Episode 10 of Ave Mujica: The Die is Cast, titled “Odi et amo,” delivers an emotionally charged installment filled with drama, intense character developments, and the series’ signature unexpected twists. While the episode sees Ave Mujica reunite, it also hints at darker undercurrents, particularly surrounding Uika’s character and her unsettling obsession with Sakiko. Premiered on March 6, 2025, the episode blends melodrama and emotional depth with breathtaking music and stunning animation.
Ave Mujica Back on Stage: A Cathartic Reunion?
The central event of Episode 10 is the reunion of Ave Mujica. After the turmoil and friction of previous episodes, the band members seemingly put their differences aside and return to the stage.
- Nyamu’s Proactive Role: Nyamu takes a crucial step by sending Uika’s message about needing Sakiko to the band’s group chat, pushing for a confrontation and ultimately, a reunion.
- Confronting Sakiko: Nyamu and Uika confront Sakiko at the Togawa Estate, where Nyamu admits her need for Ave Mujica, and Uika, though hesitant, expresses similar feelings.
- Sakiko’s Decision: Sakiko, influenced by Nyamu and Uika’s confrontation, as well as Tomori’s words, acknowledges that the lives of Umiri, Nyamu, Mutsumi, and Uika are bound to her. This realization leads her to reunite the band.
However, some reviews suggest that Sakiko’s decision to bring the band back felt abrupt and lacked the emotional depth and intense stakes that should have made it more compelling. The reunion seemingly happens too quickly, without enough exploration of the emotional turmoil and desperation that would make it truly impactful.
A Stunning Performance
Episode 10 features a performance that takes up a significant portion of the episode, with Uika’s vocals at the center. The band performs two new songs:
- The first song, inspired by Nyamu sending Uika’s message, conveys the difficult feelings and the band’s yearning to be together.
- The second song is described as a symphonic metal performance.
Reviewers praised the animation and music during the performance, highlighting Uika’s emotional delivery.
Uika’s Unsettling Obsession
Episode 10 delves deeper into Uika’s character, revealing a disturbing obsession with Sakiko.
- “Imprisoned XII”: Uika’s reuniting song, “Imprisoned XII,” is described as an unrequited romantic ballad where she stares directly into the camera and expresses her love for Sakiko.
- Perverse Framing: The framing and direction of Uika’s body language during the performance is described as perverse, suggesting a disturbing intensity in her feelings for Sakiko.
- Sakiko’s Discomfort: After the performance, Uika is in a cheery mood, but Sakiko seems distant, hinting at her discomfort with Uika’s affections.
Some interpretations suggest that Uika’s desperation to earn Sakiko’s approval and her possessive tendencies bring a new and unsettling dynamic to the group.
Sinister Hints and Unanswered Questions
Despite the band’s reunion and the stunning performance, Episode 10 leaves viewers with several unanswered questions and hints at a more sinister plot.
- Sakiko’s Grandfather: Uika asks Sakiko about moving back into her attic, but they are interrupted by Sakiko’s grandfather, the leader of the Togawa Group.
- “Hatsune”: Sakiko’s grandfather calls Uika “Hatsune” and tells her to go back home, adding another layer of mystery to her character.
- Fractured Trust: Ave Mujica remains a band built on fractured trust, with each member having their own agenda and secrets.
These unresolved plot points suggest that Ave Mujica’s problems are far from over, and that the band may be heading towards a darker path. One review suggests that Episode 10 feels more like a prelude to something far more sinister involving Uika.
Production Quality and Direction
Studio SANZIGEN once again delivers exceptional production quality in Episode 10, with fluid animation and seamless integration of CGI. The voice acting is also praised for perfectly embodying the characters’ emotions. Kodai Kakimoto’s expert direction and Yuniko Ayana’s script contribute to the episode’s overall success.
Final Thoughts: A Missed Opportunity or a Sinister Prelude?
Overall, “The Die is Cast” is a visually stunning and emotionally charged episode that sees Ave Mujica reunite. However, the episode also raises several questions about Uika’s character and the band’s future. Some reviews suggest that the reunion felt rushed and lacked emotional weight, while others see the episode as a prelude to a darker and more sinister plot. With only a few episodes left, it remains to be seen whether Ave Mujica can overcome their internal conflicts and achieve their goals, or whether they will succumb to the darkness that threatens to consume them.
