Toradora! Christmas Club Rewatch (2025) Episode 23 Discussion

Here is every post flaired rewatch with at least 500 comments. CC /u/Shimmering-Sky

Title | Created Time | Comment Count
---|---|----
Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Director's Cut Re:Watch - Episode 13 | 2020-04-01 14:31:05+00 | 852
Toradora! Christmas Club Rewatch (2025) Episode 19 Discussion | 2025-12-24 16:00:00+00 | 826
Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Rewatch - Episode 3 Discussion | 2021-04-22 23:00:01+00 | 709
Violet Evergarden Rewatch Announcement | 2021-05-05 20:04:53+00 | 705
Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica - Episode 1 Discussion | 2021-04-20 23:00:10+00 | 692
Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Rewatch - Movie 3 Hangyaku no Monogatari Discussion | 2021-05-02 23:00:19+00 | 684
Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Rewatch - Episode 12 Discussion | 2021-05-01 23:00:22+00 | 630
Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Rewatch - Episode 8 Discussion | 2021-04-27 23:00:13+00 | 618
Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Rewatch - Episode 10 Discussion | 2021-04-29 23:00:16+00 | 603
Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Rewatch - Episode 2 Discussion | 2021-04-21 23:00:18+00 | 597
Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Rewatch - Episode 9 Discussion | 2021-04-28 23:00:10+00 | 571
Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Rewatch - Episode 6 Discussion | 2021-04-25 23:00:01+00 | 568
Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Director's Cut Re:Watch - Episode 3 | 2020-01-15 15:30:15+00 | 559
[Rewatch] Mawaru Penguindrum - Episode 1 | 2024-03-05 23:00:06+00 | 556
Who here would be interested in a Spice and Wolf rewatch hosted by me, Holofan4life? | 2019-04-16 22:33:38+00 | 543
Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Director's Cut Re:Watch - Episode 1 | 2020-01-01 15:33:37+00 | 541
Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Director's Cut Re:Watch - Episode 7 | 2020-02-19 15:29:54+00 | 536
Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Director's Cut Re:Watch - Episode 2 | 2020-01-08 15:33:03+00 | 535
Pride Month 20th Anniversary - Kannazuki no Miko Episode 8 Discussion | 2024-06-10 19:00:11+00 | 512
Toradora! Christmas Club Rewatch (2025) Episode 8 Discussion | 2025-12-13 16:00:00+00 | 510
[20th Anniversary Rewatch] Eureka Seven Episode 1 Discussion | 2025-02-26 22:59:58+00 | 509
Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Rewatch - Episode 7 Discussion | 2021-04-26 23:00:12+00 | 504

Toradora! Christmas Club Rewatch (2025) Episode 19 Discussion is the most commented rewatch thread a half hour or less in the history of the subreddit.

I'll probably provide one last update once u/sillypion finishes commenting on episode 21.

(I am really worried. Also I'm super annoyed today so I just hope I won't be too emotional. But maybe I don't have to worry. Maybe. Who knows? Either this episode or next one will be heavy.)

Okay I would never want to see a wound or anything like that either.

Wait, Haruta thinks school is for learning. Haruta is the one saying it? Out of all people?!

Okay I am maybe slightly annoyed, but why does Ryuuji keep bringing up not having talked to Yasuko about his career plan? I mean, they did talk about it, it just resulted in not much

So yeah Taiga is rich (although I'm going to say something real, she isn't rich, her family is rich, I think there's a difference), but it's a lot to gamble on that lasting forever. A backup plan would be good. Like, if something ever happens, you should be able to make your own money

Yuri speaks some good words, it's good for them to properly think about their career plan. It's better to think it through a couple of times before making a decision than ending up regretting your decision

I can understand where Taiga is coming from with her saying it's hard to know what you want in the future if you don't know what you want today. It's also a really nice vulnerable moment with Taiga admitting she doesn't like with how she is which I think is great character development and it once again showing she really trust Ryuuji by being able to admit it openly with him around (and of course, her admitting it is good in general)

I understand wanting normal love and a normal life, but what I always say, normal is boring. Now I won't say Taiga's life is good because it's not normal but really, what is normal? For example, Taiga mentioned falling in love in a normal way, but what I wonder is despite the fact it did take a long time to figure things out is the way she fell in love not normal?

Okay so I assume the guy was like school staff or something, but why the hell is he suddenly responsible for going after Ami? I mean he ends up doing it so apparently he has no problem with it but still. I do like Ami reflecting on everything and admitting she doesn't want to see Taiga hurt. Honestly, I think this was gonna end up coming eventually with how frustrated she already was about everything with people getting hurt and stuff

Okay, first, poor Yasuko. Second, I love Taiga running after Ryuuji and showing she really cares about his well-being by asking if he's okay when I assume it was clear to her he wasn't and I love how much she doesn't want him to walk off and how hard she's trying for him. The moment he breaks down and she tries to comfort him was so sweet. Also I know I said it before, but it's clear how comfortable Taiga has gotten around Ryuuji (in a good way). I think if Ryuuji tried to give Taiga a headpat like 10-15 episodes ago he would've been knocked out cold. Anyways this whole scene is super sweet and shows really how much the dynamics have changed between them over time

Yeah Ryuuji that was pretty weak. Advertising like that... I swear. I think I can not try and be better.

Hey, guys. Holofan4life here.

Welcome to the 2025 Christmas Club Rewatch of Toradora.

Your one and only year-end review.

This year’s rewatch holds a special place in my heart as it officially marks my 10th Christmas Club rewatch. That means I have been participating in this annual rewatch 10 times, with this being my 9th year.

That means next year will mark 10 years on Reddit :D

Instead of dissecting the show like I normally do, I’d figure I’d give some overall thoughts on each episode while also sharing some of my memories associated with the threads of each individual episode. This will probably be shorter than normal, but I figure it should make for a fun trip down memory lane.

With that out of the way, let’s begin.

I am watching the dub, by the way.

This episode really is all about the last scene of the episode. The one where Minori confronts Taiga on the truth. It's similar to what Ami tried to do with Minori in episode 21, though I think Minori took her teachings and molded it into something much more effective. The animation is actually insane here, resembling the fight scene from episode 16. It highlights the abhorrence Minori has of this situation.

Besides that moment, I like the chocolate selling stuff as well as the continuation of the career planning plot point. That's actually my favorite plot point of the show because there's really not an adversary here, just a disagreement in life which feels human. This episode is also the last great bit we get of Ami where they manage to tie her both in Ryuuji's career planning conflict as well as the Valentines chocolate stuff. She's used really well here.

Now that Ryuuji and Taiga are being confronted on their feelings, there's no more ambiguity here. It's only a matter of how they address it and if they can do so head on.

**Episode rankings**

1/. Episode 19

2/. Episode 21

3/. Episode 13

4/. Episode 18

5/. Episode 7

6/. Episode 2

7/. Episode 16

8/. Episode 12

9/. Episode 8

10/. Episode 23

11/. Episode 14

12/. Episode 5

13/. Episode 11

14/. Episode 17

15/. Episode 4

16/. Episode 15

17/. Episode 22

18/. Episode 9

19/. Episode 20

20/. Episode 10

21/. Episode 6

22/. Episode 1

23/. Episode 3

**Taiga hit counter**

Episode 1/. 11

Episode 2/. 21, 1 if only counting Ryuuji (RIP pole)

Episode 3/. 9

Episode 4/. 1 (5 if you count the potatoes)

Episode 5/. 4

Episode 6/. 4

Episode 7/. 2

Episode 8/. 2

Episode 9/. 1

Episode 10/. 0 (First time)

Episode 11/. 1 (RIP Taiga’s dad’s nuts)

Episode 12/. 4

Episode 13/. 2

Episode 14/. 3

Episode 15/. 12, 2 if only Ami and Yatsuko (RIP baseballs)

Episode 16/. 5 (4 from the fight)

Episode 17/. 0

Episode 18/. 0

Episode 19/. 2

Episode 20/. 2

Episode 21/. 2

Episode 22/. 16

Episode 23/. 0

Total/. 104

**Toradora quotes of the day**

"Behold! My gaping wound!"

"What? Did I say something wrong again?"

"I'm rich, so I don't have to work for a living."

"How am I supposed to seriously think about my future, when I don't even know what I want today?"

"I want to experience normal love."

"What? You've got a shoe fetish or something?" -- Yesn't

"I can't stand seeing Taiga getting hurt anyone."

"I... don't know what do anyone..."

"It'll be okay!"

"She's my girlfriend." -- Biggest plot twist of the series

"You know how my gorgeousness attracts attention."

"I don't want everyone to like me. I guess that makes me clueless too."

"I'd have to be a heartless bastard to not appreciate getting chocolates from you."

"You're such a liar!"

"I'm not gonna let you or anyone else decide what makes me happy!"

Second watch first time watching Subs.

Taiga in full troll mode now that she's back, guess she's mostly back to her old self, at least able to fake it again. And Valentine's Day, oooo. Makes me think of the Komi can't communicate VDay episode... And then poor Yuri loses her mind again because dating comes up. Someone just needs to seduce this poor woman and make her happy. Haurto being sane... and Yuri demanding Taiga and Ryuuji come to the office *dun dun DUUUUN*. SIKLY HEART!

I find Taiga's comment about being rich weird because her dad already cut her off once to be a dick. And we've already talked about Ryuuji's issues around him and his mom enough I'm not going to dig into it again. Taiga turning her career plan into a paper airplane to let it fall where it may is so on the nose here lol. Her being honest here hurts, and before she says she wants a normal love I wonder if Ryuuji had any clue she was talking about him at least in part. And of course Ryuuji has two different things going through his head during all this talk of normal love and normal life. She used to love Kitamura, and she has since declared her love for him. And yet she sees neither of them as normal. That has to hurt a bit.

Of course the school would want to take advantage of Ami's fame/beauty to help promote the school. And that shoe fetish comment, Ami is so spicy today. But she's also open to talk despite accusing Ryuuji of having a shoe fetish. I always love these moments where Ami stops hiding, especially from Ryuuji.

Mom being sick only makes all of Ryuuji's doubts so much worse. And seeing her that way makes Ryuuji fall apart even for the things he's good at (chores). A really good reminder of why he doesn't want to feel like a burden to his mother anymore. And both of them are so desperate to protect each other at this point, even as they refuse to (intentionally) let their barriers down. But unlike most romcoms this doesn't feel stupid and tedious and forehead-slapping stupid. Instead it is natural to who they've shown themselves to be.

Watching Ryuuji blame himself openly instead of letting it fester is good (because he isn't hiding it) and sad (because he doesn't deserve it). His mother ran away by her own choice and created this life by her choice. She's doing right by him because he didn't get to make a choice in it, and he should respect that, even though I know why he is incapable of doing so.

Seeing both of them cry is soul crushing. Neither of them deserves the hurt they are going through right now, inflicted by circumstances and each other (though not on purpose). But of course Taiga is willing to cover for Yasuko.

I really do not love this lie by Ruuji. And seeing Taiga in this cute outfit feels so weird. And poor Noto called out lolol.

First time I watched seeing Ami come at Taiga's call still tripped me up, even after they've been kinder to each other lately. And of course Taiga's trick works.

Ryuuji accidentally hurting Ami with his words because he thinks he's being kind. A common refrain from me but it is such a big part of what he needs to figure out so he can grow up.

Taiga openly asking if he wants chocolates from her... man. Also Taiga remains in Christmas mode into February with her need to give and offer kindness. Continuing with the giving of chocolates. Except She reiterates the lie Ryuuji and Kitamura are telling her with Minori around. Woo boy. Minori is not interested in letting other peoples' lies stand. And Taiga's scream when Minori challenges her is as guttural as when she screamed out Ryuuji's name.

This confrontation is so emotional with all of our primary players involved. Ami and Kitamura blocking the doors to keep Taiga from leaving.

"The responsibility for my happiness lies with me and me only." is One of the core tenants of this entire show, blurted out in the midst of a moment laden with emotional intensity from everyone except maybe Kitamura. And Ami lets her go (though Kitamura clearly agrees to it). I adore Minori challenging him and cutting off right before he responds to set up the next episode.

While I wouldn't QUITE put this on the level of 19 and 21 this episode is so powerful and lays out a lot of these characters flaws and insecurities for us to witness. Also starting to play Orange before the end credits even start works so well here. I love this episode so much.

Rewatcher here

In my head this episode was kinda just filling time until the final scene, I forgot how much of a heavy hitter it is throughout.

I get a sneaking suspicion there might be something wrong with Ms. Yuri.

I really like that our main duo doesn’t know what they want to do in the future. I don’t know anyone who had their whole life figured out at that age, and for people in their situations it makes a whole lot of sense. Taiga is being pretty unreasonable though.

Ryuuji was acting quite a lot like someone with a shoe fetish, hard to blame Ami on that one.

I love how much her motivations have done a 180 throughout the series. Early on she would do anything in her power to torment Taiga, but now she’s planning on moving in order to avoid seeing Taiga getting hurt even more than she already has been.

It really does hurt seeing Ryuuji blame himself for his mom getting sick. He’s putting way too much pressure on himself. I get where he’s coming from, but Yasu would rather him be happy than for him to worry about adult things yet, even if it takes a toll on herself. Lots of sacrificing your own feelings for those you love to be happy in this series.

I absolutely love Taiga in this scene (more than I usually do). She’s such a caring person, and seeing Ryuuji like this is extremely painful for her. Once she sees that there’s something wrong with him, her demeanor shifts so much in order to cheer him up. She went from normal Taiga scolding him for being an idiot to trying whatever she can do to calm him down.

I think my favorite part of this scene is that what Taiga says clearly isn’t sticking with Ryuuji, and what finally gets him to calm down isn’t anything she says. It’s a moment of silence where Taiga refuses to let him go.

GOD I love Taiga.

Haruta with a girlfriend is kinda strange. He seems like the most single man to ever live.

Noto is so far from subtle that even Taiga picks up that he likes Kihara. This is the same Taiga that didn’t know her crush liked another girl the whole time.

In the final scene, the moment you see Minori look at Ryuuji you can tell something big is about to go down.

I will say, I think Minori is making the situation worse by escalating it, but I can imagine this is a very very emotional moment for her so it’s hard to blame her.

I love that Ami and Kitamura instantly understood what their role should be in this.

And we’re left with quite the cliffhanger for tomorrow!

Bonus - That’s actually one of my favorite aspects of this episode, I think it’s really realistic that they aren’t sure of what to do.

Rewatcher Dubbed.

Actually watched and wrote this up this morning and had this saved to go for a change.

Yuri having another breakdown this time over Valentine's Day. Poor lady. Love everyone being thrown for a loop over Haruta of all people lecturing about how they are in school to learn.

Ms Yuri being a legit good teacher here makes me love her even more. Having a rich family is not a plan. Telling them it's on them if they do not like where they end up and bringing up Yasuko sacrificing for Ryugi future so don't throw that away.

Taiga not being happy with who she is and just wanting to be normal is pretty heartbreaking. I get what Ryuji is trying to say here but it really does sound like lecturing.

No means no scummy school administrator.

I love that Ryuji kinda snaps for a brief second and chucks Ami's shoe and then immediately apologizes. Even he is cracking under the pressure of everything.

Ami talking about leaving is another bummer. I know that was originally the plan but she grew to like it there. Hell she even became close friends with Taiga. Which funny enough is why she wants to leave because she hates seeing her friend get hurt and blames herself partly for that. Sorry Ami but even if you were not around things would not have gone smoothly.

Yasuko working herself to the point of exhaustion. Not a good time for this to happen. House wife Ryugi being so in his own head that he forgets to grab everything and leaves it behind again shows how he is just cracking under the pressure and weight of everything. I love the role reversal of Taiga helping take care of him this time. It's great how she's there for him this time and kinda talks him down.

And now we know why Haruta didn't care about Valentine's Day. That boy went and got himself a girlfriend. I do think Yasuko would have done great at this job. Noto beating around the bush and then spazzing out when called out about Kihara is great.

Taiga's plan of using Ami to sell the chocolates is a pretty good one. Even flattering Ami about how hot she looks. Still crazy to see considering how they started. Ami was pretty slick slipping right into the plan when people noticed her. Taiga is right she is good

Oh Ami. Just wanting the densest thing on the earth to like you.

Taiga wanting to thank everyone is adorable. Her taking the chocolates and making them into personalized gifts shows how much she cares for them all.

Oh shit, and now the ticking time bomb of the lie is about to explode. The stare down between Minori and Ryugi before the truth finally comes out somehow says a thousand words without saying a single word. Ami and Kitamura teaming up to block the doors to stop Taiga from running away from things. Love how they are both on the same wavelength for this. Finally the dam breaks and all the pent up emotions come flowing out like a tidal wave. Yet another scene where how do you not get emotional watching it?

I love how they switched more to the style of the Sumire fight for Taiga and Minori in this scene. Just makes it so much more visceral and raw.

Where they end this episode is just cruel. How can I not just watch the next episode right away?

**First Timber, Dubbed**

I couldn’t even live react because of how emotionally heavy this episode has been.

Just incredible.

Haruta has a girlfriend, though, I’m sorry what???

So Ami has feelings for Takasu? No wonder she argued so fiercely onto Minori. But her feelings are also so conflicting, added with having to be a bystander in thr guy she’s a bit into pussyfooting around with girl who clearly likes him. I can understand her deciding to go ahead with transferring out to a different school.

Ryuuji keeps proving to be a fascinating character. He has a lot of sympathy, but it’s within the range of “This is this. And this is this”. Change, as it seems now, is a scary thing to him, so he does his best to make things whole and known.

My heart just stopped when Taiga says Kitamura saved her. It’s like the entire room knew that that was a lie. It was the straw that broke the camel’s back. Kitamura was even ready for this to end and all this to be out in the open. Considering he and Ami are childhood friends, them on the same wavelength is superb. I get why they stopped barricading the door when they did. The dam is open.

Minori’s passion against Taiga was surprising, and ironic given Minori just promised to be there for Taiga so she doesn’t get hurt. But she’s had enough!

Though that line about her angrily declaring no one gets to choose what makes her happy—I haven’t connected the dots yet I’ve also connected the dots.

It feels like Taiga is saying goodbye. Like all this just feels like…goodbye. I hope I’m wrong.

*Haruta has a girlfriend though??*

***

**CCB**

It’s still a bit emotionally immature in the messaging, but these *are* teens. You can’t run away from your actions or your feelings forever. That hurts you and the people around you. Going at life without a care and keeping things friendly and airy and nice can only get you so far. But that sort of behavior is irresponsible. You sometimes *have* to have bad times, scary times, times where you don’t know what the outcome is. And learning to deal with that, especially in your formative years, will help you in your communication skills, emotional regulation and self-soothing tactics, and your relationships.

But, ya know, barricading doors can also force people to wake up and face the music too.

Happily here, episode 23!! Let’s get this started!

Beginning… Taiga’s teasing Kihara with the wound? Haha. Yeah, it’s good she’s back. Oh, the teacher needs to talk to them, ok! About the career plans, right??

The intro!!!! SO DAMN AMAZING!!!!

Continuing.. it is so. Ryuji wants to go to work; they don’t wanna go to college. Taiga is rich, yeah.

Oh yeah!! Nice paper airplane Taiga! Taiga… yeah. That’s relatable. Honestly all of that. Even now I’m unsure what I want to REALLY do with my life; it’s normal to not like yourself a little, and even that, I want to experience that “normal” love as well! The want for a normal, simple life with the normal love is a pretty accurate goal for myself as well.

Past tense, huh? Yeah really though. What IS normal?

Haha… throwing Ami’s shoe… eh. Yeah why do u wanna leave Ami? The original plan… huh. Yeah… why leave? Oh, Taiga… ok…

Oh no! Yasuko’s sick… Taiga’s there, yeah. What’s up with him..

Forgetting everything… oh. Taiga seems to really care about him too now… why so cold Ryuji.. oh gosh.. ok. It’s not all your fault…. Hold him back…. Oh… I understand how he feels though..

Them both holding hands, just out of caring for one another is too good..: the head pats!! Oh.. the job.. Taiga came with? She wants to do it?! She really REALLY cares for him and Yasuko, huh? The both of them!

Hey! The job. They’re both working together. Haruta? Who’s she?! Girlfriend?! Unexpected… oh! Noto’s third-wheeling…. Yeah.. it sure is.

Oh? He’s in love with her, huh?!

A spokesmodel for them.. huh? Good idea! Ooh, there it all goes! Huh? Ok. Yeah, go help Taiga! Yeah… we are all pretty clueless… a lot. Taiga got one for all of them, huh?! Nice!! She’s… working hard on ‘em!

Ohhhhhhhhhhhh!!!! That’s THIS EPISODE?! I thought it was the next…. 🥹

Taiga giving chocolate to everyone is so nice….. but them forgetting to tell Minorin… and that whole situation before Taiga runs off… so important but kinda… I don’t know. Sad yet good? I sure love this moment, even if it’s… not the happiest. Minorin’s reactions CRAZY tho…

Minorin, telling the truth…. Taiga freaking out.. gosh…. This whole moment is crazy… it is up to her Taiga..


You KNOW how she feels..

Ok! That’s it. We allllll know what’s gonna happen (yet no spoilers here!) I love that ending and most of this episode for real.. even if it’s not the best parts, but Taiga realizing the truth even trying to deny it.. too much.. 🥹

As always, ending is so good!


My Favorite Quotes of this Episode:
1. “The rest of my life is up to me, huh?”
2. “I wanna experience normal love.” — Taiga
3. “All I wanted was a normal family & a normal childhood………normal. That’s the kind of love I wanted.”
4. “Ryuji… are you okay?” — Taiga
5. “I don’t know what to do anymore.”
6. “It will! It’ll be okay!” — Taiga
7. “This world is so screwed up.” — Noto
8. “What should I do? I’ll find out how she feels.. but she said she didn’t want Antone to know… I’m—“ — Ryuji

My Episode Ratings/Rankings:

Ep 19: 9.7

Ep 13: 9.0

Ep 23: 8.8

Ep 2: 8.7

Ep 17: 8.5

Ep 21: 8.3

Ep 1: 8.2

Ep 9: 8.2

Ep 7: 8.1

Ep 8: 8.1

Ep 22: 8.1

Ep 18: 8.05

Ep 20: 8.05

Ep 14: 8.05

Ep 15: 8.0

Ep 16: 8.0

Ep 4: 8.0

Ep 12: 8.0

Ep 3: 7.8

Ep 10: 7.8

Ep 6: 7.8

Ep 11: 7.75

Ep 5: 7.7

Can’t wait for episodes 24 + 25!!! I wanna watch them so bad right now!!!! 😅😇💯😭🥹

Went from cute valentine shenanigans to ssssooooo much AAANGST!

**First-timer, subs**

I don't think I've mentioned it thanks to missing a couple of rewatch threads and all, but I've really grown to like the second OP! The chorus reminds me so much of some other J-pop song, but I can't put my finger on it. Maybe something Love Live...?

[](#animatedthink)

I still can't get super interested in Ryuji and Taiga contemplating their futures. I think it's partly because I know we're never going to see that future anyway as the show is almost over, and partly because Ryuji and Taiga themselves can't be arsed to put any thought into it!

Taiga's future plans of "I'm rich, I'm not gonna do anything anyway" was funny though. Damn you, rich girl!

[](#shakeit)

It's kind of impressive how much career counseling high schoolers always get in anime, though. I know there's the flipside that they really are supposed to have their entire futures planned out and go for the study -> work -> retire route without stopping, but still -- back in the day, I got just about zero counseling of any kind.

Of course, there's absolutely no way I could've known what I want to do with the rest of my life at 18. I eventually ended up making a complete career change at 35, and couldn't be happier about my job now. For any young 'uns out there: don't stress about it, you seriously don't need to know yet, and it's never too late to figure out your dreams!

[](#flattered "That was my TED talk.")

I should have started a "running away from a serious conversation" counter a few episodes back, because it seems like that's all everyone is doing now, all. the. time!

Even Ami fails my trust... she calls everyone else out on their bullshit, but as soon as it's time to talk about her own feelings, she runs away too.

By the way, if the idea was that Ryuji tosses Ami's shoe away to prevent her from leaving, [how did she get to the courtyard with one shoe anyway?](https://cdn.imgchest.com/files/4a749f3b5342.png) Hopping on one foot?

[](#harukathink)

Ryuji's mom gets hit with the classic "[getting sick from overworking](https://cdn.imgchest.com/files/e60dbad9c937.png)" anime disease. I know it supposedly happens in real life too, but I don't really understand the theory behind it. Maybe it's just their way of calling in sick when they desperately need a day off?

And it's Ryuji's turn to be a dum-dum and run away from the situation without speaking to Taiga. If I were to run that runaway counter, I think for this episode it'd be Taiga 1, Ami 2, Ryuji 1 at this point.

[Twintails Taiga is super cute!](https://cdn.imgchest.com/files/b57aaf14f158.png) She should keep this look up, if you ask me!

I love how Taiga is now able to just summon Ami. Their friendship was the most unexpectedly cool relationship development, I think!

And Ami runs away for the third time. Of all the runners-away, though, she seems [strangely aware of her own hypocrisy](https://cdn.imgchest.com/files/2a6eddeaf2ac.png). It's like she understands herself that even though she keeps calling everyone else out for their dumb actions, she herself can't say anything more direct than "you don't get it, huh" to Ryuji.

[](#exasperated "These people.")

And, oh yes, the final blowout scene, where this time it's actually Minori who can't stand the lying (of other people, not herself, of course), and [confronts Taiga with everything.](https://cdn.imgchest.com/files/eb981dafdc43.png)

It's a powerful scene for sure. For a second, it seems like we might finally get a resolution of some kind. And Taiga... screams "no! no! no!" like a child who doesn't want to go to the dentist, and runs away from the situation. Again.

[](#frustrated)

If we go by previous patterns, since we almost took a step forward with some development, next episode everyone involved will pretend this whole scene never happened and we're back to square one again. We'll see. :')

[](#peace)

We're starting the final arc of the series.

Taiga returns to school after some time, still making jokes about her forehead injury. Then she and Ryuji are called in by Yuri, the teacher, who gives them a lecture about what they're going to do. Ryuji says he doesn't want to be a burden because he's seen his mother work hard. Taiga says she's rich and doesn't need an education. Then Taiga makes a paper airplane out of the form (I just finished watching both seasons of Ef and I can't look at paper airplanes the same way anymore).

The school takes advantage of having a celebrity student to promote the school, but Ami refuses. Ryuji goes along with it because he's asked to. They have a conversation about their feelings, more or less. Ryuji throws his shoe outside and finds it again. Ami says she originally planned to leave after the first semester, that she doesn't really know what to do, and asks Ryuji if he's one of those fetishists. And then... Things here, the conversation ends (I think I said it all jumbled up, but you get the idea). Ryuji receives a call from Taiga saying that his mother is sick, and he arrives quickly. They check her fever, and he says he has to look into his new jobs. Because of the rush, Ryuji isn't wearing his coat, nor is Taiga, who's wearing mismatched flip-flops. Then, reluctantly, she agrees to help Ryuji with one of these jobs: selling chocolates, taking advantage of the proximity of Valentine's Day.

Let's be honest, Taiga looks cute in that outfit, and so she decides to call Ami to help her. Ami doesn't agree, but after being recognized on the street, she decides to help them, but she insists on not letting it happen again. Seeing that it's a success, they get paid well, and Taiga takes the opportunity to make her chocolates and give them to everyone.



Here, Taiga talks about what happened to her on the mountain, which she believes was a dream. But Ryuji doesn't take into account that he didn't ask Minorin to mention Kitamura, and so our girl, who has the potential to have autism spectrum disorder (ASD/ADHD), ends up exploding and breaking Taiga down. With everyone's complicity, they try to confront her, and in the end, Taiga escapes. Minorin asks Ryuji what he's going to do.



An equally emotional episode that sets the stage for the finale.

Today's episode is a very critical one for a lot of reasons, but mainly it is the episode that I would consider is the start of the climax of the story. Specifically the final scene in the classroom, which is very well made. Everyone has been in a very awkward spot in the past few episode and it was only a matter of time before everyone forced to face their feelings and each other. There only needed to be something to trigger all of this which was Minori in this episode. Seeing the effort she put in and sacrifices that she made be in vain due to Ryuuji and the others lying really got to her. Which is now forcing all the characters to face the situation that they are in. And for Ryuuji in particular make a decision between Minori and Taiga. I love how his decision acts as a cliffhanger for the last episode, even if it is somewhat obvious it acts as a good starting point for what is the peak of the story.

Another significant thing in today's episode is that for the first time Ryuuji properly shows vurnebality. He is usually the one to stay collected in complicated situations, probably because he learned to tough it out due to his rough childhood. But he is now facing difficult choices in life and blames himself for the things that are happening. Which appears to really get to him. However one nice thing that this scene shows is that Ryuuji is comfortable around Taiga to be vulnerable around her, showing their strong thrust in each other.

The career plan scene was a pretty interesting one as well. As both Taiga and Ryuuji seems to not have much of an idea on what to do going forward. Taiga says that she is rich, but considering her money comes from her father, it puts into questionability in how reliable that lath is. And for Ryuuji, he has good intentions in helping Yasuko out but is lost in between many possibilities because of it. Unlike their classmates that have "normal" plans, the two of them are the two sides of the same coin and are lost in life.

# Fourth timer sub

[It was another fantastic episode. I've edited together two scenes that almost brought me to tears and made my heart pound.](https://imgur.com/a/uKZEaw4)

Drama CD 22: Seiyuu Talk — Amusement Park Arc


Since this is the last time for Vol. 3, Taiga's VA Rie Kugimiya suggested that she speak first. She said she wanted to try a roller coaster ride after she saw the Toradora special.

As opposed to the thrill rides, Minori's VA, Yui, mentioned that her favorite thing about going to the amusement park is eating malt candy. She often buys three different flavors of maltose, and she suggested that others try it too.

Ami’s VA, Eri, said that whether it’s an amusement park or a Toradora special, as long as someone pays for her, she’s happy, from Taiga’s point of view.

Kitamura's VA Hirofumi is not a fan of roller coasters, but he has tried ["雷山"](https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/tc/tdl/attraction/detail/160/), but he will never ride ["宇宙山"](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_Mountain).

Yasuko's VA Sayaka remembers when she was a child, she ran away with her friends with a doll in her arms. I don't know what she's afraid of, maybe a roller coaster? XD

While lamenting that she is 30 years old, Yuri sensei's VA Rie Tanaka talked about her experience in a haunted house, and when she jumped up in fright, she hugged the teenager with a girlfriend in front of her. Lol

Inko-chan's VA Saori has a dream about an amusement park! She wants to get intimate with a boy in a cable car someday! As Saori calls out: Next, let's invite owner Ryuuji to say a few words.

Finally, Ryuuji's VA Junji. Ten years ago, he and his VA friends went to an amusement park and came across a special performance. A woman gave Ryuuji a prop gun and explained the upcoming show: an alien suddenly appeared from space, and Ryuuji pretended to shoot it. However, one of the actors was already engrossed in the performance. When the narrator said, "Something suddenly came from space," the other actors screamed in terror, "Hey..." They made exaggerated reactions, and [the woman froze in place, completely stunned.](https://imgur.com/0XV0noH) Lol

Great episode 
The teacher crashing out over valtines
The teacher talking about the future 
Ryuji lying to his mom
The way Ami helped 
The death stare minori gave ryuji
The way the confront taiga also the way minori was bending over 😋 lol
8/10
Had some swarma 7/10

It’ll be okay 🤝😭

Their reaction to Haruta having a girlfriend 😂

The taiga handing out chocolate scene to the four of them I definitely remember. I forgot exactly what minori’s reaction was to her finding out they’re playing dumb for taiga but I remembered they just stared at each other. That scene is so good 😭

So many realizations rolling through Ami and minori’s head during that and the guilt in both of the guy’s faces. This scene made me love Minori even more than I already did. Her anger in her fists and eyes and boldness to say something.

That scene is my favorite in the entire series (unless I’m forgetting something in these last couple). God that episode is so good.

Rewatcher - Subbed

Oh man, what an episode! You can always expect some progress to come out of a Valentine’s Day episode.

Funny bits like Haruta having a girlfriend and the shoe throwing scene balanced out some of the heavier romantic drama.

It’s wild to see how much Taiga has changed (especially in her relationship to the Takasu fam) , but also staying true to her nature. Seeing her putting effort into selling the chocolate and then making some was great. But then…

That final scene! It’s one of my overall favourite scenes from this series. The moment she thanks Kitamura for carrying her while rambling on about being worried about what she thought she said, you can just see the shift. It’s like everyone just *knew*, then all hell broke loose. Sometimes you just need to lock people in a room and just get them to talk for goodness sake! I can see how that may not work for people like Taiga though, I think I wouldn’t like that if I were in her situation. Ah, to be a teenager lol


> How does this episode explore what it means to grow up and take responsibility?

The obvious answer would be the push to pick a career path and goal in life, and how Ryuuji is still struggling to choose what he wants. He’s always been the “grown up” compared to his mom, but he still needs to work on growing up emotionally. I love seeing the growth of the characters over time, especially with Ami and Taiga.

Fave Quote:

“You have to compensate for a face that was never meant for customer service.”

**First-timer**

I'm kind of glad I joined this rewatch thread. yeah it's super time-consuming but on days when I feel like doing nothing, I can at least drag myself here and do *something.* I'll just take it chill for today

"Valentine's Day is coming up" I smell a big dramatic moment is about to happen. hopefully also for Ms Yuri

another reminder of "hey your future is in your hands"

honestly Taiga is very real. yeah sometimes the problems facing you right here and now are just too crazy. how do you possibly think about the future then?

sometimes I wonder if Ryuuji realises he likes Taiga yet

nice to see Ryuuji confronted with Ami. in contrast to Ryuuji who feels things but doesn't understand anything that's going on (why in the world did he throw that shoe?) and - probably as a consequence - defers to trying to consider the opinions and feelings of others (e.g. Yasuko's welfare in his decision to go to college). Except that taking other peoples' opinions into account is just an excuse not to confront his own feelings (e.g. Ryuuji could just get a scholarship instead and save Yasuko the trouble, but the thought doesn't even cross his mind despite Ms. Yuri already raising it)

Ami saying "the situation would have resolved itself without my involvement" is utterly confusing to me. perhaps she sees that Ryuuji's feelings are beginning to express themselves and hence her job is being accomplished?

poor Yasuko

it's very touching to see Taiga running out in such a dishevelled state because of her concern for Ryuuji. (she may be the cause of his anxiety though lmao)

nearly getting run over by a car is an accurate depiction of how life will continue to move even while you deal with your problems

hard to rely on Ryuuji when he's getting so out of it right now. and then he starts condemning himself for not being more responsible, when he really needs to get his shit together rather that wallowing in self-pity (which is easy and relatable but doesn't help anything). and I suppose, condemning yourself as someone who is irresponsible allows you to excuse yourself from doing anything. I think that's how the internal logic is functioning

Haruta getting a girlfriend is a bit unexpected (only a bit)

I like how Noto is pissed lol. and Noto makes it obvious that he likes Kihara (if it wasn't obvious enough! tbf it wasn't very obvious. that said I thought he was being a bit too concerned and unreasonable with Kihara back at the ski resort)

in the end Ami chooses to actually advertise the product

"Everyone likes you!" which may be really hard for Ami to believe but is true. somehow for how abrasive she is she is likeable.

oh whoops Minori wasn't clued in on the deception

woah Kitamura and Ami instantly siding with Minori is smooth. also the animation here (my website chose this moment to lag aw man)

but yeah fantastic of Minori to finally be decisive here, choose to expose the deception and commit to getting Ryuuji and Taiga together. even though it definitely hurts. my utter respect goes to her

"The only one responsible for my happiness is me!" you said it Minori (but man must it hurt)

and.... cliffhanger! (is this the most cliffhanger-y of all the episodes so far?)

Ryuuji needs to take responsibility now, and at least it looks like he's going to do that

Rewatcher 4x - Dub

Taiga teasing straight off the bat. Ryuuji is happy she’s back. Yuri leave Ryuuji alone 😭. Funny introduction in this episode, have no memory of it honestly. Ryuuji seems more confident in his plan to not go to college. Yuri nonetheless is trying to help, good on her. “I wanna experience normal love.” I really enjoy the scene of Taiga and Ryuuji together in the room. Another great scene after with Ryuuji and Ami. “What you got a shoe fetish or something?” I love how he throws it lol. We also hear more about why Ami was planning to leave, seeing that she decided to stay the night Ryuuji gave her the pork. And off she goes. Poor Yasuko being sick, nice of Ryuuji to take care of her. Probably said this so many times butttt, this next scene is one of my absolute favorites. Ryuuji leaves to go to the store seemingly stuck in his thoughts. I always notice how annoyed he seems before Taiga catches up. This time it was his turn to be a klutz forgetting everything. “Ryuuji are you okay..?” I feel bad for Ryuuji here, blaming himself for things. There’s something about how he feels which just feels.. relatable I guess. I enjoy in the show when he does show emotion like his. Them holding hands when he begins to cry.. The soundtrack is just excellent here, it’s called Teenage Lust and it’s one of my favorites in the whole show.

Now they’re selling chocolates. Taiga joins in on Ryuuji’s “huh” when they see Haruta with his girlfriend. Oh Noto. Time to call Ami. Taiga works her charm. Ryuuji decides to go after her. “Everyone likes you” “Everyone?” Nice of Ryuuji to tell her that people want her to stay. Oh Ami.

Here it is. THIS scene. Impressive of Taiga to make her own chocolates. Minori quickly picks up on the lie. And she is not happy. So much conveyed in their silent glance. “Why can’t you just be honest and admit it!” Such a powerful scene, I enjoy how they all grouped up to have them share their feelings. “My happiness is up to me” God that scene is intense, but so good. “Are you coming?” Oh the setup for the final stretch. Full swing now. Thanks for reading always

Oh, Valentine's is approaching.

Ok... Taiga hasn't ever brought up love until now.

Ok...

So, that's what happened.

Yeah she might stop.

Uh oh, his mum is sick!

And now he's blaming himself for that.

Taiga?

And so they'll both help.

Twintails Taiga!

When did that guy get a girlfriend?

Ami?

Taiga's really a master of the hard sell isn't she?

Lol she's honest about it at least.

And so that worked.

Meanwhile Taiga is making chocolate. For Ryuji I assume.

For all of her friends.

Oh no Minori is going to spill the beans isn't she?

Or rather she's going to confront Ryuji and Taiga about it.

And so time to chase after Taiga.

Questions:

1. Perhaps it's finally time for Ryuji to realise his feelings.

rewatcher for like the 4th time!! - japanese (no subs) + dubbed

ep 23, we are now at the start of the end...

scary gross wound!!

Ryuuji is just happy to see Taiga being Taiga once again

Ms Yuri always had some simple yet interesting outfits

seems like according to the credits here, "silky heart" is spelled with no caps

such a smooth flight, Taiga is a master at paper planes

is that coffee, Ms Yuri a coffee person??

Ryuuji's learning, he was able to react fast enough that Ami wasnt able to grab the shoe

the bottom of Inko's cage is very empty except for her feathers, isnt that supposed to have some bedding?

almost got isekaid there

HEADPAT

TAIGA TWINTAILED MAID MOMENT LETS GO!!!!

they arent quite the great job

Ami still has her disguise when in public, also, would this count as a Lovely Taiga + Ami Moment?

oh looks like the disguise didnt quite work out

15:57 i saw that cutted out glasses style and my mind jumped to A1 Pics, cos i remember this happening a lot on Anohana, then my brain just got super confused for a moment there like, Toradora A1 Pics?, no wait this is not A1 Pics this is JC Staff, wait what?

thats one weird way to count on a hand, or is that how JP people do it??

Taiga's putting all effort

oh shit its that scene

Minorin is not shitting around anymore

dude that stare down is so crushing

i feel like i should be looking more about who directed this show and the other staff responsible from it, oh yeah right iirc Mari Okada (the one responsible for masterpieces like Anohana, Maquia, Hanasaku Iroha, and more)is the one that did the screenwriting for this show, thats why its so good

Taiga does not care about anyones lunches

"Behold!! my gaping Wound!!" this line is something i can very much see Ritsu saying

Ryuuji just innocently sitting there, gets severely shaken

"not going to college isnt that big of a deal" i very much agree with Ryuuji with this one, until you realize every single job listing these days wants a college graduate for some reason even tho the job absolutely does not need college level education

perfectly timed fall there Ryuuji

"meet a guy and fall in love in a normal way" as if

Ami had to walk all the way there without a shoe

"..freak like Minori Kushieda..." shes a lovable freak

Taiga be worried about Yasu, she truly is a part of the family now

It will be ok!!

i still absolutely refuse to believe thats his girlfriend, yes, this never happened, and that was indeed was just his sister

Ryuuji knows whats up with Noto

"so after all those fights, youve fallen head over heels for her, i didnt think that can ever happen in real life" no shit

Taiga knows her flower lore

"ew, i didnt know you are with him"

14:31 holy shit that shot of Taiga when she nods here is so ADORBS

im going to believe that if the school knew that Taiga is there wearing super cute maid dress selling chocalates everyone on the school would be there to see her, no Ami needed

oh dang they both blushed here

i feel like Taiga making chocolates for everyone kinda parralels the Ryuuji making orange cakes for the girls

the chocolates have hearts!!

and all hell breaks loose

oh dang this stare down again

Minorin is not taking shit anymore

also, yet another massive props to the vocal cast here, you can very much feel that they had poured all their heart into this, i dont understand how some people can hate into dubs when masterful performances like this exists, like, oh dang, the chipper and genki Minorin and the rough and cute Taiga breaking down into this, what else can i say