On yet another thrilling Sunday, “Attack on Titan” enthusiasts tune in to Crunchyroll for the eagerly awaited release of the latest episode of the second part of the final season. Episode 22, titled “Thaw,” not only picks up the frenetic action but also delves into the intricacies of secondary characters. The storyline takes place after the devastating Rumbling event, and in this review, we’ll explore the most noteworthy moments and crucial decisions of this episode. However, please be aware that this analysis will be filled with details that reveal key parts of the plot.
The narrative kicks off with a brief recap of the climax of the previous episode: the destruction of the walls and the ruthless mission of the colossal Titans under the command of the Founding Titan, Eren Yeager, seeking to wipe out the world beyond Paradis Island. This sinister event poses moral dilemmas of epic proportions, shaking characters like Mikasa, Armin, Connie, and Jean, whose internal conflicts become the emotional heart of the episode.
Jean’s heartfelt speech stands out among the episode’s most notable moments. Jean has transformed into the moral compass of the series, defending Eren and exploring his complexity. His evolution from a skeptical youth to someone willing to entertain unthinkable perspectives showcases his maturity. Jean, who realizes that Eren’s words to Mikasa carry hidden motives, emerges as the first to understand and explain Eren’s extreme actions. This new dimension of his character is especially impactful when recalling his initial interactions in the series.
The conversation between Jean and Connie highlights the depth of their ethical dilemmas. The struggle to decide Falco’s fate, a child caught in this crisis, leads to emotional tension. Connie, whose mother was turned into a Titan and attacked his friends in previous seasons, wants to save her, while Jean proposes a pragmatic alternative. The plot also explores the characters’ connections to their past decisions and how their actions have lasting consequences.
Reiner and Gabi introduce another layer of complexity. Reiner, physically and emotionally defeated, resigns himself to defeat, while Gabi continues to fight, driven by her desire to protect Falco. The relationship between these two characters illustrates the generational perspective gap and how each grapples with violence and conflict.
The poignant conversation between Gabi, Kaya, and Niccolo is one of the episode’s climactic moments. Deep themes like guilt, identity, and moral duality are explored. Niccolo, a character with non-Eldian blood, asserts that everyone harbors an inner “demon,” a dark side that everyone must confront. This reflection aligns with the nuanced themes that the series has raised throughout its storyline.
The episode spares no action as Jean, Mikasa, and Armin dive into battle to aid their comrades trapped in the headquarters. The confrontation with the Titans transformed by Zeke showcases the growth of Levi’s team, unexpectedly led by Jean. However, the musical choice for this scene receives criticism, as the song “Barricades” does not match the emotional intensity of the sequence.
The episode concludes with a revelatory encounter between Annie and the main characters. Her return after years raises intriguing questions about her role in the plot’s resolution. Audiences are left eager to discover whether she will be an ally, foe, or maintain a neutral stance in the ongoing struggle.
In summary, “Thaw” represents an episode rich in emotional developments and ethical choices. Secondary characters emerge as pivotal figures, and moral tensions add depth to the narrative. The series continues to explore human duality and ethical dilemmas amidst an ever-evolving storyline. As the story hurtles toward its climax, “Attack on Titan” enthusiasts are left anticipating the revelations and twists that the future surely holds.
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