Is Oshi no Ko Living Up to the Hype?

Oshi no Ko Review

TL;DR

Oshi no Ko starts strong with a gripping pilot episode that promises a thrilling exploration of the entertainment industry. However, as the story unfolds, it struggles with character development, particularly with Aqua, whose angst overshadows the narrative. While there’s potential in the themes, the show leans too heavily into a forced murder mystery, resulting in a somewhat lackluster experience.

What I liked

  • Engaging Pilot: The first episode sets an exciting tone that draws you in.
  • Individual Artist Struggles: There are flashes of brilliance in exploring the challenges artists face, especially showcased in Akane’s story.
  • Detailed Animation: Some scenes are beautifully animated, highlighting key emotional moments.
  • Ending Theme: The ending song feels fitting and adds a nice closure to each episode.

What I didn’t like

  • Stagnant Characterization: Aqua is overly edgy and fails to evolve, making it hard to connect with him.
  • Expository Dialogue: The conversations often feel forced, lacking the depth needed to fully engage with the themes.
  • Murder Mystery Shift: The pivot to a murder mystery detracts from the core exploration of the entertainment industry.
  • Stiff Animation: While some frames shine, the overall animation can be quite rigid, taking away from the viewing experience.
  • Forgettable Soundtrack: Most of the music doesn’t leave a lasting impression, besides the ending song.

Conclusion

Oshi no Ko has an intriguing premise and some redeeming qualities, but it ultimately falls short of its potential. The character Aqua remains a major roadblock to the series’ aims, and the narrative’s shift toward a murder mystery feels misguided. While there are glimpses of what could be a compelling story, fans may leave wanting more.

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