Wandance [Season 1 Episode 12]

Wandance Episode 12: The Semifinal Showdown That Defies CGI Critics

Let’s cut to the chase: Wandance’s finale isn’t just an episode—it’s a love letter to anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t belong. Aired on December 24, 2025, this episode wraps up Kaboku “Kabo” Kotani’s journey from a stuttering freshman hiding in corners to a dancer who owns the stage. And yeah, the CGI’s still there—but who cares when the story hits this hard?

The episode dives straight into the semifinals, where Kabo faces off against Kabe, a rival who pulls a petty (but iconic) move: blindfolding himself with his mask during his entire performance. It’s a middle finger to Kabo, like saying, “Your dance isn’t even worth watching.” But Kabo doesn’t back down. When it’s Ichiran High’s turn, he steps up with a solo that’s pure fire—fans are raving about that kick he nails mid-routine. And let’s not forget Wanda, the group’s heart, who saves Kabo when he stumbles by turning his slip into a seamless part of the act. As one fan put it, “Wanda’s got one hell of a sturdy back to carry her team that hard.”

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the animation. Early episodes got roasted for wonky CGI, but by Episode 12, it’s clear the team stepped up. “The dance sequences were much better this episode,” one viewer noted. “Still kinda weird but definitely more watchable.” Another even admitted, “This was the first time I wasn’t completely turned off by the CGI.” The lighting and choreography help—those outfits pop, and the way the camera angles hype up the moves makes you forget the technical flaws. Plus, the music slaps. The competition song is a bop, and it syncs so well with the dance that you’ll find yourself replaying the scene (like, 10+ times, according to some fans).

But the real star here is the character growth. Kabo’s journey from silence to self-expression through dance is what makes this show stick. “Ichirin ate and my boy Kabo got his first chance to shine on a national stage,” a fan gushed. “So proud of him!!” Wanda and Kabo’s chemistry is off the charts too—their supportive friendship (with a side of flirtation) feels real, not forced. And let’s not sleep on On, the team’s leader, whose speech about improvisation gives them the push they need.

Sure, there are flaws. The biggest complaint? We don’t get to see the other schools’ performances. Fans were salty about missing Tenno High’s routine, but let’s be real—fitting that many dancers into an episode would’ve been a nightmare. The cliffhanger at the end is also a tease, leaving us hanging before the results are announced. But those are small gripes when the main act is this good.

What makes Wandance special is how it turns skeptics into believers. Early on, people wrote it off for bad animation, but by the finale, even the haters are coming around. “The first few episodes really suffered under the animation flaws, but this one was ok,” a viewer said. “If the goal of the show is to make me read the manga, you got me.” Another added, “This show would be shooting straight up to my favorite this year with better budget, but it’s still great.”

At its core, Wandance is about finding your voice when words fail. Kabo can’t speak without stuttering, but when he dances? He’s loud, proud, and unapologetically himself. That’s the magic of this episode—and this series. It’s not perfect, but it’s real. And in a world of overpolished anime, that’s refreshing.

So, if you’re 20 or younger and love stories about underdogs, friendship, and dancing like no one’s watching, Wandance Episode 12 is a must-see. Ignore the CGI haters. This episode isn’t just about dance—it’s about courage. And that’s something we can all get behind.

Final thought? As one fan put it: “I don’t care about ratings or people whinging about CGI. The show is amazing and I love it!” Same here. Now, when’s Season 2?