English Dub Review: Kenka Bancho Otome -Girl Beats Boys “The Witch Trial Begins”

This series should be put on trial.

Kenka Bancho Otome -Girl Beats Boys episode “The Witch Trial Begins” opens with a text thread. Hikaru has been outed as a girl masquerading as a boy. As a group of boys claims, it’s the biggest scandal in Shishiku Academy’s history. But as another points out, Hikaru bested the entire first and second-year classes.

It’s neat seeing the varied reactions. In a confrontation, punk idol Mirako quickly comes to Hikaru’s aid and claims it’s a rumor started on a message board. Totomaru and Konparu reaffirm their allegiance to Hikaru.

Later, it’s allowed that a mysterious group sparked the rumor about Hikaru. A rumor that’s not exactly untrue. The day finally arrives where Hikaru is supposed to clarify for good. Apparently, the masses at Shishiku deem stripping the only way to clear things up. This to me seems completely excessive. Hikaru refuses, and thus the Academy learns that he’s actually a dude. It turns out another high school was responsible for perpetuating the rumor. However, Totomaru, Konparu, and Miarko vow to fight alongside Hikaru.

I like the continued focus on relationships. Particularly, the friendship between Hikaru, Konparu, Totomaru, and Miarko stands as an enjoyable sub plot. Unfortunately, the rest of the “The Witch Trial Begins” is lackluster. An Academy gathering demanding a student strip seems bizarre. Granted, the kids don’t have a problem fighting each other constantly, so what’s a little stripping, right?

The episode once again feels rushed. With the end of the season in sight, why bring in a new cast of characters at the end of the penultimate episode? It makes no sense. However, the format is still neat with the retrospective format interspersing interviews. Plus, I enjoy the characters. Overall, it’s a fun though not terribly compelling Girl Beats Boys entry.