Anyway Im Falling in Love with You [Season 1 Episode 9 The Times I Spent With You]

Episode 9 Review: “The Times I Spent With You” – A Heartfelt Turning Point in Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You

Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You has been a rollercoaster of emotions since its premiere in January 2025, and Episode 9, titled “The Times I Spent With You,” is no exception. This episode marks a pivotal moment in the series, where the bonds between Mizuho and her childhood friends are tested, and the complexities of young love come to the forefront.

The Story So Far

Set against the backdrop of the pandemic, the anime follows Mizuho Nishino, an aspiring manga artist, and her tight-knit group of friends: Kizuki Hazawa, Shuugo Hoshikawa, Shin Kashiwagi, and Airu Izumi. The series beautifully captures the awkwardness, confusion, and sweetness of adolescence, especially when Kizuki suddenly confesses his feelings for Mizuho on her 17th birthday.

Episode 9 shifts focus to Shin Kashiwagi, who steps up as the student council president to ensure the Ao High Festival can be held despite the challenges of the pandemic. Fans have noted that this episode delves deeper into Shin’s character, revealing his quiet determination and the weight of responsibility he carries.

What Fans Are Saying

The latest discussions on MyAnimeList and other platforms highlight mixed but passionate reactions to this episode:

1. Character Development for Shin
   Many fans praised the episode for giving Shin the spotlight. One user wrote, “Shin has always been the quiet one, but seeing him take charge was so satisfying. It’s about time we got to see more of his personality!”

2. The Pandemic Setting
   Some viewers pointed out the irony of the characters navigating school life as if the pandemic isn’t a major concern. “It’s funny how they’re hanging out like nothing’s wrong, but I guess masks would ruin the aesthetic,” joked one fan. Others appreciated the subtle nods to real-world events, like canceled club activities and the struggle to organize events.

3. Romantic Tensions
   The episode also teased more romantic developments, particularly between Mizuho and Kizuki. While their relationship has been slow-burning, fans are eager to see if Mizuho will finally acknowledge her feelings. “Kizuki’s persistence is adorable, but Mizuho’s indecision is killing me!” commented one viewer.

4. Animation and Voice Acting
   A few critics noted the show’s budget constraints, with some scenes feeling static or the voice acting a bit stiff. “The art style is unique, but the animation could use more fluidity,” one user remarked. However, others defended the show’s charm, arguing that the simplicity adds to its nostalgic, slice-of-life vibe.

Why This Episode Stands Out

“The Times I Spent With You” is a turning point for several reasons:
– Shin’s Growth: His leadership during the festival preparations shows a new side of him, making him more than just the “quiet friend.”
– Realistic Struggles: The episode captures the frustration of planning events during uncertain times, something many viewers can relate to.
– Emotional Depth: The title itself hints at nostalgia, and the episode delivers with heartfelt moments between the friends, reminding us why we fell in love with these characters in the first place.

Final Thoughts

While Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You may not be the most visually stunning anime of the season, its strength lies in its relatable characters and genuine storytelling. Episode 9 proves that sometimes, the quiet moments—the times spent with loved ones—are the most meaningful.

If you’re a fan of slow-burn romance and coming-of-age stories, this episode (and the series as a whole) is worth your time. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself rooting for Mizuho and Kizuki by the end!

Where to Watch: Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You is available for streaming on Crunchyroll and Prime Video, with new episodes airing weekly on TBS and BS11 in Japan.

So, what did you think of Episode 9? Are you team Kizuki, or do you think Mizuho should explore other options? Let’s discuss in the comments!