You and Idol Precure [Season 1 Episode 44]

“The Secret of Kirakira Land!” – A Sparkly Mess or Magical Win?

Let’s cut to the chase: You and Idol Precure Season 1 Episode 44, titled “The Secret of Kirakira Land!”, is exactly what you’d expect from a Pretty Cure episode—sparkles, friendship speeches, and a villain who probably forgot their evil plan halfway through. But hey, that’s why we love it, right?

First off, let’s get the basics straight. This is the 22nd series in the iconic Pretty Cure franchise, so you know Toei Animation isn’t messing around with the formula. The episode clocks in at a tight 24 minutes (perfect for a quick after-school watch) and picks up where we left off: Uta Sakura, our peppy protagonist, and her fairy sidekick Purirun are still trying to save Kirakira Land from the baddies. If you’re new here, Kirakira Land is this super cute, glittery place that got turned dark by Darkine, the leader of the Chokkiri Gang. Spoiler: Darkine’s evil plan involves stealing “cheer”—original, I know.

Now, let’s talk about the “secret” everyone’s been hyped about. Drumroll please… The big reveal? Kirakira Land’s power comes from—wait for it—idol performances. Shocking, I know. But here’s the twist: the Cures have to sing together to unlock its full potential. Cue the musical number that’s catchy enough to get stuck in your head for three days. The animation during the transformation sequence? Chef’s kiss. Toei always nails those sparkly, over-the-top transformations, and this one’s no exception. Uta’s Cure outfit gets an upgrade with a glittery microphone, and the group’s dance moves are so synchronized you’d think they practiced for weeks.

But let’s be real—we’re here for the drama. The Chokkiri Gang shows up halfway through, and their minions are these weird, blob-like creatures that look like they were designed by a toddler with a glitter glue obsession. Darkine’s big threat? “I’ll cut your tsubomi!” (Translation: “I’ll crush your dreams!”) But as one fan pointed out, “Darkine can’t cut your TSUBOMI if you say ‘no’.” Preach. The fight scene is classic Precure: lots of yelling, a few close calls, and a final attack that involves a giant, rainbow-colored microphone beam. It’s silly, it’s over-the-top, and it’s perfect.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the “kiss episode” rumors. Yes, there’s a moment where two Cures share a quick peck on the cheek. Before you start shipping them, though, it’s just a friendly gesture to boost morale. But hey, fans are already losing it online—one commenter screamed, “FINALLY ANOTHER KISS EPISODE ITS BEEN AGES!” Relax, it’s not that deep.

The episode wraps up with the mandatory “lesson segment” where the Cures teach viewers how to “please crowds.” Spoiler: It involves smiling a lot and being yourself. Groundbreaking stuff. But let’s be honest—we’re not here for life advice. We’re here for the sparkles, the friendship, and the satisfaction of watching a villain get defeated by a group of middle schoolers with microphones.

So, is Episode 44 worth watching? If you’re a die-hard Precure fan, absolutely. It’s fun, it’s colorful, and it’s exactly what you need after a long day. If you’re new to the franchise, this might not be the best starting point—go back to Episode 1 to get the full story. But for everyone else? Grab your glitter glue, turn up the volume, and enjoy the chaos.

Final verdict: 7/10. It’s not the best Precure episode ever, but it’s a solid addition to the series. The musical number alone is worth the watch, and the “secret” reveal, while predictable, is executed with enough charm to make you smile. Plus, any episode that ends with the Cures high-fiving and promising to save the world is a win in my book.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go rewatch that transformation sequence for the 10th time. Sparkles, am I right? ✨

P.S. If you’re wondering where to watch it, ZOROTV and 9anime have the English subs. Just don’t tell your parents you’re staying up late for magical girls. 😉