Love Live! Superstar!! Season 3 - Episode 1 Review

The highly anticipated third season of Love Live! Superstar!! has finally arrived, and Episode 1 sets the stage for what looks like an intriguing and slightly unconventional season. With Kanon’s unexpected return and new dynamics among the idols, fans have plenty to be excited about as the show unfolds. Let’s break down some of the highlights and initial impressions from the first episode.

Kanon’s Awkward Return: A Bittersweet Homecoming

Kanon’s return to Yuigaoka High School was far from a smooth, triumphant reunion. Instead, it felt almost melancholic, as if she were attending her own farewell ceremony. There was a palpable tension when she reappeared, with the characters and audience unsure of how to react. This awkwardness was brilliantly conveyed and added a layer of depth to her character’s journey. Unlike other Love Live! seasons where the main characters seamlessly continue with their groups, Kanon’s situation is much more nuanced.

Rather than rejoining Liella, as many fans had expected, she has chosen a different path. The trailers hinted at her decision, but seeing her opt to join the New School Idol Club was still a surprising move. This departure from the typical Love Live! formula is refreshing and sets up a potentially exciting rivalry between the two groups, much like what we saw with the Nijigaku storyline.

The New Dynamic: Two Idol Groups, One School

With Kanon joining the New School Idol Club, we now have two separate idol groups coexisting at Yuigaoka. This situation is reminiscent of the School Idol Festival ALL STARS Association, where the coexistence of multiple idol groups created tension and competition. Fortunately, in Love Live! Superstar!!, the atmosphere remains positive, thanks to the supportive Yuigaoka director. There’s hope that the show will explore this new dynamic in a balanced way, allowing both groups to shine without one overshadowing the other.

It’s worth noting that Kanon’s decision not to rejoin Liella and instead stand apart from them brings a sense of unpredictability to the series. This move could lead to exciting new character interactions and plotlines that keep viewers guessing. What will become of Liella without Kanon as their pillar of support? How will the New School Idol Club carve out its own identity?

Old Faces and New Challenges: A New Rivalry with Margarete

Margarete’s role in Season 2 as a rival to Liella was polarizing among fans, and her return in Season 3 promises more of the same. Now that she’s set to be Kanon’s "apprentice," it’s clear that the creators are aiming to build more tension between her and the rest of the cast. Her over-the-top personality and initial hostility are sure to bring more drama, especially as she grapples with accepting kindness from others.

It will be interesting to see if this season can soften Margarete’s rough edges and make her more likable. Her interactions with Kanon are bound to be a key focus, and it’s likely that the rivalry between them will eventually evolve into mutual respect and camaraderie.

Animation and Music: A Visual and Auditory Delight

From the first scene, it’s evident that the animation quality has taken a step up this season. The fluidity of character movements, attention to detail in the choreography, and beautiful visual effects all contribute to a stunning visual experience. The opening (OP) and ending (ED) themes are equally impressive, showcasing vibrant colors, impeccable character designs, and lively dance sequences. The effort put into these segments is evident, making them a joy to watch.

The OP, in particular, stands out with its dynamic camera work, semi-transparent costumes, and intricate hair and clothing physics. Every frame is polished to perfection, and fans will likely find themselves rewatching these sequences to catch all the subtle details. The ED, meanwhile, offers a more relaxed but equally beautiful presentation, providing a satisfying conclusion to each episode.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Liella and Kanon?

The first episode of Season 3 has set the stage for what could be the most unique season of Love Live! Superstar!! yet. With the introduction of two separate idol groups, the show has the potential to explore fresh narrative avenues and character dynamics. It’s a risky move to split the group, but if done right, it could result in some truly compelling storytelling.

There are still many questions left unanswered. How will the members of Liella adjust to Kanon’s absence? Will the New School Idol Club and Liella eventually merge, or will they remain separate entities throughout the season? And what will it take for Margarete to overcome her antagonistic attitude and become a true ally?

Final Thoughts: A Promising Start with Plenty of Potential

Overall, Episode 1 of Love Live! Superstar!! Season 3 has kicked things off with a strong start. The bold decision to separate Kanon from Liella creates an exciting new dynamic that could lead to engaging storylines and character growth. The animation and music are top-notch, and the reintroduction of old characters alongside new faces promises plenty of drama and emotional moments.

With many fans eagerly anticipating the next developments, it’s clear that Love Live! Superstar!! is ready to shake things up this season. Here’s hoping that the show continues to build on this momentum and delivers a memorable and satisfying journey for Kanon, Liella, and the New School Idol Club.