REVIEW: ‘Horimiya,’ Episode 12 – “Hitherto, and Forevermore”

It is Christmas in Horimiya Episode 12, and the many pairings in the show have to decide if/how they are going to spend the holiday together. The anime from CloverWorks (The Promised Neverland) follows a group of high school friends as they navigate love and growing up. The anime is adapted from the manga by Hero with artwork by Daisuke Hagiwara. The manga is available in English from Yen Press. 

Even though there is still one episode left, Horimiya Episode 12 solidly checks in with every character we’ve met on this journey to provide some form of closure for their storyline. Some cases more so than others, but that is more than fine. Characters that were only featured briefly don’t need as much time as the more prominent relationships showcased throughout the show. In terms of plot, the episode itself is scattered, but it doesn’t feel disorganized. Everything is centered on the holiday, and this episode is just a brief window into the characters during this time.

Toru and Yuki get a fair amount of attention in Horimiya Episode 12. Viewers may feel frustrated, as there is no declaration of feelings, but once again, the show foregoes that for something that feels a bit more realistic. Hori and Miyamura’s storyline will more than make up for that if any viewers were feeling deprived of more cinematic romantic moments. The star couple, specifically Hori, is feeling the pressure of impending graduation. The insecurities about whether or not her relationships will continue as they were are hanging over her amid the cheery atmosphere.

In truth, Horimiya Episode 12 is a difficult episode to critique. It is very peaceful. It feels a little odd that it isn’t the anime’s finale because the entire episode feels like a send-off. It is full of little comedic snippets with each character. A highlight is Sengoku shocked Sakura isn’t celebrating Christmas, only for her to comically remind him she is Buddhist. Moments like these litter the twenty minutes. It is overall a somewhat healing experience and will put many smiles on viewers’ faces. The ending may seem a little corny, especially when the show has taken a more realistic and relatable approach to teenagers dating. However, it is hard to complain about a happy romance. 

Overall, Horimiya Episode 12 checks in with everyone and will give many viewers closure. Toru and Yuki specifically have a relatable wrap-up that may leave some viewers frustrated but ultimately fits the characters incredibly well. The ending itself feels a bit much compared to the rest of the season but is still heartwarming nonetheless. The oddest thing is actually that there is still one more episode after this week. It feels odd given how much this week tied up loose ends in the many relationships on screen. Ultimately, it is a peaceful episode, where not a lot happens, but the viewers get to watch everyone be happy during the holidays. 

Horimiya is streaming now on Funimation.