Review | Phantom of the Idol (Episode 7)

“This week’s episode of Phantom of the Idol is an emotional one exploring Setouchi’s story. It still finds the right balance with its usual comedy.”

Time goes by so fast. Phantom of the Idol is almost over. But before we say goodbye, there are still a few weeks left with new episodes. So, what happens in this week’s episode?

THE TRUTH ABOUT SETOUCHI

After six weeks of pure comedy, episode 7 focuses on the emotional side of the story. Last week, I said that once the show would delve more into the character, we as the audience would start to appreciate him. This is exactly what happens in this episode. We discover Setouchi’s past. It is quite moving. He was actually an hikikomori. And Asahi’s songs inspired him was to go out again and become an Idol. This is such a powerful story.

So yes, Setouchi is quite extreme but Asahi means so much to him. She changed his life. Though, his hate for Niyodo has more to do with him not accepting that he is a fan and that he can support more than one Idol. Setouchi tries his best to sink Niyodo’s career while he actually boosts his career. Despite being a more emotional episode, it still has some humor. And that part is so funny. So yes, this episode has made me appreciate Setouchi. Developping a character always helps.

CHANGE IS COMING

Yoshino takes a new step in his career. He still stays with ZINGS but starting an acting career allows him to explore more of his potential. I do hope the remaining episodes will feature Yoshino filming his TV series. He definitely needs more screentime.

Yoshino is not the only one entering a new chapter in his career, ZINGS as a whole is expanding their repertoire. They perform a new song at their latest concert. It is a ballad called ‘乗り越えてLOST’ that literally translates into ‘Get over and LOST.’ It is a deeply moving scene. However, the animation for the concerts is still the same. Thus, it is a weird mix – you have moments where you see ZINGS singing in a cheap animation while there are scenes with Setouchi observing the concert with the usual animation. I have to say it is a bit disappointing.

END CREDITS

Again this week, we get different end credits. This time, it is Setouchi and Niyodo singing ‘Respect.’ It is a beautiful ballad that comes after a more emotional episode. Plus, there is no post credits scene. It just ends after the song. I think this was the right way to conclude this week.