English Dub Review: Tomo-chan Is a Girl! “Best Bud’s Secret / Let’s Go on a Date!”

 Overview:

Tomo learns a secret about Jun and Misuzu. Also, Tomo and Jun go on a date.

Our Take:

In “Best Bud’s Secret,” Tomo finds out that Jun and Misuzu dated in middle school. Granted, it only lasted three days, but she’s still shocked. However, she’s relieved that the two don’t have feelings for each other currently.

Jun, on the other hand, makes it obvious that he has feelings for Tomo. He meets Misaki for the first time and immediately frightens him. He’s been shown to act that way any time he meets one of Tomo’s guy friends.

In “Let’s Go on a Date!,” Misuzu convinces Tomo to ask Jun out on a date. Her and Carol even take Tomo shopping to buy a new outfit. Tomo and Jun spend a day together, but it’s not a romantic date. It’s more like two friends hanging out. They go to the batting cages, the bowling alley, and they end it with karaoke. Of course, that just consists of Tomo singing children’s songs.

Both of these segments continue the show’s momentum very well. I liked learning about Jun’s and Misuzu’s short relationship in middle school. It explains why they act like rivals more than friends. I also enjoyed seeing Jun’s jealousy on display. That’s a little strange since jealous can get annoying. However, his actions and mannerisms come off as more comedic than anything else. He’s also not a complete jerk. Honestly, I’d say Jun’s growing on me as a whole.

The date segment is also very fun. Sure, it’s not the most romantic setting, but that’s fine. We’re still easing into this potentially budding relationship. Seeing these two act as normal friends is a good start. Plus, seeing how embarrassed Tomo gets at karaoke is both adorable and hilarious. I didn’t expect her to sing children’s songs and do so poorly, but it got a laugh out of me.

The pacing is pretty good so far. I think we’re moving at just the right speed and the show’s charm doesn’t seem like it’s close to wearing down.