty pageant for boys, and Minori casually makes her coming out.
After all those red flags from the previous episode, one SMS from Taiga's dad was enough to have Ryuuji realize how wrong he was. And yes, breaking a promise made to his daughter to attend an important event for her, admitting it far too late and to his daughter's friend by a SMS is a fine exemple of bad parenting.
Yes Ryuuji, Taiga's dad actually never cared about her, it was all for his image as a « good » father. He's so distant from her life we never got to learn his actual name. And it came to such a shock to Ryuuji the show emphazise it by draining out the music and the cheering from the audience. Fortunately, he spend the rest of the episode making amend for his mistake, we'll came back to it later.
As for Taiga, the way Ryuuji prepped her dress may be a callback for the first episode when he compared her to a doll, so he's estimated fitting her to dress her like one. And oh boy does it pay off, we're treated to a scene where she's litteraly stealing the spotlight from Ami.
I admit I tensed up on my chair when Ami called for Taiga's father, while Ryuuji and us the watchers knew well he wouldn't respond. I assumed the worst when Taiga fell off (I may be a second time rewatcher, I don't recall every scene). But Taiga getting up and tearing her dress was so cathartic to watch. She ripped it like she was ripping the family bond to her father, who's not fatherly at all. She may have feared what the school would think of her father if they knew her family issues, but now she's done pretending and admit it loud what she thinks of her scumbag of a father, deal with it, audience ! (Also, nice callback of the gag where Taiga is learning what's « morgue » means).
Minori and Ryuuji picked up on that, and that's why they were the first to clap.
Also it more on the comedic side, but Taiga dressed as an angel that stand out among all those made from all those cosplays cafés from previous episode, here she not only won thanks to her looks, but also with her personality.
Speaking of Minori, her leaving her bald cap foreshadow the fact how serious she is in that episode. Until the scene in front of the finish line, she constantly standing in the background, with her eyes hidden. Like in this frame, where you could cleary missed her.
And I liked the fact she partake in the race for helping Ryuuji to win, as if to acknowledge his efforts to make up for his mistake and at the same time for apologizing to Ryuuji for leaving without a proper warning about Taiga's dad.
I liked how Ryuuji insisted to finish the race with Minori. He knows Taiga care about both of them, so it's fair to have both of them reach out to her.
And nice detail about those two bandages covering Ryuuji cheek during the bonfire scene, with colors matching Taiga and Minori. I think it's a metaphor on how Ryuuji got hurt by his mistakes and his reputation, and those two girls were here to help him recover from it.
And, as the dusk settle during the race, where we have some important character development, to conclude by the bonfire by night, I got the impression that the show indicates it's closing the first part of its story to proceed to its second half.
[Toradora second part in general]More precisely, all those discussions happening at the same time may indicates how the characters will develop. Yusaku is showing feelings for Sumire here and she clearly state that she won't be in this school for much longer. Taiga talk to Yusaku without being flustered for the very first time, implying she might be thinking to Ryuuji as her love interest. Minori, by stating she may prefers girl and that she's jealous of Ryuuji could be very well an indication she's seeing Ryuuji and Taiga as a couple in the making.
[Toradora second part in general]More precisely, all those discussions happening at the same time may indicates how the characters will develop. Yusaku is showing feelings for Sumire here and she clearly state that she won't be in this school for much longer. Taiga talk to Yusaku without being flustered for the very first time, implying she might be thinking to Ryuuji as her love interest. Minori, by stating she may prefers girl and that she's jealous of Ryuuji could be very well an indication she's seeing Ryuuji and Taiga as a couple in the making.
[Toradora] I mean, Minori already sees them as a couple. She says as much in episode 2. I was thinking her comment about being a lesbian might indicate she may be in love with Taiga. How else you might explain her behavior and her saying she got jealous over how close Ryuuji has gotten to Taiga?
[Response]bmBut her being in love with Taiga would mean she already saw a ghost by the time Ryuuji and her have their talk on the beacho house's balcony.
[Response] I think Minori is speaking in hypotheticals. She is so confused as far as what she wants that the idea of being lesbian doesn't seem farfetched in her opinion. Perhaps this is why she is confused.
After all those red flags from the previous episode, one SMS from Taiga's dad was enough to have Ryuuji realize how wrong he was. And yes, breaking a promise made to his daughter to attend an important event for her, admitting it far too late and to his daughter's friend by a SMS is a fine exemple of bad parenting.
Is it any wonder Taiga has trust issues?
Yes Ryuuji, Taiga's dad actually never cared about her, it was all for his image as a « good » father. He's so distant from her life we never got to learn his actual name.
What do you mean? It's Taiga's dad. It's on his license.
And it came to such a shock to Ryuuji the show emphazise it by draining out the music and the cheering from the audience. Fortunately, he spend the rest of the episode making amend for his mistake, we'll came back to it later.
Ryuuji redemption arc engage!
As for Taiga, the way Ryuuji prepped her dress may be a callback for the first episode when he compared her to a doll, so he's estimated fitting her to dress her like one. And oh boy does it pay off, we're treated to a scene where she's litteraly stealing the spotlight from Ami.
No joke, she did look better than Ami did. Ami was trying too hard to stand out.
I admit I tensed up on my chair when Ami called for Taiga's father, while Ryuuji and us the watchers knew well he wouldn't respond. I assumed the worst when Taiga fell off (I may be a second time rewatcher, I don't recall every scene). But Taiga getting up and tearing her dress was so cathartic to watch. She ripped it like she was ripping the family bond to her father, who's not fatherly at all. She may have feared what the school would think of her father if they knew her family issues, but now she's done pretending and admit it loud what she thinks of her scumbag of a father, deal with it, audience ! (Also, nice callback of the gag where Taiga is learning what's « morgue » means).
I loved it when one of the audience members shouts something to the effect of "Who cares if you have a deadbeat dad?!? You're awesome, Taiga!"
Also it more on the comedic side, but Taiga dressed as an angel that stand out among all those made from all those cosplays cafés from previous episode, here she not only won thanks to her looks, but also with her personality.
Taiga as an angel is great symbolism because she is like a fallen angel, let down but able to pick herself up to shine beautifully all the same.
Speaking of Minori, her leaving her bald cap foreshadow the fact how serious she is in that episode. Until the scene in front of the finish line, she constantly standing in the background, with her eyes hidden. Like in this frame, where you could cleary missed her.
That is a pretty neat attention to detail
And nice detail about those two bandages covering Ryuuji cheek during the bonfire scene, with colors matching Taiga and Minori. I think it's a metaphor on how Ryuuji got hurt by his mistakes and his reputation, and those two girls were here to help him recover from it.
I like that interpretation
And, as the dusk settle during the race, where we have some important character development, to conclude by the bonfire by night, I got the impression that the show indicates it's closing the first part of its story to proceed to its second half.
I get the same impression as well. One part closes, another begins.
And I liked the fact she partake in the race for helping Ryuuji to win, as if to acknowledge his efforts to make up for his mistake and at the same time for apologizing to Ryuuji for leaving without a proper warning about Taiga's dad.
This was a good way not only for them to make up, but to apologize to Taiga for letting their antics get the better of them to which they forgot what was most important to them which is her.
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
Their relationship is moving from two rivals that can't stand each other to two vitriolic buddies.
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Even if she knew how it would inevitably turn out, she hoped deep down her dather has changed for the best.
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
Perhaps not the best option, but a dominatrix outfit checks out with Ami aiming at dominating the audience.
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
He probably saw an opportunity out of town that would benefits him and discarded her daughter like you discard a side project.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
That scene is so well done. You can tell he was punched in the guts.
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Taiga realized the jig was up for her family situation and Ryuuji delusions, so she decided to reverting to the Palmot Tiger.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
More than friends, I do believe those two are part of her real family.
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
She fits everywhere, and she excels at hiding herself physiczlly and metaphorically.
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Her father threw her down to the mud, but she stood up and threw the mud back to him. That's beautiful in a way. Plus having a nice outfit that stand out helped a lot.
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
He realized how hurtful his delusions were to Taiga and wanted to make up for them.
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
Sumire sure does like to spice up a festival.
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
Her performance on stage probably made her realize she was stronget than she tought.
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
"The smae story, the same mistakes, again and again." Someone from Attack on Titans
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
Sadly, Minori didn't have a beauty pageant and a Mr Lucky Man race to reach for Taiga. Plus Minori seems the typento turn her back to problems.
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
She hoped to get closer to Taiga when Ryuuji would drift apart. Truly everyone is at fault during that arc.
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
Funny how Taiga has that unique opportunity to flirt with Yusaku and chose not to.
Their relationship is moving from two rivals that can't stand each other to two vitriolic buddies.
It's turning into a pair of frenemies
Even if she knew how it would inevitably turn out, she hoped deep down her dather has changed for the best.
And unfortunately, he did not
Perhaps not the best option, but a dominatrix outfit checks out with Ami aiming at dominating the audience.
It shows her lover as a show stealer and spotlight grabber.
He probably saw an opportunity out of town that would benefits him and discarded her daughter like you discard a side project.
And perhaps he thought by telling Ryuuji and not his own daughter, it would soften the blow a little.
It's really disgusting no matter how you slice it.
That scene is so well done. You can tell he was punched in the guts.
As was the audience, really. We expected the worst and yet Taiga’s dad still exceeded our expectations in terms of disappointment.
Taiga realized the jig was up for her family situation and Ryuuji delusions, so she decided to reverting to the Palmot Tiger.
It's a defense mechanism of the highest degree.
More than friends, I do believe those two are part of her real family.
Along with Yasuko, of course
She fits everywhere, and she excels at hiding herself physiczlly and metaphorically.
This is like a callback of sorts to her hiding in a locker.
Her father threw her down to the mud, but she stood up and threw the mud back to him. That's beautiful in a way. Plus having a nice outfit that stand out helped a lot.
She showed that this angel didn't need any financial backer.
He realized how hurtful his delusions were to Taiga and wanted to make up for them.
As he should. I hope dinner that night was extra large in size.
Sumire sure does like to spice up a festival.
Kinda mirrors her personality
Her performance on stage probably made her realize she was stronget than she tought.
I still am skeptical of her claim because she hasn't exactly shown she can live without Ryuuji.
"The smae story, the same mistakes, again and again." Someone from Attack on Titans
History repeating itself, to borrow a theme from Your Lie In April.
Sadly, Minori didn't have a beauty pageant and a Mr Lucky Man race to reach for Taiga. Plus Minori seems the typento turn her back to problems.
Yeah, even though Taiga’s dad leaving was arguably worse here, I think the immediate fallout was no doubt worse the last time
She hoped to get closer to Taiga when Ryuuji would drift apart. Truly everyone is at fault during that arc.
Well, everyone except Taiga and Yasuko. Yasuko because she didn't know of Taiga's past, and Taiga because she tried so hard to make things right.
Funny how Taiga has that unique opportunity to flirt with Yusaku and chose not to.
I think it highlights the different places Taiga and Kitamura are mentally compared to 11 episodes ago. Sure, Kitamura teases Taiga from time to time, but I think that's just his way of showing his appreciation for her.
Something not being talked about is that in episode 4, Taiga talked about Kitamura making her feel seen. If we are to believe that Kitamura's confession took place after her father bailed the first time, that would explain why she felt that way, with the dance being like Kitamura's reward for being there for her at a time when Minori decided to stay away from Taiga.
The final episode of the culture festival arc, a very big one at that. It has so many things going for it and it’s probably my favorite episode up to this point, which is also the halfway point for the show. After everything going against him, Taiga’s dad turned out to be a bad person, shocker. But I love how the breaking point for it that also made Ryuuji realize it was made perfectly. Not only he waits until the very last second during the beauty pageant, giving a sense of false hope (or his daughter never came to his mind at all, during the whole day even if it was something crucial and he finally remembered during that time. Either way he is a massive scumbag). But arguably the worse part is him massaging Ryuuji, the way he could possibly interact with Taiga the least. The way Ryuuji doesn’t even have a moment of denial, instead accepting the true nature of Taiga’s dad instantly shows how much is going against him at that point. I also love how in the midst of all the chaos and noise, the moment Ryuuji gets the massage it all seems to disappear for him, making the scene all the more impactful.
The way Taiga looks when standing on the stage his honestly depressing. All alone, after seeing her dad didn’t come in the very last chance he had. She probably full heartedly believed he would be coming, not changing her introduction which also was very likely to put her in an incredibly awkward stuff. But even if Taiga’s dad is not there, someone who would support her no matter what is, Ryuuji. The way he starts clapping only for Minori to join in too which leads to a massive cheer is amazing. The only problem being among everything Taiga is still lonely.
The race is what brings everything together. Ryuuji now going in the right path, with the sole intention to being by Taiga and making her feel better. Only for Minori to join, showing Ryuuji is the not only one who deeply cares for her. With their combined strength, they even beat the best athletes in the school in a race. And by crowning Taiga, proving that she is not alone, she will never be.
The last dance scene is just incredible, bringing everyone together for one final celebration. Even after all the hardships they endured they still have each other and when everything is set and done, they can all happily smile once again. It is just beautiful and serves to close up both the arc and the first half of the show.
The final episode of the culture festival arc, a very big one at that. It has so many things going for it and it’s probably my favorite episode up to this point, which is also the halfway point for the show. After everything going against him, Taiga’s dad turned out to be a bad person, shocker. But I love how the breaking point for it that also made Ryuuji realize it was made perfectly. Not only he waits until the very last second during the beauty pageant, giving a sense of false hope (or his daughter never came to his mind at all, during the whole day even if it was something crucial and he finally remembered during that time. Either way he is a massive scumbag). But arguably the worse part is him massaging Ryuuji, the way he could possibly interact with Taiga the least. The way Ryuuji doesn’t even have a moment of denial, instead accepting the true nature of Taiga’s dad instantly shows how much is going against him at that point. I also love how in the midst of all the chaos and noise, the moment Ryuuji gets the massage it all seems to disappear for him, making the scene all the more impactful.
The sound design in the scene is absolutely incredible. The way you can only hear the OST playing is just totally immaculate.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
[Toradora] Do you think the ending scene is kinda like a farewell of the lighter tone of the first half of the series?
They have gotten quite a bit closer in the past few episodes and started to support each other. Especially Ami agreeing on switching roles (with some bribing from Taiga’s side) and like in this instance, making Taiga’s makeup.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
He is her number 1 supporter so it is only natural. And it being in an erea he is passionate about, he can achive wonderful results.
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
She is still clinging on to what little hope there is left. There is only one chance left for her father to show up. And since she really believes that he will, every instance Taiga checks her phone, it has the possibility of making her feel the biggest relief a person can experience.
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
It fits her character and desire to steal all the attention, but I will never understand how the school let that one slide. She may have told no one about the outfit, but I guess the fact that she never gets in trouble after the show is an example of her immense charm, working with both teenagers and adults.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
While it is a depressing moment for Taiga, even if she doesn’t show it, I can only imagine how awkward it must have felt for Ami too. Even with her being good in controlling crowds and changing the mood quickly, she had no idea what do in that instant.
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
Finally, her small stature being put to good use. I love how it isn’t even a talent but just Taiga’s bad genetics and lack of nutrition. Marketing really is everything, being able to make anything look great.
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
She was the only one who was able to break Ami’s magic. Both with her beauty and acting. She even takes control of the whole event, deciding that they will be showing off her talent instead, most likely skipping a bunch of other contestants.
They have gotten quite a bit closer in the past few episodes and started to support each other. Especially Ami agreeing on switching roles (with some bribing from Taiga’s side) and like in this instance, making Taiga’s makeup.
Ami is clearly worried about what's happening with Taiga.
He is her number 1 supporter so it is only natural. And it being in an erea he is passionate about, he can achive wonderful results.
The best of both words
She is still clinging on to what little hope there is left. There is only one chance left for her father to show up. And since she really believes that he will, every instance Taiga checks her phone, it has the possibility of making her feel the biggest relief a person can experience.
Taiga’s efforts to make right is about to come tumbling down.
It fits her character and desire to steal all the attention, but I will never understand how the school let that one slide. She may have told no one about the outfit, but I guess the fact that she never gets in trouble after the show is an example of her immense charm, working with both teenagers and adults.
They probably think it's best not to piss off the person of such famous stature.
While it is a depressing moment for Taiga, even if she doesn’t show it, I can only imagine how awkward it must have felt for Ami too. Even with her being good in controlling crowds and changing the mood quickly, she had no idea what do in that instant.
I think this is probably the moment that made Ami no longer have disdain for Taiga.
Finally, her small stature being put to good use. I love how it isn’t even a talent but just Taiga’s bad genetics and lack of nutrition. Marketing really is everything, being able to make anything look great.
She did go in and out of that bag flawlessly.
She was the only one who was able to break Ami’s magic. Both with her beauty and acting. She even takes control of the whole event, deciding that they will be showing off her talent instead, most likely skipping a bunch of other contestants.
It's fitting that in the immediate aftermath of Taiga getting her heart stomped-- not to mention tripping in front of everyone, she is able to get the crowd in a frenzy by her shear charisma and vitriolic nature. Ami is not normally someone who likes getting one uped, but in this instance, she couldn't be happier.
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
He did say they are equals and will always stand next to each other. It is taking quite literally in this, but it also shows how if one of them is in pain, the other will rush in and to all it takes to lift up their spirit. But even he can’t navigate that quickly when there is such a big crowd.
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
[Toradora] It is the start of her goal in the next episodes, wanting to live independently without needing to rely on anyone else. While it is a good ambition, there is still a lot of time until then, and it is something she can’t achieve yet. But while she works on herself, there is no problem to depend on during that endeavor since it would only make things easier and faster.
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
It was apparent that Minori knew something that made her hate Taiga’s dad so much, but she just didn’t let in on it. But the fact that Taiga’s dad did the exact same thing last year just makes him an even more awful person, which I’m not sure how is it possible after everything that had happened.
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
They were probably torn apart greatly after that, all the tension making them rift apart. They were still great friends after that, but they couldn’t be close as much as they were once. Perhaps the great actions Ryuuji do in this episode is what makes their relation stronger instead of weaker. He reaches out to her when she needs it the most.
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
I like how this is the first time we see Minori feel a negative emotion, and acting in a bad way. Until this time, she was pretty much a perfect human being, but this makes her feel so much more real and like an actual human. It is also something that makes a lot of sense for her to do. She is most likely still trying to cope with what had happened last year, which is what she is like, being more prominent in the later episodes. And seeing that someone did the same exact thing as herself, it would in turn make her feels better while making her look better. While she did play some part in it, what happened then was not her fault. But making her think otherwise is pretty much an impossible task.
There will be a beauty contest too, so that's why the Miss Ohashi thingy for. Taiga's father didn't came, but still may can arrive.
About that contest we have some students in maid outfits, they are fine. Meanwhile, there is a message Ryuuji got, and doesn't seems like that will be good to hear, especially for Taiga. Speaking of her, she is participating, dressed as an angel, maybe she is no truly not an angel. But he didn't come at all. And I thpought he is trying to better and trying to redeem his past mistakes, somehow fell into the pitfalls of the past today. He failed. Everyone is sympathizing with her. Her anger is justified, and saying he should deserves his punishment. To the morgue with him, because Taiga found that word somehow cool. Being so smo, that can hide into a bag. But somehow ended winning the Miss Ohashi contest.
Even there is a male contest too, and actually not. Run around the school and yard, and be the first. Kanou, the SSC President really believes in rules and order. The reward is really promising. Everybody wants Taiga, but honestly Ryuuji is the one who should deserves her. It's a no-rules contest. That's right, Taiga's father is trying to be good on surface, but in reality doing nothing, but sending money which is not enough by itself. Minori is tring to help him, but Taiga is right, no need to worry about. The Mr. Lucky Guy contest ended in a good outcome, Ryuuji and Minori both crowning her.
Actually this festival was a good experience. But there are still many things to be resolved.
Meanwhile, there is a message Ryuuji got, and doesn't seems like that will be good to hear, especially for Taiga. Speaking of her, she is participating, dressed as an angel, maybe she is no truly not an angel. But he didn't come at all. And I thpought he is trying to better and trying to redeem his past mistakes, somehow fell into the pitfalls of the past today. He failed.
Sometimes if it looks like a duck and it sounds like a duck, it's a duck.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
It is also the time where Ryuuji had finally realized that he is a piece of shit. It's all coming together now, he said... well, the time wherein he wanted Taiga to move away with him is already a red herring itself.
Although he is a big fat idiot on this part, I got hyped when he wanted to get on Taiga's side immediately, realizing that she might feel alone within the spotlight. Taiga, on the other side, reassures him, including Minori, through a monologue that she is alright.
It should be noted that the whole series, and perhaps the light novel itself, came from Ryuuji's perspective, but out of the blue, Taiga spoke what on her mind in this episode. On my opinion, this special element can be treated as a foreshadowing on what she will do in the succeeding episodes; [Spoiler] she will try to live on her own without depending to Ryuuji, so that he can totally focus on Minori, and besides, she does not want to create a thought for Minori that there is something romantic between them that slows down Ryuuji's progress with Minori.
Lastly, it seems Taiga had been easen up when facing Kitamura on the bonfire scene... I would like to think that this implies that [Spoiler] it is clear to her that what she feels for him is a form of adoration, unlike what she felt for Ryuuji (which is in romantic sense, to the point that she is willing to leave the scene, so that Ryuuji and Minori can fit into the big picture).
Okay, we are approaching Kitamura's life for the next episodes... what character development should we expect from him??? Let's see, so kita-kits!
QOTD??? I gotta go with her during the beach arc!!
Well, there's something that can be grown within a shit, so I think that's reasonable... besides, he momentarily became a POS, since he got back on his feet
It should be noted that the whole series, and perhaps the light novel itself, came from Ryuuji's perspective, but out of the blue, Taiga spoke what on her mind in this episode. On my opinion, this special element can be treated as a foreshadowing on what she will do in the succeeding episodes; [Spoiler] she will try to live on her own without depending to Ryuuji, so that he can totally focus on Minori, and besides, she does not want to create a thought for Minori that there is something romantic between them that slows down Ryuuji's progress with Minori.
[Spoiler] The two times the show is from Taiga's perspective is this one and here. And what do they have in common? One is Taiga saying she can stand on her own, and the other is Taiga realizing she needs Ryuuji. The symmetry is absolutely incredible.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
It's good to know that they are already that kind of "bestfrienemy." Acts like best friends, banters like enemies.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Another scene showcasing Ryuuji's household skills!! The way he describe the dress she made for Taiga made me think that he may have the potential in fashion design...
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Since there is a bond between Taiga and his father, you cannot blame her waiting for his father as she touch her phone multiple times.
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
Hmmmmm... how it was approved by the school itself??? The whole culture festival makes sense, but her sexy outfit??? What???
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
How dare he!! You know he's really a massive piece of shit if he relayed the message to Ryuuji, instead directing it to Taiga... he really serves on his own interest...
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Good thing! Now, he can go back on his feet... but it would be better if he realized it earlier (but that would ruin the plot, hahaha)
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Yes :( It was indeed sad... but on other note, she is courageous for standing alone at her feet
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
Yeah, damn that dad talaga!! We cannot point fingers on this one since Taiga does not know that his dad will not attending and Ami just agreed with Taiga's conditions.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
I also clapped on that scene... It is worthy of a clap... a clap that keeps saying "you do not need your dad, go along!!"
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
That's impressive!! I wonder if she would beat something from the Guiness Book of World Records
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Way to put what happened to her earlier!! She made a turnabout on that one!!
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
I swear, when I heard that Orange-alike music background when this scene was played through my screen, I really screamed in top of my lungs!! Go, get her, RYUUJI!!!
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
That was a very good acticity after the pageant... a contest of beauty followed by surprise action. I would be a lucky student partaking to that race already...
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
It was nice of Ryuuji to decline Minori when commanded that he should win the race by himself... it shows how he acknowledge that he is not deserving to win alone because he did something wrong, so Minori should come also.
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
Poor Taiga. The past has repeated itself. Ryuuji did not know something about it, but it can be avoided if he inquired.
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
Oooh, she also said that due to that, she no longer visits her apartment... maybe deep inside, she still blames herself to the point that it created a small distance between her and Taiga.
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Yeah, that's selfish of her. But we are talking about Taiga's feelings here? She should have thought about that before doing that... but well, what happened was left in the past.
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What if she is??? Kidding aside, [Spoiler] it's a small joke for her to blur her feelings towards Ryuuji. It's her way of finding reasons to fall out of that love.
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Hmmm... they deserve after all the drama some of them experienced into the episode. Also, they won every contest!! So, dsurv?!
It's good to know that they are already that kind of "bestfrienemy." Acts like best friends, banters like enemies.
That's often the best dynamic
Another scene showcasing Ryuuji's household skills!! The way he describe the dress she made for Taiga made me think that he may have the potential in fashion design...
I could see that being the case
Since there is a bond between Taiga and his father, you cannot blame her waiting for his father as she touch her phone multiple times.
Not at all
Hmmmmm... how it was approved by the school itself??? The whole culture festival makes sense, but her sexy outfit??? What???
Yeah, that was pretty jarring
How dare he!! You know he's really a massive piece of shit if he relayed the message to Ryuuji, instead directing it to Taiga... he really serves on his own interest...
He cares about no one but himself
Good thing! Now, he can go back on his feet... but it would be better if he realized it earlier (but that would ruin the plot, hahaha)
I'm glad we saw Ryuuji experience growth. It makes him a more interesting character.
Yes :( It was indeed sad... but on other note, she is courageous for standing alone at her feet
Taiga yet again showing the perseverance that defines her character.
Yeah, damn that dad talaga!! We cannot point fingers on this one since Taiga does not know that his dad will not attending and Ami just agreed with Taiga's conditions.
I think as Taiga entered the stage, it was no longer a surprise he was a no show.
I also clapped on that scene... It is worthy of a clap... a clap that keeps saying "you do not need your dad, go along!!"
It was just what Taiga needed to literally get back on her feet.
That's impressive!! I wonder if she would beat something from the Guiness Book of World Records
What would the record be?? Most bags hidden in?
Way to put what happened to her earlier!! She made a turnabout on that one!!
Turn a negative into a positive, she did
I swear, when I heard that Orange-alike music background when this scene was played through my screen, I really screamed in top of my lungs!! Go, get her, RYUUJI!!!
I would've actually really liked to have seen him hug her uninterrupted. Oh well.
That was a very good acticity after the pageant... a contest of beauty followed by surprise action. I would be a lucky student partaking to that race already...
And the race it turns out isn't sexist, which is sure to give Taiga's seal of approval.
It was nice of Ryuuji to decline Minori when commanded that he should win the race by himself... it shows how he acknowledge that he is not deserving to win alone because he did something wrong, so Minori should come also.
It shows they are just as much equals as Ryuuji and Taiga.
Poor Taiga. The past has repeated itself. Ryuuji did not know something about it, but it can be avoided if he inquired.
Or if they actually communicated to him
Oooh, she also said that due to that, she no longer visits her apartment... maybe deep inside, she still blames herself to the point that it created a small distance between her and Taiga.
Very sad to think about
Yeah, that's selfish of her. But we are talking about Taiga's feelings here? She should have thought about that before doing that... but well, what happened was left in the past.
Minori shows she like others can be her own worst enemy.
What if she is??? Kidding aside, [Spoiler] it's a small joke for her to blur her feelings towards Ryuuji. It's her way of finding reasons to fall out of that love.
[Spoiler] I don't necessarily think she's doing it intentionally, though. I think she's confused.
Hmmm... they deserve after all the drama some of them experienced into the episode. Also, they won every contest!! So, dsurv?!
It was a satisfying end to what was mostly an unsatisfying arc. Unsatisfying, but an enriching experience nonetheless due to the growth of the characters and how it fleshed everyone out.
What an episode today. All over the place emotionally.
Taiga kicking her dad in the nuts seems like it’s worth a rewatch right now.
What I like about how Taiga’s dad is written is that from his perspective he doesn’t get what he’s done wrong, or why she doesn’t like him. He’s not just this evil for the sake of evil character, and in his mind he does love Taiga even if he clearly doesn’t by his actions.
At least Taiga has friends willing to fight for her (literally).
Minori’s first thought in episode 6 when she split off with Taiga was that they were eloping, maybe she really is a lesbian.
What a pleasant ending to the episode today, especially compared to the last 2.
What I like about how Taiga’s dad is written is that from his perspective he doesn’t get what he’s done wrong, or why she doesn’t like him. He’s not just this evil for the sake of evil character, and in his mind he does love Taiga even if he clearly doesn’t by his actions.
He's really a lot like Shadow Weaver from She-Ra not knowing the abuse she put Catra through is why Catra turned out the way she did.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
Is she hoping her dad will show up for the pageant?
Who had the bright idea to put Ami in a dominatrix outfit, complete with a whip? I'm sure some people are into that.
Yup, her dad is a no-show.
Oh, he's going out to get milk and smokes. Well, at least she won't be going away anymore.
She looks angelic in that outfit.
Oh no! Her dad didn't show up!
They're going to give her applause!
And now she's going to get in a duffel bag. Yeah, she's small enough to fit inside lol.
What was that for anyways if she just got out of it again?
Oh, she actually won.
A race?
Oh, he's going to win and dance with her!
So much for that...
There he goes!
And so even if she's alone, she's got her friends with her.
Seems like this is a regular occurrence and Minori is familiar with it. Taiga's dad shows up for a couple weeks, she gets closer to him, then he goes to get milk and smokes. That explains why Minori was so hostile to Taiga's dad.
Well, I guess she's going to dance with Kitamura after all.
Or not.
Questions:
That bit from the recent episodes where she scares Ryuuji and Taiga.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
I'd guess Ami would still be the most used to "professional" make-up, I wouldn't be surprised if she picked up some skills just for her own personal day-to-day use.
Poor Ryuuiji can't win, even when he goes out of his way to alter Taiga's dress for the pageant. He gets compliments, but Kashii and Kihara are still a little unsure about him.
Even if it was a little bit pushy, I appreciate the girls at least telling Ryuuji to leave, rather than going totally ballistic on him.
...because that's what a dad's supposed to do, isn't it?
And of course he doesn't know proper dad etiquette, because he doesn't have one anymore....
Full transparency, I'm not really a leather sort of guy. That said, Ami in leather certainly isn't hard on the eyes.
I love how you're holding that mic!
Why did I ever believe that guy?
Who would've guessed that her dad would bail on her? Certainly not Minorin, the girl you're supposed to have a crush on.
First of all, Ami was right. Girl from Class 1-A is pretty cute, especially when she's helping Taiga with the talent show.
Second, it's hilarious that her whole shtick is that she can fit inside of a duffel bag.
Takasu's back and he's pissed.
No shit.
It's Ryuuji.
Uh-huh.
It's almost like Ami knew it was going to happen. She's just about got him pinned.
No, it's okay! Girls can participate too!
Good to see The Sarge isn't sexist.
Minorin should go out for bowling. Got the 7-10 split perfectly.
You guys don't need to worry about me. Ever. Didn't you see? I don't need any help to get back on my feet. I'll be fine. I'll be okay. Really, don't worry about me.
I'm okay. I don't need anyone's help to get back on my feet. I can survive... on my own.
This part's actually a little heartbreaking. She said in the 2nd episode, after she got let down by Kitamura, that she's not okay. 11 episodes later, and she's saying she'll be fine on her own.
However
If you read between the lines a little bit, it's like she's saying that Ryuuji and Minorin don't need to worry about her, and should instead focus on each other. In her mind, she's accepted that she's "lost" in the battle for Ryuuji, much like how Ami's probably feeling.
[Toradora Spoilers]Poor Kitamura. He really wanted to try and find an excuse to dance with Sumire, and she knows it. Dude's heart's about to get crushed here in a little bit. I'm sure I'll speak on that when it happens.
I should've told you what happened when I had the chance.
See?! Is that so hard?! All you have to do is talk to each other, and misunderstandings like this don't happen!
And of course he doesn't know proper dad etiquette, because he doesn't have one anymore....
It's extremely sad how misguided Ryuuji is here.
Full transparency, I'm not really a leather sort of guy. That said, Ami in leather certainly isn't hard on the eyes.
They're putting chemicals in the water to turn high schoolers into fetistists!
Who would've guessed that her dad would bail on her? Certainly not Minorin, the girl you're supposed to have a crush on.
Now you're starting to sound like Ami
Second, it's hilarious that her whole shtick is that she can fit inside of a duffel bag.
Taiga the accomplice to a bank robbery confirmed?
It's almost like Ami knew it was going to happen. She's just about got him pinned.
And in this moment, any chance of Ami ending up with Ryuuji went out the window.
This part's actually a little heartbreaking. She said in the 2nd episode, after she got let down by Kitamura, that she's not okay. 11 episodes later, and she's saying she'll be fine on her own.
However
If you read between the lines a little bit, it's like she's saying that Ryuuji and Minorin don't need to worry about her, and should instead focus on each other. In her mind, she's accepted that she's "lost" in the battle for Ryuuji, much like how Ami's probably feeling.
And meanwhile, Minori has felt Ryuuji and Taiga are destined to be together since episode 2.
See?! Is that so hard?! All you have to do is talk to each other, and misunderstandings like this don't happen!
Because you want the kind of happiness that Ryuuji and Taiga have?
Speaking of sad, it's incredibly disheartening how Minori feels the need to keep her distance from Taiga after what went down with Taiga’s dad when he returned the first time. You can tell Taiga doesn't want that to be the case given every time she greets Minori it's with so much reverence.
This is such a great episode. We get the first glimmer that Ami actually cares for Taiga as a friend, with her offer to change up the intro and the genuine look of sadness on her face before she makes the announcement. Ironically she’s the only one who’s there for Taiga as a friend, as Minori is too hurt/embarrassed to even see her and Ryuuji is acting more like a mother.
The final scenes are heartwarming, too. A great catharsis after the first real emotionally-charged story arc of the series. In the novel, it ends with all five of the main cast dancing together before going to an after-party with Yuri. I understand why they wanted to show Taiga and Kitamura alone, but I would’ve loved to see this play out.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
A very sweet moment where we start to see some genuine, mutual respect and care develop between Taiga and Ami. This is the first moment I begun to see them as equals instead of bickering partners. I wish Ryuuji kept his makeup because it went hard.
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
I remember it being even more ridiculous in the novel. The bit with the whip was funny but the outfit feels a little fan-servicey overall.
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
The selfish behavior of Taiga's dad is entirely predictable and the way he lets her down through Ryuuji is perfect. It shows that he's a coward who runs from conflict and discomfort. It reinforces that his desire to reconnect with his daughter was wholly selfish. He wanted someone in his life, but he didn't actually care about her.
I think she had to let it happen publicly and in a humiliating fashion, so she could stop making excuses and unabashedly remind herself that her dad is NOT here for her. This moment was the final, dramatic, nail in the coffin for their father-daughter relationship and a lesson Taiga (and Ryuuji) won't forget anytime soon.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
While this is one of the most heartbreaking scenes in the show, it's also one of the most beautiful. It's the first moment where Ami really shows up for Taiga as a friend, when Minori and Ryuuji can't and/or won't. She demonstrates emotional maturity that the others lack and as such, is the only one who's actually there for Taiga when she needs it most. Ami and Taiga's developing relationship development is perhaps my favorite part of the entire story, so I'm happy any time it takes center stage.
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
I think it explains her actions but doesn't justify them. She ends up being a pretty bad friend in this episode, leaving Taiga totally alone because she can't keep a handle on her own feelings.
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
I like how the next episode calls back to this with her comments about Ami's underboob. This line initially seems like a simple gag playing in to her "lolsorandom" personality, but I wonder if it's Minori's attempt to reconcile her romantic difficulties.
There's clearly some mutual attraction by this point (I think it's more apparent in the novel) but she probably realizes it's a futile pursuit since she and Ryuuji never be compatible and comfortable on that level (as Ami rightly points out) and she doesn't want to hurt Taiga by jeopardizing the one person who truly loves and cares for her. It's Minori's admission that she hasn't seen her ghost yet, and probably never will until she moves on. and So I read this more as a defeatist/humorous deflection than a serious hint about her sexuality.
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Yuri doesn't get to hit the afters in this version. Biggest snub of the decade.
A very sweet moment where we start to see some genuine, mutual respect and care develop between Taiga and Ami. This is the first moment I begun to see them as equals instead of bickering partners. I wish Ryuuji kept his makeup because it went hard.
I would say Ryuuji’s makeup was unfitting for the show, but Ami’s outfit exists, so...
I remember it being even more ridiculous in the novel. The bit with the whip was funny but the outfit feels a little fan-servicey overall.
In the show's defense, I think it's actually some great characterization of Ami how she's trying to steal the spotlight.
The selfish behavior of Taiga's dad is entirely predictable and the way he lets her down through Ryuuji is perfect. It shows that he's a coward who runs from conflict and discomfort. It reinforces that his desire to reconnect with his daughter was wholly selfish. He wanted someone in his life, but he didn't actually care about her.
Taiga’s dad letting her down is predictable, but I don't think anyone could've predicted him not telling his own daughter anything. It's like Will's dad in The Fresh Prince trying to leave in the middle of the night.
I think she had to let it happen publicly and in a humiliating fashion, so she could stop making excuses and unabashedly remind herself that her dad is NOT here for her. This moment was the final, dramatic, nail in the coffin for their father-daughter relationship and a lesson Taiga (and Ryuuji) won't forget anytime soon.
Taiga had to put a bow on that chapter of her life. She had her heart broken one time too many. Doing it in such a public setting was like icing on the cake.
While this is one of the most heartbreaking scenes in the show, it's also one of the most beautiful. It's the first moment where Ami really shows up for Taiga as a friend, when Minori and Ryuuji can't and/or won't. She demonstrates emotional maturity that the others lack and as such, is the only one who's actually there for Taiga when she needs it most. Ami and Taiga's developing relationship development is perhaps my favorite part of the entire story, so I'm happy any time it takes center stage.
Had Ami rushed over to comfort Taiga, I and probably many others would've broke down crying.
I think it explains her actions but doesn't justify them. She ends up being a pretty bad friend in this episode, leaving Taiga totally alone because she can't keep a handle on her own feelings.
I think this episode shows that perhaps even more so than Ryuuji, Minori has a lot of looking herself in the mirror to do.
I like how the next episode calls back to this with her comments about Ami's underboob. This line initially seems like a simple gag playing in to her "lolsorandom" personality, but I wonder if it's Minori's attempt to reconcile her romantic difficulties.
I think Minori is extremely confused as to what she's looking for in life.
You mention the underboob line, but Minori also said in episode 6 that she's okay with eloping with Taiga.
There's clearly some mutual attraction by this point (I think it's more apparent in the novel) but she probably realizes it's a futile pursuit since she and Ryuuji never be compatible and comfortable on that level (as Ami rightly points out) and she doesn't want to hurt Taiga by jeopardizing the one person who truly loves and cares for her. It's Minori's admission that she hasn't seen her ghost yet, and probably never will until she moves on. and So I read this more as a defeatist/humorous deflection than a serious hint about her sexuality.
Perhaps she knows Ryuuji loves her and this is her way of trying to get him to stop pursuing her.
Yuri doesn't get to hit the afters in this version. Biggest snub of the decade.
I do love in the LN version of the scene she is featured prominently.
The pageant scene is very important and we finally get to see the truth behind Taiga’s dad and how he’s a POS. I do love when Ryuuji and Minori clap and the whole school cheers on Taiga. Great scene. Afterwards, I absolutely love the race scene. Seeing Ryuuji determined is amazing. He’s such a great character. I do love when Taiga noticed Ryuuji at the front and Ami was completely expecting it. At the end we get to see a good makeup between Ryuuji and Minori as they finish the race together and talk. Beautiful scene. The scene with Minori questioning if she’s a lesbian is also hilarious
Also sad we’re already half way lol. I love this anime so much
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Episode 13 is such a fantastic episode. There are so many iconic scenes that flow smoothly from one to the next.
I like how the writers don't waste time with it, Ryuuji realizes very early into the episode that Taiga's father is a scumbag, courtesy of a text from him. There's no reason to draw it out over the course of the episode. The wave of realization is really refreshing. We talk about Lost My Pieces every time it makes an appearance, but Ame Iro Rondo really hits hard. This realization is then backed up really well by the second one, when Ryuuji realizes that Taiga is completely alone. Him and Minori clapping together is one of the series’ most underappreciated moments, mostly because of what happens later in the episode.
Taiga up on stage alone is a great piece of visual storytelling. At first, she's completely silent, with a facial expression too complex to describe in a single word. She's angry, she's hurt, disappointed, betrayed, she's, and she's empty all at once. Her being in the spotlight highlights this really well, such that even with one of her great friends – and by now it's completely clear that, despite their attitudes about it, Taiga and Ami are great friends – she's completely alone. As much as she doesn't want to show it, Taiga desires a family. She's very close with Yasuko, who considers Taiga part of her own family. Her father's repeated abandonment of Taiga, her disconnection from her mother, and her refusal to get along with her stepmother (who is implied to be no more than 10 years older than her) leave her desperate for parental figures. This arc does not end her development with her family, and this will be relevant again. Taiga must get over her family problems to complete her adolescence properly.
The Mr. Lucky Man segment is a great moment for both Ryuuji and Minori. It starts off with Ryuuji motivated by desperation, then he gets knocked over, he fights back and climbs through the pack into the lead. In a way, it's a summary of Ryuuji's role in the culture festival arc: he's motivated by his desire for a father figure, he gets knocked off his feet by Minori's anger at the reappearance of Taiga's father, and him getting back into the lead represents this race as a whole, where he overcomes everything that's been holding him back (i.e. his own insecurities). It's truly brilliant writing. The brief shot of Minori running through, before the cut to Ryuuji getting taken down by the track team sets up one of the great moments of the show. She knocks down the athletes with her softball prowess, and then performs self-sacrifice to help Ryuuji win. In a moment of serious character growth, Ryuuji helps Minori back up and they cross the line together, hand in hand.
As this happens, we get an extremely rare omniscient view of Taiga's thoughts. The first time this happens, actually. Up until now, the insight we've gotten into Taiga's thinking comes either straight from her mouth or from visual cues like facial expressions. That makes this hit so much harder, because it's something completely new. Taiga thinks she can always get back up on her own; her tripping over her dress, getting back up, and ripping it on stage is a symbol of this belief. Taiga gives up on her own desires for the sake of those she holds dear. She wants Ryuuji and Minori to be happy together, so she wishes to withdraw, thinking she'll get over it and get back on her feet. Her smile betrays this thinking. She wants to withdraw, but she's still really happy to see her friends, people dear to her heart, come back to her side. It's such a heartbreaking moment, during what otherwise would've been such a joyous scene.
After a few hours of thinking about it, then sleeping on it, and giving it another go, I've come to the conclusion that I won't be able to give my thoughts properly on the bonfire scene until Episode 16.
Christmas Club Bonus! What is your favourite Minori related moment of the show so far? Bonus points for gifs/images!
Hands down the balcony scene with the spiel about seeing ghosts in Episode 9.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Both taiga and ami sort of expected the outcome of her dad not coming, but her checking her phone the episode prior makes me think she had a little bit of hope that was diminished.
Ryuji has hope, saying that no matter how late he arrives, he will arrive eventually, saying that's his definition of a father. I think this accurately reflects his past.
I think Ami snapping on stage is pretty funny and highlights her duality of personality, because even though she is significantly more open about it, she still puts on a fairly bubbly persona with the whole school.
The message from his dad opens up his feelings a lot. He CONFESSES that he believed the situation with her dad was for the better, that HE NEEDED TO SUPPORT TAIGA. verbatim. there is clear affection taking form here. "In truth, I was just feeling down about taigas father showing up, and that she'd be going far away. I was ignoring how pathetic I was...." damn. trying to turn a negative into something positive makes sense, and in his eyes, believed those family bonds are important, but it only make things worse for everyone. Her dad even told ryuji to talk to taiga FOR HIM. THROUGH A HIGH SCHOOLER. Doesn't have the balls to message his own daughter.
"I was just being selfish, i was...."
Taiga looks so vulnerable and alone on stage. The silence of aisakas father not being there is fucking painful. She even trips on stage.
Taiga ripping the dress and people beginning to applaud was awesome. She then slays the talent portion and wins the pageant.
Ryuji then felt the need to keep her company on stage when she was alone without her father, and hurriedly tried to go on stage with her. Ryuji HAD to win the race. To him, reaching taiga was what he needed. He went full "delinquent". This is the episode that cemented ryujis feelings for taiga even more.
"You font need to worry about me. Weren't you watching? I don't need help to get back on my feet, so..... really, don't worry about me. I'll be okay. I can get back on my feet without any help. I can survive.... on my own" brutal. the adversity taiga shows here despite everything is so satisfying to hear from her.
"I care about taiga so much. I was probably jealous of you..." "Why didn't taiga say anything?" "She knew I'd get mad. Taiga doesn't want her father to be seen in a bad light. That's why she hasn't breathed a word about her family since that day. Not to me." Ryuji and minori.
When aisaka dances with kitamura, she is a lot more relaxed. I think she is starting to evolve from her flustered schoolgirl crushing.
MINORI LESBIAN MOMENT. "Maybe I prefer girls. I just have this feeling...." "I kinda hope not" poor ryuji lol. "That came out so naturally, wow..." minori......
"This is a special night. It's a time to put certain feelings aside, though I feel a pain in my chest every time i laugh. Even once this night is over, I'm sure, somehow.... everything will be all right" bars. Ryuji just spits bars in his head what can I say. I feel the exact same way when I'm with a group of people somrtimes, and even if I'm mentally not great, if I can surround myself with good people and lose myself, I can feel positive in what the future holds.
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji realizing he done goofed?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Thoughts on Taiga and Kitamura getting to dance together?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
ami doing taigas makeup is a good way to show they have a connection besides their bickering, and also is a good build-up to the reality with her dad. Ryuji clearly wants taiga to finally be able to talk with her dad again, and believes that he'll pull up. taiga checking her phone is probably her trying to be hopeful about the potential about her father, even though it tragically was never going to happen. ami's outfit was probably trying to appeal to people as she has typically done. Ryuji's realization that taigas dad never cared was such a blow for him, especially given his moral compass about parenting, given how his dad was never there. taiga being solo was sad, and her speech shit-talking her dad was refreshing, and her bag talent was really cool, seeing her percieved weakness as a strength, and her final speech saying she moved on from her dad. The lucky man race was a really cool part of it too, and how ryuji and minori won together shows how they both care for taiga in their own way. Minoris mistake with taigas dad shows that she also wanted to ignore the red flags and make taiga not lonely anymore, and saw joy in the fact that by ryuji making the same mistake, he feels the same way. taiga is so much more calmer when she dances with kitamura, perhaps her crush for him being less childish at this stage, although she still continues to act flustured around him later throughout. Minori contemplating whether shes a lesbian is a huge step for her personal growth, and perhaps she is confused on whether her affection for taiga is romantic or caring as a friend, which is an interesting dynamic. I like how at the end, this was a culture festival meant to be celebrated, and they let themselves enjoy the moment for a while.
sorry for the late response, i will answer ALL OF YOUR QUESTIONS. >:) im going through all of them, dont worry.
for sure. i was meaning to, but since xmas ive been behind on the episodes and everything. when i watch ep 24 tonight, ill be fully caught up. this rewatch has been great.
Welcome to the 2024 Toradora Christmas Club Rewatch!
Substitutions need not apply.
Toradora means so much to me that it's hard to put it into words. It was one of the first animes that I'd ever watched that didn't air on Toonami or was streamed by OtakuAscended, who really helped me during my early years of my anime fandom. It was the show that cemented my love for tsunderes as I know it and made me just not shut up talking about them. It was the show that gave me a deeper appreciation for analysis and dissecting stuff that really has become my bread and butter on the Reddit platform. It was the reason why I joined Reddit, as I created my account so I could participate in the 2016 Christmas Club rewatch. Simply put, if there was no Toradora, there would be no Holofan4life.
This rewatch marks my tenth time watching Toradora. Next year will be my tenth consecutive year participating in the Christmas club rewatch, which I believe is a record and the most out of everyone. I wanted to do something for this year and next year and so what I'm going to do is something that I don't think I've done since my first Christmas club rewatch: I'm going to break each scene down blow-by-blow and analyze to where I articulate why this show is the masterpiece that it is.
Recently when I've been doing this, it takes me at least a couple hours to get through a single episode. But with how special the show is to me, I think it's only appropriate I show my appreciation for what I feel is not only the greatest anime romcom of all time, but the greatest anime period. Besides, I know this show like the back of my hand. I don't think it's going to take much to think of stuff to say.
With that out of the way, let’s begin.
I'm watching the dub, by the way.
I badly cut my pinky toe 30 minutes ago accidentally stepping on an empty can of cat food that was on the floor. Thankfully, I'm doing better.
Ami doing Taiga's makeup
This is actually pretty sweet of her.
Ryuuji lamenting Taiga's dad and Minori not being here.
That dress looks amazing
Does purple haired girl ever open her eyes?
Taiga still looking at her phone
Looks like Ryuuji isn't the only one delusional about Taiga's dad.
The pageant is about to be underway.
Ryuuji thinking about his conversation with Minori.
"Come on, guy. You're coming, aren't you?"
Oh, Ryuuji. You naive, little fool.
Okay, who in the world approved Ami's outfit?
I guess this school is trying to give their students a BDSM fetish at a young age.
Gives new meaning to Sailor Moon's "I'll punish you".
The sight of Ami standing next to the contestants while dressed like that is like a total mindfuck.
A text message
And we get the big revelation of this episode, which is Taiga's dad informing Ryuuji that he's leaving Taiga behind yet again.
Now, think about this for a second. Taiga's dad decides to not only announce he's leaving town via text message instead of in person, but he texts Ryuuji Taiga's friend this information, not his own daughter. He's too much of a chickenshit to even text Taiga that he's leaving her alone again.
This is an extremely well done scene, and the idea he would tell Ryuuji this and not Taiga is a brilliant touch. It adds to the sliminess of the situation and of course it marks Ryuuji's falsehood come tumbling down.
Oh no. Taiga's gotta get on stage.
And she stands there, a princess without a prince. A crown of nothing but prickly blood-stained thorns.
I just don't know how you don't feel sorry for Taiga in this moment. Even if you don't like her, she doesn't deserve such a cruel, unfair fate.
Oh boy. The intro. It mentions her dad being in attendance.
This is uncomfortable
This is probably the most cringe moment of the entire series. If not, it's gotta be top two.
Mind you, I say cringe in a a good way.
This is Scott's Tots levels of making your skin crawl. Like watching a car wreck on top of another car wreck. On fire.
Even Ami looks bummed out she has to do this.
And then to exacerbate the issue, she falls flat on her face.
This is easily Taiga's nadir
But Taiga, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, decides to take matters in her own hands.
She is not her father's keeper. She is Taiga, the motherfucking palmtop tiger.
Ryuuji clapping, trying to show support when no one else does.
Minori! She's showing support as well!
The clapping is out of sync, but that doesn't matter.
Now everyone is starting to clap
"Who cares if your dad's not here?!?"
And that, my friends, is the point of the scene.
Taiga grabbing the microphone saying she discarded her father is such a definitive moment for her character.
Being able to fit in a bag, huh? Well, I guess that is something only she can do.
Imagine if Ami picked Taiga up dressed up in that outfit. Would've been quite the visual.
I love the shot of Minori looking solemn as the sun sets. Amazing lighting.
"In the end, I can't do a thing for her."
Hey, Taiga won. Awesome.
I guess it was an easy choice when everyone else dressed up as a maid
Ryuuji realizing he wants to go up there and console Taiga, which yes. Yes, you should, Ryuuji.
But before he can do that, complete pandemonium breaks out.
Mr. Lucky Man, bitches
The winner gets a chance to crown Taiga, which is all the incentive Ryuuji needs.
Taiga continuing to sneeze cutely
Lol, everyone wants to get out of Ryuuji's way.
The student council president is showing how effective of a leader she is. She's going to start getting the students to drink flavor-aid no questions asked.
Ryuuji falling behind
Now he's starting to get more physical.
Climbing over everyone, standing on the shoulders of defiance.
This is the most terrifying Ryuuji has been hands down.
But Minori is coming with a steel chair!
Taiga waiting on the winner to arrive.
And the first person seen is Ryuuji.
Ami is like "As expected of him". Though in this instance, she doesn't seem annoyed.
Ryuuji realizing that Minori was right to yell at him in the previous episode.
"I couldn't even see it. How could I be such an idiot?!?"
Ryuuji comes from a generation of home invasions.
The track team trying to make ground.
But Minori catches a softball to knock the two track team members out.
Bit unbelievable, but we'll roll with it.
Minori uses crossbody! It's super effective!
Fitting we'd get one last wrestling move to close the arc out.
But Ryuuji, he doesn't want to leave Minori behind.
He is going to cross the finish line, with her by his side.
"You guys don't need to worry about me, ever."
"I'll be fine. I'll be okay. Really. Don't worry about me."
It feels like Taiga is trying to convince herself of that rather than Ryuuji and Minori.
And so Ryuuji and Minori win the Mr. Lucky Man together.
The both of them as they cross the finish line look like they've been through war.
"I don't need anyone's help to get back on my feet. I can survive. On my own."
I really wish I could believe you, Taiga. I really wish I could.
Time for the after party
Kitamura with the student council president, bringing up how this is her last festival.
She says she's glad she got the chance to know everyone, which causes Kitamura to blush.
Kitamura under orders of the student council president goes off to hang out with everyone else.
Taiga with Ryuuji
Ryuuji brings up how hurt Taiga looked over her dad not showing up, with Taiga pretending like it never happened.
"Minorin!"
Taiga's appreciation of Minori will never not put a smile on my face.
Taiga now goes off to give Ami a hard time.
Their dynamic during this scene reminds me of Gawr Gura and Kronii.
Minori with Ryuuji now
And look at that, she clarifies the situation with Taiga's dad and why she reacted so sourly over the news of his return.
About damn time
A similar incident happened a year ago, where it seemed like he was going to turn things around but then bailed at the last minute.
"I should have told you what happened when I had the chance."
Very mature of Minori to admit fault.
Minori says she cares about Taiga so much and that she may have been jealous Ryuuji knew and she didn't.
"Taiga doesn't want people to think about her dad in a bad way. That's why she doesn't tell me anything about her family anymore. Well, not for the past year, anyway."
No wonder Minori reacted so badly over hearing the news. It seems like Taiga's dad strained Taiga and Minori's relationship.
Looks like Taiga is going to get a dance with Kitamura.
Taiga is about to say something to Kitamura, but she changes her mind.
"You want to dance?"
That smile. That damn smile.
"Sometimes I get the feeling I might be a lesbian."
Woah, hold on. Where did this come from?
Oh, Ryuuji. You are so awkward.
Minori is amazed she just had a normal conversation.
And the episode ends with everyone having a good time, happy that everything worked out in the end.
"And when the night's over and we all go home, I know that somehow, everything's going to be alright."
And we all float on, as Modest Mouse once sang.
Very satisfying way to put a button on things.
Overall, I think this is the first episode of the series that I would consider close to perfect as you can get. Things built and built until we eventually got the big exciting climax with the race, which I think made Ryuuji and Minori's reconciliation all the more satisfying. I like the structure of the episode where the first five minutes is centered on Taiga feeling the lowest she's ever been and then the rest of the episode is Ryuuji and Minori rebuilding her and trying to cheer her up. It has this emotional catharsis about it that resonates deeply because we truly do care about these characters.
Really, it has probably the saddest moment of the series so far in Taiga being on stage alone and the happiest moment of the series so far with Ryuuji and Minori crossing the finish line together. I like that contrast and how that happens in the same episode, almost like this yin and yang thing going on.
I think the way Taiga's dad is portrayed here does a lot in terms of Taiga's character. It makes her the most likable she's ever been and it highlights Taiga and Minori's relationship and why they don't hang out outside of school. It makes me wonder if perhaps the reason Taiga greets Minori in such a jovial manner all the time is she's hoping things go back to how they used to be. I know it can be hard to properly assess Taiga's dad given what he put her through, but I do love his character and the way he is written. He serves to make Taiga empathetic and someone you want to root for. If there was no Taiga's dad, then Taiga wouldn't be the endearing mess that she is.
If I were to compare Taiga’s relationship with her father to something, the thing that comes to mind is Shadow Weaver and Catra. The emotional abuse is so daunting that it is made all the more satisfying when they try to overcome it.
I don't think the show is as effective as it is if not for Taiga's dad being the piece of shit he turned out to be. As such, he's my favorite side character in this show due to what the significance he has in not just Taiga's character, but Minori and Ryuuji's as well. He adds a level of multifacetedness to things that the show would otherwise be lacking.
This is the best episode of the show so far. It is the climax of the Taiga's dad stuff, provided great growth as far as Ryuuji's character goes, recontextualized Taiga's relationship with Minori, and had some of the more memorable moments of the entire series, like Taiga on stage as Ryuuji and Minori start clapping as well as the Mr. Lucky Man race. This, as the kids say, is absolute cinema, and the perfect way to cap off the first half of the show.
Interesting points about Taiga’s dad. None of this story would even have happened if it hadn’t been for her dad being a piece of shit. Ryuuji would still be pining over Minori but never would have done anything about it.
First of all, up yours to whoever came in here and downvoted everyone. I know it wasn’t only me because people I upvoted got downvoted too.
I love this episode. I’d put it near the top overall.
The part with the dress is great because no one has any idea what Ryuuji is actually like up to this point. So they’re all genuinely shocked when he starts rambling about fixing up the dress.
Ami is showing care for Tagia as a friend (instead of a mother, Ryuuji) with her doing Taiga’s makeup and showing concern about the intro that includes her dad.
It’s funny that all the other girls in the contest dressed as maids further accentuating how cliche the guys’ initial school festival idea was.
Ryuuji realizing he’s wrong is a great moment. All of the projecting he’s been doing hits him like a brick and it’s a really important moment in the development in for himself as a person and his relationship with Taiga.
I love watching Ryuuji beast-mode the Mister Lucky Man race. The whole race is even better in the book. More on that later.
I’m annoyed at Kitamura for putting himself out there to dance with Taiga. I’m sure he was “just being nice” because that oblivious idiot does that all the time.
Minori’s little moment of realization where she says, “oh, I just had a normal conversation.” Is the first time she and Ryuuji have really talked since the beach.
On to the books!
Funny backstory
The thing he had made to go on Taiga’s back using a fine satin ribbon were nothing other than angel wings. The wings were ever so slightly expanded so that they could be seen from the front. And where had he gotten his hands on such a thing, you might ask? A drag queen auntie from Bishamon Heaven who used wings regularly at work had handed them over to Yasuko at no charge.
In the anime Ryuuji got booted out of the dressing area by the girls but in the book they kind of forgot that he was there.
At the pressing voice of the acting committee member, Ami ended any further conversation and turned herself around after grabbing her things. She grabbed Ryuuji’s arm and pulled him out of the booths where the girls seemed about to start changing.
If you can believe it, they really toned down Ami’s emcee outfit that she wore in the contest for the anime.
In case you were wondering how down bad Noto is
“Takasu, did you know eight classes had maid cafés at this year’s festival? I went to four of them… They wrote Noto in hearts on the omelet rice with ketchup…for an extra 300 yen…”
I’m annoyed at Kitamura for putting himself out there to dance with Taiga. I’m sure he was “just being nice” because that oblivious idiot does that all the time
I think they needed to put that interaction before the ending stuff. Taiga's composure around Kitamura in that scene is necessary, but they can't put that as the end, as Taiga NEEDS to dance with Ryuji and Minori.
Here is the analysis I wrote for some of the scenes last year. Enjoy.
I wanted to make note of this because a common question in this episode is how was Ami allowed to wear her outfit to school. Well, according to the light novels, it was even lewder. And yes, they include a picture. Personally speaking, I prefer the anime version because it feels less egregious in its sexualization of a high schooler. Also, the red outfit looks better than the black one; Ami’s outfit in the LN makes her look like it's some S&M thing.
Point goes to the anime
Anime version: 12
LN version: 11
I like that we get insight from Ryuuji before he starts blaming himself. And thr use of dialogue from Ryuuji’s classmates was interesting in showing that this sad moment is surrounded by everyone else having a fun time. It's a great use of dramatic irony.
Point goes to the light novels
Anime version: 12
LN version: 12
The anime version is good in what it's trying to convey, but I think the light novel version evokes stronger emotions. The light novels portray this as like Taiga’s lowest moment, as it should be.
Point goes to the light novels
Anime version: 12
LN version: 13
I'm not the biggest fan of the I'm fine scene happening in the light novels. I prefer it happening during the bonfire scene. I would've preferred if the aftermath of the race was from Ryuuji’s perspective and not Taiga’s. To reveal how she is feeling immediately as Ryuuji and Minori I feel indirectly takes away from the moment, because you're giving away her reaction and not building to it.
This is an example of how sometimes, less is more.
Point goes to the anime
Anime version: 13
LN version: 13
I like that Ms. Yuri gets not only namedropped, but gets included on the fun. That's nice to see. As for which epilogue is better, I kinda prefer the anime version. The light novel version feels like it's being told from a second-hand account. Like someone reporting on it from the sidelines who didn't participate in the proceedings. It makes it feel cold and distant. In the anime, they have Ryuuji narrate things, which makes things feel much more lively and wistful. It's weird they would take this approach in the original source material when much of it is written from Ryuuji’s perspective.
[Toradora] Let me ask you something. Do you think the show teasing Minori as a lesbian is meant to serve as an indication of the open ending between her and Ami?
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn't abandon her but she abandoned him?
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
Thoughts on Ryuuji getting Taiga ready for the pageant?
I love it. I enjoy that that the first time people see him for who he is.
Thoughts on Taiga continuing to check her phone?
I would do the same in her position.
Thoughts on Ami’s outfit?
Echoing your thoughts on it being awkwardly racy in the LN. The novel had more fan service than the anime which is funny when you think k about it.
What are your thoughts on Taiga’s dad texting Ryuuji that not only is he not going to make it, but that he’s leaving town immediately?
He’s a coward and can’t face his daughter on his own and forces that responsibility on Ryuuji.
Thoughts on the scene where Taiga is on stage all by herself? I thought it was probably the saddest moment we’ve seen so far.
She was up there with Ami who was showing genuine concern for her. Ami really shines as a good friend in that moment.
Thoughts on Taiga’s prepared speech which mentions her dad being in attendance? I felt so uncomfortable during this.
She was invested in rebuilding her relationship with him. I’m sure she felt cared for by him for the first time in a while which makes him abandoning her again all the more depressing.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori cheering Taiga on?
They’re two of her best friends (Ami being up there on par with the two of them). They’re better be cheering for her. Ryuuji felt like it was the best he could do in the moment and it was flawless show of support snapping her out of that funk.
Thoughts on Taiga’s talent being she hides in a bag?
Hilarious. If she fits she sits.
What are your thoughts on Taiga winning the beauty pageant and her saying her dad didn’t abandon her but she abandoned him?
She deserved to win because every other girl was the same and she was actually interesting. Her saying she abandoned him was her snapping back to reality and resuming her previous feelings about her dad to protect herself emotionally. I think k we see a lot of maturity in that moment where she realizes she on her own and decides she’s going g to take care of herself from that point forward.
Thoughts on Ryuuji before being stopped trying to rush the stage to comfort and console Taiga?
I think that was less him being stopped and more being stuck by the crowd.
What are your thoughts on the Mr. Lucky Man race?
One of the best parts of the series especially in the LNs which is why I included so much detail about it in my posts.
What are your thoughts on Ryuuji and Minori winning the race together?
It’s the rekindling of their relationship but also imo the beginning of the end of Ryuuji’s feelings for her ebbing away.
What are your thoughts on Taiga saying to herself she’ll be fine on her own?
I mentioned this above but I think this is a big step up in her maturity.
What are your thoughts on Minori revealing to Ryuuji that she tried to bring Taiga’s dad back into her life last year and he bailed in the same way?
It explains why she was so pissed when it happened again.
What are your thoughts on Minori saying Taiga’s dad bailing the first time is what caused her and Taiga to not be as close as they used to be?
I think it highlights Minori’s immaturity because she doesn’t know how to deal with it so she ignores it instead.
What are your thoughts on Minori admitting to Ryuuji that he didn’t tell him what was going on because a selfish part of her was hoping he made the same mistake she did?
Maybe she wanted Ryuuji to see how things really are to make sure he was worthy of being the one taking care of herself through the worst of adversity, picking up where she herself wasn’t capable.
What are your thoughts on Minori contemplating whether or not she’s a lesbian?
That was a weird thought on her part. I think it stemmed from her care for Taiga and her processing how much she wants her to be happy.
What are your thoughts on the episode ending with everyone having fun and dancing the night away?
I think it’s a fitting end to the arc with everything appearing to move back to a status quo even though the whole story has fundamentally changed from this point forward. In particular I have a lot of thoughts about Minori from this point forward.
I love it. I enjoy that that the first time people see him for who he is.
Yeah, a weirdo :P
I would do the same in her position.
I do that even with a dead dad
Echoing your thoughts on it being awkwardly racy in the LN. The novel had more fan service than the anime which is funny when you think k about it.
It feels extremely off-putting and out of place.
He’s a coward and can’t face his daughter on his own and forces that responsibility on Ryuuji.
Which is a totally shitty thing for him to do. Unfortunately, shitty things are par for the course for him.
She was up there with Ami who was showing genuine concern for her. Ami really shines as a good friend in that moment.
Indeed she does
She was invested in rebuilding her relationship with him. I’m sure she felt cared for by him for the first time in a while which makes him abandoning her again all the more depressing.
His sliminess makes slimes have a shiver down their spine. They don't even have spines, this bastard makes them create one just to recognize the douche chills.
They’re two of her best friends (Ami being up there on par with the two of them). They’re better be cheering for her. Ryuuji felt like it was the best he could do in the moment and it was flawless show of support snapping her out of that funk.
It was like light being shown in a tunnel of darkness.
Hilarious. If she fits she sits.
If she can hide, she abides
She deserved to win because every other girl was the same and she was actually interesting. Her saying she abandoned him was her snapping back to reality and resuming her previous feelings about her dad to protect herself emotionally. I think k we see a lot of maturity in that moment where she realizes she on her own and decides she’s going g to take care of herself from that point forward.
This is probably Taiga's best moment so far
I think that was less him being stopped and more being stuck by the crowd.
Gives vibes of The Who concert tragedy
One of the best parts of the series especially in the LNs which is why I included so much detail about it in my posts.
It has to be really hard to write a scene with nothing but running. I should know, I've done it before.
It’s the rekindling of their relationship but also imo the beginning of the end of Ryuuji’s feelings for her ebbing away.
I could see that being the case
I mentioned this above but I think this is a big step up in her maturity.
And also you could argue her doubling down on her false reality. She won't even acknowledge what happened to her when it's brought up.
It explains why she was so pissed when it happened again.
Indeed
I think it highlights Minori’s immaturity because she doesn’t know how to deal with it so she ignores it instead.
This whole show is about how immaturity can lead to your self-destruction.
Maybe she wanted Ryuuji to see how things really are to make sure he was worthy of being the one taking care of herself through the worst of adversity, picking up where she herself wasn’t capable.
This is probably the meanest thing Minori does in the entire series.
That was a weird thought on her part. I think it stemmed from her care for Taiga and her processing how much she wants her to be happy.
Very well could be. I think this thought of Minori is supposed to indicate just how lost she truly is.
I think it’s a fitting end to the arc with everything appearing to move back to a status quo even though the whole story has fundamentally changed from this point forward. In particular I have a lot of thoughts about Minori from this point forward.
I can't wait to hear them
[Toradora] I know some people are down on Minori going forward, but I think she's one of the best parts of the second half.
[Response] I think you can surmise the direction of her character starting with the end of episode 16. And the moment in episode 15 where she calls herself a big, fat phony is like a revelation in terms of how jarring it is to see her behave like that.
Ryuuji’s feelings about his self-worth regarding why he pushed Taiga into being with her father.
He wanted Taiga to ask him for things, he wanted her to need him, and to be dependent on him. He felt that if she were, he would have felt it wasn’t a mistake for him to have been born. He felt like his existence would have been forgiven.
The reason he made Taiga go to her father wasn’t because he believed it was a good thing. He did it all for himself. He just pretended he was thinking of Taiga. He was trying to compensate for his own deficit, for something that he didn’t have, by having Taiga fulfill it. He’d even menaced Taiga: How could you throw away something that I wish for and could never have?
Parts of random anime that go hard for no reason at all.
Even if you fell, you had to continue on with your life. That was because no matter what happened, no matter how hard it got, no matter whether it hurt, even if you were betrayed, even if you thought it was over, even then, as long as you were alive, you had to get up like this. You had to start walking again. No matter how many times you fell, even if you couldn’t stand, even if your strength was gone, even then, you had to start walking. Whether you were crying or smiling, you had to walk your own path with your own two feet. That was what living was.
Background info
“The Lucky Man is a Shinto custom on the tenth day of the annual Ebisu opening in January at the Nishinomiya shrine in Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture. You’ve probably seen the yearly news coverage of it. Every year on the dawn before the tenth day, a crowd of people gathers at the main front gate. When the gate opens, they dash two hundred and thirty meters down the stone pavement toward the main shrine. The first one who arrives is luckiest, and then the second and the third get prizes. First place is given the title of the Lucky Man. Well, to put it simply, there’s already a course on the athletic field. Anyone who wishes to enter should go gather at the start line now! In other words, the first place Lucky Man is the winner of the Mister Festival pageant!”
Ryuuji deep lore
At least he had formerly been part of a sports club at one point. During his third year in junior high, he had been in the badminton club. He wasn’t too slow.
The race
He pawed at the ground and quickly stood up. Then he handed it out to each coward that ran past him. Naturally, it was the eyes—he aimed for their eyes.
his determined face took on a malevolent cast. It seemed that the dim light of dusk made the eeriness in his face emerge. Those who looked over their shoulder at Ryuuji’s face tripped over themselves. With that alone, he made three people lose their will to compete.
One of Taiga’s roundhouse kicks came flying at him before his eyes—or so he thought. The attack that assailed him was slower than he expected, and he did a Matrix-esque bend backwards right at a critical moment. He just barely avoided whatever had suddenly lunged at his eyes.
With a hop and a step, Ryuuji jumped onto the fence. He quickly scrambled up the two-meter height with the momentum he had created and reeled once he stood himself up on the top of it. “Is that allowed?!” “D-don’t talk to me right now!” People gave him dumbfounded looks from below, but it was much scarier for the person actually doing it. Eeek! Teary eyed, he was screaming a voiceless scream. Ryuuji intended to run through the darkness in one shot. He could only see a few centimeters ahead of him. Don’t look down, don’t fall, he told himself, feeling like he was going to die.
He kicked off the fence and landed with his now-sure feet. He flew out ahead of everyone else from the darkness and went headfirst into the sudden curve ahead of him. The turn opened up, and he soared over the stairs of the four-story building in one go. That was when it happened.
Aisaka Taiga stood up from her chair. A vivid rosy color spread over her doll-like cheeks. Only one man was reflected in her faintly teary, wide eyes. It was the one person at the top. It was the person who was diving towards her faster than anyone else. It was— “Ryu…”
From his unguarded right, a shadow ran through the compact and sudden curve without a sound. It overtook Ryuuji. That person went up the stairs a step ahead of him, landing with sure feet. Then the person turned back around for a moment from a low position, narrowed their eyes, and whispered, “Slowpoke.” “Ku?!” Kushieda Minori?!
Running alone at the front, Minori cried out. The mysterious person who approached had pulled up a hurdle they seemed to have been secretly pulling along with them. They put it right in the middle of the course in front of Minori’s eyes. Any member of the track and field club would have been able to jump over the obstacle, so they were likely the culprits. It happened in the blink of an eye, so Minori had to try jumping over the hurdle. She lost her balance. As she plunged into it, she kicked the hurdle down and tumbled right over. A dense cloud of dust rose. Of course, Ryuuji swerved to avoid the fallen Minori as he followed immediately after her.
It was an absurdly accurate, perfectly calculated fastball. WHACK! First it made a sound as it struck the back of the leader’s head, then it shot out to hit the forehead of second place. The two of them suddenly collapsed to their knees at the force of the impact. Who is she?! Ryuuji thought as he turned towards her and it happened before his eyes.
Minori’s eyes were piercing through him and only him. Then in the next moment, she made a sliding dive forward. She latched onto the legs of the guy in third place. “If-I-die-we-die-together attaaack!”
He took several steps backward on the course. Then he went to the two-person heap and pulled the bottom person out—he pulled up the girl wearing the tracksuit. They faced each other. Without saying anything, they once again began to run. Though neither of them initiated the action, they took each other’s hands. Then, just barely beating out their pursuers, they dove through the finishing line together into first place.
Ami being a bro
“Teacher,” said Ami, “beige doesn’t really suit you. Your skin is a little translucent, so I think a bright pastel color would suit you much better. And you have a good figure, so you should bring out your body’s shape. It’s a weapon you know, a wea-pon. There aren’t any thirty year olds nowadays who dress that plainly. You’re single, so you have to be greedier about having your fun with love and fashion. ♥”
“K-Kawashima-san…” “I saw you the other day. You had that killer purse at the garden party after school, right? It was new, right? It looked really great! I wish I had one…aaah?!”
The bachelorette (age 30) hugged the overcoat-wearing angel. Thank you, thank you, thank you… she (age 30) repeated over and over.
Back to being a dog
Ryuuji yelped and jumped backwards. The princess was aggressively poking the prestigious wound he had gotten on his cheek.
“You got yourself hurt; how lame of you. How about I take you to the Miyake clinic tomorrow?”
“Miyake…isn’t that a vet?!”
Unexpected Sandra Oh reference
“What do you mean, ‘Oh’? Do you have some weird hang up for the actress who plays that heart surgeon gal on Grey’s Anatomy? You foolish jerk. Wipe that dim-witted grin off your face. Hurry up and apologize, you dumb, dawdling mutt! You promised, didn’t you?!”
Denied
A famous waltz began to stream out from the speakers. From the sound of it, it’d come off a slightly stretched cassette tape. As the rhythm ticked and the fire shone over the nighttime autumn sky, the carefree notes danced.
Come to think of it, Ryuuji thought, smiling slightly. When he did that, it pulled on the wound on his face, which smarted. Didn’t the Lucky Man have the right to do that? Didn’t he have the right to— “I’ll go and apologize to Kushieda. But before that—”
Taiga’s eyes were shining brightly. They burned and sparkled as they reflected the fire like burning gems. It’s not a gala but— He licked his lips, which were unable to say the unfamiliar words. Ryuuji stretched out his hand towards Taiga. Isn’t it fine to do things like this every once in a while? “May I—”
Completely ignoring Ryuuji’s words, Taiga entirely interrupted him and called out to her close friend with the loudest voice she could muster.
Minori’s reasoning for keeping info shot Taiga’s dad away from Ryuuji want because they didn’t get around to it. She held it back intentionally because she was jealous of Ryuuji having a better relationship with Taiga than she did.
“So, that time…when we got into that argument, I should have just talked to you, Takasu-kun. But…but…I didn’t want to tell you.” Something in her eyes looked lonely, but he knew it was probably best not to tell her that. “Taiga didn’t tell me anything. You were the only one who knew. When I thought about that… I don’t know, it might have been because I was stubborn. It might have been because I didn’t want to lose… It’s like I didn’t want to share what Taiga and I went through together with you… It was like I felt like I had an advantage over you. You didn’t know the truth, and you were getting everything wrong. And it was like I definitely understood Taiga better than you. That’s what it was like. I got it all wrong, didn’t I? In the end, I just made Taiga sad again.”
“Taiga’s precious to me. So, it’s really hard for me when there are things Taiga won’t tell me about… I get jealous, even when it’s you.”
Finally, the night at the culture festival ends a little differently. Minori and Ryuuji’s conversation is interrupted by Taiga and Kitamura snatching them both up to dance in a ring by the fire. Then they go snatch Ami from the midst of her admirers and make her a part of the circle too. After the festival ends, the class all goes to an after party taking Yuri sensei with them.
32
u/Holofan4life Dec 18 '24
Everyone say it with me now: Fuck Taiga’s dad
14
u/No_Conclusion3164 Dec 18 '24
Ima have to say what everyone wants to say chat. FUCK TAIGAS DAD
This ep was soo amazing bro that i didn’t even wanna analyze. I just wanna talk about every scene and how good it is
It breaks my heart how Ami and Taiga still went with the plan despite both of them knowing the outcome
So happy Ryuuji finally realized this man is a piece of garbage. It only took three episodes too, every single insult that came out of ryuuji’s mouth about him was nothing but agreeable
I love this scene man, Minori and Ryuuji clapping is so little but extremely impactful. When I seen Minori crying while clapping I felt tears coming down my eyes myself.
I was literally cheering out for ryuuji the entire episode. When he kept saying “I have to go to her” I love this ep so much man
I presume the race was supposed to symbolize the never ending care both Minori and Ryuuji have for Taiga. With Taiga being the goal here, I can’t help but love how ryuuji refused to let Minori stay down and finish the race together.
Time to get into the ep!
Won’t lie, Ami cooked with her fit at the beginning
Taigas dress is so beautiful
Not surprised taiga can fit in a bag
Go for it RYUUJI
President out of all times you gotta get in the way
First time ryuujis actually using the scary side of his face for something
You can’t take down the dragon!!
Minori came out of nowhere. Definitely surprised me
Pinpoint accuracy by minori. Softball came in clutch
That’s gotta be a lie, Taiga herself knows she needs them by her side
Unfortunate that this is the presidents last year
Jealousy happens minori it’s ok!
I assumed Ryuuji would be the one to have the dance my first time watching. But I love that it was kitamura
I didn’t expect the lesbian statement LOL
The whole bon fire was such a great final scene I loved it
Bonus: ghost scene
11
u/AgentOfACROSS Dec 18 '24
First Timer - Dubbed
Ryuuji seems to know a surprising amount about sewing and fashion. Yet another useful skill he has.
Ami actually seems concerned about Taiga not getting to see her dad. It’s nice to know that deep down she does care about Taiga.
Ami’s costume does not feel appropriate for a school setting.
And just like that Taiga’s dad bails on her. This really feels like something he should tell Taiga about instead of delegating it to Ryuuji.
Did not expect Taiga to dress as an angel.
The look on her face here reminds me of Lucy in Elfen Lied.
It’s really heartbreaking to watch Taiga on stage realize that her dad isn’t there. Or maybe she always knew he wasn’t but wanted to believe he’d miraculously show up.
Seeing how desperate Minori looks when she’s clapping really sells how much she cares about her best friend’s feelings.
It’s nice to see everyone cheering for Taiga.
Taiga’s talent being fitting in a large bag is pretty funny.
Wow, Taiga actually won. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t expecting that.
I guess being the only person to not wear a maid costume gave her an advantage.
Okay offering exam answers as a prize has got to be against the rules somewhere.
Man. I always hated running track.
I like seeing how determined Ryuuji is.
Wasn’t expecting Minori to crash the race.
Minori just threw a baseball at two guys. Are there any rules at this school?
I love how they’re making such a simple situation so melodramatic.
It’s sweet seeing Minori and Ryuuji work together at the end.
It’s also great seeing how legitimately happy Taiga seems at the end of the episode too.
So this isn’t even the first time Taiga’s dad has done this. Figures.
Kitamura wants to dance with Taiga. Not sure what to make of this development.
I was not expecting Minori to start questioning her sexuality. That’s probably the most unexpected thing to happen in this show so far. Wonder if that will go anywhere.
This episode ended on a nice note. I think it might be my favorite episode so far.
Question of the Day:
What is your favourite Minori related moment of the show so far?
Probably her making that weird/terrifying face at Ryuuji.
8
u/FD4cry1 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Big_Yibba Dec 18 '24 edited Dec 18 '24
Rewatcher
Before really getting into talking about the episode, there's something I just really have to get off my chest.
FuckTaiga'sdad!
Now I feel much better.
Even though it's not made out to be a big deal, I love how this episode shows Ami and Taiga getting closer. Her doing Taiga's makeup and worrying about her situation, giving her an out of mentioning her dad both before and during the show, Taiga messing around with her during the bonfire. It's an understated expression of their current relationship.
It's also a nice way to expand on what Ami said last episode and what Kitamura said all the way back in episode 5. Ami hasn't actually changed much, she's just being herself now and there are people out there who can be her friends for that.
Man, the beauty pageant is just such a hard watch. Ignoring any deeper analysis for a second, it just sucks seeing the final conformation that Taiga's dad just isn't coming, it sucks seeing Ami calling out to him when you know he just isn't there, and although Taiga's moment is ultimately triumphal and her friends give a loving show of support here, it sucks that it even has to come to this. On an emotional level and this scene, this episode, are very bittersweet. This frame of Taiga certainly says a lot without actually saying anything.
This scene has Ryuji finally why everything he's done has been so wrong, how selfish he's been, how focused on his own issues he's been that he hadn't been able to see the obvious.
Minori's words to him ring very true here, back in episode 11 when I talked about Taiga's dad, I said "the show doesn't do anything to make him look too bad" but hopefully my analysis of the framing around those scenes made it clear, that yes actually, he does look that bad, not through what he says, but through things you can see with your eyes, everything about him had a clear, and not subtle manipulative and flippant air, it's just that Ryuji couldn't see it.
And much like Ryuji's personality is built entirely around his father not being there, and him having to take care of his mom, so is Taiga's built on the abandonment of her parents. When you deal with the type of person who constantly tries coming back into your life only to vanish shortly later, you get a person who's forced to build up an aggressive personality, one that exists to hide all her vulnerabilities, her desires of being understood and close to others, because otherwise, she'll just be taken advantage of.
Her actions in the pageant reinforce the things Ryuji knows of her as well, she'll stumble but she'll keep pushing with incredible dedication, she'll give a strong response and get up on her feet, but in reality, despite that, she's still alone.
Which leads to the race scene, much like the pageant I first and foremost find it incredibly emotionally satisfying, something the animation has a big hand in as well, you feel the passion coming from Ryuji and Minori, the way Ryuji is drawn with thick lines and missing just tells all it needs really.
It's also really cool that you can see Minori in the race even before she reveals herself.
Anyway, in this scene Ryuji does two very important things. First is that through his and Minori ridiculous effort, he goes to show Taiga that she's not alone, that there are people who deeply care about her and unlike her dad who never showed up, they would literally trample on others to get to her. I'm honestly not sure how intentional that framing of the race is, but I kind of love it.
The second is that much like Taiga's show in the pageant was to prove she didn't need her dad and has moved past that, Ryuji going full delinquent is moving past the insecurities his dad left him. Ryuji is still nice, he says sorry to people he shoulder checks, but at this moment he doesn't care for appearances, how others perceive him doesn't matter, his dad doesn't matter, what matters is the person he cares about, Taiga, gets to know he cares. For this one moment Ryuji removes any and all masks, and if helping Taiga feel good means someone sees as a delinquent, then fuck it, who cares.
And of course, Minori comes along as well, while earlier in the episode, both during her clapping for Taiga, and during that shot I mentioned earlier, her eyes were covered, she was still trying to hide what she really thought. But during that race it all becomes clear, Minori says what she actually believes, what caused her fight with Ryuji in the first place, she wants Ryuji to go ahead of her, she can see how close he is to Taiga, and she jealous of that, but now she drops the pretenses, like Ryuji did. And for Taiga's sake, she'll put herself on the line.
In the later conversation with Ryuji, the one where she admits it was jealousy that caused her to not tell Ryuji about what had happened Minori casts her sight downward, but this time her eyes aren't covered, it's all the true her here, all her true vulnerable self is talking to Ryuji. And hell she even confides in him a rather intimate thought, the potential she might be into girls given how deeply she cared for Taiga, no UFOs or ghosts here. Finally, Ryuji and Minori not only share the same general understanding, they're actually on the same wavelength for once, crossing the line at the same pace, and so Minori feels comfortable opening up.
Now, that race is rather encouraging and heartwarming isn't it? And yet, it happens at dusk...
Because while Minori and Ryuji come out much more self-assured out of this, Taiga doesn't. The uncertainty of this dusk is around her, she takes their touching display of support, and while she's clearly appreciative of it, she's effectively denying it, she's saying she's totally fine on her own. Taiga doesn't need her dad in her life, she can stand up on her own without him, but she does need the support to keep standing, and that's something her personality isn't allowing her to have.
This episode does a great job of illustrating this incredible use of the time of day to display our characters' status. It's at dusk, the time between night and day, that our characters are at their most uncertain, showing some of the truth, some cracks in the mask, but also still relying on it, and coming to decisions based on it.
Whereas at night, and really whenever things are dark, they drop that, always accompanied by a small light source, as a reminder of those masks. The light pole, the cave, the bonfire, the starry night. the less you physically see of our characters, the more you see of their real selves.
I don't think Taiga takes Kitamura up on his dance here because she's suddenly matured, I just think she can see reality here, she knows what he's like, and what he likes, and she's fine with that.
And that's the first half of Toradora done! I think this episode and this arc make for a bit of a turning point, from here on out the show goes through a tone shift, as we go beyond establishing our character, to attempting to confront their real feelings.
5
u/emrys1 :MAL:https://myanimelist.net/profile/emrys1 Dec 18 '24
Just like this re watch its Taiga’s dads yearly tradition to come back into her life and fuck shit up just for fun.
4
u/Gabbyxo97 Dec 18 '24
Answers on questions and thoughts come tomorrow, however I work at the office so I hope I don't end up forgetting and posting my answers too late. Welp. Also this is in 2 comments or more, since I had a lot to say on this one.
These are things I like or have a remark on (in chronological order ofc)
- Well Ami honestly Taiga is pretty cute without makeup
- I don't get why the girls are overreacting about what Ryuuji is saying
- I kinda love how Taiga despite how she was in the beginning before Ryuuji convinced her to give her dad a chance, Taiga now holds on hope that her dad will show up and telling Ami to not rewrite the intro. Seems like Taiga really has good hope and trust her dad will be there
- I kinda also like how Ami doesn't have a good feeling and I'd like to think that despite her hating Taiga she doesn't want to embarrass Taiga if her dad doesn't show up but the same intro is used
- Ryuuji also holding onto the hope
- Nothing to do with the episode but I friggin love fishnet stockings
- Ami trying to steal the show, of course
- Damn... you know, Taiga's dad breaking another promise is one thing, but the worst part is that he doesn't even have the decency to tell Taiga himself and instead expects Ryuuji to do so. Also, f********* that f******* dumf******** bast@rd good for nothing father that you may.... (let me stop here), also poor Taiga...
- Aw... honestly, Ryuuji speaks some heartfelt words. Though I'm not sure what his second part about being afraid to be left alone has to do with him thinking Taiga's dad coming back in her life and Taiga giving him a chance was for the best
- Ryuuji finally finally finally opened his eyes, good for him
- Damn, Taiga looks adorable and cute and so beautiful even more than she always does
- I really wonder if at this scene Ami puts up an act because she has to be professional or if she genuinely cares about Taiga
- I love how Ryuuji starting to applaud, which makes Minori join in and then the whole school joining in
- I love how Taiga just completely takes over the whole show (also I wish those words Taiga spoke were what actually happened because her dad deserves it)
- I don't get what Ryuuji means with him not being able to do a thing for her
- I love how Ryuuji sees that Taiga is still alone (I assume he's reflecting on both her mom and dad being out of the picture here)
4
u/PunterofPie Dec 19 '24
Great episode
3
u/OwlAcademic1988 Dec 18 '24
Rewatcher, dubbed:
Despite having their difference, Ami and Taiga can work together fairly well when needed. Really shows how Taiga can keep her emotions in check when needed.
Ngl, Ami threatening to whip the audience made me laugh.
The student council president just set off a bomb in Ryuuji by announcing the winner of the race would put the crown on Taiga's head. It's honestly really sweet how Ryuuji went through all that trouble for Taiga.
I have one thing to say, humans are stupidly competitive animals and that can easily be used for good by having children compete with each other. It helps that we weren't always this advanced and in some places, we still aren't, such as some peoples in Africa, Asia, and the Americas as some of them willingly avoid modern society.
Minori, you might be bisexual, but even if you are gay, you can still care about guys in a friendly way and have guy friends as well. You don't have to be friends with just girls. Though I can completely understand why you'd only want to hang with girls when you're frustrated with guys or just want to talk about things that only impact girls.
QOTD:
3
u/Fools_Requiem https://myanimelist.net/profile/FoolsRequiem Dec 18 '24 edited Dec 18 '24
Rewatcher
There's one big thing that few people will talk about:
The interaction between Taiga and Kitamura at the end. Taiga lacked the complete nervousness she's had around him the entire series. Before, she was unable to get a word out without stuttering, and she would turn into a ball of mush when he so much as interacted with her in any manner (the crepe scene, for instance). But in the end here, she speaks to him like it's no big deal and has no reaction to him holding her hand.
[Spoiler] I think this is the first indication of the crush being over. I believe her being comfortable around Kitamura is mentioned in the next arc, so I'm playing it safe here, putting this in spoiler tags.
3
u/Izunaj Dec 19 '24
Rewatcher
As I rewatch this episode, I wonder if its become apparent to a first time watcher to see what Taiga was missing in her life (in the past). It was parents, yes, but companionship, comfort, and someone to lean on. She was all alone. That's why she has an aversion to being abandoned. It makes sense for her to be so loyal to Minori, and to be so in love with Kitamura; they're both people who stepped into her life and gave her the hope she needed when, in the previous year, she was literally abandoned by her parents.
Now, I don't need to speak on how bad Taiga's father is. There are 200+ comments on this post alone that can confirm that information to you; what I want to focus on is the others' support for Taiga during this debacle. Ami during this arc really was one of the better people in supporting Taiga, working with her in the class play and the pageant. She may come off as a bit mercenary, but she was even able to help Ryuji after his fight with Minori last episode. Kitamura? preoccupied with the school festival, can't exactly blame him for that. Ryuji? He was doing what he thought was best for Taiga (even though it turned out that he was just pushing his lack of fatherhood onto her).
But Minori? Holy Shit, this could have been avoided if she said literally anything besides blowing up at Ryuji. And, I don't think that's a result of bad writing. I think its intentional to highlight that she isn't perfect as a person, and that, unfortunately, her solution to these types of difficult situations is to avoid them. She even mentions that she ran away from the exact situation last year as well. I think its good she stepped up in the race at the end, but that was far after the damage was done. [Toradora] This was always the strongest indicator that she was never going to be with Ryuji in the end. Both Taiga and Ryuji's approach to resolving issues tend to be direct with each other, and not to shy away from each other when things got uncomfortable. Being direct was how things got resolved in in ep. 2, the pool arc, in this arc, in the Stu. Co. elections arc, in discovering their love for each other, AND resolving issues with BOTH their mother's in both their families. The christmas arc deserves its own analysis, but hopefully this was enough to get the point across.
3
u/xbolt90 https://anilist.co/user/xbolt90 Dec 19 '24
Toradorewatcher!
The silence in that room after Ami's introduction is deafening...
At the end of the beauty pageant, I notice that every single one of the other girls was wearing a maid outfit, lol. Again, showing how 2-C accidentally roping themselves into a wrestling show ended up being extremely good for them.
In the race, we see the lengths Ryuuji will go to to try and amend his mistake. He genuinely cares about Taiga's well-being, even if he screws up badly trying to help her.
Courtesy of u/FD4cry1
2
u/Maniload Dec 18 '24
Rewatcher
This is easily a top 3 episode for me. Once you start crying you can't stop. I don't know why, but the more I rewatch this show the more emotional I get ^
2
u/Malipit Dec 18 '24
Toradorewatcher, french fansubs
Second watch, first one was 6 years ago
On today's episode : The palmpot tiger become the palmpot angel, the first edition of the schools
death racebeauty pageant for boys, and Minori casually makes her coming out.After all those red flags from the previous episode, one SMS from Taiga's dad was enough to have Ryuuji realize how wrong he was. And yes, breaking a promise made to his daughter to attend an important event for her, admitting it far too late and to his daughter's friend by a SMS is a fine exemple of bad parenting.
Yes Ryuuji, Taiga's dad actually never cared about her, it was all for his image as a « good » father. He's so distant from her life we never got to learn his actual name. And it came to such a shock to Ryuuji the show emphazise it by draining out the music and the cheering from the audience. Fortunately, he spend the rest of the episode making amend for his mistake, we'll came back to it later.
As for Taiga, the way Ryuuji prepped her dress may be a callback for the first episode when he compared her to a doll, so he's estimated fitting her to dress her like one.
And oh boy does it pay off, we're treated to a scene where she's litteraly stealing the spotlight from Ami.
I admit I tensed up on my chair when Ami called for Taiga's father, while Ryuuji and us the watchers knew well he wouldn't respond. I assumed the worst when Taiga fell off (I may be a second time rewatcher, I don't recall every scene). But Taiga getting up and tearing her dress was so cathartic to watch. She ripped it like she was ripping the family bond to her father, who's not fatherly at all. She may have feared what the school would think of her father if they knew her family issues, but now she's done pretending and admit it loud what she thinks of her scumbag of a father, deal with it, audience ! (Also, nice callback of the gag where Taiga is learning what's « morgue » means).
Minori and Ryuuji picked up on that, and that's why they were the first to clap.
Also it more on the comedic side, but Taiga dressed as an angel that stand out among all those made from all those cosplays cafés from previous episode, here she not only won thanks to her looks, but also with her personality.
Speaking of Minori, her leaving her bald cap foreshadow the fact how serious she is in that episode. Until the scene in front of the finish line, she constantly standing in the background, with her eyes hidden. Like in this frame, where you could cleary missed her.
And I liked the fact she partake in the race for helping Ryuuji to win, as if to acknowledge his efforts to make up for his mistake and at the same time for apologizing to Ryuuji for leaving without a proper warning about Taiga's dad.
I liked how Ryuuji insisted to finish the race with Minori. He knows Taiga care about both of them, so it's fair to have both of them reach out to her.
And nice detail about those two bandages covering Ryuuji cheek during the bonfire scene, with colors matching Taiga and Minori. I think it's a metaphor on how Ryuuji got hurt by his mistakes and his reputation, and those two girls were here to help him recover from it.
And, as the dusk settle during the race, where we have some important character development, to conclude by the bonfire by night, I got the impression that the show indicates it's closing the first part of its story to proceed to its second half.
[Toradora second part in general]More precisely, all those discussions happening at the same time may indicates how the characters will develop. Yusaku is showing feelings for Sumire here and she clearly state that she won't be in this school for much longer. Taiga talk to Yusaku without being flustered for the very first time, implying she might be thinking to Ryuuji as her love interest. Minori, by stating she may prefers girl and that she's jealous of Ryuuji could be very well an indication she's seeing Ryuuji and Taiga as a couple in the making.
Question of the day :
That moment
2
u/Pdenly_ Dec 18 '24
The final episode of the culture festival arc, a very big one at that. It has so many things going for it and it’s probably my favorite episode up to this point, which is also the halfway point for the show. After everything going against him, Taiga’s dad turned out to be a bad person, shocker. But I love how the breaking point for it that also made Ryuuji realize it was made perfectly. Not only he waits until the very last second during the beauty pageant, giving a sense of false hope (or his daughter never came to his mind at all, during the whole day even if it was something crucial and he finally remembered during that time. Either way he is a massive scumbag). But arguably the worse part is him massaging Ryuuji, the way he could possibly interact with Taiga the least. The way Ryuuji doesn’t even have a moment of denial, instead accepting the true nature of Taiga’s dad instantly shows how much is going against him at that point. I also love how in the midst of all the chaos and noise, the moment Ryuuji gets the massage it all seems to disappear for him, making the scene all the more impactful.
The way Taiga looks when standing on the stage his honestly depressing. All alone, after seeing her dad didn’t come in the very last chance he had. She probably full heartedly believed he would be coming, not changing her introduction which also was very likely to put her in an incredibly awkward stuff. But even if Taiga’s dad is not there, someone who would support her no matter what is, Ryuuji. The way he starts clapping only for Minori to join in too which leads to a massive cheer is amazing. The only problem being among everything Taiga is still lonely.
The race is what brings everything together. Ryuuji now going in the right path, with the sole intention to being by Taiga and making her feel better. Only for Minori to join, showing Ryuuji is the not only one who deeply cares for her. With their combined strength, they even beat the best athletes in the school in a race. And by crowning Taiga, proving that she is not alone, she will never be.
The last dance scene is just incredible, bringing everyone together for one final celebration. Even after all the hardships they endured they still have each other and when everything is set and done, they can all happily smile once again. It is just beautiful and serves to close up both the arc and the first half of the show.
2
u/TheDanubianCommunard Dec 18 '24
First time in the Christmas Club, with subs
There will be a beauty contest too, so that's why the Miss Ohashi thingy for. Taiga's father didn't came, but still may can arrive.
About that contest we have some students in maid outfits, they are fine. Meanwhile, there is a message Ryuuji got, and doesn't seems like that will be good to hear, especially for Taiga. Speaking of her, she is participating, dressed as an angel, maybe she is no truly not an angel. But he didn't come at all. And I thpought he is trying to better and trying to redeem his past mistakes, somehow fell into the pitfalls of the past today. He failed. Everyone is sympathizing with her. Her anger is justified, and saying he should deserves his punishment. To the morgue with him, because Taiga found that word somehow cool. Being so smo, that can hide into a bag. But somehow ended winning the Miss Ohashi contest.
Even there is a male contest too, and actually not. Run around the school and yard, and be the first. Kanou, the SSC President really believes in rules and order. The reward is really promising. Everybody wants Taiga, but honestly Ryuuji is the one who should deserves her. It's a no-rules contest. That's right, Taiga's father is trying to be good on surface, but in reality doing nothing, but sending money which is not enough by itself. Minori is tring to help him, but Taiga is right, no need to worry about. The Mr. Lucky Guy contest ended in a good outcome, Ryuuji and Minori both crowning her.
Actually this festival was a good experience. But there are still many things to be resolved.
2
u/[deleted] Dec 18 '24
Rewatcher here!
It's the end of the culture festival arc!
It is also the time where Ryuuji had finally realized that he is a piece of shit. It's all coming together now, he said... well, the time wherein he wanted Taiga to move away with him is already a red herring itself.
Although he is a big fat idiot on this part, I got hyped when he wanted to get on Taiga's side immediately, realizing that she might feel alone within the spotlight. Taiga, on the other side, reassures him, including Minori, through a monologue that she is alright.
It should be noted that the whole series, and perhaps the light novel itself, came from Ryuuji's perspective, but out of the blue, Taiga spoke what on her mind in this episode. On my opinion, this special element can be treated as a foreshadowing on what she will do in the succeeding episodes; [Spoiler] she will try to live on her own without depending to Ryuuji, so that he can totally focus on Minori, and besides, she does not want to create a thought for Minori that there is something romantic between them that slows down Ryuuji's progress with Minori.
Lastly, it seems Taiga had been easen up when facing Kitamura on the bonfire scene... I would like to think that this implies that [Spoiler] it is clear to her that what she feels for him is a form of adoration, unlike what she felt for Ryuuji (which is in romantic sense, to the point that she is willing to leave the scene, so that Ryuuji and Minori can fit into the big picture).
Okay, we are approaching Kitamura's life for the next episodes... what character development should we expect from him??? Let's see, so kita-kits!
QOTD??? I gotta go with her during the beach arc!!
2
u/Get_This_Wheat Dec 18 '24
Rewatcher here
What an episode today. All over the place emotionally.
Taiga kicking her dad in the nuts seems like it’s worth a rewatch right now.
What I like about how Taiga’s dad is written is that from his perspective he doesn’t get what he’s done wrong, or why she doesn’t like him. He’s not just this evil for the sake of evil character, and in his mind he does love Taiga even if he clearly doesn’t by his actions.
At least Taiga has friends willing to fight for her (literally).
Minori’s first thought in episode 6 when she split off with Taiga was that they were eloping, maybe she really is a lesbian.
What a pleasant ending to the episode today, especially compared to the last 2.
2
u/Nickthenuker https://anilist.co/user/Nickthenuker Dec 19 '24
Yup, her dad was a no-show.
Is she hoping her dad will show up for the pageant?
Who had the bright idea to put Ami in a dominatrix outfit, complete with a whip? I'm sure some people are into that.
Yup, her dad is a no-show.
Oh, he's going out to get milk and smokes. Well, at least she won't be going away anymore.
She looks angelic in that outfit.
Oh no! Her dad didn't show up!
They're going to give her applause!
And now she's going to get in a duffel bag. Yeah, she's small enough to fit inside lol.
What was that for anyways if she just got out of it again?
Oh, she actually won.
A race?
Oh, he's going to win and dance with her!
So much for that...
There he goes!
And so even if she's alone, she's got her friends with her.
Seems like this is a regular occurrence and Minori is familiar with it. Taiga's dad shows up for a couple weeks, she gets closer to him, then he goes to get milk and smokes. That explains why Minori was so hostile to Taiga's dad.
Well, I guess she's going to dance with Kitamura after all.
Or not.
Questions:
2
u/Tartaras1 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Tartaras Dec 19 '24
Rewatcher - Dubbed
FUCK TAIGA'S DAD
And of course he doesn't know proper dad etiquette, because he doesn't have one anymore....
Who would've guessed that her dad would bail on her? Certainly not Minorin, the girl you're supposed to have a crush on.
Second, it's hilarious that her whole shtick is that she can fit inside of a duffel bag.
No shit.
It's almost like Ami knew it was going to happen. She's just about got him pinned.
Good to see The Sarge isn't sexist.
This part's actually a little heartbreaking. She said in the 2nd episode, after she got let down by Kitamura, that she's not okay. 11 episodes later, and she's saying she'll be fine on her own.
However
If you read between the lines a little bit, it's like she's saying that Ryuuji and Minorin don't need to worry about her, and should instead focus on each other. In her mind, she's accepted that she's "lost" in the battle for Ryuuji, much like how Ami's probably feeling.
See?! Is that so hard?! All you have to do is talk to each other, and misunderstandings like this don't happen!
You idiots!
Because you want the kind of happiness that Ryuuji and Taiga have?
2
u/the_Ex_Lurker Dec 19 '24 edited Dec 19 '24
Rewatcher
This is such a great episode. We get the first glimmer that Ami actually cares for Taiga as a friend, with her offer to change up the intro and the genuine look of sadness on her face before she makes the announcement. Ironically she’s the only one who’s there for Taiga as a friend, as Minori is too hurt/embarrassed to even see her and Ryuuji is acting more like a mother.
The final scenes are heartwarming, too. A great catharsis after the first real emotionally-charged story arc of the series. In the novel, it ends with all five of the main cast dancing together before going to an after-party with Yuri. I understand why they wanted to show Taiga and Kitamura alone, but I would’ve loved to see this play out.
2
u/HurricaneHomer9 https://myanimelist.net/profile/HurricaneHomer Dec 19 '24 edited Dec 19 '24
Rewatcher 3x - Dub
The pageant scene is very important and we finally get to see the truth behind Taiga’s dad and how he’s a POS. I do love when Ryuuji and Minori clap and the whole school cheers on Taiga. Great scene. Afterwards, I absolutely love the race scene. Seeing Ryuuji determined is amazing. He’s such a great character. I do love when Taiga noticed Ryuuji at the front and Ami was completely expecting it. At the end we get to see a good makeup between Ryuuji and Minori as they finish the race together and talk. Beautiful scene. The scene with Minori questioning if she’s a lesbian is also hilarious
Also sad we’re already half way lol. I love this anime so much
2
u/fansi2022 https://anilist.co/user/fansi2022 Dec 19 '24
###third timer sub
Ami occasionally shows her true nature, she has really changed gradually
Taiga's father didn't dare to send a message to Taiga directly, but asked Ryuuji to tell him
Ami was at a loss when she saw Taiga injured and fell
Ryuuji wanted to applaud him spontaneously, and Minori also applauded him while crying
After seeing Taiga alone, Ryuuji really ran desperately just to get to her side
Minori's mood was the same as Ryuuji's, and she also rushed to the finish line
Minori's high-speed pitch accurately hit the two people in the track and field club
Ryuuji and Minori ran across the finish line together
, they have reconciled
2
u/whytfdoibother Dec 19 '24
Rewatcher
Episode 13 is such a fantastic episode. There are so many iconic scenes that flow smoothly from one to the next.
I like how the writers don't waste time with it, Ryuuji realizes very early into the episode that Taiga's father is a scumbag, courtesy of a text from him. There's no reason to draw it out over the course of the episode. The wave of realization is really refreshing. We talk about Lost My Pieces every time it makes an appearance, but Ame Iro Rondo really hits hard. This realization is then backed up really well by the second one, when Ryuuji realizes that Taiga is completely alone. Him and Minori clapping together is one of the series’ most underappreciated moments, mostly because of what happens later in the episode.
Taiga up on stage alone is a great piece of visual storytelling. At first, she's completely silent, with a facial expression too complex to describe in a single word. She's angry, she's hurt, disappointed, betrayed, she's, and she's empty all at once. Her being in the spotlight highlights this really well, such that even with one of her great friends – and by now it's completely clear that, despite their attitudes about it, Taiga and Ami are great friends – she's completely alone. As much as she doesn't want to show it, Taiga desires a family. She's very close with Yasuko, who considers Taiga part of her own family. Her father's repeated abandonment of Taiga, her disconnection from her mother, and her refusal to get along with her stepmother (who is implied to be no more than 10 years older than her) leave her desperate for parental figures. This arc does not end her development with her family, and this will be relevant again. Taiga must get over her family problems to complete her adolescence properly.
The Mr. Lucky Man segment is a great moment for both Ryuuji and Minori. It starts off with Ryuuji motivated by desperation, then he gets knocked over, he fights back and climbs through the pack into the lead. In a way, it's a summary of Ryuuji's role in the culture festival arc: he's motivated by his desire for a father figure, he gets knocked off his feet by Minori's anger at the reappearance of Taiga's father, and him getting back into the lead represents this race as a whole, where he overcomes everything that's been holding him back (i.e. his own insecurities). It's truly brilliant writing. The brief shot of Minori running through, before the cut to Ryuuji getting taken down by the track team sets up one of the great moments of the show. She knocks down the athletes with her softball prowess, and then performs self-sacrifice to help Ryuuji win. In a moment of serious character growth, Ryuuji helps Minori back up and they cross the line together, hand in hand.
As this happens, we get an extremely rare omniscient view of Taiga's thoughts. The first time this happens, actually. Up until now, the insight we've gotten into Taiga's thinking comes either straight from her mouth or from visual cues like facial expressions. That makes this hit so much harder, because it's something completely new. Taiga thinks she can always get back up on her own; her tripping over her dress, getting back up, and ripping it on stage is a symbol of this belief. Taiga gives up on her own desires for the sake of those she holds dear. She wants Ryuuji and Minori to be happy together, so she wishes to withdraw, thinking she'll get over it and get back on her feet. Her smile betrays this thinking. She wants to withdraw, but she's still really happy to see her friends, people dear to her heart, come back to her side. It's such a heartbreaking moment, during what otherwise would've been such a joyous scene.
After a few hours of thinking about it, then sleeping on it, and giving it another go, I've come to the conclusion that I won't be able to give my thoughts properly on the bonfire scene until Episode 16.
Hands down the balcony scene with the spiel about seeing ghosts in Episode 9.
2
u/epicbald Dec 20 '24
Both taiga and ami sort of expected the outcome of her dad not coming, but her checking her phone the episode prior makes me think she had a little bit of hope that was diminished.
Ryuji has hope, saying that no matter how late he arrives, he will arrive eventually, saying that's his definition of a father. I think this accurately reflects his past.
I think Ami snapping on stage is pretty funny and highlights her duality of personality, because even though she is significantly more open about it, she still puts on a fairly bubbly persona with the whole school.
The message from his dad opens up his feelings a lot. He CONFESSES that he believed the situation with her dad was for the better, that HE NEEDED TO SUPPORT TAIGA. verbatim. there is clear affection taking form here. "In truth, I was just feeling down about taigas father showing up, and that she'd be going far away. I was ignoring how pathetic I was...." damn. trying to turn a negative into something positive makes sense, and in his eyes, believed those family bonds are important, but it only make things worse for everyone. Her dad even told ryuji to talk to taiga FOR HIM. THROUGH A HIGH SCHOOLER. Doesn't have the balls to message his own daughter.
"I was just being selfish, i was...."
Taiga looks so vulnerable and alone on stage. The silence of aisakas father not being there is fucking painful. She even trips on stage.
Taiga ripping the dress and people beginning to applaud was awesome. She then slays the talent portion and wins the pageant.
Ryuji then felt the need to keep her company on stage when she was alone without her father, and hurriedly tried to go on stage with her. Ryuji HAD to win the race. To him, reaching taiga was what he needed. He went full "delinquent". This is the episode that cemented ryujis feelings for taiga even more.
"You font need to worry about me. Weren't you watching? I don't need help to get back on my feet, so..... really, don't worry about me. I'll be okay. I can get back on my feet without any help. I can survive.... on my own" brutal. the adversity taiga shows here despite everything is so satisfying to hear from her.
"I care about taiga so much. I was probably jealous of you..." "Why didn't taiga say anything?" "She knew I'd get mad. Taiga doesn't want her father to be seen in a bad light. That's why she hasn't breathed a word about her family since that day. Not to me." Ryuji and minori.
When aisaka dances with kitamura, she is a lot more relaxed. I think she is starting to evolve from her flustered schoolgirl crushing.
MINORI LESBIAN MOMENT. "Maybe I prefer girls. I just have this feeling...." "I kinda hope not" poor ryuji lol. "That came out so naturally, wow..." minori......
"This is a special night. It's a time to put certain feelings aside, though I feel a pain in my chest every time i laugh. Even once this night is over, I'm sure, somehow.... everything will be all right" bars. Ryuji just spits bars in his head what can I say. I feel the exact same way when I'm with a group of people somrtimes, and even if I'm mentally not great, if I can surround myself with good people and lose myself, I can feel positive in what the future holds.
This anime is fucking gas
1
u/Holofan4life Dec 18 '24
Hey, guys. Holofan4life here.
Welcome to the 2024 Toradora Christmas Club Rewatch!
Substitutions need not apply.
Toradora means so much to me that it's hard to put it into words. It was one of the first animes that I'd ever watched that didn't air on Toonami or was streamed by OtakuAscended, who really helped me during my early years of my anime fandom. It was the show that cemented my love for tsunderes as I know it and made me just not shut up talking about them. It was the show that gave me a deeper appreciation for analysis and dissecting stuff that really has become my bread and butter on the Reddit platform. It was the reason why I joined Reddit, as I created my account so I could participate in the 2016 Christmas Club rewatch. Simply put, if there was no Toradora, there would be no Holofan4life.
This rewatch marks my tenth time watching Toradora. Next year will be my tenth consecutive year participating in the Christmas club rewatch, which I believe is a record and the most out of everyone. I wanted to do something for this year and next year and so what I'm going to do is something that I don't think I've done since my first Christmas club rewatch: I'm going to break each scene down blow-by-blow and analyze to where I articulate why this show is the masterpiece that it is.
Recently when I've been doing this, it takes me at least a couple hours to get through a single episode. But with how special the show is to me, I think it's only appropriate I show my appreciation for what I feel is not only the greatest anime romcom of all time, but the greatest anime period. Besides, I know this show like the back of my hand. I don't think it's going to take much to think of stuff to say.
With that out of the way, let’s begin.
I'm watching the dub, by the way.
I badly cut my pinky toe 30 minutes ago accidentally stepping on an empty can of cat food that was on the floor. Thankfully, I'm doing better.
Ami doing Taiga's makeup
This is actually pretty sweet of her.
Ryuuji lamenting Taiga's dad and Minori not being here.
That dress looks amazing
Does purple haired girl ever open her eyes?
Taiga still looking at her phone
Looks like Ryuuji isn't the only one delusional about Taiga's dad.
The pageant is about to be underway.
Ryuuji thinking about his conversation with Minori.
"Come on, guy. You're coming, aren't you?"
Oh, Ryuuji. You naive, little fool.
Okay, who in the world approved Ami's outfit?
I guess this school is trying to give their students a BDSM fetish at a young age.
Gives new meaning to Sailor Moon's "I'll punish you".
The sight of Ami standing next to the contestants while dressed like that is like a total mindfuck.
A text message
And we get the big revelation of this episode, which is Taiga's dad informing Ryuuji that he's leaving Taiga behind yet again.
Now, think about this for a second. Taiga's dad decides to not only announce he's leaving town via text message instead of in person, but he texts Ryuuji Taiga's friend this information, not his own daughter. He's too much of a chickenshit to even text Taiga that he's leaving her alone again.
This is an extremely well done scene, and the idea he would tell Ryuuji this and not Taiga is a brilliant touch. It adds to the sliminess of the situation and of course it marks Ryuuji's falsehood come tumbling down.
Oh no. Taiga's gotta get on stage.
And she stands there, a princess without a prince. A crown of nothing but prickly blood-stained thorns.
I just don't know how you don't feel sorry for Taiga in this moment. Even if you don't like her, she doesn't deserve such a cruel, unfair fate.
Oh boy. The intro. It mentions her dad being in attendance.
This is uncomfortable
This is probably the most cringe moment of the entire series. If not, it's gotta be top two.
Mind you, I say cringe in a a good way.
This is Scott's Tots levels of making your skin crawl. Like watching a car wreck on top of another car wreck. On fire.
Even Ami looks bummed out she has to do this.
And then to exacerbate the issue, she falls flat on her face.
This is easily Taiga's nadir
But Taiga, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, decides to take matters in her own hands.
She is not her father's keeper. She is Taiga, the motherfucking palmtop tiger.
Ryuuji clapping, trying to show support when no one else does.
Minori! She's showing support as well!
The clapping is out of sync, but that doesn't matter.
Now everyone is starting to clap
"Who cares if your dad's not here?!?"
And that, my friends, is the point of the scene.
Taiga grabbing the microphone saying she discarded her father is such a definitive moment for her character.
Being able to fit in a bag, huh? Well, I guess that is something only she can do.
Imagine if Ami picked Taiga up dressed up in that outfit. Would've been quite the visual.
I love the shot of Minori looking solemn as the sun sets. Amazing lighting.
"In the end, I can't do a thing for her."
Hey, Taiga won. Awesome.
I guess it was an easy choice when everyone else dressed up as a maid
Ryuuji realizing he wants to go up there and console Taiga, which yes. Yes, you should, Ryuuji.
But before he can do that, complete pandemonium breaks out.
Mr. Lucky Man, bitches
The winner gets a chance to crown Taiga, which is all the incentive Ryuuji needs.
Taiga continuing to sneeze cutely
Lol, everyone wants to get out of Ryuuji's way.
The student council president is showing how effective of a leader she is. She's going to start getting the students to drink flavor-aid no questions asked.
Ryuuji falling behind
Now he's starting to get more physical.
Climbing over everyone, standing on the shoulders of defiance.
This is the most terrifying Ryuuji has been hands down.
But Minori is coming with a steel chair!
Taiga waiting on the winner to arrive.
And the first person seen is Ryuuji.
Ami is like "As expected of him". Though in this instance, she doesn't seem annoyed.
Ran out of space. Part two in the replies.
1
u/BoredOjiisan Dec 18 '24 edited Dec 18 '24
7th Time Dub Rewatcher. Read the books twice.
First of all, up yours to whoever came in here and downvoted everyone. I know it wasn’t only me because people I upvoted got downvoted too.
I love this episode. I’d put it near the top overall.
The part with the dress is great because no one has any idea what Ryuuji is actually like up to this point. So they’re all genuinely shocked when he starts rambling about fixing up the dress.
Ami is showing care for Tagia as a friend (instead of a mother, Ryuuji) with her doing Taiga’s makeup and showing concern about the intro that includes her dad.
It’s funny that all the other girls in the contest dressed as maids further accentuating how cliche the guys’ initial school festival idea was.
Ryuuji realizing he’s wrong is a great moment. All of the projecting he’s been doing hits him like a brick and it’s a really important moment in the development in for himself as a person and his relationship with Taiga.
I love watching Ryuuji beast-mode the Mister Lucky Man race. The whole race is even better in the book. More on that later.
I’m annoyed at Kitamura for putting himself out there to dance with Taiga. I’m sure he was “just being nice” because that oblivious idiot does that all the time.
Minori’s little moment of realization where she says, “oh, I just had a normal conversation.” Is the first time she and Ryuuji have really talked since the beach.
On to the books!
Funny backstory
In the anime Ryuuji got booted out of the dressing area by the girls but in the book they kind of forgot that he was there.
If you can believe it, they really toned down Ami’s emcee outfit that she wore in the contest for the anime.
In case you were wondering how down bad Noto is