Okay, picture this: you're finally settling in for the new season of Attack on Titan. Popcorn's ready, lights are dimmed. You're prepared for epic battles and world-shattering revelations. And then... the episode starts.
"Judgement" - More Like "Judgemental Looks"
Forget the earth-shattering rumbling for a second. Forget Eren Yeager's dramatic glow-up (or down-low, depending on your perspective). This episode felt like a super intense family therapy session gone horribly, hilariously wrong.
Seriously, the tension in that Marleyan military meeting room? You could cut it with a knife. Everyone was side-eyeing everyone else, whispering behind their hands. The Marleyan higher-ups were squirming under the pressure.
General Calvi looked like he'd rather be anywhere else, maybe attending a pottery class or learning how to knit. Anything to avoid the fallout from Eren's little visit to Liberio.
Pieck's "Nap Time"
But the real star of the show (besides the looming apocalypse, of course) was Pieck Finger. Now, we all know Pieck is smart. Strategically gifted. But this episode gave us a glimpse into her… unique coping mechanisms.
Amidst the chaos of strategizing against the "Island Devils," Pieck casually asks if she can take a nap. A nap! Girl, the world is ending! The audacity! It was a perfectly timed moment of dark humor that made me laugh out loud.
It was like that one coworker who manages to sleep through every meeting, regardless of the topic's urgency. Relatable, honestly.
Porco's Perpetual Grumpiness
Then there's Porco Galliard, the Jaw Titan. He's basically the embodiment of teenage angst trapped in a titan-shifter's body. He spends the entire episode complaining.
Is it about the impending doom? Partially. Is it about Eren messing up their plans? Definitely. But mostly, it just seems like he's generally unhappy with everything and everyone. Especially Pieck and her naps.
His constant grumbling is almost endearing in its absurdity. It's like, "Yes, Porco, we get it. Everything sucks. Now can we focus on not getting eaten?"
It offered a tiny breather between the heavy moments. A reminder that even in the face of annihilation, there's still room for petty annoyances.
Falco's Unwavering Hope
Amidst all the cynicism and despair, there's Falco Grice. This kid continues to be a beacon of hope. He still believes in a future. He's even protecting Gabi Braun, despite everything.
His dedication to protecting others is genuinely heartwarming. It's a sharp contrast to the morally gray decisions being made by everyone else.
It’s a tiny spark of goodness in a world rapidly descending into darkness. Rooting for Falco feels like the right thing to do. We need this kid to succeed.
"This isn't just a battle; it's a reflection of humanity's worst (and occasionally funniest) traits."
So, while the first episode of season 4 part 2 didn't explode with action, it delivered something arguably more valuable: a masterclass in character dynamics. It’s setting the stage for the emotional rollercoaster to come.
Get ready, folks. Because if this episode is anything to go by, this final stretch of Attack on Titan will be a wild, heartbreaking, and surprisingly humorous ride.