3-gatsu no Lion – Episode 4

Ahh, love. I would have forgotten how fickle love can be if not for this episode of 3-gatsu.

While episode 4 touches on a more enthusiastic and cheerful attitude for its presentation, there are still bits and pieces big enough for the self-insert me to chew on. I ask, what’s the first thing that comes into your mind when you think of love? For Hina, she blushes at the thought of giving her crush a boxed lunch. Akari paints red when confronted by flabby, round, cute stuff. Momo loves her My Neighbor Bodoro. Nikaidou, on the other hand, drools from imaginary triple-decker MecBurgers (yum). If I am forced to give my own answer toward such a thing so broadly defined, I’d probably respond with a resounding silence.

Much like how Rei’s mind wandered into black and white territory when posed against the said concept of emotion, I also can’t help but refer back to my “traumatic” experience with Cupid’s cruel jokes. Now, rest assured that I am not going to write here my uninteresting (and tragic) story of romance, as it’s something that I’d rather spare for drunken nights with my otaku friends. It’s just that the thing I love the most about 3-gatsu is that it doesn’t overstay its welcome when it comes to drama. And thank god that didn’t happen this episode, otherwise the dead hopeless romantic within me will rise from 6-feet under.

Overall, episode 4 is lighthearted, yet there are somber instances that interjects in the smooth atmosphere. It’s like when things are about to go over-the-top dramatic, 3-gatsu draws you back to its gentle caress. I know I’m speaking vaguely here, but that’s exactly how I felt toward this show from the very start, and even more so this episode. Like, for example, Hina’s tears this episode is trivial in comparison to last week’s, yet despite the difference between the context of the two, there’s a “bittersweet” pang to it that bites just enough for us to feel her emotion. I love it, and I appreciate how consistent Shaft has been in keeping 3-gatsu‘s emotions in a fine balance. It’s been so long since I’ve had a slice-of-life as comfy as this that has that introspective twist I’m oddly fond of.

I guess the last thing I’d like to talk about is how great the characters have been thus far. To be honest, 3-gatsu probably has the strongest set of characters of this season. Each of the three sisters is fun to watch in their own right, instead it’s when they are interacting with each other that they start to truly shine. Hina is automatically awesome because of KanaHana (no, I’m not kidding. As if her performance isn’t proof enough). Akari’s a perfect example of an ara ara character — a trope which I feel is under appreciated. And should I even explain Momo’s charm?

Suffice to say, it’s actually surprising that Nikaidou has become my favorite out of everyone from this show (well, so far, that is). I can’t quite explain why, but I simply love how self-aware he is, but at the same time doesn’t really pay too much attention on how he looks to others. I admire his unfazed single mindedness, tactless demeanor, and comedic suave looks… I don’t know, but if there’s one thing I can be sure with, it’s that I’d love to have a friend like him.

Short thoughts:

• I guess when the wounds fully heal, I’d be able to find the sweet in my bitter love life.
• Great characters? Hell, even the cats are nailing their performance!
• I just love all them faces they are making.
• Don’t get me wrong, Rei’s also  a cool character.
• I think it would be a nice touch if Rei’s room gets furnished as episodes passes by. Probably a way to literally and figuratively depict filling up emptiness.

Well, what else can I say? It’s yet another great episode from 3-gatsu no Lion. If not for Flip Flappers, this show would easily be at the top of my Fall 2016 list. Anyways, I’ll see you guys next episode!