Plus-Sized Elf episode 5 review: Studio Linden flips the script by having the therapist need therapy

Modified Aug 04, 2024 14:55 GMT

Naoe as seen in Plus-Sized Elf episode 5 (Image via Elias)

Plus-Sized Elf episode 5, titled The Empress of the Park and the Demonic Dinner, was released at 12:00 am JST on Sunday, August 4, 2024. It was first streamed on HIDIVE and was subsequently broadcast on channels like TOKYO MX, BS11, and AT-X.

In this episode, two more characters who have been hiding as humans in this world are introduced. The series takes an exciting turn by experimenting with its format. The spotlight is primarily on Naoe, the human, rather than any fantastical beings and their unique issues.

The anime is based on a Japanese manga series by Synecdoche. The series was initially published on the Comic Gum website of Wani Books. A sequel is being published in Akita Shoten's Dokodemo Young Champion magazine.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers.

A sprite and a satyr show up to create trouble in Plus-Sized Elf episode 5

Plus-Sized Elf episode 5: A brief synopsis

Kobo as seen in Plus-Sized Elf episode 5 (Image via Elias)

In Plus-Sized Elf episode 5, Oga and others come across a child named Kobo who demands payment for playing on her turf. Oga is charmed by her cuteness as ogres have a soft spot for children. Kuroeda, however, feels the need to teach Kobo a lesson. Kobo attacks Kuroeda but is easily subdued by Oga.

It is revealed that Kobo gets candies from kids in the park by making them pay with candies and those who kick out those who cannot pay. Kobo spins a tale about being abandoned by her parents and starving, using eyedrops to fake tears, but Elfuda points out Kobo's flabbiness.

Angered, Kobo reveals she is a sprite, a fully grown adult with the physical appearance of a child as she starts fighting the elf. Naoe intervenes, suggesting Kobo reduce the fat on her face through exercises. They all perform tongue exercises and face massages. Funnily enough, after losing some facial fat, Kobo becomes popular, and kids willingly give her candies.

The satyr as seen in Plus-Sized Elf episode 5 (Image via Elias)

Next, in Plus-Sized Elf episode 5, Naoe reprimands Elfuda for indulging in fries and gaining weight. However, Elfuda soon discovers that Naoe himself has put on a few pounds. Determined to get back in shape, Naoe devises a plan: he starts his day with a glass of water, eats balanced meals, and incorporates moderate exercise into his routine. Despite his efforts, he notices that he continues to gain weight.

One night, Naoe wakes up to find himself in the midst of a lavish feast. He finds out that a satyr has been cooking for him and feeding him under a hypnotic spell, relishing the greed she induced in him.

Fortunately, Elfuda and Kuroeda, who had sensed the spell earlier, came to his rescue. They manage to drive the satyr away and warn Naoe that she might return, as satyrs tend to form strong attachments to their victims. To protect him, Elfuda, Kuroeda, Oga, Kobo, and others decide to stay at Naoe's place.

Plus-Sized Elf episode 5 review: A refreshing twist

Naoe wakes up surprised in Plus-Sized Elf episode 5 (Image via Elias)

To start with the negative aspect, the first half of Plus-Sized Elf episode 5 can be a tad off-putting due to Miss Kobo's character. She comes across as an annoying brat, and her loud personality has been seen before in characters like Elfuda and Kuroeda. This repetition is pointless as it does not bring anything new to the series, except for showing Oga's softer side, which is in stark contrast to her tall and muscular build.

However, the episode becomes quite engaging as it progresses. The series has generally succeeded with its simple formula of introducing new characters and showcasing their weight loss journeys in each episode. However, Plus-Sized Elf episode 5 tweaks this usual approach.

Naoe, the physical therapist at the Smiley Boar, who is usually there to help others lose weight and live healthier lives, ends up needing help himself. Naoe is carrying a few extra pounds and needs a little help from his friends to make sure the satyr keeps away so he can burn off some calories.

This twist in the storyline is refreshing, making it more interesting than the previous installments. While it was a bit annoying at first, the episode managed to hold the viewers’ attention. Plus, the satyr is still a pretty mysterious character, unlike the other fantastical creatures in the series. She neither befriends Naoe and Co. nor receives weight loss advice from him. Hopefully, viewers will get more of her story in a future episode.