liammc-73274 Reviews

Black Swan (2010)

Just Watch "Perfect Blue" Instead

[2/10 · 6 January 2024]

I'm trying to get more into film, and so far I haven't come across many pictures I'd confidently label "pretentious". It's a word that's thrown around all too often, used as a stand-in for "something I disliked / didn't connect with". I'd argue Aronofsky's "Black Swan" fits the textbook definition of the word.

Having seen "Perfect Blue" for the first time in theaters recently, I knew a bit about the bad blood and rights disputes between him and Satoshi Kon. The influence of the latter on this film is indisputable, and Aronofsky's denial of this fact definitely tainted my overall impression of it. With comparisons abound, the tactless approach to similar subject matter presented here was made glaringly apparent.

The script was juvenile and wooden, brought to "life" by matching performances from Kunis, Cassel, Hershey, and Ryder. Portman was generally good, with the dressing room scene preceding the third act of her "swan song" being a standout moment. However, her dialogues with Kunis and Hershey grew grating and hopelessly melodramatic as the film trudged on.

I gave the film the benefit of the doubt initially. But this slowly withered away as it dawned on me that Aronofsky planned to play out Tchaikovsky's classic ballet to the letter, bashing his audience over the head with every plot beat reflected in his "tragic" imitation of Kon's masterwork. Loss of innocence, entitlement of the masses (demand for infantilization v promiscuity), corruption of identity, obsessive pursuit of great art and the making of it, compartmentalization of personal facets, metamorphosis; all of these themes can certainly be found in both films. Kon seamlessly weaves them together in a tapestry of reality and fantasy, where the TV show Mima acts in is merely one catalyst/vessel for her mental decline and eventual self-actualization. A tragic rendition of her arc works on paper. With a truly original vision and screenplay, this might've made for a compelling film.

Aronofsky, however, felt content to haphazardly drape Kon's ideas over the skeleton of Swan Lake; depict his protagonist's metamorphosis and paranoia with grotesquely dated and eye-rollingly explicit special effects; and tie it all together with a script that holds his audience's hand through every minute development. His unwillingness to venture outside the box of the ballet production and its effect on Nina makes the film a chore to watch for the final 2/3's of its runtime (a full 20 MINUTES LONGER than Perfect Blue). With the plot of the film handed to me on a silver platter about 5 minutes in by Cassel's cardboard character, it was simply a matter of waiting for ANYTHING original or engaging to be done with it. Unfortunately Portman's performance couldn't salvage 75 minutes of drivel.

This cobbled-together mess of themes, plot beats, and entirely composed shots from infinitely more profound works of art is one of the more disingenuous and shallow efforts I've ever seen. The true tragedy is its critical and commercial success despite not containing an iota of the depth or style of Kon's debut effort, or capturing the scope and grandeur of a production of Tchaikovsky's ballet. It does a disservice to literally every art form it utilizes and/or plagiarizes. Genuinely revolting. 2/10.

Better Call Saul: Alpine Shepherd Boy (2015) Season 1, Episode 5

Prophetic in Retrospect

[9/10 · 15 December 2023]

While this episode is the most deliberate thus far in its illustration of the results of our central characters' decisions and their dynamics (yielding a bit of a duller viewing experience), on rewatch its made remarkably clear how much foreshadowing was packed in here. Dr. Cruz's analysis of Chuck's condition is practically faultless, with both his and Jimmy's insecurities being its root cause. From the moment Jimmy decided to look past the danger Chuck and his lifestyle posed to himself and others, the writing was on the wall. We can sympathize with him and understand his thought process however, as it's apparent he desperately craves the approval of his older brother: a paragon of justice and in essence his savior (see S1E3).

The tedious consultations serve to illustrate the closing of a vicious loop that plagues Jimmy throughout the series. He utilizes underhanded methods to compensate for the universe's slights against him (as he sees it). This way he can prove to Chuck that he can be a legitimate lawyer and dutiful citizen, thus repaying the debt he owes Chuck for giving him a second lease on life. Unfortunately, this "chicanery" always yields unintended consequences, and never gives Jimmy the satisfaction he impatiently yearns for. It's as if the mistakes of his past life bleed into his new one in the form of karmic retribution. This premonition is almost palpable for Chuck, manifesting in his condition and his compulsion to insulate himself within his "space blanket".

Kim's role as a mediator in Jimmy's relationships with Chuck and Howard is also made more apparent. She urges him towards more noble pursuits where she believes he can thrive and satisfy his brother's aspirations for him (ie. Elder law), and makes an effort to defend his honor when Chuck and Howard antagonize him. While her initial intentions are certainly respectable, she sees herself become an enabler of Jimmy's self-destructive tendencies while also being corrupted by them herself (symbolized elegantly in their smoking scenes). Their relationship is one of the more beautifully tragic I've seen in television, and this episode explores an interesting aspect of it.

We also see hints at the depth of Mike's character. For unknown reasons (as he said, "Nobody wants to leave home,") he was forced to abandon his life as a Philadelphia cop, and now lives a modest life as a parking booth operator while keeping careful watch over his estranged daughter-in-law and granddaughter. At the episode's conclusion his past literally comes knocking at his door, and it seems like his connection with Jimmy might come in handy.

While not the most riveting first watch, it becomes much more engaging with subsequent viewings. 8.5-9/10.

Berserk: Wakare (1998) Season 1, Episode 19

"...and this man's ambition crumbles..."

[10/10 · 11 October 2023]

This might be my favorite episode of the 1997 series. So many of Berserk's core themes are wrapped up in its conflict and denouement. It speaks to a fundamental yearning and ambition that all people possess in some capacity; the gnawing one feels in their heart when they must compromise their dream; and mustering the courage to sacrifice something in the pursuit of true fulfillment.

Crucial elements of Guts, Griffith, Casca, Corkus, and Judeau's characters are brought to the forefront and laid bare here. The heart-wrenching tragedy of this episode lies in Guts' inability to recognize his inherent value, paired with Griffith's hamartia of blazing ambition and entitlement. Guts needs to discover what he wishes to live for independently, unburdened by the yoke of others' dreams and expectations. Griffith, however, is essentially incapable of compromising anything he's already "won" or "conquered". He feels he'd be betraying the sacrifices he's made, as well as all the lives and dreams he's trampled in his climb towards his towering ambitions. In their duel, Guts - a man who'd been completely subservient to Griffith up to this point - shatters the weapon symbolizing everything Griffith had utilized to pursue his dream, while also stopping his strike short of connecting with his opponent, thereby giving him total control over Griffith's life in that moment. That one instant is absolutely loaded with subtext, as is most of the episode. Griffith's ensuing fall comes in a desperate attempt to grasp power, stemming from his inability to weather the torrent of emotions bombarding him from within.

This is the critical juncture of the Golden Age arc, foretold by Zodd years prior and set in motion even centuries before that. It doesn't get much better! 10/10.

Gurren Lagann: Shimon, te o dokete (2007) Season 1, Episode 11

Pure Concentrated Euphoria

[10/10 · 13 September 2023]

"Even if it's my own grave I'm digging, I keep going! Once I've dug my way through, that means I've won!" -Simon the Digger

So many threads coalesce here to create the greatest moment of personal triumph in the entire series. We see how integral Nia's arrival was in breaking Simon out of his downward spiral of grief. She was the only one who could wholly and truly empathize with him, as both of their senses of self worth were tied intrinsically to another person. It was only through the kindling of their relationship, and the way they revealed to each other the value they inherently held, that they could break through and shatter the preconceptions they had of themselves. Nia also dispels the notion that Yoko kept insisting upon (he had to break out of the funk on his own, or it would be meaningless), that she had also been using to justify the burden she was placing on herself.

However, I'd be remiss to downplay the independent progress Simon makes. I think what makes those literal "breakthrough" moments so powerful is that all the people who saw him suffer so deeply in the wake of Kamina's death, also see him overcome despair in their darkest hour. His digging through bedrock and Lagann's forgiveness inspire team Dai-Gurren (which Kittan finally accepts as their name), while his "I'm not my bro" speech and finishing move are projected in the sky above the earth to embolden all of humanity struggling on the surface.

For how goofy and irreverent this show is a lot of the time, its love for humanity and how we grow/evolve always shines through. It treats grief with all the gravity it warrants, but makes it clear that we are obligated to move forward through it for our own sakes and for those we hold dear. "Let me see you grit those teeth!" 10/10.

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Weaving a Story 2: Oral Stage (1996) Season 1, Episode 20

Microcosm of Humanity

[10/10 · 7 September 2023]

"Oh, as long as you have the will to live, you can turn anywhere into paradise."

Everything from the concept/design of the Evas; illustrations of the conception of biological life as well as the human soul; transcendent OST from Shiro Sagisu; an artful splicing together of prior cuts of animation; and a wholly unique directorial vision from Anno, synthesize to create a single episode that perfectly encapsulates the core spirit of Evangelion. Shinji's disembodied reflections impeccably demonstrate the accumulation of subtle contradictions that composes the human psyche, and beautifully depict his literal and metaphorical struggle towards self-actualization. Additional bits of foreshadowing are introduced, while further questions are raised. If anyone comes away thinking Evangelion is wholly nihilistic, I'd recommend they watch this episode again. Thematically poignant, artistically bold, and admirably optimistic, this is the definitive Evangelion episode for me.

Regular Show: Grilled Cheese Deluxe (2010) Season 1, Episode 7

"See? Was it so hard to tell the truth?"

[10/10 · 28 November 2022]

This is definitely the standout episode of the season thus far. I enjoyed the tongue-in-cheek satire on the American military and the public's perception of them via the astronauts. There are just as many quotable lines as ever. But I think the main reason this was the best of the season thus far for me was the gradual/grounded manner in which the premise evolved. It helped that Rigby's pride in his lying "prowess" had at least some basis in reality. The competition between him and Mordecai felt like it had actual weight, and as the stakes continued to mount the trading of lies rapidly compounded to a satisfying climax. The conclusion was wonderfully ironic and genuinely clever. Easy 10/10, the most substantial episode yet.

Mushi-Shi: Sound of Stepping Grass (2006) Season 1, Episode 26

The Essence of Mushi-Shi

[10/10 · 21 October 2022]

This is a marvelous episode that distills many of the show's core themes and artistic strengths down into one poignant tale. It fills in some more gaps in Ginko's backstory, giving a bit of insight into how he transformed from a reserved and detached child into the charming journeyman that guided us through this enchanting voyage. The "light vein", interdependence of all forms of life, and pre-determined vs. Indeterminate futures serve as additional focal points.

Sound design and OST are top-notch as usual, and I also found this to be one of the more visually striking episodes of the series. The almost tonalist color palette utilized for the majority of the episode (and show as a whole) makes the vibrant golden mist, volcanic eruptions, and deep saturated river beds positively dazzling. These help augment the impact of pivotal moments in the episode.

As in many of the other self-contained stories, in this episode we see the main subject, Taku, faced with devastating loss that forces him to grow and adapt. Faced with grim circumstances, he is reminded of the sublime beauty and awesome power of nature, as well as his relationship with the life surrounding him. It is easy to take this beauty and power for granted when one is constantly immersed in it. Isaza and the Watari group highlight this, and through their wisdom and perspective Taku learns to shoulder the responsibilities of becoming the new Guardian of the mountain. Through his cumulative experiences Taku blossoms into a leader that reveres and respects all life. Over the course of all his traveling, researching, and service, this is what Ginko hopes to impart upon those he meets: An understanding, respect, and appreciation for the natural world, known and unknown.

Code Geass: Toraware no nanari (2007) Season 1, Episode 16

Unnecessary, Sloppy, and Downright Insulting

[2/10 · 19 July 2022]

The writing here reads exactly how Mao looked at the end of the last episode: absolutely riddled with holes. He met a totally satisfactory end after calling into question all sorts of character dynamics and aspects of the Geass power, serving as a manifestation of several of our main characters' deepest regrets and darkest thoughts. He was a threatening, malevolent presence that was genuinely interesting to watch onscreen. I mean seriously, for how solid the big-picture writing in this show is I can't believe anyone thought it necessary to prolong Mao's arc like this.

Mao's survival is one of the biggest asspulls of the entire series. We never see Lelouch give the police the order to "shoot" Mao (in fact his internal monologue while leaving the scene was "if you move you die"). Also, while we did see Britannian medical technology save Suzaku from a single bullet wound earlier on (and only because the bullet was impeded by his father's pocket watch), we haven't seen anything that would suggest it could stop Mao from bleeding out via the tens of gunshot wounds the police inflicted on him. Additionally, if the police not under the control of Lelouch's Geass were indeed treating Mao as a terrorist, there would be no reason for them to give him medical attention.

Suzaku's superhuman physical abilities are never explained in any way, and honestly require more suspension of disbelief to accept than almost any other aspect of the series. He dodges gunfire from an automated turret at POINT BLANK RANGE, runs up walls, and can kick through solid steel. That's all in one quick scene by the way. We also see him cut the detonation wire on a pendulum bomb swinging tens of feet above Nunnally's head, but we're not even shown how he reaches that altitude.

The final confrontation with Mao also yields more questions than answers. How did Mao rig this scale to the bomb in such a short time? Why did Lelouch not just push down on his side of the scale to save Nunnally? He could've easily overpowered Mao regardless of if Mao read his mind. Why did Lelouch never think to use his Geass on Mao before now? How come we never see Lelouch find anything that would lead him to the realization that he can use his Geass on himself? Even a quick shot of him looking at his reflection in the water underground would've been sufficient, but instead we get nothing.

In the end, the only real purpose this grossly unnecessary prolongation served was to reveal the fact that Prime Minister Kururugi's death came at Suzaku's hand and was not in fact a suicide. While delivered in ham-fisted fashion, the shock value was solid and it fleshed out Suzaku's character even more as a walking contradiction. It was also rather fitting that Mao was the one to reveal it. Suzaku and Lelouch's past relationship and individual philosophies also get expanded on a bit more I guess? So I'll still give this episode a 2/10 instead of 1. In all honesty though, I don't know if I've ever been this frustrated watching anime bar Tokyo Revengers and some especially awful Demon Slayer moments. This is easily the worst episode of the entire show.

Code Geass: Kôneria wo ute (2006) Season 1, Episode 7

Best Episode So Far

[8/10 · 16 July 2022]

While the romance subplot was still tedious, this was a solid episode that proved Lelouch isn't infallible. The show is successfully building up Cornelia as an imposing adversary and fairly interesting character. The way her philosophy translates into battle is decently compelling, although we see it done better in R2. Seeing her so easily get Lelouch dancing to her tune was entertaining to say the least, as was bearing witness to Lelouch's desperation. This is really the catalyst for his building up and organization of the Japanese offensive through clever manipulation of the small nationalist factions.

I took no issue with the Yamato Alliance immediately trusting Zero after they witnessed the miracles he worked in Shinjuku and before Suzaku's court martial. For how bleak their situation looked with Cornelia closing in on them, it makes perfect sense for them to defer to Zero's leadership. The C. C. "deus ex machina" also didn't bother me much at all. She didn't appear in the middle of Cornelia's formation, as all her forces had already retreated to surround her vehicle. She merely stood exposed at the top of a bombed-out building to make sure she was seen, and bought Lelouch enough time to slip out of Cornelia's ranks. She was also very clearly wearing the real Zero outfit that Lelouch opted not to wear for the covert operation.

Code Geass: Sono na wa zero (2006) Season 1, Episode 4

Iconic, but not Watertight

[6/10 · 16 July 2022]

The birth of Zero in this episode is executed fairly well actually. The OST was finally used appropriately and effectively. I'm also impressed by how many new dynamics were introduced and how many themes were explored. On a macro level the writing is remarkably tight and creative, weaving together elements that were alluded to in prior episodes (ie. The Japanese Liberation Front, the "poison gas" chamber from Shinjuku, the propaganda machine, stark segregation, Suzaku and Lelouch's past relationship, politics/bureaucracy within the Britannian military, etc.).

However, upon closer inspection one starts to notice cracks. Herein lies one of my biggest issues with the show. In order to maintain the illusion of plausibility, the show constantly introduces new elements and doesn't dwell on them for any extended period of time. The directorial style is borderline frenetic, with very few shots lasting longer than a few seconds. The ones that do last longer are merely included for the sake of staying within the production budget, usually still frames or static Knightmare models moving across stock backgrounds. Because of this we often hear character motivations spelled out letter by letter, and are told actions are taking place instead of actually being shown them. More important moments also tend to squander any emotional potency and impact because of this. Contrary to the other reviewer here, I'd argue the character motivations are explained TOO explicitly (specifically in Jeremiah and Suzaku's cases). We also see in later episodes that Lelouch began experimenting with the Geass to explore its limitations after stumbling upon the "can't use it on the same person more than once" stipulation with Kallen and his history teacher.

Now we come to Zero and Jeremiah's confrontation. The performative nature of it is certainly entertaining, and lends credibility to Diethard being so enamored with it. However, with his camera trained on Zero, I find it INCREDIBLY hard to believe not one spectator or official saw Lelouch's eye beneath his mask when he used his Geass on Jeremiah. I also found it strange that all military personnel took Zero's (a presumed Eleven terrorist) word at face value about "Orange" over Jeremiah's (a fiercely loyal, pure-blooded, high-ranking Britannian officer). Nobody questions his sudden and uncharacteristic lapse in loyalty, or the bizarre wording of his orders. I guess it emphasizes the "thorns of suspicion" thing they were going for and how easily nationalistic sentiments can be redirected, but it comes at the price of logical behavior of characters. That's something I personally can't get on board with, and it's something the show basically demands of the viewer.

Basically, this episode encapsulates the show as a whole for me. On a grand scale the writing is great. The show has a wonderfully satisfying arc to it and it explores compelling themes. However, too many elements and characters are introduced for the show's own good. The majority of them aren't developed or explored adequately. The show instead explains them away with stale dialogue and keeps the story chugging along at a breakneck pace. Logic takes a backseat so that iconic moments can be born, and in my opinion a show can't be considered great if that sacrifice must be made.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood: Ichi wa zen, Zen wa ichi (2009) Season 1, Episode 12

The Miracle of Life

[10/10 · 9 July 2022]

This is one of my absolute favorites from the first half of this show! It serves as an introduction to the Elric brothers' gruff alchemy teacher Izumi and her massive teddy bear of a husband Sig, and also explores the fundamental principles of alchemy in more depth than we've previously seen.

The relationship between this episode and the last one is really interesting. The last episode really drove home the beauty of the miracle of childbirth and the inherent value of human life. Here that theme serves to augment the tragedy of Izumi and Sig's past in their efforts to conceive a child. Their relationship with the brothers comes about so naturally and develops in such a wholesome manner. The Elrics become the children Izumi and Sig always yearned for but could never have. Their banter is also delightful, the puking blood gag (while a bit morbid after learning more about Izumi's past) never fails to get a chuckle out of me.

The theme of cyclicism is explored thoroughly. We see its beautifully sublime nature through the boys' experience training on the island, as well as its more macabre side with the boys committing the same taboo their teacher did in the wake of a tragic loss. This darkness does give way to a wonderfully cathartic moment at the episode's conclusion though, with the boys being able to grieve and express their emotions authentically to someone who can truly empathize with them.

This is really a charming and simultaneously thought-provoking episode. It's a nice break from the political drama and brooding mystery that fills in some important gaps in our knowledge of the Elric boys' past.

Cowboy Bebop: The Real Folk Blues: Part 1 (1999) Season 1, Episode 25

Clarity within Conflict

[10/10 · 4 July 2022]

There's a melancholic clarity to almost every scene of this two-part finale. After living with each other for so long, each remaining member of the Bebop crew has an unspoken understanding of the others' motives and ideals. As Spike's past rears its ugly head, both Jet and Faye come to grips with the decision that he will ultimately make. Both make futile attempts to convince him to abandon it, but they know the pull will prove too much for him to resist. The clarification and acknowledgement of loose ends are really what this episode serves to convey. The tracks we hear in this episode are few and far between, but all heighten its introspective/reflective quality. It really sets a bleak foundation for an indescribably beautiful finale, while still being incredibly entertaining in its own right. Just as they've always been, the action scenes are electric and the dialogue is simultaneously slick and layered. There's an unmatched beauty in the purity of this episode, setting up one of the best finales to any anime I've ever seen!

Cowboy Bebop: Heavy Metal Queen (1998) Season 1, Episode 7

"Treat him to a prairie oyster on me"

[8/10 · 1 July 2022]

While the primary conflict in this episode isn't necessarily the most compelling, the dynamic that develops between our Heavy Metal Queen VT and Spike is one of the more endearing we see in the whole show. Not to mention, we get yet another genre of music added to the show's eclectic soundtrack! The subtle hints in the seemingly frivolous dialogue early on pertaining to VT's true identity completely flew over my head on first watch, but now I can appreciate them in full upon rewatch. Every minuscule interaction between those two comes full circle by the bittersweet finale, when we learn where VT's prejudice against bounty hunters stems from. Spike doesn't pry, goes with the flow, and allows VT to warm up to him on her terms over the course of the episode. Their final lines are just perfectly written, and wrap up the episode neatly. I always find myself letting out a light sigh at the end of this one. There's something so beautifully melancholic about those last lines that makes them stick with me after I hear them. That's really a testament to the late Keiko Nobumoto's supreme talent for creating those magical moments. RIP.

Cowboy Bebop: Sympathy for the Devil (1998) Season 1, Episode 6

Compelling Standalone Entry

[9/10 · 1 July 2022]

"I hate kids and pets! They're all a royal pain in the butt!" -Spike Spiegel

While the pseudoscience used to explain certain developments in this episode isn't extraordinarily convincing, the meat of the episode explores some really interesting themes and gives our main cast some deeper characterization and chemistry. I felt first and foremost that it explored pride and loyalty in the context of the male psyche. We also witness a harrowing expression of lost innocence through the antagonist of this episode. The final scene is really effective, with the visual parallels to the opening scene and a poignant lesson being illustrated. Nobody can run from their past. Desperately evading consequences and perpetually waiting for the other shoe to drop will tear you apart and potentially affect those closest to you. Acceptance of these things will set you free. Carry that weight. It's truly the crux of the show and Spike as a character, and seeing it all laid bare before him in that final scene is immensely powerful. It's poetic, beautiful, tragic, and undeniably Bebop.

Attack on Titan: Bystander (2018) Season 3, Episode 11

Devastatingly Beautiful

[10/10 · 27 June 2022]

Of all the profound thematic material explored in this first part of season 3, what we see emphasized here is undoubtedly the most potent in my opinion. After an introduction where we see Historia adopting a matriarchal role of her own volition, and Eren gloomily accepting his own role as a simple cog in a machine to help discover the truth of humanity, we arrive at Commandant Sadies. Through a recently uncovered memory, Eren realizes that Sadies might be able to shed some light on his father's motives and actions.

We watch as the commandant recounts his life as a scout and his relationship with the Jaegers. After seeing him as a pillar of strength and discipline early in the first season, it's startling to see the jealous and petty underbelly of his personality. His journey from prideful hubris to a demoralized husk of his former self mirrors what we've seen Eren go through. However, he leaves Eren with a message from his departed mother that shifts his entire frame of mind. After receiving scathing insults from a broken Sadies returning from another failed expedition, Carla responds calmly with an impossibly pure and profoundly important thought: no one has to be innately special or talented to lead a purposeful life. It's so poignant and relevant not only only to Eren as a character but the story as a whole, and I just melt every time the ED begins to play underneath this beautiful expression of a mother's love.

Sadies' perspective fills in spots in our timeline and poses even more questions about Grisha's past and the world outside the walls. While there are many episodes that can be considered masterpieces in this first part of season 3, this one will always hold a special place in my heart.

Attack on Titan: Pain (2018) Season 3, Episode 2

More Than Meets the Eye

[10/10 · 26 June 2022]

I honestly don't understand how people can't see how much this episode has to offer aside from flashy animation! Obviously we have one of the greatest animated sequences in anime with Levi flying through Trost pursued by Kenny and his subordinates. We get the formal introduction of Kenny and his wildly entertaining and compelling dynamic with Levi. We also see much more foreshadowing through the interrogation of Sannes regarding the government plot, the true royal family, Erwin's backstory, and what world lies beyond the walls.

The crux of this episode is how moral ambiguity truly comes to the forefront of the show's thematic material. We see Levi squad grapple with the moral implications of killing other humans. Armin really shines here, as he continues to develop into a strong yet perpetually sympathetic character. It's very apparent that he feels trapped by the whole situation, forced to blatantly contradict his established code of ethics in order to protect those closest to him for the benefit of humanity. We get a sense of how tormented he is by this when he sends a jab Mikasa's way, shocked by how easily she could go along with this violence. He immediately apologizes of course, but that little moment makes him feel so much more vulnerable and endearing as a character. His ability to empathize with anyone is one of his most attractive qualities, and has yielded several important displays of capable leadership and crunch-time decision-making. This becomes EXTREMELY important in the next arc!

Levi is also returning to the limelight for some necessary characterization. We get his S1 dialogue callback "I never said anything about who was right or wrong. I don't even know myself," and it's even more impactful now that he's learned that titans were all originally human. Through growing up surrounded by death and decay in the capital's underground with Kenny, and becoming a harbinger of titan destruction as a member of the scouts, Levi has become all too familiar with the implications of taking life. This is why he can so effectively help his new squad navigate the ethical questions that now face them. His and Armin's development here hints at a fascinating dynamic germinating between the two that bears its fruit in the next arc.

Bearing witness to all of these heartfelt discussions, and having his company's fate at the hands of Reiss and Kenny dawn on him, Dimo Reeves sides with Levi and the Scouts. We also grow to see his character in a different light, as his confrontation with Mikasa in S1 obviously led him to adopt more ethical business practices that helped support the people of Trost District. I personally could see and assume that plenty of shifts in character had happened to Reeves to support this decision.

This is definitely a standout episode in this arc, introducing compelling character dynamics and throwing all sorts of things into question. Great character writing, mind-boggling animation quality, and a constantly evolving plot make this an easy addition to the show's rapidly growing collection of 10/10 entries!

Attack on Titan: Warrior (2017) Season 2, Episode 6

A Monumental Paradigm Shift

[10/10 · 26 June 2022]

This is quite possibly most shocking reveal in all of anime. There are so many layers to its profundity: the weight of the betrayal, Reiner's visible and audible anguish/torment, the stakes for everyone involved (not to mention all of humanity inside the walls), the unpredictable and blunt nature of the dialogue, the recollection of all the subtle hints that now take on an entirely new meaning, the finality of the transformation, stunning animation, stellar voice work (especially in the sub), grandiose and lush OST. Everything coalesces to cement this as one of the major turning points of the series plot-wise.

Reiner of course was the star here, and you feel for him even more deeply after learning the series of unfortunate events that led to him becoming a warrior in the first place (in S4 P1). You can see how thoroughly he's been torn apart by the two lives he's lived, with the guilt of his mere existence compounding within him the longer he lived with and bonded with the enemy (a symbolic red flag finally snapping in the blistering wind). Bertholdt's anxiety and subtle caution giving way to visceral emotion was also extremely moving. He's been a witness to the onset of Reiner's split personality disorder, and his attempt to atone for his sins by forming strong bonds with those he'd sworn to kill. The fact that even he was stunned by the exchange, desperately asking Reiner for confirmation that they were really committing to this act, dramatically heightened its impact.

For me this betrayal was written absolutely perfectly, with the main players' previous and future characterizations in mind. I think that's why this holds up so well on rewatches. I never get tired of it, and I doubt I ever will!

Attack on Titan: Small Blade: The Struggle for Trost, Part 3 (2013) Season 1, Episode 7

The Best of Season 1 - Brilliant Writing and Inspired Artistic Choices

[10/10 · 23 June 2022]

This two episode stretch with a focus on Mikasa was absolutely brilliant. These were definitely the best episodes since the pilot in terms of character development and emotional weight.

I want to start off by saying the art design in these episodes was extraordinary. Shifts in color palette and the details in characters' eyes give so much insight into the mindsets of our unfortunate cast. The washed out color palette set in when the situation turned bleak. The overcast clouds and the arrival of the storm really hammer home the absence of hope and the grim reality Armin and Mikasa are faced with, while also serving as a seamless transition from the battle into Mikasa's backstory.

The juxtaposition of Armin and Mikasa's psyches, with their bearing witness to and ignorance of Eren's death (respectively), is extremely effective. Armin is inconsolable as he finds himself isolated from any source of strength or willpower, immersed in his own personal hell. Mikasa is fully driven by her desire to return to and protect Eren. After mercilessly cutting down an abnormal hurling towards a crowd of townspeople, she hastens the evacuation via the threatening of the selfish merchant guild head holding up the process. In the process she saves and inspires a young girl and her mother, causing her to reflect on the most traumatic day of her life.

Mikasa's tragic backstory was executed flawlessly. It was alluded to in the pilot when she witnessed Carla's demise (as she laments the loss of yet another parent). Her loyalty to Eren is given an additional layer of depth beyond her promise to Carla. Through Mikasa we explore the meaning of "home" and the innate cruelty and beauty of both humanity and the natural world. The law of the jungle seems to be Eren's mantra, and Mikasa comes to a realization of how blind she was to its many manifestations throughout her childhood. Eren imbues her with a fighting spirit, serving as both her inspiration and her refuge from pain (similar to what she was for the young girl, as we see later on in the show).

After we're shown the dire state of affairs at the supply depot (raising the stakes even further), we see Mikasa rendezvous with the stranded rookie squads. When she arrives we see a wave of existential dread wash over Armin, as he realizes that he has to break the awful news to her. The gleam in Mikasa's eyes fades when Armin tells her of Eren's sacrifice. To cope with her emptiness she rampages recklessly towards the supply depot, cutting down titans and lighting a fire under her fellow cadets. We also begin to see Jean blossom as a character, embodying the Platonic leader (Plato argued that the best leaders are often those who never possessed an innate ambition to lead).

After expelling the last of the fumes from her canisters, she lies hollow and broken in the alley she fell into. Accepting her fate, she holsters her blades and closes her eyes as a massive Titan approaches. However, just before she's set to be ensnared by its vice-like grip, something rooted deep in her psyche drives her to fight. Her memories of Eren inspire her to fight on even after she was convinced she'd resigned herself to death. The vibrant color palette returns and the sun re-emerges as the situation becomes more hopeful. The pomegranate we see (a symbol of resurrection) foreshadows the appearance of Mikasa's savior and the embodiment of humanity's rage (which we come to find out is Eren). This final scene is probably the most beautiful of any in the first season, perfectly encapsulating Eren and Mikasa's dynamic.

Other pieces of foreshadowing are subtly interspersed within these episodes as well (Reiner-Berdholdt-Annie dialogue, the Ackerman gene, Attack Titan colorful regenerative abilities). These two episodes specifically hold up remarkably well upon rewatch, and are probably my favorites from this season. They are a testament to Isayama's talent for creating compelling character dynamics, and highlight WIT studio's artful and passionate adaptation of the source material.

Hunter x Hunter: Homecoming × and × Real Name (2014) Season 1, Episode 136

In a Word: Cathartic

[10/10 · 15 June 2022]

I don't think anyone could've asked for a better ending to this monolithic arc. As far as tying off loose ends and unexpected payoffs, it's up there with Code Geass' "Zero's Requiem". We finally begin to move away from the dark brooding orchestral tracks and return to the jubilant and inspiring OST that we began our journey with. This episode is what makes me so nostalgic for those tracks, the moments they're tied to here are THAT SPECIAL! I seriously can't gush about this episode enough. It's an emotional tour de force that leaves me entirely satisfied each time I see it. I laugh and cry without fail. Touching reunions, hopeful embarkations, and shocking reveals make this one of my favorite episodes of Hunter x Hunter. Even so, we're left with just the right amount of unresolved questions to perfectly segue into the next arc. Easily a 10/10 episode, and a perfect cap on a gripping arc!

Hunter x Hunter: The Word × Is × You (2014) Season 1, Episode 134

Blurred Lines x and x Epiphany

[10/10 · 15 June 2022]

This episode is extraordinarily well-written, containing perhaps the greatest moment of tension of the entire series. Through the episode's introduction, the natural growth of Meruem's empathy through his connection with Pouf, and Welfin's crisis, we see the boundaries between the ants and humans become muddled.

The reveal of the miniature rose's toxic afterbirth and Youpi's death at its hand provides us with a real sense of urgency at the episode's outset. A feeling of inevitability sets in, and becomes augmented by Pouf's realization that the reveal of his secret is imminent. The evolution of Pouf's dynamic with the king has been one of the most compelling threads of this arc, and it finally comes to a head here. Pouf's story is one of blatant treachery, spawned from ultimate loyalty to his species and yearning for the king to fulfill his destiny. Through the sacrificial offering he made to resuscitate the king, he could no longer withhold his true feelings from him. This new element of their dynamic was deeply poetic both in its conception and its role in the conflict of this episode.

Here we arrive at Welfin. In this episode we see him both as a pillar of resolve and an ultimately relatable character. His anxiety and paranoia reach new heights when faced with the overwhelming aura of the king. He undergoes a transformation similar to that of Knov, but on an even grander scale. Yet in the face of all this turmoil, his resolve remains firm. His malice towards the king is still present, and his role as messenger rings clear in his mind. After frantically racking his brain for the one word that would save him and by extension the human race, he arrives at his answer: "Komugi", he whispers.

The following scene is hauntingly beautiful, and sends shivers down my spine without fail every time I watch it. The moment of epiphany for Meruem is executed positively perfectly. He stands stunned as the memories of the one human he intensely cared for flood his brain. Pouf, now one with the king in mind and soul, wholly experiences this moment with him. Devastating reality sets in for him as he comprehends how futile his efforts were.

In the fallout of this scene we see Welfin complete his mission, divulging Palm, Ikalgo, and Komugi's locations to Meruem. But as the king turns to pursue them, Welfin drops his crutches to stand on his own two legs as he utters a valiant cry: "Gyro is the only man I will ever call king! You, all of you, are enemies!" Meruem cements his transformation in his response to this outburst. He leaves Welfin to live a human life, pursuing the man he respects. Bearing witness to this, Pouf lets out a wail of agony that would prove to be his last.

This episode is one of my absolute favorites of the show, and signals the start of what is in my opinion the best ending to any arc in anime!

Hunter x Hunter: Zero × and × Rose (2014) Season 1, Episode 126

An Exercise in Spectacle (Long-winded Analysis Ahead :) )

[10/10 · 14 June 2022]

Here we have it. This is Meruem and Netero's inevitable ultimate clash. It's positively rife with tension and the stakes are the highest they've ever been. Meruem, the end-product of the evolutionary process shouldering the responsibilities passed onto him by every past generation of his species, battles with one man fighting for humanity's right to retain free will and live without fear of oppression at the hands of the ants. Within this episode we explore themes of obsession, ultimate respect, love, malice, and the essence of humanity.

I want to start off by saying that the staging of the battle is flawless. Netero effectively creates a massive tomb for the both of them while simultaneously setting up a crack in this barren stone landscape for the "miniature rose" to blossom from. At the end of the last episode Netero's heart gesture foreshadows the outcome of the match, subtly alluding to the trap he'd laid for Meruem.

Meruem's love of games, inspired by his initial quest for ultimate mastery of all things, is a prominent aspect of his approach to this battle. Komugi's influence permeates the king's philosophy here. He thoughtfully considers Netero's every move, breaking down his combat rhythm and uncovering the tiniest of unconscious biases in his attack and defense strategies. It also manifests in Meruem's new motivation to utilize his ultimate power to "protect the weak who deserve to live." Finally, it inspires Meruem's newfound ability to express genuine admiration. Meruem is constantly professing his respect for Netero as a warrior throughout the fight, trying to convince him that he doesn't need to die.

Netero's Nen ability stems from his ultimate respect and love for martial arts. Through his obsession with the activity for his entire life, he established the condition for using 100-Type Guanyin Bodhisattva as a literal expression of gratitude to martial arts for making him the person he is. This obsession toes the line between sublime love and utter insanity, which dawns on Meruem in the midst of the duel.

Both Netero and Meruem find themselves in a state of bliss and rapturous joy during their clash. Meruem is easily the strongest living thing we've seen in the HxH universe, and is a head and shoulders above Netero in terms of raw power despite Netero's being the most competent Nen and martial arts master humanity has. This allows Netero to take initiative in a fight for presumably the first time in many decades, as he no longer has to hold back or hesitate for the sake of his opponent. Thus, both get to revel in the glorious combat.

Their power dynamic in this episode has a layer of complexity beyond mere aura and Nen mastery. Netero holds a power over Meruem in that he possesses the one thing Meruem yearns for but can never attain on his own: the knowledge of his name. Netero uses this to incite the battle and essentially manipulate Meruem into becoming complicit in his plan to exterminate him.

The combat itself is so unique and intellectual. It's a synthesis of wonderfully choreographed physical exchanges, and artfully conveyed concepts. The physical combat is built upon afterimages and playing with perception of time. The gungi and "threading the needle" analogies are illustrated beautifully and are expertly interpolated between flurries of blows. The contrast of the deep purple of Meruem's aura against the brilliant yellow of Netero's is just a spectacle to behold on screen. Finally, after literally giving up an arm and a leg with each exchange, Netero unleashes his Zero Hand. It's a perfect encapsulation of his character and a beautiful ultimate sacrifice. Through this attack, Netero expels all of his gratitude and positivity.

In the wake of Zero Hand, an interesting role reversal happens with the pair. Meruem develops a naive hope for the future in the creation of a utopian ant society where humans could "coexist" with them, while Netero embraces the darkness of humanity that Meruem forgets to account for. In the end, the crumpled husk of Netero that essentially embodies the very worst of humanity becomes the first thing to strike fear in Meruem's heart. This entire final sequence is bone-chilling perfection. The stark visual changes to Netero and the presence he exudes, the fear in Meruem's eyes, and the scope of the destruction caused by "miniature rose" are brilliantly dark and extremely effective artistic choices.

Sound design, score, direction, and voice acting were just perfection to me as well. While Gon and Hisoka's fight earlier on might hold the most potent impact and flashiest choreography, nothing holds a candle to the magnitude of this conflict. The sheer scope of this episode, with all the buildup and layers of subtext, makes it one of my favorites in all of anime. It's thematically rich, and an absolute spectacle for the senses.

Hunter x Hunter: Centipede × and × Memory (2014) Season 1, Episode 123

A Slog, But Vital to the Plot

[6/10 · 14 June 2022]

While one of the more bloated and self-indulgent episodes of this monster of an arc, the development of Welfin ends up being absolutely integral to bringing about the glorious conclusion to humanity's war on the ants. We get this development through a rather contrived and incredibly drawn-out interrogation scene that interestingly mirrors the massive fight that we cut away from initially (Welfin and Meruem are supremely confident, failing to consider that Ikalgo and Netero have nothing to lose and are willing to throw away their lives for the sake of humanity). Welfin's flashback and the reveal of his past connection to Gyro are executed well enough, and the way the interrogation was quickly turned on it's head was quite entertaining.

However, Welfin's internal monologues here are some of the most grating and tiresome in the whole show for me personally. I get that it's part if his character to be overwhelmingly paranoid and distrustful, but we understand that already from the prior episodes he was involved in. Additionally, the cutaways depicting his answers to some of Ikalgo's questions often felt tedious. I also wish Ikalgo was a bit more animated (emotionally-speaking) while asking about Palm. His stoic conviction was great during the meat of the episode. But I feel like once he realized that he could actually fulfill his purpose on this mission, he should've been much more hopeful and impassioned. It's a minor nitpick, but that just felt out-of-character to me.

In the grand scheme of things I don't think anyone should skip any episode of Hunter x Hunter (besides the recaps). There's always something of merit that can be found in any given episode. However, this is one of the few that felt unnecessarily bloated in both the monologue and narration departments.

Hunter x Hunter: Charge × and × Invade (2014) Season 1, Episode 111

Absolute Conceptual Brilliance

[10/10 · 10 June 2022]

After nearly 30 episodes of buildup the invasion finally kicks off, and boy is it a treat! This entry impresses me more and more each time I see it, as there are so many layers of nuance that I continue to discover. Aside from the episode's gorgeous animation and direction, it's also incredibly ambitious conceptually. While I understand those who find the narration overbearing, I do think it's extremely helpful in grounding the viewer in whichever part of the invasion they are watching unfold. Togashi tosses the viewer between a myriad of actions all taking place simultaneously, building tension gradually until the threads eventually converge. Due to the sheer amount of moving parts and intertwining plot lines, I think the narration brings a necessary clarity to this portion of the arc.

The scope of the entrance is on a level rarely achieved in anime (at least from what I've watched). We discover that the "old friend" Netero left to recruit is actually Killua's grandfather Zeno. His appearance brings with it an aura of mystery, intrigue, and monumental power. His Nen ability is fearsome and visually dazzling, even more so than in his battle with Chrollo. The scene where he discusses the concept of spirit echoes while giving the viewer insight into Netero's character was an absolutely brilliant segue into the flashback.

Here we (along with Pitou through the spirit echo) witness the genesis of the monstrous Nen master Isaac Netero. Over the course of four years we see him undergo a metamorphosis (an apt parallel with his insect adversaries), immersed in nature near the peak of a mountain. Through prayer, meditation, and expression of utmost gratitude to the discipline of martial arts that made him the man he is, he cultivates the Guanyin Bodhisattva. Essentially, the speed of his attacks can now break the sound barrier. After descending the mountain and bringing a martial arts master to tears with a demonstration of his skill, Netero founds his own dojo of Shingen-Ryu. The way this flashback is portrayed as a spirit echo for Pitou is incredibly inventive and fresh. The 100-type Guanyin Bodhisattva perfectly embodies the storytelling technique with which Togashi chooses to depict the invasion. We witness how complex the condition/ritual to activate the ability is in its entirety, while knowing it all takes place in a minuscule amount of time. The execution of this concept is artful in every sense of the word.

All in all this is a spellbinding episode that I grow to enjoy more each time I see it!

Hunter x Hunter: Gungi × of × Komugi (2013) Season 1, Episode 108

Epitomizes What This Arc Stands For

[10/10 · 10 June 2022]

This episode is a culmination of all the thematic material that has been coalescing in the first half of this arc. Pouf's internal conflict is extremely compelling (catalyzed by Komugi's dynamic with Meruem and his desire to protect Meruem). Meruem and Komugi's relationship develops extensively at Pouf's dismay. Through it we explore the meaning of strength, identity, and what makes someone or something powerful (physical strength, influence over others, mental fortitude, possessing a quality that another lacks, or an inalienable sense of identity).

The final scene is one of the more tender in the entire show, and always makes me tear up. Meruem, an embodiment of violence whose intrinsic purpose is to trample the world underfoot and rule as the most powerful being in existence, treats Komugi with more kindness and respect than anyone she's ever known. Komugi's fragility, selflessness, and humility draws out the inherent humanity and protective instinct buried deep within Meruem. Komugi is attacked by the same eagle that flew over Netero preparing for the operation through intense meditation. Komugi's cries echo those of the child that Colt vows to protect in the wake of the queen's death earlier on in the arc. Parental instinct, the law of nature, and inner turmoil all come to the forefront through Pouf and Meruem's internal dialogues. This is definitely the most thematically poignant episode of the series up to this point. It's a profound statement on the meanings of humanity and strength.

Hunter x Hunter: Ikalgo × and × Lightning (2013) Season 1, Episode 101

Charming and Hilarious

[9/10 · 10 June 2022]

To me, this episode genuinely feels like it could fit seamlessly into Jojo's Part 3. The combination of Killua's banter with Ikalgo, the charismatic sibling ants, and the Nen ability Killua finds himself ensnared in made this strike an uncannily similar tone to that of the Darby brothers episodes of JJBA. As a result, this episode is a an absolute riot that leaves us with two delightful new players (Ikalgo and Meleoron) in this beast of an operation to slay the ant king. It also serves to demonstrate how Gon and Killua have evolved as characters since the arc's onset. It's one of the few episodes of this arc that honestly benefitted from not taking itself too seriously. Just wholesome fun and charming emotional beats that effectively move the story along.