Always a Catch Episode 5: Mimi Unleashes Power
Always a Catch! Episode 5 delivers a captivating showcase of its titular protagonist, Mimi, solidifying her status as one of the most refreshing characters in recent anime. Moving beyond the typical "damsel in distress" trope, this installment brilliantly positions Mimi as a "damsel in a dress"—a subtle yet profound distinction that defines her unique appeal. This episode is arguably the series' best display of Mimi's hidden strengths, as she confronts not one, but two distinct groups of armed individuals, both woefully unprepared for her true capabilities. The narrative masterfully leverages the visual juxtaposition of her elegant, full-skirted gown against her formidable fighting prowess, creating a delightful surprise for both the antagonists and the audience.
Mimi's Deceptive Charm
The central theme of deception, inherent in Mimi's appearance, is expertly explored. Her ankle-length dress and large sleeves are conventional markers of a "weak noblewoman," an image that fools simple-minded foes into underestimating her. The episode's antagonist, a bandit leader, makes this critical error, failing to comprehend that the very attire signaling vulnerability is, for Mimi, a sophisticated trap. It's akin to a cat exposing its belly: an invitation that, in reality, often leads to a swift, sharp bite. Mimi's guards, privy to her true nature, further amplify this illusion. Their protective directives for Mimi to remain hidden or in the carriage are less about shielding her from harm and more about preserving her reputation as a future crown princess, or perhaps, subtly protecting the unwitting bandits from her devastating potential. They know exactly what Mimi is capable of, a fact that makes their seemingly chivalrous actions all the more amusing and indicative of their loyalty and understanding.
Unveiling True Power
Previously, Mimi's true power has largely been hinted at or confined to less intense scenarios, such as thwarting assassins or rescuing kittens. However, Always a Catch! Episode 5 finally allows her to fully unleash her might. Witnessing her literally "blow some guys away with the power of her fist" is a revelation, providing a visceral understanding of how much she has been holding back. It transforms abstract descriptions of her prowess into undeniable visual proof. The episode also poignantly reveals Mimi's inner desire for physical activity. While she clearly cares for Renato, her most joyful moments consistently arise when she is engaged in martial arts, climbing trees, or simply exploring. The prospect of a genuine fight, rather than being a source of distress, is depicted as a welcome opportunity, almost a release. The "mildly terrifying look on her face" when she realizes a brawl is imminent perfectly encapsulates her long-held desire, portraying her as being "positively spoiling for a fight" in a refreshingly positive light.
Action, Animation, and Expectations
Despite the powerful character moments, the episode does face some criticisms regarding its action sequences. The primary drawback is that Mimi's opponents aren't sufficiently strong to necessitate truly rip-roaring, extended fight scenes, leaving viewers wanting more. Furthermore, the animation, while commendable in other aspects, appears to deliberately minimize the detailed depiction of combat, a decision that might be attributed to the complexities of animating Mimi's heavy, flowing skirts. This limitation also extends to her guards, whose fighting prowess is similarly underrepresented despite not having the same animation excuse. Nevertheless, the episode manages to deliver some entertaining moments, such as the false bandits groveling before Mimi. The efforts to make the CG horses appear more integrated and less like "unholy monstrosities" are also a noticeable improvement, contributing positively to the overall visual experience.
Glimpses of the Future
Looking ahead, Always a Catch! promises exciting developments as viewers are set to finally meet Mimi's family. The anticipation for her father's introduction is particularly high, given hints of his (and her) conflicted feelings regarding Teo's birth. The setup for future comedic relief is also expertly laid, with the intriguing prospect of Raimondo and Renato encountering scruffy villagers bearing Mimi's stained handkerchief. The playful suggestion that at least one of them might mistake grape stains for blood teases the kind of lighthearted, character-driven humor that the series excels at. This blend of character depth, impending family drama, and comedic potential sets a strong foundation for future episodes.
A Resounding Success
Always a Catch! Episode 5 shines brightly as a pivotal moment for Mimi's character development, brilliantly showcasing her unique blend of elegance and formidable strength. While it leaves a desire for more extensive action, the episode's narrative achievements in subverting tropes and deepening Mimi's personality are undeniable. The compelling character insights and the exciting setup for future familial introductions make it a highly enjoyable and memorable installment. Considering the episode's exceptional character development for Mimi, showcasing her strength and agency in a truly satisfying way, coupled with intriguing hints for future arcs, it largely succeeds. While the execution of the action sequences could have been more robust, the narrative impact of Mimi's unleashed power more than compensates. I would rate Always a Catch! Episode 5 a strong 4 out of 5.
