I liked this episode. It explored some things that I've rarely seen in other anime before, such as mentioning the recession. Although it's obvious the anime industry has stagnated in variety of content due to the recent recession, this may be the first time I've seen it actually mentioned in an anime, let alone be a basis and catalyst for the plot like it is in C.
The financial district might be a metaphor for the stock market or the casino, as it is shown as a legitimate alternative source of income that is more risky than a steady job.
As far as this episode, Kimimaro is a good protagonist. I can sympathize with his asocial habits, as there are many people I know in college who I feel inadequate among. "I'm not part of that crowd." "She's pretty, but she's out of my league." All those kinds of thoughts. His reactions to Masakiki were very much full of disbelief and confusion but he never overreacted or slipped out of character. He's just a hardened, apathetic college student. How his character as a whole turns out will be determined by how he develops in the rest of the series. I sincerely hope he doesn't become another overpowered chivalrous action guy who constantly monologues his opponents.
About Hanabi, I think she's just a really nice and friendly person. It didn't feel like she was 'leading Kimimaro on', although of course that's a possible case but from this first episode it doesn't point in that direction. And I don't think anybody is obligated to tell a classmate about their relationship status, unless they find themselves squeezed into a possible sexual fling that could ruin their other relationships. And anyway, it's refreshing to see somebody like Hanabi in an anime. She's attractive and she's nice. It's understandable for somebody like her to have a boyfriend, especially at her age, as opposed to the typical formula in anime where we have 4+ gorgeous and sweet girls who have never touched a boy's hand in the past suddenly going horny for the male protagonist. And the timeslot C is in is generally geared towards women in their 20's. You know, those who are working and studying hard to get money and jobs. Silly otaku values need not apply to this anime. I'm sure lots of people who watch this show would feel jealous of Hanabi for getting a rich boyfriend.
This anime has made me want to start learning economics, even though I'm primarily a science student.
For anyone with experience, what are the best economics textbooks for college out there?