Always a Catch! Episode 7: Action, Romance, and Farts
Fans have long awaited the moment, and Always a Catch! Episode 7 delivers in spades! The iconic hairpin, a staple of Mimi's unique style, finally makes its grand debut as a formidable weapon. It's out of her hair and firmly on her hand, ready to confront a colorful cast of adversaries, from genuinely bad guys to the simply irritatingly gassy. This episode perfectly encapsulates the appeal of a protagonist who literally wears her brass knuckles in her hair. And yes, for those who appreciate it, there's even a well-placed fart joke, ensuring this episode truly offers something for everyone, whether you're in it for the action, the romance, or a good laugh.
Narrative Threads Weave Together
Beyond the immediate gratification of seeing Mimi in action, Episode 7 showcases a remarkable commitment to its overarching narrative. We've been on a journey building to this pivotal moment. Mimi's encounter with bandits and distressed villagers on her homeward bound path, coupled with her earlier instruction of a single Annovazzi family move to Renato, and sending villagers to Raimondo, all beautifully converge. By the episode's conclusion, every thread is neatly gathered, creating a satisfying and cohesive story arc. The unexpected but perfectly executed Number 38 by Renato serves as a powerful response to Duke Annovazzi's prior skepticism. It proves that while Renato may not possess inherent physical strength, his capacity for learning and growth is undeniable, addressing critical concerns about his future as Mimi's partner.
Emotional Visuals and Character Growth
The visual storytelling within this episode, particularly during Renato's critical moment, is truly exceptional for Always a Catch! The desperate stretch of Mimi's fingers and the decisive slide and stomp of Renato's foot are imbued with profound emotion. While perhaps not reaching the consistent animation heights of a series like Witch Hat Atelier, these sequences mark a significant and welcome departure for Always a Catch! Up until now, the series often leaned into lighter, more comedic animation styles, like Mimi's sumo-inspired sidesteps, with some scenes appearing a bit awkward. However, the entire sequence where Mimi realizes she can't reach Renato in time, and Renato's subsequent resolve to prove himself, demonstrates a meticulous level of care and detail. This attention to detail is wisely applied, effectively highlighting the deep emotional investment Mimi and Renato have in each other. Raimondo's shock at the prince punching someone is contrasted with Mimi's profound understanding: it signifies that Renato not only loves her but is actively striving to meet her in her world, changing for her rather than expecting her to change for him.
True Love's Enduring Theme
This theme of true love resonates deeply throughout the episode. We discover that Veronica, the supposedly missing villager, wasn't kidnapped at all. She eloped with her beloved, the son of a local lord. Mimi stumbles upon them on the brink of fleeing to escape the lordling's arranged marriage. Far from being annoyed by the wild goose chase, or the minor embarrassment of defending the false notion that ladies don't fart, Mimi is overjoyed to lend her strength to help the lovers escape. Mimi consistently uses her formidable abilities for good, whether it's battling bandits or championing True Love™. Her dedication to protecting another couple, even as her own fiancé faces peril, makes Renato's act of fighting back even more impactful and meaningful.
The Lingering Question
As the episode concludes, one burning question remains: will Renato's mastery of Number 38 be enough to win over Mimi's discerning father? The stage is set for future developments, and fans are undoubtedly eager to see how this blossoming relationship, forged in both combat and tender moments, will navigate the challenges ahead.
