[Kiwami]

Oh my god this episode. So good.

First, let's get the action out of the way. Holy cannoli! So many amazing camera angles, miniature work and effects! This is Ultraman at its absolute best, amazing work!

The plot served the story well, we get a classic "monster appears do to mankind's fault", with the added set piece of an ancient weapon left by another Ultraman. That I like for two reasons: First, of course, the classic Godzilla-trope, second: The weapon not just being summoned because we "unlocked it", but it also ties into lore of Ultraman visiting Earth through different periods, in some cases even settling / being born here (Victory).

The weapon is really neat by the way, I like it! Not too gimmicky but obviously toy-like, still cool though.

Then, the plot - first of all I really enjoyed the dynamic between Haruki and Yoko. Haruki obviously admires her and wants to be a professional like her, which enables him to grow beyond his limits. The limit being - only relying on the Ultra Z Riser. I really liked how Juggler snatched it away early on, which not only explains how he gets one but also forces Haruki to take action himself.

Lastly, Juggler. Man we simply don’t deserve this guy. It's so good to have him back. He was one of my favorite things about Orb, he was fantastic in the Geed movie, and now he’s a permanent part of Z as well! And it's so great to have his human persona integrated into the core cast, he's not just a mysterious dude who comes and goes, he's their captain!

I really wonder how he came to be in that position. But next week - oh lord, Geed is back. I mean, we knew about this, but... Z is awesome; we get Juggler, and now Geed? This show is spoiling is so hard and I love it.

PS. I was noticing how the co-existing between humans and monsters pretty much flew out of the window this season but – "professional monster exterminators"? Damn Haruki, Daichi is going to have a word with you someday!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fish Sandwich

I mean, they were hinting at Hebikura's shadier side from the premiere, so as usual, the plot makes sense completely on its own, but I get the feeling it'll be on an entirely different wavelength than the obviously intended "oh s***, Juggler's back!" reaction fans are going to be having.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Enchilada645

Oh shit, Juggler's back!