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End of Aggretsuko (Season 5 Review)
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- čas přidán 17. 02. 2023
- Season 5 of Aggretsuko just released, and I wanted to share my mixed opinions on it, as well as how this reflects on Aggretsuko as a whole. Be warned there are spoilers but if you're reading this I think you'd already know.
Thank you to @1billionangles (on instagram and twitter) for the amazing thumbnail commission, as well as the background paintings and font that I use.
Feel free to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Tik Tok @colby2D I post funny clips I don't always mention in the videos there, as well as other random stuff like my dog.
Let me know what you think! Likes, comments, and subscribes are appreciated more than you'd think!
I've just made a new video where I rank and quickly discuss all Aggretsuko seasons! czcams.com/video/u8sqnVJ6Tbo/video.html and the Christmas Special is included here :] Thanks for watching!
the OTM girls og fans becoming ripped was more satisfying character development for me than anything done with retsuko and haida in the last two seasons
I know right???
BIG AGREE
probably unpopulat opinion but i like that retsuko is more confident and assertive compared to s1
@@thepotatoofheaven tbf i do agree with that, and i wish i'd been able to enjoy the application of that character development in a better storyline
When they showed them on screen I was like oh damn! They got jacked! XD I laughed
Completely agreed. Imo this season was better than season 4, but worse than seasons 1-3. I didn't like how Retsuko was just being pushed around and forced to enter politics against her will, and how the very same people-pleasing habit that she had displayed back in season 1 could still be used against her. It would have been great to see her stand up for herself and say no to the peer pressure, or even become a politician out of her own personal volition. Such proactive behaviour would have been a huge sign of character growth, one that I'd hoped for her to have had after five seasons.
Also, the final episode was rushed as heck, and I was SO disappointed with the "marriage".
EDIT: Wow guys, thanks for all the likes, this is the most I've ever gotten!! :3
Thank you, I hope you liked my marriage scene I made lol, but yeah I think it’s funny and real in a way of people being hesitant and just needing a push to do what they love, but Retsuko really just never cared about the politics, even afterwards she wasn’t really upset, because there was nothing she seemed to accomplish, or I guess people were unified or more politically active just from her running, but yeah quite a few people think they changed and rushed the ending because the series was getting canceled or something, but I have no idea the validity of that. Anyways, thanks for watching!
@@Colby2D The marriage scene you made for this video was more satisfying than the one in the show xD. And yep, it's possible that the show was indeed canceled by Netflix. They still could have shortened the politics plot a bit and given us a proper goodbye to the characters tho, especially the ones we've known and loved since season 1
I said to my friend I’d like to see a “where are they now” like Kabai is a professional spy now, Fenneko is an influencer or works for the fbi, Tsunoda has a rich husband or something, even as still images in the credits would be really fun and honestly would make me emotional to see how far they’ve come lol
completely agree with you! I feel like season 3 was the best season and it just went downhill from there… still my comfort anime but I won’t rewatch seasons 4 and 5
@@Colby2D I would agree with you, but I did hear the writers based the actual stories from real life situations at their jobs. I dunno if they'd go for a fictional take to give a proper send off and pay off to the characters that way. Unless those actually happened to them, but somewhat unlikely. (Though season 4's ending is still weird with Retsuko blasting the CEO and Haida off the building, so idk if they went with that regardless)
I remember seeing the Haida meeting retsuko family scene, I was like “oh retsukos dad seems very supportive” and then he takes the picture and I laughed because “oh haha he’s passive aggressive” (my words exactly)
That photo hurt lol, it was really funny
I’d like to imagine in the heat of the moment when Haida could’ve died, they decided to get married because of high emotions.
My friend jokingly said “you saw what happened, better get married quick” during the marriage montage
@@Colby2D Reminds me of the Vegas episode from Friends when Rachel & Ross got married cuz they were drunk XD Retsuko & Haida were drunk off of high emotions.
It's so weird how Haida's dad gets pissed off because he was homeless and had to sleep in a net Café even though HE was the one who kicked him out of the apartment in the first place.
Yeah it's very annoying they would kick him out like that and not help him but they were letting him live there rent free and I think they just assumed he had a lot saved up. In a way it almost shows how out of touch they are especially with things like money, or even how they live in the huge estate and order take out for their family dinner with Retsuko
Ya seem to miss the part where they kicked him out because he quit his job. Yeah Haida's family are some real cut throat azzholes. But this also shows Haida's flaw. Dude can be a real slacker, that shys away from responsibility, and make decisions emotionally without thinking them through.
He had more then enough money to stay in a hotel but Haida burned the allowance on gatcha games
@@Colby2Dout of touch? Haida literally spent all his savings on a video game. His parents had every right to be confused and angry that he had no savings. Do you need to rewatch the season again?
Haida being stupid does not change the fact the family has poor communication and tell their son he has to leave with little notice. Not justifying Haida’s actions by any means, he was dumb and immature.
I kinda didn't like how their marriage was glossed over. I know Retsuko said all she wanted was a quiet life with Haida though it would have been sweet if he said he knows he can't afford a ring or a wedding bc those things don't matter, but he knew she was the one he wanted to be with and asked her to marry him anyway.
Retsuko turned down Tadano and it almost broke her bc that's what she wanted, to get married. And for the writers to just skip over it like nothing felt kinda weird? 😕
Ikr, like not even 1 scene where Retsuko and Haida share a moment together. It could've been super sweet and heartwarming. Instead we get a montage where if you blink you miss it. I have a feeling a season 6 was supposed to happen, but Netflix got bored with the series and ig told them to cram it all into 5.
It’s really disappointing to me, I wish haida just asked her on screen, since he struggled to say just about anything to Retsuko through the entire show
@@bakedbaker9882 pretty much like what happened with the star vs evil finale (also I hate companies rushing projects it always ends horribly and usually ruins the products)
Look at it with a Japanese lens: They got married (or promised to, as that paper is not a wedding paper per see, but a compromise paper) in the heat of the moment after Haida told her that no matter what she chooses to do with her life, he will be there to support her and trust her, recalling the moment when they deciden to punch the people that hurt them back. It was a passionate act that skipped over formalities, never asking their parents permission or desiring to be accepted by them. Being together, knowing their flaws and strenghts, was enough to decide that they wanted to stay together for the rest of their lives, and that's the most romantic yet realistic depiction of romance in this show.
That doesn't mean that I don't want an special like the christmas one, where they show a traditional Japanese marriage ceremony, contrasting with the fantasies that Retsuko had of her wearing an occidental gown at a church, but I do not mind the way they depicted their relationship, it was obvious to me that they were stablished already and that they spend at least a considerable amount of months together, which is why they weren't as over the top as a recently made couple. The show likes to skip times frames all the time, one would have thought that the audience would have gotten used to it already.
Why do you want Retsuko to linger on that breakup? That just sounds boring and unnecessary padding. We aren't here to see Retsuko brood for an entire season.
I think they should have added a short wedding scene at least. Since that was one of her greatest ambitions. Cutting that short without a ceremony, simply signing some papers makes it feel unfinished.
Yeah it’s sad they didn’t have that
True. Like i watched the whole season and i didn't knew Haida and Retsuko got married until i saw this video.
I think they handled the marriage theme just... realistically. Real life relationships *are* dissapointing. Sometimes you don't spend your life with someone perfect, sometimes you just settle for someone and something who is close enough
Totally agree! Seeing how Retsuko was daydream-y about marriage at the start, to facing a more realistic version of it at the end. I like it a lot.
The part where Retsuko getting annoyed at him constantly blowing his nose was the realest depiction of moving in in a relationship ever
@@Colby2D at first I thought it was annoying but when I saw his dad and little bro do it then I understood and it kind of made me laugh from the beautiful irony
Wow, that is a depressing outlook. You should not marry someone you're not passionate about.
@@mysticdigital5936 Not necessarily? You can still love each other without the romance/passionate aspects? It's really all about communication and how much you want to be together, not always all about the passion. Sure some are, but having no passion for your partner isn't depressing to me. Just communicate.
I thought it was really cool of them to tackle one of the most real, yet least talked-about issues facing Japan: the epidemic of young adults forced to live in internet cafes because they have no other options. Government help is almost nonexistent in Japan, many parents kick their kids out and refuse to help them because 'honor' or something, and for many decent-paying jobs you're required to have a permanent address, which you can't get without a lot of money up-front, a record of steady employment, or both. So it's a vicious cycle that just repeats itself.
Yeah it was a really good idea, and im glad they mentioned it. While I would have liked them to make more connections to how it actually affects them, like the reasons you mentioned, the overview is much better than nothing
It's because of face.. remember guilt base secioty only truly exist in the west .in the rest of the world is still shame base.
Actually, I loved that Retsuko and Haida's relationship was NOT romanticized too much. It's refreshing to me, because most shows emphasize too much on the end game like it's such a big deal. I know Retsuko has had romantic moments with Resasuke and Tadano from the past seasons, but seeing her "not" being romantic with Haida, even if they are actually dating, I honestly really enjoyed watching it. It's a good reference for me writing platonic partners tbh.
Yeah I genuinely love the ending part of them seeing each other off to work like that’s what I wanted for an ending before the season started haha.
I’m all for having relationships that aren’t explicitly romantic but I feel this season went a little too far in that direction. Like okay, so we never see them kiss that’s fine, but we also never even see them so much as cuddle, hold hands, or use nicknames or anything. There’s really never any physical contact even in dire moments like when Haida is hit by a truck.
The chemistry just never felt like it was all there. And then they’re married by the end? It feels like season 1 only now they live in the same apartment.
I wouldn't call Resasuke the romantic type I mean she was infatuated with his false looks she imagined and put herself in bad health because of him
@@cordyceps7531 The fact that you never even see them so much as cuddle, hold hands, or use nicknames (besides those 2 scenes where Retsuko calls him "hon" in front of her parents or when Haida calls her "baby" when she finally paid off the thing for the election) or anything is honestly never depicted enough in any show. This is why I see this as refreshing, since all couples from other shows kiss, hold hands, cuddle and so forth.
Maybe it's just me, but a platonic couple is never seen anywhere and I'm here for these two. I actually don't ship them but this "lack of chemistry" while being together makes me happy, idk why.
@@Carossmo what the heck is a platonic couple?
what couple doesnt kiss? im confused
That was the part that made it feel rushed! They get married and you blink and you'd miss it! I would have had the happiest feels if they showed the marriage!
I feel bad for the people that have said “wait they got married??” Lol
I didn't even realize they'd gotten married until I saw this video
@@Colby2D yeah like, they got married??? After Haida gets hit by a truck?!?! WTF??
Best things of the season to me:
-Shikabane
-Hayda Is finally a real husbando
-The OTM fans are all ripped now.
I inform you, currently Retsuko responded to Haida's confession from season 1 in the Christmas OVA, simply saying "I'm flattered but right now I don't want that kind of relationship because I just had a bad breakup" and that's it.
Thank you, that’s true, i rewatched the Christmas special today. I remember watching it when it came out and thinking it was very nothing, but that line was really the only takeaway I have from the Christmas special. I’m gonna talk more about it in a video later this week. Thanks for watching 🙂
I agree with the opinion that this season felt rushed. They introduced characters and plot points and then just glossed over most of them. It was almost like they started making the last episode and then a Netflix Exec walked in and said "You know this is the last episode right?/looks at watch "Wrap.it.up!" I was waiting for there to be a run off to the election and them finding a way for the young and disenfranchised voters get to participate in because they made a point in saying that there was a large group of people that didnt even get to vote. And Retsuko's song about wanting to get married lasted longer than the scene of them actually getting married. It just all felt so rushed and unsatisfying.
Yeah I agree, it set itself up almost like it just needed 5-10 more minutes to show everyone and I would’ve been happy, even with the unfocused second half
Season 5 didn’t even feel like a series finale 🙃 I enjoyed it but it felt unfinished. Maybe it’s just me
I think most people feel that way, maybe they’ll have 1 more special to wrap things up, that would be nice haha
@@Colby2D Let’s hope
Unfinished? I don’t understand
Think that’s what I liked about it. Not the end of their journey but the end of anoth adventure.
Same here.
For some reason, the final season wasn't horrible but also didn't feel like a final season 😭. It still suffered from a lot of problems from S4 and was just empty to say the least *[spoiler warning]:*
*Pros:*
- We got to see Haida's family and Retsuko's dad for the first time.
- Shikabane was a pretty cool character but I felt her character still being implied to have stayed the same sort of disappointed me.
- Haida realizing how hard life is for the poor for the first time after no longer getting support for his rich family was a really realistic take on homelessness in Japan. I did enjoy that arc a lot more than another one I'll mention soon.
- Introducing Japanese politics into Aggretsuko was interesting but was inserted way too late and randomly.
- I really enjoyed Haida's friendship with Shikabane and the work moms.
- That moment with Retsuko, Washimi, and Gori was really sweet.
- The pep talk between Ton and Retsuko and him revealing he knew about her true death metal side all the way in S1 was really sweet to see how both of them have evolved throughout the show.
- The running gag with the persimmons was great XD.
*Cons:*
- I know it's important to develop more characters outside of your titular character (Retsuko) but was it necessary to make 6 out of 10 episodes of the last season around Haida? I mean I've got nothing against him but Season 4 suffered from the Haida infection similar to this and that was a problem.
- Retsuko and Haida's relationship felt more of a roommate friendship than a romantic relationship. I'm glad they didn't throw in a bunch of pet names and romanticize them too much but it still felt really empty. They did portray a relationship pretty realistically but it still needed more in my opinion.
- I was really bothered that Retsuko's seasonal motive was forced upon her through *LITERAL* kidnapping and stalking. Why couldn't her final motive in the show be something else than one she never really pursued in the first place?
- To be honest, I would have *NEVER* realized Retsuko and Haida legally married if I didn't have my subtitles on. Them marrying on paper was sort of disappointing since both of them really dreamt to marry their love interests traditionally unless they didn't have enough money at the time. But that sort of shows that Tadano was right when saying "Marriage is something done on a piece of paper. It doesn't change anything." Doesn't that make Retsuko and Tadano's breakup at the end of S2 a bit pointless?
- I'm gonna admit the ending was really underwhelming. As a season finale, I would be pretty okay with it but as a *series* finale, it left us with too many unanswered questions and plot holes. Did Haida pursue the coding job he wanted or did he work somewhere else? Did Retsuko end up staying at the office after all or did she find a better job that made her happier? What happened with Fenneko? Did Tadano end up alone with his persimmons and manga? Who hit Haida with the truck? Is Dokachin okay? The show ended not on a happy note but not a bad note either but it still felt *empty* to me.
PS: Sorry for the long comment but I wanted to be honest with this season.
I appreciate your comment, no need to apologize for it being long! I didn’t even think one of the only reasons I maybe noticed the marriage was because I watched with subtitles in, that almost makes it worse haha. And yeah while I see a lot of people say the wedding doesn’t need to be sensationalized, retsuko does value the ceremony and tradition of it a lot and disagreed with Tadano because of it. But yeah season 5 had a lot of fun moments. Also I’ve never heard of a persimmon before watching this season haha
They still failed to make me care about Haida and Retsuko. Their relationship felt so.... boring. They didnt even feel like they were dating most of the time. And honestly this season felt like 3 plots that all could have used more time to grow(Haida lying and living in the cafe, the families and marriage, and the politics).
This season felt kind of... shallow? Like there was very little substance to anything. Last season was messy but at least everything felt important and had time to happen.
Yup I agree, season 3 was where haida was at his best when he got Retsuko to go back into the world, basically having her get mad at him instead, but yeah this season he didn’t do much for her and the more I let the politic mini arc sit in the more I’m annoyed by it’s irrelevance
True. To be honest, the only reason I watched the show till the end was because of Tadano. I wanted to see how it would end and wished to see how things would end for him... But it seems there was no happy ending for him, which makes me sad.
@@eltallerdeartedecris I mean, he was kinda always happy. so he didn't really need anything
@@MrGullisYT Maybe... I dunno.
Ngl I was pretty confused with the entire ordeal of the elections during the second half. Why would they purposely force Retsuko into such a shitty position knowing that last time she was in a similar situation, she got harassed??? Like legit a few episodes ago they ran into her house making sure she was okay because they believed someone was stalking her. Idk, it felt out of place. The idea of Haida getting back on his feet was neat, and personally, I feel like they could’ve focused on the other side characters more.
Yeah and she says every episode she just wants a nice peaceful quiet life so I guess we hope she doesn’t win the election?
I think its implied that OTM assisted in order to get their name out more. Not only since Retsuko used to be in the group, but they were able to perform during her death metal speeches. But I agree, it seemed out of no where that they agreed to help someone they literally beat up a few days before for assuming he was a stalker....
I love Tadano, but he really pissed me off when he bought the internet cafe. He didn't buy it to help Retsuko. He bought it for himself. He even says that he just wanted the manga, which he could have bought on his own. Instead he decides to buy a business and kick everyone out of it. That includes the people who are homeless and using it as a place to sleep. He claims he wants to make life better for everyone, but he showed himself to just be a selfish rich guy. You know the only reason he let Retsuko use the space was because it was Retsuko and he's still in love with her.
yea. Kinda expected that to come up, but nope. I guess he just cucked everyone living there
Yeah, he really has no character left and like a lot of Aggretsuko characters turned more into the concept of the character with a cool design and little substance
Tadano has always been a selfish prick. Just one with money.
I was kind of disappointed the didn't let Shikabane sing. I felt that she could really channel Robert Smith/The Cure vibes with a dark, depressive voice.
Right? I was excited to see her grab the mic om screen, and very dissapointed that it didnt even happen 😭
What? THAT was the actual final season of Aggretsuko? I mean, I thought this season was fine overall, but now I feel frickin robbed. If this was supposed to be the grand finale, I think the writers should have gone all the way in.
They could have made all the episodes half an hour long, brought back all the previous characters for Retsuko's campaign arc and given them their own b-plots. It was nice to see stuff like Tadano lending them the cyber cafe and Puko helping out with the posters, but they could have done so much more.
I wanted to see Fenneko teaming up with Kabae and Tsunoda to look up some dirt on Jiro to spread on the internet. It could be a little pastiche on Charlie's angels, that would've been funny. Maybe Gori and Washimi could brainstorm some campaign strategies for Retsuko, with some help from Tadano and his ENI-O. What if that llama stalker escaped from jail, and he was the one driving the truck that crashed on Haida? It would have been nice to see Reisasuke and Inue in that crowd, watching Retsuko's speech.
If this season really was supposed to be the actual ending of the entire series, the very least the writers could have done was add not only an entire scene for Retsuko and Haida signing their marriage papers, but also one for Retsuko sending her resignation letter, once and for all. Since, you know, it was already established she'd have to quit her job to run for chairwoman in the first place! Like, how awesome and fitting it would be to end this season showing Retsuko finally reaching the goals she set on the very beginning of the series, but in such a bittersweet and down to earth way? I think that if only these two scenes were added, the ending could have been perfect.
If this is how the show ends, that's fine. I can live with that. But now I can't help but feel like Aggretsuko ended on a whimper, when it could have gone down with a bang.
Fenneko Kabae and Tsunoda would have made an awesome team, I wish they showed everyone team up together too. Some people think the show was already in the process of getting canceled so the ending was rushed out, but I don't really have any way to determine something like that.
The closest we're ever gonna get to seeing them getting married was during the scene where Retsuko imagined haida leaving her at the alter due to a lack of confidence back in season 4. I know it's the final season but a special short like the christmas one wouldn't hurt, especially in terms of seeing how haida was finally accpeted by Retsuko's father and if Haida's relationship with his dad ever got better. Like others have been saying, we have a lot of new characters that weren't really brushed upon as much as we would have liked, but nonetheless it was bittersweet. I do hope that they give us a special tho.
I also hope we get a special, and I forgot about the altar shot I would’ve used that in the video! Lol
I really wish this season was more of a culmination focusing on all the characters up to this point. I guess it was fine to introduce more characters tho, Melissa and Jiro in particular. It ain’t gonna matter that it’s the last season, they’ll make a special in like 2-3 years
I hope they have another Christmas special; people think it was rushed because it was getting canceled or something. I wanted Fenneko to use her sleuthing skills more!
@Shadowz I dont recognize the name either- I think they *mightt* mean Shikabane
I've watched the whole season today and I think it was better than the 4th one.
I totally missed Retsuko and Haida getting married, just like I've missed them being a couple in the whole previous season, I though they were in this in-between phase of considering each other as a potential romantic interrest, no further more.
I don't know: There's no kiss, no hug, no real sweet moment between them... They just act the same way they always did as coworkers at the office...
It's sad this is the last season, it ends like any other... A sequel could come out next year... And to be fair, there's a LOT to talk about: like considering to start a family, dealing with a middle age crisis, like you said: Retsuko could quit her job and start something she really like and face the same difficulties Puko faced... I just imagine the serie going faster and skipping in time from that point... But it's not what Aggretsuko exists for, right? This serie is a critic of Japanese society, and Retsuko being defeated by Jiro at the end is a bettersweet, however realistic, conclusion.
Same. They felt more like acquaintances then a couple.
@@cordyceps7531 Glad I'm not the only one! Plus Haida is crushing on Retsuko for 3 seasons, finding the right bf is also really important for Retsuko, and they get together in the most discreet way possible lol.
I think, they act like a couple, because they care about each other, and specially they look for each other more than physical affection and stuff
@@mayoneese6108 Oh, I agree! They're a pretty heathly couple.
I believe I could see the same dynamic between good friends too, though...
I would have enjoyed more physical interactions between them or clear statements like "let's be together" or "I love you", but it's a personal preference.
@@ardoniedaurano2036 I actually think the same, I don't know if it's because they are reserved or something but I would like to also see something like that
This show had so much potential to be spitacular. And while it isn't the best, it still has a special place in my heart. Awesome video and analysis! You're really underrated.
Thanks very much! I really appreciate it, and hope to see you on some future videos🙂
@@Colby2D For sure! Can't wait to see more videos. 😎👍
Seriously? Am I the only one that's happy they redeemed Haida and him stepping up?
I would say most people are relieved he didn’t get cold feet for another season haha
Yeah,
@@Colby2D I’m disgusted by their relationship. I was going to quit watching but then I saw this was the end.
@@FortunaFavored why? I guess you can't relate to romantic relationships huh?
@@FortunaFavored I actually did stop watching because they got together lol. Hiada just annoyed the hell out of me
I also liked how it did geta bit meta. The scene with Washimi, Gori and Tadano felt like a thankyou to all of the fans who had been with the series for all of these years.
Yeah I felt like the ending didn’t deliver, it needed more.
Yeah it was pretty disappointing, why she was in space was just a little too out of place for me I’d rather her still be on the train in the final shot
@@Colby2D I will like they could of ended it to where it started in the beginning of the series, she is heading to work and it fades to white.
They almost did that with her seeing Haida off to work haha, so I think it worked but they went a little too esoteric with her looking over the earth like a dragon ball character
I’m ok with how they got married I’m just pissed they didn’t tell anyone. Would’ve loved to see the other characters reactions to it
I know the marriage was rushed but I thought it was kind of sweet that Haida's speech (I guess you could say it was his proposal) made Retsuko want to marry him there and then and how they both went to the after-hour marriage registration together to make it official. It was the first confession between Retsuko and Haida that felt genuine and not the usual dialogue we get like Haida's "the app says we're 100% compatible so let me be there for you." I feel like the progression of their relationship was finally shown on screen and, to me at least, after binge-watching each season as a first-time viewer, it felt more satisfying than anything that happened beforehand (I honestly didn't even know they were dating until Retsuko told him in S4 that they were trying too hard).
I always kinda felt haida was talking to himself in that scene and a lot throughout that episode, I kinda got the vibes the election only really meant something to haida, and while I kinda wish he have a little more of a sappy proposal, it was nice!
I think Tadano's potential got wasted pretty bad. I feel sorry for him because he seems to have ended alone as always and without friends at all. Tadano is my favorite character ever.
Yeah he always feels depressing to watch now but at least he watched the campaign with Gori and Washimi
@@Colby2D Yeah... At least. But yeah, like, wished I could give Tadano a hug haha uwu.
@@eltallerdeartedecris, me too 😭😭😭. Like HOW?!! I feel as if she didn’t give him the chance that he deserved. They literally just started dating or seeing each other and she had to bring up the whole marriage and kids bit. Like girl!!! Give it some time! Either one of you could’ve changed y’all mind or compromised or something! I felt that this only happened so that her and Haida could get together. Her and Tadano was so frickin’ cute! If she don’t want him then I’ll take him 😤😤😤.
@@mikachuthunderboltz1298 Ikr? I think exactly the same.
@@eltallerdeartedecris , like WHY?!! You can marry Haida even though y’all barely started dating but not give it more time with Tadano?! Like make it make sense 😒😒😒.
I was a hundred percent expecting the whole netcafe arc to lead to some kind of purpose regarding the election. Like a goal to make sure that people who end up in those situation can get the help they need.
Yeah it seems like it was Haida’s motivation to do this for shikabane but it’s just another reason why haida should have ran for office and not retsuko
The biggest shock for me was learning that the purple internet cafe girl was a skunk. Here I thought she was a fox, but go figure. On the same note, I thought Manaka (the OTM Girls lead singer) was a bunny despite the long tail. Turns out she was a... chinchilla?🤣
This was a better season than the 4th, but I was disappointed with the whole politics aspect. It seriously would've been more interesting learning more about Retsuko and Haida's parents/families, make them have a whole family meeting, and overall the show returning to the more down to earth way it started. Retsuko suddenly becoming an idol for a moment I can understand, but becoming a politician? That happened so out of the blue it really didn't feel relatable at all anymore. And relatability at least for me was the ground foundation for the whole series.
You’re not the first person to think she wasn’t a skunk but it’s hard for me to see her as anything else haha. I can see getting Manaka’s animal wrong a lot easier than Shikabane. If Manaka didn’t remind me of the Pokémon Minncino I may not think of her as a chinchilla lol
The series for sure needs a 6th season because it doesn't feel wrapped up, but I enjoyed season 5. It was maybe the most relatable season so far for me. Haida arguing with his dad about the state of the world and how much harder it is for younger adults was so good. I was aggressively nodding my head the whole time.
The "Party of Rage" thing was a bit off-putting, though. Being angry is not a political stance. I get that using that energy to mobilize grassroots efforts is a thing, but there needs to be actual rhetoric behind it.
I agree. I really enjoyed Haida growing a backbone this season from experiencing how bad things are for the poor. But yeah, not everything is wrapped up.
Yeah I’d have to try to research more to see what the party of rage’s inspiration is but at the moment it feels just like an extremely convenient plot creation tailored to Retsuko’s character. That being said, I don’t mind it being a quickly created catalyst, but yeah Haida’s conversation with his dad was the strongest lines of the season related to politics
I'm glad I wasn't the only one who saw great chemistry between Haida and Fenneko.
Fenneko has always been there for Haida, more so than literally any other character within the show, since they always hang out at the bar, talk after/during work even without Retsuko around, etc.
Its unknown still why Fenneko even chose to stick to Haida as much as she did for what's said to be over 5 long years of being his wingman, and I'd like to think it's because she herself grabbed some sort of special liking towards him that she has deep inside.
Haida trusts her a lot too, he seems to also help her at times (as seen through the one moment where he helps her reach the button in a coffee dispenser, moment which btw is incredibly cute), and overall the two just have a better relation than what Haida and Retsuko had even during season 5.
Idk man, Haida is missing out on Fenneko a lot.
I thought we were gonna get an emotional love triangle of Fenneko revealing she likes Haida
Yeah I agree with you, I felt the same thing
I think the sad thing about this season is that the first half was solid, but the second half was a trainwreck worse than Ohio.
The first half was so fun and funny with all the hijinx of the online game, the net cafe, living with Retsuko, the second half feels totally disconnected and didn’t do anything to change the series
@@Colby2D Exactly! It feels like the forced political thing was pointless with the writers 1. forcing her to do it and 2. making her lose to boot. Also since Season 4 I've not been a fan of them forcing Haida x Retsuko despite the obvious lack of chemistry involved, it would have been better if they'd gone with Shikabane or Fenneko (ESPECIALLY Fenneko), then I think Haida's romance would work fine considering there's obvious chemistry with both and either one would be extremely believable and probably easier to write properly.
@@shadekerensky3691 well, the thing is, Haida and Retsuko could have been a better couple than they were. They should have emphasized his musical talent more and showed it was something they had in common. I mean, he played a song with her at the political campaign but of course that part was weird and forced so it didn’t have the impact it could have if they had just played normally or even assisted the girl group she was in. They went in this unnecessary, and weird route with them. I do feel like they would have done better if they had (if they really had to) saved the political stuff for a season 6 but I guess they didn’t have that option.
@@shadekerensky3691 I feel ya, especially when Retsuko loses.. After ALL that hype, and... Nothing? I get it's supposed to be realistic, but it's disheartening. Like being slapped with a wet blanket. Retsy even seemed to get into the politics despite previous objections, and now she's back to square one, although with experience now.
The more I think about it, the more problems I have with season 5.
@@bakedbaker9882 It feels like either Sanrio got way too fuggin wrapped up in the whole "realism" thing and fucked themselves that way OR they fucked themselves because they were too fuggin scared to actually mix things up (like getting Haida with Fenneko, who would have been a far superior choice for his soulmate than Retsuko.)
When Haida was kicked out of his apartment I assumed it was because his family somehow knew he was unemployed and slacking off, maybe he didn't pay the bills or something. I just realized that wasn't the case, and that they found out of his situation latter in the season.
Yeah it was just kinda plot convenience coincidence haha
I was holding my breath that tadano would bump into shikibane cause he owns the net cafe now and he finds her freelance work interesting enough for her to be employed by his tech company.... 😰
Why couldn't that happened? Why did this series do this to me? They hate me! why!? What did I do? Why do they hate me??? 😭
Ikr, I would've rather seen them get together then Retsuko and Haida tbh. They could've even did ONE scene where they meet, but no! It's all about THEM now, when they aren't that great of a couple. But the writers couldn't even get that right. This season is filled with disappointment with sprinkles of good scenes.
Aw that would be a really good idea! She’s got the tech skills
I wanted that to happen too
Season 5 is what season 4 should've been.
I think this is probably the hardest to relate too because of things being more culturally restricted to Japan.
For sure, I kinda wish they leaned in more or less to the Japanese culture, because it’s a little too inbetween where people say there’s points people miss that are intrinsic to Japanese society, but then they have a “party of rage” haha. But yeah I’ve read some really good insights from some comments about how Japanese culture plays a lot into this season
I wish Fenneko got an arc
I loved Aggretsuko and am sad that it ended. It felt rushed and I wished they could have explored some things deeper. Restuko's and Haida's relationship threw me off a bit. It was in my opinion too platonic. If they wouldn't have mentioned that they were boyfriend and girlfriend, I would have never known. There was not even remotely anything physical between them. And then when I saw the scene where they got married, I was shocked. Happy, but shocked. I just expected more from their relationship. It took us several seasons for them to get together and then this...tbh diappointing. I did however like how Haida was able to redeem himself and his development.
I agree, there was several times in season 5 where I asked myself “wait they’re dating, right?” Like it was the right decisions the execution was just a little bit messy
Thank you all for watching! I’d love to know what shows or movies you’d like to hear about in the future. I’m planning to do a video on Hey Arnold’s Chocolate Boy, uploaded Friday Morning, then a Glass Onion review next week.
Do those interest you? Do you want to hear me talk about other stuff? Let me know all feedback is welcome!
Scratch that im gonna make a Ranking of the Aggretsuko seasons (WITH THE CHRISTMAS SPECIAL) this week, but still let me know what you want to see more!
The vagueness around the specific politics regarding the election was no doubt intentional, and to a big fault in my opinion - the first couple seasons revolved so much around the monotony of working unfulfilling and boring corporate desk jobs, and there are some lines from the English dub of characters (especially Tadano and Retsuko) protesting against capitalism and getting a "grown-up job". It perfectly set the scene for a politics arc that went against the current state of work in Japan and encouraged people to find more fulfilling jobs. However, this sort of sentiment just got a passing remark from Haida about helping people who have to spend their days in internet cafes, which really was a let-down for me. It could have been a really great arc for the end of the show, where all of Retusko's friends/coworkers could help her to change work culture in Japan, but it really missed the mark and made for a very lackluster ending. I still enjoyed watching it, though, and I'm glad Aggretsuko ended on a higher note than season 4.
Agreed, it was nice to have a little bit of closure instead of “let’s do it all again next season” but they just ended up not really making any statement. That being said if the creator made a new / similar show I would totally watch, there was great characters, but maybe an easier to tackle topic would do better
To be honest, at this point it'd be better if they used the script of the final season for the 4th one, instead of anything that happened when Himuro was around, and wrapped it up with an entirely new season (If you got what I mean, English isn't my first language so I apologize in advance)
I might be wrong but as I see it, Haida really matured throughout this season (If we don't count the ''I spent too much money on my game and it's not like I wanna tell my girlfriend'' part), and I think the insight into his family would make much more sense at the beginning of his and Retsuko's relationship - plus it might also explain why their romance can't be really seen as intimate yet, as they both rely on each other rather emotionally than psychically (especially after the season 3rd finale). However, I really liked the portrayal of their relationship, and I enjoyed every moment they were on screen just spending time together.
It would be inconsistent if we leave out the context from the Himuro season though, so in this case I think they could've introduce Himuro at the beginning and have set Haida up as the vitcim of the layoffs, so he'd be forced to quit his job? Which might make Retsuko unnerved to the point the election, and having the chance to influence the social construct regarding the middle-class workers, wouldn't feel as forced? I'm not certainly sure. There's so many opportunities.
Nevertheless, I do think the series is a gem and it's sad to hear it's come to its end. Especially knowing how many unanswered questions is out there (regarding Shikabane, Fenneko, the finale overall... you name it.)
I think that makes a lot of sense, the Himuro situation would definitely make a lot of sense to help motivate the politics of season 5. Thanks for your comment, and I could understand it all, I think your English is good!
I hate that shows like this, keep making an incredible, talented woman settle for the "nice" guy. He has nothing special to offer, is a slacker, indecisive, has no drive in life, lies to her and almost dont communicate his feelings. The show also romanticised him stalking and following Retsuko when she was an Idol, when the creepy stalker was doing the exact same thing. They didnt show us a single reason why they would really work. I wouldve prefer to Haida to move on and Restuko to either be alone or find someone better than Tadano.
I think Haida has redeeming qualities and he worked hard to get a good job at the end but I can totally see why you and a lot of people think he’s annoying and weird
Exactly! Thanks for saying this! Haida is simply childish, selfish and always played the victim. But he was rewarded just because he liked Retsuko. I couldn't believe when Retsuko had to take care of Haida. It has no sense, Retsuko dumped Resasuke and Tadano for less.
I know this is going to sound outlandish but out in other countries men aren't always treated like inanimate wallets, their people, imperfect capable of mistakes people.
People who say that kind of stuff usually sounds like a typical person who would drop their partner without a second thought the moment they are out of the dumps for a guy who is more successful only to regret it when they find out it was a one and done type of interaction. You don't like "nice guys" but I bet most people don't like "hustle gals" more sunrise, sunset.
@@MarkFin9423 what? No one is talking about money here, I think you got confused. When I said "nothing to offer", I meant about his personality, his personal goals. We even know later in the seasons that he is from a wealthy family, but that doesn’t matter at all if he is just projecting and loving an idea of Retsuko and not the real thing.
@@MarkFin9423 This isn't about money or success. Haida was in love with his own idea of Retsuko but never really did something meaningful to make her like him. He was just standing there waiting for Retsuko to notice him one day. When he had the chance to know Retsuko better, he acted like a coward. If they ended together is just because all the other characters pushed Retsuko to be with him. Because Haida is a "nice guy" , how selfish of Retsuko if he can't notice that, yeah? That said, he is toxic as hell. He stalked Retsuko, ended in the hospital because he couldn't stand the idea of Retsuko choosing another man and finally tried to make her responsible for his own decisions in the 4th season. Haida is the kind of guy who can't take a "no" for an answer because they are mysoginist enough to think women are objects that have to possess. I don't know where do you live but personally I'm tired of Haidas that believe a girl owes them her life just for having basic manners or just for being friends.
I love the marriage!!!! You never brought up the new family photo at the end scene. I love the ambiguity.
It was a cute photo!
I hope they make a special like the Christmas one, except it’s like, the wedding or something between Retsuko and Haida, and then silly shit happens but it’s like serious/heartwarming at the end.
Yea it would feel not as epic because it wouldn’t be it’s open episode in the main series, but you know, just something, a mini episode or long one about it.
Yeah I’d like that too, I’m still hoping they do maybe
I was really enjoying the season, even though Haida lying about being kicked out of his apartment was annoying. But still I liked the first half. The season peaked when Shikabane was at the forefront. Honestly, I want an entire series on her.
Then the second half happened and my brain tuned out. The show was building up so much momentum only for Retsuko to get into politics, which feels completely random and disconnected from everything else. Retsuko actually regressed instead of showing character growth. All the way to the last episode she’s being used by those around her and talked into doing things she didn’t want to do. The side characters didn’t get to do much this time around. Pretty mixed bag of a season and ending.
Yeah I agree, I also really enjoyed the first half and they tried to spin it as “Retsuko wanted to do this but she wouldn’t until she was pushed to do so” but as you, me, and many others felt, it didn’t convey like she ever wanted to ever she had little motivation
Yes, and I feel like they rushed the history to fit in 10 episodes. I wasn’t expecting this for the finale. I got pretty much disappointed.
It also feels like restuko didn’t accomplish anything she wanted from season 1 besides getting a boyfriend.
Yeah she just kinda became satisfied with her job, nothing really changed: it was nice in season 3 to see her working with the idols, even if she wasn’t a singer, she had a lot of skills helping balance the debt of the group
For me, I want to them to make a spinoff series based off Tadano.
Me too, he's my favorite character by far. Or Tadano working with Shikabane and they both are just very lazy and annoyed at everything haha
I loved the show so much, but, wooooow…… this was not the best finale for a show like this. They literally pulled the politic things out of NO WHERE!!! The first part could have lead to something special, but sadly didn’t and just chose a random path. The show didn’t go in a whimper, but the show didn’t go with a bang either.
I’d say them getting married so suddenly is a reminder of what marriage life is in Japan, given that you just need to get some official documents signed as signification (compared to the huge emphasis on marriage in America)
I would agree but Retsuko fantasizes about a nice wedding several times in the show. Maybe it’s her development now that she doesn’t want anything too crazy just a nice quiet life though
Just signing papers is something a lot of people in the US do too. The party, ring, dress, etc is too expensive and those either have to come later or never.
@@QueenMariposa5 it may depend where you come from then. At least where I come from (the South for reference) it seems like everyone’s dream is to settle down and have a family, in which weddings play a formidable role for such. It may not be completely agreeable (or even achievable) based on what the individual’s goals are and, as you said, the financial state of the person, but it does play a pretty fundamental role in the “white picket fence” ideal of American culture. (That is, in comparison to countries that never give marriage a second thought.)
I actually really loved Jiro's character, and from the rip I was very interested in seeing who he was or what his deal was with Haida. That end scene when he made that declaration and his father and Haida were laughing at him, I started laughing too!
Because he was being built as this character who for some reason hated and emotionally bullied Haida for his "rebellion" against his father, but really the truth was that Jiro understood Haida the most, but was frustrated because Haida had no real ambition to change the things he had fault with. He probably thought "Haida is nothing but all bark and no bite!". Jiro was taking advantage of his own position of power and was pretending to "win" the office for his father's power, when really the whole time it was for his own ulterior motive to change Japan himself.
Its why Jiro looked down on Haida for accepting the "severance" money and "running away" instead of actually joining the campaign with him. It also explains his perspective on the internet Cafe and the people there. But I feel like, Jiro came to respect Haida and Retsuko in the end for putting in the effort to actually run a campaign, despite it being dicey and almost ruining his own.
Yeah I agree! I think Jiro is fun and I wish we had just a couple more minutes with him, he kinda reminds me of Manaka when they leave her and she gives the kinda sarcastic “oh you weren’t cut out for it” vibe to Retsuko in season 3. I think Jiro’s motives and reasoning are a little bit open to interpretation since he is the younger brother maybe he’s upset Haida was possibly given more chances than him, or stuff like that, but yeah overall he was pretty cool!
@@Colby2D Yeah, I thought the point was actually clever. I think Haida thought no one ever listens or cares about what he thinks. But at the dinner, Jiro was actually quiet and listening the entire time, which is why he may have brought up that retirement law. He must've grew up listening to all of Haida's arguments, and notice how his old room was left untouched too. Probably listened to his music too 😭
I still think Haida and Retsukos relationship and shaky at best and the show was really bad at forcing them together, they both had better options.
Also if this was gonna be the series finale it should not have ended with going back to the status quo, with the only difference being Haida and Retsuko are married, apparently. Thanks for pointing that by the way, thought they were just finally together but the show just zoomed through a wedding like a checklist they almost forgot about.
Anyway she should have won the election and end the show there. Have us wonder if she could have done a good job and bring about any of the change people want. Instead of her going back to the job she hates again. Seriously this happened every season and she refuses to do anything about.
Over all S5 is fine better than S4 not as good as the other. Very disappointing ending.
I think it's a fine conclusion to have nothing really change with work because a lot of people can't really change their jobs as easily as they'd like. It would be nice, but I think they wanted to give a realistic compromise, and I think it worked decently in concept, but the pace of the conclusion and the other kinda loose plot points are what made this feel disappointing to me and others. I talk about how the endings of the seasons work and don't work in my new video ranking the seasons here czcams.com/video/u8sqnVJ6Tbo/video.html Thanks for watching I hope to see you around !
I had absolutely no idea they got married!! I also didn't know this was the last season, as I've just been a casual viewer. It was definitely better than season 4 but yeah... didn't feel like much of a series finale.
Oh no, I’m sorry you had to find out from me haha
I thought that the marriage sequence was just Retsuko daydreaming after Haida’s monologue. Like an exaggerated rush of emotions lmao
I still feel like it’s possible they haven’t had a wedding yet, but yeah they did a good job hiding the marriage between shots of fans cheering haha
I had to process at how they handled the marriage part
It mostly felt that they were mostly unhappy with each other
Although i gotta give haida some respect for standing up for the poor and for restsuko
It could just be the shock of how quick it was but I kinda like how they got married. I think it's cause it happens right after haida gets hit by the truck, them doing it impulsively afterwards. I think the reason it was so quick of the screen was to show how quick they made that decision. to be fair, I DID notice that they got married, if I blinked and missed it like some people I probably wouldn't be as happy
For me a week beforehand I told myself it was 50/50 if Haida and Retsuko would get married or break up entirely, I also thought that they were basically in the same situation as work friends so the few frames of the wedding paper registration “scene” came out of no where and I couldn’t believe they were actually going for it (writers and characters)
Some last parts have felt boring and hasty but it was still enjoyable because I’ve loved these characters when I got introduced all those years ago, gonna miss like any other show recently ending but nods to and this series and characters would make me happy
I also thought it was 50/50 but after rewatching through it all beforehand I was like “no way they do this for 4 seasons and don’t put them together there would be riots”
I strongly believe that the implication was that internet cafe hell (which is a real problem in japan) is a result of their political climate.
Yeah, I think that makes sense. Though neither Haida or Shikabane really seemed to be there as a result of anything politically related, it was nice for them to shed a light on tougher living situations and also showing the father’s perspective of “they’re bad people and just don’t wanna work” against Haida’s perspective
@@Colby2D Idk, I think they were, just not explicitly. It's the politicians who make the rules, it's them who have the power and control. If things were fine politically, there wouldn't be so many homeless. People could work a job they want and be happy, not working till they die. I'm not Japanese btw, but an American who sees that Japan has some of the same struggles as we do rn.
Season 5 cannot be the final season man they left too many questions unanswered, plus that was such an anti-climactic ending. Also, Shikabane didn't get enough screen time. They really fumbled the bag with her man she shoulda been in from season 1. FUN FACT: "Shikabane" means "corpse" in Japanese.
That’s really interesting I didn’t know that haha, I was wondering what her name meant throughout the season
@@Colby2D It really ties her whole character together imo. The apathy, her tired and ghoulish appearance, the small bit of pink and her white fur contrasted with darker colors, her design was definitely a favorite.
Tadano’s my 2nd fav character next to Shika though. He always stuck out to me as an exceptionally well written character.
I liked seasons 1,2,3, and I was SO excited with the first three episodes of season 5!!! I thought it was going to be about haida and his recovery, how shikabane was sort of a problem too but at the same time her own person, and wasn't forcing haida, he was the one who went back to playing video games. Loved the internet cafe reality, it was marvelous to see that aspect of "failure" in a society that will discard you asap, but I thought the politics aspect was so unrealistic and farfetched, they could have done so much more with what they had, specially with shikabane and haida!!? Like, tell me more about how they're trying to recover? If they're trying at all? But no...they glossed over it. Just like the idol thing in the other season....like one of the reasons why we liked aggretsuko was that it was easy to relate to the characters. But an idol and a politician without the minimum knowledge or experience? Yeah....that kinda ruined it for me
Yeah it felt Retsuko and Haida had totally different motivations for running, Retsuko really had none, but Haida wanted to help people like Shikabane, and stick it to his family, to be honest he had a lot more reasons to run haha
The hospital scene was a large part of the Christmas special
That’s true! I forgot to rewatch it, ugh
Man, I am not ready for this series to end. I nearly forgot the new season premiered the other day.
Imagine if the Season 5 twist was that Shikabane (the purple skunk girl) was actually Haida's "Puka" and he created her to cope after ending up in the net cafe?
And Haida is a Metalhead like "Mike"'s friend from "Mike & Melissa"
I would like that twist more than I should lmaooo
@@Colby2D Especially since we never learn Shikabane's real name. Her online username translates to "Corpse" in Japanese - referencing how she feels dead inside and has given up on life.
Like as a Puka, she'd not actually be alive. In the same way a corpse is not alive.
Sometimes marriage isn’t a big thing to people. They find who they want to be with and sign the papers. That’s actually what a good friend of mine did lol. Sent pictures of their marriage papers in the group chat 😂 But we were happy for them because they’re happy. The marriage scene kinda captures that “odd couple” factor really well.
The only problem is that this is not the case with Retsuko, as they dedicated the entire first 2 seasons with the central point being them looking for a romantic partner and imagining what it would be like if they got married. And that desire of hers was mentioned considerably in the 3rd and 4th seasons. So seeing her and Haida just sign the marriage papers and that was it was VERY rushed, at least for me. lol
I think that’s an interesting interpretation of it, and I definitely agree that marriages don’t need to be sensationalized and what not, but yeah even if they had haida actually propose instead of just the visual flashing during the montage would have been nice haha
@@arthursemeghinigallo3336 yeah I really wished to see Retsuko receive her doubled 30k~
That bit kinda reminded me of ToniKawa (neat anime, if you haven’t seen it). Part of me still feels like it needed to be a little bigger than that, but Retsuko and Haida’s relationship felt more believable this season and helps to back up the whole “marriage office” montage. Sometimes, I guess you can get more when you have less.
Really good insights . I agree with you . The further away the show got from the main core of the office gang the more it got lost . Most of the characters we love aren’t around much in this season . I always thought Aggretsuko would get back together with Tadano . I thought he would wake up and they would reconnect. Even if they didn’t get married that would be more in line with her rebellious spirit and hey at least Tadano and Aggretsuko have a similar work ethic. I never liked her with Haida . And he had so many better matches ugh frustrating. You are right they wrapped up the ending trying to say something but it felt hallow . Having complained so much I would still love this show to have 11 or 12 twelve seasons that go back to the original concept. And you’re right again when you say raging over a soy sauce packet not opening is every bit as charming and entertaining as singing about the big life moments. 🎤
Thanks very much! And I mention this in my new video, but what disappoints me most about Tadano and Retsuko is that she disliked her job a lot back then, but still said work was where she belonged, and Tadano tried to urge to find a passion or her own business, sometimes I feel Retsuko is just a little dull for the sake of plot or plot convenience. Thanks for watching, I'd love to get your thoughts on that video sometime czcams.com/video/u8sqnVJ6Tbo/video.html
My mans Jiro knew about the hit put out on Haida and still campaigned. Holy based.
At the start of the video, you mention that Season 2 didn't show Haida getting rejected. But that scene IS shown on screen. You're forgetting about the Christmas Special "We Wish you a Metal Christmas. "
That’s right haha, I just checked it out recently I totally forgot
Man I didn’t even realize they got married. That sucks lol. I was only for restuko and Haida in season 1 and then it got old fast. Man overall yeah this show was something. It had a lot of great messages and heart but failed overall. I literally was missing the focus exclusively being on Restuko because for the past 2 seasons it’s on everything but her.
Season 5 was definitely missing something 😩 so sad because I really love the little metal red panda. And yes I definitely missed the marriage scene lolol
Yeah it definitely felt like it was missing something, and oh no I’m sorry you had to find out from me haha
You know I'm honestly disappointed I predicted the whole "Retsuko runs for office" at the end of season 3 and it played out almost *exactly* how I figured (minus Haida's Father/brother)
I would have never guessed Retsuko would run for office but after dating a tech mogul and becoming an idol it’s hard for me to think what she could do bigger than run for office !
@Colby2D yeah I figured that politics would be as "high" as she could go. And unfortunately Aggretsuko has a pretty predictable trend of returning to the "status quo" at the end of each season
I mostly adore this show because of the messages. Sure, sometimes they aren't really interpreted properly, but a lot have hit close to home and have actually helped me. Narratively the show is okay, but there are a lot of damn good banger lines.
In all honesty I actually really liked this season :D
The main decision I disagreed with was having Retsuko be the one to sing with Shikobane, as the scene would've been more impactful if it'd been Haida talking to her.
Also I see a lot of people saying that they didn't realize or forgot that Haida and Retsuko were dating, but tbh I don't get it? I think as a whole people aren't used to seeing an actual realistic relationship on screen, and tend to forget that things like PDA all that are actually a sign of much newer relationships usually built more on lust than love. It was actually really refreshing to me to see a pretty realistic and healthy relationship portrayed on screen, especially in an anime! The only real difference between a romantic and platonic relationship is intention, and Aggretsuko perfectly showcases that! Their dynamic hasn't actually changed all that much, but there's just something more that wasn't there before.
Yeah I feel like it’s a little more on the subtle side which has pros and cons. I personally forgot when they started dating like if it was technically season 3 or season 4, but I also don’t really want to see PDA especially with this animation style I don’t think their heads could even fit together to kiss if they tried lol
It jumped the shark with OTM Girls. I liked that things were grounded with Retsuko in the office. It was one of the few shows that didn't sand the sharp edges when it comes to the Japanese corporate world. Things spinning off the rails into anime fantasy land with idols did irreparable damage to the show.
In a way them building that up just to break it down with the stalker is almost an even harder edge to me, like there’s no escape no matter what she does
Okay I just want to mention this but Tadano buying the Internet cafe is kinda messed up because a lot of the local people used the Internet cafe as a home to fight being homeless. Having some rich dude buy the place for an office is pretty messed up lol. I still like him though but bro
Yeah, and then Retsy AND Haida used the place for an office despite knowing that! ? I don't get it! They didn't even TRY helping Shikabane asides from giving her food when they could.
I also thought that I’d we kinda odd, I thought they were gonna mention Tadano gentrifying Internet cafes, but I dunno if there’s plenty of others closeby or not; hopefully
If the politics had anything to do with homelessness they would be nice since we see Haida’s dad insult them, and homelessness is present in Japan like anywhere else but I’ve read a bit about how people try to sweep it under the carpet and pretend it doesn’t exist, like that’s not super unique to Japan but some people definitely idealize Japan to the point they don’t think it exists there
Retsuko rejecting Haida in the hospital was in the Christmas movie
Haha yeahh I watched the Christmas special now and included it in my new video where I rank all the seasons including the Christmas special :] thanks for watching this video I appreciate it, and I’d love to know your thoughts on the other seasons on my new video if you like it :]
To answer your question about not seeing Retsuko reject Haida on screen at 0:50 - I'm pretty sure that it was talked about in the Netflix Christmas Special. I guess I understand why they brought it up there, since the special was aired between seasons 1 and 2 and I'm sure they wanted to give an answer to the fans at that point, but I think it was also strange how it wasn't reiterated in season 2 for anyone that skipped the special. Overall, I'm really going to miss this series. It was one of my favorites and I would always look forward to the next season drop. I didn't know that this was the final one until after I finished it, which was pretty heartbreaking. I love that the series addresses issues that aren't talked about enough in Japanese society, but I didn't care for how the later half of the season was handled for the most part. Really wish we got to see it tie up loose strings with the whole cast! I also think that it's strange how they built up Retsuko's and Haida's relationship just to sort of brush it off, especially since it was established earlier on how much getting married meant to Retsuko, but I guess I can dig their relationship not being so traditional. It would be nice to have an epilogue special in the future or something!
Yeahh I totally forgot about the Christmas special before making the video haha. I rewatched it’s now though. An epilogue would be nice, I’d love to see more of their life or future family even for just a little. And yeah they mention really interesting aspects of society like the age of politicians and civilians I just wish they gave more of an example of how that affects them. Thanks for watching! I love your pfp by the way, great album haha
That truck should have hit Haida again lol. God I can't stand him!
Ok but he did fall like Brian Griffin though
0:50 I don’t know if someone already said this but they do actually show it,just not in the series but the Christmas special “We wish you a very metal Christmas” were it actually shows Restsuko rejecting Haida. (it’s stupid, I know.)
I felt confused by Tadano buying out the Internet cafe and letting Retsuko use it as a campaign office from a writing standpoint. Didn’t we establish in the first half of the season that a lot of down on their luck people need those spaces to survive from day to day?
Dude kicked out a bunch of homeless people for a girl who dumped him 💀💀💀
Yeah like I hope there’s another net cafe nearby because it just felt very uncomfortable when he did that
@@Mehhhhhhhhaw he a bltch, he mad haida macked her up??
It was okay but it makes me sad to know the two got married and I was completely unaware
I'm so glad I didn't blink because I would have been really sad if I missed it, to be honest I still am
Honestly (based on the way the first half of the season was written) the only way the whole "politics" things would make sense, was if Haida ended up being the face of the "lower status" people. He had the background and the knowledge, he was being pushed down had no luck, came in touch with the "lost youth", the kindness of the hardworking older generation and his family thought so little of him... It made perfect sense. As I was watching Retsuko being pushed into this and saying she doesn't want to do it, I kept expecting for Haida to step up and face off his brother.
Their relationship I really liked, it felt true and wholesome. I was pleasantly intrigued that after s4 finale, where Haida told her "you don't have to face the world alone, let's do it together" she seemed a lot calmer and didn't find a point to rage.
I truly wish they had written the second half better.
I think the problem with the show was that it started as a super relatable series with it showcasing an average life for an average woman who’s new to the workforce. And what is the most possible outcome for any random person.
I think the show started going downhill when it jumped the shark with the underground idol group. After that, it felt it needed to be more ridiculous to get in that wow or shock factor
My biggest problem was the issue with the truck. Jiro says he wasn't involved with the truck, but Haida hadn't really talked about getting attacked before with anyone. So, it came out of left field, and I kept thinking that Jiro was behind it all just because of how suspicious it was and how the truck had been timed so perfectly after Jiro was backed into a corner. Nothing became of that incident, and no one was ever caught or gotten into trouble for the attempted murder. I know the justice system is garbage over there (from what I've heard from a lot of Japanese residents online), but it still would have been nice to at least have had some inclination that it had NOT been Jiro, like the introduction of a different candidate, discourse with a different party, etc. It just felt like it came to inspire Retsuko, and that was it.
I think it could've been the stalker that tried to kill Retsuko!
I agree the ending never made no sense!!
They need to do one more temporary episode like they did for a Christmas special!
But they won't because this is the conclusion and closing of this!
I think it was Jiro’s dad insisting on it, Jiro knew, but didn’t stop him
@@Colby2D Very sad if it was Jiro's and Haida's dad.
He would kill one of his sons!
But it may not have been him as he's not very well and has one of those hospital things that he has to walk with!
On doctors advice he's not allowed to drink alcohol but he did!
Also the father is really overweight. Highly unlikely for him to reach the accelerator pump to go backwards really fast!
I know it's an anime and we may never ever know!
Just had another thought. What if it was Retsuko dad?!
Despite the fact with the ending! No spoilers whomever hasn't watched the episodes from season 5
You all have to watch them to find out but you will see!!
But what if it was Inui?! Haida's previous girlfriend!!
God I feel like I'm detective Fenneko!!
@@Colby2D or Shikabane - probably another girl Haida knows or used to known
-OMG Hayda you almost die!
-Yep, life can be short... Let's get married!
I think the season was pretty good actually! I feel like the politics were rushed mainly just to make it so that it didnt get excessive focus compared to the characters. I think the reason it was included was because if there wasnt some relation between haida's family and some sort of antagonistism then the whole retsuko and haida getting together part would end up feeling more forced and wouldnt have the focus slathered onto it as directly.
That’s a great point, thanks for sharing. Really interesting about The structure of the plot for Haida’s family, especially since he’s the character that needs to stand up for himself almost more than anyone else haha. I would still kinda like if the politics affected her though because her campaign feels a little weird to me, like why does Retsuko care to run for office. Overall though I had a lot of fun watching this season but the first half flowed really well and was super funny to me 😄
@@Colby2D the craziest thing in the whole first half was that dead silent retsuko jumpscare. Me and my friend were watching and it took me 3 seconds to process what was happening, then I screamed out loud
It was genuinely scary and hilarious and the whole time I kept saying to my friends “she’s gonna walk in and see this” but they executed it perfectly lol
After watching Aggretsuko season 5, my thoughts were that it felt incomplete as if there was supposed to be another series to conclude the story. Hypothetically, if the studio decided to conclude the story of Aggretsuko, they would have to turn it into a movie. It would be titled, "Aggretsuko: The Final Rage" the movie.
I would love a movie to end it all haha, I wonder if they wanted to leave it a little open in case they have more
This season was very interesting in that it really doesn't pull punches about the reality of homelessness in a first world country. It also doesn't romanticise the people nor absolve people of their responsibility and still tells all of us that we have agency and power to change. AND motivate change in others. Jiro ultimately adopts a policy inspired from her.
Very true
Yeah the depictions of homelessness, the disenfranchised, gambling addiction, even voting policy and what not is great
and how they discuss the crash of the bubble economy
@@Colby2D definitely. It’s when the show sacrificed too much of the core formula for the sake of the message that’s it’s downfall unfortunately. I could go 12 seasons .
Ah yes, Mike & Melissa is much more enjoyable than the entirety of Aggretsuko Season 4 /s
It felt like the creator didn't have anything planned for Restuko after season 3, felt forced to do 4, and then he knew what he wanted to do - but not if he would get a season 6 - so season 5 ended up feeling like two crammed into one.
Yeahh I can definitely see this being caused by production issues
I totally agree with you on the Retsuko and Haida dating part!! It really took me 3 episodes of season 5 to realize they are, and I just went "What? Really?" I feel like after watching 4 seasons of them having this "Will they won't they" shtick, we do very much deserve to see them actually getting together officially and having a sweet moment. And overall more romantic moments as well. It just really felt kind of disappointing
Yeah I kinda forgot about the dates from season 4 they went on, or if that meant they were officially dating
Kind of wished there was more of an epilogue to this season with it brings the final one and all.
I’m hoping there will be one someday!
we need a season 6 where there's a murder mystery, who was riding the truck who knocked haida........... maybe tadano snapped and went for the kill.... who will ever know???
I'm middling on your take, but it is expressed well and honestly.
A lot of the issues I see are things that are... regional. It wasn't made for you, and by you, I mean an American. "The Bubble Economy" is an almost mythic, existential, generations-defining slow-motion disaster that acts like Japan's Vietnam war. It touches everyone, hurts everything, and colors every aspect of their culture. Half or more of the problems at Retsuko's job and in her life are, to one degree or another, a result of the bubble bursting. And all Japanese people know this. It's like how Americans understand the subtle or overt influence of Vietnam on culture, obedient and reactionary, from John Birch to Hippies. Or the cold war/red scare, or Reagan's condemnation of Republicans to be in a death pact with fundiegelicals like Falwell et al.
The things that you didn't get are basically air and water to Japanese people. They know it without statement. It's frankly on the nose for Haida and his dad to say what they do, and almost a dark, giving-up joke for Jiro to say what he does, because it's a pipe dream that will help but never come to pass. Like, they never said his name but they were basically holding up a picture of Shinzo Abe all the time, because this was made way before the incident and it was all implicit anyway, he is just the easiest image of an old, obstructionist, do-nothing old suit.
The scramble, the struggle, the existential horror and surrender to the void are very real Japanese spectres. It's behind koroshi, hikkikomori, uninterested young men, general dissolution. The internet cafe people are the shattered remains of people hurt by the bubble, ignored by bushido types like the elder Haida, blamed by them, called losers for suffering under his policies. Good, hard working people who either plug away until they're hurt, or just give up everything but going day to day.
It's all cultural. Retsuko lost because losing "the big game" is a trope in anime. It's a cultural thing, about not giving up, about struggle and getting on your feet again, showing grace after disaster. The marriage was quick because they had a lot to do. It wasn't meant to be flowers and rainbows. They already lived together. It was a formality at best. From the beginning, it's been by Japanese people, for Japanese people. Peering in doesn't give you all the data. And that's not their fault. Interlopers and casual tourists aren't privy to the substrate, and shouldn't complain other cultures are other cultures.
Those are great points, thanks very much for sharing. There definitely are some cultural points that I probably miss being an American watching this. There's probably a lot of innate cultural and societal aspects that I miss, but there are some things I feel they kinda push and pull, like the wedding not being sensationalized is totally fine for me, but Retsuko fantasizes about a wedding throughout the show, so some moments like that feel a little disconnected to me. I don't know if the Party of Rage is some kind of allegory for an aspect of real Japanese politics or not either, but that felt a little odd to me. I really appreciate this response, and I'd love to hear more from you on future videos
The first half of this season was pretty engaging and had a nice steady build up. His introduction to his dad and family also was also built up well. It’s just that once we get to the second half it’s like: what. The politician guy came way out of left field, though. It switched the steady, realistic build up of the first half to suddenly becoming incredibly zany and fast paced. I really didn’t like how fast it switched. Even more, I didn’t like how She was being forced to become a politician. She expressed multiple times she didn’t want to become one. But everyone was pushing her/kidnapping her into becoming one. Especially Manaka. Like, girl why did you call kidnapping Retsuko a “favor” for the politician dude.
Anyway, that switch was too jarring for me to really like the season that much. It had too many plot threads that were rushed in the latter half, that there was really no satisfying end to any of them.
Yeah first and second half feel like they could have been by two different people, or could have been fit in as a first or second half of like any season
The thing that annoyed me the most about this season is that it felt like Retsuko was being forced into things she adamantly didn't want to do, and that was deemed as "ok." They repeatedly disregarded the boundaries that Retsuko had placed and forced her into situations for their own benefit when she just wanted to live quietly. It just felt yucky to me.
I like Season 5 ending and it may not be the most out of this world ending, since that overrated and what we got is a grounded one cause our main character got what they wanted and is married each other. Also when Retsuko talk with Shikabane at the end and that her story is over, in the Kareoke pub. It feels like Retsuko is passing the torch to her and I hope we got a spinoff of Shikabane cause her character is promising and she has an arc and that will be to start connecting with other people socially eventhough it is a drag. Like the pessimons moment, if she like it she might find the 3 working moms from the block or something. Or found out what happen to her acquaintance in the net cafe. So many routes and story to explore.
Definitely! There’s a lot of cool stories and characters and the screaming at a minimum helps show Shikabane can express herself and it’s ok to be pissed haha