Many viewers might have dropped “The Foolish Angel Dances With The Devil” after the initial episodes, and honestly, it’s understandable. The first two episodes are noticeably weak, and the third is just average. Even as someone aiming to finish every anime started in 2024, the thought of dropping this one definitely crossed my mind. However, pushing past those initial hurdles reveals a show that surprisingly improves, starting from episode 4.
The comedy in the first three episodes simply doesn’t land. Jokes feel flat, and the overall comedic timing seems off. Yet, episode 4 marks a significant turning point. The opening minutes of episode 4 were genuinely funny, a welcome and unexpected change. This improvement wasn’t a fluke; the episode maintains a much higher quality, prompting the question: “Is this anime actually becoming good?”
Then comes episode 5, featuring a romance scene that stands out as exceptionally well-directed and impactful. Despite utilizing familiar romance anime tropes like the cliché phone ring and accidental fall, the scene’s effectiveness lies in its build-up, the sudden silence emphasizing the moment, and the sustained duration of that intimate interaction. It’s a scene that elevates “The Foolish Angel Dances with the Devil” beyond initial low expectations.
However, consistency is the anime’s biggest challenge. It’s a rollercoaster of quality, swinging between dull moments, surprisingly excellent scenes, and stretches of mediocrity. Each new episode feels like a gamble: will it be good, bad, or just average? Whether viewers are willing to navigate this inconsistency to experience the highlights is a personal choice. Interestingly, the weaker writing in later episodes becomes more forgivable as you develop an understanding and appreciation for the characters and their evolving relationships.
It’s easy to see why many would dismiss “The Foolish Angel Dances with the Devil” as not worth the time after the first few episodes. But beneath the uneven surface, there’s something genuinely engaging. Sticking with it to the end might reveal moments of humor and emotional impact that are surprisingly enjoyable and memorable, making the initial slog worthwhile for those willing to persevere.
