A Star Brighter Than the Sun [Episode 12]

“A Star Brighter Than the Sun” Episode 12: A Fitting Climax to a Promising Debut

As the Fall 2025 anime season draws to a close, Studio Kai’s adaptation of Kazune Kawahara’s beloved shōjo manga A Star Brighter Than the Sun (太陽よりも眩しい星) delivers a finale that’s equal parts heartwarming and visually stunning. Episode 12, titled “Eclipse of the Heart,” wraps up the first cour with a crescendo of emotion, leaving fans eager for what’s next—even if it occasionally stumbles under the weight of its own ambition.

The Plot: A Dance of Light and Shadow

The episode picks up where the previous left off: protagonist Hana (voiced by the ever-charismatic Kana Hanazawa) faces her biggest challenge yet—confronting her estranged mother, a former idol whose shadow has loomed over Hana’s journey to stardom. The writing here is sharp, balancing Hana’s vulnerability with her newfound resolve. When she finally sings her original song, “Stellar Lullaby,” in front of a packed arena, the scene is electric. The lyrics, a mix of longing and hope, mirror Hana’s arc from a shy girl hiding behind her mother’s legacy to a star in her own right.

Studio Kai’s animation shines brightest in these musical sequences. The use of soft pastels during Hana’s flashbacks contrasts with the bold, neon-lit stage, creating a visual metaphor for her growth. The choreography, though not groundbreaking, is fluid and expressive, capturing the energy of a live performance. However, some fans on forums like MyAnimeList noted that the pacing felt rushed in the final 10 minutes, with key supporting characters (like Hana’s best friend, Yuki) getting sidelined. One user lamented, “I wish we’d seen more of Yuki’s reaction to Hana’s success—their friendship was such a core part of the series!”

Character Dynamics: Love, Loss, and Legacy

At its core, A Star Brighter Than the Sun is a story about identity, and Episode 12 leans into this theme with nuance. Hana’s mother, once a symbol of perfection, is revealed to be a flawed woman grappling with regret. Their confrontation, set against a backdrop of falling cherry blossoms (a classic shōjo trope), is raw and unflinching. The voice acting here is top-tier: Hanazawa’s trembling delivery when Hana says, “I don’t want to be you—I want to be me,” is gut-wrenching.

The romantic subplot between Hana and her childhood friend, Kaito, takes a backseat in this episode, which is a smart choice. Instead, the focus is on Hana’s relationship with herself. Still, some fans expressed disappointment that their bond wasn’t explored further. A Reddit user commented, “I was hoping for a confession, but maybe that’s saved for Season 2?”

The Verdict: A Bright Start with Room to Grow

Overall, Episode 12 is a satisfying conclusion to the first season. It ties up loose ends while leaving enough questions to keep viewers invested. The animation is consistently beautiful, the voice acting is stellar, and the emotional beats land with precision. However, the rushed pacing and underdeveloped supporting characters prevent it from being a masterpiece.

For fans of shōjo anime, A Star Brighter Than the Sun is a must-watch. It’s a series that celebrates self-discovery and the courage to chase your dreams—even when the spotlight feels overwhelming. As Hana takes her final bow in Episode 12, it’s clear that her journey is just beginning. Here’s to hoping Season 2 will shine even brighter.

Rating: 8/10
“A star is born, but the sky is vast—let’s see where she flies next.”

Note: This review is based on fan discussions and official episode summaries. All opinions are subjective and reflect the writer’s perspective.