Wandance [Episode 12]

Wandance Episode 12: When Imperfection Becomes Perfect

Let’s cut to the chase: Wandance’s final episode is messy, heartfelt, and exactly what fans needed. After 11 weeks of stutters, CGI debates, and Kabo’s awkward attempts to dance without tripping over his own feet, Episode 12 wraps up with the kind of raw emotion that makes you forget about the 3D models and just root for the kid who once hid in bathroom stalls to avoid talking to people.

First, let’s address the elephant in the room—the CGI. Yes, it’s still there. No, it’s not Studio Trigger-level 2D fluidity. But by now, if you’re still here, you’ve either made peace with it or learned to look past it. And honestly? The dance sequences in this finale are better than they’ve ever been. The competition stage lighting softens the digital edges, and the choreography—from On’s sharp opening moves to Kabo’s surprisingly confident solo—feels intentional. One fan put it best: “I don’t care if it’s PS2 graphics, the way Kabo’s kick landed? Fire.” (Shoutout to that user who rewatched the dance 10+ times—same.)

But Wandance was never just about the dancing. It’s about Kabo Kotani, a kid who thought his stutter made him invisible, finding his voice in hip-hop. This episode cranks that up to 11. When he freezes mid-solo, eyes darting to the judges, you can almost feel his throat tightening—until Wanda steps in, grinning like she knows exactly what he needs. Their split-second improvisation (she spins into his space, he catches her hand) isn’t just a cute moment; it’s proof that Kabo doesn’t have to be perfect alone. As one viewer noted, “Wanda’s not his girlfriend—she’s his hype man with pigtails.”

The romance, by the way? Still the sweetest slow burn of the season. Remember that convenience store scene where the manager called Kabo her boyfriend? She didn’t correct him. And when they hold hands after the rain? Pure sugar. No over-the-top confessions, no dramatic kisses—just two kids blushing so hard their ears turn pink. “I was grinning like an idiot,” another fan admitted. Same, friend. Same.

Let’s talk about the ending, though. The cliffhanger? Rude. We see Ichirin High’s dance finish to thunderous applause, but we don’t get the results. It’s frustrating, sure—but it’s also brilliant. Wandance isn’t about winning a trophy. It’s about Kabo standing on that stage, no longer hiding behind his hoodie, and realizing: “I can do this.” As On says earlier in the episode, “Dance isn’t about being perfect. It’s about feeling something.” And boy, do we feel it.

Critics will still nitpick the CGI. They’ll say the other schools’ dances should’ve been shown (fair). But here’s the thing: Wandance never set out to be a technical masterpiece. It’s a show about a stuttering kid who finds joy in moving his body, a girl who loves Michael Jackson a little too much, and a group of misfits who become family. As one user put it, “If you’re here for the animation, you’re missing the point. This show’s heart is bigger than any 3D model.”

So, final verdict? Wandance Episode 12 isn’t perfect. But neither is Kabo. And that’s why it works. It’s messy, it’s earnest, and it leaves you wanting more—which is exactly what a good finale should do. Whether you’re here for the dance battles, the cute romance, or just to see a kid win for once, this episode delivers.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to rewatch that hand-holding scene. Again.

Rating: 9/10 (Docked one point for the cliffhanger. Come on, guys.)

P.S. If you haven’t read the manga yet, do it. The art is chef’s kiss.