REVIEW: ‘Komi Can’t Communicate’ Episode 19

In Komi Can’t Communicate Episode 19, Komi decides to write a letter to Najimi to clear up any misunderstanding they might have after seeing Komi holding Tadano’s hand. However, the more Komi tries to explain the situation, the more anxious and panicked she becomes. Meanwhile, two characters emerge from the background and make their debut in the main plot. Lastly, Komi and Tadano’s class start to make plans for their upcoming trip. The discussion around the trips rehashes some painful memories from Komi’s past.

Komi Can’t Communicate Episode 19 introduces the narcissistic character type in the form of Naruse Shisuto. Naruse is essentially in love with himself so much that he sees himself as the main character of his own romantic comedy. He is obsessed with himself and thinks everyone, including Komi, wants to be with him. However, as we all know, that is not the case in Komi Can’t Communicate, which is pretty much the point of his character.

In reality, barely anyone pays attention to him, and his only friend is Chushaku, who is his opposite. Chushaku actually prefers being in the background and just narrating everything that’s going on around him. Overall, I like both characters as they make for an odd yet interesting duo. Additionally, I enjoyed how the storytelling in this episode really makes it seem like Naruse is the main character. It gives the audience a bit more insight into his character as it shows him actually being vulnerable about his loneliness and lack of friends. I look forward to seeing how Naruse overcomes his narcissistic ways and makes friends with the other characters.

As far as the animation and musical score go, Komi Can’t Communicate continues not to disappoint. There are plenty of dynamic shots between Naruse’s narcissistic and over-the-top scenes. However, the animation and music score really stole the show regarding Tadano and Komi’s heart-to-heart moment towards the end of the episode. I especially loved the background art and music that conveys the touching and warm tone as the conversation goes from somber to light-hearted.

In addition to the comedy, Komi Can’t Communicate Episode 19 really brings it with the heart-to-heart moments, particularly when it comes to Komi and Tadano towards the end of the episode. In this episode, Komi and Tadano’s class discuss their upcoming class trip. Later, Komi calls Tadano and reveals some of her past trauma involving class trips. This moment gave more insight into Komi’s past and her communication anxiety. The moment also conveyed how much she can trust and rely on Tadano.

Additionally, this episode really showed how much Tadano and Komi’s relationship has progressed over the series. Not just as friends, but as potential love interests towards one another. Throughout the series, we have seen how they have gradually become closer as platonic friends. However, the last few episodes have continued to lay down the foundation for something more romantic between the two. My hopes are that with the school trip coming up, we could see more developments for the two characters.

This episode is worth a watch, especially for anyone who has enjoyed watching the relationship between Komi and Tadano develop steadily from the beginning. In addition, Episode 19’s introduction of the narcissistic Naruse is very entertaining, and I can’t wait to see how his character will progress going forward. Lastly, the art and music choices towards the end of the episode are top-notch and help convey the moment’s tone as it changes.

Komi Can’t Communicate Episode 19 is streaming now on Netflix.