REVIEW: ‘Shikimori’s Not Just A Cutie,’ Episode 3 – “Misfortune, Followed By Sunshine”

Shikimori’s Not Just A Cutie is a romantic comedy anime produced by Doga Koba. With the ball sports tournament behind them, Yuu and Shikmori have some free time on the horizon. And what better way to spend a Saturday evening than at the movies with the one you love? So the couple set out for a date. But, even as Yuu’s bad luck continues to follow the couple on their night out, it leads to some unexpected joys in Shikimori’s Not Just A Cutie Episode 3.

There has been a lot to laugh at and get emotional over in anime this year. From charming series like My Dress-up Darling opening the year to the current releases like Love after World Domination and Spy x Family, there have already been plenty of series that bring that beautiful mixture of humor and heart to viewers. But, despite just how great all the previously mentioned series have been, nothing is hitting me as perfectly as Shikimori’s Not Just A Cutie. And this episode only strengthens the case for this wonderful series.

The front half of Shikimori’s Not Just A Cutie Episode 3 goes pretty much as expected. With the happy couple heading out for a night together, the episode’s opening delivers the delightful blend of sight gags and warmth as previous episodes have. However, it’s not until after the movie, when the couple goes to get food, that the episode takes a turn.

Despite his best efforts, Yuu has once again lost his wallet. Without it, he can’t treat Shikimori to the dinner he wanted. Yet, despite her unwavering understanding, Yuu feels like the date is ending on a low note. That is until they run into his parents. Upon learning of the duo’s predicament, Yuu’s parents invite them back to the house for a big dinner. Seeing Yuu’s family and how they respond to Shikimori is the crux of Shikimori’s Not Just A Cutie Episode 3’s story.

Every moment the show spends with Yuu’s family feels dipped in sweetness. While the charming dinner conversation is fun and delivers plenty of feels, the episode truly hits its high point when Shikimori and Yuu’s mom have a moment alone.

While it’s just the two of them, Yuu’s mom confides in Shikimori about her son’s past, concerns for him, and how much Shikimori’s presence in Yuu’s life means to her. But then, just as I felt like the show couldn’t bring any more emotion, Shikimori delivers a beautiful explanation of what Yuu brings to her life. This moment is powerful both for what it says about Shikimori that she can see these things in Yuu and how much it clearly means to Yuu’s mom that this girl can see past all of the bad luck that follows her son to the heart of who he is.

The visuals throughout this episode work perfectly with the story’s tone. From the humor of the story’s opening sequences to the emotion of its end, Shikimori’s Not Just A Cutie Episode 3 manages to always keep its visual style in line with what is transpiring in the show.

When all is said and done, Shikimori’s Not Just A Cutie Episode 3 delivers another perfect entry. While Yuu and Shikimori remain the main attractions, the show continues to build a beautiful cast of characters to surround and support them. And no fictional couple has deserved it more.

Shikimori’s Not Just A Cutie Episode 3 is streaming now on Crunchyroll.