Wandance [Season 1 Episode 11]

Alright, let’s dive into Wandance Season 1 Episode 11. First off, if you haven’t been following, Wandance is this anime about Kaboku “Kabo” Kotani, a high schooler with a stutter who’s always tried to blend in. But then he meets Wanda, this super energetic girl who’s all about dance, and suddenly he’s drawn into this whole new world of movement and self-expression. The show’s produced by Madhouse and Cyclone Graphics, which already has some people talking—Madhouse is known for hits, but Cyclone’s 3D animation? Well, that’s been a love-it-or-hate-it thing from the start.

So, Episode 11. Let’s start with the characters because that’s where the heart of the show is. Kabo’s journey has been all about finding his voice through dance, right? And in this episode, we see him really stepping up. Some fans on MyAnimeList mentioned how his character feels “normal” but relatable—like, he’s the kind of introvert who’s always overthinking, which a lot of us can vibe with. Wanda, on the other hand, is the total opposite: bright, unapologetic, and just living for the dance. Their dynamic is still a big part of the episode, and it’s cool to see how they push each other. One comment even said Wanda’s the one who’s gonna “carry the weight” of the anime later on, which makes sense because she’s got that magnetic energy.

Now, the dance scenes. Oh boy, the CGI debate is still going strong. Some people think it’s “awful” and “jarring”—like, comparing it to old Madhouse CGI from shows like Kiseiju. Others, though, are more forgiving. They point out that the motion capture is actually done by real dancers, which makes the moves look fluid and authentic. One fan even mentioned that the 3D models might “take some getting used to,” but once you look past that, the passion in the choreography shines through. I get it—CGI can be hit or miss, but here, it’s like they’re trying something new, and even if it’s not perfect, you can tell there’s effort behind it.

The music in Episode 11 is another highlight. Fans are loving the variety of songs—from J-Pop to even a throwback like Scatman John, which caught a lot of people off guard in a good way. The OP by BE:FIRST is still a bop, and the background tracks during the dance scenes really amp up the energy. Some viewers said the music “makes up for” the CGI, and I can see that. When the beat drops and the characters start moving, you can’t help but get into it.

Story-wise, this episode feels like a turning point for Kabo. He’s no longer just the quiet kid in the corner—he’s actively participating in the dance club, facing his fears, and even opening up more. The themes of self-discovery and following your dreams are front and center here. It’s not just about dance; it’s about finding something that makes you feel alive, even if it scares you. For someone who’s struggled with a stutter, dance becomes Kabo’s way of communicating without words, which is super powerful. One fan who also stutters mentioned feeling “seen” by the show, which is a big win for representation.

But let’s not ignore the critics. Some people are still not sold on the CGI, calling it “distracting” or “low-quality.” Others think the story is “mid” or “run of the mill.” It’s okay to have mixed feelings—anime is subjective, after all. But what’s cool is that even the haters can’t deny the potential here. The manga is beloved for a reason, and the anime is trying to capture that magic. Maybe the CGI will grow on people, or maybe the story will hook them enough to overlook it.

Overall, Episode 11 of Wandance is a solid installment. It’s got heart, energy, and some really great character moments. The CGI might be a sticking point for some, but if you can look past that, you’ll find a story about finding your passion and being unapologetically yourself. Whether you’re into dance, romance, or just good coming-of-age stories, this episode has something for everyone. I’m excited to see where Kabo and Wanda go next—here’s hoping the rest of the season keeps up the momentum! 🕺💃