Kabe Koji – Series Review & Ending Explained

Episode 1

Episode 1 Review

I'm obsessed with the opening theme song. The upbeat melody is surprisingly catchy. Also, the visuals manage to be both hilariously camp and overly dramatic. It's the perfect song to get me in the mood for twenty minutes of hilarious hijinks. Every episode, I'm humming along to this happy little tune. GIVE ME THE SHINY SMILE! 😙

I like how this episode ends, revealing Mamoru is a secret admirer of Issei's idol career. Their relationship dynamic is intriguing because both leads appreciate their love interest's individual talents. Issei likes Mamoru's art, while Mamoru follows Issei's celebrity fame. They're supportive of one another despite being in different lines of work. Issei and Mamoru are each other's biggest fans.

My first impression of Kabe Koji is positive. I respond well to the kooky comedy style with eccentric characters and exaggerated reactions. Also, I like how the series adds quirky details to amplify the jokes. For example, the characters have cartoonishly big bellies after finishing a hearty meal. The text effects are cute touches too. I appreciate how much effort Kabe Koji puts into maximizing the humour in every scenario.

Episode 2

Episode 2 Review

I like how this episode begins ominously. Shiny Smile is on the cusp of stardom, but these two jaded reporters are ready to bring them down. "Guys their age always have something to hide," Akaido warns. Afterwards, we see a shot of Issei through a camera lens, almost resembling the crosshairs on a gun. I fear for Issei, knowing he has been marked as a paparazzi target. As his romance with Mamoru develops, there's potential for a career-breaking scandal if the journalists expose their gay relationship.

"All fujoshi have a dick growing in our hearts." OH MY GOD, I'M SCREAMING. I had to stop the episode at this point just to keep my laughter under control. 😆 That has to be one of the most legendary lines uttered in the BL genre, right? I have never heard someone articulate the BL fandom with such eloquent precision. From now on, I shall carry this wise mantra every time I watch a BL series. Yamada's voice will manifest in my head subliminally, like the BL version of Star Wars Yoda.

Despite the wacky comedy, Kabe Kobe also contains some empowering messages. I really resonate with what Issei says during the radio show. Pursuing your passion isn't as easy as it seems, and he respects those who persevere as they strive toward their dreams. His inspirational words motivate Mamoru to overcome his creative slump and draw a new manga. I like how Kabe Koji ties the two protagonists' storylines together, showing that Issei's advice guides Mamoru through an ordeal.

I'm obsessed with every item in Mamoru's bedroom shrine, from the CDs to the banners. Also, I spy with my little eye on a shirtless magazine cover of Issei~ I love the amount of detail the production team puts into the props just to sell a few seconds of this visual gag.

Episode 3

Episode 3 Review

I love the guy who talks in four-character idioms. That's such a funny quirk. 😆 Honestly, I like many of the supporting characters in Kabe Koji. They have endearing traits and colourful personalities. The bubbly Yamada is my favourite, but I also like Ryu, Mamoru's mom, and the fabulous Bearded Framboise. The only one I don't like so far is Tsubasa, whose grouchy personality is unbearable. However, I understand his antagonism is meant to drive conflict in the plot.

"At last, his smiles come naturally to him." There's something so sad about this line. Mamoru used to think his high school friend lived a carefree life. Beneath his sunny disposition, Issei hides a sorrowful background. In reality, Issei forces himself to smile to mask his torment. The turning point in his life is when Mamoru encourages him to become an idol because of his cheerfulness. Until then, Issei could only smile to cover up his grief. Yet, Mamoru helps Issei believe that he should smile out of genuine happiness. Mamoru implies: Your smile has the power to inspire others.

I wish we could see more of Mamoru and Issei's high school memories. So far, I have a hard time visualizing their bond. Apparently, they used to have one-on-one chats at night. Show us the conversations because I'm curious about what these two have in common. Issei seems devoted to his high school pal, even though Mamoru has been rude, prickly, and downright antagonistic. Their one-sided childhood friendship befuddles me. Kabe Koji would benefit from additional flashbacks of Mamoru being kind to Issei, helping us understand their connection.

Episode 4

Episode 4 Review

I love Mamoru's response to Issei asking for a phone call: "This is exactly why I don't communicate with others!" LMAO. That's relatable. I like the entire exchange between them over the phone. It's nice seeing Mamoru support Issei during his crisis. He initiates communication between them, overcoming his social anxiety to console his friend. I also like the philosophy behind his wise advice. It's arrogant to judge someone without understanding their circumstances.

Okay, I'm just going to say it. Kick Tsubasa out of Shiny Smile! Why is this guy acting like such a diva? The other three group members get along, whereas Tsubasa is a raging asshole at every opportunity. He creates a toxic work environment with his constant hostility. With that said, I respect Issei's emotional intelligence. Most people would lose their cool around Tsubasa, but Issei remains calm and patient during the confrontation. His conflict-resolution skills are impressive.

You may or may not have noticed tiny changes to the opening song. Starting with this episode, the song features new POV shots showcasing a different Shiny Smile member. Episode 4 focuses on Tsubasa, Episode 5 on Ryu, Episode 6 on Kyou, and Episode 7 on Issei. Kabe Koji mixes up the footage to add variety to the visuals. Now you can see your favourite idol give his shiny smile on stage!

Episode 5

Episode 5 Review

Tsubasa's storyline is too cheesy for me, crossing the line into schmaltziness. With that said, the subplot highlights Issei's sweet and wholesome personality. The scandalous article puts this boy band under much scrutiny. Yet, Issei responds to the pressure graciously without any missteps. After Tsubasa apologizes to the fans, I like how Issei goes off-script and defuses the tension with his humour. That moment really showcases what's so endearing about Issei.

In addition, I enjoy seeing the four characters develop stronger bonds as they overcome their emotional drama. They feel like friends instead of just colleagues in the same idol group. When Issei comes out later in the series, it's a momentous decision that affects the other members. Yet, I understand why they support him and stand unified as a group.

I'm concerned about the lack of progress made with Mamoru and Issei's romance. Only three episodes are left, yet their relationship has been moving in baby steps. Episode 5 barely featured them together. This couple's feelings aren't where they should be during an eight-episode series. I'm starting to feel like the story doesn't prioritize the BL content. It has thoughtful themes exploring personal growth and self-discovery, but the romance is too mild.

Episode 6

Episode 6 Review

I love the scene where Yamada and Issei visit Mamoru's apartment. Yamada carries that scene with her hilarious overreactions to every Issei x Mamoru moment. The actress (Honoka Yahagi) brings boisterous charm and effusive energy, making the comedic scenarios way funnier. I cracked up when she made an audible noise after Issei said, "That's what I love about you." Later, she delivers a hilariously meta line: "Am I the background character in a BL?" Yamada is such a fun addition to the series, elevating every scene.

Mamoru doesn't want to admit his romantic feelings for Issei. Every time Yamada visits, he hides his secret collection of Shiny Smile memorabilia. Mamoru's denial comes from feeling self-conscious about his same-sex attraction. In addition, he feels unworthy of dating Issei, a celebrity out of his league. As Yamada tells him, "He's beyond you." Yet, notice how neither Yamada nor Issei cares about Mamoru's love shrine in his room. They treat the merchandise nonchalantly, showing that Mamoru's insecurities are just in his head. The negativity comes from internally than externally.

Mamoru

Growing up, Mamoru felt insecure about being gay and denied his attraction to men. That was until he found validation at the doujinshi festival. The event became a safe haven for Mamoru, where he was comfortable expressing himself. This story is clever because it ties Mamoru's sexuality with his passion for BL art. There are thematic parallels between the two topics. On one level, Mamoru is worried as an artist because he's losing popularity. On a deeper level, Mamoru is insecure as a gay man because he can't fit in with his community. 

Mamoru changes his art style to conform to mainstream tastes. He starts drawing conventionally pretty boys, even though his true passion is for erotic bara art. Despite catering to the public, Mamoru's readers don't respond to his new BL manga. Maybe they can sense the insincerity in his work. Their rejection sends Mamoru on a downward spiral, making him question his self-worth. He used to feel empowered at the doujinshi festival, but now it gives him anxiety. Mamoru suffers an existential crisis. All his personal insecurities have resurfaced, overwhelming him.

Mamoru suffered lifelong anxieties about not fitting in with society as a gay man. He turned down Issei's confession out of self-loathing. For a while, Mamoru took safe refuge at the doujinshi festival, where he could be confident in himself. Yet, he succumbs to his previous struggles with self-doubt. Once again, Mamoru conforms and compromises his individuality to fit in with the norm. The series title, "Nekyoyashi-kun Desires to be Recognized" refers to his desperate need for approval. He yearns for others to accept him instead of just living life autonomously.

Episode 7

Episode 7 Review

The quality that stands out most about Issei is his honesty. As an idol, you're expected to hide many aspects of yourself from the public eye. Yet, Issei doesn't see the need to sneak around or change his behaviour. During his date, he asks, "What's the problem with taking a photo of us together?" Typically, gay rumours circulating around a male celebrity can impact his career. Yet, Issei insists on being himself. He openly flirts with a guy despite being followed by a journalist.

Issei doesn't see his sexuality as a scandal. As Issei said in the past, he believes his attraction to men is normal. Let the reporter take pictures of me. This is who I am. Other people may not share the same enlightened thinking, but Issei refuses to feel ashamed or live insecurely. Remarkably, his character embodies pride and self-assurance. Unlike Mamoru, Issei won't compromise his individuality to appease others.

Nikaido's character was introduced as an antagonist with a sinister intent. He wanted to tear down the famous boy band, wiping the shiny smiles off their hopeful faces. Nikaido's instincts were right, and he sniffed out a juicy news story about a celebrity's secret gay affair. After observing Issei and Mamoru, Nikaido figures out the nature of their relationship. In this episode, he sings the lyrics to a sad love song while mulling over what to do with the info.

In a surprising plot twist, Nikaido decides not to expose Issei's romance. During the investigation, Issei befriended the reporter. His positivity rubbed off on the jaded journalist, turning the former hater into a loyal fanboy. I love the transformation in Nikaido's character arc. He ends up championing Issei instead of sabotaging him, like a triumphant case of love prevailing over hate. As a bonus, Nikaido gets his juicy scoop in the finale. He writes an empowering article about Issei's coming-out, which overshadows the sleazy hit piece from his colleague.

Mamoru and Issei

I'm frustrated with Mamoru. He keeps turning down Issei, who has been devoted to him since the start of the series. There has been so much rejection in their relationship. Mamoru delivers harsh remarks like, "I never want to see you again" or "Being with you is agonizing." It's hard to root for this couple's love story when I don't get a romantic vibe from them.

Yet, I sympathize with Mamoru's emotional turmoil. Being with Issei brings out Mamoru's insecurities. Issei is a successful superstar, nearly perfect in every way. Yet, Mamoru believes his celebrity crush is too good for him. When they are together, Mamoru feels inferior. He keeps repeating that Issei is ~beyond him~ as if his love interest is on a different plane of existence. Mamoru doesn't believe a failed artist like himself deserves Issei, who is out of his league.

Mamoru feels inadequate, not just because Issei is a celebrity. Their relationship causes pain because they have different mentalities. Issei exhibits a natural self-assuredness that Mamoru cannot attain. Issei is so comfortable in his own skin, whereas Mamoru struggles to accept himself. This sad, insecure introvert retreats even further because he cannot relate to the happy, confident extrovert. Mamoru is in agony, conflicted between his romantic feelings and his anxieties. His line at the end of the episode is heartbreaking: "I hate myself for being like this." 😢

Episode 8

Ending Review

I like the happy ending! Kabe Koji finishes with sentimental messages about self-acceptance as Mamoru overcomes his personal demons. I have a few minor critiques. One, some scenes are cheesy, especially the part where Issei comes out on stage. Two, the camera spins around too much during that last part. I'M DIZZY~ 😵‍💫 And three, I'm dissatisfied with the weak romance. The story may be poignant and thoughtful, but the BL content isn't up to par. Gimme more relationship moments of Mamoru and Issei as a couple!

After the news article publishes, homophobia reared its ugly head with an onslaught of outraged reactions. However, I laughed at one of the comments, which said: "If only he was dating one of the fellow members." LMAO. I like how Nikaido uploads another article debunking the gay rumours. On top of that, he apologizes in person. You can't undo opening Pandora's box after outing someone. However, I still appreciate Nikaido's gestures as a sign of allyship. He goes from a sleazy tabloid reporter to an ethical journalist with integrity. What a great transformation!

I like how Yamada and Tsubasa are the ones to pull Mamoru and Issei out of their funks. Yamada has been such a great friend throughout the series. She is like Mamoru's rock, constantly supporting him through highs and lows. Likewise, it's sweet that Tsubasa goes to the festival (in a hilarious disguise) and buys the manga. Issei showed him incredible kindness earlier in the series, and now Tsubasa can repay the favour. Kabe Koji is excellent at crafting these meaningful character arcs. Even the supporting characters go on journeys and grow as individuals.

Ending Explained

Kabe Koji has a happy ending where Mamoru regains his enthusiasm to draw BL art again. His turning point comes during an emotional encounter with Yamada, who urges her friend to be honest with himself. Stop pandering to the readers or caring about the festival. Instead, her advice to him is: "Just draw what you want to draw!" At last, her motivational words get through to Mamoru. He ends up drawing a new manga based on his experiences with Issei.

On one level, this story is about an artist overcoming his creative block. Worried about his declining popularity, Mamoru starts drawing manga based on what appeals to mainstream audiences. Yet, doing so causes him to lose motivation and passion for his hobby. In the finale, Mamoru learns to stop yearning for recognition. He goes back to drawing the type of art that makes him happy, even if his niche isn't popular. As a result, Mamoru produces a manga full of sincerity. No, it doesn't sell well at the festival. Nonetheless, he appears proud and inspired by his work.

On another level, the story is about Mamoru conquering his demons. All along, Mamoru struggles to love himself. He suffers from a host of crippling anxieties, which cause him to believe he doesn't deserve Issei. Despite their mutual attraction, he keeps pushing his crush away. In the finale, Mamoru learns to be honest and stops denying his desires. Mamoru unshackles from his insecurities, allowing himself to feel passionate about Issei. Kabe Koji ends with a powerful message of self-acceptance. Just draw what you love to draw, and love who you want to love.