Hyouka: What Should Be Had

Note: There will be some spoilers as this review comprises of an analysis of specific plot points

---

As odd it may be, I am here writing a review of an anime, released around 10years ago now with little reception in recent days. Compared to the main series, this episode was not flashy neither was the mystery intricately woven to warrant massive praise. So why have I decided to write one, not for the 2-cour anime, but for this OVA? Firstly, this is my first rewatch and I have came to better appreciate it. Secondly, I am truly baffled at the interpretation and perspective of this additional episode. I decided to do it justice by providing context for the reader that stumbles upon this review so that more will come to recognize its value much as I have.

Before transiting into the overview, I would like everyone to keep in mind that this OVA is actually an original anime. It never originated from the "Koten-Bu" novels by Honobu Yonezawa, the author of the "Classics Club" Series better known as "Hyouka".

---

The Hyouka OVA: "What Should be Had" is a greatly misunderstood piece of work. Many simply disregard this as a 'fan service episode' and while I may agree to such a statement on an outward front, I would argue that there is much more processing psychologically and emotionally.

This episode follows the previous, 2nd arc which left Oreki Houtarou dejected from his failure to 'solve' the mystery. We begin with Houtarou being offered a job at the pool. We know Houtarou to an extent and there’s no reason for him to take it up(even if it’s for money) “If I don’t have to do it, I won’t”, he has no financial struggles yet he does not react or even slide a snarky remark in his inevitable acceptance.

Throughout this episode, Houtarou was emotionless and rather bland in all his actions—similar to what Satoshi once said, this represents a colourless personality. Chitanda while not being as sensitive as the other two deduced from her conversation with Houtarou that he had certain self doubt because of his abilities(due to his recent failure) and encourages him with reassuring words. His talent-crisis made him doubtful about helping his friends but Chitanda reassures Houtarou throughout all their conversations; what he does is special and he very much is special too. Additionally, Mayaka and Satoshi realizes his ‘blandness’. Satoshi points out to Houtarou his lack of emotion while Mayaka notes his lack of spirit. Regardless how lazy Houtarou is, he is still human and characterized by these qualities. Without them was the bland personality we witnessed—a colourless personality.

”At least give me some reaction, even if it’s gripping. You’re being a bore.”

The episode reaches its turning point when Houtarou decided to present his theory on the mystery. He lets out a sigh conveying to us that there was self-doubt. It reminds us of the burden from his failure and psychological aftermath on Houtarou. He was concerned about another failure yet he takes this step. He was becoming like himself again.

As the episode draws to a close, Satoshi intends to grab himself a nice treat: an ice cream. What a coincidence as that not only reminds Mayaka but serves as our reminder and a transition to the subsequent, 3rd arc where “Hyouka” becomes relevant again. Subsequently, Houtarou had a final interaction with Chitanda and now displays his emotions that portrays his cynicism and laziness. He is finally himself again. And as a nice touch, his final remark(to the job) is the response he should have given(to his sister) from the very beginning.

"What Should be Had" showed us how much Houtarou's friends value him and despite the disappointment they expressed at him in the previous arc, it did not change their respect and appreciation for him as a friend. The value of being needed by someone is an idea many propose to be essential in life. While the title is subjected to interpretation, it is undeniable that this episode acts as an important reconciliation for the group and bridges the unanswered gap in Honobu Yonezawa's novels. In this respect, the producers and director did an excellent job in presenting us a meaningful and worthwhile episode.