*Just so we're clear, I hate you two. But I'm always proud of you.*
I've been getting real lazy writing these reviews, six days since I finished this is pathetic, I'll try to be better about actually committing to these lest they build up too much. I kinda already knew what score this was gonna be before the rewatch considering I supremely enjoyed it the first time around despite the consensus of a weaker Bake, which frankly, I find to be an absurd take. The majority of the criticisms revolve around the sexual proclivities of the series, which are certainly more prominent in Nise, but not to the extent that it should be seen as the black sheep of the series, toothbrush and all. Speaking of that scene, the whole point of it is to convert a mundane activity into that of an exaggerated and highly sensual process, thereby highlighting one of the series' core concepts of relationships through sexual perception while also poking at the widespread use of sexual pandering found in anime and novels. It's supposed to make you feel uncomfortable, that's what it's setting out to do, and my, is that one impressive scene to make me squirm the way it did. To criticize and demean Nise purely for these aspects feels disingenuous and just ignores every other aspect that makes up the show. I succumbed to a rant again, and for that I'm sorry, but I just can't help it, it's too fun.
I adore this part, I just love the way NISIOISIN approaches the older brother younger sister dynamics in both arcs. One that focuses on clashing with and reprimanding the immature whims of Karen, and the other validating the real and tangible connection between siblings with Tsukihi, fantastic stuff. The contemplation of fakes vs genuine articles is portrayed through a very positive and uplifting outlook, recognizing the efforts made by the fake to come off as the real thing to be a notifier of its legitimacy alongside the authentic, it's just so refreshing and nice to hear. Its themes are especially poignant for me in the last episode of the season. After Araragi learns that Tsukihi is not actually his sister, but rather an immortal Phoenix/Cuckoo that implanted itself in his mother, at no point does he ever consider her to be an imposter or a fake, but rather immediately acknowledges her as his true little sister that he cares so much about, cemented by confronting Kagenui and Ononoki in order to protect her. There's no excessive pondering over her status as his sister and no unnecessary drama over this revelation, just pure pride and love for his family, backed up by Karen's affirmation. One of my favorite sequences easily.
Naturally the production, direction, and humor is as good as always (the banter with Hachikuji in the first episode is one of the best conversations in the series) and with Shinobu's speaking debut, Ononoki's appearance, as well as the presence of a certain perfect antagonist Kaiki, the voice acting becomes even more exceptional. Soundtrack stays consistently superb, Kaiki's theme especially stands out. I really do love this season and I wish so much that it could be seen as more than just the one involving a toothbrush.
Platinum Disco is an all timer opening, Futakotome is also awesome, and Naisho no Hanashi is such a great ending. Marshmallow Justice bangs, showing that the best anime songs are the ones you can skank to.
