Just finished the episode. As Aspi stated, I agree it could have used another episode. But I think it did fairly well with the 1-episode it was given. Probably my favorite episode at the moment, because of the mysterious horror that was shown. Reminds me a bit of the anime “Another”.
Seeing all these Lucia moments will probably make anime-only’s accept Lucia more than a cliche tsundere. Also, seeing these Lucia scenes makes me hope we’ll get Lucia’s route animated in the future if Rewrite’s a success.
The fluidity of animation of Lucia’s hair, ribbons, and clothes in the sunflower field was probably what I liked best. Yes, they basically repeated frames for the top half to make it repetitive, but it still looked gorgeous.
I also see less derps. Just my guess, but 8-Bit’s getting used to drawing the Rewrite characters, so it’s less problematic than in episode 1.
I also liked how they still showcase Kotarou and Shizuru talking. The Shizuru-focused episode from last week was rushed and didn’t have much build up. But I’m glad they’re not just throwing away Shizuru and Kotarou scenes because they’re done with it. They’re actually still building on her character, which makes me happy.
They also built the idea that Shizuru doesn’t mind telling Kotarou, peoples dark past/secrets, which makes her character-focused episode, more sense to the viewers eyes.
And then the post-credits. 8-Bit got me wishing for Moon & Terra now.
Though I love Kagari, it was nice to see them actually not using her in this episode just for the sake of using her and making her relevant in common. Lucia’s episode would have suffered more time constraint if they actually had Kagari show up in this episode.
I also loved how when Lucia touched the leaf, she, Kotarou, and Shizuru (flashback) all said something about “Wither” and the actual Rewrite song entitled “Wither” was playing. Kotarou also said “Retribution” during that scene, so I was hoping it was going to play afterwards, but it’s fine.
And for credits, just saying, but I wouldn’t have mind seeing a blushing Lucia in a maids outfit serving Kotarou lunch, while Kotarou is teasing her, making her show her tsun-side. But it’s all good. I just think Shizuru’s ED fits the black-screen credits with Kotarou and Shizuru moments playing on the side, more than Lucia’s insert song. It did remind me of Kurugaya’s route-ED though, playing moments with a somewhat plains background.
So we’re done with character pre-routes right? Or do we still need 1 for Chihaya? I’m really looking forward for how they handle “that day”, and how they handle the upcoming Kagari route. Something to look forward to.
On another note. I’m disappointed Kotori’s English didn’t make a cameo. I’m not sure if it played before this scene or after, but still. It would have been enjoyable.
Now, time to rewatch the episode because I enjoyed it.