Mobile Suit Gundam The Witch from Mercury Episode 21: All Quiet On The Mercurial Front
G-Witch has a fast pacing in its story, I believe this is one of its many well-known facts, one of its many strengths. But this episode is probably the first time that I would like to say: slow down, please. Because it was too fast. While it still was a good episode, It made me feel uneasy about what it will show in the next episode, because if the series really ends in the 25th episode, G-Witch may fall right into hell.
So why did I say that?
So why did I say that?
The Shaddiq vs Guel fight made me realize something is wrong with this pace. The battle is well done, and well-made, just like I said in the previous review but emotionally speaking, it fell short and shallow. Sure they had quite opposite characters when solving things (in what price they paid in a duel for example), and the choice they made somehow got tangled with each other, but precisely speaking, Guel did not have that many one-on-one direct interactions with Shaddiq, only one at episode 8 so to speak…
So what does this mean? It means that even though their drive was clear – Guel losing his father due to Shaddiq’s ploy, and Shaddiq was forced to play his hand early due to the incident on Earth – their face-off felt less impactful because they haven’t been interacting for so long that their relations kinda turned into strangers at one point. And at that time, it’s more of an anguished soldier being mad at the other side’s general whom he never faced before. However, if you string together all the events that happened until now, their battle did carry some weight, especially for Guel.
So what does this mean? It means that even though their drive was clear – Guel losing his father due to Shaddiq’s ploy, and Shaddiq was forced to play his hand early due to the incident on Earth – their face-off felt less impactful because they haven’t been interacting for so long that their relations kinda turned into strangers at one point. And at that time, it’s more of an anguished soldier being mad at the other side’s general whom he never faced before. However, if you string together all the events that happened until now, their battle did carry some weight, especially for Guel.
Now when you compare it to the simple talk between Miorine and Shaddiq in this episode, you could see that it is very emotionally different from what we have seen in Guel vs Shaddiq. Miorine and Shaddiq shared their past with each other, both had a relationship as childhood friends that has been established before, even though Shaddiq did choose a different path from Miorine both had some soft spots for each other.
When they shared their moments with each other, you can feel the weight in each line they gave to each other. Only in front of Miorine that Shaddiq could drop his mask outside of his small “circle”, and only in front of Shaddiq (before Suletta) Miorine could tell what she felt, even having something for him in her heart. This is how the emotional side of the duel between Guel and Shaddiq should have been delivered.
When they shared their moments with each other, you can feel the weight in each line they gave to each other. Only in front of Miorine that Shaddiq could drop his mask outside of his small “circle”, and only in front of Shaddiq (before Suletta) Miorine could tell what she felt, even having something for him in her heart. This is how the emotional side of the duel between Guel and Shaddiq should have been delivered.
The same could apply to the Space Assembly League (SAL). Granted, they had been teased for a while, but have never been introduced in full, never understood what the hell can they do, what kind of government they are and how exactly powerful they actually are, until this episode. So when they dropped their mantle and decided to do something, they made no impact at all. If the staff thought some fleets with a bunch of new MS (CARGORE, what a name lol) were enough to make us believe the SAL were very powerful, they were completely wrong.
And to make it worse, they debut Quiet Zero and the Gundnode, lots of Gundnodes right after the so-called “maiden voyage” of that fleet. There was no way Prospera could lose that fight, there was no way Quiet Zero could be defeated in this episode, it made the SAL look like turkeys that were slaughtered on Thanksgiving. They were losing hard even before Prospera decided to go Permet Score 6!
Give us an episode or two solely about SAL, you have done that for Miorine’s company before, why not do the same thing for the SAL?
Give us an episode or two solely about SAL, you have done that for Miorine’s company before, why not do the same thing for the SAL?
The last bad thing I would like to talk about: the カリバーンガンダム – Calibarn Gundam, or Caliburn Gundam / Caliban Gundam depending on which platform you chose to watch the episode.
(Currently, it is called Calibarn on the Gundaminfo’s subtitles but we all have been through this kind of translation problem before so either they reveal its actual name when they release its kit, or in my opinion, it should be called Caliban considering The Tempest‘s heavy influence on G-Witch.)
What the heck was that debut? This episode was neither at mid-show when you could introduce a new main Gundam for the protagonist, this episode is the beginning of the end for at least this cour, they just debuted the main villain’s vessel, which was too OP by the way, and the staff decided to just “Oh hey we forgot to make any possible option to counter Quiet Zero, any ideas lads? – Oh I know, let’s just make some kind of Deus Ex Machina and drop it in the middle of the episode without any teasing at all! – Fantastic ideas”? What?
(Currently, it is called Calibarn on the Gundaminfo’s subtitles but we all have been through this kind of translation problem before so either they reveal its actual name when they release its kit, or in my opinion, it should be called Caliban considering The Tempest‘s heavy influence on G-Witch.)
What the heck was that debut? This episode was neither at mid-show when you could introduce a new main Gundam for the protagonist, this episode is the beginning of the end for at least this cour, they just debuted the main villain’s vessel, which was too OP by the way, and the staff decided to just “Oh hey we forgot to make any possible option to counter Quiet Zero, any ideas lads? – Oh I know, let’s just make some kind of Deus Ex Machina and drop it in the middle of the episode without any teasing at all! – Fantastic ideas”? What?
They made a whole episode to let Miorine decide what kind of path her company will take and they can not spare an episode to establish SAL and in that episode drop in the Calibarn? Logically speaking, it was still possible thanks to episode 19, but seriously though, why even made Schwarzette Gundam?
You hinted that suit even before the beginning of the second season and yet it became so obsolete to the story that at this point I don’t even know why it is there. To make Lauda’s trauma worse than ever before? If so, you have done it, Lauda might pilot Schwarzette to screw up whatever plans there is to subjugate Quiet Zero, potentially ruin its sales just like Michaelis. And I don’t know how you even wrap up everything in episode 25 which was anticipated at the finale for the second season since the beginning. I just hope they had more than 25 episodes, but to be honest, I can’t see any possible chance for G-Witch to have more than 3 cours, not with the ongoing developments…
Aside from all the bad things, there are good things though.
Guel going to comfort Miorine was a nice evidence of how far the two best-developing characters have gone. They might not engaged with each other because they loved each other but they still treated each other with care. Their relationship, or should I say “marriage” might not be one that was born from “love” but they can still care for each other and respect each other (only Guel at this point though because Miorine is in depress at the moment) truly showcasing how a “marriage” should be, even if it is purely a political marriage.
Quiet Zero’s and Gundnode’s debut soundtrack was lit as hell. From the majestic track of Aerial’s debut in Episode 1, then to the grand yet shadowy track in Episode 12 when Aerial Rebuild debuted, and now, Aerial has fully become an antagonist Gundam with its wicked track in Episode 21, all of them were magnificent. Of all the things that G-Witch could disappoint you, the OSTs are not one of them.
Guel going to comfort Miorine was a nice evidence of how far the two best-developing characters have gone. They might not engaged with each other because they loved each other but they still treated each other with care. Their relationship, or should I say “marriage” might not be one that was born from “love” but they can still care for each other and respect each other (only Guel at this point though because Miorine is in depress at the moment) truly showcasing how a “marriage” should be, even if it is purely a political marriage.
Quiet Zero’s and Gundnode’s debut soundtrack was lit as hell. From the majestic track of Aerial’s debut in Episode 1, then to the grand yet shadowy track in Episode 12 when Aerial Rebuild debuted, and now, Aerial has fully become an antagonist Gundam with its wicked track in Episode 21, all of them were magnificent. Of all the things that G-Witch could disappoint you, the OSTs are not one of them.
And one of the best parts of this episode was the characterization of Suletta has finally come to fruition. She has now become the main character that we all have expected her to be, can be able to speak fluently in front of people, able to think something that even Miorine did not tell her to do, able to decide what kind of path will she take regardless of the price, even able to produce her own motto based on the previous ones. It sure was late, but it’s better to realize it rather than nothing will happen.
Alongside those were the interactions between Secelia – Suletta, and Chuchu with the two bully girls in episode 4 that solidified Suletta’s characterization, with the bonus of Nika, Martin, Chuchu, El5n, and Suletta herself are characterized beautifully, also somehow raising their own dead flags. Not bad, Okouchi, I hope you won’t kill half of them at the end of this season.
Also, Petra’s alive. The best part of this episode.
Next episode: “Calibarn” ’s real name, and what can Suletta’s team do to stop such an OP weapon that is Quiet Zero?
>Reryuu<
Check out more reviews here:
>Reryuu<
Check out more reviews here:
Gutentor Advanced Text
Taisei officially joined Erda on the first day of introducing senior members, and He probably still needs a long process to be more confident when talking to others. If I were a 14-year-old kid, I would be just as worried and nervous as Taisei. Besides that, we also know more about Kuzuryu’s past, and he is Mai’s childhood friend. Perhaps we have seen the first young couple of the series.
Taisei proceeded with his first sortie. But what comes after victory? Can Taisei overcome the next challenge as the decision of his life lies ahead?
A new saga begins. Shinkalion returns with a more grown-up cast and settings, as we depart on a journey of a young brother looking for his missing sister.
Enter the world of NEX racing – AI-assisted races at breakneck speed. Strap in as we are introduced to the general settings as well as watching the top drivers duke it out on the track.
Bang Brave Bang Bravern has come to an end. Although the final episode isn’t very impressive, it serves its purpose as a neat ending to the series.
The conclusion that actually created more problems than the series started with. But we got to see a very well done battle with a pretty badass upgrade.
Fists against fists! Neans against Neans! The battles we’ve been waiting for is here. At this point, action is all we need – as Metallic Rouge head towards the end.
A satisfying conclusion following an awesome battle. Kanata and team set out to save the world and reach a new frontier for humanity.
With only 2 episodes left, Metallic Rouge still spend its time leisurely talking and setting up plot points. This episode contains no action and likewise no impact to the viewer.
“Me and the gang doing side quests before fighting the boss” the episode – Bang Brave Bang Bravern sacrifices its precious pacing for important character development. Also BravernIsami is real.
Even though thought to have revealed its biggest secret, Bang Brave Bang Bravern still got some surprises in stock. The abrupt plot twist gives an already beloved character a lot of depth, through beautiful visual.
A silly road trip in space with Rouge with some emotional flashback. The gang has a new and rather unexpected addition. The final battle is looming over the calm before the storm.
Our Char-clone had a change of heart – or rather, a reclamation of his lost desire. But when one find something, another also lost something…or someone.
“Isami, Yuuki Bakuhatsu!!!” Episode 9 makes viewers explode of hype and emotion with the characters, by revealing the big secret and introducing Bravern’s first gattai form.
A balance episode with both action and exposition. Some beautiful visuals to accompany a ridiculous storyline. Nevertheless Rouge is heading towards the final battle.
The birth of a new determination…and a new songstress. And we get some levity this episode with a “peaceful” resolution between Kanata and “shirokamen”.
The stakes are raised much higher as Lewis and the Brave Knights have to face Cunus, the nigh omnipotent Deathdrive of Debauchery. Episode 8 puts Bang in the Bang Brave Bang Bravern in two different senses.
The aftermath of an intense battle is always a perfect chance to look back…and we peeked much further into the past…the days of Pascale.
From exposition to all out war, Metallic Rouge once again flip us on the tone and the pacing of the story. And it seems like everyone is going down in the next one.
Metallic Rouge is reaching its end – the events are being dished out really fast, maybe even too fast.
Bravern and gang finally confront the big bad that destroyed Tokyo. On top of the battles, episode 7 reveal new secrets about both the hero and the villains.
A tragic tale of a false songstress. Ciel gave her life to her master, but gave her soul to Kanata. The last melody of love and trust to give new life to another.
Hell Jaron decided to play a game with Rouge and Naomi. On top of it, a new plot twist, or is it just Naomi trolling?
Obari literally said “That’s how you do an Uprising”. New characters, new mechas and new attacks, oh and also a new but old revelation about Bravern’s rival.
A lucid dream while Rouge was in the hands of a jester as Naomi raced to save her. A confusing history of the Proto-Neans open the doors to…more confusing stuff?
Lewis and Isami getting up-close, personal and steamy with each other. And Obari is really hitting us with fetishes after fetishes.
Besieged from all sides – old allies turned enemies, and new threats appear from the lost city. Kanata had to go through all that and more – the betrayal of one of his most trusted person.
When the light is too bright, the shadow will disappear. Two spirit cannot live in one body – now that Mystere is recovering, what will happen to Noir?
After three episodes of combat, it’s time for rest and reflection. Episode 4 nailed the character moment for Isami and set up what’s coming next.
The police force launched an assault on Wellstown’s Nean settlement, and Rouge faced off with Phantom Verde. An unfitting end for a mini arc.
Once allies, now enemies. Kurokamen and Kanata engaged in spectacular fashion – and the door to Tokio’s dark past is slowly opening up. What could be hidden in there?
Brave Shu-ba-ba-ba-bang! Ep.3 slows the story down and focuses on Lewis and the strange girl he stumbled on, Lulu.
The not-so-explosive but undoubtedly epic climax of Blazar. A unique approach to tying up the story. And an amazing payback for the journey.
Out of the desert, our heroines try to infiltrate a Nean settlement, but has a disagreement and Rouge decides to infiltrate the settlement herself. What will come of this situation?
The time for a duel has come – Bravern faces off against Superbia. Episode two keeps the hype train going with the fight scenes and fun surprises.
The mission of the heroines continues…on public transport. There, they are met with a handful of new faces, as well as mercenaries.
After steeling their resolve, Kanata and Mystere began preparing to go to Histoire. But it isn’t a simple trip, since they’d have to go up…wayyyy up.
When the Bravern is Bang, Masami Obari surprises us in the most unexpected way. The spirit of the Yuusha is strong with this one.
Beginning of Rouge Redstar and Naomi Orthmann’s mission to eliminate the rogue androids. Does it live up to the hype?
A new saga begins! The mysterious Magus with extraordinary power has taken over Noir. And Kanata wanted to show her the world that he lives in.
A terrible revelation about a threat that’s coming from beyond. A “visitor” with hostile intention is coming to Earth. And it’s up to Earth’s Kaiju to put a stop to it.
Let’s pull out all the stops! The final extermination operation Ryugan Island commences, and bring us to a conclusion of the series.
A lesson about humanity’s kindness and sincerity. A heartwarming scene in a destroyed city. Oh, and don’t forget to buy your insurance!
Shiota barring its full fangs against Namidome, using vast resources and connections. However, our main cast also got some big help!
Take to the sky with Earth Garon as Anri and Yasu engage in a mach speed battle. This mission pushes them to the limit physically with the new upgrade to A-kun.
The tipping point has been reached. President Tajima made a choice once and for all just as Namidome’s employee rise up against Shiota.
Family relationship is always awkward for military man, and after Gento, it’s Teruaki’s turn to worry about his relatives. A swarm of emotion floods this episode.
The truth revealed at last. Namidome is stuck between a rock and a hard place. The big shall crush the small, or will there be a spark of hope for them?
Namidome finally catches a break, or do they? A sudden inspection that comes with a promising financial backing, or is there something deeper behind the scene?
The alien Kaiju threat intensifies as Emi and Gento dig deeper into the GGF’s hidden secret. And a fiery ally arrive for a blazing showdown.
A monster from space threatens the city with poisonous gas, and Capt Gento has to juggle between his family, his power as Blazar and his duty as SKaRD commander to watch over Emi.
Namari continues to piss us off, while Nagisa steadily climb the ranks of most precious character. Arumi once again has to be on the receiving end of loss.
A soul hunter seeking to lay a spirit to rest. Blazar team up with a samurai to deliver some amazing beatdown to a familiar “enemy”.
Harassment in the workplace comes in all shapes and forms. This time Bullbuster show us the 2 most common in Japan: unsavory behaviours and abuse of power.
New characters are introduced with a big jump in plot development. Bullbuster is pushing through the plot at a steady pace.
The best way to understand and to defeat someone is to use their deepest, darkest fear. But our heroine always improvise, adapt and overcome!
The double broadcast of Metaverse bring things to a boiling climax…not. A promising OVA cut short by setting up an exciting premise yet never follow through, leaving fans wanting more.
An honest mistake led into a massive incident that kick Tetsurou down to the pit of despair. However, things aren’t quite so grim as everyone banded together to push forward.
A relatively bright and light-hearted episode that shows the unlimited imagination and benevolence of youth. And Gento struggle to be a good “daddy” iykwim 😉
An honest mistake led into a massive incident that kick Tetsurou down to the pit of despair. However, things aren’t quite so grim as everyone banded together to push forward.
It’s Rebrandin’ time! And it’s that time where designers aren’t appreciated for their true worth. And a dark history unfolded on the infested island.
Blazar going even Darker after Nocturne. A crazy plot development involving Gento, Emi and chief Retsu along with a secret kept hidden by the GGF.
Time to fungible your Gunpla! Gundam Build finally reaches the Metaverse – and we’re starting fresh with a new MC and a galore of returning characters.
It’s Bustin’ time! Exterminating giant pest is fun with a giant robot, but not so much when you have to suffer through the administrative process.
The conclusion of Blazar’s first arc. A new power bestowed upon a new bond. This is Blazar’s thunderous return to form!