Episode 5 of “From Bureaucrat to Villainess: Dad’s Been Reincarnated!” has arrived, and it’s throwing viewers headfirst into a whirlwind of magical exhibitions, family interventions, and unexpected yuri undertones. The anime continues its unique blend of isekai tropes with a heartwarming (and hilarious) twist, as Kenzaburo Tondabayashi, a middle-aged bureaucrat reincarnated as the villainess Grace Auvergne, navigates the treacherous waters of a magical academy.
Grace’s Dual-Element Dragon Draws Attention
The episode, titled “Dad Gets Into Dual-Wielding,” picks up after Grace’s summoning of an ancient dragon with both fire and water attributes in the previous episode. This feat immediately sets her apart, as dual-element beasts are incredibly rare and powerful. The dragon, christened Orion by Kenzaburo’s daughter Hinako in a clever attempt to jog his memory with a shared childhood reference, becomes the center of attention.
The Principal’s Invitation and a “Charmander to Squirtle” Dragon
The academy principal, intrigued by both Grace and her unique beast, invites her to participate in the Magic Exhibition, a prestigious end-of-term event. Hinako recognizes this as a significant event in the original game, one where the heroine, Anna Doll, and her chosen love interest typically deepen their bond.
Grace’s ability to see menus and status screens, a perk granted by Hinako’s influence from the real world, allows her to control Orion’s elemental alignment, switching between fire and water at will. One reviewer humorously describes this as a “Charmander to Squirtle mode,” complete with corresponding color changes.
Hinako’s Influence and the “Real World” Connection
A key element of the series is the connection between Grace’s adventures in the game world and Hinako’s efforts in the real world. While Kenzaburo remains in a coma, Hinako discovers she can influence the game’s events, providing Grace with invaluable assistance. This adds a layer of depth to the story, as viewers witness both Grace’s struggles within the game and Hinako’s dedication to helping her father from the outside.
Hinako’s actions aren’t always successful in their intended purpose. Her naming of the dragon Orion, a deliberate reference to a shared memory, fails to trigger any recognition from her father. Despite this, she remains determined to support him, realizing her influence can significantly impact the unfolding events.
A Yuri Route on the Horizon?
Episode 5 takes an unexpected turn as the dynamic between Grace and Anna Doll intensifies. Grace, still attempting to fulfill her role as the villainess (albeit unsuccessfully), requests Anna to be her assistant at the Magic Exhibition. This decision, coupled with their growing closeness, leads many to believe that the plot is veering off course and heading towards a “yuri route,” a romantic pairing between two female characters.
The Green-Haired Bookworm and Pierre’s Affection Points
The potential for a yuri storyline doesn’t go unnoticed by everyone in the academy. A new, unnamed green-haired bookworm character is introduced, who seemingly experiences extreme excitement, even to the point of a nosebleed-induced coma, at the prospect of Anna and Grace’s relationship.
Meanwhile, Grace’s influence extends beyond the main characters. During a visit to the library, she encounters Prince Virgile’s uptight servant, Pierre. Grace introduces Pierre to the concept of personal time off, a revolutionary idea that resonates with the overworked servant and causes his “affection points” for Grace to rise.
Family Reacts: Marriage Counseling Incoming?
The shift towards a possible yuri route raises interesting questions about how Kenzaburo’s family will react. Hinako and her mother, Mitsuko, haven’t yet commented on the romantic undertones between Grace and Anna. One review humorously speculates about the potential need for “serious marriage counseling” if Kenzaburo, in Grace’s body, ends up courting a teenage girl.
“Elegant Cheat” and the Unintentional Rise in Popularity
Despite Kenzaburo’s attempts to act like a villainess, his inherent politeness and work ethic continue to shine through, often misinterpreted as “elegance” by those around him. This “Elegant Cheat,” as it’s been dubbed, translates his plebeian mannerisms into something refined, inadvertently increasing his popularity and attracting the attention of potential love interests.
Trying to be Mean Backfires
In this episode, Kenzaburo tries to be harsher towards Anna, hoping to push her to train harder. However, his words, while intended to be stern, are perceived as gentle encouragement, further solidifying Anna’s affection for Grace. This comedic misunderstanding highlights the core theme of the series: Kenzaburo’s inability to truly embody the villainess role due to his ingrained personality.
A Blend of Fantasy and Real Life
“From Bureaucrat to Villainess” continues to impress with its unique blend of fantasy and real-life elements. The series seamlessly transitions between Grace’s adventures in the game world and Hinako and Mitsuko’s reactions in the real world, providing a multifaceted perspective on the unfolding events.
Three Points of View
Episode 5 exemplifies this approach, offering viewers three distinct points of view: Grace’s experience within the game, Hinako’s efforts to assist her father, and the reactions of Mitsuko, the mother, to the bizarre situation. This narrative structure allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and their motivations, adding to the overall enjoyment of the series.
Concerns About Pacing
Some reviewers have expressed concerns about the pacing of the series, noting that the constant switching between Grace’s plot progression and Hinako/Mitsuko’s reactions could slow down the narrative. The repetition of scenes from different viewpoints, while initially entertaining, may become tiresome if not balanced effectively in future episodes.
“Isekai History” in the Making?
Despite these concerns, many viewers are praising “From Bureaucrat to Villainess” for its originality and charm. One reviewer boldly proclaims that the series is “witnessing isekai history,” highlighting its unique perspective and comedic execution.
A Masterpiece in the Making?
The series subverts the typical villainess trope by portraying a protagonist who is fundamentally incapable of being evil. Kenzaburo’s genuine kindness and work ethic, combined with the over-the-top reactions of the characters around him, create a hilarious and heartwarming viewing experience.
The show’s self-awareness and willingness to embrace its “weebiness” have also been praised, contributing to its unique style and personality. The improved production quality, particularly in the animation and art direction, further enhances the overall viewing experience.
Dual Wielding: More Than Just a Dragon
“From Bureaucrat to Villainess: Dad’s Been Reincarnated!” Episode 5 solidifies the anime’s position as a standout in the isekai genre. With its engaging plot, endearing characters, and unique blend of fantasy and real-life elements, the series continues to surprise and delight viewers. The introduction of the dual-element dragon, the potential yuri route, and the ongoing family intervention all point towards an exciting and unpredictable future for Grace Auvergne and her unlikely journey as a villainess. “Dual Wielding” in this episode can be taken not just literally, with Orion’s two elements, but also metaphorically, referring to Grace’s two souls, and the dual perspectives from which the audience views the story.
