Ep 12. I Can't Hear the Fireworks, Part 2 / Kaguya Doesn't Want to Avoid Him

Kaguya-sama: Love Is War season 1 episode 12 is an exciting continuation of the previous episode where Miyuki tries to contemplate his feelings toward Kaguya. The episode titled "I Can't Hear the Fireworks, Part 2 / Kaguya Doesn't Want to Avoid Him" brings the story back from the cliffhanger of the previous episode where we see Kaguya and Miyuki both arrive at a firework festival.

Miyuki and Kaguya's undeniable attraction to each other is heightened by the festival, and this episode showcases the classic back-and-forth of the two lead characters' attempts to outmaneuver each other in their confession game. Each tries to find ways to stay close to the other or make them confess their true feelings.

Amidst this playful competition where both are trying to force the other to confess their love and commit to a relationship, other characters from the previous episodes also make appearances. They provide comedic relief in the form of humorous subplots while the central plot progresses progressively.

This episode features moments of shared mutual intimacy between Miyuki and Kaguya, where both characters reveal their true feelings, even while trying to hold back. The audience can feel the tension building towards a climax that may lead to a confession.

The animation and direction of this episode, along with the sound design, help to enhance the mood and build the suspense of the episode. The use of lighting and the lensing engages viewers in the moment, allowing them to feel the characters' emotions in the shared moment of fireworks.

The writing is the show's greatest strength, and this applies to this episode as well. The episode is written with proper pacing ensuring the story doesn't drag with extended scenes. It is the right length and comes to a satisfying close when it needs to. There is plenty of witty humor, and the dialogues feel natural and genuine.

"I Can't Hear the Fireworks, Part 2 / Kaguya Doesn't Want to Avoid Him" is a compelling episode in Kaguya-sama: Love is War season 1, and it highlights the quick-witted humor and ingenuity that makes the series so enjoyable. This episode significantly advances the plot, and while it's enjoyable standalone, it is also critical to the overall story arc.

It shows how different the characters are individually, with their unique perspectives and intentions. The characters' mutual love and attraction are intensified by the events of the festival, making it one of the most anticipated and memorable scenes in the show.

In conclusion, "I Can't Hear the Fireworks, Part 2 / Kaguya Doesn't Want to Avoid Him" is a fantastic episode, with great storytelling, exceptional animation, and a fantastic musical score.