Okay, Fruits Basket fans. Let’s talk about episode 10 of season 1, English dub. Specifically, “What Year Is She?” because honestly, that’s the real question we all had watching it.
The Cat’s Out of the Bag (Literally)
First off, Kyo. Oh, Kyo, Kyo, Kyo. Did he really think he could just casually stroll around with a box and nobody would notice? I mean, come on!
And then the box opens! Surprise! It's a tiny, adorable kitten! Who didn’t squeal? (Okay, maybe a few of you didn’t. Weirdos.)
Tohru’s Unwavering Kindness
Tohru’s compassion is, as always, on full display. She’s like a sunshine ray wrapped in a high school uniform. Seriously, can we all just aspire to be half as kind as she is?
Even when dealing with a freaked-out cat and a slightly unhinged Kyo, she’s still the epitome of sweetness. It’s almost annoying. Almost.
Let’s be real, who wouldn't want Tohru as a friend? She’s basically the best anime friend ever.
The Mystery of the Lost Kitten
The whole kitten situation is just… chaotic. It feels like a typical day in the Sohmas' lives. Complete and utter madness!
Trying to find the owner of this little fuzzball is like trying to find a matching sock in the laundry void. Good luck with that, team.
And speaking of the owner, they are so very very lucky. Imagine leaving such an adorable kitten alone somewhere! The heartbreak!
My Unpopular Opinion: The Kitten is Overrated
Okay, I said it. Prepare for the hate mail. While the kitten is cute, I think it's… a little overrated. There, I feel better.
It's cute, but it's just a plot device. The plot device pushes Tohru closer to Kyo, which is really what we're all here for, right?
Don't get me wrong, I love cats. But this episode felt a bit kitten-focused. I like the characters more. Sue me.
The Sohma Family Drama, as Usual
Of course, we can't have a Fruits Basket episode without a little bit of family drama. Shigure is being cryptic. As usual.
Yuki is brooding. Also, as usual. It’s like their personalities are stuck on repeat. Still love them, though.
These are the little things that help us understand that this is not your typical family.
That Ending Though!
The episode ends with the kitten finding its real owner. All is well in the world! A happy ending for everyone!
Except, of course, for the fact that everyone involved are Sohma and are therefore cursed with being animals in the Chinese Zodiac. Oh well!
It’s a good reminder that underneath the fluffy exterior, there’s a whole lot of angst bubbling just below the surface. Always.
Overall Thoughts
Episode 10 is a solid episode. It’s cute. It's funny. It's everything we love about Fruits Basket in one tidy little package.
It’s a reminder that even amidst the curses and the trauma, there’s still room for kindness, compassion, and the occasional stray kitten.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go rewatch it. Maybe I'll change my mind about the kitten. Or maybe not. Only time will tell.
What did you think of this episode? Let me know in the comments!