The astonishing things individuals do for affection. At times, individuals don’t even recognize they’re being manipulated until it’s too late and they inadvertently turn into a conduit for another’s plans, causing their own group to spiral into disorder. Episode 7 of BanG Dream! YUME∞MITA is yet another emotional whirlwind. On one hand, it was incredible to finally witness the band perform together for the first time, while conversely, the storyline has become more visually appealing.
Before this, I had only experienced Yumemita’s performances at their live shows, and this episode encapsulated that same essence flawlessly. It was vibrant and brimming with character. The melody was infectious, the stage charisma was animated, and each member’s uniqueness radiated throughout the performance. The animation was also smooth and well-executed. Once again, BanG Dream! demonstrates that it knows precisely how to render its live performances magical.
Miyako effortlessly captured my attention during their performance. It was her suggestion to hold the live event in the first place—although, it’s true that this decision only came about because Viola influenced her to do so. Once management greenlit the performance, Miyako noticeably exhibited more enthusiasm than everyone else, and I genuinely didn’t anticipate her to put so much effort into the stage performance. I suppose she was trying her best to catch Viola’s eye.
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There’s nothing inherently wrong with giving it your all. It was both charming and somewhat heartbreaking once you comprehend the reasons for her behavior. As much as I adored her in the first half of the episode, however, the latter half made her extraordinarily challenging to defend.
To be crystal clear, Miyako is still my favorite member of Yumemita even after Episode 7.
I don’t believe it’s entirely just to blame her for informing Arale that Viola was her most dedicated fan. Miyako is genuinely honest, but she’s also incredibly introverted. Because of this, she’s simply inexperienced when it comes to recognizing manipulation. Additionally, she developed feelings for Viola almost instantly. In fact, she didn’t even learn Viola’s name until this episode.
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If you consider Miyako’s perspective, it’s reasonable. Picture being someone perpetually occupied with work, seldom interacts socially, and then suddenly a person you find incredibly appealing tells you they adore the thing you’ve devoted yourself to (even if that admiration turns out to be insincere). Anyone would be ecstatic.
Yes, Miyako is gullible and naive. But I don’t think those flaws stem from foolishness. They arise from someone who simply hasn’t had the opportunity to engage in these types of relationships before. Ironically, those imperfections are precisely what make Miyako such an intriguing character.
This notion extends to all members of Yumemita. They each have strengths, but they also have shortcomings. For Arale, one of her most significant strengths is her growth. Watching her finally advocate for herself and confront Viola was tremendously gratifying as she’s no longer the girl who just backs down.
Yet, I don’t think she can dismantle Viola on her own, particularly following that discussion between her and Miyako, which was undeniably the most heart-wrenching moment of the episode for me.
When Miyako naively tells Arale that nobody appreciates her work the way Viola does, you can almost sense Arale’s heart breaking. Envision hearing someone you profoundly respect say that the individual who comprehends their passion and work the most is someone who’s merely pretending and has been manipulating everyone from the very start. That must feel like a devastating blow to the heart.
If I were Arale, I personally would’ve burst into tears right then and there. As someone who fully embraces the oshikatsu lifestyle, that moment impacted me deeply. I couldn’t fathom hearing one of my own oshis express something like that. It would be entirely tragic.
And naturally, to no one’s astonishment, Viola orchestrated the entire scenario from behind the scenes again.
At this stage, I’m convinced BanG Dream! YUME∞MITA isn’t produced by Bushiroad any longer. It’s being produced by Viola.
She’s the director, storyboard artist, scriptwriter, character designer, music producer—EVERYTHING.
She’s somehow maneuvering the entire narrative from within the story itself. Honestly, what an absurd mastermind.
Out of every franchise I expected to introduce a manipulative antagonist on this level, BanG Dream! was the last one on my list. How did the reincarnation of Johan Liebert end up in my cheerful, wholesome, definitely-not-mentally-ill girls band franchise?
Humor aside, I can’t commend Viola’s characterization enough. She’s undoubtedly one of the most formidable anime villains this year (or even this decade) because every action she takes feels deliberate without ever seeming forced. Every manipulation possesses a purpose, and every interaction leaves another emotional bruise on someone else. More than anything, I hope the series refrains from attempting to redeem her.
I don’t require a tragic backstory justifying why she became this way. I don’t need a last-minute change of heart either. At times, a narrative flourishes with a villain who exists solely to challenge everything the protagonists uphold.
For a franchise whose narratives have consistently revolved around discovering your own light and aiding others in shining, Viola embodies the perfect antithesis of that message. She doesn’t motivate individuals to shine; instead, she warps their aspirations until they become instruments for her own ambitions and overrun anyone who obstructs her path. She’s becoming more wicked and nefarious with each episode, and oddly enough, I’m thoroughly enjoying it.
Currently, the trajectory of the story seems to be aligning somewhat. With Ritsu transferring schools and Arale’s side, they are finally drawing nearer to overcoming Viola. Conversely, she has acquired yet another asset in her arsenal of false narratives. I’m just extremely curious about when Yuno and Nonoka will join the battle?
Screenshots were taken from Muse Asia.
© BanG Dream! Project
