Oshi no Ko Season 3 ‒ Episode 3

Oshi no Ko Episode 3: A Critical Look at "Correctness"

Episode 3 of Oshi no Ko, titled "Correctness," dives into the complexities of the entertainment industry, tackling themes of sexual harassment, the power of social media, and the nuances of artistic expression. While the episode attempts to address timely issues, it ultimately falls short of delivering a nuanced and insightful commentary.

A Sanitized Me Too Narrative

The episode's storyline, centered around a director's misconduct and a cosplayer's response, feels like a simplified and somewhat sanitized version of the Me Too movement. The episode suggests a narrative where both the harassed and the harasser are presented as victims, blurring the lines of accountability. This approach fails to acknowledge the power dynamics at play and the real-world impact of sexual harassment. The initial outrage and the subsequent backlash against the movement are not adequately reflected, resulting in a diluted and less impactful message.

Meta-Commentary and Industry Critique

"Correctness" ventures into meta-commentary, acknowledging its own position within the media landscape. The episode delves into the intricate world of rights acquisition and industry interference, prompting viewers to reflect on the production and consumption of media. This self-awareness adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, but it also serves as a distraction from the episode's core themes.

The Power of Social Media: A Rose-Colored View

The episode hinges on the idea that a sex worker's tweet could significantly impact a TV show's fate. While social media certainly holds power, the episode paints an unrealistic picture of its influence, particularly during the height of the Me Too movement. The idea that sex workers wielded such clout with the general public feels like a rose-colored rewriting of history.

A Celebration of Cosplay Culture

Despite its shortcomings, "Correctness" shines in its portrayal of cosplay culture. The episode showcases a genuine appreciation for the art and craft of cosplay, highlighting the dedication and passion of cosplayers. The portrayal of Meiya, a sex worker who uses cosplay to support herself, is particularly commendable. The episode effectively dispels the notion that cosplayers who engage in 18+ content are somehow less dedicated or less authentic fans. Her all-nighter creation of a Tokyo Blade cosplay illustrates the time and effort involved in the craft. Abiko-sensei's concern over brands using female representatives to promote sexually suggestive content further demonstrates a thoughtful approach to representation and exploitation.

Power Dynamics and Redemption

The episode initially presents a clear-cut dynamic between the abusive director and the mistreated cosplayer. However, as the story unfolds, the lines become blurred, and the director is ultimately redeemed. The episode's attempt to humanize the director, showing him as a complex individual rather than a one-dimensional villain, is problematic. It diminishes the severity of his actions and suggests a false equivalence between the abuser and the abused. The fact that Meiya's tweet, born of limited power, manages to create ripples feels like a stroke of unbelievable luck. Even after the tweet gains traction, the director continues to berate Yoshizumi, showcasing a lack of genuine remorse. His defense, claiming he is "breaking taboos," rings hollow, as sexual harassment is far from innovative or rebellious.

A Flawed Redemption

The director's eventual apology, delivered while dressed in a handmade cosplay, feels contrived and unearned. While the episode attempts to critique the viewer for laughing at the director in drag, it ultimately reinforces the problematic notion that an apology, no matter how performative, can absolve past transgressions. Meiya's acceptance of the apology, while demonstrating her genuine appreciation for the art of cosplay, contributes to the episode's overall message of forgiveness and reconciliation, which ultimately undermines its critique of sexual harassment.

Cosplay as the Clear Winner

Despite the episode's flaws, its portrayal of cosplay culture stands out as a positive element. The episode acknowledges cosplay as a legitimate art form and a significant expression of fandom. The director's recognition of cosplay as a "culture" underscores its importance and the dedication of its practitioners. Even amidst the episode's mixed messages, cosplay emerges as a clear winner, celebrated for its creativity, passion, and community.

Final Thoughts

"Correctness" attempts to tackle complex and relevant issues, but its execution falls short of delivering a nuanced and insightful commentary. While the episode offers a positive portrayal of cosplay culture and engages in meta-commentary, its flawed narrative and problematic redemption arc ultimately undermine its message. The episode functions as a preachy narrative that doesn't add new insights on the discussions it tries to engage in. The episode's flaws prevent it from reaching its full potential.