English Dub Review: Horimiya: The Missing Pieces “Cooking Class”

Overview (Spoilers Below):
A few wallflowers at Katagiri High are dreading the approach of sports day. With a little help from their friends, however, things just might shape up for everyone. That is IF Sakura can survive cooking class with the student council first!

Our Take:
Fall is slowly approaching, meaning the school’s annual sports day isn’t too far behind. Hori is excited about the competition, but not everyone feels the same. That includes Miyamura and Sengoku, who perform the rain dance to ensure it gets canceled due to a storm. Sakura Kono wasn’t too ecstatic either, as she’s been having problems learning her cheer moves, unlike the other girls.
The episode is basically the classmates preparing for the upcoming sports day, splitting themselves into teams, and helping each other calm their nerves before the big day. One example is Miyamura’s unwillingness to compete in the event. However, Hori’s confident words helped Miyamura overcome his doubt and decide to compete in the 100-meter dash. Of course, it’s only for the sake of him hoping that Hori would cheer him on. Another example is Sakura getting help from Ishikawa in practicing her moves.
Amid the preparations, we get a couple of random scenarios that are as hilarious as they are heartwarming. One is Sakura teaching Sengoku and Remy how to cook during the school’s cooking class. The results are hysterically disastrous, with Sengoku and Remi not following the instructions and burning their food, much to Sakura’s anxiety. Thankfully, it didn’t affect their friendship, as Sakura informed them that their terrible cooking skills would not affect their skills as spouses. Another scenario involves Hori and Miyamura exploring jealousy, in which Hori gets jealous over Miyamura talking to another girl during class and vice versa. As someone who hasn’t watched the first season, I’m convinced that these two will likely be more than friends sooner or later.
“Cooking Class” continues to provide immense enjoyment through its humorous high school scenarios. The cooking class situation was undoubtedly the best part due to Sengoku and Remi’s terrible cooking skills. More importantly, it further displays the lovable characters regarding their support and good nature toward each other as they help one another get the confidence they need for the big day. It’s enough for me to keep watching the series, especially since sports day is approaching.