The acclaimed series “Attack on Titan” returns yet again with the thrilling 27th episode of the fourth season, titled “Retrospective.” This episode immerses us in a flurry of action and emotion that will have you on the edge of your seat. The chapter not only showcases MAPPA’s mastery in animation but also delivers some of the most standout moments since they took over the reins from Wit Studio.
If you haven’t had the chance to watch this episode, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s available in the original version with Spanish subtitles on Crunchyroll. However, if you’ve already had the pleasure of experiencing it, join us in this in-depth analysis as we explore the most intriguing moments of the episode. Nevertheless, before we proceed, it’s important to highlight that this review contains significant spoilers.
In the previous episode, Armin faced a setback in his plan to secure the aircraft without shedding blood, forcing the Alliance into a direct confrontation with the Jaegerists. From this point onwards, characters like Connie and Mikasa are compelled to set aside their personal emotions towards their former comrades and carry out their mission to its bitter end, even if it means facing their ex-army colleagues in a deadly clash.
Throughout much of the episode, we witness some of the most breathtaking action sequences ever animated to date. MAPPA’s creative team has taken liberties in adapting manga chapter 129, and the result is a truly spectacular visual spectacle. The fusion of 2D animation and CGI in the intense battles offers a stunning audiovisual display, with each character getting their moment to shine, especially Mikasa.
In terms of the plot, the contrast between the series’ beginnings and the current situation is staggering. The initial episodes glorified the terror of the Titans and the thrill of combat using the Three Dimensional Maneuver Gear. Now, as we return to a conflict centered around face-offs between Titans and humans, the perception of the conflict has shifted dramatically. Victory appears more somber than gratifying, and the initial terror has transformed into fear and desperation on both sides.
Hange, Mikasa, and their companions, aided by Annie and Reiner in their Titan forms, are forced to fight their way to the aircraft. However, their plans change when they discover that a considerable amount of time is required to get it up and running. From this point onwards, their objective becomes protecting Lady Kiyomi and the engineers who possess the knowledge to activate the aircraft. Only then can they reach the ship, their means of escape to a zone where they can prepare for the final showdown against Eren and the dreaded Rumbling.
The combat evokes intense emotions, particularly in scenes where Annie reveals her vulnerability while shielding the Azumabito. In that moment, it becomes apparent that, despite her Titan form, Annie still carries the essence of the frightened girl within her. The scenes of Reiner defending Annie expose the Titans’ fragility against advanced weaponry, conveying emotions that sharply contrast with the series’ initial arcs.
The advancement of anti-Titan weaponry puts Reiner and Annie in a tight spot, prompting Falco to intervene. Despite Pieck’s warnings, Falco transforms into his Titan form for the first time. However, as expected, he loses control and attacks Pieck. Fortunately, Magath intervenes and manages to halt Falco, securing his safety.
The Alliance outperforms the Jaegerists both in close-quarters combat and in utilizing the Titans’ powers. Despite this, the deaths feel less satisfying, as the Jaegerists are fearful individuals desperately clinging to their singular notion of survival. Characters like Floch fight with conviction, believing in the righteousness of their cause. Nonetheless, Gabi puts an end to his desperate attempt to damage the escape ship.
In the end, Magath, Hange, and their comrades successfully board the ship, accomplishing their objective. The image of everyone, exhausted, assisting one another in boarding the ship, carries profound symbolism, considering the events of the preceding episodes. Former enemies support each other in a gesture of solidarity after a small yet significant victory, marking the beginning of the arduous battle that lies ahead.
As the group boards the ship, Magath makes a brave choice. Aware of the possibility that the Jaegerists might use a Marleyan vessel docked at the port, Magath chooses to stay behind. He encounters Shadis, who unexpectedly lends support to the Alliance. Together, they unite to destroy the last remaining enemy vessel. This act neatly concludes the character arcs for these individuals, as the former Commander of the Scout Regiment and the man regretting sowing hatred in young lives.
Surprisingly, the episode doesn’t conclude here. After the closing, an animation of the scene that kicks off manga chapter 130 is presented. With the looming advancement of the Colossal Titans, saving Liberio and the Marleyan continent appears insurmountable. In an emotional twist, Annie, whose initial motivation was to save her father, surrenders and admits she no longer wishes to fight. This moment displays a humane and vulnerable side of Annie, an intriguing development for her character.
In summary, Episode 27 of “Attack on Titan” offers a potent blend of action, emotion, and character development. MAPPA’s skillful adaptation of the source material provides moments of visual spectacle and emotional depth. As the Alliance strives to survive and triumph, moral complexities and inner struggles intertwine, creating a narrative canvas that promises an epic confrontation in the upcoming episodes.
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