REVIEW: ‘Twilight Out Of Focus’ Episode 12 — “A Red Thread”

Twilight Out Of Focus Episode 12 demonstrates a determination to close the season on an undeniable high. The series has its hurdles, and the animation never quite gels in a way that befits the story it’s telling. However, “A Red Thread” perfectly captures the charm and romanticism of the series. Frankly, I doubt I’ll be the only viewer wearing an admittedly dopey smile by the end of the finale. It’s sweet and compassionate to its characters, and the relationship between Mao (Yoshitsugu Matsuoka) and Hisashi (Yuma Uchida) remains the strongest dynamic of the series. It’s only right that they’re the ones who close the story.

Following the events of Episode 11, in which Hisashi refuses to star in the music video, Mao is agonizing over what he can do to make his boyfriend feel better. He worries he’s been too passive regarding intimacy and emotional support in their relationship. To try and make Hisashi smile, he asks him to skip school with him, wishing to cheer him up through personal time. He even voices his concerns to Hisashi, who mirrors them in his own way. They’re both feeling useless.

In Hisashi’s case, it’s confidence in his acting, while Mao’s is all about his ability to be a good partner. They’re both able to lift one another before, once again, getting distracted by the heat of the moment. How Twilight Out Of Focus depicts intimacy is playful and vibrant, built off of what we know of these characters as they try and navigate what sex means between them. It’s not just the act itself that matters but the informed discussions surrounding it, as Mao admits his insecurities in initiating. At the same time, Hisashi later reveals his concerns lie more in the future.

But the series refuses to allow them to remain stagnant in those inner dwellings. Instead, refreshingly, they talk it out. Mao can’t absolve all of Hisashi’s past hurt when it comes to being abused and abandoned, but he can make a promise to stick with him. Mao asking Hisashi to live with him after high school is his way of showing how serious he is while promising not to leave Hisashi alone.

Destiny is a significant element of the finale, evident from the name “A Red Thread,” which speaks to the folklore of two souls being bound together by fate. Mao can’t promise him destiny, but he can continually show up.

Twilight Out Of Focus Episode 12 splits itself into two parts. The first half relates to Mao and Hisashi’s day off, while the latter details the music video shoot. Finding comfort in Mao’s confidence in him and his declaration that no one can capture Hisashi like Mao does, he agrees to star in the video. The film club antics have always played second to the overarching story, but they have come alive here.

There’s clear reverence for the filmmaking process found in the details of the shoot that we move through. From the storyboards to the emphasis on ensuring everything is cleaned up from their location shoot, the details elevate the sequence. With lush sunset imagery as the characters race against the ocean shoreline, “A Red Thread” gets its deserved visual romance. Even the character designs are stronger, though faces remain too elastic depending on whether or not we’re getting a side or direct on profile. It’s hit or miss, but the scenery is a highlight, especially during the shoot itself.

Twilight Out Of Focus Episode 12 is a strong, sweeping finale that beautifully bottles Mao and Hisashi’s love story. While we don’t know what the future holds for the two as they continue navigating their aspirations and relationship, their foundation has a refreshing sturdiness. “A Red Thread” pulls out all the stops to ensure that the central couple gets a deserved send-off.

Twilight Out Of Focus Episode 12 is out now on Crunchyroll.