How do you rate episode 9?
What is Pseudo Harem like? Community Score: 4.0
©斉藤ゆう／小学館／疑似ハーレム製作委員会
Eiji and Rin are both at a very interesting point in their lives. They are both going through their first real relationships and are also operating in very different areas of their lives. Eiji is now in college, hanging out with people who seem more mature but he still has that fun, goofy side. Eiji hasn't changed at all so people don't see him in a romantic light even though that's what Rin finds so attractive about him. I don't think Rin has anything to worry about although it would be interesting to explore more about the girl who confessed to Eiji. I'm surprised this plot point hasn't been explored at all. It's an opportunity to set a movie during Rin's school visit.
This is probably the first time the show has tried to balance the relationship between the main characters with a genuine passion for acting as a craft. Acting has always been a part of the show but it's just a backdrop for the relationships. Here it's trying to stand alone. Eiji hasn't set any specific goals for his future. Meanwhile, Rin wants to be an actress and has a talent for it. The fact that she's able to impress people older and more experienced than her suggests that she could have a shot at a very lucrative career. This episode plants the seeds for that as a potential overarching conflict in these last few episodes.
This episode doesn't offer a lot of laughs, and surprisingly, the cute flirty moments that are also a hallmark of the series take a back seat. However, that's only because the show seems to be taking a backseat to other discussions. Despite its overall presentation, Pseudo Harem is trying to be something, and I respect that. It's about facing your insecurities, believing in others and your abilities, and growing up in your own way.
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Pseudo Harem is now streaming on Crunchyroll.
