Episode 7 of Tamon’s B-Side finds the series walking a delicate line between its usual bubbly idol-comedy tone and the darker realities that simmer beneath the glamour. This installment leans into the awkward, adorable aftermath of Tamon recognizing his feelings for Utage while the show simultaneously reminds us that the idol world is far from harmless. The episode blends character-driven comedy with an undercurrent of anxiety about fandom and celebrity, giving viewers both laughs and reason to worry for the cast.
Shifting Dynamics: Tamon and Utage’s Complicated Chemistry
At the heart of episode 7 is the evolving relationship between Tamon and Utage. Tamon’s switch from confident “Hottiehara” persona to nervous, fumbling self when he’s around Utage makes for comic gold, but it also reveals sincere emotional stakes. He’s experimenting with traditional romantic gestures—gifts, earnest attempts to impress—but often treats the situation like a game mechanic, unsure which choices win affection.
Utage, on the other hand, remains fiercely committed to her identity as a fan and oshi, resisting the idea of transforming that dynamic into something romantic. There’s a compelling possibility that Utage’s feelings may not align with romance in the usual sense; her fixation on preserving the purity of fandom reads increasingly as a conscious boundary rather than simple obliviousness. The contrast between Tamon’s awkward attempts at courtship and Utage’s determined boundary-setting creates an engaging emotional tug-of-war that drives much of the episode’s humor and tension.
Performance Anxiety and the Documentary Scene
One of the episode’s most affecting sequences is Tamon watching a documentary about the competition that once threw him into crisis—and which also features him on screen. Watching oneself perform can be uniquely uncomfortable for many entertainers, and the scene captures that shame-and-pride mix expertly. Tamon looks physically worn by the experience, but he endures it because spending time with Utage matters more to him than his discomfort.
This moment does two important things: it humanizes Tamon beyond his idol sheen, and it deepens Utage’s role as someone who genuinely wants to support him—even if her idea of support sometimes misses the mark. That Utage chose this documentary knowing it could be painful suggests she’s trying to reconnect him with his strengths, not just indulge her fandom. The result is surprisingly tender and underscores Tamon’s willingness to endure awkwardness for the sake of being with her.
Keito’s Control and the Dark Undercurrents of Fandom
Episode 7 also pulls back the curtain on Keito, revealing his more calculating, profit-driven instincts. He’s blunt about the risks of Utage getting too involved with Tamon, and while his primary concern seems financial, his anxiety taps into a very real threat for idols: obsessive fans and the ruthless logistics of image management.
Why management worries matter
Even if Keito’s motives skew toward the wallet, his fear isn’t entirely unfounded. Idol culture in the series is shown to be unforgiving—romantic entanglements, rumors, or even a single misstep can end careers. The episode reminds viewers that the comedic slices-of-life are held in tension with a world where fan possessiveness and industry pressures can turn dark quickly. That juxtaposition raises the stakes for every seemingly lighthearted scene.
Fan Behavior, Safety, and the Limits of Comedy
Several throwaway lines and past jokes in the series take on new weight in this episode. Previous quips—friends threatening the “girlfriend” of a member—were played for laughs earlier, but now they feel like ominous possibilities rather than harmless banter. Tamon’s growing openness about his feelings and Utage’s proximity to the group both increase the chance of boundary violations, stalking, or targeted harassment from unstable fans. The show doesn’t dive fully into horror, but the threat is real enough to complicate the sitcom aspects.
By acknowledging these dangers, Tamon’s B-Side manages to have its cake and eat it too: episodes still deliver slapstick and warmth, but the narrative consistently hints that those happy moments exist within a fragile social ecosystem.
What the Training Camp Tease Promises
The episode wraps with a set-up for a training camp—an obvious opportunity for both comedy and character development. The camp premise naturally opens the door to more slice-of-life hijinks: group exercises, shared accommodations, behind-the-scenes friction, and bonding moments. Crucially, Utage will be present at the camp, which accelerates the potential for awkward interactions and also gives the writers a controlled environment to deepen relationships.
It’s also likely the camp will introduce more about the other F/ACE members. Up until now, the show has focused primarily on a few faces, but a multi-day retreat is the perfect narrative device to unpack personalities, hidden anxieties, and core group dynamics. Expect new comedic beats alongside quieter scenes that build empathy for supporting characters.
Balancing Tone: Why Episode 7 Matters
Episode 7 is important because it clarifies the series’ tonal agenda: Tamon’s B-Side wants to remain a charming, light romantic comedy while refusing to ignore the darker implications of idol life. The episode balances physical comedy—Tamon’s adorably awkward attempts to please Utage—with slower, more disquieting moments that probe safety and image management. This balancing act deepens investment in the characters and keeps the narrative unpredictable in a satisfying way.
Where to Watch
Tamon’s B-Side is currently streaming on Crunchyroll.
Final thoughts
Episode 7 of Tamon’s B-Side succeeds by complicating its central rom-com premise: every laugh carries the possibility of real-world consequence, and every tender moment sits atop an industry that can devour the people in it. The chemistry between Tamon and Utage remains the show’s heart, with Tamon’s vulnerability and Utage’s staunch fandom creating compelling friction. With the training camp on the horizon, the series seems poised to expand its emotional range—expect more comedy, more awkward confessions, and more glimpses into the less glamorous side of idol life.
https://www.myanimeforlife.com/tamons-b-side-episode-7-review/?feed_id=167174&_unique_id=69919a51c32af
Comments
Post a Comment