English Dub Review: Fruits Basket “It’s Cinderella-ish”

Overview

Tohru’s class puts on an unconventional retelling of Cinderella at the school culture festival that in the process unravels some harsh truths within the Sohma family…

Our Take

It’s easy to assume that maybe because Kyo knows his fate being of the cat zodiac, that many of his unlikable family members have conspired to lock his ass up like a caged animal, so he sees his future in a negative way. Also, I think he feels like Tohru doesn’t see him in the romantic type. As for Tohru herself, maybe she doesn’t want to hope and wish for too much and that’s why she’s denying her feelings but given how most shows like to stretch the romance and drama bullshit, that remains to be seen…

While the episode excelled in wacky comedy at times, it also felt out of place and even contrived for a romance anime too as it feels like the show wants everyone to end up slotted into marriage with kids or something but nevermind the idea of having a career or a streak of independence right? As for the second half, I found it kinda messy with so many plot points being mentioned but fortunately, it didn’t last long since the focus was quickly set on Machi and her rather accurate impression of Yuki. And we also got some romantic development at the end… well, kinda, but the final scene left such a bitter taste in my mouth. I can’t help but think it wasn’t part of the script, but who knows.

Overall, the play was not only fun, but the parts that the main cast played reflected well on their actual circumstances right now, which made it even more enjoyable. With two episodes left of this season, who knows where this could possibly lead next!