Shoushimin Series [Season 1 Episode 12]

Shoushimin Series Season 1 Episode 12: A Bittersweet Blend of Mystery and Melancholy

The Shoushimin Series, also known as Shoshimin: How to Become Ordinary, has been a quiet yet captivating addition to the mystery genre, and Episode 12 delivers a poignant conclusion to its first season. Produced by Lapin Track and based on Honobu Yonezawa’s novels, the series follows Jougorou Kobato and Yuki Osanai—two high school students determined to live ordinary lives after past traumas. But as fate would have it, their attempts at normalcy are constantly thwarted by inexplicable events.

A Cinematic Farewell

From the very first frame, Episode 12 maintains the show’s signature cinematic flair. The 21:9 aspect ratio, a rarity in anime, gives every scene a film-like quality, immersing viewers in the melancholic yet beautiful world of Kobato and Osanai. Fans have praised the animation for its meticulous detail, especially in the quieter moments—like the way Osanai’s expressions shift subtly when she’s disappointed or the way Kobato’s eyes narrow when he’s piecing together a puzzle.

One standout moment in this episode is the resolution of the strawberry tart incident from earlier in the season. The emotional weight of that scene—where Osanai’s long-awaited treat was destroyed—finally gets closure, and it’s as bittersweet as fans expected. The internet collectively mourned those tarts, with comments like “RIP to the strawberry tarts, justice will be served!” and “Why did they do that to the cake? It was very sad!” flooding discussion boards.

The Hyouka Comparisons

It’s impossible to talk about Shoushimin without mentioning Hyouka, another beloved mystery series by Yonezawa. Fans have been divided on whether the comparisons are fair, but Episode 12 solidifies the show’s identity. While Hyouka thrived on Oreki’s lazy genius and Chitanda’s boundless curiosity, Shoushimin leans into Kobato’s reluctant heroism and Osanai’s quiet resilience.

Some viewers argue that Shoushimin lacks Hyouka’s vibrant energy, calling it a “weaker, monotonous version” of its predecessor. Others, however, appreciate the slower, more introspective tone. One fan noted, “It’s like Hyouka meets the Monogatari series—loving the direction!” Another added, “The subdued voice acting and soft atmosphere make it feel more real.”

The Mystery Unfolds (Sort Of)

Episode 12 doesn’t tie up every loose end, leaving room for speculation—and frustration. The central mystery of the season, involving a series of small but unsettling incidents at school, gets a partial resolution, but Kobato’s final monologue hints at deeper, unresolved conflicts.

Fans have mixed feelings about this approach. Some love the ambiguity, with one commenter saying, “The ending was surprising—I can’t wait to see what happens next!” Others, however, were left wanting more: “Why only ten episodes? T-T”

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Watch?

If you’re a fan of slow-burn mysteries with rich character dynamics, Shoushimin Series is a must-watch. It may not have the explosive energy of action-packed anime, but its strength lies in the quiet moments—the way Kobato and Osanai’s friendship evolves, the melancholic beauty of its visuals, and the lingering questions it leaves behind.

As one fan perfectly summed it up: “Absolute cinema. Lapin Track cooked.”

So, grab some strawberry tarts (and maybe a tissue), settle in, and enjoy the ride. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself thinking about it long after the credits roll.