Nisemonogatari - Episode 11

Shinobu is all grown up now~

The finale of Nisemonogatari starts off brilliantly with the poetic description of the supernatural cuckoo, comparing it to the mythological phoenix. Similar to how cuckoos lay their eggs in other birds' nests, Tsukihi was reincarnated inside the womb of Koyomi's mother. Despite seeing her immortality and regeneration abilities firsthand, Koyomi's strong love for his younger sister allows him to maintain his regular attitude when faced with the look of innocence on her face, as she doesn't know she's an imposter.

And this is why he desires to fight. To fight for his sister - regardless of whether she's an imposter or not. Growing up with them over years has taught Koyomi the lesson that many of us need to realize: family is one of the most important things in the world. Through all the fights and quarrels the Araragi siblings have been involved in, the bottom line is that they strongly care for each other, to the point where they are willing to die for one another. I feel that this is the central message that was being conveyed in Nisemonogatari.

The massive beatdown Koyomi received at the hands of Yozoru reminded me of Suruga's berserk mode. While it was a bit too violent for my liking (even with the censoring), I find it helped to emphasize how intent Yozoru was in smashing (no pun intended) some sense into the eldest Araragi sibling. But the post-fight dialogue focusing on good and evil was what I enjoyed the most; the style was typical for a Monogatari episode. The trio of Meme, Deishū and Yozoru had gone to the same university and each of their ideals would have been evenly spaced out if they were put on a "good vs. evil" scale. Not surprisingly, Yozoru's views are "good", Deishū's views are "evil" and Meme is exactly in the middle. Now that brings us to the mysterious, fourth member of their group. Where would his/her ideals fit on this scale? Will this person be the antagonist for the sequel? While I'm sure there were other deeper meanings behind the dialogue, this is all I managed to catch.

As for the characters, Shinobu definitely stole the show in terms of physical appearance with that sudden growth spurt of hers after having consumed some of Koyomi's blood. However, I have to admit the star of the episode was none other than Koyomi. When it comes down to it, he can seriously say some respectable things. He is quick to defend his ideals and determined to protect the people he loves, even to the point of sacrificing himself. His unique personality and gift of expression has set him apart from the typical, lacklustre male protagonist.

Lastly, the open ending and "To Be Continued" message leave room for a sequel (which I'm assuming is a light novel that's either already completed or in the making). The scene with Koyomi and Hitagi at the end reminded me of Bakemonogatari when the two were stargazing at night; both scenes were beautiful and the two contrast with each other marvellously. Also, everything that happened in these 11 episodes seem to have spanned only a few days - an observation which I found to be interesting. Overall, I'd say I enjoyed Nisemonogatari. It definitely helped me appreciate dialogue-heavy series even more and I really hope that there will be a sequel.