How I Attended an All-Guys Mixer [Season 1 Episode 5]

“How I Attended an All-Guys Mixer” – Episode 5 Review: A Night of Surprises and Self-Discovery

If you’re looking for an anime that blends comedy, romance, and a dash of absurdity, How I Attended an All-Guys Mixer is a must-watch. Episode 5, titled “That Time I Went to a Mixer and…”, continues the hilarious yet surprisingly heartfelt journey of Tokiwa and his friends as they navigate a night filled with unexpected twists.

The Premise: A Mixer Like No Other

The episode kicks off with Tokiwa, a college student, being invited to a mixer by his classmate Suo. Excited for a night of fun, he brings along his friends Asagi and Hagi, only to discover that the “girls” they’re meeting are actually three stunningly handsome men—or so they think. The twist? These “guys” are actually women in drag, still dressed from their day jobs at a butler café. What follows is a chaotic yet endearing evening where identities blur, and the characters learn more about themselves and each other.

The Humor and Heart

One of the standout elements of this episode is its ability to balance slapstick comedy with genuine emotional moments. Fans on MyAnimeList have praised the show for its lighthearted yet surprisingly deep take on themes like acceptance and self-discovery. As one commenter noted:

“I’m really glad I gave this anime a chance because it’s a lot less stupid than it seems. Acceptance of others for who they are and not for pre-established criteria.”

The humor is over-the-top but never feels forced. From awkward icebreakers to ridiculous games (like King’s Game gone wrong), the episode keeps the laughs coming. Yet, beneath the surface, there’s a subtle exploration of how appearances can be deceiving—both literally and metaphorically.

Character Dynamics Shine

The chemistry between the cast is a highlight. Tokiwa’s awkward but earnest personality contrasts perfectly with Suo’s confident, almost princely demeanor. Meanwhile, Asagi’s innocence and Hagi’s loud-mouthed antics add layers to the group dynamic. Fans have particularly latched onto Asagi’s purity, with one saying:

“Asagi is sooo cute, Tokiwa will be THE victim, and Suo is definitively an SSR Prince.”

The episode also delves into Tokiwa’s internal conflict. He initially struggles with Suo’s masculine appearance but gradually realizes that his feelings are more about her than her gender presentation. This nuanced take on attraction has resonated with viewers, especially those tired of typical rom-com tropes.

The Visuals and Soundtrack

The animation, handled by Ashi Productions, is vibrant and expressive, perfectly capturing the absurdity of the situations. The character designs—especially the contrast between the girls’ drag personas and their “normal” looks—are a visual treat. The opening and ending themes, while not groundbreaking, fit the show’s tone well, as noted by a fan:

“Opening and ending are good, they match the anime, but not my tastes.”

Fan Reactions: Love It or Leave It?

Not everyone is sold on the premise, though. Some viewers found the joke wearing thin:

“The joke got old for me within 5 minutes. I am really not sure how this can sustain a full 12 episodes.”

Others, however, argue that the show’s charm lies in its ability to evolve beyond its initial gimmick:

“This remains one of the few shows this season that is consistently entertaining.”

Hagi’s character, in particular, has been divisive. While some find his loud personality grating, others appreciate the chaos he brings to the group.

Final Verdict: A Refreshing Rom-Com

Episode 5 of How I Attended an All-Guys Mixer is a testament to the show’s ability to surprise. What could have been a one-note gag instead becomes a thoughtful (and hilarious) exploration of identity and attraction. As one fan perfectly summed it up:

“It’s funny, light, you don’t need to think too much—perfect to end the week.”

If you’re in the mood for a rom-com that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still has heart, this episode (and the series as a whole) is well worth your time.

Rating: 8/10 – A delightful mix of chaos, comedy, and unexpected depth.

Streaming now on HIDIVE and other platforms.