The world of Ranma ½, a beloved martial arts romantic comedy, is known for its chaotic charm, gender-bending transformations, and an ensemble of eccentric characters. For fans seeking “Episode 22,” it’s important to note that the series has two distinct installments bearing this number, thanks to the original 1989 anime and the recent 2024 remake. Both episodes, while different in plot, encapsulate the quintessential humor and action that define Rumiko Takahashi’s enduring creation.
Understanding “Ranma ½ Episode 22”: Original vs. Remake
The confusion around “Episode 22” stems from the different anime adaptations of the Ranma ½ manga. The original anime series, produced by Studio Deen, initially ran for 18 episodes before being retitled Ranma ½ Nettōhen (Ranma ½ Hard Battle) and continuing for an additional 143 episodes. Some numbering conventions combine these, making “Episode 22” fall within the Nettōhen arc. More recently, a new anime adaptation premiered in 2024, offering a modern retelling, and naturally, it also has its own Episode 22.
This article will delve into both versions, highlighting their unique stories and contributions to the Ranma ½ legacy.
The 2024 Remake: “Not Your Typical Juliet” (or “Juliet Game”)
The more recent iteration of “Episode 22” in the 2024 Ranma ½ anime remake is titled “Not Your Typical Juliet” (or “Juliet Game” in its original Japanese). This episode premiered on December 6, 2025, in Japan, and subsequently became available on international streaming platforms. It quickly became a significant talking point, particularly due to its prominent role in promotional art for the season.
Plot Summary: A Theatrical Battle for a Kiss
In “Not Your Typical Juliet,” the story centers around Akane Tendo, who is thrilled to be cast as Juliet in her school’s drama competition. This role fulfills a long-held dream for Akane, who has often been perceived as masculine due to her short hair and pugnacious temperament, making the opportunity to portray such an iconic feminine role a moment of “gender euphoria” for her.
However, the path to a smooth performance is immediately derailed as multiple contenders emerge for the role of Romeo. Tatewaki Kuno, Hikaru Gosunkugi, and even the lecherous Happosai all vie for the part, primarily motivated by the chance to kiss Akane. Ranma Saotome, initially uninterested, joins the fray upon discovering the grand prize: a trip to China. His motivation, as usual, is purely self-serving, hoping to find a cure for his curse at Jusenkyo.
The school play quickly devolves into an all-out martial arts brawl on stage as the would-be Romeos fight for the leading role. Ranma, despite his reluctance to kiss Akane, intervenes to prevent her from having to kiss the other suitors. The episode showcases classic Ranma ½ comedic timing and exaggerated martial arts antics, all set against the backdrop of a high school play. Ultimately, the chaos leads to Akane asserting herself, and the competition concludes with a memorable, albeit unconventional, kiss scene between Ranma and Akane.
Character Dynamics and Themes
“Not Your Typical Juliet” is praised for being a strong episode for Akane’s character, highlighting her desire to embrace her femininity and her justifiable frustration with Ranma’s antics. It explores themes of identity, perception, and the often-rocky romantic relationship between Ranma and Akane, all wrapped in the series’ signature humor.
The 1989 Original: “Behold! The ‘Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire’ Technique”
The “Episode 22” from the original Ranma ½ anime series is officially titled “Behold! The ‘Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire’ Technique” (出た! 必殺天津甘栗拳!! Deta! Hissatsu Tenshin Amaguriken!!). This episode originally aired on November 17, 1989. It is often recognized as episode 4 of Ranma ½ Nettōhen, which continued the story after the initial 18-episode run.
Plot Summary: A Fiery Bath and a Phoenix Pill
This installment picks up with Ranma Saotome still stuck in his female form after a previous confrontation with Cologne. Desperate to return to his male self, Ranma attempts to use the hot bath at the Tendo residence but is scalded without transforming.
The central conflict of the episode revolves around Ranma’s efforts to obtain a “phoenix pill” that he believes will cure his curse. He challenges Mousse, the lovelorn suitor of Shampoo, to a fight to acquire it. The battle is a classic Ranma ½ martial arts spectacle, featuring intricate techniques and a generous dose of slapstick humor. A recurring element of the fight involves avoiding scalding hot baths, which poses a constant threat to both combatants and adds another layer of comedic peril.
After a grueling fight, Ranma successfully obtains what he believes to be the phoenix pill, only to discover it has been switched with a fake. This leaves him exasperated and still in his female form, further cementing his comedic plight and the ongoing struggle with his curse.
Enduring Appeal and Classic Humor
“Behold! The ‘Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire’ Technique” is a prime example of the original series’ charm, combining intense martial arts battles with the inherent humor of Ranma’s gender-swapping predicament. It also showcases the dynamics between Ranma, Mousse, and the ever-present influence of Amazon characters like Cologne, making it a memorable entry for long-time fans.
Conclusion
Whether experiencing Akane’s theatrical dreams and Ranma’s quest for a trip to China in “Not Your Typical Juliet,” or witnessing Ranma’s desperate fight for a phoenix pill against Mousse in “Behold! The ‘Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire’ Technique,” both versions of Ranma ½ Episode 22 deliver the unique blend of action, romance, and comedy that has cemented the series’ place as an anime classic. These episodes serve as excellent reminders of the enduring appeal of Rumiko Takahashi’s vibrant world and its unforgettable characters.
