REVIEW: ‘Buddy Daddies,’ Episode 9 – “No Sweet Without Sweat”

Coming off of last week’s recap entry, Buddy Daddies Episode 9 picks up the forward momentum as Miri prepares for an upcoming field day for her preschool. But while Kazuki leaps into the role of encouraging Miri with both feet, Rei struggles a bit with understanding what exactly he is supposed to do.

How we show support and encouragement can vary greatly. While cheering and outward enthusiasm are clear representations of support, they aren’t the only ones people can employ. Many people are not so outgoing, and these sorts of presentations don’t always come naturally to them. That is often how you know when you truly get someone. When you can see the way they do things like cheer, support, or look out for you in their own way. And it seems Miri has a pretty good grasp on how her papas strive to support her in Buddy Daddies Episode 9.

With only a couple of light nods toward Kazuki and Rei’s work life, this episode focuses almost completely on Miri’s field day journey. It does a great job of highlighting the boundless enthusiasm of children as Miri throws all her effort into preparing for her big day. But as the show follows Miri along on her journey, Rei begins to feel a bit uncomfortable with his role in the proceedings.

Buddy Daddies Episode 9 does such a good job capturing Rei’s struggle that I can imagine many viewers won’t fully appreciate how real it is. While being supportive comes naturally to many, it isn’t always the case. Given Rei’s upbringing, it’s not surprising that he has a hard time grasping the concept. While he clearly cares about Miri and wants her to succeed, how to properly show it isn’t something he naturally understands. The episode does a great job of bringing Rei through his personal journey, making how he grows feel natural and real, despite managing to get him there in a single episode. But what makes it the most authentic is where it leaves Rei off. The episode sees him grow, but not so much as to feel forced.

Outside of this emotional plot line, the episode simply revels in the joy of a day out, friendly competition, and family togetherness. One of the best parts about how the field day is presented is how much everyone gets to shine, not just our stars. The animation does a great job of presenting every parent lovingly cheering their child on and every kid as a bundle of hyperactive joy easily equal to Miri. By choosing to make all the families project the same level of bonds and energy as its stars, the episode cranks the happiness factor of its story through the roof. It was the right choice, rather than opting to focus on the stars in an attempt to make them feel singular.

Buddy Daddies Episode 9 manages to deliver a joyous story that’s positivity and glee are truly infectious. Even as the episode closes with a reminder of more ominous things on the horizon, for today, the sun is shining and there is only good energy to be found.

Buddy Daddies Episode 9 is streaming now on Crunchyroll.