Contains spoilers.
Story:
This series is the continuation of the first season of Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Comedy wa Machigatteiru (Oregairu for short). Coming into the series, I had pretty high expectations as I enjoyed the first season for its unique and dynamic characters and their mutual interactions. Having a light hearted SOL style, I was not prepared for such a drama driven show, and to be honest, some parts of the story did confuse me and leave me thinking "huh? What is going on?" These problems were most prominent during Hachiman's emotional breakdown in EP 8. and Yui's confrontation with Hachiman and Yukino in the final episode. Even after the series, I did not have a very clear idea what the "genuine thing" Hachiman wanted was. I did not know if the author intended it to be this way, or if I missed something, but that was something that bothered me when I was watching this show. Other than that, I found the development of the story to be quite very enjoyable. My personal favourite part of the series was its use of dialogue and monologues to express the character's feelings and attitudes. Unlike many other series which bases its character relationships on friendship, many are which are quite superficial and phony, this series uses dialogue to analyse some of its more troubling aspects, along with themes of romance, dependency, and trust. The ending leaves the resolutions on an open note (in this case, a cliffhanger) which may leave many people dissatisfied. I can see why it is controversial, but in my opinion, I thought the ending concluded quite nicely. Even with some of its minor problems, the realism this show exhibits and the passion the characters have to struggle and understand these issues really pushes it above most other shows of this caliber and should be considered a sui generis masterpiece.
Art:
In the announcing of the new series, I was quite surprised by the change in animation studio, and was a bit apprehensive to see how the series would turn out. Since I really enjoyed season one's art (especially Hachiman's design), I didn't actually know if I would continue watching this season if the art didn't fit my tastes (and the storyline). When the show started, I had a hard time adjusting to the sudden change in character design, but over time it grew on me, so it wasn't too bad. The designs for the characters and background became more crisp, and the colouring became more sophisticated, with warmer colours used in more light hearted scenarios, and cooler colours used in the more melancholic moments (such as near the end of EP 7.)
Sound:
The series introduces a new opening and ending, both of which are honestly quite catchy and refreshing (I really like the song choices for this series; they are really nice to listen to). Also, the solo ballads sung by the voice actors for Yui and Yukino that replaced the endings were some of the most beautiful Japanese songs I have heard (why can't they get Hachiman's VA to do one too.... sigh). Most of the OST they used in the series are reused from the first season, which is nice because it helps the series retain the atmosphere that made Oregairu unique and enjoyable as a show. Also, as the series became more 'drama' driven than 'comedy' driven, the importance of the supporting background music also increased to intensify some of the more emotionally charged moments. I think the music was used very well in such situations, such as Hachiman's confessions about his feelings; the music really did help to amplify the emotional aspects of the scene.
Characters:
In addition to the previous characters, the cast is also expanded to include many new ones, most notably the underclassman Isshiki Iroha, Orimoto, and the members of the partner school for the Christmas event. However, the main focus remains on the relationship between the three members of the Service Club, and how they overcome some of the more troubling obstacles in their relationship.
Hikigaya Hachiman:
Our favourite misanthrope is back! Hachiman is one of my favourite characters in all the shows that I've seen In addition to his hilarious cynicism and pessimistic view on life, his observation skills and adept problem solving abilities really make him an enjoyable character to watch. When he is not in his antisocial mode, he plays the villain and is always ready to sacrifice himself for the sake of the wellbeing of his fellow classmates. His accomplishments usually goes unnoticed and he usually becomes the scapegoat, but he doesn't care as long as his objectives are met. In short words, he can be described as the kind of person who is indifferent to the process as long as he can reach the goal, even if it results in him hurting himself. What he doesn't realise is that as he strengthens his relationship with Yukino and Yui, his actions result in not only pain for himself, but also the pain in others. In Oregairu Zoku, Hachiman and his epiphany and the acknowledgement of his wrongs play a significant role in the progression of the story. Throughout the first part of the story and even in Season 1, Hiratsuka-sensei gave many warnings to Hachiman, saying that although his objectives are being met, his actions are hurting those around him. He notices that many of the actions he has taken are temporary and does not solve the problem at its roots. With the acknowledgement of wrongdoing and the struggle for change in EP. 8, Hachiman begins his search for something genuine. This serves as the turning point of the story and also the beginning of change in the four main characters. Hachiman serves as the catalyst for this change, and his willingness to do so makes me respect him more as a character.
Yukinoshita Yukino:
The cool, strong, levelheaded, and stubborn girl seen in the first season has quite a dramatic change in character in the second season. With her views on Hachiman's actions and ideas as unacceptable, the two come into odds in a very serious manner, which, at many times, threatened to break apart the club. Yukino makes it very clear during Hachiman's "confession" in EP 2. that she does not approve of his actions, yet she cannot articulate why she thinks that way. I think through the various bonds that Yukino has created with both Hachiman and Yui, she has started to care for both of them, which causes her to feel hurt when she sees Hachiman's self abuse. When Hachiman talks about the failures of his actions and his goal to reach something "genuine", Yukino backs off in shock. In the next episodes, her character starts to warm a bit, and she becomes more "dependent" on Hachiman (I used dependent here because "trust" is questioned by her sister Haruno in the later episodes, and to me I think that needs a bit more clarification to fully understand).
Yuigahama Yui:
Yui serves as the "glue" between Hachiman and Yukino with her light-hearted "nice girl" personality. Her character is sort of the opposite of Yukino and Hachiman, with her already having many friends at school and being quite popular among those that know her. However, because she is seen as the "nice girl", she actually feels quite distant from the other two. In addition, the fact that she is seen as a "nice girl" makes that a facade for her. The other characters, even the analytical Hachiman, did not see until the very end until she gave him the cookies and said that she will take everything because that is what she wants. I had a hard time analysing Yui's character in the last episode, because she never gave a specific answer to what she wanted (which Hachiman noted), so I can curious to find out what she meant.
Iroha Isshiki:
The newly introduced character of this season who becomes the student council president. Seemingly a platonic character, she is actually a very cunning and dynamic girl. From my perspective she hides her true personality in order to prevent herself from being seen in bad light by other people, as she holds her reputation quite high. However, after listening to Hachiman's "genuine" speech, she strives to change herself. This is exemplified in her confession to Hayato and her rejection, as the Hachiman's words gives her the strength to toss aside her facade, and aim for what she wants.
Overall:
I would definitely recommend it as it was my personal favourite series of Spring 2015. With unique dialogue and characterisation, this show deserves the numerous accolades that it gets from viewers. It is a 9/10 series for me. Thank you so much for reading, and if possible please give me some constructive suggestions so that I may improve the next time I write. I hope you have a wonderful day wherever you are!
