She can’t hear you through the screen, you know
This was a story about the big picture, about each of the five idol schools, but it was also a story about the little picture, and how significant a relationship between two people can be. How one touching and meaningful realization can change how you think about the world. Even if you’re from different times and places, you can still join hands and make a change. The next episode will be airing July 11.
A new reporter out of nowhere?!
And with this, the Dream School Grand Prix begins! Even with the compressed time available, Noelle’s development is masterfully written with both overt and subtle references to past themes and episodes, all with great pacing. There was one interesting art error (a certain Neo of the Venus Ark was missing), but that was more than made up for with the reveal of some amazing designs. Next episode isn’t until May 30th, so try and hang in there until then.
Is it already hopeless?
And now for the second half of Noelle’s episode. Other than, you know, being called part 1 and 2, it’s clear that the plot of this follows the previous one directly. Is common sense finally coming to Aikatsu? Or is it about to be broken beyond repair in the face of a new star? Either way, never look down, and never stop moving.
The next episode will air on May 2nd.
Noelle’s passionate Idol Activities, Aikatsu, is about to start!
That’s right! We’re already back in business, with the incredibly exciting season that I know some people were dying to see, Noelle and Dream Academy as the protagonist! Immediately we get an extremely Aikatsu episode, showing that just because this is a web anime, the quality is exactly as high as it always has been. There is nothing about this that indicates it will be any less than before. However, there are a few key points to mention that you should be aware of going forward.
Now this is just my speculation, but I expect that given the plot of the season and the pacing of this episode, this will continue for a full six months, probably for a total of 12-14 episodes. But I could be wrong, so don’t take that at face value.
Oh, and about how we’re naming the releases. You may have heard this series called “Dream Story”, but in actuality, that’s only the name of the DCD release, not the anime. According to the official Aikatsu website, this is simply called “Aikatsu on Parade Web Series”, and the official numbering starts from episode 1. That’s why we’re using this.
This was originally meant as a reflection comment posted as part of the final release post of Aikatsu on Parade!, but it grew longer and longer to the point where it seemed more appropriate as its own post.
The baton will always be passed on
I had a lot to say here, to the finale of Aikatsu on Parade. But after getting it all out there through my final watch before release, which you can find in the usual place, I really don’t have anything to add. I said it before, but Aikatsu isn’t just another anime—it’s special. It shows what can happen, what you can accomplish, when you take to heart what those before you have to teach and give you, and then pass that on to those who will one day walk in your footsteps. It’s not just about being an idol; these are lessons and reminders of how to live your life best. When I first watched this episode, I fell into a light depression, the emptiness inside of me growing with the loss of On Parade; but with the release of our subs, another cycle has been completed, and that means I can start anew once again. It will never end, even far into the future. I’ve walked with Aikatsu for a full quarter of my life, and now Aikatsu will forever walk with me.
From Etoce:
(Coming soon)
Dream Story will be worked on and out before Friday night, but I need a break. I’ve been working on BNA over at Asenshi, and I recommend it if you want more of Ichigo’s voice. Things will be different for a little while, but come autumn we will be reborn. In the meantime, keep on living your life and chasing your dreams—I believe in you.
Look at how perfect all these pairs are
What a fun look to the past and future this was. On top of all the Aikatsu feeling good, I felt a deep connection with a certain part of the episode, similar to an experience I’ve had that changed my life and my dream. You can feel that everyone involved with making this is still looking far ahead. Next week, it seems like there will be both the regular episode and the new web series—I’m still not sure exactly how it will work, but as always, both will be released on time. See you there.
Oh, and I’m safely back in America. Fun times ahead. Don’t forget about Aikatsu.
That which is passed down
I can feel it, the spirit and soul of Aikatsu flowing through my blood. Even now, Raki is still growing and learning as an idol, maturing as a person. We’re at the climax, and it looks like we’re going out with a bang.
I’m not going to make a separate post about the important announcements, I’m just going to put the most important things here. You can view the videos yourself on AiTube or aikatsu.net.
My own clone, now neither of us will be alone
Yes, it’s the first time Wakaba and Raki have spoken all series. It was a basically fun episode, with just one little heartwarming surprise. Next week’s the announcement, so we’ll see if subs can come out in time to match it.
