Plus-Sized Elf: Episode 2 Review – Naoe’s Quest to Help Fantastical Creatures Brings the Laughs

The second episode of Plus-Sized Elf, titled The Dark Elf and the Beautiful Flower, premiered on HIDIVE at 01:30 am JST and was later aired on channels such as TOKYO MX, BS11, and AT-X. In the previous episode, viewers were introduced to Naoe, a massage center employee, who meets a dimension-traveling elf named Elfuda. Elfuda seeks Naoe’s assistance in her weight loss journey.

Despite Elfuda’s unwavering love for fries, it does not mean that others share the same obsession. This is clearly demonstrated in the current episode of Plus-Sized Elf. The comedic theme of the show carries on in episode 2, as Naoe generously offers his assistance to anyone he encounters.

The anime is an adaptation of a manga series by Synecdoche, which originated in Japan. The series first appeared on Wani Books’ Comic Gum website and a sequel is currently being released in Akita Shoten’s Dokodemo Young Champion magazine.

Note: This article includes spoilers.

Review of Plus-Sized Elf Episode 2: Improvements Despite Flaws

Summary of Plus-Sized Elf episode 2

Kuroeda as seen in Plus-Sized Elf episode 2 (Image via Elias)

In episode 2 of Plus-Sized Elf, Naoe eagerly anticipates a movie night during his day off. He makes a stop at a nearby store to purchase some popcorn. While there, he notices Elfuda buying fries and also spots a dark elf named Kuroeda at the counter. Elfuda informs him that dark elves are infamous for their malevolent and tardy behavior, which is the complete opposite of her own kind.

Despite a heated argument between Elfuda and Kuroeda, Naoe is able to extricate himself by clarifying to Kuroeda that he is not her enemy and that his loyalty lies with Elfuda as his client.

Kuroeda confides in Naoe about her current predicament. As a dark elf, she relies on specialized attire and accessories to enhance her magic. However, her recent weight gain has made it challenging for her to fit into her clothes, negatively impacting her abilities.

One golem is the limit of her summoning abilities, making it challenging for her to run the store without any assistance. Naoe offers various solutions to alleviate her workload, such as taking half-body baths, receiving daily leg massages, and incorporating exercises like lunges and squats into her routine.

As Kuroeda starts squatting in the store, her pants tear, right in front of Elfuda who seizes the chance to taunt her. In retaliation, Kuroeda also responds with a comeback. Naoe attempts to ease the tension by explaining that beauty is subjective and different individuals have varying preferences when it comes to body types, but he ends up being judged instead. Nevertheless, Kuroeda’s situation gradually improves thanks to Naoe’s guidance, and she is able to summon more golems for assistance.

Kusahanada as seen in Plus-Sized Elf episode 2 (Image via Elias)

In the second episode of Plus-Sized Elf, Naoe develops a friendship with Kusahanada, the owner of a recently opened flower shop in the neighborhood. Kusahanada has a large flower growing on her head that appears to be expanding every day. At the same time, she has been gaining weight and dealing with muscle soreness.

Naoe begins to doubt her humanity, prompting Elfuda to clarify that Kusahanada is an Alraune, a humanoid creature that sustains itself through sunlight and soil. In an effort to improve her well-being and manage her weight, Naoe gifts her a back brace for posture correction and an umbrella for protection.

The episode concludes with Kusahanada gifting Naoe two sauna coupons, but she cautions him about a rumored Ogre that supposedly frequents the sauna at night.

Plus-Sized Elf Episode 2 Review: The Good and the Bad

Elfuda as seen in Plus-Sized Elf episode 2 (Image via Elias)

In episode 2 of Plus-Sized Elf, there is a wealth of information that will be of interest to those seeking effective weight loss strategies. One notable example is Naoe’s detailed instructions for Kuroeda on performing various exercises. Additionally, the episode highlights the importance of maintaining good posture, as seen through Kusahanada’s use of a corrective brace.

There are multiple entertaining scenes scattered throughout the episode. One particularly memorable moment is when Elfuda boldly claims that blaming weight gain on sunlight is a weak excuse, and instead, she prefers to indulge in french fries in a more traditional manner.

Despite the first episode being somewhat lackluster, the latest installment has shown significant improvement. It may not introduce any groundbreaking content, but its enjoyable pace and brief runtime make it a delightful, easy-going viewing experience.

Despite lacking investment in exploring the psychological developments of the characters and lacking high stakes to create tension, there is a genuine concern that viewers may find the series uninteresting and choose not to continue watching.