Although last week’s “Hibike! Euphonium” suggested that Reina and Kumiko’s relationship would not be one involving romance, this week’s episode throws a powerful lure out to catch any yuri aficionado back.
Considering the tenth episode had a rather indicative title and featured Reina confessing that she loves Taki, most had given up any hope of a yuri development.
While it is unlikely there will be any real romance between these two girls, episode eleven featured a superbly well written scene between Kumiko and Reina, on par with the powerful scenes from episode eight. Kyoto Animation really shines here, not only is the dialogue excellent, but the characters’ body language, their facial expressions, the pacing and terrific play of light and shadow makes such scenes true treasures.
Still, this latest episode showed us that where before it was Kumiko who had sought support from Reina, even the strong willed Reina also relies on Kumiko for mental support, indicating just how close these two girls have gotten. With Kumiko declaring her ‘confession of love’ for Reina the same way Reina had done to Kumiko before, their closeness affirmed by skinship and body language, one can still dream of a yuri ending, no?
Do feel a certain parallel between Kumiko and Reina’s developing relationship as it is showcased in “Hibike! Euphonium” and one of the main themes in this season’s “Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Comedy wa Machigatteiru. Zoku” anime where Hikigaya revealed he desires a genuine relationship with real emotions.
Considering most anime series, even good ones, far too often feature rather plain, shallow relationships between its characters, it is refreshing to see “Hibike! Euphonium” focusing on two realistic characters developing a true and genuine bond.
You can watch “Hibike! Euphonium” on Crunchyroll.
