Okay. That was awesome.
I already considered this series among the best of this season, and with this episode it surpassed itself, and this only is the third episode of 22. But just… this episode introduces this new character and he brings a totally new dynamic to the series that completely takes the piss out of both the mass media and the superhero business.
The characters here were brilliantly used. Turning the idol that Samurai Flamenco was based off into this semi-impersonator awakened so many different feelings in Masayoshi, and afterwards this spiralled into this bizarre publicity stunt in which Samurai Flamenco became Red Axe’s assistant, followed by some very unexpected character-development from Hidenori. Heck, this episode couldn’t have made better use of the trope of superheroes having to conceal their identity.
And yet, the characters in this series feel real. Of course there are nutters like Masayoshi walking around and all, but he too has common sense. When people fight here, they don’t use supernatural powers. Even Joji Kaname is just this really muscular guy; he doesn’t punch with superhuman strength, and yet the creators manage to portray him as this crazy stuntman. This is something that very few anime get right: juggling the balance between realism and entertainment.
But seriously, the chemistry between the characters just keeps getting better and better.
Rating: 6/8 (Awesome)
Couldn’t agree more. I loved every episode so far (even some of the tracks are pretty cool). Same with all of the major characters – and I really didn’t expect this last scene with Hidenori before the ED. It could hint at some interesting and more or less unexpected character developement.
I liked the episode but I am a bit worried at the direction this might take. With Red axe training him that could mean that hasama grows more competent at fighting. And that start painting his acts in better light. The interesting thing is that this superhero thing is nothing like the real thing. It kinda loses the point if he starts to become more used to it. I prefer when he’s in over his head.
Props.
I loved this episode and agree with all the things psgel says.
Red Axe dude was funny.
And yeah the last bit where Hidenori is ‘shit I kinda like this’ was also an interesting twist.
Wasn’t expecting this show to be this good, but yep, everything Psgels said just won me over this episode.
That was just hilarious, Red Axe was an amazing addition, and joining them after the ED was an awesome bonus!