It’s definitely the most refined Hibike content we’ve had since Liz and the Blue Bird (which is my favourite film of all time), but I fear that without the input of Yamada, everything has become somewhat more emotionally inert. Attempts have been made to replicate the influence she had on the series—there’s a handful of little leg moments that made me scour the credits for her name—but it’s not quite up to the standard of the series. That being said, it’s still a lot of fun, and a solid set up for season 3; it’s especially nice to see Kumiko functioning as the club’s president,and overall much of my disdain for the series’ previous film has been remedied. I’m excited for what’s to come!