WANDANCE [Season 1 Episode 9]

Alright, let’s dive into Wandance Season 1 Episode 9, titled “The Style Wall.” First off, I need to set the scene for anyone who might be catching up. Kaboku Kotani, our introverted protagonist with a stutter, has been slowly stepping out of his shell thanks to his newfound passion for dance and his dynamic friend, Hikari Wanda. This episode picks up with Kabo training with Iori during lunch breaks, and things take an exciting turn when they’re introduced to Gaku Kabeya, a breakdancing prodigy known as Kabe.

The episode kicks off with Kabo and Iori’s practice sessions, and you can immediately feel the energy shift. Kabo, who once avoided attention like the plague, is now throwing himself into dance battles—something that feels like a huge win for his character development. Fans on MyAnimeList have been raving about how relatable Kabo is, especially those who’ve struggled with social anxiety. One commenter mentioned, “Kabo’s character personality is very normal for his appearance. Seems like he’s the type of introvert who has inner thoughts often.” It’s this authenticity that makes his growth so satisfying to watch.

When Kabe enters the picture, the stakes rise. His breakdancing skills are next-level, and the park practice scene is a highlight. The animation here is a mix of 2D and 3DCG, which has been a hot topic among viewers. Some love the fluidity of the dance moves, while others find the CGI jarring. “The 3D models will take some getting used to,” one fan noted, “but are the moves themselves mocap’d by actual dancers? That’s genuinely really cool if so.” It’s clear the production team put effort into capturing the essence of street dance, even if the CGI isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

What’s great about this episode is how it balances character moments with high-energy dance sequences. Kabo’s interactions with Kabe are tense but respectful, showing that dance is as much about camaraderie as it is about competition. Wanda’s presence, though more subdued here, still adds that spark—her silver hair and vibrant personality are hard to miss. “Wanda is more energetic and personality than him so their meeting is kinda unusual,” a viewer pointed out, and it’s true; their dynamic keeps the show feeling fresh.

The music in this episode deserves a shoutout too. From upbeat J-Pop tracks to classic breakdancing beats, the soundtrack complements the dance scenes perfectly. One fan even mentioned, “The variety of songs is great, and combined with the music, it makes up for the CGI in my opinion.” It’s these little details that make Wandance stand out in a crowded anime season.

Now, let’s talk about the fan reactions. While some are critical of the CGI—“The CGI killed it sadly.. could be a 9/10 anime but after I saw the first episode I think more of a 5-6/10”—others are focusing on the story and characters. “This is the hidden gem of this season,” one commenter declared, and it’s hard to disagree. The show’s heart lies in its message about self-expression and finding your passion, which resonates with a lot of young viewers.

Another point of discussion is the representation of Kabo’s stutter. As someone who stutters, a fan shared, “I actually felt seen for once. Episode 1 9/10.” It’s refreshing to see a character with a speech impediment portrayed with such sensitivity, and it adds depth to Kabo’s journey. His struggle to communicate verbally makes his dance performances even more powerful—they’re his way of speaking without words.

Looking ahead, Iori’s invitation to join the B-BOY’s practice hints at bigger things to come. Will Kabo and Kabe face off in a competition? How will Wanda’s role evolve? These questions have fans buzzing, and it’s clear Wandance has a lot more in store.

In conclusion, Episode 9 of Wandance is a solid addition to the series. It’s packed with growth, excitement, and that signature mix of heart and humor. While the CGI might divide opinions, the story and characters are strong enough to keep viewers hooked. If you’re into coming-of-age tales with a dance twist, this episode won’t disappoint. As one fan put it, “It’s the best new anime of this season so far.” So grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and let Wandance sweep you off your feet! 🕺💃