Unlike other shows I’m watching, Fire Force seems to be hitting stride right at the end of the season. I still argue this show is best in episodes like this one – minimal fight scenes, which they struggle with, and limited catgirl.
This episode is a story of two companies – 8 and 7. The first takes a walk down memory lane with Lieutenant Takehisa – and surprisingly Maki. I think interweaving character’s stories makes them feel more genuine – many anime backstories are isolated, but I like this take.
The rest of the backstory is unremarkable, but executed well.
I don’t even disagree with the Captain of the Third – morale is an important part of a job that is full of dread and stress. I’m sure his point method saved many lives and kept his men motivated; I have no problem with that. I appreciate the depth given even to this throwaway character; it would have been extremely easy to pass him off as corrupt or evil.
Also blushing Maki is bae.
The second part of this episode is fantastic. Captain/Warlord Benimaru is a breath of fresh air. Modeled after a feudal shogun, Fire Force shows Benimaru as the benevolent dictator of his area, interacting with his subjects who obviously love him. Someone with strength great enough to have his autonomous region recognized in an empire isn’t that uncommon a troupe, but having this capsule of feudal Japan thrust into a steampunk world of flame – outstanding. (Even his pyrotechnics are a throwback to the traditional Japanese fire fighting squads).
I’ve said it before, but Fire Force exhibits such a great touch sometimes – this episode was masterful. The art and animation were top notch, the historical allusions on point, and Captain Benimaru was perfectly humanized in half an episode and a handful of lines.
I can’t wait for the finale….oh wait. It’s been delayed two weeks.
You do more there is more to a character than fanservice right?
Catgirl? I mean, she had a bit of characterization….but definitely not enough to offset her fanservice.
Maki? Tsundere for sure but I don’t think the service has been excessive. Her throwaway gags have more than made up for it.
Benimaru? Best waifu of this show, fight me 😀
I’ll admit I might be overly excited at seeing a unique captain character (look at the Bleach captains (on either side) or Seven Deadly Sins – even the local Princess Hibana is pretty blasé). I may be over applauding originality (or even just non-cookie cutter), so that’s fair.