AKB0048 - Episode 9

Because of Mayuyu :3

The main focus of the previous two episodes, this one included, is on the conflict between Takamina and Kanata, the captains of the successors and understudies, respectively. Externally, Kanata idolizes Takamina, while the successors' captain is really impressed with determination and talent of the understudies' captain. However, it is the conflict that goes on internally that gives rise to the drama in the recent episodes of this series. In this episode, it can be seen that Takamina took Yūko's advice and tried to continue living this dream of hers—the dream of being Takahashi Minami the 5th. The perseverance she displayed was really impressive as she managed to battle through the "river of sickness" (reference to one of the insert songs) in order to fulfill her duty. Upon seeing that, one might think that Takamina's successful performance in the concert would provide her with a much-needed confidence booster. However, Kanata's reaction to all this changed everything.

Information on insert songs used in this episode can be found below.

Like Takamina had pointed out in the end, Kanata should've been very disappointed about having her opportunity to perform on stage in place of her favourite idol being snatched away by that very same person at the last minute. Sure, there's no doubt that she is hurting on the inside, but to be able to control her emotions and display a surprising amount of humility—that in and of itself was the dagger that once again pierced Takamina with doubts. In her mind, Kanata seems to always be one step ahead, whether that is in terms of "soul" (as reflected by the Kirara of Succession) or passion for 00 (as shown in the last scene). It'll be really disappointing if the events that transpired in this episode are the cause of Takamina's downfall. She has shown from the start that she has what it takes and her spirit is something that never falters, so I hope this remains the case. I think that even Kanata would want nothing less than a fair competition for the name of Takamina. With that being said, I'm really looking forward to seeing how the drama will develop in the next episode.

With less than a handful of AKB0048 episodes left, I think it's time to start guessing about how the series will end. Rumours of a second season are still not confirmed yet so if I were to guess, it'd be that Kanata succeeds Takahashi Minami, with the current Takamina graduating without any regrets, assuming the conflict between the two has reached a solution. I think that'd be a great ending which can work both as a finale or a stopping point before a second season, in which the other understudies continue their quest to become successors. Judging by the OP though, I think a second season is highly possible given the main focus of the story seems to be on Nagisa and Chieri. As of late, the two haven't had enough screentime dedicated to them for solid character development so another set of 12 or 13 episodes would definitely help. Obviously, I'd prefer a second (even a third or fourth) season since this anime helped me to discover the glorious idol group known as AKB48.

Speaking of which, there were six AKB48 songs in this episode, three of which were new to the anime. I guess it's time for me to download more albums.

Insert Songs
Kanji	Romaji	English	Links
ヘビーローテーション	HEBII ROOTEESHON (Heavy Rotation)	Heavy Rotation	Lyrics | Video
真夏のSounds good!	Manatsu no Sounds good!	Midsummer Sounds good!	Lyrics | Video
会いたかった	Aitakatta	I Wanted to Meet You	Lyrics | Video
ハート型ウイルス	HAATO gata UIRUSU (Heart gata Virus)	Heart-Shaped Virus	Lyrics | Video
N/A	N/A	RIVER	Lyrics | Video
涙のシーソーゲーム	Namida no SHIISOO GEEMU (Namida no See-saw Game)	The See-saw Game of Tears	Lyrics | Video
支え	Sasae	Support	Lyrics | Video