Heterochromia

Okay, I have to admit that I actually disliked this episode. It was really surprising, because I loved the first 3 episodes to death.

The first reason is obviously the bad animation. Milkmaster even compared it with NHK ni Yôkoso episode 19, but that’s exaggerated, of course.

The second reason is Shinji itself. I didn’t expect him to be such a… loser! Notice how I avoided taking a screenshot of him. *hrr* If I was cooking and he wouldn’t even think about helping me, I’d immediately throw him out. (Yes, I’m capable to do that. That’s why I like tsundere characters.)
Here’s my theory: Moyoco Anno designed this character on purpose. When Milkmaster said “Oh my, he even got the right name” (think Shinji Ikari of Neon Genesis Evangelion), I immediately realized that Hideaki Anno must be some Shinji-kind of character too. And in the heat of a marital argument, she quickly decided to give Hiroko a Shinji-ish boyfriend.
Okay, that’s not very likely. But I’m sure she’s the kind of woman who would do that *haha*

Of course Hiroko’s friend is absolutely gorgeous - and the poor waiter overhearing their conversation is absolutely priceless. I have already missed that dialogue (in the manga, it appears in the very first chapter).

Now I’m better prepared for the last episode (I let myself get spoiled) and look forward to more interesting characters than Shinji - hopefully people who don’t make me roll my eyes the whole time. (Oh, crap, there is also that Tanaka guy. But all in all, I dislike Shinji much more.)