“My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” episode 5, titled “Judgment,” delivers a compelling mix of character development, emotional revelations, and the introduction of a darker element to the vigilante landscape. The episode enriches the narrative by delving into the past, showcasing the present struggles, and hinting at future conflicts, making it a standout installment in the series.
A Glimpse into the Past
The episode opens by contrasting Koichi’s lonely college life with his current, more vibrant existence alongside Knuckleduster and Pop Step. Flashbacks reveal Koichi’s ruined reputation in college due to a misunderstanding, making it difficult for him to form friendships. Despite this, he now finds solace and companionship with his vigilante allies.
A significant revelation is Koichi’s past aspiration to become a hero and his intention to take the hero exam. On the day of the exam, he encountered a child drowning in a river and selflessly jumped in to save them, missing the exam in the process. This act of kindness, however, had a profound impact.
The Revelation of Pop’s Identity
The episode reveals that the child Koichi saved was none other than Pop Step. Pop is initially frustrated with Koichi for giving up on his hero dreams, knowing he has the potential to be a true hero. She decides to tell Koichi the truth about her identity and return the All Might hoodie he gave her. However, Knuckleduster’s unexpected arrival thwarts her attempt, leaving her feeling embarrassed and unresolved. This shared past adds emotional depth to Koichi and Pop’s dynamic, enhancing their individual character arcs.
Trigger and Rampage
Meanwhile, the Trigger-enhanced villain, Akira, is released from prison and immediately given another dose of Trigger by Kuin. This leads to another rampage through the city, forcing Koichi and Pop to confront him without Knuckleduster’s assistance. Koichi reflects on his increased strength as he battles the villain, showcasing his growth as a vigilante.
The Arrival of Stendhal
As Koichi struggles against Akira, a new vigilante emerges: Stendhal, a katana-wielding figure who takes a much darker approach to justice. Stendhal swiftly defeats and kills Akira, acting as judge and executioner. This introduces a stark contrast to Koichi’s more virtuous approach and raises questions about the nature of justice and vigilantism.
Contrasting Ideologies
Knuckleduster had warned Koichi about the dangers of vigilantes prioritizing their own skewed sense of right and wrong. Stendhal’s actions perfectly exemplify this, setting up a potential conflict of ideologies between him and Knuckleduster. Kuin observes Stendhal’s actions with apparent satisfaction, suggesting her own agenda in the unfolding chaos.
Production and Overall Impression
“My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” episode 5 is a polished and emotionally resonant installment. Studio Bones Film continues to deliver excellent animation and sound design, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The voice acting remains exceptional, adding emotional weight to each scene. The episode’s smooth pacing, blend of action, humor, and character development, and growing suspense make it a thoroughly entertaining experience.
Themes and Analysis
The Nature of Heroism
The episode explores different facets of heroism through its characters. Koichi’s selfless act of saving Pop as a child defines him as a hero, even though he missed his chance to enter the hero course. His continued efforts to help others, despite not having official hero status, further solidify this. Stendhal, on the other hand, represents a darker, more ruthless form of vigilantism, where justice is served through execution. This contrast invites viewers to question what it truly means to be a hero and whether the ends justify the means.
The Impact of the Past
The episode highlights how past events can shape a person’s present and future. Koichi’s past experiences, both positive (saving Pop) and negative (his ruined college reputation), have influenced his current path as a vigilante. Pop’s guilt and gratitude towards Koichi for saving her life drive her desire to reveal her identity and support him. These interconnected pasts add depth to the characters’ motivations and relationships.
The Allure and Danger of Vigilantism
“Vigilantes” delves into the complexities of operating outside the law. While vigilantes can fill the gaps left by official heroes, they also risk abusing their power and imposing their own moral codes. Stendhal’s actions serve as a cautionary tale, demonstrating the potential for vigilantism to become a dangerous form of justice. The series encourages viewers to consider the ethical implications of taking the law into one’s own hands.
Looking Ahead
Episode 5 sets the stage for future conflicts and developments. The introduction of Stendhal creates tension and raises questions about his role in the story. Pop’s unrequited feelings and the secret of her past with Koichi promise further emotional drama. Kuin’s manipulations and her interest in Stendhal hint at a larger scheme unfolding. As the series progresses, viewers can expect deeper explorations of these themes and characters.
Reception
The episode has been well-received, with critics praising its character development, emotional depth, and the introduction of Stendhal. The animation and sound design have also been lauded, contributing to the overall quality of the episode. Some critics have noted the episode’s reliance on familiar “My Hero Academia” elements but acknowledge its effectiveness in enhancing the plot and character relationships.
“My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” continues to solidify itself as a compelling spin-off, offering a unique perspective on the hero society and its underbelly. Episode 5 is a testament to the series’ strengths, delivering a well-rounded and engaging viewing experience.
