Watari-kun’s ****** Is About to Collapse [Season 1 Episode 21]

Watari-kun’s Secret Is About to Collapse: Episode 21 Review – Family Bonds vs. Teenage Chaos

Let’s cut to the chase: if you’re here for wild ecchi or flashy battles, Watari-kun’s Secret Is About to Collapse isn’t your vibe. But if you crave that warm, fuzzy feeling of siblings sticking together through messy high school life? Episode 21 delivers exactly that—with a side of chaotic energy that’ll make you snort-laugh one minute and go “aww” the next.

First, let’s get the basics straight (since the title’s been confusing everyone). The anime, produced by Staple Entertainment and directed by Takashi Naoya (known for his work on Osananajimi ga Zettai ni Makenai Love Comedy), follows Naoto Watari, a high schooler who became his little sister Suzu’s sole caretaker after their parents’ death two years ago. They live with their aunt, and Naoto’s whole world revolves around keeping Suzu happy—even if that means hiding his “siscon” tendencies (y’know, the overprotective big brother stuff that makes his friends tease him nonstop).

Episode 21 dives into that balance between family duty and teen drama. The plot? Naoto’s trying to juggle a class project deadline, Suzu’s sudden obsession with baking (spoiler: her cookies are rock-hard), and a surprise visit from their aunt, who’s worried Naoto’s neglecting his own life. The tension builds when Suzu overhears Naoto venting to a friend about feeling “trapped” by his responsibilities—and she misinterprets it as him resenting her. Cue the waterworks (and a very awkward attempt at a apology via burnt toast).

What makes this episode hit different is how relatable it feels. As one fan put it, it gives off major Usagi Drop or Binbō Shimai Monogatari vibes—no over-the-top anime logic, just real sibling stuff. Naoto isn’t a perfect hero; he’s a tired kid who forgets to eat breakfast and panics when Suzu cries. Suzu isn’t a cutesy side character; she’s a middle schooler who’s scared of being a burden. Their fight isn’t about saving the world—it’s about a misunderstanding that feels so human, you’ll probably flashback to your own arguments with your sibling.

And let’s talk about the humor! The class project subplot has Naoto’s group (including his perpetually confused friend and a girl who’s low-key crushing on him) trying to build a “model family home” out of cardboard. Spoiler: it collapses. The scene where they all stare at the pile of boxes, covered in glue, is pure slapstick gold. Even Suzu gets in on the fun—she sneaks into Naoto’s room to “help” with his homework and ends up drawing mustaches on his notes. It’s the kind of silly, unscripted moment that makes the characters feel like people you’d actually hang out with.

But the heart of the episode is the ending. After Suzu runs off upset, Naoto finds her sitting on their old swing set (the one their dad built before he died). He doesn’t give a big speech—he just hands her a lollipop (her favorite, strawberry) and says, “I’m sorry I made you feel that way. You’re not a burden. You’re my reason to try.” Suzu hugs him, and for a second, all the chaos fades. It’s quiet, it’s genuine, and it’ll make even the toughest anime fan’s eyes get a little misty.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the title. MAL fans have been arguing nonstop about what the censored “**” means. Some say it’s “corpse” (a little dark for this vibe), others joke it’s “anus” (please, let’s keep it PG-13), but the most plausible theory? “Secret.” Because Naoto’s been hiding how hard it is to be a parent figure, and Suzu’s been hiding her fear of losing him. Episode 21 is all about those secrets starting to unravel—and that’s where the magic happens.

Critics might say the show is “too slow” or “not exciting enough,” but that’s missing the point. Watari-kun’s Secret Is About to Collapse isn’t trying to be a blockbuster—it’s trying to feel like home. It’s the kind of anime you watch after a long day, when you want to be reminded that even when life feels messy, your family has your back.

So, should you watch Episode 21? If you love slice-of-life with heart, yes. If you need explosions every five minutes, skip it. But for the rest of us? This episode is a warm hug in anime form. And let’s be real—we all need that sometimes.

Final thought: Suzu’s cookies may be inedible, but this episode? Chef’s kiss. Can’t wait to see what mess Naoto and Suzu get into next.

— A fan who now wants to bake (and burn) cookies with their sibling

P.S. If you’re still confused about the title, just go with “Secret.” It fits. Trust me.