two episode directors, 12 animation directors, and five chief animation directors Visual Highlights
The pivotal scene occurs in Azumaya’s darkened apartment. Saijo kneels—literally lowering himself to Azumaya’s level, a visual reversal of their usual power dynamic—and asks, “What do you want, Junta?” This question is revolutionary for his character. Previously, Saijo assumed ownership; here, he seeks permission. He then confesses his own vulnerability: that his perfect "Number 1" persona is a mask for loneliness, and that Azumaya’s ordinariness is precisely what makes him irreplaceable. By stripping away his arrogance, Saijo transforms from a possessive lover into a supportive partner.
Overall Impression
This moment is monumental because it marks a genuine shift in Takato's character. As one reviewer noted, the series' strength lies in "the transformation of the main character, who suddenly no longer cares only about himself". This vulnerability is not just refreshing; it’s earned. After episodes of watching Takato resist and deflect, seeing him finally acknowledge his emotions is a powerful moment of catharsis.
The 12th episode, titled " Dakaretai Otoko 1i ni Odosarete Imasu: Chapter 12," picks up where the previous episode left off, with Mafuyu and Haruki's relationship continuing to blossom. As the band prepares for their live performance, tensions rise, and emotions run high. dakaretai otoko 1i ni odosarete imasu episode 12 better
However, it's not without its minor flaws. The same blog notes some artistic inconsistencies, pointing out that "Rina, the wife, was drawn sort of weird. Like she belonged in that horrible beach filler episode," and that there were "a couple of faces like that this episode... felt like they were rushing a few pieces of art throughout". While these animation hiccups are noticeable, they don't detract from the episode's strong emotional core.
What makes Episode 12 superior to a typical BL finale is its refusal to promise eternal happiness. The episode ends not with a wedding or a timeskip, but with the two actors walking to work together, still uncertain about the future, still facing an industry that could destroy them. Azumaya’s final line— “I’m still scared, but I want to stay by his side” —acknowledges that love does not erase trauma or insecurity. It simply makes them bearable. This grounded, hopeful ambiguity respects the audience’s intelligence far more than a tidy, saccharine conclusion. two episode directors, 12 animation directors, and five
While episode 12 is a satisfying conclusion to the series, there are some criticisms to be made:
Takato finally admits that he never truly wanted to break up and that his feelings for Junta are sincere and deep. He then confesses his own vulnerability: that his
The rankings came in. Final tally. Junta Azumaya—first place. Takato Saijou—second.